Inquests Taken Into Suspicious Or Unexplained Deaths

For the County of Devon

1917

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:-  Ackland; Anstis; Ashby; Avery; Ayre; Baker(2); Barnes; Barriball; Bartlett; Beckly; Belcher; Bell; Bennett(2); Border; Bradbury; Branton; Brown(2); Bryant; Bucknell; Bull; Bullen; Burnard; Burton; Campbell; Candey; Causley; Channon; Charles; Chichester; Ching; Clarke; Colbourne; Cook; Coombe; Courtney; Cowling; Cox(2); Crawford; Craze; Crocker; Crook; Cross(2); Davey; Deneys; Dimond; Ditton; Down(2);  Drew; Dymond; Earling; Easterbrook; Elliott(2); Emberry; Evans; Fabian; Fell; Fenner; Fewings; Finch; Findlay; Furler; Gage; Gains; Galsworthy; Gardener(2); Gash; Gillanders; Gossett; Greaves; Green; Grylls; Halse; Harding; Hannaford; Hardwick; Harris(2); Hasking; Hatswell; Heal; Henderson; Hocking; Holland; Holloway; Holman; Hooker; Horsham; Howe; Hubbard; Husson; Hutchings; Ireland; Jackson; Jeffery; Johns; Jones; Jordan; Judge; Kelly; Kerswell; Kirton; Knapman; Knight; Kraumer; Lake; Lawford; Laybourn; Leach; Leaman; Lean; Leat; Lee(2); Le Neven; Letten; Lever; Leworthy; Lock; London; Lott; Loweth; MacDonnell; Manning(2); Mansell; Martin; Matravers; Maunder(3); May(2); McBryde; McCall; McKenna; Meade; Mears; Mitchell; Moore; Morrell; Morton; Munford; Norrish; Nott; Pallett; Panes; Parker; Patterson; Paul; Pearn; Pedrick; Penwill; Perry; Pike; Plumer; Pook; Porter; Pratt; Prince; Pring; Puddicombe; Pyke; Pym; Riley; Ritchie; Roberts; Rockett; Rodd; Rooks; Rudge; Sage; Sale; Salter; Seaward; Sedgemore; Sercombe; Shaddick; Sharland; Shepperd; Shillabeer; Shobbrooke; Simons; Slater; Small; Smith; Soloman; Squire; Staddon; Stanbury; Stone; Stoneman; Strudwick; Sutcliffe; Syme; Taylor; Trenchard; Trussell; Tucker(2); Turner; Van Wyenberg; Venn; Venton; Vericas; Vern; Verney; Voules; Warden; Ware; West(2); Westlake; Wheeler;  White(2); Whyburn; Widdicombe; Williams; Wilson; Withycombe; Woolacott; Wreford; Wyatt.

Western Times, Tuesday 2 January 1917
TAVISTOCK - Sudden Death By The Roadside At Tavistock. - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquest at the Magistrates' Room, Tavistock, on Saturday, relative to the death of HARRY BARRIBALL, single, 49 years of age, who was found lying dead in the road between Tavistock and Brentor on Thursday evening. The deceased lived with his two unmarried sisters at Parkwood Cottages, Tavistock. LUCRETIA BARRIBALL, said she had looked after her brother ever since her father died twenty years ago. He, like the deceased, passed away suddenly. About twelve months ago her brother, who was an epileptic, was seized with a fit on the same road, and was brought home by Mr Perkin. Some years ago the late Dr Snowden Smith told her the deceased might die suddenly at any time, as he had a diseased heart. Her brother could not write and was more or less of an imbecile, notwithstanding which he was always very careful of traffic when he went out and was of a very cheerful disposition. - George Perkin stated that he last saw the deceased alive at Pitland Farm about 5.30 on Thursday. He then appeared to be all right. He had dinner and just before leaving partook of some cake and a glass of milk. - Thomas Palmer deposed that he found deceased lying on his back in the road. He examined him and found he was dead. - Dr W. R. Griffin said he had made a superficial examination of the body and found unmistakable signs that death was due to heart failure, accelerated by an epileptic fit. There were no bruises of any kind on the body. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" and expressed sympathy with the deceased's sisters.

TIVERTON - Uffculme Shooting Fatality. - At Tiverton Hospital last evening, before the Borough Coroner, Mr F. R. D. Clutsom, an Inquest was held concerning the death of REGINALD ARTHUR VENN, 16, of Uffculme, who died on Friday as the result of being accidentally shot on Boxing Day while rabbiting. - Evidence given by the father, an employee, and Dr Welsford, showed that the boy with a party were out rabbiting, and the boy's sister met them about dinner time with some cocoa. VENN asked his sister to bring along the gun, the only one with the party, and which no one knew was loaded. As the lad was about to get over a stile a report was heard and the boy cried out, "Oh, MARJORIE; you have shot me!" The girl dropped the gun and ran to him crying, "Oh REGGIE, I did not know it was loaded." Help was procured and the lad was taken by motor to Tiverton Hospital, but in spite of every care he died on Friday. The Coroner asked the Jury not to call the little girl as she was in a state of collapse from grief. He could tell them informally that the girl had said she picked up the gun and pulled back the trigger not knowing the gun was loaded. The trigger slipped from her fingers and the gun went off. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed their sympathy with the relatives, the Coroner associating himself with the expression.

BARNSTAPLE - At Barnstaple on Friday the Borough Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, opened an Inquest on the infant child of WILLIAM MOORE, boatman. The child, nine days old, was found dead in bed by the side of its mother. The Inquest was adjourned for a fortnight for the attendance of MRS MOORE.

EXETER HEAVITREE - Doctor Exonerated. Question Raised At A Heavitree Inquest. - At an Inquest held at Heavitree last evening, concerning the death of EMMA ELIZABETH HOOKER, aged 78, of Wonford, widow of a London ironmonger, the question of a doctor's declining to attend deceased was raised by the son, FRANK JOHN HOOKER. - This son, a whitesmith, who resided with his mother at Wonford, identified the body. He said that on Friday morning last, at 8.30, he heard a noise in her bedroom and when he went in she was lying on the floor. He lifted her back to bed and went for Dr Whaite. He saw Dr Whaite, who said he would not come to Wonford. This was between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m., and witness returned home, having left a neighbour there, and also having sent a messenger for his sister. He went again for the doctor about 1 p.m., and a third time about 4 p.m. Witness believed he was at home the latter time, as a message was sent out that he was indisposed and could not come. The door was slammed in his face. Witness did not know of another doctor now in Heavitree. - The Coroner: Did it not occur to you to go to the next nearest doctor? - Witness: I did not know the next nearest? - The Foreman (Mr Isaac): How many times in all was Dr Whaite sent for? - Witness: Five times in all. - MRS HAYMAN of Paris-street, said deceased, her mother, was a very hale and hearty lady for her age. Witness did not believe she ever had a doctor, either in London, where she formerly lived, or in Exeter during the last forty years. On Friday, when witness arrived at her house she was conscious and could talk. Witness thought she had had a slight stroke, and she personally went twice to Dr Whaite, once shortly after five. She was then told the doctor was at tea and she must call again at six. She went "on the stroke" and saw the doctor. He said he knew deceased and witness added "My mother told me that at any time she was ill I was to fetch you." The doctor replied, "I can't help that. I am not going out for anyone." - The Coroner: Did he say why? - Witness: He said he had a bad cold. - I said, "Thank you," and came away very hurt. - Dr J. A. Whaite said that MR HOOKER came about 11.15 a.m., just as he was going out and witness told him he was not well, and could not get down to Wonford that day. He had a bad cold, or slight influenza. HOOKER said his mother was very ill, but, added witness, "everybody says that." He had to return home before finishing his calls, about 2 p.m., as he was too ill to continue. He had lunch and then lay down on the couch and did not go out again that day. Someone called at tea-time and he sent a message saying he was too ill to go out to Wonford. - The Coroner: HOOKER gave us the impression you said you had had enough of Wonford and would not go there again? - Witness: I deny that. It is my parish. I must go and I told him I would go next day. I did go to Wonford next day and I saw several patients. - The Coroner: Who is the next nearest doctor? - Witness: In Southernhay, I suppose. - A Juror: Several doctors have gone from Heavitree. - Witness: Yes. I have the whole parish. I have more than I can do. - The Coroner: Did you tell the man to go for another doctor? - Witness: I don't know that I did. A doctor cannot believe everyone who comes saying someone is dangerously ill. We go sometimes and find the person up and dressed. - A Juror: Still, calling five times suggested something serious. - Dr Whaite: Then there was my own state of health. I was not fit to go. Witness added that death was due to heart failure, following pneumonia. Deceased must have had pneumonia for a few days. - The Coroner pointed out to the Jury that a doctor was not bound to attend anyone, but he was sure Dr Whaite was no exception to doctors generally, who did so much for humanity. Dr Whaite at the present time had the whole of Heavitree to look after and in the bad weather recently there was, no doubt, a lot of illness. On this day, moreover, he was ill, and told MR HOOKER so. - The Foreman: Dr Whaite has often obliged me. - Another Juror: And me. - The Jury found a verdict of "Natural Causes" and exonerated Dr Whaite from blame.

BARNSTAPLE - Tragic Death Of A Barnstaple Outfitter. - At the Inquest at Barnstaple on Friday concerning the sudden death of MR AUGUSTUS H. DOWN, a foreman outfitter at Barnstaple, deceased's daughter, MRS G. H. RICHARDS, of Ilfracombe, said her father was 58 years of age, and she never remembered his having a day's illness in his life. - Mrs Eliza Bennett, of Lower Gaydon-street, spoke to being in Mr Tresise's shop in Joy-street on Thursday afternoon when deceased arrived back from Ilfracombe. She heard deceased fall and ran for medical assistance. - Dr Manning, who made a post-mortem examination, attributed death to cerebral haemorrhage and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly, namely, "Natural Causes." - Mr M. Ffoulks, on behalf of the Jury, expressed sympathy with the family, remarking that he had known deceased for many years, and a better or more respected burgess one could not possibly name. - The Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, associated himself with the sentiments of sympathy.

ST MARYCHURCH - Left To Die Alone. Torquay Man's Aversion To Doctors. Coroner Censures Sister. - The County Coroner held an Inquest at St. Marychurch, Torquay, on Saturday, relative to the death of ALEXANDER JULES GODDARD LONDON, of independent means, who resided at Undercliff. Deceased's sister stated that her brother suffered from bronchitis and did not like having a doctor. The very mention of a doctor's name worried him. She had begged him on her knees to have medical advice, but he distinctly refused. - The Coroner: Although he was in a dying condition, did you not think it necessary to call in a doctor? - Witness: I did not think he was dying. - The Coroner said MISS LONDON had done wrong in not getting medical advice. Such conduct was deserving of censure. The only excuse was that deceased refused to see a doctor. - A neighbour said she was asked to go in, and washed deceased's face and hands whilst his sister went for a doctor and she then left. - The Coroner: You left a dying man in the house, and went home and said nothing. - Witness: Yes. - The Coroner: Well, it is not to your credit. - It was stated in evidence deceased died on the floor of his room and Dr Winter said the cause of death was bronchitis. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the circumstances were somewhat unsatisfactory, and it was difficult to understand how anyone could have left the man to die alone. It was hardly what one would expect in a civilised country. A man might refuse to see a doctor, but they would still think his relatives would do all they could for him. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

NORTH TAWTON - North Tawton Mystery. Strange Death Of A Child After Eating Chocolate. - On Friday evening Mr Coroner R. Brown held an Inquest in the Market Hall, North Tawton, relative to the death of a child - MARGERY GARDENER, the five-year-old daughter and youngest but one of five children of QMR. SERGT. J. W. GARDENER, R.M., and MRS GARDENER of the White Hart Inn, North Tawton. MRS GARDENER stated that the child had always been healthy and strong and was first taken ill on Wednesday morning with sickness. She seemed to recover and ran about as usual. On Thursday morning the child again complained of being unwell and was again sick. As she thought it was merely a bilious attack the child was told to keep in bed, but she was sick three or four times during the day. Just before 6 p.m. Dr Desprez was sent for, and he arrived shortly after six, but in the meantime the child had a fit. It also had another whilst the doctor was present, and had more fits after the doctor had gone. It died about 8 p.m. The child did not complain of illness on Christmas Day or Boxing Day and only had the usual Christmas fare. The children had boxes of chocolate from Mr Muller out of their Christmas club money. A similar box to those supplied to the children was produced. MRS GARDENER had some herself, but neither she nor the other children suffered any ill effects. The box of chocolates was finished on Boxing Day evening. The only things the children had besides were nuts, figs or dates. The other children were aged 8, 11, 13 and a baby two months old. - Mary Ann Long, wife of Pte. W. Long, Reservist, and neighbour, was sent for by MRS GARDENER on Thursday evening and arrived just before the doctor came. The child had a fit just after she, Mrs Long, got to the house. Under the doctor's order she put the child in a warm bath, wrapped it in a warm blanket and gave it a small powder sent by the doctor. - After that the child got the fits faster than ever. She was not present when the child died. - Dr Desprez deposed that when he arrived at the house the child was in convulsions and he instructed Mrs Long what to do as the mother was much upset. On his return about 8 o'clock he found the child dead. He made a post-mortem examination under the Coroner's instructions and found the lower bowel loaded. He retained the stomach for a possible analysis of contents. The remains were quite normal, and the body that of a well nourished child and absolutely healthy. The child he believed had never been ill. He had never seen a case of convulsions in a child of that age unless some cause were apparent, but he could find none. There were signs of constipation. The child died of convulsions, but whether from natural causes or not he could not say. He had not examined the contents of the stomach, which would have to be analysed for evidence. - In reply to the coroner, the doctor said he found no trace of poison or other irritant in any other organs. He would add for the information of the Jury that another child near was sick and displayed similar symptoms after eating chocolates. - Mrs Long, the mother of the child alluded to, said the chocolates were from a similar box to that produced. Two of her children were sick and her boy threw away his, as he complained that they were bitter. - A Juryman said his son had been sick after partaking of chocolate. - Mr F. Muller, hairdresser, tobacconist and confectioner, remembered selling the boxes of chocolate to both families. He bought them direct from London for his Christmas trade, and they had been in stock for about ten days. He sold about three dozen boxes. - The Coroner said the Jury were in somewhat of a difficulty as to the actual cause of death. He would suggest in the public interest and in that of all concerned that the Inquest be adjourned in order that the contents of the stomach might be analysed, unless the Jury were satisfied as to the cause of death. It was remarkable that of the seven children of Mrs Long who partook of the chocolates, five experienced no ill effect. - The Jury unanimously agreed to an adjournment on these grounds until Friday next at 6.45 p.m.

Western Times, Friday 5 January 1917
TEIGNMOUTH - The Sudden Death At Teignmouth. - An Inquest was held at Teignmouth yesterday relative to the death of RODERICK JOHN MCCALL, master of the R.M.S. Lyonesse, which plys from Penzance to Scilly. Deceased, a single man, aged 41, lived at Penzance, but in October he went on a visit to Argyllshire, and whilst there he said he had influenza. He returned to Cornwall in November, but was not well and ten days ago it was learnt he was suffering from tuberculosis. Last Saturday he handed over the Lyonesse to the new master and left Penzance with the idea of going into a sanatoria at Oban. Mr John Banfield, who gave evidence to this effect, said he did not think deceased was in a fit state to travel. - Joseph Kearney, the guard of the train by which CAPTAIN MCCALL travelled, said deceased, whom he was asked to keep an eye on, was the sole occupant of a first class carriage. He got him a pillow at Truro and some tea at Plymouth. At Totnes MCCALL appeared ill, but not in a dying state. At Teignmouth he was found dead in the lavatory of the railway carriage. - Dr Johnson, who made a post-mortem examination, said the body was very much wasted. The lungs showed an advanced state of tuberculosis disease, and death was due to heart failure arising from this and exhaustion. - A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned, and sympathy was expressed with the relatives.

Western Times, Saturday 6 January 1917
NORTH TAWTON - Adjourned Inquest At North Tawton. - The adjourned inquest on the child MARGERY GARDENER was held before Mr Coroner H. E. Brown in the Market Hall, North Tawton, last evening. - The Coroner stated that the Analyst had the contents of the stomach, but owing to the shortness of time he had not been able to complete the analysis, and it was necessary to further adjourn the Inquest until Thursday next at 2 p.m.

BIDEFORD - A verdict of "Death From Natural Causes" was returned at an Inquest at Bideford yesterday afternoon on GEORGE GALSWORTHY, casual labourer, who was found in a dying condition on the Gammaton-road on Wednesday evening and died in a trap whilst being brought into Bideford by Wm. Bartlett, whom he had asked to take him to a Hospital or into a shed, as he did not want to die by the hedge. - Dr Francis said the cause of death was syncope due to heart disease.

NEWTON ABBOT - Inquest At Newton On Ashburton Labourer. - An Inquest was held at the Newton Abbot Town Hall yesterday relative to the death of an Ashburton labourer named GEORGE WITHYCOMBE. The Deputy Coroner, Mr T. A. Edmonds, conducted and said that though this man had just had an illness it was possible that death was caused by an accident which he sustained in July whilst loading a trap. - MRS BESSIE LIVINGSTONE, Newton Abbot, said deceased was her father and died at her house whilst on a visit to recuperate his health. Wm. John Warren and John Stacey, of Ashburton, gave evidence as to the accident, which they said occurred through the horse attached to the cart they were loading becoming frightened and backing against a wall in the station yard, crushing the deceased against it. - Mr J. Cock, manager to the Humber Company, gave evidence and said deceased had been working for him for 30 years. - The medical evidence given by Drs. Ellis and Culross, showed that WITHYCOMBE died from influenza and pleurisy through accident. A verdict to this effect was returned by the Jury.

Western Times, Monday 8 January 1917
SHOBROOKE - Mr Gilbert H. Stephens, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Shute, Shobrooke, on Saturday, relative to the death of MRS MARY ANN LOTT, a widow, aged 74. MISS ELLEN SYMES, daughter, said deceased lived alone. She last saw her on Friday week, when she was suffering from a cold, but was otherwise in her usual state of health, which was generally fairly good, although she had shortness of breath and bronchitis in the winter. - Mrs Alice Symes, a neighbour, who was in the habit of calling in on MRS LATT every day, said she saw her two or three times on Thursday. She had a cold, but said she was better than she had been, and expressed her intention of visiting her daughter-in-law at Exmouth the next day. Witness went in on Friday morning to see her off, but found her dead in bed. - Dr Leslie Powne said he attended deceased some years ago. She had heart disease and that was the cause of death. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Western Times, Tuesday 9 January 1917
EXETER - Septuagenarians Death. - Inquest Held By The Exeter City Coroner. - Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, held an Inquest at Exeter Court House yesterday afternoon. - The Inquest was held on JAMES WHITE, 70, journeyman hatter, of 14 Bartholomew-street East. - His son, JAMES WHITE, of 23 Chivalry-road, Wandsworth Common, London, identified the body. MRS MARY ANN WHITE, the widow, said her husband had not worked for some years, and for the past three years had been in bed. On Thursday he seemed as usual and took his food, but was taken ill during the night and died next morning at 11 o'clock. Dr Mabel Gates said she attended deceased eighteen months ago when he had very feeble action of the heart. She had now made a post-mortem . The body was very well nourished. There was a certain amount of congestion at both bases of the lungs and the heart was enlarged and weighed 17 ounces. The cause of death was a ruptured aneurism of the aorta. - A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

EXETER - Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, held an Inquest at Exeter Court House yesterday on ISAAC WILLIAM GOSSETT, 70, retired tea planter of Ceylon, of Warborough, Oxfordshire. - COLONEL F. GOSSETT, of Watlington, Oxford, identified the body as that of his brother. Mr Wynne Tighe, High-street, said deceased came into his shop on Saturday morning to buy a box of tooth powder. Before witness could serve him deceased fell forward to the counter, knocking his head and then to the floor. Witness rendered what assistance he could and sent for the Police and Doctor. - P.C. Jarman said he rendered first aid. When Dr Brash arrived life was extinct. - Dr Brash, who conducted a post-mortem examination, said there was some congestion of the lungs, and death was caused by heart failure due to fatty degeneration. The heart was enlarged and weighed 27 ounces. Verdict: Natural Causes.

WOOLACOMBE - Suicide At Woolacombe. - Dr Ellis Pearson, North Devon Coroner, held an Inquest at Woolacombe on Saturday evening, touching the death of JAMES PIKE, 56, a gardener. It transpired that deceased was charged at Barnstaple on July 18th last with attempting to commit suicide by shooting himself, and was sent for trial. At the Devon Quarter Sessions he was bound over to be of good behaviour and went to reside with relatives at Dawlish. Eventually he returned to work at Woolacombe and on Saturday morning left to go to work at the Hotel as usual. He was subsequently missed and on enquiries being made, he was found drowned in a shallow stream running through the grounds of the Woolacombe Bay Hotel. In his pocket was a piece of rope about 8 ft. long. It was stated that deceased had been in very bad health of late and was very much depressed. A verdict of "Suicide by Drowning whilst Temporarily Insane" was returned. Deceased, it appears, had been suffering from the effects of influenza for more than a year past. He was highly respected and had been the faithful and valued servant of Mrs Seldon, at Woolacombe Bay Hotel for twenty years. [Friday 12 January 1917 - Description of Funeral]

Western Times, Wednesday 10 January 1917
LONDON - Teignmouth Officer's Death. - A verdict of Death from Natural Causes was returned at an Inquest in London yesterday on COLONEL WILLIAM HENRY EVANS, 72, retired, who had resided at Teignmouth, Devon, and who was found dead in bed at the Junior United Services Club. Evidence was given that the Colonel had lost his left arm, and death was due to syncope from dilation of the stomach and fatty heart.

Western Times, Thursday 11 January 1917
EXMINSTER - Torquay Man's Death. Result Of Injuries From Slipping On Ice. - At an Inquest held by the District Coroner, Mr Henry W. Gould, at the Devon County Asylum, yesterday, relative to the death of an inmate named GEORGE EASTERBROOK, aged 70, a marble polisher, of Torquay, who as admitted to the Institution on December 27th last from Newton Abbot Infirmary, to which he had been removed on December 22nd from Torbay Hospital. Dr Bryant, Assistant Medical Officer, said deceased was suffering from a fracture of the right thigh. He told witness that on his way home to dinner at St Marychurch on December 19th he slipped on the ice and fell. He died on January 6th. The fracture was the primary cause of death, but EASTERBROOK also suffered from Bright's Disease. - Evidence as to deceased's fall was given by Thomas Prowse of Babbacombe. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Friday 12 January 1917
ILFRACOMBE - The Sea Keeps Its Grim Secret At Ilfracombe. - Dr Ellis Pearson, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Tunnels Baths, Ilfracombe, yesterday, Thursday, on the body of a sailor, which was washed ashore on the Tunnels Beaches, Ilfracombe, on Monday. - Evidence was given by Charles Lewis, who found the body, and by P.C . Champion, who said he found on the deceased, among other things, a British Passport, No. 83990, issued to EDWARD SEYMOUR GAGE, and dated 17th March 1916; also several certificates of discharge from various boats on which deceased had been employed as a mate. - MISS EVELYN MAY GAGE identified some writing (produced) as that of her brother, who was third officer on the s.s. Rafhahamoch, which sailed from Halifax, Nova Scotia, for London on October 17th. - The Jury returned a verdict that the body was that of EDWARD SEYMOUR GAGE, but that there was no evidence how he got into the water.

NORTH TAWTON - Over Feeding. Cause Of A North Tawton's Child's Death. Chocolates Not To Blame. - The adjourned Inquest relative to the death of the little girl, MARGERY GARDENER, aged 5, daughter of Q.M.S. GARDENER, Royal Marines, and MRS GARDENER, of the White Hart Inn, Northtawton, was held by the Coroner for the District, Mr H. C. Brown, at the Town Hall, Northtawton, yesterday. It will be remembered that the child died following convulsions and sickness on Thursday, December 28th, and it was stated at the preliminary proceedings that the child at Christmas partook of the usual seasonable fare and afterwards on that day and on Boxing Day ate a quantity of chocolates. One or two other children belonging to a neighbour were also unwell after eating some of the same kind of chocolates, but others who also partook, felt no ill effects. Dr Desprez, who was called to the deceased, found there was constipation and he retained the bowel for analysis. He could find no sign of irritant poison in any of the other organs. The Inquiry was adjourned to permit of the suggested analysis being made. - At the proceedings yesterday the manufacturers of the chocolates were represented by Mr G. D. Cann, Solicitor. - P.C. Maunder spoke to receiving from Dr Desprez in sealed receptacles the stomach of the deceased child and some chocolates, which were produced at the earlier Enquiry. He handed these to Mr J. Tickle, the Exeter City Analyst. - The Coroner said he had received a report from Mr Tickle to the effect that he had made an analytical examination of the stomach without finding any poison. He (the Coroner) understood that Mr Tickle, on finding no poison in the stomach, thought it unnecessary to analyse the chocolates. In these circumstances they would have to go back to the doctor's evidence given at the first Enquiry, which was that he could find no evidence as to the cause of the convulsions, and he could not say whether they were naturally caused. He added that he had never heard of a child of five years having convulsions of the kind common to younger children. - The Coroner said that he proposed, having regard to the result of the analysis, to ask the doctor whether he could satisfy the Jury as to the cause of death. - Mr G. D. Cann said he should like, on behalf of the manufacturers of the chocolates, to say that they were one of the biggest firms in existence. They manufactured at Battersea over 30 tons of these bon-=bon chocolates every week and there had never been any complaint. The huge quantity manufactured by the firm, and the fact that there had never been any complaint was, he thought, sufficient guarantee that the chocolates were good. They knew that the name of the firm was a household word. - The Coroner: I think by the man in the street this brand of chocolates is considered beyond reproach. - Dr Desprez was asked by the Coroner whether, now that he had heard that there was nothing in the nature of poison in the stomach he could assist the Jury by suggesting how death could have occurred naturally. - Dr Desprez: The cause of death must have been over-loading of the stomach, causing constipation in the lower bowel, just as might be found in a much younger child. - The Coroner: There is no reason for any suggestion that the child was choked? - Dr Desprez: None whatever. He added that it was unusual to find a child of five have convulsions from constipation. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the Jury had heard the doctor's explanation, and they would appreciate there was no other course but to have the analysis in view of what the doctor told them in the first instance and also having regard to several coincidences surrounding the case, particularly the fact that other children had been sick after eating chocolates, and that one small boy threw away some chocolates - a rather unusual thing for a child to do. All these things left some suspicion. The manufacturers had a proper appreciation of the gravity of the situation in being represented professionally there, and it was to their credit that the Inquiry had ended as it had. It was, however, in the public interest that the analysis should have been made both to clear them and as a protection to the public. He thought the only verdict the Jury could return was that constipation and Christmas over-eating caused convulsions, and that death was due to natural causes. - The mother of the child said there had been a rumour all over the town that the doctor took a chocolate from the child's throat and that it was choked. - The Coroner: That was my reason for asking the question I did. - In answer to the Foreman, Mr W. D. Gibbings, the doctor said chocolates would not produce constipation. - The mother said that at Christmas the child ate far too heartily. She was a "proper little glutton," and she told her she would make herself ill. - The Foreman said the Jury were agreed that death was due to Natural causes brought about by general Christmas over-feeding. They would like, at the same time, to express their satisfaction at the result of the analysis so far as the manufacturers were concerned. They also sympathised with the parents in their loss.

TORQUAY - Christian Science. Grasping At Any Straw: Inquest At Torquay. - Christian Science methods in regard to faith healing was referred to at an Inquest at St Marychurch, Torquay, yesterday. The deceased was CLIFFORD CAMPBELL, aged 35 years, who was formerly a fruit farmer in British Columbia, and settled in Sidscott Barton, Torquay, because he was recommended by London specialists to reside in a warm climate, the disease from which he was suffering being incurable (emphysema). - HELEN CAMPBELL, L.R.C.P., a sister, of Bradford, said her brother had resided with his wife and little boy in Torquay for about 18 months. After returning from British Columbia, he saw two London specialists, who could do nothing for him. - The widow, DORA WINIFRED CAMPBELL, said her husband was sent to England because it was not expected that he would live through the winter. London doctors told him to go to a warm place, and eventually they settled in Torquay. All faith in doctors had been lost. Mr Henry (of Chelston) and Mrs Pike had been a great help, and they were reading Christian science as a last resource. "We thought there might be some chance," said the witness. - The Coroner: For some time past he has been studying Christian Science? - Witness: Yes. - With a view to curing himself? - Yes; he fully realised there was nothing else. - You mean that Mr Henry was his tutor? - He came in at our request. - Are Mr Henry and Mrs Pike Christian Scientists? - Yes. - How long has he been a convert ? - He has been studying for about two years, since the doctors told him they could do nothing. - During the past seven days did he mention anything about doctors? - He was against having doctors. - Was it suggested that he should have a doctor? - My mother, who lives in London, wrote urging that he should have a doctor. - You did not act on her suggestion? - No; I did what my husband wanted. He knew that doctors could not do anything. - Did you suggest it to him? - It did not strike me that there was any need to do so. My mother is not very fond of Christian Science. - Had he an opportunity of having a doctor? - Yes, anything he liked. - Another question was asked, and MRS CAMPBELL wanted to know if the Coroner had read Christian Science. "It means," she said, "That you implicitly put your trust in God. It would be a breach of faith to dream of asking a doctor to come in. You know, a drowning man grasps at any straw." - "It is necessary," observed the Coroner, "that you should convince the Jury that a doctor was not called in because the deceased did not wish it. If you had suggested it, would he have fallen in with your wishes?" - Mrs Campbell: No; if he would not have a doctor for his little boy, whom he loved better than anything on earth, he would not have one under the conditions in which he was himself. - By Mr Hutchings (who represented the widow and friends): Since the doctors had pronounced her husband incurable he had devoted his attention to Christian Science. If he had expressed the least desire to see a doctor one would have been sent for. - Ellen C. Bullard, mother of MRS CAMPBELL, said she had suggested that deceased should see a doctor to avid "This sort of business," if for nothing else. He always scoffed at seeing a doctor, and she could not blame him because he had seen so many. - Dr G. M. Winter said the disease of the lungs was extensive and of long standing. Athletics and living at a high altitude had probably brought about the emphysema. The lung tissue was diseased. It was a much more serious disease for a young person than an old one. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

BARNSTAPLE - Not Fit To Work; But Too Fond Of The Drink. - At Barnstaple on Monday, Mr A. Bencraft, the Borough Coroner, Enquired into the death of THOMAS BRANTON, labourer, aged 60, who was found hanging to some railway iron railings adjoining the Sports Ground on Saturday night. - MRS BRANTON, proprietor of a fried fish shop in Bear-street, spoke to having been married thirteen years. Latterly her husband had said he was not fit to work, and she had given him board and lodging and 5s. per week. He had, however, taken additional money from the till and from a chest of drawers with a key which he had had made. On the previous Monday he came home in a dazed condition, and she thought he had been drinking. Subsequently she told him to go and she had not seen him since last Wednesday. He never had threatened to take his life. - Francis A. Clement, Relieving Officer, said that BRANTON was in the casual ward in the Workhouse last Wednesday night and he applied for admission to the Workhouse on the Friday morning. The Guardians, however, advised him to go back to his wife and try and get some work. - The Coroner said, rightly or wrongly, BRANTON had been turned out of doors and he thought it a pity that the Guardians gave him the impression that they could not help him. It was a sordid story of misery and desperation, and he feared, under the circumstances, unhinged the poor fellow's mind and made him commit suicide. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane," the Foreman (Mr D. Moxham) adding that while they thought there was a little blame, they did not like to put it on anyone.

Western Times, Saturday 13 January 1917
ALPHINGTON - The District Coroner, Mr Henry W. Gould, held an Inquest at the Church Institute, Alphington, yesterday, relative to the death of FRED HATSWELL, aged 42, master baker. The body was identified by the widow, who stated that at 1 a.m. on the 11th, while in bed, she heard her husband sob. Before she could light a candle he was "gone." He had been subject to fainting attacks during the past 18 months. The last occurred on Sunday week. Mr C. E. Stokes, Surgeon, attributed death to heart failure due to organic heart disease. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

EXETER - Sudden Death Of A Visitor To Exeter. - The Deputy Coroner, Mr Hamilton Brown, held an Inquest at the Court House, Exeter, last evening, relative to the death of SARAH HUBBARD, aged 60, of East Brent, Somerset, a visitor to the city, who was found dead at 39 Victoria-street, on Thursday morning. The body was identified by Mrs Mary Elizabeth Croump, who said deceased had been staying with her since October, but for nearly three years prior to that date she had lived at Weston-super-Mare. Recently she had been suffering from a cold. On Wednesday evening she went to bed at 10.30. At 8.30 on the following morning witness found her dead in her bedroom. Dr Pereira, who had made a post mortem examination, stated that deceased had pleurisy of long standing, an enlarged liver and abnormally large heart, and she was anaemic. He attributed death to heart disease. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Tuesday 16 January 1917
EXETER - Sudden Death At An Exeter Garage. - The Deputy Coroner (Mr Hamilton Brown) held an Inquest at the Court House, Exeter, last evening, relative to the death of JOHN PALMER WOOLACOTT, motor cleaner, aged 58, of 2 Crescent Row, Summerland-street, who died suddenly at the Exeter Garage on Friday evening. Evidence was given by Harry Wood, son-in-law of the deceased, who identified the body. Witness said deceased, who had apparently enjoyed good health, complained about midday on Friday, of indigestion. A motor driver, named Durston, stated that deceased fell down suddenly while at work at the Garage on Friday night. Witness and others went to his assistance, but deceased expired before the doctor arrived. Deceased had complained in the morning of a pain in the chest and said he thought he had indigestion. - Dr Pereira said a post-mortem examination revealed that deceased had an affection of the lungs and a dilated heart. The pain, of which he had complained, was evidently caused by angina of the heart and not indigestion. Death was due to heart failure. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

BARNSTAPLE - At the adjourned Inquest at Barnstaple concerning the death of the infant child of MR and MRS WILLIAM MOORE, of Pengelley's Court, who was found dead in bed with its mother on December 28th, the evidence showed that death was due to accidental suffocation. Referring to the matter of whether infants should sleep with their mothers or in a cot, the Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, was inclined to think that of the two "evils" the lesser was that, in cases where the parents had not the means to keep a nurse and a big fire burning, the child should remain with the mother rather than be put in a cot beside the mother's bed, especially in cold weather such as had been experienced recently. - Dr Thomas, however, thought it was safer for infants to sleep in a separate cot. - Mr M. Ffoulkes, a Juryman, said the poorer classes could not afford a cot. - The Foreman, Mr D. Moxham, said they had been told in previous cases that a child would keep warm in a cot. - The Coroner: I have heard so. - The father of the child, referring to cots and attendance, said it was all right for people with plenty of money. - The Coroner said the only thing was that people must do the best they could with the means at their disposal. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Misadventure."

Western Times, Wednesday 17 January 1917
TEIGNMOUTH - Teignmouth Inquest. Lady's Strange Death: Accidentally Suffocated. - At Teignmouth yesterday afternoon, Mr Coroner S. Hacker conducted an Inquiry to investigate the circumstances attending the death of MRS ADA JESSIE CLARKE, widow of a civil engineer, who was found dead at her lodgings, 22 Alexandra-terrace, Teignmouth, on Monday. - William Nesfield Meston, 11 Hollands-road, a retired civil engineer, identified the deceased as his sister, who had resided at Teignmouth about 8 or 9 months. MRS CLARKE'S son resided with her and a sister, Mrs Birch, close by. Deceased had complained of heart and kidney trouble since quite young. - RANLAN S. CLARKE, son, said his mother had been in her usual health of late. On Sunday she was in bed up to dinner time, but he had tea with her. - The Coroner: Was she out late the night before? - She was in bed before I was. - Continuing, he said his mother was in bed by 8.30 p.m. on Sunday night. He did not know where she went during the evening, but about ten o'clock he saw her in bed and thought she was asleep. She was lying across the bed with her legs hanging over, and had her hat and all her clothes on. - The Coroner: Was she alive then? Did you hear her breathing? - No. She was in the same position as when I found her in the morning. - The Coroner: Was the door shut? - Yes, but not locked. - On Monday morning, the landlady came to him in his room, he continued, and in consequence of what she said, he went to his mother. Her face was buried in the bed clothes. He touched her and finding she was cold, he turned her over. - Answering the Coroner, he said he did not notice anything in the room. His mother took a little strong drink, but nothing in excess. He considered his mother was suffocated. He saw her intoxicated last Christmas. - Florence Curtis, 22 Alexandra Terrace, said MRS CLARKE and her son had been staying with her since Christmas. They had stayed with her before that. Last Saturday she was out nearly all the day and came in at nine o'clock. On Sunday night deceased came in between 8 and 8.30, but there was not much the matter with her. She ate some bread and butter and went to bed. - The Coroner: You say there was not much the matter with her? - No much, sir. - Did you see she had been drinking? - She had had some, but there were times when she had had more. - Continuing, Mrs Curtis said at 8.20 on Monday morning she went to deceased's room with a cup of tea, and seeing something was wrong she called the son. MRS CLARKE was lying in bed with her face downwards. - Frank E. Little, Surgeon, said he was called to see the deceased on Monday morning and found her in bed fully dressed with her hat and veil on. She had been dead some hours. As the result of a post mortem examination he found that deceased had a fatty heart and large liver and kidneys. The condition of the heart was such as would lead to syncope owing to fatty degeneration. The heart and kidneys showed that deceased was addicted to alcohol. In his opinion death was due to suffocation. - A medicine bottle found in the room was produced, which Dr Little said had contained whisky. - Mrs Curtis (recalled), said the bottle was full when deceased went to go to bed. - The son, also recalled, said he saw the bottle on the dressing table on Sunday night when he went to his mother. It was then half full and he poured the remainder away. - The Coroner having summed up, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Suffocated whilst in a state of Intoxication." - Mrs Birch, the deceased's sister, interrupted when the Jury gave their verdict and was told by the Coroner to leave the Court.

EXETER - Old Lady's Death At Exeter. - Mr H. L. Brown, Deputy City Coroner, conducted an Inquest at the Exeter Court House last evening on MRS TRYPHENA COX, aged 73, who was found dead in bed at 19 Russell-street, on Monday morning. HENRY COX, deceased's son, identified the body, and said his mother had lately been residing with him because he considered she needed care and attention. She was a widow and formerly lived at Dawlish. When she went to bed on Sunday evening she seemed as usual. Next morning his daughter, on taking up a cup of tea to deceased, found her dead, and witness found her in a stooping position beside the bed and in night attire. - Dr Kelly, who conducted a post mortem examination, considered death was due to heart failure caused by congestion of the right lung. - A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Times, Friday 19 January 1917
SANDFORD - The District Coroner, Mr Henry W. Gould, held an Inquest at Sandford, Tuesday, relative to the death of VERA RODD, aged 2 years, daughter of JOHN STEPHENS RODD, farmer, of Sandford. Evidence was given by the mother to the effect that deceased passed away on the 12th ins., having been taken ill a few days before. It was thought she had a cold. On Friday morning it was noticed she was worse, and the doctor was fetched. On the right buttock there was a mark which looked like a burn, but witness could not say how it was caused., There was also a mark at the back of the ear. Witness attributed this to teething. Dr Pratt, Morchard Bishop, said he was called to see the deceased on Friday morning. He was subsequently informed that she was dead. A post mortem examination showed that she was well nourished. There was a mark on the right buttock about the size of a sixpence and another mark with discharge behind the left ear. They were, in his opinion, caused by burning. The cause of death was heart failure following pneumonia. It was not septic pneumonia and he did not therefore connect it with the burns. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

EXETER - Influenza Microbe. Medical Evidence On A Soldier's Death At Exeter Hospital. - The City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at the No. 1 V.A.D. Hospital, Exeter, last evening, touching the death of JOSEPH PALLETT, aged 22, private of the King's Royal Rifles, who died with remarkable suddenness at the Hospital, after having served at the Front, where he contracted trench feet. - Evidence of identification was given by the deceased's mother, MRS CLARA ELIZABETH PALLETT, a widow of Birmingham, who said her son was formerly an electrical engineer. - Dr Wm. Gordon said deceased was admitted to the Institution on December 21st suffering from trench feet. Witness attended him. Deceased got on well and was free from pain. His general health was good until the 15th inst., when he went out walking, both in the morning and afternoon. While out in the afternoon he complained of feeling chilly and of headache and pains in his legs. He was brought back to the Hospital in a taxi. Witness thought he had influenza. The same evening deceased's temperature went up to 102. On the following day it rose to 103 and then it went up to 106. He died of heart failure about 9.30 p.m. on the 16th inst. - Dr R. V. Solly, who made a post mortem examination that morning, said the spleen was enlarged. The heart was not dilated, but there was a clot in the right ventricle extending to the pulmonary artery. Both lungs were congested, but there was no definite pneumonia. Nothing was wrong with the brain, nor was there anything in the stomach pointing to any irritant. In witness's opinion the cause of death was some form of blood poisoning. Some organism - possibly that of influenza although it was impossible to say definitely what was the precise organism - got into the blood stream. That would account for the high temperature, and the clotting. - Dr Wm. Gordon, who saw the body at the conclusion of the post mortem examination, said having attended the deceased he was able to form an idea as to the cause of death. He thought deceased had a very virulent attack of influenza with some enfeeblement of the heart, thus enabling a clot to form in the heart. Once that had taken place nothing could be done for him. Witness on first seeing him on the 15th thought he had influenza. The following day witness definitely established that deceased had not got pneumonia. The cause of death was heart failure due to influenza with ante-mortem clotting in the heart. - In answer to the Coroner witness said the symptoms being obscure he thought there should be a post mortem examination and he was glad to have had it. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the circumstances might have suggested that deceased had been eating or drinking something which acted as an irritant, but nothing had been found in the stomach pointing to that. -The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

TORQUAY - Harbour Lights. Complaints At A Torquay Inquest Yesterday. - Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, conducted an Inquiry at Torquay, yesterday, with reference to the death of ARTHUR BULL, aged 45 years, an auctioneer's assistant, who was found dead in the harbour on Tuesday afternoon. - MRS GLADYS HELLIAR, daughter, said her father had a bad bilious attack of Sunday and did not remain in bed after three the next morning. He went to work without breakfast. Her father was in the habit of walking round the harbour. - John Esam, auctioneer with Messrs. Smith and Son, said BULL worked on Monday at a house in Park-street, preparing for a sale. Witness saw deceased between 10 and 11 o'clock in the Old Market Inn. BULL was quite sober, and said he felt much better than he did earlier in the day. Witness put forward the theory that BULL desired to visit a lavatory by the quayside, and, as it was very dark and slippery, fell into the water. - The landlord of the Old Market Inn, Samuel F. Priestly, said BULL was quite capable of taking care of himself. - William Brown stated that whilst putting away the sails of his little yacht on Tuesday afternoon he noticed the body in the water There was about eleven feet of water in the inner harbour about 11 o'clock the previous evening. Mr Brown expressed the opinion that BULL fell from the south pier. - Dr Bennett, who made a post mortem examination, said the conditions were such as to show that deceased became unconscious immediately he fell into the water. Death was due to syncope. - A verdict was returned in accordance with this evidence, the Jury expressing the opinion that deceased Accidentally fell into the water. - Mr F. Haarer inquired if it were not possible to have more light in the district of the harbour. Three men fell into the harbour the same evening. - The Coroner said it was the duty of the Jury to make such a recommendation if the conditions required remedy. - Mr Haarer: It is a very serious matter. - Mr H. Crooke, Superintendent of Police, said he had been in communication with the Town Clerk on the subject and he had no doubt that more light would be provided in the district of the harbour. - The Jury passed a "rider" viewing with alarm the dangerous position of pedestrians at the harbour and strongly appealed to the Town Council to take adequate measures to safeguard the general public.

Western Times, Monday 22 January 1917
HONITON - Motor Fatality. Chauffeur Killed And Officer Injured At Honiton. The Inquest. - On Friday evening, about 7 o'clock, two employees of Mr Cox, plumber, Honiton, were returning with a motor lorry from work at Mr Haswell's house at Wilmington Hayes. On reaching Blacksand Bridge at the lower end of Wilmington village, midway between Axminster and Honiton on the main road, they found an overturned car with its lamps still burning. The chauffeur was found pinned by the neck by the wind screen with the car lying across his back. He was quite dead. The passenger, a military officer, was found underneath the car and though able to move his hands and feet he was unable to get out from the place he was held in. The men lifted the car and released the officer. Dr Hedden was sent for but could only pronounce the driver to be dead. The officer was removed in a car driven by Mr E. Hilliar to the No. 1 Military Hospital, Exeter, and the body of the driver was taken on the lorry to Honiton. - The officer, who was Captain Le Blanc Smith, of the 28th Squadron, R.F.C., Aerodrome, Gosport, was being driven towards Honiton by a Private - WILLIAM BRUCE PYKE. The accident happened at a sharp turning on the bridge where it crosses the main L. and S.W. Railway line between Wilmington and Shute. - The Inquest. - The Inquest was held at the Police Station, Honiton, on Saturday evening, Mr F. Irish being chosen Foreman of the Jury. - Major Alexander Shekleton, R.F.C., of Gosport, said he saw deceased driving a car at Gosport two days ago. He knew PYKE, who was a car driver, by sight. Deceased was a first class air mechanic. PYKE left Gosport with Captain Le Blanc Smith on Friday at lunch time, to proceed to Devonport. The car belonged to No. 1 Reserve Squadron. Witness had seen the body of the deceased and identified him as the man he knew by sight. He did not know his name. From particulars supplied to witness from the Squadron office the previous night deceased was 27 years and 10 months old. - Orlando Lionel Valentine Cox, plumber, of Honiton, stated that he was driving a motor lorry on the main road from Axminster to Honiton with Richard Marks. On reaching Blacksand Bridge they saw a car upset with the head and sidelights burning. They got out and saw an officer pinned underneath the body of the car. They at once got their lifting jack and raised the car from off the officer's body. The officer said there was another man underneath the car. They looked underneath the car and saw the deceased pinned by the car on the back of his neck. To all appearances the man was dead. They could not extricate him without additional lifting jacks. Witness left Marks in charge of the officer and went to Wilmington to telephone from Widworthy Court for help. Witness returned with some men from Wilmington to help to get the other man out from under the car. The deceased's face was pressed into the soil and the car had turned turtle, the back part of the seat resting on the man's neck. The officer did not say how the accident happened. Witness supposed that the car approaching the bend in the road the driver had not observed the turning. There were appearances of the car having "skidded." After the doctor saw the deceased and examined him and pronounced life extinct, they placed the body on the lorry and drove to the Hospital at Honiton. - Richard Marks, carpenter, employed by Messrs. Cox and Son, Honiton, gave corroborative testimony. The captain told witness he thought the driver was dead because after the accident her had only moved his feet (which he could feel) a second or two. Witness asked the captain if the driver was driving fast, and he said he did not think he was, but that the car swerved. - Dr Heddon said he received a telephonic message from Widworthy Court asking him to go to a motor accident. The deceased had not been extricated, so witness directed his attentions to Captain Le Blanc Smith. The officer complained of pain over the chest. Witness asked if he had any knowledge how the accident happened, and he said "a side slip." When the driver was extricated witness found life was extinct and he considered he had died within five minutes of the accident. Witness could detect no fractures of bone whatever. There were external bruises on the forehead and small punctured wounds on the nose. From the position of the body on the ground, as described by Mr Cox, he would say that the deceased was concussed and had died from suffocation. - P.C. Champion, of Honiton, said he found on the deceased a permit to use head lights because the business her was on was urgent. Deceased's name and number were on his license and his reference, and on his shirt. - Witness examined the car and the road that morning and said he considered that the driver, thinking the road was a straight one, drove into the hedge and then turned again, the road being barrel shaped and greasy the car had skidded for 17 feet. - The Coroner considered that the identity of the deceased had been established from the name on the license and reference and on his shirt. - Mr Marks said he would like to mention, which he omitted to do when giving his evidence, that a man came up on a bicycle while he (witness) was in charge of Captain Le Blanc Smith. He dismounted, asked what had happened and not offering any assistance rode off again. He considered such conduct most improper. - The Coroner characterised it as reprehensible conduct and considered that his identity ought to be ascertained so that, if possible, he could be brought to book and censured. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death, " and expressed their appreciation of the conduct of Messrs. Cox and Marks. - "Not Etiquette." - Last evening we telephoned to No. 1 Military Hospital enquiring as to how Capt. Le Blanc Smith was and the nature of the injuries sustained by the officer, but was met with the reply, "We cannot give you any information. It is not etiquette to tell the condition of patients without the doctor's consent."

DAWLISH - Dawlish Fatality. Old Gentleman Burned To Death In His Bedroom. - At Dawlish on Friday an Inquest was held relative to the death of MR SYDNEY LAWFORD, aged 81, a retired baker. - MISS AMY LAWFORD said her father, despite his great age, enjoyed good health. On Wednesday night he retired to rest just before 10, and she heard nothing during the night. Her father was quite able to look after himself, but had had attacks of dizziness of late, and had been shaky on his legs. As was customary a cup of tea was made for him at about 7.15 the next morning. Her sister took it to the room and finding the gas burning, called her. Entering the room she saw her father lying in his armchair quite dead. He had on no clothes and there were bits of burnt clothing on the floor. The gas was alight in the room and the gas stove was full on. The bed had not been used. She thought it possible that the nightshirt, a loose, linen one, caught fire at the stove and that her father fell into the chair and became unconscious with the shock. Dr F. J. H. Cann said he found MR LAWFORD quite dead, sitting in a natural position in the armchair which was about 10ft. from the stove. He had been dead several hours. There were very extensive burns about the body, chiefly the upper part, and on the right side. The chair was much burnt. From his position he should gather that MR LAWFORD flung himself into the chair and became unconscious immediately. It was quite possible that he did not call out. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Shock and Burns as a result of the night-shirt accidentally catching afire."

TOPSHAM - Exeter Fatality. Gardener Walks Into The River In A Fog. - The mystery surrounding the disappearance of CHARLES SERCOMBE, an Exeter market gardener, aged 48, since the night of December 15th last, was cleared up at an Inquest relative to his death, conducted at Mr Dart's house, Countess Weir, on Saturday, by Mr H. W. Gould, County Coroner. - AGNES LILY SERCOMBE, 31 Weirfield-road, St Leonard's, Exeter, identified the body as that of her husband, whom she last saw alive on the morning of December 15th at home. She went out leaving him in the house and had not seen him since. His garden was at Ide, and he was accustomed to go there every morning and return in the evening about 6.30 or 7. He usually returned through Commercial-road and by way of the Quay. She had learnt that he was in North-street, Exeter, the same day and his most direct way home from there would be down South-street, through Coombe-street, and on to the Quay. She had never heard him speak of suicide. He had no troubles, and his health was very good. On the night of December 15th there was a fearful fog and people had great difficulty in finding their way about. - Miss Julia Courtney, 22 North-street, Exeter, a friend of the family, said on December 15th at 6.15 p.m. deceased called on her, staying about ten minutes. He left saying he was going home to tea. He was quite cheerful and made no complaint. It was a very foggy night. - Fred Henry Smith, Lime Kiln Cottages, Countess Weir, said at 9.30 a.m. the previous day he found deceased's body in the mill stream behind the millhouse at Countess Weir and gave information to the Police. - P.C. W. H. Cox, stationed at Countess Weir, deposed to recovering the body with assistance at the spot indicated. On it there was a purse containing two half-crowns, 1s., and 3 ¼ d., a key, a tobacco pouch and a note book containing deceased's name, but nothing to throw any light on his death. Deceased had been reported missing. - Dr W. H. MacPherson, of Topsham, who had examined the body, said it presented the usual appearance of death by drowning and consistent with having been in the water for a month. There were no marks of violence. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental death by Drowning." - It is supposed that deceased walked into the river during the fog.

Western Times, Wednesday 24 January 1917
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Tragedy. Officer And His Wife Found Dead At An Hotel. Were They Poisoned? - On Monday night a double tragedy occurred at the Duke of Cornwall Hotel, Plymouth, the victims being CAPTAIN HUGH EDMUND MACDONALD, of a works battalion of the Devon Regt., and HELEN AIDE MACDONALD, his wife. It appears that they had been staying at the Duke of Cornwall Hotel for some time, and on Monday as neither came down to dinner the manager of the Hotel tried the door of the apartments, and finding it locked this aroused his suspicion. Consequent upon a communication received by the military authorities the door of the room was forced. Then a tragedy was revealed, the couple being both found dead on the bed. Dr Parsloe and the Police were summoned, but nothing could be done for either of the victims, whose bodies were removed to the mortuary. Certain letters were found, one referring to a solicitor in London. It is stated that CAPTAIN MACDONALD was under orders to proceed on active service. He wore the ribbons of previous campaigns, and had seen service during the present war, prior to being drafted to the Works Battalion. It is also stated that although the name as given at yesterday's Inquest is MACDONALD, it should really be MACDONNELL. - The Army List contains among the names of the officers of the - (Works) Battalion, Devon Regt., that of CAPTAIN H. E. E. MACDONNELL ( - Batt., E. Surrey Regt.) who was promoted to be Captain on September 7th 1916. - Inquest Opened And Adjourned. - The Inquest was opened by Mr Coroner Johns yesterday and at the outset of the Inquiry the Coroner said it was advisable that the Inquiry should be adjourned after taking the statement of the Manager of the Hotel. It was desirable also, that the solicitor, mentioned in a letter found in deceased's room should attend the adjourned Inquest. In the meantime Dr Parsloe would conduct a post mortem examination, but, added the Coroner, there was little doubt, judging by the letters found, and other circumstances, that the case was one of determined suicide. - Charles Margerum Fenn, Manager of the Duke of Cornwall Hotel, said that CAPTAIN MACDONALD and his wife had stayed there since the 10th of January. CAPTAIN MACDONALD was about 40 years of age and his wife about 24. As they did not come down to dinner he tried the door of their rooms, which consisted of a dressing room leading into a bedroom and found it locked. A telephone message was received from the military about 10.15, and as witness still failed to obtain a reply he burst open the door. Going into the bedroom he found CAPTAIN and MRS MACDONALD lying on the bed. The former was in uniform, lying outside the bed and his wife, attired in a nightdress, was lying on the inside. A chemicals glass was by the side of the Captain and a similar glass by the side of his wife. Witness summoned medical assistance, but the doctor could only pronounce both to be dead. They were last seen alive about six o'clock in the evening. - On this evidence the Coroner adjourned the Inquest until Thursday afternoon at 4.30. - The two glasses were produced, with some traces of a liquid still in them, also a packet of crystals, having been taken charge of by P.C. Body, who was called directly the bodies were discovered.

Western Times, Tuesday 23 January 1917
NEWTON ABBOT - Schoolboy's Quarrel. A Tragic Sequel At Newton Abbot. - At Newton Abbot yesterday, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, conducted an Inquiry into the circumstances touching the death of an eleven-year-old lad named CYRIL STRUDWICK, second son of P.O. and MRS A. STRUDWICK, 65 Wolborough-street, Newton, who died on Friday from lock-jaw thought to have been due to a wound in the back of the head caused by a piece of slate. - MRS STRUDWICK said on January 10th, the lad came home from school in the dinner hour with a small wound in the back of his head which his father bathed and bandaged. He went back to school and for a week did not complain, but on the Wednesday after his neck began to grow stiff and as it was not better on the Thursday morning, she sent for a doctor. During the day his jaw began to grow stiff and he rapidly grew worse, and passed away on Friday afternoon. - Dr J. J. Scrase said death was due to tetanus, which invaded the blood through the wound in the back of the head. On conducting a post-mortem examination he found a small particle of foreign mater which had every appearance of slate. - Three of the school mates of the deceased gave evidence as to the circumstances which led up to a quarrel in which the slate was thrown at deceased. It was stated that on Wednesday, 10th inst., just after midday a quarrel arose between the deceased and another lad. A fight ensued and STRUDWICK when he found he was getting beaten, called upon the witnesses to help him. The other boy picked up a piece of slate from the pathway and threw at STRUDWICK, who was hit in the back of the head. - Mr G. A. Hollis, B.A., headmaster at Highweek, and P.C. Anstey both gave evidence to the effect that when spoken to the boy named admitted throwing the slate. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Tetanus" but they did not think the slate was thrown with felonious intent.

Western Times, Friday 26 January 1917
TORQUAY - At the Inquest at Torquay on JOHN GEORGE LEAMAN, whose sudden death is reported in this issue, a verdict of "Natural causes" was returned. During the proceedings the Coroner, Mr S. Hacker, said there was a great dearth of doctors.

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Tragedy. Determined Suicide Of An Officer And His Wife. "Run Of Ill-Luck." - On Monday night a double tragedy occurred at the Duke of Cornwall Hotel, Plymouth, the victims being CAPTAIN HUGH EDMUND MACDONNELL, of a works battalion of the Devon Regt., and HELEN AIDE MACDONNELL, his wife. It appears that they had been staying at the Duke of Cornwall Hotel for some time and on Monday as neither came down to dinner the Manager of the Hotel tried the door of the apartments and finding it locked this aroused his suspicion. Consequent upon a communication received by the military authorities, the door of the room was forced. Then a tragedy was revealed, the couple being both found dead on the bed. Dr Parsloe and the Police were summoned, but nothing could be done for either of the victims, whose bodies were removed to the mortuary. Certain letters were found, one of them referring to a solicitor in London. It is stated that CAPTAIN MACDONNELL was under orders to proceed on active service. He wore the ribbons of previous campaigns, and had seen service during the present war, prior to being drafted to the Works Battalion. - The Inquest was opened by Mr Coroner Johns on Tuesday, and at the outset of the Inquiry the Coroner said it was advisable that the Inquiry should be adjourned after taking the statement of the Manager of the Hotel. - Charles Margerum Fenn, Manager of the Hotel, stated that he found CAPTAIN and MRS MACDONNELL lying on the bed. The former was in uniform, lying outside the bed, and his wife, attired in a nightdress, was lying on the inside. A chemicals glass was by the side of the Captain, and a similar glass by the side of his wife. - On this evidence the Coroner adjourned the Inquest. - The Adjourned Inquest was held yesterday. The Coroner said correspondence would be read which would indicate that the case was one of determined suicide on the part of both. CAPTAIN MACDONNELL was a talented man, a distinguished linguist, and an all round efficient officer. In one letter deceased spoke of the "persistent run of ill-luck that had been ours," and said his Commanding Officer would explain "torments physical and mental that my poor little wife's illness and disappointment of my career have landed me with." Medical evidence showed the Captain and his wife died through taking cyanide of potassium and a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned.

MORTHOE - The North Devon Cliff Fatality. - At Lee, last evening, Dr Ellis Pearson, Deputy Coroner for North Devon, Inquired into the circumstances of the death of WILLIAM JOHN BENNETT, labourer, of Morte Hoe, who was found seriously injured at the foot of the cliffs at Sandy Cove, Lee, on Tuesday morning, and died shortly afterwards. The evidence went to show that the deceased, aged 54, was last seen at the Manor Hotel, Lee, on Monday evening, about 6.30. He then said he was going home, and walked up over the hill, where he had some rabbit traps, it being supposed that he went to look at these. He evidently got towards the cliffs and, missing his footing, fell over. He was found on the beach on Tuesday morning about 9.30 by Mr Hill, of Lee, being still alive but unconscious, and he was removed to a house near by, but died before reaching there. Dr Langridge, of Ilfracombe, who examined the body, stated that the deceased dislocated his neck, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Times, Monday 29 January 1917
NORTH TAWTON - North Tawton Inquest. The Question Of The Attendance Of A Medical Man. - Mr Coroner H. C. Brown held an Inquest at the Market Hall, North Tawton, on Saturday evening, relative to the death of EDITH VERN, single, aged 30 years, who came from the Okehampton Union Workhouse at Christmas, and has since been living with her sister and brother-in-law at Fore-street, North Tawton. She found employment at the Factory, and was at work there on Wednesday last, but died on Friday morning. - FRANCIS LONG, brother-in-law of deceased, a labourer, stated that she had been living with him and his wife for some time, and had been ailing. She had a bad cold and was in a very weak state. On Thursday deceased was taken very bad indeed, and he went for Dr Desprez about 8 p.m. He asked the doctor to see his sister-in-law, who was very ill indeed. The doctor, witness alleged, refused to come, and used words to the effect that Dr Clements had attended his wife in her accouchement, and therefore he could not come up. Witness afterwards went to the Post Office to try and get a message through to Winkleigh, about five miles from North Tawton, where Dr Clements lived, but the office was closed. His wife then fetched Nurse Barrett, and the latter remained a part of the night. His sister-in-law died about 6 o'clock the next morning. - ELIZABETH LAVINIA LONG, sister of deceased, corroborated her husband's evidence. - By the Coroner: Did you have Dr Clements for your accouchement? - Witness: Yes. - The Coroner: Did you send a message to Dr Desprez that you did not want him? - Witness said about 14 months ago she wrote to the Devon Insurance Committee at Exeter saying she would not have Dr Desprez, but she only referred to herself. Since then she had had no occasion to have the doctor. - The Coroner explained that he had asked the questions on account of the report he had received from the Police. They were put not from a legal standpoint, but in the general public interest. - Jessie Barrett, practising as a nurse at North Tawton, stated that she was fetched to see deceased on Thursday evening by MRS LONG. She found her very ill. Deceased complained of great bumps and was evidently very weak. Witness made her as comfortable as possible. Witness considered she was a parish patient. - Dr Clements, of Winkleigh, said, on the instruction of the Coroner, he had made a post-mortem examination. To his knowledge he had never seen deceased. He found the mitral valves of the heart diseased, the liver very large and congested, and the lungs showed signs of sub-acute bronchitis. He considered the cause of death to be sub-acute bronchitis, accelerated by mitral disease of the heart. Deceased was an insured person, working at the Mill, and not a parish case. As an insured person, she ought to have been in a position to claim medical attendance. Arrangements were made by the Insurance Committee at Exeter for dealing with isolated cases. - Replying to a Juror, witness said deceased had come from the Union House about a month since, but as an insured person, deceased was entitled to claim medical attendance from the first day of her employment. If deceased were not on the panel for the parish, it was her own fault. - Dr Clements wished to clear up one difficulty - that of reaching him. He had several patients in North Tawton, and was frequently there at all hours of the night. - The Coroner said, as Dr Desprez's name had been mentioned, and he was present in the Court, it was only fair he should be called, if he so desired, as an ordinary witness. - Dr Desprez tendered himself as a witness, and elected to be sworn. He said on Thursday evening a little boy asked him to go up to LONG'S about a quarter to eight. He saw the boy, and told him to fetch his father, FRANCIS LONG, who came down about eight and desired him to see a patient at his house. Witness reminded him of a letter in which were words to the effect that his (LONG'S) wife did not wish him to attend her, and that she would never send for him if taken ill. LONG himself had asked him to attend him, and he promised to do so. He then asked LONG how he could be expected to go, in face of the letter. If it had been LONG himself he would have gone. - By the Coroner: You quite understood you were not asked to see MRS LONG? - Witness: Yes, sir; but the house was barred to me except for the master of the house. - Continuing Dr Desprez said LONG told him that the patient was very bad, but no mention was made by him of any other doctor. - The Coroner: Then LONG'S statement is untrue. - Witness: No mention either of another doctor or of the confinement was made by me. The letter was the point. - Dr Clements: As reference has been made to the letter, it ought to have been produced, and the Committee at Exeter represented at that Inquiry. - A Juror to Dr Clements: Do you think if you had been called earlier you could have saved deceased's life? - Dr Clements: That is a very difficult question to answer. The woman certainly endangered her own life by walking about with heart disease and sub-acute bronchitis. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" in accordance with the medical opinion.

Western Times, Tuesday 30 January 1917
LOXHORE - North Devon Inquest. Woman's Suicide In The Yeo: Sad Tale Told At The Inquiry. - At the Croft, Lower Loxhore, on Friday, Dr Ellis Pearson, Deputy Coroner for North Devon, Enquired into the circumstances attending the death of BETSY VERNEY, 65, who was found drowned in the River Yeo on Wednesday last. Deceased was the wife of WILLIAM VERNEY, market gardener, of Lower Loxhore, who gave evidence of identification. He said deceased seemed all right when he last saw her alive on Saturday morning last, about 11 o'clock. He then left her in the kitchen while he went to cut sticks, and on returning about midday she was not there. Witness finished cooking dinner and having partaken of the same, went to make enquiries concerning her, first at her sister-in-law's, and then in the village, but could not get any news of her except that Mrs Norman had seen her pass about 11.40. Other enquiries had also been made. He did not see his wife again until the body was brought home. Witness proceeded to say that his wife had been "on the drink," and he thought she had gone to Barnstaple as she had done some seven or eight years ago. Asked if she often went off "on the drink," witness said she had been drinking heavily, but kept herself on her legs. She returned home from market one Friday night recently with a pint of brandy and a pint of whiskey. - Q: - Would she stop away for a day or two "on the drink?" - She had previously stopped out a night or two, but that was longer ago. She had been going on a little better of late years, but was getting bad again lately. - Questioned as to the deceased having any money, witness said that she kept the market money, and also the keys. On Friday evening last she returned home, had her supper, and went to bed about 6.30. Witness remarked something about her "old capers again." Next morning she was about as usual, and took him up some tea. - Q:- Had she any drink in the house? - Yes, what I had taken away from her before. Witness said he put the brandy and whiskey she previously brought home in a cupboard and told his wife to "look at it and see if she could not shame herself of it." She had drunk part of one of the bottles. He had never known his wife to go away and stay so long before, and she had never threatened to take her life, nor had he any suspicion she was likely to do such a thing. - Elizabeth Conibear spoke to meeting the deceased coming down the village on Saturday morning just before 12 o'clock. She was not dressed as if she were going far. Witness asked her how she was, and she replied that she could not tell exactly. Witness enquired if she had a cold, to which deceased replied that she had had two or three colds. They then remarked something about the weather, and passed on. Deceased appeared to be quite all right then. - Thomas Kelly, son-in-law of MR VERNEY, spoke to finding the body on Wednesday afternoon in the river Yeo, at a spot about a quarter of a mile from deceased's house. He did not ever think she was likely to take her own life. He had never seen her the worse for drink. - P.C. Stephens said no money or paper was found on the body, nor any note in the house. Deceased had a shawl wrapped around her head when the body was found. Witness said that at the bottom of the lane leading to deceased's home, there was a stone ditched wall, from which a stone had been removed for engines to take water from the stream below. On the earth there, was an imprint of a woman's foot, and the body was found about 20 yards away. He did not know whether the footprint was that of the deceased, but it was not a place where a woman was likely to be in the ordinary course. - Summing up, the Coroner said it appeared that deceased had deliberately gone down to the river and jumped in. He did not think there was any reason to suppose that deceased was pushed into the river, or that she slipped in. What they had heard took place in the morning; it was not as it occurred on a dark night. - The Jury, of which Mr B. Baker was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Suicide."

BRIXHAM - Accident Death was the verdict at the Inquest on WILLIAM SOLOMAN, a Lowestoft fisherman, who was missed from the L.T. drifter Rose of Sharon in Brixham Inner Harbour on Christmas night. Dr R. B. Thompson attributed death to shock through falling overboard.

TEIGNMOUTH - Teignmouth Tragedy. Old Lady's Gas Account Worries End In Suicide. - Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest in the Town Hall, Teignmouth, yesterday afternoon, to Enquire into the circumstances attending the death of ANNA WILLIS LETTEN, 72, widow of a channel pilot, a resident of Portland-road, Gravesend, whose dead body was found floating in the dock at the Old Quay, Teignmouth, on Saturday. - Evidence of the finding of the body was given by William John Joslin, foreman for Mr G. Player. - MARY MAGDALENE LETTEN, of Parrock-street, Gravesend, wife of a river pilot, said the deceased was a cousin to her husband. She last saw the deceased on Saturday week at her house. Deceased had private means and witness knew nothing about her, except that she said she intended going away for a holiday at Easter. Deceased enjoyed fairly good health, in fact, she never knew her so well as she had been recently. Deceased was nervous and irritable, but witness could give no reason for what had occurred. Witness did not know that MRS LETTEN had left Gravesend until she received a letter from her on Friday afternoon last. It was addressed to her husband, and she could swear it was in deceased's hand-writing. It was registered at Teignmouth. - The Coroner read the letter in which the deceased mentioned about the disposal of some of her effects. She instructed that her late husband's photograph and that of herself should be un-hung, and hers smashed. In a jewel box in a drawer were some £1 notes and in a case £35. She also stated in the letter that she had been troubled by the Gas Company about consuming more gas than had been registered. "I have been living in awful fear," she added. On Tuesday she went to the bank to withdraw £100, but the bank manager thought £50 was enough for her for the present. She had paid bills with some of the money. "Why my life has been, only God and myself knows. I am mad. Will you go to the Gas Company and pay any fine, as there was nothing gained by exposure. When dark enough I intend to jump into the sea from here. I stayed in Dawlish. My God, what shame and disgrace, and not brought on by myself. Do not say it is the Gas Company until they have tested the meter. I have paid the penalty by death, " the letter continued. In conclusion she wished her relations good-bye and left instructions as to the key of the house. - Witness said she knew nothing about the trouble with the Gas Company. She identified the purse found on the body as belonging to the deceased. - JAMES HORACE LETTEN, lighterman of 93 Barnby-street, London, stepson, said he never heard his mother threaten to commit suicide. She was of a nervous temperament and had a breakdown on the death of her husband five years ago. At Christmas the deceased was ill with influenza, but she had all that a woman could really wish for. - Alice Maud Newman, waitress at the Royal Hotel, Dawlish, said deceased slept there on Wednesday last. On Thursday she left again saying she was going back to Gravesend as it was so cold at Dawlish. When deceased left the Hotel she went in an opposite direction to the Station. - Dr Patterson attributed death to drowning and considered the body had been in the water about 36 hours. - P.S. Partridge said deceased called at the Post-office, Teignmouth and registered the letter between 6 and 7 o'clock on Thursday. - P.C. Harris stated that in deceased's purse was 11s. 1d. and nine £1 notes. Nothing had been seen of the attaché case deceased was carrying when she left the Royal Hotel, Dawlish. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

SAMPFORD PEVERELL - Sampford Burning Fatality. - The Inquest on the three and a half year old daughter of MR and MRS W. H. NORRISH, of Sampford Peverell, who died on Saturday afternoon as the result of burns, caused by a match, was held yesterday by Mr H. W. Gould, Coroner. A domestic servant at "Merriemeade (where MR and MRS NORRISH live) said on Friday, between nine and half-past, deceased screamed from the nursery, saying "I am on fire." Witness ran upstairs to the bedroom, next the nursery, and got a blanket, wrapped it round deceased and succeeded in extinguishing the flames. She did not know how deceased caught her clothes on fire. There were some burnt matches on a chair and a box of matches beside them. There was a guard round the fire, and deceased was near it. - Mrs Edith Trevelyan, said she arrived at "Merriemeade" a few minutes before nine on Friday morning, when the two children came to the top of the stairs and spoke to her. They were both all right then, but a short time afterwards there was a scream. The elder child had meanwhile come downstairs. Deceased could not have caught her clothes alight by the fire because of the guard. Deceased was not wearing any flannelette. The Coroner said probably deceased was playing with matches, and caught her clothes alight. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Times, Wednesday 31 January 1917
EXETER - Unusual Accident Has a Fatal Sequel At The Exeter Hospital. - The fatal sequel to an unusual accident which occurred near Hemyock on January 10th to THOMAS STADDON, aged 38, a carter, was the subject of an Inquest conducted last evening at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital by Mr W. Linford Brown. Deceased was employed by Messrs. G. Small and Sons Ltd., Uffculme, coal and corn merchants, and broke his leg through falling when delivering coals at "Stentiford," a residence near Hemyock. Last Sunday he died from shock following a difficult operation at the Hospital. - Mr A. Martin Alford appeared for Messrs. Small and Sons, and Edwin Henry Alford, manager for the firm, gave evidence of identification, mentioning that deceased had been in their employ four or five years. On January 10th he was sent with 30 cwt. of coal on a waggon to a residence near Hemyock. This was at 11 a.m., and about six the same evening he was brought back on the waggon. He said he had broken his leg, and added, "I had unloaded half the coal, and as the house was getting nearly full I was scrambling back with a bag of coal on my back, when that under my feet gave way and I came down with the bag I was carrying on me and was unable to get up. I shouted for help and Annie Clark, a servant at the residence came out and helped me up. They sent for Mr Eccles and put me on the waggon. They covered me up with some rugs and got a man and boy to drive me back to Uffculme." Witness immediately sent for a doctor, who attended deceased and recommended that he should be sent to the Exeter Hospital. Witness got a motor car and brought him to Exeter in this on a stretcher. - Miss Annie Clark, a servant at "Stentiford" House said she heard deceased shouting her name and went to the coal-house, where she found him on the ground. She got the assistance of three men at once. - Dr Domville, Assistant House Surgeon, said deceased was brought to the Hospital at 10.40 p.m. He had a badly fractured thigh and there was a considerable shortening of the leg. It was decided to plate the bone together, and a long operation was successfully completed on Friday last. The next evening there was sign of collapses and STADDON died on Sunday morning at 1 a.m. The cause of death was shock following the operation. - The Jury's verdict was in accordance with the doctor's evidence and Mr Martin Alford expressed the employers' sympathy with the relatives.

EXETER - Death Of A St. Thomas Dairyman. - The Exeter Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at the Court House, last evening, relative to the death of JAMES JORDAN, aged 77, dairyman, of Cowick-street, St. Thomas, Exeter. Evidence was given by the widow to the effect that deceased suffered from gangrene a few years ago, but he had not had any serious illness since. On Sunday he was poorly. He went to bed at 9 p.m., and on the following morning witness found him in bed dead. - Dr Pereira, who had known the deceased for several years, said that sometime ago he attended the deceased, who suffered from a weak heart. On Monday morning he examined the body. Death was due to heart failure, probably accelerated by the intense cold weather. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Friday 2 February 1917
TIVERTON - At Tiverton Hospital on Wednesday, the Borough Coroner, Mr F. R. D. Clutsom, held an Inquest on the death of the male infant child of MRS G. H. POOK, of Westexe-south, Tiverton, the infant having died suddenly at the age of 16 days. The medical evidence showed that death was due to weakness and Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

TORQUAY - Torquay Suicide. Man Mentally Affected Passed At Exeter For General Service. - An Inquest was held at Torquay yesterday, regarding the death of FRANK TUCKER, aged 29 years, single, who was employed as a grocer's porter with Messrs. Shapley and Son, and resided at Ellacombe, with his father, WILLIAM HENRY TUCKER, a carpenter. - The father stated that on Tuesday last his son was very funny, and appeared to have a lot on his mind. He was troubling about a concert which he was arranging, wondering if the people would turn up. In fact deceased had been funny for years. When he went to the Local Tribunal he was rejected, but on Monday he went to Exeter to be examined by the Medical Board. He was then passed for general service, which was ridiculous, considering his condition. - The Coroner (Mr S. Hacker): When he came home had he anything to say about it? - Witness: Nothing, except that he had passed the doctor, but felt bad. - Was he troubling because he passed for general service? - No; he said nothing about it. - When had he to join up? - There was no notice about that. - Witness stated that his son told him that when in Exeter he went to the Salvation Army, and joined them in an open-air meeting, and that he felt very funny in his head afterwards. Witness did not think that deceased had been responsible for his actions for some time. - The Coroner: Had he any peculiar ideas about religion? - "Nothing that I know of," replied the witness. - Private H. Cohen spoke of seeing TUCKER jump into the sea by the shelter at the Princess Pier, throwing off his overcoat and hat before doing so. Witness gave the alarm and rushed for the lifebuoy on the Pier. This was thrown to the man, but he did not attempt to take it, although he could easily have done so. A naval officer was lowered down over the wall with a rope, but he could not see the body. - Private H. Marler said he heard a shout and rushed to the spot and saw the man struggling in the water. Witness obtained two pieces of rope and threw these to the man. There were some civilians there, but he heard the remark that "if anybody wanted to commit suicide let them do so." A girl from one of the trams, an expert swimmer, wanted to enter the water, but the civilians would not permit her. If the man wanted to save himself he could have done so with the buoy. - P.C. Willis stated that in a wallet were three £1 notes, there being a quantity of silver in a pocket of the overcoat. - P.C. Johns spoke of recovering the body about 50 yards from the place where the man jumped in. - Arthur Aggett, manager for Messrs. Shapley at the Chelston Branch, said deceased showed at times a certain deficiency mentally. Last April he went before the Tribunal, but, as Staff-Surgeon Woore had certified the man to be suffering from a mental affliction, he was exempted. Staff-Surgeon Woore had empowered witness to say that the man was absolutely unfit for military service. About two weeks ago, TUCKER again had papers to go before the Medical Board at Exeter. He worried a great deal about that, and also whether he should get off again. He was passed for general service. It preyed on his mind. Deceased had a horror of military service in any form. On Tuesday morning deceased told what occurred at Exeter, and added, in conversation with customers, "But they will never have me." Witness did not think much of this statement. - The Coroner and Jury commended the two soldiers for their prompt action. A verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind" was returned and the Foreman, Mr W. Blackler, remarked that it was extraordinary that the military authorities should accept such a man for general service.

Western Times, Tuesday 6 February 1917
KINGSWEAR - Kingswear Tragedy. Gentleman's Death From Instant Poisoning. - At Kingswear on Saturday Mr Hacker held an Inquest relative to the death of ERNEST PLEASANTS FENNER, a gentleman of independent means, aged 52, who resided at Mount Ridley, Kingswear, and was found lying on the floor of his bathroom on Thursday last. - MRS FRANCES FORD FENNER, the widow, told the Coroner that on Thursday morning MR FENNER breakfasted with her as usual. He was to have gone to Exeter that afternoon to serve on a special jury. About half-past ten witness went across the water by the ferry, leaving him in the dining room. On her return at one p.m. she was met by the gardener, who told her that her husband was very faint. Going into the house she found him on the bathroom floor with the doctor in attendance. - Witness was asked by the Coroner if she knew anything that would throw any light on the affair. She answered that she considered it was his heart. - The Coroner: He had taken something apparently. There was a nearly empty glass there. - Yes, there was a glass there. - Can you throw any light on that? - No. The only thing I should consider is that it would be Epsom salts. He was in the habit of taking them. - Do you know where he kept them? - Yes; there was a laudanum bottle there, but I do not know of any other. - Did you know there was a bottle of oxalic acid? - I dare say that would be there, but the bottles would not be there for any improper use. - Dr Andrews said that he had seen deceased professionally, the last occasion being the 27th of January. He appeared then to have had a bad attack of influenza. He met him again last Tuesday, when MR FENNER told him that he was quite well again and could eat and sleep well. Witness was called to the house by a boy on Thursday and then found MR FENNER lying on the bathroom floor. He had been dead about twenty or twenty-five minutes; there was a glass on the table; it contained a few drops of fluid. Witness tasted it, and it was sharp, acid, and pungent - a taste he could not recognise. Neither could he recognise the faint smell. There were a few crystals at the bottom of the glass. Being unable to ascertain the cause of death, he telephoned for Dr Hodson of Brixham. - Dr Hodson (Brixham), who made a post mortem examination, found no external marks or injury. He did not open the stomach. - At the Coroner's suggestion, witness left the Court and went to the house to examine the stomach. He returned and stated that the condition of the stomach showed great congestion. He was quite clear about a strong irritant having been taken and in his opinion it was sufficient to cause death. - The Jury found that deceased took an irritant poison, but whether with unlawful intention or by misadventure there was no evidence to show.

Western Times, Friday 9 February 1917
TIVERTON - An Inquest was held at the Tiverton Hospital on Monday by the Borough Coroner, Mr F. R.D. Clutsom, on the death of the male infant child of MRS W. H. CROSS, of Bolham. Evidence showed that the child died from non-expansion of the lower part of the lungs - a common cause of death among infants. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes".

Western Times, Saturday 10 February 1917
EXETER HEAVITREE - At Heavitree Council Room last evening, Mr W. L. Brown, Coroner, held an Inquest on MRS SARAH KELLY, 47, of 30 Wonford-street, Wonford, who died suddenly in her bedroom the previous day. Dr Whaite, who made a post mortem examination, said death was due to heart failure caused by septic infection from an ulcerated leg. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Times, Tuesday 13 February 1917
BARNSTAPLE - Sudden Death Of A Barnstaple Ex-Soldier. - At the North Devon Infirmary, Barnstaple, Friday evening, the Borough Coroner, Mr T. A. Bencraft, Inquired into the death of WILLIAM SHADDICK, aged 47, porter, who was found dead in a lavatory at the rear of the Exeter Inn, Litchdon-street, on Tuesday evening. - It transpired that deceased was originally in the Militia, being on the Reserve on the outbreak of war. He served one year with the Devons in France, and his discharge paper read: "He was a good solider; discharged on account of illness, due to active service in France in 1914. He was an honest and hard-working man." - On Tuesday evening he was served with a pint of beer at the Exeter Inn, and two hours later his lifeless body was found at the back of the premises. - Dr F. L. Thomas who had attended SHADDICK for acute bronchitis, attributed death to haemorrhage of the lungs, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Western Times, Wednesday 14 February 1917
EXETER HEAVITREE - An Exeter Fatality. - Mr W. L. Brown, Exeter City Coroner, held an Inquest at the Heavitree Council Room last evening on MRS CHARLOTTE WEST, aged 84, of Park Gardens, Park-street, Heavitree, widow of MR HENRY WEST, gardener, Kenton, who fell and broke a thigh on December 29th and died on Sunday last. - HARRY WEST, son, with whom deceased had resided for ten years, said the fall occurred in the kitchen. Deceased had enjoyed very good health considering her age. - Dr Stokes, who had been in attendance, said death was due to senile decay accelerated by the injury to the thigh. - Verdict "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Thursday 15 February 1917
TOTNES - A verdict of "Death From Natural Causes" was returned at an Inquest held at Totnes Union Workhouse yesterday, concerning the death of HANNAH MARIA LEVER, widow, aged 68, of Gerston-road, Paignton, who died in the Institution on Monday. Dr Edmond said death resulted from cerebral haemorrhage.

Western Times, Friday 16 February 1917
UFFCULME - Husband's Sad Discovery At Uffculme. - At Stenthill Farm, Uffculme, on Monday, an Inquest was held relative to the death of ANNIE ELIZABETH PRINCE, 49, wife of a labourer, SAMUEL PRINCE. The husband said he returned home from work on Friday at 6 p.m. and as his wife was not in the house, he went in search, as she had previously told him she was going to gather some firewood, and he knew the direction she would take. He found her lying in the road. There was nothing to indicate she had tripped and she did not appear to have moved from where she had fallen. He ascertained that she was dead, ran for assistance and had her conveyed home. - Dr F. F. Laidlaw, Uffculme, said a post-mortem examination suggested sudden congestion of the blood vessels of the brain, causing a stricture, possibly the result of a strain. - The Coroner: Would you be prepared to say the intense cold brought on a state of congestion of the surface of the brain, thus causing deceased to have lost consciousness before having fallen, thus causing death? - Dr Laidlaw: It is quite possible. - The Jury found that the cause of death was congestion of the brain, passed a vote of condolence with the husband and gave their fees to him.

Western Times, Tuesday 20 February 1917
EXETER - By Candle Light. Reporting Under Difficulties At An Exeter Inquest. - At the Exeter Poor Law Infirmary last evening, Mr H. Brown, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest on MRS CHARLOTTE WHYBURN, aged 91, of 2 Jubilee-street, who died at the Infirmary on Friday last. She resided with her son, MR C. J. WHYBURN, and enjoyed fairly good health up to the 8th inst., when he went to work in the morning, leaving her in bed. During the morning, in going from one room to another, she fell and broke her left arm, and was found by a neighbour, Mrs Langmead, who usually visited her two or three times a day, in a sitting position on the floor. It was subsequently found necessary to remove her to the Infirmary. - Dr Pereira said death was due to old age, accelerated by shock and the broken arm, the accident being the primary cause of death. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - During the Inquest the electric light with which the room was illuminated failed, and through some trouble in the mains, it is thought, all the electric lights in the Institution went out at the same time. The Inquest had to be suspended whilst candles were fetched. These enabled Mr Brown to proceed, but the Press representatives were reduced practically to guesswork in their note-taking.

Western Times, Wednesday 21 February 1917
EXETER - An Inquest was conducted at the Exeter Police Court last evening, by the City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, on the death of EMILY BLACKMORE VENTON, of Blackboy-road, whose body was recovered from the river by the Weirfields, on Sunday. Identification was given by Mrs Ponsford, of 42 Bath-road, who said that MRS VENTON was the widow of WILLIAM VENTON, who was a retired builder and died suddenly last October. Witness lived in part of the house the VENTON'S occupied, and knew that since MR VENTON died deceased had worried about money matters. She used to get dismal and play the "Dead March" on the piano. Witness saw her last alive on Saturday about midday, about which time she went out and did not return. - Mrs Emily Roberts, of Tudor-street, said that on Saturday afternoon she met deceased in the Weirfields just after four o'clock. She asked, "Excuse me does this lead me to the water and the road?" Witness fully explained the way and asked her if she could direct her to any place in particular? - Deceased replied, "No, I am only out for a walk," and seemed quite rational. - John E. Westcott, special constable, told how someone came to him and said a woman's hat, umbrella, fur and coat were by the rails near the river in the Weirfields. The coat and fur he found hanging on the rails. - An employee at the septic tanks gave evidence of recovering the body from the river, a short distance from where the clothes were found. This was about two fields away from the septic tanks. - P.C. Harvey said deceased had a rope and key tied around her waist. - Detective Walters produced a letter found on deceased. It was addressed to "Mr Brown, Coroner," and in it deceased stated that she had made a bad speculation in buying a house in Bath-road. This worried her and had "driven her wild." It "caused her," she wrote, "to seek a watery grave," but there was some money at the bank for a decent funeral. She also said she feared she would become a confirmed invalid. Detective Walters added that there were also letters left in deceased's room, one being addressed to Dr Bradford, to whom she wrote, "My sufferings are terrible, and I am a nerve wreck. It is no use my staying here." She spoke in all the letters of money affairs. - Dr Pereira gave evidence of death being due to drowning and the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

EXETER - Mr W. Linford Brown held an Inquest in regard to the death of CHARLES ORPHEUS BRYANT, aged 56, a labourer at the City Council Electricity Works. It was stated that deceased had complained for some time of feeling pains near his heart. He was at work on Monday, and left home in the evening to visit a doctor. About 7.15 on his way home again, he was taken ill and helped into the Literary Society's premises in the Barnfield. He there asked for water and died in the vestibule of the premises shortly afterwards. Dr Harrison told the Jury that deceased had acute bronchitis and this acted on a weak heart. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

EXETER - Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, held an Inquest regarding the death of MR WILLIAM CHARLES LEAT, aged 48, a railway packer, of 5 Cambridge-street, which occurred early on Sunday morning. The widow stated that he returned home one day a short time ago and said he believed he had strained his heart. At six o'clock on Sunday morning he sat up suddenly in bed, got out, and then suddenly collapsed and died immediately. Dr Black stated that the heart weighed 16 ½ ozs., instead of 10 or 12 ozs., and there were signs of fatty degeneration. Death was due to syncope. The verdict was "Natural Causes."

Western Times, Thursday 22 February 1917
BARNSTAPLE - Fatal Fall At Barnstaple. - At Barnstaple last evening, the Borough Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, Enquired into the circumstances attending the death of ALFRED GEORGE BAKER, labourer, who died on Monday night, following an accident while discharging coal at Barnstaple Gasworks the same day. Mr C. H. Morris, H. M. Inspector of Factories, was present, while Mr C. E. R. Chanter (Chairman of Directors) and Mr F. L. Scholefield (Manager) attended on behalf of the Company. Mr A. F. Seldon, solicitor, watched the interests of the widow. - At the outset Mr Chanter expressed the Company's deep regret at the sad occurrence, remarking that BAKER had been in their employ for about 16 years, and was much respected. - The widow said her husband (an ex-soldier) was 49 years of age, and had enjoyed good health. He met with an accident at the works about 12 months ago, as the result of which one of his knees was injured. On Monday he was brought home about 4.30. Dr Harper was first called and later Dr Lemarchand, and as deceased did not get any better, his removal to the North Devon Infirmary was ordered. Deceased said nothing about the accident, but put his hands to his head. she asked if it were aching, but he said "No," but complained of his heart. - William J. Rook, carter, spoke to working with the deceased on Monday afternoon. They were tipping a cart of coal into the cellar, and in righting the butt, a portion of it struck BAKER on the knee. Deceased shouted out, and witness lifted him to his feet. BAKER seemed dazed, staggered back over the platform and rolled down into the cellar, a distance of about 10- or 12 feet. - Charles H. Yeo, another carter, gave similar evidence. - Dr A. W. Lemarchand, who made a post mortem examination, attributed death to haemorrhage of the brain. Everything possible was done for the deceased. - The Coroner mentioned that the Government Inspector had viewed the spot where the accident occurred and was perfectly satisfied with the arrangements made by the Gas Company for discharging coal. Mr Morris: That is so. - He (the Coroner) believed that there had never been anything like a fatal accident there before in all the years that the place had been used. It was well constructed and nobody was to blame for the unfortunate accident. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Times, Friday 23 February 1917
SOUTH MOLTON - Dr Ellis Pearson, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at South Molton concerning the death of MRS CHARLOTTE FURSE SMALE, widow, of Barnstaple-street, South Molton. Mr C. G. P. Huxtable was elected Foreman of the Jury. - Mrs Gould, North-street, said deceased was 85 years of age. She last saw her alive several weeks ago; having suffered from bronchitis she (MRS SMALE) had not been out of doors for a long time, perhaps as long as three months. About three o'clock in the morning of Monday, MRS SMALE'S daughter fetched witness to the house. MISS SMALE said she could not get her mother to speak to her. Witness, who got to the house at a quarter past three, found MRS SMALE in bed. She was dead. Deceased had not been medically attended. - Dr Seal, South Molton, said the cause of death was syncope, due to valvular disease of the heart. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." - The Foreman said he had known the deceased for 50 years, and she was held in respect. He was sure he would be voicing the feelings of the Jury in expressing sympathy with the relatives in their sudden bereavement.

Western Times, Saturday 24 February 1917
SOUTH BRENT - The South Brent Burning Fatality. - The Inquest on the body of the little boy SIDNEY BULLEN, aged one year and ten months, son of CORPL. BULLEN, who was taken prisoner at the Retreat from Mons, was held at South Brent yesterday. MRS BULLEN, the mother of deceased, left the two children in the kitchen while she went to fetch some bread, and on her return found the boy SIDNEY in flames. The fire place, according to the mother's evidence, was not protected; the fact of the need of fireguards was not generally known, added the mother. The child was badly burned and died on Wednesday. - The Coroner, Mr S. Hacker, commented on the necessity of protecting fire places by guards, and the Jury returned a verdict to the effect that death was due to shock following burns. They attached no blame whatever to the mother.

Western Times, Monday 26 February 1917
RUNCORN, CHESHIRE - Teignmouth Captain Found Drowned At Runcorn. - At Weston Point, near Runcorn, on Thursday, an Inquest was held relative to the death of FREDERICK WALLACE PRATT, aged 45, captain of the schooner Gravanwood, and who lived at Alexandra-terrace, Teignmouth. The mate of the vessel, a Russian, said deceased went ashore on Saturday morning and on Monday, as he had not returned, he was reported to the brokers as missing. He left in good health and spirits. Mrs Worrall, wife of the landlord f the Clarendon Hotel, Runcorn, said PRATT called at the Hotel on Saturday evening and deposited £200 with her mother for safety. - MRS PRATT, widow of deceased, said she did not believe her husband would trust anybody, but a man named Stubbs confirmed Mrs Worrall's statement. Deceased's body was recovered from No. 1 loch of the Runcorn and Western Canal on Tuesday. - Joseph Miller, a tonnage clerk, suggested that deceased had attempted to cross the loch gates as a short cut to his vessel. - P.C. Passey said there were no marks of violence on the body. - The Coroner remarked that the night on which deceased must have met his death was very dark, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned." - It is understood that the money deposited at the Clarendon belonged to the owners of the schooner.

Western Times, Tuesday 27 February 1917
EXETER - Suicide Of An Exeter Traveller. - The Exeter City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at the Court House, Exeter, last evening, on WALTER HENRY WILLIAMS, of 20 Nelson-road, St. Thomas, retired traveller for a firm of wine and spirit merchants. - PTE. HORACE WILLIAMS, of 5 Diamond's-lane, Teignmouth, identified deceased as his father, who was aged 76. He last saw him in November, when he seemed all right. - The widow stated that except for a heart attack two years ago deceased enjoyed fairly good health. On Thursday last, after returning from a walk, he retired to bed just after 5 o'clock. She had tea and preparatory to going out of doors went upstairs to see if her husband was all right. She had previously called up and received an answer that he was. She now heard him gasping, and sent for Dr Black, but on his arrival death had taken place. She found in the room a bottle marked cyanide of potassium (produced with a tumbler). She had never seen it before. Dr Black said, "I don't think he has taken any of that." She asked what it was, and Dr Black said, "It is used for photography." He further remarked that as deceased had been suffering from heart trouble, Dr Adkins should be told, and a few seconds later he returned and said she had better inform the Police. This she did at once and handed over the bottle. The previous day deceased had remarked, "If I had as much pluck as Mr ..... I should do the same." She took no notice of the remark, as deceased had nothing to worry him. - Mr J. A. Baker, manager for Messrs. Stone and Son, Ltd., chemists, whose name was on the bottle, said he could find no trace of the poison being supplied to deceased in recent years. The employee who wrote the label had been gone from the business at least 12 years. The poison would gradually lose its power, but in a bottle corked like the one produced it might retain it for 20 years. He had never known cyanide of potassium used in photography, though it might be in the more intricate processes. It was in the first schedule of poisons, and would be signed for and the use of the poison entered in the book. There was a possibility of the poison being transferred to deceased by one of the farmers to whom it is sold for destroying wasps' nests. They used considerable quantities in the summer time. - Dr Pereira, who had made a post mortem examination, said the heart was much enlarged and diseased. In the stomach there was a dark-brown colour, almost approaching gangrene, and a distinct smell of bitter almonds. There were traces of an irritant poison, and, in his opinion, deceased died of poisoning by cyanide of potassium. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane."

Western Times, Wednesday 28 February 1917
TORQUAY - Torquay Tragedy. Inquest On MR WM. LAYBOURN: "Accidental Death." - The Inquest on the body of WILLIAM KIRKUS LAYBOURN, a gentleman of independent means, who was found drowned off Wall's Hill, Babbacombe, on Sunday, was held at the St. Marychurch Town Hall yesterday afternoon by Mr Sidney Hacker. - Herbert Curtis, of Anstey's Ley, St Marychurch, identified the body as that of his brother-in-law. Deceased was formerly a doctor. He was a bachelor, and had resided in Torquay with witness for nearly 12 years. Deceased was never very strong, and had recently suffered from influenza, and leg trouble. Witness saw him last at 12.15 on Saturday, and he was just going for a walk with his dog. He expected him home to lunch about half-past one, but as he did not return witness began to get alarmed, and eventually went to find him. His enquiries were of no avail, and he then informed the Police. He was of the opinion that when the deceased came to a fence, which was at the top of the cliff, the dog went through and he followed to regain the dog. He then probably lost himself in the mist and fell over the edge of the cliff. - By the Coroner: "There was nothing to suggest that he should have taken his own life?" - He was of a nervous temperament. - Rev. H. J. Bickersteth Ottley, vicar of Ilsham, deposed that while out for a walk on Saturday afternoon, on Wall's Hill, he saw a dog inside the railings, in a panting condition. Witness recognised the dog, a white fox terrier with a black head, as "Jack," belonging to MR LAYBOURN. Witness then returned home. He did not see MR LAYBOURN at evensong, and he went to his house. The dog then ran in. He got a lantern, and with the verger and others, went to search on the Downes. The dog led them to the spot where he had seen the dog in the afternoon. They searched until after 8 o'clock but the mist was coming up so dense from the south-east, that searching became practically impossible. He thought MR LAYBOURN had either tried to pick a flower, as he was a botanist, and slipped over, or that he tried to get hold of the dog and slipped, meeting his death that way. He was an extraordinarily methodical man, somewhat nervous. - Robert Windeatt, coast watcher, of 20 Park-road, St. Marychurch, said he was on duty on Saturday afternoon on Wall's Hill, and saw deceased standing near the edge of the cliff, on the land side of the railings and looking out to sea. The dog was with him, but witness could not describe the animal. Deceased walked away towards Babbacombe. Witness did not see him again afterwards; that was about half-past three. - Joseph Wm. Brown, of 285 Babbacombe-road, an engineer in the employ of the Nigerian Government, said that on Sunday afternoon he was talking to the coastguard about the disappearance of MR LAYBOURN, when the Chief Coastguard came up. He then started to go down the cliff, which was very slippery and dangerous. When nearing the bottom he saw a black object in the water. He watched and saw a hand, then a head, and eventually discovered it was a man. He shouted to a boy scout, who was at the top of the cliff and signalled to a boat to come. He despatched one of the boys to fetch a coastguard. - Dr G. M. Winter said the internal injuries were numerous, the head, limbs and body being badly bruised and both thighs fractured, as was the skull over the left eye, the orbit being fractured. There was a posterior fracture of the right of the skull. The right collar-bone was dislocated and fractured, the pelvis and right arm broken, and nearly every rib was smashed. The internal organs were torn by the broken ribs, but there was no valvular disease of the heart. He considered from the nature of the injuries deceased must have pitched on his feet when he fell as both legs were broken. He must have been dead before he reached the water. - P.S. Wm. Hunter also gave evidence. - After a retirement the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - Rev. Ottley suggested that a notice board should be put at this very dangerous part. - The Coroner replied that there was a proper fence and no one could topple over without going outside the fence. That they did at their own risk. - The Jury decided not to add anything in the nature of a rider, as they considered the protection of the railing sufficient.

SIDMOUTH - Mr C. W. Tweed, District Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at the Cottage Hospital, Sidmouth, on the body of the male child (one of twins) of ALBION HILL, of Bulverton Cottage, Sidmouth. From the evidence it appears that the child was prematurely born on Sunday, the 18th inst., and the mother had no attendance by a medical man or midwife, either on or since the birth, except from her little daughter, age 16 years. Dr Grant Wilson, of Sidmouth, was called in on Friday at 1.10 p.m., but on his arrival the child was dead. After hearing the evidence of the father, and his daughter, and that of Dr Grant Wilson, the Jury returned a verdict that death was caused by unsuitable feeding, accelerated by premature birth.

EXETER - Sister Censured. Extraordinary Story At An Exeter Inquest. A Fatal Fall. - The death of ADALENE MARIA THERESA VOULES, aged 60, a lady of eccentric habits, who died on Friday last at 73 Pinhoe-road, Exeter, was investigated last evening at an Inquest conducted at the former Heavitree Urban Council offices by Mr Hamilton Brown, Deputy Coroner of the City. - MISS FANNY SPENCER VOULES, sister of deceased, said that her sister was a spinster and the daughter of a late lieutenant of the Royal Navy. Deceased and witness lived together and 15 years ago deceased had an accident, since when she had had at times indifferent health. On Monday, February 19th, she sat in an easy chair in her bedroom, and witness left her to go downstairs. This was about 6 pm., and when witness returned she found her lying across the room on the floor. She did not say she was hurt and asked witness to put cushions under her and leave her by the fire. She also said she was more comfortable there. Witness therefore left her on the floor all night. She had previously been in her room some four or five weeks, the cold weather having led to an attack of neuritis. Witness went on to say that deceased remained on the floor by the fire in the bedroom from the Monday to Thursday at her own request and then witness wrote to Mr Russell Coombe, who called and suggested a nurse should be sent for and deceased got to bed, after which he would call next day. The district nurse was sent for and got deceased in bed, where she died on the following morning. - Nurse Spriddle spoke to being summoned to 73 Pinhoe-road. Mr Russell Coombe wired her. She found deceased on the floor unconscious. Witness undressed deceased and put her to bed. She was first washed as she was in a very bad condition and witness should not think she had moved at all after she fell down on the Monday. She had a cut on the forehead and a bruise on the side of the face, apparently caused by the fall. After the death witness telephoned to Mr Coombe's residence, where they promised to give him the message, and the next day witness informed the Police. - By a Juror: From the Monday to Thursday deceased had not been given necessary attention. - The Coroner: What position was she in on the floor when you went in? - Partly on her face - turned over. - The Foreman (Mr F. H. Pyle) to MISS VOULES: How is it you did not send for a doctor? - Because my sister strongly objected to seeing another. She had had sixteen. She took nourishment when on the floor, namely, cream, milk and oxo. - Detective Walters said he saw Mr Russell Coombe that (Tuesday) morning. The doctor showed him a note he had had from MISS VOULES on the Thursday in which the latter said: "Come as soon as you can. My sister slipped in her bedroom and evidently hurt her head. I don't know what to do." Mr Coombe said he went to the house thinking the fall might necessitate surgical treatment. He saw deceased lying on the floor, but she was in such a condition it was impossible to examine her and he advised that the district nurse should be called. He telegraphed to the nurse himself, in fact, and the next day was too unwell to go to the house. - The Coroner: Did he advise MISS VOULES to call another doctor in as he was unwell himself? - Witness: MISS VOULES says he mentioned Dr Bradford to her. - Acting-Inspector Snell gave evidence that on Saturday night the district nurse informed him of the circumstances of the death. Witness at once went to the nearest doctor, Dr Down, Mount Pleasant-road, and eventually he removed deceased to the Heavitree mortuary. - Dr Whaite gave the result of his post mortem. There were bruises on the left elbow and hip and a cut over the eyebrow. The organs were healthy, but there was blood in the head which had oozed from vessels of the brain, the haemorrhage having no doubt been started by the fall. Cerebral haemorrhage was the cause of death, and deceased might have lain in a semi-conscious state for days. He did not think, anything could have saved her life. - The Coroner remarked that the case was rather an extraordinary one, and although nothing apparently could have been done to save deceased, it did seem a pity that she should have been allowed to lie from Monday to Thursday in a state of, to say the least of it, extreme discomfort. - After the Jury had considered the case in private they found a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence. The Foreman added that they thought the sister should be severely censured for leaving deceased as she did and not calling in assistance. - The Coroner: I agree with the Jury. - MISS VOULES: I quite see my mistake now. It was mistaken kindness for her sake. - The Coroner: I can't see any kindness in it.

Western Times, Thursday 1 March 1917
EXETER - Sudden Death At Exeter. - At An Inquest held at the Exeter Court House last evening by the Deputy Coroner, Mr Hamilton Brown, relative to the death of HENRY MILLS TAYLOR, 79, carpenter, of 12 Clifton-road, Newtown, evidence was given by MRS BECK, daughter, who said her father was taken ill about four o'clock on Monday morning, but she did not think his condition was serious. Having helped him back to bed she left him, but half an hour later she was called by her mother, and on going into the bedroom she found him breathing his last. - Dr J. E. Ferris said that the effort of getting into bed probably caused syncope, which resulted in his death. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Friday 2 March 1917
LUSTLEIGH - Lustleigh Cycling Accident. The Jury Return A Verdict of "Accidental Death." - Much sympathy is expressed with MRS SALE of Brookfield Villa, Lustleigh, whose husband, MR ROBERT SALE, died on Tuesday from the effects of a cycle accident without regaining consciousness. The Inquest was held in the Constitutional Club by Mr S. Hacker, Coroner. Mr William Rowe was elected Foreman of the Jury. - MRS FRANCES ELIZA SALE stated that on Saturday last she and her husband, the deceased, were returning from a walk by Lower Knowle, when a cyclist, named W. H. Bunclark, came round a bend in the road towards them. The next thing she knew was that the boy and MR SALE were lying in the road. Bunclark was able to get up and was badly bruised, but her husband was unconscious. - Replying to the Coroner, witness said she was walking on the right side of the road, and her husband about two paces behind her. When picked up he was near the left side of the road. He was very short-sighted, but wore strong glasses. - Dr L. V. Laurie, of Moretonhampstead, stated that he saw deceased about 2.30 p.m., and found him in an unconscious condition. There was a scalp wound at the back of the head, a compressed fracture under the wound, and a slighter wound on the left side. Death was due to fracture of the skull, causing haemorrhage of the brain. - Miss G. A. Gregory, of Fairview, another witness, also gave evidence. - Mr W. H. Bunclark, baker, in the employ of Mr A. J. Walker, stated that he was delivering bread and was on the road to Bovey. He rang his bell before turning the corner. When he first saw MR SALE , he was on the left side of the road, but just as he reached him he attempted to cross to the opposite side. His right handlebar caught MR SALE and they both were thrown down. There was ample room to pass if deceased had remained still. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, and no blame attached to W. H. Bunclark. - On Behalf of the Jury, the Foreman expressed deep sympathy with MRS SALE and relatives. The Coroner joined in the expression. - The Funeral - The funeral of MR SALE took place at St. John Baptist Church, the Rev. H. Johnson officiating. Miss L. Woodforde presided at the organ. The principal mourners were MRS R. SALE (widow), MR G. SALE (brother), Miss Rebecca Sale, (sister) and Miss Fitt. The Misses Sale were prevented by illness from attending. Many floral tributes were sent.

Western Times, Wednesday 7 March 1917
TAVISTOCK - Mr R. R. Rodd, junr., Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Guildhall-room, Tavistock, yesterday afternoon, on the body of ELIZABETH ANN EARLING, aged 56, of 44 Exeter-street, Tavistock, wife of FRANCIS EARLING, formerly a labourer, now in the Royal Engineers. - Dr W. R. Griffin, who made a post mortem examination, said death was due to exhaustion from general debility and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Times, Friday 9 March 1917
EXETER - The Tramway Smash. Inquest Opened At Exeter Last Evening And Adjourned. - The Inquest on the victim of the Exeter Tram smash, MRS MARY FINDLAY, aged 52, wife of MR A. J. FINDLAY, painter and decorator, of Leighton-terrace, York-road, Exeter, was opened at the Court House last evening by the Deputy Coroner, Mr Hamilton Brown. - The Right Worshipful, the Mayor, Mr Jas. G. Owen, Alderman H. B. Varwell (chairman of the Tramway Committee), Alderman J. Stocker and Mr H. C. Bartlett (Tramways Manager) were among those present. - Mr J. McGahey attended on behalf of the Ocean Assurance Company; Mr A. J. Tucker represented one of the injured persons; Mr S. E. Cross appeared on behalf of the husband of the deceased; and Mr H. Lloyd Parry (Town Clerk) represented the Exeter City Council. Mr F. Channing was chosen Foreman. - Evidence of identification was given by MR ALEXANDER JOSEPH FINDLAY, the husband, who felt his position acutely. He said he last saw his wife alive on Wednesday morning at home prior to setting out for work. - The Deputy Coroner said he proposed to adjourn the Inquiry. The necessary evidence had not yet been gathered, and he suggested that the adjournment should be for a fortnight. - The Inquest was accordingly adjourned to Wednesday, the 21st, at 2.30. - The Town Clerk took the opportunity of expressing on behalf of the City Council, as the Tramways Authority, their profound sympathy with MR FINDLAY in his sad and sudden bereavement. He need scarcely say that it was causing the gravest concern to the Authority that this, the first really serious accident since the Exeter Electric Tramways system was instituted, should be accompanied by this sad loss of life. - Mr S. E. Cross, on behalf of MR FINDLAY, thanked the Town Clerk for his words of sympathy. - Alderman H. B. Varwell, on behalf of the Tramways Committee, associated himself with the Town Clerk's expression of sympathy. The Mayor also conveyed his sympathy to MR FINDLAY. Western Times, Monday 12 March 1917 EXETER - Topsham Man's Death. Old Pensioner Seamen Who Lived Alone. - At Exeter Court House on Saturday, Mr H. Brown, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest on SAMUEL LOWETH, aged 75, of Victoria-road, Topsham, who died suddenly at St. Thomas Poor Law Institution on Wednesday night. He had lived alone and was taken to the Infirmary by officials on the Tuesday. Mrs Lucy Gidley, a neighbour at Victoria-road, Topsham, said deceased had been a sailor, and drew a pension from some source. The previous Monday he asked her to light his lamp and get some coal from the coal house. He told her that on the previous night some boys had knocked him down when he was fetching his beer, and had smashed his jaw. She had known him fall about, apparently from weakness. He did not buy food with his pension, but spent it all on drink. - Frank Gidley, who took some tea across to deceased on Tuesday, said he found him leaning on the bed with his face in his hands. He seemed sober. - Nurse May Berry, of St Thomas Infirmary, said when deceased was admitted on Tuesday afternoon he was conscious. He was in a fearfully dirty condition. She never saw anyone more dirty in the course of her experience. - Dr Atkins, Medical Officer at the Infirmary said he found on deceased's right leg below the knee an old wound and a bruise around it. There was another wound in very much the same position on the left leg, a bruise on the back of his right hand and discolouration on the right side half way down the ribs. He had since made a post mortem examination and found the heart flabby and degenerated. There was evidence of old pleurisy and old bronchitis. Deceased probably took very little nourishment and witness thought gradual heart failure was the cause of death. He did not think that the possibility of deceased having been knocked down by boys or falling accidentally had anything to do with his death. The marks were not extensive enough. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Heart Failure."

Western Times, Tuesday 13 March 1917
EXETER - Retired Doctor's Lonely Death At Exeter. - An Inquest was conducted last evening at the Exeter Police Court by Mr Hamilton Brown, Acting City Coroner, concerning the death of DR BINDEN FRANCIS VANDELEUR BURTON, aged 68, retired medical practitioner, who was found dead at his residence, 29 East Grove-road, Exeter, last Thursday evening. - Mr W. R. Moass, Exeter, said deceased was formerly a physician and surgeon, and had lived alone since his wife died twelve years ago. - Mrs Madge, who resides next door to deceased, spoke to seeing him on Thursday morning. His dog was whining all the rest of the day, and P.S. Madge was sent for. He entered the house at 9 p.m., and found DR BURTON lying dead on some rubbish on the kitchen floor. Dr Pereira expressed the opinion that death was due to heart failure, caused by disease of the kidneys. - "Death from Natural Causes" was the verdict returned.

BARNSTAPLE - Barnstaple Borough Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, last night Enquired into the circumstances attending the death of LOUISA NOTT, an elderly woman, who was found by her daughter dead in bed on Friday night at Belle Meadow, Barnstaple. Dr F. L. Thomas, who made a post mortem examination, stated that the body was fairly well nourished and the cause of death was heart failure. A verdict was returned accordingly.

Western Times, Friday 16 March 1917
ILFRACOMBE - Dr Ellis Parson held an Inquest at the Tyrrell Cottage Hospital, Ilfracombe, yesterday afternoon, touching the death of MISS JANE JULIA IRELAND, aged 75, who was found dead in the bathroom at her residence, 4 Beach-terrace, the previous day. Dr Osborne said he had made a post mortem examination of the body and in his opinion the cause of death was haemorrhage of the brain, due to a fall. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Tuesday 20 March 1917
COLYTON - An Inquest was held in St Andrew's Hall, Colyton, by the Deputy Coroner, Mr C. N. Tweed, touching the death of the infant son of ERNEST PORTER, of North-street. MRS PORTER stated that the child was seven weeks old and was quite well until Wednesday, when he had a slight cough. On Thursday morning she noticed that he did not look well and refused food. She therefore sent for the district nurse, who came at once and advised sending for the doctor. This was done, but before he arrived the baby was dead. The nurse corroborated. - Dr W. H. Evans said the messenger did not say what was the matter with the child, or that the case was serious. He therefore went to Seaton Hospital to attend to his duties. W hen he came home between one and two o'clock he was told the child was dead. He had made a post-mortem examination, and in the state he found the lungs he considered the child had died from pneumonia. In answer to the Coroner, the doctor said had he attended the child at once, or even the day before, he could not have saved its life, judging from the lungs. The Jury, of whom Mr J. Follett was Foreman, gave their verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

PAIGNTON - A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned at an Inquest at Paignton on Saturday on the body of an old water-cress vendor, named CHARLES HARDWICK, who was found dead in a copse at Marldon on Friday. Pneumonia was the cause of death.

EXETER - Death Of An Exeter Nurseryman. - The Deputy Coroner for Exeter, Mr Hamilton Brown, held an Inquest last evening relative to the death of MR GEORGE HOWE KING KERSWELL, aged 75, of Bowhill Nurseries, St Thomas, who died suddenly while at work in one of the greenhouses on Saturday. Evidence was given by James Mitchell, in deceased's employ, who was working with him on Saturday morning shifting tomato plants. Witness turned round to hand a couple of tomato plants to MR KERSWELL, who exclaimed, "Oh, my!" and instantly fell backwards. Witness went to his assistance, and took him into the house. - Mr C. J. Vlieland attributed death to apoplexy and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Wednesday 21 March 1917
EXETER - Death From Burns At Exeter. - The Deputy Coroner, Mr Hamilton Brown, held an Inquest at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital last evening relative to the death of SARAH SHOBBROOKE, married, aged 82, of 2 Union-terrace, Cheeke-street, who died at the Hospital on Monday. Evidence of identification was given by SARAH ANN SHOBBROOKE, daughter, who said on Wednesday, February 7th, deceased was melting out the candlestick at the kitchen fire-place, when the grease ignited. In trying to extinguish the flame she caught her apron on fire. Her dress, cross-over petticoat, etc. were burnt, and also her chest, hands and face. Her husband, who was nearly blind, was upstairs and was unable to come down. - William Chudley, sweeper, employed by the City Council, said he saw the deceased rush from her house. She was in flames. He took off his sleeve waistcoat and wrapped it round her. In that way he extinguished the flames. - Mr E. J. Domville, acting House Surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased had burns about her face, chin, hands and body. She progressed very well at the Institution for about a fortnight, when the symptoms became worse. At the end of a further three weeks she weakened and died on Monday from the result of burns. She got over the shock and arrangements had actually been made to remove her to Topsham. A delay occurred, however, and her condition became worse. A verdict of "Accidental Death from Burns" was returned.

BARNSTAPLE - Barnstaple Child's Death. - The Barnstaple Borough Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, last evening held an Inquiry at Barnstaple into the circumstances attending the death of the infant female child of ELIZA F. WARE, single, of Torrington. The mother, MRS WARE, said her daughter had been a domestic servant at Barnstaple for seven months. Witness was sent for on Sunday evening and her daughter then produced the lifeless body of a child born that morning. Witness sent for a doctor at once. - Dr W. J. Harper, who made a post mortem examination, said the child had evidently breathed, but he could not swear that it had had a separate existence. In his opinion death was a natural one. He asked the girl if the child had breathed or cried and she replied, "No." The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Thursday 22 March 1917
EXETER - Tram Accident. The Inquest Opened At Exeter. Eye-Witnesses Evidence. - The adjourned Inquest respecting the death of MRS MARY FINDLAY, aged 52, of 3 Leighton-terrace, York-road, Exeter, the victim of the Exeter tram accident on Exe Bridge on March 7th, was opened at the City Police Court yesterday afternoon before Mr H. Brown, Acting Coroner. - At the outset of the proceedings the Coroner informed the Jury, of which Mr F. Channing was Foreman, that with the consent of the Mayor it had been decided to conduct the Inquiry at the Guildhall, where there was better accommodation. Before the Jury adjourned, however, to the Guildhall, they would be conveyed in a special tram to the Depot in order to view the car to which the accident happened. - The witnesses in attendance at the Guildhall numbered upwards of twenty. Mr S. Ernest Crosse represented the husband of deceased, Mr A. J. Tucker was for Ernest Snow, one of the injured persons, and Mr A. Martin Alford for the insurance company concerned. Members of the Exeter City Council present were Mr H. B. Varwell, chairman of the Tramway Committee, and Mr J. Stocker, The Town Clerk (Mr H. Lloyd Parry) and the Tramway Manager (Mr H. C. Bartlett) were also in attendance. - The First Collision. - John Robinson, of Exe-street, was the first witness called. He is a carman employed by Messrs. Chaplin and was in charge of the horse and waggon with which the tramcar collided, with the result that the horse was killed. He said he was leading his horse down the left hand side of Fore-street Hill, and heard no sound of the approaching car nor shouting. The impact shot witness and horse and the waggon right across the kerb. Just previously he had had to swerve outward into the road round a barrow and when the car struck him he was veering round. - By Mr Crosse: He did not see the driver of the tramcar at all. - William Walter Blacking, 24 Richmond-road, managing clerk of the Heavitree Brewery office just opposite where Robinson's waggon was struck, said he heard the car coming, but heard no shouting. He heard no gong, but the car was going "very light." He saw the smash with the rear of the waggon and noticed that the driver of the tram was using both his hands on what witness thought to be the brake and control. The car was then going at the ordinary Fore-street Hill pace, and at the moment of the smash the "trolley" left the overhead wire. By the time the car had got to West-street it had gained speed considerably and witness lost sight of it at the corner of Commercial-road. - By the Foreman: Up to the time the waggon was struck witness did not consider the tram was going at excessive speed. - By the Town Clerk: When he first saw the car it was just abreast of the corner of King-street. - By Mr Crosse: The driver was bound to have seen the waggon and he may have thought he should clear it. - Mr Crosse: Would you think it misjudgement on his part? - I would not go so far as that. - He had time to pull up? - Yes, if he had thought he could not have cleared the waggon. - Did he apparently make any attempt to pull up? - No. - Mr Dymond, assistant surveyor, produced plans and in answer to Mr Crosse said the distance from St. Olave's Church to where the collision with the waggon took place was 400 feet. The compulsory stop was opposite St Olave's Church. - Mrs Ellen Friend, of Beaufort-road, St Thomas, was walking up Fore-street, and the car passed her just before the collision. In fact, she was at the time by Arnold's shop, in the doorway of which the horse plunged and broke his neck. She said she saw the car first by King-street, and it was not then going faster than ordinarily. Just afterwards, however, it quickly gained speed, and immediately hit the waggon. She heard the tram driver shout to the carman, and she thought he had lost control as he did not ring his bell. - "Driver In Difficulties. - Herbert Percy Chant, Sydenham House, Willey's-avenue, inspector for the Exeter Gas Company, said he was walking up the Fore-street at the time. As he stepped on the tram lines he heard a shout, and saw at the top of the hill a tram coming down and passing St. John's Church. He saw a waggon which was drawing off the tram line. The driver of the car was evidently in difficulties judging from his gesture on the tram. His left hand was on the motor pat and he was pulling the handle very hard with his right hand. The tram caught the body of the load of the waggon at the back. The car had gained speed before it struck the waggon. When the tram passed witness he saw the driver release the hand brake and stand back, but the brake did not go back to the normal as might be expected. Witness did not notice if the trolley pole was off the wire. The tram gained speed as it proceeded down the hill. By the peculiar sound, the wheels were going much faster than ordinarily. From the time of the collision to Bonhay-road, he estimated that the car was travelling from 20 to 25 miles an hour. - By the Town Clerk: He only heard the driver shout. - By Mr Crosse: Undoubtedly the driver was in difficulties when witness first saw it, and the car was out of control. That was 170 yards from where he was standing. The car when it hit the waggon was going much faster than usual. - James Lewis Pitman, who keeps a tobacconist's shop just below the "lighted clock," said he thought when the car passed his shop it was going at normal speed, namely eight to ten miles an hour. Hearing the collision with the waggon he ran out and saw the car go down the hill. Just below West-street he saw two people apparently jump off the back step. By Mr Cross: He was quite sure the cars usually travelled eight to ten miles an hour down Fore-street. - Mr Crosse: Are they still going that pace down the hill? - They now travel slower than they did before. - What The Driver Is Alleged To Have Said. - David Williams, harness and saddle maker, was coming up Fore-street by tram from the Star and Garter Inn. At the crossing of the lines a little distance up the hill a car passed him. He heard no gong or shout. The car he was on stopped and witness got out because he could see something wrong with the other car. Watching this car he saw the conductress jump off just opposite White Hall clothiers. The car was then gaining speed. He saw it turn over on Exe Bridge, and a flash of fire come from the top. Witness went into his shop and brought out chairs for the driver and a lady. The driver sat on a chair, to which he was assisted, outside the shop. He was bleeding very much about the head, and was a bit excited and talking. He said to witness, "I told them the car was not exactly right when I took on." He volunteered this statement; witness had not asked him any questions. - By the Town Clerk: The driver was dazed when in the chair and in witness's opinion did not quite realise what he was saying. Witness was excited himself. Those were the words he understood the driver to say, but could not be quite certain. The driver was rambling in his speech. - By Mr Crosse: There was no doubt in his mind that the words were the purport of what the driver said. - Mr M. J. McGahey, taking the place of Mr Alford at this stage said he represented an Insurance Company, and his instructions were to attend the Court and sympathetically help the Coroner and Jury in getting the facts and not in any antagonistic way. - Albert Gillard, boot and shoe maker, 21-22 Bridge-street, said he was standing in the doorway of his shop and the excessive noise drew his attention to the car which was abreast of his shop, and going at a much faster speed than usual. Witness saw the driver on the platform, but did not notice the position of his hands or hear him shout or sound the gong. He followed after the car and saw it leave the rails where Exe Bridge joined the roadway. It swerved to the right and witness saw a lady thrown off the platform. This was deceased, and she fell slightly to the left of the lines. The car first tipped towards the left and then turned right over. The car fell right on deceased, then proceeded on its side till it reached the parapet of the bridge and slued around to the right, the rear part pointing towards St. Thomas. He could not say whether deceased fell off or jumped off, but in his opinion she was thrown. The driver came over and he assisted him to a chair. When the driver reached witness, he exclaimed, "My God! I hope there is no one killed." He might have said to witness something else about brakes, but witness was not sure just what it was. - By Mr Crosse: Witness would not think the driver was quite so dazed that he did not know what he was talking about. - By Mr McGahey: The car took the points all right just below witness's shop. It was possible that the "jump" that usually accompanied the car taking the bride might have sent it off the rails. Witness did not give the driver an opportunity of seeing the dead body as he had covered it. - Clarence Jennings, manager of the White Hall Clothing Company, saw the conductress jump off just opposite his premises, and said he thought she landed on her knees. He watched the car turn over. When he got there the deceased was quite dead. - Edward James Milton, iron-moulder, who was standing near Commercial-road, said that coming down the hill the driver had his hands on the brake and control in a normal way. - Charles Back said he was standing at the corner of Commercial-road and Exe Bridge, and the under-part of the car was making a great noise as it came down the hill. The driver was at his post, and was shouting for people to get out of the way. His left hand was on the control, and with his right he was waving for a woman to get out of the way. She did so just in time. Witness thought the driver was sticking to his post with a view to pulling the car up when it got to the level. The car kept on the rails for several yards along the bridge and then swayed and turned right over. Then it slued on its right hand side and hit the bridge. He saw deceased fall from the car, but he could not say from where she came out. She seemed, however, "all in a ball." - By the Town Clerk: The car turned over on its right side first. - Mr McGahey: The witness Gillard said it turned over on the left and fell on deceased. - Witness: I am quite sure about what I say. - Frederick Charles Back, proprietor of the Exe Bridge Coffee Tavern, said from his shop he heard a tremendous noise, similar to an over-laden motor lorry. He saw no one on the rear of the car or upstairs. The car seemed to go too fast. In his opinion the car left the rails just before it touched the Bridge and began immediately to cross towards the centre right parapet. It overturned on its right. Witness telephoned the Police for help and then proceeded to the scene of the accident. Deceased was lying away from the car. - By the Town Clerk: The top of the car was lying towards Randall's shop. Mr Parry thought the sluing around of the car might account for the apparent discrepancy in the evidence of the witnesses as to which side it fell on. - By Mr Crosse: Deceased was lying between the car and witness's shop. - Edward Bushell, City Council foreman, said the car overturned on its left side. Deceased was lying between the tracks. He saw the driver sitting on a chair and he seemed to be in a rambling condition. - Where Was The Driver?: - Mrs Kate Punchard, St. Thomas, was walking across Exe Bridge when the car was running down the hill. She saw a lady fall off the platform and roll over three times, but she did not then know this was the conductress. The trolley pole was swinging to and fro and no one was on the driver's platform. She saw a man sitting inside, but she did not know whether this was the driver. This was by Bonhay-road. The man sitting inside had no uniform on - no uniform hat, and was waving his arms. She was near Hucklebridge's shop and she only spoke of what she saw when it passed her. She thought the final overthrow of the car was due to the fact that it would not mount the kerb. - Mr McGahey: Another witness saw the driver at his post? - There was no one on the platform when I saw it. - It had then left the metals? - Well, the driver might have given up all hope and gone off the platform. I thought what a pity it was no one was at the driver's post trying to save the car. - Mr Crosse: The driver had a uniform on. If the man you saw inside the car had no uniform on it could not have been the driver? - Witness: The man I saw had a green overcoat on. - Fred Parkhouse, St. James's-road, said he was at the corner of Gervase Avenue at the time and was entering Exe Bridge. He first saw the car at Pinder and Tuckwell's. It was travelling very fast. The driver was on the platform and had his right hand on the brake. At the corner of Bonhay-road the driver was in his place, and, so far as witness knew, when the accident occurred. He could not say whether the car fell on deceased. - At this stage the Coroner intimated that there remained nearly as many witnesses again to call, and there was no hope of finishing the Enquiry that day. One witness, an important one, was too ill to attend for some days. - An adjournment was decided upon till Wednesday next at 2.30. - The Mayor was present during the latter part of the proceedings.

Western Times, Friday 23 March 1917
HOLSWORTHY - An Inquest was held at Holsworthy Workhouse on Wednesday by Mr W. Brown, District Coroner, concerning the death of JOHN CHING, who died in the Workhouse Infirmary on Monday. Rev. T. S. Kendall was Foreman of the Jury. MRS E. BASSETT identified the body as that of her brother. He was 65 years of age, and for three years had been living with his two sisters at Holsworthy. He was always strange in his manner and when in a temper would threaten to take his life. They missed him last Saturday and on making a search found him in Chasty-lane walking towards home. It was evident that something had happened and in reply to a question deceased said that he had fallen over a gate. - P.S. Tooze also gave evidence, and Dr W. G. Gray stated that deceased had suffered from delusional insanity. The cause of death was haemorrhage and shock. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

BRATTON FLEMING - Dr Ellis Pearson, Deputy Coroner for North Devon, held an Inquest at the Village Hall, Bratton Fleming, touching the death of RICHARD BEER PARKER, who was found hanging by a chain suspended from a beam in a shed. - The body was identified by Mrs Annie Gill, who stated that the last time she saw deceased alive was about 10.30 on the Wednesday morning. He had suffered from influenza, but was getting about all right and there was nothing whatever to lead her to think that he would take his life. About ten minutes past eleven she went to the shed for some coal, and there she saw deceased hanging. She at once ran for a neighbour and a messenger was sent to Mr C. Parken, a special constable, who at once came, and cut the body down. - Dr Manning, of Barnstaple, said he had attended PARKER for influenza for the previous ten or twelve days. Deceased was at times much depressed on account of the very serious illness of his brother, with whom he lodged, but he did not consider the deceased would have taken his life. The immediate cause of death was dislocation of the neck. - A verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned.

Western Times, Tuesday 27 March 1917
EXETER - Exeter Man's Death. Died Amidst Rags, Rabbit Skins and Cart Wheels. - The Exeter Deputy Coroner, Mr Hamilton Brown, held an Inquest at the Court House, Exeter, last evening, on JOHN VALENTINE ANSTIS, 63, rag and bone dealer, 9 Guinea-street, Exeter, who lived alone and was found dead in his room. - WILLIAM H. ANSTIS, Cumlake, Ottery St. Mary, identified deceased as his brother. - Miss Eliza J. Tiley, 9 Guinea-street, said she had known deceased during the seven years she had been living there. He had complained about a bad ankle. She last saw him last Friday week. On the Saturday morning she did not hear him go out of doors as usual and informed a Mr Ward. - Ellen M. A. Searle, 25 Market-street, said she last saw deceased alive on Saturday week, the 17th, about 11 a.m., sitting on a stall in the market and eating. - William Ward, foreman at Mr Glynick's wood-turning works, deposed to giving information to the Police. - Detective Walters said he went to the house on Saturday morning and found the door bolted on the inside. He broke it open and saw the place stacked from floor to ceiling with rags. Near the door the rags were about four feet high and there were traces of someone having crawled over them. He crawled across, pushed aside some pieces of sacking, hung as a curtain and found deceased dead on an old bedstead in the corner of the room. There were a chair, a table, and a few other things. Deceased was lying on and covered by filthy rags and the window was blocked with rags. It took two men two hours to shift seven or eight hundredweight of rags and that still left three-parts of a ton of rags, which was being removed. There were also rabbit skins and cart wheels. - Dr Pereira said he examined the body on Saturday. It was highly decomposed. There were ulcers in the legs, which deceased had bound up with rags. Certain parts of his body were swollen and dropsical. There were no marks of violence. Deceased looked as if he had been dead longer than a week, but witness supposed that was due to his dirty surroundings hastening the decomposition. The immediate cause of death was heart failure, due to deceased's poor condition of health. He probably died in his sleep. There was no evidence of starvation. - It was stated that no money was found in the house. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

TIVERTON - An Inquest was held at Tiverton Hospital on Friday on the body of MARY HOWE, spinster, who lived with her married brother at Pileywill. Deceased was taken ill on Wednesday while out brushing up sticks in the garden, and died shortly afterwards. - Dr Nelson Wood-Hill who made a post mortem examination, found extensive disease of the heart and blood vessels. There was a rupture of a blood vessel on the brain and haemorrhage. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Thursday 29 March 1917
EXETER - Exeter Tram Accident. Officials Give Evidence At The Inquest. [Four columns of further evidence ending.. ] - Dr Corbett described the deceased's, MARY FINDLAY, aged 52, of 3 Leighton-terrace, York-road, Exeter, injuries. The neck was broken and the skull crushed. Death must have been instantaneous. - The Jury, after consulting in private, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed sympathy with deceased's family, and all those still suffering from the accident. They added as recommendations that the Tramways Committee should appoint a fully qualified inspector to have charge of all drivers on all sections and be generally responsible for them, and also that the Committee should be satisfied that new drivers were properly trained before being sent out to drive.

Western Times, Saturday 31 March 1917
NEWTON ABBOT - Newton Man's Death. Suffered In His Head As Result Of An Accident. - Mr Coroner Hacker yesterday conducted an Inquest at Newton Abbot relative to the death of SAMUEL FREDERICK HASKING, 37, coal merchant, of The Avenue, Newton Abbot. - Mrs Shepheard, a neighbour of the deceased, said she went in to attend MRS HASKING who was ill in bed, on Thursday. MRS HASKING said that her husband did not give her a cup of tea that morning before he went to work, as usual, and at her request witness had a look around. She went into the stable and noticed that the horses had not been fed. On going to the loft for the seed baskets she saw the body of deceased hanging from the beam. - P.C. Anstey deposed cutting the body down. - Dr A. T. Nisbet said death was due to suffocation. Deceased had not been in good health lately, and witness attended him a fortnight ago. About three years ago the deceased had a bad accident owing to a waggon going over his head, and he sustained a severe scalp wound, which necessitated several stitches and concussion. Since then he had certainly been more irritable and easily upset, and complained of pains in the head. Deceased took more drink than he should have done occasionally and that made matters worse. The injury to his head was of a serious nature and it had certainly altered the man's life and character since. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity," and offered their condolences with the widow and family.

Western Times, Tuesday 3 April 1917
EXETER - Death Under An Anaesthetic At Exeter. - At an Inquest held by the Deputy Coroner, Mr Hamilton Brown, at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital last evening, relative to the death of BERTIE DAVEY, aged 15 years, son of JAMES DAVEY, of Ebrington-road, St Thomas, evidence was given to the effect that deceased had been an out-patient of the Institution about three weeks. On Thursday last he was admitted as an in-patient in order to undergo an operation. - Mr E. J. Domville, Acting House Surgeon, said deceased had an enlarged gland under his chin. Its removal was recommended. Mr A. C. Roper saw the deceased on Friday. As it was a slight matter, he directed the Assistant House Surgeon, Dr Huddell, to carry out the operation with witness's assistance. In itself the operation, which was arranged to take place on Saturday morning, was a very small one. Deceased needed and took a small quantity of chloroform and became unconscious. During the operation the sister in charge of the pulse said it had ceased to beat. The operation was at once stopped and all possible measures to restore animation adopted, including direct massage of the heart. This was continued for half an hour, without success. A post mortem examination showed that the heart was healthy, but the thymus gland was enormously enlarged. It weighed 2 ½ ozs. Other internal glands were similarly enlarged. This condition rendered him peculiarly susceptible to chloroform or any anaesthetic. The cause of death was the administration of chloroform on a patient having an enlarged thymus. Any anaesthetic, particularly chloroform, had this effect on this class of case. - In answer to a Juryman, witness said it was decided to remove the projection from the lad's chin not to save his life, but for the sake of appearance. The general enlarged condition of his glands would probably have caused trouble later. Witness had administered anaesthetics in many hundreds of cases and had never seen a case of this kind before. Prior to the operation he satisfied himself that the deceased's heart was all right. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death"£ due to the abnormal state of the glands.

Western Times, Monday 9 April 1917
EXETER - Exeter Woman's Death. - At Exeter Court House on Saturday, the Deputy Coroner, Mr Hamilton Brown, conducted an Inquest on MRS ALICE ASHBY, aged 37, who died suddenly on Thursday morning at 108 Sandford-street, after childbirth. Evidence was given by Mrs Mary Berry, monthly nurse and Nurse Rowe, certificated, who, in consequence of a change in deceased's condition soon after her confinement, sent for a doctor. - Dr Kelly said when he arrived on Thursday morning, deceased was in a state of collapse and unconscious. He did all that was necessary, but there was no hope of saving her. Dr Bradford had told him that he advised deceased to go into a home. Witness had made a post mortem. Death was due to shock following on haemorrhage. Possibly if there had been a medical man in constant attendance from the time of birth the woman's life might perhaps have been saved. - After a retirement the Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Western Times, Tuesday 10 April 1917
TORQUAY - Infant's Body Found in A Box At Torquay. - The County Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, conducted an Inquiry at Torquay yesterday regarding the death of an infant found in a box in a bedroom in a boarding house. - Miss Blanche Redway stated that on Friday the housemaid came to her saying she believed there was something wrong with the cook, named AGNES MEADE, aged 31 years. The cook had been in the house about two months. When questioned, MEADE denied there was anything wrong and was quite able to do her work. The housemaid, however, felt sure there was something wrong upstairs, and both of them went to the kitchen, the denial again being made as to anything being wrong, and considered it was wrong that her box should be looked into by strangers. Subsequently traces of blood were found in the bedroom and the Police were telephoned for. On Wednesday the cook went to bed, saying she had a very bad headache, but she came down on the following day, proceeding with her work as usual. On Friday evening MEADE confessed to witness that the child was born on Wednesday and that she put it in her box. A request was made to witness that she would not tell anyone, adding that if such were done, she would drown herself. The statement was made that the child had not breathed. - Gertrude Buzzacott, the housemaid, who occupied the same bedroom as the cook, also gave evidence. - To P.C. Gregory, MEADE admitted the truth of the confession made to her mistress, saying the child, born dead, was wrapped in a print dress in her tin box. The body was removed to the mortuary. - Dr Alan Bennett informed the coroner there was no evidence that the child (a male) had a separate existence, it was still born. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with this evidence, the Coroner observing that that Court had nothing to do with the concealment of birth.

Western Times, Friday 13 April 1917
PAIGNTON - At an Inquest at Paignton, on Monday, on the infant child of MR and MRS GASH, Church-street, a verdict of "Accidental Suffocation" was returned.

Western Times, Saturday 14 April 1917
EXETER - Sudden Death At Exeter. - The Deputy Coroner, Mr Hamilton Brown, held an Inquest at the Exeter Court House last evening relative to the death of JESSIE CELIA CRAWFORD, aged 50, wife of a tram driver, of Clinton-street, St Thomas. The husband said that his wife was all right when he left home on Wednesday afternoon. On returning home a few hours later he found her lying dead on the scullery floor. His daughter had gone to fetch a neighbour. - ELIZABETH CRAWFORD, the daughter, said that her mother and herself commenced washing clothes at 3 o'clock and continued till 4.20. Deceased, who had been in the garden hanging the clothes on the line, returned to the scullery and called for witness, who got to her just in time to see her fall. In falling she struck her head against the fire place. She had not complained of any pain, but had suffered from palpitation of the heart. Dr Stokes, who had made a post mortem examination, said he found bronchitis and a fatty heart. Death was due to heart failure. Probably deceased had worked a little harder than usual and her condition produced heart failure. She was probably unconscious when she fell. She had a bruise at the back of the head, but he did not think that had anything to do with her death. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Times, Tuesday 17 April 1917
CHAGFORD - MRS AUGUSTA MARY MILTON STONEMAN, widow, aged 59, who had no fixed address, but had been staying for a few weeks with her niece, Mrs S. A. Dyer, at Thornworthy Lodge, Chagford, was found dead in bed on Wednesday morning. At the Inquest held by Mr H. C. Brown, on Friday, a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

EXMOUTH - At the Temperance Hall, Exmouth on Saturday evening, Mr C. N. Tweed held an Inquest concerning the death of JOHN DIMOND, who died suddenly on Friday while on a visit to his son, MR CHAS. DIMOND, of Exmouth. Dr Thomas stated that death was due to valvular disease of the heart. The deceased had complained earlier in the day of feeling unwell, and remained in bed. When his dinner was taken to him he was found dead. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Thursday 19 April 1917
BRAUNTON - Brauntonians learnt with regret that ARTHUR, the eldest son of CAPT. W. and MRS CHICHESTER, third officer, had lost his life, being drowned with all the crew, when his ship was torpedoed. The body of the young man was washed up, and, after an Inquest, was buried. A young man of a genial disposition, he was loved by all and his death has cast a gloom over the village.

Western Times, Tuesday 24 April 1917
EXETER - Engineer's Death At Exeter V.S.O. Hospital. - The death of Sapper JESSE BRADBURY at No. 2 V.A.O. Hospital, Exeter (Episcopal School) was the subject of an Inquest conducted there before Mr Hamilton Brown, Deputy City Coroner, last evening. Ward-master T. Norman Lewis, of No. 2 V.A.O. Hospital, gave deceased's age as 35, and said he died on Thursday last. - Dr C. P. Mathew, chief medical officer at the Hospital, said deceased was admitted on April 13th, having been brought over from France, where he had been in hospital for seven weeks. He said that he met with an accident in France, but he was mostly in a comatose state, and could give no precise statement as to what occurred. An operation was performed, owing to the fact that deceased got gradually worse, this being the only chance - and that a remote one - of saving his life. He got over the operation, but died the same evening and a post mortem revealed cerebral tumour, which had caused death. - The Jury's verdict was in accord with this medical evidence, the Coroner pointing out to the Jury that an Inquest was rendered necessary by the fact that the doctors were unable to say, without a post mortem examination, what was the cause of death.

Western Times, Wednesday 25 April 1917
DARTMOUTH - A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned at the Inquest held at Dartmouth by Mr A. M. Davson, on the body of CHARLES JAMES HOLLOWAY, aged 71, formerly gate-keeper at the level crossing at Kingswear Station. As already reported the deceased's body was found floating in the sea off Compass Coastguard Station.

EXETER - Bradninch Youth's Death Following An Accident. - At the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital last evening, Mr Hamilton Brown, Deputy City Coroner, held an Inquest on HENRY WYATT, aged 16, of Cullompton Hill, Bradninch, who met with an accident on March 20th at Hele and Bradninch Railway Station whilst unloading bags of slag from a truck in the goods-shed for his employers, Messrs. W. Ackland and Co., forage merchants. - Chief-Inspector Mapledoram, Exeter, represented the Great Western Railway Company. - The evidence shewed that shunting was in progress at the time, and deceased and another employee named Perryman were both warned of this. By some means deceased got between the wall of the shed platform and the trucks and was struck by part of a truck. His ordinary work would take him to the platform, and he would have no occasion to go on the line. He appeared to have given no explanation to anyone as to how the accident happened. Dr Domville, House Surgeon at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, said deceased was admitted to the Hospital on March 20th, suffering from severe injuries in the lower part of the body. He died on the 21st inst., from sepsis (a form of blood poisoning) following the injuries. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

HOLSWORTHY - Sad Holsworthy Case. Sequel To A Woman's Attempted Suicide. - Mr Brown, District Coroner, held an Inquest at Holsworthy Workhouse on Tuesday touching the death of MRS TRYPHENA BECKLY, who, it will be remembered, was brought before the local bench of Magistrates on the 13th inst., charged with attempting to commit suicide by drowning at Chilsworthy Budge, and was bound over in the sum of £20 on the recognizances of herself and her husband, and later, in consequence of the husband's refusal to take his wife home and care for her, she was removed to the Workhouse Infirmary, where she died on Saturday. - In opening the Inquiry, the Coroner said that as the husband's conduct had been called in question by one of the magistrates at the Police Court proceedings, it would be necessary for the Jury to pay particular attention to the evidence, so as to ascertain if there had been culpable negligence on the husband's part, and what possible effect it had on the deceased and her conduct. - Mr Alfred Yeo was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - JOHN BECKLY, farm labourer, identified the body as that of his wife, who was 42 years of age. On Thursday, the 12th inst., he saw his wife at dinner time. She had been suffering from a cold for some time, but was then apparently no worse than she had been. She was never very strong. On returning from work in the evening he heard that his wife had been found in the canal. - Mr Yeo: Did you provide your wife with the ordinary necessities of life? - Witness: I always gave her my wages, which amounted to about £1 a week. In fact, she often went to my employer to get it herself. - In answer to further questions, witness said that although his wife was suffering from a cold, she was quite capable of walking to see the doctor. She walked into Holsworthy only a few days before the occurrence. She was capable of doing the house work if she would only try. She was never a clean woman. He was not asked to get a doctor until the day she attempted to take her life, and when asked, he promised to see the doctor after he left work. He had no recollection of neighbours advising him to get a doctor on the previous Monday. - Mr James Cleaves, road man, gave evidence of finding deceased in the water and taking her out. She said, "I wish you had not touched me. I would rather be dead than alive. I have been ill for a long time, and there is no one to look after me." - Mr Frederick Harris, butcher's assistant, who was passing at the time, said he assisted Mr Cleaves, and drove the deceased to her home and waited until the husband arrived. The only food in the house was half a loaf of bread. - Sergt. John Tooze repeated the evidence he gave before the Magistrates, and described the filthy condition of the house and the lack of furniture, food, bedding and clothing. - In answer to questions, Sergt. Tooze said he had seen the house since. It was much cleaner. The children also looked cleaner. - Dr W. G. Gray, who was called to see deceased at the Police Station after arrest, said she was then suffering from shock. There was no pulse to be felt at the wrist. She was given whiskey as a stimulant. On a closer examination next morning he found she was in the first stage of pneumonia in the right lung. She had, apparently, been insufficiently fed, and was mentally unbalanced. The inflammation could have supervened after emersion, but it was impossible to say definitely. - Dr E. Owen Kingdon, Medical Officer at the Workhouse Infirmary, said deceased was under his care from the 13th inst., until her death. She was suffering from pneumonia and died of heart failure as a result of the inflammation. She had always been a lean woman, but he would not like to say that she had been insufficiently fed. She was never mentally clear whilst under his charge. He had previously attended her at her home, and his experience had been such that he felt inclined to say he pitied the husband. - In summing up, the Coroner remarked that on the evidence before them he was bound to say that nothing very serious could be brought against the husband. The thought of being ill-treated might have upset the woman's nerves, but there was nothing on which they could hold the husband responsible. In justice to the man, it must be borne in mind that his wages was only £1 a week, and with a wife and three children that was not a great sum in these times. They could not be hard on a man like that. Even assuming the woman was insufficiently fed - and on that point the doctors disagreed - it might be the mother gave the children most of what there was to be had. - A verdict of "Death through Heart Failure, as a result of Inflammation," was returned. - With the permission of the Coroner, Dr Kingdon remarked that the Holsworthy Workhouse was an institution for the care of the poor of the Union. The Guardians appointed a matron, nurse and medical officer to care for pauper inmates. In the case they had just been considering, the deceased was not a pauper and ought not to have been sent to the Workhouse Infirmary to be cared for at the expense of the ratepayers. It was a very dangerous precedent, because any man who found himself in trouble with his wife might say, "Oh very well, I've finished with you. I shall take you to the Workhouse and let the ratepayers look after you." It was a practice that ought to be enquired into and stopped. - Supt. Boutfield said that in this case, as frequently happened in similar cases, there had been a lot of tittle-tattle as to what neighbours knew, or thought they knew, about the state of the home, and the condition of things generally. He would like to take that opportunity of asking the public to communicate with the Police, in confidence, if they had the least suspicion of anything being wrong anywhere. The matter could then be investigated and sad cases like the present would then probably be avoided. - The Coroner hoped the Press would give publicity to the Superintendent's remarks, and the public act upon them.

Western Times, Monday 30 April 1917
TORQUAY - Torquay Fatality. Elderly Lady Knocked Down By A Motor. Excusable Homicide. - At Torquay, Saturday, the County Coroner, Mr Hacker, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MRS EMMA SUTCLIFFE, 60, of Elmsleigh Avenue-road, who died at the Hospital on Thursday last from injuries received through being knocked down by a motor-car in the Torbay-road. Deceased's daughter, who was with her at the time, was also badly injured. Mr P. H. W. Almy represented the family, and Mr E. Hutchings appeared on behalf of Mr Grist, owner of the motor-car, and the chauffeur. - John Sutcliffe, of 90 Ormerod-street, Rawtenstall, Lancashire, said deceased, who was his sister-in-law, was the widow of MR FRANK SUTCLIFFE, grocer, of 90 Bolton-road, Ramsbottom, Lancashire. She had been living in Torquay for two years with her daughter. - George Polosi, tramcar driver, of Paignton, stated that on Thursday last he was driving Car. No. 20, about 2.35 when on the way to Paignton and near the King's Drive, he pulled up to let another car pass over the loop. After this car had passed him he saw two ladies start to cross the road from the King's Drive towards the sea-wall, about 15 feet in front of him. He had just started the car and it was moving very slowly. On noticing the car approaching the ladies started to run to doge it, and he applied the emergency brake. A motor car was coming out from Torquay, and it first struck the young lady who was a few feet ahead of her mother, and then knocked over the elder lady, and passed over her as she lay in the road. The motor car came behind his car on the left side, and was pulled up in three or four yards. It would have been impossible with the two tram cars passing for anyone coming from King's Drive to see what was coming on the Torbay-road, and the motor car had either to keep on the left side or cross to the right. There was no room for it to pass between the two trams. He heard the young lady shout 'Come on, mother' or words to that effect just before the accident. The ladies were in a very peculiar position. The driver of the motor car certainly did his best and pulled up very smartly. - In reply to Mr Hutchings, witness said a horn might have been sounded, but he did not hear it. The chauffeur was placed in a very difficult position. No one coming from the King's Drive could have seen what was in front of his car. It was the general rule along the Torbay-road for motor-cars to keep to the left going towards Paignton, provided the road was clear. The left side of the road between the tram lines and the pavement was the wider. - In reply to Mr Almy, witness said if the motor had pulled up and allowed one of the tramcars to pass it could have gone to the opposite side. As it was that side of the road was blocked by the other tram. - Thomas L. Harding, St. Agnes-lane, Chelston, said he was in the tram car the last witness was driving. As he was on the front seat he had a good view of what happened. He saw the ladies come from the direction of the King's Drive and pass in front of the tram. He thought they were acting in a risky manner. As they came abreast of the car they hurried, and at the same minute he saw the motor coming up from behind on the sea-wall side. It was travelling at quite a moderate speed seeing that the road in front of him was clear as far as he knew. Witness realised that an accident was inevitable, but he did not actually see it as the tram driver obscured his view. He did not hear any horn sounded. Witness drove a motor himself. It was the practice at that particular part of the road to pass tram cars on the near side because there was more room between the tram rails and the pavement. - In reply to Mr Almy, witness said there was no reason why the motor car should have pulled up and gone to the other side as the road appeared clear. - Motorman Albert Pratt said he was driving the car from Paignton to Torquay and saw another tram standing on the Torquay side of the King's Drive. Witness stopped his car at the "request" standard, near the Drive. Just before he did so Polosi's car had just moved off. A motor car coming from the direction of Torquay passed him on his right and just after he heard a grating sound as if someone was applying a brake. At the same moment he heard a scream and two thuds. He left his car and ran back and saw the elderly lady lying near the tram rails. The motor car was being driven at a fast rate - too fast under the circumstances, certainly over twelve miles an hour - but not perhaps, at a pace which would attract attention. He heard no horn sounded. - In reply to Mr Almy, witness said there was nearly 40 feet between the two tram cars when the accident occurred, and he thought there would have been room for the other car to pass on the off side. - Dr Allan Bennett, House Surgeon, Torbay Hospital, Torquay, said that when brought to the Hospital, MRS SUTCLIFFE was living. She was suffering from a scalp wound, a fracture of the left thigh, and shock. She rallied for a time, but 2 ½ hours after admission her heart failed, and she died without regaining consciousness. Death was due to shock. - Mary Louise French, a visitor at Preston, said she saw the two ladies standing near the Drive. When the car had gone they commenced to cross the road behind it. A motor-car passed, and then a second came along and caught the ladies, although they were hurrying. Witness did not know the pace of the car, and did not see the accident. - Agnes Crabb, tram conductress, said the motor-car approached the tram at rather a fast rate, but eased up near the Drive. - Alfred Leaman, coast-watcher, heard screams. - P.C. Tucker said when he arrived the two injured ladies were in the motor-car and the driver, Sidney G. Steed, was standing at the side, the latter subsequently driving to the Hospital. The distance between the tram-lines and the pavement, on the sea wall side, was 8ft. 6in., and the same on the other side, but the road tapers slightly towards the King's Drive. When a tram was there it overlapped the road by nine inches on either side. Steed told witness that when he came up level with the tramcar two ladies came out. He had previously sounded his horn several times. The hood-wing of the car struck the outer lady and the lamp bracket the younger. He pulled up as soon as possible. - Sidney C. Steed, who drove the car, said he was taking a lady and gentleman to Torquay Station to catch the 2.50 train. He had plenty of time and was going at ordinary speed. He followed a tram some distance on the Torbay-road, and when that stopped he passed it on the left side, two trams being abreast. He did not think anybody would be trying to pass in front of a moving tram, and he did not see the ladies until they were right in front of his car. - The Coroner, summing up, said Steed appeared to have exercised his discretion in a fairly prudent way. Under the circumstances he did nothing wrong in passing on the left side. - The Jury returned a verdict that deceased met her death by Excusable Homicide. The driver was not to blame in any way.

Western Times, Thursday 3 May 1917
DARTMOUTH - Live Cartridge. Little Boy's Sad Death At Dartmouth. - Mr A. M. Davson, the Dartmouth Coroner, held an Inquest at the Dartmouth Guildhall, yesterday, on the body of an eleven year old schoolboy, named BERTRAM CECIL STONE, son of RICHARD JOHN STONE, (a G.P.O. in the Royal Navy, stationed at Plymouth) who accidentally shot himself whilst handling an old revolver which happened to have a "live" cartridge in it. There was a pathetic scene whilst the mother was giving evidence, and so poignant was her grief that she had afterwards to be led out of the building. She stated that her son came home from school and went a couple of errands for her. He returned and went into the sitting-room and she called to him that his dinner was ready. She then called out, "What are you doing?" and he replied, "I am not in any mischief, mother, I am playing with my cigarette cards." Then she heard a fearful "bang" and on going into the room found her son dead on the floor. "I took my boy (she added pathetically) in my arms and found he was dead. I dragged myself with him as far as the door and I remember nothing else." "God knows how the cartridge was obtained," she told the Coroner. "My boy was the brightest boy on earth and most fond of his mother." - P.C. Jewell said the Police enquiries had elicited the information that no cartridges to fit that particular revolver were on sale in Dartmouth shops. - The Coroner said there were none in the house. Someone must have known how the deceased got it and they should have attended and given evidence. It was, he thought, the saddest case he had ever had to Enquire into. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and condoled with the parents who only a short time ago lost their other son at the Front.

Western Times, Friday 4 May 1917
FILLEIGH - Filleigh Farmer's Tragic End. Between 10 and 11 o'clock on Tuesday morning the body of JOHN HOLMAN, farmer, of Park, Filleigh, was found hanging by a rope in a shed on Park Farm. The discovery was made by John Woollacott, rabbit trapper, of West Buckland, who summoned Mr Coombes, Station Master at Filleigh. Mr Coombes applied artificial respiration for a considerable time, but without result. The body was removed to the deceased's home by P.C. Harris (East Buckland). - At the Inquest held at Park Farm, Filleigh, yesterday, by Dr Ellis Pearson, Deputy Coroner, deceased's brother, JAMES HOLMAN, gave evidence of identification and said he knew of nothing whatever which might have led the deceased to commit the act. The Jury, of which Mr F. Garland was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" and expressed sympathy with the relatives, the family being well known and respected in the district.

DARTMOUTH - At an Inquest at Dartmouth, Wednesday, on the body of JOHN CROCKER, 63, a retired naval pensioner living at 7 Mount Pleasant, Brixham, it was stated that deceased was observed to fall forward on his face whilst walking through Higher-street, Dartmouth on Tuesday morning. Assistance was promptly forthcoming but CROCKER died in a few minutes. A post mortem revealed extensive haemorrhage of the brain, and the doctor stated that death was due to apoplexy. Verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

EXETER - HENRY KNIGHT, aged 45, gardener, 52 Cowick-street, Exeter, died suddenly on Wednesday. He had been a sufferer from bronchitis and asthma. At the Inquest last evening a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Times, Saturday 5 May 1917
ST MARYCHURCH - Found Drowned At Torquay. - An Inquest was held at St. Marychurch, Torquay, yesterday, regarding the death of JOHN CAMPION MAUNDER, a former cab driver, whose body was found on Petitor Beach the previous day. - ELIZABETH J. MAUNDER, the widow, residing at Ellacombe, stated that deceased was her second husband, 59 years of age. About four years ago he left her and she understood that he went to Newton Abbot, as he had said "he had a mansion to go to there." She made inquiries and ascertained he was in the Workhouse. Her husband did not trouble about her, and she had worked for her living. Since her son had grown up he had helped her. - The Coroner, Mr S. Hacker: What brought him to this condition? - Witness: Company. - Did he drink? - He did a good deal. - Have you not heard from him during the past four years? - Not a sound. Witness added that she saw her husband about two years ago in a street at Newton Abbot, when he was looking up well. - John Richards, porter at the Institution, said MAUNDER was admitted in July 1913, and remained until 1st May last. On leaving her said nothing about returning. MAUNDER was an able-bodied man. - George Prowse, fisherman, gave evidence as to finding the body on the beach at Petitor; it looked as if it had been left by the tide. The man's hat was 400 or 500 yards away from the body. - Dr Pitt Palmer said death was due to drowning. The man had not been in the water more than a few hours. - P.C. Chapple stated that the pockets of the clothing did not contain anything except sand. - "Found Drowned" was the verdict of the Jury.

Western Times, Wednesday 9 May 1917
SEATON AND BEER - Sudden Death Of MR J. HARDING, of Seaton. - We regret to record the death of MR J. HARDING, a well-known Seatonian, who was found dead in bed by his daughter on Monday morning at 7.15 a.m. Latterly deceased had worked for Mr Overmass as a cabinet-maker. For a month or so he complained of a pain in his leg, but kept up and on Sunday evening he took a walk on the beach. He went to bed about 9 o'clock, and seemingly passed away peacefully during the night. Deceased was a member of the Men's Club for many years and will be much missed by his brother members. Much sympathy is extended to his widow and daughter. - The Inquest was held yesterday by Mr Tweed, of Honiton (Coroner). Rev. R. S. Robinson being chosen Foreman of the Jury. HELEN LOUISA HARDING, daughter, said her father on Sunday evening had his supper, consisting of bread, cheese and coffee and went to bed. That was the last she saw of him. Deceased generally got up about six o'clock, and there not being any movements on Monday morning she called upstairs just after seven, but got no answer. She then went up and found him dead. A neighbour was sent for Dr Kirkman, who came immediately, and pronounced life extinct. Dr Kirkman said he held a post-mortem and found deceased died from fatty degeneration of the heart, the valves and blood-vessels being diseased. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

EXMINSTER - Sudden Death Of A Cyclist At Powderham. - At an Inquest held by the District Coroner, Mr Henry W. Gould, at the Clubroom, Exminster, yesterday, relative to the death of CHARLES TRENCHARD, aged 60, retired lodge-keeper at the Devon County Asylum, evidence was given by MRS ANNIE TRENCHARD, daughter-in-law, to the effect that deceased suffered from heart disease. About 6.15 p.m. Monday he left home to go to Kenton on his bicycle. Henry W. Shepherd, engine driver, said deceased and a friend passed him on the road near Powderham Arch. They then jumped off their bicycles and walked nearly to the top of the hill. The friend went on in front of the deceased, who appeared to have difficulty in mounting his machine. When he got on the front wheel wobbled, and the bicycle fell over, the deceased falling on it. Witness went to him and found him unconscious. Deceased died within a few minutes. Dr Marles attributed death to angina pectoris. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

NEWTON ABBOT - The Bathing Fatality At Newton Abbot. - An Inquest was held at Newton Abbot yesterday with reference to the death of CHARLES H. PUDDICOMBE, aged 52, a labourer, employed by the Newton Urban Council. - Evidence of identification was given by deceased's wife, who stated that she left her husband on Easter Monday and had since been acting as a housekeeper. Deceased was quite willing to separate, and when she saw him a fortnight ago he did not suggest that she should go back to him. - Edward Allen, Victoria-place, a youth employed by Mr R. Vicary, as kennel-boy, said he and PUDDICOMBE, who lodged together, went to the neighbourhood of the canal on Saturday afternoon to beat some carpets. After doing this, witness went to the canal and had a bathe. Coming back to PUDDICOMBE, the latter said he would have a bathe, and went to the canal. About twenty minutes afterwards a youth named Taylor ran to witness and told him a man was drowning. Running to the canal, witness saw deceased under the water and dived in with his clothes on. He got hold of deceased, but could not pull him out, but succeeded a few minutes later with the help of a boat. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and complimented Allen upon the plucky and prompt action he took.

Western Times, Friday 11 May 1917
EXETER - The Exeter City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at the Court House last evening relative to the death of FREDERICK SLATER, aged 11, son of MR ROBERT SLATER, who is now an assistant surveyor at Alberta, Canada, but who formerly resided in Polsloe-road, Heavitree. Evidence was given by Bessie Palfrey, of Clifton-street, to the effect that deceased had lived with her for 2 ½ years. He had epileptic fits and could do nothing for himself. He had been failing for a long time and he died on Wednesday last. Dr Bradford attributed death to an epileptic fit, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Saturday 12 May 1917
EXMOUTH - Tragic Death Of An Exmouth Lady. - Mr E. N. Tweed, Coroner, held an Inquest at Exmouth, yesterday, relative to the death of MISS ELIZABETH WALLIS PERRY, who resided with her sister at Rhyll Grove. She was missed from her home Thursday and yesterday morning her body was found on the foreshore. - Evidence was given by MR W. H. PERRY, builder, and MISS PERRY, sister of the deceased, showed that during the whole of the winter deceased had been a victim of depression and, after April 24, when news of the death of a nephew at the Front was received, she grew worse and had apparently been suffering from religious melancholia. On Saturday a doctor was called in and on Thursday she was so bad that MISS PERRY - to whom deceased afterwards said, "If I were not such a coward I would kill myself" - went for a Miss Trim to come and stay the night. Miss Trim arrived about 9.30 and MISS PERRY went to the door to admit her. She then went to her sister's room, and found she had gone, having apparently slipped downstairs and out at the side door. Information was given to the Police and Sergt. Fishleigh and others searched till midnight without finding any clue. Yesterday at 6.50 a.m., Edwin Redmond went to his boat at the Quay and saw a woman's dress on the foreshore. On going over to it he found the dead body of deceased lying face downwards. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

Western Times, Monday 14 May 1917
EXETER - Death At Dinner. Inquest On Retired Army Officer At Exeter. - Exeter Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at Belmont, Cowley-road, on Saturday, relative to the death of COLONEL RUDGE, aged 79, retired officer, formerly in command of the Lincolnshire Regimental district, who expired while at dinner at his residence, Belmont, on Wednesday evening. Mr Frank Harding was Foreman of the Jury. - Evidence was given by J. Godfrey W. Bliss, nephew, who identified the body. Deceased had generally enjoyed good health. On Wednesday evening, just before eight o'clock, witness and deceased were having dinner. Each had soup and a leg of roast chicken. Deceased, while eating it, appeared to be choking. He got up and walked about the room. Witness thumped his back and called for assistance. Deceased, however, collapsed and fell on the floor. - Dr Wm. Gordon, who was called, said he found the deceased dead. In conjunction with Mr Russell Coombe, he made a post mortem examination. A large piece of chicken was blocking the opening of the windpipe. Death was caused by asphyxia, set up by the obstruction. - The Coroner expressed deep regret with the widow and family. He had known deceased for many years, especially in connection with the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, for which he did useful work. He was very kind-hearted and courteous. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and endorsed the sympathetic remarks by the Coroner. - Deceased, who had served in India and at home, came to Exeter on his giving up the command of the Lincolnshire Regimental district and took up his residence at Millbrook, Countess Weir. Nine years ago he removed to Belmont, Cowley-road. - After the Inquest the body was removed to Cuxton, in Kent, where it will be buried in the family grave. The arrangements were in the hands of Messrs. Brock and Co., Exeter.

Western Times, Tuesday 15 May 1917
TOPSHAM - Suicide Of A Sergeant At Topsham Barracks. - Mr Hamilton Brown, Deputy Coroner for Exeter, held an Inquest at Topsham Barracks last evening, touching the death of Acting-Sergt. HAROLD HENRY LEAN, 26, of the R.F.A., who died on Saturday as the result of a self-inflicted wound in the throat. - The evidence given by Bombdr. J. E. Driscoll, of the R.M.P., Trumpeter Sydney Russell, deceased's batman, Bombdr. Biddlecombe and Corpl. J. Williams, signalling instructor, was that SERGT. LEAN, who had some time ago been ill, on Saturday morning was in his room with Russell, but did not speak all the morning. Shortly after eleven o'clock he took his razor from a shelf in the corner of the room where he kept his shaving materials. Going to his bed he lay across it with his knees nearly touching the floor and drew the razor across his throat. Russell ran to him and caught him by the shoulders, but deceased pushed him away. Russell then called the assistance of Driscoll and Biddlescombe from an adjoining room. Williams, who was a personal friend and worked with deceased as a signaller, said that deceased worried about the illness from which he suffered and two days previously said he thought he was going insane. He had never threatened to take his life. - Capt. R. W. Statham, R.A.M.C., said deceased joined the unit in October 1916, and a month later he reported sick. He was sent away to a military hospital, but was returned this year cured and reported for full duty. The illness had a tendency to create mental depression. On Saturday morning deceased had entered his name on the sick list, but did not attend the sick parade at 9 a.m. At 11.10 when witness was called to him he found him dead. Witness described the wound, which was a very severe one. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

ILFRACOMBE - Sudden Death At Ilfracombe. - Dr Ellis Pearson held an Inquest at the Tyrrell Cottage Hospital, Ilfracombe, yesterday, on the body of MRS ANN ACKLAND, who died suddenly on Sunday morning. - JAMES ACKLAND, husband, said deceased was 66 years of age and had had good health until about two months ago, when she had a fall and complained of pains in her side. On Saturday last she was quite well and also on Sunday morning, when he saw her at 7.45. She said she had had a good night. Just afterwards he heard a noise in her room and he went in and found she had been very sick, and was groaning. He spoke to her and she couldn't answer and he called a neighbour and went for a doctor, but she died before he arrived. - Dr Osborne said he had made a post mortem examination, and found a large haemorrhage on the right side of the brain. Death was due to cerebral haemorrhage. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Friday 18 May 1917
EXETER - Exe River Fatality. Tomfoolery By Boaters On Canal. A Warning. - The Inquest relative to the death of CECIL JOHN HUTCHINGS, 34, grocer, Magdalen-street, who lost his life as the result of a boating accident in the Exe on Tuesday, was held at the Court House, Exeter, yesterday by the City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown. Mr J. Bates was Foreman of the Jury and Mr T. Garnsworthy, chairman of the Navigation Committee attended. - The body was identified by Charles Budgen, who stated that deceased enjoyed good health as a rule, but he had a serious illness about six months ago, and occasionally complained of heart trouble. - ELSIE HARRIETT HUTCHINGS, wife of the deceased, said her husband left home on Tuesday to go boating with Mr Westcott. He had been rejected by the military authorities because of a weak heart. - Mark Osborne, who is in charge of Mr Dorothy's boathouse, said deceased and Westcott hired a boat for two hours on Tuesday afternoon. They returned and said they intended to go to tea. At their request witness kept a canoe, Aida, for them for the evening. They returned about 6.30 and went down the river all right. The boat, which was capable of carrying three persons, was in good condition. - Lambert Westcott, assistant house porter at the Hospital, who was with the deceased, said he had never been out in such a craft before. At the entrance to the Canal the cushion on which deceased was sitting slipped. He got on one side to put it right and the boat upset. Both were thrown into the water. Witness sank, but on rising clung to the boat. He could not swim, and he did not think deceased could swim either. Witness was rescued by Mr Gregory. - By the Foreman: It did not strike him that it was risky to hire a canoe in view of the fact that neither could swim. "We thought it was so easy," he added. - William Gregory, who resides at the house at the drawbridge, said when he saw the upturned canoe, and two men clinging to it, he told them to hold on and he would give them assistance. He jumped into his skiff and then saw that deceased had disappeared. Both men seemed secure when he first saw them. He rescued Westcott and Mr Squires got the grappling irons which caught the deceased by the leg. Deceased was not in the water more than ten minutes. Artificial means for restoring respiration were tried for over an hour. The water at the spot was from 10 to 12 feet deep. A lifebuoy and grappling irons were kept at the bridge. - By the Jury: He was not a minute getting away with his boat. If deceased had let go his hold of the canoe when he first saw him he would have jumped in for him. - Albert Squires, a resident of Exe View Cottages, near the spot, said he ran to the bridge and saw one man only clinging to the canoe, and Gregory in his skiff was alongside. After assisting in the rescue of Westcott, he saw bubbles and remarked there must be another person in the water. Throwing in the grappling irons he secured deceased at the third throw. Efforts to restore animation were started at once, and a doctor was sent for. - Evidence was also given by Special Constable A. H. Rousham and Dr Stokes. The latter attributed death to asphyxia due to drowning. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death by Drowning" and commended Gregory on his promptness in saving the life of Westcott. - The Foreman said it would not have surprised him if there had been two other fatalities of a similar kind on the Canal on the same afternoon. He saw parties have narrow escapes, owing to their tom-foolery. Two of them were wounded officers, who should have set an example to other people in the boats. The Police should keep a strict supervision of boaters on the Canal. People who indulged in "carrying on" in boats not only risked their own lives but the lives of others. It was to be hoped that the public who indulged in boating would take warning. - The Coroner agreed that a lot of stupidity was practised by boaters on the Canal, thus endangering their own and others' lives. - The Foreman expressed the sympathy of the Jury for the widow.

Western Times, Thursday 24 May 1917
IDE - An Octogenarian's Suicide At Ide. - The District Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, held an Inquest at Ide yesterday relative to the death of MARTHA HALSE, aged 84, a widow of a tailor. Evidence was given by Rev. A. H. Thompson, vicar of Ide, who stated that deceased lived alone and suffered from delusions. She spoke of being in danger of getting hanged, and represented herself as an innocent person who was in danger from the law. She was also under the delusion that people were speaking about her. - Emily Ellen Anstey, wife of a soldier in the Canadian Army, said she had been in the habit of fetching milk for the deceased, whom she last saw alive on Monday morning, when she took her some milk. There was then nothing unusual about the deceased. In the evening, as deceased had not brought her milk jug as she had been accustomed to do, witness went to her house and found her in her bedroom on the floor. A rope was attached to her bed. Witness had never heard deceased speak of suicide. - P.C. Phillips said he found the deceased on the bedroom floor in her night gown, the rope produced being around her neck and attached to the bed. In the bedroom witness found the letter produced and containing £5 in notes. The bed had not been occupied. - Dr Stokes, who had attended the deceased , said she was eccentric. He examined the body and found the mark of a rope around the neck. The cause of death was suffocation. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

KENN - Fatal Quarry Accident At Haldon. - An Inquest was held by the District Coroner, Mr Henry W. Gould, at the Reading Room, Kennford, last evening relative to the death of JOHN BORDER, aged 57, haulier and contractor, who lost his life through the falling of stone and earth in a quarry in which he was working on Haldon on Monday. Evidence of identification was given by Margaret Lovell, of Exminster, deceased's sister-in-law. - Thomas Back, roadman, of Kennford, in the employment of the St. Thomas Rural District Council, said he was engaged with deceased and others in getting out stone for roads. About 2.30 he heard someone shout "It is falling," and then he saw the deceased jammed between the waggon and the falling stone. With the help of others, witness pulled him out, but he was dead. About 15 tons of earth and stone fell on the deceased. Being a cripple, deceased could not move very quickly. Probably if the waggon had not been in the position it was deceased might have got away. - Albert Baker, waggoner, Dunsford, who while at dinner at the quarry, saw a large lump of black peat fall, and then saw the stones slipping and he immediately called out to the deceased. - Dr Black, who examined the body, said the left side of the head, neck and left arm were shattered. The injuries were sufficient to cause death and were consistent with stone having fallen on him. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Friday 25 May 1917
CHERITON FITZPAINE - Push Chair Risks. Death Of An Infant At Cheriton Fitzpaine. - The District Coroner, Mr Henry W. Gould, held an Inquest at Marshay Farm, Cheriton Fitzpaine, yesterday, relative to the death of KATHLEEN AYRE, aged 1 year and 9 months, daughter of MR RICHARD AYRE, farmer. The mother, who identified the body, said she last saw the child alive at 8.30 a.m. on the 22nd inst. Deceased was then in bed. witness and her husband went to Tiverton, leaving the child in charge of May Bowden, the servant. At one time witness used to leave the deceased in a push chair outdoors, but had not done so for months, as she thought it was dangerous, the chair having tipped over. She had many times warned the servant not to put the child in the chair, but did not do so on Tuesday morning. On returning from Tiverton, witness found the child dead. - May Bowden, the servant, said after breakfast she put the deceased in the chair, and put her out in the meadow. She fastened her in the chair with a piece of cord. Ten minutes later she found that the chair had tipped over, but the child was not touching the ground, though she was crying. Witness put her on the floor. Deceased then crawled along the floor, and taking some things out of the cupboard began to play with them. Shortly after witness found the child lying on her back dead. Witness had been told by MRS AYRE not to put the child in the chair. - Dr Vickery said there was a slight bruise on the forehead and on the side of the head. There were also two bruises on the abdomen, caused by a cord. A post mortem examination revealed that the organs were quite healthy. There were internal signs of bruising. The cause of death was shock, produced by the sudden pressure on the abdomen. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" as the result of the bruising caused by a fall when tied in a push chair.

Western Times, Monday 28 May 1917
EXMOUTH - At the Inquest at Exmouth on Saturday afternoon on LIEUT.-COLONEL ELLIOTT, aged 82, who was found shot in his bedroom, MISS ELLIOTT stated that her father had been suffering from influenza for the past nine weeks and had been attended by Dr Cox. He had never spoken of suicide and had never worried about the war or anything else. The almost complete loss of sight had depressed him considerably. - Dr Cox said he had attended the Colonel for heart disease as well as influenza. The heart disease had caused restlessness and sleeplessness and deceased had been depressed on account of this also. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

TORQUAY - A Fatal Dive. Seaman's Tragic End At Torquay: Trapped By A Raft. - The Deputy Coroner, Mr T. Edmonds, conducted an Inquiry at Torquay on Saturday evening, regarding the death of a Dutch seaman named CORNELIUS KRAUMER, aged 40, of South Shields. The evidence showed that deceased went on Torre Abbey Sands on Friday evening between eight and nine o'clock, where he borrowed a bathing dress and promised to give the people on the sands an exhibition of diving. One of the witnesses stated that the man had evidently been drinking. The seaman swam out to the raft and having obtained a footing on the slightly-raised platform, made a backward dive into the sea. As he did not re-appear within a few minutes, an alarm was raised and the body was recovered by Mr T. R. Luscombe, after it had been in the water for about an hour. - Mr Luscombe said the body was under the raft, being inside some bars which projected from it. No doubt there would be a certain amount of suction. - Replying to a question, witness said the bathing attendant left the sands about 6 p.m., as the season had scarcely started. There were life-saving appliances on the beach, but it was impossible to throw a lifebuoy from the shore to the raft. If some swimmers had been in the water they might have tilted the raft and thus released the body. - The Deputy Coroner remarked that undoubtedly the raft was constructed in the usual way, but it seemed to him that the bars projecting from the edges might form a kind of trap, and prevent a man from getting out. In view of this occurrence, the authorities might consider whether the raft would not be better without the bars. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned," and recommended that the raft should be inspected by the Corporation officials with a view to ascertaining if something could be done to improve the bars.

Western Times, Tuesday 29 May 1917
AWLISCOMBE - Fir Cone Causes Death At Awliscombe. - The eleven months' old son of MR JOHN PRING, of Heathfield Farm, Awliscombe, by some means got a fir cone into his throat on Wednesday last. Dr Hedden successfully removed the cone, but on Friday last pneumonia set in and the little fellow died that evening. An Inquest was held at Awliscombe by Mr C. N. Tweed, and after hearing the evidence, the Jury, of which the Vicar, Rev. C. Romilly, was Foreman, returned a verdict to the effect that the child died from shock.

Western Times, Saturday 2 June 1917
TORQUAY - Between Two Minds. Fatal Accident To A Carter At Torquay. - An Inquest was held at Torquay yesterday, regarding the death of JOHN HENRY COX, aged 52, of Melville-lane, carter, in the employ of Messrs. Farrant and Co., who died in Torbay Hospital from injuries to the head, described by Dr Bennett as a fracture of the base of the skull. - John O. Humphreys, a tramcar driver, said on Tuesday morning he saw a furniture van driven by COX at Livermead with a tramcar coming on behind, both going in the direction of Paignton. The van was on the wrong side of the road, and on the tramcar driver sounding his gong the deceased drew further away from the rails, leaving enough room for the tram to pass. Just as it was about to do so, Humphreys thought COX caught sight of him driving his car from Paignton, for he at once pulled to the other side of the road, getting in front of the car from Torquay. Noticing the danger, COX swung his horse's head around, and the rear end of his van caught the passing tram. The impact caused deceased to fall from the van. The man appeared to be left between two minds. - The Deputy Coroner, Mr T. Edmonds: The accident was due to his indecision? - Yes. - Answering the Foreman, Mr L. Powell, witness said there was sufficient space for the van to pass on the left side of the road. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Times, Tuesday 5 June 1917
ASHBURTON - The Deputy Coroner, Mr J. Edmonds, conducted an Inquest at the Market Hall, Ashburton, on Saturday, on a man named WILLIAM WHITE, whose body was found in the river Yeo on Thursday morning. Mr J. Barnes was chosen Foreman of the Jury, of which there were eight members. - TOM WHITE, a mason of Marldon, a brother, gave evidence of identification, and said deceased, whom he had not seen for several months, was a mason and a single man. He was 51 years of age. - Dr Ellis said from a medical point of view he could not tell what the cause of death was, probably drowning. A post mortem could only prove that. - Robert Hewins, lodging-house keeper, said deceased called at his house on Wednesday night for a night's lodgings, and went to bed, but during the night he was noisy, disturbing the house by shouting "murder." He left the house just after 3 a.m., saying he wanted to go on to Plymouth early. - Mrs M. Willcocks, West-street, Ashburton, deposed that about 3.20 a.m. she heard a man shouting "murder" and "police" in the street, and later at the rear of her house in the direction of the river. She subsequently informed Mr French, whom she saw in the street, of what she had heard. - Mr Jas. French, farrier and smith, of Ashburton, gave evidence as to finding the body at 5.30 a.m. in the river in water just sufficient to cover deceased as he lay face downwards. The body was taken out and artificial respiration tried but without avail. - P.C. G. Hammett corroborated the evidence of the previous witness, and the Jury, in the absence of evidence showing how deceased got into the water, returned an Open Verdict of "Found Drowned."

NEWTON ST CYRES - Old Lady's Death At Newton St Cyres. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at an Inquest held by the County Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, at Churchill Cottages, Newton St Cyres, yesterday, on the body of ELIZA EMBERRY, aged 84, wife of GEORGE EMBERRY, labourer. It appears that deceased got out of bed about 10 p.m. on April 26 and in the dark fell over a chair, fracturing the femur bone. She was seen by Dr Ross, of Crediton, next day, and he attended her up to the time of her death. He considered death to be due to shock, resulting from the fracture.

Western Times, Saturday 9 June 1917
BARNSTAPLE - An Inquest on MARY ANN STANBURY, widow of JOHN STANBURY, thatcher, of Bratton Fleming, was held at her daughter's residence, Fort-street, Barnstaple, on Thursday. Under the powers conferred by the Coroners' Emergency Provisions Act, 1917, a Jury of seven instead of twelve was summoned, and the Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, said that was the first time that so small a Jury had been empanelled in Barnstaple for at least one thousand years. Deceased broke her thigh by slipping in her bedroom on January 4th and a verdict of senile decay, accelerated by the accident, was returned.

Western Times, Friday 15 June 1917
TRUSHAM - Youth's Suicide At Trusham. Farm Lad Found Hanging By Horse Chain From A Tree. - On Tuesday afternoon Mr Edmonds, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquiry at Symon's Farm, Trusham, into the circumstances attending the death of WALLACE SAGE, aged 19, who was found hanging to a tree in a copse on Symon's Farm on Sunday morning. - Mr W. J. Chave was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - ANNIE SAGE, of 23 Market-street, Exeter, recently employed at Symon's Farm, identified the body as that of her brother, WALLACE SAGE, who was employed as a labourer on the farm by Messrs. Callard. She last saw him alive late on Saturday evening, when some words passed between witness and Miss Callard, her brother taking his sister's part. At a later period Miss Callard said she would see that deceased was put before the mouth of a cannon and he then went out of the house. He was a sensible lad and had never threatened to take his life. She heard later that Miss Callard had said deceased had threatened to hang himself. They sat up until 1 o'clock, but deceased had not then returned. - Frederick Northway, a lad working at the farm, said he found the body hanging to a tree on Sunday morning, about 8.30, not far from the farmhouse. He drove home the cows and afterwards told Miss Callard about it. Witness thought that deceased was "funny" at times. - Frederick Charles Hamblin of New Inn, Morley, a visitor at Symon's Farm, said, as far as he knew, there had been some high words between the girl, SAGE, and Miss Callard, deceased taking his sister's part. On Saturday evening Miss Callard said she would have nothing more to do with them, adding that she would put deceased before the mouth of a cannon. The lad then went out, which he had frequently done before late at night, not returning until the early hours of the morning. SAGE always appeared to him to be a sensible lad, though not bright. On Sunday morning between 9.30 and 9.45, Miss Callard called out to him that "WALLY" had hanged himself, and asked him to come down and help. She told him where, and, with assistance, got down the body, which was cold. Deceased had got into the tree with the aid of a ladder, and had then climbed on to another branch. A large chain was round the neck, and then round the branch, with about a foot length of chain clear, the body hanging about seven feet from the ground. Witness afterwards sent for the Police and a doctor. - In reply to a question, witness said there had been frequent rows in the house and that SAGE had a horror of joining up. Deceased had been employed on the farm since he was nine years of age. - Mary Grace Callard, living at Symon's Farm, said deceased was employed by her, and lived in the house. Words took place on Saturday evening between witness and the girl, SAGE, and she said she would have nothing more to do with her. Deceased took his sister's part and witness admitted that she said she would "put him before the mouth of a cannon" if he did not behave himself. - Henry Blanchard Walters, Surgeon, of Chudleigh, said the neck was not broken and apparently deceased died from congestion of the brain, the result of hanging. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

CREDITON - Crushed To Death. Steersman Thrown From Motor Tractor. Inquest At Crediton. - At Crediton Police Station yesterday Mr W. H. Gould, District Coroner, held an Inquest on GEORGE EDWARD BELCHER, 18, steersman of a motor tractor belonging to Mr F. W. Holland, of St. Thomas, Exeter, and the victim of an accident to the tractor the previous day whilst hauling a load of granite from Crediton Railway Station to Sandford. - Mr Holland said deceased's father resided at Shaw-road, Newbury, Berks. The one truck attached to the engine contained, when loaded, barely six tons. It was an engine of between 4 and 5 h.p., and in his opinion was of sufficient power to keep back the load. He had examined the engine since the accident and found nothing wrong except a broken wheel. The engine could carry eight tons. There was a brake on the truck. - The driver, Gilbert Newbury, 32 Coombe-street, Exeter, said as the engine was proceeding down Forches Hill, the hind wheels skidded a little over some horse manure and the truck ran into it askew and overturned. Witness brought the engine to the side of the road and found deceased had gone from the steersman's seat. He could not say whether he jumped off or was jerked off. Witness stopped the engine as soon as possible. He had the brake on the engine and the steersman had put the brake on the truck at the top of the hill. It was the first time witness had been over this road. Where the accident occurred was about 60 yards from the top of the hill. - By the Jury and Coroner: He attributed the skid solely to the horse manure and had known an engine skid from the same cause before. The wheels were indented. In his opinion the engine was safe to take a load of that description at the time being drawn down the hill. - Harry Blackmore, roadman, Sandford, who was following the engine at some distance, said seeing the truck turned over on its side, he ran to the spot and finding deceased lying injured in the road, he went for a doctor. - By the Jury: He should think it safe for the engine to go down the hill. There was no other route to take in order to place some of the stone where it was wanted. The engine had not reached the steepest part of the hill. - Dr Ross, Crediton, said deceased was dead when he arrived. He described the injuries, which, he should say, were caused by deceased being crushed between the engine and the truck. He did not think the wheel went over deceased. - Mr Holland, recalled, said there had been no mishap to this engine before. It had been used for similar work before, and had carried a heavier weight than that at the time of the accident. Manure was the worst thing to get on the wheels. Deceased had been in his employ since September 28th. - The Coroner thought the circumstances pointed to deceased being thrown off the engine rather than having jumped off. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Saturday 16 June 1917
HARTLAND - Hartland Tragedy. - An extraordinary case of suicide is reported from Hartland. One evening early in the week WILLIAM JOHN JEFFERY, a carpenter, aged 45, after a chat over the plot hedge with Edwin Short, abruptly asked him to tell Tom Beer and Bill Short to come up and see him. Asked what was the matter, he replied nothing. Thomas Beer, who is the man's brother-in-law, on getting to JEFFERY'S he found a cap. Touching it with his toe, he saw a pencilled note on a piece of paper torn from an account note. It read: "Dear Bill - Get me indoors as soon as you can, as there will be a crowd about. Be careful about mother. Good-bye. God bless and comfort you, mother. What I leave behind is yours. - Your broken-down son, WILL. Near by, in the hedge, in a sitting position, and holding a gun, was the body, quite dead. At the Inquest, Dr R. Kay said his belief was that the man placed the gun in his mouth and pushed the trigger with a stick. death was instantaneous. P.C. Alfred Wonnacott said nothing on the body threw any light on the affair. A verdict of "Suicide" was returned.

EXETER - Child's Death At Exeter. - At an Inquest held at the Court House, Exeter, last evening, by the City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, relative to the death of GILBERT HARRY SYME, aged five, Quay Lane, son of a member of the Military Police, now serving in France, evidence was given to the effect that the child was found in the bedroom in an unconscious condition. A doctor was fetched, but the child never recovered consciousness and died. A post mortem examination by Dr Chepmell showed that the lungs were much congested. The cause of death was stated to have been an epileptic convulsion, consequent on congestion of the lungs. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Monday 18 June 1917
CREDITON - Victim Of The Heat. Sudden Death Of A Farm Labourer At Crediton. - At Court Barton Farm, Crediton, on Saturday, Mr G. H. Stephens, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of GEORGE WREFORD, farm labourer, aged 56 years. The widow gave evidence of identification, and said her husband had always enjoyed good health; no doctor had attended deceased for years. - Charles Steer, employed by Mr Shirwell, said he was working with deceased on Saturday morning in a field adjoining Court Barton, when WREFORD suddenly fell backward. Witness went to his assistance; he sighed three times and expired. Deceased had seemed quite as usual and had not complained of feeling unwell. - Dr Ross considered that the exertion and heat brought about a sudden heart attack, with instantaneous death as a result. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

Western Times, Tuesday 19 June 1917
ILFRACOMBE - Ilfracombe Cliff Fatality. - Dr Ellis Pearson, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Tyrrell Cottage Hospital, Ilfracombe, on Saturday afternoon, relative to the death of SERAPHINE VAN WYENBERG, a Belgian orphan, nine years of age, who fell over the Capstone on to the promenade, a distance of 30 feet, on Thursday evening last, and died on Friday. It was stated that in company with some other Belgian girls deceased was picking flowers on the Capstone, when she slipped and fell over the cliff. Dr Osborne stated that there was a fracture of the base of the skull and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Times, Friday 22 June 1917
SANDFORD - Inquest On An Infant At Sandford. - The District Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould held an Inquest at Sandford yesterday afternoon relative to the death of an infant son of ARTHUR HEAL, formerly a farm labourer, but now a private in the 2nd Devons. Deceased, who slept with the mother, was on the 20th inst. found dead in bed in the mother's arms. Dr Ross, of Crediton, stated that a post mortem showed that death was due to asphyxia, probably caused by overlying. A verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned.

POUGHILL - Old Lady's End. Shocking Suicide At Poughill. - The District Coroner, Mr Henry W. Gould, held an Inquest at Poughill, near Crediton, yesterday afternoon, relative to the death of ELIZABETH PATTERSON, aged 75, widow of JOHN PATTERSON, farmer, late of Higher Coombe, Gidleigh. The body was identified by deceased's daughter, MRS ELIZABETH JANE GARDNER, wife of a farmer at Newland, Poughill, who said her mother, who had been ill since Christmas, suffering from the effects of influenza and bronchitis, had been living with her son at Withleigh. She came to stay with witness on the 18th instant and on arrival looked ill and seemed depressed. On Tuesday morning, the 19th, deceased stayed in bed. On going to the bedroom about 11.30 a.m. witness found her lying on the floor in a pool of blood. Deceased was unconscious and near her was a partly open razor, which belonged to witness's husband and which had been kept on the mantelpiece in the kitchen. Deceased must have taken it to her room on Monday night. Witness at once sent for a doctor, but deceased died about ten minutes later. - Dr Daniel Vickery, of Cheriton Fitzpaine, who reached the house about two o'clock, said there was a wound on the forehead, the result of a fall. There were several wounds, one of which was under the heart and another over the stomach. Witness described a wound on the right side of the abdomen of a terrible character, the incision extending into the groin, causing a large quantity of the bowels to protrude. Two feet of the small intestine were on the floor. Witness said the injuries were consistent with having been done by the blade of a razor. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

Western Times, Saturday 23 June 1917
TORQUAY - Child's Sudden Death At Torquay. - When he reached home on Tuesday a little Torquay boy, named HARRY K. GRYLLS, son of a carman, living at Pembroke Cottages, Swan-street, he told his father and sister he had fallen down at school and had hurt himself just a little, but had played about as usual. That evening he seemed quite all right, and, although he complained next morning that his side hurt him, he ate his breakfast as usual. Soon after he was seized with sickness and the sister kept him home from school. About 10 o'clock he sat n her lap and half an hour later went to sleep there and did not again wake up. In view of that fact she called a neighbour, who said the little boy was dead. The doctor, who was called, confirmed this and at the Inquest on Thursday, and a post-mortem examination revealed that the membrane surrounding the heart was full of liquid, causing compression of the heart's action. There had been inflammation of the membrane of the heart - pericarditis - and this would not necessarily cause any pain or produce any symptoms. The child also had acute gastritis, which would also tend to compress the heart and, as a result of the two, the child died from syncope. Pericarditis was very seldom found in a child of that age - he would not expect to find it - but it might be accounted for by rheumatism in the family history. There were no signs of the child having fallen. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Western Times, Monday 25 June 1917
EAST BUDLEIGH - Fisherman's Body Found Off Budleigh Salterton. - The body of the fisherman, CHARLES W. SEDGEMORE, who was presumed drowned, was found by Ambrose Maers and Ambrose Potter at Sea on Saturday at 6.45 a.m. An Inquest was held at the Masonic Hall in the afternoon by Mr C. N. Tweed, Deputy Coroner of the County of Devon. Mr Fred Cowd was chosen Foreman of the Jury, who returned a verdict of "Suicide by Drowning" while of Unsound Mind.

Western Times, Tuesday 26 June 1917
BRIDESTOWE - Bridestowe Fatality. Lady's Fall From A Carriage When Driving To Church. - An Inquest was held at Linkstor, Bridestowe, on Saturday, relative to the death of MRS D. I. J. MAY. On Sunday, May 17th, MRS MAY and two ladies were driving to the evening service at the Lydford parish church, in a low four-wheeled carriage drawn by a pony. When descending Dartmoor Hill one of the bolts of the carriage gave way or slipped out, and the vehicle broke in two. The pony bolted with the front part, leaving the hind part behind. MRS MAY, who was in the latter portion, fell from her seat, and rolled to the ground. She got up and walked across the road, sat on the bank, collapsed, and became unconscious, in which state she continued until her death. - REV. CECIL HOPE-GILL, son-in-law of deceased, said he was taking the evening service at Lydford, when he was called out and told that there had been an accident. Without removing his surplice he went to the scene. With the assistance of Mr Heathman, MRS MAY was taken to the Dartmoor Inn. Dr Postlewhaite, of Brentor, was soon in attendance, and the same evening deceased's own medical man, Dr E. H. Young, Okehampton, was telephoned for. Later MRS MAY was removed to her residence at Brentor, where she died at 8.20 on Saturday morning. - Dr Postlewhaite stated that there were no external marks or bruises. Neither of the other occupants of the carriage was injured. - Dr E. H. Young said he was of opinion that death was due to shock. The deceased was predisposed to a seizure and the shock might have hastened it. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Cerebral Haemorrhage arising from Shock due to the deceased having Accidentally fallen out of her carriage."

Western Times, Friday 29 June 1917
EXETER - At Exeter Court House last evening the City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest on JAMES DAVID SIMONS, aged four months, son of a Dutch waiter, of Parr-street, who came to Exeter from Bristol on Saturday. The father said the child awoke about two o'clock on Wednesday morning and was fed with barley water and milk. At 6.30 the child appeared to be asleep and the mother, who had been suffering from headache, took advantage of the opportunity to take sleep. At 10 a.m. the infant appeared to be dead. A doctor was immediately fetched. Dr Pereira, who had made a post-mortem examination, attributed death to convulsions, caused by a distended stomach. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

EXETER - The Exeter City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest on ELIZABETH DYMOND, aged 76, wife of WM. DYMOND, plumber, of Codrington-street. Evidence was given by the husband to the effect that about midnight on Wednesday deceased awoke and shortly afterwards collapsed and died. Dr Brash said he attended the deceased four years ago for bronchitis and heart trouble. He was called about 2.30 a.m. on Thursday, and found her dead. He attributed death to heart failure. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

COMBEINTEIGNHEAD - Suicide Near Newton Abbot. - At Coombeinteignhead, near Newton Abbot, yesterday, the Deputy Coroner, Mr T. Edmonds, held an Inquest on HARRY GRANT PENWILL, 45, whose dead body was found hanging by the Rector of the parish, - ALICE MAUD PENWILL, postmistress, of Combe, said deceased, her husband, was sexton of the parish and assisted in his father's business. His health had not been good lately, and he had complained of pains in his head. He had no financial or other worry as far as she knew. - Rev. R. W. G. Pound (rector), stated that on entering the boiler-house at the church on Tuesday morning he saw deceased hanging from a beam. He was quite dead. Deceased had looked very ill lately. - CHARLES G. PENWILL, assistant overseer, said deceased had complained to him occasionally about head pains, but there was no reason to suspect he had any tendency towards taking his life. A verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily of Unsound Mind" was returned.

Western Times, Tuesday 3 July 1917
SOUTH BRENT - Boy's Sad Death At South Brent. - Mr S. Hacker, District Corner, held an Inquest at South Brent, yesterday, relative to the death of HOWARD HORACE MANNING, aged 5 years and 11 months, son of MR CHARLES MANNING, of Brent. Ex-constable William Stumbles Crispin said he saw deceased climbing up the under-side of a ladder resting against a house in Church-street. His feet slipped from the rungs and he fell on to the pavement about four or five feet and then ran away home. Witness saw him again at play the same evening. The father described the boy's subsequent condition and the calling of a doctor. The accident happened on Wednesday and the little fellow died on Sunday. Dr F. W. Style, who was present at a post-mortem examination, described the injuries which resulted from septic poisoning and caused death. The Jury of whom Mr W. Hull was Foreman, returned a verdict accordingly, expressed their sympathy and gave their fees to the parents.

Western Times, Friday 6 July 1917
TOPSHAM - Topsham Tragedy. Boy Drowned While Playing With Pals On The Pier. - On Wednesday, about 7.45 p.m., THOMAS PYM, the nine year old little boy of MR and MRS ALBERT PYM, of Fore-street, Topsham, lost his life in a tragic way. He was playing with other boys on the pier when he fell into the water, striking against the structure, it is supposed, during the fall. Sinking into the water he was not seen again until the body was recovered by grappling irons by Messrs. W. Murphy and J. Pym. Dr Macpherson, Nurse Turner, P.C. Membury and others were soon on the scene, and after the recovery of the body at once attempted artificial respiration, which they continued for two hours, without success. Great sympathy is extended to the bereaved parents and family. The father is a naval man and is with the Fleet somewhere in the North Sea. - The Inquest. - Mr H. W. Gould held an Inquest into the circumstances of the fatality at the Vestry, Topsham, yesterday. - Edmund Wills, aged 15, said on Wednesday, about 7.30 p.m., he saw the deceased on the pier pulling at a boat, which was moored to the woodwork. On leaving go the rope PYM tripped in some net and fell through a hole in the pier into the water. After splashing about for a few seconds he disappeared. Two boys who were with deceased ran for assistance. - P.C. Membury said he was present when the body was recovered shortly before 8 o'clock, about 15 yards from where the lad fell into the water. - Dr Macpherson, who arrived a few minutes after eight, said on examining the body he found life was extinct, but efforts were made to restore animation. - The Coroner asked who were the guardians of the pier, and whether the public were prohibited from going there. - Mr Bridle, Chairman of the Parish Council, said at present the pier belonged to no one, and it being in such a state of decay, the Council, at their last meeting, decided to invite tenders to remove it. The entrance had been boarded up for several years, and the public had been warned that the place was dangerous. - The Coroner considered the decision of the Parish Council to demolish the structure was a wise one and it should be done forthwith. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" by Drowning, and commended Dr Macpherson, Nurse Turner and P.C. Membury for working for over two hours in trying to restore animation.

Western Times, Monday 9 July 1917
TORQUAY - Torquay Morphia Tragedy. Inventor Who Drugged Himself To Ease Pain. - An Inquiry was held at Torquay, Saturday, by Mr S. Hacker, relative to the death of CECIL JOHN VERICAS, aged 33, of independent means, who for some time had been living alone in a house at Barton, St. Marychurch. The Coroner explained that on Thursday the house was entered and the man found in an unconscious state. He was removed to the Hospital, where he died. - Henry James Keast, the owner of the house, with whom VERICAS lived, said deceased employed his time in working out improvements in electrical apparatus, more especially torpedoes and recently had patented something in connection with a cinematograph. Witness was not aware that anyone went in the house to see deceased except himself (Keast). On Wednesday morning when witness took in a registered letter deceased complained that he felt unwell and on the following morning witness noticed that the bedroom window blind had not been pulled up - a very unusual thing. The doors being locked, witness's cousin forced an entry through the window. Witness accompanied him and found deceased lying naked on the bed unconscious. - Witness added that deceased had told him that he took bromide of ammonia when there was anything the matter, but he was not aware that a hypodermic syringe was used. Witness knew of no relatives except the wife, who was said to be in an asylum. Deceased's father died suddenly in the same house in March 1915. - Dr Alan Bennett stated that he was asked to go to Barton Village on a matter of life and death,. He found the hypodermic syringe lying on the body, the broken needle sticking in the flesh by the loin. As the man was not dead, witness tried artificial respiration. By this means he was kept alive and the man removed to the Hospital. For nine hours the artificial respiration was resorted to without ceasing and it was thought the man was safe. An hour later the heart suddenly stopped working and nothing further could be done. A post mortem examination showed that VERICAS had been in the habit of giving himself hypodermic injections. There was an extensive disease of the lungs - an advanced stage of consumption - and on the right side there was evidence of a recent attack of pleurisy. Probably the man suffered intense pain and took the morphia to relieve it. Death was due to an overdose of morphia.. - Tubes of tabloids of morphia were produced and the doctor remarked that it was wrong that the man should have been able to get these things. Half a grain had been known to kill a strong man and 25 grains was enough to poison a whole village. - The Duty Of The Police. - Dr Bennett said that as the Superintendent of Police was present he should like to have a ruling of the Coroner as to the duty of the police on such occasions as this. At the same time he should like to make it clear that he was not making a complaint. When he got to the house he thought the man was lying dead, and he sent Mr Keast to telephone the information to the Police, with the request that they would fetch the body. Later, on realising that the man was not quite dead, he sent an urgent message for assistance. This was not forthcoming, the reasons given being that there was no one to send, that the man might be dead by the time they got there and that if a taxi were sent the cost would fall on the Police. The expense of the taxi was guaranteed. In this case nothing could have saved the poor chap, but generally he should like to know if the Police could shelve their responsibility when an appeal like this was made to them. To whom must he appeal, if not to the Police? - Supt. Crooke said the first intimation he received was that the man was dead, and he promised to send a man to Barton. Within a few minutes a second message was received to the effect that the man was not dead. He was asked to send an ambulance, but as Barton was between two and three miles away, he considered an ambulance was absolutely useless in such a matter of life and death. He stated this to the person who was telephoning, and the reply was, "If you are going to take up all the time in talking, it will be too late." He suggested that a taxi should be sent, and at the same time asked who would pay for it. The lady telephoning agreed to do so. The Superintendent added that this was the first time in his experience that such a statement had been made regarding the conduct of the Police. They were always prepared to do all they could. - The doctor said he did not like the haggling about the cost of the taxi. When he was asked to go to the house he was in his gardening clothes. He went at once, and there should have been no delay on the part of the Police. - Supt. Crooke pointed out there was no delay. Barton was too far away for the ambulance to be of service; moreover he had on one to send. - The Coroner: In normal times would you have sent the ambulance? - The Superintendent: No; I do not consider the hand ambulance the right thing. I should have sent a taxi. - The Coroner asked if the Police could incur the expense? They could in securing the services of a doctor under such circumstances. - The Superintendent added that perhaps he ought not to have asked who would pay for the taxi. He was anxious to know with whom he was dealing. There was no delay whatever in getting the taxi to Barton. - The Coroner: In future cases the Police will be able to give assistance in this way? - The Superintendent: Yes; I suggested the taxi in this case because it was the best. - Dr Bennett said he was very much obliged to the Superintendent for his statement, and he, of course, recognised that the public were indebted to the Police for the assistance which they were always prepared to give. - The Coroner remarked that he was glad to know that they were aware of the practice which could be adopted. They also appreciated the fact that Dr Bennett, for humanity's sake, had taken on work which was beyond his ordinary duties. - Dr Bennett added that during his 25 years' practice in Torquay, his relations had been most happy and if the financial misunderstanding had been cleared up by the discussion, probably things would be satisfactory. He should like it to be distinctly understood that he did not wish to bring any formal inquiry against the Police. - The Inquiry was adjourned until next Saturday with a view to the Police getting in touch with the relatives of the deceased.

Western Times, Tuesday 10 July 1917
STOKE CANON - An Exeter Girl's Death. Killed On The Line At Stoke Canon. An Open Verdict. Married Private In The A.P.C. Censured. - At Stoke Canon Parish Room, yesterday, Mr H. W. Gould, Coroner, conducted an Inquiry into the death of HILDA JANE MILLICENT BARNES, aged 16, daughter of an Exeter railway employee, whose body was found on the Great Western Railway line near Stafford Bridge on Saturday morning, having been run over by a train. The Railway Company was represented by Inspector Blackler (Engineering Department) and Inspector Vernon (Traffic Department). Mr A. M. Alford (Exeter) represented Pte. E. H. Woodward, of the Army Pay Corps, Exeter, formerly of Dublin. - The mother, residing at 4 New Buildings, St James's, Exeter, who was at first in great distress, identified the body and said her husband, EDWARD BARNES was a L. and S.W. Railway porter. She last saw deceased alive at 8 p.m. on Friday at home. She had not been in the habit of returning home late. Witness had told her that she would be angry if she stayed out later than half-past nine. - The Coroner: Have you ever heard her speak of suicide? - Witness: Never. I am certain she would never do that. She was too bright a girl for that. - She has left no communication behind her? - No, nothing whatever. - Further replying, witness said when deceased did not return home on Friday night she went to the Police Station. - FLORENCE MAY BARNES, sister, said deceased left home about a quarter past eight on Friday evening. She said perhaps she would go to the pictures, or on the river with an Army Pay fellow. She said she had met him about a week previous and went out with him on the Tuesday night. Deceased did not say what time she expected to return home. Witness had not had any conversation with deceased on the subject of staying out late. There was no quarrelling before she left home; her sister was in the best of spirits. - Finding Of The Body. - P.C. W. T. Fewings, Stoke Canon, said on SAturday about 3.20 a.m., from information received from a ganger, he proceeded to Stafford Bridge in company with the ganger, and saw deceased's body lying on the down line twenty yards below the crossing towards Exeter, and on the right metal. Deceased was cut in two at the centre of the body. The head and higher part of the body were lying outside the metals; the legs and lower parts were in the 4ft way. Deceased was lying nearly on her back and there was a good deal of blood at the spot. Three feet below the crossing on the left of the down line he found a shoe, the other shoe being beside the body. Deceased had no shoes on. Four feet below the crossing on the down metal he found hair and fragments of clothing on the railway nuts and timber, similar to that belonging to deceased. That was seventeen feet from the body. There was no blood where he found the fragments. The shoe produced seemed to have been struck by something. The same morning he made inquiries and took a statement from Pte. Woodward, of the Army Pay Corps at Exeter. - A.P.C. Private's Story. - Pte. Edward Horace Woodward, A.P.C., Exeter, after being cautioned and warned by the Coroner, gave evidence, and said he first knew deceased on the Saturday previous to Friday last. He met her on the Saturday evening and had been out with her twice since. On Friday evening last he met her at 8.15 at the corner of St James'-road. They went up the Old Tiverton-road, along Stoke-road and back around the lower road to Cowley Bridge. Near Cowley Bridge Inn deceased asked the time and witness said it was just after ten o'clock. The girl said they had better go back, as her father would be angry at her being out so late, and that she ought to have known it would have taken quite two hours to go round. They hurried back as fast as they could, passing at the back of Queen-street Station, and then to Powderham Crescent. There he said to her, "You had better hurry in." She said she was afraid her father would lock her out. It was about ten minutes to eleven. He endeavoured to persuade her to go home, but she would not, and witness said he should refuse to leave her in that condition of mind. They retraced their steps, going towards Cowley-road again. It was then 11.20. All the time he was endeavouring to persuade her to go back and told her if she was afraid to do so he would try to find her lodgings for the night. They passed along by the Cowley Bridge Inn and came to a gate which he since understood opened to a road leading to the level crossing. They were there for about half an hour, he trying to persuade her to return. She still refused. He said if she would go back he would call and make it all right with her father the next morning. He begged deceased to return, but she said she wanted to go across this field. She did not say definitely what her object was. He did not know then where the field led. They went across the field to another gate close to the railway line. - Afraid Of Her Father's Anger. - They stopped at the gate, and as the time was getting on, he endeavoured to get her to go back and said if he failed to find lodgings, there might be some friend at Exeter to whom she could go. More than once she said she was afraid if she stayed out all night she would lose her reputation. She also said "I shall do it," meaning that she would commit suicide. She said she had threatened to do so before because her father was angry with her. She did not say she had done so in front of her father. She said her father had been angry with her because she had been late on previous occasions. He left deceased between 1.30 and 2 a.m. at the gate near the line. They referred in conversation then to an arrangement to go on the river the next evening. - The Coroner: Did you think she would come on alone after your leaving her? - I thought she would. - What reason had you for thinking that? - I thought if I went she would very soon come along because she would be frightened to stay there alone. She entreated me to go on. - In further evidence witness said he did not hear of deceased's death until the Police came to see him. - Did it not occur to you, having left the girl under the circumstances you did, to make enquiries at her home that morning? - I did not know her address. He added that he asked her for her address, but she said she would tell him when she knew him better. - Did it not occur to you with suicide in this girl's mind, you ought not to have left her, but should have taken some steps to protect her? - Witness replied that he did not take her threats seriously. - Further replying he said he did not know her age. He asked her her age, but she would not tell him and he thought it was about 18. He was aged 40 and married. - The Foreman, (Mr Besley, C.C.): Did it not occur to you that it was your duty to protect her? - Witness said he used every possible argument to persuade her to come with him. - You ought not to have left the girl. - Witness: As I said, I did not take her threats seriously. - Were you there when she went on the line? - Oh, no. - By Mr Alford: When he left her she shook hands with him, thanked him for taking her out and said she would be all right. After he left he retraced his steps some distance, but seeing nothing, he thought she had gone the way they previously came. He returned by Pennsylvania, having missed his way. It was about 3.15 when he got back to Exeter. He had a stick with him, the one he had now. - Inspector T. J. Vernon, G.W.R., gave evidence as to the trains that passed over the line at this spot after 1.30 a.m. on Saturday morning. - Dr Beddoe, Thorverton, said the body was cut directly in two and there had been a severe blow to the head, which lacerated the scalp. The wounds would be sufficient to cause instant death. He had no reason to suppose that any of the wounds were caused before death. - Most Reprehensible. - The Coroner, in summing up, impressed upon the Jury that they were not a Jury of morals. What they had to find was the cause of the deceased's death. They had heard the principal evidence -that of Pte. Woodward. He thought they would all say, and personally very strongly, that knowing what was in the girl's mind it was Pte. Woodward's duty to stick to her through thick and thin, and give her his proper attention. - (Hear). He thought they would agree it was most reprehensible on his part to leave her in the way he himself says that he did. If they believed the evidence of Pte. Woodward, he thought they must come to the conclusion that this girl took her life as he said she repeatedly threatened to do. If they had any doubt on the point, it was quite open to them to return an open verdict that she was found killed on the line. That did not necessarily say that Pte. Woodward was associated with the death, but conveyed their opinion that they were not satisfied with the evidence, and could not say under what circumstances she was killed on the line. Of course they would consider that Pte. Woodward was placed in a very awkward position. With a girl of that age and he 40, and a married man, he was put in a somewhat awkward position, a serious position and a position that was likely to compromise him. He (the Coroner) did not think that even that exonerated him from his duty to stay by this girl and give her his protection. - While the Jury had retired to consider their verdict, there was something of a scene in Court, deceased's mother in tragic tones making certain allegations as to the manner of her daughter's death. She desisted at the instance of the Police. - The Foreman said the Jury all agreed that they ought to return an Open Verdict. They had no evidence how deceased got on the line, and no evidence that she committed suicide. They therefore returned an Open Verdict. - They identified themselves with the Coroner's expression of sympathy with the parents, and commended the manner in which the case had been conducted by the Police especially the Stoke Canon constable.

Western Times, Wednesday 11 July 1917
ASHBURTON - Cycle v. Motor-Car. Boy's Terrible Death At Ashburton. - Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, conducted an Inquiry at the Market Hall, Ashburton, yesterday, relative to the death of JAMES SHILLABEER, aged 17 years, who collided with a motor car on the road to Newton Abbot on the Wednesday previous, sustaining injuries from which he succumbed in the Cottage Hospital early on Monday morning. - JOS. SHILLABEER, labourer, Rew Lea, father of the deceased, gave evidence of identification and said he last saw his son alive early on Sunday morning, when he was unconscious. He saw him on Thursday last, the day after the accident, but the only thing he heard him say was that he could not clear himself. He was in a semi-conscious state after the accident. - Florence May Rodgman, draper's assistant, said on Wednesday last she and the deceased were riding to Newton Abbot on their bicycles, and left Ashburton about 2 p.m. Nothing happened until they reached Travellers Rest, when SHILLABEER ran into Mr Halse's car. Previously they were sounding their bells, but she did not hear the car coming, nor did she hear the hooter of the motor. They were in the middle of the road, and side by side. They had their brakes on, and were talking. She just cleared the car. The accident happened in the hollow of the road and right at the bend. - By the Coroner: She did not hear the hooter nor car, and the car, which was not going very fast, was in the middle of the road, but was on them before they saw it; it all happened so quickly. SHILLABEER had no time to get out of the way. Deceased to have got on to the correct side of the road would have knocked her over. - Mr S. F. Willis, butcher, of Ashburton, said he was returning from Newton Abbot with Mr Halse, leaving there about 1.45 p.m. They stopped at Gale-lane, about 100 to 150 yards from Travellers Rest, and on resuming the journey, Mr Halse sounded his horn about 20 yards from the bend in the road. He saw the boy on his bicycle about 20 yards from the motor-car, and he almost instantly dashed into them. At that point they were quite close to the left side, about 18 inches or 2 feet away. - Dr E. A. Ellis stated that he was called to the Hospital on Wednesday afternoon. He found the deceased very severely injured in the face and forehead, the glass from the screen of the car having gone through the frontal bone into the brain at the eyebrows; his right eye was destroyed. There were also very severe cuts and a bruise of the right knee. Deceased was conscious at the time, and retained consciousness until Friday evening, after which he was unconscious until death. The cause of death was septic meningitis, following compound fracture of the skull, caused by contact with the glass and metal of the motor-car. - Mr C. H. Halse, East-street, Ashburton, the owner and driver of the car, said he saw the girl before he saw the boy, and when he saw them he judged there was room for a horse and trap to drive between them. He was on his correct side and he pulled up as quickly as possible as he saw that the boy, who was on the wrong side of the road, was in trouble and appeared to lose his head. The boy dashed into the front of the car and smashed the wind-screen and fell under the car. - John Bonstow, of Higher Mead, gave evidence in support of Mr Halse's statement, and questioned by a Juryman, said he had ridden with Mr Halse before, and had found him a careful driver. - Mr G. Gill, car owner, also gave evidence of taking the injured lad in his car to the Hospital. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added a rider, calling the attention of the Urban District Council to the dangerous corner and suggesting the erection of a danger signal. The Jury, on the motion of the Foreman, expressed their deep sympathy with the father on the sad loss, an expression in which the Coroner and Mr C. Halse concurred.

Western Times, Friday 13 July 1917
EXETER HEAVITREE - The Heavitree Tragedy. Inquest On Woman Who Threw Herself Under A Train. - An Inquest relative to the tragic death of MARGARET MANSELL, the wife of an insurance agent, living at 81 Ladysmith-road, Heavitree, was held by the City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, at Exeter Police Court last evening. The woman was seen by the driver of an Exmouth line train to throw herself in front of the engine near Whipton Bridge on Wednesday afternoon, her body being shockingly mutilated by the train passing over it. At the Inquest Mr T. Greig, Station Superintendent at Queen-street; Inspector W. Trump, of the Company's Detective Police; and Inspector H. Moore, of the Locomotive Department, were present on behalf of the L. and S.W.R. Co. - SAMUEL MANSELL, the husband, said deceased was 31 years of age. At 2.30 on Wednesday afternoon he was at home and his wife was then going out with the intention of taking the children to the Heavitree Pleasure Ground. She asked him to meet her at the Park after. Since the birth of the last child, about eighteen months ago, she had suffered from nervous breakdown. She had been treated at the Dispensary and afterwards went into the City Infirmary. Neurasthenia supervened and she had been depressed, and suffered from severe pains in the head. She had not slept well of late. She had not threatened to take her life, but some time ago, before she went to the Infirmary, where she stayed nine weeks, she said the pains were almost more than she could bear. There were five children. - Alfred Moore, driver of the train, said he left Exmouth at 3.25. Approaching the bridge at Whipton and when about 30- yards away, he saw the woman crossing the line from the down to the up line. He blew the whistle, but she merely turned her head towards the engine and came right in front of it. He shut off steam, and put on the brakes and pulled up. - Wm. Dunn, the fireman, supported the evidence of the driver. - Frederick Squire, a platelayer, who was working a quarter of a mile from where the tragedy happened, said he heard the whistle of the engine and saw the train pull up, and he hurried to the spot. He found the body badly mutilated and one leg severed. On the line he picked up a pair of gloves and a razor. The body had been dragged a distance of two chains. - Detective Walters, Coroner's Officer, spoke to the shocking mutilation of the body. He had seen Dr Pereira, who attended deceased at the Infirmary, and he stated that she left that Institution of her own accord in April. She was very depressed on admission, but improved while there. Though she showed no suicidal tendencies while at the Infirmary, the doctor was not surprised to hear she had taken her life. Dr Whaite, who had attended her previously, expressed a similar view. The latter said she suffered from melancholia. - The Coroner remarked that he thought the cause of death was obvious and it was not necessary to call expert evidence as to that. The only question was as to the woman's state of mind and there could be little doubt, he thought, on that point. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity," and the Foreman (Mr C. Snow) said they wished to express their deepest sympathy with the husband and family. The Coroner joined in this expression, as also did Inspector Trump on behalf of the L. and S.W.R. Company.

CULMSTOCK - Man Killed On The Exe Valley Line. - Mr C. N. Tweed (Honiton) held an Inquest at Culmstock, Tuesday, on JAMES MATRAVERS, (58), of Ruishdon, near Taunton, who was killed on the G.W.R. Exe Valley Branch Line, near Culmstock on the previous day. - The evidence showed that several men were taking out the foundation of a bridge about half a mile from Culmstock. Deceased stood on the top of the line handing down materials to the men below. About seven minutes before the train was coming on the previous morning, the foreman warned deceased that a train was about to pass. Deceased said "All right." When the train passed the bridge it stopped and the foreman and men under the bridge rushed up to see what was the matter. They found deceased laying between the metals unconscious. He was taken to Culmstock and medically attended. - The doctor's evidence was that most of the ribs on the left side were broken, deceased's skull was fractured and the whole of the upper jaw on the left side was crushed. He died from a fractured skull. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," no blame being attached to anyone. They added a rider that the G.W.R.'s rule that a man must be on the look-out to give warning of the approach of trains should have been observed in this case.

Western Times, Saturday 14 July 1917
TORQUAY - Lonely Man's Death. Adjourned Inquest At Torquay Yesterday. An Unwitnessed Will. - At the Town Hall, Torquay, yesterday, the County Coroner, Mr S. Hacker, resumed the Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of CECIL JOHN VERICAS, 34, of Wincot College, Barton, St Marychurch. Deceased lived alone and interested himself in electrical engineering. He was found seriously ill and died at the Torbay Hospital the following day. The medical evidence was that death was due to an overdose of morphia administered with a hypodermic syringe, but the Coroner adjourned the Inquiry with a view to obtaining further evidence regarding deceased's identity. - Sarah Jane Hardy, 34 Princes-road, W., Ellacombe, said eleven years ago deceased and his father lodged with her in St. Elfride's-road. They remained with her eight years. The son used occasionally to go to Weymouth to see his mother, who was in a lunatic asylum. They left her to go to Barton. She had seen the Bible produced, but knew nothing of the entries in it. The father had a brother who died of consumption in California. Deceased was born in France. As far as she knew the mother was the only relative living. When with her deceased used to take bromide, and when administering a morphia injection he would ask her for hot water. She had seen the hypodermic syringes he used, but did not think he made excessive use of morphia. The father was called LIONEL EMMANUEL, and he had told her that his wife was a doctor's daughter. He also said CECIL had £1,000 in his own right beside his allowance. The son was reserved and had never said anything about making his will. He was peculiar about the subject, and when the father's will was made, it was done quietly and without the son's knowledge. The names on the Bible were in the father's handwriting. - P.S. Hunt stated that he visited Wincot Cottage on the 5th inst., at 10.45 p.m., and searched the premises. He found the syringe and needle on a chair by the bedside, and the boxes of morphia tablets. There were many empty boxes which had contained glass tubes of morphia tablets in the room, as well as loose empty tubes. At a writing tablet he found a cheque for rent, made out to Mr Keast. This was on a shelf in the kitchen with other papers, including a letter from the medical superintendent of the Asylum in which the mother was confined, stating that she was in the same condition mentally, excited and delusionary, but in good bodily health. Between the bedding and the mattress he found a will which read: "This is my will and testament. I bequeath all my personal property and rights to Mr and Mrs Keast, my landlord jointly and appoint Mr Keast my executor. Dated 4th day of July, in the year of our Lord 1917. C. J. VERICAS." There were no signatures other than deceased's on the document. There were three old bank-books and in tins in various parts of the house he found £30 4s. 2 ½d. in cash, £10 10s. being in gold. There was a marriage settlement by which it appeared that deceased's mother's maiden name was MARGARETTA FISK. There were papers referring to shares and patents. He had communicated with the Receiver in Lunacy, who represented the mother of the deceased. - The Coroner said all property fund would have to be handed over to this official, who stated in his letter that he knew nothing about the family, but would make enquiries. - P.S. Hunt said there was a good stock of food in the house. - Ernest Lockyer, manager of the Tor branch of Lloyds Bank, said deceased had had an account there since May 1916. It was transferred from Weymouth . In June deceased sold 100 Marconi's and paid in the proceeds, but prior to this few transactions had taken place. Deceased credit at the Bank was £116 12s. 9d. When paying in the proceeds of the sale of the American Marconi's he said they were left him by a brother. - Mr Keast, recalled, said he had no knowledge of the contents of the will or of deceased's intentions regarding himself. He had never mentioned it, but apparently he desired to show his gratitude for little things done for him. He understood from deceased that he had property in Scotland. - The Coroner said it was a curious coincidence that deceased attempted to make a will on the 4th inst., and died of this overdose of morphia on the 6th. It was not strong evidence of suicide in face of the fact that he made a practice of injecting morphia by means of a syringe, and had done so for many years. The property would be handed over to the Receiver in Lunacy, who was acting on behalf of the mother. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death by Misadventure."

Western Times, Tuesday 17 July 1917
EXETER - At an Inquest held by Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, yesterday, at the Exeter Court House, on CHARLES EDWARD MAUNDER, aged two years, of 6 Tabernacle Court, Coombe-street, child of a brass polisher, now in the Royal Engineers. Dr G. T. Clapp said deceased died of cardiac failure due to pleural pneumonia and the Jury (seven members, the minimum now allowed by law) returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

PAIGNTON - Paignton Lad Drowned. - Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner, yesterday held an Inquest at Paignton touching the death of THOMAS MARTIN ALAN SHARLAND, aged nearly 14, whose body was found in the sea on Saturday evening under the Pier. Deceased was employed to look after the gentlemen's bathing box on the Pier, and his mother stated that he left home at 7.15, taking his breakfast as usual. When she sent his dinner down, the manageress of the Pier sent a message back that she had not seen SHARLAND, and did not think he had come to work. - Mr Card, a palmist on the Pier, stated that he saw deceased just before nine on Friday morning, after which time no one saw the boy, and the Police stated that no one was bathing at the time. - Evidence was given by Mr Sidney Earle as to seeing something in the water at low tide on Saturday evening and with assistance the body was raised to the surface by means of an anchor. A fishing line was wound around deceased's hand. The bucket and line which SHARLAND used for fishing were missing after Friday morning. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and passed a vote of condolence with the parents, the father being a private in the R.A.M.C. The Coroner and the Secretary of the Devon Dock Company joined in the expression of sympathy.

TORQUAY - Fatal Collision. The Sad Death Of MR EDWIN LOCK of Kingskerswell. - An Inquest was held at Torquay on Friday afternoon regarding the death of EDWIN AUGUSTUS LOCK, aged 59 years, a packer at the Longpark Pottery and who resided at West-hill-terrace, Kingskerswell. The deceased was cycling to his work, just before 2 o'clock on Wednesday, being followed when near Scott's Bridge by another employee at the Pottery, Miss Emma Short. A motor-car was in front of her and she saw the collision between the cycle and the car. Just prior to this LOCK had looked round, causing the machine to wobble into the middle of the road. The car struck the back wheel, throwing the rider to the ground and passing over the body. - John Grist, who was driving a car behind Miss Short, said he noticed the leading car swerve, as if attempting to avoid something. - Arthur Boatherson, butcher, of Wellswood, who was driving the motor-van from Newton Abbot, said he sounded the horn when passing Scott's Bridge corner. At that time both cyclists in front of him were on the near side of the road, giving him plenty of room to pass. Just as he was passing LOCK the bicycle swerved right in front of the car. He endeavoured to avoid a collision by turning his car into the hedge. - Dr Bennett, House Surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said there were many scalp wounds, as well as a fracture of the skull. He thought the latter injury was caused by contact with the car, rather than the road. - Other evidence was given and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death by Misadventure" attaching no blame to the driver of the car.

Western Times, Friday 20 July 1917
TIVERTON - Lad Drowned In Dangerous Mill Leat At Tiverton. - The Borough Coroner, Mr Clutson, held an Inquest at the Tiverton Hospital last evening touching the death of LEWIS OWEN ROOKS, son of MR WILLIAM ROOKS, of Leat-street, who was found in the mill-leat, near the Factory, the previous afternoon. Evidence was given showing that the little boy had been in the habit of going to Exeleigh to play, but on the day of his death he went by himself. The Coroner said it was a very dangerous place to play, but they could not compel the owners to fence it off, as it was private property. Children had no business there. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned" there being no evidence to show how the boy came into the water.

MORETONHAMPSTEAD - Dangerous Moreton Road. Never A Year Passes But There Is An Accident. - An Inquiry was held at Moreton, Wednesday, by Mr S. Hacker, relative to the death of MR ERNEST MALCOLM MEARS, 44, stationer, of Clerkenwell, London, who died from the effect of a cycle accident. Mr A. M. Alford, Exeter, represented Devon County Council. - MR A. MEARS, of London, deceased's brother, said he had examined the road where the accident occurred and found it in a very bad condition. On Monday he found a hole in the middle filled up with loose gravel. This made it extremely dangerous for cyclists, being just at the foot of the hill. - Mr Geo. Philps, Cottenham Park, who accompanied MR MEARS on the cycling tour, said on Saturday they went from Dartmouth to Totnes by boat, and cycled thence to Buckfastleigh, and on to Two Bridges, leaving there for Moreton at 8 p.m. They stopped for a while at the Warren Inn. When approaching the spot where the accident happened, deceased, who was going at from 12 to 14 miles an hour, got to the bottom of the steep hill first. He saw him fall. He was unconscious, with three wounds on his head bleeding copiously. Dr Laurie had him removed to the Cottage Hospital. Gravel had been put over the hole since the accident. - Dr L. V. Laurie said MR MEARS never regained consciousness. He died from concussion of the brain and cerebral haemorrhage. As to the road, never a year passed but there were accidents at this particular spot, owing to the looseness of the surface and the curve at the bottom. On the same evening two other cyclists fell off thee. - Mr W. J. Dymond, chemist, Torquay, said he was cycling down the hill at 8.30 on Saturday evening on his way to Moreton and fell off at the bottom. The cause was a hole, 6 to 10 inches across, in the centre of the road. He was going at from 20 to 25 miles an hour. The gradient at the bottom of the hill was deceptive. A cyclist would think he had got to the bottom, whereas there was another dip before reaching it. He saw MR MEARS coming down the hill at a rather fast pace, and held up his hand to warn him. When MR MEARS reached the bottom he did exactly what witness had done and fell on crossing the centre of the road where the hole was, falling over his handle bar. - Mr Stanley Oliver, road surveyor to Newton Abbot Rural Council, said he was not aware of any hole in the road. He was there a fortnight ago and six weeks before, and did not notice any hole. The hill was dangerous, and his men had frequently reported accidents there. The Rural Council had not started putting up warning notices. That was done by the Motor Union, to whom complaints were referred by the Council. He would bring the matter before the Council next week, so that either a warning notice might be put up by them or try to have it done by others. If a bridge was built at the spot it would do away with the danger of the deceptive gradient at the bottom of the hill. - The Coroner thought a danger signal ought to be put up until something permanent was erected. It would be a serious thing if next day they heard of another fatal accident there. - Mr Oliver promised that this suggestion should be acted upon and that he would write at once to the Motor Union. - The Coroner told the Jury that they could not return any other verdict than that of "Accidental Death." That the Jury (Mr A. Blackmore, Foreman) did, and added a rider recommending the Rural Council to place a danger signal on the top of the hill and to erect a bridge at the bottom instead of the present stone culvert.

Western Times, Monday 23 July 1917
EXMOUTH - The death occurred suddenly on Friday at his home in Fore-street, of MR JOHN HOCKING, one of the oldest and best known of Exmouth fishermen. MR HOCKING had been in indifferent health lately, though he was not incapacitated and appeared quite cheerful on retiring after his supper on Thursday night. He was, however, found dead by his wife when going to call him on Friday morning. He was 69 years of age. At an Inquest held on Saturday, Dr Hudson said he had made a post-mortem examination and found that death was due to angina pectoris, and a verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

EXETER - An Exeter Tragedy. Suicide During A Fit Of Depression. Bereaved By The War. - The Exeter City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest on Saturday relative to the death of EDWARD PLUMER, 62, who lived at 8 Cedars-road, Larkbeare and whose body was recovered from the river Exe near Salmon Pool, on Thursday. Deceased had been in the employ of Messrs. Lloyd and Co., tobacco merchants of Exeter, since 1868, and was much respected. - WILLIAM J. PLUMER, of Topsham, son, identified the body, and said his father had been "queer" for the last three months. He suffered from chronic indigestion and he troubled over the loss of a son in the war. He had been treated for nervous breakdown by Dr Pereira. He had never threatened to take his life, until last Tuesday morning, when he left to go to work. He insisted on going to work, but said he felt bad enough to destroy himself. - The widow said her husband was in great pain from indigestion on Tuesday morning, and she asked him to stay at home, but he refused. He had been very much depressed owing to the loss of his son in the war, but she never suspected he really contemplated taking his life. - Thomas Peters, of Topsham-road, said he was at the bottom of Weirfield-road shortly after one o'clock on Tuesday. He saw the deceased who was walking towards the weirfields. Witness followed a little later and he heard someone beneath some bushes cough twice. He shouted, but got no answer and then he heard a gurgling sound and a splash as of something falling into the water. He looked round, but saw no movement of the water and could see nothing to give any indication that anyone had fallen in. He spoke to a soldier and his wife, but they had seen nothing, and he afterwards went home. On Thursday he heard that MR PLUMER was missing and he went to the spot again and assisted in the search. - By the Foreman: On Tuesday after hearing the gurgling and the splash he thought he had been mistaken when he could discover no sign of anyone in the water. - Thomas Trump deposed to recovering the body. It was lying about 10 feet from the bank. A man named Mark Osborne who assisted in getting the body out, gave similar evidence. - Dr Whaite said death was due to drowning. - The Coroner expressed sympathy with the widow and family. - The Jury returned a verdict of Suicide during Temporary Insanity.

Western Times, Tuesday 24 July 1917
LYMPSTONE -Lympstone Tragedy. Youth Gets Out Of His Depth And Is Drowned. - A sad bathing fatality occurred in the Estuary of the Exe, just opposite Nutwell Court, Lympstone, on Friday evening. Three youths went to bathe in the river just before 8 o'clock. ALBERT EDWARD CROOK, aged 16, was the first to enter the water. He went a few yards to where the depth increased suddenly and got into difficulties. Hearing his cries for help, his companions tried to help him, but failed. They went to Lympstone for assistance and some men rowed a boat to the spot. After some time the body was recovered but artificial respiration was of no avail. Dr Gaitskell, on his arrival, could only pronounce life extinct. CROOK, who was a gardener, was the only son of MRS CROOK, of Ash Tree Cottage, Nutwell. His father is fighting in France. A few years ago the brother of the deceased met a tragic death by falling off a waggon. - The Inquest. - The mother of the deceased was so prostrated with grief that she was unable to attend the Inquest which was held at Nutwell Home Farm on Saturday before Mr C. N. Tweed, Deputy Coroner for the District. - William Charles Leslie Burgess, 15, who went with CROOK to bathe, said about two minutes after deceased got into the water he shouted for help. Deceased could swim a little, but got out of his depth. Witness was unable to swim. When deceased first called out "Help!" witness took no notice, as deceased had often similarly called out in jest. Witness did not realise that deceased was in danger, until he noticed that his voice was "thick." Witness was getting on his costume and waded out towards deceased. They had with them floating wings, which witness threw out to CROOK, but the wind carried them away from him. Witness and his companion next got a dead branch of a tree and pushed towards him, but he did not take it. Witness inflated another pair of floating wings and got out to within two or three feet of deceased. By that time CROOK had disappeared twice. After that witness and Smale went for help. Gilbert Ernest Smale, the other lad present, corroborated this statement. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Drowning" and passed a vote of sympathy with the mother. The Coroner complimented the lads, Burgess and Smale, on the straightforward manner in which they had given their evidence. - CROOK was a member of the choir at the church at Exton and references to his death were made at yesterday's services, both morning and evening. Great sympathy is felt for the family in their great sorrow.

Western Times, Wednesday 25 July 1917
DARTMOUTH -Suicide At The Royal Naval College, Dartmouth. - Mr A. M. Davson, the Dartmouth Coroner, held an Inquest at the Dartmouth Guildhall yesterday afternoon concerning the death of WILLIAM HENRY CHARLES, aged 56, clerk to the Head Master of the Royal Naval College, Dartmouth, whose body was found suspended by a rope from a cistern in a College lavatory on Monday night. - Mr Cyril Ernest Ashford, Head Master at the College, said mobilization had entailed a great deal of work at the commencement of the war and ever since then deceased had not seemed the same man. He did not actually break down, but he got very near it. He had also felt it keenly because he was not mobilized with the others, and it would have made a serious difference to his financial position, but he was too old. - Charles Badge, a messenger at the College and Chief Petty Officer John Huxtable, gave evidence as to finding the body. The first named held the body whilst Huxtable cut it down. - Surgeon George Cecil Mort said death, which had taken place some hours, was due to strangulation. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane."

Western Times, Monday 30 July 1917
EXETER - Strange Exeter Story Told At An Inquest On Soldier's Wife. - An Inquest was conducted at the Exeter Police Court on Saturday by the City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, concerning the death of FLORENCE MAUD ROBERTS, aged 39, who died at 5 Albany-place, Cowick-street, on Thursday afternoon. - TROOPER ROBERTS, of the Hussars, who before the war was employed at St Anne's Well Brewery, identified the body as that of his wife. He said he was telegraphed for on Wednesday and arrived home on Thursday. He had seen bruises on his wife's body, but knew nothing as to their cause. - Mr John Frost, landlord of the Devonport Inn, Fore-street, said deceased had been working for him about a fortnight. On Tuesday morning she came to the house as usual and began to scrub the bar. He heard a noise and found her lying on the floor. He asked her what was the matter, and she said she was feeling very ill. Mrs Frost and he carried her into the back parlour and put her on a chair. Witness went to the house where deceased lived and told her sister and the latter said she would come later. As she had not arrived by eleven o'clock, Mrs Frost went for deceased's sister-in-law, who came at once. Deceased then said she thought she had a bilious attack, and they gave her a portion of a powder. They then carried her upstairs to a couch. The bruises might have resulted from her being carried from the bar and then upstairs. Witness, asked by the Coroner, why he did not send for a doctor, said he hardly knew what to do, but did not imagine the illness was serious. Deceased slid off the sofa on to the floor while witness's mother-in-law was left with her a moment and that might have caused the bruise on the hip. - Mrs Carr, Commercial-road, sister-in-law, said that when she went to deceased the latter said, "Oh, my poor head!" Mr Frost later on had her sent home in a cab. Deceased told witness she fell over a bucket in the bar. - Mrs Tookey, of 7 Albany-place helped deceased indoors from the cab. Dr Atkins was afterwards fetched and gave her a bottle of medicine. - Mr Frost, recalled, said deceased did not drink her usual cup of tea when she arrived on the Tuesday morning and she told Mrs Frost she had had a "thick day" on the Monday with a friend of her husband's and that she had been drinking stout and port. She told this to witness's wife, not witness. - Detective-Sergt. Hill sent for by the Coroner, said he took a statement from Mr Frost. The latter stated deceased remarked that she had had a "thick day" on the Monday, drinking stout and port. - Dr Harrison said he was called on the Thursday. Deceased was unconscious and the right eye was swollen and bloodshot, with a mark underneath. It was a black eye and had the appearance of being caused by a blow. Deceased had bruises on the left arm and right leg and a large bruise near the hip. This was six inches by three. Another bruise was a little below this and the left ankle was bruised both sides, thee being also a cut on the left shin-bone. Deceased could not move the left arm and the left leg was also partially paralysed. She was dying when witness saw her. A post-mortem examination showed all the organs healthy except the brain. The outside vessels were congested and there was a large clot of blood in the right ventricle. It might have been caused by a fall or excitement, but there was no bruise outside. It would be very difficult to say a blow on the eye caused the breaking of the vessel; a fall or excitement would be the more likely cause. There was no evidence that the woman was intemperate. He should not expect such a large bruise as she had near the hip to result from a fall from a sofa, but the cut on the leg might have been caused by the bucket. - The Coroner said the case was unsatisfactory and the evidence seemed very shadowy. There was no direct evidence of what MRS ROBERTS was doing on the Monday, but the Jury had seen the bruises on her and especially the one on the eye. These bruises must have resulted from her falling about or in a struggle and with violence. - Mr Bishop, a Juror, said there seemed no chance of getting further evidence. - The Coroner: That is so, but I should be very pleased to adjourn the case if you wish it. - Mr A. Wright, another Juror: We should like to see if there is further evidence about where deceased was on Monday. There seem too many bruises on the body to be caused merely by carrying her to a couch. - Eventually, the Inquest was adjourned till next Wednesday, at 6 p.m.

Western Times, Tuesday 31 July 1917
DARTMOUTH - Death From A Fall At Dartmouth. - An Inquest was held yesterday, Monday, at "Glenadon," Southtown, Dartmouth, touching the death of MRS EMMA MUNFORD, aged 82, a widow, residing at that address, who died on Sunday as a result of complications following an accident. MISS CAROLINE MUNFORD, daughter of deceased, stated that on May 29th lat her mother accidentally fell down in the garden and fractured her thigh. Medical assistance was at once procured. - Dr Soper said when he was called on the date mentioned he found that deceased had fractured her left thigh bone. At first she got on very well, but then developed a sore on her back. This became gangrenous and spread to her thigh. Death was due to septic poisoning due to absorption from the gangrenous wound primarily caused by the fractured thigh. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence. - The Coroner, Mr A. M. Davson, explained that the Enquiry was held because the law required an Inquest if a person died from something accelerated by an accident within a year and a day of its occurrence.

SANDFORD - Sad Fatality. Sandford Boy Drowned In The River Creedy. - At Clampitt Farm, Sandford, yesterday, Mr G. H. Stephens, Deputy District Coroner, held an Inquest on CHARLEY DREW, of Withyvine Cottage, Sandford, aged 13 years and 9 months, son of EDWIN DREW, labourer, who was drowned in the river Creedy on Saturday. Deceased was playing with another boy William James Flay, aged 13, and slipped into a pool of water about 6 feet deep in the river near Dowrick Bridge. Flay gave the alarm and the body was recovered about 1.30 p.m. by Charles Matthews, farm labourer, of Heathfield Cottage, Dorwick. Sergt. S. Webber, of the Crediton Police, on arrival, tried artificial respiration for about an hour, but life was extinct, and Dr Alexander Ross, of Crediton, who arrived later, being away on another case when the message came, could do nothing. The evidence showed that Flay first fell into the river, nearly up to his waist and deceased pulled him out. Soon after deceased fell in at another spot near by, where the water was deeper, though neither knew it. Flay attempted rescue with the aid of a stick but without success and then ran for assistance. When Matthews found the body he tried artificial respiration. Deceased had apparently been in the water about three-quarters of an hour. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Thursday 2 August 1917
EXETER - Open Verdict. Death Of Exeter Soldier's Wife. Bruises Still Unexplained. - The Inquest on a soldier's wife, FLORENCE MAUD ROBERTS, aged 39, who died at 5 Albany Place, Cowick-street, Exeter, a week today, was resumed at the City Police Court last evening before Mr W. Linford Brown, Coroner. Deceased was the wife of a trooper in the Hussars, who is away training. On Tuesday in last week she was taken ill soon after arriving at the Devonport Inn, Fore-street, where she was employed. The landlord, Mr Frost, found her lying in the bar near a bucket from which she had been scrubbing the floor. He and his wife carried her to their parlour and then upstairs to a sofa, from which she fell. Subsequently she was sent home in a cab, conscious and complaining of her head. She lapsed into unconsciousness on Wednesday and died on Thursday. Dr Harrison's post mortem showed death to be due to a clot of blood on the brain caused by the bursting of a vessel and she had a black eye, bruises on the left arm and right leg and a large bruise near the hip. The Inquest was adjourned last Saturday with a view to ascertaining how these bruises were brought about, deceased having told Mrs Frost, when she arrived at work on the Tuesday, that she had had "a thick day," the day before, drinking stout and port wine with a soldier friend of her husband's. - Mrs Frost was the first witness called last evening. She aid deceased had been working at the Devonport Inn just over a fortnight. On July 24th witness saw her after she came to work and gave her a cup of tea. Witness heard the noise in the bar when deceased fell to the floor and she followed her husband to the bar. MRS ROBERTS was lying on the floor and said "I feel very ill." Witness said "What's the matter?" and she replied, "Yesterday I was out with a friend of my husband's, home from the front and had too much to drink - stout and port." Witness bathed her forehead and deceased vomited. Witness and her husband carried her into the parlour. In the dinner-hour witness went to see deceased's father, MR JACKSON, and told him how ill she was. He said he could not fetch her then as he had to go back to work. Mr Frost, therefore, had her taken home in a cab. - Walter Phillips, barman at Hexter's Vault's, North-street, said deceased was a customer of his. He saw her in his bar on the Monday morning. In the evening he saw her at the Hippodrome's second house in the company of a friend, Mrs Lear. They were not drunk and he could not say they had been drinking. - The Coroner: You told the Police they seemed to have been drinking, but were not drunk. - I don't think I said that. Of course I knew deceased had had a drink at my bar in the morning. - The Coroner: But as men of the world we know what "they had been drinking means." - Witness: Well, I will say, then, they had had a drink. They were jolly. - Had deceased a black eye? - No. - Was any soldier with her? - I didn't notice any. - RICHARD JACKSON, father of deceased, told the Jury he called deceased on the Tuesday morning before he left home to go to work. When he returned in the evening she was ill in bed. He did not notice she had a black eye, but fancied she was blind in both eyes. He did not know that she was friendly with any soldiers. If he had known she had been seriously ill when Mrs Frost came to see him he should have left his work and gone to her. - Mrs Beatrice Lear, St David's Place, said she left deceased on the Monday evening at the top of North-street, at 10.40. They had been to the Hippodrome together. - The Coroner: Didn't you go with a soldier? - No. - Not with a man named Dymond and a soldier named Pidgeon? - No. - The Coroner: You had better sit down and wait a minute. - Mrs Lena Channing was then called. She said she knew deceased by sight. On Monday evening witness came out of the Museum Hotel at nine o'clock and saw deceased and Mrs Lear, Mary Dymond and Pidgeon, of the R.F.A. She said "Good evening" to them, and all four of them went through Northernhay. The soldier was walking on in front and the three others behind. - The Coroner: Had they been drinking? - Oh, no, they were not "drinkey." - You told the Police that? - They were sober. You could see they had had a drop. - Has Mrs Lear been speaking to you about this case? - Yes. - Did she ask you not to say anything about the men? - Yes, for the sake of the soldier. - Mary Dymond, Holloway Buildings, said that he saw deceased in the morning of Monday at Hexter's Bar. He also met a soldier named Pidgeon there. He saw her again at five in the afternoon at the corner of Goldsmith-street, and they stopped for a chat. At 6 p.m. he saw Pidgeon again. They went to the Hippodrome, but not with the two women. - The Coroner: The last witness said you did. - Me and Pidgeon went alone. - Do you say the witness was mistaken? - Yes. - You are sworn to tell the truth? - I am. - Why should the woman Channing tell a lie? - Because she has been with Pidgeon before now - a little jealousy. - You are often with Mrs Lear? - If I see her I speak to her. - You say it is absolutely untrue you went to the Hippodrome with these women? - I do. - Did you see the women there? - Yes, two seats in front of us. - What time did you leave Pidgeon? - It may have been 11.30 or later. - Mrs Lear recalled, said she had heard the evidence of Mrs Channing but thought she had made a mistake. - The Coroner: Were you in Paul-street with these men? - No, I was not. - But Mrs Channing would know you all? - She might. - The Coroner (to the witness): That is enough. Go away. - Detective Walters informed the Jury that the soldier, Pidgeon, went back to France on the Tuesday. His mother said he was not home at 11 p.m. on the Monday and she could not say what time he arrived home. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the Jury were men of the world and must put their own construction on the evidence. Some of this class of witnesses came to a Court and gave evidence as though the people who had to listen to them were all children. The mystery was where deceased went after she left the Hippodrome. She might have come to her injuries, the bruises, by being drunk or falling about, or through violence. The doctor had said the clot of blood on the brain might have been caused by excitement such as "being on the spree" and drinking, but, on the other hand, it might have been caused by a blow. The fact remained that here was a perfectly healthy woman who went out drinking and then returned home and sank into unconsciousness and died. The case, he suggested, should be left open so that if anything further came to light the Police could follow it up. - The Foreman remarked that the Jury were quite satisfied with the way Mrs Frost gave her evidence. - The Coroner: Oh, yes, so am I. I was referring to some of the other witnesses. - The Jury returned an "Open Verdict," the Foreman (Mr Rouse) said they were not satisfied with the evidence, and deceased could not have been so drunk that she fell about. If she had been she would have been locked up. The Jury thought something else happened to her, possibly in the way of violence, to have brought about her injuries. The case was a very unsatisfactory one.

Western Times, Friday 3 August 1917
CREDITON - Crediton Fatality.- At Crediton Police Station, yesterday, Mr W. H. Gould, District Coroner, held an Inquest on WILLIAM WALTER LEACH, aged 65, of 26 Park-street, Crediton, foreman mason in the employ of Messrs. Dart and Francis, who whilst engaged in demolishing an old cob wall at Gunstone House, was killed almost instantaneously by the wall falling on him. - Mr S. B. Francis stated deceased was demolishing outbuildings at the time of the accident and was a capable man at the work. - George Moore, builder's labourer, at work with deceased, said when he saw that the wall had fallen on LEACH he immediately went to him. Deceased was entirely buried except for one hand. He was extricated and a doctor sent for. The wall was 20 feet high and 2 feet thick, and seemed quite safe without props. Hermon Madge, also working on the spot, said deceased was digging away at the wall with a hammer at the top of the foundation. Witness saw the wall falling and called to deceased, but he did not succeed in getting clear. - Dr Ross, Crediton, said he found deceased huddled up among the cob still breathing, semi-conscious, but in a hopeless condition. His skull and jaw were fractured. He died about half an hour after witness's arrival. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and joined in the Coroner's expression of sympathy with the widow.

BIDEFORD - Belgian Girl Killed On The Railway At Bideford. - Dr Ellis Pearson, held an Inquest at the Bideford Hospital on Wednesday evening on the body of ELIZABETH DENEYS, 11, daughter of a Belgian refugee, who died the previous evening as the result of an accident. The evidence showed that deceased went on to the L. and S.W. Railway to play and got on to a platform on the Bridge near her home at Gas Works Cottages. The last train from Torrington came along soon after and the girl jumped off the platform to get out of the way and she was struck by the engine, sustaining serious injuries from which she died the same evening. - Dr Tate said the injuries to the head and a broken thigh showed it was a hopeless case from the first. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death. Mr A. F. Seldon, who represented the Railway Company, expressed their sympathy to the relations, especially seeing they were exiles from their native land. The Mayor of Bideford, Mr S. R. Chope, also expressed sympathy with the parents in their trouble.

Western Times, Friday 10 August 1917
TORRINGTON - Child's Fatal Fall From A Bridge Into The Torridge. - A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned at the Inquest conducted by Dr Ellis Pearson, at the Buckingham Arms, Taddiport, Torrington, last evening, on the body of EDWIN GEORGE HOLLAND, the five year old son of an engine driver, of Taddiport, who fell off Taddiport Bridge into the River Torridge on Tuesday afternoon. A lad named Bertie Finnimore described how he saw HOLLAND crawling along the top of the wall of the bridge. He evidently slipped and fell into the water below. - P.C. Rundle said the water was 6ft. deep at the spot; and the drop from the top of the bridge was 19ft. - Mr W. H. Barnes, a visitor from London, told how he jumped into the water and brought the lad out, artificial respiration being tried for some time, but without avail. Dr Morse only being able to pronounce life extinct on his arrival. - Mr Barnes was subsequently thanked by the Foreman of the Jury for the prompt and plucky effort he made to save the child's life.

EXETER - Exeter Fatality. Knocked Down By A Taxi-Cab. - At an Inquest held by the Exeter Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital last evening, relative to the death of WILLIAM COOMBE, aged 72, a post-office pensioner, of Summerland-row, who was knocked down by a taxi-cab in High-street, on the 4th August, the body was identified by Mary Ann Kemp, of Clifton-road, sister of the deceased, who said her brother was rather deaf. - P.C. Parker said deceased was knocked down near the General Post Office by a taxi-cab which was travelling about 12 miles an hour. The driver sounded his horn and applied his brakes, when deceased was about five yards off the kerb. Deceased, however, continued and was caught by the front of the car on the off side. When picked up, deceased was unconscious, but he recovered consciousness on the way to the Hospital. The car was almost on the deceased before the driver could have seen him. - Mr F. W. Dutton, Clifton-hill, who was cycling near the scene of the accident, said deceased was struck by the off side of the car, dragged along about a foot and rolled over two or three times. The driver could not have avoided him. Witness only saw the car about 30 yards before the accident happened. - The driver of the taxi-cab was called, but he decided not to give evidence. - Mary Hounsfield, House Physician, said deceased when admitted to the Institution had a contused wound on the head. An operation was performed about 10 p.m. He was trephined and his condition improved. Later he got worse and died on the 8th inst. The cause of death was a fractured skull. He had no other injury. - The Coroner said it struck him that 12 miles an hour was rather a high speed for a car to travel through High-street. But both the Constable and Mr Dutton seemed to think that the accident was unavoidable. The driver was, it seemed to him, ill-advised in deciding not to give evidence, as, if he had a good explanation, he ought in his own interest to give it. In theory a pedestrian had the user of the road, but in these days it was very little observed in practice. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and exonerated the driver of the taxi-cab from all blame.

Western Times, Wednesday 15 August 1917
EXETER - Exeter Infant's Death. The Inquest Adjourned For Further Enquiries. - The Deputy City Coroner, Mr Hamilton Brown, held an Inquest at the Court House, Exeter, last evening, relative to the death of ALFRED LEONARD LEE, aged seven weeks, son of a domestic servant, named DOROTHY GERTRUDE ELLEN LEE. - The child was found dead on Sunday at the Carlton Nursing Home, New North-road, where the mother was employed. - The mother formally identified the body. - The Deputy Coroner said he did not intend to take more than evidence of identification, as he wanted an adjournment in order that inquiries might be made. - The Foreman, Mr Channing, asked whether it was likely to be a long case? - The Deputy Coroner intimated that if the Jury thought that by meeting an hour earlier, viz., at four o'clock they would be able to get away in time for tea, they would be disappointed. - The Inquest was adjourned till Tuesday week next, August 28th, at five o'clock.

Western Times, Thursday 16 August 1917
EXMOUTH - Exmouth Tragedy. Extraordinary Evidence At Last Evening's Inquest. - A young man on a visit to Exmouth, whilst walking late in the afternoon on Tuesday, on the beach at Exmouth between Orcombe Point and Straight Point, found the mangled body of a woman, fully dressed, huddled up on the rocks. It was evident from the manner in which the body lay and other indications that the woman must have fallen from the cliff. - The young man returned to the town and gave information to the Police, and P.C's Potter and Needs went to the spot, about two miles from the town, with the ambulance and conveyed the body to the mortuary. - The remains have been identified as those of ADA GARDENER, a domestic servant, employed by Mr and Mrs Anderson, of 4 Cranford-avenue, and about 26 years of age. She was a native of Thorverton. At about 11 o'clock she left her employers' house, ostensibly to go shopping in the town, and as she did not return before lunch, as she should have done, inquiries were made, with the result that the identification of the body was established during last evening. Deceased had been in indifferent health. - The cliff, at the foot of which the body was found, has a sheer rise of over 200 feet, and death must have been instantaneous when deceased dashed on the rocks beneath. It is said that deceased was in the neighbourhood of the cliff earlier in the day and asked some people on the beach how to reach the top. - The Inquest. - The Inquest was held at the Temperance Hotel yesterday afternoon before Mr C. N. Tweed, Coroner for the District, and a Jury, of which Mr Setten was chosen Foreman. - EMILY SARAH GARDENER, of Thorverton, mother of the deceased, said she last saw her daughter alive at her home at Thorverton on Whit Tuesday. She was in good health and in a cheerful state of mind. She had been staying with witness for a holiday. Witness had received several letters from her daughter since, and on Saturday witness received a letter in which deceased said she was thinking of going into a munition works, and if she did she would be coming to Exeter, and would spend a day with her. Deceased had a severe illness when very young and had since been inclined to be excited at times as a result. - Allen Richard Menhennick, 16, of Crediton, who is staying in the town, said he was returning from visiting the rocks near Exmouth when he saw the body of a woman lying on the rocks, face downwards. The head was bent underneath the body. Witness touched the body, but there was no response. He went about twenty yards back and found Mrs Wilson, a friend. With the help of Mrs Wilson, he turned the body over and came to the conclusion that she was dead. Witness went back towards a place called the Water-shute, and called a clergyman and two other gentlemen. The clergyman stayed with witness by the body, while the two gentlemen went to Exmouth to inform the Police. They returned with the Police about an hour afterwards. - P.C. Needs stated that at 2.30 p.m., in response to a telephone message, he went to the cliffs with a stretcher and saw the body. He looked up the cliff, which was 200 feet high, and saw a projecting rock about 50 feet up, which deceased had struck as she fell over it. With the assistance of P.C. Webber, the body was taken to the top of the cliff - with some difficulty. There were no signs of a struggle there. There was a very strong fence at the top, with barbed wire and about six feet of space inside the fence, which was trodden down from the fence to the edge of the cliff. It was impossible for anyone to fall over the fence and down the cliff, and anyone to fall over the cliff must have done so deliberately. - Charles Francis, salesman at Messrs. Creedy's boot shop, Exmouth, deposed that yesterday morning he went to Mr Anderson's house to inquire about some shoes. He saw the deceased, and asked her if she was the young lady who called at Messrs. Creedy's for shoes and she replied "No." He asked her if she bought a pair of shoes herself. She replied "Yes,." He asked her if she bought them at their shop and she replied, "No, I bought them at Frisby's." He asked to see the shoes, and she said she was wearing them, and she allowed witness to examine them, and found there were holes in the soles. He remarked to her that they were worn out and Frisby's had only been open a fortnight. Mr Anderson, her employer, said, "ADA, you had better go to the shop and put the matter right." Deceased came to the shop and the assistant recognised her as the person whom she served with two pairs of shoes on July 24th, one pair of which had been returned. The other pair had been repaired and deceased said she had had them repaired at Mr Rice's. The girl looked very worried and witness said she had better go back to her master's. He (witness) and the errand boy followed on bicycles. - The Coroner: What made you suspicious about the shoes? - Witness: I was not suspicious. I went to Mr Anderson's about the shoes because Mr Anderson called at our shop and said no one from his house had had the shoes. - Walter Anderson, residing at No. 4 Cranford-avenue, Exmouth, stated that the deceased had been in his service a year and ten months. Up to about six months ago they were perfectly satisfied with deceased, and then occasionally she became excitable. She had told him that she intended to go to Exeter to be examined by a lady doctor. She had a day to go to Exeter and returned with a certificate, which she read, stating that she had an enlargement of the thyroid gland and heart disease. This was not quite correct, because it appeared that she had never been examined by a doctor at Exeter, but by Dr Hodgson of Exmouth. This proved something unstable about the girl. But they had no complaint against her to the last. She was a very agreeable girl - willing and kind. But they found that they could not get on with her because she was not thoroughly reliable and stable. On August 10th they gave her notice on good terms and deceased had taken her notice in good part. - The Coroner: Why did you consider her to be unstable? - Witness: I thought occasionally that she was not responsible for her actions. We thought we might go on with her for a time. But she got worse and then we thought she might get on better with someone else. - The Coroner: What about the shoes? - Witness: On Sunday, when ADA went out, my daughter saw the account for the shoes addressed to Mrs Anderson on the dresser. On Monday ADA went to Exeter by the 8.55 a.m. train, and during the day, as he had to go into the town, he called on Messrs. Creedy's and told them that Mrs Anderson had not had any shoes there. They had said nothing to ADA about it. Nothing was said about it until Mr Francis came to the house on Tuesday and spoke to the girl about it. The fact that the bill had been made out in Mrs Anderson's name instead of her own seems to have worried the girl. - The Coroner: Do you think there was any dishonesty in regard to the shoes? - Witness: None in the least. Although we had reason to consider the girl was unstable, we did not think her dishonest. We thought her a good girl - perhaps a little flighty, excitable and hasty, but nothing more. - Asked by the Coroner why he considered the girl unstable, witness said during the past six months she had been given to telling "fairy" tales. Once she told someone in a letter that she was going to Egypt with witness's daughter to nurse, and that he had given her £1 to go to Budleigh Salterton to learn nursing. She also told some of her friends that witness had been having so many visitors that he had had to have a wing built to the house, and that Mr Perry, the landlord, had done the work in a week. One day she came to witness in the dining-room and told him the linoleum in the kitchen had caught fire without any reason. He found the linoleum on fire. It was burning underneath and two of the floor boards were also burnt. There was no one in the kitchen but deceased. She was the only servant. - The Coroner: Would there be any motive? - Witness: None at all. - Dr Hodgson said deceased came to him on Monday and said she wished to go into a munition factory and wanted a certificate of her fitness. He gave her the certificate produced. He did not think she looked at the certificate. The deceased appeared in good health and he spoke of the enlarged gland which he noticed was pulsating, and he spoke of the fact to her. But she only made light of it. The enlarged gland would be conducive to Grave's Disease, which affected the nervous system and caused mental weakness. That was why he stated in the certificate that the condition of the thyroid gland would be a source of ill health. He had examined the body. There was a wound on the temple but no fractures of the limbs. The neck was broken and that was the cause of death. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the facts of the case pointed to an unusual state of mind. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind," and complimented the lad Menhennick on the assistance he rendered in the case.

Western Times, Monday 20 August 1917
NEWTON ABBOT - Bovey Lady's Sudden Death At Newton Abbot. - A sensation was caused at Newton Abbot Railway Station on Friday evening by the sudden death of MRS LUCY TUCKER, wife of MR GEORGE TUCKER, of the firm of TUCKER BROS., coach builders, etc., Bovey Tracey. MRS TUCKER was proceeding to Teignmouth for a few days' holiday, but collapsed as the train approached the station. Dr Scott was sent for, but on arrival found life extinct. Inspector Brown and P.C's Hodge and Marshall conveyed the body to the mortuary. MRS TUCKER belongs to a family which is highly respected, she being an active worker in connection with the Baptist Church, of which her husband is a deacon. She leaves one daughter. - An Inquest was held on Saturday and a verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Times, Wednesday 22 August 1917
EXMINSTER - Exminster Labourer Falls Dead From A Horse. - THOMAS KNAPMAN, 56, farm labourer, living at Marshrow Cottage, Exminster and working for Mr Wills, of Crablake, died suddenly on Monday morning and at the Inquest yesterday, by Mr H. W. Gould, Coroner for the District, the widow stated that her husband had recently suffered from indigestion. He left home on Monday at 6.45 to go to work. He then appeared as usual, but a little later he was seen by Pte. W. E. Privett, of the Devons (who is on farm work), riding a horse into a field. A little distance in the horse stopped and the soldier saw deceased roll off its back. He did not move and when witness went to the man no sign of life was apparent. Dr C. G. Matthews, of Starcross, who was called about 7.40, found life extinct, death being due to syncope, the result of valvular disease of the heart. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Friday 24 August 1917
LYNTON - Cliff Tragedy At Lynton. - At an Inquest at Lynton on MRS MAY DITTON, a visitor, who died from injuries sustained through jumping over the cliff, it was stated that deceased suffered from an internal complaint, but was not mentally afflicted. She arrived at Lynton on August 3rd, with a Mrs Reed, who said MRS DITTON was subject to fits of depression and kept wishing she was dead. She wrote to Mrs Macphael, a friend in London, saying that she was "dreadfully worried about MAY, " and asking her to go to Lynton. Mrs Macphael did so and occupied the same room as MRS DITTON. Deceased had no sleep on August 11. She left the Hotel at 9.35 p.m. and went to the North Walk, walking quickly. MRS DITTON kept saying "Someone is following me," and looked back. "Keep away from me." She called witness's attention to the high cliffs and made as if to sit on the seat, while witness looked at the cliffs. She moved to the edge, gathered her skirts around her and disappeared. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

Western Times, Wednesday 29 August 1917
EXETER - Infant's Death In An Exeter Nursing Home: Resumed Inquest. - Last evening the Deputy City Coroner, Mr Hamilton Brown, resumed the Inquest at the Exeter Court House relative to the death of ALFRED LEONARD LEE, aged seven weeks, the child of a Torquay domestic servant living at the Carlton Nursing Home, New North-road, Exeter. The Inquest was opened on the 14th inst., but on the suggestion of the Coroner was then adjourned to enable the Police to make inquiries. - Mr F. Channing was Foreman of the Jury. - Mr M. J. McGahey appeared for Miss Parkes, proprietress of the Carlton Nursing Home. The Chief Constable was also present. - DOROTHY GERTRUDE ELLEN LEE, mother of the child, was the first witness. She was cautioned at the outset that she need not give evidence to incriminate herself. s he gave her age as 18, and said she went to the Carlton Home in May. She was a single woman. She fed the child, after its birth, herself, and also gave it a bottle of patent food at nights. she had no trouble whatever with it and she considered it had a good appetite. It had plenty to eat and as far as she knew it suffered from no disease, nor was it ever sick. On the Sunday morning, August 12th, she first noticed there was something the matter with it when she awoke. This was at 7.30, and the baby was looking pale. It had never had much colour. S he ran down at once for Nurse Parkes, and asked her to go up to the bedroom. She went up immediately. Witness had been frightened when she saw the child looking ill. Afterwards she went for Dr Pereira. She had fed it previously to the 7.30 a.m., viz., at 10.30 the previous night. She slept right through the night and did not hear a sound of the baby. It seemed quite all right on Saturday night and in the morning she found it had taken some of the food from the bottle, but not all. It never did take all its food at night. - By the Foreman: It did not occur to her how weakly and thin the child was. She never noticed him get thin. He was thin when born. She gave him Allenbury's food every night, about half an ordinary feeding bottle, but, as she used to suckle the child every night, he would not take the whole bottle. - By Mr McGahey: She did not give the child any other food during the day. She merely suckled him. - The Chief Constable: Was the child clean when you took him to bed at night? - Yes. - Did you give him a bath on the Saturday night? - Yes. - Did you examine the child the next morning on finding it pale? - No; I was frightened, and I went down to Nurse Parkes. - What payments wee you getting for the child from the father? - Not a halfpenny. - Do you know the father? - I know him, but I don't know where he is. - Did you get sufficient to eat at Nurse Parkes'? Yes. - Was your food as good after the birth as before? - Yes. - And it was satisfactory? - Yes. - Miss Parkes' Evidence. - Florence Annie Parkes was the next witness and was also cautioned in the same way as the mother of the child. She said the child was born on June 14th and she was present in her capacity as a midwife. It was a small baby but normal. His health was always all right, but he remained small. As he did not get very fat she thought a bottle patent food, once in the day and once at night, might do him good. Once or twice when she could get lump sugar to sweeten the milk she put Virol in it. The baby grew in length, but did not fill out. She did not weigh him at birth, as her scales were out of order. They were still out of order and the child was therefore never weighed. She saw no necessity to take medical advice. She should have been the first to go for a doctor had occasion arisen. - When the mother fetched her on the Sunday morning she went up and found the baby in the cot. She could not say who had moved him from the bed; he slept that night in the bed with his mother she believed. Witness hurried the girl off for a doctor, and she thought the baby was probably dead at that time. She felt his hand and it was at first a little warm, and then cold. She was in such a fright, being awakened to go to the child, that she said to the mother without examining the child closely, "Go for Dr Pereira at once." Miss Parkes continued that on the Saturday night the child seemed quite as usual. The mother used to feed him every two hours. Witness entered into a contract to receive £2 2s. a week for midwifery and maternity nursing, but she received only 5s. some weeks, some week 4s. and some weeks nothing at all from the mother of MISS LEE. The maternity payments would have finished at the end of the month, but the mother and child stayed on at the Nursing Home till MRS LEE found a home for the child. The mother while with witness used to do any little thing about the house if she felt inclined; she was not obliged to do anything. - The Coroner: Was she very obliging? - She would go any little errand or do anything in the house. As no payments were being made she thought she would like to do something. - The Coroner: Was she working out the payments? - No. - Was she acting as a servant? - No. - Did not wear a cap and apron? - No, sir. - Did she answer the door? - If she were near it. - Have you any servant? - I have a charwoman, who comes to the house. Nurse Parkes added that she was not going to charge MRS LEE anything after the month, as they were not well-to-do people. When the doctor arrived on the Sunday morning, he said the child was dead, but he did not say how long he had been dead. Witness had seen the child naked in the bath two or three days before, and on the Saturday morning she changed his clothes. she knew he was thin, but he was not getting thinner. - Condition Of The Child. - Don't you think the child was unusually thin? - I have seen many babies just as thin. - Did you ever think about the child's weight? - The child was so bright and apparently well that I thought that by giving him Allenbury's Food and Virol he would fatten up. - Therefore you did not think there was any need to call a medical man until the child was dead? - No; not as far as I know. - Asked by the Foreman as to her qualifications, witness said she held the certificate of the London Obstetrical Society. - You are quite sure that the child was in the cot when you saw him on Saturday night? - Quite sure. - And when you saw him on Sunday morning? - Yes. - Do you think it had been all night in the cot? - I did not know the child had been moved until the mother told me. - Did the mother tell you she had moved it from the bed to the cot? - Not at first, but she did tell me. Witness added that the mother did not tell her until 12 o'clock on Monday. The child was in the cot when witness saw it on both occasions. - By Mr McGahey: Witness was in sole charge of a midwifery school in London for six months; nurses were trained there and she had dealt, on an average, with 600 cases a year. she had never had anything happen to a mother or child. Her contract of £2 2s. was merely for the month, but the girl had not a situation after the end of the month, and witness, therefore, let her remain at Carlton Home. All the housework she did was very light and was done of her freewill. The mother might have been so frightened on the Sunday morning that she may have forgotten moving the child from the bed to the cot; it certainly looked as it lay in the cot, however, as if it might have been there all night. On the Sunday morning very little of the food given it in the bottle overnight had gone. The child had always been bright and she, as a trained woman, thought the patent food would improve it. The mother was not a robust girl. By the Chief Constable: MRS LEE told her from the outset she was poor and the arrangement was to pay the £2 2s. in instalments. - The Food At The Home. - MRS FLORENCE LEE, widow, Torquay, said she arranged to pay Nurse Parkes the £2 2s. a month at the rate of 5s. or 10s. a week as she could afford it. Miss Parkes was to look after the child and mother until witness found a home for the baby and witness's daughter was able to go to work again. Witness paid 8s. one week and 5s. and 4s. other weeks, but could not say how much she had paid altogether. Nurse Parkes did not send her any receipts, although she asked for them. Witness never saw the child and Nurse Parkes never sent her any report about it. Her daughter wrote her usually once a week, but never said anything about its health. She said she did not feel very well herself, but made no complaint. She did say in the last few weeks that she did the work about the house, as there was no servant. She did not say she did it of her own free will and witness did not think she did do it of her own free will. - Did she say anything to you about the food? - She said she could eat more than she had sometimes. - Did she complain that she received insufficient food? - Am I supposed to answer that question? - Did you make that statement to anyone? - Yes. I shall not tell a lie. She certainly told me that she did not get enough food, or that the food was not sufficient in quantity or something. She wrote to me once and told me that she was often very hungry. - Did she write once a letter which you thought had been prompted by someone? - Yes. She wrote a letter which I thought could not have come from her own mind, and I sent back asking her if she forgot who she was writing to. On the quiet she sent back saying Miss Parkes told her what to write. - Request For More Money. - What was the nature of the prompted letter? - Asking me to send more money. She knew I was doing my best. - You did not think it was the letter of a dutiful daughter? - She knew I was sending all I could. I thought the letter was prompted. - Mr McGahey: If you really thought that she was not having enough to eat why did you not have her home? - I couldn't. She would have had to bring the child and I have my other children at home and have to go out to work. - Mr McGahey: Then owing to the fact that you didn't want people at Torquay to know your daughter had the child you let her stay at a place where she was not having enough to eat? - Do you rally suggest Miss Parkes starved her? - I dare say Miss Parkes gave her as much as she thought she could eat, but she is a growing girl and hearty and she could have eaten more. - You are not suggesting, therefore, that this girl was in any way ill-treated or ill-fed? - Not ill-treated. - Mr McGahey: Or ill-fed? - The Coroner: The mother has told us what the girl said about that. - Mr McGahey: That sometimes she was hungry - that is all. - Answering further questions by Mr McGahey, witness said she had been to Exeter three times only since the birth of the child. - Detective Walters gave evidence as to his visit to the Carlton Nursing Home in response to a telephone message from Dr Griffiths. He removed the body of the child to the Mortuary. It weighed 4lbs. 15.ozs. The average weight of a child that age (two months) should be 8lbs. 4ozs. The length of the child was 20 inches. - Child Very Much Emaciated. - Dr R. V. Solly said on Tuesday, August 14, in conjunction with Dr Pereira, he examined the body after post mortem. It was very much emaciated. Putrefaction had much advanced and the eyes were sunken. There were no signs of disease. He attributed death to insufficient or improper food. There was no sign of any wasting disease. The body seemed to be that of a normal child. He should regard it as an extreme case of emaciation. - Answering Mr McGahey, witness said he meant by emaciation that the child was extremely thin. He did not wish to convey to the Jury that the child had been fat and had become thin. He meant that the body was abnormally thin when he examined it. - You don't swear positively that that was the cause of death? - I said that we could find no other cause. - It is by deduction? - Yes. - It is because you can find no other cause that you think it must be that? - Yes. - Answering the Deputy Coroner, witness said he could find no evidence of over-laying. - By the Chief Constable: If the child had been fed the night before he should have expected to find some food in the intestines. If the child had been so often fed as Nurse Parkes and the mother stated, he should have expected to find a much better developed infant. - Dr Pereira said he saw the body on the day following death and made the post-mortem. The stomach was empty and there was a little substance in the intestines. The organs were all sound. - The child, Dr Pereira proceeded, was extremely emaciated, but was of very average length. It was all bone and skin, so to speak, and he considered the cause of death malnutrition. It might have had food capable of nourishing it, but no food had nourished it. Nor was there anything in the post-mortem to show it had all the food which witnesses had spoken of. He considered, having regard to the condition of the child, that it would have been impossible for it to have had strength to suck out of a bottle. - "Dying For Some Time." - Does your opinion coincide with that of the other witnesses that right up to the time when found dead the child was a normal child, except that it was small? - It was an emaciated child. A child does not get emaciated in a day or two. - Would the condition of the child suggest to an ordinary person the need of medical attention? - I should think so. Anybody who had an ordinary knowledge of children could see that the child was going down fast. - In fact it must have been dying for some time? - That is my opinion. - Mr McGahey: You also use the word "emaciated." You don't mean it might have been always thin from birth? - Not to that extent. - You don't say it had not been fed and wasted away? - It had not been thriving and must have been getting thinner. - What would be the cause? - The cause is impossible to say. There is no evidence of diarrhoea or sickness. - Would not that go to suggest death might have been caused by something else than malnutrition? - I can only go on evidence after death. - Suppose the mother, by sheer accident, had rested her arm on the child's heart during the night? - The child being so weak that might have killed it. - The Coroner: What would you expect to find, in such a case? - Evidence of asphyxia, and there was no evidence of that. - The Foreman said the Jury wished to be satisfied whether the baby was in the bed with the mother or in the cot that night. - The mother (recalled) said when she awoke on Sunday morning the child was in bed with her, but before she called Nurse Parkes she moved the child into the cot because the nurse would not allow the child to be in the bed. - The Deputy Coroner reminded her that in a statement to the Coroner's Officer she said she did not take the child out of the bed. Was that incorrect? - Yes. I took him out and put him in his cot. She (the nurse) did not know until the Monday morning that I had had him in bed with me. - Coroner's Summing Up. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the child's body, as the Jury saw it, was a very unusual sight. If it took its food all right, and the mother had, as was stated, plenty of food to give it, one would not have expected to find it in the condition it was, unless there were organic disease. The doctors had said there was no disease. The Jury had to say whether there had been criminal neglect. As to Nurse Parkes' responsibility, she said in her evidence that the mother looked after the child, but the nurse, herself, was in charge of the Home and had herself attended the child on different occasions. Did either Nurse Parkes or the mother, singly or both, form the intention of depriving this child of its life, or were they so criminally negligent as not to care what became of it - whether it lived or died? - If the latter they were guilty of manslaughter. It seemed extraordinary that women, if they had had the welfare of the child at heart, should not have called in a doctor, having regard to the condition of the infant. - Moreover, Nurse Parkes was a qualified midwife, and experienced in these matters. Having defined the law applicable under the circumstances of this kind, the Coroner said if the Jury believed sufficient food was withheld, or improper food was supplied, that would be an extreme view and amounted to a verdict of murder. But if deceased had, through insufficient or improper feeding, died through some person being guilty of negligence, merely criminally neglected the child, that would be a verdict of manslaughter. If they were not convinced that the cause of death was due to criminal neglect, but to some other cause, simply a natural cause, they would find a verdict to that effect. - The Foreman: Does the doctor's evidence amount to manslaughter? - The Coroner replied that he had endeavoured to tell them what amounted to manslaughter. It was unlawfully killing a person with malice expressed or implied. It came to a question whether anybody in this case was under an obligation or duty to provide sufficient food for the child and had through criminal neglect withheld it. - Verdict of Manslaughter. - The Jury retired to consider their verdict. They eventually found that the death of the child was caused by the culpable negligence of Nurse Parkes and the mother of the child. - The Coroner (to the Jury): Do you intend that to be a verdict of manslaughter? - The Foreman: Yes. - Mr McGahey: Against both? - Mr McGahey: Against both? May I have a word with you, Mr Coroner? - The Coroner and Mr McGahey then conferred. - The Foreman: We did not think the word manslaughter was necessary, but the verdict was unanimous. - Later there was a consultation between the Coroner, the Chief Constable and Mr McGahey. - Subsequently the Chief Constable was handed the Coroner's warrants and he formally arrested Nurse Parkes and the mother of the child. - Mr McGahey applied for bail, and suggested that these two women should be bailed on their own recognizances. - The Coroner: Will that satisfy you, Mr Chief? - The Chief Constable: Yes, sir. - Inspector Hoyle then formally arrested the accused on the Coroner's warrant and they were admitted to bail in their own recognizances of £50 each.

Western Times, Monday 3 September 1917
CHUDLEIGH - Chudleigh Child's Death. Inquest Adjourned For Contents Of Stomach To Be Analysed. - Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, conducted an Inquiry at the Town Hall, Chudleigh, into the circumstances attending the death of BOURVAS RUSSELL WIDDICOMBE, infant child of FLORENCE ELIZABETH WIDDICOMBE, wife of WILLIAM GEORGE WIDDICOMBE, now serving in the Devon Regiment (Territorials), but who had been away for over two years in India in the Devon Regiment. - Mr J. Hellier was chosen Foreman of the Jury of eight. - FLORENCE ELIZABETH WIDDICOMBE, living at Victoria Row, Fore-street, Chudleigh, said she was the wife of WILLIAM GEORGE WIDDICOMBE, now a private in the Devon Regiment, but who was now separated from her. She formerly had been in receipt of 24s. 6d. a week, which had now been reduced to 7s. This was for witness and two children. The deceased child was hers, but her husband was not the father. The name in which the child was registered was BOURVAS RUSSELL WIDDICOMBE, and deceased was born on June 11th last. The girl home (*about six years old) was born before her marriage, but the boy, the only child of the marriage had been taken away by her husband, who returned from India on June 18th, and witness did not know where it was. The child was born in the presence of witness's mother and the district nurse. She admitted that she had made no arrangements for the birth, but her mother was in the house when witness was taken ill and went for the nurse. The child was very healthy when born and continued to thrive, having no illness whatever. It had not been in her care all the time, being away for eight days at Crediton, where it was to be adopted by some people. On August 13th witness took it to Exeter and handed it over to a Mrs Bennillick, who brought the child back on August 21st on account of its being cross, saying she could do nothing with it. The new home for the child was at 17 Hookway, Crediton. The child had been fed on new milk for the past ten days and nothing the matter had been noticed. On the night before its death the child went to bed with witness at 8 o'clock and woke at 4.30, when milk was given to it, and it lay awake until 5.30 when it went to sleep again. Witness rose at 8 o'clock, when the baby was still asleep. Witness, hearing it breathing, went downstairs, with her other child and cleaned up the house. On going up to the room at 11 o'clock she found the child dead. It had not moved from the position in which it was laid, neither had witness covered it right up. The child had had a slight cough, but witness had only given it a little castor oil. Witness knew of nothing that would account for its death. (The Coroner here remarked that this was most unusual). On finding the child dead, witness fetched her mother, who was away at Old Exeter-street, who immediately came and fetched the doctor. Witness also informed the Police. Before the doctor came her mother had moved the child and washed it, and put it on clean clothes. Her mother did this because she thought it had a fit. - ROSE LILIAN WHITE, mother of the last witness, wife of WILLIAM HENRY WHITE, now in the Berkshire Regiment, said she was present in the afternoon when the child was born, in company with the nurse, whom she fetched. The child was a healthy one, and witness saw it frequently. Since coming back from Crediton the child was fed on new milk and water and was never ill. Witness was fetched by her daughter and told that the baby was dead. The baby was in bed, but not covered right over. The body was quite warm, and lying on its side. It was not drawn up, neither was the mouth open. She took it up and washed it, putting on clean clothes, not thinking anything serious had happened, but that the child had had a fit. - Henry Blanchard Walters, Surgeon, practising in Chudleigh, said he was called about noon and when he arrived he found that the body had been laid out on the bed between two sheets. There was no discolouration on the body. With Dr Young, of Bovey Tracey, he made a post mortem examination. There were no external marks; the body was that of a well-nourished child. All the internal organs were very healthy. The throat was a little red by the tonsils, due probably to a cold. There was nothing that witness could find that would lead to suffocation, neither could he find anything that would lead to the cause of death. It was possible for suffocation to ensue without showing any marks, but not probable. Specimens of the contents of the internal portions had been taken. Death might have been brought about by some unnatural cause, which would not be shown. He thought an analysis should be made of the contents of the stomach, the intestines, liver and kidneys. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the evidence was most unsatisfactory. The child was a very healthy one, and no cause could be found as to its death. He should adjourn the Inquest until Friday, September 14th. In the meantime an analysis would be made and that Mrs Bennillick, with whom the child was entrusted, should be present at the adjourned Inquest. A copy of the advertisement in the Exeter paper should also be produced.

Western Times, Thursday 6 September 1917
LAPFORD - Crushed To Death. A Soldier Killed At Lapford Station. - The District Coroner, Mr Henry W. Gould, held an Inquest at the Railway Station, Lapford, yesterday, relative to the death of DAVID HENDERSON, acting lance-corporal in the Southern Command Labour Centre, and whose home was 5 Albert-square, Clapham-road, London. Evidence was given by Sergt.-Major J. White, of the Forage Department, A.S.C., to the effect that deceased was aged 41, and was a driver of the horse transport. On Tuesday deceased arrived at Lapford Station to fetch coal. The waggon was drawn up near the railway truck. While apparently taking hold of the reins between the near horse and the truck, he suddenly cried out. Pte. Turner, who was on the waggon, jumped off and went to the horse's head. Witness went to the spot and found deceased lying between two railway trucks, where he had fallen. He was dead, and had evidently been crushed between the waggon side and the railway truck. Deceased had been all his life accustomed to horses. Pte. Turner gave corroborative evidence. Dr Pratt, Morchard Bishop, said there was haemorrhage from both deceased's ears and his skull was fractured. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Friday 7 September 1917
TEIGNMOUTH - Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, conducted an Inquest at the Town Hall, Teignmouth, on Monday afternoon, on the body of MR S. FURLER, retired builder of 3 Gloucester-road, who died suddenly on the Den on Saturday night. The medical evidence went to show that death was due to fatty degeneration of the heart, and a verdict accordingly was returned. The Coroner and Jury expressed sympathy with deceased's relatives.

DIPTFORD - Fatal Fall From A Rick At Diptford. - Mr S. Hacker, the District Coroner, held an Inquiry at Diptford, South Brent, Wednesday, relative to the death of GEORGE FINCH, a middle-aged man in the employ of Messrs. Tucker and Sons, Totnes, who fell from a hayrick at Bradridge Farm, on Monday. Mr F. T. Tucker explained that the deceased was sent with a light waggon to fetch a few bundles of hay. He had formerly been a farm hand and was quite used to that kind of work. - Mr Hurrell, of Bradridge Farm, deposed that he assisted the deceased. One bundle of hay had been cut, and he was turning around to cut another. Hearing a noise he looked around and saw deceased had fallen from the rick, about nine feet high. He lifted him up and the poor fellow sighed once and never moved afterwards. - Dr Style, South Brent, stated that he made a post-mortem. There was no fracture of the spinal cord and no injury to account for death, but he found the heart enlarged, giving evidence that the man had formerly suffered from valvular disease. He was of opinion that the cause of death was syncope and that any sudden shock was likely to cause death. A verdict "That deceased died from Syncope, caused by falling from a rick," was returned. Mr Tucker and the Coroner and Jury expressed their sympathy with the widow.

Western Times, Monday 10 September 1917
COLYTON - Colyton Fatality. Inquest On A London Visitor Killed In Cycle Spill. - An Inquest was held on Saturday evening, at the Colcombe Castle Hotel, Colyton, by the Deputy Coroner, Mr C. N. Tweed, concerning the death of MR EBENEZER D. ROCKETT, a civil servant, of Rollscourt-avenue, Herne Hill, London, who was on a visit to Sidmouth and who met with a cycle accident near Colyton on Wednesday, as previously reported. MRS ROCKETT, the widow, identified the body and said her husband left her about 1.35 on Wednesday afternoon for a cycle ride. He did not say where he was going but that he should return by way of Sidford and Sidbury. About 5.30 she received a wire from the Police at Colyton informing her of the accident. She at once motored up and found her husband in bed unconscious and he never regained but semi-consciousness. In answer to the Coroner, she said her husband never had fits of any kind and was an experienced cyclist. - P.C. Hurford said he was walking up Colyton-hill and about 3.55 when nearing White Gate, he found deceased lying in the road on his left side, with the bicycle on top of him, his left foot being on the pedal. He examined him, found he was living and rendered first aid. Just then Miss Russel, of Branscombe, came up from Colyton in a pony cart, with which he conveyed the deceased to Dr Creighton's surgery. After the doctor had dressed the wound she removed him to the Colcombe Castle Hotel. Witness then returned to the scene of the accident and about eleven paces from where deceased had fallen he picked up a stone (produced), which he considered was the cause of the accident. Deceased's left foot was tightly fixed in the clip of the pedal and the pedal was bent. - Dr Creighton said on examination he found a large wound in the forehead and another behind the ear, and in his opinion the base of the skull was fractured. - The Jury, of whom Mr H. Warry was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." They wished to record their appreciation of the way in which P.C. Hurford had acted throughout, and, at the suggestion of the Police, they also thanked Miss Russel for so promptly helping to convey the deceased to Colyton. Deceased was 54 years old. The Foreman of the Jury said he thought the stone was probably put in the road to block the wheel of a conveyance going up the hill, and not removed. It should be strongly brought home to carters that the stones should always be removed.

Western Times, Friday 14 September 1917
SOUTH MOLTON - South Molton Fatality. A Carman Commended For His Prompt Action. - Dr Ellis Pearson, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at South Molton on Saturday concerning the death of DORIS PAUL, the two-year-old daughter of MR FREDERICK PAUL, whose body was found in the river Mole on the previous day. Mr E. A. Sanders (East-street) was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The father said he last saw the child alive at 2 p.m. on Friday. Her mother went to help a neighbour, leaving deceased in the care of a sister 13 years of age. It appeared that about 5 o'clock a little boy of four, who also was in the house, wanted to go out, and DORIS accompanied him. The river ran along in front of the cottages and the children were accustomed to play about near the banks, picking blackberries and so on. - John H. Metters said that at 5.1`0 he heard that the child was missing. He searched the water down-stream and found her about 400 yards from where it was supposed she fell in. She was on an "island" but was being washed by the stream. She appeared to be dead. With the assistance of James Brayley he applied artificial respiration until the arrival of Dr Seal. The child had been carried beneath a fender, which might have accounted for a mark on the face. - Dr Seal stated that the cause of death was asphyxia through drowning. - EMILY PAUL, 13, said she was left in charge of the child on Friday. About 5 o'clock she let her go out with her brother. - The Coroner: Did you think it all right to let them go? - Yes, sir; I told them not to go near the water. Proceeding, witness said that shortly after she went out to see after the child, and was told by another girl that she was at her house swinging. Her little brother came up and said that DORIS was in the water. Witness looked about, but could not find her. She did not go to find out if she was at a neighbour's swinging, because she believed that she was there. About 5.30 she heard that a little boy named Basil Punchard had been taken out of the water. Then she went to Mrs Punchard's house to enquire for DORIS. She was not there. Witness went along by the river in search of her. - Charles Moore, carman, said that about 5.30 he heard children screaming, and supposing that something was wrong, he jumped off his waggon and ran down to the Mole. He saw a youngster floating down stream a foot under water. It was a boy named Punchard. Witness got him out and rendered first aid. The boy recovered. - The Coroner: Did the children say anything about anyone else? - No, sir; I wish they had, because, of course, I should have done my best to rescue her. - The Coroner: It is probably due to your prompt action that we are not holding two Inquests instead of one. Thank you; I think you saved your charge all right. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death due to Drowning." - It was decided to suggest to the owner the removal of a bush overhanging the river in front of the cottages, around which children were in the habit of playing. - Mr Hopewell remarked that there were 19 children living in the cottages opposite the water, and there was evidence that they played about on the shrub. The Foreman said he thought the children fell off the shrub and not from the river bank. - The Jury expressed their sympathy with the family and gave back their fees. Dr Seal also handed his fees to the family. The Jury warmly endorsed the Coroner's remarks as to the prompt action of Charles Moore, which saved the life of the boy Punchard.

EXETER - Plucky Naval Cadet. Attempt To Rescue A Child From Exeter Canal. Cyclists Ride On. - Mr H. W. Gould, District Coroner, held an Inquest at the house of Mr James Mitchell, Spring Gardens, Haven Banks, Exeter, yesterday, on RALPH BERTRAM SEAWARD, aged five years, the son of Co. Q.M.S., CHARLES SEAWARD, R.E. No. 1 Spring Gardens ( on active service), who was drowned in the Canal on Tuesday at a spot just outside the City boundary. - The mother, MRS MABEL SEAWARD, said on Tuesday deceased on coming home from school, went out after tea. A girl named Vera Payne shortly afterwards told witness that her son was in the water. Witness proceeded to the Canal and tried to rescue the child, but he was too far out. She saw deceased sink. She had warned him not to go near the water, but it had a great attraction for him A lad named Manley, (a Naval cadet, of Crossing Field House, Exeter-road, Exmouth), dived three times in an unsuccessful attempt to recover the body, which was eventually brought home by Mr Payne. - Sergt. Banbury said Manley was very reticent about his praiseworthy attempt at rescue. - Mr Mitchell said the great praise was due to Manley for his heroic attempts to recover the body. There was so much weed that he could not see deceased. - Vera Payne, 6 Spring Gardens, said she saw two men on the Canal bank and on going to the spot saw deceased in the water. She did not know who the men were. She gave the alarm to the child's mother. The men were cycling and made no attempt to rescue deceased. Deceased showed signs of life at that time. She saw them looking into the water from their cycles. When they rode on she called to them to come back. They turned round, but went on again and said nothing. Nobody beside herself saw the men. - It was not considered necessary to call Mr Charles Payne, a City Council employee, of Spring Garden Cottages, who recovered the body with the aid of grappling irons. - Dr L. P. Black, St. Thomas, who saw the body about 6 p.m. said death appeared to be due to drowning. - Sergt. Banbury stated that artificial respiration was tried before the arrival of the doctor. - Replying to the Coroner, P.C. Endacott said the Police had been unable to find out anything about the two men. Cyclists would often hear children shouting on the banks and take no notice of it. - The Coroner said the child was probably playing on the bank and fell into the water. With reference to the two men, he did not like to judge them in their absence. It was quite possible that they looked towards the water as they rode by, but he could not imagine that they saw deceased in the water and rode on in a callous way without making an attempt at rescue. He thought that was the charitable way to look at it. He was glad his attention was called to the conduct of the lad Manley. He would like him to have been present, when he would have had much pleasure in commending him for his conduct in attempting a rescue. He was sure the Jury would join with him in saying that Manley deserved every praise for the attempts he did make. - The Jury, who returned a verdict of "Accidental Drowning," heartily concurred in this.

Western Times, Monday 17 September 1917
CHUDLEIGH - Chudleigh Child's Death. What The Investigations Of the Analyst Disclosed. - The Inquest relative to the death of BOUVALS RUSSELL WIDDECOMBE, the three-months' old son of MRS F. E. WIDDICOMBE, which had been adjourned for an analytical examination of the child's stomach, was resumed at Chudleigh on Friday. According to the evidence given, the boy, who was born on June 11, was not the child of MRS WIDDICOMBE'S husband, who had been serving with the colours since the outbreak of war, and from whom she had been separated on account of her misconduct. On the morning of the death the mother fed the child about 4.30, and when last seen alive, at 8 a.m., the baby was fast asleep. On going to the room at 11 a.m., the mother found the child dead. A post-mortem showed that the internal organs were in a very healthy condition and well nourished. There were no external marks of violence, neither were there any signs which would suggest suffocation. - Mr Thomas Tickle, B.Sc., F.G.C., Exeter City Public Analyst, who analysed the contents of the stomach, reported the recognition of a substance called acetanilide or antirebrin. He was able to say that the dose taken was substantial. It was without doubt upwards of three grains, but whether the quantity exceeded that he would not like to say at this stage. - The Coroner: Is this substance known as a poison? - Mr Tickle: It is not in the list of scheduled poisons, but it has poisonous properties, and it is a treacherous and dangerous drug or medicine. A fatal dose cannot be defined with any degree of exactness. Fifteen grains would be a dangerous dose for any person whatever. Similar quantities have produced alarming results, and have been known to cause death. It is a constituent of proprietary forms of headache powders. - The Coroner: Have you any idea what would be a dangerous dose for a young child? - It is well known that it is a dangerous thing to give these powders to children. Witness read the instructions issued with a well-known variety of headache powder, which ran: "Young persons may take half a dose. Not to be given to children under twelve years." - Questioned as to the contents of the bottles found in the bedroom in which the child died, Mr Tickle said he failed to find the substance contained in headache powders. - One witness stated that she supplied MRS WIDDICOMBE with one headache powder on September 12th. - Mrs Bennellick, of Hookway, Crediton, said she agreed to adopt the child and took him from his mother at St. David's Station. She fed him on patent barley and milk, but after keeping him for eight weeks returned him to his mother because he was a cross child. - The Coroner: Do you expect children of that age not to cry? It is a trivial sort of explanation for a married woman to give, is it not? - Witness: It was cross and I did not like to hear it cry. I never received any payment. - Mrs Lidstone, the parish nurse, said the baby when born was a fine child, of over average weight. The mother had made no preparations for the confinement, which witness told her was very wrong. - At this stage the Coroner adjourned the Inquiry until Tuesday week, to allow Mr Tickle to complete his analysis.

ILFRACOMBE - Ilfracombe Fatality. Inquest On Victim Of Motor Car Accident. - Dr Ellis Pearson, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Tyrrell Cottage Hospital, Ilfracombe, on Saturday, touching the death of MOSES MANNING, cab and motor proprietor of Woolacombe, who on Thursday succumbed to injuries received in a motor accident. - James Trebble, brother-in-law of deceased, said deceased was 47 years of age. He last saw him alive on Thursday morning. Deceased was accustomed to driving a car as he had been driving about seven or eight years. - Thomas John Harraway said that on Thursday last Capt. Wilkinson hired deceased's car and invited him and his wife for a ride. They were going to Lynton, and in the road he saw a horse and cart coming and witness called out, and had no further recollection of what happened. It was a fairly narrow road with fairly high banks. They were going round a bend when he saw the cart coming down. He didn't know if the horse was trotting or not as it was all so sudden. Witness was sitting next to deceased. They travelled all the morning at a reasonable rate. Deceased appeared to him to be a very capable driver. When the accident happened for a minute r two he was dazed, and then he heard his wife say get MANNING out, he is bad and he then assisted him out and left Wilkinson attending to him and witness went to get some water. Several vehicles came along when he returned and then Captain and Mrs Taylor came along and kindly offered to place their car at his disposal, and he was then removed in the car to the Ilfracombe Hospital. He asked the driver of the horse and cart for his name, and he refused until a Mr Bowden came along. He didn't know for certain what struck MANNING, but he assumed it was the shaft. - Ernest Latham said he was driving a horse and cart on Thursday last and was going along Long Lane. Witness was in the cart and the horse was walking. He was on his proper side of the road. When he met the motor he was coming round a corner where the road is not very wide. He didn't hear the motor coming, neither did he hear a hooter, but as he was coming round the corner the motor ran right into him. The motor was in the middle of the road and was going very fast. He didn't remember a gentleman asking him his name. He was too frightened for that. The right shaft of the cart was broken off. - In answer to the Jury witness said there was plenty of room for his cart and the motor to pass. - John Bowden said that after the accident he measured the road where the accident occurred. The off-wheel mark of the car to the hedge was 5ft. and from that wheel mark to the other hedge was 9ft. The last witness was working for him that day. He was a very reliable driver. - Thos. Russell said that on Thursday last he was driving to Lynton and when at Seven Ash Corner he saw a motor in the road and saw MANNING in the road with an officer attending to him. When the car went around the corner he saw by the marks in the road that the car was about 2ft. 6in. from the off-side of the hedge and it had stopped after the accident in the middle of the road. - Dr Osborne said the cause of death was internal abdominal injuries with probable internal haemorrhage. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Tuesday 18 September 1917
EXETER - Silverton Mill Accident. Youth Dies As Result Of Severe Injuries. - At the Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday afternoon, Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, held an Inquest on ARCHIE WILFRED CHANNON, 16, Parsonage-lane, Silverton, an employee at the Silverton Paper Mills, who died at the Hospital after his left arm had been amputated as a result of being caught in the machinery at the mill on the 13th inst. - Mr W. H. Reed, proprietor of the mills, and Mr C. H. Harris, H.M. Inspector of Factories were present. - The body was identified by the father, MR F. G. CHANNON, railway porter. - According to the evidence of employees, William Haydon and Frank Walker, deceased got caught between the roller and the cylinder of a machine and was found in the pit under the machine. - Mr George Thompson, works manager, expressed the opinion that deceased must have gone into the pit to take off a piece of paper that had got caught on the cylinder. He was not expected to do this, however, and the paper would have done no harm. - Inspector Morris said he was quite satisfied that the machine was properly protected. - Mrs Hilda Varian, M.B., Assistant House Surgeon, said when deceased was admitted at the Hospital his arm was lacerated up to the shoulder and had to be amputated. Death was caused by shock due to the injuries. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed condolence with the parents. - Mr Reed, in a similar expression as proprietor, said he believed deceased thought he was going to do some service by picking off the paper, although it might have done no good.

SOUTH BRENT - The South Brent Motor Fatality. - Mr J. Edmonds, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday evening at South Brent relative to the sad death of LOLA ELAIN WESTLAKE, the eight year old daughter of MR and MRS WESTLAKE, of Russell Place, Plymouth, who was run over whilst playing in the street at Brent on Saturday. MR WESTLAKE gave evidence of identification, saying that the family had been staying at Brent for the benefit of their health. - Mr William Selley, market gardener, of Station-road, was the chief witness, who stated that his horse and trap was standing outside his shop and several children were playing around. He saw Dr Style driving up his car very slowly and just as the car got parallel with the trap, deceased darted across the street rather in the direction of the car's procedure. He could not say if the child was behind the trap or in front; he considered she was struck by the front mud guard and the back wheel went over her head. - Dr F. W. Style, South Brent, said he was driving at about ten miles an hour up the Station-road. Several children were outside Mr Selley's shop; the roadway was quite clear and the child sprang across the highway just in front of the car. He pulled up within a yard, but had gone over the child. He immediately rendered assistance, but the skull was badly fractured and the bleeding was very fast. - Sergt. James Beer bore out the statement that the car was only gong at a very slow speed. - The Jury, of whom Mr Wyndham Hull was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and exonerated the driver of the car from all blame. A vote of condolence was passed with the family, in which vote the Coroner concurred.

Western Times, Thursday 20 September 1917
KINGSWEAR - Kingswear Drowning Case. Captain Fined For Not Attending Inquest As A Witness. - An Inquest was held at Kingswear yesterday afternoon on the body of ISABELLA CROSS, aged 36, wife of FREDERICK H. CROSS, of Brixham. Deceased fell into the harbour on Monday night whilst waiting for her husband to purchase tickets at the Dartmouth Railway Station. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned and the Jury added a rider calling the attention of the Dartmouth Town Council to the dangerous position of the embankment and strongly recommending that some protection be provided. The Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, and Jury expressed sympathy with the husband and his two young children in their bereavement. - Captain George Powell, a skipper of one of H.M. trawlers in Dartmouth Harbour, had been summoned as a witness, but he did not attend the Inquiry. P.C. Newman said the skipper had promised to be present. - The Coroner: You had better go and arrest him and bring him here. The summons of the Court is not to be disobeyed. - P.C. Newman left and subsequently returning, stated that he was unable to find the witness. The vessel had been delayed because of the Inquest and he had ascertained that Captain Powell had gone ashore. - The Coroner: Well, then, I inflict a fine of £2.

Western Times, Wednesday 26 September 1917
CHUDLEIGH - Chudleigh Sensation. Verdict Of Murder Returned Against A Mother. Foreman Disagrees. - Yesterday afternoon, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, resumed the Inquiry at the Town Hall, Chudleigh, relative to the death of BOURVAS RUSSELL WIDDICOMBE, the eleven-weeks-old child of MRS FLORENCE ELIZABETH WIDDICOMBE, wife of PTE,. WILLIAM GEORGE WIDDICOMBE, Devon Regt. (T), who for over two years served with the Colours in India, and is at present in this country. - A large amount of interest was taken in the proceedings, the Court being fairly full. Supt. E. C. Carey watched the case on behalf of the Police. - The two previous Inquests had been adjourned for an analytical examination of the contents of the stomach, etc., to be completed by Mr Tickle, public analyst, of Exeter. The evidence previously taken revealed that the boy, who was born on June 11th, was not the child of MRS WIDDICOMBE'S husband, who had separated from his wife on account of the latter's conduct. On the morning of the death the mother fed the child about 4.30 a.m., and when last seen alive, at 8 o'clock, the child was fast asleep. On going into the room at 11 o'clock the mother found the child dead. A post-mortem examination showed that the internal organs were in a very healthy condition and the child was well nourished. There were no external marks of violence, neither were thee any signs which would suggest suffocation. - The evidence of Mr Tickle showed that he had traced a substance called acetanalide, otherwise known as anti-febrin. This was a constituent of certain headache powders, which were very dangerous to children. The labels produced showed that it was dangerous, because it stated that young persons may take half a dose, but it was not to be given to children under twelve years of age. He had no first-hand experience of a fatal case, but he quoted a case from a medical book which showed that at Liverpool a girl, six years old, lost her life through taking a portion of one of these powders. - Evidence was given by P.C. John Hoile, Chudleigh, as to taking three jars containing the stomach and contents, the intestines and contents, and the liver, spleen, etc., as well as the baby's clothes, to Mr Tickle's office at Exeter. - Mr Tickle, B.Sc., public analyst of Exeter, continuing his evidence, said he had been able to distinguish 1 ¼ grains of acetanalide in the stomach and contents and upwards of two grains in the intestines and contents, but he could not say how much more owing to decomposition. He was unable to trace anything in the third jar. It was his opinion that 3 ¼ grains would be sufficient to cause the death of a young child. Its first effects would be manifest quickly and would be seen in one or more hours. This anti-febrin could be mixed with milk and could be easily taken when so mixed. It would have no burning qualities or cause irritation. No trace of the substance could be found in the baby's bottle, which had been cleaned before he received it; neither could he find anything on the baby's clothes. - In reply to a Juryman, Mr Tickle said the amount found in the stomach and intestines would cause death in three hours. - Continuing, Mr Tickle said he had examined three different sorts of headache powders and they all contained on an average upwards of four grains of anti-febrin. these were mainly purchased in Chudleigh. - Dr H. B. Walters, who was unable at the first Inquiry to give any cause for the child's death, said that in his opinion the cause of death now was poisoning by acetanalide. The body had all the symptoms of this poison, the child simply dying of collapse. He agreed with Mr Tickle as to the time it would take to prove fatal, and also as to its being taken with milk. There was no probability of a child taking this by itself; it must have been given it by someone. - MRS WHITE, the grandmother of the deceased child, recalled, said, in reply to a Juryman, that she was not in her daughter's house the evening before the child's death. - MRS FLORENCE ELIZABETH WIDDICOMBE, the mother, was recalled by the Coroner, and asked whether she wished to add anything more to her evidence, she replied "No." - Dr Walters, recalled, said he could only give a vague idea as to how long the child had been dead when he was called to the house, because the child had been washed. In all probability the child had died between 8 and 11. - The Coroner, having summed up, the Jury, after 15 minutes' deliberation, returned the following verdict: "That the child died from poison, administered by the mother, " adding that these powders should be labelled poison. - The Coroner said this was not a verdict. - Mr Cove (one of the Jury) asked whether the Coroner would take the majority of the Jury and he replied that seven must be unanimous. - The Jury again retired and on returning into Court, the Foreman (Mr J. Hellier) said that seven of the Jury were unanimous in returning a verdict of Murder against the mother, FLORENCE ELIZABETH WIDDICOMBE, the Foreman adding that he did not fall in with the verdict. - The Coroner then entered the verdict of the Jury, but the Foreman, still adhering to his decision, said he would not sign the verdict. - The Coroner called the mother and informed her of the verdict of the Jury, and told her that she would be committed to take her trial at the next Assizes at Exeter.

CHRISTOW - Old Lady's Fatal Fall At Christow. - Mr G. H. Stephens, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Christow, near Exeter, yesterday, into the circumstances attending the death of MARY ANN HORSHAM, aged 94 years, widow of WILLIAM HORSHAM, gardener of Dunsford, who died as the result of falling down stairs. Elizabeth Aggett, wife of Wm. Aggett, a mason of Christow, said deceased had lived with her for five years. For some time previous to the last three months deceased had kept her bed, but had been in the habit of coming downstairs daily. On Friday last about 11 a.m. witness heard deceased coming downstairs and before witness got to the bottom of the stairs, she heard a fall. Witness found her mother at the bottom of the stairs bleeding at the mouth. Assistance was procured and deceased lifted up. She had a bruise on the forehead, but she did not speak. Medical assistance was obtained but her mother died on Sunday without having spoken. - Dr Charles Fenwick, of Dunsford, said deceased had a large bruise over the frontal bone, and was suffering from symptoms of compression of the brain, brought about by the fall. On examination he found that deceased had fractured her skull. - The Jury, of whom Mr E. J. Ryall was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TAVISTOCK - Another Death As Result Of Train Tragedy Near Tavistock. - One of the injured Colonials, T. W. RUSSELL, who was in the railway tragedy at Beer Ferrers, near Tavistock, on Monday - particulars of the accident appeared in our yesterday's issue - died in the Tavistock Cottage Hospital yesterday morning, this making the tenth death in the terrible disaster. The body was yesterday afternoon removed in a military motor to Beer Ferrers Station, to await the Inquest which was opened last evening by Mr Coroner R. R. Rodd. Only formal evidence was taken and the Inquiry adjourned.

TORQUAY - New Zealand Soldier's Sad Death At Torquay. - An Inquiry was held at Torquay last evening by Mr T. Edmonds, Deputy County Coroner, regarding the death of Lance-Corpl. DUNCAN G. MAY, aged 42, of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade, stationed at the Daison, St. Marychurch, who was found lying unconscious beneath a bedroom window. From this condition he did not recover. Captain H. B. Davies, of the New Zealand Medical Corps said MAY was at the depot for discharge, waiting for a transport. He had been classified C in consequence of rheumatism, over age and shell concussion. The shell-shock would affect the nervous system, but there was nothing to show that the man was of unsound mind. Witness expressed the opinion that MAY either walked in his sleep out of the window, or, when half asleep, thought the window was a door, and fell out. - Lance-Corpl. C. Taylor spoke of seeing MAY go to the window about 11 o'clock and hearing the body strike the ground. He did not actually see the man fall out. The window was kept open at night. - Evidence was also given by Lance-Corpl. G. Burdock and Lance-Corpl. G. H. Wilkins. - Dr Winter described the injuries, death being due to a fracture of the base of the skull. - P.C. Hill said the window was 20ft. from the ground. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Thursday 27 September 1917
TIVERTON - Tramp's Death At Tiverton Workhouse. - At an Inquest held at Tiverton yesterday on the body of JOHN WILSON, a tramp, who was found dead in bed at the Workhouse on Tuesday morning, evidence was given to the effect that he was found on Monday night sitting on the steps of St George's Church, Tiverton. When he was found he told the Constable that he had been refused bread at Rewe, although he had a cheese and bread voucher issued him at Exeter, and so he had walked all the way to Tiverton without food. He was taken to the Workhouse and given a meal. He then went to bed and must have died in his sleep. - A post mortem examination showed that deceased suffered from extensive heart disease. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

TIVERTON - Tiverton Lady And The Chlorodyne Habit. - Mr F. R. D. Clutsom (Borough Coroner) held an Inquest last evening at the Tiverton Hospital concerning the death of EMILY ELIZA CANDEY, 44, who died suddenly the previous day. Evidence was given that deceased had been in the habit of taking chlorodyne. She had been warned against the habit by her doctor and her relatives, but continued to take it on the sly. When she was taken ill, several empty bottles were found in the bed. Dr Liesching expressed the opinion that the public should not be allowed to be able to purchase medicine like this without any restriction. - The Jury returned a verdict that the deceased died from Natural Causes, from gastric catarrh, aggravated by taking chlorodyne.

BERE FERRERS - Bere Ferrers Tragedy. The Inquest Formally Opened And Adjourned. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd on Tuesday opened the Inquest relative to the death of nine soldiers killed in the railway tragedy at Bere Ferrers on Monday afternoon and also the man who died in Tavistock Hospital from his injuries. He said he did not propose to go into evidence beyond that of identification, as he had to notify the Board of Trade of the Inquiry. I am sure, gentlemen, he added, our deepest sympathy will go out to the relatives of these poor fellows in their sad bereavement. They had come from one of the dominions to assist to uphold the honour of the British Empire and freedom and justice and it seems very hard lines indeed that they should have met with such an untimely death in the old country. - The Foreman (Rev. J. Sharpe) said he should like on behalf of the Jury to express their deepest and sincere sympathy with the relatives of the poor men and their sorrow at such an occurrence in their midst. - The Coroner said perhaps the military representatives would convey their expressions to the relatives. - The Brig-General: Thank you very much. - The Captain of the company to which the deceased soldiers belonged said one body was still unidentified, the disc having been smashed to pieces. - The names of the other nine were: Pte. 55753 J. S. JACKSON, Pte, 56795 C. C. KIRTON, Pte. 55776 B. A. W. MCBRYDE, Pte, 57122 R. V. MCKENNA, Pte, 55050 W. S. GILLANDERS, Pte. 56883 J. F. WARDEN, Pte. 57068 W. F. GREAVES, Pte. 56791 JOSEPH JUDGE, Pte. 56874 W. J. TRUSSELL. - The bodies were in the evening removed to Plymouth for interment. Nathaniel Johnson Gatley, age 34 and Robert James Barnes, 39, who had their arms broken in the accident, are progressing favourably in Tavistock Hospital

Western Times, Friday 28 September 1917
HARTLAND - Sea Gives Up Its Dead. Marine Officer's Body Washed Ashore At Hartland. - At an Inquest at Stoke, Hartland, on Monday, Dr Pearson conducting, John Fulford, of Elmscott, said that about 10.40 a.m. on Sunday he went down Milford Cliff and while walking along the beach saw the body of a man, fully clothed in sailor's suit. - P.C. Wonnacott, who accompanied the last witness to the spot, said the body was on a rock, face downwards, with one arm on each side as if gripping the rock. It was decomposed and not recognizable, but probably a well built man, over 6ft. - At the resumed Inquest on Wednesday, the body was identified by REV. JOHN. B. PANES, of Torver, Coniston, as that of his son, ARTHUR B. PANES, who was second officer, on the s.s. Malta. - A verdict of "Found Dead on the Beach at Milford Cliff, washed ashore by the tide," was returned. A pathetic feature is that the father lost another son fighting in France.

TORQUAY - Fatal Fall From A Window. Old Lady's Tragic Fate At Torquay. - An Inquest was held at Torquay Wednesday by Mr S. Hacker, with reference to the death of MARGARET AMELIA BARTLETT, aged 68, a widow, of independent means, who resided at Farnborough, Castle-road. Deceased, the widow of a Yeovil farmer, had resided in Torquay about nine years and since December last had lived in the house with a domestic only. - Arthur T. Easton, of Exeter, a relative, said he saw MRS BARTLETT about three weeks ago, when she was quite well. Witness said he had been through the papers, finding a will, in which she gave her property to a sister, now dead. There was also an empty will form. To him she had expressed an intention to make a new will. - The evidence showed that MRS BARTLETT was found dead in the area, the bedroom window being open. Witness expressed the opinion that MRS BARTLETT opened the window to see if anyone was in the area below and fell out. - Beatrice Austin, domestic servant, stated that when deceased went to bed the window was shut. Witness took up a cup of tea in the morning, finding the room empty, later discovering the body at the basement. Deceased was attired only in her nightdress. - Dr Horton said the injuries included a compound fracture of the skull, broken ribs, broken right arm, and a broken left wrist. MRS BARTLETT was quite sane - very much so, he should say. - P.C. Gregory said the fall was one of 26 feet. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

LITTLE TORRINGTON - Farmer's Sad End. Accidentally Shot At Little Torrington. - At Coxshelly Farm, Little Torrington, on Wednesday, Dr Ellis Pearson, Deputy Coroner, Enquired into the circumstances of the death of JAS. W. S. A. GREEN, farmer, of that place, who died on Monday from a gunshot wound in the face. Mr J. D. Copp was Foreman of the Jury. The widow said deceased was in his customary good health and spirits on Sunday, and the following morning rose about 6.30, saying he was going out to get a rabbit, which was not an unusual thing for him to do. Almost immediately after he left the house she heard the report of a gun. On going downstairs and opening the door, she saw her husband lying on the floor of the granary right opposite. She went to him and then ran for the assistance of Mr Darch, who resides at Town Mills, not far distant. Mr Darch quickly arrived and then went to send for a doctor, as her husband was still alive. Meantime she assisted deceased into the house and got him to bed. He, however, never spoke. Her husband had nothing whatever to cause him any worry and she never had any reason to suppose he would take his life. He had not been depressed; on the contrary, the day before the occurrence he was most cheerful. - Albert Darch, of Town Mills, also gave evidence. - Dr Sturgess (acting for Dr Watkins, of Torrington) said on his arrival about 7.45 a.m. deceased was slightly conscious but could not speak and was quite incapable of writing, or otherwise making any explanation of what had happened. Witness described the injuries, stating that the greater part of the left side of deceased's face, including the lower jaw, had been carried away. MR GREEN died about 8.30 a.m. Witness did not think deceased could have inflicted the injuries purposely. The wound sustained could not have been caused by putting the gun in his mouth. Death was due to shock and loss of blood, following the injuries. - Police-Sergt. Bromell, of Torrington, also gave evidence. - Summing up, the Coroner thought deceased might have caught the weapon in something, causing it to go off and recommended a verdict of "Accidental Death," which the Jury recorded.

Western Times, Tuesday 2 October 1917
BERE FERRERS - Without Orders. The Terrible Death Of Colonials Near Tavistock. Hungry Troops. - The adjourned Inquest on the New Zealand soldiers killed in the railway accident at Bere Ferrers Station last week was resumed yesterday by Mr R. Robinson Rodd (Coroner) at Bere Ferrers. A train was standing in Bere Ferrers Station on Monday afternoon last and some New Zealand soldiers got down on to the permanent way, not knowing that an express train was due to pass through. The train dashed into the men, killing nine and injuring three. One of the latter (PTE. TRUSSELL) subsequently died at Tavistock Hospital. - At the opening of the Inquest, when only evidence of identity was taken, Captain Herbert Stanley Hewlett, of the New Zealand Expeditionary force, stated that one man remained unidentified. The other nine were: No. 55753 Pte. J. S. JACKSON; No. 56795 Pte, C. J. KIRTON; No. 55776 Pte. B. A. W. MCBRYDE; No. 57122 Pte. R. V. MCKENNA; No. 55050 Pte. W. S. GILLANDERS; No. 56883 Pte. J. F. WARDEN; No. 57068 Pte. W. F. GREAVES; No. 56791 Pte. JOSEPH JUDGE; No. 56874 Pte. W. J. TRUSSELL. The other two injured men, both of whom had their arms broken, were: Nathaniel Johnson Gatley, aged 34 and Robert James Barnes, aged 39. - Yesterday's proceedings took place in the waiting room at Bere Ferrers Station. Officers were present representing the New Zealand contingent. Mr R. B. Johns, solicitor, Plymouth, represented the London and South Western Railway Company and Inspector Walter Trump was also present. - The Coroner, opening the proceedings, referred to an anonymous letter appearing in a Plymouth contemporary, signed by "Enquirer." He thought it was a most improper communication to be addressed to the paper considering that this matter was under consideration and he did not think it should be inserted. He hoped if anyone of the Jury had seen the letter they would abandon it from their minds altogether. - With reference to the unidentified man, an officer stated that No. 54624 , Private SIDNEY ENNIS WEST, aged 21, was missing from the roll call and was, to the best of his belief, the unknown man. - Military evidence was called as to the New Zealand contingent from which it appeared that owing to certain difficulties - which were satisfactorily explained during the Inquest - the troops had had no food after breakfast and up to the time they entrained from a certain Devon station between 3 and 3.30 p.m. The arrangement was that they were to be served at the first stopping-place, Exeter, from rations carried in the guard's van, but owing to unforeseen circumstances the train was stopped at Bere Ferrers, which the men apparently concluded was the stopping place arranged for. - Private Archibald Graham Porteous said the men were not told where the first stop would be, but the arrangement was that two men were to get out of each carriage to fetch the rations from the guard's van. At Bere Ferrers, Jackson and West got out from his carriage on the wrong side. They naturally expected to get out on that side; it was the side they entrained on. They were sitting next to the carriage door in readiness. Witness personally only saw these two men get out on the wrong side. - Mr Johns explained that the train was a long one of eighteen coaches and not all could be drawn up at the platform and most of the men got out from the coaches that were not on the platform. - In further evidence witness said the men who left his carriage had passed out of his view when the express dashed through. The whole thing happened practically simultaneously. He heard the whistle of the express blown, but there was no time for anybody to warn the men. After the soldiers' train left Bere Ferrers the men had something to eat at Tavistock. - Sergt.-Major Stanley Edward Deacon spoke to passing on from a superior officer an order to the men that they were to draw rations from the provisions in the guard's van. The men were to hold themselves in readiness for the stopping-place, when they were to receive a further order to get out of the train and draw the rations. - The Coroner: Had there been much complaint among the men about being kept so long without food? - Witness: I think they were asking when they were going to be fed. - Was there a general complaint that they were not getting their food? - Well, I don't remember, sir - (laughter). - An Officer in Court: I never heard a New Zealander complain. They always take it as a matter of course. - The Coroner: I take it they were hungry? - Witness: I certainly think they were if they felt anything like I felt. - Witness was further questioned as to the orders to the men and another officer in Court stated that the orders were his. But he did not say the first stop; he said Exeter. Referring to the men leaving the train the Coroner asked: The men did it on their own responsibility. No one ordered them to get out of the carriage? - Witness: That is as I understand it. - An officer, who gave an explanation concerning the feeding of the men, said every attempt was made to do what was in the interests of the men entrained. The deceased soldiers had no right to be out of the train, and he confirmed that there was no time to warn them - it happened like a flash. - Frank Kidwell, signalman at Bere Ferrers Station, said the troop train in question arrived at 3.52 ½. She was stopped because the line was not clear ahead. The express went through at 3.53 when the troop train had barely stopped; in fact, the driver of the express was whistling before the troop train stopped. He did not personally see the men run down, but they could have had no chance to save themselves. - An officer gave evidence as to the food arrangements and said in the circumstances that prevailed everything possible was done for the men. The difficulties were got over as well as they could be. - The officer added that there were certain refreshments given at Exeter Station by the Mayoress's organization. - The Coroner: Do the military authorities depend on that? - Witness: No; that is a free gift. - Further replying, he said this refreshment was not enough for the troops. It was a bun and a cup of tea. Anything above that the men had to pay for and there was not time for that sort of thing. Consequently rations were issued. - Charles Henry Thorn, of Exeter, the fireman on the express from Exeter to friary, said on approaching Bere Ferrers Station, he noticed a train standing in the Station. Witness was on the right-hand side of the engine. They were whistling, and when in the Station, he noticed soldiers on his road. He shouted to the driver, "Whoa; soldiers on the road!" but it was too late to pull up. - The train was travelling at about 35 miles an hour. The soldiers seemed to be confused and made a "scuffle" to get out of the way. The train was pulled up as promptly as possible - within 200 to 300 yards. - It was not considered necessary to call the driver of the express (J. Skinner, Exeter) or the driver of the troop train, neither of whom, it appeared, saw the men struck. - The Coroner said the evidence was quite clear that the deceased men, without orders, left the train and got down on to the permanent way, exposing themselves to danger, not withstanding that the signals were warning the approach of a train. No one was to blame. - The Jury concurred and returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - Expressions of sympathy and regret at the circumstances in which deceased met their death were made by the Foreman (Rev. J. Sharpe) and Mr Johns. The former stated that a memorial service was held in both local churches on Sunday.

ALPHINGTON - Exeter Canal Tragedy. The Inquest On The Three Victims. Verdict: "Found Drowned." - Mr G. H. Stephens, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest on the three victims of the Exeter Canal tragedy, at Double Locks Inn, last evening. The names of the deceased were FLORENCE BELL, aged 34, Topsham; ROSE BELL, aged 10 years, and EVA BELL, aged 1 year and 9 months. Mr James Mitchell was Foreman. - SAPPER RICHARD J. BELL, father of the child MAUD, who was rescued, said he returned home from France on a month's leave on Monday of last week and stayed at Topsham with his mother and sister until Thursday, when he was married. He then went to live with his wife's mother, on Monmouth-hill, six doors away from his own mother's house. He identified the bodies as those of FLORENCE, 34, his sister; ROSE, aged 10, and EVA, age 1 year and 9 months, her children. He last saw his sister, who was single, on Friday evening. She had had charge of his child, MAUD, about seven years, ever since the death of his first wife, who died six hours after the child's birth. He intended to leave the child in his sister's charge until the war was over. She was very fond of her. He had given her no reason to think that she would have to part with the child. There was no disturbance; all were friendly. On the Friday night he told his sister that he intended to take his daughter to Exeter on Saturday to be photographed and that she was not to take her out. About 10.30 on Saturday morning he was told that his sister had taken the child out. He thought that they had gone for a walk, and about noon he called at the house again. She had not returned. About 12.40 p.m. a telegram was received by his mother, from his sister, to the effect that she was bringing home Rose Austin, and would be home at 6.30, adding, "It is all right." He did not know what construction to put on that telegram. Rose Austin was a young woman with whom he kept company 13 years ago, and who was now, he believed, living in Rochester. He went to the Station and met several trains. He became uneasy. About 10 o'clock in the night he heard that his sister had been seen at Exminster. Shortly afterwards he was informed by a Topsham Constable of what had happened. He had never heard his sister threaten to take her life, or that of the children. She was, however, of a very excitable nature. There had been no disturbance in the family while he had been home. - The child, MAUD BELL, aged seven years, who was the only one rescued, was questioned by the Deputy Coroner. She said she liked going for walked with "auntie," who took her out on Saturday morning. She went to Exeter, saw the shops, went to the Station and saw the trains. When it was dark her aunt took her down by the water. She did not like that so well, as it was dark. - The Deputy Coroner asked her how she got into the water, but she did not remember that, nor anything about what happened to the other children. - The Jury decided that it would be useless to take evidence from so young a child under the circumstances, and consequently no statement was taken from her. - Benjamin Bolt, ferryman, Topsham, stated that on Saturday morning, about 8 o'clock, the deceased woman, with the three children, crossed the river, saying that she was going to Exminster to meet a brother who was coming down by the 9 o'clock train. She tendered 2s. 6d. and as he could not change, she said she would be returning at 10 a.m., and would pay him then. She was not excited. - William Carter Hannaford, occupier of Double Locks, said he saw the deceased and the three children on the Banks of the Canal near Salmon Pool Bridge, on the Exeter side, about 10.30 a.m. on Saturday. She was walking from the direction of Exeter towards Double Locks. In the lane opposite Salmon Pool Bridge he picked up a woman's apron. - SAPPER BELL (recalled) said he could not identify the apron as belonging to his sister. - Daisy Seward, housekeeper at Double Locks, said n Saturday evening, about 8 p.m., she saw a woman and three children on the Canal Banks walking on the Alphington side towards Double Locks. Witness heard her say to one of the children, "Come on, dear, or it will be dark before we get home." - Corpl. Boalch, of the A.P.C., who was walking on the Canal Banks on Saturday night in company with Corpl. Richards, said near the top bridge of the Locks he saw some clothing about two yards from the water's edge. At the same time he heard a gurgling sound, and his friend saw near the edge of the bank a white object in the water, which he made out to be a child. His friend leaned over the bank and pulled the child out. She was floating on her back, the water just trickling over her. Witness and his companion placed her on the table outside Double Locks, restored her, and ultimately placed her in a passing boat, in which she was conveyed to Exeter. Later he saw another body floating about five yards from the bank. That body (which proved to be that of ROSE, aged 10) was recovered about half an hour afterwards. Artificial means of restoration were applied in this case without success. - P.S. Bambury, of Alphington, who reached the scene about 10 p.m. on Saturday night, said after examining the clothes he came to the conclusion that there was another body in the water. With the assistance of P.C.'s Endacott and Labdon, and Mr J. Marles, he dragged the waters above the Locks. A telephone message arrived that a woman and three children were missing from Topsham. About 11.30, he dragged up the body of FLORENCE BELL, the woman, and Marles recovered the body of the baby about a quarter of an hour later. - John Marles gave corroborative evidence. - Dr Stokes, who examined the bodies, said there were no marks of violence. They bore the appearance of death by drowning. - The Deputy Coroner, in summing up, said the only person who could have given evidence as to how the woman and the children got into the water was the child, MAUD BELL, who, however, was unable to give any clear answers. It would, therefore, have been useless to have had her sworn. There seemed to be no evidence to show that FLORENCE BELL intended to take her life, or had any reason for doing so, and were it not for the clothes found on the banks the Jury could dismiss it from their minds. The clothing seemed to indicate that she intended to take her life and the lives of the children. All sorts of ways might suggest themselves to the Jury as to how they might have been drowned, but they must act only on the evidence. Except for the clothes, there was an absolute blank. The Jury had to decide whether this woman deliberately threw these children into the water, with the intention of killing them all, and then killed herself. There was no evidence to show it, but if the Jury came to that conclusion they would return a verdict of murder against FLORENCE BELL in respect of the children. Then, in regard to her own death, they would have come to the conclusion that it was a case of suicide. They had to consider the state of the woman's mind, although they were not entitled to take that into account in regard to the murder of the children. There was nothing to show that the woman was anything but rational, except that she was excitable. They might think that she would have been upset through her brother getting married, and through thinking there was a possibility of losing the child, but the father had told them that he had no intention of taking away the child. What actually did upset her it was difficult to know. The Foreman asked if the woman was in financial difficulties. - SAPPER BELL (recalled) said he was making his sister an allowance of 3s. 6d. a week out of his pay and she had 5s. for the child. Altogether she was in receipt of 10s. 5d. a week. - Answering further questions, witness said the allowance was not to be continued, and probably she thought that his getting married might make a lot of difference to her with two children on her hands. - The Deputy Coroner: Did she say anything about it? - Witness: No. - The Deputy Coroner: The clothes on the bank certainly puts another complexion on the affair. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned," being of opinion that there was no evidence to show how they got into the water. - The Coroner highly commended the soldiers for their conduct in the affair.

Western Times, Friday 5 October 1917
EXETER - River Tragedy. A Railway Employee Found In The Exe. - At an Inquest held at the Court House, Exeter, last evening, relative to GEORGE HARRIS, aged 64, of Church-lane, Sidwell-street, whose body was found in the Exe near Head Weir on Wednesday morning, evidence was given by Helen Zelley, of York-road, who identified the body. She added that the deceased, who was her uncle, had been working as a labourer in the goods' shed of the L. and S.W. Company at Queen-street Station. He had been crippled for a long time; had been under the doctor's care, and on Sunday week last he complained he was very ill and unfit to work. Elizabeth Smale, with whom the deceased lodged, said he had complained much of his leg during the past few weeks. On Monday, on returning home, he said he had lifted some iron and has strained his leg. He added that he felt almost tempted to put his head under the train. - William Henry Bowden said about 3.20 a.m. on Wednesday he saw the deceased walking down St David's-hill, apparently much depressed. - P.C. Parrish said on Wednesday morning he found a black felt hat and a stick on the drying ground near the Head Weir bathing place in Bonhay-road. He dragged the river and recovered the body of the deceased. - Dr Pereira said the body had no marks of violence. Witness had attended the deceased, who always complained of pains in his legs which he considered to be sciatica. He also complained of the strain of his work, but refused to go on the club. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Western Times, Saturday 6 October 1917
PAIGNTON - Old Lady's Fatal Fall At Paignton. - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Paignton touching the death of a visitor, MRS SARAH FABIAN, aged 82, whose home was at Bournemouth, and who was staying with her daughter at D'Arcy House, Paignton. On September 26, the day after her arrival, the old lady went upstairs after tea, and in the gathering gloom apparently missed her way and fell down the back stairs. Dr Muriel Morris found her suffering from a fractured femur and shock, and deceased lingered for a week and died on Wednesday. - The Coroner pointed out the danger of these stairs and Miss Ketley, the occupant, promised to have a gate, hand-rail and light, if possible. The Jury's verdict was "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Tuesday 9 October 1917
NEWTON ABBOT - Soldier Killed At Newton Station. - At the Inquest into the circumstances attending the death of PTE. GEORGE BENNETT, R.M.L.I., of Moretonhampstead, who met his death by falling under a moving train at Newton Station on Friday night, the mother, MRS ANN BENNETT, said her son GEORGE was saying "Good-bye" to her through a carriage window of the 7.30 train to Moreton. She was returning home, and he was rejoining his ship by a later train. As her train moved out he slipped and fell under it. - Two railwaymen who were on the Station and saw the tragedy, stated that the deceased was on the footboard and on stepping off when the train was in motion, staggered and fell between two coaches, two of which ran over his legs. - Dr Grimbly attributed death to shock sustained from the severe injuries, the legs being practically amputated. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned and an expression of sympathy passed with the relatives.

Western Times, Wednesday 10 October 1917 TEIGNMOUTH - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Teignmouth yesterday on SYBIL PAYNE SMALL, aged eight weeks, daughter of an actress, who died at a Nursing Home at that town on Sunday night. Dr R. L. Patterson said the cause of death was heart failure and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Times, Tuesday 16 October 1916
THAMES DITTON, SURREY - How The Vicar Of Tavistock Was Killed. - A Coroner's Jury at Thames Ditton yesterday afternoon returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" after investigating the circumstances attending the fatal accident to the REV. H. G. LE NEVEN, Vicar of Tavistock, which occurred last Thursday. - Mr William Neckie, of Langley Avenue, Surbiton, said that the deceased, his brother-in-law, was 60 years of age. He had come for a fortnight's visit, for rest and quiet, after a hard time in his parish. On Thursday morning he went for a walk. - Edwin Hall, who witnessed the accident, said that a cyclist was coming down Ditton Hill Road, at about five miles an hour and a clergyman was in the middle of the road. The cyclist seemed to be trying to go round him, when the clergyman made for the footpath and was knocked down. - William George Taylor, a munition works fitter, living at Tolworth, agreed that he was riding at about five miles an hour and said that as he approached the clergyman a dog ran into the roadway. He was trying to avoid the man and the dog when he collided with the clergyman, who had made a sudden dash for the footpath. - Dr Moberley said that deceased's skull was fractured, and that and other injuries seemed more serious than could have been caused in the way described. - The Jury, while exonerating the cyclist, expressed the opinion that he must have been travelling at more than five miles an hour.

Western Times, Wednesday 17 October 1917
STOKE CANON - Sunday Night Fatality On The Stoke Canon Road. - The District Coroner, Mr Henry W. Gould, held an Inquest at New Cottage, Stoke Canon, yesterday, relative to the death of PETER JOHN KEMPE FEWINGS, aged 52, shepherd. - Evidence was given by his son, Lance-Corpl. FEWINGS, of Military Foot Police, to the effect that on Sunday night, at 11 p.m., he was returning to his corps. His sister and deceased accompanied him on the road towards Exeter, and just after they had passed the Paper Mills deceased, on emerging from a gateway, was knocked down by a horse and trap. He never regained consciousness, and died before the doctor arrived. Fred Baker, ostler, Angel Hotel, Tiverton, said he was driving from Exeter to Tiverton at the time of the accident. He saw nothing of the deceased until the latter came against the wheel of the trap. It was quite dark. - P.C. Fewings said there were signs near the gateway of somebody having slipped on the slope from the gate to the road. - Dr Clayton Jones said death was due to a fracture at the base of the skull. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TORQUAY - Mr T. Edmonds, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Torquay, last evening, on the death of MISS ELLEN SMITH, a cook, aged 52, who died on Saturday after a brief illness. Dr George attributed death to the bursting of a blood vessel, which formed a clot of blood on the brain. A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Times, Thursday 18 October 1917
AXMINSTER - A Witness Censured For The Way He Gave Evidence. - At Axminster yesterday the Deputy Coroner for East Devon, Mr C. N. Tweed, held an Inquiry into the death of ROSINA ELIZABETH MITCHELL, aged 79 years, who was injured through being knocked down by a motor-car last week. Mr H. J. A. Bidwell was Foreman of the Jury. - WILLIAM MITCHELL, the husband, said his wife left home on Friday, October 12th, at 6.30 p.m., and he was subsequently informed that she had been injured by a motor-car. She did not have good hearing. - James Love, a jobbing gardener, said he saw deceased come from her residence into the road, but did not see her again until his attention was called by a motor-car stopping close to him. He saw the deceased lying in the road and went back to the house and informed her husband. - William Searle, 'bus driver, said the car passed him a short distance up the road going slowly. The horn was blown as the car came around the corner. - Edgar James Sainsbury, the motor driver, said the first intimation he had of any accident was when he felt the bump on the near side of the car. He saw deceased lying on the road, and removed her first to the Hospital thence to Dr Langran's and subsequently to her home. He was driving at about 4 to 6 miles per hour and could see only a short distance ahead owing to the thick drizzling rain and fog. - James Bazley said he passed up the road and saw the two previous witnesses by the side of the car. He did not know an accident had occurred and he wished them "good night." He walked with Love up the road. Both the 'bus driver and Love denied that they saw him and the latter said he certainly did not walk up the road with Bazley. - Dr Langran said MRS MITCHELL died of concussion and laceration of the brain, the result of the accident. - The Coroner, in summing up, referred to the unsatisfactory evidence of J. Bazley. He said it was entirely inconsistent with the evidence of the other witnesses, and he had regarded the oath he had taken very lightly. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and on their recommendation, the Coroner censured J. Bazley for the way in which he had given evidence. The Jury also exonerated the driver of the car from blame. The owner of the car expressed his great sympathy with the relatives.

Western Times, Friday 19 October 1917
TIVERTON - Mr F. R. D. Clutson, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest at Tiverton on Wednesday relative to the death of the infant male child of MRS A. MAUNDER, of Spurways Farm, Cove, who died from haemorrhage on the brain fifteen hours after birth. The doctor said haemorrhage was a recognised cause of death in newly born children. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Times, Saturday 20 October 1917
LAND'S END, CORNWALL - Mr Edward Boase held an Inquest at Land's End on JABEZ COOK, aged 47, second mate, of Perry Fram, Highweek, Newton Abbot, and Leopold Gordon, 21, steward, of Barry. COOK'S death was due to a fractured skull, caused by a fall and Gordon was drowned.

Western Times, Tuesday 23 October 1917
SOUTH MOLTON - Dr Ellis Pearson held an Inquest at South Molton, Thursday, relative to the death of the eighteen months old child of MRS NELLIE BUCKNELL. The mother went into the house of her next door neighbour to make an inquiry, leaving her three children in the kitchen,. She was only away a moment, when her little boy went to her and asked her to see what was the matter with the baby. She went into her house and found the deceased standing in the pantry with its clothes smouldering. She stopped the burning of the clothes and placed the child on the table. Dr Baker was summoned, but the baby died at three. MRS BUCKNELL said there was no guard to the fireplace, but there was very little fire in the grate. Dr Baker said the child was badly burned about the chest and body and was in a hopeless condition. The cause of death was shock, following extensive burns. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental death," and impressed on parents the necessity of having suitable guards made for their fireplaces.

Western Times, Friday 26 October 1917
BISHOPSTEIGNTON - Bishopsteignton Tragedy. Soldier Employed On Farm Work Found Dead. - Mr T. Edmonds, Deputy Coroner, Wednesday, held an Inquest at Venn Farm, Bishopsteignton, relative to the death of PTE. EDWARD J. BURNARD, Agricultural Company, Labour Corps, 36, a small holder, of Davidstowe, Cornwall, who was found dead in a barn at the farm on Monday morning - John Wills Dymond, farmer, of Venn Farm, said the deceased had been in his employ since May last, being sent to him by the military authorities. BURNARD enjoyed very good health and had not complained of any trouble. Witness found him a capital man. On Sunday, at 5.15 p.m., deceased was cleaning his boots to go out as usual. That was the last time he saw him. Deceased was of a very reserved disposition. On Monday morning, when witness came downstairs, he found that deceased had not eaten his supper and as his bed had not been slept in, he went to the barn with another workman, John Knight. They searched among the straw to see if deceased slept there and eventually Knight saw him lying in a pit of straw under a beam, on which was a piece of rope. Around the man's neck was another piece of rope, which had apparently broke away from that on the beam. BURNARD was dead. Deceased was a most temperate man and had only one glass of cider on Sunday. - Christopher Arnold, of Camelford, father-in-law, said deceased was 36 years of age, married and had six children. He lived happily at home and witness could not in any way account for his death. - John Knight, labourer, said BURNARD worked with him every day and he never heard him complain. - Lieut. Francis Harcourt Stokes said deceased was formerly in the agricultural details, but was transferred to an Agricultural Labour Company on Thursday last. The transference did not interfere with his wife's separation allowance. - P.C. Cockwill, Bishopsteignton, said in the pockets of deceased's clothes was a purse containing over 10s. and a watch and chain. In his kit bag were £12 18s. in notes and cash. Witness added that he had looked through the letters found on deceased and found nothing to account for his death. - Mr W. Parsons, Juryman, said deceased had told him that he never wished for a better master than Mr Dymond. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind." - Lieut. Stokes, replying to a question, said the military authorities had made arrangements for the funeral to be held that afternoon, but the family wished to have the body conveyed to Camelford.

TOTNES - Totnes Tragedy And The Lack Of Lights. - At Totnes Guildhall last evening, an Inquest was held by Mr T. Edmonds, Deputy Coroner, concerning the death of FREDERICK SAMUEL FELL, an employee at the Government fruit pulping station. - Mr F. G. Edgecombe was Foreman of the Jury. - MRS BESSIE HEATH (sister) said the deceased was 59 years of age. - Mrs Elizabeth Owen, Steam Packet Inn, said deceased had three pints of cider there, and left just after 10 p.m. He was quite sober. Deceased was a quiet man and always seemed happy and cheerful. - William Murel said deceased always went home along the quay. There were three lamps there, but none were lit. - The Coroner: That is on account of the war. - Witness said it was possible to mistake a light and walk over the quay. Richard King said he found the body of the deceased in midstream, just off the crane on the quay. - Dr A. P. Salt said death was due to drowning. - The Coroner said there was no reason to believe the deceased committed suicide. It was very possible he mistook his way and walked into the river. - The Jury's verdict was "Found Drowned," and the Foreman expressed the opinion there should be some lights to prevent accidents.

EXETER - Death Of An Old Exeter Newsman. - Exeter City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at the Grendon-road Home, yesterday, touching the death of HENRY GEORGE HUSSON. - The Matron stated that deceased was formerly a newsman. He was 79 years of age and had been in the Home about nine months. He suffered from chronic bronchitis. On Sunday last he had a fainting attack, but quickly recovered. He was better on Monday. On Tuesday morning he asked her for a cup of tea, and she sent a girl with it. The girl returned hurriedly, saying that she thought HUSSON was choking. Witness went to him at once, but he died just as she entered the room. - Dr Andrew, medical attendant, said he had attended deceased for several years before he went to the Home. Death resulted from heart failure, due to chronic bronchitis. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Times, Friday 2 November 1917
EXETER - Death From Lockjaw. Inquest On A Youth At Exeter. - At an Inquest held at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, yesterday afternoon, relative to the death of GEORGE HENRY BAKER, errand boy, aged 17, of King-street, who died in the Institution on Wednesday morning, Mr A. J. Tucker, solicitor, represented the deceased's parents. - Evidence was given by PRIVATE STEPHENS, the step-father, to the effect that on Thursday, the 25th October, deceased complained to him that he had met with an accident at the place where he was employed. He said that while getting up some potatoes from a cellar, he fell down two or three steps. He put out his hands to avoid a knife entering his body. He added that if he had not done that he should have been killed. One of his hands was bleeding. - PHOEBE BAKER, mother of the deceased, said her son's general health was very good. She told the Coroner's Officer that on the Wednesday, the day before the accident, her son had complained to her of sore throat. She denied that he told her he had fallen down the stairs on the previous Monday. At dinner-time, on Thursday, he said that he had met with an accident by falling back while going up cellar steps with a bag of potatoes, and that he fell on a knife. There was a cut on the right hand, and another cut on the arm. He went on to work in the afternoon. At tea-time he could not eat and he said his arm was paining him. She went out and on returning, about 10.30 he was in bed. During the night he made a noise as if choking. The next morning he fell out of bed just before seven o'clock. She told him to remain in bed, but he crept out and went to his work. His employer sent him home. His jaws began clicking and he was put to bed, and a doctor was sent for. Later he was removed to the Hospital. - Frank Smith, a lad, of Preston-street, who was helping deceased on Thursday morning to pull up some bags of potatoes from Mrs Darch's cellar, said deceased showed him three cuts, two on his right hand and one of his forearm, which he said had been caused by his falling down the steps, his hand pitching on a knife. Deceased's hand was bleeding. - Constance Darch, greengrocer, Fore-street, said deceased had been working for her about eighteen months. He made no complaint to her on the Thursday, but earlier in the week he said he had a cold. On Friday morning he complained of his throat, and of a pain in his back. He also said that he went to the Hospital about 10 o'clock the previous night, and asked to have his tonsils put back. He was told, he said, that he could not see a doctor and that they could do nothing for him until the following Monday. Witness sent him home. About dinner-time on Friday she first heard of the accident from the deceased's mother, who said that the boy told her that he had not told his mistress because he knew she was ill and he did not want to worry her. - Cross-examined: The steps of the cellar were very acute, and too narrow for anyone to bring up a bag of potatoes. The custom was to bring them up in small quantities. - Mr E. J. Domville, House Surgeon, said on the 25th deceased called at the Institution and was given a gargle for sore throat. He had a healed cut on the back of one of his hands. On the 26th he called again, and showed symptoms of tetanus. He said he had fallen downstairs while carrying a sack of potatoes. He got a little better until Tuesday, but during the night he became worse and died on Wednesday morning. Tetanus might come weeks after a wound had healed. There were slight abrasions on his hand, but the wound had healed quite kindly, and deceased himself never called attention to it. - By Mr Tucker: The tetanus germ flourished particularly in manure and mould. Potatoes coming from heavily-manured ground could not be excluded as a possible cause of tetanus. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Tetanus" the cause of which there was no evidence to show.

Western Times, Tuesday 6 November 1917
SIDMOUTH - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned by the Coroner's Jury (Mr C. N. Tweed presiding) at the Inquest on Friday at Sidmouth Cottage Hospital, on the death of WILLIAM COLBOURNE, 44, of Sidmouth. The deceased was riding at the back of a 'bus in Convent-road, and was holding two bicycles which formed a portion of the luggage carried on the top of the vehicle. He was knocked off the step by the overhanging branches of a hawthorn tree. COLBOURNE was found lying flat on his back in the road, and bleeding profusely from a wound in the back of the head. He was taken to the Cottage Hospital, where he was treated by Dr de Deune. COLBOURNE lay in a semi-comatose condition and died on Thursday night from concussion, due to the fall. Death was also accelerated by internal bleeding. - P.C. Moore stated that the lower branches of the tree near the scene of the accident, were only seven feet from the roadway. -

SIDMOUTH - An Inquest was held at the Cottage Hospital, Sidmouth on the death of a lad, aged 12, GEORGE HENRY TURNER, son of MR GEORGE J. TURNER, carpenter, of Sidmouth. - The latter said about three weeks ago the County Medical Officer drew his attention to the fact that the lad was suffering from hernia. An operation was performed at the Hospital, and all went well for half an hour when the patient began to cease breathing and to change colour. Artificial respiration was then resorted to, but the boy passed away. - Dr Colclough said the boy was quite normal before the operation, which was quite a simple and not a dangerous one. Just as it was finished, the boy gave a curious gasp, and the pupils became distended. Witness began artificial respiration and strychnine was administered, but without success. A post-mortem examination showed that the thyroid gland, the spleen and the kidneys were enlarged, the kidneys being also congested. Death was due to the anaesthetic and the condition of the thyroid gland and kidneys, which could not be ascertained before death. - A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

Western Times, Tuesday 13 November 1917
DAWLISH - Dawlish Burning Fatality. - An Inquest was held at 2 Vaughan-terrace, Dawlish, on Friday, by Mr T. Edmonds, Deputy Coroner, into the circumstances attending the death of EMILY MARY AVERY. - Miss Mary Russell Pierce said the deceased was aged 38 years, and was a domestic servant in her employ. On Wednesday morning witness heard a cry and saw deceased standing at the top of the kitchen stairs. Her clothing was smouldering and witness obtained a pair of scissors and cut off the clothing. Witness understood deceased to say that whilst she was looking at a cake in the oven of the kitchen range, her apron became ignited. She died at 7.30 a.m. on Thursday. - Dr A. Hudson said on reaching the house he found deceased so ill that he gave her morphia and sent a message to the Cottage Hospital, but the woman was too badly burnt to be moved. The burns extended from the left ankle - she was not burnt on the right ankle - up to the arm-pits, with slight burns about the head and face. When deceased was a little eased, he asked her how it happened, and from what she said he gathered that she was tending to the fire in a stooping posture, and that a piece of burning coal fell out. Deceased thought the coal fell into the tray, but it must have fallen into her apron. She did not get up at once, but tended to something in the oven, so that when she got up she was in flames. Then she must have gone to the scullery and poured water over herself to put out the flames. - A verdict of "Death from Shock, caused by Burns" was returned, the Jury expressing their sympathy.

NEWTON ABBOT - Suicide At Newton Abbot. "Terrible Fits Of Depression Take Away My Senses." - An Inquest was held at Newton Abbot, on Saturday, by Mr T. Edmonds, Deputy Coroner, relative to the death of THOMAS WILLS JONES, aged 43, photographer, of Rhyll, North Wales, whose body was found hanging by a rope from a tree in Decoy Brake, Newton Abbot, on Thursday afternoon. - MRS EDITH JONES, the widow, said she last saw her husband in June, when he was in a very weak state of health. He had influenza at the beginning of the year and this seemed to affect his health and depress him. At the end of March he went away from home and was away eight days, when witness's brother found him. As far as she knew there were no financial troubles. He was ordered away by his doctor and went to his parents at Newton Abbot. - JOHN JONES, game keeper, Decoy Brake Cottages, Newton Abbot, said on Thursday morning deceased stayed in the garden until about eleven, and then went out. About two o'clock witness found him hanging from a tree 300 yards from the cottage. He must have climbed part way up the tree, fastened the rope and jumped off. - Dr A. T. Nisbet said death was due to hanging. A fortnight ago deceased went to him for a certificate that he was not fit to attend to his business. There were no signs of a suicidal tendency except the man's statement that he was depressed. - P.C. Anstey said in deceased's pocket was an envelope with the words "These wretched fits of depression take away my right senses." - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind," and expressed their sympathy with the relatives.

TAVISTOCK - Before Mr R. Rodd, County Coroner, at Tavistock yesterday, an Inquest was held on SUSAN CRAZE, wife of a carpenter, aged 79, living at Exeter-street, Tavistock. Dr C. C. Brodrick said death was due to extensive disease of the liver and senile decay and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Wednesday 14 November 1917
BARNSTAPLE - Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest at 15 Grenville Avenue, Yeo Vale, Barnstaple, on Monday, on the body of the infant child of MR and MRS A. G. HARRIS. Dr Meadon, who made a post-mortem examination, said the organs of the body were perfect, except the heart, of which one of the valves, imperfectly formed, allowed a regurgitation back into the heart. The cause of death was a structural defect of the valve of the aorta, resulting in syncope. - A verdict of Death from Natural Causes was returned.

Western Times, Friday 16 November 1917
OKEHAMPTON - Okehampton Tragedy. Lady Returns Home To Find Her Brother Dead. - Mr Coroner H. C. Brown held an Inquest at the Okehampton Town Hall last evening concerning the death of WALTER JOHN COWLING, a visitor at Okehampton. Mr Fred Spry was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - MRS COWLING, sister-in-law of the deceased, said her brother came to her six weeks ago for the benefit of his health from Bournemouth. He had been in convalescent houses before. On Tuesday last she went out for a half-hour, leaving him by the kitchen fire. He had been very bright all the day. When she returned she found him lying in the scullery with his face downwards, fully dressed. There was a bowl near him with some blood in it, and some blood on the floor. She then called for assistance and a neighbour, Mr Hoare, came to her assistance, and went for Dr Burd and the Police. Dr Burd soon came and found her brother was dead. - Dr Burd said he had made a further examination, and found deceased died from haemorrhage of the lungs. Witness added that he had wired to Dr Port, of Bournemouth and received a wire to say that he had attended deceased for tuberculosis some time ago. - A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned, and sympathy was expressed with the relatives. - Deceased, who was 42 years of age, and a bachelor, was a retired drapery manager.

Western Times, Monday 19 November 1917
NEWTON ST PETROCK - North Devon Tragedy. "Accidental Death" Returned At Newton St Petrock Inquest. - Dr Pearson, Deputy Coroner for North Devon, held an Inquest at Newton St Petrock on Saturday evening on JOHN SQUIRES, farmer, Bridge Farm, who was found dead from a gunshot wound on Friday morning. Deceased was a widower, aged 36 years, and leaves a young family. - The evidence showed that about 8 o'clock on Thursday morning deceased went to see his brother, THOMAS, at Down Farm, and said he was going to a sale at Holsworthy on the Saturday. He arranged that his brother should kill two pigs for him on Saturday and said he was going to a sale on Monday and that he would meet his brother at Bideford market on the Tuesday. Before leaving deceased said he might as well take his gun, which he had left at his brother's. The gun was given to deceased, and at the time it was empty. Deceased did not do much shooting, and had not shot for twelve months. No notice was taken that deceased did not come home to dinner, as he very often had a meal at his brother's house. When deceased did not return in the evening, enquiries were made at his brother's and other farms but nothing had been seen of him after he left Down Farm in the morning. Search was made and the next morning Alfred Slade found deceased beside a hayrick in one of his own fields, with the top of his head blown off. There was one exploded cartridge in the double-barrelled gun by his side and one cartridge not used in deceased's pocket. There were hurdles which had to be climbed in order that deceased could get to the rick. Deceased, it was stated, had had bad luck with his crops, but had been cheerful, and had never suggested that he would do anything to himself. No one had any suspicion that deceased would commit suicide. The possibility of the gun having been exploded in climbing over the hurdles was pointed out by members of the Jury and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

EXETER - Exeter Doctor's Death. Sequel To An Accident In St. Thomas. - An Inquest was held at his residence, 38 East Southernhay, Saturday, relative to the death of DR JOHN BROWN, M.R.C.S., Eng., aged 72, who passed away on Thursday evening. - MRS BROWN, the widow, said on the 19th March her husband, on returning home at midday, complained that he had met with an accident, a motor lorry having ran into the brougham in which he was riding. The brougham, he said, was knocked into the air and turned over. He was much bruised and his ribs were injured and dislocated. He was, however, very plucky and insisted on driving out in the afternoon to see a patient who was dangerously ill. He went to Cornwall for a rest and his brother came to Exeter from Blackpool and did his work. Deceased suffered from bronchial weakness. - Richard Marles, coach proprietor, who was driving the deceased on the 19th March in Alphington-road, stated that while the brougham was stationary, having pulled up to enter Princes-street, two motor vehicles passed him in opposite directions. Behind one of them came along a motor van belonging to the Exeter Co-operative Society. The driver endeavoured to pass on the wrong side, with the result that the motor van caught the spring of the brougham and turned it over. Deceased, who was inside, complained that he was much shaken. The Exeter Co-operative Society had paid witness's claim for damages. - Benjamin John Lear, who was cycling towards Exeter at the time of the accident, said he thought that the first motor vehicle blocked the view of the brougham from the driver of the Co-operative van, which was travelling in a line behind. - Dr Andrew said an examination of deceased showed signs of two broken ribs on the left side. The cause of death was arterial sclerosis and chronic nephritis, and was accelerated by the accident. There were senile changes, which would be hurried on by any accident. - The Coroner said that the driver of the motor van could not be called as he was not in Exeter. There could be no doubt that there was carelessness, but it could hardly be described as gross carelessness. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes, accelerated by the Accident."

Western Times, Tuesday 20 November 1917
EXETER - No Doctor Consulted. Inquest On The Death Of An Invalid At St Thomas. - At an Inquest at the Exeter Court House yesterday relative to the death of ANN JANE MORTON, aged 48, of Woodah-road, St Thomas, evidence was given by the husband, FREDERICK MORTON, a commercial traveller, to the effect that deceased had been in ill-health for several years. She had had heart trouble, and while at Fleetwood, where she lived prior to 18 months ago, she was under medical treatment. She had not had a doctor at Exeter because she shrank from it. She had been in bed about twelve months. On Thursday he arranged for her to have a doctor. On Friday morning she appeared to be in a natural sleep. During the day she was unconscious and she died about midnight. Asked by the Coroner whether he did not think that her sleeping so long indicated that a doctor was necessary, witness said he thought it was natural as she had had a good deal of sleeplessness. She was looked after by her sister who lived in the same house. Throughout Friday at intervals deceased took nourishment. - Dr Adkins, who had made a post mortem examination, said deceased was dead when he was called. All the internal organs were flabby. The immediate cause of death was syncope, due to the pressure of an enlarged liver. In reply to the Jury, witness said no one could say that if a medical man had been called in earlier the deceased's life might have been prolonged. Prudence would seem to dictate that a doctor should have been called in. By not doing so her friends were taking great risk. - The Coroner said it was very reprehensible to keep a person who was ill boxed up in this way for so many months without calling in a medical man. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" but expressed the opinion that medical advice should have been called in before.

EXETER - Exeter Drowning Case. Boy Washed Off A Weir While Gathering Sticks. - The City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at the Court House yesterday afternoon relative to the death of WILLIAM HENRY JOHNS, aged eight, of Okehampton-st, son of a stoker in the Navy. Evidence was given by the mother to the effect that the boy said he was going to a field near the weirs in Bonhay-road to gather sticks on Saturday morning. She warned him to keep away from the water. About dinner time she learnt that a boy had fallen into the river. - William Andrews, carter, said about noon on Saturday he saw a small boy walking across the Head Weir, over which a lot of water was flowing. Witness missed him, and next saw him in the water about 30 yards below the weir. Unable to swim or to get near the boy, witness ran to the paper mills and gave the alarm. He then saw the boy sink. - P.C. Parish, who dragged the river, said he recovered the body about 80 yards from the Head Weir and in about 10 feet of water, about 20 yards from the Bonhay-road railings. There was about a foot of water on the weir. - Dr Pereira, who examined the body at the Mortuary, attributed death to drowning. The Coroner said there seemed to be no doubt the boy slipped off the weir. - The Foreman suggested that there should be some fence to prevent boys from getting on the weir from the path fields. Several members of the Jury, who were St. Thomas men, while recognising that there was a notice prohibiting persons from trespassing at the spot, felt that the weir was easily reached from the fields, and constituted a danger for boys. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Drowning," and passed a vote of condolence with the parents. The Coroner also expressed his sympathy.

Western Times, Thursday 22 November 1917
EXETER - Soldier's Wounds. Death Under An Anaesthetic At Exeter. - The Exeter Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at No. 1 V.A.D. Hospital, Magdalen-street, Exeter, last evening, relative to the death of PRIVATE HENRY RILEY, of the 2-5th Battalion Leicester Regiment, of Leicester, who was recently wounded in France, and who died at the Institution on Monday night. The body of the deceased was identified by Archibald Williamson, the Resident Medical Officer, who said that deceased, when admitted to the Institution on November 1st, was suffering from septic wounds in the right arm and right side of the neck. On the 19th it was decided, on account of the septic condition of the neck, and the fear of further haemorrhage, to operate. Dr Mabel Gates administered the anaesthetic of chloroform, but almost immediately the breathing stopped. Witness was called away and was not present during the attempts at artificial respiration. Witness examined deceased before the operation, but he would have preferred to delay it a little longer. But the operation had become urgently necessary, owing to the septic state of the wound and the risk of further haemorrhage. Witness carried out a post mortem examination. The body was thin and bloodless; the right lung was considerably collapsed and anaemic. It would have been impossible to detect this without a post mortem examination. The cause of death was cardiac syncope. - Dr Mabel Gates said she administered the anaesthetic after having examined the deceased's heart, which was feeble. Deceased suddenly became pale and his breathing failed. After strychnine had been administered his pulse beat again, but very soon his breathing once more ceased. Efforts at artificial respiration failed. - The Coroner said it seemed that if the man had not been operated on at once he would have succumbed to the septic condition of the neck. Everything possible seemed to have been done for the man. The anaesthetic seemed to have been administered with great care. - The Jury decided that the operation was necessary and returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

TORQUAY - Torquay Fatality. Seaman's Fatal Fall From The Pier On A Dark Night. - At Torquay yesterday, the County Coroner, Mr S. Hacker, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of ALEXANDER RITCHIE, seaman, whose body was found in the harbour on Monday morning. - DAVID RITCHIE, seaman, stated that he was serving on board one of H.M. trawlers. He identified the body as that of his brother, who had been in the R.N.R. (T), serving on a trawler. - Henry Holmes, second officer of H.M. trawler Boy Billy, said ALEXANDER RITCHIE was one of the crew. He was rated as a deck hand. The Boy Blue had been lying near the end of the Princess Pier and on Sunday deceased left the ship at 6.30 p.m., leave being given him until midnight. He went ashore with other deck hands. The vessel was lying alongside the steps and could be boarded at any state of the tide. There was a lamp at the end of the Pier which enabled the men to see their way down the steps to the ship. The Pier was an open structure after passing the Pavilion. It was a very dark night, but the other men came aboard all right. RITCHIE was missing in the morning, when orders to leave the harbour had to be obeyed, and his absence was reported. - John William Wales, deck hand, said RITCHIE and he had several drinks together and parted at 8 o'clock in Union-street. As witness was going aboard at 9.30 he met him again and remained with him for an hour. When witness asked him to go aboard the ship, he replied, "I am not going aboard for you or anyone else. I am going my own way." He could walk straight and knew what he was doing. He could have found his way back to the ship comfortable enough. Witness left him near the Old Town Hall. Deceased had been drinking spirits. Witness found his way on board by the light from the ship's galley, which fell direct on to the steps. It was very dark on the Pier above, and it was unsafe for a man to walk there, especially if he had had a little to drink. - Dr Francis Woore, R.N., said the body had all the appearances that the man had been drowned. - A Juror: There was a red mark on the temple. Could you explain that? - Witness: It was very superficial and might have been caused by the fall or even after death. - Coastguardsman H. J. Morey said he was on duty at the entrance to the Haldon Pier on Sunday night. Deceased came there at 11.45 in company with a Police Constable. He was anxious to get back to his ship, as he knew she was leaving on the following morning. RITCHIE had apparently lost his way and the Constable did not know where to direct him. Witness told him he had come to the wrong Pier. He did not think the man was under the influence of drink. Witness told him if he would wait until his relief came he would walk around with him to the entrance to the Princess Pier, or he could stop in the Coastguard quarters until the morning and then join his ship. He preferred to board his vessel that night and witness walked around with him as far as the gates of the Princess Pier. The turnstiles were locked and deceased put his hands on either side and leaped over. He shook hands with witness and said, "Good night old pal. I will not forget you when I come back here again." The light at the end of the Pier could not be seen from the entrance. - P.C. Webber stated that at 11.30 on Sunday night he saw deceased leaning against a shop window in Fleet-street. He asked witness the way to the docks, as he wanted to get aboard his ship, which was sailing early the next morning . Witness took him to the Coastguard at the Haldon Pier. Deceased was a little unsteady, but he could converse all right. The Coastguard arranged to take the man to his ship. - Robert Towell, fisherman, said he found the body floating in the outer harbour and took it to the Fish Quay. - P.C. Loder said he took charge of the body from the last witness. He found 1s. 7d. in the trouser pocket. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned."

Western Times, Friday 23 November 1917
WESTLEIGH - Fencing Off Streams. Novel Point Raised In A North Devon Inquest. - At the New Inn, Westleigh, on Monday, Dr Ellis Pearson, Deputy Coroner for North Devon, held an Inquest on the body of HENRY LEWORTHY, the four-years-old son of a soldier's wife residing at Bradiford, Barnstaple, from where the child had been missing for some little time. The child's father is serving in Mesopotamia. The mother identified the body as that of her child, whom she last saw alive at 2 p.m. on Monday, October 29th, it being then on the step of her house playing with the handle of the door. Witness was washing the kitchen floor at the time, and missed the child about ten minutes later. She did not see it go away from the doorstep. On discovering the child had gone she immediately ran to the stream which flows near her house to see if it was playing there, but could not find him. She ran down to the Mills to see if the child could be found there, but they could see nothing of it, and then she informed the Police. The search was continued with the assistance of neighbours and the Police and the stream was raked, but without success. - The Foreman, Mr William Joslin, enquired if there was any protection to the stream, witness replying in the negative, adding that she thought a wall ought to be put there, as children could go down and walk right in. - The Coroner: Unfortunately they can do that with any stream or the river, or the railway line. I am afraid the onus rests on you to see they don't do it. All streams and rivers cannot be fenced in. - John Smale, foreman platelayer on the railway, spoke to finding the body floating in the river Torridge opposite Westleigh Cross on Friday morning. - The Coroner did not think there was very much doubt that the child must have wandered away from its mother's house and fallen into the stream, the body being washed down into the river to where it was found, about seven miles away. He recommended a verdict of "Found Dead" in the river Torridge, in the Westleigh parish, there being no evidence to show how the deceased got into the water. - The Jury agreed, and expressed their sympathy with the relatives. They gave their fees to the mother. - The Foreman thought it was a pity that a protection of some sort could not be placed at the spot where the child fell into the stream, as it seemed to be a rather dangerous place. - The Coroner thought once they started such a precedent, protection would have to be provided in case of every stream and similar place.

Western Times, Saturday 24 November 1917
EXETER - Aged Widow's Death At Exeter. Aversion To Doctors. - The Exeter City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at 21 Culverland-road, Exeter, yesterday, on MRS ELIZABETH LEE, aged 83, who had lived there alone since the death of her husband 5 ½ years ago, and who apparently had an aversion to doctors. A neighbour, Mrs Elizabeth Martin, who had known deceased many years, said on Wednesday deceased did some work in the house, but was sick. At 11 p.m., when witness saw her, she refused to have a doctor. On Thursday morning witness found her dead. Dr Pereira considered that deceased had an acute bilious attack and flatulence caused heart failure. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Times, Friday 30 November 1917
TRUSHAM - Trusham Tragedy. Wife Finds Her Husband In A Pool Of Blood And His Throat Cut. - Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, conducted an Inquiry in the Trusham Schoolroom into the circumstances attending the death of HUMPHRY CAUSLEY, who was found with his throat cut in his house. - EMMA CAUSLEY, living at Ball's Cottage, Trusham, identified the body as that of her husband, who was 58 years of age. Deceased was formerly employed in Devonport Dockyard, but retired through ill-health. He had been depressed for years and had said he had nothing to live for, and should do something to himself. On Monday morning he got up about 7.45, but finding deceased did not bring up the usual cup of tea witness went downstairs and found him lying in blood on the floor. She rushed for assistance, and medical help was sent for. Witness thought the depression was caused through not having a pension. - Frank Nixon, postman at Chudleigh, said he was called to the house about 9 o'clock, and found deceased lying on the floor. On picking him up he saw a razor on the window sill close by. There was a lot of blood on the floor and deceased was also covered with it. With assistance he bandaged the neck of deceased with a cloth. - Dr H. B. Walters, of Chudleigh, said when he arrived at the house he found deceased sitting in a chair, and was in a state of collapse. There was a very large wound of about five inches in the middle of the upper part of the throat, but not severing the main artery. Deceased had lost a considerable quantity of blood and it was utterly impossible to do anything for him. He expired shortly after. Witness had treated deceased for a bad leg during the past month, who always seemed in a state of depression, which would unhinge his mind. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

Western Times, Saturday 1 December 1917
ILFRACOMBE - At an Inquest held by Dr Ellis Parson at the Tyrrell Cottage Hospital, Ilfracombe, yesterday, on MISS MARY ANN SHEPPERD, aged 66, who died suddenly the previous day, the medical evidence went to show that death was due to suffocation and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Times, Saturday 8 December 1917
TORQUAY - An Inquest was held by Mr Sidney Hacker at the Old Town Hall, Torquay, yesterday, on WILLIAM WHEELER, retired butler, an old-age pensioner, who died at the Torbay Hospital on Wednesday night following a fall down the stairs of the house at which he was lodging. Dr Bennett, House Surgeon, stated that death was due to apoplexy and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Monday 10 December 1917
CULLOMPTON - Avoided Air Raids Only To Meet With His Death At Cullompton. - Mr G. H. Stephens, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Moorhayes Farm, Cullompton, on Saturday, on WILLIAM BLACKMORE SALTER, 77, a retired licensed victualler, who came from Margate to be away from the air raid vicinity to reside with his son, MR A. W. SALTER. The evidence showed that on December 5th deceased drove alone to Cullompton in a governess car. Sidney John Howe was driving a pony cart up the hill from Cullompton Station, and just before arriving at the junction of the road leading from, High-street, to Higher-street, he saw deceased coming on the right side of the road, but he afterwards made to the left. There were two sheep in the road which Howe tried to avoid. Deceased attempted to pass and his car struck the right wheel of witness's cart. The car turned over and deceased was thrown out, being picked up bleeding from the head. - Dr Alleyne said deceased sustained injuries to his forehead and nose and witness considered the blow caused laceration and haemorrhage of the brain. - The Jury returned a verdict that deceased was Accidentally Killed as a result of a fall from his car, and attached no blame to Howe. They added a rider that notices should be exhibited calling attention to the narrow road, and advising drivers to go slowly. - Supt. Joslin promised to convey the recommendation to the Parish Council.

Western Times, Tuesday 11 December 1917
EXETER - Fall From Bed At Exeter. - At an Inquest held at the Exeter Court House last evening, relative to the death of J. CLEMENT MARTIN, aged 71, formerly foreman packer on the G.W.R., of Taddyforde-road, St David's, evidence was given by his son-in-law (P.C. Norton) to the effect that a week ago deceased fell out of bed and although he was under medical care he died on Friday last. EVA MARTIN, daughter, said she found her father lying in an unconscious condition on the floor of his bedroom. He was not able to explain how the fall occurred. Dr Pereira, who had attended the deceased during the past four years, said he was called on Friday week last. Deceased never explained the circumstances of his fall. He had suffered a good deal from rheumatism and asthma. Death was due to heart failure, the result of chronic bronchitis, accelerated by the fall. Verdict: "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Wednesday 12 December 1917
EXETER - An Inquest was held at 11 Union-road, Exeter, yesterday, respecting the death of MRS MARTHA J. PEARN, aged 53, wife of MR E. J. PEARN, who died on Sunday afternoon, following a heart attack. MR PEARN told the Jury that deceased broke a blood vessel some time ago, and had suffered periodically since. Last Sunday, however, she was quite well until that afternoon, when he found her leaning against the mantleshelf. She simply said, "I am not well," and fell into his arms, dying almost immediately. Dr Bradford said that death was due to heart failure. He attended deceased for a week heart twelve months ago. "Natural Causes" was the verdict, the Jury sympathising with MR PEARN.

Western Times, Friday 14 December 1917
CHAGFORD - At an Inquest at Rushford Cottage, on Monday, touching the death of MRS MARY HANNAFORD, aged 75, wife of MR JOHN HANNAFORD, a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Times, Monday 17 December 1917
DAWLISH - Mr Sidney Hacker, the County Coroner, held an Inquest at Dawlish on Saturday to Enquire into the death of MARY GOODE GAINS, a spinster, aged 65 years, which took place at Clarendon House on Friday last. Mr H. C. Coleman, senr., was chosen Foreman of the Jury. Dr M. Cutcliffe stated that the deceased, who was a cripple, met with an accident on November 20th by falling in her bedroom, fracturing her thigh. Ever since that date she made no progress towards recovery. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony, adding that deceased died from shock, accelerated by the accident.

Western Times, Tuesday 18 December 1917
TORQUAY - An Inquest was held at Torquay yesterday afternoon with reference to the death of MRS ELLIOTT, aged 60, of St Margaret's-road, St. Marychurch, who died at the Torquay Hospital. She was admitted suffering from a broken thigh, received in a fall.

Western Times, Monday 24 December 1917
EXETER - Found Drowned. Death Of Well-Known Exonian. - An Inquest was held by Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, at the Exeter Court House, on Saturday, into the death of CHARLES ARMITAGE BROWN, aged 73, partner of the firm of Huxham and Brown, tanners' engineers, of Commercial-road, who was found drowned in the mill-leat near his offices. Mr M. J. McGahey attended on behalf of the family. - Daniel Bastin, manager at Messrs. Huxham and Brown's, identified the body. Witness saw the deceased at the office about six o'clock on Thursday evening. For an hour previously deceased had transacted business in the usual way, and was apparently all right. On leaving at 6 p.m., he wished witness "good night" and proceeded up Commercial-road towards Exe Bridge. There was a fog and witness could not see far, but he heard deceased's voice as if he stopped and talked to somebody. Among the letters which deceased asked witness to post on Thursday evening was a letter to his brother written in pencil. In Edmund-street there was by the side of the leat a parapet about two feet high and anyone turning into Edmund-street sharply might in a foggy night, fall over the parapet into the leat. Witness had never heard deceased threaten to take his life. - Fredk. T. Jarrett, foreman at the Barytes Mills, Commercial-road, stated that the body of the deceased was found in the grating on Thursday evening. It had not been there more than ten minutes. Witness did not think that a man would fall over the parapet of the leat in Edmund-street unless he was intoxicated. Near the Bishop Blaize Inn there was a spot where a person might walk into the leat, and get caught in the fenders. The current of the water was strong and would carry a body down. In answer to a Juryman, witness said he wished to make it clear that in his remark about the parapet he had no intention to infer that the deceased was not sober. - Evidence was also given by a carter named Passmore, employed at the Cricklepit Mills, and Dr Pereira, the last named of whom attributed death to drowning. - Mr M. J. McGahey said on Thursday afternoon he met deceased in High-street and had a short chat with him. Deceased was cheerful and happy and absolutely sober. On Friday on hearing of the tragedy, witness at once went to Budleigh Salterton to advise his brother who, he learnt, was expecting the arrival of the deceased, inasmuch as he had sent a note intimating that he was coming down. The brother had broken up the note and thrown it into the waste paper basket. Witness, however, pieced it together and found that it was a cheerful, happy letter, deceased intimating his intention of going to Budleigh Salterton by the 12.45 p.m. train. Deceased had had no worries. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Western Times, Wednesday 26 December 1917
OKEHAMPTON - Mr H. C. Brown held an Inquest on Monday night in the Okehampton Town Hall to Enquire into the death of MRS JANE PEDRICK, wife of FRANCIS PEDRICK, labourer, aged 68 years. It appeared that deceased went into the yard to hang up a coat, when she slipped and fell, striking her forehead and left eye. Her son, ALFRED PEDRICK, stated that he saw his mother go into the yard, and when she came in she said she had fallen. He saw that she had a scratch and bruise on her eye. A doctor was sent for, but both the medical men of the town happened to be away. Dr Burd came to see deceased about 2 p.m. He said when he arrived he found deceased on a bed in the kitchen. He found marks on her forehead and her eye was blackened. She seemed unconscious. He saw her again in the evening. He thought when she fell on her forehead the blow caused pressure to the brain, which brought on haemorrhage. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death, through the Fall."

Western Times, Friday 28 December 1917
TORQUAY - An Inquest was held at Torquay, Wednesday, regarding the death of THOMAS DOWN, aged 72 years, who for nearly 40 years was the manager of Messrs. Iredale's second-hand book department. Deceased, who resided in Coburg-place, was found dead on the floor by Mr John Roberts. Dr Bennett stated that heart disease was the cause of death and a verdict was returned to this effect.

TIVERTON - Sad Tiverton Tragedy. Child Upsets A Saucepan And Dies As A Result Of Scalds. - Mr Clutsom, Borough Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Tiverton Hospital last evening respecting the death of FREDERICK JOHN MORRELL, aged 2 ¼ years, who died on Monday as the result of scalds. - BESSIE MORRELL, wife of CHARLES MORRELL, a soldier on active service, said that last Sunday, about quarter to five in the evening, she was filling a lamp and her little boy was then playing in the kitchen with other children. All of a sudden she heard a scream, and on looking round saw the little boy on the ground and a saucepan, which a moment before was boiling on a gas stove, was overturned and the water had gone all over him. She thought he must have got on a chair and upset the saucepan. He could not reach the saucepan else. She sent immediately for medical assistance. CHARLES MORRELL, a brother of deceased, also gave evidence. - Dr Welsford, who attended, said he found deceased badly scalded over the face and chest. As the scalds were very bad he ordered removal to the Hospital where the child died the next morning from shock following the scalds. - In summing up the Coroner said he did not think there was negligence, but he thought it was a danger to keep a chair near the gas stove. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

EXETER - Crediton Fatality. Exeter Inquest On A Man Who Died From The Effects Of a Fall. - The Exeter Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital last evening, touching the death of JOHN COURTNEY, of Mill-street, Crediton, who died at the Institution the previous day as the result of injuries sustained at Crediton on the 15th inst. - Mr C. R. Doddridge, solicitor, appeared on behalf of Mr W. H. Copp, merchant, of Crediton, deceased's employer. - SUSAN COURTNEY, the widow, said her husband was 57 years of age, and was a miller's carter. In a conversation she had with him at the Hospital, he told her he was taking some empty sacks up a ladder at the Ship Hotel yard at Crediton when an accident happened. The ladder slipped and he fell with it. He added that the ostler at the Hotel had just before carried up some full sacks and he held the ladder the while. - William Boundy, farmer of Cheriton Bishop, stated that on the 15th inst. he was in the Ship Hotel Yard and saw the ostler, Davey, carry some grain up a ladder to the loft, deceased holding the ladder. After the ostler got into the loft, deceased ascended the ladder and when a few rungs up the ladder slipped. Deceased fell in a peculiar manner, and seemed to pitching a sitting posture. He then rolled over and his head came in contact with the ground, though not apparently heavily. Witness expected to see the man get up, but he did not and witness went to his assistance and raised his head. Drs. Ross and Campbell were called and they ordered the man's removal to the Hospital. There was nothing wrong with the ladder and witness himself should not have hesitated to ascend it as deceased attempted to do. - Detective Walters, the Coroner's Officer, explained that the ladder was an ordinary one. Steps were kept by the loft wall for the purpose of taking goods up, but apparently the men did not take the trouble to unchain it. The ostler, Davey, had since the accident been called up with the Colours. - Mr E. J. Domville, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said the injuries consisted of a fracture of the left thigh and a compound fracture of the skull. The man was dazed, but not wholly unconscious for some days. He would not take food and had to be fed with a teaspoon. On Christmas Eve he had an epileptic fit and another the following evening. Witness performed an operation and lifted a bone which was pressing on the brain. This brought relief for the time, but next morning deceased again became unconscious and died at 10.30. - The Jury found a verdict of "Accidental Death," and said no blame attached to anyone. They expressed sincere sympathy with the widow, an expression in which he employer, through Mr Doddridge, joined.

Western Times, Monday 31 December 1917
BRAUNTON - Braunton Sensation. Man Charged With Murder Of His Wife. Inquest And Verdict. - A terrible tragedy was reported from Braunton, North Devon, on Saturday, the victim being a young married woman named OLIVE MAY LAKE, whose husband, ALBERT WILLIAM LAKE, the son of respected trades-people of Braunton, has been apprehended on a charge of wilful murder. Quite a sensation was created not only in the village, but in Bideford, where the parents of the deceased woman reside, and in other parts of the district when the news became known. - The details form a distressing story. The tragedy occurred at No. 9 Arlington Terrace, one of a row of small artisan dwellings not far from the centre of Braunton, where LAKE and his wife had resided for some time past. LAKE, aged about 29, was formerly a baker in the employ of his father, who carried on business in the village, but for the past eighteen months or so he has been on munition work in South Wales. He returned home just over a week ago on account of ill-health. - About 3.30 a.m. Saturday, Mr Thomas Watts, a sailor, and his wife, who live next door to the LAKES, heard knocking. Watts went to the window to see whether it was his skipper, from whom he was expecting a call to go to work early. Seeing nothing and hearing no further disturbance he went back to bed. He got up again about a quarter to five and went downstairs. LAKE looked out of his bedroom window and spoke to Mrs Watts, who had also come downstairs. She remarked to him how early he was dressing. Subsequently whilst in their kitchen Mr and Mrs Watts saw LAKE appear attired only in his shirt. He entered the kitchen as he had done on two previous occasions and Mr Watts appealed to him to go back into his own house. Mrs Watts asked LAKE how his wife was and he is stated to have replied that she was a bit better than she had been, but in consequence of a further remark he made, Mr and Mrs Watts became alarmed, especially regarding the safety of their fifteen year old daughter, Jessie, who was sleeping in the LAKE'S house with their little child aged three. - They went next door and in response to their calls their daughter came down and let them in, LAKE having in the meantime gone indoors. Mr Watts obtained a candle and on rushing upstairs found LAKE in bed with his wife, who was apparently dead, beside him. He immediately called medical and police assistance. Dr Wright and P.S. Robinson were quickly on the spot, together with several neighbours. Artificial respiration was tried on MRS LAKE, but without effect. Both LAKE'S child and Watts' daughter, who had been sleeping in a room adjoining that in which the tragedy occurred, were safe. From appearances MRS LAKE had died from strangulation and marks on the wall and other evidence suggest that she made a desperate struggle for her life. - LAKE, as previously stated, has for a long time past been working on munitions in South Wales, and about a week before Christmas, in response to a wire and a letter, his wife went to Swansea and brought him away. He had broken down in health and had been ordered by a medical man there to take a rest. On his arrival home he was treated by his local doctor and it was thought that with a rest he would soon pull round again. His condition was such that MRS LAKE did not like being alone in the house with him and on two or three occasions she and her husband and child had slept at Watts' house. Last night Watts' daughter Jessie went in to sleep with LAKE'S little child for company. LAKE and his wife had been married about four years and only had the one child. The deceased, who was about 27 years of age, was the daughter of MR and MRS SYMONS, of Summer-hill, Bideford, in which town she was well-known. - LAKE was brought to Barnstaple and appeared before Mr F. W. Hunt at 11 o'clock. Asked if his name was ALBERT WILLIAM LAKE, the prisoner after considerable hesitation, replied that it was. He looked strange. - Supt. Hulland said at 7 o'clock that morning, in response to a telephone message, he went to Braunton and at No. 9 Arlington-terrace, saw OLIVE MAY LAKE, wife of the prisoner, lying dead in bed, evidently as the result of injuries. Witness saw prisoner in an adjoining room in bed. Half an hour later the man was charged by P.S Robinson, in witness's presence, with the Wilful Murder of his wife. He was cautioned and made no reply. - The Superintendent asked for and was granted a remand for a week, in order that LAKE might be put under medical observation, and report submitted to the Justices as to his mental condition. - The Inquest. Verdict Of Wilful Murder Against The Husband. - The Inquest was conducted by Dr Ellis Pearson, Deputy Coroner for North Devon, at the Liberal Club, Braunton, on Saturday. Mr A. E. Hopper, solicitor, of Barnstaple, appeared to represent the accused and his relatives. Accused was present, but was silent and apparently unconcerned throughout the hearing. Supt. Hulland was for the Police. Mr T. Yeo, J.P.,C.C., was Foreman of the Jury. - Evidence of identification was given by deceased's father, CHARLES WILLIAM SYMONS, who said his daughter would have been 29 years of age next Saturday. He last saw her alive at her house on Thursday evening, about 6.5 p.m., when she was in her usual health. She had not been strong from childhood. Her husband and little child were present at the time. - Thomas Watts, a seafaring man, living next door to the LAKE'S at Arlington-terrace, said he knew the family fairly well. On Saturday morning he heard a knocking sound about 3.30 or 3.45 and went to the front window to see if it were his skipper, whom he was expecting to call him. He also went to the back window, but not seeing or hearing anyone, he went back to bed again. Witness got up about twenty to five and went downstairs with his wife, he having to go to his vessel at five o'clock. They had only been downstairs about ten minutes when LAKE came in through the back door into the kitchen with only his shirt on. Witness said, "Look here, BERT, I am not going to have this nonsense; you clear out, if not I will make you." LAKE asked which way he should go out and witness told him to make haste back over the wall and assisted him. In consequence of something witness's wife heard LAKE say, they went out and called to their daughter, who was sleeping at LAKE'S house and she eventually came down and let them in. His wife got a candle and they went upstairs. Witness went into the bedroom and there he saw LAKE in bed in a sitting position beside his wife. He said to LAKE, "BERT, what have you done?" having noticed blood on her face, but LAKE made no answer. Witness then summoned the Police and a doctor. He could not say whether MRS LAKE was dead, but she had every appearance of being so. Whilst witness was fetching the doctor LAKE was left in the house, his (witness's) wife remaining outside. When he got back he found Mr Williams there, and between them they got LAKE out of the room where his wife was into an adjoining one. They found him by the side of the bed. Deceased, witness believed, was in the same position in the bed as when witness first saw her. Having told LAKE to go to bed, witness went into the other room, put his hand on MRS LAKE, whose body was warm, and on some brandy being brought, he put a little on her lips. She, however, did not swallow it, and in witness's opinion life was extinct. P.S. Robinson then arrived, followed by Dr Wright. - Replying to questions, witness said he did not see LAKE on Friday evening, but did so on Thursday night. He looked all right for a minute or two, then started staring at him, and then altered his countenance. Witness always thought there was something the matter with him. Witness went on to further explain that at midnight on Boxing Day he had to get out of bed because MRS LAKE was banging at the door. MRS LAKE said to him, "Oh, Mr Watts, I am afraid of BERT." Witness said that she could sleep in his daughter's room and that LAKE could stay in his own house, which was done. Before retiring, witness removed LAKE'S little child into his house, in response to the mother's request. - In answer to Supt. Hulland, witness said that on Boxing night both LAKE and his wife appeared at his front door in their night attire. - Replying to the Foreman, witness further said that on Saturday morning LAKE appeared at his back door, after having scaled the garden wall, which was about 4ft. in height. - By the Superintendent: Thursday morning, the 27th, was the first time LAKE had walked into his kitchen in his night attire, his wife being then in witness's house. - A Juryman elicited that LAKE had the same staring look on Saturday morning as previously. Witness should not think that he was drunk. - By Mr Hopper: Witness believed LAKE returned from Wales the week before Christmas and was told they had said there that there was something wrong with him. He had some funny ways. When witness returned to the house after fetching the Police that morning, Mr Williams called out for help, and on going into the room, witness found accused and Williams struggling, because, as LAKE said, he wanted to go in and see his wife. Witness removed the child from the room where LAKE was, and after a time he got a bit quieter, but they had to tie him up. - Mrs Watts, wife of the last witness, bore out her husband's evidence in some detail and added that when she went downstairs that morning about 4.30 she heard MR LAKE'S bedroom window open as she went out to take down the clothes. She remarked, "You are up early MR LAKE, tell your wife the clothes is dry," accused replying "All right." Witness then asked, "How is your wife?" and LAKE replied, "She has not been very well, but she is better now." Witness went indoors, and shortly afterwards LAKE appeared in the kitchen in his night attire, looking about without saying anything. LAKE afterwards repeated his statement that his wife was better, adding, "I have not murdered her." Witness told him to go indoors and she and her husband went to see to their daughter's safety. - By Supt. Hulland: On Boxing night, between 11 and 12 o'clock, they heard screaming and MRS LAKE, coming to the house, said, "Oh, Mrs Watts, I cannot stay with him, he has tried to catch hold of me by the throat." In consequence , they allowed her to stay in their house that night, while she also remained the following night, saying she was afraid to sleep in her own house again. Accused also came with his wife that night and slept there. - Mr Hopper produced a certificate from Dr H. G. Rawlings of Llwyn Eithen, Swansea, stating that LAKE was suffering from mental trouble, that he was not fit to do any work for some time, and that he recommended him to go to his home for a long change. A telegram from LAKE'S landlady in Swansea asked the wife to come at once to take her husband home. Witness understood that LAKE was wrong in his head. - By the Foreman: On December 26th LAKE said he had overworked himself and the "morphine" had gone to his head. - Dr F. L. Wright, of Braunton, stated that when called to Arlington-terrace that morning he formed the opinion that MRS LAKE had been dead for an hour, perhaps two. The body was warm, but the fingers were cold. There were several bruises and scratches on the neck; on the right side of the neck there were ordinary bruises and on the middle of the left side three marks which looked like thumb-nail marks. On the upper part of the neck there was one slight laceration right across the middle, but this was not much more than a scratch. There were bruises on the lips, with small cuts, and blood was running from the nose. There was bruising of the left eyelid; the fingers of the right hand bore several bruises and cuts, while there were bruises on the chest, over each breast. There were no bones broken, and there was nothing wrong with any organ. There was a little haemorrhage on the surface of the lung, which was an old adhesion. He did not think he could say definitely what was the cause of death, but in his opinion it was due to asphyxia. - The Coroner: Would the marks on the neck be sufficient to account for this? - A: It is possible; there was a good deal of bruising, and there must have been very tight fingers. - Q.: Were there any signs of a struggle? - Yes; I do not think MR and MRS LAKE had been out of bed, as no carpets or mats had been moved. On the wall nearest the side where MRS LAKE slept there was blood smeared and several handmarks. The bed was close to the wall. - By Supt. Hulland: Witness rather fancied that the blood smears on the wall were from deceased's face. The fingers were much bruised, but they did not seem as if they had been bleeding much. - A Juror: Is it out of order to ask the doctor what LAKE was like when he saw him this morning? - The Coroner: Yes; I do not think we can ask him. - P.C. Palmer said that in the lock-up at Barnstaple that morning LAKE said to him, "How came I here?" witness replying "You have been brought here." LAKE then said, "I should not have been here, but |I have killed my wife. I have strangled her and I went for the kid too." - The Coroner, briefly summing up, did not think the Jury would have any difficulty in coming to the conclusion that MRS LAKE met her death by asphyxia, having been strangled by her husband. He suggested that the only verdict could be one of wilful murder against ALBERT WILLIAM LAKE. - The Foreman: Can we qualify the verdict at all by confining it to simple strangulation" ? The Coroner: You can qualify it in any way you like, so long as you do not bring in anything about LAKE'S condition. You are not here to judge as to his condition, but simply the cause of death of the deceased. - The Jury, without retiring, returned a verdict of "Wilful Murder." - The Jury gave their fees to the North Devon Infirmary.