Inquests Taken Into Suspicious Or Unexplained Deaths

For the County of Devon

Articles taken from the Exeter and Plymouth Gazette

[printed in Exeter.]

1827 - 1830

Transcribed by Lindsey Withers

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.

[Numbers in brackets indicate the number of times that name occurs.]

Names Included: Ackland(2); Acland; Andrews; Auld; Badcock; Ballman; Bartlett; Blackler; Bolt; Bond; Bowditch; Bradley; Bray; Brayley; Bricknell; Briggs; Bright; Broadbear; Brook; Bury; Channing; Chapel; Coggen; Cole(3); Colley; Collins(2); Cousins; Crapp; Curry; Curwood; Davey; Denbow; Dingle; Dinham; Dodd; Dustin; Ellis; Endicott; Fareweather; Ferguson; Foster; Fowell; Fowler; French; Gallop; Garnsey; Gill; Glass; Glover; Gould; Grant; Gregory; Griffey; Harcombe; Harris(2); Hawkins; Hayman; Hayne; Hendicott; Hepple; Hodge(3); Holman; Hosking; Howard; Howe; Hurford; Huxtable; Ireland; Jeanes; Jennings; Joce; Johns(2); Johnson; Kibbel; Kinnard; Kittlewell; Lake; Leat; Ley; Lindsay; Lipscombe; Lock(2); Long; Madge; Manley; Mare; Marshall; Martin; Matthews; May; Maybe; Mayo; Merchant; Mitchell; Mogford; Moore; Neal; Newland; Newton; Nicholls; Odam; Odgers; Parkhouse; Pascoe; Pearce; Philip; Phillips(2); Pike; Pincombe; Pollard; Ponsford; Ridley; Rogers; Rundle; Salter; Scoines; Searle(2); Seaward; Selley; Shapland(2); Sheppard; Skinner; Smallridge; Smith; Snell; Squire; Stafford; Street; Strong; Sweetland; Sydenham; Tanner; Thorn; Thorne; Treble; Tucker(2); Tytherley; Vicary; Watts; Webber; Wellington; West; Westcombe; Westcott.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 27 January 1827
EXETER - Dreadful Accident At The Theatre. - On Monday afternoon, as MR AULD (whose appearance as Harlequin in the new pantomime, intended to be brought out on that evening, had been announced) was about to enter the theatre by the pit stairs, he unfortunately fell from the top to the bottom, by which he received an internal injury of the head. Immediate assistance being procured, MR AULD was carried to the green-room and Mr Harris, Mr Tucker and Mr Delagarde, surgeons, most promptly attended. On examination, no wound of the head could be discovered; but from the state of insensibility, accompanied with the issuing of blood and brain from the right ear, it was their unanimous opinion that a fracture of the base of the skull had taken place, and that MR AULD was in most imminent danger, which was accordingly communicated to Mr Bennett, the proprietor of the theatre, to enable him to make what arrangements he might think proper for the evening's performance. MR AULD was subsequently conveyed to his lodgings in Longbrook-street, where he died on the following morning, having remained in a state of total insensibility from the time of the accident. - To account for the accident, some degree of uncertainty exists, and must still remain, as permission to open the head could not be obtained, though earnestly requested by the Surgeons who were called in. It is supposed that the head was not the part which first struck the ground; and we are told by a medical gentleman, that an injury of a similar description might be produced by the effects of a counter-blow, by pitching suddenly on the feet or the breech, and thus propelling the spine into the brain, by breaking through the under part of the skull. - Coroner's Inquest. - On Tuesday an Inquest was held on the body, at the Black Horse Inn, before S. Walkey, Esq., when the following facts were stated in evidence: - George Libby, tailor and dresser at the theatre, deposed that at half-past four on Monday afternoon, he was desired by an attendant to go to the pit stairs, as a person had fallen either from intoxication or accident; witness found MR AULD lying at the foot of the stairs, and in a profuse perspiration; witness spoke to him, but received no answer; witness suspected that his neck was dislocated and endeavoured to draw his head up, when he heard a grating noise and blood issued from his ears; while thus engaged, witness heard Mr Taylor and Mr Bradley (who had come from London with the deceased to perform in the pantomime), calling MR AULD, and witness replied that MR. A. had received a serious injury; they came to his assistance, and the deceased was carried to the green-room, where surgical aid was afforded him; the blood was then flowing from his ears more copiously and a portion of the brain protruded; he did not speak from the time that witness found him in the state described, nor did he exhibit the least sign of consciousness, except raising his arms once while the Surgeons was probing his ear. - Mr Wm. Taylor (generally designated as Signor Tayleau, the celebrated clown) stated, that on Monday afternoon he went to the theatre in company with the deceased and Mr Bradley; they were all perfectly sober; deceased was about ten paces behind; Mr Bradley and witness went on the stage and finding that MR AULD did not come, he called him several times, upon which they were informed of the accident; witness considered, that in entering the theatre quickly to overtake his companions, he had overwalked himself, not being aware of the proximity of the stairs to the entrance door. - The Coroner observed, that although no one had seen the deceased fall, he thought, after the evidence they had heard, there could be no doubt as to the cause of death. As there were no external marks of violence, he would endeavour to explain to the Jury the nature of the probable severe internal injury by which the deceased received his death. Having given this explanation, illustrating it by plates representing the formation of the skull, the brain, &c., he concluded by stating his opinion, that the shock had been sufficient to occasion not only fracture of the processes on the side of the neck, but a protrusion of the vertebrae into the brain of the skull, causing considerable disarrangement and consequent injury of the brain. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and requested the Coroner would represent to the Manager of the Theatre their unanimous opinion that during the season of performance the entrance to the pit should be kept lighted as well by day as in the evening. - On account of the singular nature of the injury which occasioned the death of MR AULD, the Coroner communicated a request from the medical gentlemen who had attended the deceased, to have his head opened, for the purpose of examination. Mr Bradley and Mr Taylor promised to consult Mr West (who we understand is a proprietor of Astley's, and resided at Topsham), and convey his answer to the Coroner on the following morning. We understand that the friends of the deceased, on being consulted, have declined having the examination made. - Although there could be no doubt that the death of MR AULD was purely accidental, we think the Jury should not have given their verdict without demanding the opening of the injured part; for surely too much caution cannot be exercised in cases where there exists a difficulty of ascertaining the nature of a fatal injury; and it might hereafter prove beneficial to society to possess the precedent of a Jury having exercised a right to which they are legally entitled. We have heard that this is the first instance which has ever come under the notice of the medical gentlemen of Exeter of the brain obtruding through the ear without external fracture. - MR AULD was a native of London, and attained his 36th year on the 18th instant; he was married, but had no children; his wife is at present in infirm health in Exeter, having ruptured a blood vessel of the head; and it is rather remarkable that his father died suddenly three days before the party left London.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 3 February 1827
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held on Monday last by R. J. Squire, Esq., Coroner, on the body of BENJAMIN DENBOW, a dairyman, who was found dead in one of the slips at Catdown on Sunday morning. There was a cut on his forehead, and another on his hand. He had been drinking with four other men the night before, at the George and Dragon public-house, in Exeter-street, and subsequently passed through Fannings Gate on the Exeter New Road, in a state of intoxication. Verdict - Found Dead.

PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held on Monday on the body of ROB. PHILIP, a youth 15 years of age (apprentice to a bricklayer) who died on Monday morning, in consequence of excessive drinking. It appeared that the deceased was in company with four other lads (the eldest of whom was under 18, and the youngest about 14) on the evening before, at a public house called the Currier's Arms, and that they drank amongst them, in the course of the evening, two quarts of ale, two noggins of whisky, half a pint of rum, half a pint of rum and shrub mixed, and lastly, several quarts of ale. - Verdict, Died of Excessive Drinking.

EXETER - On Saturday last an Inquest was held at the Dolphin Inn, in this City, before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of MR THOMAS BURY, sen., who was found hanging by a rope from an iron staple, in one of his lofts, situated in Second Back Lane. The deceased who had been missing ever since the preceding morning, is supposed to have committed the rash act 16 hours before the discovery took place. From the evidence of Mr Berry, builder, it appeared, that the deceased had, for several years, been labouring under embarrassed circumstances, having twice failed in trade; and that at the moment previous to his decease, he was under an arrest from a Gentleman named Fox. He had of late drank freely and on Friday morning, as early as eight o'clock, he went to the Mermaid public house, and drank half-a-pint of cider, which he was observed to do in great agitation of mind; from hence it is conjectured he immediately went to the place where he was found. The Jury, after hearing other evidence, returned a verdict of Insanity.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 10 February 1827
MESHAW - An Inquest was held on Monday last, by T. Copner, Esq., at Meshaw, on the body of WILLIAM MARE, the sexton of the parish, who (while tolling the bell for an aged woman who had died), dropt down dead in the belfry. Verdict - Died by the Visitation Of God.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 24 March 1827
ASHBURY - Atrocious Murders In The North Of Devon. - Two persons were murdered on Monday night on a common called Wadland-down, in the parish of Ashbury, under circumstances of peculiar atrocity. MRS GLASS, who occupies a farm in that parish, left her home on a visit to some part of her family at a short distance, and on her return, was to have been met by EDWARD GLASS, her grandson, and SARAH GLASS, her daughter; on entering the down, something near the road caused the horse to start, which the animal was not in the habit of doing, and this circumstance naturally excited her observation, though it did not create any apprehension in her mind as to the real cause. Not meeting them, she concluded that they had been prevented by some unforeseen circumstance from their usual exercise of affectionate solicitude; but on arriving at her house she was alarmed at finding they had sent out for that purpose; that alarm however, was considerably abated in the supposition that having missed MRS GLASS they had gone on to North Lew, where the brother of the deceased lived; and the absence of Thomas Friend, a man-servant, who resided in the house was thought to have been occasioned by his going to a neighbouring farmer to demand some money owing him. This man had tendered his addresses to MISS GLASS, by whom they had been invariably rejected. On the following morning MRS GLASS received the afflicting intelligence that her daughter and grandson had been found murdered on Wadland-down, (at the spot where her horse had started on the preceding evening,) their throats having been cut, apparently with a very sharp knife, and by a hand accustomed to the slaughter of animals; the bodies presented a horrid spectacle; the wound in the neck of SARAH GLASS was three inches in length and two in depth; the carotid artery and jugular vein being also divided; on her left hand there were also several dreadful wounds, probably caused by her attempts to ward off the weapon from the more vital parts; there was a similar wound on the throat of the boy, only that it was not so deep; on his hand was lying a handkerchief, cut in two, which circumstance is supposed to have been occasioned by the murderer having used the handkerchief to stop the boy's mouth, and in the attempt to release himself from it, the handkerchief had come in contact with the knife while inflicting the wound; the knife with which the dreadful deed was perpetrated was lying near the bodies, and there is strong suspicion that both the weapon and the handkerchief are the property of Thomas Friend. This man whom strong corroborative circumstances point out as the murderer, had been eleven years in the service of MRS GLASS, and had saved nearly three hundred pounds, the possession of which probably induced him to hope that his suit would not be rejected by MISS GLASS; and there is reason to fear that the constancy with which she had resisted his approaches instigated him to an act of diabolical revenge, by putting her to death, and that he murdered the boy lest his knowledge of the dreadful transaction should lead to his conviction. The fact of Friend's having made overtures to MISS GLASS was but little known, and therefore but slightly alluded to before the Coroner. MISS GLASS was a handsome young woman about 29 years of age; and her character and demeanour had always been most exemplary; the boy, was a fine youth of 14. The Inquest. - On Tuesday morning the Coroner for the district, Francis Kingdon, Esq., held an Inquest on the bodies of the deceased, when the following witnesses were examined: - E. Tucker, of Ashbury, deposed that on the morning of the 20th March, about 7 o'clock, as he was walking over his field of wheat he was alarmed by his servant Joseph Rook, saying he saw two persons lying murdered. Witness proceeded to the spot called Wadland Down, in Ashbury aforesaid, and examined their bodies, and found there SARAH GLASS, spinster and EDWARD GLASS, lying dead; there was a lantern and hat near the path; about 8 land-yards distant was some blood on the grass land, and about 2 land-yards and ½ from the blood lay a knife; - at 3 paces from her right hand wee a bonnet, cap and comb; there was a deep cut on the right side of the neck of the said SARAH GLASS; a handkerchief lay over the boy's left hand, cut in two places. [The Witness here produced the knife and handkerchief.] - Grace Pincombe, wife of A. Pincombe, of Beaworthy, labourer, deposed that she resides in a house adjoining that of MRS GLASS, for whom she worked daily; on the 19th inst. MRS GLASS had the following persons residing in her house either as inmates or labourers, viz. Thomas Friend, John Pincombe, William Brock, SARAH GLASS (her daughter), and EDWARD GLASS (her grandson). About 2 o'clock in the afternoon, witness went to North Coombe, in Bratton Clovelly, and after her return, about 7 o'clock, Thomas Friend came into the house, changed his clothes, took his supper with Wm. Pincombe, and then left the house, but made no observation where he was going; Abraham Pincombe, John Pincombe, SARAH GLASS and EDWARD GLASS (her nephew) then went to supper and about half-past seven the two latter went together, with a lantern, to meet MRS GLASS; witness verily believed that the knife now produced was the property of Thomas Friend, which he was accustomed to use in killing pigs; sometimes he kept the knife on the clock-case, and at other times under his box in his bed-room; witness had since searched for the knife, but could not find it; witness had heard the deceased, EDWARD GLASS, say t his aunt that he had told Thomas Friend they were going to meet MRS GLASS. - MRS SARAH GLASS (mother of the deceased SARAH GLASS and grandmother of the deceased EDWARD GLASS) stated that on Monday last the 19th instant, she went to South Yeo, in the parish of North Lew, where she remained until half past six in the evening; she then went to the house of another of her sons in North Lew town, where she stayed about half an hour; she then proceeded towards home, and arrived at Wadland-down about half past 9 o'clock; immediately on entering the down her horse started very much, which he was not accustomed to do; arrived home about 10, and enquired for her daughter and grandson, whom she had not met as she expected, they having been accustomed to go and meet her when she went to visit her friends; Thomas Friend, her servant, had absconded; he was seldom before absent from her house at night, and never in the day unless he was sent to some particular place; he had been in her service about eleven years; she had hemmed two handkerchiefs for him, of the pattern produced to her by Emanuel Tucker - witness sews with her left hand, and the hemming is like her work; some years since she bought a knife, which is exactly like the one now produced and it was always kept by Thomas Friend, as a butchering knife. - Abraham Pincombe, of Beaworthy, labourer, stated, that yesterday 919th) Thomas Friend ill-used EDWARD GLASS, by throwing dung in his face, and rubbing it with his hands over his face; witness told the deceased, SARAH GLASS, that there never would be any content between her and Thomas Friend, unless she would give her company to him, to which the deceased replied that she never would; Friend had a knife like the one now produced and witness verily believed it to be the same. - Mr John Fisher, of Hatherleigh, Surgeon, deposed that he and Mr James Day, Surgeon, examined the body of SARAH GLASS, the younger, deceased, then lying dead on Wadland Down; she had an incised wound of three inches in length and two in depth extending from the pomum adami to the right ear, dividing the carotid artery and jugular vein; the trachea was wholly divided and one half of the oesophagus exposing the cervical vertebrae; half an inch lower down on the neck, there was a transverse incision through the skin an inch and a half in length; she lay on her back, with her legs spread, but her person had not in other respects been violated. On the inside of the left hand at the joining of the fore finger with the palm, there was a transverse cut of an inch in length; the right finger of the same hand was cut through the joint, and a small piece of the top of the little finger of the right hand was cut off. The deceased, EDWARD GLASS, had exactly a similar wound, only that it did not penetrate so deep, the oesophagus not being penetrated; there was a bruise on the back of his head, as if from a fall; the knees of his trousers were very dirty; no other injury was to be perceived. - The Coroner commented in the evidence in a minute and perspicuous manner. The Jury returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against Thomas Friend, who had absconded and the Coroner issued a warrant for his apprehension. Apprehension Of The Accused. - Just as our Paper was going to Press, Thomas Friend, the murderer, was brought to this City, and delivered into the custody of the Governor of the County Gaol, for trial at the present Assizes. He had secreted himself in a furze-brake on MRS GLASS'S estate, ever since the murder, and on Thursday night he remained in an adjacent cow-house. Yesterday morning, at half-past six, when one of the servants went there to attend the cows, he surrendered, saying that he had intended to deliver himself up. He has made a full confession of the whole transaction; he says, that having awaited their arrival on the down, he caught MISS GLASS by the clothes and committed the horrid murder; while he was thus engaged the boy courageously attacked him with a stick, and the assassin having cut the throat of the young woman, immediately despatched the lad. He expresses great contrition, especially for the murder of the boy; he declares that he first meditated committing the crime on the very evening when he carried it into execution.

SHIRWELL - A shocking occurrence took place on Wednesday night at Southill, in the parish of Sherwell. A young man called BROOK, servant to Sir A. Chichester, had been spending the evening at a neighbouring farmer's house and together with a fellow servant, was returning home between 11 and 12 o'clock; when passing by the cottage of the gamekeeper, BROOK, by way of sport, made a noise to arouse his attention, and pretended to be stealing his dog; the keeper suddenly came out of his house, with a lanthorn and a loaded gun, and called out to BROOK, to speak, or he was a dead man; the poor fellow, little supposing he would put his threat into execution, did not answer his challenge, and the keeper discharged his piece at him, the contents of which passed through his head and he fell a corpse. We have not heard the result of the Coroner's Inquest.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 12 May 1827
EXETER - An Inquest was held yesterday se'nnight before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner for this City, on the body of MARY ANN POLLARD, an unmarried woman, who died after a few hours illness at her father's house in South-street. No satisfactory proof of the manner by which her death was occasioned having been afforded, an adjournment of the Inquest took place to Monday, when it appeared, on the evidence of several eminent professional gentlemen, that the deceased was in a state of pregnancy, and died from having taken arsenic. A verdict was returned accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 26 May 1827
PLYMOUTH - WILLIAM BRIGGS, engineer of the Government Steam Packet Meteor, cut his throat last week in a fit of despondency. He lingered until Sunday morning, when he expired. An Inquest was held on the body and a verdict of Insanity returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 7 July 1827
ROMANSLEIGH - An Inquisition was taken by T. Copner, Esq., Coroner, on Monday last, in the parish of Romansley, on the body of JOHN MOGFORD, son of a respectable farmer of the parish of Knowstone. The deceased, in company with several acquaintances, was galloping his horse on the high road on Sunday last, when the animal coming in contact with a bullock, threw the rider to the ground and falling on him, occasioned instant death. Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 21 July 1827
EXETER - An Inquest was held yesterday before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner for this City, on the body of JOHN GRANT, aged 67, who fell down dead near Colleton Crescent on Wednesday, on his return from milking his cows.

LUPPITT - A dreadful instance of unrestrained passion occurred on Monday at Luppit, in this county, to which a fine youth, between 16 and 17 years of age, the eldest son of MR BRADLEY, a respectable farmer of that parish, fell an early sacrifice. The deceased was assisting in a hay-field of Mr Rowsell, a neighbouring farmer, and was on the rick with a man named Board, receiving hay, for the purpose of making the stack, from two men named Joseph Rowland and John Davey. These persons continuing to throw up the hay faster than the others could spread it on the rick, the latter threw it down again, upon which Rowland flung his pitchfork at the deceased and Board, but missing them, he endeavoured to get possession of Davey's, to make another attempt; Board and Davey called out to prevent him; but Rowland wrested the pitchfork from Davey, saying "I'll be damn'd if I don't," and threw it with such force, that one of the prongs penetrated his body to the depth of between 6 and 7 inches, piercing the lungs and entering the left ventricle of the heart. On receiving the pick, the deceased cried out to Board, "Oh! Robin, Robin, I shall die, I shall die," he then pulled out the pick from his breast and instantly expired. It was thrown with such violence, that as it stuck in the breast of deceased, the handle of it swung round and struck Board a violent blow on his arm. On Board exclaiming to Row, and "you have stuck the pick in him, his reply was "It's a d....d lie, I han't to be sure." The pick which was a most terrific instrument, the handle being 13 feet long, was produced, at the Inquest held the next day before Isaac Cox, Esq., when a verdict of Wilful Murder was returned by the Jury and Rowland was immediately committed to the county goal on the Coroner's warrant. The deceased and Rowland had previously been upon good terms and the fatal act appears to have resulted from the sudden impulse of ungoverned rage.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 25 August 1827
AXMINSTER - An Inquest was lately held at Axminster by Mr Cox, on the body of an illegitimate child, of which a young woman, named MAYBE, aged 19, had delivered herself. The Jury after hearing the evidence, delivered the following verdict:- That the said MARY MAYBE, with the knowledge of her mother, delivered herself of a bastard child, which she, with the knowledge of her mother, kept concealed until the 10th of August, on which day it was discovered in so great a state of putrefaction, that it became impossible to ascertain its sex, whether it was born dead or alive, and if alive, whether its death was caused by violence or natural means That the conduct of the said MARY and her mother is highly censurable.

ILFRACOMBE - On Sunday last a party of young men and women, chiefly servants, of Barnstaple, having gone on a pleasure excursion to Ilfracombe, got into a boat there for a cruise. Having crossed the basin, they landed and walked for a while in the fields; when two of them, preferring to return on terra firma, the others, four of each sex, re-embarked, and in their passage went on board a brig, and drank grog; at length they put off for the quay and making the pier, as they were about to land, rushing all at once to the side of the boat, it upset and engulphed the whole in the waves. Prompt assistance was rendered by persons who witnessed the transaction from the Quay, particularly by a young man of the name of Marshall, by whose exertions two of the individuals were brought up in a state of extreme exhaustion, but ultimately restored; one unfortunate female, MARY COLLINS, after being in the water half an hour, was dragged up by the grappling irons, but life was extinct. An Inquest was held on the body the following day, when the Coroner very justly censured the practice of pursuing those pleasurable excursions on the sabbath day and particularly in the hours of divine service. Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 1 September 1827
SWIMBRIDGE - Determined Suicide. - On Tuesday last an Inquest was held at Swimbridge, on the body of JOHN SHAPLAND, an aged man, who terminated his existence in the following manner:- Three weeks ago, he attempted the fatal act by first lacerating his arm with a design to bleed himself to death and afterwards stabbing himself with a shoemaker's knife. Contrary to all human expectation, by the application of surgical aid those wounds were nearly healed, when in the absence of his attendants he inhumanly stripped off the dressings, and laid open his wounds afresh; failing to accomplish his purpose, he contrived to get a hammer, with which he violently beat and bruised his forehead, from the veins of which the blood flowed so copiously as to exhaust his little remaining strength, and terminated his life on Monday last. From the time he first attempted this act of self destruction, his mind appeared to have occupied wholly on his money, the sight of which afforded him the only gratification he was capable of receiving. - Verdict, Lunacy.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, 8 September 1827
SHUTE - An Inquest was held by Isaac Cox, Esq., on Monday se'nnight at Shute, on the body of STEPHEN GILL (uncle and only relative of the Rev. MR GILL, of Stockland) aged 74. He was lying at the bottom of the stairs of his dwelling-house where he lived alone, his head twisted so as to be looking into the room, jammed by his body between the stairs and the wall, presenting a horrible spectacle to the Jury. He was supposed to have fallen from the top to the bottom of the stairs; he had not been seen for several days.

BROADCLYST - Yesterday se'nnight Mr Cox, Esq., held an Inquest at Broadclist on the body of ELIZABETH NEWTON, widow, aged 81 years. Deceased had been living at Broadclist, with her son-in-law Richard Davey. On the preceding Saturday she rose between five and six o'clock in the morning and went into the house of William Maunder, a neighbour, for a stick of fire wood, which she suspected one of Maunder's children had taken away; and in a squabble which ensued, the poor old woman fell, and died on the following Thursday, of the injury she received. Mr Salter, surgeon, of Broadclist, stated that he was called in on the day after the deceased received the injury; found a contused wound over the forehead, one of her arms bruised and the skin gone - that he did not discover any fracture in the skull, nor any symptoms of concussion and he did not consider that death was occasioned by the injury the deceased received in the head. He added, he had seen her a few weeks before, when she was in a feeble state and he considered it possible, from her advanced age, that fright might have caused such an extraordinary degree of excitement as to occasion death, and he considered she died from natural causes, but that the fright occasioned by the fall, added to her debilitated state and advanced age, might have accelerated her death. - After a patient investigation, the Jury returned a special verdict to the effect of Mr Salter's evidence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 6 October 1827
EXETER - On Monday evening an Inquest was held at the Allhallows Inn, Bartholomew-street, on the body of CHARLOTTE HOWARD, aged 18, who was found in the river Exe on the morning of that day. Miss Evans, dress-maker of St. Martin's-street, was the first witness and stated that the deceased was her apprentice; she was a girl of weak mind, but never had any symptoms of insanity; she had lost both her parents and was placed under deponent's care by her guardians; deponent had seen her crying on some occasions and on asking the cause, deceased said she was thinking of her mother; on the night of Wednesday, the 28th ult. the deceased took her supper at a quarter past ten o'clock and deponent went upstairs, leaving her in the kitchen; soon after, on calling for deceased, no answer being returned, deponent went to the kitchen, and found that she had taken her bonnet and was gone out; the night was very stormy, but deceased took no shawl or umbrella; deponent sent several places to seek her and stayed up the whole night awaiting her return, but had not seen the deceased since that Wednesday night; she was never in the habit of going out without leave; during the whole day her conduct was the same as usual and no motive could be assigned by the witness for the deceased having committed suicide, supposing that to have been the case; the deceased had always been treated kindly; deponent never heard that she had attempted suicide a week or more ago; she had not been absent without leave and never came home with her clothes wet. [This question was asked the witness, in order to ascertain if there were any truth in a report that a young woman who was seen to walk into the river a fortnight ago, and was rescued by a milkman, was the deceased.] - A fisherman named Nosworthy, was the next witness; he stated that as he was engaged with his brother on Monday morning, drawing the sein for salmon, near Belle-isle marsh, between Trew's and St James's weirs, his brother called his attention to something in the rear of the net; deponent pushed off his boat to about the centre of the river, and saw the long hair of a female floating in the water; he immediately, with the assistance of his brother got the deceased into his boat. - In consequence of a report that the body, although found in the county of Devon was not allowed to be landed, until it reached the City, some of the Jury questioned the witness as to the facts, when the following was elicited:- Juryman: - Where did you intend to land the body? - Witness: I rowed up to the cotton factory and there I saw Mr Williams, lime burner, standing on the path; he said to me, in what part of the river did you find that body? I said, about the middle, "Then," (said Mr Williams); "I, as overseer of this parish (St Leonard) forbid your landing it here;" I said, what must we do with it - must we send it adrift again? - He answered, "No, you won't do that - you can take it to the St Thomas's side." - Juryman: Did Mr Williams see the body? - Witness: No - he could not see it, for it was covered over. - Juryman: then he did not know whether there was life still remaining in the body, or whether it had been long in the water? - Witness: No; he could not tell either way. - Juryman: How was the body conveyed into the county of Exeter? - Witness: I got the boat close up to the weir and another boat was brought to the edge of the weir above; the body was then lifted out of one boat, carried up over the weir by four men, and placed in the other boat. I don't know what became of it after that, but I believe it was landed at the Bonhay. - [The witness here complained of the hardship of being prevented from landing the body at the nearest places as in the course of his time he had picked up at least 20. The Jury stated their opinion that it was his duty to land it at the nearest spot, and that no one had a right to forbid his so doing.] - As no evidence could be adduced of the manner in which the deceased came in the water, the Jury returned a verdict of Found Drowned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 24 November 1927
HONITON - A Coroner's Inquest was held at Honiton by Isaac Cox, Esq., on the body of M. MAYO, a fine young man, aged 18 whose death was occasioned from his being dreadfully burnt on the 5th Nov. by the ignition of rockets which he carried in his pockets.

HONITON - A Coroner's Inquest was held at Honiton by Isaac Cox, Esq. on the body of HANNAH ELLIS, aged 70, who was found dead in bed.

SOUTH BRENT - An Inquest was held at South Brent on W. HURFORD, aged 15, who on the 13th inst., was riding a horse most furiously in the parish of Mark, when, on turning a corner, the animal fell and the boy having pitched on his head, received a concussion of the brain, of which he died the following day. - Verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 1 December 1827
BRAUNTON - An Inquest was held on Sunday last, at Braunton, before T. Copner, Esq., on the body of the infant daughter of FARMER HOWE, who was found dead in the arms of her mother at two o'clock in the morning, having been in perfect health the night before. Verdict, Visitation of God.

ATHERINGTON - An Inquest was held on Wednesday at Atherington, on the body of CHARLOTTE, daughter of JOHN LAKE, of that parish, who was shot through the head by her little brother whilst at play with a loaded fowling-piece. Verdict, Accidental Death.

An Inquest was held on Wednesday on the body of W. SHAPLAND, aged 75, who whilst driving a cart with an empty cask on it, was thrown off by the stumbling of the horse, and the cask falling on him crushed him so severely as to cause his death. Verdict, Accidental Death.

TALATON - On the 25th inst. at Tallaton, before I. Cox, Esq. an Inquest was held on the body of H. SKINNER, aged 31. The deceased had lived in the service of Mr Joshua Cock, at Ottery, but had left him about three weeks, and resided with his father at Tallaton, and went out to work as a daily labourer. During those three weeks he had been in a low state of mind. On the morning of Friday he rose about three o'clock, lighted the fire and prepared some broth, which he took and went again to bed; he said he could get no rest all night and complained it was long before it was day. As day broke he got up again and went out, telling his father that if he was not better he should not be able to do any work that day. About eight o'clock his mother-in-law discovered him hanging to an apple tree in the garden. He was cut down immediately, but was quite dead. Verdict - Lunacy.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 15 December 1827
GREAT TORRINGTON - A Coroner's Inquest was held last week at Torrington, before Francis Kingdon, Esq., on the body of W. FOWLER, cooper, who died in consequence of a violent blow on the head with a gridiron, inflicted many months ago by George Baker, mason, in return for repeated and unprovoked insult. The Jury gave a verdict of Manslaughter against the offender, who is committed to the county gaol for trial at the next Assizes. Baker has a wife and family and appears greatly affected at the melancholy event. The deceased has left a widow and seven children unprovided for to lament his premature death. In the above catastrophe we have an awful instance of the dire effects of intemperate drinking.

EXETER - On Wednesday last, an Inquest was held at the Hospital, before Samuel Walkey, Gent., Coroner on the body of SAMUEL COGGEN, 77 years of age, who met with his death from incautiously driving a wheel-barrow up Paris-street, in the middle of the road, on the preceding evening, at the time the Defiance coach was passing down, at 5 o'clock. The deceased had imperfect sight and was rather deaf; which added to the dark state of the street, (which, as was proved by the witnesses, is very badly lighted) prevented him from seeing the coach approaching, in consequence of which, the deceased was knocked down, and two of the wheels passed over his left leg and fractured it; he was otherwise much injured, and died the following morning. It is with much satisfaction we state, that not the least blame can be attached to the driver of the coach, as every caution was observed; the horn was blown, and the coach was going at a moderate rate. The Jury, after hearing several witnesses, returned a verdict of Accidental Death, and a deodand of 5s. on each of the two wheels; at the same time they very strongly recommended that proper application be made to the Commissioners of Improvement that more lamps should be immediately placed in those dark parts of Paris-street, which can be very easily pointed out. The application will be made from the Coroner at their request.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 22 December 1827
BUCKLAND BREWER - On Tuesday last, as Henry Squire, a servant of Mr Fulford, yeoman, of Buckland Brewer, was snapping his master's gun, it unfortunately went off and the contents lodged in the head of SARAH GLOVER, another servant, which caused her instant death. On Wednesday an Inquest was held before Francis Kingdon, Esq., - Verdict, Chance Medley.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 29 December 1827
STOKE FLEMING - A few days since MR KIBBEL, a respectable miller residing at Blackpool, near Stokefleming, in this county put a period to his existence by hanging himself in the immediate neighbourhood of his residence. We understand a distress for rent had been put into his house a few days previous. A Coroner's Inquest held on the body, have returned a verdict of Insanity.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 12 January 1828
STOKE DAMEREL - On Tuesday an Inquest was held by A. B. Bone, Esq., Coroner, on the body of WILLIAM WELLINGTON, who was found dead in the road at Deadlake, near Stoke Church. The deceased was resident in Plymouth and had the contract for excavating the ground for the Devonport Water Company's pipes. It is supposed that when on his way home from his work on Monday night, he fell over the cliff from the field, owing to the darkness of the night and was killed. Verdict, Found Dead.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 26 January 1828
WEMBURY - On Saturday last, an Inquest was held at Wembury on the body of RICHARD PHILLIPS, a Sergeant of the 18th Regiment, who was stationed on the beach near Bovisand Bay, to protect the cargo of the Mary Ann, West Indiaman, thrown ashore on the rocks there, in the late gale. On the morning of the previous day the deceased went on the beach and placed himself on a rock to wash his boots, when a wave broke over and on its return, washed him off into the sea, and he was drowned. He was picked up about one o'clock in the afternoon, when the tide had ebbed. Verdict, Accidentally Drowned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 2 February 1828
EXETER - A few days ago, an aged and blind woman, named SMALLRIDGE, earthenware-seller, residing on Fore-street-hill, in this City, having charged her daughter, who bore a very indifferent character, with stealing a silver spoon from her, the latter replied that "she wished God might strike her dead" if she had taken it. The appeal was awfully answered - she fell down and expired. Upon medical assistance being called in, the pawnbroker's duplicate, with whom she had pledged it, was found in her bosom. Verdict of the Coroner's Jury, Died by the Visitation of God.

EXETER - On Tuesday a Coroner's Inquest was held at the College Kitchen public-house, in this City, before S. Walkey, Esq., and a respectable Jury, on the body of MARIA LONG, whose death was occasioned by taking arsenic. Verdict, Insanity.

EXETER - On Monday last an Inquest was held at the Star Inn, in this city, before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of HARRIET NEWLAND, aged 34, who died suddenly on the preceding evening It appeared that she had laboured under very depressed spirits since the death of her husband, which happened about 12 months since. Verdict - Died by the Visitation of God.

SOUTH MOLTON - Yesterday se'nnight, a poor boy called CHAPEL, 15 years of age, a parish apprentice to Mr Chapel, of Coombe, in the parish of Southmolton, put a period to his existence, by hanging himself in his master's barn. No reason can be assigned for his having done so. Verdict, Insanity.

NORTH MOLTON - On Tuesday an Inquest was held by T. Copner, Esq., Coroner, on the body of MICHAEL THORN, a child five years of age, who lived with his uncle, Farmer SHAPLAND, at Walmscott, in the parish of Northmolton, and who on the preceding Sunday fell into a bucket of boiling water, which had just been put on the floor and was so much scalded as to cause his death the day following.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 9 February 1828
CHURCHSTANTON - An Inquest was held last week by Isaac Cox, Esq., Coroner, at Clivehayes Farm in Churchtaunton, on the body of ROBERT HARRIS, a fine youth, aged about 15 years, who was found that morning suspended to an apple-tree, in an orchard belonging to the farm. Deceased was an apprentice, bound by the parish of Churchtaunton, to Mr Richard Blackmore, a respectable farmer and maltster with whom he had lived six years, during which time, he had conducted himself with great propriety and his master was much pleased with him. On the morning of Wednesday, Mr Blackmore went from home, having previously given directions to the deceased, to rack a hogshead of cider and look after some malt. He racked the cider and attended to the malt, and left his master's house about 12 o'clock; at two in the afternoon, he was seen in a meadow belonging to the farm, setting want-traps. He did not return in the evening and the family went in different directions to find him, but without effect. He was discovered on the following morning, as above described in an orchard, called West Wood, some distance from the farm, quite dead. When found, he had a want-trap with a want in it, in his hand. The Jury returned a verdict of Felo-de-Se, and the Coroner ordered him to be privately buried in the church-yard at Hemyock with 24 hours of the finding of the Inquest and between nine and twelve o'clock at night. No cause for this rash act could be traced, except a slight rebuke he received from a young girl in the house for whom it seemed he had formed some attachment.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 23 February 1828
SAMPFORD COURTENAY - An Inquest was held on Sunday last, at Sticklepath, near Okehampton, before Francis Kingdon, Esq., Coroner, on the body of JAMES BOND. It appeared in evidence on the Inquest that the deceased (a cripple) and his wife had a quarrel in the afternoon of Saturday the 9th inst. when the deceased's son put him out of the house and barred the door; his wife desired him to go to the poor-house, and the son offered to accompany him there, which the deceased did not like, but said he would go by himself, and went off that evening, but was not seen till the Monday evening following, when he returned to his house insensible and speechless and died the Friday following of an apoplectic fit. The Jury after a patient investigation returned a verdict of "Died by the Visitation of God, in a Natural Way." The Coroner, notwithstanding, severely reprimanded the wife and son for their inhuman and unnatural treatment and said, they had had a narrow escape of being tried for manslaughter at the ensuing Assizes; but he passed the highest encomiums on Mr Pearse, jun., of that place, for his most human and indefatigable exertions and attention throughout this affair.

STOKE DAMEREL - On Thursday se'nnight, a labouring man named WILLIAM KITTLEWELL, was found dead at the foot of the cliff, at the old Gunwharf Field, near Devonport. He was employed with others to clear the back premises of a house in Richmond Walk, and one of his companions having in the course of the work broken his shovel, the deceased was despatched to Devonport for another. His way was through the Gunwharf Field and it is supposed that, owing to the darkness, he missed the path, which runs near the edge of the precipice, and fell over. An Inquest has been held on the body and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

PLYMOUTH - Suicide. - An Inquest was, on Saturday last, held by R. R. Squire, Esq., on the body of SUSAN COLE, wife of a Superannuated Sergeant, who resided in Richmond-street. It appeared that the deceased had been much afflicted with an asthmatic complaint which had long confined her to the house, in consequence of which her temper had undergone a complete change and symptoms of mental distraction had on many particular occasions, as well as in her general conduct, become apparent. On the 12th, taking advantage of the momentary absence of her daughter, she cut her throat with a razor, and was immediately afterwards discovered leaning over a bucket, into which the blood was pouring profusely. After committing the fatal act, she took an affectionate leave of her family and soon afterwards lost her sight and speech. Verdict - Insanity.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 8 March 1828
BUCKLAND BREWER - On Tuesday last, an Inquest was held at Buckland Brewer by F. Kingdon, Esq., on the body of HENRY SQUIRE, who hung himself in a barn belonging to Mr Fulford, with whom he lived as servant. - Verdict, Insanity. The deceased is the man who shot Sarah Glover, his fellow servant, on the 12th of December last, when the verdict was - Chance Medley.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 22 March 1828
THORVERTON - WILLIAM MARSHALL, of Thorverton, 20 years of age, terminated his existence on Thursday week, by shooting himself through the head with a pistol. On Friday an Inquest was taken before J. Partridge, Esq., when after a patient investigation the Jury returned a verdict of Felo De Se, and the Coroner issued his warrant for the interment of the body in the manner required by law.

DARTINGTON - An Inquest was held yesterday se'nnight at Dartington, near Totnes, by Joseph Gribble, Esq., on the body of ANN SEARLE, a young woman of that parish, who had returned to her friends from service in an ill state of health, and who threw herself into the river Dart on the Wednesday previous. It appeared she had been subject to fits, by which, no doubt, her intellect had become affected and a verdict of Lunacy was accordingly returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 5 April 1828
HOLSWORTHY - An Inquest was held on Sunday last at Holsworthy, on the body of URBANUS PEARCE, husbandman, aged about 55, before Francis Kingdon, Esq., Coroner. It appeared that the deceased had for some time been insane, that on Saturday last, he cut is throat with a knife. Verdict - Cut his Throat in a Fit of Insanity.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 12 April 1828
EAST STONEHOUSE - On Monday last, an Inquest was held by A. B. Bone, Esq., Coroner, and a respectable Jury, inhabitants of Stonehouse, at the Workhouse in that Parish, on the body of ELIZABETH JOHNS, a young woman, aged about 19, who was drowned on Sunday last, in the Sound, by the overturning of a boat in which were eleven other persons, male and female, about her own age. The circumstances attending the death of this unfortunate female being, in our opinion, exceedingly interesting, alike in themselves and their moral tendency, we attended and were politely accommodated by the Coroner, who, to do him only justice, was exceedingly patient, persevering and merciful in his pursuit of evidence. We say merciful because had not this virtue operated, at least two of the witnessed would have been committed, it being found necessary repeatedly to threaten them, ere they would give the required evidence. - John Wakeham (alias Gwakham) stated that he resided at Stonehouse; on Sunday last he was walking with James Hobday, when they met three girls, ELIZABETH JOHNS (the deceased), Mary Ann Colson, and Mary Sibley; he knew them; they were accustomed to meet on Sundays, and go on the water. E. JOHNS said she was going to call George Colson, to take a trip, as her brother had got a boat; she asked him to join them, also Hobday, which they did. Colson having joined they set off for a lighter, off Stonehouse point; they went on board the lighter, and staid below some time, while others, prepared the sails for the boat, which was a jolly-boat, 18 feet long. The other persons (all under 20 years) then went on board, and they sailed for the Sound; when off Redding-point, Hobday climbed to the mast's top, which frightened the girls, who screamed and entreated him to come down; he (W.) did the same, saying, "I don't mind myself, tis the young girls I fear for;" Hobday came down; the boat was sufficiently on one side, when Hobday was on the mast, to admit water over the gunwale. Hobday went up a second time; when half way up the mast, the girls screamed aloud, begged him to come down; as did some of the others. Hobday said, "shall I go," when Geo. Colson said "d......n ye, Jem, go up," which he did. RICHARD JOHNS, brother of the deceased then took hold of the shrouds, swung himself over the lee gunwale and the boat instantly capsized; all on board were thrown into the sea; on reaching the surface of the water, he swam and did all he could to save the girls; heard Hobday laugh at the fright of the girls, when on the mast head; thinks that JOHNS' pulling the shrouds helped to throw over the boat, or else she would have gone over in the first place. The party were rescued by some officers belonging to H.M.S. Mersey and some lads in another boat. Witness sunk very deep; when he came up he caught hold of a girl, but was obliged to let her go, because a chap laid hold of him; was himself in the water more than 10 minutes; nearly a quarter of an hour elapsed before all were picked up. The gentlemen from the Mersey picked up all; ELIZ. JOHNS was last found; she was under the boat, entangled in the rigging; the gentlemen were obliged to call for a knife to cut a rope, which was tight round her neck; thought her quite dead when found. The officers put eight into their own boat and four into the other boat and landed them at Stonehouse quay. While in the water one boat passed, with boys on board; but they would not assist. Thinks three quarters of an hour passed between the happening of the accident and their being landed at Stonehouse. - Mr Squire, Surgeon, of Devonport, deposed that he received the body at Stonehouse and instantly used all means to restore animation, but without effect. - Dr Isbell, of Stonehouse, followed the efforts made by Mr Squire; thought with that gentleman the person quite dead, when first he saw the body; no doubt drowning was the cause of death. This gentleman suggested to the Coroner the propriety of an association for using means to restore drowned persons; but the Coroner, heartily as he agreed with Dr Isbell, could not amalgamate such recommendation with the evidence. - John Wakeham, recalled. The boat was large enough to carry double the number; she could not have upset had caution been used. Heard Hobday say, "I can save myself and three more," before the upset, but would positively swear he did not know when; if on shore, before they set out, or after on board, he could not say. - Geo. Colson deposed he was one of the party, and corroborated the evidence of Wakeham; but solemnly denied using the words attributed to him, "d..... me Jem, go up." He thought the boat would have upset the first time Hobday went up the mast, had JOHNS pulled the sails, as he did on the second occasion. Several other witnesses were examined, but nothing additional was elicited, except some favourable information as to the subsequent behaviour of the young men, to prevent Hobday and JOHNS overturning the boat. The Coroner charged the Jury, informing them the law, and clearly establishing its meaning, namely, that if they were satisfied from the evidence that the boat was carelessly and wantonly overturned, especially after being cautioned to desist, the two persons were at least guilty of manslaughter. - The Jury having deliberated, returned a verdict - Accidental Death.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 17 May 1828
EXETER - On Monday last, an Inquest was held at the Devon and Exeter Hospital on the body of NATHANIEL CHANNING, an infirm man, aged 70, who while getting on his horse, to return to his house, near Silverton, lost his hold and fell to the ground, by which his thigh was broken; he died at the Hospital from the effects of the injury, after four weeks suffering: he had just recovered the use of a broken leg. Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 24 May 1828
MARWOOD - By one of those events so appalling to human nature, but which it is greatly to be lamented are of so frequent occurrence, the respectable family of Lee House, Marwood, are involved in the deepest distress; GEORGE LEY, Esq., the proprietor of the Mansion, has for some time past betrayed considerable aberrations of mind, and it is rumoured that he has more than once before attempted self destruction; but it does not appear that he has latterly exhibited any increased degree of indisposition, or that he had experienced any unusual excitement; but between the hours of eight and nine o'clock on Tuesday morning he retired into the drawing-room, from whence a report was soon after heard of the discharge of fire arms; his son, in the utmost alarm, instantly ran into the room, where a horrid spectacle presented itself to his view; his father lay extended on the floor - a corpse with the upper part of his head completely blown off. The instrument he employed was a double barrelled fowling-piece, the stock of which he had rested on the sofa, and the muzzle he had applied to his mouth. Thos. Copner, Esq., Coroner, held an Inquest on the body at one o'clock the same day and the Jury found no hesitation in returning a verdict of Insanity.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 31 May 1828
BLACK TORRINGTON - On Sunday last a Coroner's Inquest was held before F. Kingdon, Esq., on the body of WILLIAM PHILLIPS, of Black Torrington, a servant of the late Mr Leach of that place, who was found drowned in the river Lue, in the parish of Hatherleigh; it appeared that the deceased was returning home from Okehampton Market the night before and unfortunately fell in. Verdict, Found Drowned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 21 June 1828
PLYMSTOCK - On Saturday, an Inquest was held by A. B. Bone, Esq., Coroner, at Oreston, in the parish of Plymstock, on the body of MARY ANN WEST, late a servant in the employ of Mrs Hicks, a widow-lady residing at that place. - By the evidence of several witnesses, it appeared that some months since she formed an attachment for a young man, who was about to marry her, but subsequently died in prison. This circumstance preyed on her mind and at times she was heard to say that "she was bewitched and could not tell what was the matter with her." About a fortnight ago, she persuaded her sister to purchase for her some poison, under the pretence that it was to be used for killing rats; she afterwards shewed it to a woman occasionally employed in the house, and told her that if any person offended her, she should take it, and requested the woman to see that a lock of hair, and a pocket-handkerchief, given to her by her sweetheart, were placed in her coffin. On Thursday afternoon she put her threat in execution, and notwithstanding the immediate application of the stomach-pump, she expired at 3 o'clock on Friday morning. - Verdict - Temporary Insanity.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 28 June 1828
PLYMOUTH - The young man, named J. R. WATTS, whose misfortune we noticed in our last, lingered in a state of insensibility till Sunday last, when he died of a contusion on the brain. In the evening of that day and by adjournment on the following, an Inquest was held on the body, before Mr Robins, Solicitor, in the absence of Mr Squire, Coroner. The evidence produced elicited no other facts than those stated in our last. Verdict, Accidental Death; deodand on horse and cart £1; in addition to which Mr Robins has since resolved on indicting the driver of the cart for leaving his horse. On Wednesday morning the body of the deceased was interred attended by an immense train of respectable friends and tradesmen, in deep mourning.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 5 July 1828
STOKE DAMEREL - On Monday last, an Inquest was held at the Workhouse, Devonport, by the County Coroner, on the body of SARAH ROGERS, an inmate of that establishment, who died on Saturday. She had for a considerable time refused her food, under an impression that poison would be administered to her; and her obstinate perseverance in this respect, produced a miserable state of debility, which caused her death. - Verdict accordingly.

BISHOPS TAWTON - On Monday last, an Inquest was held at Bishop's Tawton, by T. Copner, Esq., Coroner, on the body of GEORGE TUCKER, aged 22, who was drowned in the Taw the day before. It appeared that in company with several other young men, he went to bathe, and swam across to the opposite side, and in attempting to return he was unable to contend with the strength of the current, and sunk in very deep water. It was nearly an hour before the body was picked up.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 12 July 1828
EXETER - An Inquest was held on Monday at the Golden Ball, St Mary Arches-street, before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of JANE LINDSAY, who committed suicide by drowning herself in the Exe. It appeared from the evidence that her mind was unhinged by the ill-conduct of her husband, who had for some time lived apart from her, with other women; and the Jury returned a verdict of - " Destroyed herself while labouring under Temporary Derangement."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 19 July 1828
BIDEFORD - On the 1st inst., at Bideford, a boy, named JOSIAH LOCK, aged 8 ½ years, son of a poor widow, received an injury in the head from a stone thrown by a lad, with whom he was at play, which caused his death on the 7th. The Coroner's Jury returned a verdict of Manslaughter against Wm. Allen, who threw the stone.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 9 August 1828
EXETER - Supposed Murder Of An Infant. - About three years since, a woman of bad character, named JANE HENDICOTT, lodged for some time at the College-Kitchen public-house, in South-street; and on quitting left a box in her bed-room, we believe as security for board and rent. The box remained unopened until Tuesday last, when the landlord, conceiving it was time he should be quite of the incumbrance and be paid his money by the sale of the contents, wrenched off the hinges and was immediately assailed with a most disgusting stench: the box was well-made, and the lock so good that he was unable to remove the cover without the assistance of a carpenter. This being done, however, he proceeded to examine the contents, and at the bottom under some linen, there was found the body (or rather the skeleton) of an infant, in an almost decomposed state. An Inquest was held on Wednesday before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner. The Jury took a minute survey of the body and the box, and from certain appearances they drew the conclusion that the child had been deposited there immediately after birth. The following witnesses were examined:- Elizabeth Smith, the landlady of the College Kitchen, deposed, that about three years since a woman, named JANE HENDICOTT, came to her house, and said she wanted lodgings for a night or two, having left her place; on the following day she complained of being ill; the same evening a young man came to see her; she said it was her brother; he assisted her to take her to the bedroom; and was afterwards told his name was Pepperel; he soon after brought a box, and took it to her bedroom; she lodged in the house about six weeks and owed 30s. when she left; witness never suspected her to be with child; the box was put into the cellar about six months ago, and was broken open on Tuesday, when the skeleton of a child was found wrapped in cloths; there was also a quantity of linen; a Constable was sent for, who took possession of the box and its contents. - Two females were examined and stated that they had seen JANE HENDICOTT when she was ill, but knew nothing of her having had child. - The Inquest was then adjourned until the following evening (Thursday). On the re-assembling of the Jury, William Pepperel was called, and deposed that he had known JANE HENDICOTT for 5 years; she was then lodging in Goldsmith's-street, and afterwards lived at the Maltsters' Arms; witness called to see her at the College Kitchen and brought her a box he had made some time before; was never paid for it; he called to see her several times after, but knew nothing of the contents of the box. - John Shears, an officer of the Corporation of the Poor, stated that he was sent for to examine the box, and found several articles of linen, two letters addressed to JANE HENDICOTT, when she lived at Charmouth in 1824, and a paper of powder, which had been examined by a medical gentleman, but its nature could not be ascertained; there was a chemise marked J.H.; the woman (HENDICOTT) is now in the Workhouse and has a base child. - JANE HENDICOTT was next called, but not sworn. She had a child in her arms about 12 months old. Her evidence was of course delivered with much caution. She stated that the box contained linen, a shaving box and razors, and other articles, but denied all knowledge of the child; the box, she said, was not locked when she left it in the house. - The Jury, after hearing the remarks of the coroner, deliberated on the evidence, and for want of any more conclusive testimony returned a verdict, - "That the skeleton of the child was found in box belonging to JANE HENDICOTT, in a state nearly decomposed, but how the child came by its death, or by whom it was placed there, is to the Jury unknown."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 16 August 1828
KILMINGTON - An Inquest was held at Kilmington on the 2nd inst., before Isaac Cox, Esq., on the body of MARY FRENCH, aged 60. It was rumoured that her death had been produced by the violence of her husband, who had often been an inmate of a lunatic asylum; she was found dead on her bed and had vomited a considerable quantity of blood; and had a wound (not sufficient to cause death) on the left side of the collar-bone; but it was proved by a surgeon that the rupture of a blood vessel in the chest, occasioned by violent passion in a quarrel with her husband, was the cause. - Verdict - Died by the Visitation of God.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 30 August 1828
SIDMOUTH - Two men, named RICHARD BOWDITCH and George Elliott, residing at Sidmouth, having engaged in a pugilistic encounter yesterday se'nnight, the former received a blow which deprived him of life. An Inquest was held on the body on Saturday, before Isaac Cox, Esq., when in consideration of the quarrel having been provoked by the deceased, 15 of the Jury returned a verdict of Justifiable Homicide; at the same time stating that 6 of their brother Jurors were of opinion the verdict should be Manslaughter. The Coroner directed that of the majority to be recorded. - During the whole of the Enquiry, which lasted six hours, the most intense anxiety was manifested by a large concourse of people who attended the hearing.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 13 September 1828
STOKE DAMEREL - Fatal Accident. - On Monday night, MR BOLT, clerk in the establishment of Messrs. Fox, of this town, fell over the embankment, which encloses the Government Works near Devonport, from the Turnpike road adjacent, whereby instant death was occasioned. The facts of the case are, we lament to say, as follows: - MR BOLT had been drinking at an Inn, in Devonport, in company with a companion. The latter left the Inn with him, and proceeded as far as the barrier-gate, or Guard-house on the summit of the hill towards Plymouth. Here it was agreed they should take different routes, and MR BOLT went into the field, his companion pursuing the regular road. It is conjectured he had not gone far, before he turned towards the road again, making his way accordingly; and in getting over the rails, which are placed on the ridge of the embankment, fell a considerable height, into the public road below. On taking leave of each other, his companion made the best of his way home, so that the body of MR BOLT remained on the spot where he fell, until discovered by a passenger on the following morning. An Inquest was held on the body on Tuesday and a verdict of "Accidental Death" recorded. Only a few weeks have elapsed, since a man under similar circumstances, met his death by walking into the sea, not far distant from the place before described.

EXETER - On Saturday last, while several little boys, just out of School, were at play, sliding down a sloping hedge, near Lion's Holt, St. Sidwell's, one of them being on the top, about to take his turn, was suddenly pushed off by a companion, and fell with great violence on a heap of stones; he was taken home and a surgeon was called in, but the poor little fellow, after suffering extreme agony, died on Sunday morning. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body, which had been opened, when the intestines were found to be much inflames and one of them ruptured. A verdict of Accidental Death was returned. The child's name was JOSEPH HAYNE, and his father is a respectable man in the employ of Messrs. Hooper, Paris-street.

CULLOMPTON - A few days ago, at Langford, in the parish of Cullompton, a blind man, named ENDICOTT, about 45 years of age, observed to an acquaintance, on the burial of an old lady, who had resided opposite his dwelling, that he heartily wished he could be a substitute for her, being weary of existence. - Melancholy to relate, the next day he fell down stairs, dislocated his neck and expired immediately! An Inquest was held on the body, before Isaac Cox, Esq., and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 27 September 1828
EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - On Tuesday morning, the driver of a cart having incautiously left his charge, on Fore-street-hill, while he went on some errands, the horses moved on to their old quarters at the King's Arms, St Thomas, in entering the gateway of which inn, a fine little girl, about 4 years old, daughter of MR DINGLE in that parish, was knocked down and the wheel of the cart passing over her head killed her on the spot. A Coroner's Inquest sat on the body in the afternoon, when a verdict of Accidental Death, with a deodand of £3 on the horse and cart, was returned.

STOKE DAMEREL - An Inquest was held on Tuesday at Devonport, by A. Bone, Esq., on the body of JOHN DODD , who dropped down dead the previous day in a lane near Princes-street Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 4 October 1828
PLYMOUTH - On the 24th ult. a poor man named MAY, who had been an itinerant vendor of earthen ware, and was brought here from Fowey, on the day before, by the barge Lucretia, in a dying state, expired in Plymouth Workhouse. An Inquest was held on the body on Thursday last and adjourned to give time to make further enquiries. The case is one which is likely to bring down censure, if not punishment, upon certain parties, but as it is to undergo further investigation, we refrain at present from entering into particulars.

STOKE DAMEREL - Suspected Murder. - Yesterday se'nnight the body of a young woman named SNELL, servant to Mr Mackrell, of Devonport, druggist, was found on the beach under the gunwharf at that port, under circumstances which induced a supposition that she had been murdered, part of her cap being in her mouth and several wounds appearing on her body. The witness who spoke to the former fact considered that the water had washed the cap into her mouth and the wounds were supposed to have been occasioned by crabs. On examination of the stomach it was found inflamed by poison, which would have occasioned death, had it not been accelerated by drowning,. The deceased was eight months advanced in pregnancy, and had previously, whilst under depressed spirits, declared that she would commit suicide. The Coroner's Jury, at an adjourned Inquest, on Monday, returned a verdict of "Found Dead, but how the deceased came by her death, whether by poison or drowning, no satisfactory evidence is offered to the Jury."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 18 October 1828
HATHERLEIGH - Melancholy Occurrence. - Yesterday se'nnight as the Plymouth coach was on its route between Barnstaple and Plymouth, and had nearly reached Hatherleigh, the guard, J. ACLAND, whilst alighting to undrag the wheel, unfortunately slipped his foot, and fell under the near hinder wheel, which passed over his chest, and caused almost instantaneous death. An Inquest was held on the body, on Saturday before Francis Kingdon, Esq., Coroner, and a verdict of Accidental :Death was returned. The deceased has left a wife and six children to deplore his loss. No blame attaches to the driver. There is reason to fear that the deceased was intoxicated at the time.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 1 November 1828
EXETER - It is with feelings of deep concern we notice a fatal accident which occurred in the neighbourhood of this City on Monday last. MR CHARLES SHEPPARD, son of MRS CHARLOTTE PRESTWOOD SHEPPARD, of Marlfield-house, near Marypole-head, being about to proceed to Bradninch, to fetch one of his sisters, his mother, who was coming into the City, intimated her intention to accompany him through Pester-lane and be set down in St Sidwell's. Just as they had seated themselves in the gig, the horse plunged violently, owing, it is supposed, to the pressure of the breeching and galloped rapidly down the hill; which so alarmed MRS SHEPPARD, that she jumped out, and after being dragged for a short distance, her foot entangled in the step and she fell lifeless to the ground. The horse still pursuing his career the agonized son was thrown with violence, but without serious injury, on a heap of stones near, and the affrighted animal, having beaten the splash board to pieces, turned up Hoopern-lane, where its course was arrested. The dreadful calamity was witnessed by another son, who had accompanied them to the gateway of their house. Surgical aid was immediately procured, when it was found that MRS SHEPPARD had received a violent blow on the left side of the head, causing a concussion of the brain, and extravasation of blood, which produced almost instant death: the right leg had also received a compound fracture. An Inquest was held before S. Walkey, Esq., at the New London Inn, on Tuesday, and a verdict of Accidental Death returned. No deodand was levied, MR SHEPPARD having declared his intention of destroying the horse, which had been recently purchased and was not considered vicious. The deceased was 54 years of age and had recently purchased Byrleigh-house at Bradninch, whither she was about to remove in a few days.

EXETER - On Thursday last, an Inquest was held at the Valiant Soldier Inn, before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of JOSEPH LEAT, commonly known by the name of TOPSHAM JOE. It appeared in evidence that on Saturday night, the deceased, who lived as servant at the Crown and Anchor public-house on the Quay, quarrelled with a man named John Hooper, and challenged him to fight; this was at first declined by Hooper, but the deceased having given him a blow, it was returned with such effect that the deceased was hit down; he however got up to renew the fight, but was prevented: on the following day he was seized with vomiting, and was taken to the Hospital, where he died on Wednesday of an internal injury received in the fight. The Jury, after a patient investigation returned a verdict of Justifiable Homicide.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 15 November 1828
EXETER - An Inquest was held at the Royal Clarence Hotel, in this city, on Wednesday, before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, and a respectable Jury, on the body of THOMAS STAFFORD, Esq., who died suddenly on Monday evening. Capt. Bond stated that he had known the deceased for 28 years - he had been a wine-merchant at Oporto and had recently taken up his residence at the Hotel; he dined at his (Capt. B.'s) house, in Colleton Crescent on Monday, and appeared in good health; he ate heartily, but drink very little wine. About 9 o'clock, having taken tea, he left, accompanied by Capt. Bond, but had not gone far before he complained of shortness of breath, and soon after fell down; Capt. Bond procured a chair, in which he was conveyed to the Hotel, when Capt. Bond went to obtain the aid of a medical gentleman; but while he was absent for a few minutes, MR STAFFORD died. The Jury returned a verdict "Died by the Visitation of God."

BISHOPS NYMPTON - On Monday last, an elderly man, named HUGH NICHOLLS, of Bishopsnympton, was going to Dulverton, to see his son, who resides there; and when he came to the Cuckow Public House, about half-way on the road, he went to refresh himself with half a pint of beer; whilst sitting before the fire he complained of being unwell and expired soon after. A Coroner's Inquest was held n the body by T. Copner, Esq. - Verdict - Visitation of God.

BUCKLAND BREWER - On Saturday last, as JAS. MATTHEWS, servant to Mr Lake, of Buckland Brewer, was on his return from Bideford, with a cart and two horses, the fore horse became restive, near the bottom of Moor-head Hill; the poor fellow, in his attempt to catch the reins, fell, and the wheel passing over his head, killed him on the spot. - Verdict - Accidental Death.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 29 November 1828
TOPSHAM - On Saturday last, an Inquest was held at Topsham, before James Partridge, Esq., Coroner, on the body of JABEZ IRELAND, who lately quitted the passage-house, which he had kept upwards of 20 years, and by a persevering industry to the age of 57 years, had accumulated a moderate competence for himself and family, and had lately engaged in the coal trade. He had for some time been in an unsettled state of mind, and on the preceding Wednesday committed suicide by hanging himself in a loft, where he was found by one of his daughters, suspended by a small cord to a rafter of the loft - his feet tied ankle to ankle and his hands tied nearly close in a running noose behind his back; about six inches from his feet was a stool, which appears he must have used in completing his object of self-destruction. - The examination of the witnesses occupied more than 6 hours. The Jury returned a verdict of Insanity.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 6 December 1828
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held at the Workhouse on Saturday last, on the body of JOHN LOCK, late servant to Mr Cheese, publican, which was found in the water, under the Hoe, at a place called brethren Steps. Verdict, "Found Drowned."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 20 December 1828
EXETER - Death By Fighting. - On Tuesday evening last an Inquest was held before Samuel Walkey, gent., Coroner, at the King's Arms Public House, at Westgate, on the body of WILLIAM BALLMAN, 40 years of age, who resided nearly opposite. The deceased was a miller by trade and with several of his fellow workmen, on the 24th November last, had been regaling themselves with some beer at the mill, in consequence of having a fresh hand at work, and to finish the evening they removed to the Round Tree Public House, near the Island, where an altercation took place with a man of the name of Coombs, and deceased received an injury of which he died on Monday last, three weeks after the accident. - The following witnesses were called:- Matthew Bremfield: - "I am a miler in the employ of Mr Strong and went with the deceased, Stone, Coombs, Hobbs and one or two others on the 24th Nov. last to the Round Tree Public House to have some beer; we all had a pint each; we had some before at the Mill but we were not drunk, the deceased and George Coombes had been jarring one with the other for some time, and they all left at 10 o'clock, except BALLMAN and myself; when we had another pint of beer; Coombs afterwards came back and Stone who had been in the kitchen came in and drank with us; it was then about 11 o'clock, and the landlord said he must shut his doors; we then quitted the House but the deceased left a pint of beer unpaid; Coombes said to him "why don't you pay your reckoning like a man." The deceased hearing this, swore he would give him a topper, and immediately struck him; and after an exchange of blows they closed and appeared to be wrestling or struggling for the fall, when the deceased was thrown heavily. - Witness endeavoured to raise him up, but he could not stand; the blood was running over his face; and with assistance he removed him to his home. - Robert Stone, a fellow workman who endeavoured to prevent the deceased from fighting, corroborated the whole of the evidence of the first witness and swore that the deceased gave the first blow. - Elizabeth Sanders, who has attended as nurse on deceased, heard him say two days after he was confined to bed, that he should not have struck the defendant had he not first pushed him. Most of the Jury objected to this evidence as it was merely a hearsay and the former witness had proved to the contrary. - G. Coombes, who is a miller, was next examined but not on his oath; he said that after the deceased struck him several blows, there was a struggle between them, when he threw him heavily, but did not know that he had injured him; he assisted him home, and had been many times at his house to see him during his illness. - The Coroner having communicated with the Surgeons, Mr W. P. Kingdon and Mr Delagarde; those gentlemen said they should be better able to give their opinion to the Jury, if they were permitted to open the deceased to ascertain whether or not he had met with any internal injury which might have caused death besides the wound on the head. The Jury coincided in their view and adjourned the Inquest to the following evening to receive their opinion. They accordingly met at 7 o'clock when Mr Delagarde stated that he had examined the body of the deceased, and found that the scalp was very extensively lacerated, the bone bared to the extent of several inches. The case, although of an alarming character from the extent of the injury went on tolerably well for a fortnight. The man was then attacked with shiverings and the formation of an abscess was suspected. He gradually sunk, without any aberration of mind; several days before his death be became completely jaundiced and inflammation of a gangrenous character took place in one foot. The examination of the corpse exhibited the appeared of a fracture partially repaired; on opening the skull a large abscess was found on the surface of the brain (opposite the external injury) which was certainly the cause of death The Jury returned a verdict of Justifiable Homicide.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 3 January 1829
EXETER - It appears that the young man, named GREGORY, who was drowned last week, in the exe, plunged in, while in a state of intoxication and the Coroner's Jury returned a verdict to that effect. We have heard, that on the body being found, about an hour afterwards, it was taken to the Humane Society's House of Reception in the parish of St. Leonard's, but admittance was refused! From the length of time the body had been in the water there can be little doubt that life was extinct; but the conduct of the persons, who keep the receiving house, cannot be too severely reprobated; as it is very possible, if they are allowed to retain their situation, cases may hereafter arise where a repetition of such conduct may be the means of preventing resuscitation.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 10 January 1829
EXETER - Yesterday se'nnight an Inquest was held on the body of SOLOMON BRIGHT, 50 years of age, whose death was occasioned by falling on the 22nd December into the hold of a coal lighter, lying near the premises of Mr Ebbels. Verdict - Accidental Death.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 21 January 1829
CHITTLEHAMPTON On Saturday last, by T. Copner, Esq., on the body of MR JOHN JOCE, of the Golden Lion Inn, Chittlehampton, who died almost suddenly in the night of the Wednesday preceding. It having been currently reported that his death was occasioned by a blow received from a member of his own family, the Coroner was most minute in his investigation, that, if unfounded, he might be enabled to repel so foul a charge; on the evidence produced before the Jury, it appeared, that the deceased retired to rest the Wednesday evening in his usual state of health, but that about two o'clock in the morning, he complained of indisposition, called up his servant, who at his desire got him a glass of gin, which he drank and soon after expired. From the testimony of evidence, and a view of the body, the Jury were satisfied that the report before alluded to was groundless and returned a verdict of Died by the Visitation of God.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 7 February 1829
BISHOPS TAWTON - An Inquest was held on Tuesday by T. Copner, Esq., at Downrew, in the parish of Bishop's Tawton, on the body of MARY RIDLEY, aged 64, who was taken suddenly ill the preceding day and died immediately. Verdict - Died by the Visitation of God.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 28 March 1829
BISHOPS NYMPTON - JOHN COLE was charged on the Coroner's Inquest, with killing and slaying CAROLINE COLE, an infant, at Bishop's Nympton, on the 9th January. Mr Tyrrell stated that the case the Jury had to try arose out of the following circumstances: - On the day in question the prisoner called on his sister-in-law and one of his nephews having affronted him, he threw his hat at the boy; the hat struck a teapot, and the hot water fell upon an infant, who was in its mother's arms, and it was scalded to death. These facts coming to the knowledge of the Coroner, an Inquest was held on the body of the child and a verdict of Manslaughter was returned against the prisoner, who was uncle to the child, and for this he was before them to stand his trial. The evidence adduced bore out the learned counsel's statement. The prisoner (who has been in confinement two months) on being called upon for his defence, said, that his nephew was making a noise, he told him to be quiet, the boy made use of a very foul expression, and having repeated it, he (the prisoner) threw his hat at him without intending to hurt him or anyone else. The Jury without hesitation acquitted him.

CREDITON - A man called THOMAS SEAWARD, who resided in a small house by himself at Crediton, was discovered hanging at the foot of the stairs on Monday morning last. Symptoms of insanity had been frequently observed and at the Inquest the Jury returned a verdict of Lunacy.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 18 April 1829
EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - On Wednesday an Inquest was held at the Okehampton Inn, Okehampton-street, St. Thomas, on the body of a man named ODAM. The deceased had been drinking at the Okehampton Inn on the 14th March in the evening - and was missing till his body was discovered below the double lock in the canal. No marks of violence appearing the Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death. The deceased's hat has not been found. He resided near Exmouth.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 25 April 1829
EXETER - On Monday an Inquest was held before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, on the bodies of WILLIAM WEBBER, aged 9, and MARGARET SCOINES, aged 4 years, who had been both dreadfully burnt, at St Thomas's, on Good Friday, and since died in the Hospital. MRS WEBBER, the mother of the child, has another child besides the deceased, and left it in the care of the little boy, whilst she attended a sectarian meeting in North-street. Mr Serle, a builder, heard the shrieks of the little boy from adjoining premises, and leaping over a wall found means to extinguish the flames; the child was immediately taken to the Hospital, and lingered till the following day. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death, but expressed their disapprobation of the conduct of the mother, and Mr Walkey observed that he felt it right to tell her that the discharge of our duties was of far more importance than the observation of forms and ceremonies, no one could be more anxious than himself, for a proper observance of public worship, or more sensible of its high importance; but he thought it an abuse of that virtue, to neglect the performance of their duties which nature demands at the hand of every parent. The other child SCOINES, whose parents reside near Exe-lane, had experienced a similar fate only whilst its mother had gone a short distance to the well of water. There was only an old man 90 years of age, near the spot, till the mother's return, when seeing the dreadful situation of her offspring she fell to the earth in a fit, repetitions for which had taken place up to the time of the Inquest. - Verdict, Accidental Death.

EXETER - An Inquest was held on Thursday evening at the Star Inn, by S. Walkey, Esq., on the body of JAMES BRICKNELL, a respectable young man in the employ of Messrs. Tuckers, Cornfactor's and Grocer's, residing on Fore-street-Hill. The deceased was found with his throat cut in his bedroom on Wednesday evening. - S. Kingdon, Esq., Surgeon, deposed that on Monday evening last, he visited the deceased, who was suffering from the attack of fever; he bled him and supplied him with proper medicines. On Tuesday, he was much better, but on Wednesday complained of his chest. Witness did not see him again till half-past 10 on the evening of his decease. It was Mr K's opinion that he had committed the act under a violent and sudden attack of delirium, which had flown from the Chest to the brain. - Mr Wm. Tucker stated that the deceased had been in his employ 7 years, and was always a sober, honest and industrious young man; he had complained of illness on Sunday last. Witness had visited him twice a day since: he generally appeared a little delirious towards the evening. On Wednesday night, before the Family retired to rest, he took the deceased some tea, when he found that he was gone from his bed and discovered that he was on the floor, weltering in his blood, and thought it might have proceeded from his Arm, and immediately called for assistance. - There was an open razor on the bed; he died just after he was discovered. - The Jury, without hesitation, returned a verdict that the Deceased committed the act in a fit of Mental Derangement.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 9 May 1829
EXETER - On Tuesday an Inquest was held at the Black Horse, Longbrooke-street, before S. Walkey, Esq., on the body of MR WILLIAM STREET. The deceased had been subject to ill health for several months. His wife stated that on the morning of his death she had taken his breakfast to him as usual but he declined to partake of it and said he should not get up. MRS STREET frequently went to his chamber; he got up and took a short walk at 11 o'clock and after his return went to the privy in the garden, where he was subsequently found dead. - Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 16 May 1829
PLYMOUTH - On Thursday an Inquest was held upon the body of a young man named ODGERS, an apprentice of Mr Harris, Plumber and Glazier, High-street, Plymouth, who died in consequence of receiving a blow on the head from a clinker or piece of iron cinder, thrown at him by W. Hepper, a journeyman brazier, during a squabble between them. - Verdict, Manslaughter.

EXETER HEAVITREE - Charge Of Poisoning. - We have this week to record the particulars of an Inquest, commenced on Friday last, at the Half Moon, Whipton, near Heavitree, before P. Partridge, Esq., Coroner, and a respectable Jury, on the body of SAMUEL WESTCOMBE, and adjourned to Wednesday last. WESTCOMBE was a labourer in the employ of Mr Richard Rew, and lived with his wife in a house at Whipton, rented by Guyas Davy,. The deceased was in his usual good state of health as lately as Tuesday the 5th; soon after partaking of a mess of broth, prepared for him by his wife, on that day he was taken ill and continued so the whole of the following day. He was heard calling on Christ to have mercy upon him as late as 9 o'clock on Wednesday night, and about 12 his wife gave an alarm and announced his death. - We shall merely observe before we give an outline of the evidence, that the reporters were not allowed to take notes; the public will, therefore, do well to remember, that all accounts they may see in print, rest for their correctness only upon the memories of those who were present. It is a wise and just maxim of the criminal law of this country, that all doubts are to be construed in favour of the prisoner: it must therefore be in every sense opposed to this merciful maxim to offer comments likely to prejudice the minds of the Jury. We are therefore silent. A simple detail of facts, being the same that will be adduced at the trial of a person committed, cannot tend to frustrate the ends of justice; but we repeat, as the Coroner would not allow none to be taken, that we feel it an imperative duty to apprize our readers of this fact. - Mary Richards said, about a year ago, KEZIAH WESTCOMBE stated to her in the presence of another witness, that she kept a particular herb in the house to procure abortion, she said her husband had threatened to throw the herb away and remarked that she would "crack the crown of him" if he did. She also said that she wished her husband dead; and hoped she should find him dead on her return home; has since heard that she was on far too intimate terms with Richd. Quaintance. - Eliza Davy sworn - lived under the same roof with deceased, who rented part of her father's house - saw the deceased after he came home from his work on Monday, he was then quite well. On Wednesday forenoon KEZIAH WESTCOMBE was washing and when witness went into her room, said "SAM (meaning deceased) is very bad," - asked what was the matter, she said she did not know - told her that Mr Pridham, the parish surgeon generally came to Whipton on Wednesdays and advised her to ask Mr P to call and see her husband. She replied "he (SAME) won't see him." Witness then said "I would if I were in your place ask Mr P. to come and see him and not say anything about it to SAM, she said in case Mr P. came to Whipton, she would desire him to call on her husband, she afterwards said he complained of a pain in his stomach. In the afternoon of Wednesday she came into witness's mother's bedroom and said he was very bad - the Mother said what have you given him, KEZIAH WESTCOMBE replied that she had given him nothing but tea, and said "all his cry is for cyder - I am going to pick a bundle of sticks, SAM wants to come down stairs and go out in the sun, he is so cold." She then went out to pick the sticks. On Wednesday morning in the presence of the mother and another sister, KEZIAH gave an account of her husband's illness. She said that when SAM came home last night, (Tuesday) she told him there was no potatoes in the house for his supper, and asked him if he would have a basin of broth. She said he told her he did not care, anything would do. She then took a bit of fat mutton, put it into the crock, made it boil and then thickened it with flour, adding a little bread. She said she dipped up a tea cup full of the broth and had drank it. She said she and witness's sister Martha went for a walk round Heavitree, and that she had left SAM at home to get his supper. On her return she said SAM was sitting down by the fire side, resting his head on his hand, he said he was very bad - he had eaten part of his broth. He had a violent pain in his stomach and vomited very much. She also said that he complained very much of thirst, and that he did not have his clothes off all night. She said he wanted some cyder, that she got him two eggs and had dressed one of them for him. On Wednesday evening saw Richard Quaintance with KEZIAH WESTCOMBE; they were drinking tea together. KEZIAH said she was going to make some rosemary tea for her husband. On Thursday evening in the presence of MARY WESTCOMBE she said that her husband's body should not be opened by a surgeon. Richard Broom, a fellow labourer of the deceased, told me that deceased had been poisoned. Witness repeated what he had said t the wife, who said she "would rather suffer a sword to be thrust to her heart, than the body should be opened,." MARY WESTCOMBE said "Don't say so, if they want the body opened, in God's name let it be done." She did not see Quaintance at her mother's yesterday (Thursday) but her mother said he was there. Quaintance was a lodger in their house until Monday last, on that day witness saw him sitting in KEZIAH WESTCOMBE'S room. On Thursday KEZIAH WESTCOMBE sent witness and her sister to draw the club money for the funeral. We were at first refused. KEZIAH WESTCOMBE wrote on a piece of paper "This is to certify that SAMUEL WESTCOMBE is no more," afterwards got Peter Wilcox and Richard Fenn to sign the paper and the money was then paid. The deceased came to this house (Half Moon) on Wednesday and drank some beer. - E. P. Pridham, Esq., Surgeon, went to the house where the deceased lodged at Whipton on Thursday, saw the widow of the deceased and a young woman dressed in black in the bedroom, enquired of KEZIAH WESTCOMBE some particulars of the deceased. She without the least hesitation said she would tell everything as it occurred. He used to entreaties or any inducement to cause her to make any statement,. She described the manner of her husband's sudden death - she had tasted the broth, and that soon after her husband had taken it he was seized with violent pains, vomiting and purging, which continued all night. She also said that he went out at six o'clock on Wednesday morning and when he returned he told her he had had two pints of beer. She said he went to his master's house on Wednesday for a firkin of cider, which he drank and wanted more. She said is thirst was very great and that he had had tea ten times in the course of the day - that he complained of coldness and rubbed himself by the fire, and had asked her to rub his legs, but she refused, as she thought if she once did it he would be always expecting her to do so - during the evening she remained in the sitting-room and at times dozed. After some time had elapsed, finding him quiet she put out the candle and going into the bedroom, sat herself on the edge of the bed: not perceiving him move she put her hand on his face, and finding it to be cold, exclaimed "Good God! SAM is dead." She immediately called Mrs Davy's people. She objected to witness's opening the body of the deceased - he has since done so, and is clearly of opinion that the deceased died from the effect of certain deleterious substance found in the stomach; but from the insolubility of the substance, its close adherence to the surface of the stomach, added to the symptoms detailed by the wife, he has every reason to believe the substance found is white arsenic, and sufficient in quantity to produce death. - Jas. M. Madden, Esq., Surgeon of Heavitree, confirmed the opinion expressed by Mr Pridham. - Richard Quaintance and the widow of the deceased were also examined. The evidence of the former threw no new light upon the subject; that of the latter was merely a repetition of what she had told the witness Davy and Mr Pridham. - Eleanor Jarman lodged in Mr Davy's house; knew the deceased, but did not know he was ill until Wednesday. At about 12 o'clock on that night witness heard KEZIAH WESTCOMBE call to Davy. Mrs Troat afterwards called witness and on going to the room occupied by the deceased, witness found that he was dead. He was quite stiff and cold - she thought he must have been dead for two hours. Witness did not see any marks of bruises about the deceased. K. WESTCOMBE used to call Quaintance to breakfast in the morning as if he was one of the family. - Adjourned at 3 o'clock in the morning, to Wednesday. Adjourned Inquest, Wednesday May 13th. - The first evidence called was Mr Pridham, Surgeon, of Exeter, who proved the result of his experiments upon the particles found in the stomach of the deceased, to be a conviction that death had been occasioned by swallowing arsenic: he spoke also of the chemical experiments made by Dr Collins. - Dr Collins next proved the detection of arsenic by seven different chemical tests, of which he gave a very elaborate and scientific description. - Mr Madden, Surgeon of Heavitree, was present at the analization of the contents of the deceased's stomach and corroborated the testimony of the two former witnesses. - Joseph Hodge and William Collis detailed the particulars of having gone, about three weeks ago (but neither of them could speak to the day) with the prisoner Quaintance, to the shop of Mr Salter, druggist, where he purchased 3 ounces of arsenic, which he said was to destroy rats; he had remarked, when he requested them to go with him, that he had applied for it before himself, but could not obtain it without witnesses. Collis said he observed it was dangerous stuff, and Quaintance ought to be cautious how he used it, lest he should destroy his master's pigs, or something else, instead of the rats; the prisoner said he knew what it was, as he had used it before. - Here Quaintance said he had bought it for the deceased, SAMUEL WESTCOMBE, who gave him the money for it. - Mr Salter, Druggist, sworn: - Recollects the three men coming into his shop about three weeks since, but cannot speak to the day, they purchased six penny worth of arsenic - recollects that Collis was one of them, and as there were three in company, thought he was perfectly justified in supplying them. - MARY WESTCOMBE (a blind woman), sister-in-law of the deceased, spoke of her visit to KEZIAH WESTCOMBE, when she had heard the husband was dead; witness said to the female prisoner, "I understand my brother-in-law is no more," and desired to be led to the chamber where the deceased was lying, adding, "if I cannot see him I can kiss him." She was accordingly taken to the chamber, and when she felt him, she remarked that his face was soft, and he did not feel as her own children's had done, when they were dead. She then asked the wife what he had made use of; and KEZIAH replied, "broth and rosemary tea." Witness then said it was a bad job, and the other rejoined that she (KEZIAH) should not be living on Saturday. Witness then went away and at Heavitree found a concourse of people who said SAMUEL had been poisoned by his wife and this induced her immediately to return. When she re-entered the house she told the latter that people said she had poisoned her husband, and KEZIAH exclaimed, "poisoned, poisoned?" Witness then told her the Doctor was going to open him and the wife said, she would rather a sword should go through her body, than have him opened; witness replied it was no use to refuse, as it would be done as they pleased (meaning the proper authorities). KEZIAH then said they might do as they pleased, and begged her to stay the night by the corpse, which she did - does not know where the wife went to that night, but she returned the next morning, Friday, at about five and did not say where she had slept; she (the wife) staid in the house about ten minutes, when she said she must go and get bail, for she should be suspected and it would be too late when she was taken up and put to jail, she had a friend that would serve her and she should return about nine o'clock; she requested witness to remain in the house till her return and said her husband had picked Savine with others, in Mr Rew's garden, and if Mr Pridham opened the body, witness was to say so, no man could come forward to say anything against her (KEZIAH) and if her husband was wicked enough to get Savine, he was wicked enough to take Mercury or Arsenic - overheard a conversation of those that were in the room, and someone said "I will say no more about it" and so said another, "for the man is dead." - During the evidence of this witness, the female prisoner several times contradicted her as she did others in the course of their examination; she declared the words "if he was wicked enough to get Savine, he was wicked enough to take Mercury or Arsenic" were used by the witness, MARY WESTCOMBE and not by herself. - J. Brown (sister of the prisoner WESTCOMBE) saw Quaintance at Newton Poppleford on Thursday morning last, when he came to say SAMUEL WESTCOMBE was dead. - Abilina Bolt of Heavitree, another sister, deposed that Eliza Davey came to her on Thursday morning, told her she was to come up to Whipton, and soon after said SAM was dead and upon being asked what he died of, replied of, "an inflammation in the bowels, and that mortification had ensued"; saw no man in the house - when she came there KEZIAH desired her to get the club-money, and she went accordingly; but returned without the money, not having had the proper form or signatures to testify WESTCOMBE'S death with her - a paper signed by Mr P. Wilcox and Mr Venn afterwards enabled her to get it, it was about £7 and she bought several articles of mourning, under her sister's direction, and after she had paid for them, gave to the prisoner the remainder, five pounds and some shillings - never saw Quaintance at her sister's or at her own house in her life. - Guyas Davey remembers the deceased asking him for his firkin of cider, as he said he was so thirsty he could drink the sea dry - asked him what he had had for supper to make him so thirsty, but received no answer, witness slept with Quaintance in the room below. - Mr Charles Weaton of Bishop's Clist, in the parish of Sowton, deposed to Quaintance having been in his employ last week; but it is unknown to him that the prisoner fell from a ladder and hurt his arm, as he had sworn to account for his absence from his labour at an earlier hour than usual - thinks on Thursday, as he (Wheaton) was upon the premises the whole day, he should have been apprised of this accident if it had happened. - John Horville, a thatcher, had employed Quaintance, and deposed that on Wednesday he worked during the day, and left about half-past five for Heavitree, under pretence of going to see his wife, and to get some more meat. On Thursday morning saw Quaintance at half-past five, coming down the hill above Clist village, in the direction for Heavitree, and he said he had been walking nearly thirty miles that night, he was not at his lodgings that night, but had been to Newton Poppleford, and returned to Heavitree, through Clist, about half-past 5 in the morning, in company with KEZIAH'S sister, and sister's daughter, whom he accompanied to Heavitree, and returned to his work, at Mr Wheaton's about eight o'clock. He said he had been about a death, and witness asked if Stuggs' (meaning the deceased's) wife was dead, he said no - witness then asked if it was Stuggs - and he said it was, adding that Mr Pridham had insisted upon the corpse being opened and his wife had said none of her family had been opened and she would take care he should not. - Quaintance then asked if a wife refused to have her husband opened, whether a doctor could do it. - On Friday 8th May, witness went to work as before at Mr Wheaton's about five o'clock in the morning and left about six, to fetch some more sparrs from his own house and, within ten minutes, Quaintance was come, but soon after said he must be off, as he was sent for - has not seen him since till the present time. - Mary Richards was then called, and corroborated her former evidence, that KEZIAH WESTCOMBE told her she had given Savine to young women to prevent their having children alive, and said she had taken it herself and had given it to a lady's maid, who still kept her place and was doing well, - believes the prisoner is a very bad woman, for she used to pen a prayer book and read the Lord's prayer backwards. - The prisoner, K. WESTCOMBE, at the conclusion of Mary Richard's evidence, exclaimed, "O you bad woman, you wicked woman, is this all I get for curing you of the itch, &c." - Sarah Taunt who had on the previous day given evidence as to laying out the deceased, now spoke of the state in which she found the body, nearly cold, but the les, which were a little warm, but so stiff that it required a good deal of trouble to put them in their proper place - to the best of her judgment; WESTCOMBE must have been dead three hours, when she came to him. - Eliza Davey's former examination was also read to her, and she said she had seen Richard Quaintance and KEZIAH sitting together on the evening of the husband's death. She and MARY WESTCOMBE sat up with the body the first night, and heard someone say the man was poisoned. - witness said to Quaintance some time ago, "I would have you go home and live with your wife, that is the only way to be comfortable." - [Here Mr Pridham entered the room where the Inquest was held, and produced a small pipkin to which small portions of a fat substance still adhered (the vessel was such as is used in cottages to ladle broth from the boiler in which it is made.) Mr P. said it had just been found, in the house of the deceased by Dr Collins, and a gritty substance, which might be arsenic was attached to some parts of it. KEZIAH WESTCOMBE then came forward, and denied that the pipkin was hers; she said she had two such, but one was broken, and the other given away to a person whom she named. This vessel was taken away by Dr Collins that the parts which adhered to it might undergo analization. - Mr Robert Rewe, for whom the deceased worked, gave him a good character for quietness and steadiness as a workman: he never knew that he was addicted to swearing, - KEZIAH WESTCOMBE said he (her late husband) was as great a heathen as any within a thousand miles. - Martha Davey's former examination was also read, and she said she was present when the prisoner WESTCOMBE put the thickening into the broth, it was in a basin and appeared to be made of flour and water: the broth was in an iron pot, she believes KEZIAH put the thickening in, and the bread also: did not see her drink any of the broth that she remembers. - went for a walk to Heavitree with KEZIAH after the broth was made - her mother told her she had given Quaintance notice to leave her house in consequence of observing too great a familiarity between him and KEZIAH WESTCOMBE. - William Horville, aged 13, son of John Horville, was at work on Thursday morning with Quaintance and saw Saml. Stuggs's wife (he pointed out KEZIAH WESTCOMBE as the person) come up and call Quaintance from his work. Heard him tell her to go up Richard's lane, and did not see him afterwards. - Ann Davey, of Clist St. Mary, proved that Quaintance had taken a lodging in her house and that he slept there only on Tuesday and Thursday the 5th and 7th of May, saw him and KEZIAH WESTCOMBE near the Sandy Gate, walking in the road together towards Heavitree. - The Coroner recapitulated the evidence at considerable length and the Jury after consideration, returned a verdict, - "Administering Arsenic with intent to Murder, against KEZIAH WESTCOMBE; and of being an accessory before the fact against Richard Quaintance. The Inquest this day lasted twelve hours.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 23 May 1829
EXETER - On Wednesday an Inquest was held by S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner of this City, upon view of the body of GRACE DINHAM, who was found drowned near the Head Weir Mills, on the morning on that day. - GEORGE DINHAM, a shoemaker, residing near Mr Josland's, Fore-street, and husband of the deceased, gave satisfactory evidence of the temporary insanity of the poor woman. He said that she had been ailing for some time, but on Tuesday evening she appeared so twisted on one side from some internal complaint, that she could not speak, she refused to take refreshment or to go to bed and that induced him to bring two pillows into the sitting-room; he then sat in a chair and laid his head down, expecting the deceased would do the same, but she remained standing and leaning against the back of a chair, and according to his statement, she must have continued in that position a very considerable time. She said little, and what she did say was incoherent: when the witness, observing the state of her mind, approached towards her, she pushed him violently away and put herself in a menacing attitude, a thing she had never done before, as they had always lived together in the sweetest harmony; - finding that his endeavours to comfort his wife only irritated her, he sat down again, and it seems, went to sleep, waking however at intervals; he believed it was about half-past 2, the last time he awoke, and he then found that his wife was gone. Before he gave the alarm, some delay, it appeared took place, for after the poor woman left the house, and before he awoke, some person having been disturbed, had bolted the front door again, so that he had at first thought she was still in some part of the premises. - Mary Richards, a resident in the same house, confirmed the statement of DINHAM as to the state of deceased's mind; but she added a remarkable circumstance which we cannot withhold from our readers. When the alarm was given many persons of course took different directions, and four, amongst whom was the witness, went into the parish of St. Thomas. Just as they approached the Moreton Inn, the witness saw the deceased, GRACE DINHAM (the rest also told witness they saw her) and she moved her hands as if desiring them not to approach - she disappeared close to a passage near the inn, and they awoke the inmates of the house, and searched every part of it, and of the premises, but without success - she was positive it was the deceased; for she knew her by the lace on her cap, and the flounce of her gown. - Now it is highly probable that the poor woman was drowned before this time, but the witness got over that by swearing most fervently that she believed it must be her apparition! She was not the only person who believed it, for a young man living with Mr Josland had been ill ever since. - The deceased was found at 5 o'clock by John Hurford, the next witness, who discovered her floating against a board and kept up by the force of the stream near the Engine Lake, and after he had obtained assistance, conveyed her to the House of Reception, where a woman refused to take in the body because she said she should get nothing for it, and had received orders not to take in any dead bodies! - The Jury returned a verdict of Found Drowned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 30 May 1829
EXETER - Melancholy Accident. - On Thursday morning about 10 o'clock, it being a holiday, a young man named COLLINS, a teacher in a respectable Academy of this City, went to bathe with two or three of the senior boys in the river, at the Head Weir; they proceeded to the shallow side and MR COLLINS had been in the water but a short time when he suddenly disappeared. The boys immediately gave the alarm, and a man who was at a short distance, succeeded in finding the body in about 15 minutes. It was removed to the Reception House, where the assistance of several medical gentlemen was procured, but life was extinct. The deceased was about 22 years of age, and much beloved and respected. A Coroner's Inquest was held the same evening and a verdict returned of Accidentally Drowned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 6 June 1829
WOODBURY - A boy about 11 years of age, named BROADBEAR, was found dead in the road near Woodbury on Wednesday, by Mr Laskey. He had apparently been run over by a waggon or cart: his occupation was to look after sheep, and it is supposed owing to the intense heat of the weather, must have lain down to sleep. He was seen by some persons as late as 3 o'clock in the afternoon, shortly after which Messrs. Sloane and Cox's waggons loaded with lime from Exon Kilns passed that way: it is supposed one of these must have passed over him. The driver of one of them it is reported was seen asleep in his waggon. An Inquest has been held at the Globe, Woodbury, by S. Cox, Esq., and a verdict returned of Accidental Death.

YARCOMBE - An Inquest was held by Isaac Cox, Esq., Coroner, at Yarcombe, on Saturday last, on the body of ELIZABETH SYDENHAM, aged nine years. The deceased was living with her grandfather, MR T. HURFORD, of Yarcombe. On Friday last, MR HURFORD was engaged in drawing dressing upon some part of his ground and had placed the child in the cart, when by some accident, it upset and the deceased thrown out, the cart fell upon her and she died instantly. Verdict, Accidental Death, deodand on the cart, 2s. 6d.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 13 June 1829
BISHOPS NYMPTON - An Inquest was held at Bishopsnympton on Friday, by T. Copner, Esq. on the body of JAMES SELLEY, who was drowned whilst on a fishing excursion on Allsweare river. Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 27 June 1829
EXETER HEAVITREE - ANN MANLEY was found drowned in the Exe on Sunday last. She was a servant of Mr Swales at the lodging house on the Topsham road, and had been properly reprimanded by her mistress on Thursday last. The unhappy young woman left the house after the family had retired to rest. The body was conveyed, upon being found on Sunday, to the house of her parents at Wonford, where an Inquest was held on Monday. The Jury returned a verdict of Found Drowned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 4 July 1829
EXETER - On Monday evening a boy named JAMES BADCOCK, aged about ten years was drowned between the two weirs, near the Head Weir. He had incautiously ventured out of his depth and immediately sunk, no person was near at the time, capable of rendering assistance. An Inquest was held on Tuesday on the body at the Black Dog public-house, before S. Walkey, Esq., when the Jury returned a verdict of Found Drowned. His parents reside in Archer's Court, Paul-street.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 11 July 1829
PLYMOUTH - Death By Incautiously Leaving Fire-Arms Loaded. - On Friday afternoon, between the hours of three and four o'clock, a boy named Trethaway, went into the house of THOMAS CURRY, at Elm Row, near Start Place, on the Exeter Road, and asked a young girl, a daughter of CURRY'S, who was left in charge of the house, to leave some tools for a short time, which was granted. A gun, which was incautiously left loaded, and lying on a shelf opposite the door, attracted his attention, and although warned that it was loaded, he took it down and laid it on a table, cocked it and snapped it off several times: the powder being in a damp state, did not immediately ignite. During his experiment to fire off the gun, her little brother, JOHN, aged 2 ½ years, got upon the chair at the end of the table, near the muzzle of the gun, and in a few moments afterwards it went off and the contents were lodged in his abdomen. Mr Derry, Surgeon, on being made acquainted with the accident, instantly went to the house, when he found the child in a dying state and quite insensible; and about a quarter of an hour after his arrival it died. The father of the child, in giving evidence before the Coroner, stated that he loaded the gun on Wednesday morning, to fire at some rooks which had pitched near his house, but they rose before he was prepared, and that he laid it aside loaded; he has frequently done so before, without any accident having occurred; he told his wife and children it was loaded, and gave them strict orders not to touch it. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body by R. J. Squire, Esq., on Friday last, when verdict of Manslaughter was returned against William Tretheway, and a deodand of 20s. on the gun.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 18 July 1829
BARNSTAPLE - Suicide. - On Monday last a young man called WILLIAM GOULD, an apprentice to Mr Hamlen, basket-maker, Barnstaple, terminated his existence by hanging himself in his master's workshop. It appears that he had attached himself to a female at Newport, with whom he had been in the habit of spending his evenings, and remaining to a later hour than his parents approved of, and for which his father reproved him. this is the only cause assigned for his commission of this fatal act. A Coroner's Inquest sat on the body the same evening, which returned a verdict of "Temporary Insanity."

NORTH MOLTON - On Friday last, an Inquisition was taken by T. Copner, Esq., Coroner, in the parish of Northmolton, on the body of MR GEORGE WESTCOTT, yeoman, of Lunscombe, about two miles from Northmolton Town, from whence as he was returning to his home on the day preceding, about twelve o'clock, he was met in the road by a bull; a woman called Sally Gibbs, who lives in a cottage near the spot, saw MR WESTCOTT with his legs on the horns of the bull and his head on the ground; she got on the hedge and made a noise to drive the bull away; the deceased called out to her, "Do my dear so I come to me;" he again repeated the same words, and then turned his face to the ground and was not heard to speak any more. John Smith, blacksmith, saw the deceased lying on his back in the hedge, and the bull tumbling him about; he threw a pitchfork at the bull which drove him away They then went to the body, which they found bruised from head to foot, two of the ribs broken and life quite extinct. The bull was two years old, the property of Farmer Parkin, of the same parish, and was shot soon after the above disastrous occurrence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 25 July 1829
NORTH TAWTON - Last Friday a Jury was empanelled at the Gostwyck Arms, Northtawton, before F. Kingdon, Esq., one of the Coroners for Devon, to Enquire concerning the death of JOANNA MERCHANT. It appeared by the evidence of those witnesses who related the dying testimony of the deceased, that she some time ago lived as servant in the family of Mr Caddy, Surgeon, of Bideford, where she contracted an illicit intimacy with Mr John May, one of Mr Caddy's pupils: that she afterwards left her situation, and went to reside with Mr Wills, glover, of Torrington, but continued her acquaintance with Mr May, whom she occasionally and secretly met on Sundays, on the road from Bideford to Torrington. She became enceinte, and communicated this fact to the young man. On the 5th inst. he met her at the Aqueduct, and according to her statement, gave her a small phial, directing her to swallow the whole of its contents, which he said would do her good. Upon her return to Torrington, she drank part of the liquid he had given her and threw the remainder away. Soon after this period she was taken extremely ill and removed to North Tawton, her birth place, and where her friends still resided: - at the end of ten days she was no more. From the evidence of the medical gentlemen present it was inferred that the poor girl's death was caused by having swallowed either a preparation of arsenic or corrosive sublimate. The Jury returned a verdict of Poisoned with Intent to Procure Abortion. A Coroner's warrant has been issued for the apprehension of May, who it is reported has absconded.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 8 August 1829
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held on Tuesday at the Workhouse by R. J. Squire, Esq., on the body of RICHARD HOSKING, who was drowned in the Sound on Monday last by the swamping of a boat belonging to Mr Billing. - Verdict Accidentally Drowned, and a deodand of 20s. on the boat.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 15 August 1829
EAST STONEHOUSE - An Inquest was held on Monday in Durnford-street, Stonehouse, on the body of MRS MOORE, aged 96 years, who was found dead in her bed in the morning. - Verdict, Found Dead. The deceased was the mother-in-law to Dr Isbell.

EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - John Parsons was committed on a Coroner's warrant charged with the Manslaughter of RICHARD TAYLOR, in the parish of St. Thomas the Apostle. the prisoner and the deceased had been drinking together at the Union Inn, when a quarrel took place and Parsons struck the deceased a severe back-handed blow on the temple, as he sat in a chair, which felled him to the floor. TAYLOR lived four months afterwards, but was insane a part of the period. Mr Woodman, the Surgeon, who had attended the deceased, said he had opened the skull, and found that an abscess had formed on the brain, this he believed was occasioned by the blow and had caused death The prisoner was sentenced to six months imprisonment and ordered at the expiration of that period to find sureties to keep the peace for twelve months.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 5 September 1829
EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - Another Supposed Murder. An Inquest was held on Wednesday at the King's Arms, St. Thomas, before Joseph Gribble, Esq. one of the Coroner's for the County of Devon, upon the body of THOMAS CRAPE, deceased, which was found floating in the Exe on the morning of Tuesday. - James Mackaile deposed that at about a quarter past five, his attention was called and he saw the body of a man float over the weir, near the old cotton manufactory in the parish of St Leonard's, he immediately ran to a boat, cut the cord by which she was moored, and, with the assistance of one Frederick Starks, who was near, succeeded in landing the body in a field on the bank of the river opposite the factory. He observed marks of violence about the head of the deceased, which appeared like cuts or stabs In the pockets of the deceased were found a snuff box, a knife, some small pieces of cloth and some needles. The body was then taken to the Engine-house, St. Thomas. The deceased had all his dress on, but his hat. The water was running very full over the weir, and in his opinion the face could not have received scratches in passing over it. Frederick Starks corroborated this statement. Thomas Parsons, a servant at the Union Inn, St. Thomas, and Jonathan Badcock said they had seen deceased in the skittle ground adjoining to the said Inn, on Friday the 28th inst., but he merely came in and went out again. He had lodged at this house two or three month's previous. Robert Snow had been acquainted with CRAPP nine years, but had not seen him since Monday week, when he parted from him at night, near the Custom-house Inn: had often heard him say he was afraid of being murdered by Thomas Wylie, a mason's labourer, with whose wife, he (deceased) cohabited. - William Bennett saw Wylie on Saturday and Sunday. On Sunday Wylie admitted to this witness that he had not been to bed on Saturday night. Richard Edwards had seen Wylie at the Sun, in Exeter, on Monday and Tuesday week; he then spoke of the connection between CRAPP and his wife, and said he would be d.....d if he would not make a cripple of him; saw Wylie again on the next Saturday night, following his wife and a little girl up the Fore-street, with a stick in his hand, when he repeated to witness the threat he had formerly made use of. - --- Forrester, proved that CRAPP and Mrs Wylie had lodged at his house till some time in August, calling themselves Smail, and that Wylie had come and claimed his wife, who still refused to live with him. Wylie then swore, if she would have CRAPP to live with her, she should support him as a cripple, and the next morning came and broke some of witness's windows. - The Coroner having dispatched his summons for the wife, Maria Wylie, she was shortly after brought in, evidently much agitated. She declared she had not seen the deceased since last Monday week. He was a tailor, and worked at Mr Brunskill's shop, but she believed not very lately. When he left her, he said he was going to Mr Snow's about work, and she enquired for him there on Tuesday, when she was informed that he had left at about one the preceding day. Saw her husband last night at her mother's house: she then asked him what he had done, and he said he had done nothing and denied having seen CRAPP but once, for some time. - Her child, a little girl, of about 11 years of age, was then brought in and deposed that CRAPP had left her mother's residence at about 11 o'clock on Monday week. Elizabeth Pengelly, mother of Mrs Wylie, was present at the interview between Wylie and his wife at her house and heard him say, as he was about to drink a glass of ale, "may this be my poison if I know anything of the man," meaning the deceased. She admitted that she had been to Wylie's mother's, where he lodged, and at the suggestion of the mother, had taken some of his clothes to the house of his sister-in-law. At the request of the Jury a Constable was sent for these clothes. - William Lyddon and William Woodman, Surgeons, had examined the body. There were two cuts on the forehead but they did not penetrate to the bone: in their opinion the body had been in the water for a week at least, but it was impossible to say how long. Death could not have been produced by the wounds in the head, and there were no marks of violence about the body. Mr Lyddon said that in falling into the water, it was possible such wounds might be inflicted by a flint, and Mr Woodman that in his opinion they were not bruises, but were produced by some cutting instrument. The clothes were then exhibited, but it appeared they were not those worn by Wylie on the night in question and as it seems he has since absconded, it is probable were left with his sister, that he might take them with him. Another witness deposed that on Friday week he lent the deceased the knife that was found in his pocket. The Coroner, in addressing the Jury, told them that, as there was no evidence beyond the fact of threats having been used, they could not attach the crime to Wylie, and the Jury returned the following verdict:- Found Dead in the Water: but how the deceased came by his death is not known to the Jury.

PLYMOUTH - Shocking Suicide. - An Inquest was held on Saturday last by John Robins, Esq., at the King's Head, on the body of ELIZABETH HAMLYN PIKE, a remarkably fine young woman, aged 23, who died at half-past three that morning, in consequence of having taken, on the preceding evening, an ounce of arsenic. - CAROLINE PIKE, sister of the deceased, deposed: - "I am sister of the deceased; she resided with me in Vauxhall-street; my sister possessed a great flow of spirits, and I never observed her at any time disordered or affected in mind or intellect, although she has frequently said she would destroy herself if I would do so likewise, but without assigning any reason for so doing. About nine o'clock yesterday morning, deceased and I went, as we usually did, to our father's to breakfast; about ten o'clock we returned and my sister immediately sat down to her piano-forte and played several tunes, all of a lively character, with the exception of one, which she played at my particular request. Whilst playing she turned round, and said, "CAROLINE, you'll soon have my clothes, and every time you put them on, you'll think of me, my dear sister, and likewise the piano-forte will be yours, and those waltzes, when you come to play them - you'll always think of me!" I replied, if such were the case I would never play them afterwards. At 7 o'clock deceased went out to see an acquaintance, but returned in a quarter of an hour after. In the course of the evening my sister was visited by two acquaintances, one a lady, and the other a young gentleman named Boulter, who had been with her several times in the course of the day; she was quite cheerful and collected till the time of her illness, which happened about 9; soon after which her mother was sent for, and the deceased was taxed with having taken something; she denied it so strenuously that they did not send for a medical man till eleven, when Mr Tripe, Surgeon, was called in, who, in conjunction with deceased's mother and sister, urged her to tell them if she had taken anything to cause her illness. She replied, "No I have not"; she had been complaining previously to the arrival of Mr Tripe, of great pain in her side and stomach; she expired at half-past three on the following (Saturday) morning. Witness concluded her evidence with these words "My sister was perfectly sane and has never shewn at any time, any symptoms or indication of aberration of mind." - Mrs Jane Reed, in whose house deceased resided, confirmed most fully the testimony of the sister, as to the perfect sanity of deceased. - J. H. Boulter (son of the parish clerk of St. Andrews's) knew the deceased well; was in the habit of visiting her, was with her yesterday (Friday) afternoon, when in the course of conversation, deceased said, "I am going away Master Boulter". "Where to?" I asked and she replied to Heaven, I hope. Being, however, in good health and spirits, he took no notice of it, and at his request, she played several tunes on the piano. Mr T. Tripe, Surgeon, detailed the symptoms of illness and the energy with which she denied having taken anything to produce her illness. He had no doubt since her death, that she had taken poison. - Mr H. Fryer, chemist and druggist, of Treville-street, had sold the deceased an ounce of arsenic, under circumstances quite calculated to lull his suspicions of its being intended for an improper purpose. The body having been opened by Dr Cookworthy, Messrs. Tripe and Roberts, a white powder was found among the contents, which on being submitted to the usual tests, proved to be arsenic. - The Coroner, in summing up the evidence, commented at great length on the total absence of any proof of insanity. Verdict - Died from having Taken Arsenic whilst labouring under Temporary Derangement.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 19 September 1829
AXMOUTH - An Inquest was held by I. Cox, Esq., at Axmouth, on Tuesday, 8th inst. on the body of JOHN HEPPLE, whose melancholy death, after having been tossed about upon the ocean from Tuesday to Saturday, we announced in our last. The evidence corroborated the melancholy statement of the unfortunate man's companion, Chas. Wiltshire, who stated that he had been working at Mamhead Park, as a stonemason. The deceased was a stone mason also, and was employed at the same place. Witness and deceased went out together on Tuesday week, to Hill Head, about a mile from 'Squire Newman's," where they drank 3 pints of cider - they then went to Dawlish - had 3 or 4 pints of beer at the Red Lion - and went thence to Starcross where they staid all night, at the Ship - the next morning they had one bottle of porter, & deceased desired the landlord to get him a mutton chop - two men came in, witness and deceased supposed them to be watermen - deceased said he should like to go out and have a bathe - they came out of the Inn with the two men, and went into a boat, taking 2 gallons of beer with them; the watermen pointed to the sands where people go to bathe, and said we must put you over there - witness wished not to go to bathe, as he could not swim, and asked the watermen to put them aboard the brig that was clearing coals - they got aboard and gave their beer away, drinking only two half-pints each, they then got into a boat and the watermen shoved them over to Exmouth by their desire; the watermen pulled the boat up on the beach and said they were going to have something to drink and asked witness and deceased if they would go, they said no, whilst the watermen were away the deceased said now we'll go out and have a bathe, we shall be back again in ten minutes - deceased pushed off the boat and they both got in - the wind and tide were strong, they did not know which way the tide was flowing, and the tide took them a great way out before they attempted to get back again - witness was very sick and could not pull, they had two oars in the boat, no sails, nor anything else; there was a small rudder to the boat, and a short pole, part of a mast - it was getting on towards night, when they found they could not get in, but were still drifted out towards the ocean - witness made several signals to the boats that were out with his coat and hat on the oars, but could bring no vessel to their assistance; at night they did not know whether they were out in the ocean or not. Deceased continued sick & very thirsty, and drank a quantity of sea water - they were drifted about the whole of that night, and the whole of the next day, that night, and on the morning of the second day, they were out of sight of land till Friday - they saw several boats and a steam vessel - witness took the hat of the deceased about 3 o'clock on Friday & hoisted it to the steam vessel - there was a brig with 4 men which appeared about half a mile from them: witness hoisted his coat and hat and handkerchief, but could not bring them to see - they had o rain until Saturday. On Friday morning they saw land, and it appeared that the wind had changed and was drifting them towards the shore - witness drank about 2 quarts of sea-water - but was not sick, nor ill, nor hungry, all the time he was out - and the deceased drank perhaps a gallon of sea water; and was so sick that he was unable to sit up in the boat all the time. On Saturday morning before witness took him up in his arms, and held him about half an hour, he was quite sensible, and said he hoped one of the two would live to get on shore; after witness had held him for some time, deceased asked him to let him lie down in the boat, which witness did, and in about a quarter of an hour he died - soon after this rain came, it blew heavy, and the waves came into the boat - witness broke an empty jar, which had held some beer, and caught some rain water, about half a pint, which he drank - the water had been very still and no waves had broken into the boat until Saturday morning, but it was then very rough, and witness expected to go to the bottom every minute; his strength had not failed him and he only felt thirsty. On Saturday he expected to die every minute. It continued tempestuous all the day on Saturday - witness was hit down four times in the boat with the waves - the last 3 or 4 hours he stood in the middle of the boat and held by a little rope - he had to bale out the water with the broken jar, the boat was frequently nearly filled, at last, about 12 o'clock at night, it was thrown on the rocks - witness then got on the rock, but was driven by a wave under the boat, another wave threw him again on the rock - witness got into the boat again and threw out the little anchor and crawled up the cliff - he pulled off his clothes and wrung them, and put them on again and lay in a bush till daylight, and he then saw some officers of the preventive service, who had taken care of him ever since - he had picked a few berries, but had had no other refreshment." The Jury returned a corresponding Verdict.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 26 September 1829
ST GILES IN THE WOOD - Another Charge Of Murder In The County Of Devon. - An Inquest was held on Sunday last at Stevenstone, the seat of the Right Hon. Lord Rolle, before Francis Kingdon, Esq., one of the Coroners for the County, on the body of a new-born male infant, which had been found in a charcoal house near the kitchen at Stevenstone. Before the finding of the body strong suspicions were entertained in his Lordship's household that the cook, named ANN SMITH, had been delivered of a child and on Sunday morning, Mr Caddy, Surgeon, of Great Torrington, was sent for, when the girl being closely interrogated confessed that she had, but she had been in the family way only four or five months and had thrown it into the water-closet; this place was immediately searched but no child was found. A general search was then made by direction of Lord Rolle, and about 10 o'clock in the morning a full-grown male child was found in the place above described, wrapped in a gown belonging to the cook. The body was immediately examined by Mr Caddy, who found a wound about one inch in length and about two inches in depth, on the left side of the lower part of the neck, an appearance of a ligature or cord having been tied round the neck, and a fracture of the skull. He opened the body and found, on examining the wound, it had the appearance of being made by a sharp pointed instrument, which had divided the carotid artery; the lungs he found in a healthy state; they had been inflated; he was therefore decidedly of opinion the child had been born alive. On dividing the scalp, there was some coagulated blood on the skull and a fracture on the upper part of the left parietal bone about an inch in length. Mr C. thought the death of the child was occasioned by the wound in the neck. - Anna Plimsole, who had slept with the girl SMITH on Saturday night, deposed that on the following morning at about 2 o'clock she heard her get out of bed and enquired what was the matter: she answered, "nothing," and returned to bed, but about 3 o'clock left the room with a candle and did not come out till about 4, when she appeared in pain and held the bedstead with her hands. witness again enquired if anything was the matter and ANN SMITH said she had been dreaming. About half-past six in the morning witness asked her if she had not been sick; she answered "yes," and then desired her to tell the kitchen-maid to send her a bucket of warm water, which was not done, but she mentioned the circumstance to the housekeeper, who acquainted Lord and Lady Rolle. - The Jury returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against ANN SMITH and a warrant was issued for her commitment to the Devon County Gaol, but its execution is stayed till the prisoner shall be in a proper condition to be removed. she is about 25 years of age, and left the service of Earl Howe for that of Lord Rolle in April last. No suspicion was entertained of the situation she was in till a day or two preceding the birth of her unfortunate infant. She has not confessed who is the father of the child, but says it is some person in London, by whom she had another child two years ago.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 3 October 1829
PLYMOUTH - On Sunday last an Inquest was held before R. J. Squire, Esq., Coroner, on the body of WILLIAM HENRY HARCOMBE, the well-known "Governor" of the Barbican, who fell overboard from the deck of the Providence, Jersey trader, in which he was employed as a glut tide-waiter. He was a freeman of this borough. Verdict "Accidental Death."

PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held before R. J. Squire, Esq., Coroner on Tuesday last at the Workhouse, on the body of ELIZA BLACKLER, which had been picked up in Sutton Pool that morning. The deceased was the wife of a marine, who had deserted her. Verdict - "Found Drowned."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 10 October 1829
SWIMBRIDGE - An Inquest was held on Saturday on the body of JAMES BRAYLEY, a servant to Mr Joce, of Swymbridge, who met his death by the accidental explosion of a gun in the hands of one Yeo, a rat-catcher, who had been assisting the deceased to squeeze some cheese he was making. The Jury returned a verdict corresponding with the circumstances and the gun, a very bad one, was forfeited as a deodand.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 14 November 1829
EXETER - An Inquest was held on Saturday at the Duke of York public-house, St. Sidwell, before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of MARY TUCKER, a widow, aged 51, found dead in her bed that morning. Verdict - Died by the Visitation of God.

STOKE CANON - A distressing occurrence took place last Saturday at Heazell Barton Farm, about 2 miles from Stoke, on the Tiverton road. This farm is occupied by a respectable family of the name of Ware, one of whom, Mr Robert Ware, about 28 years of age, has laboured under aberration of mind to an extent at times to require his being placed under restraint; unfortunately on Saturday he was at large and possessing himself of a loaded gun, repaired to the dairy of the farm rented by JOHN HOLMAN, and entering the house, found MARY HOLMAN, the wife, stooping over a meal hutch, into whose side he discharged the contents of the piece, the slugs going through her body, causing portions of the entrails to protrude on the contrary side and killing her on the spot. The unfortunate woman is the mother of four children. Mr Partridge one of the Coroner's for Devon, and 17 of the most respectable yeomen of the neighbourhood, empanelled as a Jury, were occupied eleven hours on Monday last investigating the cause of the melancholy occurrence. A great number of witnesses were examined by the Coroner, so as perfectly to identify R. Ware, as the agent of the death of MARY HOLMAN, and were subsequently, together with Dr Blackall, of this City, and Mr Hole, of Silverton, Surgeon, examined by Mr W. Tripp, who attended on behalf of the prisoner, as to his state of mind, when it appeared that he was insane in May last, that he then was, and had been for a fortnight previously afflicted in a similar manner. The Jury unanimously agreed to the verdict that the Deceased came by her death by the hands of R. Ware, he labouring at the time under a fit of Insanity.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 21 November 1829
EXETER - Melancholy Suicide. - On Monday evening an Inquest was held before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, at the Elephant Inn, North Street, to Inquire concerning the death of GEORGE VICARY, a young man who has for some time past filled a situation in a respectable office in this city. An aunt of the deceased was first examined: she stated that he was about 22 years of age, that he had lodged with her at the village of Ide, but subsequently with another Aunt in South-street. Some months since, she understood he had become intimate with a girl of light character, named Ann West, and upon this intimacy being discovered by his friends, he promised to break it off. About a fortnight since (as he said in furtherance of this resolution) he desired permission to sleep at witness's residence again, which was granted; he then shewed considerable uneasiness of mind. On the 5th inst. he did not return to Ide as usual, and on the ensuing Sunday night was again absent; he returned on Monday morning, but did not come back again at night. Early on Tuesday a boy arrived at Ide with a note, requesting that witness or her husband would come to the deceased in Friernhay-street; they were both displeased with his conduct, and therefore did not go. A second note, however, induced her to comply, as it intimated that he had taken poison. She found her nephew at the house of a person named Reed, in Friernhay-street. A female was present with him, whom she believed to be Ann West. The deceased said he did not know why he had taken poison. In the afternoon he was removed to the house of Mrs Tucker, in St. Kerrian's place, where he died. - Mr John Edye, Surgeon, stated that he was called early in the morning by a man named Searle, and upon attending the deceased, was shewn a tumbler which in his opinion contained a portion of arsenic. He immediately administered a strong emetic and then placed a quantity of the powder contained in the tumbler, on a live coal, which gave forth a strong smell of garlic, and convinced him that it was arsenic. He then determined on using the stomach pump and sent for Mr Hele, of the dispensary, who brought one belonging to the Institution which was subsequently applied until the water thrown up appeared as pure as when it was poured in. Previous to the arrival of Mr Hele, between the intervals of sickness, the deceased admitted that he had taken arsenic. The rest of Mr Edye's evidence only served as a confirmation of what was afterwards stated by other witnesses, saving that he declined giving an opinion as to the cause of death, unless the body should undergo a partial dissection. - Ann West, a very fine looking and dashing young woman, stated that her residence was in Friernhay-street, at one Reed's, but she now resided with a person named Searle. She had known the deceased about 18 months. He had often importuned her to marry him, which she refused unless the consent of his friends were first obtained. On the 5th of November he had visited her and again on Sunday, and on Monday at Mrs Searle's, when he said his friends had refused his coming to Ide any more. They retired to bed between nine and ten o'clock on Monday and some time in the night she was awakened by hearing him get into bed and a short time after was disturbed again by his vomiting. She afforded him all the assistance in her power, and acquainted Mrs Searle who got up and procured a light; and she then discovered the glass in which she imagined he had mixed the arsenic. She also found in his pockets two papers: she could not read writing herself, but Mrs Searle told her they were marked " poison." Searle was sent for a medical man, to avoid seeing whom the deceased dressed himself and went into the street, nearly as far as Bartholomew Yard, declaring his intention to return to Ide, but at her suggestion he went with her to her own lodgings at Reed's where he was put to bed, and where Mr Edye found him. - Isaac Lang, 15 years of age, residing with his brother, a chemist of Fore-street, deposed to having sold the deceased 3.4 of an ounce of arsenic, in three separate papers, upon two of which he wrote the word "Poison." - William Cann, a clerk in the same office with the deceased, spoke to his general good conduct, with the exception of his intimacy with Ann West, and to the exertions used by his friends and employer to induce him to break off the connection. He thought he had latterly been much depressed in spirits. The Inquest was then adjourned till Tuesday evening, when - Elizabeth Tucker, a relative of the deceased, and to whose house he had been conveyed from Friernhay-street, - spoke to his admission of having taken poison, and his subsequent death, which happened on Monday morning last. - Mr Edye, who had now examined the stomach of the deceased, declared it to be his opinion that he died from the effects of arsenic. - Jane Searle was then examined, but her testimony only corroborated the former evidence. - Samuel Searle was also called, but could adduce no new fact. The two last witnesses were severely reproved by the Coroner. - The Jury returned a verdict That the Deceased's Death was occasioned by taking Arsenic, whilst in an Insane State of Mind.

TIVERTON - On the 4th of the present month the body of a man (since ascertained to be RICHARD ALLEN, a thatcher and maltster of Bickleigh, and who kept the turnpike in that parish,) was observed floating on the Exe, at Tiverton, near the bridge by a labouring man, and when the body was got out of the water, and lodged in an out-house belonging to the White Ball public house, it presented a frightful spectacle having 17 wounds on the head, and the coat which was on it was considerably rent from the shoulder downwards; indeed, the whole appearance of the deceased bore indications of his having been engaged in some desperate struggle,. - A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body of the ill-fated man, which was adjourned to Thursday, on which day the Jury returned a verdict of Found Dead; the means by which the deceased came by his death being unknown. Two drawings by Mr Read, of Tiverton, of the two sides of the head, were produced before the Jury during the investigation of this mysterious affair. It has created a great sensation at and near Tiverton, and few persons entertain doubt that the deceased came unfairly by his death.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 5 December 1829
CREDITON - An Inquest was held at Crediton on Saturday by James Partridge, Esq., Coroner, on the body of FREDERICK STRONG, a child of about 8 years of age, whose death was occasioned by falling on some working tools in his father's workshop (whilst playing with his little brothers), by which his skull was fractured in a most shocking manner. Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 12 December 1829
EXETER - On Tuesday last an Inquest was held at Wynards' Hospital, Magdalene Street, before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of one of the inmates, named JOHN JOHNSON, aged 84 years, who was found dead in the privy into which it is supposed he had fallen. It appeared that the deceased had been subject to fits and a verdict corresponding with the case was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 19 December 1829
OTTERY ST. MARY - An Inquest was held before Isaac Cox, Esq., on the 11th instant, at Coombe Farm, in the parish of Ottery St. Mary, on the body of MR GEORGE SALTER, formerly of Ottery, but who had resided for many years past in the neighbourhood of Crewkerne, where he rented very considerably under Earl Paulett. It appeared from the evidence of John Payne, who had been in the service of the deceased nearly 20 years, that ever since the latter part of Oct. he had seen repeated instances of aberration of mind evinced by the deceased. On the 1st. Nov. deceased locked himself up in his bedroom and cut his throat, but the wound not being dangerous he soon recovered. Ever since that time Payne has been constantly with him, and every precaution which affection and kindness could suggest have been used in order to prevent his injuring himself. On the 28th Nov. deceased left his own house in order to pay a visit to his brother, MR ABM. SALTER, of Coombe Farm, and on the morning of the 10th instant, Payne got up about seven o'clock, leaving the deceased in bed, and went downstairs, for the purpose of cleaning the deceased's boots; but he was soon informed by the niece of the deceased that her uncle had been downstairs and was just gone up again, on hearing which Payne immediately followed him and on opening the bedroom door found him leaning over the looking glass with his throat cut - blood was gushing from the wound, and he saw a knife drop out of deceased's hands - deceased looked round and instantly fell. Every assistance was rendered him, but proved fruitless, as he lingered only till the evening, when he died. MR SALTER was well known in this and the neighbouring counties as a highly respectable and experienced agriculturist and his premature death will be long remembered and regretted by an extensive circle of friends.

PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held on Monday by R. J. Squire, Esq., on the body of JAS. MARTIN, a man employed on board one of the Breakwater Stone vessels, and who was found drowned in Deadman's Bay on Sunday morning last. It appeared that the deceased, who had been under the care of an eminent medical gent. and whose complaint was hypochondria, had been low spirited and that on Sunday morning he went to visit a friend against his brother's wish and about two hour's after was found as above described. There was no evidence, however, to show by what manner he met his death, and the Jury brought in a verdict of Found Drowned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 26 December 1829
CHITTLEHAMPTON - An Inquest was held on Friday by Thos. Copner, Esq., Coroner, on the body of RICHARD HUXTABLE, Chittlehampton; the deceased was upwards of seventy years old and had only one leg; on leaving his room in the morning, he unfortunately fell from the top to the bottom of the stairs, which caused his death.

OTTERY ST. MARY - An Inquest was held by Isaac Cox, Esq., Coroner, at Ottery East Hill, on the 21st instant, on the body of ELIZABETH ANN ACKLAND, aged 4 years, daughter of ABRAHAM ACKLAND, labourer. On Thursday, the 17th, the mother of the deceased went into the garden adjoining the dwelling-house, leaving the deceased and two other children by the fire, the eldest of whom was six years old; she had not been absent above a minute or two before the eldest child came running out screeching, and told her that the deceased was on fire. She instantly ran into the house and wrapped an apron round her, and extinguished the fire; a Surgeon was sent form, who administered to her necessities, but she died on the following day. Verdict, Accidental Death.

SIDBURY - An Inquest was held at Sidford on the 15th instant before Isaac Cox, Esq., Coroner, on the body of WILLIAM HARRIS, a parish apprentice in the employ of Mr Tripe, a farmer, of that place. The lad met his death in consequence of drinking a quantity of distilled cider given him by the son of a neighbouring farmer. The Jury returned a verdict corresponding with the facts of the case.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 2 January 1830
GREAT TORRINGTON - A strong healthy man named JOHNS and about 22 years of age, left Exeter a few days ago, in company with a market man named Mitchell, to spend Christmas with his friends at Torrington: on the arrival of the cart in that place, he was taken out a corpse: no violence was visible and his death being attributed to natural causes, the body was interred; circumstances however coming to the knowledge of Mr Kingdom, Coroner for that district, he very properly caused the body to be disinterred, a Jury to be summoned, and is actively pursuing an Enquiry, by which it is trusted (if there has been any unfair work) the real cause of this young man's death will be elicited. In the meantime various stories are afloat, to any of which under present circumstances, we forbear giving further publicity.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 9 January 1830
SOUTH MOLTON - On Saturday the 2nd inst., at South Molton, sincerely lamented by all his acquaintance, MR JOHN THORNE, aged 38. He retired to his bedroom about 10 o'clock in apparent good health and spirits; but his father observing his candle to burn longer than usual, went to ascertain the cause, when, to the inexpressible grief of himself and of all his family, he found his son half undressed, and reclining on his bed a corpse! An Inquest was held on the body and the Jury returned a verdict, - "Died by the Visitation of God."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 16 January 1830
TOPSHAM - On Monday last an Inquest was held at Topsham, in the Vestry Room, before James Partridge, Esq., Coroner, on the body of GEORGE FERGUSON, who fell from the top to the bottom of the stairs, in his own house in that parish, and received a severe bruise in his head, which caused his death. From the evidence of several witnesses, it was stated that the deceased had drunk excessively of cider and that the fall was purely accidental. - Verdict, Accidental Death.

TIVERTON - Melancholy Case Of Sudden Death. - On Tuesday week, a woman aged 70, named ELIZABETH CURWOOD, a native of Sandford, was found dead in a cart, on the Halberton road, as she was proceeding to her home. It appears that the deceased had been staying in Tiverton about a fortnight, on a visit: she felt herself ill and wished to return to Sandford: she had taken half a pint of ale at the Prince Regent, previous to starting, and proceeded through the meadows with great difficulty; she reached the road, got into the cart, and sat with her back towards the side. A woman who was in the cart, on seeing deceased was ill, wrapped her head up in a cloak and the cart proceeded about a mile, on which the woman observing the poor woman apparently motionless, said she thought she "was gone," and called to the driver to stop the cart: on examination they found her dead. The carter stopped in the road for some time, when another cart arrived and they were both proceeding towards Halberton, when they were met by the Rev. Eagle, to whom the carter related the distressing circumstance and asked the Rev. Gent's opinion as to what he should do, whether he should proceed, or take the deceased back to Tiverton; the Rev. Gent. advised him to go back, which the carter accordingly did. Information was immediately forwarded to J. Partridge, Esq., the Coroner, who ordered a Jury to be summoned the same day, at the Town Hall, for the purpose of holding an Inquest; but on account of the necessary witnesses not arriving in time, it was adjourned to Saturday evening last, when the Coroner and Jury again assembled; and after examining the carter and the woman, together with several other witnesses, who agreed as to the truth of the circumstances before stated, they returned a verdict - Died by the Visitation of God.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 30 January 1830
KENTON - Terrific Accident. The melancholy event of which the following is an outline, has struck a universal horror into the hearts of all who have become acquainted with the facts of the case. On Friday last, MR LIPSCOMBE, proprietor of the Public Rooms at Teignmouth, with MR JOSEPH PONSFORD, his nephew, a young man about eighteen years of age, came to this city on Business, in one of MR LIPSCOMBE'S post chaises, and after being engaged throughout the day, left at half-past eight o'clock in the evening, on their return home They passed through Starcross at a very slow pace, at about half past 10. About 11 o'clock some persons of Starcross and Cockwood heard cries for assistance from the river, but, from the darkness of the night, the spot from whence it proceeded could not be discovered: on the following morning the inmates of a boat from Exmouth to Starcross discovered upon the water what they supposed to be a swan, but what in reality was the rail of one of the horses, a grey one. Rowing to the spot they soon found the chaise in the channel, with horses attached, but dead. Assistance was procured from the shore, and the carriage, which had settled down on its hind part in the clay, pole upward, was raised; the blinds were up, and the vehicle without injury; but, on opening it, two persons were found dead within. They were on the seat, resting against the back, their clothes not the slightest degree disordered, nor the gloves taken from their hands; indeed everything denoting that they must have been unconscious of their situation, and died from suffocation: the watches in their pockets had both stopped just before eleven o'clock. They were soon ascertained to be MR LIPSCOMBE and his nephew - the driver had been washed away. The bodies were removed to the Courtenay Arms, Starcross, where an Inquest was held on Monday, before J. Gribble, Esq., of Ashburton, one of the Coroners for the County, and a verdict returned corresponding with the circumstances. The blinds of the chaise having both been closed, it has been doubted whether these unfortunate individuals died by suffocation or by drowning; but the glass behind having been broken by the grappling iron the chaise completely filled then, if not before. The bodies were interred on Tuesday, at Newton St. Cyres, on which day the body of the driver was found, he was called WILLIAM HAWKINS, and was a young and unmarried man, and the left eye of the corpse is nearly removed from the socket, and the surrounding parts are contused, probably from a kick of one of the horses, which must have had the effect of depriving the unfortunate man instantly of his senses. It is not improbable that the driver was asleep, or in the extreme darkness of the night had been deceived by the lights at Exmouth. MR LIPSCOMBE was 43 years of age and has left a widow and six children to lament his loss: MR PONSFORD was only 18. - Further Particulars Of The Accident:- (From A Correspondent.) - The body of poor HAWKINS was picked up by a boat, with a drag, about low water on Tuesday, a little before two o'clock. From a severe contusion on the left side of the head, and the eye being almost knocked out, it would seem that on the first plunge of the horses and carriage into the water, he had been thrown between the horses, and in all probability, from the situation in which they were found - one with its leg over the pole - he received a kick from one of them. Faint cries for assistance, it seems, were heard, but when the people came out to see from whence they had proceeded, all was quiet. As to those within the chaise, judging from the attitudes they were found in, their death must have been instantaneous. HAWKINS, it appears. complained of illness in Exeter and an unaccountable dread he had of something befalling him that night. He was in conversation with a waggoner not two miles from Starcross and was perfectly sober; indeed his general habits were temperate and on the death of a brother, who was a nobleman's coachman, he, much to his credit of his feelings, came to Teignmouth to support on his wages the widow and family of that brother. Friday night, when this dreadful accident happened, was a most tempestuous time; the wind was high and the snow driving with it, was sufficient to blind and bewilder anyone. The spot the chaise had to pass has many projecting angles, besides which there are boats and timber to avoid; about half-way a brook of fresh water crosses the road, as it runs into the river: on the left of this beach-road the hard sand stretches down to the deep channel called the Bight; this deep channel at low water is not very wide, and on the other side rises a high sand-bank. There were lights at Exmouth, and others in the shipping at anchor in the Bight. From the traces left by the wheels it is evident the chaise never crossed the brook, but having turned too much to the right in the first instance HAWKINS might have mistaken the Exmouth or the ship lights for the lights at Cockwood, on the other side of Starcross, to which, until he turned to go upon the bridge (sharp round to the right), he might steer safely over a hard sand. Is it not then probable that he drove direct to the Bight, into deep water, supposing it to be the brook, and that the horses, immediately losing their footing, went in head foremost? - There are marks as if the poor animals tried to get out at the very spot, if so, their struggles after must have been great, for, pole-pieced as they were, they got half a mile higher up the river, and were found under the town. During these struggles the driver must have met his death, as his body was found where the chaise first went in. It will be urged by many that a postboy with lights could not well go astray. I would reply he might do so easily; in a fog coach lights are useless, they throw out a strong glare on either side, whilst the horses have to follow the reflections of their own shadows, and as to anything in the middle of the road, the driver cannot possibly see it. some of the coachmen are so well aware of this, that it is not uncommon now to fix a lamp to the boot of a coach, which enables the coachman not only to see the road before his leaders, but to observe any accident which may happen to the harness or reins. But to return to my subject, the affair is involved in mystery, and all we can do is to conjecture how it happened, if it be asked, was there not another road? I would answer yes, but a part of that is very dangerous; there is a wide and deep ditch on one side, a little ditch on the other, and a track too narrow for two carriages to pass in a dark night without danger of upsetting. I hear a new road is about to be cut, such an accident as that on Friday, should accelerate its completion. Starcross, Jan. 27th.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 20 February 1830
PLYMOUTH - Distressing Suicide. - An Inquest was held on Tuesday evening last by Richard Jago Squire, Esq., Coroner, to Inquire concerning the death of LIEUTENANT GEORGE ANDREWS, of the Dorset Militia, who was said to have cut his throat on the Saturday morning previous. - Senhor Jose Alves de sa Cruse Rios, a Brazilian, and late student at Coimbra, deposed that he had lodged at the same house with the deceased ever since Sept. 1828, and that he had observed a decided change in the manners of the deceased since the 24th of December last, when he (witness) had a supper party, among which was the deceased, whose conduct struck him as being very singular, for he refused to eat any sausages, because, he alleged, they were too heavy for him; helping himself to raisins and fruit freely, but taking little wine. - On the following day the witness was alarmed by a report that deceased had had a seizure, and on going into the passage he assisted MR ANDREWS from the ground, when he was exceedingly pale and altered and said he "feared he should not recover." Ever since that time the deceased had conducted himself strangely, and would frequently sit in a moody attitude over the fire, exhibiting a gloomy and melancholy picture of mental abstraction. The witness then proceeded to detail several acts of the deceased, confirmatory of the opinion above stated, and further deposed that he had been a month writing a letter, which he would attempt to do, and suddenly seize the paper, rumple it and put it into his pocket. His manner appeared wandering in his following his landlady about the house, and otherwise behaving strangely. On the night previous to the fatal act, witness finding him very dejected, invited him to take some wine with him, which he refused, but shortly after came into the witness's room and resumed the melancholy posture before mentioned, without speaking, but subsequently, and after much entreaty, helped himself to half a glass, entering into familiar conversation, when at about half-past ten witness thought it time to go to bed, and deceased starting out of a stupor into which he had fallen, wildly exclaimed, "For God's sake don't go - its too early." Witness enquired "Why?" Deceased replied he did not think it worth the trouble to go to bed. Witness did not take particular notice of this, on account of his late altered manners, and deceased again reiterated his objection on candles being rung for. Shortly after that deceased went to bed without bidding witness good night, and on his being unusually late at breakfast, the servant went to call deceased, who not replying, witness and a Mr Holman, another lodger, burst in the door. On looking at the bed they observed the clothes turned back; but the deceased was discovered lying on the other side, on the floor, with his throat cut in a dreadful manner, and a razor in his right hand. A surgeon was sent for, who, although there was some warmth in the stomach, declared that life was extinct. The razor had some cotton tied round the handle, for the purpose, as witness thought, of keeping it from slipping, and the hands were crossed over the breast. The deceased lay stretched out on the side carpet in a composed manner as if he had not struggled, and his face appeared recently shaved. The bed seemed as if it had been slept in. - Mr William Dryden, Surgeon, deposed to the desperate nature of the wound, which was sufficient to cause instant death. His evidence tended also to show that the former illness of the deceased might have led to an abstraction of mind. - Mr Charles Marks, of the Post-office, stated that he has been acquainted with the deceased for the last fifteen years. He had frequently met him in company, when his manners were always cheerful and his deportment gentlemanly. He was extremely temperate in his habits, but he did not think him a man of strong nerve, and many of the observations which he made were exceedingly puerile. He had heard him frequently remark, whenever the conduct of any person had become matter of public notoriety - that if such had been his case, he could not have lived through it, and witness therefore concluded, that some domestic circumstances had weighed on his sensitive feelings, which had induced an overwhelming depression of spirits, under which he committed the fatal act. He had visited Mr Markes a short time previous, when his manner was so decidedly changed for the worse, that on a servant of the house in which he lodged coming to him (witness) and asking "what he thought had happened to MR ANDREWS?" he exclaimed that he must have made away with himself. So forcible was the impression on his mind of the state of the deceased's mental faculties. - The learned Coroner dwelt with great minuteness, in summing up, on the law relating to insanity; and the Jury retired for about a quarter of an hour, and returned a verdict of "Temporary Derangement." - It was stated in the room that the deceased had written a letter to a gentleman, thanking him for some advice which he had given to deceased, and which advice had caused him on a former occasion, to refrain from a then intended suicide - but that since the melancholy affair of Lord Graves, his mind had been strengthened for the desperate act and he was on the present occasion, nerved to go through with it. - LIEUT. ANDREWS, was about 60 years of age.

PLYMOUTH - On Tuesday evening last Mr Squire held an Inquest on the body of a young woman named SARAH COLE, who visited her mother's grave on Sunday last, when she was seized with a palpitation of the heart and died on the following day. Verdict, "Visitation of God."

CHERITON BISHOP - Last Friday evening, as WM. DUSTIN, a roper, of Okehampton, was returning to that town from Exeter, on horseback, at a brisk pace, it being extremely dark he came in contact with the pole of a carriage, in which some members of the late lamented Lord Graves' family were hastening to Bishop's Court, and was precipitated with great force underneath the feet of the horses drawing the carriage, his death was instantaneous. The body was taken to Crockernwell, where, on Monday last, an Inquest was held before J. Gribble, Esq., and not the slightest blame being attributable to the driver, a verdict of Accidental Death returned. The deceased has left a widow far advanced in pregnancy and three young children.

EXETER - The body of poor HODGE, whose death we announced in our last, was discovered near the bridge on Tuesday. An Inquest was held the following day at the Ship, Alphington Street, before Joseph Gribble, Esq., when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

KENTISBURY - On Saturday last, an Inquest was held at Lower Cowley, in the Parish of Kentisbury, on the body of ELIZABETH BRAY, aged 80, whose clothes caught fire and who was so dreadfully burnt as to cause her death.

EXETER - Alarming And Fatal Accident. - On Thursday an Inquest was held at the Valiant Soldier Inn, Holloway-street, on the body of WILLIAM KINNARD, a child aged 3 months, which met its death, on the Friar's walk, in consequence of injuries received from a cow, which had been exhibited for sale at the Fair. Several persons saw the animal, in an infuriated state, passing down the walk, where it lifted on its hors, and threw several persons who were walking there: at last the attention of the beast appears to have been attracted by a girl, who was sitting on a stool with the infant, now deceased, in her lap, and made towards them thrusting one of its horns under the stool, so as to upset it. Continuing its furious pace, it ran over the girl and child, when the injuries occasioning the deceased's death were inflicted. The cow then ran between the racks, descended by the narrow walk to the river, and plunged in by the steps near the lime-kilns, reaching the other side near the basin; she then crossed the canal, and rested herself in the marsh opposite the factory, where she was overtaken and the person professing to be the owner, gave a bystander sixpence to assist him in driving her into the Collumpton-road, along which he passed, and has not since been heard of. The Jury returned a verdict corresponding with the facts of the case, laying a deodand of 20l. upon the cow.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 27 February 1830
HONITON - An Inquest was held at Honiton, on the 12th inst., by J. Cox, Esq., on the body of a child aged 7 years, ALICE JENNINGS, daughter of JAMES JENNINGS, a labourer. The deceased had gone into a neighbour's house on Friday the 5th instant, and whilst playing with another child, before the fire, in an upstair room, her clothes took fire; the poor woman who lived there was so much frightened as not to be able to afford any assistance, but led the deceased downstairs and ran to the door for help, her screeches brought several persons to the spot instantly, who extinguished the fire, but not till the deceased was very much burnt; medical assistance was promptly administered, but the child lingered only until the following Friday. Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 13 March 1830
CHUDLEIGH - An Inquest was held by J. Gribble, Esq., the Coroner, on Thursday, at Chudleigh, on the body of a MR WILLIAM SEARLE, a respectable cabinet-maker, who, in a fit of temporary derangement, cut his throat on Monday, at 9 in the evening and died on the Tuesday following. Verdict - "Temporary Insanity."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 10 April 1830
EXETER - A melancholy accident occurred on Wednesday night, which deprived a wife of her husband, and five children of their father, by the death of WILLIAM NEAL, a carter, in the employ of Mr Clench, of the New London Inn, who was returning with a load of hay from Whimple; the horses started in descending the hill near Summerland-place and on his running to stop them his foot slipped and the wheel passed over his body. He was taken to the Hospital where he died in about a quarter of an hour. An Inquest was held on the body on Thursday and the Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

SOUTH MOLTON - On Saturday last, a Coroner's Inquest was taken by James Pearse, Esq., Mayor, on the body of GEORGE TREBLE, gardener, of this town, who hung himself in the stairs leading to his bedroom, on the night of Thursday. Verdict, "Hung himself in a fit of Insanity, caused by Intoxication."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 1 May 1830
UFFCULME - An Inquest was held by Isaac Cox, Esq., at Uffculm, on Saturday last, on the body of JOHN SWEETLAND, who was shot by T. B. Churley, as stated in our last. The Jury returned a verdict of Manslaughter against Churley, but his connection with this world is too soon likely to cease, to render the verdict of any consequence to him - his condition being in the highest degree alarming. After the commission of the dreadful attempt on his own life, Churley soon recovered so far as to make signs for paper and pen and ink, on which he wrote as follows:- "Kiss my dear wife! Love my children! may God forgive my mother and brothers. I die in charity with all men. Poor JOHN SWEETLAND! my dear friend, Oh! Oh! my dear friend. How is dear poor JOHN SWEETLAND? Oh! Oh! help me to my dear wife! Let me see her, Oh my poor dear wife!" He struck out the word brothers, after he had written it. He was then taken to his uncle's house, where he lies in a very dangerous state.

HARTLAND - Thursday week THOS. COLLEY, farmer of Hartland, aged 45, cut his throat in a most horrible way, having turned the razor round in this throat. It seems his father left a considerable estate, of which he was to have had the principal part, but the other members of the family requiring a sale of the property, he committed the dreadful act on the morning of the sale. He had before shown symptoms of derangement and the Coroner's Jury returned a verdict to that effect. He has left a wife and several children. His wounds having been bound up, he called his wife and children round him shortly before his death and expressed his sorrow for the calamity he had brought on them.

BIDEFORD - On Friday last, a daughter of MR GRIFFEY, clock-maker, aged 14, was suddenly missed, and her father, going up the quay to look for her, saw her floating on the river. Though she was within reach, the poor man was so horror stricken that he could not take the body from the water. A man who happened to pass took her out and the Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death. She was seen, a short time before, trying to catch some shrimps on the edge of a steep bank, and it is conjectured that, reaching too far, she fell headlong into deep water.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 22 May 1830
ASHFORD - On Monday evening last MR JOHN HODGE, of East Ashford, committed suicide by cutting his throat. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body, and a verdict of Insanity was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 29 May 1830
EXETER - WM. HAYMAN, a joiner, aged 51, fell from a ladder at a house in the Butcher-row, undergoing repair, on Wednesday last, and died in a few hours afterwards,. An Inquest was held on the body the same afternoon, and a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

MERTON - An Inquest was held on Sunday last, at Merton, near Torrington, before Francis Kingdon, Esq., on the body of a child named JONAS MITCHELL, which lost its life the preceding day by falling into a well. Verdict - Accidental Death.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Sunday 6 June 1830
LOXHORE - On Monday last, MARY ACKLAND, an apprentice girl to Mr John Comer, of Sticklepath, in the parish of Loxhore, committed suicide by hanging herself. The following day an Inquest was held on the body by T. Copner, Esq., Coroner, who returned a verdict of "Destroyed herself in a fit of Temporary Insanity."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 12 June 1830
BRANSCOMBE - An Inquest was held at Slade, in Branscombe, on the 8th inst., on the body of SAMUEL BARTLETT, a labourer in the employ of W. P. Leigh, Esq., aged 36 years, who was killed by the falling of a quantity of rubbish from a stone quarry in which he was working. Verdict - "Accidental Death."

CLAYHIDON - At Clayhidon, on the 5th inst., on the body of MARY TYTHERLEY, wife of CHARLES TYTHERLEY, miller, aged 38 years, who was living at Hydewood Mill, and had the charge of a grist mill in the absence of her husband, when by some accident her clothes became entangled in one of the wheels and she was drawn into the mill between the fly and cog wheels, one of the cogs of the latter entering her breast with such force as nearly to separate it from the rest of her body. Her death must have been instantaneous, but she was not discovered for several hours after the accident happened, no one being in the house but two young children of the deceased. Verdict - "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 3 July 1830
BIDEFORD - A Coroner's Inquest was held by W. T. Hawke, Esq, on Saturday last, on the body of a lone widow named PARKHOUSE, aged 62, who was found dead in her room the same morning. It appeared that she was a person of very penurious habits, and that in order to obtain cheap medical treatment, she would go from one surgeon to another, soliciting a bleeding from this and a dose from that one, gratuitously - the object of her saving, being to procure means to enable her to obtain interment by the side of her first husband, (having had four), at Northam. Verdict accordingly; £9 14s. and 7d. were found in her box.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 24 July 1830
BISHOPS NYMPTON - On Sunday morning last a farmer called JOHN PINCOMBE, of the parish of Bishopsnympton, was found dead in the road leading from Southmolton to the former place. It is supposed his horse had thrown him. An Inquest was held on the body before T. Copner, Esq. - Verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 7 August 1830
EXETER - Inquest At The Cavalry Barracks. - An Inquest was held on Thursday evening last, before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, and a most respectable Jury, on the body of JAMES FAREWEATHER, aged 24, who was found hanging the same morning, about 11 o'clock in the saddlers' shop. The Jury, after viewing the body, retired to the Hospital room, when Sergeant-Major Whitehead deposed that he knew the deceased well, and used to mess with him, he was a saddler by trade, and had entered the regiment about 12 months since, and held the situation of Saddler's Sergeant; the last three week the deceased appeared very low, and dejected, and from two letters produced from his friends, it appears they are reduced in circumstances, which seemed to prey on his mind. Several other non commissioned officers also deposed to the same effect - and the Jury, without hesitation returned a verdict that "The deceased Strangled Himself when in a Fit of Temporary Derangement."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 21 August 1830
PLYMOUTH - MR JAMES MADGE, late in the employ of Messrs. Coates, Williams & Co. Distillers, Plymouth, and the father of a large and dependant family, put an end to his existence sometime between Wednesday morning and Friday, in last week, from the evidence distraction of his mind, consequent upon fears for the support of his wife and children; a Coroner's Inquest has declared a verdict of Insanity. We hope the sympathy awakened by the distressing event will not be permitted to subside with simple expression, to aid the widow and the orphans and that quickly, should be the determination of every friend to humanity.

PLYMOUTH - It is seldom we have to record so many agonising events in the same week. to the foregoing melancholy suicide we must add that of WILLIAM RUNDLE, Esq., of Bellegrove, who, afflicted with an internal complaint, of which a post mortem examination gave convincing proof, has for a long while suffered under a depression of spirits (otherwise entirely unaccountable) and who deprived himself of existence on Thursday, the 12th instant, at his residence. Verdict of the Coroner's Inquest in accordance with the circumstances.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 11 September 1830
PLYMOUTH - The body of the female who died last week on board the Londonderry steamer, and whose death was made the subject of a Coroner's Inquest has been claimed by her brother. Her name was PEGGY BARKER PASCOE, and she belonged to a respectable family in Truro, where she occupied the situation of superintendant in a draper's shop.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 18 September 1830
PLYMOUTH - The pleasures of a water party to the Breakwater last week, were lamentably terminated by the accidental falling overboard of one of them, named THOMAS JEANES. The body was subsequently picked up and a Coroner's Inquest brought in a verdict of "Accidental Death."

PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held on Saturday last, on the body of FRANCIS FOSTER, who fell into a well in the garden of his house, King-street West. Verdict "Found Drowned." - John Kettlewell, a neighbour, courageously jumped into the well upon the alarm being given, but too late to save the unfortunate object of his humanity.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 23 October 1830
EXETER - Frightful Accident. - A man named COUSINS, whilst employed in painting the front of Mrs Pinhey's house, Bridge-street, in this city, on Tuesday, unfortunately fell from the scaffold and was killed on the spot. A Coroner's Inquest returned a verdict of Accidental Death, with a deodand of 10s. on the ladder.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 6 November 1830
STOKE DAMEREL - MARY FOWELL, the wife of a sawyer in the Dockyard, strangled two of her children, in the absence of her husband, early on Saturday morning last. The unfortunate victims of their parent's frenzy were two fine boys, aged he one 6 and the other 9 years. A Bone, Esq., Coroner, held an Inquest on the bodies, the following Monday, when, after the examination of several witnesses, a verdict of Wilful Murder was returned against the unhappy mother, who, there is little doubt, acted under the dreadful impulse of insanity: she is committed to the county gaol to await her trial.

DOLTON - An Inquest was held at Dolton a few days ago, before Francis Kingdon, Esq., on the body of MR JOHN HODGE, who put a period to his existence by cutting his throat with a razor. The Jury returned a verdict of "Insanity."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 27 November 1830
HONITON - Fatal Effects Resulting From Improper Medical Treatment. - An Investigation took place at Honiton on Friday and Saturday last, before Isaac Cox, Esq., Coroner, relative to the death of a lad of the name of GALLOP, aged 17, a parish apprentice to a baker. A great number of witnesses were called, the general testimony of whom went to prove that the lad attended to his work, without making any complaint, up to Sunday, the 19th of September; that on that day he complained of having sprained his leg on returning from church; on the following Tuesday or Wednesday his mistress took him to a druggist of the name of Needs, living a few doors off, who ordered some oils to be rubbed in; a day or two after he (Needs) applied a few leeches, ordered poultices and simple dressings to the leg, and gave some powders, and went on to visit the boy at his master's house and said he was doing well, till the 18th of October, when the master requested Mr Woodward, a Surgeon, residing at Honiton, to see him. Mr Woodward refused to undertake the care of the case alone, and in consequence Mr Sweeting was desired to see the lad. These Gentlemen continued to attend him daily till the 17th of Nov., when he died. On the morning of the Inquest Mr Jerrard was called on by the Coroner to examine the body, which he did in the presence of Mr Woodward, Mr Sweeting and Dr Nesbitt, the latter of whom attended on behalf of Needs, at the request of Mr Melhuish, Needs's Solicitor. After the examination, Mr Sweeting deposed, that when he first saw the lad there was an ulcer on the right shin six inches in length and two in breadth; the bone was denuded of its periosteum or proper covering to that extent and of a black colour; that sinuses or cavities extended upwards to the knee, and downwards to the ankle, from which there was a profuse discharge of matter. There was a large abscess forming in the right arm, and a very large one surrounding the left collar-bone, which was in a state of extreme ulceration, so that the sharpened points could be felt through the skin. No application had been made or notice taken of any of the abscesses except that in the leg. The only treatment was as above stated, excepting a blister to the chest. Mr S. gave it as his opinion that the boy's death had been occasioned by the unchecked ravages of violent inflammation which had affected so many parts and tissues of the body, and that had proper and efficient measures been resorted to at the commencement of the disease, the lad's life might have been saved, as he had always been previously strong and healthy. - Mr Woodward's statement coincided in all material points with that of Mr Sweeting. - Mr Jerrard deposed that he had examined the body. The lungs were sound, with the exception of the posterior parts which were in a state of hepatization - that is, resembling in appearance and structure the liver, which he considered to be the result of inflammation. There were no tubercles, or other disease in any part of the lungs. The liver was healthy. The anesenteric glands were all in a healthy state - four or five of them appeared a little larger than is usual, but he would not take upon himself to say that they were so. The alimentary canal throughout was healthy. - On being asked by the Coroner what he considered to be the cause of death, he stated, that having heard the history of the case as detailed by Mr Woodward and Mr Sweeting, and from what he had collected from the testimony of the other witnesses, in conjunction with the appearances of the body, it was evident the grossest ignorance had been displayed in the treatment of the case by Needs: the means which had been resorted to were all of the most trivial and inert description, and totally inadequate to subdue the violence of the inflammation. He (Mr J.) should have bled him from the arm largely, and repeatedly if required, and instead of applying a few leeches, as head been done, he should have applied 30, or probably a hundred, to the limb, and have resorted to many other remedial measures, which it appeared had been neglected. And that had proper means been resorted to, it was highly probable the boy's life might have been preserved. He was the more inclined to think so from the circumstance of all the internal organs evincing no other marks of disease besides those resulting from recent phlegmonous inflammation. - Messrs. Woodward, Sweeting and Jerrard, the Surgeons, were unanimously of opinion that the character of the inflammation was phlegmonous. - Dr Nesbitt was next sworn. He stated that he differed in opinion from the Surgeons, inasmuch as that the nature of the inflammation was scrophulous and not phlegmonous - that the mesenteric glands were enlarged and in an incipient state of scrophulous disease - that the disease of the bones &c. was scrophulous and that the whole disease was of a scrophulous character. - In consequence of this discrepancy of opinion as to the specific nature of the disease, Mr Jerrard moved that the Inquest be adjourned to the next day, and that further medical testimony be procured. Accordingly Dr Sully, of Wiveliscombe, was requested to attend. - Dr Sully re-examined the body in the presence of Mr Sweeting and Dr Nesbitt, and immediately after was sworn and deposed to the following effect: That the lungs were much diseased and large portions in both sides of the chest were in a state of hepatization; the liver was perfectly sound; the omentum evinced marks of inflammation; the mesenteric glands were perfectly sound and healthy in appearance, as was the whole of the alimentary canal. That the nature of the inflammation throughout was decidedly phlegmonous. - Dr S. was then asked if he thought that had proper remedial measures been adopted two months ago, the boy's life might have been saved? - Dr S. replied that in his opinion, had the case come under the notice of a skilful Surgeon at its commencement, the lad might probably have been at this time a member of society; but he was also of opinion, that the disease was of much longer standing, and had the best remedial means been resorted to two months ago, it would have been too late. - It is necessary to remark here, that Dr Sully had not heard a word of the history of the case or its treatment, and that he was not permitted to hear a word of the preceding evidence, or of the history of the case, till after he had given his own evidence, as stated above. - The Coroner then proceeded to sum up the evidence, and the Jury returned the following verdict:- "That the deceased came to his death in a Natural Way from extensive inflammatory disease which appeared not have been unchecked for a considerable period by adequate medical means; and the Jury cannot too strongly express their disapprobation of unqualified persons presuming to interfere in medical and surgical cases; and they feel desirous to record their unanimous thanks to the Medical Gentlemen who have been instrumental in bringing this case before the public.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 4 December 1830
EXETER - Distressing Accident. An Inquest was held at the Devon and Exeter Hospital on Tuesday last, by S. Walkey, Esq., on the body of SAMUEL DAVEY, aged four years; who was accidentally burnt to death in consequence of his clothes taking fire on the Monday morning previous. Verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 11 December 1830
BISHOPS TAWTON - An Inquest was held on Wednesday at Bishop's Tawton, on the body of MRS ANN TANNER, aged 72, formerly housekeeper to Charles Chichester, Esq., of Hall, who whilst walking from Pilton to the house of her son, who resides near Hall, the fresh waster being higher than it has been known for 17 years past, and the darkness of the evening preventing her from seeing her danger, she walked into the deep water and was drowned. Verdict, Found Drowned.

THELBRIDGE - An Inquest was held on Saturday last Thelbridge, on the body of MR JAMES GARNSEY, yeoman, who was found dead in the road, he had been attending a survey at Witheridge, and it is supposed his horse threw him on his return home, several sovereigns and his watch were found in his pocket. - Verdict, Found Drowned.