Inquests Taken Into Suspicious Or Unexplained Deaths

For the County of Devon

1910

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: Acton; Aked; Alderman; Balkwell; Balman; Barter; Bartlett; Bastow; Bedford; Bevan; Bindon; Bingham; Binmore; Blackmore; Blake; Blundell; Bourke; Bowden; Bradford; Bray; Brock(2); Budd; Came; Carson; Carter; Caunter; Chalk; Chamberlain; Chambers; Chanter; Chard; Chubb; Church; Churchill; Clapp; Clark; Clements(2); Collings; Conibear; Connolly; Coombe; Cooper(3); Cornall; Creed; Crickett; Crocker; Crudge; Cubitt; Dadds; Daniell; Dare; Dark; Davey; Dean; Deering; Delbridge; Dewdney; Dicker; Divine; Down; Downing(2); Draper; Druett; Dufty; Dunn; Dymond; Endacott; England(2); Eveleigh; Exell; Fishwick; Flood; Flower; Folley; Foot; Ford(2); Forte; Fouracre; Franklin; Gibbons; Gigg; Gilbert; Grayer; Griffen; Hammett; Harding; Harper; Harris(2); Harry; Harvey; Harwood; Hayman; Hern; Hexter; Heywood; Hill(3); Hockin; Hocking; Hodge; Hoer; Hogan; Holden; Hole; Holmes; Holway; Hook; Hooper; Howes; Hubber; Hutchings(2); Ireland; Irish; Isaac; Jackson; Jewell; Jones; Joslin; Jury; Kerley; Kibbey; Kingdom; Knapman; Knill; Labbett; Lamprey; Lane; Lear; Lee(2); Lewis(3); Ley; Lias; Lock; Lockyear; Long(2); Mace; Macey; Maddock; Major; Manning; Manville; Martin; Matthews; McAllister; Mears(2); Mitchell(2); Mock; Monger; Morris; Mortimore; Moulding; Mountjoy; Mudge; Munro(2); Nelson; Nichols; Nickols; Norton; Paddon; Palmer(2); Parish; Parker; Parsons(2); Partridge; Paulson; Pavey; Peacock; Pearce(2); Pengilley; Peters; Peterson; Phillips(2); Philp; Phippen; Pike; Pile; Piper; Potter; Power; Prouse; Pugsley; Purvis; Rattenbury; Reed; Ridge; Robbins; Roberson; Robinson; Rooke; Rowden; Rowland; Sanders; Sane; Sansom; Sarahs; Saunders; (2)Searle(3); Setters; Short; Shute(2); Simmons; Skinner(3); Skoines; Slader; Smale; Southcott; Spear; Staddon; Stentiford; Stockham; Stokes; Stone(2); Stribling; Tapper; Tarr; Taverner; Taylor; Todd; Tope(2); Treweek; Trickey; Trott; Tucker; Tully; Turner; Turvey; Vanrenen; Waeland; Warren(2); Watts; Webber(2); Wellman; Welsh(2); Whiddon; Widden; Widgery; Willcocks; Wills(2); Wilson; Wood(2); Woodley(2); Wooldridge.

Western Times, Wednesday 19 January 1910
EXETER - Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, conducted an Inquest at the Police Station, yesterday, relative to the death of BESSIE ALMA CONIBEAR, aged 49. FREDERICK CHARLES CONIBEAR, husband, stated that on Friday night his wife went out, but, in consequence of pains in her head, she returned home and went to bed between 10 and 11. Witness went to give her a cup of tea about 6 a.m. on Saturday but found she was dead. - Dr Harris stated that death was due to apoplexy and the Jury returned their verdict accordingly.

Western Times, Friday 21 January 1910
ASHBURTON - Sad Tragedy At Ashburton. - Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner, held an Enquiry at the Market Hall, Ashburton, on Monday morning, touching the death of MR JOSEPH SKINNER, who was found dead in the river Yeo on Sunday morning. ELIZABETH SKINNER, the widow, said her husband was 61 years of age. The last time she saw him alive was about 10 p.m. on Saturday, when he said he was going to hear the results of the elections and advised her to go to bed. - JOHN SKINNER stated that his mother came to his house about 4 a.m. on Sunday and awoke him and said his father had not arrived home. He accompanied her to his father's house and suggested that deceased had called at some friends. As he did not arrive by 7 a.m., he went to look for him and when near the top of North-street he saw a dark object in the river Yeo in water about 18 inches deep. He went in and found it was his father, quite dead. He saw deceased about 11.30 p.m. on Saturday near the Constitutional Club. - Samuel Doddridge of the Victoria Inn, stated he saw deceased shortly after midnight going towards his home. SKINNER remarked his party was winning 3 to 1. It was a very dark and rough night. - Thomas Gilbert, factory hand, also gave evidence. - Dr Fitzpatrick stated that deceased had a severe bruise on the left side of his head and a deep cut on the back part of the ear and blood had issued from his nose, ears and mouth. There was also a fracture at the base of the skull and the nails on one hand appeared to be torn off as if by clutching something. He saw him at the Constitutional Club at 11 o'clock on Saturday night, when he was perfectly sober. The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned," as there was no evidence to show how deceased came into the water. The Jury, through the Foreman, passed a vote of sympathy with the widow and family of deceased, who was well known in the town and neighbourhood.

Western Times, Tuesday 25 January 1910
SIDMOUTH - Yeovil Fireman Crushed To Death At Sidmouth Junction. - The East Devon Coroner, Dr Tweed, held an Inquest at the Railway Hotel, Sidmouth Junction yesterday, relative to the death of Fireman JOHN DUFTY, of Yeovil, who was accidentally killed at Sidmouth Junction on Saturday. Mr Didham, Feniton, was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - George Fowler, Yeovil, brother-in-law, said deceased was 29 years of age, was married, and left a widow and three children. - Eli Trivett, engine driver, Yeovil, said he left Yeovil at 9.55 on Saturday morning. Deceased, the fireman, was also on the engine. They reached Sidmouth Junction at 3.50 p.m., and shunted back into the railway yard. They subsequently got the engine on the turntable for the purpose of returning to Yeovil. The engine was moved a short distance for oiling requirements. After oiling, witness came back on the frame of the engine and felt a jar from the back of the tender, but it did not move the engine. The foreman shunter then shouted out, "Driver, your mate has dropped down." Witness saw deceased laid out on the ground. Witness rolled him over on his back and worked his arms, but found he was dead. Deceased must have gone to hang up the tail lamp when witness saw him leaving the engine. He was a sober and steady fellow. Whilst they were turning the engine deceased remarked to witness, "Mate, they are knocking some wagons back against us." - By Mr Greenham: It was deceased's work to hang the tail lamp up behind. - Thomas Elliott, Feniton, foreman porter, Sidmouth Junction, said he went into the yard on Saturday afternoon to assist in shunting operations. As the shunters were pulling away three trucks from the turntable road, witness noticed the fireman fall to the ground between the buffers of the tender and the waggons. In witness's opinion deceased could have hung up the lamp from outside the line, and without getting between the lines, but witness did not actually see him there. When deceased fell he was between the buffers. - In answer to the Coroner, Inspector Cheney, Templecombe, said deceased should have stood outside the rail to put up the lamp and could have done so easily. - George Pope, shunter, L.S.W.R., stationed at Sidmouth Junction, said while engaged in shunting operations, and while pulling up towards Sidmouth Junction Station, the foreman ran by and said the fireman was hurt. Witness stopped shunting immediately and ran back to where deceased was lying. Witness could give no explanation of the accident, as he saw nothing of it. Witness had previously seen deceased n the engine, on the turn-table. - John Henry Butler, of Elton-road, Exeter, engine driver, who was in charge of the shunting engine at Sidmouth Junction, on Saturday afternoon, said as he was pulling up towards the Station he saw DUFTY'S body laid down beside his engine. The body was outside the rails in the six-foot way. Witness went to deceased's side and he died a minute later. Witness could not explain how it happened. - Dr Fielding, Ottery, who was called, said in his opinion deceased's heart was ruptured, as the result of some blow or pressure. There was semi-circular black marks over the region of the heart. There were no ribs fractured nor any external injuries apparent. The marks on the chest indicated that he had been crushed by the engine. - The Coroner said it was unfortunate that no one could give any accurate details as to what did occur, but it was probable deceased had just put the tail lamp above the buffer, and that the waggons giving back, he was crushed by them. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and attached no blame to anyone

Western Times, Friday 28 January 1910
TORQUAY - The County Coroner, Mr Hacker, held an Inquest in the Northcote Hall, Wednesday, touching the death of the infant child of MR and MRS BARTLETT, of 15 Braddens-street. Evidence adduced showed that the child was found dead in bed on Saturday last. Dr Dunn stated that the child died from suffocation and a verdict of "Accidental death" was returned.

EXETER - At the Exeter Police Court yesterday, Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of WILLIAM HENRY HEXTER, a compositor, who died at his residence, 3 Olive-square, Fore-street, on the 25th inst. The doctors evidence showed that death resulted from syncope due to pleurisy and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

TEIGNMOUTH - Teignmouth Sensation. Inquest On An Infant Found In A Bedroom. - An Inquest was held Wednesday at the Town Hall by Mr Sydney Hacker, Coroner, to Enquire into the circumstances of the death of an infant, whose body was discovered in a bedroom. - Christina Vaughan, of Garden House, Dawlish-road, Teignmouth, wife of the Rev. C. Monk Vaughan, said she had a general servant, named EMILY ROSE LABBETT, who had been in her employ since January 1899. On Sunday morning last between seven and eight a.m., the girl came to witness's bedroom and said she had been very ill and would her mistress give her some brandy. Witness gave her the brandy. The girl said she felt light-headed. She certainly did seem faint. Witness could not quite understand her illness and went upstairs to her room and there saw something on the floor which she thought was the body of a child, and she at once went for Dr Johnson, who came immediately. ROSE LABBETT had never told her anything then or since. She was removed to the Hospital as soon as the doctor came. The girl did her work all right on Saturday, the day previous, and went out in the town in the evening. - George Herbert Johnson, Surgeon, said the child was still-born. The girl made no statement to him. - P.C. Soper also gave evidence. - The Coroner said the evidence of the doctor was clear. The child had not lived. Therefore their duties were at an end. A verdict that the child was Still-born was returned.

Western Times, Tuesday 1 February 1910
NEWTON ST CYRES - St Cyres Mystery. Dead Body Of A Stranger Found In A Hayrick. - On Saturday, at about 6.30- in the morning, an employee on the home farm of the Quicke Estate at Newton St. Cyres, named Coles, found the body of a man lying in a hay rick situated on the farm, and near the roadside, about half a mile from the village in the direction of Crediton. On the arrival of P.C. Hill and P.S. Mogridge, the body was removed to the coach-house of the Crown and Sceptre Inn, where it awaits an Inquest. - The Inquest. - At Newton St. Cyres last evening the District Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, conducted the Enquiry. - Henry George Godbeer, 53, Victoria-street, Exeter, signalman on the South-Western Railway, identified the body as that of WILLIAM LEWIS, 55 years of age, a mason. Deceased had no home nor relations. Witness last saw him about twelve months ago, when he called at his house at Exeter. He was looking for employment and used to tramp about the country looking for work. - Walter Cole, of St. Cyres, a carpenter, said on Saturday morning, at 8.30, while at work on the Quicke Estate, he noticed a man lying down beside a hay rick, close by the main road. He went up to him and found he was dead - cold and stiff. He was in a natural position, with one shoulder against the rick. Friday night had been very rough and cold. - P.C. Hill who was informed by the last witness of what he had found, said that he searched the body and found an empty purse, a can, a looking-glass with a puzzle on the back and some bread and cheese. Dr Moiser of Crediton, stated that in his post-mortem examination he found that deceased had recent inflammation of the membrane covering of the heart and signs of old pleurisy. In his opinion death was due to heart disease, accelerated by exposure. The stomach was full but the body ill-nourished. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" in accordance with the medical evidence, was returned.

Western Times, Wednesday 2 February 1910
BRAUNTON - An Inquest was held by the Barnstaple County Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown at Braunton on the body of MARIA MOCK, aged 75, whose sister said that the deceased became ill at 5 o'clock on Sunday morning. When Dr Walter Harper arrived, she was dead. Dr Harper said that death was due to chronic alcoholism, followed by phthisis and haemorrhage. The verdict was "Death from Natural causes, viz., chronic alcoholism."

TORRINGTON - An Inquest was held by Mr G. W. F. Brown at Torrington Town Hall on the body of GRACE SANDERS, aged 74, the wife of a hawker, who died suddenly from syncope. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Times, Friday 4 February 1910
EXETER - Sudden Death At Exeter. - Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, conducted an Inquest at Exeter Police Court yesterday on the body of PATTIE PILE, widow, aged 65, of 52 Preston-street. - John Charles Smith, of King-street, identified the body. He last saw deceased alive on Tuesday morning at about 5.45 when she was going out to sell papers. Deceased had never complained of any illness. - Edward Blunt, of Stepcote-hill, said on Tuesday, about 3.15 p.m. he saw deceased walking down Fore-street. She fell down and witness and his companion went and picked her up. They took her into Messrs. Kitts and Son's shop and she appeared to be suffering from a fit. - P.S. Abrahams stated that he went to the deceased and felt her pulse, which had stopped beating. Dr Pereira stated that a post-mortem showed death was due to syncope, through fatty degeneration of the heart. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Times, Saturday 5 February 1910
EXMOUTH - Inquest On A Baby At Exmouth. - An Inquest was held at the Lifeboat House, Exmouth, yesterday, by Dr E. R. Tweed, Coroner for the District, on the body of MURIEL HILDA WOODLEIGH, the three-month-old child of GEORGE WOODLEIGH, an armourer in the Coastguard Service at Exmouth. Mr H. Gay Lang was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The evidence showed that the child was treated by Dr Hanna six weeks ago and on Thursday last week Dr Hanna came to see the mother of the child, and ordered its being weaned for the mother's sake. The child was not strong and the doctor prescribed for the mother and child. On Wednesday morning, at 3 o'clock, MRS WOODLEIGH saw the child alive, but at 6.45 it appeared to be dead. - Dr Hanna, who was called at about 7 o'clock, said the child had suffered from inanition and had died from weakness. Every care and attention had been given it by the mother. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Tuesday 8 February 1910
PAIGNTON - The Fatal Accident At Paignton. - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Paignton yesterday, touching the death of MRS ELIZABETH CLEMENTS, of Torquay, aged 69, who met with her death on Saturday through being thrown from a trap driven by her husband, a fish hawker living at Upton, Torquay. The husband said his wife dealt in old clothes and he drove her into Paignton on Saturday. At Millbrook-terrace the pony stumbled and fell and his wife was thrown out and killed on the spot. She did not move or speak when he picked her up. - This was confirmed by Edward Fogwill, living at Millbrook Cottages, who heard nothing until he had seen the pony lying in the road outside his gate. The pony soon got up. - P.S. Mairs said the road was in a very fair condition. Both knees of the pony were broken, and part of one of the hind shoes was broken off. The seat was simply a board, with no protection at the back or sides. - Dr Cosens, who was passing just after the accident, said deceased had a large incised wound on the scalp down to the bone, and he attributed the immediate cause of death to shock, deceased being a very stout person. - A son of deceased said his mother suffered from a very weak heart. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Times, Wednesday 9 February 1910
TORQUAY - Torquay Widow's Fatal Fall. - An aged widow named SUSANNAH REED, of 8 Home Cottages, St. Marychurch, died suddenly on Saturday night. She met with an accident by falling downstairs three weeks ago. An Inquest was held yesterday by Mr S. Hacker, Coroner. - Lucy Skinner gave evidence of identification. Deceased was her grandmother, 87 years of age, and had lived at 8 Home Cottages, Springfield-road, having been a widow for 30 years. She was in receipt of the old-age pension. Three weeks ago she was going upstairs and fell down. Witness had only just gone back to work in the laundry close by when the occurrence happened. When she returned at 10.45 for lunch her grandmother told her of the accident, and said she had intended making up the beds. Deceased appeared not much the worse for the accident, because afterwards she got lunch ready. She said she had hurt her knee, but thought a little rest would relieve her. The same evening Dr Lacey was sent for, and he attended the case. Deceased was given every care and attention until she died. - Dr Hugh K. Lacey deposed to attending the old lady on the day of the accident. There was a lot of fluid in the right knee, and deceased complained of pain in the side, and was suffering from shock. Witness thought deceased would go on all right, but eventually she got restless and could not sleep, so he prescribed sleeping draughts. She died on Saturday last, after being very well nursed, from shock due to the accident and old age. - FREDERICK REED, of Bath, said he was a son of the deceased. He was satisfied at the way in which deceased had been looked after. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Times, Thursday 10 February 1910
EXETER - Blood Poisoning. Shobrooke Man's Death At Exeter. Result Of A Finger Prick. - The City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, yesterday, relative to the death of WILLIAM SEARLE, a shepherd, aged 59, in the employment of Mr Burrington, of Shobrooke Barton, near Crediton. The body was identified by the deceased's son, WILLIAM SEARLE, a smith, of Winchcombe, Gloucestershire. - MISS SEARLE, daughter of the deceased, said on Tuesday, the 25th January, her father returned home about midday, and said he had run a thorn into his finger. He explained that he had been singling out the ewe sheep. Witness tried to extract the thorn, but failed. The finger swelled slightly and on Saturday, the 29th, witness fetched a doctor, as her father was in great pain. Dr Campbell lanced the finger. Her father remained in bed and she again fetched Dr Campbell on the following Tuesday. The doctor ordered him to be at once conveyed to the Hospital, as he was seriously ill. Her father died at that Institution on February 6th. About a month before Christmas he had an attack of influenza, but he had not been ill for ten years before, and he was generally a very healthy man. Robert Burrington, farmer, deceased's employer, said SEARLE had been in his employment for ten years. Deceased told witness's brother that he ran a thorn into his finger while catching one of the sheep, the thorn being concealed in the sheep's wool. In answer to a Juryman, witness said it was not uncommon for farm hands to have thorns enter their fingers. He had had them himself many times. - Mr Vernon Starr, House Surgeon, said deceased, when admitted to the Hospital, was suffering from inflammation of the left forearm, due to a wound in a finger. He was twice operated upon, but SEARLE passed away on the 6th from septic poisoning. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Blood Poisoning, caused by the prick of a thorn, sustained while following his employment."

EXMOUTH - Exmouth Fatality. Fish-Hawker Did Not Wait For Train To Stop When Entering Station. - Mr E. R. Tweed, Coroner for the District, held an Inquest at the Exmouth Cottage Hospital yesterday, touching the death of SAMUEL FREDERICK HOLDEN, an Exmouth fish hawker, who died at the Institution on Tuesday, from injuries sustained by falling out of a railway carriage on Monday night. - Mr Albert Hayman was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The London and South Western Railway Company were represented by Detective-Inspector Trump, Locomotive Inspector Moore and Permanent Way Inspector Gillard. - MAUD WALKER, wife of THOMAS WALKER, gas stoker, of Fore-street, Exmouth, daughter of deceased, stated that she saw her father at 9.30 a.m. on Monday. He had been sleeping at Mr Atkins' lodging-house in Fore-street. He had breakfast at witness's house, as was his daily habit. He went out after breakfast to get fish, leaving her house at the time stated. She did not see him afterwards. Deceased went to all parts hawking fish - sometimes to Starcross, at other times to Woodbury and Lympstone. She did not know he went to Exeter. Witness and her mother had insured deceased, but in a small amount. Deceased had for about a month lived apart from his wife. He occasionally took a glass of beer, but she was sure he was not addicted to drink. He was perfectly sober on Saturday and Sunday nights, when he sat in witness's house. At about 11 o'clock on Monday night P.S. Rattenbury drove up to her house with deceased in a cab injured. She told the sergeant she had no room, and that was the reason she did not take him in. On her oath, she did not refuse to take deceased in because he was the worse for liquor. She always took him in and gave him his food whenever he applied to her. Had she the room, she would have taken her father in. - William Wilton, guard on the L. and S.W. Railway, stated that he was travelling on the railway with the last train from Exeter to Exmouth, which arrived at Exmouth at 10.36 p.m. Witness noticed HOLDEN at Lympstone Station, when a lady and gentleman changed from the third-class compartment in which deceased was riding, and entered another carriage. Deceased came on alone from Lympstone to Exmouth. At Exmouth witness saw deceased open the compartment door before the train had stopped. He shouted to deceased and asked him to keep his seat, but he took no notice and jumped out on to the platform, falling on his back. The train was still moving into the Railway Station. HOLDEN jumped out with his back to the engine. He landed on his feet and immediately fell flat on his back. He saw deceased had a wound on the back of his head, which was bleeding and blood also came from his nose. When the train stopped witness and Porter Beer picked him up. Deceased was unconscious. Witness could not say that deceased was intoxicated. He knew him well. His opinion was that deceased must have had a glass or so, or he would have taken notice of witness when he spoke to him. It was an accident, though deceased was guilty of carelessness in getting out when he did. - By a Juror: Deceased came out on the footboard, but with his back to the engine. Usually a person leaving a carriage faced the engine. - By another Juror: He did not know why the lady and gentleman left the carriage; but he was told the deceased was singing and noisy. - John Beer, porter at Exmouth Station, said he heard a lady say someone had fallen out of one of the compartments and he went and found deceased lying on his back. Guard Wilton came up and helped HOLDEN to his feet, but the man was quite unconscious and was bleeding from the nose. He smelt rather of liquor. A soldier and his wife, who got out of the train, told witness that deceased was rowdy and noisy until they changed compartments at Lympstone. - William Hayward Cobley, ticket collector at Queen-street Station, said deceased spoke to him on the platform there on Monday night at 9.40 and asked what time the next train went to Exmouth. He told him 10.10. Deceased had had a glass or two of beer, but nothing out of the way. He had seen him worse, and considered he was quite fit to travel. - By the Jury: When deceased left him he went to the train and sat in one of the compartments. - Dr Eaton said he saw the deceased at the Hospital at 11.15 p.m. He was unconscious, and there was a contused wound at the back of the head, but it did not go down to the bone. There was bleeding from the nose, and at the time witness thought there was a probability of HOLDEN recovering. The next morning, however, he found the patient in a comatose state and he died a few hours later. Death was due to cerebral haemorrhage. It was in no way due to drink, but was a direct result of the blow. - The Coroner said there was no evidence that anyone was to blame. The guard cautioned the man, but the warning was disregarded. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and the Foreman complimented Guard Wilton on doing all he could to prevent the accident.

Western Times, Friday 11 February 1910
PAIGNTON - The Paignton Fatality. - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Paignton, Monday, touching the death of MRS ELIZABETH CLEMENTS, of Torquay, aged 69, who met with her death on Saturday through being thrown from a trap driven by her husband, a fish hawker living at Upton, Torquay. The husband said his wife dealt in old clothes, and he drove her into Paignton on Saturday. At Millbrook-terrace the pony stumbled and fell and his wife was thrown out and killed on the spot. She did not move or speak when he picked her up. - This was confirmed by Edward Fogwill, living at Millbrook Cottages, who heard nothing until he had seen the pony lying in the road outside his gate. The pony soon got up. - P.S. Maire said the road was in a very fair condition. Both knees of the pony were broken, and part of one of the hind shoes was broken off. The seat was simply a board, with no protection at the back or sides. Dr Cosens, who was passing just after the accident, said deceased had a large incised wound on the scalp down to the bone, and he attributed the immediate cause of death to shock, deceased being a very stout person. - A son of deceased said his mother suffered from a very weak heart. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

SEATON AND BEER - Dr E. R. Tweed held an Inquest at Seaton Town Hall on Monday, touching the death of TOM HARDING, aged 42, a carter. - JOHN HARDING, brother of deceased, identified the body. - Samuel Clapp, carter, said there were three carts standing outside the ground in the Colyford-road, and all the drivers were watching the game which was being played. Witness was in the front cart and deceased in the rear cart. He saw HARDING rush across the road, stumble and fall on his face. Deceased was in the habit of falling down, for a joke, and they all thought he was "having a game." As, however, he did not move, they went over to him, and on turning him over found his face was much discoloured. Deceased was a teetotaller. - William Long and P.C. Partridge gave similar evidence. - Dr G. Evans said when he was called to see the deceased outside the football field, shortly after three o'clock, life was extinct. There were some bruises on the upper part of his chest. Witness had since made a post-mortem examination, but found the internal organs in a normal condition. The upper vertebrae of the spine was dislocated and this might have been caused by a sudden fall when in a bending position. This was, in his opinion, the cause of death. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." The Jury expressed sympathy with the widow.

EXETER - The City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, on Wednesday, relative to the death of WILLIAM SEARLE, a shepherd, aged 59, in the employment of Mr Burrington, of Shobrooke Barton, near Crediton. The body was identified by the deceased's son, WILLIAM SEARLE, a smith, of Winchcombe, Gloucestershire. - MISS SEARLE, daughter of the deceased, said on Tuesday, the 25th January, her father returned home about midday, and said he had run a thorn into his finger. He explained that he had been singling out the ewe sheep. Witness tried to extract the thorn, but failed. The finger swelled slightly and on Saturday, the 29th, witness fetched a doctor, as her father was in great pain. Dr Campbell lanced the finger. Her father remained in bed and she again fetched Dr Campbell on the following Tuesday. The doctor ordered him to be at once conveyed to the Hospital, as he was seriously ill. Her father died at that Institution on February 6th. - Robert Burrington, farmer, deceased's employer, said SEARLE had been in his employment for ten years. Deceased told witness's brother that he ran a thorn into his finger while catching one of the sheep, the thorn being concealed in the sheep's wool. - In answer to a Juryman, witness said it was not uncommon for farm hands to have thorns enter their fingers. He had had them himself many times. - Mr Vernon Starr, House Surgeon, said deceased, when admitted to the Hospital, was suffering from inflammation of the left forearm, due to a wound in the finger. He was twice operated on, but SEARLE passed away on the 6th from septic poisoning. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Blood Poisoning, caused by the prick of a thorn, sustained while following his employment."

TAVISTOCK - Last evening an Inquest was held at 13 Brook-street, Tavistock, by Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, on the body of ADA FLORENCE CUBITT, aged five months, the infant daughter of MR CHARLES CUBITT, solicitor's clerk of Tavistock, who was found dead in bed by her mother on Wednesday morning at about seven o'clock. From the evidence of Dr Snowden Smith it appeared that the child died from suffocation, due to its having been accidentally overlaid by its mother. - The Jury, of whom Mr D. Bowles was Foreman, expressed their sympathy with which the Coroner concurred, with the parents, who appeared to be much affected. Sergt. Hill acted as Coroner's officer.

Western Times, Saturday 12 February 1910
EXETER - Remarkable Case. Death Of A Four-Year-Old Girl From Apoplexy. Inquest At Exeter. - The City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at the Police Station yesterday relative to the death of BEATRICE MAUD HOER, aged 4 ½ years, daughter of a waggoner, of Bartholomew-street. Evidence of identification was given by the father, who added that on Wednesday last the child told him she was ill and had pains in her chest and head. She also said she had fallen down on the path. While sitting by the fire she vomited and screamed, and lapsed into a state of unconsciousness. Dr Harmer, who was fetched, expressed an opinion that the case was hopeless, but he came twice. The child died about one o'clock the next morning. - Mrs Jane Spiller, who looked after the children of MR and MRS HOER, said BEATRICE came home about 4.30 and said she had fallen and knocked her head. Witness placed her on the sofa, where she dozed until her father came home. - Dr Harmer said there were no outward signs of injury. A post-mortem examination revealed a large haemorrhage into the substance of the brain. In other respects she was perfectly healthy and well developed. He did not think the haemorrhage was the cause of death. If a blood vessel in the brain broke it would cause a child to become giddy and to fall. The fall might have been due to the haemorrhage. It was very rare to find a case of this kind in children. There was no evidence of any bruise on the scalp. The trouble was right in the centre of the brain. Death was due to cerebral haemorrhage arising from natural causes. It was quite possible to be brought about by excitement during play, or by a fit of coughing. It was practically an apoplectic stroke. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," and expressed sympathy with the parents.

THORVERTON - Mr H. W. Gould, District Coroner, conducted an Inquest at the Dolphin Hotel, Thorverton, yesterday afternoon, relative to the death of WILLIAM HENRY PALMER, a farm labourer, aged 60, of Thorverton. FLORENCE PALMER, daughter, identified the body and stated that she last saw deceased at about 9.30 p.m. on Wednesday. He was then in bed. Witness went to him again at seven the next morning and found he was quite dead. Deceased had been recently treated for bronchitis. He did not complain of any illness on Wednesday. She immediately went for Dr Marshall on finding her father dead. - Dr Jones stated that he saw deceased about 8.10 a.m. on Thursday. He was quite dead. He treated deceased for bronchitis. Death was due, in his opinion, to heart failure. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

LANDKEY - A North Devon Tragedy. - At the Inquest last evening on the body of SUSAN ISAAC, aged 70, the wife of a Landkey labourer, the husband said that on Thursday morning his wife got up at 7, and he asked her why she rose so early, but she made no reply. Shortly after 8, when he came down, she was missing; and as none of the neighbours had seen her, he informed the Police, he having traced her footsteps down to the stream at the bottom of the garden. - P.C. Watts said with P.S. Hambly he searched the stream, and just above Landkey saw-mills they saw the body coming down the stream, and recovered it. - Dr Kendrew (Barnstaple) said there was a bruise on the deceased's arm, but it was doubtless caused by the grappling iron. The body presented every appearance of death from drowning. - A verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" was returned.

Western Times, Monday 14 February 1910
EXMOUTH - An Inquest was held at the Public Hall, Exmouth, on Saturday afternoon, before Mr E. R. Tweed, touching the death of the infant daughter of JAMES HENRY ENGLAND, gardener, of 45 Albion-street. From the evidence it appeared that the mother found the child dead in bed on Friday morning. It had vomited, and Dr Hanna, who was called in, formed the opinion that death was due to suffocation by the wetted part of the sheet falling on the child's face, but a post-mortem examination did not prove this theory. It was possible that the child might have died from a convulsion and that death was due to suffocation preceded by a convulsion. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Times, Tuesday 15 February 1910
EXETER - Death Whilst Under An Anaesthetic. The Jury's Advice. - The City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, yesterday, relative to the death of LUCY ANN PARSONS, single, aged 32, daughter of a farm labourer, of Clawton, near Halwill. - Wm. Sussex, brother-in-law, Rockbeare, said deceased was in a cottage hospital 11 weeks suffering from abscess in the back. On the 3rd inst. she was admitted to the Exeter Hospital. - Mr Starr, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said he administered an anaesthetic to deceased for the operation. He used chloroform. He tried the lungs and heart and found no sign of disease. The pulse was a little weak. The operation commenced at 5.40. After deceased had been turned over on her face and hands he noticed she was not breathing comfortably. He immediately turned her again on her back and applied means of artificial respiration, which was kept up for half an hour, but she died. - By a Juryman: He thought that in applying an anaesthetic he was taking the safest course. He generally used the A.C.E. mixture, but in this case he had a definite reason for using chloroform. There were three forms of anaesthetics, chloroform, ether and the mixture of the two. - The Coroner: Suppose the lungs were right and the heart weak, which would you use? - I should probably use the mixture, or ether entirely. - If the heart was right and the lungs weak, what then? - In that case chloroform. - Witness added that the deceased was not fully under the influence of this anaesthetic at the time of death. - Dr Solly, who made the post-mortem examination, said deceased showed fatty degeneration of the heart. There was no definite disease of the spine. The origin of the abscess in the back must have been tuberculosis. The lungs did not indicate a condition that would prohibit the use of chloroform. He did not think an external examination would reveal the condition of the heart. Witness would administer chloroform if the heart was weak, provided the patient's general condition was good. Probably as many patients died under A.C.E. mixture as under chloroform. Death was caused by syncope, partly due to the chloroform, and party to the position in which it was necessary to place the deceased. - In answer to a Juryman, witness said it was the general practice to explain to a patient the nature of the operation beforehand. - Katherine Brown, sister in charge of the Dawson Ward, said on Tuesday morning she told the deceased that the doctors had decided to operate. Witness did not remember deceased making any remark, but she was quite willing. Witness thought she told her friends that she would have to undergo chloroform. Deceased came from another hospital to undergo an operation and she quite understood it. - A Juryman: Are patients operated on as an experiment, or are they given fully to understand that if they submit to operation they are running the risk of death? - Witness replied that she did not remember explaining to deceased, as she had previously undergone an operation. It was witness's custom to explain the nature of the operation, and she was under the impression that she did so in this case. She spoke of the matter, she thought, when the patient was admitted to the Ward in the presence of deceased's friends. Deceased came to the Hospital for the purpose of undergoing the operation. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed an opinion that in this case every care was taken, but they did not feel that it was brought home to deceased the risk she was running in taking chloroform. In future cases they would like a full explanation to be given to patients, in order that they might decide whether they would submit to chloroform. - The Coroner concurred. - Mr Starr undertook to convey the Jury's wishes to the sisters of the wards.

TOTNES - At Totnes Cottage Hospital, on Friday, Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest on ELIZABETH COOPER, 16, who died in the Institution on Thursday. HENRY COOPER, labourer, of Broughton, Hampshire, identified the body as that of his daughter, who was 16 years of age and had been under-nursemaid at North Huish Rectory, for nearly 21 months. When he saw her at the Hospital a month ago she said she ran a splinter into her hand while cleaning some polished boards. She made certain complaints to him. Mrs Garwood informed him of the deceased's illness. His daughter had enjoyed good health and was a strong and robust girl. - Dr W. Chapman said at the request of Mrs Garwood the deceased was admitted to the Hospital on December 21st. She had a peculiar form of blood poisoning, which grew in the blood and formed abscesses, so that practically every organ was affected, and he diagnosed her case from the first as almost hopeless. She must have been particularly healthy to have stood what she did. The deceased made no complaint to him, but he believed she did to the nurses. Death was due to exhaustion from the blood poisoning. The stiffness of the deceased's legs was caused by the effect of the blood poisoning on her nervous system and every organ of the body. Lately she was not responsible for what she said. He did not think complaints made when she entered the Hospital would be in the nature of hallucinations, but might be magnified and they could not absolutely rely on her statements. - The Inquest at this point was adjourned for a fortnight, for witnesses to be called to show how the deceased sustained the injury.

EXMOUTH - Exmouth Child's Death. - An Inquest was held at the Public Hall, Exmouth, on Saturday, before Mr E. R. Tweed, Coroner for the District, concerning the death of the three months' old daughter of JOHN WILLIAM ENGLAND, gardener, of 45 Albion-street, Exmouth. Mr W. Dyer was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The evidence adduced showed that the deceased was quite well up to Friday last, and was left in bed by the parents. At 11 o'clock the mother went to see the baby, when it was sleeping. At 12 she went again, with the intention of bathing the child and found it was dead. Dr Hanna, who was passing, was called in, and subsequently made a post-mortem examination. Death was not due as he at first supposed to suffocation. There had been a case of scarlet fever in the house and in a child of tender age at the moment of being seized with scarlet fever it invariably had a convulsion. This might have been the cause of death, but he was unable to say. It was probable that death was due to a convulsion. The Coroner pointed out how difficult it was in this case to determine the actual cause of death, because the body showed no evidence of suffocation, or of death from a convulsion. He suggested that the decision of the Jury should be death from convulsion, preceded by vomiting. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Times, Wednesday 16 February 1910
TORQUAY - Shocking Fatality. Newton Railway Guard Killed At Torre Station. - At Torre Railway Station, Torquay, on Monday, a goods guard, named FRANK HOLE, was so badly injured that he died two hours after the accident. HOLE is a widower, residing at Newton, and has a family of four or five children. It appears that the guard was on a special goods train from Newton to Kingswear, which reached Torre at 8 o'clock. As the 8.5 passenger train was due to the goods was shunted into the Refuge siding. It appears HOLE went to cross the main down line just as the 8.5 up passenger was leaving the Station. At the time it was boisterous and raining and HOLE apparently did not hear the down train approaching, for he was caught by the engine, and was later found between the down rails with both legs nearly severed and his arms and face badly injured. As soon as possible the staff of the Station, under Mr W. Smale, (Station Master) went to the poor fellow's assistance, and bore him on a stretcher to the Station close by. From thence he was conveyed with all speed to the Hospital, where Drs. Horton and the House Surgeon soon attended to the injuries, but HOLE succumbed about 10 o'clock. - Last July a young porter was killed at or near the same spot. - The Inquest. - The Inquest was held last evening by Mr S. Hacker, the Coroner. Mr Sydney Mann was Foreman of the Jury. The Great Western Railway Company was represented by Chief Inspector Mapledoram (Exeter), Inspector Mager (Newton), Mr W. Smale (Torre Station Master) and Inspector Tonkin. - ROBERT JOHN HOLE, of Bristol, identified the deceased as his brother, FRANCIS HERBERT HOLE, aged 38. The deceased lived at 21 Hillmann-road, Newton Abbot, and was a widower with five small children. - Henry Allsop, 22 Greenbank, Decoy, Newton, said he was an engine-driver. He worked with Guard HOLE with the 7.30 p.m. special goods train from Newton to Kingswear on Monday evening. They left Newton at 7.49. The train was stopped near Tor, and then they stopped in Torre Station and were shunted on a siding outside the goods shed to allow the 8 o'clock down passenger train to pass. The deceased got out of the van and uncoupled the engine. He remarked that it was a rough night and that he was about to see how the wagons were that he had to shunt out from the up side. He had to cross the main line to carry out his object. It was raining and blowing hard at the time and was very dark. The Station itself was well lighted. After deceased had walked away from the engine he lost sight of him. Shortly after the up train started to leave the Station, and the down train passed it abreast of witness's engine. That was about a minute after the deceased left him. They were informed on their arrival at Torre that the down train was nearly due. Witness said he heard the whistle as the train came down the incline towards him. After the train had passed, he looked out for the guard, but could not see his hand-light, which he considered strange. He remarked to his fireman that he could not see the guard, and alighting from his engine he walked down thirty yards and found HOLE lying on the down main line badly injured. His lamp was near by, but it was out. The deceased's father lost his life on the railway 19 years ago, when attempting to save his little daughter, who was also killed. A sister of deceased also lost her life on the railway, and an elder sister was injured. Deceased had been 18 years in the service of the G.W.R. Deceased's shunting pole was found twelve yards nearer Torre Station. There was sufficient light at the spot. Witness informed the Stationmaster of the occurrence, and assistance was soon at hand, and the deceased was removed on an ambulance to the Station. - By the Coroner: The fact that the up train was going out and the high wind might have prevented the deceased hearing the approach of the down train. - James Macnamara, foreman of the goods train, corroborated. Witness said he was firing before and at the time of the trains approaching his engine, and he did not hear any whistle. He assisted in removing the injured man. - Dr Woodburn, House Surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, described the injuries, which were extensive. The deceased had several scalp wounds, his upper jaw was broken, the upper part of the left arm was broken, and the left lower portion of the arm in two places. The right hand was lacerated and the left thigh had a compound fracture. The knee joint was cut open and broken and the muscles torn out. The deceased was partially conscious when admitted to the Hospital, but although everything possible was done for him, he died about two hours later from the shock due to the injuries. - Henry Richards, driver of the 7.54 p.m. down passenger train from Newton to Torre, said he knew nothing of the accident until the guard told him. He whistled about 200 yards from the Station in accordance with regulations. It was a very dark night and it would have been difficult to have seen a man on the line. There were no marks on the engine when he examined it at Paignton. The rain might have washed off any blood. - A Juror remarked that possibly the deceased was watching the up train out and the weather being so windy he did not hear the down train coming. - Sydney H. Bearne, fireman, said the driver sounded his warning whistle as stated by the previous witness. - John Mitchell, a foreman porter at Torre Station, said he crossed from the up to the down platform just as the train rounded the bend. He never heard any whistle because he started the up train which was just leaving the Station. - P.C. H. Brock, of Torquay, who assisted to remove the deceased to the Hospital, said he was on the down platform and saw the trains pass each other. The noise of the engine, together with the fact that it was boisterous weather, prevented his hearing any whistle. - Answering a Juror: Mr Smale said there was no hurry for the deceased to do his work for a quarter of an hour after the down train had gone. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added a rider that no one was to blame.

Western Times, Saturday 19 February 1910
LYMPSTONE - Found Drowned. Exeter Clerk's Mysterious Death. Inquest At Lympstone. - About 5.30 on Thursday evening a lad named Norton, whilst walking on the beach at Lympstone, observed what appeared to be the body of a man lying just above water mark. He called his father and other men, who at once removed the body to the Railway Hotel, where it was identified as that of JOHN PHIPPEN, of Heavitree. - The Inquest was held at the Lord Roberts Institute yesterday, before Mr E. R. Tweed, Coroner for the District. Mr W. Long was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - EMILY PHIPPEN, widow of the deceased, said her husband's name was CHARLES JOHN PHIPPEN. He was a clerk in the service of the L. and S.W. Ry. for nine years, and was 37 years of age. She last saw deceased alive on Thursday morning, at 8.45, January 20th. He was somewhat depressed. He was then at home. He had no breakfast and witness could not persuade him to have any. The evening previous he had a warm supper, with ale, and enjoyed it. He was a temperate man. His excuse for not having his breakfast was that it was late and he would not stay for it. He was wearing an overcoat at the time he left home. He had never threatened to take his life. She identified the pipe, tobacco pouch, pencil case and knife as belonging to her husband. He was insured. When he left home at 8.45 to go to his office he promised witness to take a parcel for her in the afternoon. He kissed her and bade her "good-bye" as usual. The office was at the corner of New North-road. Deceased had never had any medical supervisor, nor medical attention since three years ago. He had been more depressed and worried because he had taken over fresh duties at the office. - HUBERT HENRY PHIPPEN, clerk, of 40 East John-street, Exeter, and brother of deceased, said he recognised the body as that of his brother, whom he had not seen since about January 6th. Deceased never said anything about taking his life. He had told witness he had new duties, and appeared worried about it. He had always known him to worry greatly. - By the Jury: Deceased had never been in the habit of staying away. - George Norton, a boy, residing at Quay Lane, Lympstone, stated that on Thursday, at 5.15 p.m. he was picking weed on the shore for the garden, when he noticed the body lying on a bank under the cliff. He ran up to look at it and saw the body was that of a man clothed, but without a coat, but the coat was lying about five yards away. He ran to his father to tell him and witness was sent for a Policeman. - Charles Gibson, superintendent's assistant in the engineers' department of the L. and S.W. Railway, Exeter, said deceased was his junior in the department. Latterly he had appeared rather pale. With regard to the change of duties, his work was similar to what he had been accustomed to. They were not increased, rather slightly decreased. He had never heard him threaten to take his life. Witness had never had any occasion to find fault with him - he did his work well. Witness saw deceased at 5.30 p.m. on January 10, when he appeared in his usual frame of mind. there was no likelihood whatever of deceased being dismissed. During the past five years he had not done his work so rapidly as before; it entailed a longer time, but gave him no difficulty. He did not know that deceased had any financial difficulties, nor that he was unhappy. The change in deceased's duties involved an increase in salary but the duties were not more responsible, and he was getting a sufficient salary to live comfortably and pay his way. - The Coroner remarked that it was a strange thing the coat was off the body and lying about five yards from it quite sound. - The Foreman of the Jury said that the opinion formed was that the coat was caught on the rocks under the body and that the action of the receding tide caused the body to rise and fall, thereby releasing the body from it. - The Coroner recalled HUBERT PHIPPEN, who said he was sure it was deceased's coat and MRS PHIPPEN also recognised it. - Dr Fitzsimons, of Lympstone, deposed that he met the men carrying the body to the Railway Hotel yard. He examined it and found that it had the appearance of having been in the water some weeks, corresponding with the period during which deceased had been missing. As far as witness could judge the deceased had been drowned. There were no indications on the body of violence. - In reply to the Jury, Sergt. Rattenbury said no overcoat had been found. - The Coroner, in summing up, remarked that deceased went out on January 20th to go to his work. He was depressed and of a nervous temperament, but there was no evidence to show what he did from the time he left home. It was a cold day and he went away with his overcoat on. But the fact that it was a cold day was sufficient to draw the conclusion that he would not have divested himself of his great coat. But since the undercoat was found off the body the overcoat might have come off also in a similar way. He did not see in the evidence any suspicion of suicide, and the only verdict they could return, in his opinion, was that of "Found Drowned." Deceased might have gone to the river and fallen in, for none of the witnesses had heard him threaten to take his life. Out of regard for the relatives they could not do other than return a verdict of "Found Drowned." - The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

STOKE CANON - Drowning Tragedy. Stoke Canon Man Found In A Pond. - At Stoke Canon yesterday afternoon, Mr W. H. Gould, District Coroner, conducted an Inquest on the body of FREDERICK WM. DEWDNEY, aged 33, of the Stoke Canon Inn. - The body was identified by JOHN DEWDNEY, brother, who stated that he last saw him alive about 8.5 a.m. on Thursday morning. He was then in bed. Lately he had been complaining of illness. Witness had never seen any signs of depression. Deceased had not had much sleep lately, but on Wednesday he slept better than usual. He was found in a pond in a field in his mother's occupation. He was in the habit of going to the field of a morning. Witness had never heard him speak of destroying himself, and he left no communication. - P.C. Fewings stated that he received information from the last witness that deceased was missing, and hearing that DEWDNEY'S cap had been found near this spot, he went to the pond, which was about 500 yards from the house and near the River Culm. Here he recovered the body from the pond, which was between five and six feet deep. The cap was about four feet from the pit. If a man fell in witness thought he would be able to save himself. He searched deceased, but did not find any communication. - Dr D. Marshall stated that he saw the body after it had been recovered. The body presented the usual appearance of death from drowning. On Tuesday he was called to see deceased, when he was suffering from indigestion. Witness was told that deceased had for some time complained of something growing in his stomach. Sleeplessness often led to depression and depression led people to commit acts which they would not do if they were in their right senses. - JOHN DEWDNEY, recalled, stated that deceased often went out for a walk before breakfast. He did not get suspicious until about 12 o'clock when he sent someone to look for him. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Western Times, Monday 21 February 1910
NEWTON ABBOT - Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest at Newton on Saturday touching the death of the fourteen-weeks' old son of WM. and MARCELLA MATTHEWS, of No. 9 Court, Bank-street. Evidence showed that the child was very cross about 4 a.m., and the mother took it from its cradle and put it in bed with her. Awaking three hours later she found that the child was dead. Dr Nisbet deposed that the child died from asphyxia. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Times, Tuesday 22 February 1910
SIDBURY - An Inquest was held before Dr Tweed yesterday, at Fulcombe Farm, Sidbury, to Enquire into the death of FRANK SKINNER, who was fatally shot on Saturday while out rabbit shooting. Mr Matthews was foreman of the Jury. - Mr King, who was one of the three, said they were on Fulcome Moor rabbiting. When Dunsford's gun went off deceased was on the other side of the hedge. - James Dunsford said he and deceased were on opposite sides of the hedge. He had the gun in his hand and went to pick up the ferret when by some means the gun went off. Witness, who was much affected, said the muzzle of the gun was only a few inches from deceased. - Dr B. G. Pullin said the charge went in about two inches below the shoulder and shattered the lung. - The Coroner said it was a very careless way to carry guns. - The Jury gave a verdict of "Homicide by Misadventure."

ILFRACOMBE - At the Tyrrell Cottage Hospital, Ilfracombe, on Saturday, Mr C. W. F. Brown, North Devon Coroner, held an Inquest relative to the death of CECIL DADDS aged two years. Mr J. D. Grant was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - PERCY DADDS, father, said on Thursday last deceased was sitting at the table playing houses, and he overbalanced himself, when he fell to the floor on top of a mechanical toy. - WILLIAM DADDS, grandfather of deceased, said his son came running into his house with deceased in his arms and a spike of the toy stuck in his head. Witness pulled it out. - Dr Osborne said there was a punctured wound on the left side of the skull. The deceased afterwards had convulsions and he then discovered the wound extended right into the brain, which set up an abscess and caused the death. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed their sympathy with the parents.

EXMOUTH - Exmouth Eccentric. Strange Death Of An Old Lady. - An Inquest was held at No. 1 Bicton Place, Exmouth, yesterday, before Mr E. R. Tweed, Coroner for the District, relative to the death of MRS ANN KERLEY, aged 82, who died on Friday evening. Deceased, who was somewhat eccentric in her habits, had been ill for some days, but declined to see a doctor until Friday afternoon, a few hours before her death. Mr H. Blackmore was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - Eliza Frances Best deposed that she saw deceased alive on Friday morning in her room. Witness was engaged by MRS KERLEY for two hours daily to run errands. Deceased did her own work, and she was very eccentric. She had a furnished house - Huish Lodge, Cyprus-road - but had never resided there. The residence had been unoccupied for several years. Witness was rather anxious about deceased, because she told witness she had a bad night, and on Friday she came up at 10.30 a.m., instead of the usual hour, noon. MRS KERLEY was temperate and never partook of stimulants nor drugs to witness's knowledge. It was seven years ago that deceased had previously seen a doctor. On her way to MRS KERLEY'S niece witness told Dr Thomas about her, and asked him to see her. Deceased had been growing weaker for some time, and on Thursday night was sick, and complained of weakness. She had a cough, which also grew worse. On Thursday night deceased partook of some prepared cornflour. She usually lived on soup, cakes, and pastry, and always had a cooked dinner on Sundays from Mrs Copp. When witness went to deceased's niece she told her, her aunt was ill and that she thought she ought to have medical attendance. The niece came about twelve and talked to MRS KERLEY, who consented to see a doctor. MRS KERLEY (the deceased's nephew's wife and the niece referred to by witness) came to see deceased once or twice a week. Dr Thomas came at about 2.30 and said deceased should have air, and a fire in the room. Deceased had been in bed for a week. Although she had a sitting-room as well deceased had for two years lived in the bedroom, which she always kept locked. When Dr Thomas left the house he said he would come again, but at 5 o'clock, as witness thought deceased was worse, she called him. Dr Thomas was not in and Miss Thomas asked her to go to Dr Hargreaves (Dr Thomas's partner), who came directly. - Elizabeth Copp, of 1 Bicton-place, said deceased had lodged at her house for eight years. Usually in the winter MRS KERLEY had a slight attack of bronchitis, but generally was in good health. Deceased had not been outdoors all the winter. Witness cooked for deceased when it was required. During the past week deceased had been on an invalid diet. Witness knew she had not taken any drugs. - PHILIP KERLEY, architect, nephew of deceased, said he had visited her once or twice a week. She was absolutely eccentric and "lived behind a locked door" for three or four years. She was not in the habit of taking drugs. Deceased was the widow of GEORGE KERLEY, a doctor's dispenser. She would never listen to advice to see a doctor, and had a great aversion to it. On Friday witness's wife persuaded her to have a doctor. Witness read a portion of a letter deceased wrote to his sister at Plymouth last week, and in it she said: "All are very kind and good to me here, and I have everything I want to do me good." - Dr Thomas said that Eliza Best stopped him in Beacon-hill at 3 p.m. last Friday, and asked him to go and see MRS KERLEY. He was close to the back door of the house, and said, "I will go in now." She replied, "Oh, no you must not; they have not sent for you yet. I feel ill, the smell in the room is so bad." Witness went in and saw deceased in the room, which was dark and smelling badly. She recognised witness. He felt her pulse, which was weak, and told her it was wrong of her not to have sent for him before, as it might get her landlady into trouble. Witness prescribed for her, and then went to Withycombe to see patients, there being many people ill in the town. When he returned from Withycombe he went to see deceased again, and then found her dead, his partner having been to the house meanwhile. Under the circumstances, and not having seen MRS KERLEY but for a brief interval, he considered he could not give a certificate. - The Coroner: Could you account for death, Dr Thomas? - Dr Thomas: Oh! yes; MRS KERLEY had evidently been suffering from influenza. She was very wheezy when I saw her and she appeared to be then dying from heart failure. This I consider the cause of death. - The Coroner remarked that Dr Thomas was quite right in not giving a certificate, and although there was no reason to doubt beforehand that Mrs Copp was not attentive, it was not known in the legal way that she had been. Hence the need of the Inquest partly. It was clear that Mrs Copp and the deceased's friends had been very kind to her. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Wednesday 23 February 1910
PAIGNTON - Mr Coroner Hacker yesterday held an Inquest at Paignton on the death of MISS MARY ROOKE, a nurse pensioned from the Banksea Asylum, who died rather suddenly on Sunday morning. It was proved by neighbours that deceased was in delicate health and had been in the Cottage Hospital for some time. On Sunday she was taken faint and died about 11 o'clock. Dr Burland attributed death to haemorrhage of the bowels and a verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Times, Thursday 24 February 1910
NEWTON ABBOT - At an Inquest held at Newton Abbot last evening on EMMA HODGE, aged 52, PERCY HODGE, the well-known Devon footballer, stated that on Tuesday evening he was accompanying his mother to church, when she gasped for breath, and after leaning against a building for two or three minutes, collapsed. - Dr W. H. Scott stated that deceased died of heart disease and the Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes" and expressed sympathy with the family.

Western Times, Friday 25 February 1910
EXETER - Death Of A Widow. A Remarkable Case At Exeter. Inquest Last Evening. - An Inquest was held at the City Police Station by the Exeter Coroner last evening, relative to the death of SARAH JANE HAMMETT, aged 55, widow of a waggoner who died recently. The body was identified by deceased's sister, ELIZABETH HOLMES, of Bordesley, Birmingham. - Mrs Kennedy, of Hookway's-buildings, said deceased lived in the rooms above hers. On Monday evening witness saw her going upstairs. She was then the worse for liquor. In her hand were a jug of beer and a small bottle of spirit. Witness had been in the habit of giving deceased a cup of tea before she got up, but on Monday evening deceased remarked, "I shan't want anything tomorrow. I want to be quiet till 10 o'clock." Ever since her husband died deceased had been drinking freely. Witness went to deceased's rooms on Tuesday at 1.30 and saw her lying on the floor, partly dressed. The sleeve of the jersey had caught in the rail of the bedstead, and at first sight witness thought she had hanged herself. The doctor who arrived asked if there was any poison about and Mrs Bailey, who had been fetched, produced a bottle which she said she had brought the deceased. - Was she the worse for liquor on Monday night, or drunk? - She was very drunk. - Answering a Juryman, witness said deceased climbed up the stairs and witness went up behind her, fearing that she would fail. Witness did not see her go into bed, which, however, seemed to have been slept in. - Several Jurymen said the bottle produced, though labelled sulphate of zinc, smelt of camphorated oil. - Mrs Burchall, Cornish's-court, Paul-street, niece of deceased, said she was sent for on Thursday. Her aunt was foaming at the mouth. The sleeve of her jacket was caught in the bed rail. She did not recover consciousness and died at 5.30. - Dr D. Harmer, who was called on Tuesday about 2.30, said deceased was then unconscious. Her breath smelled strongly of stale alcohol. She was too ill to be moved. He had her covered up and made as comfortable as possible. A post-mortem examination revealed a large haemorrhage in the substance of the brain, advanced disease of the liver and kidneys, fatty degeneration of the heart; in fact, all the organs of the body were diseased. The cause of death was haemorrhage into the brain, from natural causes. There was no evidence in the stomach of any irritant poison. Drink undoubtedly accelerated death. Her liver and kidneys suggested that she had been in the habit of drinking copiously for years. The bottle bore an under label marked eye lotion, which would be a very much diluted sulphate of zinc, which would not be sufficient to cause death if the whole bottle full were taken. The smell of camphor probably proceeded from an old greasy cork which did not belong to the bottle. - The Coroner said the deceased was awarded the compensation recently for the loss of her husband. A portion was allowed to her to meet her necessities and it seemed that she did not make a wise use of the money. - Ultimately the Jury agreed with the doctor's evidence that death was due to "Natural Causes accelerated by drink."

EXETER - Death While Assisting At An Exeter Fire. - The City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at the Police Station last evening, relative to the death of ARTHUR JOHN SKOINES, bricklayer, aged 52, who died suddenly while assisting at a fire at Exe Bridge on Tuesday night. The body was identified by EDWARD SKOINES, deceased's nephew, who said his uncle enjoyed good health. He was formerly a member of the Exeter Fire Brigade. - Thomas Perry, Cotfield-street, stated that the fire broke out at a photographer's shop. Deceased entered the shop with others and appeared very excited, telling those around to help to take out the things. Soon after witness saw him lying on the ground outside. There was a lot of smoke in the rooms, especially before the flames appeared. - P.C. Parrish said deceased dropped down as if in a fit. - Witness rendered first-aid and, with the assistance of P.S. Wreford, applied means of artificial respiration, without success. - Mr L. Black, Surgeon, who was called to see the deceased, said he found him lying on the pavement dead. A post mortem examination showed that all the organs were healthy except the heart. Death was caused by heart failure, due to valvular disease. The excitement of the fire probably caused death, although the smoke might have contributed to the result. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

BIDEFORD - Barge Tragedy. Boy Rescues His Employer At Bideford And Is Found Drowned. - Mr G. W. F. Brown, County Coroner, conducted an Inquest at Bideford, on Wednesday, on the body of WALTER BLACKMORE, 14, son of GEORGE BLACKMORE, a lime burner of West View, Bideford. - The Coroner said the circumstances were very sad indeed, as the boy had only just previously to his own death saved from drowning the man for whom he was working. The man had fallen into the water and, having been saved by deceased, went home to change his clothes. During his absence the youngster evidently fell into the water himself and was drowned. - GEORGE BLACKMORE, father, identified the body. He last saw his son at five that morning. The boy worked for Mr John Pile on a barge. Deceased could not swim. - John Pile, barge-owner, stated that he was a brother-in-law of deceased, who worked for him. He was on the barge in the morning, when a piece of one of the hatches fell into the water, and when trying to reach it he over-balanced and tumbled into the river. The lad took the punt, which was behind the barge and came to his rescue. Deceased got him in all right and witness then left to go home and change his clothes. Before leaving he told the boy to put the punt back in its place and pick up a piece of wood. Witness was away about half an hour, when he was informed that his barge was across the bridge and when he went down he saw that deceased was not in it. The anchor was also in a different position. When he left it the barge was fastened with an anchor and a chain, but on his return the anchor had been hauled up some distance. He could not say how the boy got into the water, but he might have slipped and over-balanced. The water was 12 or 14 ft. in depth when he fell in, but the tide had ebbed for two hours when his barge was found across the bridge. - ALBERT BLACKMORE, brother of the last witness, spoke to seeing the barge across the river and Reginald Cowell proved finding the body. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the evidence and expressed sympathy with the parents in the loss they had sustained. [the newspaper article also contains a picture of the deceased.]

PARRACOMBE - Parracombe Farmer's Tragic Death. - Mr G. W. F. Brown, Barnstaple County Coroner, held an Inquest at Hills View, Parracombe, yesterday, on the body of THOMAS WIDDEN, a local farmer, who met his death under tragic circumstances. - Fredk. Tamlyn, an employee of the deceased, said that about 10.30 the previous day he was loading turnips on MR WIDDEN'S farm, when he saw a colt, which the deceased had been riding just before, come across the field by itself, without anyone on the saddle. He went to the field and there saw the deceased lying on the ground. He did not move, so witness went for help and the Stationmaster at Woody Bay came and ascertained that the deceased was dead. - By the Coroner: The pony was very playful when on the grass. - Dr John Grant Warren, of Lynton, said deceased's neck was dislocated. In his opinion death must have been instantaneous. - Evidence as to identification having also been given by William Thorne, who said that deceased was 55 years of age, the Jury found a verdict of "Accidental Death," caused by deceased being thrown from a horse and dislocating his neck. - The Coroner expressed his sympathy with the relatives, and remarked that the deceased was widely known and respected as an agriculturist. It was a peculiar thing that the last inquest he held in the parish was at the deceased's house, it being on the body of a gentleman who died suddenly outside deceased's door. The deceased was then a member of the Jury.

Western Times, Monday 28 February 1910
EXETER - Mr W. Linford Brown held an Inquest at Exeter on Saturday relative to the death of MR JOHN HOLMES, aged 79, of Friar's Walk. - Walter Bending stated he saw deceased alive on Tuesday morning, when he seemed all right. The following day MR HOLMES sent witness's son on an errand. About 8.45 witness went up and found deceased was dead. - Dr Harris stated that death was due to pneumonia and empyema, and the Jury returned their verdict accordingly.

EXETER - Exeter Pensioner's Sudden Death. - At Exeter Police Court on Saturday, the City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, conducted an Inquest relative to the death of THOMAS BRAY, aged 81. P.C. Walters, the Coroner's Officer, identified the body, and said he had known deceased for about 15 years. He was a very steady man. Witness had not been able to find any relatives. - Mrs A. Bartlett, Turner's Buildings, said she saw deceased last alive on Sunday, but about four on Wednesday morning she heard him coughing. - P.C. Walters said he had seen a man named Gregory, who was too ill to attend, who stated that a district visitor came to him and said she had called on deceased and received on answer. Mr Gregory went into the house and saw deceased lying on the bed. He was dressed and apparently dead. - Dr Harrison stated that death was due to cardiac syncope. - The Jury returned their verdict in accordance with the doctor's evidence.

Western Times, Tuesday 1 March 1910
BARNSTAPLE - Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, Borough Coroner, yesterday held an Inquest on the body of MRS ELIZABETH JONES, aged 84, the widow of a painter, residing with her son-in-law, MR HENRY WATTS, at Riddell Avenue, Barnstaple. Mr J. Ford was Foreman of the Jury. The evidence of MR WATTS was to the effect that his mother slipped and fell downstairs in October, breaking her thigh. Dr Cooper attended her. She had been in bed ever since the accident. Death was due to bronchitis. The Jury returned a verdict to that effect.

TIVERTON - Unusual Case. Drover's Strange Death At Tiverton. - At Tiverton Workhouse last evening, Mr A. Fisher, Borough Coroner, conducted an Inquest relative to the death of an aged cattle drover, named JOHN MEARS, of no fixed bode. - In the course of his evidence, Mr Frederick Dart, of Hill Farm, Calverleigh, said that the deceased slept in his barn occasionally, but rarely two nights in succession. MEARS slept in the barn last Wednesday and it was a surprise to witness to see deceased there the next day. Witness sent food to MEARS whilst he was staying in the barn. On Friday witness was informed that MEARS was not eating the food sent to him and so he (Mr Dart) considered the advisability of his removal to the Tiverton Infirmary. He found, however, that deceased had torn up his clothing. - P.C. Crang, of Washfield, stated that deceased was taken ill at the Royal Oak Inn, Gibbett Moor, last week. The landlord gave deceased a bed in the house and he got better. Witness next saw deceased at Mr Dart's farm. He had no clothing, was cold and unconscious, so witness took him to the Workhouse Infirmary. - Mr W. J. Penney (Master of the Workhouse) said the deceased, who was no stranger to him, was admitted to the House last Friday night in a comatose condition. He died half an hour after admission. - Dr Pollock, who had made a post-mortem examination, stated that he found a large cyst growth in the brain. Death took place when that growth broke. He added it was an unusual case. - "Death from Natural Causes" was the verdict of the Jury.

Western Times, Thursday 3 March 1910
TOTNES - An Inquest was held at Bridgetown Parish Room, Totnes, Tuesday, by Mr S. Hacker, respecting the death of MISS LOUISA BINDON, aged 79. The evidence of deceased's nephew, John Drew, was that he found her dead in bed on Tuesday morning and Dr W. R. Edmond said death was due to heart failure. A verdict to that effect was accordingly returned.

Western Times, Tuesday 8 March 1910
EXETER - Exeter Tragedy. Inquest At The Police Station. Victim Of Depression. - An Inquest was held last evening by the City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, relative to the death of WILLIAM HENRY HILL, a young carpenter, aged 20, of 10 James-street, who was found dead under tragic circumstances on Saturday last. - WILLIAM JOHN HILL, the father, who appeared very much distressed, of 10 James-street, identified the body and said his son was working for someone at Alphington. He last saw him alive at 11.30 on Friday. He then seemed as usual. During the last week or two he had been depressed. He would not, however, see a doctor, but went about his work as usual. Witness had no idea what he was depressed about. He had no girl companion, and had not had any quarrel with anyone, to witness's knowledge. There was not a boy in the City, added the father, who had better prospects before him. On Saturday morning witness called to his son, as usual, for him to get up. He received no answer, and having called three times concluded deceased had gone downstairs. Later witness went downstairs and saw a candle burning and going through the kitchen found deceased hanging in the scullery. He was suspended by a rope from an iron bar in the ceiling, which witness had fixed up for the children to swing from. There was a stool close by. Witness cut the body down and sent for a doctor. - MR HILL gave his evidence with great effort and at the conclusion burst into tears, and had to be led from the witness-box. - BERTIE VICTOR HILL, brother, said he slept in the same room as deceased. The night before, when he went to bed, deceased seemed a little miserable, but did not give witness any reason for it. Witness had never heard him threaten to take his life. - MR HILL, recalled, said he had never heard deceased threaten to take his life. On Friday he had a fall from a pair of steps, but did not seem to take any notice of it. The rope he hanged himself with was one he used for hanging his bicycle up when cleaning it. - P.S. Abrahams, who went to the house, said he found deceased cut down and dead. He searched his pockets and his bedroom, but found no letters or communication to throw any light on the tragedy. - Dr Harrison said death was due to asphyxia, caused by hanging. - In answer to the Jury, the doctor said the fall the previous day would have had nothing to do with the state of his mind, as there was depression before. - The Coroner, in the course of summing up, said he thought the suicide would be attributed to the depression from which deceased suffered. He (the Coroner) never felt angry, as some people did, with those who committed suicide. It was often due to the state of their health. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" and expressed sympathy with the father and family, the Coroner concurring.

Western Times, Wednesday 9 March 1910
Fatal Termination To A Newton Accident. - EDWARD STONE, 64, of Toddiford Farm, Hennock, died in Newton Hospital yesterday from injuries received a few weeks ago. It appears that he was driving into Newton with a cart load of potatoes, and on jumping out of the cart on nearing the town slipped, both wheels passing over him and fracturing the left thigh. - Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held the Inquest last evening. Dr Nisbet deposed that death was due to exhaustion. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Friday 11 March 1910
BIDEFORD - North Devon Tragedy. Inquest At Bideford On A Hartland Man. - The North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, and a Jury, of which Mr J. Adams was chosen Foreman, held an Inquest at the Bideford and District Hospital at Bideford on Monday afternoon on the body of WILLIAM SHUTE, aged 21, of Hartland, an indoor farm hand in the service of Mr W. Metherell, of Stoke, Hartland. It appeared from the evidence of Mr Metherell's son and the deceased's mother, that on February 22nd deceased was using a root slicer on the farm, when he cut the top of the thumb on his left hand. When Mr Metherell saw him he had tied the thumb up, but said he was afraid he should have to go home for a day or two as he kept on knocking it. Mr Metherell took him into the farm, and got some hot water for him to wash the cut and also tied it up for him as well as he was able. He expressed a wish to go home and was advised to see a doctor. He did not, however, see a doctor until the 26th, refusing in the meantime to let his mother untie the bandage, saying it would get better. - Dr Martyn, of Hartland, said when deceased saw him on the 26th the wound was in a neglected and dirty state. He treated him, and saw him again on the 28th, and on the 2nd March. On the latter date the wound was not looking so well as previously, but there was nothing in the man's condition indicative of trouble. When he saw him two days later, at night, he was suffering from lock-jaw. Witness wired to Exeter for some anti-toxin serum, and next morning drove deceased in to the Hospital at Bideford, where, after consultation with Dr Pearson, the serum was injected, but it was an acute case and the man died later in the day. - The Foreman: Is it your opinion that if he had gone to a doctor earlier his life would have been saved? - Witness: I do not say that; I do not suggest that. - Dr Pearson also gave evidence and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - The deceased was the chief support of a widowed mother, who lost her husband under sad circumstances and recently lost another son in consumption.

Western Times, Monday 14 March 1910
GREAT TORRINGTON - Mr G. W. F. Brown, County Coroner, held an Inquest in the Town Hall, Torrington, on Saturday, touching the death of JOHN BALKWELL, age three weeks, son of THOMAS BALKWELL. - MRS BALKWELL, the mother, said on Thursday she placed it in the cradle at 6.15 p.m., leaving it for a few minutes to fetch some lamp oil across the street. On her return she found blood running from its nose and the child was quite dead. In answer to the Coroner, she said the child never had a knock. Dr Watkins said on making a post-mortem examination he found congestion of the right lung and the brain, and in his opinion the latter was the cause of death. - The Jury (of whom Mr J. D. Copp was Foreman) returned a verdict in accordance with the doctor's evidence.

Western Times, Tuesday 15 March 1910
LYNMOUTH - Sudden Death Of MR CECIL N. BEVAN at Lynmouth. - Quite a gloom was cast over the twin villages of Lynton and Lynmouth on Saturday when it became known that MR CECIL N. BEVAN had died suddenly at his residence, the Lyn Valley Hotel, Lynmouth. MR BEVAN was one of the most popular and well-known men in North Devon. - He had not been well for some time, but his indisposition had not prevented his getting about as usual. On Saturday morning he was found lying on the floor of the coffee-room by his daughter, who summoned assistance, but Dr Warren could only pronounce life to be extinct, syncope being the cause. - The deceased gentleman was about 46 years of age and a native of Lynmouth. He founded the Hotel of which he was proprietor, and was exceedingly well-known amongst visitors to the English Switzerland, and more especially among the anglers, for he was an authority on fishing. His deep-sea catches were remarkable and the billiard-room walls of the Hotel were literally covered with photographs of his huge hauls. - As harbour master of the port, it was but natural that everything connected with the sea and with seamen should claim his sympathy and support. Almost every office attached to their institutions had been filled by him. He was Secretary of the Royal Lifeboat Institution and agent for the Shipwrecked Mariners' Society at the time of his death. - For many years he has been a member of the Lynton Urban District Council and has always been energetic in promoting everything for the good of the town. His term of office had just terminated and his name has already been mentioned as a candidate for the April election. - An old Volunteer, he held the rank of Quartermaster-Sergt. in the Territorial Force, and was also Secretary of the Rifle Club. He was the local representative of Messrs. P. and A. Campbell Ltd., and as such came in contact with a large number of visitors in the Summer months. In politics he was a Conservative. - The deceased leaves a widow and four children, the eldest and the youngest being girls and the other two being boys, who are away at school. - The Inquest - Mr G. W. F. Brown, the District Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of the late MR C. N. BEVAN at the Lyn Valley Hotel, yesterday. Mr E. Hodges, J.P., Chairman of the Council, was chosen Foreman. - The Coroner briefly outlined the circumstances and spoke highly of the deceased, who as would be seen from the evidence to be given, died suddenly. Death was absolutely natural. He was a personal friend of the deceased, and would be greatly missed by all. - Mr Gaydon said deceased was 45 years of age. He saw him alive on Friday night at 9.30 at the Lyndale Hotel, deceased then being in his usual health and spirits. - AGNES BEVAN, deceased's eldest daughter, deposed that her father was in his usual health at quarter to twelve on Friday night, but at quarter to seven on Saturday morning she saw him on the floor of the coffee room, face downwards. She summoned assistance. - Marmaduke Clapp, a postman, said he found deceased on the floor of the coffee room, being supported by Mr Slee, hotel boots. - Dr Warren added that he had attended deceased for five or six years. His heart was weak and he (witness) had foretold how his end would come. He saw him on Friday and he was then in his usual spirits. He was a man of magnificent physique. Witness was called about 6.55 and found him as described. He had then been dead for about an hour. Death was due to syncope and he concluded that deceased felt unwell and when in the coffee room for a stimulant he fell over. - The Coroner said the death of MR BEVAN would mean a great loss to the district. He was ever ready to do anyone a good turn, and was a man he (the Coroner) personally greatly admired, and was proud to call his friend. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" adding a vote of sympathy with the widow and family. - The Foreman, in announcing the verdict, paid a tribute to the sterling qualities of deceased. - The Funeral - On Tuesday afternoon the funeral of the late, MR CECIL N. BEVAN took place at Lynton. All shops were shut and business was suspended generally while the twin villages paid their last respect to one of their leading townsmen. MR BEVAN it will be remembered, passed away suddenly on Saturday morning. The public schools were all closed and public buildings and the shipping at Lynmouth flew flags at half-mast. - The cortege left the Lyn Valley Hotel (of which deceased was proprietor) at 2 o'clock. The bearers were Territorials, of whom deceased was a Quartermaster-Sergeant. The band of Ilfracombe Artillery Corps played the Dead March and supplied funeral music during the procession. The funeral was undoubtedly the largest ever known here. The chief mourners were Mrs C. N. Bevan (widow), and Miss Agnes Bevan (daughter), and three young children; Mr and Mrs Gaydon, the family of the late Mr Tom Bevan (brother of deceased), Mr and Mrs E. J. Peddars and three daughters, Mrs Johnstone, Mr and Mrs Howe and others. [Note: There is a picture of him in the newspaper of Friday 18 March 1910]

Western Times, Wednesday 16 March 1910
NEWTON ABBOT -Sudden Death At Newton. Farmer Cold Not Identify His Brother. - Mr S. Hacker, the Coroner, conducted an Inquest at Newton yesterday, relative to the death of THOMAS LEE, of Lustleigh, 64, a jobbing labourer, who died suddenly at Newton on Monday. - JAMES LEE , of Ilsington, a farmer, who was called to give evidence of identification, thought deceased was his brother, but as he had not seen him for eight or ten years he would not swear to him. - The Coroner asked if there was anyone in Court who could identify the deceased. - P.C. Hurford said he recognised the likeness to the witness LEE. - Replying to the Coroner, the witness said he had not corresponded with his brother for twenty years. The deceased resided in Exeter thirty years ago, but after the separation from his wife, who died nine years ago, he did not know where he lived. Witness had no idea that he was working for a farmer at Lustleigh. - Archibald J. Hannaford, of Wreylands, Bovey, farm labourer, stated that the deceased lodged with him for about three months. Deceased never spoke of his brother, but of a sister at Manaton, named MRS STONE. The deceased did not go to his work on Friday, complaining that he was ill. On that day and Saturday and Sunday he remained in bed until noon, but on Monday he got up and went for a walk, saying he was better. Witness could not keep the deceased at his house because of his habits and he only took him in, in the first instance, out of kindness. Witness communicated with the Relieving Officer that the deceased was ill and destitute. - William A Parker, of Brookfield, Lustleigh, said that the deceased came to his place on Monday to finish a job, but witness had engaged another man. Witness saw deceased leave Lustleigh by train on Monday to go to the Newton Infirmary. - Nathan Pound, of River View Terrace, Newton, deposed to seeing the deceased suddenly fall in Queen-street, Newton, about five o'clock on Monday evening. Witness rendered first aid, but the man gave three gasps and expired. - Dr Martin deposed that death was due to syncope. - P.C. Hurford stated that he saw the deceased at Lustleigh. His attention was drawn to him by Mr Mardon, who thought someone should accompany the deceased to Newton. Witness did not think that deceased was unfit to travel. Deceased was not a careful man and given to drink. Witness made enquiries and learned that at Newton the deceased asked how much it would be to drive him to the Infirmary and on being told 1s. 6d. replied that it was too much. - William J. Mardon, of Bovey, corroborated the last witness. He also told the Stationmaster, and expressed the opinion that the deceased would not reach the Newton Infirmary alive. - Mr Clemas, the Relieving Officer, said besides wiring instructions to Lustleigh, he telephoned to the Master of the Newton Workhouse to admit the deceased without an order. - The Coroner having summed up, the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Thursday 17 March 1910
ASHREIGNEY - Child's Death. Unexplained Burning Tragedy In North Devon. Coroner's Warning. - The mysterious death of a ten-year-old child was investigated at a Coroner's Inquest held at Hollacombe, Ashreigney, North Devon, last evening. The child, FLORENCE ALDERMAN, who died on Monday last, was the daughter of MR and MRS JAMES ALDERMAN. - The mother stated that on March 5th she left the house to take her husband's dinner into an adjoining field, and also to fetch some milk. She had been away for about three-quarters of an hour when she heard that her daughter, FLORENCE, had caught her clothes on fire. She hurried down to the house at once. FLORENCE had been left at home to look after the other children. There were only two or three live coals on the hearth when witness went out. - Questioned by the Coroner, the witness said her daughter never told her how she caught her clothes on fire. - JAMES ALDERMAN, the father, said on hearing from one of the younger children that FLORENCE had her clothes on fire, he ran down to the house. He found that a neighbour had carried the girl into the house and put the flames out. There were only two or three coals in the fire and he could not account in any way for the child's clothes catching fire. - Albert Folland, a neighbour, said that on hearing cries, he proceeded to the yard outside MR ALDERMAN'S house and there found the girl FLORENCE enveloped in flames. He put the flames out and carried her indoors. There was hardly any fire in the room - certainly not enough to catch the girl's clothes on fire. He saw no signs of any paper, sticks, or anything else being burnt inside the house. The child merely told him that she "caught her pinafore on fire." - Dr Johnson said the girl had very extensive burns all over the lower part of her body. - The immediate cause of death was shock from the burns, and septic absorption. - The Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, in summing up, pointed out the danger of leaving such a small child in a house with a fire which was unguarded. If the child had not been ten years of age the parents would have been proceeded against under the Children Act. He cautioned the mother against leaving the younger children in the house again without someone to look after them, and without a proper fireguard. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Accidental Burns."

Western Times, Friday 18 March 1910
CHULMLEIGH - The District Coroner held an Inquest in the Town Hall on Monday, on SAMUEL TARR, a labourer, about 50, residing in East-street, Chulmleigh, who was found on Saturday morning by his wife hanging from a beam. - ELLEN TARR, widow, said when deceased came from his day's work about 8 o'clock he was intoxicated. She spoke to him, but there were no angry words on her part. She last saw him alive at ten minutes to ten, when he left the house and did not return for the night. He had previously threatened to take her life, and had stayed out all night before. On Saturday morning on going to the shed across the yard, she saw the deceased hanging from a beam and at once sent for Dr Tucker and Sergt. Norman, but before they arrived a neighbour, William Samson, cut the rope. - Mrs Jury, a neighbour, said she saw SAMUEL TARR outside her back door unable to enter the house and the door appeared to be bolted. - Dr Tucker stated that he was called about 7 a.m. that morning and deceased appeared to have been dead for several hours, and that the cause of death was suffocation, caused by hanging. - P.S. Norman said that deceased was a quiet man, and had never given the Police any trouble. - The Coroner, in summing up, thought that the wife should have looked for deceased when he did not return. It appeared to him their life had been that of a cat and dog nature. - A verdict of "Suicide" was returned by the Jury, of whom Mr Baldwin was chosen Foreman.

NORTH PETHERWIN - Dr W. F. Thompson held an Inquest Wednesday relative to the death of MRS ELIZABETH SMALE, aged 74, of Tower-street, widow of the late MR JOHN SMALE, of Brazecott, North Petherwin. The evidence of the son and Mrs Strike, a neighbour, went to show that though the deceased was frail she had not been under medical care since 1906. On Sunday she did the light work of the house as usual, but on Monday remained in bed, and during the afternoon she passed away suddenly. The Coroner stated that the deceased had suffered from a weak heart and a slight touch of bronchitis, brought on through the failure of the heart's action. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes," and expressed sympathy with the family.

Western Times, Saturday 19 March 1910
EXMOUTH - Old Lady's Objection To Seeing A Doctor. - An Inquest was held at the Public Hall, Exmouth, yesterday, before Mr E. R. Tweed, Coroner for the District, relative to the death of MISS FANNY LOVELACE CARTER, aged 69, a lace worker of 5 Albion-street, who died after a few days' illness on Wednesday. Mr E. Webber was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - EMMA MARY LOVELACE CARTER, sister of deceased, said she had always lived with her. Deceased had suffered from heart complaint. Last Saturday she complained of feeling unwell. She had suffered from shortness of breath for twenty-two years. Her memory was very bad. Deceased always put off seeing a doctor. On Tuesday evening her sister went to bed as usual and the next day she got up, but did not come downstairs and said she could not move. Witness took tea to her and told her she had better go back to bed and asked if she should call a doctor, and deceased said "No." Witness placed deceased in bed at 12.15, and about five minutes afterwards, whilst witness was putting her pillows right, she died. - The Coroner: Don't you think you ought to have sent for a doctor before? She was in your charge. - Witness: No, she was not in my charge. - The Coroner: But you were answerable for her and had you sent for a doctor before you would have avoided this Inquiry, you know. - Maria Ann Salter, of 17 Union-street, said deceased was her aunt. Witness had heard her complain of shortness of breath. Both her aunts got on very well together and there was never any unpleasantness. Both sisters went their own way. She did not think the last witness incapable of looking after deceased, nor was deceased incapable of looking after herself. Witness was sent for on Wednesday to come to her aunt. MISS CARTER told witness to go upstairs and see deceased, and witness formed the opinion that she was dead. - Dr Hanna said that on returning home at 1 p.m. on Wednesday there was a message for him to go to see deceased. He proceeded to the house and saw that MISS CARTER was dead. He was unable to account for death at the time and by a post-mortem examination he found that the heart was fatty and the valves diseased, and there were signs of chronic bronchitis and pleurisy of a long time since. The cause of death was due to valvular disease of the heart, which was weakened also by its fatty condition, causing sudden syncope. - The Coroner thought it a great pity that MISS CARTER did not send for a doctor before, in spite of deceased protesting against it, as it would have saved called a Jury together. - A verdict of "Death from Syncope" was returned.

PLYMSTOCK - Remarkable Letter Left By A Plymouth Sapper Who Committed Suicide. - A verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned at the Inquest at Plymstock yesterday upon PERCY CHAS. EDWD. MUNRO, 25, sapper in the Royal Engineers stationed at the Isle of Wight, who on Saturday was found hanging in an outhouse near Plymouth. The father of the deceased said his son had been absent from duty for a few weeks. He seemed queer when home on furlough. - The deceased left a letter addressed to his father, stating that a year ago in Hong Kong he accidentally killed a Chinese woman. The occurrence was witnessed by a Frenchman, who threatened to report the affair, but consented not to do so. The deceased added that he had frequently met this Frenchman in England and thought he meant harm. Once the deceased gave him £15 to get rid of him. The letter continued: "He pops up too often and seems to be watching me. He has a face that almost hypnotises one."

Western Times, Monday 21 March 1910
KENTISBEARE - A Labourer's Suicide. - Dr Tweed held an Inquest on Saturday at Kentisbeare, on THOMAS HUNT BRADFORD, a farm labourer, in the employ of Mr Samuel Morrish, Kentisbeare. The unfortunate man was found at 9 p.m. on Friday night by Mr Sparkes dead, with some binding cord tied around his neck. - The Jury found a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" and handed their fees to the widow.

Western Times, Tuesday 22 March 1910
BIDEFORD - Choked To Death. Untimely End Of A Dairyman At Bideford. - The North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, and a Jury, of which Mr Abbott was Foreman, held an Inquest on Friday on the body of THOMAS ALFRED FOLLEY, aged 28, a dairyman of New North-road, Bideford, who was found dead in a convenience in the garden of his house the previous evening. The evidence shewed that deceased, who at times drank heavily, had been drinking since Tuesday, but had been attending to his work. He had been drinking on Thursday, and in the evening his wife went twice to him to ask him to come indoors, but he told her to go back. Thinking he was a long time, she went again, and found him on his face and hands. Help was sent for and a doctor pronounced him dead. Dr Ellis Pearson, who had attended deceased about twelve months ago when suffering from a fit, and who had warned him against drinking, said a post mortem examination shewed that death was due to suffocation. Deceased was apparently vomiting when some partly digested food and liquor got down into the windpipe and he was choked. The internal organs shewed signs of drinking, but were otherwise normal. - By a Juror: Deceased died of choking, and not of drink. A teetotaller who vomited might die in the same manner. What caused the vomiting in this case was another matter. - By the Coroner: From the choking and the position in which the man was in, death would have taken place very quickly and anyone would have had to have been with him actually at the time, or within two or three minutes, to have been of any assistance. - Mr W. J. Barnes, solicitor, (who appeared for the family): In your opinion, the cause of death was suffocation, owing to vomiting? - Witness: Yes. - The Coroner said the man was evidently under the influence of drink, and it was a very sad thing that a person only 28 years of age should die in that way. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

NEWTON ABBOT - Aged Kingskerswell Woman's Death In Hospital. - At Newton Abbot yesterday, Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest relative to the death of SARAH JANE WARREN, 66, wife of THOMAS WARREN, of Kingskerswell, labourer, and who died in Newton Infirmary on Saturday, to which Institution she was removed after meeting with an accident at Kingskerswell a few months ago. - THOMAS WARREN stated that one day in November, when he came home to tea, he found his wife resting in a chair. She told him that her stick slipped in the backyard while she was going to the wash-house and she fell down, hurting her hip. Acting under the advice of the doctor, witness removed her to the Infirmary. - Irene Skinner, of Kingskerswell, married woman, deposed that she was doing the washing for deceased, and, hearing her fall, she rushed out of the wash-house and, with assistance, lifted her up. Deceased did not walk with her stick, but caught hold of the side of the wall. Deceased complained that she had hurt her side. - Dr Scrase, Medical Officer of Newton Workhouse, deposed that deceased was admitted to the Infirmary on November 24th, suffering from a fractured thigh. She became weaker and weaker, and death, which was due to debility, took place on Saturday. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

EXETER - Feared Arrest. Exeter Traveller's Tragic Death. Lost His Situation. - At the Police Court last evening, the City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, conducted an Inquest into the facts surrounding the death of ERNEST HARPHAM JOSEPH CHAMBERS, aged 37, a traveller for Mr Sanders, of Pinhoe, of 12 Herschell-road, who was found dead under tragic circumstances on Friday evening last. - The first witness, the widow, said for 21 years deceased was in the employment of a hatter, but left four years ago. He had not been in constant work since. He had been very depressed during the last week, but she was not quite sure whether he had had any trouble or not. On Wednesday night he came home just after eleven the worse for drink. He showed her some letters and told her he had lost his situation. He took a bottle out of his pocket and asked witness's mother if she would like a drop of whiskey. Witness told him he ought to be ashamed to bring home whiskey when he was out of employment. His reply was: "The worst of it is it stings your tongue," and put the bottle in his pocket again. The day before deceased received a postcard from his employer staying that he must send in his receipt book or they would put the matter in the hands of the Police. On Thursday night deceased again came home the worse for liquor. He did not get up until Friday dinner-time. He had some coffee and went upstairs again and appeared to be watching by the window. He seemed worried and depressed. About 3.30 he said: "I am shaking all over. I think I shall do away with myself." He added that he would go out to Cowley and drown himself. She said if he went she would go with him. He wanted her to go with him and leave him there. He went upstairs again. About 5.30 there was a knock at the door. She went upstairs to look out of the window to see who it was, and found deceased vomiting. He pointed to a glass and said: "He's come." Earlier he had told her he should not like her to be with him if he was arrested. She sent for a neighbour who gave deceased some salt water. A doctor was sent for, but deceased expired some minutes before he came. - The Coroner: Can you explain who it was he thought it was at the door? - I think he thought it was a Policeman in plain clothes. - Your boy had been playing football in the afternoon? And a County Policeman came to the door for your boy? - Yes, and deceased thought he had come for him. - Answering further questions, witness said that in August last deceased stayed away from home for two days and nights, and was reported to the Police as missing. A day or two before he did so he had threatened to take his life. She had been ill and had been in the Hospital for about three months. - Mrs Sandford, the neighbour, stated that the last witness told her that her husband had taken poison. She met him on the stairs and he called out, "For God's sake save me!" She asked him what he had done, and he replied that he had taken weed-killer, and added there was arsenic in it. She asked him why he had done it and he said, "Drink is the cause of it." She gave him salt and water. He told her he thought a County Policeman was at the door for him. - Coroner's Officer Walters said he found the glass produced on the dressing-table, and, after a search, the bottle in the tool chest. Both vessels had contained the same liquid. Witness had made enquiries at every chemist's shop in the city, but had been unable to find anyone who sold the weed-killer to deceased. He had probably got it from some gardener, on the pretext of wanting it for his garden. No chemist would supply him with a bottle of weed-killer, as they only sold it in larger quantities. Witness had spoken to Mr Sanders, deceased's last employer, who said he had been earning £1 a week and commission, averaging 30s. weekly. His notice expired on the 15th inst. He had failed to return his papers, accounts, and money to Mr Sanders and a postcard had been sent him in an envelope telling him that unless he did so matters would be put in the hands of the Police. Mr Sanders had told him that he had no intention of going to extreme measures with deceased. - Questioned by members of the Jury, Walters added that there were only two seed merchants in the city who were licensed to sell weed-killer and neither of these had supplied the stuff. - The Coroner explained that the Chemists' Association had made great efforts to prevent anyone, except actual chemists, selling these killers, but could not carry their point. - A Juryman: A casual gardener can, then, pass around poisons and have more control than an ordinary chemist? - The Coroner: It practically amounts to that. There is no doubt that weed-killer is a very dangerous thing. - Dr Shirvell, who was called, stated that in his post-mortem examination he found the inner coat of the stomach intensely congested. There was no solid material in the stomach, but about half a pint of a reddish-brown fluid. The primary cause of death was an irritant poisoning such as arsenic, which had brought on collapse and heart failure. Weed-killer invariably contained arsenic. - Mr Sanders bore out what the Constable had stated with regard to deceased's accounts and the letters. The firm did all they could to get him to produce his accounts and come and see them. Their letters to him were most kind. "Of course, " added Mr Sanders, "I could say more if I wished." - A verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned, and the Jury expressed sympathy with the widow and family. The Coroner concurred, and commended Mrs Sandford for her prompt action.

Western Times, Wednesday 23 March 1910
EXMOUTH - Body In A Box. Inquest On A Baby At Exmouth. - Dr R. Tweed held an inquiry at the Public Hall, Exmouth, yesterday, touching the death of a newly-born child, the son of BESSIE STENTIFORD. Mr F. Hayne was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The Coroner, addressing the Jury, said the case was a particularly sad one and a great deal would depend on their verdict. - P.S. Rattenbury stated that at 8.15 last night he went to Trenant House, Elwyn-road in consequence of information received. He went upstairs into one of the back-rooms, which had been occupied by BESSIE STENTIFORD, the housemaid. There, and in a cardboard box under the bed, he found a child's body in a nude state, but covered with a mackintosh coat and other garments. He took possession of the body and took it to the mortuary. The mother was now in Exmouth Cottage Hospital seriously ill. - Dr Thornton, of Exmouth, deposed that he was called on Monday to Trenant House, Elwyn-road, to see one of the servants, who was not well. He saw the girl about 3.45 p.m. He had not previously attended her. She made a statement to witness, and said the child was in a box under the bed. He looked there and found what appeared to be a lady's hat-box, and opened it, finding the child wrapped as the last witness had stated. Witness made a brief examination, but formed no conclusion at the time. He realised that the mother was extremely ill and had her removed to the Hospital as soon as he had obtained a cab, nurse and other assistance. STENTIFORD admitted that she was the mother of the child, and said it was born on Saturday afternoon. She was not in a condition to question any more than was necessary. He had made a post-mortem examination of the child and considered that it had breathed, the lungs being partially inflated. It would be impossible to say how long it had breathed. There were no marks at all of pressure on the body. - Continuing, Dr Thornton said the child was fully developed, and weighed fully nine pounds. - The Coroner: It is not for us to consider whether there was concealment of birth or not. That is a matter for other people to decide. What we are here for is to decide if the child was born alive and then to say the cause of death. - The Foreman: There is nothing to prove that the child was injured and there is no evidence of separate existence. - The Coroner: I need call no further evidence. Will you say what is your opinion on that point. If you have any doubt you can adjourn the Inquest and have the evidence of the mother when she can attend. - Mr Law (a Juror): The doctor says there was no separate existence. - The Coroner: What he says is that the lungs were practically inflated. He does not say with assurance that there was not a separate existence. - Dr Thornton: It was the mother's great wish to tell me everything that had occurred. But I did not go to her in time, as I was busy and was not informed that it was an urgent case. Had I known it I should have gone sooner. I think it only right to say this on behalf of the mother. - The Coroner: She made a full statement? - Dr Thornton: Yes. She made no attempt to conceal anything. - The Jury decided, "That there is not sufficient evidence to shew that the child had a separate existence."

Western Times, Thursday 24 March 1910
EXETER - St David's Fatality. Aylesbeare Farmer's Sad Death. Coroner's Inquest. - At the Police Court, Exeter, yesterday, the City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, conducted an Inquest relative to the death of ALBERT GIGG, who was killed in a trap accident at St. David's goods yard. - Mr William Lilley, goods superintendent, G.W.R., watched the proceedings on behalf of the Company. Mr F. W. Middleton was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - ELIZABETH GIGG, the widow, said she resided at Within Farm, Aylesbeare. She said the deceased was 40 years of age, and was a farmer and carrier. He left home on Monday between 10 and 11 a.m., to go to St. David's Station to fetch some greenhouse joinery for the Rev. A. Gill, of Farringdon Rectory. He was in the best of health. He was driving a young horse, but it was a quiet animal, as witness drove it to Exeter the previous week. The trap was just an ordinary two-wheeled vehicle. - Henry Morbey, of Exe View, Cowley-road, brother-in-law of deceased, spoke to seeing the latter about 1 o'clock, when he was quite sober. - The Coroner (to the Jury): that is simply to prove he was all right when he went to the Station. - Frederick Madge, warehouseman at St. David's, said deceased arrived at the Station between 2.30 and 2.40 and witness pointed out where he would be able to load the wood from. He also pointed out that the trap was not suitable to take the goods. The joinery was in long bundles, some about 16ft. long. - The Coroner: What did he say when you pointed out the trap was not suitable? - He said he was given to understand before he left the Rev. A. Gill it was short articles and the trap would do. He said he would take the goods now he had come, because it was too far to come a second time. - After he had loaded, how did he start? - I did not see him start. - Where did you last see him? - He was walking towards the horse. Later I heard someone shouting "Whoa, whoa!" and the horse was running away. - How many pieces were there? - Nine pieces, and the frame was about 16 feet long. - Samuel King said the trap was an ordinary two-wheeled one, similar to that driven by butchers. - The Coroner: Not the sort of trap you would put lengths of timber in? - No, sir. - What was happening to the horse and trap when you saw it? - It was coming out of the yard, with a man hanging on to the shaft, and shouting "Whoa, whoa." The horse had no bridle on it then. When the horse came up to me I held up my hand and tried to stop it. It didn't stop, so I got out of the way and shouted to the man to let go. - What happened when he did let go? - He was obliged to let go, fell and the wheel went over him. - The timber would be almost out to the horse's head? - Yes. - That would make a flapping noise? - Yes. When the bridle came off, the horse could see what was coming, and bolted faster. - A Juror: Did the wood touch the horse? - I could not say, as the horse was coming towards me. - Madge was recalled, and said the bridle was on the horse when the deceased had loaded, all ready to start. - The Coroner (to the Jury): If you look at the bridle (produced) you will see it is an awfully bad affair. A man never ought to drive a horse with it. - William Ley, foreman, stated that he saw the horse was running away and saw the deceased fall. The wheel went over him. When the horse was running up the yard it had no bridle on. - Dr Raglan Thomas who conducted a post mortem examination, said he found a mark on the left side of the chest, such as would be caused by a wheel. There were bruises and abrasions, some of the ribs were broken, and also the breast bone near the middle. The spleen and left kidney were ruptured, and the cause of death was shock. - The Coroner said it seemed a very sad case, and a very unfortunate thing that deceased was not told it was long lengths, because he had a small cart. However quiet a horse might be, to have pieces of timber over its head making a flapping noise, was enough to make it bolt. It was an unfortunate accident and he did not think anyone was to blame. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and joined with Mr Lilley and the Coroner in expressing sympathy with the widow and relatives.

BRIDFORD - Bridford Tragedy. A Labourer Found Shot Through The Heart. - At Bridford, on Saturday, Mr W. H. Gould, District Coroner, held an Inquest relative to the death of JOHN WILLS, labourer, of Greenhill Cottage, Bridford. - The evidence showed that deceased was 48 years of age and a widower. He had been suffering from pains in his head and had been greatly depressed. On Thursday morning, at 8.30, his brother had arranged to meet him and help him dig some potatoes which had been left in the ground, owing to the wet season. Deceased did not come when his brother called, and the latter eventually went to a yard near the house, and there found him dead, with a gun between his legs. Deceased borrowed the gun on Wednesday, because, he said, he wanted to shoot some dogs which had been keeping him awake. - P.C. Wills found a stick which fitted the trigger of the gun and the medical evidence showed that there was a gunshot wound over the heart, which must have caused instantaneous death. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind," and gave their fees to the deceased's mother.

Western Times, Saturday 26 March 1910
DARTMOUTH - The Death Of A Cadet At Dartmouth. - At the inquest on Thursday at the Cadets' Hospital, Britannia Royal Naval College, Dartmouth, the Jury found that CADET HENRY ERNEST EDWARD VENRENEN, son of Major VANRENEN, of Farnborough, Hants, died by Misadventure, the result of the effects of a dose of cyanide of potassium. - It is stated that deceased, a cheerful boy, was fond of chemistry and had also taken photos. In a diary he had made an entry: "Tried diet of K.C.N. - peculiar sensation." - K.C.N. is the formula for cyanide of potassium.

EXETER - Exeter Inquest. Sad Accident To An Old Lady. - Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, held an Inquest at No. 7 Prospect Park, Exeter, on Thursday, touching the death of MRS ELIZABETH ANN PALMER, aged 82, widow of the late HENRY PALMER, yeoman, of Cullompton. Mr J. Mortimer was Foreman of the Jury. - Miss Henrietta Mary George, a friend of deceased, who lives at 23 Prospect Park, stated that on the morning of the 14th inst., she was called to the house and found MRS PALMER seated on a hearthrug suffering from burns. Her servant was with her. Deceased told witness that she had been sitting by the fire, and rose to reach a book. She felt giddy and caught hold of the mantelpiece, and remembered no more. Witness sent for Dr Duncan. - Melina Davey, for sixteen years servant with deceased, said that on the morning of the accident her mistress came downstairs about eleven o'clock and witness placed her in an arm-chair and put some books near her, as usual. She then went to prepare dinner and present heard her name faintly called. On going to the sitting-room she saw her mistress in a sitting position in the fire-place with her back all ablaze. She pulled her out and extinguished the fire by wrapping a door mat around her. She then went to the window and sent someone for Miss George. MRS PALMER had up to that time enjoyed good health. - Dr Duncan said he found deceased in bed suffering from extensive burns on the back, shoulders and arms. He had attended her constantly ever since, but she died on Wednesday from exhaustion and shock following the burns. - A verdict of "Accidental death" was returned by the Jury.

Western Times, Monday 28 March 1910
BARNSTAPLE - Barnstaple Borough Coroner, on Saturday, conducted an Inquest relative to the death of MRS RIDGE, wife of MR JOHN RIDGE, of Allan Bank. Evidence was to the effect that the husband on awaking found his wife dead beside him. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes", viz., heart failure.

ILFRACOMBE - Sudden Death At Ilfracombe. - Mr G. W. F. Brown held an Inquest at the Ilfracombe Tyrrell Cottage Hospital, Ilfracombe, on Saturday evening, touching the death of RICHARD JEWELL, of Hele, Ilfracombe, aged 55, who died suddenly on Friday evening last. Mr F. H. Chown was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - JANE JEWELL, wife of deceased, said that they went to bed on Friday evening about 10.30, when deceased appeared in his usual health. He had a cup of tea and bread and butter. Shortly after she got to bed he made a noise and she asked what was the matter. He made no reply and she went for a neighbour. When the doctor arrived deceased was dead. - The medical evidence shewed that death was due to heart failure, which might have been brought on through an extra strain. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," and expressed sympathy with the widow.

Western Times, Tuesday 29 March 1910
TOPSHAM - Broke His Neck. Elderly Man's Death At Topsham. Fell Downstairs. - An Inquest was held at the Vestry Hall, Topsham, yesterday before Mr H. W. Gould, touching the death of JOHN CLAPP, a carpenter, aged 70, of High-street, Topsham, whose death took place under peculiar circumstances on Friday. - MARY JANE CLAPP, wife of the deceased, said she retired to bed at 2.30 a.m., leaving her husband, who went into another part of the house for a lamp. They had been sitting by the fire, and deceased had been smoking. She went to bed and expected him to follow. She saw no more of him until she found him at 7.30 on Friday morning lying at the foot of the stairs. She had not missed him, thinking he might have fallen asleep in his chair. Deceased was lying with his feet in the stairs. She sent for the doctor. - Dr Hatherell said he saw deceased at 9 o'clock and found him lying at the foot of the stairs quite dead and stiff. He must have been dead at least six hours. Witness examined him, but found no marks of violence. Deceased had broken his neck. The last two stairs were broken and witness thought that indicated that he fell backwards and death was instantaneous. Deceased was a heavy man. - A Juror: Were the stairs good ones? - Witness: The deceased was a heavy man, and evidently the stairs gave way under him. Stairs sometimes would give way under heavy weights. - The widow, recalled, said she was alone in the house. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Wednesday 30 March 1910
KINGSKERSWELL - At Kingskerswell yesterday, Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, conducted an Inquest relative to the death of ROBERT PETERSON, 56, of independent means, whose death took place subsequent to an accident. - JOHN PETERSON, of Blackheath, London, brother, stated that deceased was formerly in the South African Police, but he had resided at Kingskerswell for fifteen years. - John Dyer, of Rose Villa, Kingskerswell, with whom deceased lived, stated that about 3 o'clock on Sunday morning he heard a fall, and on going into deceased's room he found him with his head in the fireplace, bleeding from the mouth. Deceased was conscious, and he said "It can't be helped, my legs gave way." - Dr Hatfield, who was summoned to attend deceased, stated that he found him with his face swollen, two black eyes and blood trickling from his mouth. About six weeks previously deceased had a fall and fractured a rib, but he got over that. Deceased died on Monday from fits. Witness had attended deceased who was a chronic invalid. - The Coroner: Would you say death was due to excessive alcoholism? - Witness: Not directly, but the neuritis was the result of alcoholism. Deceased was not directly under the influence of drink at the time of the accident. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Friday 1 April 1910
ILFRACOMBE - "Like Greased Paper." North Devon Coroner And Flannelette. - An Inquest was held at the Cottage Hospital, Ilfracombe, on Wednesday, by Mr G. W. F. Brown, the District Coroner, relative to the death of ELIZA LOUISA FRANKLIN, who was terribly burned at the Britannia Hotel on Sunday and succumbed to her injuries the following day. - The Coroner stated that the Police had done all they possibly could to endeavour to trace the deceased's parents, but had been unsuccessful. - Edward Thomas Peady, of Bristol, said he had known deceased for about five years. She was single, was aged 29, and was a domestic servant. She resided with his parents whilst at Bristol. He last saw her alive on March 22nd, when she left for Ilfracombe. She was formerly in service at Bournemouth. He knew nothing about deceased's relatives, but his mother had heard her say that her parents lived near Taunton. She had had no communication with her family for eight years. - Rose Clarke, servant at the Britannia Hotel, said on Sunday morning deceased was standing by the kitchen fire when a red-hot ash fell out and caught her dress alight. Witness put a damp cloth round her, but deceased's clothing afterwards burst out into flame again, and she ran to the hall, where William Edwards, the porter, and a gentleman put the flames out. - Dr Kettlewell said the deceased was very badly burned all over with the exception of the face and head. The lower part of the abdomen and the thighs were practically roasted. The cause of death was shock, due to the extensive burns. There was no doubt that deceased's stays stopped the fire as much as anything. - The Coroner, in summing up, said no doubt the cause of the extensive burns was the wearing of flannelette, which was just like greased paper. He was always cautioning people against wearing it. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Saturday 2 April 1910
SIDMOUTH - Old Man's Sufferings End In Suicide At Sidmouth. - An Inquest was held at the Cemetery Lodge, Sidmouth, yesterday, by Dr Tweed, District Coroner, relative to the death of a retired builder, named JOHN DIMOND MAJOR. - HARRIET MAJOR, the widow, said she last saw deceased alive about 1 o'clock on Thursday morning. About eight o'clock the previous evening she dressed deceased's legs, which had bad wounds upon them, and he afterwards went to bed. Witness did not retire until between 12 and 1, and she then went to her husband's room and wished him good-night. He answered "Good night, my dear." In the morning at 8 o'clock she went to his room again, but he was not there. On going downstairs she found him hanging behind the scullery door. She called for help and Mr Beacon, who lives opposite, went to her assistance. Deceased was fully dressed. She had never heard him threaten to take his life. He was 84 years of age last February, and was a total abstainer. - Levi Beacon said he was called to the house about 8.15 and found deceased hanging behind the scullery door quite dead, the body being cold. He released the hook by which deceased was hanging and went for medical assistance. The deceased's feet were a few inches from the ground, and close by was a chair, on which he might have stood. - In answer to the Coroner, witness said he could not say whether deceased had hung himself or not, but his wife, who was there, said, "I did not do it." - Dr Pullin said he was called about nine o'clock and when he examined the body he saw deceased had been dead some hours. MAJOR suffered very much from bad legs. - In answer to a Juryman, the doctor said the pain of deceased's legs would be enough to drive any man off his head. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane."

Western Times, Tuesday 5 April 1910
EXETER - Exeter Canal Mystery. Inquest Last Evening: No Sign Of Foul Play. - The City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at the City Police Station yesterday afternoon relative to the death of MICHAEL FRANCIS SANE, aged 63, of Weirfield-road, St Leonard's, whose body was found in the Exeter Canal on Friday afternoon. - FRANCIS SANE, of Manchester, identified the body as that of his father, who was a pensioner from the Devonshire Regiment. In January he was in his usual good health and spirits. He was never depressed and was the last man he should think likely to commit suicide. Witness was certain that he never took his own life. - MRS SANE, the widow, said she last saw her husband alive on the 7th March at 2.30. He then left to go for a walk. He had been assistant barrack-room warden at Topsham Barracks, but was discharged on the ground that he was medically unfit. He suffered from attacks of giddiness. She never heard her husband threaten to take his life. - P.C. Wise gave evidence as to taking the body out of the river near the Old Abbey, in Weir Fields, and conveying it to the Mortuary. - Charles Came, aged 13, proved seeing the deceased in the river. He gave information to the last witness. - Dr Pereira said the body was in a very decomposed state. There were no external marks of violence. - The Coroner said there was no evidence to show how the deceased got into the river. - MRS SANE (recalled) stated that she knew of no one who had any ill-feeling against her husband. - The Coroner remarked that there were no signs on the body of any scuffle. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

EXETER - Youth Severely Censured By The Coroner. Farmer's Sad End. - The Exeter Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday relative to the death of GEORGE KNAPMAN, aged 46, farmer, of Doddiscombsleigh, who died at the Institution on Friday evening as a result of injuries received through being knocked down by a horse in Edmund-street. Mr H. W. Michelmore, solicitor, Exeter, watched the proceedings on behalf of the relatives and Supt. Dymond attended as representing the Chief Constable of Exeter. Mr W. H. Tarbet, solicitor, appeared for Chaplin and Co., the owners of the horse. - GEORGE HENRY KNAPMAN, of Whitmore Cottage, Doddiscombsleigh, son of deceased, identified the body. Witness last saw his father alive and well at home on Friday morning, just before he left for Exeter. He was a very sober man. - John Westacott, blacksmith, of Coombe-street, said about five o'clock on Friday afternoon he was in Edmund-street when he saw deceased come out of Mr Lee's shop. He shook hands with him and they stood talking together about two feet from the kerb. witness heard a horse galloping from the direction of the City Brewery. There was room enough for ten horses to pass side by side. The animal in question swerved suddenly from his course and ran against the deceased, knocking him down. Deceased was holding witness's hand at the time. He tried to rise, at the same time remarking, "What a funny thing." Deceased raised himself a little from the ground. The horse stepped over him and one of its front feet caught deceased's head. Witness found that the life was knocked out of MR KNAPMAN who was conveyed to the Hospital. A lad was riding the horse, but he had no control over the animal, and ought not to have been in charge of him. It was a good-mannered horse, even after the accident. Some time before he saw the lad riding the horse at a gallop towards Exe Bridge. He was beating it, and at every blow the animal swerved. Witness thought it would have gone over the garden wall. The animal was 17 hands high, and was not fit to be galloped. A gentleman standing by remarked that a Policeman was never present when he was wanted. This occurred only five or ten minutes before the accident to MR KNAPMAN. The horse was making for a point to which he was accustomed to go in his work, but he had a "bad general." The animal made a bit of a stop directly the accident occurred, and raised its feet high to step over the deceased, who, however, raised his head, which thus came into contact with the hoof. - Charles Westcott Cann, who, after having been warned by the Coroner, volunteered to give evidence, said he was 19 years of age, and worked for Messrs. Chaplin and Co. On Friday he was working as "leader boy." It was his duty to hitch on the horse to the wagons at Gervase-avenue. About five o'clock he took a wagon as far as Edmund-street, and took his horse back to the Commercial=road. - Why were you galloping? - I knocked him twice with the whip and he made away. - What made you strike it? - Because it stopped at the bottom of Edmund-street. - Answering further questions, witness explained that he was called to hitch on the horse to a wagon in Gervase-avenue. When he got to Edmund-street the animal would not face the hill. He never would go up the West-street hill unless in company with a second leader. Witness unhitched him and took him back to fetch the other boy. He struck the horse twice and it went away at a gallop. He did not find the other boy, and he accordingly returned to Edmund-street. The animal suddenly swerved round sharp, and knocked down deceased. He could not explain why the animal swerved, but he lost control of it. - Had you not been hitting him just before? - No; I never touched him. - A Juryman said to his knowledge the horse had acted as leader in drawing loads up West-street many times. - Witness said he had been in charge of it only about five months. The animal would jib anywhere. It would never go up West-street hill without another leader. He would go up Fore-street hill sometimes, but he was uncertain and he jibbed in Fore-street hill the same night. - Clement Friend, traveller, Windsor-terrace, stated that he saw Cann riding the horse at a gallop towards Exe Bridge and return. The lad did not seem to understand the animal. In both directions he was striking it. Somebody called his attention to the fact that part of the harness had become unfastened and he stopped till it was put right. When passing St Edmund's Church the lad struck the horse two or three times over the head with a stick. - In answer to Superintendent Dymond, witness said this occurred about 15 yards from the spot where the accident happened. The lad did not appear to be trying to pull up the animal, which was not running away. Witness added that the lad struck the animal two or three times as he passed him and he put up his hand to him in consequence. - Do you think striking the horse caused it to swerve around the point? - Very likely. The lad probably had the whip in the right hand and was holding the reins in the left. In trying to pull up the animal he probably pulled it in towards where the deceased was standing. That was witness's idea. - Frederick Gowing, of West Grove Avenue, stated that he saw two horses in charge of lads, and his first idea was they were racing. Shortly afterwards he saw Cann ride down Edmund-street, but he did not actually seen the accident. He reached the scene immediately afterwards and the horse was then standing very quietly. Witness did not see Cann strike the animal at any time. - Frederick Lee, shop-keeper, Edmund-street, said he thought the horse was coming through his window. The animal, however, came into contact with MR KNAPMAN's shoulder, knocking him down. - Dr V. H. Starr, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased died from concussion and compression of the brain, due to fracture of the skull. Death took place about one and a half hours after deceased's admission to the Hospital. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental death," and expressed an opinion that the lad, Cann, should be severely censured. They added a rider to the effect that the lad was either not old enough or capable of managing a horse of this description and that it would be well if all employers who had big horses would issue orders that those in charge should not ride them. The Jury also expressed sympathy with the widow and family of deceased. - The Coroner concurred. Addressing Cann, Mr Brown said he agreed that he was acting in a careless way. He was racing on his way through Edmund-street with another lad just before the accident. He doubtless did not imagine that he was going to run into anybody and might have thought the road was clear. Heavy horses were not fit to be galloped. If they served when hit they could not be pulled about quickly. Anyone who employed Cann to ride a horse of this description, or, indeed, any horse, would be an exceedingly foolish person. - Mr Tarbet, on behalf of Messrs. Chaplin and Co., expressed deep regret at the occurrence and sincere sympathy with the deceased's family. - The Coroner joined in the sympathy. - Mr Michelmore thanked the Coroner and Jury on behalf of the deceased's family.

STOKE FLEMING - Stokefleming Rector's Sudden Death. - On Saturday afternoon, REV. J. S. EXELL, Rector of Stokefleming, near Dartmouth, died with painful suddenness. - He was attended by Dr Soper at about two o'clock in the afternoon and some twenty minutes afterwards the doctor was again called to see him and then found him in the chair in his study dead. - An Inquest was held at the Rectory yesterday. MR NOEL EXELL identified the body as that of his father, who, he thought, was 61. Dr Soper said he saw deceased on Saturday, and he then told him he had had an enormous breakfast and had had a very bad attack of indigestion. Twenty minutes afterwards he found deceased dead in his chair. Death was due to syncope. A verdict was returned accordingly.

Western Times, Wednesday 6 April 1910
NEWTON ABBOT - Sudden Death At Newton. - MRS ELIZABETH B. DYMOND, 74, widow, caretaker of Messrs. Watts, Blake, Bearne and Co's premises, Newton, died suddenly yesterday morning. At the Inquest conducted by Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, in the evening, MRS NARRAMORE, a daughter, stated that her mother had complained of a slight pain in the back, but she would not have a doctor. George Gendle, a clerk in the employ of the above firm, deposed that deceased dropped on one knee while opening the gate, and he went to her assistance, and carried her inside. At deceased's request he went to a cupboard to get some brandy, but she died before he returned with it. - Dr Culross attributed death to fatty degeneration , accelerated by old age, and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Times, Thursday 7 April 1910
WOODBURY - A Woodbury Infant's Death. - Dr Tweed, District Coroner, held an Inquest at the Parish Room, Woodbury, yesterday, relative to the death of a female child. - ALBERT CHURCH, labourer, father of the deceased, said the child was born on Sunday, at 12.30 p.m., Mrs Henson, a certificated nurse, being present at the time. His wife told him that she had engaged Mrs Pennell, of Exmouth. On Sunday morning witness sent a conveyance for Mrs Pennell, but she ran word, and said she had not been engaged. Ultimately Mrs Henson arrived. - Janetta Henson, certificated midwife, of Woodbury, stated that she was called to go to MRS CHURCH at 12.45 p.m. on Sunday. When she arrived the child was born. It was a strong and properly developed child. She attended to it and stayed in the house about an hour. She found sufficient clothes in the house to dress the child. She was sent for at about 8 o'clock on Monday morning, and told the child was dead. The mother told her the child was all right at 4 a.m., but at 5 o'clock she found the child dead. - CHURCH: My wife was mistake in the time. It was 6.30 and not 5. - Myra Searle, a married woman, also gave evidence. - The Coroner read the sworn statement of the mother, which was to the effect that she nursed the child at 4 a.m. on Monday and at 5 a.m. when she looked at it she thought it had a strange appearance and found that it was dead. It was then lying on her left arm. - Dr Furnival, of Woodbury, said he had made a post-mortem examination and found the child properly developed and of the average weight. The body presented all the appearances of having been overlain. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death by Misadventure."

TAVISTOCK - Respecting the death of the one-year-old son of WILLIAM BROCK, a stoker in the Royal Navy, whose wife resides at Taylor-square, Tavistock, an Inquest was held on Tuesday by Mr R. R. Rodd. FLORENCE BROCK, the mother, said the child had been delicate from birth, and on Sunday night was very restless. At five o'clock on Monday morning he appeared all right, but when her father called her to get up at 6.45 she found the child dead. - Dr T. E. Smyth said he had known deceased for the past four months. The baby had been delicate from birth. He had made a post-mortem examination. He found no signs of suffocation and in his opinion death was due to convulsions. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Times, Friday 8 April 1910
SAMPFORD COURTENAY - Killed By A Falling Tree Near Okehampton. - At Sampford Courtenay Wednesday, Mr J. D. Prickman held an Inquest relative to the death of GEORGE MANNING. William Ebbsworthy, of Spreyton, said he and MANNING on Tuesday were engaged to cut timber on Honeycott Farm. MANNING had to pick out the trees and they had come to the 100th. In falling the tree struck him first in the face and then on the body. He never spoke, and died shortly afterwards. - Dr Young said death was caused by a blow on the stomach. No bones were broken. - John King, of Blendon Farm, Okehampton, said he considered a rope should have been used in felling the tree from the position in which it was. The tree was big around and all the top on one side. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

DAWLISH - The Ferry Tragedy. Inquest At Starcross. "It Is For The Best." - Mr H. W. Gould, Coroner for the District, held an Inquiry at the Reading-room, Starcross, yesterday, touching the death of the late MR JACOB E. HARVEY, aged 49, an architect, of Exeter, who was supposed to have jumped overboard from one of the steam launches plying between Starcross and Exmouth last Friday night. - Mr R. Petherick (of Exeter) watched the case on behalf of the relatives. - MISS JESSIE ELIZABETH EMLYN HARVEY, sister of the deceased, said she had not the slightest doubt that the body was that of her late brother. She last saw him alive on Friday, after lunch, when he left the house at 3 p.m. He did not say where he was going, but she assumed that he was going to his business again. After he went out in the morning he returned after the midday post, and asked if there was a telegram for him. Witness replied, "No," and he said, "Well, I gave them two addresses, the private one and that of the office." Deceased for some time had appeared all to pieces and depressed at times. He had no family troubles whatever, but his professional work was very heavy and had been a great strain upon him - so much so that he had been persuaded to give it up. He was of a very highly strung temperament. - Cecil James Shepherd, of Exeter, a clerk in the deceased's employ, said he last saw him at the office at about 12 o'clock on Friday. He said he was going to see a gentleman and then to the College Extension works. Witness had ascertained that MR HARVEY did not go there. Witness had noticed no signs of depression in deceased recently, but he did so previously to his going away for the benefit of his health. He returned from that holiday apparently much better. - Stanley Tozer, of 48 Albion-street, Exmouth, engine-room artificer in the Royal Navy, stated that he was one of the passengers on the 7.5 p.m. boat from Exmouth to Starcross last Friday. He saw MR HARVEY on board - in the cabin. Deceased was there first and had his cap down over his eyes and his head bowed. Those facts did not strike witness as peculiar. The doors were closed, as there was a keen north wind blowing. Within a few minutes of the launch leaving Starcross deceased got up and left the cabin, closing the doors after him. - Charles Alfred Pearce, of Exmouth, master of the ferry boat, said he knew deceased was on the boat waiting before the other four passengers came on board after the arrival of the up train. He noticed later that deceased was gone, but such a circumstance as a person coming on board and leaving before the launch started was not an uncommon thing. Later he noticed an overcoat and stick in the end of the boat. It would be quite possible for anyone to leave the boat whilst in motion without it being noticed by him, as he was in another part out of sight and no noise would be heard because of the engine working. Two of the passengers were with him at the wheel and Mr Tozer and his wife were in the cabin. - A Juror asked witness if it would be possible for a passenger to fall overboard if sitting on the edge of the boat? - The Coroner: There is a letter that will dispose of that suggestion. - P.S. Rattenbury, of Exmouth, said he was called to the Dock Office to take possession of the coat and stick. In the pockets he found a pair of gloves and a pocket-book, which contained two letter cards, both addressed to J. E. HARVEY, a post order for 10s., taken out the same day at Topsham, and 24 half-penny stamps and a time-table. - The Coroner said he had read both the letters and the one of importance to the Inquiry was as follows:- "To my Sister, - If anything happens to me, take it all for the best in the end. If I stay I shall be wretched and make you wretched, and end in making myself a burden and an expense and the little I have saved will be all spent on myself and be gone. From an £ s. d. point of view you will not be worse off. The will and papers are in the drawers and the rent." - William Ware, fisherman, of Topsham, said he on Wednesday recovered the body from the water. They were dragging their seines for the purpose of finding the body, about a quarter of a mile from Starcross. - P.C. Acland gave evidence of the fact that the body was handed over to his charge. He searched the body and found a watch and chain (the watch having stopped at 7.19), a purse, pocket-book, rule, razor, and several other small articles. - Dr Stephen, of Starcross, who examined the body, said it showed the usual appearances of drowning. - The Coroner, in summing up, said there was little doubt how deceased came by his death. The circumstances and the letter indicated it clearly. He had known MR HARVEY personally for many years and had seen him recently, when he was greatly shocked at the change he noticed in him. MR HARVEY was a most conscientious man in all his business dealings and was most anxious about all his works. No doubt the anxiety and strain, coupled with a high temperament, broke him down and his career was thus brought to a sad end. He was sure the Jury would all agree with him in expressing sympathy with the relatives. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane," and expressed their sympathy with the relatives.

STOODLEIGH - An Inquest was held at the Royal Oak Inn, Stoodleigh, on Monday, by Mr H. W. Gould, Coroner for the District, relative to the death of MARGUERITE KINGDOM, the infant child of ALICE ANN KINGDOM, of Stoodleigh. - Dr A. H. Brown, of Witheridge, said he had made a post mortem examination, but found no marks of violence. Death was due to the congestion of the lungs. Rose Catherine Nash, district nurse for the Stoodleigh parish, said she was present at the birth of the children - twins. She visited the child for ten days and so far as she knew nothing was omitted to be done by the grandmother or mother. The Jury, of whom Mr W. Elston, was chosen Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Wednesday 13 April 1910
PARKHAM - Remarkable Affair. Died Of Heart Failure When Pony Bolted. Inquest At Parkham. - An Inquest was held at Parkham, North Devon, yesterday, on the body of THOMAS LANE, a local mason. - Hy. Dack, son-in-law of the deceased, having identified the body, Leslie Glover, who was working with LANE, said they had been to Kenerland, Clovelly, on Saturday, at work, and were returning. At Hoardland Cross, about a landyard before they came to the turning, the pony bolted - he should say having heard a motor-car, although he did not hear it. Deceased was driving and he tried to pull the pony up, but the trap struck the hedge and both of them were thrown out. Witness then caught sight of Mr Paton's motor-car, which had come up the cross-road, and was then broadside on to them. He did not hear the horn sounded, although he understood that it had been sounded. Replying to a Juryman, as to whether the pony was accustomed to start at anything, witness said it had occasionally. - Jas. Paton, J.P., said he was driving the car himself. He sounded his horn several times, beginning to do so 150 yards before approaching the cross. It was a very penetrating horn. He just saw the upset. He stopped directly and went back with his man, afterwards proceeding to Parkham to find a doctor. The cart had quite overturned. Had he (witness) been three yards further back, the pony and trap would have been on top of the car. - Wm. Judd, employed by Mr Paton, corroborated. - A Juryman said he was three fields away at the time of the accident, but yet heard the motor horn. - Dr Betts said a post-mortem revealed that deceased's heart was ruptured. That was very unusual, although well-known. He thought death was due to excitement and the pulling at the reins. He had not attended deceased but he understood that he had a weak heart. The man possibly died before he touched the ground. No bones were broken and as there were no bruises on the chest, he should say that the fall did not cause the rupture. - The Coroner said it was a case quite out of the ordinary. Evidently the pony heard the motor, and - as horses did - started to gallop. He was glad to say there was absolutely no blame attaching to anyone. Mr Paton was, he was sure, a careful driver, and he did as every driver should, sounded his horn before approaching the cross, and as soon as he saw the accident, which was not caused by himself in any way, he at once turned back to assist. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, Mr Paton being absolved from all blame. Sympathy was expressed with deceased's relatives.

TORQUAY - Risky Work. Accident On A Collier At Torquay. Story At An Inquest. - At the Northcote Hall, Torquay, yesterday an Inquest was held relative to the death of THOMAS MUDGE, a young man living in Queen-street, who last August fell into the hold of a vessel lying in the harbour and died on Monday. - Mr Percy T. Pearce (Plymouth) appeared for Messrs. Renwick and Wilton, coal merchants and Mr E. Hutchings represented the widow. Mr F. Cavell, Factory Inspector was present. - The Coroner said that deceased had suffered some time from a serious illness. Last August he was unloading coal from a ship when he received an injury. It was for the Jury to find whether death was due to the accident or otherwise. - ELLEN MUDGE, widow, identified the body as that of her husband, who used to reside at 27 Queen-street, Torquay. Deceased was 30 years of age and was a painter's labourer. He died on Saturday morning, but after having been confined to bed for eight weeks, after discharge from the Hospital. One day in August last, deceased came home and complained of pains in the arm. He had had an accident when unloading a collier. He said he took another man's place and fell into the hold of the vessel. The next morning he went to the Hospital and after attention there he went back to Messrs. Renwick and Wilton, his employers, and reported the occurrence. The arm was neither bruised, cut nor swollen, but deceased suffered pain in the limb. He was a very healthy man before the accident. - Dr H. K. Lacey, Surgeon, said he attended the deceased during his illness at the Hospital. He was suffering from a swelling in the neck, which got bigger and remained an inmate until February 12th, when he was allowed to be an out-patient. They formed the opinion it was cancer deceased was suffering from. Deceased came into Hospital again for treatment and witness had attended him from then until his death, which resulted from widely spread cancer and syncope. - By the Coroner: There was the injury received at the time of the accident, which he was told about. Witness did not diagnose any injury, but he knew that sarcoma followed an injury and therefore had to ask the patient about the accident referred to. He could not swear that the man's death was directly due to the accident, yet the cancer might probably have been produced by the injury. - By Mr Pearce: The history of the injury and the fact that deceased was previously healthy, helped him to form his opinion. An operation on deceased some years ago was not due to cancer; tubercular disease was given as the cause in the Hospital records. - By Mr Hutchings: If a man was a cancerous subject, an accident such as a blow, would expedite the growth of the cancer. The growth in deceased was in the region of the injury caused by the accident. - Dr Woodburn, House Surgeon at the Hospital, was next called. He said he admitted the deceased on August 28th, but treated him as an out-patient. Deceased complained that he wrenched his arm that morning, but witness found no bony injury. There was an abrasion of the skin in the upper part of the left arm. Witness treated deceased an out-patient until November 5th, when he came into the Hospital, a large gland having formed in his neck. - By the Foreman: Deceased was in apparent good health when he treated him? - Samuel Fragell, an uncle of deceased, said that his nephew was employed putting the rope round the drum of the donkey winch aboard the s.s. "Lord Londonderry." When a basket of coal was being raised from the hold, it got foul of the combings, and in trying to free it, he received a strained arm and was disabled. Witness at the time was loading the baskets below. Deceased, after the occurrence, complained of great pain in the arm. Deceased was a fairly healthy man. The cause of the accident was not attributable to the deceased. - William Bartlett said he was at work on the ship near deceased. He saw the basket catch and heard deceased complain of injury afterwards. Deceased was bound to hold on the rope for the sake of others at work in the hold below. - Frank Cowell, Factory Inspector, gave evidence and said that the work on board the ship was carried on as usual. There was always a certain amount of danger in raising the baskets. - The Jury returned a verdict of Death through Cancer, the result of the Accident on the steamer.

Western Times, Thursday 14 April 1910
NEWTON ST CYRES - Railway Tragedy. Crediton Man's Suicide Near St. Cyres. Inquest Last Evening. - Mr H. W. Gould, District Coroner, yesterday afternoon conducted an Inquest at Newton St. Cyres relative to the death of CHARLES FRANK LONG, shoemaker of East-street, Crediton, who was found dead on the L. and S.W. Railway line near St. Cyres Station on Tuesday morning. - Mr Hancock was chosen Foreman of the Jury. Superintendent Egan watched the proceedings on behalf of the Police and Locomotive Inspector Moore, Permanent Way Inspector Gillard and Inspector W. Trump (Exeter) on behalf of the L. and S.W.R. - MR CHARLES LONG, junr., son of the deceased, a packer, of Crediton, said his father had been carrying on insurance work for some time, and was 48 years of age. When deceased had been very depressed he had spoken of taking his life. - William Vickery, of Newton St. Cyres and foreman platelayer on the L. and S.W.R., said that from information which he received from the signalman (Richard Winnacott), who had had a message from Crediton that a man was lying on the up road, witness went and found the body of deceased a quarter of a mile to the west of St Cyres Station. It was lying in the four-foot way, quite dead, in the up line. - P.C. Chas Hill, Newton St. Cyres, deposed to arriving at the spot where the body had been found at 6.45 a.m. Deceased appeared to have been run over by a train and his overcoat seemed to have been torn off him. Witness found two empty purses, two neck-ties, a razor, pair of scissors and several sundries on the clothing. There were also two letters and a postcard. No money was found on the deceased. - The Coroner said the contents of the letters clearly showed that the deceased intended to take his own life. It appears that he had been out of employment and among other things he had been to the Labour Exchange at Exeter to see if he could get any work and they had promised to do their best for him. He went on, "I hope God will have mercy on me for doing this awful deed." The Coroner said he would hand the Jury the letters to read, but he did not propose to make the contents public. They contained reflections on people, but, from inquiries he had had made, these were perfectly groundless. They were the outcome of a diseased brain. - James Escott, of 17 Mansfield-road, Exeter, said he was the driver of the 4.58 p.m. passenger train on Monday evening from Plymouth to Exeter. The train would pass the spot where the deceased was found at about 7.20 in the evening. He saw nothing of the deceased but when he arrived at Exmouth Junction he found some brain substance on the break gear of the tender. That was the first intimation he had that his train had been over something and he gave information to his night foreman. - P.S. Mogridge, of Crediton, said he had known the deceased for nearly eight years. On several occasions during the past five years proceedings had been taken against him for being drunk and using obscene language. A summons had recently been issued and defendant was to have appeared that morning before the Crediton Bench for using obscene language. The summons was served last Thursday. - The Coroner: Have you heard the deceased threaten to take his life? - Yes, when I have had him in the Police Station for being drunk. - You have read those letters: are there any grounds for those charges? - None whatever. - A Juror: Has he had opportunities to work during the past five years? - Yes. I know a gentleman who has helped him. That gentleman paid his expenses to stay in Exeter for a fortnight, but deceased came back and asked for the money for other purposes. - Dr W. S. Campbell said he had examined the body and found the vault of the skull completely smashed in and the brains protruding, some of the brains being lost from the skull. He thought the wheel must have gone over deceased and crushed him. - Sergt. Mogridge, recalled, was asked by the Coroner: Have you ever seen deceased depressed? - The man when in drink always struck me as of a very excitable nature and he was very often not responsible for his actions, or what he said. When he was sober he was as nice a man one could speak to. - The Coroner said he thought it was probable that when deceased wrote the letters and took his own life, he was not responsible for his actions. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

Western Times, Friday 15 April 1910
SEATON AND BEER - At the Town Hall, Seaton, on Monday, an Inquest was held by Dr Tweed, District Coroner, relative to the death of JAMES IRISH, an old-age pensioner, of Fore-street, Seaton, who died on Sunday evening. Deceased was 73 years old and had suffered from pains in his head and had been in ill health for many years. His daughter found him with his throat cut on Wednesday. She called a neighbour and a doctor was quickly summoned. Dr Pattison thought the wound was self-inflicted and the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind," and expressed sympathy with the relatives.

ILFRACOMBE - Worried Needlessly. Sensational Suicide At Ilfracombe. Inquest Last Evening. - An Inquest was held at the Tyrrell Cottage Hospital, Ilfracombe, by Mr G. W. F. Brown, District Coroner, last evening, relative to the death of HARRIET DUNN, a single woman, aged 41, whose body was found in a stream beneath a bridge in Torr's Park. Deceased, who was the daughter of a woodman employed at Killerton Park, near Exeter, was engaged as housekeeper by Mr C. Darbyshire. - The Coroner said Wednesday deceased appeared in her usual health and strength. She had dinner with the others at two o'clock and afterwards she said she would go into the grounds to pick daffodils, taking two baskets. Another servant found the baskets on the banks of the stream and search was made, resulting in the finding of the body. In the house was a post-card dated April 12th, on which deceased had written, in blue lead pencil, "I am sorry for what I have done. May the Lord forgive me. The worry of this place is too much for me. I know I ought never to have taken it." On a note found in the waste paper basket she had written: "May the Lord forgive me. I am so worried. I am driven to this. I ought never to have come here." - A tradesman who assisted the Rev. Whittaker, who was staying at the house, to search for the body, said he found it in three feet of water, underneath the archway in the lawn. A servant at the house said a letter came for the deceased by the previous night's post from her sister. the deceased appeared to have an idea that she was to be superseded by someone and that she was to be offered the post of housemaid. That appeared to weigh on her mind. She had given a month's notice to leave and one wee of it had expired. - Mr C. Darbyshire, J.P., said he left the house on Wednesday at one o'clock and when he returned at seven, the deceased's body had just been found. He noticed nothing in her demeanour on Wednesday. She had not, to his knowledge, been depressed. She had given notice about a week ago, but Mrs Darbyshire asked her to reconsider her decision and offered to increase her wages if she would remain, but she said the place worried her too much, or something of that kind. There was no idea of putting her back to the housemaid's place. He could suggest nothing to induce her to commit the rash act, except that every little trifle worried her. That was her peculiarity. She had, apparently, thrown herself in the water on her face and drifted in under the bridge and stuck there, being entirely out of sight. Mrs Darbyshire and himself were very much attached to her, she being a faithful servant. - The housemaid said deceased had a good dinner, but seemed rather agitated and kept looking at the clock. She had grieved very much about the loss of one of her sisters. Witness had never heard her say anything about committing suicide. - By the Foreman: She gave no reason for wanting to leave the dinner-table except that she had to cut flowers for the dining-table. - Mr W. Blackmore, who recovered the body, said he did so with a hook. the woman was lying face downwards. Nothing was to be seen of her. - Dr Gardner said when he was called the woman had been dead four or five hours. - P.S. Woolcott stated that in a waste paper basket in deceased's bedroom he found £3 12s. 8d. in money. - Mr Darbyshire said the men would have gone back to work on the lawn at 2 o'clock. - The Foreman: That was her motive for looking at the clock during dinner. It shows what was in her mind. - The Coroner, summing up, said there was no reason for deceased believing that she was to be superseded. She appeared to have worried over trifles that ought not to have troubled her. It was evident from the note found in the house that she contemplated suicide. She must have practically crawled under the bridge and got into the deepest water she could find and laid in it face downwards. There was no blame attached to anyone in the matter. - The Jury found that deceased Committed Suicide by Drowning. They expressed sympathy with Mr and Mrs Darbyshire in the trouble occasioned them by the unfortunate circumstances.

LAUNCESTON - Dr W. F. Thompson, County Coroner, held an Inquiry on Wednesday at Launceston as to the death of GEORGE LAWSON COOPER, a child, two years of age, who was kicked by a pony at North Petherwin the previous afternoon. After hearing the evidence of the mother, ANNIE WILLCOCKS, and Drs. A. G. Budd and Wm. Andrew, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TIVERTON - Absurd Law. Tiverton Coroner's Protest Against Its Requirements. - At an Inquest at Tiverton last evening on JOHN DAVEY, aged 90, who died while sitting in his chair at Limekiln Cottage on Wednesday morning, the Coroner, Mr Arthur Fisher, said it seemed rather absurd that a Jury should have to be summoned when the cause of death had been determined in advance, but as the law stood at present, when he had occasion to order a post mortem examination an Inquest had to be held as well. There was a possibility of a Bill being introduced into Parliament which would do away with the necessity of an Inquest being held when the doctor could satisfy the Coroner as to the cause of death after making a post-mortem. - Claud Hughes, aged 20, said he was called downstairs by MRS DAVEY early on Wednesday morning and found MR DAVEY in a chair gasping for breath. When he returned from summoning a doctor, DAVEY was dead.. He was a healthy old man, but he had had heart attacks. - Dr Pollock said the post-mortem revealed traces of valvular disease and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

EXETER HEAVITREE - At Heavitree Council Offices on Tuesday evening, Mr Gould, County Coroner, held an Inquest relative to the death of MARY ANN BLUNDELL, aged 80, of Mansfield-road, Exeter, who dropped dead outside the Royal Oak Inn, on Monday at 8.15. Evidence showed that death was due to syncope and the Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Western Times, Monday 18 April 1910
EXETER - A Dealer's Death. Inquest On The Exeter Station Tragedy. - The City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at the Police Station, Exeter, on Saturday, relative to the death of MR JONAS MITCHELL, farmer and corn dealer, aged 71, of Blandford, Dorset, who died suddenly at Queen-street Station on Friday under sad circumstances. Inspector W. Trump watched the Enquiry on behalf of the London and South-Western Railway Company. - JAMES C. MITCHELL, son of the deceased, identified the body. He said he last saw his father about 8 a.m. on Friday, when he appeared to be in his usual good health and spirits. Two or three years had elapsed since he was last attended by a doctor. - Guard Emmett, who was in charge of the train - the 8.50 from Waterloo - said after leaving Templecombe a gentleman named Webb came through the corridor and informed him that MR MITCHELL was ill. Witness went to him. Deceased said he should be better presently. Brandy was procured for him from the dining-car and it appeared to do him good. At Yeovil Junction, witness called the attention of the Stationmaster to MR MITCHELL. The latter, however, thought he was well enough to proceed to Exeter. On arrival at Queen-street deceased, who appeared to be very feeble, was assisted into the waiting-room and Dr Davy was telephoned for. - John Edwards, Inspector at Queen-street Station said he saw deceased lying on the footpath outside the Station, and being attended to. He had apparently attempted to get into a cab and had collapsed. Deceased died without a struggle, about two or three minutes before Dr Davy reached the spot. - Inspector Martin said he was attracted to the deceased by seeing a crowd. A few minutes after witness arrived MR MITCHELL passed away. By Dr Davy's directions, he was removed to the Mortuary. - Dr Pereira, who had made a post-mortem examination, said the brain was quite healthy. The heart was covered with fat and the lungs "pushed up" and small. Both kidneys were greatly diseased. Death was due to heart failure, caused by the advanced kidney disease. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." The Coroner said everything seemed to have been done for MR MITCHELL, both in the train and at Queen-street Station. - A son of the deceased expressed thanks, on behalf of the family to those who gave MR MITCHELL such kindly assistance on the journey to Exeter. - MR MITCHELL was well known at most of the principal markets in the West of England and he had been a regular attendant at the Exeter Cattle and Corn Markets for many years. Abnormally stout, he was probably the biggest man to be seen in the crowds who gathered at those places. Still, he pursued a very active life. MR MITCHELL was a Devonshire man by birth, belonging to a Chudleigh family, and for many years farmed the Home Estate at Mamhead. Much sympathy will be extended to the family of the deceased in their sudden bereavement. MR MITCHELL leaves a widow and four sons and three daughters, one of whom is MRS FRANK STONEMAN, of Shillingford. The funeral of MR MITCHELL will take place at Shroton Churchyard, near Blandford, on Tuesday at 3 p.m.

NEWTON ABBOT - Teign Tragedy. Open Verdict Returned By Newton Abbot Jury. - At Newton on Saturday, Mr S. Hacker (Coroner) conducted an Inquest relative to the death of FRANK WELSH, 41, of Wharf Cottage, Newton, whose body was recovered from the tidal waters of the Teign on Friday morning. - JOSEPH WELSH, labourer, of St John's-road, father, deposed that deceased had worked on the river all his life. - MABEL WELSH, daughter, stated that her father left home on Thursday at a quarter to twelve with his mate, Fred Lang, to take the barge down the river to Coombe Cellars for loading. She expected him to return the same night about half-past nine, but he did not do so and they thought he was going to leave the barge at Coombe Cellars and walk home. They sat up all night waiting for him and about a quarter to six witness went to Frank Lang's house to make inquiries and he was surprised to learn that deceased had not returned home. Lang said that he left her father in the boat about half-past nine. Deceased had poor sight and he lost the sight of one eye about two years ago. Lang and witness's grandfather went down the river to look for deceased and they found him in the water. Her father could swim well. - Dr J. J. Scrase deposed that he was of opinion death was due to drowning. - Frederick Lang, bargeman, deposed that they loaded the barge with about seven or eight tons of sand. The tide then came up, and they left the barge to restart loading the next day. They had a drink at Coombe Cellars and started sculling up the river in the small boat. At Netherton witness got out of the boat to walk home, as it was rough weather and he did not want to get wet through in the boat. That was about seven o'clock and deceased kept in the boat because he wanted to take her back. - The Coroner: How was it you told deceased's daughter that you left him about nine o'clock? - Witness: She made a mistake. I never told her any time at all. - What did you say to the daughter when she came to you? - I told her I left him at Netherton just after seven sculling the boat up the river. - Then you did tell her the time you left him? - Yes, sir. I was wrong in what I said just now. - Witness, continuing, said he and the first witness went down the beach to look for deceased and on the way they met George Wreford, who informed them that he had found the body and witness went with him and pulled it ashore. Deceased's boat was left stranded on the opposite side of the water at high water mark. The scull was in the boat. It was about half-tide when witness left deceased. - The Coroner: Can you tell the Jury anything which would account for deceased getting into the water? - Witness: I can't give any idea at all. - Could he see well enough to pull up the river? - Oh! yes. We have pulled up the river at all times of the night. - Thomas Hunt, of Haleyon-road, Teignmouth, deposed that he saw deceased at Buckland Point sitting in the boat drifting up with the tide. This was about half a mile up from Netherton. Witness was in a barge being pulled down the river by a tug. Deceased passed the time of day. Witness knew that deceased was able to swim well. - George Wreford, of Newton, labourer, deposed to finding the body in about three feet of water. - Henry Geo. Stigings, of Coombe Cellars, stated that he saw deceased and Lang leave that place in the boat and they were both all right. - The Coroner, reviewing the evidence, said there was nothing to show how deceased got into the water. The boat was not upset, and the fact that the scull was in the boat showed that he did not over-balance himself while sculling. The Jury returned an Open Verdict.

Western Times, Tuesday 19 April 1910
BOVEY TRACEY - Heart-Broken. Suicide Of A Bovey Tracey Blacksmith. Inquest and Verdict. - Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday in the Town Hall, Bovey, relative to the death of NOAH NICKOLS, blacksmith, whose body was found on Saturday last in a field adjoining Challabrook Moors. - MR EDWARD NICHOLLS, gardener, identified the deceased as his uncle, although he spelt his name with a k instead of h. He last saw him alive on Easter Monday. He was 42 years old and his wife died about six months ago. His household consisted of a housekeeper and three children. Witness was informed on Friday night that his uncle was missing from his home and at once went in search of him, continuing it through the night until between three and four o'clock on Saturday morning. After breakfast on Saturday morning he continued the search and about a quarter to one o'clock found him in a sitting position in a field on Challabrook farm, near a brook of water, quite dead. He immediately went for help and gave information to the Police. - Annie Emond stated that she had been deceased's housekeeper for four weeks. On the Friday he came home to dinner, and on leaving the house asked for his second daughter, who was playing in the garden. He then kissed the child good-bye as usual before leaving for his work. On going to the bedroom after he left she found some writing on the back of an envelope, containing his bank book. She remembered his getting a pencil and going upstairs before leaving for his shop. On examining the writing she began to think something was wrong. Deceased had been drinking earlier in the week and she had threatened to leave him if he continued. He promised her to give it up and for several days after he kept his promise. The writing which was handed to the Jury was:- "I have lost my only boy, and now my wife. My heart is broken and I am done for. I am leaving everything to the arms of the lawyer. My head is in a fearful state. N.N." - Witness added that deceased had been much depressed owing to his wife's death and having no son. - Harold Davie, carpenter, stated that he saw deceased pass on towards the level crossing (G.W.R.) leading to Challabrook Moors about quarter-past 2 on Friday afternoon. - P.C. Finch said he received information late on Friday night of deceased being missing. He immediately went in search of him, continuing throughout most of the night and next day. About one o'clock on Saturday he received information from E. NICHOLLS that his uncle's body was in a field near Challabrook. He proceeded to the spot and found deceased on the bank of a small stream of water in a sitting position, with his head between his knees. He was quite dead. On his right side was an open razor covered with blood, the case being on his left side. Also on deceased's right side was a bottle that had contained spirits of salts. On searching the clothes he found a watch, 10s. 6d. in silver and 4d in bronze, a pipe and matches. He knew deceased drank heavily at times. - Dr Huxtable said he had made an examination of the body. The lips and mouth were much burned by a corrosive poison, and on the left side of the throat was a deep gash, severing the artery and the vein on that side. This alone would occasion death in a few seconds after the wound was inflicted. - The Jury, after a short consultation, returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

TEIGNMOUTH - Naval Pensioner's Death At Teignmouth. - An Inquest was held by Mr Sidney Hacker, District Coroner, at Teignmouth Town Hall yesterday, relative to the death of DONALD MUNRO, a Naval pensioner, who died at Westbourne Terrace on Friday. SUSAN MUNRO, daughter-in-law, said deceased lived with her. Some two months ago he had a fall in the sitting-room and Dr Palmer recommended that he should be removed to the Teignmouth Hospital. This was done, but witness some time afterwards had him brought home, and on Friday last he died. - Dr Morton Palmer stated that he was called to see deceased on February 9th and found him suffering from an injury to the spine. He ordered his removal to the Hospital, where he improved in health. Then his friends wished to have him home again. He still improved, but a week ago had a relapse and died on Friday from hypostatic congestion of the lungs. - The Jury returned a verdict of death from "Natural Causes."

SIDMOUTH - Tragic Affair. Archdeacon's Sudden Death At Sidmouth. - The painfully sudden death of a visitor staying at Sidmouth caused quite a sensation on Friday. - Archdeacon S. C. BOURKE, M.A., of Hillyhead, Taylow, Maidenhead, had been staying with a relative at the York Hotel and on Friday afternoon was out walking with his friend, Professor Sonnenskeir of Birmingham. Some distance up Peak Hill they stopped by a gateway to admire the magnificent view, when the Professor noticed that the Archdeacon, an elderly man, suddenly swayed. He caught him before he could fall and a young man named Gosling, who lives close by, came to his assistance, bringing brandy and running into Sidmouth for medical aid. Dr Bird came with all speed, but could only pronounce life extinct, and the body was removed in a carriage to the Cottage Hospital Mortuary to await the Inquest. - At an Inquest a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Times, Wednesday 20 April 1910
TORQUAY - Sudden Death AT Torquay. - At the Northcote Hall yesterday an Inquest was held concerning the death of HENRY EDWARD PARSONS, of Park-street, who died suddenly on Sunday. - WILLIAM H. PARSONS, a carter, said the deceased, his brother, was 52 years of age. He saw him last Saturday when he was suffering from a cold, but did not complain, though he vomited. At 5.30 witness went to fetch a doctor, but was fetched back and on his return found his brother dead. Deceased did not look like a dying man during the day. - LAURA PARSONS, sister, said deceased was quite well on Friday when he was out with her. Dr Young-Eales said death resulted from heart failure, due to excessive drinking. - A verdict was returned accordingly.

Western Times, Thursday 21 April 1910
SOUTH BRENT - Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquest at Lauru Bank, South Brent, yesterday, touching the death of MR GEORGE CHUBB, retired farmer, aged 75 years, who dropped down dead near Brent Station on Tuesday morning. The body was identified by Mrs H. Rockey, of Portsmouth, sister of deceased. Evidence was given y Mr E. Jewers, with whom deceased lived; also by Mr T. Preston, who witnessed him fall in Station-road; also by Dr F. W. Style, who had made a post-mortem examination and found heart disease. Death was due to syncope. - The Jury, of whom Mr R. H. Gill was Foreman, returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Times, Friday 22 April 1910
TORQUAY - Elderly Lady's Death At Torquay. - An Inquest was held at Torquay last evening by Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, relative to the death of MISS LOUISA MUNRO, 87 years of age, of Kiltearn, Torquay. Mr R. Hodge was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - JANET MUNRO, sister of deceased, gave evidence of identification. On March 21st last deceased fell down over the stairs when about to leave the house to go to church with her. She did not witness the occurrence, but the servant told her about it. Witness found her sister at the foot of the stairs in a semi-conscious condition. When she recovered, deceased failed to remember anything about the accident. Witness thought deceased tripped up in her cloak. - Emma Rowe, housekeeper, said she was in the kitchen when she heard a thud. On going into the hall she espied deceased lying at the bottom of the staircase. - Dr W. W. Stabb deposed to seeing deceased about an hour after the accident. She had received a fractured right collar bone, a cut on the lip and bruises about the body. The first ten days she got on very well, but after that she slowly failed and died on Tuesday last due to exhaustion following the shock of the injury. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Times, Monday 25 April 1910
BELSTONE - Belstone Inquest. Fatal Accident To A Well-Known Moorman. - An Inquest was held on Saturday in the Parish Room, Belstone, by Mr J. D. Prickman, on the body of GEORGE ENDACOTT, who was killed the previous day on Dartmoor. Mr Charles Arscott was elected Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness was MR JNO. ENDACOTT (brother of deceased), who identified the body and stated that deceased was a moorman, 46 years of age, and lived at Hartor Farm. He last saw deceased alive on Wednesday, and was called to the scene of the accident about 8.30 p.m. and found his brother lying dead in the road. The horse had got away, but the saddle was close by, with the girths broken. The widow said that her husband left home on Thursday at 1 o'clock, to attend a stock sale at Coombehead. She heard of the accident about 8.30 p.m. - William Pike, in the employ of deceased, stated that he fetched his master from Belstone with a saddled horse and they left the village together, but he had to call at a cottage close by. Deceased had ridden on, and witness heard the horse travelling in front, but could not see it on account of the very heavy fog. At Culliver Steps his (witness's) pony shied at a saddle lying in the road. A few yards further on the deceased was lying in the road. Witness lifted him and spoke, but could get no reply. The horse was loose on the Moor. Deceased was perfectly sober and had walked from the sale to Belstone. He saw a pit beside a rock, where the horse had evidently put its foot in and had fallen. The pit was over two feet deep and the rock bore signs that the horse's knees had struck it. Hair was on the rock. - Mr Wm. Reddaway (monumental mason) corroborated the fact that deceased was perfectly sober when he left Belstone. Deceased mounted his horse steadily and rode away quietly. - The medical attendant said he was called and arrived at the farmhouse about midnight and found deceased cold and evidently dead for three or four hours. The cuts about the head evidenced a very violent blow, which would cause concussion of the brain and lead to an almost immediate death. The blow would have been sufficient to cause a fracture at the base of the skull. - P.C. Taylor (stationed at Sticklepath) also gave evidence. - The Coroner sympathised with the family, and said he had long known deceased and always found him a good Dartmoor man. He was a trusted servant of the War Office and had never been in any accident of any kind since taking charge of the artillery ranges. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - The funeral will take place today, arriving at South Tawton at 3 o'clock.

Western Times, Wednesday 27 April 1910
EAST STONEHOUSE - A Kingskerswell Woman's Death At Pennycross. - An Inquest was held at Stonehouse yesterday on the body of RUTH LOUISA MITCHELL, 29, of Kingskerswell, who died at Pennycross on Thursday. DAVID MITCHELL, of Kingskerswell, identified the deceased as his wife. She left home on the 9th to visit her sister at Pennycross for the benefit of her health. On Thursday afternoon last he received a telegram to say she was seriously ill and that he must come at once. She died the same evening. - Dr C. H. Heppenstall informed the Jury that he was called to see the deceased on Thursday afternoon when she was in a dying condition. With the help of Dr Sampson he performed an operation. Death was due to acute peritonitis caused by the rupture of an abscess. Dr Thomas Marshall corroborated. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" and expressed the belief that the deceased's life would probably have been saved had the deceased's sister called for medical assistance earlier.

EXETER - At the Police Court yesterday, Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, held an Inquest relative to the death of EDITH TAVERNER, aged 19, of King-street, Exeter. - MR G. TAVERNER, father, stated deceased had had no illness for three years. On Thursday she complained of a pain in her side and again on Saturday evening. On Sunday witness sent for a doctor, but deceased died before he arrived. - Evidence was also given by Mrs Dinham and Dr G. T. Clapp, who stated that on the left side of the stomach, where deceased complained of pain, was a large ulcer. Death was due to heart failure, consequent on a perforated ulcer in the stomach. The Jury returned their verdict accordingly and expressed sympathy with the relatives.

Western Times, Friday 29 April 1910
ASHBURTON - Yesterday afternoon, at the Market Hall, Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner, held an Inquiry touching the death of MARY ELLEN HERN, aged 34, wife of MR JOHN H. HERN, farmer, of Rew Lea. Mr Lamason was Foreman of the Jury. MR HERN identified the body as that of his wife, who was confined on Monday afternoon. She had engaged a certificated midwife, who attended her. At the midwife's request he went for a doctor, but neither were at home. He went to his home again and the child was born. The doctor came in about two hours after he was first called. Mrs Lang, the midwife, who produced her certificate, gave evidence, as well as Dr Richards, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Haemorrhage after Child Birth."

Western Times, Saturday 30 April 1910
BARNSTAPLE - Tramp's Death. Bruised His Finger While Cracking Stones And Dies At Barnstaple. - The Borough Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, conducted an Inquest at the North Devon Infirmary yesterday on the body of GEORGE LEWIS, a tramp. Mr Dan Moxham was chosen Foreman of the Jury. The Coroner said the deceased was not like one of the casual tramps, but was a respectable man out of work. He gave his name at the Police Station on Thursday as GEORGE LEWIS. He had a festered finger and the Porter at the Workhouse, Mr Gooding, poulticed the finger. He did his work and later left, presumably for South Molton, where he stayed on Friday night. Deceased left South Molton Union but shortly afterwards returned to the Workhouse, stating that he was unwell and could not go any further. It was seen that there were symptoms of lock-jaw and deceased was sent to Barnstaple where he was admitted to the North Devon Infirmary. Deceased told the doctor that he had knocked the skin off his finger at Torrington whilst cracking stones (presumably at the Workhouse). He died at the Institution on Tuesday. - Thomas Gooding, porter at the Barnstaple Workhouse, after viewing the body, said it was not the man whose finger he poulticed. He had seen the deceased previously, either the same night or the night before that the man with an injured finger came to the House. Deceased was in good health, as far as he knew and did not complain of having a bad finger. Having sawn about 3 cwt. of wood, he left the Workhouse about 11 o'clock the following morning. - Dr Evans, House Surgeon at the Infirmary, said deceased was brought to the Institution on Sunday afternoon in a cab. He noticed symptoms of lock-jaw and abrasions on the fingers of the right hand. The abrasions were only superficial and not severe. Deceased told him his name was GEORGE LEWIS, aged 43 years and a native of Woolwich. Regarding the injuries to the hand he said he knocked the skin off his hand whilst cracking stones at Torrington. He thought it was most likely that deceased got lock-jaw through the abrasions on the fingers. He had no hope of his recovery, but everything possible was done for the man. - Summing up, the Coroner thought the Authority at South Molton did the right thing in sending the man to that Institution, where he could receive the very best attention. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

EXETER - Mr W. Linford, City Coroner, last evening conducted an Inquest at Trevaunause House, Heavitree-road, relative to the death of THOMAS WILLIAM STOKES. - CHARLES HENRY STOKES, bank clerk, said the deceased, who was his father, was aged 74, and was a retired printer. Before coming to Exeter deceased resided at Bridge-street, Totnes. They had always understood that deceased had a weak heart, but had not had a doctor lately. The day before he died his father complained of a cold. - MRS AMELIA STOKES said on Thursday deceased came downstairs at 12 o'clock and seemed as usual. They had dinner and she afterwards heard her father-in-law breathing very heavily. She saw his head was resting on his chest and attended to him and a doctor was immediately sent for. - Dr C. J. Vlieland said some five or six years ago he attended the deceased for valvular disease of the heart. He thought the cause of death was syncope due to old-standing heart disease. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Times, Monday 2 May 1910
EXMOUTH - Suicide Of A Carpenter: Mind Unhinged. - An Inquest was held at All Saints Church Institute, Exmouth, on Saturday afternoon, before Mr H. Tweed, Coroner for the District, touching the death of TOM WHIDDON, carpenter, aged 45, who was discovered hanging in his workshop at the rear of his house in Belvedere-road, Exmouth, last Thursday. - The evidence showed that on Thursday morning, about 6.30 the deceased took his wife a cup of tea. About an hour afterwards she heard her daughter screaming in the kitchen. On going downstairs to ascertain the cause she heard the girl say to her sister, "Father's hanging in the workshop." MRS WHIDDON looked into the workshop and saw her husband hanging. She went across the road to her father-in-law, who came and cut down the deceased. She went for Dr Beesley. She added that her husband had been very weak and depressed ever since he attempted suicide on the 27th January. Waiting for the trial at the Quarter Sessions had preyed on his mind, and he could not read, nor sleep at night. He complained of severe pains in his head. His weakness was caused by loss of blood when he cut his throat in January. - Dr Beesley, who attempted artificial respiration, without success, said death was due to hanging. He considered from casual observations when he had met deceased, that MR WHIDDON had become insane. - The Coroner thought it was a case which ought to have been carefully looked after, as the evidence certainly pointed to insanity. - A verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind" was returned.

Western Times, Tuesday 3 May 1910
COLYTON - Colyton Suicide. Mother Finds Daughter Hanging In Kitchen. - An Inquest was held yesterday in St. Andrew's Hall, Colyton, by the District Coroner, Mr H. Tweed, touching the death of ANNA MARIA WELLMAN, spinster, who committed suicide by hanging on Sunday morning. Mr J. Follett was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - Evidence of identification was given by the mother, MRS MARY WELLMAN, who said her daughter was 51 years old. When she was 22 she had a fainting fit and fell into the fire, which greatly disfigured her face. Witness went to church about a quarter to eleven on Sunday, leaving her daughter at home to cook dinner. She seemed as usual and she said she could get on very well. When witness returned at a quarter to one she was horrified to find her daughter hanging by a rope from a crook in the back kitchen. She screamed and Mrs Purse, a neighbour, came in. - By the Coroner: Her daughter was fairly cheerful, although she was rather low at times. She attributed that to her not being well lately. She had never heard her threaten to take her life. - Mrs Alice Purse said she last saw the deceased about half-past eleven on Sunday morning at her back door, when she remarked it was a dull morning for the 1st of May, and she did not think there would be much sunshine. She heard MRS WELLMAN scream about a quarter to one and ran into the house. When she saw deceased she immediately called her husband, who came at once and cut her down, but she was quite dead. - Samuel Purse said there was a razor on the table close to deceased's left hand. - Dr Ewbank said he was called about ten minutes to one and found the deceased had been dead about an hour. Her face and hands wee cold but her body was warm. He attributed death to strangulation. - The Jury returned a verdict that the deceased Hung Herself, but that at the time she was of Unsound Mind. They gave their fees to the mother.

MORTEHOE - Tight Clothing Causes A Child's Death At Mortehoe. - An Inquest was held on Friday at Morte Hoe on the body of a three-and-a-half months old child, named DOROTHY BALMAN, the daughter of a labourer. - The mother stated that on Wednesday night she put the infant to bed at 9.30, the same time as her husband and herself went upstairs. She noticed that the child was all right at 4.15 a.m., but at 5.45 it was perspiring a little and turning a little dark, although it was sleeping peacefully. Her husband took the child downstairs and fetched the doctor. The child passed away at 6.15 a.m. - Answering questions, witness said she did not alter the child's clothing during the night. - The Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown: Did you notice whether the child breathed properly when you looked at her in the morning? - Witness: I didn't notice anything wrong, sir. - Further questioned, MRS BALMAN said she had one child living and she had lost one before this. - Dr Moore, of Woolacombe, said when he arrived the child was dead. That was about 7.30. - The father interrupted that it was "nearer eight, but was called to order. - The doctor continued that there were no marks of violence, but the clothing was exceedingly tight round the child's chest. A post-mortem examination showed that the organs were healthy, but the lungs were congested owing to want of movement of the chest. There were no signs of disease. Death, apparently, was due to the tight clothing. The cause of death was heart failure owing to the congested state of the lungs. - A Juryman: In what way were the clothes tight? - Witness: There was a kind of scarf round the chest, wound three or four times around the child, with other similar things. They were all tighter than they should have been. - The Coroner said there was no doubt the child died from heart failure caused by the tightness of the clothing round the chest. It was for the Jury to say whether they considered the clothes were purposely tied tightly, or not. - A Juryman (to the doctor): Do you think it possible that the child would have been living if it had not been bound so tightly? - Dr Moore: The child was very healthy in every other way. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. The Jury handed their fees to the parents, with whom they passed a vote of sympathy.

Western Times, Wednesday 4 May 1910
TORQUAY - Motor Fatality. Inquest On Child Killed At Torquay. - An Inquest was held at Torquay yesterday afternoon concerning the death of KATHLEEN MORRIS, who died from injuries received through being knocked down by a motor-car on Sunday last. Mr S. H. Easterbrook appeared on behalf of the parents of the deceased. - ELIZA ALFORD, of Lower Union-lane, identified the body as that of her child by her first marriage. Deceased was in her 14th year. She left home on Sunday about 2 o'clock to go to school. About 4 o'clock a little girl told her an accident had befallen KATHLEEN, and she ran to the spot and conveyed her child to the Hospital. She afterwards remained with her daughter all night. Death occurred about 9 o'clock the following morning. - Minnie Bartlett, 13, said she saw deceased near Market Corner standing on the footpath, apparently waiting to cross the road. When a tram had passed deceased started to cross the road, when a motor-car approached down Union-street. Deceased actually had one foot upon the pavement when she was knocked down. The motor could have gone by on the other side of the road, as the tram had passed by that time. Another motor passed just before the occurrence. The car went right over deceased. Witness heard no hooter or other sound of warning. - By Mr Easterbrook: Deceased did not see the car, which eased up near the corner. The girl was pulled off the pavement. - Frederick Powlesland deposed that he was standing by Market Corner when he saw a motor approaching at a moderate pace, and a tram-car going round the corner. He did not see the accident, though he saw the car leaving the child as if it had passed over her. The body was lying over the tram-line, with her feet near Palk's side. - By Mr Easterbrook: When first he saw the car it was going at about nine miles an hour. It was then near the Conservative Club. The car passed up and bore to the right. He heard no hooter. When he saw the girl the car was a length ahead. - Dr S. Moore, House Surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, described the injuries. When admitted deceased was unconscious and suffering from shock. there was a large cut on the back of the head and there was evidence of internal injuries. Death resulted from shock due to the injuries sustained. - In answer to Mr Easterbrook, witness said the injuries were consistent with the child being thrown as described. - The driver of the car, Mr Rippon, wanted to know if the doctor thought the car did go over the child. - Dr Moore replied that it was impossible to say. There were no wheel-marks on the body. - William Bridgman, porter, said he was waiting outside Palk/s when he saw the car approaching. The actual accident he did not see. The car appeared to be going at a moderate speed. - By a Juror: I did not hear any horn sounded. - James Henry White said he saw the child struck. Deceased stood by his side before suddenly crossing the road. The car approached the corner, and the driver apparently saw the child and did his best to avoid the accident. Witness thought the application of the brake caused the car to swerve to the right. There was room for the car to pass down on the left. - By a Juror: If the car had approached on the left side the accident might not have occurred. - Frank Harold Rippon, of Exeter, said he drove the car in question from Exeter on Sunday afternoon. There were four other passengers. Witness was going to the Union Hotel and passing the corner he was going in the middle of the road at about six miles an hour when the child suddenly appeared in front of him. He tried to pull up, but was too late. Nothing obstructed his view and he did not go to the right. - The Coroner said that the child was struck on the right side of the road. - Witness: There was no reason to go right or left; there was a clear road ahead. - By the Coroner: When he saw the child he endeavoured to avoid an accident. He sounded the hooter continually. - The Coroner: You have killed the child, and the onus rests upon you to give some explanation. - Witness: The child suddenly ran out into the road. - Coroner: If you were going only six miles an hour there was a chance of stopping the car within a few feet. - Witness: There was no possible chance to stop. - A Juror named Chave said that the deceased wore glasses, was near sighted. - By Mr Easterbrook: Her stopped the car in about three yards after the accident. - Samuel T. Bartlett said he, with others, hired the car from Mr Rippon. The latter drove and witness sat with him in front. Witness said that the care was driven a little to the right near the scene of the accident. He did not see the child until it was just in front of the car. The deceased turned towards the car and he saw that she wore glasses. He shouted to her. - By the Coroner: Mr Rippon pulled up the car as quickly as possible. Mr Rippon had had no accident before that he knew of. - The Coroner: Some explanation is needed, as the child, in a clear road, was knocked down and killed. - Witness suggested that the child mis-judged the distance. - The Coroner replied that it was the driver's duty to keep an eye on the road to avoid accidents. - P.C. Lake, stationed at Torquay, said he was on duty near Market Corner on Sunday afternoon. The motor-car approached him at about eight to ten miles an hour in the centre of the road. As the tram was on the turn for Market-street the motor eased up and bore to the right and was on the tram-line when he saw the child roll out from under the car. He shouted to the people in the car and then went to the assistance of the child. Witness added that he did not hear any hooter sounded. The child, to his idea, came out from behind the tram-car. Witness sent the child with its mother, to the Hospital in another car and he proceeded to the Hospital in Mr Rippon's car. That gentleman seemed much shocked at the occurrence. - The mother, recalled, said the child had defective sight and wore spectacles, as ordered by the school's doctor. - Thomas Henry Puddicombe also gave evidence, in which he said the driver was very much upset at the accident. - The Coroner said it was a very serious case. It was a terrible thing to think that such an occurrence should happen in the main street of Torquay. The Jury had a serious duty to perform in deciding whether any negligence or otherwise, was responsible for the child's death. - After a retirement, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - The Inquiry occupied 3 ¾ hours.

Western Times, Thursday 5 May 1910
EXETER - Death After A Shock At Exeter. - The City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest yesterday into the circumstances surrounding the death of MARTIN LOCKYEAR, aged 75, a painter, of Exe-street. - The evidence showed that deceased suffered from rheumatism. On April 28th he was entering the house from the back when the stick, with which he walked, slipped. He did not fall, but was shaken. He was seen by a doctor, and died on Tuesday. Some time previous to his death he had broken a blood vessel. Dr Wreford said deceased had always been a delicate man. On the Sunday before his death he was suffering from shock and collapse, caused by the fall. Death was due to this. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Times, Tuesday 10 May 1910
BARNSTAPLE - At the North Devon Infirmary on Saturday night, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, Borough Coroner, conducted an Inquest on the body of a young mason named PUGSLEY, aged 20 years, of Bickington, who died on Friday as the result of injuries sustained through falling off some scaffolding in Barnstaple Square. Evidence shewed that deceased was assisting in the removal of a sign on some scaffold, about 15 feet high, when the sign gave way suddenly, and he fell on his head on the kerb. He sustained severe injuries to which he succumbed the same night. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

EXETER - Woman's Troubles Lead To Suicide In The Exe At Exeter. - An Inquest was held last evening at the Police Court, Exeter, relative to the death of ELIZABETH HARRIS, aged 56, a widow, of 12 Priory-road, Mount Pleasant, Heavitree, who was found drowned in the river Exe. - WALTER HARRIS, of Longbrook-street, deceased's step-son, stated he had not spoken to deceased for some time. When his father was living deceased was quick tempered and got into great passions. Up to the time of her death her grandfather, who was aged 96, lived with her. - Mrs Delve, of the North Bridge Inn, said that on Friday evening deceased came to her and asked her to give a little box to Mrs Swift the next morning. Witness did so. Deceased seemed in her right mind and sober. - Mrs Swift, of 38 Lower North-street, said she received the box next morning. In it was a letter and there were also some trinkets and little bits of jewellery. The letter was as follows:- "Don't spare these to anyone. I feel just mad. Pray God to forgive me. Look after Grandpa. I owe him some money; will you see that they pay him. I am quite sure you cannot understand what I have suffered for a very long time. I regret to have to leave so many nice things, but trust I shall meet my dear Ned and parents once more. I cannot write any more, my head is fearful. I hope when they get the tings it will do them good, but they have driven me to do this - BESSIE." - John Rivron, lamp-lighter and P.S. Snell deposed to recovering the body from the Exe, near Gervase-avenue, and Dr Pereira stated the body showed the usual signs of death by drowning. - Coroner's Officer Walters said he had seen the grandfather, who stated that she had wanted to leave the home she was living in, but had been told by the landlord that she would have to pay a year's rent before doing so. This had worried her. It also appeared that she had been pressed for arrears in rent. - A verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned.

Western Times, Friday 13 May 1910
PLYMOUTH - An Exeter Girl's Death. Inquest Adjourned at Plymouth Last Evening. - An Inquest was held at Plymouth Mortuary yesterday, into the death of ROSE EFFIE FLOOD, aged 20, domestic servant, a native of Exeter, who was found dead in bed in Perkins' Temperance Hotel, Plymouth, on Wednesday morning. - WILLIAM FLOOD, labourer, of Victoria Cottages, Parr-street, Exeter, said the deceased was his daughter, and was in the service of Mrs Heard, of Devonport. He had not seen her since last November, when she was apparently all right. He knew she was engaged to a sailor and he did not disapprove of it. He did not know of any reason why the girl should take her own life. - Mrs Packhard, of Devonport, said the deceased was her niece and often came to her house. She was there last Saturday, when she was employed by Mrs Heard. At the time she seemed as usual. The deceased was engaged to her son. Mrs Heard told witness on Wednesday that she had had a disagreement with the deceased on the previous day, and had discharged her at a minute's notice. - Mrs Brokenshaw, of the Temperance Hotel, Union-street, said that deceased went to the Hotel on Tuesday evening and ordered a bed for the night. In the morning they went to her room and receiving no answer went again later and looking into the room saw deceased apparently dead on the bed. She sent for the Police. - P.C. Dymond deposed to being called to a Temperance Hotel Wednesday, where he found deceased lying in bed dead. He also found two letters, one from the sailor referred to, and the other written by the girl to her mother. - Dr S. Ward said a post-mortem examination revealed that death was due to oxalic acid poisoning. He found the pieces of wrappings of four packets of acid in the room. - At this stage the Inquest was adjourned until tomorrow, to enable deceased's late employer to attend.

BRIXHAM - A singular case was heard before the County Coroner at Brixham, Saturday, when an Enquiry was held respecting the death of CHARLES BEDFORD. It was stated deceased fell downstairs. His brother, in the dark, picked him up and placed him in a chair. Next morning he was found as he had been left, but dead. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Times, Monday 16 May 1910
EXETER - Accidental Suffocation. The Death Of An Infant Child At Exeter. - The City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at the Police Court, Saturday, touching the death of the infant child of ALFRED and BESSIE LEE, of Stepcote-hill. Mr W. Mitchell was Foreman of the Jury. - BESSIE LEE, mother of the child, said her husband was formerly a shop porter but had been out of employment for two or three months. The child was fourteen days old at death, and had been healthy from birth. On Friday morning she nursed the child at 3 o'clock and half-past four, but an hour later she again woke and found the child dead. Her husband was in another room. She had had four children, of whom one was now alive. One died in convulsions and a second from croup. - Dr J. A. W. Pereira said he found the child dead. Blood and froth were issuing from the mouth and the face was congested. There was every appearance of death from convulsions. He made a post-mortem examination and found that death resulted from asphyxia. He thought that probably the mother put the child to the breast and fell asleep, and that suffocation was caused in this way. - P.C. Walters said he had made inquiry and found that the woman was sober. - The Coroner explained that this Inquiry of the constable was rendered necessary in cases of this sort by the recent Act. There was no reflection on the mother in any way. He felt sorry for her. - The Foreman of the Jury said he knew the family and knew both husband and wife as sober and industrious people. - A verdict of "Accidental Suffocation" was returned.

DARTMOUTH - Suicide At Sea. Inquest On A Body Landed At Dartmouth. - On Saturday the s.s. "Ulla Boog" arrived at Dartmouth and landed the body of the chief engineer, HANS PETERS, 33, a native of Rostock, Germany, who was found hanging in his cabin on Friday morning, when the steamer was on the high seas. - At twenty past seven on Friday morning Tolga Sand, the steward, a Norwegian, called deceased to breakfast, but received no reply. At eight o'clock he opened his cabin door and then found him hanging. The second engineer arrived on the scene, and every effort was made to restore consciousness, but without success. The captain of the steamer assisted in the efforts made for the unfortunate man. The captain saw deceased at four o'clock the same morning and he was then in his usual health and made no complaint. He had been with deceased on the same ship for two years. A letter has been found in deceased's handwriting, expressing the fear that there was not sufficient coal to last until port was reached. - On Saturday Mr A. M. Davson held an Inquest at the Guildhall and the Jury found that deceased Committed Suicide, but there was no evidence as to the state of his mind at the time.

Western Times, Wednesday 18 May 1910
TORQUAY - Yesterday afternoon an Inquest was held at Torquay on the body of GWENDOLINE SETTERS, seven months old. The child died suddenly on Sunday. Dr Dunn was called in too late to give a certificate.

Western Times, Friday 20 May 1910
BOW - Coroner Gould held an Inquest at Thorne Farm, near Bow, yesterday, on a little girl named ELIZABETH MANVILLE. Deceased, who was only 12 years of age, died suddenly on Wednesday morning. From the evidence given by the mother, she heard her daughter make a strange noise about 2 o'clock and went to see what was the cause and saw her in a fit. She never recovered consciousness, but died about 4.30. - Dr Haycroft, of Fair Park, Bow, stated the father called on him at 3.30, and explained that the child was in a fit, and quite unconscious. He explained to him exactly what he ought to do and gave him medicine, but the child died before he got there. The cause of death was convulsions, caused by congestion of the brain. - A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Times, Saturday 21 May 1910
PAIGNTON - Mr Coroner Hacker last evening held an Inquest at Paignton on the body found floating in Torbay on Monday morning, which was identified as that of ARTHUR HOOK, a stoker on H.M.S. "Jupiter," who was drowned early on the morning of Saturday, March 12th. The finding of the body was proved by George Weddell and Able Seaman Beck, messmate of deceased on the "Jupiter," explained how the fatality occurred. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." The body was identified by deceased's father, a Cheltenham licensed victualler.

Western Times, Monday 23 May 1910
CREDITON - Sudden Death At Crediton. - At the Police Court, Crediton, on Saturday, Mr H. W. Gould, County Coroner, held an inquest relative to the death of ANNIE KIBBEY, draper's assistant, of Crediton. - EMMA KIBBEY, wife of WILLIAM KIBBEY, retired Chief Officer of Coastguards, Plymouth, said the deceased, her daughter, was 24 years of age. She had been complaining of rheumatism for some time. Otherwise she had apparently been in good health. - Agnes Maria Mann, wife of Mr John Mann, draper, of Crediton, said deceased was in her husband's employ as draper's assistant. She had been home for a day or two and returned on Tuesday last. She was then limping and complained that she had a fall downstairs. Deceased said she would soon be all right. Witness sent her to bed, where she remained. She saw her on Thursday at 11 p.m., when she seemed quite cheerful. At 6 o'clock on Friday morning she went and found her dead in bed. - Dr Body said he attended deceased on Wednesday last, when she complained of a pain in her knee and ankle caused by a fall downstairs. Deceased gave him to understand the fall was quite accidental. On Thursday morning he saw her and then she complained of a pain in her other knee and in the right wrist. Her temperature was then 102 deg. He had since made a post mortem examination and was of the opinion that death was due to syncope, caused by heart disease. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Western Times, Tuesday 24 May 1910
TIVERTON - A Farmer's Death. Inquest At Tiverton On MR PADDON. - Mr A. Fisher, Borough Coroner, last evening conducted an Inquest at the Tiverton Infirmary, relative to the death of ALBERT PADDON, aged 50, a farmer, of Court Place, Cheriton Fitzpaine, who died as the result of being thrown from his horse, near Bickleigh, on Thursday evening last. From the evidence it appeared that the deceased had been to Exeter market and as the horse arrived home riderless, the son (JOHN PADDON) made a search, finding the deceased lying in the roadway by Dart Bridge. Witness said he was of opinion that deceased was trying to mount and that the mare started off, throwing his father before the latter could get his foot into the stirrup. His father was a good rider. - John Gay, a miller, of Bickleigh, spoke to the deceased having two glasses of whiskey at the New Inn, Bickleigh, a glass and a half of cider at Mr Elston's and a "little drop of whiskey" at his (witness's) house. - Dr de Miranda, House Surgeon, at the Tiverton Infirmary, said the cause of death was concussion and fracture of the base of the skull. PADDON died without regaining consciousness. - In his summing up, the Coroner dismissed all ideas of any insobriety on the part of the deceased and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

PETROCKSTOWE - An Inquest was held at Magpie Cottage, Petrockstowe, yesterday, on the body of MARY ANN PIPER, married, aged 35, who died on Saturday, following confinement. The mother, MRS DINAH BOLT, said her daughter was to be confined last week and was in her usual health up to Friday week. She was taken bad on Saturday morning, about 10 a.m., and witness telegraphed for the district nurse at Merton, but she was away and did not come home until 1 p.m., deceased in the meantime being confined. Extensive haemorrhage followed. - Nurse Williams, of Merton, told the Jury that when she arrived about 1.30 she found the woman in extremis. She told the people to telegraph for a doctor, and did all she could herself, but death occurred half-an-hour later. - Dr Candler, Black Torrington, said he had a message about 3.30 and the woman had been dead some hours when he arrived. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes - Haemorrhage" - and exonerated the nurse from all blame for not being present. - The Coroner pointed out the filthy state of the house, in which, it was stated, the man and his wife and ten children lived, and that it had not been whitewashed inside for three years. At the Jury's request the Coroner was asked to communicate with the owner (Lord Clinton).

ALPHINGTON - Found Drowned. Verdict In The Alphington Mystery. A Sad Case. - The body of the boy HUTCHINGS, who has been missing from his home at Alphington, near Exeter, for about ten days, was found on Sunday afternoon in Exeter Canal. About three o'clock some lads were in a boat near the second drawbridge and others on the bridge, when one of them noticed a body floating on the surface of the water, which proved to be that of the unfortunate lad. Information was given to P.C. Bessant. On his arrival the body was removed in a boat, and afterwards taken charge of by P.C. Wills, of Alphington. The remains were identified by the boy's father. The spot where the body was discovered was near the point where a cap, supposed to have been that of the deceased's was found some few days after his disappearance and directly opposite the termination of the pathway leading across the fields from Alphington, under the railway and on to the canal banks. - The Inquest. - Yesterday, Mr Coroner H. W. Gould conducted an Inquest in the Alphington Council School relative to the death of the lad. There were several inhabitants present, and Mr J. Maunder was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - WILLIAM UPCOTT HUTCHINGS, gardener, residing at Alphington, gave evidence of identification and said the deceased, his son, WILLIAM HARRY HUTCHINGS, was nine years of age. The boy had been missing from his home since Thursday, the 12th May and went out about 6.30. Witness saw him go out by himself. There was no reason why he should have gone away from home. Deceased was of a rather cheerful disposition. He was in the habit of going to the Canal banks with other boys. - Harry John Wilcox, of Alphington, a lad aged 12 years, told the Jury that he saw deceased on Thursday, May 12th, just before seven o'clock down by the Ide Brook, and he saw him again by Mr Edwards's just before 8 o'clock. Witness was playing cricket and HUTCHINGS was looking on. - At that time, did the boy do anything he ought not to have done? - Yes, sir, he threw a stone at a duck. - Did he kill it? - I did not see him. - You boys were together? - Yes, sir; three of us. - The deceased threw a stone at the duck? - Yes, and another boy as well. - Did anyone make any complaint to the boy HUTCHINGS, or anyone besides yourself see him throw the stone? - Yes, Mr Lear saw him, and told him he must not throw stones. - No more stones were thrown? - No, sir. - Richard Turner, aged 12 of 7 Devonian-terrace, Alphington, said that at 8 o'clock on Thursday night deceased was watching them play cricket. - The Coroner: Did you speak to him? - Yes, I asked him if he had killed the duck and he said, "I threw a stone at the duck, but I didn't see it hit it." - Did you ask him if he was going home? - Yes; and he said he was afraid his father would give him a hiding. - Did he say why he expected a hiding? - No, sir. - What made you bring the duck up to him? - Three boys had told Mrs Wippell about it. - How did you know? - I was there. - Did these three boys tell you they had seen the duck? - Yes; they told me HUTCHINGS had killed the duck. - Did you leave the boy there by himself? - Well, Mrs Wippell said the Sergeant would be down after him in a minute. - Answering further questions, witness said that as he was going on an errand he saw HUTCHINGS by the field, but when he came back shortly afterwards the boy was not to be seen. When Mrs Wippell said the Sergeant was coming for him, HUTCHINGS appeared frightened and cried. - Lewis Holmes, of Cowick-street, Exeter, deposed to finding the body in the Canal on Sunday after his attention had been drawn to the spot. The body was fully dressed with the exception of a cap and was in an upright position in the water, about a foot from the surface. - Dr C. E. Stokes stated that he had made an examination of the body, but found no marks of violence. The body bore the appearance of having been in the water over seven days. The appearance was that of death from drowning. - Recalled, the father stated that the usual time for his son to come home was 8.30 and as he did not arrive they kept up the search all night. - Mr Wippell announced that his wife had attended voluntarily and was prepared to give evidence. - The Coroner: I don't think Mrs Wippell said anything more than she was justified in saying. - Mr Wippell: I know MR HUTCHINGS well, and, having regard to the statement the boy has been alleged to have made, I should say that if HUTCHINGS had given his boys more hidings, they might have been afraid of him. I can say he has dealt with them on the lenient side -(hear, hear). - The Coroner said there was not the slightest reflection on the father, or Mrs Wippell - (hear, hear). The lad had done something which he should not have done, and was apparently frightened to face his home. He did not believe that the lad deliberately took his life. He thought it was much more probable that he was wandering about, and, getting on the banks of the Canal, possibly fell in. Having regard to the circumstances he suggested the Jury should return a verdict of "Found Drowned." - The Jury adopted this course and, on the suggested of Mr Maunder, handed their fees to the father. - A vote of condolence, in which the Coroner concurred, was passed with the parents.

Western Times, Friday 27 May 1910
STOKE CANON - Sudden Death At Stoke Canon. - Mr H. W. Gould, District Coroner, held an Inquest Wednesday at Stoke Canon, relative to the death of MARY ANN STADDON, aged 37, who died suddenly on Tuesday. - MR MARK STADDON, deceased's husband, said deceased called him on Tuesday night. She seemed like a person in a fit, but was unconscious and died almost immediately. Witness did not know deceased had anything amiss with her heart. - Dr Owen Jones, of Silverton, stated that a post-mortem examination revealed many clots of blood, which usually indicated high temperature. The heart was a little fatty, otherwise the organs were sound. Death was due to heart failure. He could not say what caused it. Probably it was due to weakness of the heart after confinement. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Saturday 28 May 1910
OKEHAMPTON - A Soldier's Death. Fatal Accident At Okehampton Camp. Coroner's Tribute. - One of the batteries which only arrived at the Okehampton Camp for the annual practice on Thursday was unfortunate enough to lose one of its gunners through a fatal accident which occurred yesterday morning. The battery was proceeding to practice as usual and soon after passing Moor Gate one of the wheels of a gun carriage came into contact with a rock. All the soldiers managed to jump off unhurt with the exception of GUNNER DIVINE, who by some means caught his foot in the wheel, the result being that the waggon passed over his head, causing instant death. - An Inquest was held last night by Mr J. D. Prickman at the Camp, the verdict returned being that deceased's death was due to his head being crushed under a wheel of a gun-waggon, no negligence having taken place. Sympathy was expressed with deceased friends and relatives, and the Coroner said that the deceased had given his life for his country just as much as if he had been killed in action.

EXETER - At the City Police Station last evening Mr Linford Brown held an Inquest respecting the death of LAURA ANNE MARTIN, the ten-year-old daughter of CHARLES J. MARTIN, A miller's journeyman. The evidence was to the effect that the child had been under the care of Dr Childs, who some six weeks ago said he could do no more for her, but that the father must call him if necessary. The child, who was suffering from tuberculosis, died on Thursday, but as Dr Childs was away on holiday, he could not give a certificate. Dr Sherwill, who made a post-mortem examination, stated that the cause of death was exhaustion and general tuberculosis. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence and exonerated the doctor from blame. One Juror protested against the holding of the Inquest in view of the medical evidence, but the Coroner pointed out that he could not accept the certificate by post as Dr Childs had not seen the child just prior to her death.

Western Times, Tuesday 31 May 1910
EXETER - Boy's Death. Inquest At Exeter Court House Yesterday. - The City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at the City Police Station yesterday relative to the death of WILLIAM ERNEST FRANCIS BROCK, aged 12 years, son of a painter, of 4 Prospect Cottages, Bath-road. The father said his son had lately complained of pains in his stomach. He occasionally vomited, but witness did not obtain medical advice as he did not regard it seriously, thinking the lad might have been smoking, in which he had previously been detected. - HELEN LOUISA BROCK, the mother, said she gave her son medicine and sometimes brandy to stop the vomiting. On Saturday he complained of pains and she gave him medicine and ginger and also a cup of tea. On Thursday he had his dinner and nothing then seemed to be amiss with him. At 6.30 p.m. the boy was brought home ill by P.C. Hill. Witness sent for Dr Duncan and she stayed up with him all night applying poultices. He seemed to get better towards the morning, but he died early in the forenoon. - P.C. J. Hill said he found the boy lying on a seat in the Belmont Pleasure Grounds. As he was in great pain witness took him home. - Dr Duncan said he was called to see the boy on Thursday evening and he visited him again later. A post-mortem examination revealed that there was an ulcer, evidently of considerable duration, which had perforated the bowels and set up peritonitis, which caused death. Witness did not think that if a doctor had been called earlier it would have made any difference. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" and expressed sympathy with the parents.

DAWLISH - Broken-hearted. The Suicide Of A Dawlish Clerk. Inquest And Verdict. - All Dawlish was shocked on Saturday afternoon by the news that the dead body of MR CHARLES S. FORD, of Monte Rosa, Queen-street, Dawlish, had been found in the stream at Dawlish Water, near Shiverstone Farm (in Oxton Lane), situated about a mile and a half from the town. Deceased was a native of the town, liked and respected by all, the son of MR and MRS F. FORD, esteemed residents, who celebrated their golden wedding on Sunday week last, the 22nd inst. He leaves a widow and two young children, for whom the deepest sympathy is felt. - Deceased was confidential clerk at Messrs. Whidborne and Cole, solicitors, Dawlish, and as such has regularly attended the Council meetings for some years. Mr F. S. Cole, the head of the firm being the clerk of this body. It appears that he went to work as usual on Saturday morning and subsequently asked for an hour off because he did not feel well. It is stated that he left a letter addressed to his wife. - Deceased was Colour-Sergeant in the Territorials (Dawlish detachment) and only retired about a month since. He was also an official referee under the East Devon League Association and a prominent member of the Dawlish Bowling Club. It is not know that he had anything to worry him particularly, and the whole affair is inexplicable. - The Inquest. - Mr R. de V. Whiteway Wilkinson, Deputy Coroner, conducted the Inquest at the Vestry Hall yesterday and the limited accommodation of the Court was occupied as soon as the doors were opened. Mr H. S. Loram was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - GEORGE S. FORD, of Regent Street, Dawlish, hairdresser, brother, stated that deceased was aged 43. Witness saw him last on Friday morning, about 8.30. He was then in his usual health and cheerful. Witness knew no cause for his brother to take his own life; he was the last in the world he should have thought would do such a thing. - FRANCES MARY FORD, widow, deposed that she last saw deceased about nine o'clock on Saturday morning. He never said anything to her about any worries; he did not have any. - Arthur Powlesland, of Dawlish, farm labourer, stated that on Saturday about noon he saw deceased lying in the Dawlish Water stream near the bridge in Oxton Lane. Witness saw no blood marks. - William Ernest Scott, of Shiverstone Farm, Dawlish, stated that he was called by Powlesland and took the body out of the water. Witness had known deceased all his life, but did not recognise the body. On taking it out of the water witness saw that there was a wound on the left side of the throat. Witness found no weapon. - Francis Cole, of the firm of Messrs. Whidborne and Cole, solicitors and clerk to the Council, stated that deceased had been in his employ for five years and for 25 years previously deceased was in the employ of witness's predecessors. Deceased had full charge of the Council books. At the audit attention was called to the fact that there had been some manipulation of the receipt books in connection with the Joint Burial Committee. Witness was not prepared to say whether it was done to cover up anything. Witness, however, drew a sum to pay into the bank. After the audit deceased was pretty nearly shaken all to bits. Witness said to him: "Pull yourself together and be a man and let us see this thing out." On Saturday, the next day, deceased said: "I cannot pull myself together yet. A good walk, I think, will do me good. Can I go out for an hour or two and be back?" Witness thought things would be quieter in the afternoon and he said "Yes." That was the last time witness saw deceased. Witness had not been through the books yet. He intended doing it with deceased on the Saturday afternoon. Witness trusted it was purely a matter of account between him and deceased. - P.C. Burrow produced an empty razor case, which was picked up near where deceased was found. A search was made to find a razor, or some other weapon, without success. - The Deputy Coroner, reviewing the evidence, said it seemed that deceased had done something wrong, or imagined that he had done something wrong and in a mad moment he took his own life. There was a letter found upon the body, but it was of a domestic character. It would not, therefore, be read, but in it deceased wrote: "The end has come to me and I am heartbroken, and quite off my head." - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

Western Times, Saturday 4 June 1910
EXETER - Inquest On MR PARKER At Exeter. - Mr Coroner Brown conducted an Inquest at the Exeter Police Station last evening, relative to the death of MR JOHN PARKER, of 4 Linden Vale, Howell-road, Exeter, which took place suddenly on Wednesday afternoon. Deceased was the manager of the passenger department of the Midland Railway Company's offices at Exeter. Mr A. B. Norman was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - William Henry Hunt, of 1 Hillsborough Avenue, Exeter, gave evidence of identification and said deceased was 54 years of age last birthday. - MRS PHYLLIS PARKER, the widow, who was much affected, said that her husband had complained about pains around the heart, and for that complaint was seen by Dr Pullock about two years ago. When she returned from Bridestowe on Wednesday evening her husband had gone to bed and left a note saying he had gone to bed as his heart was bad. She spoke to her husband, and later sent for Dr Pullock. In the meantime he was given some brandy. - Dr Pullock said he saw deceased on Wednesday evening and had since made a post-mortem examination. He found the valves of the heart were badly diseased, and the kidneys were in a state of advanced chronic Bright's disease. The immediate cause of death was convulsion, brought on by poisoning from uremic trouble to the kidney. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony and passed a vote of condolence with the widow and family, in which the Coroner concurred.

Western Times, Tuesday 7 June 1910
ST MARYCHURCH - Torquay Sensation. Inquest On MRS ROBERSON At St. Marychurch. - An Inquest was held at St. Marychurch Town Hall yesterday relative to the death of MRS MARY LOUISA ROBERSON, wife of an ex-Naval officer, residing at Maisonette, St. Marychurch, Torquay. Mr W. Terry was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - MR ROBERSON, a retired Naval officer, husband of the deceased, said his wife was 53 years of age. On Friday night last she appeared to be her usual self, and retired to bed about 10.30. More or less she suffered from nervous depression. She visited the tennis grounds on that day. On Saturday she got up at the usual time and breakfast was prepared and ready at 8.30. Witness could hardly say what depressed his wife, whose fits were occasional. After breakfast he commenced mowing the lawn. About 10.30 the maid servant came to him and said she had found her mistress kneeling in the bath-room, and could get no response from her. When witness left the house his wife was clearing away the things from the drawing-room. Witness proceeded to the bath-room and here fond his wife as described. She was unconscious but was fully dressed. Witness took her to her bed and sent for medical assistance. Both Drs. Winter and Steele arrived on the scene. Witness detected a strong odour of carbolic when he went to remove the deceased. She had never taken anything like it before. He knew of no reason for her taking it. It was his custom to keep carbolic in the house. He generally ordered it from Mr Tutmore. It was used a as disinfectant. - In answer to the Coroner, witness said he knew no reason for the act, unless it was the result of fits and the depression. If deceased had had anything on her mind he would have known it. Deceased visited the tennis court and played croquet on Friday evening. - The maid servant, Annie Heale, proved finding the deceased in the bath-room. The bottle of carbolic produced was sometimes kept in the bath-room, and sometimes in her mistress's bedroom. The glass produced came from one of the bedrooms. She found it on the bath-room window and it contained a little drop of carbolic. - CAPT. ROBERSON said deceased's deafness, which was increasing, added to her depression. - Dr Winter attributed death to poisoning by carbolic acid. When he arrived MRS ROBERSON was quite unconscious. He had attended her for three years for nervousness, depression and sleeplessness. There was no actual physical ailment, but it was the critical period of her life. She troubled over her son, who was in Chicago. Deafness prevented him getting into the Navy. From his knowledge, witness could say that MR and MRS ROBERSON lived together very happily. - Louisa Acton, friend of the deceased, said MRS ROBERSON was always quite rational and never told her of any trouble. - CAPTAIN DYER, R.N., father of the deceased, said his daughter had travelled much and was of a bright disposition. - The Jury returned a verdict that deceased took poison while Temporarily Insane. - The Foreman, on behalf of the Jury, sympathised with CAPT. ROBERSON, and the Coroner joined in the vote, which was feelingly acknowledged by CAPT. ROBERSON.

TORQUAY - Sudden Death At Torquay. - An Inquest was held at Torquay last evening relative to the death of JAMES SHORT, a butcher, who died suddenly at Chelston on Saturday. Harriett Payne, with whom deceased lodged, said he had been unwell for a week, but he refused to see a doctor. On Friday and Saturday she attended to him and got his brother to send the family doctor in, but SHORT died before the medical man arrived. Dr Winter, who said he attended deceased for delirium tremens, attributed death to heart failure accelerated by excessive drinking. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Times, Saturday 11 June 1910
SOUTH MOLTON - South Molton Tragedy. Suicide Of The Landlord Of The Town Arms Hotel. - Yesterday morning about 9.30, MR RICHARD WEBBER, of the Town Arms Hotel, East-street, was discovered by Henry Hill, a workman in his employ, hanging in a shed at the bottom of the Cattle Market, at the rear of his premises. Hill, with assistance, cut him down and Dr F. W. Kendle was at once called in. Every means was used to restore animation, but without success. The deceased was suspended from a beam by a chain and piece of rope and a ladder near by appeared to have been used by him in carrying out his purpose. The deceased appeared to have been in his usual health and good spirits lately. - The Inquest. - Mr G. W. F. Brown, District Coroner, held an Inquest at the Guildhall, on Friday afternoon, touching the death of RICHARD WEBBER. Mr G. Hodge was elected Foreman of the Jury. The Coroner stated that the deceased was the proprietor of the Town Arms Hotel, and appeared quite in his usual health that same morning, but at 9.30 he was discovered by his workman hanging in the trap-house. - Henry Hill, who stated that he had been in the employ of the deceased for some sixteen years, identified the body and stated the deceased's age to be 60. He saw him at 7.30 the same morning, when he appeared in quite his usual health, and gave him his instructions for the day. He was present when he (the witness) went off to George Nympton for a sprayer at 7.50. On his return at 9.10 he let out the horse and went to the carriage-house, where he saw deceased suspended from the beam. He at once procured assistance and cut the deceased down. He was quite dead. He knew of no reason whatever which would lead to the deceased committing this act. - J. N. Barnes, colt breaker, of South Molton, deposed to being present when the body was cut down. Deceased was suspended from a beam and by a chain, which was fastened around his neck and tied with rope. - Dr. F. W. Kendle tried artificial restoration, but subsequently found that the deceased's neck was dislocated. Death must have been instantaneous. The body was quite warm when he arrived. He had known the deceased for at least 25 years, but had never known him have a day's illness. Death was due to dislocation of the neck. - Further evidence as given by P.C. Murrin. - The Coroner, in summing up, said after hearing the evidence the case was still as great a mystery. He knew the deceased personally very well and should have thought him to be the last person to have taken his life. He was always cheerful and bright and the family could in no way account for his action, as he had no worries whatever, but it was perfectly clear from the evidence that he had hung himself. The Jury returned a verdict "That the deceased Committed Suicide during a fit of Temporary insanity." The Jury also passed a vote of sympathy with the widow and family.

Western Times, Monday 13 June 1910
EXETER - Sad Affair. Fatality On The Railway At Exeter. Inquest At The Hospital. - The Exeter Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on Saturday relative to the death of WILLIAM HENRY ROWDEN, temporary messenger, aged 18, who was knocked down by trucks at Queen-street Station on Thursday. Inspectors Trump and H. Gillard of the Permanent Way Department attended on behalf of the London and South Western Railway Company, by whom the deceased was employed. - JAMES ROWDEN, Inspector on the L. and S.W. Railway, identified the body as that of his son, who was supernumerary messenger employed at Queen-street Station. Witness last saw him alive at ten minutes to seven on Thursday morning, when he called him to go to work. Shortly after two o'clock witness was summoned to Exeter from Chard by telegram. He found his son at the Hospital in an unconscious condition. - Daniel George Roach, foreman shunter, said on Thursday, about two o'clock, he was in the Queen-street shunting yard, shunting. Laing, a look-out man, shouted to witness to stop. Witness gave the signal to the driver, who stopped as quickly as possible. He then went to the spot where the accident happened and found deceased under the trucks. Deceased exclaimed, "Oh! my poor leg." There were eighteen trucks in all. Witness thought deceased was knocked down through waiting for the 2.10 train to pass in order to cross to the Station. That train was, in fact, going out of the Station when Laing shouted. - The father, recalled, said knowing the danger, he had himself cautioned his son to be careful when crossing the lines. Deceased had been employed there about ten days. - Frank Anstey, third shunter, said he was standing at the top of the up platform when the accident occurred. He had previously given the signal for a waggon to be knocked back to No. 10 road, but before doing so he had looked and found the line clear. Five minutes before he had seen deceased speaking to a pointsman on the other side of the yard. Witness turned to attach the waggon which had been shunted when he heard Laing shout, and saw the deceased under the waggon. It would have been impossible for the driver to see the deceased. - By Mr Trump: Witness said it was usual to look to see that the line was clear before shunting. - William Laing, lookout man, said he saw deceased in Higher No. 4 road, standing in the four foot way. He was apparently waiting for the up train to pass. Some trucks were moving towards him and witness shouted to him to get out of the way. He took no notice, being evidently prevented from hearing owing to the noise. Witness went to the other side of the train and gave the signal to stop. The trucks were about 15 or 18 feet away from deceased when witness first saw him. - Edwin Sturdee, Assistant House Surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased had a compound contused fracture of the left leg. There was also compound fractures of his left hand and arm, a fracture of the jaw and a cut on the chin. He was in a general condition of shock. Mr Domville amputated the left leg. Death, which took place in the afternoon, was due to shock, the result of the injuries. - Edward Stevens, chief clerk, telegraph department, Queen-street Station, said deceased had been engaged there about six weeks on and off to deliver telegrams. A message arrived marked "important" and the deceased was doing his duty in taking it out first. He had to take it to the goods yard foreman, and to do this had to cross the line. He had been there several times before. - The Coroner said everything possible was done, under the circumstances, to save the deceased, and no one seemed to be to blame. Everyone would sympathise with the parents. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and attached no blame to anyone. They expressed their sympathy with the parents. - The Funeral. - The funeral of young WILLIAM HENRY ROWDEN, son of Inspector ROWDEN, L. and S.W.R., Exeter, who met with his death on the railway under tragic circumstances last Thursday, took place at the Higher Cemetery yesterday, in the presence of a large gathering of railway officials and sympathising friends. The chief mourners were Inspector J. ROWDEN (deceased's father), Mr R. Rowden, brother; Mr G. P. Townsend, uncle; Mr B. Lake, Mr Harry Mildon, uncle; Mr A. Gloyns, uncle; Mr F. M. White, uncle; Mr W. Rowden, uncle; Messrs. A. White and C. F. Pedler, cousins; and W. Rowden (2), and F. Rowden, second cousins; and Mr J. Shilling, uncle, Plymouth. Prior to the interment a service was held at St. Sidwell's Parish Church, where deceased was formerly a member of the choir. The surpliced choir attended as a mark of respect and the service was fully choral. The coffin was of polished elm, with white metal mountings and the inscription on the breast plate ran:- "WILLIAM HENRY ROWDEN, died June 9th, 1910, age 18 years."

Western Times, Tuesday 14 June 1910
TIVERTON - A Lonely Life. Tiverton Man's Dread Of The Workhouse. - Mr A. Fisher, Borough Coroner, last evening conducted an Inquest at the Hospital, Tiverton, relative to the death of EDWIN JOHN FOURACRE, an unmarried carpenter, late residing at 2 Hit-or-Miss Court, Tiverton. - THOMAS FOURACRE, brother of the deceased, of Tiverton, carpenter, gave evidence of identification. Deceased was 53 years of age on June 30th, and had lived by himself for about five years. Lately his brother had been out of employment and had only taken some odd jobs. Deceased had suffered from pains in his head. Witness was not aware that his brother was unwell. Whenever he could spare anything he gave it to his brother, who was not one of the sharpest, and latterly had been worse. He had known his brother stay in bed through the pains in his head. He was very poor. - Bessie Hawkins, of 1 Hit-or-Miss Court, told the Jury that she last saw deceased alive on Thursday evening about 10 o'clock. Deceased used to suffer from gatherings in his eyes and head. He was very independent and would allow no one to do anything. It was as recently as Wednesday that FOURACRE complained of pains in the head. On the Friday morning at 10 o'clock she heard a "bump" from the deceased's house, but nothing later. Deceased had said that he did not like the thought of going into the Union. On the Wednesday morning deceased said, "Rather than go into the Workhouse I will tramp the roads, or make a hole in the water." - William Davey, carpenter, of Belmont-road, deposed to entering the house by the bedroom window, and found deceased hanging by a piece of rope from the banister. The body was cold and stiff and that was why he did not cut the body down. He did not see any food in the house. By the position of the body witness was of opinion that had deceased wanted to regain his feet he could have done so. - Tom Bell deposed to cutting the body down. Mr C. E. Leisching, Surgeon, said he examined the body and saw a mark around the neck caused by the rope. The body was cold and stiff and showed deceased had been dead some time from strangulation. Witness knew that Mr J. Thorne gave deceased 2s. on the Wednesday. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

Western Times, Wednesday 15 June 1910
LUSTLEIGH - Lustleigh Fatality. Resumed Inquest On Man Killed In A Mine Shaft. - Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, resumed the Inquest at Lustleigh yesterday on the body of the man, GEORGE DRUETT, who was killed in Kelly Mine on Wednesday of last week. Evidence given at the last Court showed that deceased, who was in the pit, had loaded a "kibble" with "shiny ore." While this was being hauled up the wire rope broke, and the "kibble" weighing about 5 cwt. fell on DRUETT, who was terribly mutilated. Samuel Hill, the foreman, in reply to the Coroner, said there were no periodical inspections of the rope and there were no special rules made by the Inspector of Mines for observance. Supt. Carey and P.S. Cross were present on behalf of the Police and Mr F. Watts of Newton, attended in the interests of the Scottish Silvoid Company, the owners of the mine, of which Mr Govan is the managing director. - Mr J. Hutchings, of Teignmouth, was present for the relatives of deceased. Mr H. Walker, of bath, H.M. Inspector of Mines also attended. - Hill, recalled, said he examined the wire rope. In his opinion some of the strands were pulled out of the thimble, and some were broken. There was no evidence at the mine of the "kibble" having struck the timbers. The "kibble" would be jerked if the man at the engine did not apply the brake quickly. About five years ago a man was injured by a piece of granite falling out of the "kibble", but there was no rule regarding men working underneath it as it was going up the shafts and he had never cautioned them about it. - By Mr Hutchings: There was now going to be an alteration where the kibble was being worked. He was given instructions by someone about two years ago in splicing the rope and he had done it ever since, but he had never taken the trouble in between to see how the splicing was. - By Mr Watts: The rope in questions was only done about six months ago. It should carry five tons. The weight in the kibble at the time of the accident was only five cwt. - By a Juror: He came up in the kibble just before the accident and saw nothing wrong with the rope then. - George Rice, of Lustleigh, who was working with deceased in the pit, deposed that to fill and empty the kibble they were bound to keep under the one going up. It never occurred to him to wait until the full kibble had reached the top. Witness was working on one side and deceased the other. There was a crash and on looking witness saw his mate lying crushed under the kibble. - The Inspector: What did you think of yourself, working under the shaft when the kibble was going up? - Witness: I did not think much; I thought more of my work. - The Inspector: Are you going to stand under the kibble in future when it is going up? - Witness: I don't think I shall, sir. - The Inspector: I am surprised to think you ever have done. - Witness, replying to a Juror, said that on the day in question the deceased observed that he did not like the rope, and witness replied that he did not either. Witness did not refer to the splicing and he did not know to which part DRUETT referred. - John Holding, who worked the engine, deposed that directly the kibble reached the tope the rope broke. - P.C. Hurford deposed to having the deceased removed to his home and seeing the foreman of the mine examine the rope after the accident. - Wm. Arthur Govan, of Hamilton, managing director of the Company, stated that there was nothing to prevent the men standing back while the kibble was going up. The kibble would only take a quarter of a minute going up. The Company would never think of insisting on their men working under a kibble that was going up. No orders were issued by the firm to the foreman in that respect. Steps were being taken to prevent a similar fatality in the future - there would be a fence at the bottom. - A Juror commented that the rope itself was evidently very old. - The Inspector of Mines deposed that he had visited Kelly Mine, and seen the rope. There was no special rule in force with regard to men working under a kibble in this class of mine. Witness believed that the rope was drawn out by the weight; it might have been coming out for some time. Witness was of opinion that as soon as the kibble was signalled away the men should not be allowed to stand on the shaft. He was amazed that the men had been doing it. - The Coroner, reviewing the evidence, observed it was for the Jury to decide whether it was an occurrence over which no person was responsible; but if they thought there was a certain amount of negligence which might have been avoided by regulations, it was within their province to make any recommendation they thought fitting. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." They added a rider recommending that the Company should enforce a rule compelling the men to stand away from the shaft while the kibble ascends and returns. They also recommended that the Government should enforce the same rules in metaliferous mines as in coal mines. Another rider recommended that the ropes to the thimbles should be attached at the rope works. - The Jury further wished to bring to the notice of the Superintendent the praiseworthy manner in which P.C. Hurford went to work in the matter, particularly as regards the removal of the body. - Mr F. Watts expressed, on behalf of the Company, sympathy with the relatives, and in this the Coroner joined. - The Jury gave their fees to the mother.

CHULMLEIGH - Sudden Death At Chulmleigh. - An Inquest was held at Chulmleigh yesterday afternoon by Mr G. W. F. Brown, County Coroner, respecting the death of GEORGE JOSLIN, farm labourer, aged 74, who died suddenly on Monday. - John Woolway said he was working with the deceased, when he suddenly fell over on his back and died immediately. - Medical evidence was given to the effect that death was caused by syncope and the Coroner commented on the sad fact that the deceased had only buried his wife a week ago and that he was an old age pensioner. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Thursday 16 June 1910
TIVERTON - The Borough Coroner, Mr A. Fisher, conducted an Inquest last evening at the Tiverton Infirmary, touching the death of MRS SARAH JANE ROWLAND, wife of a slaughterman, living in Gold-street, Tiverton. From the evidence adduced it appeared that the deceased was carrying lunch to her husband on Tuesday morning when she was seized with pains in the back. She was removed to the Infirmary and died soon after admission. MR ROWLAND said his wife had not had a doctor for over thirty years. Dr R. B. Cullin said he had made a post mortem examination of the deceased, whose spleen, liver and kidneys were congested; there were also signs of heart affection. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." Deceased's husband broke down while giving evidence and had to leave the room.

Western Times, Friday 17 June 1910
EXMINSTER - Suicide Of An Exminster Asylum Attendant. - Mr H. W. Gould, District Coroner, held an Inquest at Turf, yesterday afternoon, relative to the death of FRANCIS GEORGE HUBERT PURVIS, aged 27, an attendant at Exminster Asylum. - John Squire Baker, charge attendant at the Asylum, said he relieved the deceased at ten minutes after 8 on Wednesday morning, to enable him to go to breakfast. He should have returned in an hour, but failed to do so. PURVIS made no complaint and did not seem depressed when he went away. - Dr Eager also gave evidence to the effect that deceased had never made any complaint. During the morning PURVIS'S clothes were found on the Canal banks and later his body was recovered from the water. - P.C. Crago stated that near where the body was found were some charred remains of type-written letters and some tabloids. The papers had no reference to the tragedy. - Major-Gen. Garrett, of Cullompton, said the deceased was his nephew. He had written several letters to witness stating that the work at the Asylum troubled him. Since August last these letters had indicated a depressed state of mind. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind." They also commented on the manner in which the body was covered in the outhouse and the Coroner said no doubt the Police would make a note of it.

ROMANSLEIGH - North Devon Suicide. Jury Return A Verdict of Felo De Se At Romansleigh. - Mr G. W. F. Brown, North Devon Coroner, Wednesday held an Inquest at Romansleigh on the body of ALFRED JAMES WEBBER, 33, a farmer, living at Hill Town, whose body, with a gunshot wound in the breast, was found in a field the previous day. Evidence of identification was given by the widow, FLORENCE WEBBER, who said the deceased got up about 5.15 on Tuesday morning, saying he was going round as usual. He appeared to be in his usual health. - Percy Shapland, brother-in-law, said he was told about 11 o'clock in the morning that deceased was missing and had not been in to breakfast. He made a search and in a field about half a mile from the farmhouse found deceased lying on his back by the side of the hedge. The gun was in the hedge, pointing towards him, and round the trigger was tied a piece of string, also tied to a piece of stick in the fence. - Another piece of string had been tied round the barrel of the gun, which was fixed between two steeples and witness said deceased had evidently stood in front of the gun - about six feet away - and pulling the string towards him this exploded the gun. The shot had evidently entered his heart. The deceased had once told him he thought his farm too dear. He had only taken it at Lady-day last, and had only been married seven weeks. Witness knew of nothing calculated to worry deceased. - P.C. Ashby found a vaguely-written note n the body. - Dr Tucker described the wound and said death must have been instantaneous. - WILLIAM WEBBER, brother, knew of nothing to cause deceased to commit such a rash act, and the Jury returned a verdict of Felo De Se.

DAWLISH - Open Verdict. Old Man's Death At Starcross. - Mr H. W. Gould held an Inquest at Starcross Parish Room, yesterday, touching the death of HENRY JAMES OSMOND WOOD, whose body was found in the Estuary of the Exe on Wednesday morning. Mr John Sercombe was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - EDITH WOOD, daughter of the deceased, of Ashleigh, Tor Square, Torquay, stated that her father was a retired butler, and his age 81. She lived with him. He was a widower. Witness last saw him alive at 7.45 on Tuesday evening, at which time he left home, stating that he was going out for a little while and would not be long. Witness was unable to account for his being found at Starcross. He left no communication behind, and had not, apparently suffered from lapse of memory. He never spoke of suicide, but had complained of pains in the head, which did not depress him. He had spoken of going to Newton Abbot, where he had friends, and as he did not return on Tuesday night, she thought he might have gone there. - Alfred Hawkins, labourer, of Starcross, stated that he found the deceased lying on his face and hands, fully dressed, about 600 yards from the Pier. He was quite dead. There was no walk on the wall between the railway and the beach. At high water, at the present state of the tides, the depth of the water would be about 3ft. 6in. - P.C. Ackland, of Starcross, said he was called to go to the beach at 3.45 on the morning of Wednesday, and saw deceased lying on the beach as described by the last witness. He searched the clothing and found a sixpence and three half-pence in the pockets. Deceased's bowler hat was found some distance farther down the beach. The body was quite cold and dead when witness saw it. He had been unable to find anyone who had seen the deceased after he left his home. - Dr Iles, of Starcross, deposed that he had examined the body. He found no marks of violence and there were all the appearances of drowning, but he could form no accurate opinion as to how long deceased had been dead. - The Coroner remarked that the case was certainly a mysterious one and he feared it would remain a mystery unsolved. The deceased was an old man and although there was no apparent reason why he should have been in the neighbourhood, it was just possible he might have been suffering from lapse of memory, and had wandered to Starcross. The safest verdict, under the circumstances, would be an open one. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned." - Replying to a question whether artificial respiration was tried, as was reported, the witness Hawkins replied in the negative, and added that there was no mistake that the man was quite dead when found.

CULLOMPTON - Accidental Death. Octogenarian's Body Found in A Stream At Cullompton. - At the Cullompton Court, on Monday, Mr Coroner Gould conducted an Inquest on the body of FRANCIS SEARLE DANIELL. Mr J. Gibbings was Foreman of the Jury. ROSE OWEN, wife of CHARLES OWEN, a daughter of the deceased, identified the body of her father, who formerly worked as a carpenter. He had done no work lately. He was about eighty years of age. She last saw him alive on Saturday between nine and ten o'clock. He then went for a walk. He frequently went to the cricket field and generally carried is Bible in his pocket. Answering a Juror, the witness said her father often felt giddy. Only a few evenings ago, so he told her, he fell down in the cricket field. He used to bathe his face in the brook. - Frank Peters, grocer, of Cullompton, said he found the body in the water by the cricket field. It was lying in three or four inches of water. The deceased's coat and hat were beside the pavilion, only four yards away, together with his Bible and pipe. Witness tried to revive the deceased, but without success. Only the face and shoulders were in the brook, the rest of the body and legs being on the bank. He believed the deceased must have slipped. - P.C. Hutchings having given evidence to the effect that he could find nothing on the body that would lead to the suggestion of suicide. - The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death by Suffocation.

Western Times, Tuesday 21 June 1910
SHEERNESS, KENT - The death of young ALBERT E. GIBBONS, of Exmouth, was the subject of an Inquest conducted by the County Coroner at Sheerness on Friday. Deceased, who was serving on the cruiser "Hogue," collapsed during the washing down of the boat-deck on Wednesday. The evidence showed that he had been employed with others coaling the ship, his duty being to hold the bags. After ten minutes "stand easy" he commenced, with others, to wash down the boat-deck. He fell backwards whilst carrying a bucket of water and expired. - MR S. GIBBONS, deceased's father, said his son had never had any complaint except measles. A post-mortem examination made by Surgeon A. Tredell, of the battleship "Bulwark," showed that death was due to heart disease of long standing. Deceased had been twice medical examined during the past six months, but heart disease had not been suspected. He had not complained of illness while on the "Hogue." A verdict of "Death from Heart Disease" was returned. The funeral took place last evening with naval honours.

Western Times, Wednesday 22 June 1910
HATHERLEIGH - Hatherleigh Fatalities. Inquest On the Victims Of The Falling Wall. An Open-Air Inquiry. - Mr J. D. Prickman, Coroner, held an Inquest at Lake Farm, Hatherleigh, on Tuesday, on the bodies of JAMES WILSON SAUNDERS, aged 66, and ALEXANDER FRANCIS WILSON SAUNDERS, aged 15, who were accidentally killed by the falling of a wall on Monday. The Inquest was held in the open air, under an apple tree in the orchard, a table and chairs being provided. - The Coroner thought the Jury would have little difficulty in arriving at their verdict. He hoped they would appreciate the open-air arrangements, which were far preferable to being placed in a close, hot room on such a warm summer's day. It was revival of old-time customs when Coroners used to hold enquiries in the open air. Whatever their verdict, he was sure their sympathies would go out towards the bereaved widow and family. - Mr Darch having been elected Foreman of the Jury, they proceeded to view the bodies, which lay in the farmhouse near by. - Samuel Cook said JAMES WILSON SAUNDERS was his brother-in-law. He was 66 years of age, and had occupied Lake Farm about 18 years. It was rented from Mr Gascoigne, of Nottingham. On Monday they were working together at some buildings which originally formed two cottages. They had been disused and uninhabited for about 10 years. They went out about 12 o'clock to go to these old cottages, intending to take down one of the walls. They had talked of taking it down for some time, as the walls were dangerous. When they reached there witness advised propping the walls before anything else was done, and went away to get a pole for this purpose. Deceased did not wait, but started to work digging away at the foundation. By the time witness returned the wall had been undermined a good bit and he suggested that no more be done until the prop was in. The son then went up the ladder to dig out a hole or shoulder in which to fix the prop. Whilst he did so the father still kept working under with an iron bar. Witness asked him not to take out a certain stone, as it was the key to the whole wall. Immediately upon this he saw the wall coming in and it buried the deceased up to the middle, killing him on the spot. The falling debris was of cob (mud wall) and formed a wall some 12 feet high, 6 feet wide and 2 feet in thickness. The weight of it must have been some tons. Deceased never moved or breathed after the wall fell upon him. In answer to a Juryman, witness said the wall was not propped either inside or outside. Props were there, but had not been put in. - William Searle, gamekeeper at Fishleigh, Hatherleigh, confirmed the evidence of Cook, and heard the previous witness warn the deceased not t interfere with a stone in the wall, as it was the key to it. Witness was leaning against the ladder when the boy went up on it. He felt the ladder coming and saw the wall falling, jumping back and just escaped, the boy being struck down at his heels. The fall of the wall was due probably to the digging out of the stone by the father. - Ernest Pethrick said deceased asked him to tell Mr Cook to bring up a ladder on the morning of the accident. Deceased said they wanted to throw the wall. Witness advised him to dig it down. Later, witness came back again to the old cottages and found the wall down and the men crushed under it. - Dr Mitchell (Hatherleigh) said he was called to attend deceased on Monday. When he arrived on the scene of the accident he found him dead. An examination of the body showed a leg and thigh broken. Death must have been instantaneous. - Evidence regarding the death of ALEXANDER FRANCIS WILSON SAUNDERS was then taken. - Mr Cook said the boy was standing on a ladder placed against the wall. The ladder and wall fell upon his legs and he continued to breath for about ten minutes, but never spoke. He was 15 years old and the only child of his parents. - William Searle added to his previous evidence the fact that he shouted to the boy to jump. He saw the lad turn on the ladder and leap forward. Witness left Mr Cook and ran for medical aid, the lad breathing at the time he left. E. Pethrick said the lad was alive when he came on the scene, but expired a few minutes later. - Dr Mitchell said the boy was quite dead when he came to him. Examination showed both thighs broken and signs of injury to the skull. - The Coroner, addressing the Jury, pointed out the need for removing old walls that were a danger to the community and thought more care should be taken in the carrying out of such dangerous work. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" in each case, and on the suggestion of a Juryman added a rider "That the Jury are of opinion the remaining part of the old buildings should be taken down, as they are dangerous to passers by." The Jury and Coroner expressed their sincere sympathy with the bereaved relatives and Mr John Saunders (Winkleigh) thanked them on behalf of the family for their vote of condolence.

Western Times, Monday 27 June 1910
NORTH TAWTON - Could Not Swim. Boy Drowned While Bathing At North Tawton. - The Inquest on CECIL RATTENBURY, drowned while bathing at North Tawton, was held on Saturday evening. Mr C. Letheren was chosen Foreman of the Jury and the County Coroner, Mr J. D. Prickman, presided. The body was formally identified by MR W. H. S. RATTENBURY, father of the deceased. - Montague Attwell, aged 12, said on Friday evening he was playing at marbles outside his house, in Fore-street, when deceased came along accompanied by his brother and asked young Attwell if he would come down to see him bathing. They went down to the weir pool. Deceased partly undressed and looked at the water, saying "I wonder if it is too deep?" Attwell suggested to him to get a stick and try the depth. Deceased said "Never mind, I have finished undressing." He walked back about five or six yards and then ran forward and jumped into the pool. He pitched on his side about half-way across the pool. He sank and in about half a minute he came up head first. He moved his arms as if swimming and then sank again. He came to the surface again and young Gregory, another lad, shouted to him, "CECIL, can't you stand?" He made no reply so he shouted again, "CECIL, why don't you speak?" He made no reply but sank again. In about a minute he came up with his head back and his eyes closed. He again sank and they saw no more of him until he was taken out some time later on. About five minutes after he had been under water they looked across on the other side and saw Mr John Bolt. They shouted to him and he stripped and tried to get in the water, holding on to some bushes, but as he could not touch the bottom and could not swim he was obliged to come out again. Deceased could only swim a stroke or two. - Archibald Gregory (13) corroborated the previous witness's evidence. - John Bolt, platelayer, North Tawton, stated that he was returning from work across the meadows by the river about 6.15 when he heard the boys calling. He crossed the river and endeavoured to get in the water, but was unable to do so as the water was deep and he was unable to swim. He then sent two boys - one being the brother of deceased - for MR RATTENBURY, and Gregory to the mill for assistance. The father arrived shortly after in the company of Mr Barrett, a naval pensioner. Mr Barrett undressed, went in the water and remained there nearly three-quarters of an hour, but was unable to find the body. Mr Barrett considered the water to be about 10 feet deep in some places. - P.C. Facey assisted in removing the body. The hatches had been raised and some of the water let out. He estimated the body had been underwater about 1 ½ hours. - Dr Desprey said he was present within a minute or two of the body being taken from the water, and on examination found young RATTENBURY to be quite dead. He was of the opinion that the deceased, in jumping in the water, had been rendered breathless and getting under had taken in water and was very soon drowned. - The Jury returned a verdict to the effect "That deceased was Accidentally Drowned while Bathing, " and passed a sincere vote of condolence with the parents, in which the Coroner joined. - Montague Attwell was complimented by the Coroner on the excellent manner in which he had given his evidence.

Western Times, Tuesday 28 June 1910
EXETER - Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, held an Inquest relative to the death of the infant son of JESSIE ELEANOR TURNER. The Coroner explained that the child was only born on Thursday night and the mother was now too ill to attend. The Inquest must therefore be adjourned. MRS MARTHA TURNER, wife of GEO. TURNER, railway packer, of Halwill, Beaworthy, having given evidence, the Inquest was adjourned to Tuesday, July 12th.

WEST BUCKLAND - The North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, held an Inquest yesterday, at Brights Leary, West Buckland, touching the death of BARTHOLOMEW HEYWOOD, a farmer, aged 53, who on Saturday committed suicide by drowning himself in a pond at the bottom of an orchard and adjoining the farm buildings. - THOMAS HEYWOOD, brother of deceased, said he had suffered from depression for some time. Three years ago he was at Exminster Asylum. Recently he appeared much better, and worked on the farm. - P.C. Cole stated that appliances were provided and kept by Lord Fortescue, there having been two previous cases of suicide in the same pond. He had searched the body, but found no communications left by deceased. - A Juryman observed that he had lived at West Buckland for many years, but he had no recollection of any previous cases of suicide there. - Dr Seal said deceased suffered from depression, and his chief fear was that he was to be sent to an Asylum. - The Jury, of which Mr R. Down was the Foreman, returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane," and they expressed sympathy with the widow and family.

Western Times, Wednesday 29 June 1910
EXETER - Exe Tragedy. Downhearted And Worried By Pain. Cabowner's Death. - The City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, conducted an Inquest at Exeter Police Court yesterday afternoon, relative to the death of STEPHEN PARISH, aged 62, a retired cab-driver, of 33 Mount Dinham Cottages. - Mr W. H. Algar identified the body and stated that he last saw deceased alive on Thursday and had a conversation with him. PARISH complained of a pain in his leg, but he had never heard him speak of taking his life. - MRS D. PARISH, widow, stated that her husband had been down-hearted lately and had suffered considerably from his legs for the last nine years, the result of a severe illness. She last saw him on Sunday, about 8.30. He left no communication, and had had no trouble. About four years ago he attempted to take his life. - Mr W. H. Patten said he knew deceased, who on Sunday last about 9.20 called at his house. He had some whisky. He stayed about ten minutes and witness did not notice anything peculiar about him. - Frank Alden said on Sunday last he was in Exwick Fields about five minutes to ten. In the second field he noticed a man sitting on the river bank, about 40 or 50 yards away. When he got opposite him the man took off his coat and hat and jumped into the water. Witness heard him shouting for "Help!" and ran along the bank but could not see him at first. He noticed him at last about 50 yards away. Witness jumped in, and stayed in about 30 minutes looking for the body. A Policeman then came and they repeated their attempts to find the body, but could not. The current was very strong. - P.C. Bishop gave corroborative evidence, and said he sent for Mr Bates, the bathing superintendent, who came with a boat and grappling iron. He thought the greatest praise was due to Alden. - Mr Turner said that on Monday morning, about 4, he was on the South Devon Railway bridge near St. David's Station when he saw the body floating in the river. He got assistance and took it out. - Dr Pereira stated there was an ulcer on the leg of deceased which would have caused him pain. Death was due to drowning. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity," and commended Alden for his brave attempt to save deceased

Western Times, Thursday 30 June 1910
MERTON - A Child's Death. Doctor Says Its Life Could Have Been Saved. Parents Reprimanded. - An Inquest was held at Rumbledown, near Merton, last evening, by Mr Coroner G. W. F. Brown, on the body of LILIAN MARGARET HUTCHINGS, aged 12 months, daughter of SAMUEL OSBORNE HUTCHINGS, a labourer. - The mother, EDITH HUTCHINGS, stated that the child was taken ill on Monday night. Next morning it was still restless and she sent a message to their district nurse at Merton, but she was away. The Coroner: Did you send for a doctor? - Witness: No. The child got worse on Tuesday and died in the night about six o'clock. - A neighbour said she advised the mother to send for a doctor, but she did not do so. - Dr Johnson stated that the lungs were much congested and the cause of death was pneumonia. - In answer to the Coroner, witness said if medical aid had been obtained on Tuesday the child would be living now. - The Coroner pointed out that this was the third child of these parents on which he had held an Inquest. On the last occasion the child died under similar circumstances, and he reprimanded both parents and they promised to send for a doctor in any future case, but they had not done so and the life of the child had been thrown away by their neglect. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Pneumonia," and thought both parents were guilty of neglect and asked the Coroner to severely reprimand them. - This the Coroner did, and added that he should report the case to the R.S.P.C.C. who would probably take the case up. Addressing the mother, the Coroner said she appeared to be utterly unable to realise her duty as a mother.

Western Times, Monday 4 July 1910
EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - Sudden Death At Exwick. - At Exwick Schoolroom on Saturday, Mr Coroner Brown held an Inquest relative to the death of CHARLOTTE MARIA SEARLE, late of 15 St Andrew's-road, Exwick. Evidence of identification was given by THERESA SEARLE, daughter of the deceased, who stated that her mother was 74 years of age and was the widow of WILLIAM SEARLE. For some years she had suffered from heart trouble. In April last deceased was seen by the doctor, and her general health up to last Thursday had been fair. About eight o'clock on Thursday they were talking about the flowers. Deceased rose to walk away and fell back dead into witness's arms. - Dr Duncan deposed to attending deceased for heart disease. Death resulted from syncope, from old-standing heart complaint. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

Western Times, Tuesday 5 July 1910
COMBEINTEIGNHEAD - Suicide At Coombeinteignhead. - WILLIAM SARAHS, 62, a labourer, of Coombeinteignhead, was found hanging in a barn at that parish on Saturday. Deceased had been missing since Friday and a search that night failed to find him. It was understood by his son, who also lives at Coombeinteignhead, that deceased had gone into Newton to bring back his housekeeper, who was in the Infirmary. About noon on Saturday P.C. Mogridge, who was assisting in the search, found deceased as stated above and at once cut him down. - Deceased formerly worked for Mr Wale, but on losing that employment he had to give up the cottage. He afterwards worked for Mr S. Lang, and it was in a barn on his land that he was discovered hanging. There was no empty cottage in which he could reside on leaving Mr Wale, so he went to live with his son and his aged housekeeper went into Newton Infirmary. This fact, it is supposed, preyed upon his mind as she had practically brought up his family. - Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held the Inquest yesterday. JOHN M. SARAHS, gardener, identified deceased as his father, who had been living with him since last Good Friday. Deceased, who had been a widower about 30 years, had been talking of getting his housekeeper out of the Infirmary and on Friday deceased told witness he was going into Newton to make arrangements with that object in view. - P.C. Mogridge deposed to finding deceased hanging in a cow-house on Saturday in Townsend Farm, and cutting him down. - Richard S. Lang, farmer, for whom deceased worked, stated that on Friday deceased told him he was going to take his housekeeper out of the Infirmary. Witness advised deceased that it would be better for her to remain there because she was an old lady over 80. Witness added that deceased worried a lot about his housekeeper. - Dr Hatfield deposed that when he saw the body on Saturday deceased had evidently been dead for thirty hours. - The Jury returned a verdict of Suicide during Temporary Insanity.

Western Times, Thursday 7 July 1910
CHUDLEIGH - Exonian's Suicide. Tragic End To A Walk At Chudleigh. Story At The Inquest. - At Ugbrooke, Chudleigh, yesterday afternoon Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held the Inquest respecting the death of WILLIAM TURVEY, landlord of the Golden Lion Inn, Market-street, Exeter, whose body was found in a pond in Ugbrooke Park, the seat of Lord Clifford, on Monday. - The widow swooned on being called to give evidence of identification and had to be removed from the court for fresh air. - John Thomas Waite, of the Avenue, Newton, county court bailiff, deposed that he had known the deceased, a married man with a family, for about 20 years. On Monday witness was away during the forenoon, and on returning his wife told him that deceased had called and taken their daughter for a drive to Chudleigh, where he had some business. In the morning witness went to Exeter. He called to see the deceased and his wife, who informed him that he was away, and that she did not know where. - Lydia May Waite, 19, daughter of the last witness, stated that she knew the deceased well as a friend of the family. Witness and her mother last visited MR and MRS TURVEY at Exeter in May. On Monday morning deceased called at their house at Newton. Her father was out. Deceased told her mother he had business at the Globe Hotel, Newton, and also at Chudleigh, where he was going to drive. Deceased said he was sorry that Mr Waite was not home to go, so that he and Mrs Waite could go with him. Her mother could not go and said perhaps witness would. He told her that someone would drive them and she consented to accompany him. they drove straight to Ugbrooke Park. He had never been there before and he asked if she would walk through there with him. She expressed willingness to do so and the driver went on with the horse in front. The carriage stopped a little way further on and they got in again and went on to Chudleigh. The driver went on with the carriage to the Clifford Arms and they had a walk round the rocks, then going to the Clifford Arms. Witness did not go in. The carriage was got ready and they proceeded to drive back. That was about quarter to two and Mrs Waite had been told that they would be back by three. On reaching the Park he asked her if she was ready to walk and she replied "Yes." Deceased sent the carriage on to the next lodge. On their arriving at the Wishing Well he sat down and asked her to also sit down. She would not, because they had to be home by 3. Deceased came after her, caught hold of her and pulled her down. (At this stage witness broke down.) She screamed and said a man was coming. Struggling she got away. He came after her and putting his hand over her mouth, threatened to strangle her. Deceased ultimately let her go, saying "My God, I am a ruined man." She ran away. On looking back she saw the deceased still there. He beckoned her to come back, but she ran on. On reaching the carriage the driver asked where the man was, and she replied "He is back there. I can't get him to come on." Witness asked the driver to go back for him and she ran on home to Newton, and told her mother what had happened to her. - EMILY TURVEY, widow, of the Gold Lion Inn, deposed that the deceased was 46. He left home on Saturday, saying he was going to the bank, and she did not see him afterwards. Witness thought he had gone on the spree. The deceased appeared to have been off his head lately, and recently he had gone to Ascot without letting her know he was going. After he went away on Saturday she heard he was at Teignmouth. They were the best of friends when he left home on Saturday. She thought he must have gone suddenly mad. The deceased would have had about £30 in his possession. Witness thought the deceased had indulged a bit lately, but he did not get drunk. - Philip Lewis Taylor, landlord of the Clifford Arms, Chudleigh, deposed that deceased was excited when he came to his house on Monday about 1.30. Deceased had nothing to drink there, but simply enquired if his cabman had. - William Wellington of Newton, who drove deceased, stated that when Miss Waite came up to him where he was waiting, she seemed a bit upset. He went back with the cab to where she told him she left the deceased, and she went on to Newton. Witness could not see the deceased when he drove back, but on returning there a second time he saw his body on the bank. - Frederick Hill, groom, in the employ of Lord Clifford, deposed that on passing the middle lake during the afternoon with another employee, he saw the deceased, face downwards, in the water, and with assistance they took the body out. - Dr H. B. Walters, of Chudleigh, who saw the body just before four o'clock, deposed that death was due to drowning. - P.C. Hoile deposed that £1 4s. 6d. was found upon the body when he had removed it to the motor-house. - The Jury returned a verdict that deceased Committed Suicide by Drowning whilst of Unsound Mind.

Western Times, Saturday 9 July 1910
DARTMOUTH - A Child's Body Found Entangled In A Boat's Moorings. - Mr Hayne Smith, Deputy Coroner for the District, held an Inquest at the Guildhall, Dartmouth, Thursday, relative to the death of DORIS JANE FRANCES WAELAND, the three-year-old child of RHODA WAILAND, of Lower-street. The child's lifeless body was found entangled in the moorings of a boat in the harbour on Wednesday afternoon. The Jury found that death was due to Misadventure.

Western Times, Wednesday 13 July 1910
KINGSWEAR - Remarkable Affair. Alleged Neglect At A Devon Hospital. Jury's Representation. - Yesterday at the Royal Dart Hotel, Kingswear, an Inquest was held by Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, concerning the death of CHARLES ALBERT STONE, boots, of 6 Woodland-terrace, Kingswear, employed at the Hotel. - The evidence was of a remarkable character, and it was stated that the deceased had been allowed to be twenty-four hours in the Dartmouth Cottage Hospital without being medically attended. When a doctor arrived, STONE refused to allow him to attend him, and asked to be taken home, which was done. He died soon after reaching home. In the course of evidence one doctor contended that the case had been handed over to another and the other repudiated responsibility for it. - The Coroner, in summing up, expressed the opinion that if there was some silly regulation of the Hospital that a case of one doctor should not be attended by another, it should be at once abolished. Otherwise he did not think there would be any patients who would go to the Cottage Hospital, or that there would be any subscribers to it. It seemed a most scandalous thing that a man should be allowed to lie 24 hours in a Hospital without attendance by the medical staff. - The Inquiry lasted over five hours and at the close of it the Foreman made the following statement:- "The Jury express regret that the etiquette observable in cases of this nature when handing patients from one medical man to another, was not sufficiently observed so as to prevent a patient being left unattended in the Hospital for 24 hours by a medical man. The Jury recommend to the notice of the Hospital Committee that the rules be so revised, in the interests of humanity, to prevent in the future such mismanagement. The Jury consider that in all the circumstances they should refrain from censuring the Matron of the Hospital. - The verdict was that death was due to Natural Causes. - It should be explained that the permanent Matron is on leave. - The Rev. H. F. Tracey, Chairman of the Hospital, promised to bring the matter before the Committee.

EXETER - Child's Death. Strange Story At An Exeter Inquest. - The adjourned Inquest on the infant son of JESSIE ELEANOR TURNER, was held at the Exeter Police Station yesterday, before Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner. - Mr E. S. Lisle, manager of the St. Thomas Branch of the Union of London and Smiths Bank, said that the mother of the child had been in his employ about two months, having come from Beaworthy. On Friday, June 24, witness's wife informed him that the girl had given birth to a child, which was dead, and he gave information to the Police. - Mrs Lisle told the Coroner she had a good reference with the girl when she took her into her service. On June 24th, a Mrs Adams and the mother of the girl saw witness privately and informed her of the birth of the child. A doctor was telephoned for at once. - Winnie Adams, of Queen's-road, St. Thomas,. said she was in service with the girl TURNER at a Hotel in Exeter. On Thursday evening, June 23rd, she went to call for her, but she was not in. However, later on TURNER went to Queen's-road and stayed for a time, seeming quite jovial. On the way home witness asked her what she had in the basket she was carrying and she then burst out crying, and said "It's a baby." She asked witness what she could do and witness was frightened and said she could not say. Witness did not tell anyone all that night. - Mrs Adams, of Regent-street, Exeter, mother of the last witness, said she went to see TURNER on the Friday morning at Mrs Lisle's house. The girl was agitated and said, "Oh, how can I tell you?" Afterwards she said a child had been born and asked witness to telegraph for her mother, which she did. Witness did not ask where the child was, or whether it was alive. She could not rest at home and about three in the afternoon, returned to Mrs Lisle's and the girl was then preparing to take her mistress's children out in a coach. Witness said she must tell Mrs Lisle about it, but the girl replied, "Do wait till mother comes." - MRS TURNER, mother of the girl, said she journeyed to Exeter directly the telegram arrived and saw Mrs Lisle. The body of the child was in a basket and her daughter told her she had fainted the night before and when she came round found that the child was dead. - The girl TURNER gave her version of what happened and Dr C. J. Vlieland said there were no marks of violence on the body. The child had breathed, but was ill-developed and probably died at once as a result of want of vitality. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence, Mr Brown, in his summing up, remarking that he did not think there was criminal concealment on the part of the mother.

NEWTON POPPLEFORD - A Dangerous Spot. The Drowning Fatality At Newton Poppleford. Pits Caused By Floods. - Dr Tweed, District Coroner, held an Inquest at Harpford on Monday relative to the death of WILLIAM JOHN COOPER, aged 17, who was drowned in the river Otter, near Newton Poppleford Bridge, on Sunday morning. - WILLIAM COOPER, father of deceased, said his son left home about 10 o'clock on Sunday morning without saying where he was going. Witness did not hear anything more until his younger son, JAMES, told him JACK (as deceased was called) had been drowned. Witness immediately went to the river and there saw deceased under the water. There were several persons near at hand, but none could swim. Subsequently, however, Reginald Roberts arrived on the scene and he, with the aid of a ladder and grappling irons, succeeded in bringing the body to the bank. P.C. Pook, who in the meantime had been summoned, tried artificial respiration, but without success. Later Sir Frederick Treves happened to pass in his motor, and also applied artificial respiration, but without obtaining the desired result. - The Coroner: Had the deceased any right to be there? Was he trespassing? - Witness: I don't know. - P.C. Pooke: I don't think they would be trespassers. - William Mugsford, carpenter's apprentice, said deceased called for him on Sunday morning and they went to the river to bathe. Witness was the first to get into the water and got out of his depth. He could not swim. He did not see COOPER get into the water, but deceased was soon beside witness. Witness, however, worked his hands, and managed to get out of the water himself. COOPER had also, apparently, got out of his depth, as he was under water. Witness then took a rope, which JAMES COOPER had procured and threw it out beside the deceased. He did not attempt to catch hold of the rope. The pole was then placed under deceased's arms, but he did not touch that. The water was 15ft. deep at the spot where the two lads got in. It was deceased's usual custom to dive off into the water anyhow. - JAMES COOPER stated that he accompanied deceased, who said he was going to bathe. Witness went with them. Mugsford was the first to dive into the water and witness's brother followed. Mugsford asked witness to get a rope, which he threw in. Witness's brother was then going under water, with his head already under. Neither of the lads could swim. - John Quaintance said when he arrived the deceased's head was under water. He put a pole under deceased's arms, but he did not grasp it. Witness thought deceased to be dead, as shortly after he placed the pole under deceased's arms he went right to the bottom. There were deep pits in the river bed, caused by recent floods, which had made the spot a very dangerous one. - Ernest Hellier said he was on Newton Poppleford Bridge and saw Mugsford get out of the water but deceased was under the water. - Dr Bartlett, Ottery St. Mary, deposed that he was called on Sunday morning but could only pronounced life to be extinct. He attributed death to drowning. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned," and expressed sympathy with the parents of deceased in their bereavement. The Coroner concurred.

Western Times, Friday 15 July 1910
TIVERTON - Dr G. D. Perry, Deputy Coroner for Tiverton, held an Inquest touching the death of HARRY DICKER, who died while loading a waggon with bricks at the Tiverton Goods Station. The father, HARRY DICKER, said his son was in Exeter Hospital for three months about a year and a half ago. He was crippled and did not do regular work. He ate a good dinner on Monday, and was cheerful. - G. F. Chilcott, drayman, deposed to seeing deceased fall and running to his aid. - Dr Miranda, House Surgeon at the Tiverton Infirmary, said deceased was dead before he was taken to the Infirmary. Death was due to a cyst pressing against the cerebellum. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

COOKBURY - Mystery Of A Cookbury Farmer's Death. - Mr J. D. Prickman, Coroner, of Okehampton, held an Inquest at Cookbury, near Holsworthy, on Tuesday, touching the death of RICHARD ANDREW GILBERT, farmer, who left his home at 6 a.m. on Monday for the purpose of going to Leaches Moor, 1 ½ miles away, to see his cattle. As he had not returned at 10 o'clock his wife became uneasy about him, and, at her request, Mr Daniel Slee, a neighbour, went in search and found deceased at about 12.30 in a pool of water, 3 feet deep, known as Week Water, being a tributary of the river Waldon. After getting the body out of the water, Slee sent for P.C. Shapland (Milton Damerell), who had the body removed. - The Jury (of which Mr W. H. Tozer was Foreman) after hearing the evidence of Dr E. O. Kingdon, Holsworthy, who stated that he had attended deceased for fits, returned a verdict of "Found Drowned," there being insufficient evidence to prove how deceased got into the water. The Coroner expressed sympathy with the widow and family in their bereavement.

Western Times, Monday 18 July 1910
TORQUAY - An Inquest was held at Torquay on Saturday, on the body of FRANCIS PEARCE, tailor, aged 49, which was found on Friday. Evidence was given to the effect that the deceased was in the Grapes Inn (kept by his brother) and the Castle Hotel on Thursday afternoon. On leaving the last-named he walked across the road and looked into the valley, where his body was found on Friday, with a razor near by. A letter was found in one of his pockets was as follows:- "Can't face it any more. Got to suffer all the remainder of my life, so the doctor tells me. good-bye all. You can manage things all right NED. Just think what I have suffered since last November, and I have been one not to complain. Oh! my poor heart. I have been walking about all night. Was disturbed last night in Paignton Park; I think it was a Policeman. I have been walking about Paignton most f the time." The letter was unsigned and the deceased's brother said he could not identify the writing. MR E. G. PEARCE added that his brother had lately suffered from heart affection and a poisoned thumb. - The Jury returned a verdict of Suicide during Temporary Insanity.

TEIGNMOUTH - Teign Tragedy. Body Of ROBINSON Found In The River. Inquest And Verdict. - At Teignmouth on Saturday, Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, conducted the Inquest as to the circumstances attending the death of BENJAMIN ROBINSON, 31, of Littlehampton, skipper of the brigantine "Adela," lying at Teignmouth Harbour and whose body was recovered from the Teign on Friday evening, after deceased had been missing since Monday. - ALEXANDER ROBINSON, of Arundel-road, Littlehampton, brother, stated that deceased was single. He came to Teignmouth from Hull with a cargo of coal. Witness knew of no trouble that deceased had had, unless it was that the ship got damaged while in the harbour, but there was no occasion for deceased to have worried about that, because their father, to whom the "Adela" belonged, sent down an expert. The letter, produced, dated July 10th, and addressed to CAPT. J. ROBINSON, his father, was in deceased's hand-writing. In it deceased wrote "Good-bye to all" and "God bless you all, " and quoted Scriptural texts. Another letter, addressed to Mr Prescott, the expert, was in deceased's handwriting. - The Coroner observed that this was a rambling letter, looking as if deceased's mind was unhinged, but there was nothing in it to read publicly. It appeared by the tone of his letters that deceased had religious mania. - Witness, replying to the Coroner, said it was not known to him that deceased ever had religious mania, but he had always been a good person. - John Anderson, of River-road, Littlehampton, mate of the "Adela" deposed that deceased had complained of headaches while at Teignmouth. On Sunday night witness left deceased in his cabin writing letters. There were four others sleeping on board, but they heard nothing of deceased during the night. About six o'clock the next morning witness missed deceased from the ship and saw the two letters which had been produced upon the desk in deceased's cabin. A chain which was found tied round deceased when the body was recovered, belonged to the windlass. Witness had never heard deceased threaten to take his life and deceased never mentioned anything to him about what had happened to the ship. - The Coroner: Had he shown any particular mania as to religion? - Witness: No, sir; but he would read the Bible sometimes of an evening. - George Burtenshaw, cook on the "Adela", deposed that deceased complained to him on Sunday evening that his head was bad, and observed, "If I should forget where I put my money, you will know I have put it among the coffee tins." - Alfred Enticknap, seaman, belonging to the "Adela," stated that on Sunday night he heard a chain rattle. Witness did not know what deceased was doing, but asked if any help was required and deceased replied in the negative. Witness went on deck about midnight. The ship's boat was there then, but when he went on deck sometime later it was gone. - Dr Hayward, who made a superficial examination, deposed that death was due to drowning. - The Coroner, reviewing the evidence, said in the letter to Mr Prescott deceased wrote "O God, for this hour save me. Into Thy hands I commend my spirit." - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

Western Times, Tuesday 19 July 1910
GREAT TORRINGTON - Terrible Death. Man Crushed In North Devon By Traction Engine. - Quite a gloom was cast over Torrington on Saturday, when it was reported that WILLIAM HOCKING, aged 21, had been crushed to death by a traction engine belonging to Messrs. Stapleton and Sons, of Torrington, on which he acted as brakesman. - It appears that the engine was engaged hauling brick from Torrington Station to Beaford, a village five miles distant. - When Portbridge, about half-way, was reached, HOCKING saw two horses and a trap approaching, and he jumped off the truck on which he was riding. He went forward to lead the horse past if necessary. - This first horse passed without any trouble and HOCKING went to the other to lead it past, when the driver, Mr Darch, of Dolton, called out, "Let go!" - HOCKING did so and in stepping back his foot was caught by the wheel of the engine, and he was thrown down, the front wheel passing over his body, crushing his life out. - P.S. Banbury and P.C. Evans were sent for, and soon reached Portbridge where they took charge of the body and conveyed it to Torrington. - The deceased had only been married a couple of months and much sympathy is felt for the widow. - The Inquest on the body was held by the Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, at the Town Hall, Torrington, yesterday. - After witnesses had been called the Jury returned a verdict of Death from Misadventure, and attached no blame to anyone, further expressing their sympathy with the widow, to whom they gave their fees. The following rider was added: - This Jury now before you are desirous that the law compelling juries to view the body of a deceased person should no longer be enforced the same not helping them in arriving at their verdict; neither is it in harmony with the present day laws, and pray that you will forward this resolution to the proper quarter with a view of getting the law amended.

Western Times, Wednesday 20 July 1910
TIVERTON - Flannelette Again. - The dangers of flannelette were again brought to light during the hearing of an Inquest held at the village of Chettiscombe, near Tiverton, last evening, on the body of the three-year-old daughter of MR JAMES WOOD, gardener. Last Friday deceased got hold of some matches from a chair near the bedside while her mother was downstairs lighting the fire. Screams brought the mother very quickly to the bedroom, when she discovered the child enveloped in flames. MRS WOOD rolled the child in a piece of carpet, and thus extinguished the flames. Dr Cullin (Tiverton) was sent for and he treated the burns, which covered the right side of the body. Deceased expired on the following Sunday. - The Coroner referred to the dangers of flannelette, which was, he said, a highly inflammable material. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Times, Monday 25 July 1910
TIVERTON - The Tiverton Fatality. Inquest On MRS LAMPREY Held On Saturday. - An Inquest was held at Tiverton Infirmary on Saturday evening on MRS LAMPREY, of Henden Farm, Hockworthy, whose horse shied at Dr Welsford's motor-car while she was returning from Tiverton market last Tuesday. - The evidence showed that the car was pulled up dead when it was seen that the horse did not like it and that everything possible was done for the unfortunate woman, both at the time of the accident, when Dr Welsford attended to her injuries, and after she had been admitted to the Tiverton Infirmary. It was suggested to her that her wrist ought to be amputated, but she would not hear of it and gangrene set in, with fatal results. - The husband stated that the horse was quiet, but he had always made it a practice to hold it up when a motor or a traction engine passed. - Dr Welsford said he had led the same horse by his motor twice since the accident. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and exonerated the chauffeur, David Bidmead, from all blame.

Western Times, Tuesday 26 July 1910
NEWTON ABBOT - Newton Drowning Fatality. - At Newton Abbot yesterday, the Deputy Coroner, Mr R. Whiteway-Wilkinson, held an Inquest upon GEORGE LOCK, aged 6, who was drowned in the Teign on Saturday under circumstances recorded on page three of this issue. - WILLIAM LOCK, 58 Osborne-street, identified the body as that of his son. - William Pullman, a boy of nine, said he went down to the river playing with deceased on Saturday afternoon. they got into one of the boats there. Deceased tried to land and slipped off the piles. Deceased's sister, FLORENCE LOCK, said her mother, who was ill, as soon as she knew the little boy had gone down to the river, sent witness to fetch him. Deceased refused to come home and she left him there. - James Townsend, an employee of the Devon and Courtenay Clay Company, said he heard the other boy shouting, but deceased was not found until the river was dragged. - Dr Martin said death was due to drowning, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

EXETER - Sudden Death At Exeter. - Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, conducted an Inquest at the Police Court yesterday afternoon, relative to the death of MATILDA PIKE, aged 45, of Wellington-road, St. Thomas. - MR S. P. PIKE, an accountant, identified the body as that of his wife, and stated that she was attended by a doctor about twelve months ago, when she was suffering from a weak heart. During the past week or so she had been all right. On Friday she appeared to be slightly unwell and stayed in bed. About 1.30 a.m. on Saturday morning he woke up and found his wife was dead. - Dr C. J. Corbett said in his opinion death was due to heart failure. - The Jury returned their verdict accordingly.

WESTMINSTER, LONDON - Fatty Heart. The Sudden Death Of An Ottery Doctor. - An Inquest was held at Westminster on Friday concerning the death of DR CHARLES FREDERICK LONG, aged 72 years, lately of Bendarrock, West Hill, Ottery St. Mary, Devon, who died suddenly at Victoria Station on Thursday morning. - Mr Sidney Pope, a solicitor, of 36 Gandy-street, Exeter, identified the deceased as a friend of his and stated that he was a doctor of medicine, but not in practice. Witness last saw him on Wednesday morning in his office at Exeter. He was in witness's clerk's office downstairs, because he did not like to mount the stairs. He had not consulted a doctor of late, and his death was not expected, but he was supposed to have a weak heart. Witness knew he was going to live in Sussex, and that he was to have taken a house there, which would account for his passing through London on Thursday. - Albert Jones, a porter at Victoria Station (L.B. and S.C.R.) said that on Thursday morning deceased arrived at the Station at 11.30 in a cab with a lady and child. He got out of the cab and asked witness to get him a bath-chair. This somewhat surprised him, as deceased seemed quite active. Witness wheeled him in a chair to the ticket office, and subsequently saw the lady and child on the platform. Deceased had hold of the handle of the carriage door when he collapsed, and died in seven minutes. He was taken to St George's Hospital. - Dr Freyberger said the heart weighed 22 ounces and was fatty. The other organs showed signs of senile decay, and the stomach was quite empty. Death was due to the sudden failure of the heart, following chalky degeneration. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Times, Thursday 28 July 1910
HOLLACOMBE - Mr Coroner Gould held an Inquest at Hollacombe, about two miles from Crediton, touching the death of an infant daughter of WILLIAM HENRY SOUTHCOTT, of Skinner's Farm, Higher Hollacombe. Mr A. J. Stone was Foreman of the Jury. SUSAN SOUTHCOTT, the mother, said the child was born on July 1st. On Sunday morning she fed the child and left her in bed, when she had appeared to be sleeping. Mrs Marchant, a neighbour, came in later and saw something wrong with the child. It was lying on the right side dead, with hands clenched. - Dr Leslie Powne, of Crediton, who conducted a post-mortem, thought death was due to suffocation, caused by convulsions. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Friday 29 July 1910
TIVERTON - A verdict of Death from Natural Causes was returned at an Inquest conducted at Tiverton Infirmary on Wednesday on the body of JOHN GRAYER, shepherd, of Putson Cottages, Tiverton, who was found dead in his bed on Tuesday morning last. Deceased was 68 years of age.

Western Times, Wednesday 3 August 1910
EXETER - The City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at the Police Station yesterday, relative to the death of MRS LOUISA IRELAND, aged 67, wife of a grocer, of Paul-street. The body was identified by the husband, who stated that his wife had been attended by Dr Domville, the last occasion being in March. On Sunday morning, after leaving the bedroom, he heard a fall. Not getting any answer to his calls, he went back to the room, and found his wife lying on the floor apparently dead. - Mr E. J. Domville, who examined the body, said death was due to cardiac syncope, the result of heart disease. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Times, Friday 5 August 1910
TORQUAY - Death Under Tragic Circumstances At A Fete. - During the fete at the Torquay Recreation Ground on Wednesday evening, in connection with the local Friendly Societies, which had been postponed owing to the inclement weather on Monday, FLORENCE TOPE, aged 22, of Rosery Cottages, Chelston, was seen with her head hanging forward whilst in a swinging-boat. The swing was immediately stopped and the young woman was removed and placed on the ground, apparently in a fainting fit. Inspector Pratt, P.C. Milford, and Inspector Jones, N.S.P.C.C. endeavoured to restore animation by artificial means until the arrival of Dr Cornwood Smith. The woman, however, did not revive, although efforts in this direction were continued for nearly an hour, when the doctor was obliged to pronounce life extinct. It is understood that MISS TOPE had suffered from rheumatic fever, which had affected her heart and the exertion of swinging was, no doubt, the cause of her death. Her father, who was a member of the Fete Committee, was present when she died, as also was her sister and brother. - The Inquest on FLORENCE TOPE who died while swinging at Torquay Fete on Wednesday evening, was held by Mr Coroner Hacker at the Northcote Hall, Torquay, yesterday afternoon. - WILLIAM TOPE, the girl's father, who is in the employ of the G.W.R., said his daughter left her home at Rosery Cottages between half-past six and seven on Wednesday evening to go to the fete at the Recreation Ground. Later, in consequence of a message, he went to the Ground and saw his daughter lying on the ground, and she died a few minutes later. She had an illness in February, suffering from rheumatic fever, and Dr Black at that time said her heart was diseased. - OLIVE DEAN, a married sister, who was with deceased in the swing boat, said that after swinging a few minutes deceased let go the rope and fell forward. When taken out of the swing her sister was unconscious. She had been very lively all the evening. - Dr Winwood Smith stated that death was due to heart disease. He spoke in terms of praise of the efforts made by the Police to restore the deceased. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

TORQUAY - ALFRED WILLIAM FORD, a coachman of Chelston, died Wednesday afternoon whilst undergoing a dental operation at Mr Hunt's surgery in Tor-hill-road, Torquay. Gas was administered by Dr Thistle and shortly afterwards it was noticed that something was wrong. Drs. Horton and Lacey were summoned, but, notwithstanding their efforts, the unfortunate man never regained consciousness and soon afterwards expired. - The Inquest on the man ALFRED WILLIAM FORD, who died while under gas at a Torquay dentist's was held by Mr Coroner Hacker last evening. It was stated that deceased was aged 38, and was coachman to Captain Mallock, at Cockington Court. - Mr Grahame Hunt, dentist, Torquay-road, stated that on July 28th he extracted six teeth for deceased, and on Wednesday he came to have some more out. Dr Thistle administered nitrous oxide gas and witness had extracted two teeth when he noticed that deceased's breathing had ceased. Dr Thistle and witness resorted to artificial respiration, and breathing recommenced, but it again stopped and deceased expired. - Dr Thistle said deceased took gas very well on the first occasion and after then examining him he was satisfied that FORD had no valvular disease of the heart. There were no symptoms that his heart was weak. - Dr Lacey, who was called to deceased, said he found the man had an enlarged heart and there were signs of degeneration. The cause of death was syncope, due to the extra strain thrown on the heart. - Deceased's wife stated that her husband had a weak heart. - The Foreman said it was unfortunate that this was not known at the time the gas was administered. - A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

DAWLISH - An Inquest was held at the Dawlish Vestry Hall Wednesday into the death of MARY DEAN, aged 72 years, a lodging-house keeper, of West Cliff, Dawlish, who died suddenly on Tuesday morning. Deceased was the wife of MR HARRY DEAN. Dr A. Hudson deposed that death was due to syncope and a verdict was returned accordingly.

Western Times, Saturday 6 August 1910
TAVISTOCK - Sad Death Of A Tavistock Gardener. - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquest at Tavistock yesterday on the body of WILLIAM P. HARRY, aged 69, a jobbing gardener, who died suddenly whilst returning from his work on Wednesday evening. - Dr Sweet said that on examining the body he found that deceased had been suffering from a diseased aorta, and that there was a large piece of undigested meat in the stomach, which caused an obstruction and brought on syncope. - P.C. Spicer deposed that he was called on Wednesday to Duke-street, where he found deceased lying unconscious on the pavement. He immediately sent for Dr Snowden-Smith, who, on arrival, pronounced life to be extinct. - The Jury, of whom Mr Bowles was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." Much sympathy is felt for the widow, who is an invalid.

WESTWARD HO! - Bideford Sensation. Inquest On The Late MR J. H. PEARCE Last Evening. - A Coroner's Inquiry into the circumstances of the death of JAS. HIBBERT PEARCE, cashier at a Bideford Bank, was held at Westward Ho! last evening. In the absence, at camp, of Mr George W. F. Brown, his deputy, Dr Walter J. Cooper, conducted the Inquest. Mr S. Fulford, C.C., was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - Arthur Hay Murray, cab proprietor of Westward Ho! and brother-in-law of deceased, identified the body. He saw deceased at one o'clock the previous day, when he was cheerful and looking well. He was a good shot. Witness said he had never heard his brother-in-law express any intention of committing suicide. - By the Foreman: When he saw the deceased at one o'clock he was on the top of the slip at the pebble ridge. - Dr Toye, of Bideford, said he was called at about 3 p.m. to see the deceased. He was at Avondale, Westward Ho! lying on his back, his chest was bare, and there were two bullet wounds over the region of the heart. There was a weapon lying between his legs, one barrel having been discharged. The heart was practically destroyed. The bullet had passed through deceased's clothes. There was no evidence pointing as to whether the wound was accidental or self-inflicted. He thought the muzzle of the gun was close to the body when the gun was fired, and yet at the same time there was some spreading. He was surprised to find two circular wounds, and thought at first that two barrels had been fired. - A Juror (Mr Friendship): I think it would have been almost impossible, judging from the length of the gun, for him to have fired it with his hand. The longest armed man in the room would find it impossible almost, I think, to fire the gun by the trigger. - Witness, questioned by Mr Murray, added: I take it, it would have been impossible for him to have fired the gun with his own fingers? - Mr Murray: And there was nothing else there. - Florence Bayley, wife of Dr Prichard Bayley, of Avondale, Westward Ho! said she was sitting in a window of her house when deceased came along and asked if the doctor was in. She told him that he was out on the front. Afterwards she mentioned that her boy had shot a rabbit during the dinner hour and deceased said, "I have just seen one. If you will let me have the gun I'll shoot it for you." Witness went upstairs to get the gun and deceased procured two cartridges. He went into the back yard. Witness told him that she should not go out with him, because she was afraid of the noise. She went into the dining-room, thinking she would see where he was shooting. She heard the noise of a gun after waiting about a minute and a half; it sounded as if the deceased had broken some glass, the noise being in the direction of the back kitchen door. She went into the kitchen to see what he had shot and found him sitting on the top step of the kitchen stairs. She said to him: "Hullo! what have you done?" and he replied "I have shot myself." She asked "Where?" and he answered, "Here," pointing to his left side. Witness said "What did you do it for?" and he replied "I don't know." That was all he said and he died in two or three minutes. - Asked what was her opinion as to the cause of the gun going off, witness said she thought deceased slipped down the steps. The gun would go off very easily. Deceased had never spoken to her of committing suicide. After the accident the muzzle of the gun was pointing away from him. - Saml. Spilke, who was called to the house, said there were marks on the stone tiles as though deceased had slipped. - Dr Bayley said deceased was in the habit of sleeping in a tent in his front garden. He had suffered from neuritis and had been in a home. He had never used witness's gun before. The gun had on two occasions gone off at half-cock with a jolt. Death was due to injury to the heart and syncope from haemorrhage. Witness thought death was due to an accident. - P.C. Rice said he found a nail mark on the step. Deceased was wearing nailed boots. - The Coroner observed that there did not appear to be any motive for suicide. The Jury's verdict, he suggested, would be "Accidental Death." - The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Times, Tuesday 9 August 1910
SLAPTON - Slapton Tragedy. Coroner Suggests A Warning To Bathers. - The Coroner for the District, Mr S. Hacker, held an inquest at Slapton on Saturday relative to the deaths of RICHARD PHILIP DOWNING, aged 26, carpenter, of Kingsbridge, and WILLIAM THOMAS DOWNING, aged 24, of Dartmouth, the two brothers who were drowned while bathing on Thursday. - JOSEPH DOWNING, of Slapton, the father, stated that his sons had been home for a week's holiday and about 11.30 on Thursday they went out to bathe. He spoke to finding their clothes on the sands. - Richard Head, a naval pensioner, stated that while walking along the sands on Friday he saw the body of RICHARD DOWNING in the water and brought it ashore. - Walter Oldfield, carpenter, of Slapton, spoke to recovering the body of WILLIAM DOWNING. - The Coroner remarked that it was a matter for the local authorities to consider the advisability of putting up some notices as a warning to bathers. He also suggested it would be a proper precaution to place there stands with lifebuoys and ropes. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" and expressed their sympathy with the parents.

TIVERTON - Another Supposed Suicide. Tiverton Carpenter Found Hanging From A Beam. - CHARLES TRICKEY, carpenter, aged 59, was found hanging from a beam in the back part of his son's premises in Castle-street, Tiverton, yesterday. He was last seen alive at 6.30 p.m. Sunday, when his sister-in-law left for church. His son left the door open during the night, thinking his father was out. - The Inquest. - An Inquest was conducted at the Tiverton Infirmary last evening by Mr A. Fisher, Borough Coroner, touching the death of MR TRICKEY, of Castle-street, Tiverton. Early yesterday morning deceased was discovered hanging from a beam in an outhouse at the rear of MR FRED TRICKEY'S hairdressing establishment in Castle-street. Deceased was 59 years of age, and a carpenter by trade. Some time ago he fell from a scaffold and injured his head and had complained of pains more or less ever since. Dr Pollock said men who had sustained severe injury to the head were more likely to commit suicide than other people. - A verdict of "Temporary Insanity" was returned.

STOODLEIGH - Stoodleigh Suicide. How He Had Suffered For Years. - Mr F. Thomas, Deputy Coroner, last evening conducted an Inquest at Stoodleigh relative to the death of ERNEST CHILCOTT, aged 35, who was in the employ of Mr Henson, Dry Hill Farm, Stoodleigh. - The widow, SARAH ANN CHILCOTT, who was deeply affected, said her husband retired to bed on Friday night apparently in his usual health. She went downstairs two hours after her husband, but was surprised not to find him there. She eventually went to the out-houses to look for him and saw him hanging in the wood-house. She called him and receiving no answer, she shrieked and the neighbours came. - Mrs Chick, a neighbour, said she saw by the appearance of the body that CHILCOTT was dead, and she then called William Willis, who cut the body down. - Dr Welsford deposed to the body bearing a deep mark around the neck, death being due to strangulation. - In reply to the Deputy Coroner, the widow said the deceased had complained of headaches during that week. They had been discussing the accident to Master Money-Coutts on Friday evening and her husband had said that it would be a mercy if the Lord took him (Master Money-Coutts), as if he lived he would probably suffer as he (her late husband) had, and nobody knew how he had suffered. She explained that nine years ago deceased was thrown by a runaway horse at Bampton, receiving injuries to the skull. The doctor then said it was a miracle that the accident did not kill him outright. Since then, up to the past week, her husband had not made any complaint of suffering pain. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

NEWTON ABBOT - Suicide Of MR W. J. WATTS. J.P. Yesterday. - A painful sensation was caused at Newton Abbot yesterday shortly before 9 a.m. Following the report of firearms, MR W. J. WATTS. J.P., was found in the grounds of his residence, "The Firs" shot through the forehead. - Deceased, the head of a large local firm of merchants and exporters, was the eldest son of the late MR W. J. WATTS, of Ford House, Newton, and he was held in high esteem in the town. It is not, indeed, too much to say that no one was better liked. - For years deceased took an active part in the administration of the affairs of the town. He displayed, as a Councillor, considerable tact and energy and had a keen eye as to the needs of the future. - Deceased was a strong Conservative, but he did not care to be associated too prominently with politics. He did on a few occasions, however, preside at local Conservative meetings, but not during recent times. - For several years past deceased had been chosen people's warden in the Wolborough parish, and by his demise the Church loses a prominent worker. - Deceased was also identified with the administration of various charities belonging to the town. - The tragedy was discovered almost the same moment as it happened by Harry Carpenter. He was working at St. Bernard's where his employer had a contract on hand, and heard the report of the firearm quite near him. He at once looked over the wall into "The Firs" and was horrified to see the deceased stretched out with a sporting gun by his side. - Drs. Scrase and Scott were immediately summoned, but their services could be of no avail, as deceased's head was shattered. - The Inquest. - Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner, conducted an Inquest at the Town Hall, Newton, yesterday afternoon, relative to the death of MR W. J. WATTS, J.P. - The Coroner, in opening the Inquest, said he need not remind them that the deceased was one of the most respected and best known public men in Newton. - WILLIAM JOHN VICARY WATTS, of Aberdale, Newton Abbot, son, deposed that deceased, who was 70 years of age, had been depressed for a week, complaining of gout. Witness was with his father on Sunday evening up to quarter past ten, and deceased, who had not been to business for a week, thought of going away for a change. For the last five or six years he had suffered at times from sleepless nights, but was not sufficiently bad to call it insomnia. - Witness believed the gun and cartridges were kept in the harness-room. He was fetched to go to The Firs about nine o'clock, and he there saw the deceased lying dead at the back of the house. A search was made to see if deceased had left a communication, but none was found. - Eva Jeffery, domestic at The Firs, stated that deceased had breakfast about eight o'clock. She heard him say at times he did not sleep well. - Harry Carpenter, Quay-terrace, labourer, deposed that while working on property adjoining The Firs, he heard a report of a gun and a thud, as if something had fallen. Witness looked over the boundary wall and saw deceased lying down in the yard. He went round and reported the affair at the house. - John Rogers, Hilton-road, Newton, gardener at The Firs, gave evidence to the effect that deceased instructed him to clean the gun in the harness-room last Tuesday. There had been no cartridges kept in the harness-room lately. When witness went to the yard on returning from breakfast, he saw deceased on his back, with a gun lying partly across the body, the butt resting on the right leg. Close by there was a long cane. - Dr R. H. Grimbly, of Newton, deposed that the wound indicated that deceased shot himself whilst standing up, and it was probable that the cane produced was used to work the trigger, there being a hook fixed to the end of it. - Dr W. G. Scott, the family medical attendant, said he had advised deceased to go away for a change, as it had done him good on a previous occasion. Deceased, however, kept on putting it off. - Gerald D. Woollcombe, of Newton, solicitor, deposed that at deceased's request he saw him on Tuesday on business and deceased complained of a severe attack of gout, saying he was going away to see if he could cure it. When he saw deceased again on Thursday he looked better. - The Coroner, summing up, expressed his sympathy with the relatives in the terrible occurrence and spoke of the loss the town and county had sustained by the death of MR WATTS. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity," and passed a vote of condolence with the widow and family.

TAVISTOCK - Tavistock Suicide. Police Sergeant Commended For Skilful First Aid. - Respecting the death of MARY ANN ACTON, wife of ABRAHAM ACTON, a jobbing shoemaker, of 2 King-street, Tavistock, who committed suicide by stabbing herself with a shoemaker's knife early on Saturday morning, Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Tavistock Guildhall in the evening of that day, Sergt.-Major D. Bowles being Foreman of the Jury. - Dr C. C. Brodrick stated that he was called to see the deceased at 7.45 that morning and found her in a state of collapse. She died about five minutes after his arrival from loss of blood from a punctured wound on the inside of the left thigh. The femoral vein and also a large branch of the femoral artery were separated. there were also three small superficial cuts on the outside of the right ankle. In his opinion no sane person would cut herself in such a way. P.C. Spicer rendered first aid in a very skilful manner, and if it had been rendered earlier the deceased's life might have been saved. - ABRAHAM ACTON, the husband, stated that the deceased was 59 years of age. He missed her about ten minutes to seven that morning, and searched all over the house for her. The lavatory door was locked, so he called and asked her if she was there. She told him to go away, and, as she was eccentric, he did so, but on returning half-an-hour later he saw blood flowing from the lavatory. He then ran for the Police. His wife had been very much addicted to drink, and when under its influence she was like a mad woman, but when sober a better woman could not be found. She had been before the Tavistock magistrates, and had lately been again reported by the Police. the Salvation Army took her in hand, but she broke out again about a fortnight ago. - P.C. Spicer said that he broke the lavatory door open with an iron bar. The deceased, who only had her nightdress on, was bleeding from both legs and held the shoemaker's knife (produced) in her right hand. He immediately stopped the bleeding and sent for a doctor. - In answer to the Coroner, the husband stated that the deceased's mother was at one time in the Asylum. - The Coroner said that if the Constable had got there sooner, he might have saved the poor woman's life. He suggested that the Jury should commend P.C. Spicer to the Chief Constable for the very prompt and skilful manner in which he had acted. - The Jury readily concurred and returned a verdict that the deceased had Committed Suicide while Temporarily Insane through Alcoholism.

Western Times, Wednesday 10 August 1910
EXETER - Infant's Death. Exeter Midwife Cautioned By The Coroner. - An Exeter Midwife was cautioned at an Inquest at the City Police Court last night, when the Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, conducted an Inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the death of LILIAN MAY HARPER, aged nine weeks, the infant daughter of ELIZABETH MAY HARPER, of 6 Clinton-street, St. Thomas, Exeter. - The mother said that the child had been delicate from birth and its grandmother stated that the midwife only paid one visit when the child was born. It died on Saturday morning from convulsions. - Mrs Ebdon, certificated midwife, of Paragon-place, admitted paying only one visit at the birth, but said that being taken ill herself prevented her paying more visits. She sent her daughter instead, who, however, was not a nurse. Witness admitted that she ought to have attended further, or have taken steps to appoint another capable person. - Dr L. P. Black gave evidence as to attending at the birth. The child was very delicate and suffered from the early stages of consumptive bowels. Death was due to convulsions, secondary to that complaint. In finding a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" the Jury added a rider to the effect that the midwife should be cautioned as to her future conduct.

Western Times, Friday 12 August 1910
BUCKFASTLEIGH - Farmer's Tragic Death. Rolled On By His Horse And Killed At Buckfastleigh. - Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Enquiry at Warnacombe Farm, Wednesday, touching the death of JOHN BARTER, who was found dead on the highway at Hayford-road, Wallaford Down on Tuesday morning. - Mr E. Sampson was Foreman of the Jury. - ELIZABETH ANDREWS BARTER identified the deceased as her husband, who was a farmer, living at Warnacombe. He was 60 years of age. She last saw him alive on Monday evening, when he left the farm at 5.30 p.m. to go to Buckfastleigh with three pigs and for other business. He was driving a horse and two-wheel trap. She expected him home any time, and not later than 12.15 a.m. He did not return, but the sheep dog that was with him came home next morning between 7 and 8 o'clock. - Mr James Millman, of the White Hart Hotel, Buckfastleigh, said deceased was, about 101.5 p.m. at his house, having come in for half-pint of beer. He was perfectly sober then. - Mr George Foster, Globe Inn, said he saw him at about quarter past seven, when he came into his yard to stable. He saw him again about quarter past ten, when he had a drink. He was quite sober. - Mr Richard Sidney Hosking said he found deceased on Tuesday morning about thirty yards from Hayford Lodge on the Buckfastleigh side. He was lying on the highway, and the trap had turned over lying on the right wheel. The horse was on his right side, the shafts being underneath. The man was quite dead. From appearances it was deduced that deceased was leading the horse along the road and the trap came in contact with a large piece of stone protruding out of the hedge and overturned. Deceased must have gone to free the horse by cutting the belly band, as a knife was in his hand. Deceased was killed by the horse rolling on him when he was trying to free it. - Walter Saunders, Police Constable at Buckfastleigh, said he was sent for at 8.30 on the 9th. He found deceased lying dead as had been described. The body was removed to Warnacombe. Deceased had a purse on him with £3 12s. 5 ½d. in it. - Dr S. R. Williams said he had examined deceased and found his neck had been broken, which was the cause of death. There were no injuries on any other part of the body but the head. He should think deceased was leading the horse when the accident occurred. He was badly fractured about the head. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony, and passed a vote of sympathy with the widow.

Western Times, Saturday 13 August 1910
BRIXHAM - At Brixham Lower Market Hall, on Friday, Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest on MINNIE PHILP, wife of JOHN E. PHILP, cabinet maker, of Brixham. - Dr F. Brett Young attributed death to cerebral haemorrhage, a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" being recorded. Deceased fell over a small flight of stairs, the fall being attributable to a fainting fit. No fractures were noticeable. When deceased was found by the servant she was unconscious.

STOKE GABRIEL - The Dart Mystery. Inquest And Identification Of The Body Yesterday. - At Stoke Gabriel yesterday afternoon, Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of ROBERT NICHOLLS, of 20 Albert-street, Paddington, who was found in the Dart, drowned, on Thursday afternoon. Deceased was identified by his cousin, William Burgoyne, of Ashprington, who said that deceased was 28 years of age and a bachelor. - MRS JANE NICHOLLS, mother of deceased, and a widow, deposed that her son and herself were staying at Ashprington for a fortnight's holiday. He usually enjoyed good health and there was nothing the matter with him. On Thursday morning, about 9.30, he said he was going for a short walk, but he did not return for dinner. She could not explain how deceased met his death. She had searched their lodgings, but could find nothing to throw any light on the sad occurrence. He had never threatened to take his life to her knowledge. Deceased had done a little boating on the Thames, but was not a good oarsman. - Sidney John Collins, a Stoke Gabriel fisherman, stated that when his crew went up the river at 12.30 they noticed an empty boat, but this was not an uncommon occurrence at this time of the year, as visitors left their boats to go up into Sharpham Woods. At 4.30 when they returned, the boat was still empty and on examination they found one paddle in the boat and the other in the water, whilst further on they found the body of the deceased on a sandbank, about 50 yards from the boat. He did not consider that that part of the river was dangerous. The ferry man (S. Hammick) in his evidence said the deceased hired a boat about 10 o'clock and rowed up the river as well as he could. He did not see how that class of boat could upset, although deceased might have been reaching and fell overboard. - MRS NICHOLLS, in reply to the Coroner, said that her son tried to learn to swim when a boy, but was unable to do so. - Henry Collins, fisherman, and P.C. Tucker also gave evidence, whilst Dr Chapman said that there were no marks of violence on the body and that death occurred from drowning. - The Coroner summed up and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Tuesday 16 August 1910
HONITON - Fatal Result Of An Accident At Honiton. - The death occurred shortly after 6 o'clock on Saturday morning of MR ALBERT J. HOLWAY, of the Anchor Inn, Honiton. It will be remembered that on Saturday the 6th inst., whilst riding his horse it slipped and fell, with the result that MR HOLWAY was thrown with much force to the ground, and sustained serious injuries to his head. He was conveyed to his home, near by, and medical aid was at once summoned. On Thursday and Friday last he was not so well and Dr Russel Coombe was called in, who, on Saturday, with the assistance of Drs. Heden and Shortridge, performed an operation, but at the outset there were great fears as to his recovery. MR HOLWAY, who is better known as "BERT HOLWAY," was 30 years of age. He had sat as a member of the Honiton Town Council for nearly three years and his term of office would have expired on the 1st November next. He was of a very genial disposition, and well known in the locality and highly respected. The deceased leaves a widow and one child, for whom the greatest sympathy is felt. He was an ex-Volunteer, retiring some years since with the rank of sergeant and was a prominent marksman, having shot at the County and Bisley meetings. - An Inquest was held at the Petty Sessions Room, Honiton, yesterday, by Mr Coroner Tweed, and, after hearing the evidence, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

NEWTON ABBOT - Infant's Death At Newton. - At Newton yesterday, before Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner, an Inquest was held as to the death of the illegitimate infant child of a 16-years-old mother, called MABEL WELSH, of Wharf House, Newton. ELLEN WELSH, the grandmother, deposed that the child was born at 9 o'clock on Saturday night and died at 8 o'clock the next morning. - Nurse Stephens and Dr Llewellyn Jones gave evidence, the latter stating that the birth was premature, and that death was due to inanition. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Wednesday 17 August 1910
PAIGNTON - A Torbay Fatality. Inquest On Naval Seaman At Paignton. - Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner, yesterday held an Inquest at Paignton on the body of WILLIAM JAMES MONGER, aged 17, naval seaman, who was drowned from H.M.S. "Leviathan" on July 26th and whose body was washed ashore at Goodrington on Sunday afternoon. - Evidence of identification was given by THOMAS JAMES MONGER, Abertillery, tin-worker, father of the deceased. - Dr Cosens said he had made a superficial examination. The body was extremely decomposed and there was a very extensive fracture across the back of the skull, chiefly at the back of the left ear. It was possibly caused after death, but probably before. The fracture was sufficient to cause death by itself. - Ernest Norman Motts deposed that at 2.30 on Sunday afternoon he and two friends saw the body floating in the wash on Goodrington Sands. One of the party went to the Coastguard, and he assisted in bringing the body ashore. It was attired in ordinary seaman's clothing. - P.C. Abrahams said at 3 p.m. on Sunday from information received, he went with the other constables to Goodrington with an ambulance and took charge of the body, which was clothed in trousers, jumper, with silk scarf marked "W. J. MONGER," and a canvas belt around the waist. A purse marked with deceased's name and a C.E.T.S. badge were also found on the body. - The Coroner said the material witnesses could not be present that day and Lieut. J. Gye. H.M.S. "Bellerophon," stated that the "Leviathan" was now in the North Sea. The Inquest was adjourned till Tuesday September 6th, at 11.30. - The funeral at Paignton Cemetery yesterday afternoon was attended with full Naval honours, a firing party from the "Bellerophon" and a gun-carriage party from the "Dido" being present, the band of the former playing funeral marches by Haydn and Chopin. The Rev. R. Tebb (Wesleyan) officiated, and the firing party fired three volleys. A large number of people witnessed the funeral.

Western Times, Thursday 18 August 1910
WHIMPLE - "Greatly Worried." Whimple Man's Shocking Death. Financial Troubles. - Dr Tweed, the East Devon Coroner, held an Inquest at Whimple Station yesterday, concerning the death of WALTER EVELEIGH, who met his death on the railway early on Tuesday morning. - Inspector Trump watched the proceedings on behalf of the L. and S.W. Railway Company. - Mr Bailey was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - ANNIE EVELEIGH, deceased's widow, who was greatly distressed, gave evidence of identification. Deceased was a coal dealer. She last saw him on Tuesday morning, just before five, when he then got up and left the house. The night before he was in his usual health and quite as usual. Deceased had been in great trouble lately over financial matters. He was a very quiet man, and had never given away to intemperate habits, although he drank a little. During the past week he had suffered from pains in his head. Deceased never described the pain, but had complained to her several times of feeling unwell. Deceased's father, who was 80 years of age, was still living, but in good health. His sister had been in an Asylum, although her mind had only become unhinged late in life. Witness considered this only a temporary breakdown on account of his having been overworked. - By the Coroner: Her husband had been threatened with proceedings over money matters, and that worried him very much. When he left on Tuesday morning deceased said he was going to pick mushrooms for breakfast. The next she heard was that he had been killed. - The Coroner: Have you ever heard your husband threaten to take his life? - Never. - Replying to questions, witness said deceased took the basket with him in which to collect the mushrooms. It was not an unusual time for her husband to get up. - Jane Rowland, a neighbour, said she saw deceased leave the house at 5 a.m., with a basket. Deceased liked a glass like other people, but she had not seen him the worse for liquor lately. - William Harris, who lives next door to deceased and had seen him every day lately, said he noticed a change in deceased on Monday. He was not looking as usual and witness asked what was the matter with him. Deceased replied, "I don't feel very well, and I don't know what to do with myself." Witness said it was perhaps owing to the warm weather, to which deceased made no reply. - Robert H. Cole, engine driver on the L. and S.W.R., driver of a goods train from London, said as he was passing Whimple about 5.30 Tuesday morning, and about 100 yards from the Station, he saw a man coming from the down side near the crossing. Witness sounded the whistle, when the man appeared to turn round, and stepped right in front of the train. He was on the side of the line when the whistle sounded. Witness thought it was a deliberate act. Witness stopped as soon as possible. - Other evidence was given by Christopher Bicknell, fireman on the engine; Sidney Grey, driver on another goods train; and P.C. Mair. - The Jury, after a lengthy consideration, returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

Western Times, Friday 19 August 1910
EXETER - Exonian's Death. - The City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at the Court House, Exeter, yesterday, relative to the death of WILLIAM H. PROWSE, aged 70, foreman pattern maker, of Elmside, in the employment of Messrs. Bodley Bros,, iron founders. The body was identified by Thomas Johns, deceased's brother-in-law, who said deceased had been in employment at Bodley's about 45 years. - MRS PROWSE, the widow, said her husband's health had been good for a considerable time. On Wednesday morning about 6.30 he left home to go to work, and she heard nothing more of him until a Policeman brought the news that he was dead. - P.C. Blackmore saw deceased fall near St. Sidwell's Church. Witness found him on the footpath, and blood was oozing from a wound in his head. There were many people about, but no one seems to have seen him fall. He apparently fell suddenly, his head coming into contact with the edge of the kerb. - Dr Pereira, Surgeon, said there was a contused wound about an inch long at the back of the head. On making a post-mortem examination, witness found that there was no injury to the brain. The cut on the head was what might have been caused by contact with the edge of the kerb. Death was due to syncope, the result of heart failure. - The Coroner said there was no indication of foul play and death was evidently due to Natural Causes. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

ILFRACOMBE - Cliff Tragedy. Accident Caused By Slippery Grass. Inquest At Ilfracombe. - Details of the fatal cliff accident at Ilfracombe Wednesday were unfolded at the Inquest held at the Tyrrell Cottage Hospital, Ilfracombe, yesterday, by Mr G. W. F. Brown, County Coroner. - Deceased was MISS ELLEN PAULSON, aged 23, a Sheffield school teacher, whose home was at 16 Parkside-road, Sheffield. She was spending a holiday at Ilfracombe. - Mr G. C. Jones was chosen Foreman o the Jury. - Florence Swift, a friend of deceased, identified the body. The previous day witness and deceased went on to Hillsborough. They sat on a rock for a time until MISS PAULSON went higher up on to a grassy patch. They were both reading and suddenly she heard MISS PAULSON exclaim "Oh!" and when she turned around she found that her friend had disappeared over the cliff. What caused her to fall she could not say, but the grass was slippery and the soil "slatey." She did not think her friend missed her foothold, as she was accustomed to climbing at home. - Rev. G. H. Fooks, who was on the beach close by when the young lady fell, said his son called his attention to the lady falling over the cliff and he was on the spot immediately. He called assistance and sent for a doctor. Deceased was unconscious when he saw her. - A boatman named Williams spoke to fetching the stretcher and Police. - Dr C. Toller said the deceased was only just alive when brought to the Hospital. The skull was fractured and wrist and one finger broken. She succumbed to the injuries about three hours later. - The Coroner having summed up, pointing out that it was a pure accident, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - On the motion of Mr G. C. Jones, seconded by Mr J. P. Huxtable, a vote of condolence was accorded the relatives. - Mr R. M. Rowe was present representing the Ilfracombe Urban Council, the owners of Hillsborough.

Western Times, Saturday 20 August 1910
SIDMOUTH - Sidmouth Suicide. Woman Found Hanging After Setting Herself On Fire. - An Inquest was held at Sidmouth yesterday before Dr Tweed, Coroner for the District, relative to the death of MARY LOUISA WOODLEY, who was found hanging in the wash-house on Thursday morning. Mr H. Reed was Foreman of the Jury. - GEORGE WOODLEY, the father, said he last saw his daughter alive on Wednesday night just before she retired to bed. She was then in her usual health. About half-past four she called to him to inquire the time, which he told her. Between eight and nine o'clock witness called her, but got no answer. On going downstairs he found her hanging in the wash-house. He called for help and Miss Holmes, a neighbour, came in. Deceased kept house for him and was 49 years of age. She had had no trouble so far as he knew. - Florence Holmes said she had thought there was something peculiar about deceased, who was very reserved. - P.C. West stated that he found the front room strewn with burnt paper. There was a stool near the spot where deceased was hanging, and upon which she had apparently stood. - Dr Bingley Pullin, who said he had known deceased some time, and had previously attended her, expressed the opinion that she had been dead several hours when he arrived, which was soon after being called. She was burnt about the face and her hair was also burnt. Around the fire place there was a lot of burnt paper and some hair. Deceased must have sat down in the chair after she was on fire, as the cushion was burnt. Deceased was of rather weak intellect. She appeared to live very comfortably with her father. - A verdict of "Suicide whilst Suffering from Temporary Insanity" was returned.

Western Times, Tuesday 23 August 1910
BARNSTAPLE - Death Of A Child At Barnstaple. - At the Inquest at Barnstaple Workhouse yesterday, a verdict of Accidental Death was returned in connection with the death of the three days old child of ELIZABETH WILLCOCKS, of Westleigh, and formerly of Combe Martin. The evidence was to the effect that the child had been overlain and the medical officer for the Workhouse told Mr Coroner Bencraft that he proposed recommending that the Guardians should provide separate cots for the maternity ward.

EXETER - Exeter Pensioner's Death. - Mr Coroner Linford Brown held an inquest at the Guildhall, Exeter, last evening, relative to the death of ALFRED CHARLES TAYLOR, of Preston-street, who passed away somewhat suddenly last Friday morning. - ARTHUR CHARLES TAYLOR, chief writer in the Royal Navy, identified the body as that of his father, who was 62 years of age last birthday. He was a Naval pensioner. Witness hadn't seen him for three years. - Henry Stone, 24 Preston-street, said deceased had been lodging with him for about eight months. He had enjoyed fairly good health until about the last fortnight. Deceased died on Friday morning. Witness last saw him to speak to on Thursday night, when he appeared to be wandering. About eight o'clock the next morning witness sent somebody to his room with some milk, but as he was asleep they did not disturb him. When witness went to the room at nine o'clock he found deceased dead. - Dr Wreford, who was called to see deceased, said the symptoms were very obscure. Deceased was very ill; in fact he told him he was dying. He made a post-mortem examination and he found the cause of death to be pericarditis, with effusion, complicated with cirrhosis of the liver. - The Coroner asked witness if deceased seemed capable of looking after himself. - Witness replied not latterly at all. He was wandering a great deal; in fact, his symptoms seemed referable to the head a great deal. - The Foreman of the Jury (Mr Dart) asked witness if he did not think it necessary to have had somebody there to attend on deceased. Witness replied that Mr Stone was very kind to the deceased. Deceased was a very difficult man and would not have allowed anyone in his room as long as he was conscious. He thought Mr Stone treated deceased with the utmost kindness. - The Jury replied that there was no reflection whatever on Mr Stone. What the Jury meant was that there were so many nurses in Exeter. - Replying to Dr Wreford, Mr Stone said deceased would not have allowed anyone in his room. - The Jury returned a verdict of Death from Natural Causes.

EXETER - Fatal Slip. Fall Of A Horse Causes Death At Broadclyst. - Under the direction of Mr Linford Brown (City Coroner) a Jury, of which Mr H. Ewings was the Foreman, last evening investigated the sad circumstances attending the death of CECIL VIVIAN HOGAN, a butcher's assistant, aged 26, and belonging to Broadclyst. The Inquest was held at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital. - The story of the accident itself was related by a young man named Mark Mills, who saw what happened from his residence at Heath Cottage, Broadclyst. He first heard a horse cantering steadily up the road, and then, looking out, he saw the animal slip. It tried to recover itself and then slipped again and this time horse and rider fell to the ground. Hastily putting on some clothes - it was 9.50 p.m. - he ran out to see what was the matter, and found deceased lying on his back with both feet in the stirrups of the saddle, which was in front of him. The horse was standing very quietly, and, in his opinion, slipped on a stone in the road. He tried artificial respiration and when some other young man came summoned Mr Hooper, deceased's employer. HOGAN was placed on a gate and taken to Mr Hooper's till medical assistance arrived, and, acting on advice, he was then taken to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital. - The evidence of Wallace Hooper, farmer and butcher of Broadclyst, who employed deceased, and of George Retter, of Great Barton Farm, Broadclyst, showed that deceased, who was highly spoken of as a steady and sober young man, rode from his employers to Great Barton, a distance of three and a half miles, leading a mare in foal. He arrived at the Barton safely, and having had a glass of cider, left there at 9.25 p.m. for home, having undertaken to leave a message for Mr Retter on the way. The accident happened about ten minutes' walk from his destination. - SUSAN HOGAN, widow, of Monksleigh, identified the body as that of her son, and Dr Starr, who said death took place on Friday, deceased never having regained consciousness, certified the cause to be concussion of the brain. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed sympathy with the family of deceased. - Mr Hooper also expressed regret and spoke highly of deceased's character, saying for five years they had been like brothers.

Western Times, Wednesday 24 August 1910
TORQUAY - The Death Of MR THOMAS H. WILLS. - The Torquay District Coroner, Mr Hacker, conducted an Enquiry at Torquay yesterday relative to the circumstances attending the death of MR THOMAS H. WILLS. Deceased, who was fifty-four years of age, was widely known, and his sudden demise cast a gloom over the town. Mr J. W. Redmore was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - MRS MARY WILLS, widow, gave evidence of identification. Her husband complained of pains in his head on the morning of his death, but he was not sufficiently ill to stay home from the regatta. She suggested, however, that he should stay home, but he went away, as he was treasurer of the Committee. - Frank T. Wilson, timber merchant, Exeter, visiting Torquay, spoke to being on the Committee boat, standing close to MR WILLS , at the time of his death. He noticed that deceased was collapsing. Witness caught him and took the gun from him. Nothing to witness's knowledge happened to deceased before he collapsed. He made no exclamation when he fell. - R. R. Brown, of Torquay, who was on the boat, said deceased asked him to look up the boats for the next race. When witness looked around again for MR WILLS he saw he had collapsed. On being asked whether he had hurt his leg he nodded his head. Deceased complained of an attack of headache at the luncheon. - Dr Thomas Horton said he saw deceased shortly after his admission to the Hospital. He appeared to be suffering from apoplexy. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," and expressed sympathy with the family, in which expression the Coroner joined. The deceased was 54 years of age, and leaves a widow and two children to mourn their loss. Deceased was born in Australia, but came to Torquay many years ago, succeeding his father in the old-established clothier's business in Market-street upon the latter's retirement and which he so ably carried on up to the day of his demise. He was a Churchman.

Western Times, Saturday 27 August 1910
IDE - Fatal Fall. Shocking Death Of A Widow At Ide. - Mr H. W. Gould, District Coroner, conducted an Inquest at Ide Schoolroom yesterday, relative to the death of SUSAN ROSE HILL, widow, aged 55, of Ide. - Mrs Knapman, of 134 Cowick-street, Exeter, having identified the body, WILLIAM JOHN HILL, son, said he was blind, and lived with his mother. About 9 o'clock on Thursday morning he went out, leaving her in bed. He returned home about five minutes after 10 at night and immediately he got in the house he locked the door and went to bed. When he was partly undressed he went downstairs to find out if his mother was all right, and at the bottom of the stairs he stepped on something wet. He then went back and put on his boots and came downstairs again. He then felt deceased with his foot on the floor, and tried to lift her up. She seemed limp, and he called a neighbour and a Constable. His mother was temperate at times, but had been drinking heavily since August Bank Holiday. He was on good terms with her. - By P.S. Boutfield: He heard his mother breathing when he went upstairs. He came downstairs to help his mother to bed, as he thought she was asleep in a chair. He usually did this. He did not feel the body the first time he went upstairs. - P.C. Daw, stationed at Ide, said he went to the deceased's house about 10.45 p.m. on Thursday. On going into the kitchen he saw deceased lying flat on her back on the kitchen floor with her feet about three inches from the bottom stair. Near the left foot was a small pool of blood. Her head was between the fender and the wall, the two being about 14 inches apart. It was quite possible to go upstairs without stepping on the body. Deceased smelt strongly of drink. On the stove there was an empty port wine bottle, an empty whisky bottle and an empty stout bottle. - Edith Hoare said she last saw deceased at 7.45 on Thursday evening. She was sent to MRS HILL'S by her mother. Deceased asked her to get a bottle of port, which she did. Deceased was not sober. - Dr R. A. Hobbs said there was an incised wound about two inches long on the back of the head and one over the left eye. The wounds were consistent with a fall. The cause of death was haemorrhage of the brain. The organs of the body were all in a state of degeneration, consistent with alcoholism. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Monday 29 August 1910
DENBURY - A Cripple's Suicide. Boy Found In A Shallow Stream Near Newton. - At Denbury, Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest relative to the death of WILLIAM HARRIS TULLY, aged 25, who, after not being seen or heard of for three weeks, was found dead in a stream near Holwill Farm, Torbryan, which is occupied by his grandfather. - John Easterbrooke, of Halwill Farm, son of the tenant, deposed that on Friday, while out shooting dipchicks, he saw the body of his nephew in the water. - Dr Grimbly stated that deceased was lying in about 8 inches of water, but the body was so decomposed he could not say what was the cause of death. By the side of the bank, as if placed there, were deceased's crutch, walking stick and cap. - Mrs Easterbrooke, grandmother, stated that she last saw deceased three weeks ago in Newton. She asked him to go to a refreshment house with her, but he preferred not to, and she let him have the money instead. - John Richards, porter at Newton Workhouse, deposed that deceased had been in and out of the House for some few years. He last left the House on July 15. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

OKEHAMPTON - Child Drowned In A Tub. A Distressing Fatality Near Okehampton. - On Friday FLORENCE B. WOOLDRIDGE, the two-year-old daughter of MR WOOLDRIDGE, a gamekeeper in the employ of General Holley, and who lives at Abbeyford Cottage on the Oaklands Estate, Okehampton, was accidentally drowned. While the mother was at work in the house the child found her way into the garden. She asked a neighbour if she might pick one or two peas and was told to help herself. Later the little one was missed and, search being made, she was found in a wooden tub standing in the garden, kept there for the purpose of catching rain water. Everything possible was done to restore animation and Dr G. V. Burd was sent for, but all efforts proved unavailing. - The Inquest. - Mr J. D. Prickman held the Inquest on Saturday. - THOMAS WOOLRIDGE, the father, said he had not seen the child since about 2.30 on Friday. He was lying down and about 5.30 his wife brought in the child, who had been found by her in a tub of water. She was dead. The tub was used to catch rain water and it had stood in its present position for years, and there had been no previous accident. - John Essery, woodman, a neighbour, said the deceased came to his house about 5 o'clock and about half an hour later he heard the mother calling. He found her with the child in her arms. They did all they possibly could, but the child never breathed again. - Dr G. V. Burd said he arrived about 5.50. Death had been caused by drowning. - The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death by Drowning.

Western Times, Wednesday 31 August 1910
EXMOUTH - Exmouth Fatality. Inquest On The Late MRS CREED. Instantaneous Death. - The Inquest on the body of MARTHA CREED, aged 34, who was killed at Exmouth Railway Station whilst trying to enter a railway carriage, whilst the train was in motion, was held at All Saints' Church Institute, yesterday, before Mr Tweed, Coroner for the District. - Inspector E. W. Cheyney watched the case on behalf of the Railway Company and Mr E. Webber was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - WALTER ERNEST CREED, confectioner, of Bridgestock-road, St. Paul's, Bristol, gave evidence of identification, and said he had been married to deceased for four years. He last saw her alive at Bristol on Friday of last week, when she left home for a holiday at Exmouth, and was returning on Monday by the 11.25 a.m. train with her mother, two sisters and a Mr and Mrs Wilmot. - NELLIE STEPHENS, sister of deceased, stated that she was returning to Bristol on Monday morning by the 11.25 train. Witness was holding the tickets for the whole party, and deceased was standing with her on the platform. Deceased asked witness to go back with her to see Mrs Wilmot, who was late, and to give the latter her ticket. Witness and her sister saw Mrs Wilmot in the road outside the Station and they all three walked to the Station together. When they passed the gate, the man there blew his whistle and said to them, "Hurry up!" The train was then just on the move. They saw the carriage door open. It was about 70 yards from the gate where deceased was killed. Deceased said, "Run for your life, MIN!" Witness stopped, but deceased ran to the train and clung to the door, which was open and witness saw her sister dragged along by the train and disappear between the platform and the footboard. Witness had no reason to suppose that anyone was to blame. She did not hear any porters speak or call out at the time. - The Coroner: Was it the ticket collector who told you to hurry up? - The man in the uniform to whom we had shown our tickets before. - You are quite sure he asked you to hurry up? - Yes. - Are you quite sure the porters did not call out, because there are those here who will say they did call out? - I should have heard them if they had called out. - You admit you were late for the train? - Oh, yes. - Did you call out or try to prevent your sister getting into the train? - No; she was behind me and nearer the train. - You intended to get into the train with your sister? - Yes; I was going on to get in with mother and my sister, who was behind, had the sense to attempt to get into another carriage. But the train took my sister on in front of me. - The Coroner read a letter from Mrs Clapin, who said she was travelling by the same train and deceased came to the compartment she was riding in as the train was moving and shouted twice, "Let me in." She heard nothing more, but saw the carriage door open and heard a noise like the crushing of bones. There was a nurse in the same compartment as herself. She was positive that the deceased opened the door herself. She heard an elderly lady cry out, "My dear child is killed." - The Coroner: That looks as if the deceased opened the door herself. - John Matthews, foreman porter at Exmouth Station, said he saw two ladies run up the platform to the train which was in motion. One of them ran out between the pillars and towards a compartment and the door opened against her as she caught hold of it. It was quite possible for a person on the platform to open a carriage door when the train was moving. It was witness's duty to warn passengers not to enter a moving train, and he shouted to deceased, "Stand away." He was positive he shouted this and MISS STEVENS (deceased's sister) should have heard it. - By the Jury: Deceased was only a few yards from him when he shouted to her. He would not himself attempt to get on the footboard of a moving train with the carriage door open against him as deceased did. - Charles Winter, retired fruiterer, of Exmouth, who witnessed the accident, said he saw a lady running after a train then in motion. She put her hand on the handle of a carriage door and tried to open it. She opened the door herself and it came back against her and she fell down inside the platform. He heard someone at the end of the platform shout "Keep away from the train." He would think it was a porter. - The Coroner: You are quite sure it was a porter? - Yes; because it was in a porter's voice. - You think the occurrence was quite accidental? - I am quite sure, and do not think there is blame on anyone. - George Westcott, ticket collector, who was on duty at the time, said he saw people going on and off the platform. He went down to see if there were any passengers with tickets coming out of the booking-hall before the train started. He did not notice two ladies pass to get the train when he was there, and he did not say "Hurry up!" to any passenger. Witness heard someone say it, but he could not say who it was. He could not say it was an official. There were many people about, and the platform was crowded, many people being there to see friends off. The booking-hall door was twenty yards from the check-gate. Witness started the train by whistle yesterday at 11.25 a.m. - Dr Hannan, of Suthgarth, Elwyn-road, Exmouth, said he was outside the Station talking to a gentleman, when someone ran out and said, "There is a woman under the train. Come at once." He went up the platform and saw a woman lying on the edge of the platform quite dead. Subsequently on examination of the body he found a compound fracture at the base of the skull, part of one ear cut off, a part of a contused wound on the forehead, and her neck dislocated. It was a case of instant death. - At this point the Coroner said he did not propose to call any more evidence. There was no doubt that it was an accidental death, and there was no reason to attach blame to anyone. The only thing that occurred to him was that the person at the check gate could have prevented anyone passing, but from the evidence given the ticket inspector was not thee at the time deceased and her sister passed through. Apparently it was not his duty to be there at the actual time the train started. The sister of the deceased said she did not hear the warning of the porter to stand back when the train was moving but they must take the word of the porter that he did shout to deceased and they had corroborative evidence on this point from all independent witnesses. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed sympathy with the relatives. - Inspector Cheyney also extended condolence to the family on behalf of the Railway Company.

Western Times, Thursday 1 September 1910
TIVERTON - Late MR HARWOOD. Touching References At the Inquest At Tiverton Last Evening. - At Tiverton Infirmary last evening a Coroner's Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" after Inquiring into the circumstances attending the death of MR J. HARWOOD. Deceased was attending a meeting of the Tiverton Agricultural Society on Tuesday afternoon when he suddenly expired, causing quite a sensation in the town and immediate neighbourhood. - Mr A. Fisher, Borough Coroner, conducted the Inquest, Mr W. Thorne being Foreman of the Jury. - Abraham Kingdom, 12 Hammett-square, Tiverton, foreman baker in the deceased's employ, gave formal evidence of identification. The deceased was 60 years of age last birthday. On Tuesday last witness had dinner with his master and he believed that MR HARWOOD was not then very well. Deceased had not complained of anything in particular, but said he felt weak, and was rather shaky on his legs, in addition to looking very pale. In July last, witness added, he saw the deceased was unwell and he did not really recover. Deceased never made any definite complaint. - Answering the Coroner, witness said he had never heard the deceased complain of pains in his head, but on Tuesday, about 2 o'clock the boy came downstairs to the bake-house and said that MR HARWOOD was sitting on the stairs holding his head. - Mr Thomas Mercer, Chief Constable, who was present at the meeting, said he noticed nothing unusual about MR HARWOOD'S speech when the deceased answered a question that had been put to him. MR HARWOOD was, however, much paler than usual. When the deceased sat down, after answering, witness noticed that he leant back against the Aldermanic Bench, and that his right arm was twitching. Witness was of opinion that he wished to draw Mr Mackenzie's attention to something, but on looking at the deceased he saw he was convulsed, there being twitching around the mouth and a nasty look about the eyes. Deceased was in the act of slipping from his sat, when Mr Mackenzie caught hold of him. He was laid upon his side and after they had bathed his face with cold water the deceased seemed to recover, but did not speak. Witness thought he was unconscious. MR HARWOOD seemed to have another fit soon after, and when they had laid him upon the table he expired. - In answer to the Coroner, witness said he did not think deceased was particularly well at the time of the Tiverton Agricultural Show. In July last MR HARWOOD told him (witness) that he was not feeling quite as well as he should like to. When witness saw deceased on Tuesday morning he did not think MR HARWOOD was in his usual spirits. - Answering a Juryman, witness stated that there seemed to be nothing in the question to excite deceased. Mr Boles rather praised him (deceased) than otherwise, remarking that MR HARWOOD not only worked like a pair of horses, but like two pair. Deceased had been working hard through the Agricultural Show. - Mr G. F. Welsford, deceased's medical attendant, deposed to having attended deceased the day before his death. He was suffering from sickness etc., but that had nothing to do with his death. He found the deceased lying on the table dead when he (witness) arrived at the Town Hall. A post-mortem examination had revealed the fact that death was due to rupture of the right coronal artery, the severing of which caused the stoppage of the action of the heart. He had been deceased's medical attendant for nearly 18 years. - In his summing up, which was of a very touching and sympathetic character, the Coroner said they did not possess a man who was more useful or more respected in Tiverton than the deceased was. - The Foreman said that on behalf of the Jury he would like to express their sympathy with the widow, and at the same time to state how keenly conscious the inhabitants of Tiverton were, generally, of the loss they had sustained by the death of MR HARWOOD. He concluded by saying that he (deceased) did great work for the town, and, indeed, seemed to live for the town - (hear, hear.) - In associating himself with the Jury's message of condolence, the Coroner reiterated that the deceased was one of the most valued citizens. He thought that when death came to MR HARWOOD, as it must come to all of them, that was the kind of death he would have chosen more than any other - to die, as he did, in the discharge of his duty, and to draw his last breath in their service.

PARKHAM - Parkham Child Scalded To Death. - A sad affair at Parkham has been reported to the Barnstaple County Coroner. The infant son (aged two and a half years)_ of a labourer named ALBERT COLLINGS, living at Newhaven Cottages, was at play on Tuesday morning when he fell into a tray of boiling water. Dr Betts, of Bradworthy attended the little one at three o'clock, but the child died soon afterwards. - At the Inquest yesterday afternoon the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

NORTHAM - Blood Poisoning. Sad Death Of A Young Appledore Sailor. - Mr Coroner Brown held an Inquest at the Rechabite Hall, Appledore, on Wednesday afternoon, to Inquire into the cause of the death of ERNEST ROBERT HOCKIN, of Market-street, Appledore, which took place on Sunday last. Mr A. Evans was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - ROBERT HY. HOCKIN, father of the deceased, identified the body as that of his son, aged 16 years, a sailor. On February 7th, 1910, he was at work on the "Argo" in Bristol Basin, and was told by the captain to bear the vessel off. Whilst doing so his foot slipped between the vessel and the Basin and got jambed. He walked a little lame, but did not tell his father of the accident until about a fortnight afterwards. He left the "Argo" when she came home and since then had been on the "Cornflower." - LAURA HOCKIN, mother, said that after the accident there was a wound on the ankle of the left foot. A short time after he went on the "Cornflower" and when he came back he felt the effect in his heel. He was still lame, but did not complain of any pain. After leaving the "Cornflower" he was at work at Miss Evans, baker, sawing wood, when he came home complaining of a pain in his heel. Witness bathed and poulticed it but on Saturday she saw he was worse and sent for Dr Valentine, who came. He was also seen by two other doctors. Deceased got worse and died on Sunday. - Dr Rentzsch, who was called in to consult with Dr Valentine, stated that he found the deceased suffering from blood poisoning from an old scar on the ankle. The cause of death was blood poisoning which, he thought, had been slowly going on since the time of the accident. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death from Blood Poisoning, the result of the accident on February 7th." - The Jury handed their fees to the parents.

EXETER - Strange Case. Crediton Man's Death At Exeter. - Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, conducted an Inquest at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday on the body of ARTHUR GEORGE DOWN, aged 35, shoecutter, of Crediton, who was taken ill in Goldsmith-street, Exeter, on Monday evening and subsequently died at the Hospital. - RICHARD DOWN, tin-plate worker, of Crediton, brother of deceased, gave evidence of identification. Deceased, he added, went to Exeter last Monday, but witness could not say why. He had not been at work for the last month, but he had not complained of any illness, and witness did not know why he failed to go to work. At midnight last Sunday a Policeman brought him home and said he had found him wandering about and that he was also vacant. Witness, however, detected no vacancy. - A Juror: Why did you not send for a doctor on Sunday night? - It was midnight and, besides, he would never hear anything about a doctor. - John Pile, of Russell-street, said he was in Goldsmith-street on Monday night and saw deceased, whom he knew well. He asked him what he was doing in Exeter and he replied that he had been ill in the morning and had been assisted home. He also said he had taken a bed in Exeter and paid for it, but he did not know whether it was in that street or not. Witness replied, "Come back; I will see whether we can find it." They retraced their steps and on the way deceased became faint and dazed. Witness ran to two lodging-houses to see if he had taken a bed there and then went back to deceased, who was by that time very ill and sitting down. A doctor and the Police were eventually sent for. In ordinary life deceased was very gruff and reserved. - P.C. Walters said he had made enquiries of the Crediton Police and they told him that for the last week deceased had been sleeping out and drinking. On Sunday night he was found sleeping out, but was not charged, because he had money on him. Since he had been out of work, a brother had been making him an allowance. - Mr Vernon Starr, House Surgeon, said that deceased was brought to the Hospital on Monday evening, and died the next morning. The post-mortem revealed gummin in the brain which would have affected him mentally, and which had caused death. - A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

EXETER - Exwick Fatality. Drowning Of A Girl Near St. David's Station. Inquest Last Evening. - The Exeter Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at the Police Station last evening, relative to the death of EDITH MARY CORNALL, aged 11, daughter of a dairyman residing in the Cowley-road. - HENRY CORNALL, father of the deceased, identified the body. He last saw her alive about nine o'clock in the morning, when he drove her to the Exwick School. She did not, as a rule, come home to dinner, owing to the distance. - Adolphus Rousham, master of Exwick School, said on Tuesday the children left school a few minutes after 12 o'clock. The deceased was among them. With other children, she left, about 12.30, to go for a walk, which they knew was forbidden. A north-west wind was blowing, and her hat was blown into the mill leat. Deceased, he was told by one of her companions, took off her boots, stockings and underclothing and waded into the water of the leat. The hat was carried down stream. Deceased waded to the other side and ran down to the point where the mill leat and the river join. There she hoped to recover the hat, which, however, floated along too fast for her and when she reached the point the hat was a yard or two beyond her reach. Thinking the water was not too deep, she rushed two or three paces into the water, mud and slush. She was suddenly heard to shout to the other children (a boy and a girl), who had run down on the opposite bank, "Oh! I cannot get back." She then commenced to struggle. The girl on the bank, aged nine, ran to a man who was walking through Exwick Fields, and told him that a child was drowning. He, however, took no notice, and continued his walk towards Exwick. The girl then apprised other children further up the bank, who also met the man and told him what had happened. Still he took no notice. The deceased was washed down by the strong current under the Great Western Railway Bridge and she was ultimately taken out by a fireman opposite Head Weir Bathing Ground. - In answer to the Coroner, witness said the children told him they could identify the man who did not respond to their request for help. He was a well-dressed man, wearing cuffs, and carrying a walking stick. He was apparently about 40 years of age. - A Juryman: He could surely have tried to render some assistance, even if he could not swim. - Mr Rousham added that when the man was first called he was not more than 30 yards away from the drowning child, and could have seen her from where he was walking. The man was there within a minute and the child was in the water a quarter of an hour. - William Thomas Matthews, fireman on the G.W.R., said attracted by shouts he went towards the river. Being told that someone was in the water, he ran to the railway bridge, taking off his clothes as he ran. Reaching the other side of the bridge, he saw something twenty yards out in the river. He swam out and brought the body of the deceased ashore. Several St. John Ambulance men took the child from him at the bank and tried to restore respiration, but failed. - Dr Black, who was summoned by telephone, said when he arrived he could detect no sign of life in deceased. - Mr Rousham said the children thoroughly understood they must not leave the school to go into Exwick fields. - The Coroner commended the courageous conduct of the fireman and condemned as contemptible and cowardly the conduct of the man who walked on in a cold-blooded way when he was told a child was drowning. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Drowning," sympathised with the parents and recommended the fireman for the recognition of the Royal Humane Society. - Mr Rousham said during the past twenty years three or four lives had been lost in the mill leat. He suggested that half-way between the Bridge and the point where the life was lost, there should be placed a life-buoy, a coil of rope and a long pole with a hook. - The Coroner and Jury concurred and, on the recommendation of the Jury, the Coroner promised to communicate the suggestion to the Local Authority.

Western Times, Saturday 3 September 1910
ILFRACOMBE - Sudden Death At Ilfracombe. - An Inquest was held at the Tyrrell Cottage Hospital, Ilfracombe, yesterday, by Mr C. W.F. Brown touching the death of MATILDA MORTIMER TREWEEK, aged 71, of Holly House, Ilfracombe, who died suddenly at Ilfracombe on Wednesday last. - Mr W. R. Foster was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - FRANCIS JOHN TREWEEK, son of deceased, said she was a widow and had resided at Ilfracombe since her husband died about eight years ago. - Mrs Ackland, a neighbour, said that on Wednesday last she broke open deceased's door and found her lying across the bed. She sent for Dr Osborne. - Rev. Walker said that on Wednesday morning last he visited deceased and found her lying very ill. She was not unconscious and gave witness her son's address. Dr Osborne stated that on Wednesday last he visited deceased about 1.30 p.m., but she had just died. He had made a post-mortem examination and found that the cause of death was heart disease. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Monday 5 September 1910
OKEHAMPTON - Sad Case. Inquest On The Okehampton Burning Fatality. - Mr J. D. Prickman held an Inquest at the Okehampton Town Hall on Saturday evening, concerning the death of AMELIA JANE GUEST HUBBER, who died on Saturday. JAMES HUBBER, husband of the deceased, said his wife was 39 years of age. Three months ago she was sent to the Exminster Asylum and was sent home as recovered. Since then she had complained of pains in her head and had been attended by Dr Burd. On August 9th he left home at 5 a.m., after taking his wife her breakfast and was recalled by a telegram stating that his wife had been scalded. He never thought she would do anything to herself, as she did her work and looked after the children. - Henry Neal said he saw the deceased come out of the passage with her clothes on fire. He did his best to put the fire out. - John Milford, railway inspector, said he saw the deceased in flames, and threw his mackintosh over her and, with some help, carried her to her brother's house. - Dr Burd said he found the deceased badly burnt. She died from exhaustion. Deceased suffered from fits of melancholia and last December she tried to drown herself. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Exhaustion, caused by Burns self-inflicted whilst deceased was of Unsound Mind."

Western Times, Tuesday 6 September 1910
SHALDON - Retired Coastguard Officer's Sad Death At Shaldon. - At Shaldon yesterday, Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner, held an Inquiry relative to the death of FREDERICK CRICKETT, 56, of "The Shrublands," Ringmore, Shaldon, a retired Coastguard Chief Officer, of Torquay, who was found dead in his boat on the Teign on Saturday. - MARY CRICKETT, widow, deposed that they pulled up to Newton on Saturday and sailed back, returning about 8.30, when deceased put witness and a friend ashore. They left him while he went to moor his craft where he had left a smaller boat in the afternoon. Deceased did not come home within half-an-hour, by which time she expected him and she subsequently found him lying dead in his boat. Deceased had suffered from the heart. - Ida Orsman, of Ringmore, who accompanied deceased and his wife, gave similar evidence. - Dr Bell deposed that death was due to syncope. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Friday 9 September 1910
TEIGNMOUTH - An Inquest was held last evening by Mr Sidney Hacker, at the Town Hall, on the body of MAY LEAR, aged 43 years, of Tamworth. Evidence was given by MR LEAR (husband) and Miss Lewis (Assistant at Mr Burston's, Fore-street). Deceased and her husband lived with Mr Burston and last night deceased appeared in her usual health. She complained yesterday of feeling unwell and before the doctor came she died. - Dr Merton Palmer gave evidence, and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Times, Saturday 10 September 1910
IPPLEPEN - S. Devon Tragedy. Servant's Shocking Death At Ipplepen. Suffered From Depression. - At Great Ambrook House, Ipplepen, yesterday, Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held an Enquiry concerning the death of EMMA CHALK, cook, whose body was found at the top of some stone steps, 30 feet below her bedroom window, on the previous day, with the skull smashed. - Ada Draper, 14 Trafalgar-place, Clive-road, Portsmouth, gave evidence of identification. Deceased was her husband's aunt, was 46 years of age and a spinster. She was in service as cook at Great Ambrook House. Witness last saw her in February, when she went to Portsmouth, where her mother and other relatives lived. She was not in very good health then, and always suffered from nervous depression, but witness did not know that there was any reason why she should. Sometimes she would get these depressed fits and be quiet and gloomy. At other times she would be quite bright. Witness had never heard her threaten to take her life. - The Coroner: You seem to hesitate? - Witness: Well, one day, years ago, she said that "Perhaps the pond would end it all." - The Coroner: You do not know what made her say that? - Witness: I don't. She was feeling miserable, she said. Witness knew deceased was very happy and comfortable in her situation at Ambrook. On Wednesday she received a postcard from deceased, containing the words, "Am leaving here on the 8th and going to Plymouth for a few days." - The Coroner: One would think anyone using an expression like that about the pond would have something weighing on her mind? - No; I think it was only the miserable depression she suffered from. - CHARLES JOHN CHALK, 21 Porchester-road, North End, Portsmouth, said he saw deceased there in the early part of the summer. She was then in fairly good health, but he had heard her say she felt despondent and down-hearted. He thought deceased worried about her mother, who was ill. - Annie Larkin, Parlourmaid at Great Ambrook, said she and deceased were the only servants. She knew deceased had not been feeling at all well lately. - The Coroner: What was she leaving for? - Witness: Because she and I did not get on very well together, I believe, was one reason. Deceased did not give witness reason to believe she was grieving about leaving her situation, although she said she was sorry to go. - Witness, in reply to questions by the Coroner, said to her mind deceased was peculiar in her ways sometimes. She would talk to herself. - The Coroner: Used you to have quarrels? - Witness: We did some time ago, but not lately. I found she became excited, so I left her alone. Witness believed deceased fully intended to go away, because she had made all arrangements and had ordered a conveyance to take her and some cream for her friends at Plymouth. - P.C. Rockhey produced a letter which was found in deceased's bedroom, and which read: "Good-bye, I have been a very wicked woman and I fell out of my mind. Don't blame anyone else for this. Don't blame Larkin. She is not to blame for this, as I have felt all wrong for a long time. Take care of my mother. Good-bye and may God forgive me my many sins. - EMMA." - Witness said she did not see deceased on Thursday morning, but she heard her come down, take in the milk and go upstairs again. Later, as deceased did not come down to light the fire, she went to her bedroom, but could not find her. She went out to see if she had gone across to the home farm, and found the body lying at the top of the cellar steps, beneath the window. There was a piece of rope lightly wound around deceased's neck. - Arthur Smith Graham, owner of the house, said deceased had been in his employ as cook between eight and nine years. She was a very good servant in every way. He knew deceased and Larkin did not get on well together. Deceased had not been well for the last month or so, and twice lately she had told him she felt despondent. A short time ago she came to him and seemed to want to tell him something, but could not express it. She said her head troubled her. She gave notice, saying it was on account of her health, she was leaving. - The Coroner suggested that deceased might have tried to hang herself, but witness said there was nothing to which the rope could have been fastened. - Minnie Bowden, Ipplepen, said deceased told her she did not want to leave and that Miss Larkin was unkind to her. - Dr Norman said the neck was broken, and the skull deeply fractured. There was a small red mark on the neck, which might have been caused by the rope. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity," and expressed condolence with deceased's relatives and Mr Graham. - The Coroner said he would like to associate himself with the expression of condolence.

Western Times, Monday 12 September 1910
HARBERTON - Fatal Fall. Inquest On Harberton Lad's Sad Death. - Mr S. Hacker conducted the Inquest at the Constitutional Hall, Harberton, on Saturday, on the death of ERIC R. TOPE, aged 11 years, son of a farmer, who fell from a horse on Thursday afternoon and died as the result of injuries he received. - HARRY TOPE, farmer, gave evidence of identification, stating that the deceased was quite used to horses, and could manage the horse in question as well as he could. - Eric Soper, 9 years, said he went with the deceased on Thursday afternoon to move a horse from one field to another. TOPE caught the horse in the field and invited witness to ride. TOPER rode in front and witness behind. After they left the field deceased put the horse trotting and coming down the hill the "jogging" threw the deceased and witness off. He fell on top of TOPER, who said he had hurt his head and began to cry. Then Mr Chapple came along. - Mr James Chapple, smith, said that the horse walked into his forge and he went out to find the rider and saw the boys up the lane. He went up to TOPE, who was lying in the water table, and supported him and afterwards took him home. - Dr W. R. Edmond said death was from haemorrhage on the brain, due to a fracture of the base of the skull. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned and sympathy with the family was expressed by the Jury and Coroner.

Western Times, Tuesday 13 September 1910
TORQUAY - Fatal Fall Over A Wall At Ellacombe. - An Inquest was held by Mr S. Hacker at Torquay on Friday, on EMMA MACE, aged 76, a widow, of 12 Hoxton-terrace, Ellacombe, who died on Thursday night after a fall over a wall on Ellacombe Green. - Elsie Dart, Babbacombe, said whilst walking through Ellacombe Green she heard groans and found MRS MACE lying at the foot of the boundary wall. Her face was covered with blood and she was in a semi-conscious condition. - P.C. Summers explained that on the Green side, the wall was seven feet high, whilst on the road side it was not quite two feet high. The wall was easily seen after dark, the road being well lighted. He and P.C. Luxmore took MRS MACE on an ambulance to the Hospital, she being alive when they started with her. - Dr S. Moore, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said MRS MACE was dead when admitted. She had a fractured jaw, a broken nose and wounds on her face. In his opinion she caught her knee in the top of the wall and overbalanced herself. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added a rider suggesting that the top of the wall should be protected by a railing.

Western Times, Wednesday 14 September 1910
PAIGNTON - Plucky Seaman's Gallant Attempt At Rescue. - The adjourned Inquest on the body of WILLIAM JAMES MONGER, first-class boy of the Royal Navy, who was drowned from the "Leviathan" on July 26th, was held at Paignton yesterday by Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner. - James Egan, leading seaman, said deceased was one of witness's boat's crew. On the evening of July 26th he was waiting to get the boat hoisted, when he received orders to send the crew in to supper. Three boys preceded deceased safely up the rope to the ship, but MONGER missed his grip and fell, his head striking the gunwale, deceased falling into the sea. Witness jumped overboard, but deceased sank. Witness had him between his knees for a few seconds, but deceased slipped away and sank. Several others went into the water after, but nothing more was seen of the lad. - By the Jury: Deceased fell 24 feet. - Arthur Wm. Turner, first-class boy, one of the boat's crew, said deceased went up the rope to the davit, but at the top missed his grip and fell, the side of his head striking the gunwale. Deceased had been up the rope several times before. - Samuel Malcolm, another boy, said he preceded deceased up the rope, up which deceased had been in the habit of climbing. - An officer of the ship said there had never been a similar accident on board. The boys were taught this rope exercise in the training ship and were quite used to it. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, and the Jury expressed admiration of Egan's attempt to save MONGER.

Western Times, Friday 16 September 1910
EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE. - Mr W. L. Brown, the City Coroner, held an Inquest at St. Thomas Workhouse, relative to the death of one of the inmates, WILLIAM CHARLES ROBBINS, aged 72. The Master (Mr F. G. Moore) stated that deceased had been an inmate for four years. He was a native of Otterton, and at one time employed as a navvy. ROBBINS only complained of rheumatism. He died suddenly on Saturday, just after breakfast. - Mr Sidney E. Atkins, Medical Officer at the Workhouse, said death was due to syncope. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Monday 19 September 1910
TORQUAY - Torquay Suicide. Lady Throws Herself Over A Cliff. - At the Northcote Hall, Torquay, on Saturday, Mr R. de V. Whiteway Wilkinson, the Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest on JENNIE EVELINE PHILLIPS, aged 24, the wife of a Torquay auctioneer, whose tragic death on Friday caused such a sensation in the town. Mr P. H. W. Almy watched the proceedings on behalf of the Torquay Corporation, the owners of the Chapel-hill Pleasure Ground, where the sad affair took place. - GEORGE EDWIN PHILLIPS, of 10 Sherwood-terrace, identified the body as that of his wife, whom he last saw alive on Friday morning, when he left home after breakfast at 8.45. She then appeared very cheerful, but occasionally she was depressed, and imagined her health would give way. They had been married three and a half years. Prior to their marriage his wife had these fits of depression, but he never suspected that anything serious would result from them. On Friday afternoon, about 1.30, he heard of the occurrence and went to the Hospital, where he found his wife lying dead. - ETHEL NORA HARRIS, sister of the deceased, said she had lived with her brother-in-law and his wife since June last and had stayed with them at times prior to that. Deceased was quite happy at times, but was occasionally very depressed. She had never threatened, when in these fits of depression, to take her life. Deceased had an idea in her mind that she would die young, and that she would not like to leave "Baby" and the others. She lived happily with her husband, but worried over her housekeeping a lot. Witness returned to live with her sister at the wish of the latter, as it was thought her companionship would make deceased more cheerful. Deceased left the house shortly after half-past ten on Friday morning to fetch something for witness, who had a cold. She did not return and her long absence caused witness some anxiety, though she was not at first seriously alarmed. Later, she had a feeling that deceased had met with an accident, and she asked a neighbour to try and find her. Witness went towards Babbacombe and met MR PHILLIPS proceeding to the Hospital in a cab. - John Evins, gardener at Chapel-hill, said he saw a lady enter the grounds from the Barton-road on Friday morning. She passed the time of day in answer to his "Good morning." In her pocket he noticed a medicine bottle (produced), and which he found later. Deceased went off towards the top of the ground, and about ten minutes afterwards witness went to the Chapel and then to his hut. There he met a gentleman who told him a lady had fallen over the cliff, and was lying close at hand under the precipice. He went to the plateau, and found the lady unconscious. With help from men at work near by, he took her to the Hospital. Outside the Institution he met the House Surgeon, Dr Moore. It was the bottle which induced him to go round the pleasure grounds. It was about twenty minutes later that he found the deceased. Witness heard no scream, nor did he meet anyone about but the deceased. The ivy on the wall underneath the Chapel had recently been disturbed and pieces broken off. - Nurse Lily Constance Hatch, of the Hospital, deposed that deceased was brought to the Hospital about 11.40. She was dead. Witness found a piece of paper in one of her pockets on which there was writing. - Dr S. P. Moore, House Surgeon, said he examined the injured lady and found that life was extinct. - Dr T. Horton said he had attended deceased for depression. On examining the body he found that the lower jaw, left wrist, and pelvis were fractured. The injuries were consistent with a heavy fall. Death was caused practically by haemorrhage internally, caused by the fracture of the pelvis due to the fall. The brain was uninjured. - The letter found on the deceased, and which the husband identified as being written by his wife, ran: "My dear husband, sister and child. - Forgive me if you can. We were all so happy till this awfulness got the better of me. It has spoiled my life for the past three months. It is no one's fault, but just my own wretched nature, which I cannot master. Let mother and Ett have my baby. Forgive me, dear GEORGE, and you, Ett, for what I have brought upon you. I shall be punished as I deserve. - Your unhappy wife, - Good-bye; God bless you and prosper you." - The letter was written on a leaf taken from an account book and was unsigned. - MR PHILLIPS suggested that there was some delay in his wife being attended to. - Dr Horton, recalled, said he received news of the case when hew as in the operating theatre and he went out to the deceased at once in his operating clothes. He was not five seconds getting to the cab. - The gardener, Evins, said the cab was outside nearly five minutes, but he emphatically added that the doctor was quickly in attendance. - The Foreman and the Jury considered these statements satisfactory. - Mr Knight, chemist, said he made up the medicine in the bottle produced and the contents were quite harmless. - The Coroner, in summing up, said it was clear that the deceased did not go to the cliff and accidentally fall over. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity," and passed a vote of sympathy, in which the Coroner joined, with the husband and family.

Western Times, Tuesday 20 September 1910
BARNSTAPLE - Child Drowned At Barnstaple. - The 2 /2 year old son of a clerk, named KNILL, employed at the Raleigh Cabinet Works, Barnstaple, was drowned in the river Yeo on Saturday evening. The child was playing on the river bank opposite Pilton Park, when he fell into the water. The tide carried the little fellow towards Pilton Bridge. He was recovered by the efforts of Leonard Warr, Jas. Williams and Joseph Shaddick, who were playing football in the park. Despite the attempts to restore animation - artificial respiration being tried for three-parts of an hour under the direction of Dr S. R. Gibbs, who happened to be motoring past the park at the time of the mishap - there was no sign of life evident. Much sympathy is felt in the town for the parents, who were naturally much distressed at the sad occurrence. - At the Inquest yesterday, a verdict of Accidental Death was returned. It was stated that Shaddick jumped into the water and took out the body.

AXMINSTER - Axminster Fatality. Inquest On The Two Child Victims. Public Fund Opened. - At the old Schoolroom, Axminster, yesterday, Dr Tweed, East Devon Coroner, opened an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the deaths of FLORENCE and GRACE MOULDING, aged 8 and 3 respectively, who were buried alive in Latches Pit, a gravel quarry, near Axminster, on Saturday morning last. Mr Arthur Snell was chosen Foreman of the Jury, and the Rev. A. Newman, vicar of Axminster, was present. - The first witness was WILLIAM MOULDING, father of the children, who identified the bodies. He knew the gravel pit where the children met with their deaths. It belonged to Major knight, lord of the manor of Axminster. The little girls were very much "taken up" with an old man named Taylor, who worked at the pit, and he was very fond of them. He did not know if the children had ever been to the pit before. They did not say on Saturday morning that they were going there. He saw them as he was leaving his house to go to work, and they were then only just coming downstairs. Witness was at his work as a mason's labourer in the Musbury-road, when his brother, ROBERT, broke the news of their death to him. Witness started off at once and when he arrived at the gravel pit found the bodies of his children on a stretcher. The old man Taylor was there and said he wished he was dead instead of the children. On Sunday witness examined the gravel pit. - The Coroner: Did it strike you as being a dangerous spot? - Witness: Well, I think the gravel was undermined too much. I have worked in a gravel pit myself. - Replying to another question by the Coroner, witness said he was not aware of any other accident at the pit before. - Supt. de Schmidt: Do you consider a gravel pit a suitable place for children to play in? - No. - They went there by invitation? - That is how I take it. - An Eye Witness's Story. - William James Welsh, of Musbury, one of the men working in the gravel pit at the time of the accident, said he did not see any danger there, otherwise he should not have worked there. He had never been cautioned about undermining the gravel. On Saturday morning he was in the pit about a quarter to ten, when he saw the gravel fall away. He was working with Frank Hellier at the time, Hellier being nearer the children than witness. He had never known anything slip away before. He had just run down with a barrowful of stones when the gravel came down. It covered the children over entirely. Before that they were sitting down by the old man Taylor close to the heap. Hellier rushed to save the children, or he would have been safe. - The Coroner: Do you think there is any blame attaching to any responsible person? - No; there is no blame attached to anybody. - Was it nobody's business to keep the children out of the gravel pit? - They were ordered out. - Who ordered them out? - Mr Trivett. - When? - About two minutes before that. - Did you know why he ordered them out? - He didn't like to see them about there. - Did he say it was dangerous? - He said they had no business there and told them to clear out. - Supt.de Schmidt: Why didn't the children leave when told to do so by Mr Trivett? - Because the old man Taylor told them to fetch his jacket and sit down on it. - Hellier's Evidence. - Frank Hellier, who was also buried, but released from his dangerous position by his brother, and who appeared with his head enveloped in bandages, said he was at work in the pit about 9.40 when the slip occurred. He saw no approaching danger. Witness was shovelling to Welsh, who was sifting the gravel. Immediately before the accident Mr Trivett was there and saw the two little children in the pit and he told them they must go. - By the Coroner: They had had instructions as to how the gravel was to be removed, but not for the past fortnight, as Mr Trivett had been away on holiday. - Proceeding, witness said: I was wholly buried under the soil and was unconscious. I could have cleared myself had I not tried to save the girls. I tried to catch the elder girl and was knocked down just as I caught hold of her dress. - The Coroner: It was a very plucky thing for you to do. - In answer to Supt. de Schmid, witness said he heard Mr Trivett tell the children to go. Taylor told them to sit down on his coat, but Taylor, who is deaf, did not hear Trivett's warning. There was a gate to the sandpit and he had often seen children there. Witness did not see any more danger on Saturday than at any other time. - Taylor's Account. - William Taylor, a decrepit old man, walking with the aid of a stick, said he was cracking stones at Latches on Saturday morning. The little children arrived about 9.30. the dear "little creatures," he said, sat down on his coat on the top of the stones and he did not hear nor see any more of them. He was covered up to his shoulders by the falling gravel. He would sooner have been killed himself than these poor dear little children. He afterwards saw Hellier and the little ones dug out. - By the Coroner: So far as witness could judge, the whole thing was a pure accident. He was cracking stones about four or five yards from the slip. - Supt. de Schmid: Did you hear Mr Trivett tell the girls to leave the sandpit? - No I did not. - Are you very deaf? - Yes. - What was your object in asking the children to sit so close to the sandpit? - I did not ask them. They used to come and sit on my coat and if I had any victuals they used to have some. If I had a copper in my pocket I used to give it to them. I would rather have been killed myself (added the old man in tears) than the dear little children. I loved them as I loved my own. - Sidney John Tivett, road contractor, said he had the right to go to the sandpit and take gravel at so much per yard. When he went away a fortnight ago he left instructions with Arthur Hellier to work the pit during his absence. He put him in charge over the other men. He did not give him any instructions as to detail. He had always warned the men to guard against danger. He saw the little girls in the pit and told them to go, as they were not allowed there. He did not see them there again alive. His back was turned when the gravel fell. Witness really had no right to order anyone out of the pit, neither was it his duty to keep people from entering it. - By a Juryman: Other contractors take gravel from the same pit. - By the Coroner: Mr Hooper, of Honiton, agent to Major Knight, has the selling of the stone. The pit was not let. - Medical Testimony. - Dr Vise, of Axminster, said he jumped on his bicycle and rode off to Latches in response to the summons he received. He saw the old man Taylor, who had sustained some scratches. Several men were working on the fallen gravel to rescue those underneath. He saw them all dug out. Hellier had some bruises and cuts and witness advised his removal to the Hospital, but he preferred not to go there. He was, however, driven to witness's surgery, where witness dressed the scalp wound. Witness thought he would be able to work again in a few weeks' time. Comparatively close to where Hellier was found the two MOULDINGS were dug out. They were quite two feet beneath the surface. There was more earth than stones on top of them, and that would lie more compactly. Their bodies were warm when recovered. He tried artificial respiration, but it was of no use. When found the children were lying side by side on top of the old man's coat. The cause of death was suffocation in both cases. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the Jury had to face the question whether there was any responsibility attached to anyone for the deaths of the children. It might have been, he said, that the gravel was more undermined than it should have been, but there was no evidence to prove that. They might justifiably say it was entirely accidental. - At the request of the Jury, Arthur Hellier, who was left in charge of the sandpit by Mr Trivett, when he was on holiday, was called. He said he had no reason to think there was any danger there. Mr Trivett had told him to be careful how he worked, but he considered witness knew how to do the work as well as he did. In some places the undermining was from 12in. to 15in. That was, however, customary, in order to cause the gravel to fall. Witness did not see the gravel fall, but he heard a shriek and saw the dust arise after the fall. He helped to free the old man Taylor, who was buried up to his hips. He then heard his brother groaning, and he did his best to liberate him. He first came across his brother's head. His brother's first words were "Keep it away from my face. I am not hurt. I shouldn't have been here but for the dear little children." He then assisted in digging out the children. - The Coroner: Why did you help the man first? - Because I heard his groans and I considered the children must have been dead after the crash. - The Coroner thought witness had acted very courageously and promptly in extricating his brother. After all, it was only natural he should first of all go to the help of his brother, who was groaning, and therefore alive. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and found there was no blame attached to anyone. They commended Hellier for his endeavours to save the children. - A public fund has been opened at Axminster to defray the funeral expenses of the victims, MR and MRS MOULDING being poor but respectable people. A Committee of Management, consisting of the vicar, Rev. A. Newman, and several local gentlemen, has been formed to administer the fund.

Western Times, Wednesday 21 September 1910
ILFRACOMBE - A Septuagenarian's Death. She Fell Unconscious Trying To Light The Gas At Ilfracombe. - The North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, and a Jury, over which Mr W. Blackmore was chosen Foreman, met at the Tyrrell Cottage Hospital, Ilfracombe, yesterday, to Enquire into the circumstances attending the death of MRS EMMELINE A. AKED, a widow, who had resided at St. Brannock's-road, Ilfracombe, and whose death occurred on Saturday evening. - The Coroner, having briefly outlined the evidence he proposed to call, deceased's brother-in-law, MR ROBERT AKED, gave evidence of identification. Deceased, who was 71 years of age, was the widow of MR JOHN BRENT AKED, a retired gentleman. He spoke to having received a letter from MRS AKED on September 2nd in which she said she was much better, but her heart was rather bad. - John Berry, gardener to deceased, deposed that at her request he had slept at her house since August 20th last. There was no one in the house except deceased and himself. On September 2nd last he called MRS AKED at 6.45, but got no answer. Hearing her breathing, and thinking that she was sleeping nicely, he did not trouble her, but called again at 8.30. He then saw the milk boy, who also could get no answer to his calls. He knocked loudly and, receiving no answer, he called Dr Kettlewell. Being unable to open the back door with a chisel, he procured a ladder and opened the bedroom window. On entering the room he found deceased, who was quite unconscious, lying across the bed undressed. A chair had been placed against the door, and clothes were lying about loosely, the room being in disorder. In the washstand basin he found a taper and a used match near the gas jet. - Asked by the Coroner if deceased drank, witness replied that he had never seen her take anything intoxicating. He had never fetched anything to drink for her, but her servants gave her a rather bad name. On September 1st deceased gave him some brandy as he was suffering from lumbago, but she took none herself. They retired to bed about quarter to ten, as usual. Witness said that during the day deceased had taken some brandy and port, as something she had eaten did not agree with her. Deceased was quite sober. - A Juryman: Was there any brandy or anything in her room? - Nothing. - Was the gas turned on? - Yes, fully. Witness added that the jet was an incandescent one. - Dr Kettlewell spoke to being called to deceased on September 2nd. There was a distinct smell of gas in the room, and witness turned off the jet, which he found was on full. He had deceased removed to the Nursing Home, where she remained up to the time of her death. She was fairly conscious at times, but was unable to tell witness anything about the occurrence. On the Wednesday following her admission she put her hand up and said, "I must have had a stroke." Whilst at the Home she was very restless, as if some brain irritation was taking place. She again lapsed into unconsciousness, and died on Saturday night. He spoke to making a post-mortem examination, and attributed the actual cause of death to acute inflammation of the brain, causing coma and paralysis. Deceased had had occasional heart attacks, while she was very gouty. - The Coroner: Would inflammation of the brain come by natural causes? - Witness: Yes. The doctor added that on the night of September 1st it was probable that deceased did not feel well and got up to light the gas, and, after having turned on the gas, fell back on the bed and lost consciousness. He did not notice any smell of alcoholic liquor in the room on September 2nd, nor were there any bottles to be found. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Friday 23 September 1910
EXETER - Fatal Burns. How The Topsham Accident Happened. Jury's Verdict. - An Inquest on the victim of the Topsham burning fatality, DOROTHY MABEL HARRIS, aged 16, domestic servant, was held at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital before the City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, last evening. - The father, THOMAS HARRIS, farm labourer, of Ebford, gave evidence of identification and said deceased went to Mr Robjohns, grocer, Fore-street, Topsham, as domestic servant, nine months ago. Witness saw her at the Hospital on the Tuesday morning after the accident and she then told him she was putting plates in the oven of a gas stove when the gas caught her dress. She ran upstairs to "the missus," and then down again and back. - Miss Maud Gliddon, who was staying with Mr Robjohns, said that at 8 a.m. she was in the bedroom and heard screams. She saw deceased coming upstairs in flames and witness ran to get a covering and called to her to stop. She ran away, however, and witness saw her going out of the house by the passage. She appeared very frightened. - Wallace Anstey, aged 13, told the Coroner that he was outside Mr Robjohns' and heard screaming. He ran upstairs and saw deceased in the back bedroom. When she caught sight of him she rushed downstairs. Witness went in pursuit and took his coat off to wrap round her, but he could not catch her. - Ernest Edwin Williams, barber, of Fore-street, Topsham, gave evidence of hearing screams in the street. He looked out and saw deceased coming along "all on fire." He got a rug and kneeling on the ground wrapped it around her. She was then completely in flames, but some men came along to his assistance and the fire was put out, and a doctor and chemist sent form. - P.C. Rowland spoke to seeing the girl at Mr Robjohns. Much of her clothing was burnt to the skin and there were severe injuries about the lower part of the body. The door of the gas stove was partly closed, and one plate was in the oven. The bottom jets were burning. the stove was in good condition. - By a Juror: An open door leading to the yard was near the stove. - Mr W. A. Robjohns told the Jury that deceased was a careful girl and the stove was in perfect condition. - Mr Vernon Starr, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said that death was due to shock following the burns, which were severe. - J. G. S. Lee, proprietor of the Topsham Gas Works, said Mr Robjohns had had the stove hardly 12 months. It was then new and in perfect condition and was sheltered from the draught from the kitchen door. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," the Coroner expressing sympathy with the parents.

TEIGNMOUTH - A death occurred suddenly in a Teignmouth lodging-house early on Sunday morning. Deceased was ELLEN CARSON, 43, wife of JOHN CARSON, pedlar and belonged to Linden Grove, Meadow Lane, Nottingham. It appears that deceased, who suffered from the heart, complained to her husband of feeling unwell during the night. They got up and went down into the kitchen, where the husband made her some hot water, but deceased became worse and died at 4.45 a.m., before medical aid arrived. - At the Inquest a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Times, Saturday 24 September 1910
BIDEFORD - Sad Fatality. Bideford Man Falls Through Trap Door. - An Inquest was held last evening at Bideford Hospital by Mr G. W. F. Brown, County Coroner for North Devon, and a Jury of which Mr E. Northwood was chosen Foreman, to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM SHUTE, a carter, who died the same day at the Hospital from injuries sustained through falling through a trap-door on Thursday. - Evidence of identification was given by the deceased's wife, who stated that her husband, aged 51 years, was in the employ of Mr Cock as a carter. When he went to work the previous morning at 7.30 he appeared to be in his usual health. - William Grant, in the employ of Mr Cock, deposed that he was in the stores in Church-walk on Thursday when deceased went into the loft to fetch a rope. Witness saw nothing more until he observed deceased fall through the open trap-door in the floor to the ground, a distance of about 10 feet. Witness did not hear him stumble. SHUTE was quite sober at the time. - In answer to the Foreman, witness said he thought deceased was a little near sighted. There was nothing against the trap-door for him to have stumbled against. - Frederick Blackmore, another employee, spoke to being called to the accident, and to finding deceased lying on his back in an unconscious condition. - Mr J. Cock told the Coroner that SHUTE whose sight, without doubt, was defective, had been in his employ for 28 years. He could only fancy that deceased caught his toe in the rope he was probably carrying. He understood the trap-door was open to allow some things to go on his cart. - Dr Valentine stated that on examination he found deceased had a big bruise over his left temple. As the result of an operation, which was decided upon after consultation with other medical men, a piece of bone was found to be driven into the skull. The fracture was so extensive that no hope was entertained of his recovery, the brain being lacerated. The cause of death was fracture of the base of the skull. From what he could observe he thought deceased was blind in his left eye previous to the accident. - The Coroner said the case was a very sad one. It was a pure accident and there was no blame attaching to anyone. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

ALPHINGTON - Exeter Canal Mystery. - Mr H. W. Gould, District Coroner, conducted an Inquest at Double Locks yesterday on the body of CHARLES CAME, aged 68, a retired sawyer, of Sherry's-court, Alphington-street. - WM. CAME, labourer, who identified the body, said deceased had not followed his trade for some years, being a cripple. Witness last saw him about 1.45 Thursday, when he left him in bed. He had not been depressed, but had been attended by Dr Childs for ulcerated legs. Deceased had never spoken of suicide, and he was not in the habit of going far. Witness had never known him go on the Canal Banks. - Charles Parsons, labourer, of Baker's-court, Frog-street, said about 3.45 p.m. he was on the Canal banks and saw a hat, coat and stick on the loop of Salmon Pool Bridge. Witness went to Mr Hannaford, who telephoned to the Police. - P.C. Wills said in the company of Sergt. Boultfield he dragged the Canal and discovered the body under the drawbridge, close to where the coat had been found. Deceased was seen in Marsh Barton Fields after dinner, but no one had any conversation with him. - Dr Brash said the body presented the usual appearance of death from drowning. Ulcerated legs would be very depressing to anyone. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Western Times, Wednesday 28 September 1910
HONITON - Honiton Tragedy. Shocking Suicide On The L. and S.W. Railway. - Dr Tweed, Coroner for the East Devon District, conducted an Inquest relative to the death of SAMUEL HENRY GRIFFIN, aged 65, a retired wine merchant's manager, at Honiton yesterday. - Evidence of identification was given by Mr Young, son-in-law, who stated that he last saw deceased alive about a month ago, when he was in his usual health. Deceased had been living with witness for the last six years. Previous to two years ago he had been slightly deaf, and since then he had become worse and was compelled to give up business on account of his deafness. At the time of giving up business he complained of noises in his head, for which he had consulted his medical adviser. In 1870 he had a fit of paralysis. He had at times during the last twelve months been very depressed. Deceased came to Honiton to get away from the noise of the traffic in London. He had never spoke of taking his life. He was not insured and was not in any financial difficulties. - Miss A. Adkins, of Church Hill, said deceased lodged with her. He arrived on the 12th August. At times he used to have attacks of nervousness, but they did not last long. Deceased asked witness to write and ask his son-in-law to fetch him home. On Monday morning he appeared cheerful. He did not say anything about going away. Deceased had complained of noises in his head on several occasions. He said he should go to London and come back again, and probably stay the winter. Witness last saw him alive on Monday morning about ten. He was a very temperate man. - Mrs L. Humphrey stated that she saw deceased from her garden quite 20 minutes before the express came in. When the express came in he moved towards the end of the platform from the water column, and put his head down towards the rail. She could not say whether he laid down. - William John Clarke, engine driver, stated that he was driving the 10.17 express from Exeter. On nearing Honiton Station he observed an old gentleman on the platform. He was facing the train and suddenly turned and ran down the slope. He placed his head on the near rail and the engine went over him. Deceased was on his knees. witness applied the brakes, but was unable to stop the train. - Supt. de Schmidt said the last carriage was not clear of the body. It was a marvellous pull-up. - Witness, continuing, said he got off the engine, but seeing someone attending to the man he did not go back. He was of opinion that deceased deliberately committed suicide. - Wm. W. Walters, fireman, also gave evidence. - Richard Thomas Bowden, parcel porter at Honiton Station, stated that he saw the 10.17 express from Exeter running through the Station. He was on the down platform and heard the brakes applied. He crossed the line and found a body. It was lying just beyond the water column and under the rear guard's van. He noticed the head about five feet from the body. - Mr Young, recalled, said deceased was extremely deaf and was unable to hear any sound without the aid of an ear-trumpet. He had never complained of his eyesight. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind." - Inspector Cheyney watched the proceedings on behalf of the Railway Company.

Western Times, Friday 30 September 1910
DARTMOUTH - Serious Case. Pensioner's Miserable End At Dartmouth. Cried For Food. - At Dartmouth yesterday, Mr Dawson held an Inquest concerning the death of JAMES PENGILLEY, a naval pensioner, of Silver-street, Dartmouth, who died suddenly on Wednesday morning. - The widow stated that the deceased had always had plenty to eat, but various witnesses asserted that they heard PENGILLEY call out for food. One emphatically stated that on one occasion she heard deceased crying bitterly for a piece of bread. - P.S. Rogers told the Jury that he had advised the widow several times to call in a doctor. He also spoke of the dirty condition of the house and Wednesday he only found there some pieces of meat, which smelt very badly and some whiting. - Dr Soper attributed death to chronic bronchitis and a dilated heart. He added that he was certain that if one went over the whole of England, including some of the slums of the big cities, one would not find anything to equal the condition of Silver-street, which was a disgrace to the town. He was perfectly sure that if something was not done to remedy the bad conditions of the houses, evil would fall upon the inhabitants of Dartmouth in the form of an outbreak of disease. He criticised the way in which some people kept the houses. - The Coroner concurred and the Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence, adding a rider "that death was accelerated owing to the want of sufficient nourishment and lack of care on the part of the widow." They endorsed the remarks of Dr Soper in regard to the house in Silver-street. - The Coroner called the widow before him, and communicated to her the Jury's rider, saying she had had a very narrow escape of being put on her trial.

ASHBURTON - Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner, held an Inquest at the Market Hall, Ashburton, on Tuesday afternoon, on the body of JAMES FOOT, labourer, 33 years of age, who died suddenly on Monday. After hearing the medical evidence, a verdict of Natural Causes was returned.

Western Times, Saturday 1 October 1910
EXMOUTH - Exmouth Disaster. Inquest On The Body Of ERNEST NORTON. - An Inquest on the body of ERNEST NORTON, one of the victims of the recent disaster of Exmouth, was held at All Saints' Church Institute, yesterday, before Mr E. R. Tweed, Coroner for the District. Mr R. E. Ponsford was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - DANIEL K. NORTON, coal merchant, of White-street, Topsham, identified the deceased as his nephew, who was 17 years of age. Deceased was a fisherman, and witness last saw him alive on Saturday, September 17th. Witness identified the body by initials tattooed on the left arm, and by the clothing. He knew nothing about the accident, nor the cause of death. - ELIZABETH NORTON, mother of the deceased, deposed that she last saw her son on Saturday, September 17th, when he went to bed between 9 and 10 p.m. She heard her husband call him at 4 o'clock on the Sunday morning, when ERNEST, her husband, and a younger son went away mackerel fishing. They said they were going out over the bar to fish. The boat was the "R and E" in which the deceased sailed. Her husband told her they would return at about 2 p.m. The weather when they started was fine, and there was no wind, her husband told her. - John West, fisherman, of Exmouth, said that he was mackerel fishing on September 18th with his father-in-law. They started at about 6 a.m., and sailed out over the bar. There were two boats following them, about ten minutes or a quarter of an hour behind their boat. He believed one of the boats behind was the NORTON'S. All three were sailing with their lines out. A nice easterly breeze was blowing and the sea was rough. He knew the NORTONS by sight, but did not know their boats. Witness went up towards Budleigh Salterton for a time, and then turned round to go out to sea. He looked under the lee of their sail and saw the yard of the "R and E". He suddenly lost sight of the sail, the boat being too far away to be seen. Witness remarked to his father-in-law, "I believe something has happened to that boat," and they bore right down to where they last saw the sail. They cruised about searching for it, but could find no trace at all. Witness concluded that the "R and E" struck an "unlucky" sea, which filled it and sank it. Witness would not say that the boat was too small, though the sea was rough. - By the Jury: He should not imagine that the boat was sinking at the time he saw the sail before it disappeared. - Robert Bartlett, labourer, stated that he went out fishing with the previous witness. When they last saw the NORTON'S boat they considered they were lessening their sail, as the sea was rough. They supposed that the boat shipped a heavy sea and went down. He considered the NORTON'S boat, which was small, was not safe to be out in such a sea. - Harry Blackler, fisherman, said about 4.30 on Thursday afternoon, whilst fishing for mackerel about half a mile west of the Fairway Buoy, his son, Albert, who was with him, saw a corpse in the water. They picked it up and took it to the Coastguard, and asked him to report the discovery to the Police. - P.C. Cross, of Exmouth, said he received the body of the deceased, which he removed on a conveyance to the mortuary. On the body he found one shilling and three-pence halfpenny in bronze. - Dr Beesley said he saw the body which was very much decomposed, the features being unrecognisable. He should think the corpse had been in the water for eleven days. He considered that death was due to drowning. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death by Accidental Drowning," and expressed their sympathy with the relatives, the Coroner adding that the accident was a very sad one indeed.

Western Times, Wednesday 5 October 1910
EXETER - "Let Me Die." Strange Death Of An Exeter Woman. - The City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, yesterday, relative to the death of ANNIE PHILLIPS, aged 52, Leat-terrace, Commercial-road, who died at the Institution on Sunday. - The body was identified by the husband, HENRY PHILLIPS, a mason's labourer. Deceased, he said, was a brushmaker. - FREDERICK PHILLIPS, son of the deceased, said he last saw his mother alive on Saturday about 5.30 p.m. She was then at home. He went out to be shaved and was absent about 15 minutes. On his return he found deceased on the floor. She had been drinking, but was sensible. Of late she had been much worried, and since her daughter died she had not been in her right senses. She had been drinking a good deal during the last six weeks. She had had no quarrel with anybody. White stuff, like milk, which he thought was poison, was coming from her mouth, but he had never seen anything of the kind in her possession, and he had never heard her say she intended to take her life. He fetched his eldest brother directly he saw what had happened. - HENRY PHILLIPS, another son of the deceased, said his mother had been drinking. He left her at home about 5 p.m. on Saturday and returned between 5.30 and 5.45, when he found her under the bed. His brother had not then returned. Seeing white stuff flowing from her mouth, he at once fetched his brother, FRED. His mother had had a "barney" with a neighbour relative to washing down the front of the house. She had been drinking for some time, and when intoxicated she generally fell about a good deal. He was not aware that anyone had knocked her down. - Caroline Clarke, a neighbour, said she heard the last witness say that his mother had taken poison. She went into the house and found deceased lying with her head under a bench. Witness ran for Mrs Hannaford. About four o'clock the deceased was in her house, and witness made her a cup of tea, which, however, she did not drink. - At this stage a bottle was produced and witness said a bad smell in the deceased's room was very similar to that from the bottle, only much stronger. - P.C. Bishop (Exwick) said he was passing through West-street about 6 o'clock on Saturday evening. He was called by some children to go to deceased's house. He immediately went and gave her an emetic and sent for a doctor. Witness bathed the wound on her cheek caused by her having fallen against the vice of the bench. As the emetic did not act, he sent to the Police Station for the stretcher, and had her removed to the Hospital. - Acting-Sergt. Bradford said he searched the house for poison on Saturday evening, but was unable at first to find any. After the deceased had been removed to the Hospital, he again searched the house. On the vice he found marks of blood. Underneath the stairs he found a bottle, which smelled strongly of carbolic oil. - Ethel Jackson, Sister of the Hospital ward in which the deceased was accommodated, said deceased died at 7.30 on Sunday morning. Between 3 and 4 a.m., she said "Sister, sister, let me die. I am destitute. My husband has left me; I am the mother of ten children; it is the worry that has done it." Witness asked her if she had taken anything, and she replied "Drink - beer." - Charles H. Lilley, House Physician at the Hospital, said when deceased was admitted on Saturday she was in a comatose condition. There was a lacerated, irregular wound on the left jaw. She had evidently taken morphia in some form. He saw her about midnight, when she was still in a very serious condition. He had made a post-mortem examination. The wound on the jaw did not penetrate the cheek and was not very severe. Deceased's lungs were intensely congested. In the stomach there were signs of the presence of morphia. Death was due to heart and lung failure, following on an excessive dose of morphia. The poison might not have taken effect for a quarter of an hour, so that she would have had plenty of time to get rid of a bottle. - Arthur Squires, of the firm of Squires Ltd., by whom the deceased had been formerly employed, stated that the bottle produced and which was found under the stairs in the deceased's house, contained a liquid which was used by the firm as a disinfectant. - The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that deceased died from heart and lung failure, caused by Morphia taken by Misadventure.

Western Times, Friday 7 October 1910
DARTMOUTH - At the Inquest at Dartmouth on Monday, relative to the death of MRS LOUISA NANCY MACEY, of Orangedell, Victoria-road, CHARLES MACEY, son of deceased, said on Saturday night, just after nine o'clock, he took his mother, who was then in bed, some supper, and left a lighted candle beside the bed. Five or six minutes later he fancied he could smell something burning, and on going to his mother's bedroom found it full of smoke and his mother on the floor dead. He called a neighbour and rang the fire alarm. - By the Coroner: His mother had worn a flannelette nightdress. He did not hear her make a sound of any sort. - Dr J. H. Harris said on entering the bedroom he found MRS MACEY dead on the floor in a curled up position. The body had been extensively burned, front and back, from the knees to the top of the head, and the remains of a charred flannelette nightdress were lying around. There was a portion of an under vest on one arm. A candlestick with a piece of candle in it was beside the bed. - The Coroner commented upon the danger of wearing flannelette, which had probably been condemned by almost every Coroner in the country, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Saturday 8 October 1910
TORQUAY - Torquay Volunteer's Death After Eating Pressed Beef. - Respecting the death of THOMAS SIMMONS, 35, of 26 Hoxton-road, whose death was reported on Thursday, a Torquay Coroner's Jury yesterday returned a verdict that deceased accidentally came to his death from ptomaine poisoning. It was stated that on Saturday the deceased went with other Territorial Engineers, shooting at Wall's Hill. MRS SIMMONS gave her husband some pressed beef sandwiches to eat. He ate some and gave some to a comrade named French. MRS SIMMONS also partook of pressed beef. The two later suffered no ill-effects, but about midnight the deceased was taken ill, death ensuing later. He told the doctor that a bit of the meat did not taste very nice. A vote of sympathy with the widow was passed by the Jury and the Coroner concurred. The funeral of deceased, who served with the Devon Volunteers in South Africa, will probably take place on Monday with military honours.

Western Times, Tuesday 11 October 1910
EXMOUTH - Exmouth Tragedy. Mysterious Drowning Of A Sailor. - The Inquest was held at All Saints' Institute yesterday, before Mr E. R. Tweed, Coroner for the District, and a Jury, of whom Mr J. G. Holcombe was chosen Foreman. - Donal MacKinnon, captain of the s.s. "Fluor," lying in the Exmouth Bight, stated that his vessel left Riga on September 29th, the crew consisting of 15 all told, amongst them being the deceased, PATRICK MACALLISTER, a fireman. He last saw deceased alive at 4 p.m. last Friday, two hours before he went ashore. He was a man of good character and had not given way to drink since he had been aboard the vessel, since June 18th last. Deceased went ashore with another man named James Williams, with whom he was on good terms and had never been known to quarrel, neither did they ever appear likely to quarrel. He could not say whether Williams gave way to drink, as he only shipped him on September 17th at Middlesbrough. Williams returned to the vessel sometime after 6 o'clock on Saturday morning, having been rowed out by an Exmouth boatman. He was sober when he returned. - By the Coroner: The crew can come and go when they like. They might stay away a night. There were rules about regulating leave, but they were not rigidly adhered to. Witness and the chief engineer went ashore and reported the matter to the Police at 3 p.m. - James Williams, a trimmer on board the "Fluor," said he was formerly on a ship called "The Wolf," and left it with a good character. He had only known MCALLISTER since he joined the "!Fluor," and they had been on the best of terms. They had finished their duty for the say, when MCALLISTER, the second engineer, another fireman and deceased went ashore, at 6 p.m.. They called at a post office and witness and MCALLISTER parted with the other men and went into two grocer's shops in Chapel-street to purchase provisions and visited a butcher's shop for meat. The goods were for witness and deceased. Witness left deceased in a public house and visited a barber's shop. Deceased was drinking gin and witness rejoined him in the public house. MCALLISTER was still drinking gin. They were in this public house together, where deceased drank gin, beer and stout. Witness did not buy a bottle of drink, and he could not say that deceased purchased one. MCALLISTER next went to a restaurant to have supper, witness remaining in the public house. Deceased met him again and they left the house at about 11 o'clock and so far as witness could remember they proceeded to the Pier. Witness added that he was the worse for liquor and the deceased was in the same condition, having drank a good deal. He did not remember any more until he awoke in the morning in a shed on the landing stage near the dock. He had not seen his companion since. He returned to the "Fluor" by the steam lighter, expecting to find the deceased on board. Witness inquired of the second engineer for deceased and was told he had not returned. He could not account for MCALLISTER being found in the water. - P.C. Brown stated that at 10.58 p.m. on Saturday he saw MCALLISTER and Williams in Rolle-street, and they afterwards proceeded up High-street. The deceased was carrying the bag. Williams was the most drunk of the two, but was inclined to be merry. The men were quite friendly. Williams told witness what they had in the bag and showed him the receipts. Deceased was quite rational and said to his companion: "You go on; I will catch you up." Williams replied: "I won't go on without you." The two proceeded towards the Docks. - Thomas Slocombe, a boatman, said MCALLISTER and Williams told him they would be returning to their ship between ten and eleven. At 11.15 witness took four of the crew on board and when he reached the landing steps at the Wharf on his return the Church clock struck twelve. He waited at the Dock gates for half-an-hour for Williams and MCALLISTER, and as they did not come, he went and moored his boat and proceeded home. On Sunday morning he went to the "Fluor" to take the captain ashore, but nothing was said then about the man being missing. It was not unusual for men to absent themselves from their ship for 24 hours. If they were over that time enquiries would be made. He did not hear or see anything of the men when he was on the Wharf at midnight. - Dr Beesley described the condition of the body, and stated that death was probably caused by fracture of the base of the skull. The body had, he believed, been in the water 30 hours. Replying to a Juror, he said the fracture of the skull could not have been caused by a blow in a quarrel. - The Coroner: It could have been caused by a foot at the back. - A Juryman said that ugly rumours were about the town respecting money the deceased was supposed to have had. The Jury would like to know if he had any money? - P.S. Rattenbury replied that money was found on the deceased. - P.C. Cross stated that he saw Thomas Slocombe recover the body and witness removed it to the Mortuary. On searching the body he found a silver watch, which had stopped at 5.9., a purse containing £5 2s. 7 ½d., in god, silver and copper, a Russian coin, two medals, pocket-knife, Prayer Book, braided necklet and receipts for the purchase of provisions. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and they protested against the custom of viewing the body. Such a proceeding could not help the Jury when there was medical evidence. - The Coroner replied that the matter had been threshed out before a Royal Commission (which had not yet reported), and he thought it would be useless to send any more representations. However, he would do so if the Jury wished. - The Foreman replied that they would be glad if he would, and the Coroner promised to do so.

Western Times, Wednesday 12 October 1910
EXETER - Exeter Fatality. Old Lady Knocked Down By A Cyclist. A Pure Accident. - The City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday, touching the death of MARIAN CHURCHILL, aged 72, of Pinhoe-road, who died as the result of injuries sustained through being knocked down by a bicycle. - ALAN HENRY WARE of the Exeter Dispensary, identified the body as that of his mother-in-law, widow of JOSEPH CHURCHILL, tailor, late of South-street, Exeter. She lived at 172 Pinhoe-road. She was not deaf but was somewhat absent-minded. Her general health was good for her age. - Caroline Haynes, Upton Pyne, said she was in Pinhoe-road about 6.10 p.m. on Friday last, when she saw deceased in the road. She was just going across. She also saw a young lady on a bicycle, riding slowly. Deceased seemed to see her coming. Witness could not say if the cyclist ran her bell, but the old lady was knocked down. Witness did not think the cyclist was to blame in any way. - In reply to the Foreman, witness said deceased seemed to walk against the [?]. - Edwin Pole, schoolmaster at Pinhoe, who was also in Pinhoe-road at the time of the occurrence, said the young lady was going at quite a moderate pace. Deceased was behind him when the accident happened. Just after the cyclist passed him he heard a thud. Witness went back at once and found the cyclist standing by her bicycle and a person lying in the road. Witness could not say if he heard the young lady's bell ring. - Bessie Coombes, of Poltimore, said she was cycling home last Friday evening and was in Pinhoe-road, about 6.20 p.m., and whilst going very slowly, she saw deceased. She passed witness and then came back a step on to witness's front wheel. Witness rang the bell. Deceased was several yards off when witness rang the bell. - P.C. Chapman, of Heavitree, also gave evidence. - Edwin Laurence Sturdee, assistant surgeon at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, said he found a wound on the back of deceased's head. On Saturday, just after her admission, she became unconscious. On Sunday she died. He had since made and post-mortem, and found that deceased had haemorrhage on the front of the brain. There was a little haemorrhage also under the [?] underneath the wound. The cause of death was haemorrhage on the brain. - The Coroner said he thought it was an accident. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and extended sympathy with the relatives and family of deceased. Miss Coombes was exonerated from all blame.

EXETER - Mr Coroner Brown held an Inquest at the Police Station, Exeter, last evening, relative to the death of an infant child, AUDREY LILY WIDGERY, of 2 Looe-road, St David's, Exeter. MRS WIDGERY, the mother, said the child was fifteen weeks old . A few weeks ago the child had a cold, which it seemed to get over. On Saturday last the baby was not well, but she gave her medicine and the child seemed no worse on Sunday. Early on Monday the baby awoke witness by trying to cough. She seemed to be choking. Witness proceeded to get some linseed meal, and to call a neighbour, but the baby died almost immediately. - Dr Webb, who was called in, said he found the child dead. He had never attended it before and could not certify as to the cause of death. He made a post-mortem and found the heart abnormally large, but healthy. There was an abscess on the left lung, which had burst and the fluid got into the windpipe and suffocated the child. The cause of death was suffocation. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes," in accordance with the doctors evidence.

Western Times, Thursday 13 October 1910
EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - St Thomas Tragedy. A Little Girl's Death From Burns. Playing With Fire. - The Exeter Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at the Dunsford-road Schools, St Thomas, yesterday, relative to the death of DORIS HAZEL WILSON, aged 3 years, only daughter of an electrician residing at Shaftesbury-avenue, St Thomas. The evidence of the mother was to the effect that on Thursday afternoon last the deceased ran into the house screaming and with her clothes on fire. Witness tried to extinguish the flames by pulling off her garments. Neighbours came to her assistance and Dr Stokes was sent for. The child had some matches in her hand, but witness did not know where she got them. Children had been in the habit of lighting fires of shavings on a waste piece of ground in the road not far from the house. The child died on Monday. - The Coroner's Officer, (P.C. Walters) stated that he had made enquiries from the other children in the neighbourhood. It seemed that lads had been in the habit of lighting small fires on the waste piece of ground. On Thursday afternoon the deceased and another little girl got hold of some shavings, with which they proceeded to make a fire. Deceased went close to it and attempted to fan the flames with her dress, to which lace was attached. The lace caught fire. He had been unable to discover that anyone was to blame. - Dr Stokes said the right side of deceased from the shoulder to the upper part of the thigh and the right arm were burnt. She rallied after treatment, but when the reaction came she succumbed to heart failure. - The Jury, of which Mr Bell was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed deep sympathy with the parents. - The Foreman thought that builders on the estate should be asked to take all possible precautions to keep shavings out of the reach of children. - Other Jurymen thought it would be impossible to take effective precautions. - P.C. Walters said the Police had driven off children from this particular spot again and again, but as soon as the Constable had passed on they reassembled. - After discussion the Coroner promised to mention the matter to the Police with a view to stopping children from playing with fire on the estate in question.

Western Times, Friday 14 October 1910
MORETONHAMPSTEAD - Fatal Fall Over the Stairs At Moreton. - Mr Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest relative to the death of MR S. J. POTTER, of Moretonhampstead. Mr J. Palmer was elected Foreman of the Jury. MR W. W. POTTER (nephew), of Yealmpton, identified the body as that of his uncle, who was aged 70. - The Jury gave a verdict that death occurred through deceased falling accidentally downstairs on Friday night. - A will and several other papers and bills were produced by the Police as the result of a search of the premises, but no money was found.

Western Times, Friday 21 October 1910
EXETER - Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, conducted an Inquest at the Police Court, Exeter, on Wednesday, relative to the death of JAMES MADDOCK, aged 45, labourer, of Tremlett's Cottages, Exe-lane, Exeter. - Dr Pereira said death was due to ruptured aneurism of the aorta. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Times, Saturday 22 October 1910
EXMINSTER - Mr H. W. Gould, Coroner, held an Inquest at the Police Quarter's, Exminster, yesterday, relative to the death of ELIZABETH BLAKE, of Exminster, who passed away suddenly yesterday morning at her residence at Exminster. - BERTRAM BLAKE, labourer, said the deceased, his mother, was aged 63 years. She was in the habit of sleeping by herself. He went to her room at 6.30 a.m. and found her dead in bed. - Dr J. H. Iles, of Starcross, said a post-mortem examination revealed that death was due to heart failure. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Western Times, Tuesday 25 October 1910
EXETER - Regrettable Scene. Jurymen and Witness At Exeter. Coroner's Rebuke. - Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, conducted an Inquest at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, yesterday, relative to the death of WALTER BARNARD CHARD, aged 23, farm labourer, of Kennford, who died from the effects of an accident. - Mr F. Templeman (Messrs. Dunn and Baker) appeared for the relatives. - LOUISA CHARD, mother, said deceased had always been steady. She had visited him in the Hospital and he said he was holding the shaft horse of a waggon when it shied at something. The shaft must have knocked him down and the front wheel, he thought, went over him. He was coming down a very steep hill at the time. - By Mr Templeman: He did not say the load was too heavy for the horse. - Wm. Trigger, waggoner, employed by Mr Mortimer, said on Saturday, October 1st, he went with deceased to Mr Bastone's at Whitestone. They each had a waggon and a pair of horses. At the top of Redhills deceased took out his front horse and put on his drag and safety chain and led his horse down the hill. When a little way down the hill he saw CHARD lying in the road unconscious. Dr Black came and attended to deceased and sent him to the Hospital. CHARD was sober. He had seen deceased in the Hospital and he said the horse got out of control and he was knocked down. - By a Juryman: The horse was a fast traveller, but one man could manage it. The drag and safety chain were in good order. - Wm. Edmonds, of Redhills, said that on October 1st, about 3 p.m. he was in his house, when he heard a noise and he went out. When he opened the door he saw a horse lying in the doorway and outside an overturned waggon. The safety chain was on the wheel of the waggon and the drag was on the ground and the waggon overturned. - By the Foreman: He should not think the waggon was overloaded. - Trigger, recalled, said deceased's load was 38 bushels and his own 92 bushels. - Mr F. Mortimer said deceased had been in his employ about twelve months. He was a steady man. He should say the load on the waggon was a fair one. - Dr V. Starr, House Surgeon, said deceased, when admitted to the Hospital, was unconscious and had a wound on the front of his right shoulder and the spine was broken. On the 4th October paralysis was noticed, and death resulted from shock due to injuries received. - By the Foreman: It was possible that the wheel went over deceased. - A Juryman: I do not think you have given your evidence in a satisfactory way. - Dr Starr: Don't you. then I'll leave at once. - The doctor left the room, but the Coroner sent for him again. Dr Starr apologised to the Coroner for any inconvenience he had caused him, but thought he was entitled to an apology from the Juryman. - The Coroner remarked that the way in which the witness spoke and laughed when giving his evidence was painful. He (the Coroner) had considerable power and had he (Dr Starr) not come back he should have used it. - Dr Starr said he was not aware of having laughed. - The Coroner: When I made a mistake with regard to the date of the death of the deceased you laughed and when you were asked by the Foreman whether you could say the wheel went over the body you laughed and said you were not there. They knew you were not there. What they wanted to know and what you know perfectly well, was whether you could see any marks. - Dr Starr apologised for any inconvenience he had caused but said the Juryman had practically called him a liar. - The Coroner accepted the apology. - A Juryman said he did not think it should stop there. - The Coroner said he would prefer that it should do so. - Dr Starr: I have never been treated like this before. - The Coroner said he felt exceedingly indignant. He thought the feelings of people should always be respected. - In summing up, the Coroner again alluded to the unfortunate incident and said the doctor's evidence was not given as one should give it - (hear, hear). A case of death was a serious thing. The Juryman, however, put his remark rather pointedly. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - One of the Jurymen who had been questioning Mr Mortimer whilst the remainder were deliberating, complained that he did not have anything to say with regard to the verdict. - The Coroner: I have taken the verdict of the majority.

BURLESCOMBE - Dangerous Practice. Quarryman Cycles Into Canal And Is Drowned At Burlescombe. - An Inquest was held at Westleigh, Burlescombe, yesterday, by Mr H. W. Gould relative to the death of a quarryman named FREDERICK HOLLEY, aged 37, a single man, living at Hill Cottage, Westleigh. Mr J. Gush was Foreman of the Jury. - Evidence of identification was given by JOHN HOLLEY, a brother, who said that deceased was in the habit of delivering newspapers on Wednesday evenings and Thursdays. He was told that on Saturday his brother had been found drowned in the canal, and when witness arrived at the spot he found some men had recovered the body. He knew nothing of the circumstances connected with the affair. - The Coroner: Have you any suspicions of suicide or foul play? - Witness: No, sir. He added that no communications had been found that would throw any light on the affair. He last saw his brother on Wednesday. - P.C. Searle said he received information that the body was in the water from Mr Stephen Selvington, who was fishing in the canal. The body was recovered by Westgate Bridge. He examined the body, but found no marks of injuries , the man being fully dressed. Deceased had a newspaper bag slung across his right shoulder, whilst the bicycle he had been riding was also found in the water. On the body was 13s. 5d. in cash, a pipe and tobacco-pouch, a key, silver watch and metal chain. The watch had stopped at 8 minutes to 2 o'clock. At the house he found a sensible letter to deceased's sister, but nothing to throw any light on the occurrence. Witness said people were in the habit of riding along the towpath. - A Juror: This is a dangerous bridge? - Yes. There is a bare 3ft. width in which to pass. It is very narrow. - Answering the Coroner, the Constable said the body was found beyond the bridge, so that HOLLEY had evidently got through the opening. - A Juror: After the bridge, isn't there an awkward angle to turn? - Witness: Yes. - A Juror: He must have practically ridden straight into the water. - Mrs Emma Ware, wife of Edwin Ware, of Oldbrook Dairy, said deceased visited her house with papers at 12.30 p.m. on Thursday last. She knew he was in the habit of cycling along the canal and she saw him start that day. - Mr G. R. Macdonald, Surgeon of Holcombe Rogus, said death was due to drowning. - The Coroner said there was no doubt that deceased rode along the canal bank, and probably due to the narrowness of the bridge accidentally fell into the water. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned and sympathy was expressed with the relatives.

TORQUAY - An Inquest was held at Torquay yesterday relative to the death of a little six-year-old girl named HAYMAN, who met with her death under circumstances reported in the "Express and Echo" on Saturday. The deceased, who resided at Orchard Terrace, Upton, was with other children igniting coloured matches. One threw a lighted match into the air and it fell upon HAYMAN'S frock, which caught alight and burned her badly. She succumbed to her injuries on Friday, at the Hospital.

Western Times, Wednesday 26 October 1910
TAVISTOCK - Fatal Scratch. Farm Labourer's Sad Death At Tavistock. - An Inquest was held at Tavistock, by Mr R. R. Rodd, on the body of ROBERT LEY, aged 67, a farm labourer, who died at the Tavistock Workhouse Infirmary on Sunday evening from blood poisoning as a result of a scratch from a nail. - Sergt. Major Bowles was Foreman of the Jury. - Thomas Roskilly, farmer, of Nutley, Tavistock, stated that on the 8th of October the deceased was struck on the right arm by a horn of a yearling. He became ill on the 17th. A fellow workman had said that the deceased had told him that while he was getting meal from a hutch for the pigs, he was scratched by a nail on the same arm. - Dr Snowden Smith, in giving evidence, expressed the opinion that no serious result accrued from the injury by the bullock, but that death was due to blood poisoning as the result of the scratch with the nail. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

BARNSTAPLE - Sudden Death At Barnstaple. - Barnstaple Borough Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, and a Jury, of which Mr McLeod was chosen Foreman of the Jury, met at Coronation-street yesterday to enquire into the circumstances attending the death of SAMUEL TODD, 56, who died suddenly the previous day. Witnesses included MRS TODD (his sister-in-law, with whom he had been staying), Mrs Brownscombe, sister of the previous witness and Mr W. W. Pile (next door neighbour). A verdict of "Death from Natural causes" was returned, Dr G. S. Ware saying it was caused by heart failure.

Western Times, Friday 28 October 1910
EXETER - Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, conducted an Inquest at the Police Court, Exeter, last evening, relative to the death of FREDERICK HOWES, aged 60. - MRS HOWES said about 3 o'clock yesterday morning she heard a peculiar sound and thought deceased had a fit. He died before a doctor arrived. - Dr Pereira said in his opinion death was caused by heart failure due to empyema of the lungs. - The Jury returned their verdict accordingly.

KINGSBRIDGE - At Dunscombe Farm, Kingsbridge, on Saturday, an Inquest was held touching the death of JOHN DARE, 68, a farm labourer. According to the medical evidence, the heart and liver were very much diseased and death was due to syncope. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned. The widow stated her husband returned home on Monday evening suffering from great pain in his side, saying he had met with an accident, whilst digging a trench at Bowcombe, a lot of earth fell in and he had to dig himself out. She did not see any bruises on deceased, but he stayed in bed until Thursday midday. He had dinner consisting of bread, cheese and onions and shortly after passed away. Deceased's employer said the soil which fell in the trench could not possibly have injured him.

RACKENFORD - Rackenford Farmer Commits Suicide. - At West Blackstone Farm, Rackenford, on Tuesday, Mr H. W. Gould, County Coroner, held an Inquest relative to the death of WILLIAM SLADER of that farm, who committed suicide on Monday. - HELENA SLADER identified the body as that of her husband, aged 57 years. She last saw him alive at about 11.30 on Monday when he left her, saying he was going to get some bags to keep the ducks from the corn rick. She first heard of his death from George Ackland, an employee. She had never heard him speak of suicide, but he had been suffering from influenza for a month or more. He worried about the farm because he had notice from the owner that he was going to sell it. She did not know of any other trouble. His brother took his life 20 years ago. Her husband did not leave any communication behind him. - HENRIETTA MAY SLADER also gave evidence. - George Ackland, labourer in the employ of deceased, said that on Monday deceased did not come in to dinner so he went to call him. He found him in the waggon linhay hanging by the neck by a piece of rope (produced). The rope belonged to deceased. There was a cart near deceased where he could have jumped off from. He did not notice any signs of depression in deceased, but of late he saw he was unwell. - Dr A. H. Brown of Witheridge, said death was due to strangulation. He attended deceased more than 12 months ago for depression. He should not have been surprised if he had committed suicide then. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

Western Times, Monday 31 October 1910
MARWOOD - Sad Case. Alleged Death Through Neglect At Barnstaple. - An Inquest was held by the Barnstaple County Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, on Saturday evening in connection with the death of MRS BESSIE SPEAR, a labourer's wife, of Kingsheanton, Marwood. - ALFRED SPEAR, deceased's husband, deposed that his wife had been unwell for some days. She had an abscess at the back of her neck and had been poulticing herself. On Friday his wife was in bed and he sent for a doctor. Death occurred that morning. - Rose Jenkins spoke to finding MRS SPEAR lying across the table about 10.30 on Friday, whilst Mrs Jane Jenkins stated that at 3.30 MRS SPEAR was sitting unconscious in a chair with a baby in her arms. - Florence Manning, who helped to remove deceased upstairs, stated that she was very dirty. - Dr Manning, of Barnstaple, stated that at five o'clock on Friday he found MRS SPEAR in a state of coma. There was an abscess at the back of the neck. Neglect had set up septic poisoning, which went to the brain, death being due to meningitis. - The Coroner, summing up, commented strongly on the "Absolute neglect" which had been shown in the case, and expressed the opinion that the cottage was not fit for human habitation. - The Jury, of which Mr Isaac, was Foreman, returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

EXETER - Inquest At Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital. Sad Case. - The City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, on Saturday, relative to the death of ROBERT SANSOM, aged 68, of Broadclyst, who died at the Institution on Thursday morning. - Evidence was given by MRS SANSOM, the widow, who stated that her husband was the driver of a traction engine. He had been engaged in this kind of work for 40 years and was employed by Mr George Short, of Frogmore, Broadclyst. Just before two o'clock on Monday last she heard that he had met with an accident. She saw him at the Hospital on the 25th inst., when he told her that he had asked Mr Lee to put a more experienced man with him when threshing. The man who was put to help him, he said had had no experience in that kind of work. - Cecil Miller, farm labourer, employed by Mr Lee, of Newall Farm, Broadclyst, said he was engaged to assist in the threshing. He had done very little machine work before. On Monday he was at work with deceased. Witness was behind the man taking away the straw, and deceased was taking away some frayed straw from the straw trusser. Deceased put out his arm to pull out some straw and the trusser [?], and before he could take his arm out. [?] who was on the other side, shouted to the other men to stop the machine. This was done and deceased pulled out his arm. The machine should have been put out of gear before deceased acted as he did. - John Fowler, bind cutter, employed by Mr Shore, said he was working with deceased and was on the top of the machine. About 8 a.m. he heard a man shouting to stop the engine. This was immediately done by Mr Lee. Witness accompanied deceased to the Hospital. On the way SANSOM remarked that was a "bad job." He explained that some loose straw got tangled and he put in his hand, which was caught, owing to the machinery not getting out of gear quickly enough. The machine could be stopped in a second by a lever by the side, and if it had been thrown out of gear the accident would not have happened. - George Shore, owner of the machine, said he let it out to other farmers. He employed three men with the machine, the farmer engaged providing the rest. Deceased worked for witness and his father for [?] years, and had considerable experience and the machine was in perfect working order. There was a lever at the side placed there for the purpose of throwing it out of gear. No man in Devon knew better the risk he was running in acting as he did. - George Lee said he had borrowed the machine regularly for the past ten years. On Monday deceased was in charge of it and witness saw him oiling the bearings. Shortly afterwards he heard shouting and he immediately stopped the engine. - The Coroner said the Inquest could not be finished today. The House Surgeon (Mr Starr) had stated that he was too busy to attend and wished the Inquest postponed. The Inquest was adjourned till today.

SOUTH BRENT - Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquest at South Brent Council School, concerning the death of ELIZABETH TAPPER, of 21 Granby-street, Plymouth, who died on Friday at the South Brent Railway Station. Mr Wyndham Hall was chosen Foreman of the Jury and MRS MARGARET DINGLE stated deceased to be her sister, a spinster, aged 19 years old. The deceased had suffered from tuberculosis for the past ten months. She had on the 12th instant become an in-patient of the Didworthy Sanatorium for Consumptives, but was in an advanced stage on admission. She frequently wrote home to her friends to fetch her. The witness did this on Friday and death took place on the way home. - Mr W. B. Livermore, M.B., (Aberdeen), stated that he advised deceased not to leave, as she was too weak to take the journey. Nurse Culsnam prepared her for her journey and gave stimulant to be administered if required. The Jury found a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony, that deceased died from Natural Causes, following heart failure, the result of pulmonary tuberculosis, from which she had been suffering. The Jury handed their fees to the relatives.

Western Times, Tuesday 1 November 1910
EXETER - The Broadclyst Fatality. Resumed Inquest At Exeter Last Evening. - The City Coroner, Mr W. L. Brown, resumed the Inquest last evening on ROBERT SANSOM, aged 68, of Broadclyst, who died at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital as the result of injuries received to his left arm while working a threshing machine belonging to Mr George Shore at Mr Lee's, Newall Farm, Broadclyst. The evidence of Dr Vernon Starr, House Surgeon, was to the effect that deceased died from shock following the injuries. - A Juryman said the Jury would like to know whether their verdict would affect any claim that might be made for compensation. - Another Juryman wished to know whether the machine ought not to be provided with a guard to prevent accidents of this kind. - The Coroner said if a man was killed accidentally his widow was entitled to compensation. - A Juryman: Even if it is his own fault? - The Coroner said if it was his own fault in a marked degree, that was to say that he was grossly and carelessly negligent, it would be a different matter, but the law generally took a lenient view. - A Juryman: Will the widow claim? - The Coroner: I have no doubt she will. If you find that the deceased caused his own death it might be a question whether she would get it. If you found a verdict of "Accidental Death" you leave that point for the County Court to decide. Of course, the verdict of a Coroner's Jury does make a difference. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

HARTLAND - Sudden Death At Hartland. - At Wargery Farm, Hartland, last evening Mr G. W. F. Brown, County Coroner for North Devon, investigated the death of MARIA MOUNTJOY, aged 67. on Friday night, MISS MOUNTJOY, sister, heard a strange noise in deceased's bedroom and found her sister very ill. She called her brother, but death occurred with painful suddenness. Dr A. F. Wright found that deceased's heart was very much diseased, death being due to heart failure. A verdict was returned accordingly.

NORTHAM - Sudden Death At Appledore. - An Inquest was held in the Rechabite Hall, Appledore, on Friday, before Mr Coroner G. F. Brown, relative to the death of MRS CARRIE FISHWICK, of the Temperance Hotel. Mr P. K. Harris was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - HARRIET SMITH, sister, said deceased was the widow of the late JOHN FISHWICK, sail maker, of Appledore. Witness last saw her alive the previous night about 7.30, when she appeared in her usual health. Deceased lived by herself, her daughter being away at work. - Dr Pearson, of Bideford, said he attended deceased on September 17th for heart trouble. He had not seen her since, but she had been having medicine, and had some at the time of her death. He had that evening made a post mortem examination of the body and found that death was due to a fatty degeneration of the heart. There were no marks of violence on the body, death resulting from heart complaint. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Times, Thursday 3 November 1910
BRIXHAM - A Woman's Death. Allegations At A Brixham Inquest. Husband Censured. - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Brixham yesterday concerning the death of BLANCHE MARIA CROCKER, 26, wife of a hairdresser, MR WILLIAM JOHN CROCKER, living at Coffin House, Brixham. Much interest was manifested in the Inquiry, and P.S. Moon watched events on behalf of the Police. Mr J. Shelley Curtice was elected Foreman of the Jury. The Coroner said that the death of the woman occurred under circumstances which appeared to involve a certain amount of doubt in the matter, and was for them to endeavour to clear up the affair. - WILLIAM C. AVERY identified the body as that of his sister, and said that his mother was too ill to attend. MR AVERY said that on September 20th deceased came to her mother and himself, in a very excited state and holding forth her hand said: "Look what he has done to me. I can't stand it any longer." There was a cut on her hand, which she alleged was caused by her husband throwing a cup at her. Over the injury was a napkin, which in some parts was saturated with blood. She said the trouble was about two football bills in the window. Deceased did not return to her own home. She insisted that he should go for the Police and he fetched P.C. Hart. Deceased complained of shock as the result of the occurrence referred to. The husband came to the house and when spoken to by deceased, he expressed sorrow for what had happened and asked for the wife to return home. The latter said she could not accede to his wish. - In answer to the Coroner, witness said that as far as they knew husband and wife were on good terms. Deceased never complained. The husband in their presence was always very affectionate towards her. - By the Police: Deceased did not say she had been nearly strangled when she arrived home. - Mrs Caroline Windeatt, a fisherman's wife, said she lived at Coffin House, King-street, Brixham. Deceased, her neighbour, was enciente in September last. In that month husband and wife quarrelled. When called to deceased's house she saw MR CROCKER put his hands upon his wife's throat. He was threatening to choke her if she did not stop her nagging tongue. Deceased did not struggle. She took MRS CROCKER away and he went into the shop. Except that MR CROCKER with his hands upon his wife's throat, he was not violent. Lately MRS CROCKER said something which she did not hear, but her husband heard it and rushing back from the shop he threw a cup at MRS CROCKER, which cut her hand. The cup was broken. MRS CROCKER was so frightened that she went upstairs, fetched her baby and left the house. Witness had heard the parties quarrel on other occasions but they had always made it up. The same evening witness went to see MRS CROCKER, who felt the shock very much. - By P.S. Moon: CROCKER came to her and said that it was a good job she arrived when she did, or else his wife would have been choked and he would have been in gaol. - LILY AVERY said that a week after the quarrel deceased's husband arrived at the house. She heard him say to his wife that he did not mean to do it and he was sorry for it. - Dr Mayers deposed to attending deceased from October 3rd. Her condition might have been caused by violence, but there was no evidence to say that it was so in this case. The fact that she had been seized by the throat and held down would perhaps be likely to cause the condition he found her in. She was suffering from retroflection and there were imminent fears of something about to happen. Deceased became very ill. - By the Coroner: witness could not say that her condition was due to some previous violence. It might have been caused by the kidneys, which were out of order. - Dr F. B. Young said deceased became a patient of his on October 26th, when her condition became precarious. She suffered a form of blood poisoning and also kidney disease and died on Monday, October 31st. Witness had made a post mortem examination of the body, a well nourished one. Externally, the only signs of possible violence was two bruises on the right arm, and a small cut on the second finger of the left hand. He described what he found internally; kidneys were enlarged, diseased; inflamed. The actual cause of death was convulsions due to poison from the kidneys. It was possible that her condition was caused by the kidney trouble. - P.C. Hart said he was told by deceased that she had a row with her husband; that he struck her, shook her and threw a cup with cut her hand. - The Coroner said the question for the Jury was whether death was caused from the conditions described through the conduct of her husband. - After retiring the Jury returned the following verdict:- "The jury agreed that MRS CROCKER died from Natural Causes, but there was insufficient evidence to show that her condition was caused by her husband's violence. They considered, however, that he deserved censuring for his conduct towards her in her very delicate health. - The Coroner, addressing CROCKER, said it was clear that he had behaved in a very reprehensible way towards his wife. No man should have roughly handled a woman as she was in so delicate a condition as deceased. He hoped. therefore, that the vote of censure would have some effect upon him.

Western Times, Friday 4 November 1910
NEWTON ABBOT - Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner, held an Inquest at Newton on Tuesday relative to the death of JAMES POWER, 68, of Fisher-road, Newton, who died suddenly while returning from Kingsteignton on Monday morning. - Mrs Stentiford deposed that while standing at her cottage she saw deceased fall down and expire almost immediately. Dr Nisbet stated that death was due to heart disease. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Times, Tuesday 8 November 1910
EXETER - Exwick Suicide. Left Inscription For His Breastplate. Inquest At Exeter. - At the Police Station, Exeter, yesterday, the Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, conducted an Inquiry into the death of FREDERICK WARREN, aged 50, a dairyman, of Landhayes Dairy, Exwick-road, Exeter, who was found dead under tragic circumstances on Saturday. - MRS WARREN, the widow, gave evidence of identification. She last saw her husband alive at 2.15 on Friday afternoon. He was then going out to the fields. He did not have a gun with him, as he always kept it in the linhay. He did not come home in the evening, and had not returned the following morning. She sent her little boy out and he came back later and said, "Mother! father is in the linhay, shot dead, with the gun beside him." She thought deceased had been worried a little about money matters. He had never threatened to take his life. The rent up to Michaelmas was owing, but he had not been pressed. - The Coroner: Did you have a quarrel before he went out? - No. - Well, he left two letters, one of which read: "Dear RACHEL, - After hearing the abuse you subjected me to this evening, I cannot do better than end this life of misery. - Your loving husband." - Now, did you have a quarrel? - No. The only thing I said when he came back was: "You are rather late home." That was all I said. - The Coroner: Then he says something about the landlord getting the upper hand of him. - Witness said that the landlord had treated them quite fairly. They had been very great friends. - The Coroner handed the letters to the Jury. He said the deceased left the following for an "inscription." : "FREDERICK W., who died by his own hand. A true Devonian and a loving husband." The letters, the Coroner added, would help the Jury to form an opinion as to the state of deceased's mind. They were very rambling. - P.C. Farrant said he found the body lying in the crib in the linhay. Standing in the crib on its stock, in a sloping position, was the gun, a double-barrelled sporting rifle. It was tied to a post with a piece of rope. In deceased right hand was a stick, with a notch in it. It had undoubtedly been used to push back the trigger. In the left barrel of the gun was a discharged cartridge. - DR Stirk said the top of deceased's head was completely blown away. - A verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned.

EXETER - A Sad Accident. Lady's Fatal Slip At St. David's Station. - Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, conducted an Inquest at the Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday, relative to the death of MRS ELIZA JANE BINGHAM, aged 61, formerly of Shoeburyness. - MR DAVID BINGHAM, a retired warrant officer, of 15 West Grove-road, identified the body and stated that on October 21st he came from Shoeburyness with deceased. They arrived at St. David's between 5 and 6 a.m. He was trying to get a box out from under the seat when a porter told him his wife had fallen down. The train had stopped. Witness's stepson was on the Station to meet them, and they went to his house in a cab, and sent for Dr Harmer. On Saturday, October 22nd, Dr Harmer and Dr Bell had a consultation and deceased was removed to the Hospital. She died at 6 p.m. on Friday last. - Miss Smithy, St Leonard's-road, Newton Abbot, said she saw deceased on the Saturday, and asked her how the accident happened. She replied that "she was at the far end of the platform and she put her foot out and thought there was another step, and it being rather dark, did not see it, and she fell right out." - Mr Alfred Mitchell, guard, said he was on the train in question and picked up deceased. The lamps on the Station gave a good light. He did not remember whether all the lamps were alight. - Inspector J. Johns said within twelve yards of deceased there was a large lamp with a double light. All the lamps were alight. - Mr F. J. Heal, porter, also gave evidence. - Dr C. H. Lilley, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said he had attended the deceased for the last week. She was suffering from a fractured thigh and death was due to shock, resulting from the injuries, accelerated by heart disease. - The Jury returned their verdict accordingly. - Chief Inspector Mapledoram, Exeter, represented the Great Western Railway Company.

Western Times, Friday 11 November 1910
EXETER - Sudden Death Of An Exeter Octogenarian. - An Inquest was conducted at the Exeter Police Court yesterday by Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, relative to the death of MAUD HILL, a widow, of 27 Stepcote Hill, Exeter. - Evidence of identification was given by EMMA HILL, daughter, with whom the deceased resided. Her mother, she said, was 80 years of age. She found her dead in bed on Wednesday morning. - Dr Pereira said the post mortem examination showed that death resulted from a ruptured blood vessel of the heart. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

TORQUAY - Fatal Accident At Torquay. - A verdict of Accidental Death was returned at Torquay yesterday at the Inquest respecting the death of CHARLES LEWIS, 65, who had his skull fractured and sustained other injuries by the collapse of the wall of a building on which he was working at Babbacombe about a fortnight ago. Evidence was given to the effect that owing to the heavy rain the wall was saturated with water and slipped because of its weight. The mortar and bricks used were good. The Jury added to their verdict a rider recommending the Council to strengthen its building bye-laws controlling the material used for houses.

PAIGNTON - Sudden Death At Paignton. - Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner, yesterday held an Inquest at Paignton, on the body of ETHEL MARY CRUDGE, aged 34, a spinster, living with her parents in Palace-avenue. She went to Torquay with her parents on Wednesday and after the return home, and while at supper, deceased complained of a pain in her throat and shortly after died. She was stated by her father to be of a bright and cheerful disposition and was apparently in good health. Dr Cosens, who was called after death, and made a post-mortem examination, attributed death to aneurism of the aorta, the lungs, kidneys and liver being congested in addition. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly and expressed their deep sympathy to the bereaved family, in which expression the Coroner joined.

Western Times, Monday 14 November 1910
TORQUAY - At Torquay, Saturday, a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned in the case of FRED DELBRIDGE, 31, of Dawson Cottage, who took his life with a razor. Evidence was given to the effect that the deceased, who had suffered off and on since he had the influenza three years ago, had recently been somewhat strange in his head, and had been under medical treatment. On the morning of the tragedy he said he had slept well, but after breakfast told his mother he would go upstairs and lie down and smoke a bit. He took something (which subsequently was found to be a razor) off a shelf and went to his bedroom. Hearing a fall, his mother and brother went up and found him lying on the floor with his throat cut. A razor was found near by.

Western Times, Tuesday 15 November 1910
NEWTON ABBOT - Death From Scalds. Shocking Accident To A Child At Newton. - FREDERICK JOHN TUCKER, the three-year-old chid of MR and MRS HARRY TUCKER, of Quay-road, Newton Abbot, died on Sunday from scalds received on the previous Friday. The poor little fellow overbalanced himself while in front of the fire and upset a kettle of boiling water. - Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner, held the Inquest at the Marsh Schoolroom yesterday. - SARAH ANN TUCKER, mother, deposed that the accident occurred through deceased, who had climbed on to a chair, falling forward while endeavouring to reach something on the mantelpiece and coming in contact with the spout of the kettle. - The Coroner: Have you a fireguard? - Witness: Yes, sir, but it is worn out and I did not use it. - The Coroner informed witness that she was not allowed to leave a child alone in a room where there was a fire without a fireguard. - Wm. Henry Cook, of Hillman's Road, Newton, who boards with the TUCKERS, deposed to seeing a child overbalance itself. - Dr Llewellyn Jones, who was called to attend deceased, deposed that at the time of the accident the child was sickening from measles. There were severe scalds on the face, left thigh and right forearm. Death was due to shock. - The Coroner, reviewing the accident, said although it was compulsory there should be a guard to the fire, in the present case it might not have prevented loss of life, because with the child standing on a chair it might have fallen inside. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Wednesday 16 November 1910
EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - Sudden Death At St. Thomas. - Mr W. Rackwood Cocks, Deputy City Coroner, conducted an Inquest at the Police Court, Exeter, yesterday, relative to the death of HENRY TROTT, aged 44, waggoner, of 60 Buller-road, St. Thomas, Exeter. - Mr M. Brookes, 60- Buller-road, said deceased had been lodging with his mother for about 30 years. Witness last saw him alive on Sunday evening, when he was in his usual spirits. Witness did not remember deceased ever having a day's illness. On Monday morning he was aroused by a loud knock at the door about 6.45. Someone was asking for deceased, who usually went to work about 5.15. Witness went to TROTT'S room and saw him lying on his back as if asleep. He shouted to him, but he did not rise. He then went over to him and saw he was dead. - Dr L. P. Black said death was due to fatty degeneration of the heart. The Jury returned their verdict accordingly.

Western Times, Thursday 17 November 1910
TORQUAY - Septuagenarian's Sudden Death At Torquay. - An Inquest was held at Torquay yesterday respecting the death of WILLIAM BINMORE, 71. - Louie Bearne, his step-daughter, said the deceased lived with her. He had tea with her on Tuesday and appeared to be in his usual health. Two hours later she heard of his death. - William Leaman said he was with deceased, taking some plants to Tor on a truck. Just above the Catholic Church, in Abbey-road, deceased fell back and witness caught him. BINMORE died almost immediately, Dr Horton, who was at once called, pronouncing life extinct. - Dr S. P. Moore, who made a post-mortem examination, said death was due to fatty degeneration of the heart and heart failure. A verdict was returned to that effect.

Western Times, Friday 18 November 1910
HATHERLEIGH - The Hatherleigh Fatality. Shocking Accident To A Lad At A Farm. - Mr Coroner J. D. Prickman held an Inquest at the Police Court, Hatherleigh, on Tuesday, regarding the body of the little lad LIAS, who was accidentally killed on Saturday last. Mr W. J. Friend was elected Foreman of the Jury. - The father of the deceased, MR SAMUEL LIAS, was the first witness. He stated that the boy, whose name was HENRY WALLACE LIAS, was 10 years old in October last. He last saw the boy on Wednesday. - George Brook, a lad of 16, said he was driving single horse in the machine-house at Coombes Farm last Saturday when the boy LIAS came into the yard. He saw him standing against a post in the round-house and then as he went around herd the boy say "Oh!" He stopped the horse at once and shouted. This brought out his master (Mr F. Murrin), who was feeding the chaff-cutter in the barn. The boy lay on the ground then, and Mr Murrin picked him up. There was no sound or movement after. The lad had ridden around on the arm of the machine once during the afternoon and witness had warned him not to do it again. - Mr F. Murrin corroborated the lad's statement. The boy was lying on the floor of the round-house when witness came out of the barn. The deceased lad's presence at Coombes Farm was explained by the fact that he was fetching "douse" which witness had given to his mother for filling bed-ticking. He discovered that the boy had left his bag in the yard and gone into the machine-house, probably to have a ride. He was, apparently, crushed between the arm of the machine and the covering of the cogs, that covering being square. - Dr Mitchell deposed to examining the body. He found the head and neck badly damaged, a wound on the scalp and the neck broken. Death must have been instantaneous. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," for which no blame could be attached to anyone. They expressed their sincere sympathy with the bereaved family and asked the parents to accept the Jurymen's fees. The Coroner concurred in the verdict, and joined the Jurymen in their vote of condolence.

OAKFORD - An Inquest was held at Oakford last Friday on MR JACOB SKINNER, aged 69, of Bell Farm, Oakford, who died suddenly. It appears he left home for work and was called for lunch. Upon returning he expired. The verdict was "Death from Natural Causes." The Jury gave their fees to the widow. The interment took place on Saturday, in the Parish Churchyard, when a large number of friends attended.

Western Times, Saturday 19 November 1910
NEWTON ABBOT - Shocking Death. Newton Child Dies From Effects Of Burns. - Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner, held the Inquest at Newton Hospital yesterday relative to the death of JENNIE [JANIE] LEWARNE BASTOW, the eight-year-old child of MR and MRS BASTOW, of Kingsteignton, and who died at that Institution on Thursday morning from burns received on the previous night. - Dr J. Culross, one of the Hospital doctors, stated that the child was brought to the Institution suffering from very severe burns over the whole of the body, face and limbs. The wounds had already been properly dressed, but there was no hope of recovering with such extensive injuries and he injected morphia to relieve the pain. There was scarcely an inch of the body that was not burned. The ultimate cause of death was shock, and it was remarkable that such a young child should have lived to reach the Hospital. - ELIZABETH BASTOW, of Parr's Lane, Kingsteignton, mother, stated that she had five other children. About ten she went out to fetch the supper beer, leaving deceased in the kitchen and the baby in the cradle, the other children having gone to bed. Her husband was not at home, as he was on night work. Witness might have remained at the public-house five minutes. While outside talking to a couple of people she was informed of what had happened and she rushed home. Nothing in the room was burnt. There was a piece of candle upon the stove. It had been burning, for the grease had gone all over the stove and there was some on the floor. The candle was in the cupboard when she went away. Witness supposed the child saw the fire was dying down and went to get the candle to fetch some coals. - Rev. Preb. Jackson, Vicar of Kingsteignton, suggested that the witness might be asked if she was in the habit of making up the fir by putting candles into it. - Witness replied in the negative. The child had never seen her put a candle on the stove. - Answering the Coroner, witness said there was no guard to the fire-place. She did have one, but it wore out. She knew she was not allowed to leave children in the house without a fire guard. - Mr Creech (a Juror): Could you have got your beer nearer than the King's Arms? - Yes. - And got home again in a couple of minutes? - Yes. - Have you been in the habit of going away and leaving your children? - No. - Have you ever gone into Newton and left them by themselves? - No; they have been to school. - How long would you stay in Newton? - Two or three hours. - Has your husband ever accompanied you to Newton? - No, sir. - James Underhill, of Kingsteignton, farm labourer, deposed to hearing screams. He looked out of the window and saw a child running down the lane in flames. He rushed out to assist her and saw another man smothering the flames with his coat. Witness went for the mother and found her outside the King's Arms. - James Gulley, of Kingsteignton, clay-cutter, deposed to smothering the flames with his coat, getting burnt himself in so doing. - Bessie Florence Sloggett, District Nurse, said she took the child to the Hospital. - WM. LEWARNE BASTOW, engine driver, father of deceased, replying to the Coroner, said as far as he knew the children were never left in front of the fire. When he was home they went to bed. - How is it you did not see there was a fireguard? - We have enough to do to live with six children without laying money out like that. - The Coroner observed that a fireguard could be got for 6d. or 8d., and, as the responsible head of the house, it was witness's place to provide one. - Witness said he should now see that a fireguard be got right away. - MRS BASTOW, recalled, and replying to the Coroner, said the deceased was partly dressed in flannelette, and she did not know it was highly inflammable material. - The Coroner, reviewing the evidence, said under the Children Act, a fireguard was only compulsory under the age of seven, but the death in question pointed the moral to the necessity of fireguards. The Jury, of course, still had a common law right, if they took a very high view, to say there was criminal negligence. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and the Coroner, at the request of the Jury, cautioned the parents, pointing out to them that the poor little child lost its life through the want of a proper precaution.

Western Times, Wednesday 23 November 1910
EXETER - Veteran's Death At Exeter. Complained Of Suffering From His Wounds. - Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, held an Inquest relative to the death of NORMAN LEITH HAY CLARK, aged 64, of Frog-street, a retired lieutenant of the Navy, at the Guildhall, Exeter, yesterday. - Mr S. L.R. Templar, of 30 South Avenue, Polsloe-road, identified the body, and stated that on Thursday last witness saw deceased, who said he was not feeling very well, his nose having been bleeding lately. He had seen a great deal of service and besides his ordinary pension, he had a pension for wounds. - Mrs S. A. Corner said lately deceased had been bleeding at the nose and used to feel very weak, suffering from his wounds. She saw him on Saturday last and he complained of giddiness. - Mrs Norrish, of 24 Frog-street, said deceased had rented a room from her for over three years. On Sunday morning he complained of giddiness. On Monday morning he did not, as usual, call her up and about 10.45 a.m., as she thought something was wrong, she asked someone to open the door. Mr May, who did so, found CLARK dead. Dr Atkins said the cause of death was heart failure, due to a diseased liver and congestion of the lungs. The Jury returned their verdict accordingly.

Western Times, Thursday 24 November 1910
EXMOUTH - Death From Scalds. Shocking Death Of A Child At Exmouth. A Pure Accident. - An Inquest was held at the Exmouth Cottage Hospital, yesterday, before Mr E. R. Tweed, relative to the death of a child named VIOLET GEORGINA JACKSON, aged sixteen months, who died from scalds on Sunday afternoon. Mr H. J. Long was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - HELEN JACKSON, residing at Brooklyn, Withycombe, the guardian of the child, stated that she placed her under the charge of Mrs Quick, of 6 Belmont Terrace, Withycombe, in January last. Witness visited the child nearly every week, and at other times she came to witness's house. The child was very happy and always well cared for and she was perfectly satisfied with the way she was looked after. Witness paid 7s. 6d. weekly for the care and keep of the child, which did not include clothes and medicine, which she always provided. Last Thursday night at about 6 o'clock, Mr Quick came to her and said: "Come quickly, baby has met with an accident." Witness went at once and found Dr Beesley attending to the child. The baby was insured to receive £200 on her 21st birthday, but witness would get nothing but the return of the premiums paid. When she went to Belmont Terrace, Mr and Mrs Quick told witness that Mr Quick poured boiling water in the bath and went to the scullery to get cold water. The child was then playing at the far end of the room, but when Mr Quick returned she had fallen into the bath and he pulled her out. Mrs Quick was in the same room standing on a chair and hanging clothes on a line to air. The child was fully dressed at the time of the accident. - Manley Bryce Quick, of 6 Belmont Terrace, Withycombe, said he placed the bath in the kitchen, and poured two kettles-full of boiling water into it. As he was returning with the cold water he saw the child walking backwards towards the bath and she fell backwards into the bath before he could seize her. Witness ran to the telephone office and called Dr Beesley, who arrived in ten minutes from the call. The child had been very healthy all the time they had had her. They had no children, nor had they previously had the care of a child. He considered the occurrence a pure accident. - It seems an extraordinary thing to leave the boiling water near a sixteen months old child. Is it your habit to prepare the bath in this same way? - Yes. - The Coroner: It is a very dangerous habit. - Witness: My wife generally puts the cold water in the bath first. - The Coroner: That is a very different thing. - A Juror: I understand your wife was very fond of the child? - Witness: Yes. We have had her since she was ten weeks old. We had not insured the child. - Ada Pauline Quick, wife of the last witness, gave corroborative evidence. She asked her husband to prepare the bath, and she did not know that it was not being done as she did it, by placing the cold water in first. - Harry Taylor, relieving officer and insurance life inspector for the Exmouth district, said he had always reported very favourably as to the care of the child and Mr and Mrs Quick were undoubtedly very fond of her. - Dr Beesley said he was called to go to Belmont-terrace last Thursday. When he got there the child was screaming and almost pulseless. Nearly the whole of the back was badly scalded. Witness dressed the scalds and sent the child to the Cottage Hospital, where it died from pneumonia and shock. The scald was quite sufficient to cause death; pneumonia was quite a secondary matter. - Dr Beesley spoke of Mr and Mrs Quick as highly respectable people and the Rev. M. S. Shaw, Vicar of Withycombe, said negligence could not be imputed to them. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and exonerated both Mr and Mrs Quick from any blame.

Western Times, Friday 25 November 1910
BIDEFORD - Shocking Fatality Near Bideford. - A distressful accident which unfortunately was attended with fatal results, occurred at Bideford on Tuesday morning. FREDERICK JOHN DARK, aged 21, farm servant in the employ of Mr Sidney Burrows, of Parkham Ash, Parkham, was driving a pair-horsed waggon loaded with sacks of chaff, when, on reaching Bideford side of Forrest-hill, New-road, the horses bolted, throwing DARK violently into the roadway. One of the wheels passed over his chest, causing almost immediate death. Dr Grose, of Bideford, was sent for, but on his arrival could only pronounce life extinct. At the Inquest a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

SOUTH BRENT - Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquest at the County Schoolroom, South Brent, on Tuesday evening, relative to the death of CAPTAIN EDWARD BOVETT PEACOCK, formerly a Judge in the Indian Civil Service, who was found dead in his bed at the Pack Horse Hotel, South Brent, on Sunday morning. - Mrs Howard Jones, of London, identified the body. Evidence was given by Mrs Carpenter who last saw the deceased about midnight on Saturday. After nursing him she left his room, and on going to him again on Sunday morning, found him dead. Alfred Shillabeer, the deceased's groom, also gave evidence. After hearing the evidence of Dr Style, the Jury, of whom Mr R. H. Gil was Foreman, returned a verdict that the deceased died from syncope.

MERTON - On Monday evening, while returning home from his work, MR U. STRIBLING, of Tythecombe Hall, suddenly expired. Quite a shock was experienced when the sad news became known, as up to within a few minutes of his death he appeared in his usual health. He was fortunately accompanied by his eldest son, GEORGE. On Wednesday, the County Coroner, Mr Brown, held an Inquest to Inquire into the cause of death. Dr Johnson who performed a post-mortem examination, found that one of the large blood vessels in the lungs had burst. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned. The remains will be interred today.

Western Times, Saturday 26 November 1910
TORQUAY - Naval Stoker's Death At Torquay. - An Inquest was held at Torquay yesterday touching the death of PHILIP ROBERT STOCKHAM, leading stoker, of H.M.S. "Warrior." - BESSIE STOCKHAM, wife of deceased, said she received a letter from him that morning. In it he said he had a cold, but he had never complained of ill-health. A ship's corporal produced deceased's record. - Frederick George Dure, leading stoker, deposed that he found deceased sitting down with his face between his knees. He was removed to "sick bay." - William Ernest Edwards, stoker petty officer, said deceased worked with him the previous morning cleaning out a store. - Fleet-Surgeon F. J. Lumley certified that when he was called to see STOCKHAM he found him dead. - Dr Moore of the Torbay Hospital, certified death to be due to a ruptured blood vessel of the heart. The Jury, of which Mr Gregory was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Monday 28 November 1910
DARTMOUTH - Naval Stoker's Fatal Fall From Waggonette. Hole In A Road. - On Saturday, at Dartmouth Guildhall, Mr A. M. Davson, Coroner for the Dartmouth District, held an Inquest concerning the death of JAMES CONNOLLY, a stoker, of H.M.S. "Pomone," stationed at Dartmouth. - John Henry Johnson, a naval stoker, attached to H.M.S. "Pomone," said deceased was a single man, 25 years of age, and resided in Lake-street. On Sunday afternoon last deceased, himself and another stoker, called Bulmer, left Dartmouth at between half-past three and a quarter to four o'clock for a walk to Blackawton. They called at the Inn at Hemborough Post, and there each had two small bottles of Bass. After that they continued their walk to Blackawton, but on reaching the village they proceeded to the George Inn, where they remained until nine o'clock. They had some bread and cheese, taking two glasses of beer before and two after the victuals. They were in the same room all the time. They arranged to drive home in a waggonette. Witness sat with the driver and the other two were behind, facing each other. When about half a mile from Blackawton, witness was told CONNOLLY had fallen out of the vehicle. Witness and Bulmer jumped out and helped deceased back into the trap. They noticed CONNOLLY'S nose was bleeding and they thought he was stunned by the fall. Deceased did not complain of any internal injury. They drove as far as Tower Cottage, Dartmouth, and then got out of the vehicle, deceased walking home, where he was accompanied by witness. While in bed deceased made a complaint to witness and in the morning he sent for a doctor. - By the Coroner: He did not consider deceased was the worse for drink. They were at the Inn at Blackawton from about half past six to nine o'clock. - Victor Bulmer, a naval stoker, corroborated and said he would like to add that it was arranged, before they left Dartmouth, that they should drive back. He was sitting in the trap facing deceased. When they were returning to Dartmouth and about half a mile from Blackawton, deceased "got up" to light his pipe, and shielded the light behind the driver owing to a strong head wind. Suddenly a wheel got into a rut and deceased fell out of the trap. It was a very dark night. He found him on the road face downwards. - By the Coroner: Deceased was not the worse for liquor. - John E. Gordon, landlord of the George Inn, Blackawton, said that on Sunday, soon after opening time, deceased and the other witnesses entered the house. They had one glass of ale each, then some bread and cheese, and then two glasses of beer. They stopped until nine o'clock, and then left the house. They were not the worse for drink. - William Cole said he drove the wagonette on the night in question. He also said the men were sober. - Dr J. H. Harris described the internal injuries, which had caused peritonitis, to which death was due. He added that there was a hole in the road where the accident happened, about as big as a plate, caused by a spring. The road had been mended, but the water made another hole. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Times, Friday 2 December 1910
BAMPTON - Boy Killed At A Shooting Party At Bampton. - A distressing fatality occurred at Huntsham on Tuesday, whereby a lad attendant to a shooting party was shot. On the Huntsham Estate, Mr H. Acland Troyte has let his shooting, and a party arrived on Tuesday for a day's sport. Amongst them was Mr S. B. Carey, of Clevedon, who had as his attendant a lad named JOHN CHAMBERLAIN, aged 13, son of a dairyman living at Coppacombe, Huntsham. Mr Carey was walking through the covers, with CHAMBERLAIN a little to the rear and was carrying his loaded gun under his arm with the stock behind. Unexpectedly, Mr Carey stepped upon a slippery piece of wood, and fell backwards. In the fall, the stock came in contact with the ground and the barrels were forced backwards in the direction of CHAMBERLAIN. Almost immediately there was a loud report, and although the lad had evidently attempted to get to one side, he received the charge at close quarters. The left side of his skull and face was completely blown away, death being almost instantaneous. Messengers were at once despatched to Bampton, and Dr Bovey and P.S. Rowland were quickly on the scene, but nothing could be done. P.S. Rowland later had the remains conveyed to Singate Cottage, Petter. - At the Inquest a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Times, Tuesday 6 December 1910
EXETER - The Exeter City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, conducted an Inquest at the Police Station last evening on the three months' old daughter of ARTHUR MEARS, gas stoker, of 8 Ware's Buildings, Cowick-street. Dr L. P. Black said that death was due to suffocation through over-laying and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly. - The Coroner remarked that it was important that these cases should be inquired into since the passing of the Children Act, but here there did not seem the slightest blame attaching to the parents.

EXETER HEAVITREE - At the Council Offices, Heavitree, last evening, Mr F. Thomas, Deputy County Coroner, held an Inquest relative to the death of ELIZABETH DORIS PAVEY, aged three, which occurred on Saturday. Evidence was given to the fact that deceased suffered from fits, and that death was due to the brain being acutely congested. A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

TEIGNMOUTH - Dawlish Tragedy. Melancholy End Of Visitors Health Trip. - At Teignmouth yesterday, Mr R. de V. Whiteway Wilkinson, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquiry into the death of OCTAVIUS STANLEY FLOWER, 31, of Brighton, electrician, whose decomposed body was washed up at Teignmouth on Saturday morning, after deceased had been missing from Dawlish since August 26, when he hired a boat, which was subsequently picked up empty, with some rope and ballast missing. - SEPTIMUS HERBERT FLOWER, brother, deposed that deceased suffered from a nervous breakdown and went into a Nursing Home at the Isle of Wight. Whilst there deceased had suicidal impulses. A specialist recommended sending him to a Sanatorium, which was done. Last summer deceased went with witness, his mother and others to Teignmouth for a holiday. On August 26 he seemed fairly bright. He left the others on the beach to change his straw hat for a cap, as it was rather windy, and that was the last they saw of him. Earlier in the day deceased intended going fishing on the pier, but did not do so, as there was a probability of a stormburst. - Arthur E. Cotton, of Dawlish, deposed to letting a boat to deceased. Witness presumed the young man intended fishing, because he had a stone put in a boat. Witness noticed that deceased looked "vague" when getting into the boat, but he never anticipated that he intended to take his life. - Frederick Geo. Smith, of Lympstone, deposed that while fishing off Dawlish, he saw a man in a boat, which was drifting out towards the sea. Witness went half a mile towards Exmouth, and then he saw the boat was empty. Witness rowed to the spot and brought the boat into Dawlish. - A Juror: Was there a stone in the boat? - Witness: No, sir. - Frank Chas Cotton, son of the first witness, spoke to seeing Smith towing in the boat, from which about five fathoms of the anchor rope was missing. - Thomas Laurie of Teignmouth, labourer, deposed to finding the body on Saturday. Rope was twined round the legs and waist, and tied. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity," and passed a vote of sympathy with the relatives.

Western Times, Wednesday 7 December 1910
BERRYNARBOR - Farmer's Sudden Death. Revelations At A North Devon Inquest. - At Newberry Farm, Berrynarbor, last evening, Mr G. W. F. Brown conducted an Inquest on the body of a well-known farmer, named JOHN DRAPER, aged 58, who was found dead in bed on Monday morning. - The Coroner said that deceased was carried to bed on Sunday night and he was found dead next morning by a young farm labourer who lived with him. - MRS DRAPER, the widow, who resided apart from her husband, said she last saw deceased on Sunday evening at 7.30, when he was quite lively and cheerful. He had been subject to fits for ten years, and had had one the week previous. - John Darch, farm labourer, said he slept in the same room as deceased, who went to bed on Sunday at 11.5 p.m. He was then in his usual condition, and made no complaint. He told witness to call him in the morning at about 8.15 a.m. Witness woke and found his master dead in bed. - A Juror: Was MR DRAPER quite sober when he went to bed? - Witness: He had had a drop, but he wasn't drunk. - The Coroner: You say he was in his "usual condition," was that his usual condition? - Witness: Yes, sir. - Dr Manning said he was called at 8.30 a.m. and he found the man had been dead about two hours. He was lying on the bed perfectly composed and there were no marks of external violence. He had made a post-mortem examination, and had found deceased's heart was extensively diseased, as were also his liver and kidneys. He had every appearance of being a man who drank heavily. Death was due to heart failure. - By the Coroner: He had been subject to fainting attacks, not fits. These attacks were due to the condition of the heart. - The Coroner remarked on the fact that the young fellow who lived with deceased had said he was in his "usual condition." He supposed that they all knew deceased and were aware that he drank rather freely. Death was evidently due to natural causes. - The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Times, Friday 9 December 1910
SHERWILL - A Dangerous Practice Condemned At Sherwill. - The Barnstaple County Coroner, Mr G. W. Brown, on Monday concluded an Inquest on the body of an infant son of MR and MRS SAMUEL HOOPER, of Brightlecott, Shirwell. the mother stated that on Thursday night she took the child to bed with her and fed it at about a quarter to 12. The child took its bottle all right and went to sleep. Witness said she woke up about 3 a.m. and could not hear the child breathing. Her husband lit the lamp and found the child was dead. They sent for Dr Jones. The doctor said that a post-mortem examination revealed haemorrhage of the left lung. In his opinion the child died from suffocation. Answering the Coroner, witness said the child had never suffered from a fit. She thought she would have heard it during the night if it had had a fit. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death, due to Suffocation, evidently by being overlaid, or by the clothes getting over its head." The Coroner again pointed out the danger of people taking an infant to bed with them. However, careful they might be, if they were heavy sleepers they might unintentionally throw an arm over the child's face, or in turning throw the clothes over the child and cause suffocation. In this case they did not attach any blame to the mother, but he hoped she would not take another infant to bed with her.

Western Times, Wednesday 14 December 1910
EXETER - Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, held an Inquest at the Guildhall yesterday relative to the death of ANTONIO FORTE, aged 80, a retired farmer, of 1 Mermaid Yard. MR D. FORTE, 1 Mermaid Yard, son, said his father had suffered from rheumatism. In August he was treated by a doctor, and got better again. On Friday last he complained that he was not well and on Saturday morning, at 8.30, a great change came over him, and he was unconscious. He died about 9.45 a.m. Dr Stokes said the cause of death was heart failure, and the Jury returned their verdict accordingly.

Western Times, Monday 19 December 1910
TEIGNMOUTH - On Saturday evening, Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, conducted an Enquiry at the Town Hall, Teignmouth, touching the death of WILLIAM THOMAS BOWDEN, 68, art dealer and painter of Bitton-street, Teignmouth. - At the outset, Mr Irving Taylor again brought up the question of the Jury being called upon to view the body. - the Coroner reminded him that a Bill was before Parliament to amend certain laws respecting Inquests. If the Bill was passed, Jurors may possibly be relieved of the unpleasant duty, but until then, the law must take its course. - The Jury having viewed the body at deceased's residence, MR SAMUEL BOWDEN, brother, gave evidence of identification. Deceased was a bachelor and lived alone. He last saw him alive at 7.30 on Thursday night, and on going to his house on Friday morning about half-past seven, he found his brother in the basement on the bottom of the stairs dead, holding a knife and fork in his hand. Being a sufferer from rheumatic gout, deceased experienced great difficulty in going up and down stairs. - Mr F. E. Little, Surgeon, said when called, blood was oozing from deceased's nose, and he considered death was instantaneous. His opinion was that death was the result of the fracture of the base of the skull. Possibly the deceased might have had some kind of seizure before he fell. When he came to him, deceased was lying on his left knee. MR BOWDEN had a similar fall about two years since and was very stiff in his legs. - P.C. Gordon said he was called by telephone by the last witness and saw deceased at the bottom of the stairs with a knife and fork in his right hand. On going over the house everything appeared in perfect order. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Times, Tuesday 20 December 1910
TIVERTON - Sudden Death At Tiverton. - An Inquest was held at Tiverton last evening, touching the death of MRS RHODA DEERING, who died suddenly on Saturday morning. MR WILLIAM DEERING, husband of the deceased, stated that his wife was 67 years of age and had not required the services of a doctor for many years, but she had of late complained of pains in her arms and chest. On Saturday she seemed better than she had been earlier in the week, but remained in bed as her daughter was at home from school. MISS DEERING stated that her mother ate a good breakfast. When she entered the bedroom about a quarter to 11 she was alarmed to find her mother unconscious. The House Surgeon at the Infirmary and Dr Welsford soon arrived, but by this time death had occurred. Dr Welsford found on making a post-mortem examination signs of recent pleurisy and congestion of the left lung. The heart was fatty and the main artery calcified to a considerable extent. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Thursday 22 December 1910
EXETER - A Chagford Man's Death At Exeter Hospital. - An Inquest was held at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday by the City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, on THOMAS CAUNTER, aged 33, a cowman, of Chagford. The evidence showed that deceased had complained of pains in his stomach for some time, and was taken to the Hospital after being seen by a doctor on Saturday last, and died early the following morning. The medical evidence showed that there was liver disease, but that death was due to pyloric obstruction and ulceration of the stomach. It was stated deceased drank excessively. A verdict of Death from Natural Causes was returned. Coroner's Officer Walters went to Chagford to make enquiries into the case.

Western Times, Friday 23 December 1910
LAMBETH, SURREY - The mysterious death of MR SAMUEL H. COOMBE, youngest son of MR SAMUEL COOMBE, builder, of Exbourne, whose body was found floating in the River Thames at Nelson's Wharf, Blackfriars, London, has not yet been solved. Deceased, who was unmarried, was 33 years of age, and was a draper's assistant, in the service of Messrs. Massingham and Co., of Bethnal Green-road. At the Inquest held at Lambeth, the verdict returned by the Jury was "Found Drowned." It is supposed that the body had been in the water four weeks - as from that date was the last time deceased was seen - and that the cause of death was foul play or accident, as deceased had never threatened to take his life, and was not in any financial difficulties and bore an excellent character, as will be seen by the following letter sent by deceased's employer to his father:- "SAMUEL COOMBE, whose death occurred so recently in London was in my employ for nearly five years. I always found him honest and straightforward and a very good assistant. His position here was one of trust, and not once did he betray the confidence I placed in him. I feel very sorry for his parents in this great bereavement and they have my heartfelt sympathy. - James Massingham." - Deceased was interred in Tooting Cemetery.

Western Times, Saturday 24 December 1910
EXETER - The City Coroner, Mr W. L. Brown, held an Inquest at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital last evening, touching the death of ARTHUR JOHN MORTIMORE, of Fernworthy Farm, Chagford, who died at the Hospital. Mr Harry Ernest Williams was chosen Foreman of the Jury. MR GEORGE MORTIMORE, farmer, father of the deceased, who was distressed, identified the body. Deceased was 20- years of age and helped him on the farm. On Wednesday week witness went to Princetown, and on his return deceased awaited him at Chagford. He was all right then, and they left to go home about 10 p.m., when deceased complained of a pain in his bowels. Witness's wife told him deceased had jumped across the horse and rode up see some Scotch sheep. They sent for Dr Hunt, of Chagford, the next day, early. - Deceased was brought to the Hospital last Monday. He had never complained to witness that he hurt himself while riding the horse. Deceased was a very healthy young fellow, and had never had a doctor in his life before this. - Charles Herbert Lilley, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased was suffering from a strain in the bowels. There was no sign of bruises. He died of strangulated hernia. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

BARNSTAPLE - The Barnstaple Borough Coroner held an Inquest yesterday concerning the death of MRS ELIZA CHANTER, 64, wife of a Bishopsnympton mason, who died suddenly at Barnstaple yesterday. She had previously walked from Bishopsnympton to South Molton Station. The medical evidence showed that deceased's heart was diseased and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Times, Tuesday 27 December 1910
DARTMOUTH - Swedish Seaman's Painful Death At Dartmouth. - Yesterday morning at Dartmouth Guildhall, Mr A. M. Davson, County Coroner for the Dartmouth District, held an Inquest regarding the death at the Cottage Hospital of JULIAS NELSON, seaman of the ss. "Hardanger." Mr W. J. Voisey was Foreman of the Jury. - Miss Harris, matron of the Dartmouth Cottage Hospital, said deceased was brought into the Hospital on Saturday. He was 42 years of age. He was suffering from a compound dislocation of the right ankle. He told her he had caught his foot under a chain, having been knocked over by the waves and was suspended over the side of the ship by his foot. Deceased also said he remained in that position until others had come to help him. He was operated upon on Sunday morning and died at about 1.20 p.m. - Dr J. H. Harris, Port Medical Officer, said on Saturday December 17th, he was called on board the ship to see four men, including the deceased, who had been injured. The deceased was suffering from a compound dislocation of the right ankle and in fact his foot had been almost torn from his leg. Witness had him removed to the Hospital, and the man's condition became so bad that it was decided to amputate his leg, which he did on Sunday morning. During the operation the man suddenly collapsed. Necessary remedies were administered and he recovered somewhat. The operation was completed and he was got back to his bed, but he died an hour and a half afterwards. He attributed death to shock owing to the severity of the operation and the poor state the man was in. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Western Times, Wednesday 28 December 1910
TIVERTON - A verdict of "Accidental Suffocation" was returned last evening at an Inquest conducted by the Tiverton Borough Coroner, Mr A. Fisher, on the fourteen-days-old child of MR and MRS J. JURY, of Barrington-street, Tiverton. According to the evidence, the child was born on December 10th. With the exception of what the mother termed "snuffles" or cold in the head, deceased was a very healthy child. On Saturday morning last she found the infant dead, lying on her left arm, with its face near the breast, the same position as when it went to sleep the previous evening. - Dr Burgess said the symptoms of the post-mortem examination he had made of the child were consistent with death having been caused by suffocation. Witness considered it a dangerous practice to hold an infant to the breast when a mother was going off the sleep. But, unfortunately, it was a common practice, and he had known many cases of accidental suffocation as a result. - The Coroner remarked to the midwife who had given evidence of the mother's careful treatment of deceased, that he hoped she would in all future cases she attended urge mothers not to adopt the dangerous practice of holding infants to the breast when going to sleep.

Western Times, Friday 30 December 1910
EXETER - Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, held an Inquest on Wednesday relative to the death of ELLEN HEWETT PARTRIDGE, widow, aged 80, of 11 College-avenue, Exeter. It was shown that several weeks ago deceased fell down over three stairs and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

DOLTON - A painfully sudden death took place on Sunday evening, when MISS MARY BUDD, daughter of MR W. H. BUDD, was found dead in bed, after retiring half an hour previously. An Inquest was held on Wednesday by Mr G. Brown. Mr Budd (Baslands) was chosen Foreman of the Jury. Dr Johnson, in his evidence, said he had made a post mortem and found the deceased had died from heart disease. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.