Inquests Taken Into Suspicious Or Unexplained Deaths

For the County of Devon

Articles taken from the Exeter and Plymouth Gazette

[printed in Exeter.]

1891

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:  Aggett; Allen; Anson; Ashford; Baker; Ballamy; Bartlett, Beer(2); Bellew; Bennett(2); Bidgood; Blight; Brealey; Brookes; Brown; Browning; Bryant; Buse; Butler; Callaway; Cannicott; Carter(2); Case; Casling; Chalmers; Chant; Chave(2); Chown; Chugg; Clark; Coaker; Cole; Cook; Courtenay; Creber; Crocker; Cross; Davey; Davis(2); Dean; Denning; Derke; Desave; Dodd; Donovan; Down(2); Driscoll; Eales; Edgcombe; Elmslie; Escott; Fairchild; Farley; Farnham; Foale; Fraser; Frude; Furze; Gale(2); Gardiner(2); Gilbert; Gill; Gillard; Gillett; Godsland; Gollop; Grant; Greenslade; Gregory; Grey; Griffin; Guest; Hadden; Hadfield; Harris; Hawker; Hawkings; Hawkins; Hayman; Hayter; Heard; Hearson; Heath; Hembrow; Hill; Hitchcock; Hocking; Holland; Holman; Hook; Howard; Howell; Hoyle; Hunt; Huntley; Hurford; James; Jeffry; Jones(2); Kelligrew; Kerley; King; Kingdon(2); Knowles; Lake(2); Lamsley; Langdon; Laurence; Lavers; Lee; Lewis; Ley; Lichfield; Luxton; Macey; Maddaford; Madge; Manning(2); Martin(2); Matters; Milton; Molland; Morey; Mortimore; Moss; Mountjoy; Mudge; Mugglewhite; Needs; Nooks; Norch; Northam; Osborne; Pack; Paddon; Panting; Parrell; Parsons(3); Pearce; Pengilley; Pepperell; Perriam; Perrow; Pim; Poole; Priest; Prout; Prowse; Rawling; Reade; Reed; Rice; Rodd; Rogers; Row; Rowe; Rowland; Russell; Salter(2); Sampson; Saunders; Scott; Seagrove; Seldon; Serle; Shorland; Short; Simpson; Smale; Smith(3); Snell; Soper(2); Sparkes; Splatt; Squarey; Stacey; Staddon; Stapleton; Steer; Stentiford; Stocker; Stockman; Stone; Sword; Taylor; Thomas; Thorn; Tidball; Tuck; Tuckett; Underhill; Van Linge; Vanstone; Vaughan; Waring; Warren; Watkins; Way; Webb; Weeks; Wellington; West(2); Western; Westlake; Wharren; White; Whiteway; Williams(3); Wills; Wilson; Wittich; Woolcombe; Wotton; Wrayford; Wreyford; Wright.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 2 January 1891
BRIXHAM - An Inquest was held by Mr S. Hacker at the George Hotel, yesterday afternoon, touching the death of a fisherman named THOMAS BARTLETT, who recently accidentally fell down the hold of the smack Ellen at Brixham. Thomas May, another fisherman, said that he, in company with the deceased and another man, took the smack to Plymouth and BARTLETT complained of pains during the passage down. The deceased returned home on Saturday apparently in his usual health, but on Monday at midnight he died. After hearing the medical evidence the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death, caused by an effusion of blood on the brain, sustained through falling down the hold of the smack Ellen."

TORQUAY - Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Castle Inn, Torquay, on Tuesday, into the circumstances attending the death of ELIZABETH WHARRAN, 65, of Fern Villa, St Luke's-road, who was found dead at her house on Saturday last. It appeared that the deceased had resided alone for over 20 years, and had never been seen outdoors. On Tuesday last a boy in the employ of Mrs Smale, baker, of Union-street, delivered the bread, and was told to call on the following Saturday. He did so, but on finding that the door was locked he called some neighbours, who forced the door and on entering one of the rooms found the woman lying half naked dead on the bed. - Dr Karkeek, who made a post mortem examination, discovered traces of heart disease and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

KINGSWEAR - Fatal Accident Through Fire At Kingswear. - At the Royal Dart Hotel, Kingswear, yesterday evening, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of a child, aged 5 years, the son of a mason, named GEORGE WILLIAM DODD. Evidence was given by the mother showing that she brought the child downstairs on Monday morning shortly before 9 o'clock. She went into the back kitchen for a moment to draw some water and in the meantime left the child standing in front of the fire. She immediately after heard screams and the child ran towards her in flames. He had nothing on but his nightdress, which was on fire. She tried to put the flames out with a mat, but the child struggled and she had to take off the nightdress. Dr Kendall was sent for, but the burns were so extensive that recovery was hopeless and the child died the same night. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. - The Coroner said it was an imprudent thing for the mother to leave the child in front of a fire. However, the loss of her child was sufficient punishment to her.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 5 January 1891
OKEHAMPTON - An Inquest was held at Okehampton on Saturday by Mr W. Burd, County Coroner, on the body of the infant son of MR GALE, tailor, of East-street. It appeared from the evidence of the parents that deceased was 13 weeks old and died suddenly in his father's arms at 7 o'clock on the morning of the 2nd instant. Dr Head deposed that death was due to pleurisy and pneumonia and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

EAST STONEHOUSE - The serious accident which occurred at the Millbay Docks, Plymouth, on Saturday last, has been attended with a fatal result. It will be remembered that the unfortunate man, JOHN RAWLING, aged 46, had his right leg severed from his body by a running wire while engaged on board a Government lighter at the west end of the Millbay Pier. He was removed to the Royal Naval Hospital, Stonehouse, where he expired after enduring a few hours' terrible suffering. At an Inquest held yesterday afternoon by the Deputy Coroner, Mr O. Rodd, jun., a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 8 January 1891
PLYMOUTH - The Loss Of A Plymouth Trawler. Verdict Of Manslaughter Against A Mate. - The adjourned Inquest on the bodies of WILLIAM SIMPSON and SAMUEL J. H. FRUDE, two of the four hands which were lost by the running down of the Plymouth trawler Coquette by the steamer Fairway, was held at the Plymouth Guildhall yesterday afternoon by the Coroner, Mr A. S. Clarke. - Mr Dale appeared for the relatives of the deceased. Mr A. E. Nelson, barrister, appeared for the owner of the Coquette; and Mr W. Clifton appeared for Captain Gould. - After hearing the evidence, the Coroner, in summing up said it appeared that a proper look out had not been kept. The second mate was in charge of the steamer at the time, and if it was shown there was negligence he was responsible. If it was shown that there was negligence the Jury must bring in a verdict of "Manslaughter". The Court was then cleared for the Jury to consider their verdict and on its being reopened the Foreman said the Jury were of opinion that no blame would be attributed to the captain, but on the part of the second officer, who was in charge, they believed there was great negligence. The must, therefore, bring in a verdict of Manslaughter against him.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 9 January 1891
EAST BUDLEIGH - An Inquest was held at the King's Arms Inn on the infant child of JOHN WEST, who died suddenly. After hearing the evidence of Dr Evans, who had made a post mortem examination, the Jury returned a verdict that "Death resulted from congestion of the brain, following inflammation of the lungs."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 14 January 1891
EAST STONEHOUSE - The Recent Poisoning Case At Stonehouse. - An adjourned Inquest was held at the St George's Hall, Stonehouse, yesterday, by the Deputy County Coroner, Mr R. R. Rodd, jun., respecting the death of ELLEN MARY DOWN, aged 20, who died from the effects of rat poison, self-administered. The Coroner, in his opening observations, stated that the Jury needed little information from him, as they were well aware of the whole circumstances of the case. The Inquest was adjourned in order that a post mortem examination should be made, and the doctor was able to give them the result of that examination. - CHARLOTTE DOWN, mother of deceased, stated that her daughter up to within the last few weeks had been employed by Mr Shobrook, of Edgcumbe-street, as a domestic servant. Deceased was taken suddenly ill on the 7th instant and it was not until the following Saturday that it was discovered she had taken poison. Witness further stated that a doctor was called in immediately when it became known what deceased had done. - Corporal Walter Marsh, in the 2nd North Staffordshire Regiment, stationed at the North Raglan Barracks, said he had known the deceased for about two years. He last saw her alive on Monday, the 6th inst., at the Raglan Barracks, in the evening. Deceased on that occasion never mentioned anything with regard to marriage, nor did she inform witness of her condition. Questioned by the Jury, he repudiated ever having been asked by deceased to marry her, but admitted that he had an intention to marry her and would have done so had it not been for the objections made by her parents. - After a few brief remarks had been made by the Coroner in summing up the case, the Jury retired to consider their verdict. - The Foreman announced that the whole of the Jury had arrived at a conclusion, the verdict being "That the deceased Committed Suicide while in a state of Temporary Insanity."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 16 January 1891
EAST BUDLEIGH - Homeless At Budleigh Salterton. Sad Case Of Exposure. - The Deputy Coroner for the District, Mr C. Cox, held an Inquest at the Rolle Hotel, Budleigh Salterton, yesterday, on the body of EDWARD THOMAS PENGILLEY, aged 12 months, son of THOMAS PENGILLEY, labourer and fisherman, who died on Tuesday. - Mr Casely was Foreman of the Jury. - Maria Anear, until recently a neighbour of PENGILLEY, said the deceased had been out of doors a great deal within the last ten days, owing to his parents having no shelter. Out of kindness witness accommodated two of their children - not the deceased - for nine or ten nights. On Monday the child in question was taken to witness's house by his mother, and she considered him to be in a dying state. In the evening Dr Evans was sent for, and, upon his advice, the infant was bathed in witness's house, wrapped in woollen clothing and removed to Mrs Teed's, three doors away, where the parents slept. Witness was unable to accommodate them in her house at night. - Georgina Teed deposed that the deceased's parents had slept in her house since the Tuesday before the date of the child's death. For a few nights previously they slept in Mr Hobson's stores, having nowhere else to go. When brought to her house last Monday evening the infant seemed comfortable, but the next morning he died immediately after witness and a neighbour named Spratt had been called by his father to see him. The child was always delicate and since the mother had been without shelter she had taken him, wrapped up, to and from the houses of neighbours. - Miss Gibbons, parochial nurse, of Salterton, said she placed the child in a hot bath. He was very weak and thin and she was not surprised at his death. - Mr Hobson said there was a fire on the ground floor of his stores and he should have thought it no hardship to sleep there with a child. - Continuing, Miss Gibbons said Mr Harry Perriam very kindly offered the deceased's parents the use of a house for a fortnight in order that they might not be homeless, but as the child died they did not occupy it. - Dr Evans stated that the infant was always extremely weak, and suffered from imperfect digestion, to which he attributed his thin condition. Having heard that the parents had been houseless and the deceased carried about the streets, he did not give a certificate, naturally supposing that exposure had a great deal to do with causing death. The child ought not to have been taken out of doors at all in his state. So far as he knew, the deceased received proper treatment from his mother. In his opinion, the immediate cause of death was congestion of the lungs. - The Coroner remarked that the circumstances under which the child was taken from house to house were exceptional. Dr Evans acted rightly in refusing a certificate. - Mrs Spratt, a neighbour, said MRS PENGILLEY had sought shelter for herself and child in her house on two or three occasions. - Mrs Anear, the first witness, stated that Mr Albert Cowd, house agent, threatened to turn her out of her house if she accommodated the PENGILLEYS in it. - The Coroner: It is a most lamentable thing that the child should have been exposed. - Mr Edward Cowd, the owner of the house in which the PENGILLEYS lived, said he gave them a week's notice to leave for two reasons; one that they owed 19 weeks' and would not pay it; and the other, that PENGILLEY was "a noisy sort of chap as regards the neighbours." After receiving a week's notice to quit, he took a second week, so that he had time enough to get another house. Six months since he had notice to leave. - By the Foreman: It was a fact that rent was due, although there had been a rumour to the contrary. - Mr Kempson, a Juror (to Mr Cowd): Is it a fact that you gave Mrs Anear to understand you would turn her out of her house if she harboured the PENGILLEYS? - Mr Cowd: I did so. - The Coroner: I think it most unkind. - Mr Cowd: On my part, sir? - The Coroner: Yes. - Mr Cowd: Not at all. Oh, no; nothing of that, sir. - Answering inquiries by Jurors, the Coroner said a week's notice could be given to a weekly tenant at any time, but if done under certain circumstances it was a most unkind thing. - Replying to the Coroner, Mr Cowd said he did not know that the PENGILLEYS were seeking shelter. - The Coroner observed that if that was so the case would be altered, but if Mr Cowd was not ignorant of the fact it was a most unkind thing. The child had doubtless died from exposure. - Mr Cowd: I would rather have taken the child in myself than it should have died from exposure. - The Coroner: I don't know if you pity them (the parents) now, but if you knew the state of affairs then you didn't show much pity. - ANNIE L. PENGILLEY, mother of the deceased, proved the receipt of notice to quit the house, and added that before leaving, Mrs Cowd said to her, "Your time is up, and if you are not out before 12 o'clock you'll have to stand the consequences." They left the house, fearing that their "few things" would be sold if they did not do so and through the kindness of Mr Hobson stayed in his store by night from the Saturday until the following Tuesday. Witness had part of her food at neighbours' houses, and sat by their fires. The deceased was only exposed when being carried from house to house. - By the Coroner: The child was so often restless that she did not think it necessary to send for Dr Evans immediately before his death. When her husband had been drinking he got a little noisy. Witness had herself been also faulty, which made matters worse. - The Coroner: Wives often take the blame when husbands are in fault, and I'm afraid the husband was in fault in this case. - Replying to a Juror, MRS PENGILLEY said no representation was made to Mr Cowd as to the condition of the deceased. - The Coroner, addressing the father of the deceased, said people were very shy of taking him in; had he been a respectable man shelter would have been given him. It seemed to him that PENGILLEY was a very great deal to blame in this matter and he hoped it would be a lesson to him. He had not the least doubt that the child would not have died had he been properly sheltered. - PENGILLEY: I won't drink any more, sir. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the case was a melancholy one. The child's death was no doubt hastened by exposure. It did not seem to him to be the fault of the mother in any way, but in consequence of the husband's habits having made him an undesirable tenant and of arrears in rent. It was most lamentable that Mrs Anear should have been prevented by Mr Cowd from giving the PENGILLEYS shelter, and he should have made inquiries into the state of the family before taking such a step. - Mr Cowd, interposing, said he knew nothing of the matter, and Mrs Anear's house was not large enough to accommodate the deceased's parents. - Proceeding, the Coroner said legally Mr Cowd had a right to act as he did; but bringing the question of a moral point of view, he might have ascertained whether it was possible for PENGILLEY to obtain shelter for his family before taking such action. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony. - The Coroner alluded to the kindness shown by Mr Hobson and signed a certificate for the Prudential Assurance Company, in which the deceased was insured.

BLACK TORRINGTON - An Inquest was held at the Union Hotel by Mr Fulford, Deputy Coroner, touching the death of LYDIA ANN MADGE, wife of WILLIAM HENRY MADGE, labourer, who was found dead in bed on Tuesday morning. After hearing the evidence, the Jury, of whom Mr James Sparke was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." Much sympathy is felt for the bereaved husband, who is left with seven young children, the youngest being only 10 days old. The Jury returned their fees to the widower.

BOVEY TRACEY - Fatal Accident At Bovey Tracey. - The County Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, held an Inquiry at Bovey Tracey on Saturday respecting the death of WILLIAM JOSEPH MANNING at the Great Western Brick and Tile Works. The Jurors were Messrs. Joll, Baker, Aggett, Mardon, Tucker, Moore, Sercombe, Cumming, Waldron, Daymond, Treleaven and Westwood. Mr Westwood was chosen Foreman. The Jury inspected the machinery in the building where the unfortunate man met with his untimely death. It consists of a circular pan about eight feet in diameter, with a perforated bottom, on which bottom four heavy rollers move round and round for the purpose of crushing the clay. The two smaller rollers revolve close to the circumference and weigh about 35 cwt. each. The two larger rollers revolve nearer the centre of the pan at right angles to the smaller ones. A scraper revolves near the circumference between the smaller pair of rollers. The machinery was put in motion for the inspection of the Jurors. It was unanimously felt that the machinery should be surrounded with a strong iron circular rail about 3 ft. 6 in. high. - The Foreman of the Works stated that he had never considered it to be dangerous and the question of protection had never been raided. - H.M. Inspector of Factories informed the Jurors that the law required all dangerous machinery to be shut off, but left the question of danger to be decided by the officials of the factories. - John Millman, a fellow-workman, gave evidence that about 5 o'clock the deceased had been speaking to him. While passing by a heap of clay to his own working position the deceased either stumbled over or slipped on a lump of clay and fell sideways in front of one of the rollers. Millman at once rushed across to the lever and threw the machinery out of gear. By that time the deceased had been dragged about 3 ft., but he did not think that the roller passed over him. - Anther witness, however, named Milton, who saw the accident from the floor above, gave evidence that two rollers passed over the unfortunate man. - Dr Goodwin's evidence showed that death must have been instantaneous, as the neck was dislocated, one leg had sustained a compound fracture and the thigh of the other leg was broken. - The verdict of the Jury was "Accidental Death," and they strongly recommended that a strong iron railing should at once be placed around the machinery. - The Manager promised that the recommendation of the Jury should be acted upon as soon as possible.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 19 January 1891
EXETER - At an Inquest held in Exeter on Saturday, on the body of ALICE ETHEL HOLMAN, the infant daughter of a sawyer, living in East's-court, Smythen-street, the Jury returned verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." Mr E. A. Brash, Surgeon, said death was probably due to convulsions.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 20 January 1891
TORQUAY - Mr Sydney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry at Torquay yesterday into the circumstances attending the death of the three-days-old child of JOHN RICE, labourer, of Temperance-street. The evidence of Dr Cave showed that the child had died of convulsions and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 23 January 1891
BISHOPS NYMPTON - An Inquest was held yesterday at Bishopsnympton, by Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner, upon the body of JOHN HARRIS, farm labourer, aged 70 years. William Crang, son of Mr R. Crang, of Drewstone Farm, stated that the deceased had been in the employ of his father and grandfather for forty or fifty years. Last Tuesday evening, about five o'clock, the deceased was standing on a cartload of corn in the rick-yard of the farm. The cart was heavily loaded and had a horse attached to it. The horse moved and caused the deceased to fall off. A woodman named James Ford immediately went to his assistance, as did also witness. The deceased did not speak or move, and witness considered he was dead. Dr T. Sanders, of Southmolton, stated that death resulted from dislocation of the neck. A verdict was returned of "Accidental Death."

LODDISWELL - The Deputy Coroner, Dr Fraser, held an Inquiry on Tuesday afternoon, at the New Bridge Inn, into the circumstances attending the death of the female child of a domestic servant, named AGNES EDGCOMBE. From the evidence it appeared that the child was found dead by the side of its mother in bed a few hours after birth. After hearing the evidence of Dr Cooke, Totnes, who made a post-mortem examination, the Jury returned the following verdict:- "Death from Natural Causes, consequent on Premature Birth." The following gentlemen formed the Jury: - Messrs. T. Willing (Foreman), T. Rogers, Popplestone, F. Kennard, Hodder, T. Harvey, Prowse, W. Hingston, Hine, T. Preston, W. Preston, E. Yolland and F. A. Parker.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 24 January 1891
EXMINSTER - The Late Sergeant-Major ELMSLIE. - Yesterday Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Stowey Arms, Exminster, on the body of ALEXANDER ELMSLIE, formerly a Quartermaster-Sergeant of one of the Batteries of Artillery stationed at the Topsham Barracks, but lately Instructor of a Volunteer Battery at Dundee. The deceased had for a considerable time been suffering from depression and absence of memory. By medical advice he came to Exeter with his wife and family three months since, his doctor entertaining the opinion that a change of air and scene would lead to a restoration of health. A month's stay in Exeter not having the desired result, the deceased's leave was prolonged and towards the end of the year he was much brighter and his wife anticipated that ere long he would be able to return to duty. Memory, however, did not permanently return to him, and on one occasion he was absent from home during the greater part of the day, being unable to recollect the road back to Heavitree, where he was living. On New Year's Day the deceased, who seemed much as usual, said he was going out for a walk; he was not quite clear where, but he should return for dinner. Nothing further was seen of him by his wife until Thursday, when she was called upon to view his body, which had been taken out of the Canal near the Exminster drawbridge. It transpired at the Inquest that on the day of his disappearance the deceased was met by someone, of whom he inquired the way to cross the river. No one saw him after this. A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned. The deceased, who bore an excellent character, leaves a widow and five children, the oldest of whom is 10 years of age.

TORQUAY - Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Torbay Hospital, Torquay, last evening touching the death of WILLIAM GILL, 53, cab-driver, of 4 Ellacombe-terrace, who died in the Institution from injuries he received on the 26th December last. It appeared that on the evening in question as the deceased was mounting the box of his cab, the horse started off and deceased fell to the ground, receiving a fracture of the skull and other injuries to his head, from the effects of which he died. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 26 January 1891
EXETER HEAVITREE - An Inquest was held on Saturday morning at the Royal Oak Inn, Heavitree, by the Deputy Coroner, Mr W. H. Gould, into the circumstances attending the death of CATHERINE ALLEN, which occurred on Thursday morning at her residence at 6 White's Cottages. The husband of the deceased, FREDERICK ALLEN, a ward porter at the Exeter Asylum, said his wife was 32 years of age and when he last saw her alive on Wednesday morning she appeared in her usual state of health. She, however, did not enjoy good health generally and had continually complained of weakness of the heart. HENRY JOHN ALLEN, son of the deceased, said he went to bed at the same time as his mother on Wednesday night, via., about 9 o'clock. The next morning he was told by his sister, aged nine years, that his mother was dead. He informed a neighbour of the occurrence and Dr R. J. Andrews was called in. Dr Andrews said he had made a post mortem examination of the body and his opinion was that the cause of death was syncope and a diseased heart. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

EXETER - The Suicide Of An Exeter Tradesman. Alcohol And Its Effect. - The painful circumstances surrounding the death of MR SAMUEL THOMAS GILBERT, aged 46, boot and shoemaker of 103 Fore-street, Exeter, formed the subject of an Inquiry at the City Police Court on Saturday by Mr H. W. Hooper, Coroner. - MRS SARAH ANN GILBERT said the deceased was her husband. On Friday night, when tipsy, he was with her in their sitting-room. No angry conversation passed between them. During the evening MR GILBERT drank brandy, diluted with very little water. She did not know how much brandy he took on Friday, but, as a rule, he consumed about a quart a day. Witness did not share the brandy with her husband on the previous evening; it was very seldom that she did so. At a quarter after 1 o'clock on Saturday morning MR GILBERT left the sitting-room to go to bed upstairs. About two minutes after his departure witness heard a noise, as if something had fallen upon the floor, and on going upstairs she found her husband lying upon the bed. His coat was off and there was blood on his face. Witness exclaimed, "Sam!" but received no answer. She then called the servant, Mr Crispin, Mr Keen and Mr Edwards to her assistance. Witness had five children, the eldest of whom would be 16 years of age next September. She was not aware that the deceased had firearms of any kind in his possession. - Mr Trapnell, (a Juror) to MRS GILBERT: Did he (deceased) ever threaten his life before? - MRS GILBERT: Yes, on several occasions. At Jubilee time he threatened to blow his brains out and on several occasions afterwards. - The Coroner: Did he give any reason for that? - Witness: No. - The Coroner: You are sure of that? - Witness: Certain. - Alice Mole, a domestic servant in the employ of MRS GILBERT, deposed that her master was not sober on Friday night. He drank brandy alone on that occasion and added a little water to it. When witness went to bed MR GILBERT had not taken his supper. While between sleeping and waking she heard her master go to his bedroom and about two minutes later she was aroused by a banging noise. On running into the room witness found the deceased lying on the bed, with blood running over his face. She heard no disturbance between the deceased and his wife. - By a Juror: She saw a revolver in the bedroom after the Policeman and others had arrived. - Mr Frederick Edwards, manager of the Devonshire Liberal Club, stated that between one o'clock and half-past on Saturday morning he was walking down Fore-street. By request, he went to the bedroom in question, which was full of smoke and smelled strongly of gun powder. MR GILBERT'S pulse had ceased to beat and witness concluded that he was dead. Immediately under the deceased's right hand was a revolver (produced), which contained an exploded cartridge. - Mr C. E. Bell, Police Surgeon, said the muzzle of the revolver must have been placed close to the base of the skull through the mouth. the weapon produced would have caused a wound such as that which he found in the deceased's head. The immediate causes of death, which would have been instantaneous, were destruction of the brain and haemorrhage. - By a Juror: It was quite impossible for death to have been the result of an accident. - Mr Harris, Surgeon, said he had medically attended the deceased at intervals during the last ten years for various complaints. Very frequently he was called to visit him on account of the effects of alcohol. On the 19th instant he saw the deceased in his sitting-room, and by his behaviour and manner of speaking saw that it was the old story of drink. He tried to reason with him, but it was practically of no avail. There was a large tumbler, three parts full of brandy and water, on the mantelpiece at the time, and witness, pointing to it, said to the deceased, "That is what is ruining you and your prospects in life." Generally, he was very amenable to witness when the latter spoke to him, and led him to understand that he would give up drink. His abstinence usually lasted about a day, after which he would resort to his old habit; such was the case between Monday and Friday last. MRS GILBERT was always in great distress concerning her husband and appealed to witness for advice. He told her to try and keep the liquor from him, and also to warn those from whom he was in the habit of procuring it. These directions were carried out as far as MRS GILBERT was able. Drink had the effect of unhinging the mind of the deceased, who always lived on affectionate terms with his wife. - The Coroner said the case was very lamentable and, he was afraid, one of those in which persons who became addicted to drink could not be prevented from taking it, except when common-sense and reason came to their aid. It was very sad that a man should destroy himself in this way. Should they be unable to get the drink themselves, those who followed intemperate habits found people to procure it for them. It seemed clear to him that the deceased met his death while under the influence of an excessive quantity of alcohol, and he deeply sympathised with his family. - The Jury found that the deceased Committed Suicide while in a state of Temporary Insanity, brought about by Excessive Drinking, and, with the Coroner, recorded their sympathy with MRS GILBERT and her family.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 28 January 1891
TOTNES - The Death From Burning At Totnes. - An Inquest was held last evening at the Town Arms Hotel, Totnes, before Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, on the body of MINNIE FARLEY, aged fifteen, daughter of JAMES FARLEY, a rural postman, who died on Monday from burns, caused by her clothes catching fire on Sunday evening. - The evidence showed that deceased was sitting by the fire with her younger sister, that the latter went into another room for a book, and on her return found her sister on fire. Dr Fraser, who attended deceased, said when he saw her the fire was not entirely out and he got some water and extinguished it. She was most extensively burned and some parts of the skin peeled off like a glove. He considered the burns were so serious that they would prove fatal. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed their deep sympathy with the parents of the deceased, in which the Coroner joined.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 29 January 1891
EXETER - Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at 52 Mount Radford-road, Larkbeare Estate, Exeter, touching the death of CLARA AMELIA WEBB, aged nine months, who died on Tuesday at the Higher Barracks, Exeter. MRS CLARA WEBB, mother of the deceased, stated that she went to the Higher Barracks on the day in question to visit her sister, taking her child with her. When she got inside the Barracks she met her brother-in-law, who spoke to the baby, upon which the child burst out crying, went into convulsions and died in her arms. She at once sent for Dr Perkins, of South-street. Dr Perkins said he was called on the day in question to go to the officers' quarters, Higher Barracks. He went there and examined the child, who had every appearance of having had a severe attack of convulsions, which was undoubtedly the cause of death. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 30 January 1891
TORQUAY - Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Rising Sun Inn, Torquay, yesterday, into the circumstances attending the death of ETHEL MAUD LAVERS, the two-year-old daughter of THOMAS LAVERS, cab proprietor, of Lime Tree Cottages. The child was very delicate. On the 27th inst. she was seated at the table in a small chair stood on the top of a large one. Whilst the mother was in an adjoining room the child by some means upset the chair and fell heavily to the floor. This happened about two o'clock in the afternoon and although the child did not appear to have injured herself she died at 6 o'clock in the evening. Dr Thistle, who was called in at the time, stated that the child died of convulsions, the primary cause of which was injury to the brain. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 2 February 1891
TORQUAY - A Fatal Fall Downstairs At Torquay. - Mr Sidney Hacker held an Inquiry at the Torbay Hospital on Saturday into the circumstances attending the death of JANE MARTIN, 78, of No. 3 Arch-row, Stentiford's-hill. - SUSAN MILFORD, of Queen-street, daughter of the deceased, gave evidence of identification, and stated that her mother was the wife of a stone-cutter. On the 17th January, in the middle of the afternoon, she was called by a woman named Binney, who told her that her mother had met with an accident. Witness went to the house and found her mother sitting in a chair with her leg broken. She was at once removed to the Hospital. - Mr F. E. Cave, House Surgeon at the Hospital, stated that when deceased was brought to the Hospital she was suffering from a broken right leg, a fractured rib, and a severe punctured wound on the scalp, which must have bled very freely. She was also suffering from bronchitis. The broken leg was set, but there was little hope of recovery, and she died at 8.45 on Friday, 30th January. She told witness that her injuries had resulted from falling downstairs. Death was due to bronchitis, consequent upon the injuries she received. - Mary Jane Binney, who lived with the deceased, said on the afternoon of the 17th January she was in her room when she heard deceased coming up the stairs with a bucket of water. She had nearly mounted to the top when witness heard a noise, and on looking over the stairs she saw deceased lying at the bottom. Witness assisted her to her room and she was subsequently removed to the Hospital. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 3 February 1891
SIDMOUTH - The Supposed Concealment Of Birth At Sidmouth. The Inquest. - Yesterday, at the London Hotel, Sidmouth, an Inquest was held by Mr Deputy Coroner Cox, of Honiton, to Inquire into the cause of death of the male child of EMILY SPARKES, a single woman, and a domestic servant at the Knowle Grange, Sidmouth, the residence of Dr Oliver. The girl is the daughter of a coachman, who resides at Salcombe Regis. - Dr Robert Hole French, locum tenens for Dr Williams, of Sidmouth, deposed that he was called to see EMILY SPARKES on the 27th January. He had received a letter from Mrs Oliver, saying that SPARKES had been suddenly taken very ill. He was called about 5.30 and reached the residence of Dr Oliver t 6.45. He saw the girl upstairs in bed. He asked her if she could assign any cause for her illness, but she made no answer. He left her and went to see her again at 10.30 the same evening. Meanwhile he had sent her some medicine. At 10.30 she was still in bed, and appeared better. He repeated the question he had previously put to her, and as she would not give him a direct answer he put the question more pointedly, and she then made an admission to him. She got out of bed, unlocked her box - a large trunk - which was at the foot of the bed, and took a parcel from it, which was covered with a newspaper. She handed witness the parcel. Witness did not open the parcel, as he did not want to alarm the girl, but he could tell from the feel of it that it was a child. He told her he must take the parcel away and examine it. She did not ask him to let it remain, but she asked him not to tell Mrs Oliver, and he promised he would not do so that night. Mrs Oliver had suspicions. He left the parcel on the bed, and on leaving, informed SPARKES that he would return on the following morning and bring a bag and take it away. About 11 o'clock on the following morning he went to Knowle Grange and saw SPARKES. She unlocked the trunk which contained the body. It was still in the newspaper with brown paper over it, and tied with string. Witness asked the girl various questions as to the birth of the child and she replied that it happened when she went to the lavatory. He said to her, "Was anybody there?" and she replied "No." He asked her whether the child was born alive and she said "I don't know, I was so frightened." In reply to other questions she said she did not hear the child cry. He forgot whether he asked her when the child was born, and he could not remember whether she stated the time or not. After remaining with the girl about 10 minutes, he took the parcel to Dr Williams' house and meantime he communicated with Dr Oliver. Before he took away the bag he spoke to Mrs Oliver of the matter. Witness did not examine the contents of the parcel until about 2.30 on the afternoon of the day he took it away. The parcel contained the body of an apparently fully-developed male child. He noticed marks on the face; he did not then make a thorough examination. He awaited the arrival of Dr Oliver, who was in London, and who had been telegraphed for. - The Deputy Coroner: I must say that I think you were ill-advised in doing so. The proper course would have been to have informed the Police at once. - Witness, continuing, said that on Thursday morning he saw Dr Oliver, and they decided to lay the whole facts before the Coroner, and accordingly a letter was written to the Coroner on Thursday. - The Deputy Coroner pointed out that the Police should have been first communicated with, and they would have communicated with the Coroner. - Dr French said he thought the Coroner was the proper person to be first apprised in such cases. Continuing, witness said that at the request of the Coroner he made a post-mortem examination of the body on Friday morning. He came to the conclusion that the child was fully matured. There were marks of injury about the face, a small laceration about the right eye about half-an-inch long, a bruise over the left eye, a bruise on the left side of the nose, both lips were contused on the left side, with a slight laceration of the left one. The right cheek was grazed and there was a slight graze on the left arm in front of the elbow. On the top of the head there was a severe contusion, with depression of the bone corresponding. The bone was fractured. There was also a contusion at the back of the head, which appeared to be an extension of the last-mentioned contusion. On opening the body, he found air in the lungs, but not a large quantity. This showed that the child had breathed. All the organs seemed healthy. On examining the brain he found a depression corresponding with the fracture he had mentioned. It was a severe depression and was quite sufficient to cause death. The stomach contained no air, which showed that the child had swallowed nothing. He concluded that the injury on the head was the cause of death. - By the Deputy Coroner: The injury to the top of the head might have been caused in the course of delivery. If the body had fallen upon the edge of an aperture in the lavatory during delivery it would have been sufficient to cause the injury on the head, and produced almost instantaneous death. - In reply to Mr Millen, witness said that he would not have been able to form a definite opinion had he examined the child when he first saw the parcel. - By Mr Dunn: He did hear the girl say she expected to be confined at Mrs Slade's. Witness added that he had heard that the girl had fainted. - By the Deputy Coroner: He thought that the whole of the injuries he had described might have been caused accidentally while the girl was in the lavatory. - Mrs Oliver, wife of Dr Oliver, of Knowle Grange, deposed that EMILY SPARKES was a parlourmaid in her service. She commenced duties on the 23rd of July 1890. She had no suspicions respecting SPARKES until after the birth of the deceased. On Tuesday last, at 1 o'clock when the girl came into the library, witness noticed that she looked ill, and told her to go and lie down, and she would bring her some brandy and water. As she was going to her bedroom witness overtook SPARKES on the staircase and gave her the brandy and water. SPARKES was assisted upstairs by a fellow-servant During the afternoon witness went upstairs to see the girl, who was then lying on the bed. She said she was better and would come downstairs directly. Witness told her not to do so, but to remain in her room. Witness saw the girl several times that day. It did not occur to her at any time that her condition was what it had since proved to be. On suggesting that a doctor should be sent for SPARKES asked her not to do so and it was then that her suspicions were aroused. She immediately sent for a medical man. She had never mentioned the subject to the girl. - Lydia Smith, housemaid at Knowle Grange, said she slept with EMILY SPARKES. She was unaware that the latter was enceinte. On Tuesday, about 1 o'clock SPARKES asked her to get luncheon. At 1.15 witness accompanied SPARKES, at Mrs Oliver's request, to her bedroom. In consequence of what she saw she made a communication to Mrs Oliver. - Grace Warne, cook at Knowle Grange, gave similar evidence. - Sarah Jane Slade, wife of William Slade, agent for the L. and S.W.R. at Sidmouth, stated that about two months ago EMILY SPARKES told her that she was enceinte. She asked if she had a child would witness attend upon her and she replied in the affirmative. Three weeks ago the girl called upon witness, but did not say anything about the matter. Witness's husband was present. On Tuesday, at dinner-time, the gardener at Knowle Grange (George Page) brought witness a parcel, and said, "EMILY SPARKES will call in the afternoon." Witness opened the parcel in the evening, as SPARKES did not come. The parcel contained clean linen belonging to SPARKES. On Wednesday SPARKES'S mother called and asked witness to send the clothes to Dr Oliver's, which she did. SPARKES had often seen baby linen in witness's house. - By Mr Dunn: She fully expected SPARKES would come to her house to be confined. - George Page, gardener at Knowle Grange, spoke to taking a parcel to Mrs Slade. - In summing up, the Deputy Coroner reminded the Jury that it was for them to consider whether the marks of violence on the body were caused by the mother of the child. If they were of this opinion, then they could arrive at but one verdict, namely, "Wilful Murder." He pointed out that the medical man considered that the injuries might have been caused accidentally and he (the Deputy Coroner) felt sure that if the Jury had any doubts as to how the injuries were occasioned they would given the girl the benefit of the doubt. There was some evidence in her favour, inasmuch as she had taken some precautions, but it did seem a very strange feature in the case that she had not taken more precautions. - After a short consultation in private the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - The Inquiry occupied 2 ½ hours. - We understand that a charge of concealment of birth will be preferred against SPARKES.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 4 February 1891
DALWOOD - Found Dead In Bed At Dalwood. - A painfully sudden death occurred at Andershayes, in the parish of Dalwood, on Monday. A labourer, named RICHARD HOYLE, aged 80 years, was called by his wife to come down to breakfast, but as she received no reply she went upstairs and found her husband in bed dead. P.C. Hutchings communicated with the Coroner and yesterday an Inquest was held by Mr Cox, Deputy Coroner. Evidence was given by Dr Hodge, of Dalwood, to the effect that death was due to an apoplectic fit. A verdict was returned accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 5 February 1891
BOVEY TRACEY - At Bovey Tracey yesterday an Inquest was held by Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, on the body of MR SAMUEL WRAYFORD, a farmer, of Elsford Farm. On Saturday last the deceased started from his house about 11 a.m. to see a brother living some miles away. He was riding a young horse, and had gone little more than a mile when he must have been thrown from his horse and killed by the fall. Death must have been nearly instantaneous, as the neck was broken. The body was not seen until about 3 o'clock, when it was found by the Vicar of Hennock. The delay in the discovery of the sad accident is accounted for by the fact that it occurred about a hundred yards beyond a gate across the road separating two parishes, and consequently the horse could not return home. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." MR WRAYFORD was much respected in the neighbourhood, and great sympathy is felt for his relatives.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 6 February 1891
CHARDSTOCK (DORSET) - A sad case of suicide has taken place here. JOHN BEER, about 70 years of age, while his wife was absent for a short time, committed suicide by hanging himself to the baluster at the top of the stairs. She called to her neighbours in great alarm, and Mr Anning came and cut BEER down. He was quite dead. An Inquest was held at the George Inn on Monday, before Mr Nantes and a Jury, of whom Mr Mark Hutchings was chosen Foreman. Mr Anning and others were called as witnesses. After a short deliberation a verdict of "Suicide by Hanging" was found. The Jury gave their fees to the widow.

EXETER - The City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest yesterday at No. 10 Parr-street, Exeter, touching the death of GERTRUDE MARY PADDON, aged five months, who died on Tuesday, the 3rd February, owing to an attack of convulsions. ELLEN PADDON, wife of GEORGE PADDON, joiner, said the child was fed with milk and water and was always delicate. The child was all right on Tuesday morning when the witness took her from the cradle and while in witness's arms she went into convulsions and expired. Witness at once sent for Dr Abbot. Dr George Abbot said he examined the body and death was due to an attack of convulsions, brought on by teething. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

HOLSWORTHY - An Inquest was held yesterday on the body of a son of MR WILLIAM KING, Chasty Farm. It appears that the mother left the child, aged three months, in bed on Wednesday morning, and went downstairs at 8.15. On returning to the child she found that it had turned over on its face and was suffocated. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TAVISTOCK - An Inquest was held at the New Market Hotel, Tavistock, yesterday afternoon, by Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, on the body of MRS MARIA MUGGLEWHITE, widow, of Tavistock, aged 74 years. MR GEORGE MUGGLEWHITE, house decorator, stated that the deceased was his mother. On the 19th of December last a young man, named Frederick Sly, was driving a trap from the new station-road, into Bedford-square, when he accidentally knocked down the deceased. She was in the Hospital six weeks. She told him that she was injured internally, but she did not blame anyone for what had occurred. Dr Hislop said the immediate cause of death was pneumonia, but the accident, which took place on the 19th of December, accelerated death. The deceased did not appear to have had internal injuries. She caught a cold on leaving the Hospital, but she might have done so had she been detained in the Hospital twelve months. The only apparent injury for which she was treated was a fractured wrist. She appeared to be doing very well and was discharged, according to the rules of the Hospital, to make room for another patient. She was detained longer than was usual for such a case. The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that death was due to Pneumonia, accelerated by the shock caused by the accident.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 7 February 1891
SEATON AND BEER - Suicide At Seaton. A Sad Case. - Yesterday an Inquest was held by Mr Deputy Coroner Cox, of Honiton, at the Pole Arms Hotel, Seaton, on the body of JAMES HAWKER, aged 46, a postboy, who had been last employed at the Pole Arms Hotel, and hanged himself in a linhay at the back of the house on Wednesday. Mr Stevens was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - MARY HAWKER deposed that she was married to the deceased five weeks ago. Her husband was depressed at times because he had no occupation, and for the last week or two he avoided company. He had taken a public-house at Bridgwater and was to have taken possession on the 7th February. He fancied people looked at him in the streets and complained that he was accused of being addicted to drink. On Tuesday witness went on a visit. They had been engaged some time in packing things to go to Bridgwater and deceased did not appear depressed. She returned home by the 6 o'clock train and found the house in darkness. She made inquiries for her husband and searched the premises, as she had a feeling that something was wrong. On passing the linhay she saw a hand. She shouted for assistance, and Mrs White came. - MARY HAWKER, daughter of the deceased, said she left home three weeks ago and then her father appeared in a low state. - Annie Love, wife of Mr B. E. Love, of the Lion Hotel, Seaton, deposed that on Wednesday she saw deceased in her house. He had a rope in his hand and witness jocularly remarked, "Well, HAWKER, are you going to hang yourself?" The rope produced was similar to that she saw him carrying. She did not know what answer he made to her query, but her husband told her he said "Not just yet." About 4 o'clock deceased again came to the house and had a glass of beer. He then appeared in his usual health. - Samuel White, shopkeeper, of Seaton, deposed that he saw the deceased with a piece of rope with a noose in it. He was rather depressed. Deceased was practically a teetotaller, not having taken anything for months before he was married. Witness was called, and on going to the linhay found the body. HAWKER was quite dead. - Richard Fewings, proprietor of the Police Arms Hotel, said deceased was in his employ as postboy up to about September last, but he was unable to work the greater part of the summer. He was not addicted to drink, and witness had only seen him on two or three occasions during the five years he had employed him the worse for liquor. Deceased was rather irritable, but witness never detected anything strange in his manner. - Dr Evans, jun., of Sidmouth, deposed to being called to see the body. HAWKER was quite dead. He had all the signs of death from hanging. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while suffering from Temporary Insanity."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 10 February 1891
TEIGNMOUTH - An Inquest was held yesterday morning, at the London Hotel, Teignmouth, before Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, touching the death of MARY ANN PARSONS, who died on Saturday from the result of a fall some ten weeks since, and by which she fractured her thigh. Mrs Cox, daughter of the deceased, said that her mother lived alone and did everything herself. The deceased was in fairly good health up to the accident. Her age was 73. Her mother spent the day previous to the accident with her (witness). On the day of the accident she was sent for and found her mother lying on the floor. Dr Warren Thomas said that he was called on December 1st, and attended the deceased up to her death. He attributed death to senile decay, accelerated by the fracture to the thigh. A verdict was returned accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 11 February 1891
EXETER - The Death Of An Exeter Gardener. Peculiar Circumstances. - Yesterday at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, the City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM BLIGHT. - CAROLINE BLIGHT, widow, identified the body of the deceased as that of her husband. He was a gardener, and aged about 50. Witness stated that she lived at 18 Stepcote-hill, but her husband had not occupied the same tenement since October. Witness, however, met the deceased at her residence on Friday, at 7.45 p.m. He was then sober and apparently in good health. He did not stay more than ten minutes. No angry words passed and the parting was friendly. On Sunday night witness went to deceased's father, at Long Down, near St Thomas, who, her husband on Friday evening informed her, was very ill. When witness returned to St Thomas she was told that her husband was taken up on the Friday night. - Richard Turner, cab driver, Gatty's Court, Sidwell-street, stated that on Friday night, February 6th, he was going towards Long Down at 10.45 p.m. In passing up the hill towards Little John's Cross he saw a man lying on his back on the footpath. There were several men around the deceased. Witness drove to Long Down and on returning about 11.45 p.m. saw the deceased still lying on the footpath surrounded by two or three men. The latter hailed witness, and stated that the deceased was not "tight" but ill. Deceased was eventually placed in the cab and driven to the bottom of Stepcote-hill, where witness met a sergeant and two Constables of the City force. They said they knew the deceased was called BLIGHT, but said that he did not live with his wife. They told witness he had better take the deceased to the St. Thomas Police; they (the Exeter Police) had nothing to do with the case. Witness accordingly returned to St. Thomas, where a Policeman, on seeing deceased, said he thought he was drunk. Witness replied that he thought BLIGHT was ill. BLIGHT gave his name. The St. Thomas Police directed witness to drive deceased to the County Constabulary Barracks in the New North-road, Exeter. - P.S. Sullock put some questions to the witness. In replying to one, Turner said the City Police tried to get at where the deceased lived. - P.S. Sullock: Had deceased the appearance of being drunk? - Witness: He answered you everything you asked. - Did I not tell you, you could drive the deceased to the Hospital if you liked? - No. - Did I not ask whether you saw a Constable in St. Thomas? - Yes. - And also why you did not inform the Policeman at St. Thomas? - Yes, and I replied: "Because I did not want to have deceased locked up." - P.S. Sullock said his advice to Turner was this - that as he had picked up the deceased near Little John's Cross he had better go back and communicate with the St. Thomas Police, because, if he left him at Stepcote-hill, the Exeter Police would have, probably, to lock him up for drunkenness. - P.S. Egan, of the County Force, asked whether when Turner returned to St. Thomas, he did not tell him that the deceased was drunk? - Turner: Yes, you told me. - What answer did you make? - That the man appeared to be bad. - Did you not say that the deceased had the appearance of being drunk? - No. - Did you not refuse to drive deceased to the Constabulary Barracks? - No. I told you I was ordered for 12.30, and I wanted to leave him in someone's hands. - Did I ask the deceased his name? - Yes. - Did I ask him his address? - Yes. - P.S. Egan said the two latter answers was incorrect; he did not ask deceased his name or address, as he knew him previously. - Turner, after some further questions, stated that blood and other matter were oozing from deceased's mouth. - The Coroner said he thought Turner deserved a great deal of commendation for his kindness in picking up the deceased, especially as he was ordered for 12.30. He did more than a good many others would have done. - A Juryman: The cabman is on his oath; the Policeman is not. - P.C. James Newberry, of the County Police, stationed at St. Thomas, deposed that on Friday night, just after 12 o'clock, he was in Cowick-street, in company with P.S. Egan, when Turner stopped them and stated that he had a man whom he had picked up near Little John's Cross. Turner said he did not know who the man was. The last witness took one of his cab lights and witness and Sergeant Egan looked at the man, who appeared to be drunk. Questions were put to the deceased, but he answered nothing beyond that he was bad. He did not give his name. The cabman was then asked to drive the deceased to the Constabulary Barracks. - The Coroner: You thought he was drunk? - Witness: He was drunk. Continuing, witness said that Turner replied that he could not take the deceased to the Barracks as he was ordered for 12.30, and inquired whether BLIGHT could not be put into the cells at St. Thomas. Sergeant Egan replied that a cell was not a fit place to put deceased in. - The Coroner: Are there no places at St. Thomas in which men in deceased's condition can be put? - Witness: There are cells, but they have no fire-places and are very cold. After a time Turner consented to drive deceased to the Barracks, whither witness accompanied him and found that he had in his possession some tobacco, two knives, 3s. 1 ½d. in money and a small bottle of rum. Deceased kept saying that he was ill, and witness inquired whether he should send for a doctor. Deceased said he did not want any doctor, but as he persisted in saying that he was ill, witness summoned Mr Brash. - Deceased said he had had two glasses of beer, a pint and a half of cider and a drop of gin. He did not say in what time he had consumed that quantity. Subsequently, witness made inquiries at two public-houses in St. Thomas, and found that deceased had called at them on Friday evening, but as he was considered to be drunk he was not served. Mr Brash said he thought the man had been drinking, that he had fallen down and, being unable to rise again, had become ill through exposure. Deceased had obtained the bottle of rum from his father. - P.C. Powe, stationed at the Constabulary Barracks, stated that at ten minutes past four on Saturday morning he was called by P.C. Maunder (on night duty in the charge-room) and went to the charge-room, where he saw Newberry, who requested him to have a look at the deceased, who was in a cell. BLIGHT was on a bed, covered with blankets. Witness found he was cold and failed to feel any beating of deceased's pulse. Deceased was taken to the charge-room fire, in front of which witness and Newberry rubbed his legs and body. There was then a slight movement of the pulse perceptible. Mr Brash was summoned and arrived about 5.30 a.m. Deceased complained to him that he had pains in his head and neck. Hot water bottles were placed to deceased's feet and hot flannels to his chest. He was also given some coffee and brandy. Mr Brash inquired of deceased whether he was drinking hard on the previous night. Deceased replied that he had a glass but was not properly drunk. Mr Brash left at 7.30 and called again at 10.30, when he said deceased was certainly better, and suggested that he should be taken to the Hospital. The latter suggestion was acted upon. Witness did not think deceased, when he first saw him, was drunk, but he smelt of beer. The cell in which deceased was put was fairly warm, there being about 60 degrees of heat. - Mr R. Martyn, House Surgeon at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, said that when deceased was received into the Institution on Saturday, about noon, he was quite conscious, but was paralysed in all four limbs and chest as well. He was put to bed, but the paralysis gradually increased and he died of paralysis of the respiratory muscles on Sunday morning. Witness had made a post mortem examination, the result of which showed that there was haemorrhage in the upper part of the spinal cord, which accounted for pains in the head and neck - in fact, accounted for everything. The haemorrhage appeared to have been of comparatively recent origin. Witness was of opinion that the haemorrhage was caused by disease - purpura. - The Coroner said the evidence tended to show that deceased had been drinking, but was not sufficient to prove that he was drunk. - A Juryman said he did not believe that deceased was drunk. - The Coroner added that he did not see that any reflection could be thrown upon Turner, whose action was very kind. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," and endorsed the Coroner's remarks with regard to Turner.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 12 February 1891
KENTISBEARE - At Kentisbeare Mr C. Cox, Deputy Coroner for the District, held an Inquest at the house of Mr Baker, on Tuesday, relative to the death of ELEANOR MANNING, aged 73, of Saint-hill. The deceased lived alone and received the attention of a neighbour. About 9 p.m. on Saturday, when the last meal for that day was taken to her, she appeared perfectly well; but on Sunday morning a neighbour's child found her lying at the foot of the stairs dead. Dr J. H. Lloyd, of Cullompton, who had attended the deceased, attributed death to syncope and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 14 February 1891
SIDMOUTH - At Sidmouth yesterday an Inquest was held at the London Hotel by Mr Deputy Coroner Cox touching the death of an infant, aged 12 days, the daughter of MR and MRS J. DEAN, of Upper High-street, Sidmouth. The child was found dead in bed the previous morning. Dr L. Williams said he had not seen the child until he made a post-mortem examination of the body, when he found that it had died from inflammation of the lungs. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 20 February 1891
WEST DOWN - An Old man named CHUGG, a farmer, dropped down dead in the roadway some days ago. He left his house in the evening on an errand in the village and he then appeared to be in his usual health, but on his way back he fell down dead. Evidence was given at the Inquest that he was "short breathed" and the hill to the village always tried him. The Jury returned a verdict of Death from Natural Causes.

EAST BUDLEIGH - Sudden Death Of A Lady At East Budleigh. - An Inquest was held yesterday at Knowle House, East Budleigh, by the Deputy Coroner, Mr C. Cox, into the circumstances attending the death of MARIANNE WOOLCOMBE, aged 72, wife of the REV. PHILIP WOOLCOMBE, which occurred at her residence, Knowle House, on Monday evening. - Colonel Walker was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - Jane Sandoe, domestic servant in the employ of the REV. P. WOOLCOMBE said she had known the deceased six years. During that time deceased had been an invalid, having suffered from neuralgia. Witness saw her on Sunday morning last at half-past 7 o'clock, and found that she had been sick. It was not then considered, however, that the illness was serious and a doctor was not called because the deceased was subject to such attack, and had been able sometimes to dispense with medical aid, having a prescription for her malady. At 11 o'clock on Monday morning witness again saw the deceased, who then appeared to be better. About 6 o'clock in the evening, however, witness was called to see her mistress, and found her dying. Witness did not remain till the death actually took place, although it was only a few minutes after she left the room, at about 6 o'clock. - Elizabeth Raphill, a nurse, who was called in to attend deceased on Monday morning, said she was with her nearly all that day. She was sick once during the afternoon, and she died at about 6 o'clock. The death took place three minutes after deceased was taken seriously ill. - Mr T. G. C. Evans made a post-mortem examination of the body on Tuesday, and found that the cause of death was rupture of a blood vessel near the heart, due to atheroma. - A verdict was returned in accordance with the medical evidence.

OTTERTON - The Singular Death Of A Woman At Otterton. - An Inquest was held yesterday at the King's Arms Inn, Otterton, by the Deputy Coroner, Mr C. Cox, into the circumstances attending the death of ANN STADDON, aged 59, wife of JOHN STADDON, labourer, of Otterton. The death occurred on Monday under somewhat peculiar circumstances, the deceased being found dead about 100 yards from a pond just outside the village, there being marks on her clothes to show that she had previously been in the water. - Mr William Please was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness called was JOHN STADDON, husband of the deceased, who said his wife had complained of pains in her head for the past two years, and had said it was neuralgia. She had suffered night and day, and almost continuously. The pains were very severe, but witness had never heard her say anything about putting an end to her life. He did not notice much difference in her conduct when he went home on Monday, but she was quieter than usual. She had been suffering with the pains in her head that day. Witness went home on Monday evening about 5 o'clock. The deceased did not take any supper that evening and she went out about 7 o'clock without saying a word about where she was going. That was the last time he saw her alive. Witness went to bed about 9 o'clock, and remained there until half-past 11, when his wife was brought home dead. - THOMAS STADDON, son of the deceased, said he had had no reason to suppose that his mother was likely to commit suicide, although she suffered very much through pains in her head. He was at home when she went out on Monday evening. As his mother had not returned at 9 o'clock his sister went to look for her, but was unable to find her. At 10 o'clock witness went out with a man named Venn Casley to look for deceased and after a search of about an hour they found her lying about 100 yards from Stendaway pond. This pond was just outside the village and was near the side of the road. The water in it was about 12 inches deep. The deceased, when found, was lying in the road, and her clothes were wet. She was quite dead when witness and Casley found her. They obtained assistance, and took deceased home on a stretcher. - Venn Casley, carpenter, corroborated the evidence of the last witness. All the clothes that deceased was wearing appeared to be wet through when they found her. - Herbert Baker, another carpenter, said he went to the pond after he heard the deceased had been discovered on Monday night and there found a shawl which belonged to deceased. - MARIA STADDON, daughter of the deceased, said her mother had never said anything to her of an alarming character. Before she went out on Monday evening she called to witness, who was upstairs at the time, and asked her what she was doing. Witness answered her and also asked what she wanted to know for. Deceased, in reply, said "nothing." Witness tried to find her mother several times during the evening, but was unable to do so, although she called upon several neighbours whom deceased had been in the habit of visiting. Witness became anxious about her mother's absence during the evening, because she had never previously remained outdoors long. - P.C. Pike accompanied Venn Casley to the pond on Tuesday morning. Witness measured the distance from the pond to the spot where the deceased was found, which was 100 yards. He found footprints near the pond, and there were also marks on the road, apparently made by somebody crawling along on hands and knees. - Mr T. G. C. Evans, Medical Practitioner, said he had been attending the deceased for two years for neuralgia in her head. He last saw her one day last week, but she then seemed slightly better. He had made a post-mortem examination of the body, and found there was no organic disease. He was certain she did not meet her death from drowning, and his opinion was that after she got into the water she became exhausted, and, being unable to get far on the road, died from exposure. The probability was that she fainted in the road. The post-mortem examination showed that she was a healthy woman. - The Jury had no questions to address to either of the witnesses. - The Coroner said the case was somewhat peculiar. It was plain, however, that the deceased had been a great sufferer from neuralgia in the head. There was no evidence to lead the Jury to suppose that the poor woman intended to put an end to her life, although it was a singular thing that she had been in the water. There could be little doubt that the traces on the road were caused by the deceased, that she did go into the pond, and that ultimately she sank down on the road, where she was afterwards found dead. From the doctor's evidence they must conclude that there was no suspicion of violence, and the Jury would, he thought, agree with him in thinking that the deceased came to her death in the manner described by Mr Evans. - A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 21 February 1891
EXETER - At the Exeter Police-Court yesterday, Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of CHARLES LEONARD WELLINGTON, aged six months, who died on Wednesday. - ANNIE WELLINGTON, a married woman, living at Wright's Cottage, Summerland-street, said that on Wednesday morning about 5 o'clock she woke up and found her baby very ill and groaning. About 20 minutes past 5 she sent for Dr Brown, who said he could not come and her sister then went for Dr Mortimer, who stated that he would come in an hour, but he did not do so. Witness's sister accordingly went to him a second time, when he said she must get someone else. She then went to Dr Bell, and he said he could not attend until half-past 9. Her sister then went to Dr E. Perkins and that gentleman told her to go to Dr Brown again. Instead of doing so, however, she went to Dr Clapp and asked him to come and he told her that he would attend in a very few minutes. He did not do so, and on going a second time her sister was told that he could not, as he had another case to attend to. Witness then told her sister to go to Dr Brown again. She did so, it being then nearly half-past 10, and he came at once, but the child had been dead nearly ten minutes. - FANNY SHEPHERD, sister of the above, gave corroborative evidence. A Juryman (Mr Bradford) said that it appeared that there was one law for the rich and another for the poor. - Another Juryman, Mr Hooper, said that he agreed with Mr Bradford, and the case would very likely have been altered if MRS WELLINGTON had lived in Higher Summerlands instead of Summerland-street. - Dr Brown said that he attended one of the children twelve months ago at the Dispensary. He was called last Wednesday morning to go to MRS WELLINGTON'S. He was very tired at the time, as he had been up for two nights and asked witness to try to get another doctor. He should not have said go had the servant told him the case was urgent. But when the messenger came again and told him the true state of affairs he at once drove down to MRS WELLINGTON'S, but found the child had died about ten minutes before. He considered death to be due to convulsions. - By a Juryman: There was no law that could compel a doctor to go to any case, but in all humanity he would go. - Dr Brown added that he considered the remark about there being one law for the rich and another for the poor was a very unfair one, for the medical profession, as a whole, were always willing to go when it was known that a case was urgent. - The Coroner entirely agreed with the last remark of Dr Brown's. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 23 February 1891
BRIXHAM - At the Commercial Inn, Brixham, on Saturday, an Inquest was held, before Dr Fraser, Deputy Coroner, on the body of a child, aged two and a half years, named LEWIS HAMLYN, son of JOSEPH LEWIS STOCKMAN, a fisherman. Evidence was given by the mother that on the 7th instant the child was playing in the kitchen when he accidentally fell into a dish of water in which she had just boiled a cabbage and sustained severe scalds. The child had since been attended by Dr Hayward. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

TAVISTOCK - Sudden Death At Tavistock. - An Inquest was held at the White Hart Hotel, Tavistock, on Saturday, by Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, on the body of JANE MADDAFORD, wife of GEORGE MADDAFORD, farm labourer, of 14 Exeter-street, Tavistock. - The husband deposed that about half-past 5 o'clock on Friday morning the deceased, who was 64 years of age, went downstairs to get his breakfast as usual before he went to work. She had not complained to him in the least before getting up. She had suffered from shortness of breath for a considerable time. Shortly after she left the bedroom he heard a groan and on going out saw the deceased sitting on the stairs. She said she could not recover her breath. He asked if he should send for a doctor, and she replied, "No." He went for a cup of water and sent her son for Dr Brodrick, but she died in a quarter of an hour, and before the doctor could arrive. - Dr Brodrick stated that death was due to aneurism of the aorta of long standing and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 24 February 1891
SOUTH TAWTON - Suicide Of A Farmer At South Zeal. - As reported in yesterday's Gazette, MR JOHN CROCKER, assistant-overseer and farmer, shot himself at his residence on Friday. The Inquest was held yesterday before Mr Burch, District Coroner. - JOANNA CROCKER, mother of the deceased, said she last saw her son alive on Friday last, when he was in his usual health. He had been much excited for some time past, probably owing to his falling from a horse and injuring his head. He did not appear to be so right in his mind as he used to be. She was not in the house when deceased died, but she heard his son, WILLIAM, who went up to see his father in bed, screech out "Father's dead." Witness went up and found deceased lying in bed with his head shattered. She did not notice the gun. Elizabeth Cooper, Mary Jane Counter and Mrs White were then called in the room, and a Policeman sent for. Witness did not hear any sound of a gun shot. - WILLIAM KNAPMAN CROCKER, son of deceased, proved discovering his father as above described. He stated that he had seen his father three-quarters of an hour before, when he told him to get the horse ready for him (deceased) to go to Okehampton, and that he was not to be disturbed, as he wanted to go to sleep. The gun was in the kitchen when witness went out and the cartridges were kept in a cupboard there. - P.C. William Stapleton, stationed at Southtawton, said he was called to the house about 4 o'clock on Saturday afternoon, and on going there he found deceased dead, his head being nearly blown off. There was a gun lying on the bed, with the muzzle about three feet off, and pointing to his head. He examined the gun, and found an empty, but recently discharged cartridge in the right barrel. Witness discovered shots in the wall behind the deceased. CROCKER had been drinking heavily lately. Witness saw him at the Sticklepath pigeon shooting matches, and he did not consider he was fit to carry a gun. The deceased had not been exactly right for a long time, and in witnesses opinion deceased's condition had been brought about by drink. - WILLIAM KNAPMAN, brother-in-law to the deceased, said that CROCKER, in November last, fell from his horse and lay for several minutes unconscious. His head was injured, and he had complained ever since. He did not think CROCKER knew what he was about. - Dr G. V. Burd, of Okehampton, deposed to attending deceased when he met with the accident referred to. He was bruised about the upper part of the face, and it was quite possible he might have shaken his brain. Consequently liquor would have more effect upon him. CROCKER had lately been suffering from stomach derangement and congestion of the liver. His illness was almost entirely brought on through drink. A short time ago he was on the borders of delirium tremens. Death was due to a gunshot wound. the muzzle of the gun must have been put close to his mouth, but not inside. In witness's opinion the weapon was held by the left hand and the trigger pulled with the right. - CATHERINE CROCKER, deceased's daughter, said her father was to have been married very shortly. - The Jury returned a verdict that deceased Committed Suicide while Temporarily Insane.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 25 February 1891
DAWLISH - At Dawlish yesterday an Inquest was held at the South Devon Inn, by Dr Fraser, Deputy Coroner, to Inquire into the death of an infant named CATHERINE FAITH GREY, of Commercial-road. The mother of the child, FLORENCE GREY, stated that she was married at Exeter on January 1st four years ago. Witness could not say at what place she was married at, but it was not a church. She had at one time a marriage certificate; she did not possess it now. Her husband's name was GEORGE HENRY GREY. He was a carpenter and the last time witness saw him was about three months since at Torquay. He lived with her for the first twelve months after they were married, but she did not know where he was now, as it was very seldom she saw him. There were two other children living. Her occupation was that of a laundress, and the place where witness worked was about a minute's walk from her house. Her practice was to run home periodically during the day to nurse and care for the child and she also left the key of her house with a neighbour named Briscoe. On Saturday last, shortly after partaking of dinner, witness saw that there was something the matter with the deceased, and, being frightened, called in a neighbour, and they found the child dead. Mary Briscoe corroborated. Mr G. F. Webb, Surgeon, stated that he considered the child was generally poorly nourished, and that the cause of death was convulsions. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 26 February 1891
PAIGNTON - The Suicide At Paignton. - Dr Fraser, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Temperance Hotel, Paignton, yesterday, on the body of FREDERICK SAUNDERS, who hanged himself on the previous day. - The body was identified by the REV. F. G. SAUNDERS, of Brixton, London, nephew of deceased, who, he said, was 74 years of age, had travelled about a great deal and had lived in Paignton about two years. He suffered severely from an ailment, for which he was under treatment. - Mrs Ellen Pope, of the Temperance Hotel, said deceased came to lodge there about last May, and was very quiet and occasionally depressed, as he was an invalid. She noticed nothing particular about him on Monday. He went to bed about eight o'clock and on Tuesday morning, about 9.20 she went up with his breakfast, but found it difficult to open the door. She pushed it aside, entered and saw him hanging by a silk handkerchief to a clothes' hook behind the door. - She gave an alarm and Mrs Searle ran up and cut him down. Deceased was quite dead. He was dressed in his nightclothes, and the body was not quite cold. - Dr Collins said he was consulted by deceased in October last, when he was suffering from an affection of the bladder. He suffered from great nervous depression. - The Coroner, in summing up, said there was not the slightest doubt as to the cause of death, but the only question was as to deceased's state of mind, and he called attention to the mental depression from which he suffered in consequence of a troublesome disease. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while in a State of Temporary Insanity."

TORQUAY - At the Hesketh Arms Inn, Torquay, yesterday, Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of GEORGE FRANCIS MUDGE, 10 weeks old, son of RUSSELL MUDGE, a coachman, of Park Hill-road. The child, with the exception of a slight cold, was well on Sunday, and during the night was fed twice. On Monday morning, when the mother awoke, she felt that the baby was cold and on taking it from the bed she discovered that it was dead. The evidence of Dr Eales was to the effect that the child died from convulsions, which were probably due to indigestion, brought on by being fed with bread and biscuits. The Coroner condemned the practice of giving young infants such food and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 27 February 1891
BUCKFASTLEIGH - The body of GEORGE COURTENAY, of Buckfastleigh, was found yesterday in the river near Buckfastleigh Weir. The deceased disappeared so far back as the 23rd January. An Inquest was held later in the day at the Globe Inn. It was shown that deceased suffered from epileptic fits, and that he was near the river on the day he was missed. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

DALWOOD - At the Tuckers' Arms Inn, Dalwood, on Monday, an Inquiry was held by Mr Deputy Coroner Cox, of Honiton, into the circumstances attending the death of CHARLOTTE FARNHAM, aged 76, a widow, who was found dead in her room at Dalwood on Friday. - The evidence went to show that the deceased was in her usual health up to Thursday evening, when she visited a friend - a Mrs Saturday - with whom she remained some time. Mrs Saturday was in the habit of taking milk to the deceased every morning. On Friday morning she sent her little girl to MRS FARNHAM'S house with milk, but she could get no admittance, and returned to her mother. Mrs Saturday did not, however, feel alarmed then, because the deceased did not always get up at an early hour. About 10.30 she went to the house and finding that no response was made to knocks at the door and that there was no smoke issuing from the chimney, she procured a ladder, which she mounted, but, being unable to see anything of the deceased, she went to Mr William Brice, a farmer, and informed him of the matter. Mr Brice entered the bedroom by means of the window and discovered the deceased lying in bed, quite dead. The body was not then cold. Dr Hodges, of Dalwood, made a post-mortem examination of the body, and attributed death to heart disease. - The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 28 February 1891
AXMINSTER - The Sudden Death Of An Axminster Tradesman. - Yesterday afternoon Mr Deputy Coroner Cox of Honiton, held an Inquest at the George Hotel, Axminster, concerning the death of MR GEORGE HAYMAN, boot and shoemaker, of Trinity-square, Axminster, whose painfully sudden death was reported in yesterday's Devon and Exeter Daily Gazette. - The evidence showed that the deceased, who was 54 years of age and had recently suffered from inflammation of the lungs, was seized with sudden illness while in his workshop on Thursday last and died within a very short time afterwards. Dr Langran, Axminster, stated that a post-mortem examination showed that deceased suffered from fatty degeneration of the heart, which produced syncope, which was the cause of death. - The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 2 March 1891
ILFRACOMBE - Sudden Death At Ilfracombe. - A large steamer, which proved to be the Marlborough, of London, brought up outside the Ilfracombe harbour on Saturday, and sent word ashore that one of her hands had died the previous evening while on the voyage down the Channel from Cardiff. Information was at once sent to the District Coroner, Mr J. F. Bromham, who held an Inquest at the Britannia Hotel, at 4 p.m. Mr Walter Crang was elected Foreman. - After the body had been viewed, Oll Moller Falo, master of the steamer, said he left Cardiff on Friday night at 6 p.m., bound for Port Said. The crew consisted of himself, two officers and 20 men. The body just viewed was that of RICHARD BROOKES, who shipped in Cardiff Roads, just before the vessel left. He gave his age as 40 years. He looked all right when he shipped. At half-past 8 the chief-mate came to witness and said one of the men had been taken with a fit in the forecastle. Witness went to see him, and found him in his berth unconscious and breathing hard. Witness tried to pour some brandy down his throat, but he could not swallow. He believed deceased died about 10.30 p.m. Being not far from Ilfracombe witness determined to go there for medical assistance, and reached there shortly after 12 o'clock. He at once went ashore and went to Dr Gardner, and that gentleman returned on board and said that the man was dead. Deceased stated that he belonged to 28 or 29 Norfolk-street, Liverpool. - James Murray, mate of the steamer, corroborated. - Mr E. F. Gardner, Surgeon, deposed that he found the deceased in the forecastle lying in his bed. He was quite dead. The body presented the appearance of death from natural causes. He should judge death was caused by cerebral apoplexy. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

EXETER - Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of ELIZA JANE PEARCE, aged 60, at 63 Magdalen-street, Exeter, on Saturday. Dr Edward Perkins, St Sidwell's, said he attended deceased about a month ago and she was then suffering from bronchitis and heart disease. He attributed death to heart disease. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 3 March 1891
EXETER - At the Exeter Police Court yesterday, Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of CECIL GEORGE JAMES, aged nine weeks, who died suddenly on Sunday morning. SARAH JANE JAMES, wife of GEORGE JAMES, residing at Red Cow Village, said the deceased lived at home with her. On Saturday night she went to bed, and on awaking about half-past 7 the next morning she found the child was dead. Dr McKeith deposed that he was called shortly after 9 o'clock on Sunday morning to see the child. He found the child in the cradle and to all appearances it had been dead two or three hours. There was a good deal of discolouration on the right side of the child, which he considered to some extent accounted for the cause of death. He believed death was due to suffocation through accidental overlaying. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 4 March 1891
UFFCULME - Death From The Kick Of A Cow At Uffculme. - An Inquest was held at the George Hotel, Uffculme, yesterday, by Mr Coroner Cox, touching the death of WILLIAM JOHN ROW, who, as reported yesterday, met with his death from the kick of a cow at Mountstephen Farm. - Mr John Wyatt, jun., was chosen Foreman of the Jury. After being sworn the Jury proceeded to view the body at Uffculme Down, a cottage about a mile distant. - The first witness called was MR JOHN ROW, father of deceased, who stated that he was a factory operative at Messrs. Fox Bros.' woollen factory at Uffculme. His son, aged 17 years, was employed as farm servant at Mountstephen Farm, and had lived there for a period of one year and eleven months. Witness was acquainted with what had transpired on his return home from work at two o'clock on Saturday last and had a conversation with deceased, in which he remarked that the cow had kicked him. Witness asked what deceased was doing, and he said he was in the act of going to the root-house and noticed some hay, which he attempted to place in the crib, and in doing so, received the injuries complained of. - In answer to the Coroner, witness said he understood that while deceased was stooping the cow kicked him. - The Constable here produced the lad's trousers, corduroys, on which were the marks of the hoof. - The Coroner: Was anyone else by? - MR ROW: No one else was by. - The Coroner: What did you do when you came home, did you send for a doctor? You saId the boy looked ill? - MR ROW: He seemed after a while easier. - The Coroner: I don't know if medical aid would have been any good, but it would have been wise to have sent early for a doctor. - Witness, continuing, said deceased slept for a bit and thought he would have been better, as no mark of violence was visible. Deceased, however, got worse about midnight, and witness went for the doctor on the Sunday. - The Coroner: Were you present when he died? - ROW: No, sir. Deceased did not seem to suffer much at first. Witness stayed awake in the same room with him. - The Coroner: Did the boy ask to see a doctor? - ROW: No, sir. Witness's wife was alone present when deceased died, as witness went to work on Monday morning. - MRS ROW, wife of the last witness, and mother of the deceased, was then called. She stated that about 12 o'clock on Saturday deceased was driven as far as the gate of their cottage. Her children told her "BILL was coming." He walked indoors, and, after giving him a cup of tea, he seemed easier. She then asked him to go to bed, which he did. - The Coroner: Didn't it occur to you to send for a doctor? - MRS ROW: I did not think it so serious for that, and thought it might pass off. He died on Monday morning a little after 8 o'clock. - Mr L. J. Furze said he was a farmer of Halberton, in the adjoining parish to Uffculme and deceased was employed as farm servant (indoors). His duties were to feed the cattle, help to milk &c. Witness saw him with a basket about half-past seven o'clock on Saturday morning going to feed the stock. Deceased had to go into a long shed where there were 25 bullocks. Whilst witness was in a field close by the boy came to him and said the cow had kicked him. - The Coroner: Is it a vicious cow with a calf? - Mr Furze: No, sir. The calf had been gone three weeks, and it was as quiet a cow as they had; his children could milk it and do anything with it. It's name was Cherry. Whether the lad passed without speaking to it no one could say. - The Coroner: Did the lad ask leave to go home? - Mr Furze: No, sir. I asked him to go in by the fire, and thought by resting he would soon be right again. We did not expect him to go on with his work again. - The Coroner: It would have been more satisfactory for you to have sent for a doctor. - A Juryman: Seeing no blood no doubt Mr Furze thought it trivial. - Mr Furze added that when the lad came to him he was feeding the lambs. Undoubtedly deceased looked frightened and pale. After sitting by the fire he became easier. Witness's wife gave deceased some brandy. Witness asked him to go to bed, but the lad thought it better to go home. - The Coroner: Did you offer to drive him home? - Mr Furze replied that he did not, but his wife did. Deceased took with him a bundle of clothes and a stick. - By a Juryman: Mrs Furze offered to drive deceased home. He had to walk about two miles. - Mr William Denner was next called. He said he met the deceased on the road on Saturday morning as he was coming in the opposite direction. His son was driving towards Bridewell. Deceased mentioned about the cow kicking him, but was walking upright, though slow. Witness said "If you wait about half an hour at my house, Sammy shall drive you home," as deceased stated that he felt different from what he did when he started. Witness afterwards told his boy to take "BILLY home as quiet and slow as he could." - The Coroner and Jury commended witness for so doing. - Samuel Denner, son of the last witness, said that on his journey home deceased lay down in the bottom of the trap. He didn't know why he did it. - Dr Dickinson stated that he was called in on Sunday, and saw deceased in bed, and gave orders after examining him for him to remain in bed. Deceased died the following morning. - The Coroner: Could you have done much had you been sent for earlier? - Dr Dickinson: By placing him on a stretcher he would have been taken home easier, but the injuries were severe strain in an unprotected part, followed by mortification. - The Coroner, in summing up, said that no doubt the Jury had but one option, that deceased died from the kick, which ruptured the intestines. It was a great pity that medical aid in these cases was not obtained at once although it was doubtful in this case if it would have done much. He quite believed Mr Furze did not think the injury serious. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Internal injuries, Accidentally sustained through the kick of a cow at Mountstephen Farm."

EXETER - The Drowning Fatality At The Quay. - At the Exeter Police Court yesterday, Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of LILLY ELIZABETH BARTLETT GREGORY, aged 5 years and 10 months, who was drowned on Monday in the Exe. - ADA GREGORY, wife of JAMES GREGORY, 27 Quay-lane, said the deceased went out on Monday, just after 3 o'clock in the afternoon, with her little sister, to go to her aunt's house in Horse-lane. Soon afterwards witness went out and saw the smallest girl coming up the street crying, and saying that her sister had fallen into the water. Witness at once went down to the Quay, but could not see anything of the deceased; but her nephew, who was behind her, saw the child, and jumped in for her. - THOMAS GREGORY, Quay-lane, said he was in his father's yard working on the day in question, when he heard his little cousin say that her sister was in the water. Witness at once went down to the Quay and saw the child floating down the Exe. He at once jumped in with his clothes on and swam out to her and did his best to swim ashore with her, but it was too far for him, and, seeing a sailor coming up with his boat, witness called to him. The sailor came and took both of them into his boat and landed them on the Quay. Witness at once went home to put on some dry clothes, and the child was left in the care of those around. - The Coroner said that it was a very gallant and noble act on the part of the witness to jump into the water at the risk of his own life. - Mr Bell said on the afternoon of the day in question he was called to go to Quay-lane, and found the child quite dead. Death was caused by drowning. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and said they thought THOMAS GREGORY should be recommended to the Humane Society for his plucky attempt. - The Coroner said he quite agreed with the Jury, and it would give him great pleasure to communicate the views of the Jury to that Society. He then presented GREGORY with half a sovereign.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 6 March 1891
CLIFTON, BRISTOL - An Inquest was held at Bristol, on Monday on the body of MR FRANK SIDNEY HAWKINS, Surgeon, of Northtawton, who was found dead, under painful circumstances, at the residence of his mother, Berkeley Square, Clifton. Deceased, who was 30 years of age, had recently been in practice at Northtawton, and returned to Bristol on Saturday afternoon. Nothing strange was observed in his manner when retiring to rest that night, but next morning he was found in the bedroom by his mother with his throat cut. He was not quite dead, but died shortly afterwards. It was stated that he had sustained injury to his head while following Lord Portsmouth's hounds. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

CLAWTON - Serious Case At Clawton. - An Inquest was held at Clawton, before Mr William Burd, Coroner, on Tuesday evening, on the body of MRS GEORGINA SMALE, who died on Saturday in circumstances which called for inquiry, and had led to various rumours. Mr F. Knight was Foreman of the Jury. - JOHN SMALE deposed as follows: I reside in the parish of Clawton, and am a labourer. The deceased was my wife, and was 37 years of age. She had been ill for four days, and Dr Symons, of Holsworthy, had been attending her. He only saw her once during those four days and that was on Thursday. The next day she was worse, went worse each day, but I did not send for the doctor, and did not let him know. - The Coroner warned the witness (who scarcely seemed to understand the questions which were put to him, or, at least, did not answer them intelligently) of the serious nature of this Inquiry, inasmuch as the reputation of a medical man was at stake. Witness, continued: On Saturday morning about 9 o'clock I sent my little boy after the doctor and finding she was getting much worse I went myself, and was at Holsworthy about 12 o'clock. Dr Symons was not at home and the servant told me he would not be back until 5 o'clock. I then went to Dr Gray, who also was not at home. I waited till 1 o'clock and saw him and asked him to come out at once and see my wife, and he did so. He came about 2.30, but my wife had been dead about 15 or 20 minutes. I do not know that I have told anyone that the doctor had neglected my wife. After I came home from work on Wednesday I heard that Dr Symons had been sent for, but he did not come on that day, and I do not know of myself that Charles Sanders delivered the message. I sent another message on Thursday morning, and he came some time during the day, but I do not know when. My sister was attending my wife, and the neighbours came in. - Charles Sanders said: I am a blacksmith, residing at Clawton. On Wednesday, the 25th, just as I was leaving to go to market JOHN SMALE'S little boy came to my house and asked me to call at Dr Symons's and tell him to come out as quick as he could to see his mother, who was very ill. I went to him the first thing as soon as I got to town - about 2 o'clock - and saw Dr Symons, and gave him the message. Dr Symons said, "I'm not going out. I was there the other day to see a child of SMALE'S, and told them to send for medicine, which they never did." I then came away. - Dr Symons: Did you ask me to bring out the child's medicine with me? - Yes; I did. - Jane Harris said: I live at Clawton, and am the wife of Marwood Harris. On Thursday, February 26th I held Dr Symons's horse for him while he went in to see MRS SMALE. When he came out I asked him what was the matter with her. He said "I can't tell. I cannot say positively what is the matter. It might be worm fever." He was not sure. I asked him how they were going to get medicine for her. He said, "Fetch it, to be sure, like other people did." I saw MRS SMALE on Friday and thought she was very ill. I had not seen her before. - Mary Smale deposed: I reside in this parish about half-a-mile distant. I was here on Saturday morning and was present at the death of the deceased about 2.30. I was not in attendance on the previous day and had not seen her before. I found her very ill. She complained of the doctor and said "instead of the doctor being paid, I ought to be paid for suffering as I do. If my father only knew it he would transport him." She was finding fault with the doctor for neglecting her. I have mentioned that I thought she had not been properly attended both to my husband and others. - Mr George R. Symons, Surgeon, practising in Holsworthy, said: I attended a child of the deceased on Tuesday, February 24th. On Wednesday I received the message spoken to from Charles Sanders. I did not think it necessary to visit the deceased on that day as I had seen her the day before walking about. From the request also that I was to bring out the medicine for the child, I did not think the case so urgent and was misled. I saw deceased on Thursday morning about 11.20 and she was very feverish. I desired them to send in for medicine and to let me know on Saturday morning if she was not better. When the first message came on Saturday morning I was out of town. I left a message that I would see the deceased in the afternoon. The medicine was sent for on Thursday. When the second urgent message arrived about 12 o'clock, my servant told the messenger to get another medical man as I should not be back before 5 o'clock. - By the Foreman: I had another message on Thursday by Mr Melhuish, the clergyman of the parish, but was going if Mr Melhuish had not called. Mr Melhuish called about 10.30. - Dr Thomas Linnington Ash, practising at Holsworthy, deposed: On Thursday, before 12 o'clock, I met JOHN SMALE on Holsworthy Hill, and he stopped me. He asked if I was going in the direction of his house and if so if I would see his wife, who was very ill. He complained that Dr Symons was neglecting her and that he had sent several messages and the parson had been himself. I told him to go on to Dr Symons, and if he could not go SMALE should meet me at Clawton Bridge and I would see her. I called at Clawton Bridge, there was no message there, and I heard nothing more about the case. Today, I have made a post-mortem examination by request. I find the cause of death to be an internal obstruction of the bowels. There was evidence that the disease was of several days' standing. - The Coroner briefly summed up the evidence, and pointed out to the Jury that the facts seemed to show that urgent messages were sent to the doctor, who had disregarded them, which led to his receipt of a telegram calling his attention to the case. He directed the Jury to distinguish between culpable and criminal neglect. After deliberating for half an hour in private, the Jury returned a verdict to the effect that MRS GEORGINA SMALE died from Natural Causes, namely, obstruction and rupture of the bowels, and that Dr Symons was guilty of "culpable neglect" in his attendance on the deceased. The Jury hoped that this would be a warning to Dr Symons for the future.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 7 March 1891
EXMOUTH - At Exmouth yesterday an Inquest was held by Mr Coroner Cox touching the death of WILLIAM CHARLES CLARK, aged 14 months, son of WILLIAM CLARK, gas stoker, Exmouth. On Tuesday MRS CLARK left the deceased child and a three-year-old sister for safety in the passage of her house while she fetched some biscuits. On returning in about five minutes she found the deceased child in flames. These were at once extinguished and the child was removed to the Maud Hospital, where he expired. The only clue to the manner in which the child was set on fire was a partly-burned stick, which it is supposed one of the children placed in the grate. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 10 March 1891
TEIGNMOUTH - Suicide At Teignmouth. - An Inquest was held at the Queen's Hotel, Teignmouth, yesterday, before Dr Fraser, Deputy Coroner, to Inquire into the death of MARGARET DRISCOLL, who was found dead in bed on Sunday morning. - Mr King was chosen Foreman. - PATRICK DRISCOLL, husband of deceased, stated that he was a coastguard, and resided at Teignmouth. The deceased was his wife. Her age was 44. Her health had not been good, and she had been very low spirited for some time. The last time he saw her alive was on Saturday, about 8 p.m., when he left home to go on duty. On Sunday morning at 7.30 he was informed of her death. Witness never knew his wife take anything to ease pain. Witness on his way home called for Dr Johnson, and they together went to his house and found his wife dead. On Saturday evening the deceased went out on an errand at half-past 7 and witness sent his daughter to look for her mother and she found her. His wife sent her back for some money, as she had forgotten to take any. She took the money and found her mother in the shop of Mr Silk, chemist. On their return, as his time was up for duty, he whispered to his daughter to look after her mother, as she appeared to be strange, and with that he left the house. - BRIDGET DRISCOLL, the daughter of the deceased, said she had noticed for some months a strangeness in her mother. She seemed to keep to herself, and was very low spirited. On Saturday morning she appeared all right, or much as usual. She saw her again at 7.45 p.m. on Saturday, when she was strange in her manner. Witness had never known her mother take anything to ease pain. She came home from business at 7.45 p.m., her father having sent for her. He told witness to watch her mother during the night. Witness sat up with her during the night, and came down about 6.30 a.m. to light the fire and to make her mother a cup of tea. On returning into the room she went to shake up her mother's pillow and saw a bottle of laudanum. The deceased was frothing at the mouth and vomiting. Witness called her brother, who went for Dr Johnson. She died about 7.30. Just before she asked for something to drink, and witness gave her lukewarm water. She would not take it and asked for cold water. She said after that "I am going." - DANIEL DRISCOLL deposed that within the past few days his mother had had fainting fits lasting for several minutes. On Saturday evening she seemed stranger in her manner than he had ever noticed her before, and she complained of great pain in her inside. She went out about 8 p.m., remarking that she was going to get a few things. Thinking it would be better for someone to go with her, he called his sister, FRANCES (aged 9) and told her to go with deceased. The little girl returned in a few minutes after and said her mother was at the draper's, and had forgotten her purse. She obtained the purse and took it to deceased. They both returned together. When the deceased came he found that she had some soap in a paper with the name of "Silk, chemist," on it. He sent to the chemist to know if anything else had been purchased with the soap. They said, "Yes, some laudanum and some acid." His father then sent for witness's eldest sister and he told him to keep an eye on the deceased. They all had supper and went to bed. About 7 a.m. on Sunday his sister called him and said that mother was ill. Witness went into the room and asked if she would have a doctor, and she replied, "No, SAM; I am all right and very happy." - Mr Silk, chemist, deposed that about 6.30 on Saturday he found his assistant serving a woman, who had a child with her, with oxalic acid. She purchased one ounce. He asked her what she wanted it for, and she replied, "For cleaning hats," for which purpose it was used. Previous to that she purchased 1 ½ drachm of laudanum. She did not sign for it, as it was not necessary. A pound of oxalic acid could be bought if a satisfactory reason were given for it. Soon after a little girl came in and asked what her mother had bought. This aroused his suspicion and he went after the girl, but could not find her. He heard nothing more until P.S. Richards called on him on Sunday afternoon. - Dr Johnson stated that he was sent for to see deceased between 7 and 8 o'clock on Sunday morning. He arrived soon after 8 a.m., and found her death. There were no marks of any kind on the body to indicate the cause of death. He saw the bottle which he handed to P.S. Richards. He had made a post-mortem examination, and found all the organs healthy with the exception of the stomach, which was badly out of order. He came to the conclusion that the membranes had been destroyed by an irritant poison. The appearance presented all the characteristics of poisoning by oxalic acid. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while suffering from Temporary Insanity."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 12 March 1891
NORTH TAWTON - An Inquest was held at the Gostwyck Arms, Northtawton, yesterday, by Mr G. L. Fulford, Deputy Coroner, on the body of a male child found in a box at Barton on Monday. - MARY ELIZABETH BAKER said she was the wife of WILLIAM BAKER, a labourer and resided at Newland Cottage, Northtawton. She was the mother of EMMA MARIA BAKER, who had been living at Mr Salter's, Barton, as a servant for nearly two years. On Friday last she received a message by Jane Reddaway, and called at Barton about half-past 8 o'clock. She saw her daughter, and said, "How came you to do such a job as this without informing me?" She said she had put the child into the box. Witness's daughter said she did not know when the child was born as she was unconscious, but when she came to herself she found it was quite dead. On Monday, the 9th, witness went to Barton, and told Miss Salter what had happened. She sent for the doctor. - Jane Reddaway, a domestic servant, living at Mr Salter's, Barton, and EMMA JANE BAKER also lived there as a servant. Witness had occupied the same room and bed with her for some time past, but knew nothing of her condition. She complained of being ill on Wednesday and on Thursday she went to bed about 6 o'clock. Witness saw her at 8 o'clock, when she was in bed. She made no statement. On Friday morning BAKER told her she was in trouble, and had had a baby. She told witness she had placed it in a box. BAKER made no statement as to the time when the child was born, but asked her to tell her mother, which she did on Friday. - Mr George Banbury, Surgeon, Northtawton, said that on Monday, the 9th March, he was sent for to go to The Barton, Northtawton. He went to a bedroom with MARY ELIZABETH BAKER and found EMMA JANE BAKER looking very pale and depressed. He examined her and found all the signs of a recent delivery. On questioning her, BAKER said she knew nothing about the birth; she was unconscious the whole of the time. He asked where the child was, and she replied, "In my box." The mother took the child out. He examined the child, and found it was fully developed. He had made a post-mortem examination. There were no marks of violence on the child except on the right side of the head, caused, no doubt, by a fall. The child was quite healthy. Death was due to exposure and want of attention at the time of birth. The child had a separate existence. - The Coroner having summed up, the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes, due from Exposure and want of attention at the time of birth."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 14 March 1891
BIDEFORD - Sad Death Of A Child At Bideford. - A child, three years old, named CHARLES WILLIAM BUSE, whose parents live at Westleigh, has died under rather peculiar circumstances. At the Inquest held on Thursday by Mr Bromham, evidence was given which showed that between five and six weeks ago the little one tumbled down stairs, and ran a small nail into his head. This was at once extracted by a neighbour, and the child went on playing about and going to school for some days, as if there was little or nothing the matter. Then it became sick and ill, and after a time was removed to the Bideford Infirmary. The doctor found that he was suffering from an abscess, which had formed under the skull at a point where the nail had entered the head. The abscess finally penetrated the brain and caused death. - A verdict was returned in accordance with the medical evidence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 16 March 1891
EXETER - Mr H. W. Hooper held an Inquest at the Exeter Police Court on Saturday upon the body of JAMES CASE, aged 76, boot and shoe maker, of Bartholomew-street. ANN CASE, wife of the deceased, deposed that her husband came downstairs on Friday morning, and while walking across the kitchen fell down on the floor and died on the spot. Dr W. A. Shirley said death was due to failure of the heart's action. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

PLYMOUTH - At Plymouth, CHARLES WEEKS, stone-breaker, was charged with the Manslaughter of his wife. At an Inquest held on the body of the woman a verdict of Manslaughter was recorded. The evidence showed that the prisoner grossly ill-used his wife, who was 55 years of age, and on more than one occasion kicked her violently. The medical evidence was to the effect that death was accelerated by the ill-treatment. The prisoner was committed both on the Coroner's and Magistrates' order.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 17 March 1891
OFFWELL - The Sad Death Of An Offwell Labourer. A Publican Reprimanded. - Yesterday morning Mr Deputy Coroner Cox held an Inquest at Land Cottage, in the parish of OFFWELL, concerning the death of CHARLES BIDGOOD, a labourer, of Offwell, who was found dead in Land Copse on Sunday morning, after having been missing since Tuesday. The Foreman of the Jury was Mr Henry Irish. The body was viewed in an outhouse at the back of Land Cottage. Deceased was dressed and had his leggings on. There was a slight bruise over the left eye, but otherwise the body presented the usual appearance of death from exposure. The Rev. J. H. Copleston (Rector of Offwell) attended the Inquiry. - MRS BIDGOOD, of Rock Cottage, Offwell, identified the body as that of her late husband. He was 57 years of age last birthday, and was employed as an agricultural labourer by Mr Bromfield of Mount Pleasant. Deceased left home on Monday morning last to go to work in the parish of Gittisham. In reply to a question, he said he should be back about 7 o'clock. Monday was the day on which the great snowstorm commenced. He did not return on Monday night and witness and her daughter did not have any rest on account of his non-appearance. He did not return on Tuesday. - Asked whether she made any inquiries as to deceased's whereabouts, witness explained that Rock Cottage was snowed up and no one could get out to give information until Wednesday, when Mr Bromfield, jun., came to the house and asked for BIDGOOD, who was required to clear some snow away. Mr Bromfield said he saw deceased between 5 and 6 o'clock on Tuesday night. - By a Juror: Deceased took away sufficient food to have lasted him throughout Monday. - A Juror pointed out that if deceased had wanted food he had opportunities of getting it. - Francis John Hurford, son of a farmer, of Offwell, deposed to finding the body of the deceased at 6.30 on Sunday morning in Land Copse. Deceased was lying on his face and hands, and his hat was beside him. Only his legs were covered with snow. The snow had thawed considerably. Witness gave information to his father, who communicated with P.C. Hodge. - The Rev. J. H. Copleston stated that the deceased was found lying under a beech tree close to a footpath. - Abel Boyland, landlord of the New Inn, which is situated on the road between Honiton and Offwell, stated that the deceased called at his house about 4 p.m. on Tuesday last. It was then snowing hard, and there was a strong wind blowing. Witness observed that he was suffering from cold. He asked for something warm to drink, and witness offered him a cup of tea and some bread and butter, which he declined, preferring three pennyworth of whiskey, which was supplied him hot. Deceased remained standing while he drank the whiskey and left the house about 4.30, going in the direction of Offwell. - Examined by the Deputy Coroner, Boyland admitted that the deceased was "a little the worse for liquor." He talked and walked all right. - The Deputy Coroner commented at considerable length on the action of Boyland supplying the deceased with liquor when he was intoxicated, and said he hoped the present case would be a warning to him. - Witness replied that he did not consider he was doing wrong, and added he did not think the man was very much the worse for liquor. - The Deputy Coroner: I believe the worst thing a man can do in cold weather is to take spirits; instead of keeping him warm after a time it tends to keep him colder. It was probably a bad thing for this poor fellow to have had whiskey. He (the Deputy Coroner) did not know whether he ought not to make some representation about the case, but he would not do so this time considering the exceptional circumstances surrounding it. If witness supplied liquor under similar circumstances again it would certainly be considered by the Licensing Authorities. - Frank Bromfield, son of Mr Joseph Bromfield, of Mount Pleasant, deposed to the deceased coming to his father's house about 5.30 on Tuesday evening, when the storm was at its height. Witness paid him for his day's work and he left. He was the worse for liquor, but he was not what witness should term drunk. Witness's sister pressed deceased to stay, but he replied that he had not been home since Monday and his "missus" would be anxious about him. He was determined to go, and said he would reach his home if "he had to swim for it." - Alice Bromfield, sister of the last witness, gave similar evidence. Deceased was tipsy when he came to the house. On leaving the house deceased went across the field in the direction of his home. Her reason for inviting deceased to go inside the house when she met him at the pump was that he was tipsy. - Mr Hurford, father of the lad Francis Hurford, also gave evidence. It appeared to witness that the deceased had got through the worst part of the snow when he reached the spot where his body was found. If deceased had been living on Wednesday morning and had groaned witness must have heard him. - The Rev. J. H. Copleston gave evidence as to the search which had been made in the district for the deceased. Shepherds had told witness that an able-bodied man could not have walked many miles in the teeth of Tuesday night's gale. It was not expected that the body would have been recovered at the spot where it was. Witness himself searched a hedge one evening. He did not think that the whole of the blame should be attached to Mr Boyland. - The Deputy Coroner replied that any publican who supplied the deceased with liquor when he was intoxicated was to blame. - The Rev. J. H. Copleston: There are other houses, no doubt, in it. - The Deputy Coroner: But, still, this was the last, and, in that sense, the worse. - P.C. Hodge, stationed at Offwell, stated that he had traced the deceased from Honiton to Mr Bromfield[s house. On Monday afternoon deceased visited the Lamb Inn and Red Cow Inn, Honiton. At the latter house he asked for a pint of ale, which was refused him because he was in liquor. Deceased returned to the Lamb Inn on Monday night and spent the night in a stable. Early on Tuesday morning he had two threepennyworths of whiskey at the Lamb Inn, and remained there until 11 o'clock in the forenoon. In the afternoon he was served with a pint of ale at the Railway Inn, and then proceeded to the New Inn, from whence he went to Mr Bromfield's. Witness also gave particulars of the search and deposed to being called on Sunday morning to go to Land Copse, where he saw the body of the deceased. There was a bruise over the left eye, which was probably caused by a fall. Deceased had in his possession 2s. 6d. in silver (his day's pay amounted to this sum), 2 ½d. in bronze and various articles. - The Deputy Coroner having summed up, the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Exposure." They gave their fees to the widow.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 18 March 1891
DAWLISH - At Dawlish Vestry Hall on Monday an Inquest was held before Dr Fraser, Coroner, touching the death of THOMAS CALLAWAY, a labourer, aged 64 years, who was found dead on Sunday morning. Deceased went home on Saturday night and complained of sickness. Elizabeth Moore, who had attended him and known him for 20 years, took him a cup of tea on Saturday night. On Sunday morning she went to his room and found him lying between the bed and the door. The room was dirty and the bed very much worn. The evidence of Dr Winter Baker showed that death resulted from syncope and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

TEIGNMOUTH - Fatal Accident At Teignmouth. - An Inquest was held at the London Hotel, Teignmouth, yesterday, by Dr Fraser, Deputy Coroner, touching the death of JOHN BUTLER, who was found lying at the bottom of some steps at the Model Cottages, on Saturday. The deceased, who was 50 years of age, died on Sunday from the effects of cold, exposure, and injuries received in the fall. He accounted for his fall by slipping over the steps. - John Damerell stated that on Saturday night he saw the deceased in the tap-room of the Teign Brewery. At 11 p.m., when they were told to clear out, he observed that deceased staggered a good deal and was not sober. Witness helped him home as far as the door and up the steps. He stayed with deceased a quarter of an hour and then left him outside on the landing. - James Bowerman, residing in the Model Cottages, spoke to hearing the deceased walking about his room on Sunday morning and also heard him go towards the stairs. - William Robert Mills, also residing in the Model Cottages, spoke to being called on Sunday morning and finding the deceased at the bottom of the steps. Deceased was bleeding from his head and his clothes were wet. He stated that he had fallen over the steps. - William Webber, a labourer, deposed to finding deceased lying in the road. He spoke to him, and said, "JOHN, why do you lie here." Deceased replied, "All right, leave me alone." Witness asked him where his hat was and he replied that he had lost it. Witness offered to help him up and deceased said, "I shall be all right if you leave me alone." He had picked up deceased many times before, and did not think there was anything particular amiss. - Edwin Passmore said about 7 a.m. on the morning in question he saw the deceased in the road and said, "JACK, what's the matter?" Deceased replied, "Oh! Ned, I think I am done for." With assistance witness carried deceased upstairs and put him to bed. - Dr G. H. W. Thomas, who was called to attend the deceased, stated that he found a serious scalp wound on deceased's head and other marks. Deceased's left thigh was broken and he was in a state of collapse. Death was due to shock, exposure and injuries received. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 20 March 1891
UFFCULME - An infant child, seven months old, named WILLIAM JOHN, son of FREDERICK GOLLOP, of Yondercott, a factory operative at Messrs. Fox Bros., woollen factory, died suddenly on Tuesday night. It appears that on returning home from work about 6 p.m. on Tuesday, GOLLOP'S wife appeared at the door with the child, who was suffering from a convulsive fit, in her arms. GOLLOP took the infant, thinking he should be able to bring him round, the child having had two fits the previous Friday and Monday, but he expired almost immediately in his arms. At the Constable's request Dr Slack viewed the body and stated that the child was well nourished, and, no doubt, died from a convulsive fit, but refused granting a burial certificate, not having seen him alive. The case was placed under the notice of the District Coroner, Mr C. E. Cox, Honiton, who reprimanded the parents for not obtaining medical assistance, and stated for the future that in any such cases he should hold an Inquest. The child was not insured.

CHARD, SOMERSET - Exwick. - A shocking accident occurred to a porter, named THOMAS GODSLAND, at the Chard Town Station of the London and South Western Railway Company on Monday night. The poor fellow was engaged shunting a train, and was standing by a stationary truck while the engine-driver shunted some other trucks towards him so that he could couple them together. Just before they came together GODSLAND for some reason attempted to pass between the buffers. He was caught by the latter and terribly crushed, his injuries terminating fatally within a few hours. GODSLAND resided at Exwick, Devon. Dr Cordwent, Deputy Coroner, on Wednesday held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of GODSLAND. Deceased was a porter, in the employ of the London and South Western Railway Company at Chard, and on Monday evening was engaged in shunting. He had got between two trucks for the purpose of coupling them, and for some reason attempted to pass out on one side between the buffers before the train had stopped. He was caught between the buffers and compressed, receiving terrible injuries from which he died the same night. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 21 March 1891
EXETER - The Shocking Occurrence On The South-Western Railway. Inquest Yesterday. - Yesterday, at the Exeter Police Court, the City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MISS CECILIA ANN JONES, who met with her death on the London and South Western Railway on Thursday. - Mr H. J. Foster was present to watch the proceedings on behalf of the Company. - Miss Mary Harriett Scott, living at 7 Windser-terrace, Saltash, said she identified the body of the deceased, who was about 51 or 52 years of age. She was an authoress and during the past two years had resided with witness. Deceased was not strong at any time, and during the past nine months had suffered from epileptic fits. On Thursday morning, about 9.30, deceased left witness's house with the intention of going to London, from whence she spoke of returning about next Thursday. Deceased was going to Leyton House, Albany-road, Stoke Newington. About ten days ago deceased had a fit. When in fits deceased sometimes lost consciousness and sometimes struggled. Between the fits deceased had entire possession of all her faculties. - Walter Spreadborough, brakesman, in the employ of the London and South Western Railway Company, and of Exeter, stated that on Thursday morning he was the rear guard of the 10.33 passenger train from Friary, Plymouth. The train was an express and was not tabled to stop between Okehampton and Exeter. While running between Bow and Coleford Junction witness was looking out of a window on the off side, and saw a body either fall or jump from the train. Witness immediately applied the vacuum brake and stopped the train. He communicated with the head guard of the train (Jones). The train was run back to where the body was lying in the six-foot road - namely, between the up and down line. Witness, Jones and two or three passengers lifted deceased into witness's van, in which she was brought on to Exeter. The door of the compartment in which deceased was riding was shut when the train was pulled up. Neither of the doors was locked. On reaching Exeter the examiner's attention was called to the door through which deceased fell, and it was found to be in good working order. Deceased was travelling alone. - A Juror asked whether there was not an order issued by the Railway Company directing their employees to lock the doors of carriages. - Mr Foster said there was an order against locking the doors. In case of an accident passengers would not be able to get out of the carriages if the doors were locked. - Jesse Jones, guard, who was in charge of the express, said that at North-road Station, Plymouth, deceased asked him if he was the guard through to London, and requested him to get a foot-warmer for her. Deceased was alone in the third-class compartment she entered all the way from Plymouth. Deceased appeared to be a trifle nervous. When picked up deceased appeared to be quite unconscious. - Sergeant Sullock, of the Exeter Police Force, said he received the body at Queen-street Station from Mr Foster, and took it to the mortuary. Deceased had in her possession £3 in gold, 5s. in silver and 9d. in copper, besides some postage-stamps and other things. She also had two leather-bags, a shawl and an umbrella. - Mr Brash, Surgeon, Exeter, stated that just after 1 o'clock on Thursday he was called to Queen-street Station, where he saw the body of MISS JONES. She had sustained an extensive fracture of the skull; the bones of the face and nose were broken, and the right foot was crushed. The wound on the head was quite sufficient to cause instant death. Some of the carriages must have passed over the right foot; the other injuries were the results of a fall. Epileptic fits would by no means render a person insane. Usually epileptic fits caused a person to fall immediately. - The Foreman of the Jury suggested whether the deceased, if she had a fit in the train, might not have opened the door while in a state of frenzy. - Mr Brash said that such a proceeding could only be pure surmise. - The Coroner said the case was a very sad one. There was nothing to show whether deceased accidentally fell out of the carriages or otherwise. He expressed his indebtedness to Mr Foster (the representative of the London and South Western Railway Company) and the officials generally for the readiness with which they always afforded information. He had never to ask twice to secure the attendance of witnesses whose evidence was necessary to enable the Jury to arrive at a satisfactory conclusion. - A verdict of "Found Dead" was returned by the Jury, and agreed with the Coroner, who said it was the only verdict the Jury could rightly have returned.

EXETER HEAVITREE - The Sad Death At Heavitree. Verdict of Suicide. - Last evening Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Horse and Groom Inn, Heavitree, touching the death of ALFRED JAMES PANTING, of Princess-terrace, Church-street, Heavitree, who died from the effects of injuries received on the previous day. - SARAH PANTING identified the body as that of her late husband. He was a boot and shoe maker and was 43 years of age. Witness last saw him alive on Wednesday evening, about half-past 9 o'clock. He came to the bedroom on the second floor of the house with one of the children for the purpose of putting the child to bed. Before leaving the room deceased cast a look at witness "as though he wanted to speak." He then went upstairs to the third storey. Shortly afterwards witness heard a noise and rushed upstairs, when she found the window open, and on looking out of it she saw the body of her husband in the garden beneath. Deceased had secured the window with two nails in order to prevent the children opening it. A great deal of force must have been used to open the window to the width she found it. For a long time past deceased had suffered from pains in his head and at times he laboured under a delusion that people were going to "drug" him. She lived happily with deceased. Four years ago, when he was the worse for liquor, six men interfered with him, knocked him down and kicked him on the back of his head. Since that time he had suffered from pains in his head. Deceased was not the worse for liquor on the evening of the accident and had never threatened to commit suicide. - Dr James Andrews, of Heavitree, deposed to being called to the deceased on Wednesday evening. He found him lying in the kitchen dead. There was a bruise over the forehead. Witness believed the cause of death was concussion of the brain, the result of a fall. - The Jury, after some deliberation, returned a verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 24 March 1891
NORTH MOLTON - Death From The Kick Of A Horse. - Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner, held an Inquest at Northmolton, on the body of a labourer named CHARLES SCOTT, aged 22 years, who died from the kick of a horse. On Tuesday last his employer, Mr Newton, of Rapscott Farm, Northmolton, gave him instructions to draw a load of turnips. He saw him a little while afterwards putting the horse to a cart, but he made no complaint. After drawing the load of turnips the deceased came into the house and complained of feeling ill, remarking that when in the stable the horse had kicked him in the stomach. He went to bed and witness went for the doctor. Dr Kendle, who attended the deceased, said the latter died on Friday last from mortification of the small intestines, resulting from a blow or a kick in the stomach. The deceased had been well looked after and properly nursed by his mother and the members of the family at Rapscott. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death from the Kick of a Horse."

HARTLAND - Fatal Accident At Hartland. - Yesterday an Inquest was held by Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner, at Hartland, on the body of a woman named ANN HEARD, aged 75 years. - The evidence given by the principal witness, William Pillman, a farmer's son, was to the effect that on Friday he was riding a filly to Hartland to be shod. On his way the animal bolted, because, as he thought, a horse was coming behind. His mare ran into Hartland town and in the road he saw the deceased. He called to her to get out of the way, but she did not hear, and he attempted to stop the mare, but could not and the deceased was knocked down. Ultimately the mare threw him off and she then stopped. She had never bolted before, and he had often ridden her and driven her in harness. - Mr Thomas Jeffries of the Anchor Inn, who saw the accident, said the horse had evidently bolted, and the last witness did all he could to avoid the accident. - Dr James Newcombe deposed seeing the deceased immediately after the occurrence. He attributed death to shock and the rupture of a blood vessel of the brain. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

EXETER - Yesterday, at 101 Sandford-street Exeter, Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MINNIE GREENSLADE, aged 23, who died suddenly on Saturday. In the course of the evidence, it transpired that the deceased, who was an assistant-schoolmistress at St David's School, had been ailing for the last three weeks, and on Saturday morning she went out for a short walk. Soon after her return MISS GREENSLADE complained of feeling ill, fell off the stool on which she had been sitting, and died almost immediately. The medical evidence showed that the deceased died from syncope, arising from a weak heart. the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 26 March 1891
DUNKESWELL - At an Inquest held by Mr Deputy Coroner Cox, at Dunkeswell, near Honiton, on the body of the infant son of SAMUEL CARTER, who died three days after birth, a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned. It transpired that medical assistance could not be obtained for the child, owing to the snow.

BIDEFORD - A Child Overlaid At Bideford. - Yesterday Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner, held an Inquest at Bideford on the body of FRANK E. SHORT, aged 6 weeks, son of an insurance-agent. - The evidence of the mother was to the effect that on Monday night she went to bed at the usual hour and took the child with her. She nursed him in the night, and also at 5 o'clock in the morning, but later on when she awoke she saw there was something the matter with the child, and on taking him up saw he was dead. She called to her husband, who was downstairs, and he fetched her mother and a doctor. Her young children had all slept with her in the same way, and she did not know there was any danger. - WILLIAM E. SHORT, father of the deceased, said the child's life was insured, but no benefit could arise, as the policy was not of 13 weeks' duration. - Dr Thompson deposed to having examined the deceased. The child did not die from natural causes, but, in his opinion, from being overlaid. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 1 April 1891
EXETER - Sudden Death In Exeter. - Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Exeter Police Court yesterday touching the death of JANE WILLIAMS. Susan Rawling, living at 14 Codrington-street, identified the body as that of JANE WILLIAMS a single woman, aged 65. Deceased had rented a room of witness for the past seventeen months, and on Saturday evening, about 8 o'clock, she appeared to be in her usual health. As deceased did not get up as usual on Sunday morning witness went up to her bedroom and found she was dead in bed, the body being quite warm. Mr Bell, Surgeon, said he was called about 12.30 p.m. on Sunday to go to 14 Codrington-street, where he saw the deceased in bed. There were no marks of violence and in his opinion death was due to failure of the heart's action. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 3 April 1891
EAST STONEHOUSE - An Inquest was held at Stonehouse yesterday relative to the death of a boy named SEPTIMUS LANGDON. The evidence showed that he was playing with another boy when a coal cart passed. Some coal fell from the cart, and deceased, in running to tell the driver, fell under the wheel, which passed over his head. The medical evidence showed that death was instantaneous. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was recorded and the driver was exonerated from blame.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 4 April 1891
BAMPTON - An Inquest has been held at the White Horse Hotel, Bampton, by Mr F. Burrow, County Coroner, touching the death of MR SAMUEL BRYANT, which took place on Monday. Mr R. H. Dart was chosen Foreman of the Jury. The evidence of MR WILLIAM BRYANT, eldest son of the deceased, went to show that his father, in passing from one kitchen to another on Saturday, the 14th of March, fell down. He assisted his father into a chair, and afterwards deceased went to bed and never recovered. Dr T. A. Guinness said that deceased sustained by the fall, concussion of the brain; compression set in and resulted in death. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the doctor's evidence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 6 April 1891
WESTWARD HO! - Mr Coroner Bromham held an Inquest at Westward Ho! on Saturday concerning the death of a child named AGNES POOLE, aged two years, daughter of the keeper of the Nassau Baths. It appeared from the evidence that the child was playing about as usual during the day, and after a time was missed. A search was instituted, and the little one was found in the big swimming bath drowned. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 9 April 1891
ALWINGTON - About half-past five o'clock on Monday morning at Alwington, near Bideford, the wife of FREDERICK LEWIS, gardener, awoke and found her infant child, five weeks old, dead in her arms. Death is supposed to have been caused by overlaying. An Inquest was held last evening by Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner.

TAVISTOCK - Alleged Manslaughter At Tavistock. Shocking Neglect Of An Infant. - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Union Workhouse, Tavistock, yesterday, into the circumstances attending the death of JOHN, aged seven months, infant child of a woman on tramp, who stated that her name was EVA HOLLAND. - Mr J. D. Johnstone watched the proceedings on behalf of the Tavistock Board of Guardians. - Mr W. Treverton, Master of the Workhouse, deposed that on Thursday evening the deceased and his mother were admitted into the casual ward. The woman then gave the name of PROUT. She left on Friday morning, but returned in the evening and then said her name was EVA HOLLAND. She said the child was dying, and witness examined him and found him to be in a very emaciated condition. He accused the woman of neglecting the deceased, but she denied that she had done so. On being told that the child would be sent to the Infirmary she became impertinent. The child died about 2 p.m. on Monday. - EVA HOLLAND, the mother, after being cautioned by the Coroner, said her husband was called WILLIAM HOLLAND. He left her a week ago at Stratton to join the Militia. Her home was at Woolfardisworthy, near Bideford. The child had been delicate from birth. She was in Bideford Workhouse four months, and the doctor there attended the child all that time. He said the child was bad in the liver and that she would never rear him. The child was nourished with the bottle daily, and she gave him bread sops as well. She left the Launceston Workhouse about 12 o'clock on Thursday. The child was not well then. It kept getting sick. The doctor did not see the child, the nurse saying that he was all right. Witness did not ask for medical advice for the child. - Mr Johnstone said he was not satisfied that the woman was in the Launceston Workhouse at all on Thursday. - In reply to Dr Hislop, Mr Treverton said if the child had been ill in the Bideford or Launceston Workhouse the woman would not have been allowed to take it away. - A Juryman remarked that the woman was seen in Tavistock on Thursday with a man whom she then described as her husband, but who she had since stated was her husband's brother. - Mr Treverton said the woman first told him that she had not seen her husband for two months, then she said she had not seen him for a fortnight, and finally that she had parted from him a week ago. She also stated that she was married somewhere in Cornwall, but that she did not know when or where. The child was in a filthy condition, which he did not believe would have been the case if the woman had been discharged from the Launceston Workhouse on Thursday morning. - In reply to a Juror, the woman said she gave the child new milk mixed with a little water. - In answer to Sergeant Coles, she stated that she had had three children. One was staying with a relative, and the others were dead. - Mr J. T. Hislop, Surgeon, of Tavistock, deposed to having made a post-mortem examination of the body of the deceased child, who was seven or eight months old, and weighed a little under 7lbs. The usual weight of a child of that age would be from 20lbs to 24lbs. The average weight of a new-born boy at birth was 8lbs or 9lbs. He should not think the child was delicate from birth. The body was extremely emaciated. There was scarcely a trace of fat to be found all over it. The muscles were exceedingly small. All the organs were in a healthy state. There was a small quantity of partly digested food in the stomach, probably what was given to the child since its admission into the Tavistock Workhouse. The intestines were entirely empty. His opinion was that death was due to exhaustion, brought about by prolonged neglect. He could not say that death was due to actual starvation. - By the Foreman: If the child had been given milk daily it would not have been so emaciated and the intestines would not have been empty. The organs were in such a condition that if food had been given the child could have taken it. No doctor out of Bedlam would say that the child was suffering from liver complaint. - Mr Treverton informed the Coroner that since the woman had given her evidence she had told him that she was not married and that her name was EVA PROUT. - The coroner said he should take no notice of the statement, as he did not consider that credence could be given to anything the woman said. If the Jury were satisfied that death had resulted from protracted neglect the case was clearly one of manslaughter. - The Jury at once returned a verdict of "Manslaughter" and the Coroner then made out an order for the committal of the mother to the Assizes.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 11 April 1891
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held at Plymouth last evening relative to the death of GEORGE HEARSON, 69, naval pensioner, who cut his throat at his son's residence yesterday morning. The evidence showed that deceased had been depressed in spirits of late, and a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 13 April 1891
EXETER - On Saturday, at Lethbridge's Cottages, Newtown, Exeter, Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, held an Inquest upon the body of SARAH NOOKS, who died on Thursday morning. Mrs Ann Allen deposed that deceased was 70 years of age. She appeared to be in her usual health on the morning of her death. She complained, however, that she was not quite well and had pains in her head. Witness went to the house of the deceased with her weekly money, and, on knocking at the door, she received no answer. Witness thereupon opened the door and went in, and found NOOKS lying on the sofa. Mrs Allen called her and pulled her up, thinking, perhaps, that she might be sleeping, and found that she was dead. Henry Fouracre, gardener, said he saw the deceased on the morning of her death carrying a heavy bundle of carpets under her arm, which, she told him, she was going to take round the corner to beat. Mr George T. Clapp said that he was called to see the deceased, whom he found dead on a sofa. He believed death to be due to apoplexy. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 13 April 1891
EXETER - At the Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday morning an Inquest was held by the City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, into the circumstances attending the death of JOHN SELDON, 57, lately in the employ of Mr Ridge, carrier, of Exeter. SARAH SELDON, of Albert-place, Rack-street, wife of the deceased, said her husband went to work at 7.30 a.m. on March 26th, and about five o'clock in the evening of the same day, witness was informed that he had met with an accident, and had been taken to the Devon and Exeter Hospital. Deceased was a man of temperate habits. John Caine, a labourer, of 19 Hodge's-row, Commercial-road, Exeter, deposed to being engaged with deceased on March 26th, removing furniture from Pinhoe to St Thomas. They were taking a chest of drawers up a narrow staircase at No. 46 Okehampton-street, about 2.30 p.m., and witness had lifted his end of the drawers over the balustrades to enable them to turn a bend in the stairs, when SELDON fell over the stairs to the floor below. Mr H. Andrew, Assistant House Surgeon at the Hospital, said the deceased was in a state of collapse when he was admitted to that Institution. He died on Friday last from a ruptured kidney. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

EXETER - The Death Of MR CHARLES LAMSLEY. - On Saturday, at 114 Blackboy-road, Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MR CHARLES LAMSLEY, who died suddenly in bed on Friday morning. Mr R. Hodge was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - MR JOSIAH LAMSLEY, residing at Southsea, identified the body of the deceased as that of his son, aged 39. The deceased was the conductor of the orchestra at the Exeter Theatre and resided at 114 Blackboy-road. Witness stated that the deceased was a married man. - Matilda Scott, niece of the landlady (Mrs Shapter) said that she had known the deceased for three months, and last saw him alive when he went out on Thursday evening, about 20 minutes to 7, to go to the Theatre. Witness had given him a glass of milk with an egg beaten up in it during the afternoon, and previous to his going out she gave him a cup of coffee and a small custard-pudding. Deceased had appeared in good health until Wednesday, when his nose began to bleed. Witness could not tell what time MR LAMSLEY came home, because he had a latch-key. Early on Friday morning, about half-past 2, she heard him moving about in his bedroom. Witness again heard MR LAMSLEY moving at ten minutes past 7. At half-past 8 witness took up a cup of tea to his room and knocked at his door twice, and receiving no answer she opened the door and went in. Deceased was half sitting up in bed, partially dressed. Witness spoke to him, but she found he was quite dead. She had never seen him the worse for drink. Deceased had a very bad cough on Wednesday night. - William Walter Pook, butcher, 48 Sidwell-street, said that MR LAMSLEY had been a personal friend of his and on Thursday evening, about a quarter to 11, he saw him at the Acland Arms, which place they left at 11 o'clock. Witness walked home with the deceased, who was rather weak, and wished him good night outside Mrs Shapter's front door. The deceased was perfectly sober. - Dr Brown, Sidwell-street, said he was called on Friday morning between 8 and 9 o'clock to see the deceased. Witness found him lying partly dressed on the bed, with his head resting on the top rail. Deceased appeared to have been dead about three-parts of an hour. There was some froth and blood issuing from the mouth and nostrils. The skin was blanched and bloodless. There was a small bottle in a pocket of the deceased containing apparently a mixture of iron, which would be used for stopping bleeding at the nose. The body looked like that of a man who had evidently suffered from internal haemorrhage and fainted right away. This he considered to have been the cause of death. Dr Edward Perkins had attended the deceased on two occasions for haemorrhage. - By a Juror: The haemorrhage was caused by a rupture, which was very probably brought on by a violent fit of coughing. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." - The funeral took place in the Higher Cemetery yesterday afternoon, and the esteem in which MR LAMSLEY was held was testified by the very large and representative attendance of friends at the ceremony. The mourners were Mr J. Lamsley (father), Mr S. L. Gifford (manager of the Theatre), Mr J. Skinner, and Mr Pook. plus many others. The cortege was met by the Rev. J. Popham, who impressively conducted the service both inside the Chapel and at the graveside. The Chapel was crowded, and the interment was witnessed by several hundreds of friends and sympathisers. The breastplate of the coffin, which was of polished oak, with massive brass fittings, bore the following inscription: "CHARLES LAMSLEY, died April 10th, 1891, aged 39" The top of the coffin was literally hidden with floral tributes of the most beautiful designs and included, among others, a lovely wreath of arum lilies and white azaleas bearing the words, "In respectful memory; from S. L. Gifford." Another comprised roses, lilies, hyacinths, camellias, azaleas, and maidenhair fern, "In loving memory of their late musical director; from the members of the Orchestra.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 14 April 1891
TORQUAY - Determined Suicide At Torquay. - Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Torbay Hospital, Torquay, last evening, into the circumstances attending the death of SUSANNAH MARY JANE PERROW, aged 47, who died in the Institution on Sunday night from injuries she received from throwing herself over the cliff at Daddy Hole Plain. - The first witness called was CHARLOTTE PERROW, sister of the deceased, who said she resided at No. 9, Princes-road, Ellacombe, but she had for some time been engaged as caretaker at Carclew, Hesketh-road. She identified the body as that of her sister, who for some years had gained a livelihood by going out as waitress, cook or caretaker. They had been together at Carclew since January, the family being away. Deceased had not had good health since November, having suffered considerably in her head. On Sunday morning deceased got up early, leaving witness in bed, saying she was going out for a walk. On the previous day deceased was very depressed, and frequently talked of religious matters. She dreaded the return of the family because she was too ill to do the work. Deceased said before going to bed on Saturday that she had been advised to go out for a walk early in the morning, as it would do her good. Witness awoke at 8.40 on Sunday morning and found that deceased was not in the room. Hearing no one stir downstairs she searched for her sister, but failing to find her she communicated with her brother, at Ellacombe, who advised her to inform the Police, as it was thought deceased had walked to Totnes, where she had relatives. As nothing could be gleaned, inquiries were made in the direction of the seashore and her brother, some little time afterwards, informed her that her sister had been found and taken to the Hospital. Witness saw her in the Institution, and she was then conscious. Deceased frequently spoke of religion and thought she was too great a sinner to obtain salvation. Some 24 or 25 years ago her sister attempted to commit suicide, but this was owing to a deranged mind, brought on by family trouble. - ANNIE PERROW, sister-in-law of the deceased, said she had been assisting the last witness at Carclew for some days, and deceased had been very strange in her manner. - Richard Pym, fisherman, of Pimlico, stated that about 8.30 on Sunday morning he was rowing along-shore when he saw something lying on the rocks. He did not know what it was until he saw an upraised arm. As he could not land at that point he went up the hill and reported the matter to the coastguard and afterward accompanied him to the spot. Deceased was lying on a flat rock and some 20 or 30 yards up the cliff he saw what appeared to be a handkerchief hanging. The woman was alive and was taken up the cliff on a stretcher by the Coastguard. - Thomas Lobb, Coastguard, stated that he went to the spot with Pym, reaching the rocks by means of a zig-zag path. the body was lying on a flat rock. On the top of the cliff, which was guarded by an iron rail, a black glove was found similar to one on the deceased's left hand. The height of the cliff was between 260 and 270 feet, and the lady was conveyed up on an ambulance stretcher. - Mr Arthur Watson, Surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said the deceased was admitted about 10 o'clock on Sunday morning suffering from a lacerated wound o the scalp, concussion of the brain and several minor injuries. She rallied for a time, but expired at about 11.15 the same night. Death was due to shock caused by concussion. Deceased must have fallen in a slanting position, or her skull would have been fractured. - PHILIP HENRY PERROW, labourer, said the deceased was his sister. She went out of her mind for a few days about 25 years ago, but she did not attempt to take her life. The derangement was due, he believed, to her confirmation and a clergyman in Cornwall pressing her to take Sacrament. She however, recovered in a very short time. - CHARLOTTE PERROW, recalled, stated that her sister was subject to fits of giddiness. - The Jury, after a few minutes' consultation, returned a verdict of "Suicide while in a state of Unsound Mind."

PAIGNTON - Suicide At Paignton. - An Inquest was held at the New Pier Inn, Paignton, on Saturday, before Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, touching the death of THOMAS KELLIGREW, the Harbour Master of Paignton, who committed suicide on Friday. It was proved that deceased, whose age was 72, was in the habit of drinking heavily at times, but lately he had had losses and trouble, that he had suffered from delirium tremens and lately been strange in manner. On Wednesday morning he went to the Police Station and wanted to be locked up, saying he cursed the day he was born and he was advised to see a doctor. On Thursday morning he threatened to cut his throat, but no notice was taken of it. On Friday morning he got up and went to the doctor's for a bottle of medicine; at half-past 11 he went to bed, and refused to have any dinner. The only other occupants of the house were his wife and his grand-daughter. Just as they had finished dinner they heard him call out and on rushing upstairs found him in bed, leaning over the side with his throat cut, and bleeding freely. Assistance was called and Dr Alexander was sent for. He found that the gash extended from ear to ear, though some of the arteries were missed and life might have been saved if attention had been immediate; as it was the loss of blood led to collapse. Deceased never spoke nor opened his eyes again and died at 6 o'clock. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while in a state of Unsound Mind."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 15 April 1891
EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - At the Buller's Arms, St Thomas, yesterday, Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of EDWIN SPLATT, gardener, aged 59. In the course of the evidence it transpired that the deceased, who had resided with the landlord of the Buller's Arms for 15 years, was found dead on the floor of a front room of the Inn. The medical evidence showed that the deceased died from syncope. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 18 April 1891
EXETER - An Inquest was held at the Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday afternoon by Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, into the circumstances attending the death of THOMAS PARSONS, labourer, of Great Dorwick, Silverton, in the employ of Mr Battin, of the same place. - PAULINA PARSONS, widow of the deceased, said her husband was in charge of a waggon and two horses on Thursday afternoon on the road from Newton St Cyres to Great Dorwick. Witness was with him in the waggon, which was not laden with any goods. When they were going under the Thorverton railway bridge a train passed over, and the horses in the waggon took fright. Deceased was walking by their side at the time, and he took hold of the leader. He held it as long as he could, but was eventually knocked down and the waggon went over him. Witness remained in the waggon while the horses ran away with it for about three-quarters of a mile. Two boys then stopped the horses and witness alighted and walked back. She found her husband in the waiting-room at Thorverton Railway Station. He was conscious, and complained of pains in his shoulder and his back. Mr King Lewis was in attendance and he advised the removal of the injured man to the Hospital at Exeter. Witness went with her husband to the Hospital, and was with him when he died at 9 o'clock on Thursday evening. - A Juror stated that it was impossible when under the bridge to hear a train on the line if the steam was off until the locomotive ran over the top. Then the noise was very great. - Mr Reginald Martyn, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said the injured man was dying when he was admitted into the Institution. He never rallied. He had five fractured ribs on the left side and a bruised arm. Witness had made a post-mortem examination of the body and had found that the man had died from internal haemorrhage. His left lung had been torn. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 21 April 1891
EXMOUTH - At Exmouth yesterday an Inquest was held at the Dolphin Hotel, on the body of GEORGE KERLEY, aged 19, of 8 Bicton-place, who attempted to take his life on the morning of Friday, the 10th instant, by cutting his throat and who died on Saturday evening at the Maud Hospital, where he was removed. The deceased had been mentally affected for several months previous to his committing the rash act, and was to have been placed in an Asylum in another week or so. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane" and passed a vote of sympathy with the unfortunate gentleman's family.

BRIXHAM - The Death At Sea. - At Brixham an Inquest was held at the George Hotel yesterday by Mr Sidney Hacker, to ascertain the cause of death of HUGH THOMAS, whose body was brought on shore by the smack Lyra on Saturday from the ship Portia, of London, at sea. - Walter Furneaux, owner and skipper of the smack Lyra, deposed that they sighted the ship about 6 o'clock on Friday evening 25 miles off the Start. They went on board the ship and sold some fish. The vessel was the Portia. The second hand of the smack went on board the vessel first and the captain told him he had a corpse on board, and wished to land it. The second hand would not take it without witness's sanction, and he then went on board the Portia. The captain told him that he wished to land the corpse, but had been unable to get into Portland as the wind was northerly. The captain told him the man died on Tuesday morning, and witness consented to take the corpse ashore. They got the corpse on board about 8 p.m. on Friday. The captain gave witness the paper to telegraph to the owners of the ship. The captain seemed very much "cut up" about the boy's death. The captain was called Griffiths. Witness landed the corpse out of kindness to the captain, as he was much grieved. He did not pay witness a copper; he said the owners would reward him. - The Coroner pointed out that it was a very bold thing to do, as it might have been the body of a murdered man. - Furneaux said he did not think of that. The captain pleaded with him to bring the body ashore. He offered to pilot the ship into Plymouth or Falmouth, but the captain did not wish it. The body was sewed up in canvas, and witness did not see it until the next day. He telegraphed to the owners and posted six letters and two postcards for the captain. He took one of the letters, which was addressed to Thomas, Cardiff, to the boy's father, but the Sergeant of Police had since told him the boy's parents lived at Anglesey. He reported himself to the Customs Authorities and then the body was taken to the dead house. They arrived at Brixham on Saturday morning and cut the canvas open, as they were coming to Brixham on Saturday. He received ten shillings for posting the letters. The steward of the ship told him that the boy was talking to him an hour before he died, and the captain said he was suffering from ulcerated throat. The ship was from Hamburg to Hong Kong. By the Foreman: The captain did not wish to bury the boy at sea. - Mr G. C. Searle, Surgeon, of Brixham, stated that he had made a post-mortem examination of the body. There were no external marks of violence, and he was certain that death was not caused by violence. The lungs were very bad, the right lung especially. The deceased must have suffered from long-standing pleurisy, and the left lung was also diseased. If the deceased had been only ill two days the cause of death was pneumonia. He should think the youth was on a voyage for the benefit of his health, from the appearance of the body. Deceased was in an advanced state of consumption, and his age was from 19 to 20. - P.S. Potter stated that on information from the Customs Authorities he fetched the doctor and afterwards telegraphed to the owners, who gave him the address of the deceased's father at Anglesey, who wired back to him to keep the body and he would write instructions. - This closed the evidence. - The Coroner then stated it would be necessary to adjourn the Inquest until they had formal evidence as to who the young man was. - The Inquest was adjourned to Thursday next.

BRIXHAM - An Inquest was held by Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner at the George Hotel on the body of the illegitimate child of a woman named STAPLETON, living in Paradise-alley. - Mr A. E. Haward, Surgeon, stated that from a post-mortem examination, he should think the child died from bronchitis. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 24 April 1891
BRIXHAM - At Brixham an adjourned inquest on the body of HUGH THOMAS, brought ashore from the ship Portia by the smack Lyra, was held at the George Hotel on Thursday evening by Mr S. Hacker, Coroner for Devon. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned, with a rider to the effect that a mortuary ought to be built at Brixham.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 28 April 1891
EXETER - At Weirfield-road, Exeter, yesterday, Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MR JACOB WARREN, aged 88, an accountant, who died suddenly on Saturday. MARY ANN WARREN, daughter of the deceased, said her father had not gone out of the house for nearly six years, as he had had a seizure. On Saturday morning, at nine o'clock, the deceased not waking, Mr E. Steele-Perkins was sent for, and on arriving he pronounced life to be extinct. - Mr E. Steele-Perkins believed that death was due to syncope. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 29 April 1891
AXMINSTER - At Axminster yesterday an Inquest was held at the Cottage Hospital before Mr C. E. Cox, Deputy Coroner, touching the death of CHARLOTTE MAUD CHANT, aged 3 years and 3 months. After hearing the evidence, a verdict was returned of "Accidental Death," and the fees were given to the parents.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 1 May 1891
DUNKESWELL - Mr Cox, of Honiton, held an Inquest at the Royal Oak on Monday to Inquire into the death of the infant daughter of FREDERICK BENNETT. Medical evidence proved that the child died of convulsions, and a verdict was returned accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 4 May 1891
TOPSHAM - The Topsham Drowning Case. - Mr W. Gould, Deputy District Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Vestry-room, Topsham, on Saturday, touching the death of ELIZABETH SALTER, a domestic servant, aged 18 years, who was found drowned in the river Exe on Thursday afternoon last. - LUCY DAVEY, a married woman, of Topsham, identified deceased as her sister, who she last saw alive about half-past 2 on the afternoon of Thursday. Deceased lived with her father, and during the afternoon witness spoke to her about going with her to Woodbury Salterton for a character to enable her to get a situation. Deceased replied, "Rather than go there I would drown myself." Deceased had tried several times to get a character, but did not succeed. One of the persons she went to said she would give her a character for honesty, but nothing else. The fact of her not getting a character must have troubled deceased, who had often said in her younger days that she would drown herself. Witness last heard her use the expression about two years ago. - Sarah Sergeant proved seeing the deceased at the door of her sister's residence on Thursday afternoon. She was crying, and, after some conversation about getting a character from Woodbury Salterton, witness offered to write for her and to this she agreed. - Alfred John Melhuish, groom to Captain Porters, of Mount Weir, deposed that on the afternoon in question he was proceeding through the path-fields to The Retreat, when he heard cries from some person in the water. On going to the spot he saw the deceased drowning from fifteen to twenty feet from the bank. Witness being unable to swim ran for assistance. As soon as possible he returned with a man named Reed, but the deceased had sunk. Witness found a hat on the bank, with a brooch attached to the rim. - By the Coroner: Witness considered that she was struggling to get out when he saw her. - Benjamin Bowden, of the Countess Weir Inn, proved recovering the body in fourteen feet of water and twenty-four feet from the shore. - P.C. Brownson gave evidence as to seeing footprints near a place called Jackson Point and searching the deceased, upon whom he found a list of addresses, a pocket-handkerchief, a pair of gloves and a Band of Hope Review. - Dr Frood, of Topsham, deposed to examining the body of the deceased. Its appearance was consistent with death from drowning. - Mrs Cole, recalled, said the deceased had not shown any symptoms of insanity, but a brother was in the Asylum. - The Coroner having briefly summed up, the Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 5 May 1891
LYDFORD - Mr R. R. Rodd, senior County Coroner for the Stoke Damerel District of Devon, who is also acting for the adjoining Okehampton District until a successor is appointed to the late Mr W. Burd, held an Inquest at the Duchy Hotel, Princetown, relative to the death of JOHN WILLIAMS, aged 31 years, a convict undergoing a sentence of five years' penal servitude at the Princetown convict establishment. Mr W. S. Frew, the Surgeon of the Prison, stated that the deceased was admitted into the Prison Hospital in May 1890, and remained under treatment until the 30th ult, when he died. He had made a post mortem examination and found that death was due to chronic pneumonia. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 12 May 1891
TIVERTON - Last evening, at the Tiverton Workhouse, Mr Louis Mackenzie held an Inquest on the body of WILLIAM HEMBROW, labourer, aged 38, who died in that Institution on Sunday night. Evidence was given to the effect that on January 15th HEMBROW, while working in the employ of Mr Crook, of Gogwell, was returning from Tiverton, accompanied by a man named Lane, with a waggon-load of furniture. When near Bolham the leader horse turned in the wrong direction. The deceased jumped from the shafts to right the animal, and in doing so was knocked down and run over, with the result that he received a spinal dislocation and fracture. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and, in a rider, attributed blame to the deceased and Lane for not having the leading horse under proper rein control.

EXETER - Mr Henry W. Hooper, City Coroner, yesterday held an Inquiry upon the body of KATE BROWNING, single woman, aged 22, of 3 Guinea-street, who died on Sunday morning. In the course of the evidence it transpired that the deceased felt unwell all day on Saturday, and died in bed early on Sunday morning. The medical evidence showed that death was due to failure of the heart's action. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 14 May 1891
EXMINSTER - Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquiry yesterday at Exminster as to the death of JOHN PEPPERELL, lime burner at the Exminster lime kilns, who met his death by an accident on the railway on Monday last. - CHARLES PEPPERELL, a son of deceased, identified the body as that of his father, aged 74. - Evidence was also given to the effect that on the day in question deceased went to the house of Mr Lee on business, and that on returning proceeded by way of the Marshes, and would have to cross the line. - William Samuel Holloway, upholsterer, 77 Paris-street, Exeter, said that he was looking out of the window of the 1.37 train from Exminster on the right hand side of the carriage. When near Exminster he saw the deceased, who had been walking between the up and down line, suddenly step on the down line. Witness told his father, who was in the carriage, that he believed the man had been knocked down. Witness looked out and saw the deceased lying in the middle of the line. - James Fredericks, Stationmaster at Exminster, stated that the guard upon the arrival of the train told him that he had been informed that a man had been knocked down about a mile and a half back. Witness took a trolley and found the deceased lying in the centre of the down line quite dead, and on the spot where he would cross in the ordinary way. - Mr James Frood, Surgeon, of Topsham, said he examined the body of the deceased. The skull was completely smashed and the brains were protruding. Every limb in the body had a compound fracture and the ribs were very badly smashed. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 15 May 1891
EXETER - A verdict of "Found Drowned" has been returned at an Inquest held upon the body of a child named WILLIAM STENTIFORD, who was found in the Exe near Countess Weir.

BRIXHAM - An Inquest was held at the Bolton Hotel, Brixham, last evening, by Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, on the body of a female child, two hours old, daughter of THOMAS HEATH, fisherman. Mr A. E. Hayward, Surgeon, Brixham, said he examined the body of the child and considered it was prematurely born, which was the cause of death. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 18 May 1891
BUCKLAND MONACHORUM - Shocking Fatal Accident Near Tavistock. - An Inquest was opened at the London Inn, Horrabridge, on Saturday, by Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, and a Jury, of whom Mr J. Dockett was Foreman, touching the death of HENRY ROWE, miner, aged 27, late of Little Horrabridge. It appeared that the deceased was working at Bertha Consols, about five miles from Tavistock, on Friday afternoon, when a platform on which he was standing gave way and he fell a distance of nearly 30 fathoms, and had nearly every portion of his body mangled. Death was instantaneous. Having taken sufficient evidence to enable him to give an order for burial, the Coroner adjourned the Inquiry to Thursday next, at the request of H.M. Inspector of Mines, who wrote that he was unable to be present on Saturday. The deceased leaves a widow and three young children.

INWARDLEIGH - Mr J. D. Prickman, of Okehampton, the new appointed Coroner for the District, held an Inquest on Saturday on the body of GEORGE CROSS, a labourer, of Inwardleigh, who died suddenly on Friday morning last. From the evidence given, it appeared that in January the deceased was treated for heart disease by Dr Young, Okehampton. On Friday morning, about 6 o'clock, he complained to his wife that he had not slept well during the night and shortly after, while in bed, expired. Dr Young stated that death was due to stoppage of the heart's action, brought on by natural causes, and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly. The Jury gave their fees to the widow, who is left with several children.

SOUTH MOLTON - The Fatal Accident On The Southmolton Railway. - An Inquest was held on Saturday at the Tinto Inn, near the Southmolton Station of the Great Western Railway, before Mr Coroner J. F. Bromham, on the body of an old man named JAMES RODD, who was killed on the line on the previous Thursday. - P.C. J. Keighly, a Police Constable, stationed at Southmolton, identified the body. The deceased was a rural postman and resided at Bishopsnympton. He was 69 years of age last February. About 6.15 p.m. on Thursday witness went about half-a-mile up the line from Southmolton Station of the Great Western Railway, to where the points meet. Leading to the Florence Siding, he saw the body of the deceased lying between the metals. There was no head attached to the body. The head he found lying some fifteen yards further on between the points. He had to force the head up with a stick. Between the body and the head, about half way, he found an arm. He had the remains taken up and removed to the storehouse close to the Station. One of the legs of the body was almost severed. - Thomas Thomas, a fireman in the employ of the Great Western Railway, said he left Taunton at 2.25 p.m. on Thursday with a conditional goods train. James Green, the driver, was with him on the engine. When approaching Florence Siding, near the Southmolton Station, he saw a man lying on the rails, with his head and one arm out over the right-hand rail. The engine was then only about 30 yards off. There was a curve on the line just at the spot, and which prevented him seeing the man before. He told the driver what he had seen, but by that time the train was over the man. It was then stopped as quickly as possible. The train consisted of 17 waggons and the guard's van at the rear, the whole of which went over the body. The engine driver informed the guard, who went to the body. - In answer to the Coroner, the witness said he was quite sure that the man was lying on the rail before the train approached. - James Green, the engine driver, deposed that when the train was approaching the Florence Siding his attention was taken up in looking for the signals. There was a curve just there which prevented his seeing anything on the line on one side of the rails. The train was running down an incline, and was going at about 15 miles an hour. The sun was also very glaring, which prevented him from seeing very far ahead. After the accident he called the attention of the guard to it. - William Sutton, a porter, residing at Taunton, and acting on the day in question as brakesman or guard to the conditional goods train, who was the first to go back to the body after the train had stopped, described the position of the body and head, &c., as stated by the Constable. - George Henry Huxtable, the postmaster at Southmolton Post Office, said the deceased was a postman between Bishopsnympton and Molland. For some time past he had been on the sick list and was receiving sick pay. On the day of the accident, about half-past 1, the deceased was in witness's private room, when he paid him his week's sick pay, 7s. 6d. On leaving he told witness that he was going to Northmolton to see his daughter. He did not say he was going over the line. He was perfectly sober than and was in good spirits and there was nothing whatever in his manner to indicate that he intended committing suicide. - John Hoyle, a young man of Northmolton, a painter, stated that he knew the deceased very well by sight. About five or ten minutes before 6 o'clock on Thursday last witness saw the deceased walking towards the Railway Station, near the Tinto Inn. He noticed by his manner of his walk that he had had rather too much to drink, but he was not drunk. He was rambling a little. He could not say whether he went into the Tinto Inn. - Mr Slader, a Juryman, and the landlord of the Tinto, stated that the deceased did call at the Inn, and his wife supplied him with a glass of ale. - In answer to a Juryman, the witness said a good many people going to Northmolton walked up the line so as to walk over the tramway, which was a nearer way. - A Juryman said it was, however, the furthest way to go to deceased's daughter's house. - Another Juryman said that as far as he was acquainted with the deceased it was always difficult to discern whether he was in liquor or not, as his manner was always the same. - A Constable corroborated this statement. - Another Juryman added that during the day the deceased asked his (the Juryman's) father to give him a lift to Northmolton, but he could not do so. - Inspector Shattock, who watched the case on the part of the Railway Company, informed the Jury that the deceased was, of course, a trespasser on the railway at the time. - The Coroner said there was no doubt that the death was accidental, and whether the deceased stumbled and fell, or had had a little drop to drink and fell, they could not say. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added that they did not consider that any blame was attached to any of the railway officials.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 20 May 1891
TOTNES - An Inquest was held at Totnes yesterday by Mr S. Hacker on the body of the female illegitimate child, aged eight months, of JAMES WILSON, a laundress, who was found dead by the side of her mother on Sunday morning. Dr Smith, who had made a post-mortem examination by direction of the coroner, said death was caused by convulsions, due to teething, and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 21 May 1891
DARTMOUTH - Sudden Death Of A Sailor At Dartmouth. - An Inquest was held yesterday at the Dartmouth Guildhall by the Borough Coroner, Mr R. W. Prideaux, touching the death of an able seaman, named JAMES GARDINER, who fell dead in Clarence-street on the evening of Whit-Monday. Dr South, and Lieutenant Benson, H.M.S. Britannia, were present, the deceased belonging to that training ship. - Evidence was given by Charles Anderson, also a Britannia "a.b.," to show that he left the deceased at the Queen's Hotel at 10 minutes to 10 on Monday evening, perfectly sober. John Yendall, marine, belonging to the Britannia, Richard Imison, labourer and George Williams, farm labourer, deposed to seeing the deceased coming along Clarence-street about 10 o'clock. When opposite the Gasworks he fell on one knee, and although when Williams picked him up at once he was breathing slightly, he expired in a few minutes. - Dr Crossfield said he arrived just after 10, but the deceased was dead. He had made an examination and found no marks of violence. He had formed the opinion that death was due to natural causes, probably heart disease. - Dr South was of the same opinion. - P.C. Bray said he got a stretcher and took the body to the Cadets' Hospital, but Dr McDermott would not allow the body to be placed there, as the Hospital was full of sick cadets at the time. It was accordingly taken to the Britannia Inn. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned, the Jury agreeing with the Coroner that there was no need for a post-mortem. - The remains will be interred today with Naval honours.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 22 May 1891
BUCKLAND MONACHORUM - At Horrabridge Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an adjourned Inquest at the London Inn, yesterday afternoon, on the body of HENRY ROWE, miner, of Little Horrabridge, aged 27 years, who leaves a widow and three children. From the evidence of John Dawe and Henry Ayres, miners, it appeared that the deceased was on a platform in Bertha Consols Mine, on Friday last, when it gave way and he fell twenty fathoms, death being instantaneous. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 23 May 1891
COMBEINTEIGNHEAD - While THOMAS ASHFORD, a small farmer, of Coombeinteignhead, was returning home from Newton Abbot, in company with his son, a lad, on Thursday evening, he was seized with faintness and before he reached his destination life was found to be extinct. An Inquest was held yesterday, and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 26 May 1891
FENITON - At the Greyhound Inn, Fenny Bridges, on Saturday afternoon, Mr Deputy Coroner Cox, of Honiton, held an inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of the female child of JOSEPH LAURENCE, gardener in the employ of the Rev. G. B. Northcote, of Feniton. The evidence showed that the child was four weeks old and slept with her mother and grandmother. During Thursday night the child was suckled and appeared to be all right, but on the following morning was found dead by her mother's side. Dr Reynolds deposed that the deceased died from suffocation, having been accidentally overlaid and a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned.

LONDON - Death Through Misadventure. - Mr S. Langham, Coroner, held an Inquest at the London City Coroner's Court, into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM HUNT, lately residing in George-street, Plymouth, whose body was found in the River Thames, off the London Customs-house Pier, on the 21st inst. Thomas Maxwell stated that on the morning of the 21st inst., when a short distance from the Customs-house Pier in his boat, he noticed the body of a man floating past and immediately seized it and rowed back to the landing stage. The deceased was after recognised as WILLIAM HUNT, aged about 40 years, of Plymouth, who lost his life in endeavouring to save a comrade who had fallen off the rigging into the river. - P.S. G. Spurgeon stated that deceased jumped overboard from a ship lying off Fresh Wharf, about three weeks ago to save a comrade. - James Roberts and William Allen able seamen, of Plymouth, identified the body and gave evidence as to how the deceased lost his life. - The Coroner remarked that the poor fellow was a credit to the town and port which gave him birth, and he was glad to think that such instances of gallantry and self-sacrifice were not rare in the British merchant service. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death through Misadventure" and added a rider expressing their admiration of the bravery and heroism shown by the deceased in rescuing a comrade, while he himself was drowned.

WOODBURY - Sudden Death At Woodbury. - At the White Hart Inn, Woodbury, yesterday, Mr Charles E. Cox, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MR LAURENCE JOHN PARSONS, who died suddenly on Friday, the 22nd inst. - MR EDWARD THOMAS PARSONS, lately a farmer in Natal, identified the body of the deceased as that of his brother, a retired Chaplain of Her Majesty's Forces aged 66 years, who resided at 99 Chelsea Gardens, London, S.W. Deceased was on a visit to witness, who last saw him alive on Thursday evening, when he seemed in his usual health. They wished each other good night and went to bed. In the morning, about 9 o'clock, witness heard a noise and on going upstairs his brother called out to him in anguish to come into his room. Witness went in and found his brother lying on his back, half-dressed and quite unconscious. He at once sent for medical assistance. - John George Rowledge, living at the house of the last witness, gave corroborative evidence. - RICHARD JOSEPH PARSONS, brother of the deceased, a solicitor at Mansfield, also gave evidence. - Dr Barton, Surgeon, of Lympstone, said he had made a post-mortem examination of the body and found that there had been a rupture of the vessels of the heart, which had caused death. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 27 May 1891
SIDMOUTH - At Sid, near Sidmouth, yesterday, before Mr Deputy Coroner Cox, an Inquest was held touching the death of WILLIAM ROWLAND, aged 8. It appeared that the lad was about to get up on a cart whilst in motion, driven by his brother, when he fell off and one of the wheels passed over his body. The parents called in medical aid, but the lad died on Sunday night. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 28 May 1891
EXETER - Suicide In Exeter. - At the Exeter Workhouse yesterday Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, held an Inquest touching the death of JOHN WOTTON, aged 63, who was admitted into the Hospital of that Institution on Monday, the 11th May, with his throat badly cut. - MARY ANNA WOTTON, Quay-lane, identified the body of the deceased as that of her late husband, and said that he was a carpenter by trade, but had not done any work for the past 18 years, as he was a great sufferer from asthma. For several years he had been in receipt of parish pay. On the 11th May her husband was alone in his bedroom, where he used to spend most of his time. Just before dinner witness went up to his room and found that he had cut his throat. There was no knife or razor near him at the time, but she found a razor in his box. On being asked why he did it he replied that "he wanted to get out of it." Dr Brash was at once sent for, and he dressed the wound and had deceased conveyed to the Hospital of the Workhouse in a cab. - George Frederick Batchelor, male nurse at the Hospital, said he admitted the deceased on Monday, the 11th of May, when he was very low and suffering from a wound in the throat. Deceased died on Monday last. - Dr Woodman said he examined WOTTON at the Hospital and found three jagged cuts in his throat, and a deep cut on the left arm, which had divided one of the veins. The wounds had already been sewn up by Dr Brash. From the time he was admitted deceased gradually sank and died on Monday. Death was due to chronic bronchitis, accelerated by the wounds in the throat and on the arm. During his illness witness asked deceased why he committed the rash deed and he replied that he wanted to get rid of the pain. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while in a State of Temporary Insanity."

EXETER - The Railway Accident At Exeter. - At the Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of JOHN THOMAS MARTIN, who was killed on the railway at Cowley on Tuesday last. - HENRY ALBERT MARTIN, 7 New-buildings, Lion's Holt, an engine-driver in the employ of the Great Western Railway Co., identified the body of the deceased as that of his brother, aged 29. - William Kimmins, engine-driver in the employ of the London and South-Western Company, stated that the deceased was fireman on his engine. They left Plymouth at 11.29 on Tuesday morning and proceeded as far as Cowley Junction, where the signal was against them. After waiting some time, the line was signalled clear and they proceeded on their way to Exeter. When at Cowley the deceased told witness that something was missing from the brake on the tender. Witness at once crossed over the tender and found that a pin was missing from the brake-block. He then crossed back to the engine again, when he noticed that the signals were against them. While looking out from the engine he heard something rush behind him and on looking round he missed his mate. He at once stopped the engine and on looking back saw deceased lying on the ground motionless. Witness called to the guard for assistance, and with help put the deceased in the rear of the train and proceeded on to St. David's Station and from thence to Queen-street. - By a Juror: The train at the time of the accident was only going about 15 miles an hour. There was no necessity for the deceased to go out on the engine to oil any of the bearings. - John Salter, guard on the London and South Western Railway, said on the day in question he felt the train draw up rather suddenly at Cowley, and on looking out to ascertain the cause the last witness told him to go back and see what was the matter with MARTIN. He at once went back and found deceased lying on his side on the stones at the side of the rails in a very cramped position, unconscious and bleeding from his mouth and nose. Witness, with the assistance of one or two others, put deceased in the rear of the train and he was taken to the Hospital from Queen-street by some of the Company's servants. - Mr Henry Andrew, Assistant House Surgeon at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, said he received the deceased into the Hospital on Tuesday, when he was dead. Witness had examined the body and there was an abrasion over the left eye and several bruises down the side of the left leg. There was a depressed fracture in the region of the left temple; the fracture extended along the base of the skull, and there was considerable haemorrhage on the surface of the brain. The injuries were quite sufficient to cause death. - Mr Foster said that it was not likely that a post could have struck the unfortunate man, as the body was found 30 or 40 yards from a post. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 5 June 1891
DAWLISH - The Boating Fatality Off Starcross. - An Inquest was held at the Courtenay Arms Hotel, Starcross, yesterday, before the Deputy Coroner, Mr Gould, on the body of the young man SERLE, who was recently drowned between Exmouth and Starcross. Mr G. Davey was chosen Foreman. - GEORGE SERLE, waterman, gave evidence as to identification of the body as being that of his son, and added that he saw him for the last time at the Station on May 15th, previous to his starting for Exmouth with a gentleman. The deceased was a good waterman, but could not swim. - John Fletcher, yachtsman, on board the Petrel, gave evidence as to seeing the deceased go over to Exmouth and saw him when returning. Witness saw the deceased tack for Cockwood and then tack about in the direction of the Petrel. Fletcher had occasion to go down below for half-a-minute, and on his return the boat in which SERLE was sailing was invisible. He immediately jumped into the punt belonging to the yacht and proceeded in search of it in the direction where he last saw the boat, about 200 yards from the Petrel. He picked up the hat of the deceased, which was identified by the father as being that of his son. Fletcher rowed about for some time, but could find no trace of the lad. Witness also gave evidence as to recovering the boat. The wind was north-west, blowing very strong and squally. - Robert Woodgate, yachtsman, of Teignmouth, gave evidence as to seeing the body floating on Tuesday evening in the Blight. Other evidence having been given, a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 10 June 1891
DARTMOUTH - Mr R. W. Prideaux, the Dartmouth Borough Coroner, held an Inquest at the Guildhall yesterday, touching the death of ROBERT GRANT, aged 67, whose body was found floating in the river off the Southern Embankment at an early hour yesterday morning by a lumper, named chase. Deceased was engaged in the Newfoundland fisheries and was home on a visit, having only arrived at Dartmouth on the previous (Monday) night, when he informed his nephew, WILLIAM STEART, of his intention to get a bed at the Coffee Tavern. This, however, he did not do. The Jury returned an Open Verdict, and added a recommendation to the authorities to light the town and embankment at night since it was presumed that the deceased must have walked over the Quay in the dark.

EXETER - Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, held an Inquest at Frances Cottages, Newtown, Exeter, yesterday, touching the death of ELIZABETH STOCKER, spinster, aged 75, who was found dead in bed on Monday morning. Dr Brash said he was called the previous morning to go to Frances Cottages, Newtown. On his arrival he found the deceased in bed dead. In his opinion death was due to apoplexy. A verdict accordingly was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 12 June 1891
EXETER - At the Exeter Police Court yesterday, Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, held an inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of ANN WEST, who did suddenly on Wednesday. JANE WEST, 78 Sidwell-street, said the deceased was the widow of GEORGE WEST, gamekeeper and resided at 78 Sidwell-street. She had been suffering lately from chronic bronchitis and weakness. On Wednesday, when the deceased was putting away the dinner things, she suddenly sat down in a chair and complained of feeling faint. Witness, who was in the room at the time, offered her a teaspoonful of brandy, but deceased was unable to swallow it and died about five minutes afterwards. During the morning she had drank some tea-kettle broth, which was a favourite drink of hers. A medical man was at once sent for, but life was extinct before he arrived. Deceased was aged 81. Dr Alfred S. Perkins said that on arriving at the house he found the deceased in a sitting posture in an armchair quite dead. He had examined the body, and there were no marks of violence. The cause of death was failure of the heart's action. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 13 June 1891
TOPSHAM - Determined Suicide In The Exeter Canal. - At the Salutation Inn, Topsham, yesterday, Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of CHARLES JACOB WITTICH, whose body was taken out of the Exeter Canal, near Topsham, on Wednesday. A delay of a quarter of an hour was caused by the non-attendance of one of the Jurors, Mr William Veysey. - The Coroner said that Mr Veysey was subject to a penalty of £5, but he should only fine him £2. - Mr W. T. Baker was substituted for Mr Veysey. Mr Serena was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - CAROLINE WITTICH, of 62 Victoria Road, St James's, Exeter, identified the body as that of her late husband, who was a cook at Mr Pople's New London Hotel, and was 42 years of age. - Witness last saw deceased on Saturday afternoon, at his house, just before he left to go to the Hotel. During the afternoon he appeared to be a little the worse for liquor, to which he was much addicted. Deceased told his wife that he would come home directly he left the Hotel, and that on Sunday he was going to Newton Abbot by the five minutes past 7 train to go to Mr Pople's Hotel there. Deceased was usually in good health, but after one of his drinking fits he would complain of intense pains in the head. Witness had not received any communication from him since he left her house on Saturday afternoon. She had been told at the Hotel that deceased was the worse for drink before he left there on Saturday night. - William Henry Morton, waiter at the New London Hotel, Exeter, said he last saw the deceased alive between 8 and half-past on Saturday evening, when he left to go home. Deceased was not drunk, but he had been drinking. He did not have any cause to go to Newton Abbot the following day, and there was no truth in the statement. - William Henry Hooper, boots at the New London Hotel, said that he last saw the deceased alive on Sunday afternoon, about 5 o'clock, at Teignmouth, when he was walking along the Den towards Dawlish. His hat was battered in, and his boots covered with wet sand. Deceased looked as if he had been drinking and had had a sleep after it. He had heard deceased say that he was a good swimmer. - Charles Pepperell, a lime burner, of Exminster, said that on Monday he saw the deceased pass the lime-kilns several times on the banks. The last time he saw him WITTICH asked him for a match to light his pipe. On Tuesday morning about 8 o'clock he saw the deceased walking along the banks from Turf to Exeter. In the evening, between 4 and 5 o'clock, he saw him going down to Turf again. Witness could not account for the deceased passing along the banks so many times. Deceased was perfectly sober. On Wednesday, about dinner-time, he saw a hat on the banks near the sluice, which he recognised as belonging to the deceased. Witness at once dragged the Canal, and recovered the body. The legs were tied together with a piece of very strong rope, the knots being in front as if he had tied them himself. - Samuel Shorland, a labourer, of Exminster, said that on Tuesday evening, about a quarter past 7, he saw the deceased pass down the banks. Later on in the evening witness again saw him coming back from the direction of Topsham, but when the deceased saw witness watching him he stopped for a quarter of an hour, until witness went away. - P.C. Woodbury, Topsham, said that on Wednesday he was informed that a man had been taken out of the water at the sluice. He at once went to the spot and found that the deceased's knees had been tied tightly together with a rope, and in consequence of the deceased being black in the face he examined his neck and found a large pocket-handkerchief twisted twice around it so tightly that he could not undo it. The pockets were filled with stones, and on one of the fingers was a gold ring. A scarf-pin, a knife and a tobacco-pouch were also on the deceased. - Dr Donald McArthur said he had examined the body of the deceased, and there were no marks of violence. In his opinion the cause of death was due to drowning. - The Coroner said that there was a good deal in the case that had not been fully explained, and it was very doubtful whether the deceased was responsible for his actions at the time. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while in a State of Temporary Insanity."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 15 June 1891
TORQUAY - Death Of LADY CAROLINE HUNTLEY At Torquay. - Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquiry at Heathcourt, Barton-road, Torquay, on Saturday, into the circumstances attending the death of LADY CAROLINE HUNTLEY, aged 80, who died on the 11th June, apparently from the result of an accident which occurred some weeks previously. - CLARA MARIA DRURY said the deceased was her sister and the widow of SIR HENRY HUNTLEY, Knight. She resided at Heathcourt, and up to the 24th May was in perfect health. On that date deceased, while in the drawing-room, fell over a footstool, and witness found her lying on the ground. She was able to speak and say she had met with a dreadful accident, but she could not move. She also added that she had screamed, but could make no one hear. Witness summoned the servants, and laid deceased on the sofa, and despatched a messenger for Dr Powell. After the accident she kept her bed and suffered from very great pain in her left side up to the time of her death. - Susan Short, parlourmaid, said she was called to the drawing-room by the last witness about 4.30 on the afternoon of the 24th May. She saw the deceased lying on the floor and helped MISS DRURY to place her on the sofa. LADY CAROLINE said that she had fallen over a footstool. - Mary Ann Searle, nurse, 15 Prospect-place, said she had nursed the deceased during her illness. She told witness she had fallen over a footstool. - Dr Powell stated that on the 24th May he was called in by MISS DRURY and was informed as to what had happened. Deceased was greatly bruised on the left leg, and had received a serious shock. She went on well until the day of her death, which, he believed, was due from sudden failure of the heart's action. He thought it was doubtful if the accident hastened death, but the shock might have been a slight contributory cause. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

EXETER - The City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, investigated two cases of sudden death of children in Exeter on Saturday. The first was on the body of the infant of MR GARDINER, of 17 Clifton-street; and the second was on the body of the child of a labourer named STEPHEN SEAGROVE, living in Spicer's-court, and who died shortly after her birth. In each case a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 16 June 1891
DARTMOUTH - Suicide By Poisoning At Dartmouth. - An Inquest was held yesterday at the Dartmouth Guildhall by Mr Philip R. Hockin, Deputy Coroner for the District, on the body of ELIZABETH HANNAH HADFIELD, wife of a chemist, named HENRY MAY HADFIELD, of Parade House, Dartmouth. - Evidence was given to the effect that the deceased, who was 28 years of age, was subject to fits of excitement, and on Saturday last had been in great rage all day, without any apparent cause. Between 3 and 4 o'clock in the afternoon, Mrs Sarah Davey and a shop boy, named Widdicombe, saw her drink something from a glass in a little room behind the shop. Neither, however, acquainted MR HADFIELD with the fact, as he was upstairs at the time, and about half-past 4, hearing vomiting sounds proceeding from the closet, MR HADFIELD found his wife there unconscious. He went down and asked the boy if she had taken anything and he pointed to a large bottle containing chloroform, out of which he said she had poured something and drank. Dr Davson was sent for, and used every means to revive MRS HADFIELD, but without avail, and she died two hours later. - The Coroner pointed out that the only question for the Jury appeared to be whether it was a case of felo de se, or whether deceased took her life in a fit of temporary insanity. - The Jury found the latter verdict, and added a rider that they regretted the witnesses, Davey and Widdicombe, had not informed MR HADFIELD that they had seen the deceased drinking something.

MALBOROUGH - Tragic Death Of A Coastguardsman. - Dr Donald A Fraser, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at Sewer Mills Coastguard Station on the body of a coastguard, named JOSEPH LICHFIELD, who lost his life by falling over the cliffs at Bolt Head, on Wednesday, the 10th inst. - Evidence was given by James Stipling, chief-boatman; William H. Shillabeer, boatman; Arthur Pearce, fisherman; Robert Walker, boatman; James Lancey, commissioned boatman; and Dr A. H. Twining. The testimony given went to show that on the 10th inst. LICHFIELD went on duty on the Bolt Head coast about midday. He did not return to tea at 4.30 and it was assumed that he had been summoned by signal to Hope Cove Station, as such signals were often made. Finding that the man had not returned at 6 o'clock, men were sent to ascertain whether LICHFIELD had actually been called to Hope, and they learnt he had not been summoned there. Search for the missing man was made along the coast up to midnight and resumed at 3.30 a.m., but the day closed without success. In consequence of information received on the 12th instant to the effect that a coastguard had been seen standing at a dangerous part of the cliff, just above the rocks known as "The Ravages," a galley was dispatched from Hope Cove. After three unsuccessful attempts a man was landed at "The Ravages," and discovered the mutilated body of his comrade jammed in the rocks, having, apparently, been washed there by the sea. The cliffs at this point are about 200 or 250 ft. high. With the assistance of another coastguard the body was extricated, a rope fastened around it, and it was then pulled out to the galley. A Salcombe fishing boat lent the coastguard crew what assistance they were able. LICHFIELD'S skull was very severely fractured, and his collar bones broken, as well as his left thigh. The coastguards were unable to land at Sewer Mill Cove, and were therefore obliged to take the body to Hope Cove, conveying it eventually to the Sewer Mill Station. - The Deputy Coroner, in summing up the evidence, remarked that it was a very sad fatality, but the cause of death seemed to be purely accidently. He pointed out that it had been stated in the evidence that it was necessary for the coastguards to go to the very edge of the cliffs at some parts of the coast in order to do their duty, and the inference was that that was what LICHFIELD was about when he lost his life. The evidence also certainly showed to his mind, and he thought the Jury would feel, that in case of a boat being upset just off the coast, and speedy assistance was required, it would be advisable, at a station like Bolt Head, to have some means of getting down the cliffs, because by the time a Coastguard had run three miles to Hope Station for a boat, many lives would very likely be sacrificed. The coast was a very dangerous one, and he saw no reason why rope ladders or similar appliances should not be kept at Bolt Head and Sewer Mill. There was no evidence that any had been applied for, and he suggested that the Jury should add as a rider to their verdict that certain appliances should be provided for the Station, to be used in case of distress. - The Jury, without retiring, found that the deceased came by his death Accidentally while in the execution of his duty, and recommended that the Board of Trade place a cliff ladder at Bolt Head Station, the cliffs being of a very precipitous nature on the adjacent coast and nearly always inaccessible. - The Jury gave their fees to the widow, who has five children.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 18 June 1891
TORQUAY - Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, held an inquiry last evening at the Torbay Hospital into the circumstances attending the death of JOSEPH CHAVE, 76, carpenter, who died suddenly in Market-street on Tuesday. Mr A. Watson, who made a post-mortem examination, said death was due to heart disease. Verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 19 June 1891
SAMPFORD COURTENAY - Shocking Fatal Accident Near Sampford Courtenay. - An Inquest was held by Mr Prickman at the Sampford Chapple Inn on the body of MR SAMUEL REED, of Morchard Bishop, who was killed in a trap accident which befel him and his wife on Sunday. Mr Thomas Sloman, of Sampford Barton, was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - MR RICHARD SLOMAN, of Knowle Farm, Okehampton, said the deceased was his brother-in-law, and he left his house with his wife and little boy to drive back to Morchard shortly after 3 o'clock on Sunday afternoon, after they had had dinner. About 4 o'clock information was brought him that an accident had happened on the Okehampton side of Chapple Moor, which was about three miles from his house. He drove out with his wife, and saw his brother-in-law lying on his back in the hedge trough. He was told that he had been killed. He was a man of strict sobriety. - ERNEST SLOMAN REED said he was 13 years of age and the deceased was his father. He had been staying for some time with his uncle, MR SLOMAN, at Knowle. On Saturday afternoon his father and mother drove down to fetch him in a pony trap, and they stayed until after dinner on Sunday. His father and mother rode on the front and he on the back seat, and all went on right until they were going up a little hill, when the buckle of the reins broke and the pony started off. The wheel of the trap went up over the hedge and his mother jumped out and fell on her back. Then he (witness) jumped out and fell down and his mother told him to run to his father, which he did and found him on the ground. The pony was still running on with the trap. He then called "Father, father," and he replied, "What," but never spoke again. His mother came up to where his father was lying and tried to lift him up, but he was dead and she could not, and he ran on and caught the pony and trap. His mother was found to be much injured and was carried to Sampford Chapple Inn and afterwards removed to Knowle Farm, where she was now in a very dangerous condition. His father was 47 years of age. - Samuel Gunn, one of the staff of the London and South Western Railway at Okehampton Station, said on Sunday he was driving from Okehampton to Sampford Courtenay. About four o'clock they reached Chapple Moor and saw MRS REED get up from the hedge trough and try to come towards them. They stopped and she said "My poor dear husband is killed," and he and Mr Webb who was riding with him ran down to where the deceased was lying. His head was covered over and Mr Webb ran up to the Inn to get some brandy. MR REED was lying some 40 paces further on than MRS REED. Witness unfastened deceased's collar, but he never spoke or moved. As far as he could judge the accident had only just happened and witness then drove on to Northtawton for the doctor, and Mr Banbury came back with him. - Mr George Banbury, Surgeon, of Northtawton, said when he came the deceased was lying on the south side of the road, and he appeared to have been dead about an hour and half. He did not then examine the body, as he attended to the wife, who was also lying near. He had since examined the body and found a large bruise over the left eye, and a slight wound on the back of the head. There were no other evidences of any injury and he considered the cause of death was that he sustained a fracture in the base of the skull. He should think he must have pitched on the back of his head. P.C. John Cox, stationed at Sampford Courtenay, said he examined the pony and trap and found the pony bleeding from the near fore foot, and the top of the right-hand shaft was broken off, where it had been previously spliced. The buckle of the hames was broken, and the harness appeared a little large for the pony. He saw nothing else the matter with the harness, and the pony appeared to be a quiet one. P.C. Cox added that great praise was due to Mr Gunn, who attended to MRS REED and conveyed both her and her husband to the Chapple Inn and fetched the doctor. - The Coroner said they were reminded by this sad incident that in the midst of life they were in death. It was very sad to think that a respected tradesman returning from a family visit should have so suddenly met with his death. It was, however, one of those sad accidents that would occur without blame to anyone. The Coroner spoke in high terms of the conduct of Mr Gunn, who had behaved in a most cool and praise-worthy manner and rendered valuable assistance both to the widow and to the little fatherless lad, and he was sure the widow and relatives would have the deep sympathy of the Jury. - The Foreman: Yes, sir, they have. They came from Sampford Courtenay families, and we quite endorse what you have said both of MRS REED and the numerous relatives, who are much respected in this district. The Jury also expressed their approval of the conduct of young Mr Gunn, and returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

CHERITON BISHOP - Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest on Monday afternoon at the Royal Oak Inn, Cheriton Bishop, into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM TIDBALL, a waggoner, aged 42, in the employ of Mr Samuel John Priston, of St. Thomas. The deceased was sent by his employer to Rock Farm at Crediton for a load of hay in company with James Webber, a hay-cutter. The hay having been secured, the return journey was commenced. Soon after leaving Cheriton Bishop a trap was seen coming in the opposite direction to the waggon. The deceased went to jump off the latter for the purpose of pulling the horses to the near side, when he hitched his foot in the reins, which were fastened to the waggon, but were dangling below the shaft. He fell to the ground, and the wheels of the waggon passed over him. He did not speak afterwards, and died a few minutes subsequent to the fall. The accident was witnessed by James Webber, of Okehampton, who was in the waggon with the deceased; William Strong, farmer, of Drewsteignton, the driver of the trap; and Richard Burridge, labourer, of Cheriton Bishop, who was walking behind the trap. These witnesses gave evidence and Mr Henry Edmonds, Surgeon, of Dunsford, stated that the examination of the body showed that the deceased had sustained a broken rib on the left side, a fracture of the left arm and bruises on the face. There was a good deal of blood between the skin and the ribs, and it was highly probable that there were also internal injuries. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TAMERTON FOLIOT - FRANCES CREBER, widow, aged 58, living with her son at Whitsun Farm, Tamerton Foliott, has been found in bed dead. At an Inquest, Mr G. H. Eccles, Surgeon, said death was due to rupture of the stomach, caused by chronic ulceration.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 20 June 1891
TEIGNMOUTH - Sudden Death At Teignmouth. - An Inquest was held last evening, before Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, at the Golden Lion Inn, to Inquire into the cause of death of HENRY JAMES BENNETT, who was found dead in his bed yesterday morning. - Mary Ann Dibble, of 19 Walden-place, stated that deceased had lodged with her for four years. He had formerly been a shoemaker, but had been living on his means. He occupied three rooms, for which he paid 3s. per week, and found himself in food, doing his cooking, &c. On Monday week last deceased complained of having a cold, and a feeling of stiffness in his limbs. He went to bed and kept it until his death. He refused to see a medical man, saying he was his own doctor. Deceased had been very eccentric in his habits. On Thursday evening, at 9.30, witness took him his supper, and he asked that it might be left on the table, and he would take it when he wanted it. On going into his room that morning, at 7.15, she found him dead. - P.C. Wyatt said he was called by the last witness and found him dead. There was nothing among his papers to say who his friends were (deceased being always very reticent). There was a will, unsigned, a deposit-note of £114 and nine sovereigns in a bag. - Dr Johnston, who examined the body after death, said he had known deceased by sight for four years. He considered death had been caused by failure of the heart's action. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 22 June 1891
EXETER - At the Guildhall, Exeter, on Saturday, Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances touching the death of THOMAS PIDSLEY KINGDON, who died suddenly the previous evening. - Mr W. R. Mallett, a miller, residing at Exwick, identified the body of the deceased, and said that he was aged 64, and lived at Prospect House, Richmond-road. Witness last saw the deceased alive on Friday morning about 8 o'clock at his lodgings, when he was in a very weak state and unconscious. Deceased was very much addicted to drink. - Mr Richard Travett deposed that the deceased had been lodging with him for eight years. Mr Kingdon slept at home on Monday night and early on Tuesday morning he went out. He did not see him again until the evening, when he found him in the South Western Railway Hotel, stupid with drink and quite helpless. Witness got a cab and took him home. There was a slight scratch across the deceased's forehead, but it was not bleeding. Witness had been told in the afternoon that deceased had had a fall. The deceased was much given to drink, and had been almost unbearably so during the last two or three years. - By a Juror: Deceased had been ailing for two or three weeks before he had the fall. Witness had often heard him express the wish that he was dead. - Henry Badcock, foreman porter on the London and South Western Railway at Queen-street Station, deposed that on Tuesday morning, about half-past 6, deceased was standing outside the Museum Hotel. He was sober, and was walking nearly doubled. The deceased turned his head to look into the Museum, and at the same time fell off the kerb. Witness picked the deceased up. He cut his forehead and bled freely. He was quite conscious and uttered the word "Murder." He left MR KINGDON in charge of Mr Philpott, who was passing at the time. - James Philpott, 9 Bartholomew-street, gave corroborative evidence, and added that on his being taken to the London and south Western Hotel, the deceased drank part of a soda and whiskey. On being asked if a doctor should be fetched the deceased replied in the negative. He also declined Mr Crocker's offer to fetch a cab and said he would stop where he was. - Francis Crocker, landlord of the South Western Hotel, said he knew MR KINGDON very well. On Tuesday morning the deceased was assisted into his house, when he was bleeding from a wound in the forehead. Witness washed the wound and it did not bleed afterwards. He then asked deceased to have some brandy, but he preferred a soda and whiskey. About half-past 9 the deceased left the house, but came back again, when he appeared to be very weak, but did not look as if he had been drinking. Witness procured MR KINGDON some cocoa and broth, but he would not drink it. Deceased was much addicted to drink, and generally drank whiskey and soda. - By a Juror: He had complained of a pain in his left side for several days prior to the fall. - Dr Moone said he had attended MR KINGDON off and on for several years. The deceased had been in the habit for many years past of taking alcohol in excess, and for that at different times he had medically treated him. Latterly MR KINGDON had become much worse. On Tuesday evening he was called by Mr Travett to attend the deceased. He went, and was told that he had had a fall in the morning. He examined him very carefully and could not find any serious injury. He was simply drunk. He had made a post-mortem examination of the body and examined the head particularly. There was not the slightest sign of a bruise. On opening the body he found all the signs of acute alcoholism. Death arose from excessive drinking of spirits. - By the Foreman of the Jury: He did not think the fall had hastened death in any way. - The Coroner having summed up, the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes, accelerated by Excessive Drinking."

CULMSTOCK - An Inquest was held at the Ilminster Inn, Culmstock, before Mr R. C. Cox, Coroner, of Honiton, on the body of WILLIAM HITCHCOCK, of Red Ball, Culmstock, a school boy, who was drowned while bathing with a number of other boys in the River Culm. After hearing the evidence the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned while Bathing," and gave their fees to the parents. In the Fishers' Hams there are several deep pits and it is to be hoped that some notice will be posted up near the spot warning bathers that it is very dangerous to bathe in that part of the river, and especially for little boys.

HOLSWORTHY - An Inquest was held by Mr Coroner Prickman, at Holsworthy, on Saturday, on the body of FRED BROWN, a lad, 11 years of age, who was drowned while bathing on Friday. A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 23 June 1891
COLYTON - Sad Bathing Fatality At Colyton. Inquest. The coroner On Swimming. - Mr Coroner Cox held an Inquest at the Colcombe Castle Hotel, Colyton, yesterday afternoon, touching the death of HENRY JOHN BELLEW, who was drowned in the River Colly on Saturday afternoon last while bathing. The deceased was much respected at Colyton, and was a member of the church choir. The Rev. M. Gueritz (the Vicar) made feeling reference to the sad event at the parish church on Sunday evening, and much sympathy is expressed with the deceased's relatives. - The first witness called was MR MICHAEL ROBERTS, uncle of the deceased and manager at Messrs. J. Baker and Co.'s, Hamlyn's Tannery, where the deceased was employed as a currier. He stated that BELLEW was 25 years of age. He believed deceased was a very good swimmer, but he had never seen him swim. Saturday last was the first time the deceased bathed to his knowledge. Witness was at the Colyton Rifle Range shooting on the afternoon in question, when Ernest Facey came to him and said BELLEW was drowned at Cadhayne's Hole. With all possible speed he went to the place mentioned and found deceased on the bank. He did his utmost to restore animation until the medical men came, using the ordinary methods. He was 20 minutes endeavouring to restore animation. - Ernest Facey said he lived at Colyton, and was employed at Hamlyn's Tanner. He went to bathe with the deceased on Saturday, and was told by BELLEW that he was able to swim. On getting to Cadhayne's Hole deceased undressed. Witness got into the water before BELLEW, but subsequently heard a plunge, and, on looking round, could not see deceased. Eventually, he saw deceased's head come to the surface and go down again, and from that he concluded he was drowning. Two young men, named Dare and Nash, accompanied witness and the deceased to bathe, and Dare got into the river to endeavour to rescue the deceased. Neither witness nor Dare could swim, and he put on his trousers when he found he could not reach the deceased and ran to the Rifle Range for assistance. - By a Juryman: Nash did not go into the river to assist witness and Dare, but remained on the bank and threw a stick into the water. - Mr Blight, a Juror, said BELLEW on Saturday morning last told him that he could swim. - Arthur Nash, aged 21, assistant-schoolmaster at Colyton, said he accompanied the deceased for a bathe on Saturday last. He did not know the deceased could swim, but understood from a conversation they had that he could. He heard the deceased plunge into the water and saw him rise in a cramped position, assuming a swimming attitude. Deceased, however, sank, and did not rise again. Witness was on the bank and threw a stick to Facey and Dare to assist them to rescue the deceased. - By the Coroner: He was on the deepest side of the river, but he could have run and got into shallow water near Facey and Dare. He endeavoured at the first to pull a large pole from the ground and throw into the water. He was not able to swim. - The Coroner: You might have went into the water, seeing you were the tallest and endeavoured to render assistance. There was no legal obligation for you to have done so, but you should have seen what could have been done to save life if possible. - Witness: I could not have been of more assistance than Facey. - The Foreman: I think it is a pity you did not go into the water and attempt to reach the deceased. - Witness: But I could not do so if I had. - The Coroner: I again say it is a pity you did not go into the water and try. - George Dare, of Colyton, gave corroborative evidence, adding that he did his utmost by linking arms with Facey to rescue the deceased. - John White, 17, living at Cadhayne's Farm, deposed that on Saturday someone came to the farm and said BELLEW, whom he knew, was drowned. Witness ran to the spot indicated, and, after taking off his boots, dived into the water and brought the deceased to land. The medical men soon after arrived. - P.C. Durgiss proved that the river where deceased was bathing was 25 feet wide and at the deepest point seven feet. - Dr Edmund Napier Close, practising at Colyton, said when called he hastened to the river, and saw the body of the deceased on the bank. BELLEW was quite dead, but the usual means of restoration were resorted to for some considerable time. Deceased met his death by drowning. - In summing up the Coroner said it was to be regretted that there was no proper place for young men to bathe in Colyton. Swimming was a healthy recreation and those who knew how to swim could be of invaluable assistance to others in case of emergency. The Jury, perhaps, would consider whether something could not be done to prevent such fatal accidents in future. - Mr Blight: There is no recognised place in Colyton where anyone can bathe. - The Coroner: There should be. It is necessary that young men should have a place where they can bathe. I repeat swimming is a healthy recreation. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death by Drowning."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 26 June 1891
KINGSTEIGNTON - Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest on Monday at the Passage House Inn, Hackney, on the body of the infant child of JOHN DERKE. The child was born on Saturday night and only lived a short time, dying before the arrival of a doctor. The Jury, of whom Mr R. Widdicombe was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 27 June 1891
WEST ALVINGTON - Fatal Accident Near Kingsbridge. - At the Ring of Bells Inn, West Alvington, yesterday morning, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of a boy named ALFRED ERNEST FOALE, aged 12 years, who died on Tuesday from injuries caused by an accident on the previous day. The evidence went to show that on Monday afternoon the deceased, at the direction of his employer, Mr G. Pitts, of Gerston Farm, took a pair of horses for the purpose of rolling a field. When he was turning to go round the field for a second time, he tripped over a clod of earth and fell, the roller passing over his legs. He shouted to the horses to stop, which they did and the roller rested on the upper part of his legs for six hours. At the end of that time someone came to the field to look for him and found him in the position described. Assistance was procured, and the boy, who was fully sensible, was taken from under the ponderous weight. The horses, he said, remained quietly grazing the hedge the whole of the time. - Dr Webb deposed that death was due to congestion, produced by the effects of the injuries received. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and gave their fees to the mother of the deceased, a widow.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 29 June 1891
HONITON - An Inquest was held at the Town Hall, Honiton, by the Deputy Coroner, Mr Charles Cox, on Saturday afternoon, touching the death of SIDNEY HERBERT, the infant son of MARY ELLEN GRIFFIN, of Honiton, a single woman. The child was found dead in bed on Friday morning and the medical evidence showed that death was due to syncope, brought on by congestion of the lungs. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 30 June 1891
EXMOUTH - Yesterday, at the Dolphin Inn, Exmouth, Mr C. E. Cox, Deputy Coroner for the Division, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of the infant daughter of the landlord, MR J. PIM and MRS PIM. The deceased was nearly five weeks old and from the evidence of the parents she appeared to have been healthy since her birth. On Friday night she was put to bed by her mother, apparently in her usual health. On the following morning she was found dead by her mother's side. - MRS PIM stated that she slept with her arm around the child, who was pressed to her side. A nurse named Starr was sent for and also Dr Hodgson. The latter made a post mortem examination, and said he found that the mouth of the child had been pressed on one side, which prevented her from breathing. The lungs were congested, which was due to suffocation. - The Coroner commented upon the dangerous practice of mothers sleeping with their arms around a child. After the evidence of Dr Hodgson he thought the Jury would have no doubt that in this instance death was due to suffocation, in consequence of the child being drawn by the mother to her side. He had found such a practice the cause of several deaths. It was certainly an accident which might be avoided with proper care. He did not mean to say that there had been any wilful neglect in this case. - The Jury, of which Mr Salter was Foreman, returned a verdict to the effect that death was due to Accidental Suffocation.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 1 July 1891
DARTMOUTH - The Fatal Fall Over A Cliff Near Dartmouth. - An Inquest was held yesterday at the Dartmouth Guildhall on the body of MR R. C. READE, architect, of Torquay, who died on Monday evening at the Dartmouth Cottage Hospital from injuries received by a fall over a cliff at Willow Cove, about three miles to the westward of the Harbour, on the coast. Mr R. W. Prideaux was the Coroner. The REV. R. READE of St Mary's, London, was present and gave the age of his brother as 37. - Mr C. F. Robinson, C.E., of Richmond-terrace, Torquay, said he accompanied the deceased to the Cove in question on Sunday to bathe, arriving there about 3 p.m. Witness went into the water before deceased, and when deceased was bathing witness said he would go up the cliffs and wait for him. There were no means of getting at the Cove without climbing. It was about ten minutes to four when he left the deceased and he waited on top till twenty minutes to six, thinking that deceased might have begun sketching, which he did occasionally. Witness then got alarmed and, going down, saw deceased lying on the rocks. A dog which he had with him was about 60 feet up the cliffs barking loudly. Witness then gave deceased some brandy and water, put him in a safe position and then fetched help from Little Dartmouth Farm. - Miss Borrowman came down, at great risk, and bathed the head of the deceased before a boat came and took him to the Dartmouth Cottage Hospital. - Dr R. W. Soper, who first went out to the cliffs when deceased was leaving the cove in a boat, said he examined him at the Hospital. Deceased had a compound fracture of the right leg, haemorrhage from the right ear, and several scalp wounds. He died on Monday at 5 p.m., having been unconscious since the accident. In reply to a Juryman and to the REV. R. READE, the doctor said a mark over the right eye was not such as would be caused by a blow, but was an effusion of blood, attributable to a fall from a considerable height. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and the REV. R. READE then expressed his gratitude to Miss Borrowman for her kind efforts to assist his unfortunate brother. - The Coroner also thanked Miss Borrowman, who replied that she wanted no thanks for doing her duty.

DAWLISH - At Dawlish yesterday an Inquest was held, before Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, on the body of GEORGE HENRY LUXTON, aged 46, of Queen-street, Dawlish, who was found dead in bed on the previous morning. The medical evidence showed that deceased suffered from fatty degeneration of the heart, which, he considered, was quite sufficient to cause death. The Jury returned a verdict that the deceased died from heart disease.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 10 July 1891
CHUDLEIGH - On Wednesday Dr Fraser, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Harcombe touching the death of JAMES TUCKETT, aged 50, who died on Monday suddenly while eating his lunch. After hearing the evidence of ANN TUCKETT, Joseph Reed, Mary Ann Warren, Mary Warren and Dr Frederick G. W. Hounsell, the Jury, of whom Mr R. Carpenter was the Foreman, returned a verdict that the deceased died from a fit of apoplexy while eating his lunch.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 14 July 1891
NEWTON ABBOT - Yesterday Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest at Newton, touching the death of GEORGE HENRY PROWSE, aged 3 years and 8 months, son of MR PROWSE, pawnbroker, Queen-street, Newton. It appears that on the previous Wednesday, about 12 o'clock, deceased was playing, with a number of other children, by the River Lemon, when, during a little squabble between them, deceased was accidentally knocked over the wall into the river, sustaining injuries to his head which resulted in concussion of the brain. He died on Sunday morning. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was recorded and a rider was added requesting the local authorities of Highweek and Wolborough to erect the wall by the river 18 inches above the level of the road in order to prevent accidents. - Dr Davies, who gave evidence as to the injuries received, said that was the fourth accident which he had attended owing to persons falling into the Lemon, three cases terminating fatally.

EXETER - The Drowning Fatality In The Mill Leat, Exeter. - At Eagle Cottages, Bonhay-road, yesterday afternoon, Mr Coroner Hooper held an Inquest on the body of WALTER HARRY TWIGGS CASLING, who accidentally fell into the Mill-leat on Saturday evening and was drowned. Mr Milford was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - SUSAN CASLING, wife of WILLIAM CASLING, a painter, residing at 11 Eagle Cottages, said the body the Jury had viewed was that of her son, who was two years and three months old. Deceased left the house at 10 minutes to 8 on Saturday evening in company with his elder brother, aged four years. Both children went down the Bonhay-road and within five minutes from the time they left the house, some lads brought home the eldest boy, saying he had been taken out from the water. She asked the boy where his brother was, and he said "In the eater crying." She went for assistance and the child was taken from the water dead and brought home about 9.30 p.m. - Harry Isaacs, labourer, of Exe Island, said on Saturday evening he was going through Bonhay-road, about 8.30 p.m., when he heard that a child had fallen into the water at the Mill-leat. He made search and found the body at the Barytes Mills, Commercial-road, against the grating. He took the body from the water and handed it to its grandmother. - In answer to the Coroner, Inspector Shapcott said there was no evidence forthcoming as to where the children fell into the water. It was, however, supposed they fell into the Mill-leat near where certain timber is placed by the bridge. - Mr C. J. Vlieland, Surgeon, said he was called to Eagle Cottages on Saturday evening to see a child previously taken from the river. The child was quite dead, having met its death by drowning. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned." - Several Jurymen expressed an opinion that some protection should be placed at the Mill-leat where it was supposed the child had fallen into the water. - A Juryman said on one side of the bridge there was a quantity of timber and on the other there was no protection at all. - The Coroner said in his opinion the timber was a trap to children. They went playing on the trees and then fell into the water. He would convey to the City Surveyor the expression of opinion from the Jury that protection ought to be provided against children falling into the water at this spot, and he had no doubt the matter would be attended to.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 16 July 1891
TEIGNMOUTH - The Fatal Accident At Teignmouth. - An Inquest was held yesterday at the Teignmouth Infirmary by Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, touching the death of ALICE RUTH SAMPSON, seven years of age, who met with her death by burning on Tuesday morning. - ELIZA SAMPSON, mother of the deceased, stated that she lived at 21 Saxe-street, West Teignmouth, and was the wife of THOMAS SAMPSON, a seaman. On Tuesday morning she left deceased, who was seven years of age, in bed with other children, and after lighting the fire she went to Mr Hext's in Fore-street, for some butter. She might have been away about five minutes, and on returning home met a little boy, who informed her "that her little girl was burnt to pieces." She hurried home and found the house full of people and the deceased lying on a bed upstairs. She sent for medical aid, and three Surgeons were soon in attendance, who advised her to take the child to the Infirmary, which was done. Later in the day she saw her child in the infirmary, when she (deceased) told her that she went downstairs and went to the fireplace to take some water from the kettle to put into a teapot and while doing so her nightdress caught fire. - FLORENCE SAMPSON, a little girl, daughter of the last witness, said that she was asleep when her sister went downstairs. She afterwards heard her scream. On going down she met the deceased on the stairs in flames. - Mrs Truman, a neighbour, stated that on Tuesday morning, hearing a child scream, she went into MRS SAMPSON'S house, and, on running upstairs, she saw the deceased in the corner of the room with her clothes on fire. She took a carpet and wrapped around her, and also put some flour on the burns. - Dr F. Blake, House Surgeon at the Infirmary, said that on Tuesday morning about 9.30 the child was brought to the Institution. She was very badly burnt all over the body and in the afternoon about 2.30 she expired from the shock. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 17 July 1891
WEARE GIFFARD - Fatal Accident At Wear Gifford. - At Wear Gifford yesterday an Inquest was held by Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner, at Rose Cottage, upon the body of EDWARD WATKINS, 13 years, son of MR E. WATKINS, cattle dealer, of Sheepwash. The evidence given showed that the deceased was apprenticed to Mr Thomas Fry, of Wear Gifford Mills. On Monday, July 6th, the deceased, in company with Edward Dunn, a fellow employee, was picking strawberries in a garden belonging to Mr Fry. Deceased wished to go into another bed of strawberries, and to do so ran down the slope of the garden, when, by some means, he fell over the hedge into the road adjoining, a fall of about nine feet. Dunn went to his assistance, and found him on his hands and knees unconscious. Deceased was conveyed to Rose Cottage, where he lodged and became better. It was found that no bones were broken, and therefore no medical aid was summoned until Wednesday, when WATKINS appeared worse and Dr Sutcliffe was sent for. Deceased died on Tuesday evening from inflammation of the brain. The Jury, in accordance with the medical evidence, returned a verdict of "Death caused by Concussion of the Brain through a Fall."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 17 July 1891
EXETER - Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, held an Inquest at the Exeter Guildhall yesterday on the body of the infant female child of LAVINA LEY, a single woman, of Coffin's-place, Castle-street. MARY ANN LEY, her mother, gave evidence as to the birth, which took place on Thursday morning, about 2 o'clock and said the child never lived. She attended to her daughter and sent for Dr Brown in the afternoon. When she first saw the child she was lying on her face. Dr Brown deposed to being called on Thursday afternoon. On examining the deceased he found she was fully developed and apparently healthy. He told the last witness that he could not certify that the child never lived. On making a post-mortem examination he found no marks of violence, but the body presented an appearance of vividity, and on testing the lungs, which were partially inflated, he found they floated. He was of opinion that the child lived and breathed, and died from suffocation, which, he should say, was accidental. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death through Accidental Suffocation."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 20 July 1891
EXETER - The Fatality At The City Brewery. - At 17 New Bridge-street, on Saturday, Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of JAMES FRASER, who was suffocated from the gas arising from an empty vat at the City Brewery, Exeter, on Friday evening and reported in our Saturday morning's issue. - Mr Alderman Pring, principal partner of the firm of Messrs. Norman and Pring, brewers, stated that the deceased, who was a native of Scotland, was 35 years of age, and had been employed as chief brewer by the firm for the past two years. Deceased was married, and leaves a wife and two children. - Mr John Evomy Norman, also a partner of the firm, deposed to being with deceased at the brewery about 5 p.m. on Friday. Witness saw deceased going up the steps leading to the vat to test whether it was safe to enter for the purpose of cleaning it out. Witness cautioned him about getting in, as the vat was only a small one. On lowering a candle into the vat it was immediately extinguished. Witness cautioned deceased a second time and he made some remark which was inaudible to witness. FRASER went a few steps down the ladder, and witness who had his head turned at the time, suddenly heard a man named Peek, who was standing by, called out "He's gone." Witness believed that the vat, which was covered with wet hops at the bottom, was about nine feet deep. Peek wanted t go to the assistance of deceased but witness would not let him and sent for a rope. On witness turning his back, however, Peek went down the ladder and soon after witness, seeing what he was doing, called to him to come up. Peek, however, gasped, and seemed as if he would be overcome also. Witness then caught hold of Peek's wrist and pulled him up as far as he could, when another man named Pyle came and helped him and between the two Peek was rescued. He soon recovered, and tied a rope around his waist and went in again, but being again over-powered by the fumes of the carbonic acid gas was pulled out in an unconscious condition. Dr Mark Farrant was at once called in to attend to him. Another man, named Long, volunteered to go down, but he had to be pulled up in the same manner. Two men, named Pile and Stoneman, went down and the latter by an effort, succeeded in getting a noose round one of the legs of the deceased, who was immediately pulled up, when it was found that he was quite dead. Deceased was then taken to the carpenter's shop, where Dr Farrant saw him. It was the usual thing to clean out vats before refilling them with beer, and this vat had been empty about six weeks. The vat was a 50-barrel one. Peek had been down in the vat two hours previous to the accident, but he came up again very quickly. In all probability deceased thought he would be able to do the same. - Matthew Peek, brewer, in the employ of Messrs. Norman and Pring, said that he had been down in the vat about two hours and a half before MR FRASER had made the attempt and gone to the bottom, walked round and come up again. Witness felt strange and told deceased that he did not think it was safe to go down. MR FRASER said he would go and see, but would let it remain for a couple of hours. It was then about 2.30. Between 4 and 5 o'clock witness was doing some other work when deceased called him to go into the vat again. Witness accordingly did so and on the way met Mr Norman and MR FRASER, and they all went to the vat together. Before going down they lowered a lighted candle into the vat, but this was at once put out and then the deceased went slowly down the first two or three rungs of the ladder leading into the vat, but immediately fell on his back. Witness went down and tried to help him up, but was compelled to come up quickly, or else he would have been suffocated. Witness, however, procured a rope, again descended into the vat, and placed the rope around one of deceased's shoulders, but the rope must have slipped, for the deceased could not be pulled up. Witness lost consciousness before leaving the vat and had to be taken out by Mr Norman. - Dr Mark Farrant said that when he arrived the deceased was still at the bottom of the vat. Every effort was then being made to bring the body to the surface. When at last those endeavouring succeeded in doing so, he used artificial respiration for one hour without success. In his opinion death was due to immersion in carbonic acid gas. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and thought a notice ought to be put up warning persons of the danger. They expressed their sympathy for the bereaved family and praised Peek for the pluck he had shown in risking his own life to save another. - The vat in which the sad fatality occurred is to be destroyed.

BRAUNTON - An Inquest was held on Friday evening at the Railway Hotel, Braunton, by Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner, concerning the death of WILLIAM WARING, a mason's labourer, aged 62 years, who died suddenly on Thursday morning. Dr Lane, Braunton, deposed that he had examined the body and considered that death had resulted from heart disease. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 21 July 1891
PAIGNTON - Found Dead In A Field AT Paignton. - An Inquiry was held at the Paignton Town Hall, yesterday morning, by Mr Sidney Hacker, touching the death of a woman, named HARRIETT DONOVAN, whose body was found in a field at Paignton, on Saturday. - Elizabeth Hendy, widow, of Torquay, identified the body. Deceased was a flower hawker, 45 years of age and was a widow, but for some years had been living at Torquay with a man named DANIEL HEALEY. She last saw the deceased on Thursday night, when she slept with her. She complained of being very ill. On her advice she went to the Relieving-officer for a Medical-officer's ticket and afterwards went to Dr Cork, of Torquay, who gave her some medicine, and recommended her to go home to bed and remain quiet. In her evidence, witness remarked that deceased could not take to her bed for any time, as 6d. a night had to be paid before going to rest. - Mr Thomas Philp, of Brunhill, Paignton, stated that on Sunday morning, with his coachman, he went to a field near his house, when he saw a woman lying down by the side of a hayrick. On going up to her he found that she was dead. He immediately sent to the Police Station. - P.S. Pope proved finding the body as above stated. The deceased was locked up on Friday morning on a charge of sleeping in the open-air. Subsequently, the case was heard before the Magistrates and deceased was discharged with a caution. - Mr James Alexander, Surgeon, practising at Paignton, said he had examined the body of the deceased and found no marks of violence whatever. He had also made a post-mortem examination, and found the deceased had a diseased heart, an enormous congestion of the liver and her lungs were also affected. He had no doubt the immediate cause of death was syncope, and, from the appearance of the body, deceased must have died on Friday night. - After a brief summing up by the Coroner, the Foreman stated that the Jury were unanimous in finding a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 22 July 1891
SEATON AND BEER - Yesterday Mr C. E. Cox, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Seaton on the body of ROBERT TUCK, who was found dead in bed on Sunday morning last. The deceased, who was 63 years of age, was a carpenter and had been in the employ of Dr Evans. He went to bed apparently in his usual health on Saturday night, but the following morning, on being called by his wife, he did not answer and she aroused a neighbour named Woodley, who found him dead. The evidence of Dr Evans showed that death was due to apoplexy, and a verdict to that effect was returned by the Jury.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 23 July 1891
TAVISTOCK - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned at an Inquest held upon the body of an infant named GALE, the son of a journeyman carpenter, at Tavistock, who died suddenly in a fit on Sunday, while in his cradle.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 28 July 1891
TEIGNMOUTH - At the Teignmouth Infirmary yesterday morning an Inquest was held on the body of RICHARD TOM KNOWLES, seaman, aged 24, of Teignmouth, who died from injuries received by the sudden breaking of a tow-rope or the "chuck" on board the vessel Kate a week or so ago. It appears that the vessel was being drawn from Teignmouth to Shaldon by a steam tug, and when in a strong flood tide the tow-rope broke, as did also the "chuck." Deceased happened to be standing near the tow-rope and either that or a portion of the "chuck" struck him violently in the face, inflicting severe injuries. KNOWLES was removed to the Teignmouth Infirmary, where he succumbed. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

ST MARYCHURCH - Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquiry at the St. Mary Church Town Hall yesterday, touching the death of EMILY PACK, 44, wife of WILLIAM PACK, landlord of the Fortune of War Inn, St Mary Church-road, who was found dead on Sunday at midday in the passage of her house. Dr Boyes said he had made a post-mortem examination, and found that death was due to syncope, as a result of fatty degeneration of the heart. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

TAVISTOCK - An Inquest was held yesterday at the Union Inn, Tavistock, by Mr R. R. Rodd, the County Coroner, on the body of GEORGE ALFRED WILLIAMS, aged three months, son of ELIZABETH WILLIAMS, widow, of Tavistock, who stated that the child died suddenly on Saturday morning. Mr G. W. Northey, Surgeon, deposed that he found a mass of undigested curdled milk in the stomach about the size of an egg, which, no doubt, caused irritation and brought on convulsions. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 30 July 1891
EXETER - An Inquest was held yesterday by Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, touching the death of FREDERICK HOWARD, aged seven years, who expired on Tuesday afternoon. FREDERICK HOWARD, father of the deceased, residing at White's-court, Preston-street, stated that the deceased had within the last six months been medically treated at the Exeter Dispensary and Hospital for an affection of the brain, and about three weeks since was privately treated. Deceased was confined to bed and on Monday last, in consequence of the renewed illness of his son, witness summoned Mr Mortimer, who promised to attend him, but who failed to put in an appearance. On Tuesday the same gentleman was again sent for, with the same result. About noon witness sent for Dr Perkins, but deceased expired before his arrival. Mr Perkins, Surgeon, practising at Exeter, deposed that death was due to failure of the heart's action. The Coroner: Do you think that had Mr Mortimer attended when requested there might have been hopes of resuscitation? Witness: I imagine not in consequence of the probable disease in the head. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," and decided to appoint a deputation to interview Mr Mortimer with a view to the alleged neglect being explained.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 3 August 1891
TORQUAY - At the Torbay Inn, Torquay, on Saturday, Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquiry touching the death of ELIZA CHALMERS, 79, wife of the REV. T. S. CHALMERS, a retired Nonconformist minister, residing at Rowley, Vansittart-road. MR CHALMERS said his wife was a confirmed invalid. On the 15th July he accompanied her to her bedroom and wished to assist her into bed, but she said she did not require his assistance. About a quarter of an hour afterwards an impulse seized him and he went to the bedroom to see that all was right and found his wife lying on the floor. He saw that her face was bleeding, and he raised her from the floor and placed her in bed. As he believed he had done all that was possible he did not send for a doctor, but on the following day, when his wife complained of pains in her left arm, he called in Dr Powell . She died on the 31st July, at 11.30 p.m. Dr Powell said he was sent for on the 16th July. He found that the deceased's left arm was fractured, and that there were slight wounds on her face. She said she had had a fall. She died on the 31st July from old-standing heart disease accelerated by the shock caused by the accident. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 5 August 1891
CULLOMPTON - The Railway Fatality At Cullompton. - An Inquest was held at the Railway Hotel, Cullompton, yesterday, before Mr Burrow, Coroner, touching the death of GEORGE WHITE, 21, labourer, who was killed on the G. W.R. on Saturday last. - Sidney Bazley, of Bolealler Farm, said he had known the deceased several years. He had been at work for witness and on Saturday last he paid him 7s. 6d. wages due. - John Frost, landlord of the Merry Harriers Inn, between Cullompton and Hele, said the deceased, in company with the last witness, came to his house on Saturday morning last. They had two pints of beer. James William Pring, Cullompton, employed by Mr Charles Upcott, said he saw the deceased about 11 o'clock on Saturday morning on the wooden bridge which carries the Exeter road over the railway below Cullompton. Deceased said "Good morning," and got over the hedge on to the up-line of railway, walking towards Cullompton Station. Just afterwards witness saw an up passenger train coming on behind deceased. When the train was near him deceased looked back and saw it coming and he then crossed on to the off metal of the down line. When the up train had passed him deceased got off the metal and commenced running up the line on the off side of the down rails. Witness did not see him any more. He (deceased) would have had his face towards the down train. - William Burgess, packer on the Great Western Railway, said his duties took him from Cullompton Station towards Hele. On Saturday morning last he was on that portion of the line up to 4 p.m., but saw nothing of the deceased. About 7 p.m. witness discovered the body, very much mutilated, lying a few yards from Gibraltar Bridge, on the side nearest Hele. Deceased was lying on his face and hands at the bottom of the bank against a hedge, on the down line side. - John Cole, engine-driver on the Great Western Railway, said he drove the 9 a.m. train out of Bristol on Saturday last - second part - and passed Cullompton Station about five minutes after 11. The train did not stop between Taunton and Exeter. They ran at a high speed throughout and between Cullompton and Hele travelled about 60 miles an hour. Witness did not see anybody on the line between those two Stations. It was quite possible for a person to be walking on the line at a curve without being seen by the driver. On arriving at Exeter witness saw something on the tender and also on the engine, and the matter proved to be brains, but he could not then tell whether they were animal or human brains. He examined the front part of the engine and found a streak of blood and brains, principally the latter, all along the left side of the engine and tender to the end of the first coach. He considered that some person or animal had been knocked down by the engine and he reported to Mr Campfield and the locomotive foreman at Exeter. He thought deceased was struck by the front of the engine on the left side of his head. - George Whittaker, fireman, Great Western Railway, who was on the train in question, corroborated. - The Coroner summed up, remarking that the case was a sad one, and that it was impossible to tell how people walking towards a train should get killed by that train. But such occurrences did happen. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and gave their fees to deceased's parents.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 8 August 1891
NORTH LEW - An Inquest was held by Mr Coroner Prickman at Landsend Farm, Northlew, on the body of JOHANNA JONES, who died suddenly. From the medical and other evidence it appeared that the deceased had been recently confined and was suffering from heart disease, which was the cause of death. The Jury, of which Mr Hutchings, of Northlew, was the Foreman, returned a verdict in accordance with the evidence, and expressed their sincere sympathy with MR JONES, who is left with six small children.

EXETER - Alleged Suicide In The Exeter Canal. - Yesterday afternoon Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Welcome inn, Haven Banks, on the body of WILLIAM FURZE, basket maker, in the employ of Mr Sercombe, St Thomas, who was found drowned in the Exeter Canal on Thursday afternoon. - Charlotte Foot, wife of Charles Foot, a brewer living at Swan-court, Cowick-street, identified the body. Witness stated that the deceased was about 45 years of age and lodged with her for nearly four years. She last saw him alive on Wednesday morning, at breakfast time. The deceased was in very good health, but at times drank heavily. Witness never heard the deceased say anything about committing suicide. So far as witness knew he had no occasion for going by the Canal. - P.C. Holloway said that in consequence of information he received regarding the disappearance of the deceased he proceeded to Salmon Pool, and, in company with Henry Slack, searched for the body, which he succeeded in recovering with a long pole with three hooks attached. Witness met two lads named Charles Bartlett and John Sandford. The latter said that he had seen a man walk into the water, and pointed out to witness the spot where the deceased was when he waded into the Canal, at which place the body was recovered. The deceased was fully dressed, and in his pockets were found a button, a black lead pencil, and a few matches. - John Sandford, a lad, residing on the Haven Banks, said that he saw the deceased place his hat on the bank and walk into the water. There was no one in the company of the deceased when he did so. - William Squire, painter, of Alphington-street, said that he was on the Canal banks on Wednesday morning, and picked up the deceased's hat on the edge of the Canal, close to where the body was found. Witness gave the hat to a man named Adams. - JOHN FURZE, nephew of the deceased, a basket maker by trade, said he had never heard the deceased speak of committing suicide, and last saw him alive on Wednesday last. - Dr A. R. McKeith, Surgeon, said that he had examined the body of the deceased, which presented the usual appearance of death from drowning. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 8 August 1891
BRIXHAM - The Fatality At Brixham. - The Inquiry into the death of WILLIAM THOMAS EALES, who was drowned on Bank Holiday off Fishcombe Point, Brixham, took place, before Mr S. Hacker (Coroner), at the Globe Hotel yesterday morning. - ABRAHAM EALES, father of the deceased, said his son was 20 years of age. Deceased was able to manage a boat, but witness did not think he could swim. Deceased's body was recovered on Wednesday, and the boat was recovered at the same time. When the boat was found the fore-sheets were "belayed," but not the main sheet. - Albert Dyer, young man, a rope-maker, said the deceased called him about 8 a.m. on Monday morning, when they went around the men-of-war. On coming home, when about a mile from Fishcombe, EALES saw a squall coming, and said to witness, "We will shove her up in the wind," and no sooner had he said the words than the squall capsized them. Witness never saw EALES again. He commenced to swim, and the boat sank immediately. It was a rowing boat, with a sail. EALES was in charge of the boat and the sheets were fastened all the time. There was some iron ballast in the boat. The mumble bee Genista picked witness up. - Several Jurymen knew the boat, which they considered was a very safe one. - The Coroner in summing up, said undoubtedly the cause of the accident was through the boat being caught in a sudden squall with the sheets fastened. - The Jury, without retiring, returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned by the capsizing of a boat in a squall of wind in Torbay on Monday, August 3rd."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 11 August 1891
EXMOUTH - Alleged Child Neglect At Exmouth. The Inquest. - Yesterday, at the Rolle Hotel, Exmouth, Mr C. E. Cox, Deputy Coroner for the District, held an Inquest to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of DAISY LOUISA PERRIAM, whose parents live at South-street, Exmouth. - inspector Whetham, Torquay, watched the proceedings on behalf of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children. - The first witness called was Mrs Pratt, wife of Mr J. M. Pratt, auctioneer, of Exmouth and Exeter, who stated that on the 7th July she was passing the house of MRS PERRIAM, and saw a woman standing in the doorway holding the deceased in her arms. The emaciated condition of the child attracted her attention and she asked if a doctor had seen her, and was told that the mother had taken the child to a medical man several times. She was also informed that the child had been small since birth. She did not see the child again until the 1st instant, when she was passing the house and heard a child crying and she inquired how the deceased was. Another of MRS PERRIAM'S children was then in charge of the house and witness asked if she might see the deceased, whereupon a smaller child brought her out into the passage. From her appearance she saw the child was hungry and very dirty. She inquired as to what kind of food the child had received, and she was told Dr Ridge's food. Witness bought a bottle of Dr Ridge's food and gave it to the deceased, who ate it so ravenously that witness had to guide the tube. It was then about 4 o'clock, and the mother returned about half-past 5. Witness was struck by her utter indifference to the child, and she appeared to be slightly under the influence of liquor. Witness was told that there was no cradle in the house. In the course of conversation the mother said the baby was consumptive. Dr Hodgson having said so, and he had refused to vaccinate her. Later in the evening she called twice - about 5.50 and 10.40 - but the front door was locked and the house was in darkness. On the Monday following she again visited the deceased. The mother was away, but the other children were there. The baby, she was told, was very ill in bed, but she did not see her, as she thought the mother might object. At 4 o'clock she sent a messenger to the house, who returned saying the mother was still out. Shortly after 5 o'clock MRS PERRIAM called and asked her to go and see the child, as she thought she was dying. Witness called a neighbour, Mrs Pidsley, and they went together, about 6 o'clock in the evening. The deceased was then in MRS PERRIAM'S arms, wearing next to her skin a shirt, which was black, and outside this was an old piece of a blanket. The smell was very bad and fleas were running about the clothes. Witness sent for some linen, and dressed the child with it. She was almost afraid to touch the deceased in consequence of its emaciated condition. She advised MRS PERRIAM to send for a doctor and Mr Hodgson was afterwards fetched. About 9 o'clock the same night witness returned to the house and helped to carry out the doctor's instructions. She saw the child the next morning about 11 o'clock, and four times afterwards the same day. She told the mother to attend to it while she was away, but she did not think the mother attended to the child properly. The next day (Wednesday) she met Mrs Hume-Long, and acquainted her of the case, and witness afterwards carried the deceased to the Maud Hospital. Both on Tuesday and Wednesday she considered the mother the worse for liquor. - In answer to the Coroner as to whether she wished to ask the witness any questions, the mother denied being the worse for liquor, as Mrs Pratt had stated, and said she was taken to be so because she suffered from epileptic fits. - Mr Hodgson, one of the Medical Officers of the Maud Hospital, said that MRS PERRIAM brought the deceased to him to be vaccinated about four months ago, but, considering that the child was not in a fit condition to undergo the operation, he refused to vaccinate. The deceased was then in an emaciated condition, but he did not form any opinion as to what it was suffering from. He did not see the child again until Monday, the 3rd inst., when he was called to attend her by Mrs Pidsley. The child had wasted to a skeleton, and did not look as if it would live more than a few days, and he expressed his opinion to that effect. On the 9th inst., since the child's death, he had visited the house and found that the mother had given the child the best food she possibly could, viz. Allan and Hanbury's food. One tin was half full and another empty. The mother told him that the child had been sick for six months and the wasting would be partly accounted for by that fact. He did not remember ever saying the child was consumptive. He had known the mother for about eight years, during which time she had been under his care at the Exmouth Dispensary. She had suffered from epileptic fits and now had about three a month, and at one time more frequently. She had told him that she had been subject to fits for the past 22 years. They would affect the mind, and would give an appearance of drunkenness. He considered that she was certainly unfit to look after her family when these fits were upon her. He had made a post-mortem examination of the child, and he had been informed by Mrs Hume-Long that it weighed 6lb. 4 ox. It was nine and a half months old, and was very small for its age. He had examined the other children, and from the appearance of the eldest, he had come to the conclusion that the parents suffered from a disease which the family was likely to inherit. - The Coroner: Can you give any opinion as to the cause of the emaciated condition of the child? - Witness: It might be due to the inherited disease. Neglect would hasten its end. - The Coroner: Do you mean to say neglect has hastened its end? - I don't say that there has been any neglect. - Mr Manley (a Juror) said the child was taken to Dr Hodgson some months ago and he refused to vaccinate her on account of her emaciated condition. He asked if since that time a doctor had been sent to examine the child. If not, in his opinion that would be contributory neglect to a great extent. - In answer to the Coroner, Dr Hodgson said the mother had not brought the child to him since. - Mr Manley: What should be the weight of a child nine and a half months old fairly nourished? - I should say double that of the deceased. - Mr Cole: Do you think it ought to have gone on all these months without medical attendance? - I think it would have been better for medical advice. - The Coroner: I don't think there is any question about that. I ask you, in your opinion, what was the cause of death? - As far as I was able to observe, the only disease I could find would account for death. - The Coroner: When you say disease do you include want of proper food? I want to have your opinion whether this child died from improper feeding or want of nourishment, or from an inherited disease. - I think inherited disease would account for the death. - The Coroner: Did it to the best of your opinion? - I cannot answer any further. - The Coroner: You cannot form an opinion? - If you ask me to say neglect did hasten death..... - The Coroner: I am not asking you to say anything. I want your opinion whether it did hasten death. - If I say "yes" it would be tantamount to saying that the child was neglected, which I cannot say. - In answer to further questions, witness said from the state of the body the child did not necessarily die of starvation. He could not say whether neglect or improper feeding did accelerate the death of the child. - The Coroner: Then it will be for you, gentlemen of the Jury, to consider independently, as the doctor is unable to speak with certainty on the question, which is a very important one. - Dr Hodgson said he thought the mother was incompetent to look after even one child between the fits. She did not enjoy good health. - Mrs Pratt said she wished to add that the child's wraps were not changed from the Tuesday to the Wednesday. The kitchen was swarming with fleas, and she placed a piece of muslin over the child's face to protect it, but when she went away the muslin was removed. On the Tuesday the child's tongue was hanging out and remained so until taken to the Hospital. On Wednesday she found the child alone in the house. - Mrs Hume-Long remarked that during the time the deceased was in the Hospital she showed not the slightest symptoms of vomiting, less, in fact, than would have been expected. She died on Saturday morning. - Mrs Harriett Starr, midwife, said when born the deceased was a fine, healthy child. - MRS PERRIAM was then called, having expressed a wish to give evidence, but no sooner had she been sworn than she was taken in a fit. - The Coroner said he thought they would see that she was not able to give evidence. - Mrs Howell, wife of George Howell, of Market-street, was then called. She said she had often seen the child, who did not appear to want food, but during the past seven months the child had been sick and unable to retain its food. Witness had advised MRS PERRIAM to send for a medical man, and she afterwards told her that the child was taken to the Dispensary. - Miss Brooke gave evidence to seeing the child shortly after its birth, and said she appeared a healthy and fine baby, but since it had pined away. - By this time MRS PERRIAM had sufficiently recovered to give evidence. She said she was the wife of JAMES PERRIAM, a seaman. The deceased was born on the 4th October. She had three other children, and some of them were insured. The deceased was not. - The Coroner: I think it is fortunate for you that she was not insured. - Continuing, witness said when born deceased appeared to be a fine, healthy child. She afterwards suffered from bronchitis and was attended by Dr Kane, but gradually grew worse. Witness was in the Hospital 16 weeks suffering from St. Vitus dance when she was ten years of age, and since that time had suffered from fits. While her husband was away he allowed her 26s. a fortnight, which was half his pay. The deceased had always had as much food as she could take, consisting of Allen and Hanbury's food, sponge cakes and biscuits. She had not tasted a drop of beer for three years. Occasionally she had some whiskey, which she was ordered to take by the doctor. That made her light-headed. When Mrs Pratt saw her she was certainly not the worse for liquor. She also denied that the clothes were in the state described. The clothing was always clean, if not of a good colour. - Mrs Phillips bore out the statement of Mrs Pratt, and said the linen the child was wearing was in a disgraceful state. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the case was a very sad one. It seemed a very serious thing that the child should be in such a state, and after hearing the evidence of Mrs Pratt thee could be no doubt whatever that the deceased did not receive a proper amount of attention. It would be for them to consider whether death was accelerated in any way by neglect, and if it was whether any person was criminally to blame, or whether there were circumstances in the case which might exonerate to any degree such person. In all cases of this kind the medical evidence was of supreme importance, and it was very necessary to get everything a doctor was able to say. He thought it right in this case that a post mortem examination should be made in order that the doctor should have every opportunity to give as good an opinion as possible. However, he was bound to say that the doctor's evidence left - so far as his evidence went - the matter in some doubt whether or not the child died from the effects of the inherited disease, or whether it was accelerated by neglect. It was for the Jury to come to some conclusion as far as they could on that difficult question. If they had any doubt whether neglect had the effect of accelerating death, it would be for them to give the mother the benefit of it. At the same time, he was bound to say that the mother most certainly had not given her children the attention that a mother ought. He did not think that anyone would suspect that she wished to intentionally kill the child. Simple neglect without intention, if it was such gross neglect as to be perfectly inexcusable, would be manslaughter. - The Jury retired for about a quarter of an hour, and, on returning, the Foreman said their verdict was "Death from Natural Causes." They considered the child had been greatly neglected by her mother, and she was deserving of censure, but after the medical evidence, they did not think her capable of taking such care as she should have done. - The Coroner said he must express his entire concurrence with the verdict. Addressing MRS PERRIAM, he said it was beyond question that she had greatly neglected the deceased. The child had been in a filthy state, and she had taken more drink than had been good for her. He thought it was also beyond question that she was not fit to take care of any children, and he doubted whether she was capable of attending to the children which she had now. He thought that was the Jury's opinion. He did not know whether any arrangements could be made for placing them under the care of a more capable person. He hoped it would be the case, and he thought that was the hope of every member of the Jury. He trusted the case might be a warning to her, and that she would give up taking liquor, which, by her own admission, she had indulged in to an extent entirely reprehensible. - The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children will consider the advisability of instituting a prosecution.

DARTMOUTH - An Inquest was held at Dartmouth yesterday on the bodies of the young men, CHARLES DENNING and SIDNEY HAWKINGS, who were drowned by the capsizing of a boat in the harbour on Sunday. the evidence showed that the sheet had been made fast. A verdict of "Accidental Death by Drowning" was returned in each case.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 19 August 1891
TORQUAY - Dr Fraser, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Torbay Hospital yesterday afternoon on the body of EDWIN CHARLES WILLS, son of a London postman, who was on a holiday visit to Torquay. The evidence showed that on Saturday evening the deceased child was put to bed between 7 and 8 o'clock. About ten minutes afterwards he was heard screaming and his aunt on rushing upstairs found him in flames. She wrapped him in the bed clothes and poured waster on the flames, which she extinguished. The child died about 1 o'clock on Sunday. It is thought that the boy had been playing with a box of matches and set himself on fire. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death by Burning."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 20 August 1891
EXETER - An Inquest was held yesterday afternoon, at 3 Dix's Field, Exeter, by the City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, to Inquire into the cause of the death of ELIZABETH HOWELL, aged 47. MISS HELEN HOWELL identified the body as that of her sister. Witness stated that the deceased was always in a very delicate state of health, suffering from a weak heart. The deceased was in her usual state of health on Tuesday, with the exception of a slight pain in her chest, and retired to reset about 10.30. Witness remained with her until nearly 11 o'clock and again visited the deceased at 3 o'clock the next morning, when she appeared to be in a sort of fainting fit. Dr Kempe was at once sent for. Dr Kempe said he examined the body to see if there was any respiration or pulsation, and found that deceased was dead. Her features were placid and very pale. Witness considered that death was due to failure of the heart's action. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 21 August 1891
BIDEFORD - At Bideford an Inquest was held last night touching the death of RICHARD HENRY COLE, son of HENRY COLE, who was drowned from his father's barge under somewhat mysterious circumstances on Thursday last. He was on board when they started for Bideford from Appledore at 8 p.m., but when they reached Bideford he was missing. It is presumed that he was knocked over by the foresail. No cry was heard, however. the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and gave their fees to the Dispensary. One Juryman dissented from the verdict as he thought there was not sufficient evidence to warrant it.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 22 August 1891
EXETER - Sudden Death In Exeter. - Mr Coroner Hooper held an Inquest yesterday touching the death of ROBERT ANSON, 45, labourer, of 7 Clarence-place, in the employ of the Town Council. - SARAH ANSON said the deceased was her husband. She saw him about 6 o'clock, when he left home to go to work. He had complained of pains in his stomach for the last fortnight or three weeks, and had had some medicine from the Medical Aid Association on Monday. A Policeman and three employees of the Council brought him home a little after 6, and deceased was laid on the sofa. One of the men fetched Dr Barstow, of the Medical Aid Association, and witness went for Dr Perkins, who came immediately. - P.C. Guest said he was on duty in York-road at 5.45 that morning. As he was coming into York-road from Well-street, he saw the deceased, who was conscious, lying on his face and hands on the footpath. He turned him over on his back and undid his scarf. Deceased asked the witness to sit him up, which he did. He was foaming at the mouth and his arms were stiff. Three Council employees were passing at the time, and witness asked them to assist him in carrying the deceased to his home. - Dr Alfred Steele Perkins said he was called shortly after 6 o'clock by MRS ANSON to go to Clarence-place. He went at once and found ANSON dead in a downstair room on a sofa. His right hand was clenched and the pupils of his eyes dilated a little. There were no marks of violence. He should say that death was caused by an epileptic fit. Deceased had never had a fit before. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

TOTNES - Fatal Accident At Totnes. - Yesterday, as a labourer named WHITEWAY was engaged in assisting to unload wood to be used in the construction of the grand stand at Totnes Races, he met with a fatal accident. Together with several other men, he was "slewing" round a large baulk of timber in order to get it off a truck, when the timber, slipping, caught him near the middle of the body, pressing him against the truck. He slipped down, showing no signs of life, and was placed on a shutter and carried to the Goods Station. The services of a medical man were procured, but were of no avail. Deceased, who leaves a wife and several children, who are grown up, was much respected. An Inquest was held last evening when a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 24 August 1891
DAWLISH - An Inquest was held at Dawlish on Saturday morning before Dr Fraser, Deputy Coroner, on the body of the female infant child of GEORGE and ELIZABETH NORCH. - Having heard the medical evidence the Jury returned a verdict that the child was still-born, but added the following rider:- "That the Jury are of opinion that great blame is attached to both the father and mother for not having made any provision for the birth of the child, and they also consider the conduct of the father very inhuman in going off to another bed and staying there for a long time without rendering any assistance. That we also consider that the house in which the child was born is in a very overcrowded state."

SOUTH BRENT - The Fatality At South Brent. - Dr Fraser, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquiry at Elwell Farmhouse, on Saturday, touching the death of JOHN FAIRCHILD, a native of Southmolton, who was killed in the Avonwick cutting of the new Kingsbridge Railway. - The deceased's stepson having given evidence as to the identification of the body, William Henry Sanders, foreman of works, stated that deceased was boring a hole for blasting purposes, when a mass of earth both above and below him suddenly gave way. Witness narrowly escaped injury. Several hundred tons of earth and stones fell on the deceased, totally burying him. It was nearly three-quarters of an hour before the debris was cleared so as to be able to reach deceased. It was supposed that a large stone fell upon FAIRCHILD in his endeavour to escape, as one leg was badly crushed. Such slips of earth were of very frequent occurrence, and no rule was laid down as to the manner of cutting such banks, the work being left entirely to the discretion of the foreman. It was thought that the recent rains had much to do with the dislodgment of the earth. - Mr Relf, the contractor, said the work was being carried out in the usual style. - Dr Gillard stated that death was due to suffocation. - The deceased was a steady man and respected among his fellow-workmen. He leaves a wife and young family. - The Jury of whom Mr C. Harris was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and gave their fees to the widow.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 25 August 1891
EXETER - The City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest yesterday afternoon at the New Police Station on the body of the infant child of KATE PARRELL, of 6 Providence-place, Mary Arches-street. The child only survived its birth a few hours, and died on Monday morning. Mr Harrison, Surgeon, said that he examined the body a little after 8 o'clock yesterday morning and he considered that death was due to convulsions. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 26 August 1891
EXMOUTH - The Shocking Accident On A Steamer At Exmouth. The Fourth Death. Inquest. - The death of the second engineer, WILLIAM TAYLOR, the last survivor of the four men who were engaged in the engine-room on board the Beaver, lying at Exmouth, when the shocking accident occurred, as reported in yesterday's issue of the Devon and Exeter Daily Gazette, occurred late on Monday night at the Maud Hospital. Yesterday afternoon Mr C. E. Cox, Deputy Coroner for the East Devon District, held an Inquest at the Rolle Hotel, Exmouth, to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of the four men - GEORGE ESCOTT, GEORGE MOSS, SAMUEL GILLETT and WILLIAM TAYLOR. Mr Ellett (Chairman of the Local Board) was chosen Foreman of the Jury, and Mr Vine (solicitor, Exmouth) appeared on behalf of the owners of the steamer, Messrs. Carter Bros. and Co. - The Coroner said the Jury would proceed to hear the formal evidence after the bodies had been viewed, but he was afraid the Inquiry would have to be adjourned as he understood that the Surveyor of the Board of Trade had not yet arrived to make his inspection. - P.C. Frood said the Surveyor had been down, but would not be able to give his evidence that day. - The Coroner: It will, therefore, be necessary to adjourn the Inquiry to hear the Surveyor's evidence. - The Jury then proceeded to the Maud Hospital to view the bodies and afterwards they inspected the place where the accident occurred on the steamer. On returning to the Rolle Hotel the first witness called was Mr H. S. Carter, master of the Beaver, who identified the bodies. He said GEORGE JAMES ESCOTT and GEORGE MOSS were firemen on the Beaver. The former was 32 and the latter 47 years of age. SAMUEL GILLETT, who was the chief-engineer, was aged 55 and WILLIAM TAYLOR the second-engineer, was 38 years of age. The Beaver was a screw steamer of 186 tons register. Witness was not on board when the fatality occurred, having left at 12 o'clock - about an hour previously. The vessel was then lying in the passage-way, waiting until the tide enabled her to go into the dock. He left the vessel in charge of the mate, WILLIAM WILLIAMS. Messrs. Carter Bros. and Co. were the sole owners. She was built by Messrs. Schlesinger, Davis and Co. and launched in November 1889. He was not aware of any defect in any part of the machinery. - Mr Hooper, a Juryman, said he had been informed that an altercation took place between the witness and the previous engineer, who left on account of something being wrong. He asked whether witness had some words with the engineer who acted before GILLETT in respect of some defect in the machinery and he left on account of it? - Witness: No, sir; it is a lie. - Mr Churchill said he should like to know the owners of the vessel. - Witness said Messrs. Carter Bros. and Co., and the firm consisted of his father (Mr Augustus Carter), his brother (Mr John Carter), and himself. - Mr W. Setten: Did the second-engineer hold a Board of Trade certificate? - Witness: The chief-engineer did, but it is not necessary either for a chief or second-engineer. - In answer to other questions, witness said WILLIAM TAYLOR was chief-engineer before GILLETT, but he discharged him, with the second-engineer for drunkenness. Two weeks later he engaged TAYLOR again as second engineer. GILLETT took the office of chief-engineer on the 13th August, he having been formerly on board the P.A. Bagliano, a Greek steamer. TAYLOR made a statement to him yesterday at the Maud Hospital. - The Coroner remarked that he had considerable doubt whether it was evidence, but he thought as it had been made to him and another person the witness might say what it was, and the Jury need not consider it as strict evidence. Witness said he asked TAYLOR what steam was on the vessel at the time of the occurrence, and he replied 150lbs. He asked him how that came about, and he said "GILLETT put ESCOTT to look after the fire, and through some neglect on his part he let the steam rise." When he questioned him as to what steam was on before they went to dinner he replied, "110lbs". That was all that took place between them. The highest pressure at which the steamer was allowed to work according to Lloyd's test was 160lbs. of steam per square inch. There was no occasion to have 150lb. pressure at the time of the accident. It was not necessary to have any at all, and if there had been, 80lb. would have been sufficient. - In answer to Mr Vine, witness said that when the steamer came in on Monday there was very little steam on; just sufficient to bring them in. When he left the boat he told the engineer that no steam would be required until 4 o'clock. - By Mr Hooper: The safety valve was set at 160lb., at which it was locked by the Board of Trade Surveyor, and witness had the key. He could not account for the pressure being at 150. - By Mr Vine: TAYLOR had been on board since June 1890. Witness took charge of the steamer a month later. - By Mr Churchill: He did not hold a certificate for a steamer, but he held a foreign master's certificate, which would enable him to take a steamer or a sailing vessel. It was not necessary for him to hold any certificate for a coaster. - Mr John Cock, one of the Medical Officers at the Maud Hospital, said he was called to go on board the Beaver shortly before 2 o'clock on Monday afternoon, being told that two men were lying dead. He went immediately, and first saw GILLETT and TAYLOR, who were living. The former was very seriously scalded, and he was breathing in such a way that it was evident he had but a short time to live. TAYLOR was not injured so severely. He gave orders for the survivors to be rowed ashore, while he went and got the ambulance and stretchers for their conveyance to the Maud Hospital, where they were taken, the dead bodies of ESCOTT and MOSS being afterwards conveyed to the Hospital Mortuary. TAYLOR was scalded all over his body, not a sound patch of skin being upon him. Witness did not think he would live; such a wide-spread destruction of skin was almost sure to end fatally. ESCOTT and MOSS died from the severe shock of being scalded and suffocation, in consequence of their windpipes closing, which would naturally occur through their inhaling boiling steam. GILLETT lived about three hours, dying about half-past 4. TAYLOR expired about 11 o'clock on Monday night. They did not interfere with GILLETT; but TAYLOR, who at one time seemed to have a chance of lingering, was dressed in the ordinary way. During the time TAYLOR was living he heard him speaking to Carter, the last witness. He remembered hearing TAYLOR say: "It was all because of that fool ESCOTT," or words equivalent and that there was 150lb of steam. It was very possible that the conversation given by Carter took place. By Mr Ellett: He did not hear him say anything about there being a defect in the machinery. He took it that he attributed the accident more to an act of folly. - William Williams said he was mate on board the Beaver and was left in charge on Monday about 12 o'clock. He had nothing whatever to do with the engineers. About 20 minutes to 2 he was on deck, in the fore part of the ship, when he heard a rush of steam, and saw it coming through the funnel of the engine-room and skylight. He opened the latter and on going to the stoke-hole ladder met TAYLOR coming up. The latter said, "It is a bad job." With other members of the crew, witness assisted him forward, and placing him on the hatchway covered him with some clothes. It was impossible for him to go below owing to the steam. He immediately sent for a doctor, and gave TAYLOR half a tumbler-full of whisky. Within about ten minutes the steam cleared away and with some of the other members of the crew, he went below. On going down the ladder he met GILLETT coming up. He assisted him to ascend, and also covered him over. Dr Cock shortly afterwards arrived. He could not say how the accident happened. - By Mr Churchill: He had been on board about 14 months. During that time he had never heard any complaint as to any defect in the machinery. He did not notice that the men showed any signs of having been drinking. - William Perry, an able seaman on the Beaver, said on Monday afternoon he was passing the engine-room skylight, and on looking down into the room saw MOSS with an india-rubber pipe in his hand pointing it towards the engine. There was a heavy pressure of steam coming through the pipe at the time. On passing again two minutes afterwards he saw steam coming through the skylight and funnel. He thought something wrong had happened, but on going near the skylight he was compelled to retreat on account of the hot steam. TAYLOR afterwards came up the ladder and said, "This is a bad job." He did not think MOSS was doing wrong in holding the pipe as he did. He was scalding the grease off the outside of the engine, which it was usual to do on entering the harbour. By Mr Setten: He never heard any mention about there being any defect in the engine. - This was all the evidence taken. - The Coroner said he understood that the Board of Trade Inspector had been able to make further investigations, and would complete them by Friday next. If that day was convenient to the Jury he should propose the adjournment of the Inquest until then, at 1.30. - A Juror: Would a substitute do? - The Coroner: No; most certainly not, sir. - The Inquest was eventually adjourned to the time suggested by the Coroner.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 28 August 1891
THORVERTON - At the Dolphin Inn, Thorverton, on Tuesday, Mr Coroner Burrow held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM WAY, a labourer. - The deceased's father identified the body. His son was 28 years of age. Early on Sunday morning deceased went out as usual. Witness did not see him again until last at night, when he returned home and found his son with his head resting on the table. Having often seen him in that position before, he did not take any special notice of him, but went to bed. - ELIZABETH WAY, mother of the deceased, stated that between 9 and 10 on Sunday night, her son was brought home by two men. He looked very ill. The men placed him in a chair and then left the house, simply saying that he was not very well. Deceased then put his arms on the table and rested his head upon them. Witness, thinking that he had had nothing to eat all day, and that a glass of beer had got into his head, went to bed about 11 o'clock, leaving the deceased to all appearance asleep. About 6 o'clock next morning her other son told her that his brother was not fit to go to work, as he had never seen a man look so white before. Witness at once went downstairs and found him in almost the same position as she had left him the night before. On touching his hand, however, she found it was as cold as ice. She at once sent for a doctor, who, on arriving very shortly afterwards, pronounced life to be extinct. - William Tree, a labourer, residing at Ford, said he last saw the deceased alive on Sunday night, about nine o'clock, at the Bell Inn, Thorverton, when he was nothing the worse for liquor. - Mark Tozer said he last saw the deceased about five o'clock on Sunday evening at the back of his (witness's) house, when deceased asked for a light for his pipe. - James Tree said he helped the deceased home from the Bell Inn on the night in question. The landlord refused to draw him any liquor because he considered he had had enough and advised him to go home. Deceased, however, was obstinate, and refused to go. Witness, with two other men, helped him home and placed him in a chair, where they left him. Deceased was neither drunk nor sober. - John Westron and John Nicks also gave corroborative evidence. - Mr King-Lewis, Surgeon, stated that, in his opinion, death was due to alcoholic poisoning. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 29 August 1891 EXMOUTH - The Shocking Fatality At Exmouth. Adjourned Inquest. - At the Rolle Hotel, Exmouth, yesterday afternoon Mr Deputy Coroner C. E. Cox held an adjourned inquest on the bodies of SAMUEL GILLET, WILLIAM TAYLOR, GEORGE MOSS, and GEORGE ESCOTT, who met with their deaths on board the s.s. Beaver at Exmouth on Monday. Mr Ellett (Chairman of the Exmouth Local Board) was Foreman of the Jury, and there was a large attendance of the general public, including Mrs Hume-Long and Dr Cock. Mr Vine, solicitor, represented Messrs. Carter, the owners of the Beaver; and Mr C. W. Williams, Inspector of the Board of Trade, was also present. - The Coroner said before any witnesses were called he wished to state that the Board of Trade Inspector, who was present, would not give evidence. Mr Williams had telegraphed to the authorities, and they had replied that he was to assist at the Inquiry, but not offer evidence. In this case it was advisable Mr Williams should ask questions which would be of any help to the Jury. - John Carter, managing owner of the steamship Beaver, was the first witness called, and said the vessel was registered on the 17th January 1890. About a month ago the machinery on the steamship was inspected because she refused to go astern. Mr Bodley, of the firm of Taylor and Bodley, Exeter, carried out the inspection and made a report. The vessel had been inspected on different occasions, and a consulting engineer at Liverpool gave witness a report on the condition of the hull and machinery. Lloyd's surveyor in November 1890, also inspected the vessel and gave certificates of class, which could be produced. A certificate proved that the boiler had been tested on the 19th September 1889, and pressure was not to exceed 160lb. About every eight weeks the machinery and boiler were thoroughly cleaned. The engineer had never reported that the machinery was defective. Some repairs had been carried out in the machinery about a month ago when the vessel was at Topsham. The slide valve was repaired, but not the cylinder. A defect in the slide valve had caused the steamer not to go astern. - Mr Alfred Bodley, member of the firm of Messrs. Taylor and Bodley, engineers, of Exeter, said he inspected the engine of the Beaver on the 22nd of July last at the request of the owners. He gave a verbal report to Mr John Carter, and received orders to proceed with the work and present a written report afterwards. The engine required to be got ready for sea, and he at once carried out the necessary repair. His report respecting the engine was sent to Messrs. Carter. Mr J. Carter also asked him to examine the boiler. Witness could not do this as he was busy, but sent the boiler-maker, Richard Harris, employed by the firm to examine the boiler. Harris told witness the boiler was in very good condition, and he could only discover two leakages, one under one of the nuts of the screw stay tube, and the other, a very small one, under a nut of the screw of the stay of the combustion chamber. He took off the latter nut, put some packing underneath and tightened the nut again. He had prepared a sketch of the boiler since the accident occurred. - By the Coroner: He was telegraphed for by Mr Carter on Monday, after the accident, and came to Exmouth and boarded the steamer. He went to the engine-room, and saw that the water had blown from the boiler as far as the scalding-off cock. The cock was partially open and the hose attached, as if it had been recently used. There was no fire in the port furnace, it having been blown and washed out. The furnace doors were both closed. Water had evidently been ejected from the port side, and at that place there was the greatest rush of steam. - By the Inspector: The starboard smoke-box was also open, and steam would pass from that into the engine. A man with witness took a lamp to see if he could discover any fracture or fissure on the furnace tube. He could discover no fracture. That led him to believe there had been no explosion. Witness then desired that everything should remain as it was when the explosion occurred. On Wednesday he made a personal examination of the boiler, going into the port combustion chamber. He examined the furnace tube, and it was both sound and clean. The combustion chamber was in perfectly good condition. He then examined the tubes in regular order. No 1 tube was all right; No 2 tube of the top row was collapsed for some considerable distance, commencing about five inches from the after end of the tube. The tube was one of the smoke tubes really, but no water should be found inside it. The remaining tubes were in good order. Witness had tested the safety valves and they were slightly in excess of their computed weight - he should say about seven pounds in excess, or 167 pounds to the square inch. He believed the condensed water contained oxygen, and free acid (which was induced from the lubricating matter used in the engine) corroded the tubes, reduced its thickness from the outside, and caused a collapse. - The Inspector: The tube is thinner and weaker than any other in the boiler and apparently an odd one. - Mr Bodley said that was so. Continuing, the witness said the standard measure of the tube was No. 11, and one-eighth of an inch thick. He could not explain the reason of the thin tube being placed among the others. The other tubes varied in thickness from No. 5 to 8. There was no reason why one tube should be thicker or thinner; the pressure was uniform. - By Mr Ellett: In his opinion the accident occurred owing to the tube being very thin. It gave way at the lap joint not standing the pressure. - The Coroner thought the matter of the great difference in the tube was one calling for an explanation. - Mr Peters thought the Surveyor who had the supervision of the construction of the vessel was guilty of neglect. - Mr Bodley, in answer to Captain W. Setter, said if the tube had been of the proper thickness the accident would not have occurred. - William Cook, consulting engineer, Liverpool, said he had made three inspections of the steamship Beaver. He made the first inspection in May last at the request of Mr Thompson, of 72 Mark-lane, London, the then owner. He then inspected the stays in the upper part of the boiler and made a report. In November last year he made an inspection, Messrs. Carter being then the owners of the steamer. He was told to reinstate the vessel in such a condition as to enable it to retain its class at Lloyd's . The damage to the vessel then was great, as she had just previously stranded. The boiler was inspected by himself and Lloyd's surveyor, and it had no defect of any kind. He examined the tubes from the combustion chamber to the smoke box end. It would not be customary to report the fact that one tube was thinner than the others unless he had reason to think it was unable to perform the duties required of it. The corrosion of the tube which caused the accident had been going on rapidly. A couple or three months would produce a serious effect upon the tube. He believed the tube, which was not of the kind of the others, had been placed in the steamer by carelessness or by an accident on the part of someone. It was, however, in the first instance quite thick enough to bear the pressure. - By Mr Vine: If the rapid corrosion had not set in the tube would have gone on all right. The tube, considering the steamer was almost a new one, should have been in capital condition. The tube came up to the standard required by Lloyd's, but the others were heavy tubes. - Harry William Wilkins, engineer and ship surveyor, of Plymouth and Lloyd's agent, was then called by the Coroner to give evidence. - Mr Wilkins said he could not give evidence. He had first to submit his report to Lloyd's, and the Coroner could then get a copy of his report. - The Coroner said witness must give evidence. If he did not he was liable to a committal. - The Foreman of the Jury said the Inquiry was an important one and the Jury should get all the information possible. - Wilkins then said he had made an examination of the boiler yesterday, and it was in perfect condition, with the exception of the tube produced. The tube was made of a different metal to that of the others, and it was quite a common thing to find a stay or tube defective in the material. The tube damaged was up to Lloyd's scale, or it would not have been passed. It should have lasted six years. - The accident had been caused by quick corrosion of the tube. He did not believe any fault was attached to the surveyor who allowed the tube to be replaced in the boiler, as it stood the test. The boiler had been very well attended to and was in a good condition. - Richard Harris, boiler-maker, in the employ of Messrs. Taylor and Bodley, Exeter, deposed to having, on the 27th July last, examined the boiler, and finding it in good working order. He sounded the tubes with a hammer. He did not notice that one tube was thinner than the rest. He did not consider it his duty to gauge the thickness of the tubes. - Mr Cook, recalled, said there was only one ladder as a rule between the engine-room and the deck, but there was often a "Jacob's" ladder for the use of the firemen. There was one main ladder in the Beaver, and no other. It was rather exceptional to have only one ladder. The second was fixed out of a feeling of class distinction. The engineers considered they were entitled to go up a different ladder from the firemen. - In reply to Mr Vine, the witness said the position of the ladder accelerated the evil that occurred, because the accident happened in the neighbourhood of this ladder. Had there been two ladders there would have been a better chance of escape. - The Coroner asked whether the Jury wished any further witnesses called, and Mr Ellett (the Foreman) said the Inquiry had been a very exhaustive one, and he did not think any more light could be thrown upon it. - A Juror said there was another person present who wished to give evidence. - Frank Lockyear came forward and tendered himself as a witness. He said: I am an engine-fitter. I worked on board the Beaver as second engineer from about the 25th July last to the 4th of August. I do not hold a certificate. - The Coroner: It has been given in evidence that you were discharged the ship in consequence of drunkenness. - Witness: I am aware of that, but it is a lie. - How did you leave? - A.: I left of my own accord. I didn't care to stay any longer. - Why didn't you stay any longer? - A.: Because I was afraid to, sir. - Why were you afraid to stay longer? - A.: On account of the safety valve not acting and the pressure gauge not being safe. I saw the gauge standing at one time at 170lb. to the square inch. - Did you tell anyone of that? - A.: I told the first engineer of it. The pressure gauge was defective, and nearly illegible. - Did you complain to the captain of the vessel? - A.: No. - Why didn't you complain to the captain? - A.: I thought I would complain to the chief-engineer. I didn't want to trouble the captain. - If you left on that account, didn't you think it rather odd that you did not state your reason to the captain? - A.: No. - As a matter of fact, were you not discharged on account of drunkenness? - A.: No, sir; I gave notice to Mr John Carter. - By the Inspector: When I complained to the chief-engineer he said he would see to it when he got to port. He was then too busy. - Mr Vine: Did the chief-engineer lodge your complaint? - A.: No. - Was it his duty? - I suppose so. He could please himself. I don't know whether he did or not. - Mr John Carter said he ordered the man ashore on the 11th. - Witness: That's another lie. - Mr Vine (to Lockyear): Did the captain make any complaint to you at Newcastle about your being drunk? - Witness: No. - Did the captain throw a bottle of brandy overboard? - No; he threw away a bottle of beer. - Why? - Because it was a teetotal ship, and there was no beer allowed. - Was it because you had been drinking too much? - You had better ask the captain that. I had had nothing to drink. - Mr John Carter (captain of the ship): I never received any complaint. 148lbs was the highest pressure I had seen on board the ship while this man was there. - Lockyear: You're a liar. - The Coroner; I cannot allow language of that kind in this Court. - Lockyear became very abusive and more than once Mr Cox threatened to have him ejected by the Police. - In summing up, the coroner said they must all feel that this was a terrible occurrence, in which four persons had been hurled away at one fell swoop. It was their duty to consider the whole of the evidence which had been placed before them, and to find out whether any person or persons were responsible for the accident. The Jury were placed in some difficulty in the matter, because the four men who might have been able to give an account of the accident were dead. TAYLOR, however, before he died, said there was but 150lb. of steam up at the time, and Dr Cock heard TAYLOR at the Maud Hospital make that remark. It might have been that there was contributory neglect on the part of someone, and there might have been some defect in the machinery. If there was gross neglect with regard to the part of the machinery that had broken down it would be a serious thing for the person who was guilty of that neglect. It was purely a matter for the Jury to decide. With reference to the evidence of Lockyear, they had previously heard the evidence of the captain why he dismissed the man, and Mr Carter's statement was corroborated by one of the crew. - The Jury retired to consider their verdict and returned into Court with the following:- "Our verdict is 'Accidental Death,' brought about by a defective tube in the boiler, and from the evidence given we are unable to attach the responsibility of the said defective tube to any individual, but would strongly recommend an additional ladder in the aft part of the engine-room." - Mr Ellett said the Jury would willingly give their fees to the widows of the deceased men. (Applause). - Captain Carter: I will also give half a guinea. - The Foreman: The Jury feel that a vote of thanks should be given to Mrs Hume-Long and those at the Hospital for their kindness in this case. - Mr W. H. Perry said that would be a fitting opportunity, seeing the Chairman of the Exmouth Local Board was present, to call the attention of the authority to the necessity of providing a public mortuary. (Hear, hear).

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 2 September 1891
EXETER - Sad Death In Exeter. - At the Exeter Police Court yesterday afternoon, Mr Coroner Hooper held an Inquest touching the death of MR PETER WESTERN of 9 Goldsmith-street, who died suddenly on Monday night, as reported in our issue of yesterday morning. Mr Reed was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - ELIZABETH JANE WESTERN, widow of the deceased, deposed that her late husband was 54 years of age, and carried on the business of a butcher. He was apparently in his usual health the previous day and did not complain of feeling unwell. Deceased retired to rest about ten minutes to 10 and had not been in bed but a short while before he complained of shortness of breath. He was then lying on his back and said he would turn on his side. This brought on sneezing and witness fetched some water to bathe deceased's forehead. He then became unconscious and died within a five minutes. She at once sent for a medical man and Mr Hartnoll was soon in attendance. The deceased had complained of shortness of breath and also a pain near his heart. MR WESTERN did not partake of supper before retiring to rest. - Mr Henry Thomas Hartnoll, Surgeon, of Southerhay, said he had known deceased for many years, but had not attended him professionally. He was called to see the deceased about half-past ten on Monday evening, and when he arrived at the house he found him in bed dead. Death had taken place half an hour previously. In his opinion deceased died of heart disease, the death being a natural one. - A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 4 September 1891
BUCKFASTLEIGH - An Inquest was held on Monday, before the Deputy Coroner, Dr Fraser, at Bigadon, Buckfastleigh, on the body of a woman named STEER, wife of the gardener of Mr John Fleming, who committed suicide on Saturday morning by taking some weed-killer, which her husband had for destroying weeds in the gardens. Evidence was given to the effect that the deceased woman's husband left the house in the morning, but forgot his keys, and he returned to fetch them, when he found his wife vomiting. He at once called two servants and then went for Dr Johnson, but before the doctor arrived she was dead. A verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane" was returned by the Jury, of which Mr R. Chaff was Foreman.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 7 September 1891
BRIDFORD - An Inquest was held at Week Barton, Bridford, by Mr Gould, Deputy Coroner, touching the death of WILLIAM BALL BEER, a farmer, of that place. From the evidence it appeared that the deceased, who was 67 years of age, was in the court-yard on the 29th August saddling a horse to proceed to the harvest field, when the animal suddenly started off and knocked him down. It was seen that MR BEER had received serious injuries, and Dr Fenwick, of Dunsford, was sent for. He found deceased had fractured a thigh, was vomiting blood and had ruptured a small blood vessel in the stomach. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 8 September 1891
PLYMOUTH - The Strange Death Of A Naval Surgeon. - On Saturday morning, on the arrival of the night mail from London at Millbay, Plymouth, as briefly reported in our issue of yesterday, the occupant of one of the compartments, who proved to be SURGEON EDWARD THOMAS COOK, of the gunboat Speedwell, now lying at Devonport, was found to be in a state of coma. Medical attendance was at once summoned and the patient was conveyed to the first-class waiting room. A messenger was afterwards despatched to the Naval Hospital, Stonehouse, whence the patient was conveyed in an ambulance. He was at once attended to by Fleet-Surgeon Stone and Surgeon Pickthorn, but the unfortunate gentleman could not be restored to consciousness and died at 8.15 from the effects of morphia poisoning. No cause is assigned for the condition in which the deceased was discovered. He had been away from Plymouth on leave of absence, and was returning to rejoin his vessel. The relatives of the deceased, who reside at Portsmouth, were communicated with, and some of the members of Surgeon COOK'S family arrived at Plymouth the same evening. The deceased officer entered the Navy in 1889, and was appointed to the Speedwell last January. At the Inquest held yesterday the medical evidence showed that deceased had taken a large dose of morphia. It was stated that several letters were found on the body, and the Jury demanded their production. In order that this demand may be complied with, and that an analysis of the contents of the stomach may be made, the Inquest was adjourned until Monday.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 9 September 1891
NEWTON ABBOT - Last evening Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry touching the death of WILLIAM HENRY SHORLAND, who was drowned in the mill leat, near Bradley Wood, on Sunday afternoon. It appears that deceased, who was three years of age, and his brother, aged four years, wandered away unknown to their parents, on Sunday last, about half-past 12 o'clock. About an hour after a communication was received by the father, CHARLES SHORLAND, that the deceased had fallen into the leat. The father immediately went to the leat and rescued the child, who was dead when taken out. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." During the last three months three children have been drowned at Newton.

PAIGNTON - The Suicide Of A Paignton Tradesman. - Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquest at Paignton on Monday evening touching the death of MR JAMES EDWARD WREYFORD, cabinet maker, of Winner-street, who committed suicide on Saturday. - MRS WREYFORD, the widow, deposed that her husband, who was 59 years of age, got up on Saturday morning at half-past 6, and went downstairs. She followed half an hour later, and, not seeing him, looked in the cellar, and there saw deceased hanging to a beam. She called Mr Coysh, living in the same house, who cut the body down, which was still warm. On the previous Wednesday deceased received a summons to appear as defendant in an affiliation case at Brixham Sessions this week, and it preyed upon his mind and made him strange in manner. He spoke to her about it on the Saturday, and said he was innocent, but could not bear the thought of it. He had no pecuniary or other trouble. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 16 September 1891
TAVISTOCK - At an Inquest held at Tavistock on Monday evening by Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, on the body of HENRY HAYTER, the soldier who was drowned in the river Walkham, near Tavistock, on Saturday afternoon, a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, and the Coroner and Jury highly commended the gallant conduct of Lieutenant Day, who, as soon as he was informed of the occurrence, hastened to the spot, dived into the water, notwithstanding the strong current which was running, brought the body to the bank and did all he could to restore animation.

TEIGNMOUTH - Death From Poisoning At Teignmouth. - An Inquest was held at the Teignmouth Infirmary last evening by Mr Hacker, Coroner, touching the death of JOHN JAMES MILTON, a lad, nine years of age, who died at that Institution on the previous night from the effects of poison. The deceased was the son of a labourer, named JAMES MILTON. It appears that on Monday afternoon a lad, named Mears was sent with some liquid weed poison to Yannon. He carried the poison in an ordinary watering-can with a long spout. He stopped to rest on the way and while doing so got into conversation with a gardener named Cox. While talking several boys came out of school and Cox left. On Mears turning round he saw the deceased drinking from the spout of the can. Mears at once said, "Spit it out, or you will be poisoned," and the deceased did so, and then had a drink of water. MILTON, however, complained of great pain and was taken to the Infirmary. - The medical evidence showed that death was due to alkaline poisoning and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," but advised that in future weed poison should be sent out in a suitable vessel marked "poison."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 17 September 1891
DAWLISH - Sudden Death At Starcross. - An Inquest was held at the Ship Inn, Starcross, yesterday, touching the death of JOHN CHOWN, who resided with the landlord of the Ship Inn, and who died suddenly on Tuesday. MR CHOWN, butcher and publican, of Starcross, identified the deceased as his brother, who resided with him at the Ship Inn, and was 55 years of age. Witness last saw deceased on Monday last, about 11 o'clock, when appeared very unwell. Witness advised deceased to go to bed, which he did. He then complained of a pain in his bowels. On Tuesday, about half-past 8 in the morning, witness was called into the bar by his daughter. He found the deceased lying under the table upon his face and hands. Witness at once picked him up, and found that he was dead. - HELENA CHOWN, daughter of the last witness corroborated. - Mr Frank Rowe, chemist, of Starcross, said that about seven weeks ago he supplied deceased with a few aperient pills. He had complained of being unwell for some time. - Mr James Cogney, Surgeon, of Starcross, said he was called to see the deceased about ten minutes past 9, and found him lying on the floor in the bar. He examined the body, and found no marks of violence. He should consider that death was due to the bursting of a blood vessel in the abdomen. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 23 September 1891
BERE FERRERS - Shocking End Of A Gold Miner. - At the Inquest held on the body of a man found on Sunday on the railway near Beer Ferris, nine miles from Plymouth, a curious story was told. The only witness whose evidence was of value as regards identification, was Police-Constable Bradfield, of the Devonport force, who met the deceased, and being able to converse a little in the Kaffir language they had a chat. The deceased gave the name of JAMES HADDEN, a native of Scotland, and said that he had been a gold miner in Cape Colony, and returned in the s.s. Scot to Plymouth. The witness had been informed that £16,000 had been stolen from HADDEN, but the deceased stated that he did not bring much money ashore, having left his luggage on board the vessel. He had been drinking heavily and although carefully shown the way which he said he wanted to go, he persisted in going in the wrong direction. The medical evidence showed that the injuries were of a frightful character. The skull was fractured, the bone penetrating the brain some inches, both legs and arms were smashed and the lower part of the back was broken. The injuries were such as would be caused by being knocked down by a train. - A verdict of "Found Dead" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 30 September 1891
YARNSCOMBE - A few days ago, while a little child, under 3 years of age, named JOHN MACEY, was picking blackberries at Yarnscombe, he fell into a stream and was drowned. A girl called Bertha Brown was with him, and went into the stream to her waist to endeavour to get the boy out. He managed as soon as he fell into the water to get on to the bank, but he fell back again, and as the girl could not reach him he was drowned. The girl ran for assistance and the body was afterwards found lying at the bottom of the stream in about two feet of water. The deceased was the son of a miller of Yarnscombe. An Inquest was held by Mr Coroner Bromham at Bucks Mills Cottage, when the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 9 October 1891
BICKINGTON - On Tuesday evening Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner, held an Inquest at The Cottage, Bickington, near Barnstaple, on the body of WILLIAM DAVIS, grocer, of Barnstaple, who died suddenly the previous night. - From the evidence of his housekeeper, Miss Joy, and a man named John Fry, a carpenter, it transpired that deceased had been to tea at Mr Packer's, Tawstock, and while walking home was overtaken by Fry. He asked Fry if he might take his arm and on getting to the gate of his house the deceased called out "Hold me, hold me," and at that moment fell down. Fry called a man, named Joslin, to his assistance, and they carried deceased into his house. Dr Budd was immediately sent for, but life was extinct. Dr Budd deposed that deceased suffered from heart disease and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

CHAGFORD - An Inquest was held at Lawn House, Chagford, on Saturday, by the Coroner, Mr Prickman, on the body of HETTIE AGGETT, aged 2 ½ years, the youngest child of MR WEEKES AGGETT, builder, of Chagford. - The evidence of the mother and aunt of the deceased showed that while the child was playing with a ball in the kitchen she fell into a pan of boiling milk, which had been removed from the fire to the floor. - Dr Hunt stated that he was sent for, and was in attendance about three minutes after the accident occurred. He saw the case was hopeless from the first, and the little sufferer only survived about 15 hours. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony that the deceased died "from shock to the system from Accidentally falling into a pan of boiling milk," and expressed the sympathy they felt for the family in the bereavement which the sad accident had occasioned. MR and MRS AGGETT are greatly respected in the neighbourhood and general sympathy is felt for them in their sad loss.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 10 October 1891
EXETER - Sudden Death Of A Naval Pensioner. - Yesterday, at the Exeter police Court, the City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest relative to the death of THOMAS VAUGHAN, a naval pensioner, aged about 50 years, who died suddenly the previous day at the Blackamore's Head Inn, West-street. - William Rolestone, landlord of the Inn, identified the body and said the deceased had lodged with him for the past three weeks, and before that time was an inmate at the Exeter Workhouse Hospital. On Thursday, hearing someone fall, a woman in his employ proceeded to the travellers' kitchen, where she found the deceased on the floor, dead. - Ann Arnold gave evidence as to finding the deceased as described by the last witness. - Dr Brash said he attended VAUGHAN about three months ago. He then had an extensive cancer in the tongue and after attending him for about three days he ordered his removal to the Workhouse Hospital. He was called to see him on Thursday evening shortly before 5 o'clock, and found him on the kitchen floor dead. On making a post-mortem examination he found deceased in an anaemic state and death was due to syncope. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 12 October 1891
DARTMOUTH - Sudden Death In A Dartmouth Street. - Mr P. R. Hockin, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Dartmouth on Saturday respecting the death of JOHN LEE, aged 67, who dropped dead in Newcomin-road on the previous day. The Inquiry took place at the house of Mr L. C. Pillar, through whose kindness the body was taken there, on Friday, after the sad occurrence. - RICHARD LEE, son of the deceased, deposed that the latter was a retired shipwright of Portsmouth, and had come to Dartmouth, where he was born, to see old scenes, after 50 years' absence. Deceased, his brother and witness walked from Brixham on Friday morning and in the afternoon, as he was walking in Newcomin-road, deceased was pointing out an old orchard he remembered, when he suddenly fell to the ground. Assistance was at once forthcoming and he was placed in a chair, but died in a few minutes. - Dr J. H. Harris attributed death to failure of the heart's action, in consequence of so much walking and excitement caused by revisiting the town. - A verdict to that effect was returned by the Jury, who also thanked Mr Pillar for his kindness.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 14 October 1891
GEELONG, AUSTRALIA - Sad Death Of A Devonshire Girl In Australia. - The Geelong Advertiser brings intelligence which will be of painful interest in North Cornwall, as the Messrs. MOUTJOY emigrated from Kilkhampton many years ago. MISS ADA SOPHIA MOUNTJOY, aged 15 years, daughter of MR THOMAS MOUNTJOY, of Lorne, Geelong, was on a visit at the house of her uncle, MR CALEB MOUNTJOY, of Yan Yan Gurt, near Dean's Marsh, and slept with her cousin, ANNIE MARIA LILIAN MOUNTJOY, aged 14 years. They retired to rest one evening at 9 o'clock and were found the next morning quite dead. To warm their bedroom, which was without a fireplace, a tin can containing some lighted charcoal had been used. Water was thrown over the charcoal, probably only partly extinguishing the fire, for the atmosphere of the room was charged with a sufficient quantity of charcoal vapour to suffocate the two young ladies, who evidently died without a struggle. The Coroner of the District held an Inquiry at the house of MR CALEB MOUNTJOY, at which the fathers of the girls, the sisters of the younger, and Dr Reid gave evidence, and it was not considered necessary to summon a Jury.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 15 October 1891
EXETER - At the Police Court yesterday afternoon, the City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest on the body of an infant named ELLEN DESAVE, who died soon after birth early that morning at No. 1 Bear-street. JAMES JOHN DESAVE, father of the child, identified the body. Mr Brash, Surgeon, said he was called to No. 1 Bear-street early yesterday morning by the father of the deceased, and found the child dead. Witness examined the body, but there were no marks of violence. The child appeared to have been properly attended to and he attributed death to natural causes. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 23 October 1891
THRUSHELTON - Mr J. D. Prickman, Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of WILLIAM DOWN, aged 75 years, at Gradners, on Monday. MARY WARREN, daughter of the deceased, said on Friday she went upstairs about 8 a.m. to assist in dressing her father. He complained of faintness and died before medical assistance could be obtained. Dr Benson said he was called in to see the deceased, and found that he had had a paralytic fit. The Jury, of which Mr T. Abell was Foreman, returned a verdict according to the medical evidence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 27 October 1891
EXETER - The Foreman And Insurance Cases. - An Inquest was held at the City Police Court yesterday afternoon touching the death of BEATRICE MAUD KINGDON, aged four months, daughter of EMILY and WALTER KINGDON, of North Bridge-terrace. - Mr Thomas Taylor was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The mother proved that at 11 o'clock when she retired to rest on Saturday night the deceased was apparently well, but on Sunday morning she awoke about 6 o'clock, and found her daughter dead. - The Foreman: Do you mean to say the child made no noise during the night? - Witness: I did not hear any. - The Coroner: Was it insured? - Witness: Yes, for £3, in the Royal Liver Friendly Society. - The Coroner: Have you any other children, and are they insured? - Witness: I have another child also insured in the same office. - The Foreman (in answer to the Coroner as to whether he had any question to ask) said: The child was insured, sir; it is one of those insurance cases. - Francis Edward Williams, Surgeon, of East Southerhay, practising at Exeter, said he was called on Sunday morning, about 7 o'clock, to see the deceased. He found the child in bed, and death had taken place a few hours previous. He examined the body, but did not find any marks of violence, and the child was well nourished. Convulsions was the cause of death. - The Coroner: In your opinion, death was a perfectly natural one? - Witness: Certainly. - The Foreman (to the medical witness): How do you know the child died in bed? - Witness: I found it in bed, and the parents told me so. - The Foreman: It is one of those insurance cases. - The Coroner: I don't think there is any reflection whatever on the parents. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned. - Mr Taylor said by the Coroner's permission he would ask Mr Williams a question. - Do you belong to the Insurance Society? - Mr Williams: I do not.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 2 November 1891
DARTMOUTH - Sad Fatality At Dartmouth. - Mr R. W. Prideaux, the Dartmouth Borough Coroner, held an Inquest on Saturday relative to the death of EDWIN HERBERT COAKER, infant son of SAMUEL COAKER, pilot, of Dartmouth. MRS COAKER and her son FRANK stated that the baby pulled a kettle of boiling water over himself on October 1st. FRANK COAKER had been minding him in the kitchen and had only turned his back for one instant, during which the deceased child had crawled to the kettle. He was very severely scalded about the neck and chest and was attended by Dr J. H. Harris, who stated the child died on October 29th from the effects of the burns. A verdict in accordance with the doctor's evidence was returned by the Jury.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 4 November 1891
TAVISTOCK - An Inquest was held at the White Hart Hotel, Tavistock, yesterday, by Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, on the body of MALINDA GLANVILLE DAVEY, of 18 Delvin Cottages, widow of MR THOMAS DAVEY, master baker. The deceased, who was sitting, suddenly fell, and was picked up dead. She had been subject to fits for years. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 5 November 1891
EXETER - The Burning Fatality In St. Thomas. - An Inquest was held at the Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday, before Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, touching the death of GEORGE HENRY NEEDS, aged 16 months, son of SIMON NEEDS, labourer, of Okehampton-street, St Thomas. On Monday the deceased was left by his mother, tied in a chair near the fire, while she went after some water. While she was absent from the room another child, aged 6 years, went upstairs and came down again. On returning to the room MRS NEEDS found the deceased with a stick in his hand and his forehead and left cheek burnt. She took deceased to the Hospital, where his injuries were dressed, and, though advised not to do so, took the child home. On Tuesday he was taken to the Hospital again and put to bed, but died in the course of a few hours. Death was due to congestion of the brain and kidneys, due to the accident. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 7 November 1891
STOKE CANON - Sad Death At Stoke Canon. The Stomach To Be Analysed. - The Deputy District Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, held an Inquest at the Stoke Canon Inn, Stoke Canon, yesterday afternoon on the body of CAROLINE MOLLAND, whose death took place under peculiar circumstances on Wednesday morning last. The case, which occupied nearly two hours, was watched by the Deputy Chief-Constable (Superintendent Jesse). The Foreman of the Jury was the Rev. F. Robson. - JOHN MOLLAND, of Stoke Canon, identified the body of the deceased as that of his late wife, who was 52 years of age. On Wednesday morning last the deceased rose at 7 o'clock, and complained of being a little queer. She left witness and said she was going downstairs to get a cup of tea, which was a usual thing for her to do. The deceased brought up tea to him in the bedroom and stood by the bed while he drank it. She subsequently went downstairs, when witness heard her scream "Father, come to me; I am poisoned. Send for the doctor, call JOE and SELINA." Witness immediately went down stairs and asked the deceased what she had been taking. She answered "My drops; the chemists have sent me the wrong stuff; pull them up for it." He asked her when she sent for it, and she said "Last night; you'll find the bottle in the cupboard." There were two cupboards in the kitchen, and deceased pointed to one of them. Witness then laid her head on a chair and fetched his son, who came immediately. They endeavoured to lift the deceased up, but she said that her legs were paralysed, and that she could not move, as the pain was working up her body and that she was dying. Witness then left her in charge of his son and another man, named Charles Reynolds. He subsequently informed some of the neighbours of the fact and asked his son and a man named William Crump, who came to the house, to look into the cupboard. Witness knew that his wife had been in the habit of taking what she called "drops," but he did not know what they contained. The deceased knew that he was averse to her taking anything of the kind, but she told him that she had been accustomed to taking them for so many years that she could not do without them. He had often seen her in a very excited state - on an average two or three times a week. He would not say that the excitement was not caused by spirituous liquor, but attributed it to the "drops." The deceased was at times strange and noisy in her manner, but she had never attempted to take her life. There was nothing strange in her manner on the morning in question. So far as witness knew the deceased did not obtain these "drops" more than once a week, but he had been told and believed that she obtained them a great deal oftener. She was in dreadful pain when she brought up his tea and only remained in the bedroom about five minutes. - JOE MOLLAND, son of the last witness, said that on Wednesday morning he was called by his father to see the deceased, and he found her in a sitting position on the floor in the kitchen. She said, "Oh, JOE, I am dying - I am poisoned." The deceased repeated these words several times, and said that "They had sent her the wrong stuff," but did not mention any name. She stated, "You'll find the bottle in the cupboard; see to it for me," and requested witness to send for the doctor at once. On his suggesting that he should put her on a chair she objected, saying that her legs were stiff and subsequently she complained of a pain in the stomach and throat. After her death witness went to the cupboard and there found the five bottles produced. One of them marked A was partly full; the other, marked B, was resting on a piece of paper. The cork was out, but none of the liquid had been spilt. Witness stated that the deceased drank at times, but he had not seen her the worse for liquor for the last six months. - Philip F. Rowsell, chemist, Exeter, said that he knew the deceased, and for the past eighteen months or two years had been in the habit of supplying her with medicine according to the prescription produced, that prescription being 1 ½ oz. of solution of morphia to 1 ½ oz. of water, with which quantity she was supplied on Tuesday. He was unable to say in which of the bottles produced, the mixture was supplied; it was certainly not in one of the smaller ones. Witness observed that on the three larger bottles the labels were old, but it was not his custom to put new labels on her bottles. The bottle in which he supplied the mixture on Tuesday was brought in by a carrier, and the latter told him that it was for "drops" or medicine for MRS MOLLAND. Witness did not make up the prescription himself; it was made up by one of the apprentices called Hodges without his authority. The fact was that witness left the bottle on the counter and on the carrier calling for it the apprentice made up the "drops," which witness thought he was qualified to do. A copy of the original prescription was produced. - George Downing, carrier, of Thorverton, said that on Tuesday last he saw MRS MOLLAND at her home, when she asked him to take the bottle marked A to her chemist in Exeter, and bring back a mixture which would be labelled "poison." There was no label on the bottle when he received it from the deceased. The mixture was up to the fifth mark on the bottle and was paid for. - Dr Puddicombe, of Silverton, deposed that he was called to see the deceased about 9 o'clock on Wednesday morning. He found her quite dead in the kitchen, but she was still warm and had a bruise over the right eye, which was accounted for by a fall which was in no way connected with the death. Her limbs were freely movable, and there were no marks of violence. Witness had since made a post-mortem, the result of which was that the organs, except the liver, were quite healthy. He found the liver softer than usual, which might be accounted for by some fatty degeneration. There was nothing to account for death, and from his post-mortem he was unable to form an opinion. Witness had not examined the stomach, but that would be sent to London for analysis. - In answer to the Foreman of the Jury as to whether the amount of morphia in the bottle was sufficient to cause death, Dr Puddicombe stated that the mixture taken from the bottle would cause death provided it was up to the fifth mark. - The Coroner: How soon would the quantity she consumed take effect? - The Doctor: An ordinary case of poisoning by morphia, if she took three grains, would take three or four hours, if not more. - The Coroner, in addressing the Jury, thought they would agree with him that the case would require further consideration, and that could only be done by having an analysis of the stomach and also of the mixture contained in the bottle. He thought it would be desirable to adjourn the hearing for the present in order that the analysis might be made and further witnesses obtained. - The case was accordingly adjourned until Saturday, the 21st inst.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 9 November 1891
ASHWATER - An Inquest was held by Mr Coroner Prickman on Saturday on the body of JAMES ROGERS, of Mockworthy, Ashwater, a farmer, aged 81 years, who was thrown from his trap while returning from Holsworthy Market on Wednesday last. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

LIFTON - Mr Coroner Prickman held an Inquest on Friday at the Fox and Grapes Inn, Lifton, on the body of JOHN HOCKING, aged 51, of Tinney Farm, Lifton, a farmer and carrier, who was found dead in a field, where he had been to see his cattle, on Wednesday. The medical evidence showed that death was due to syncope and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 10 November 1891
EAST BUDLEIGH - Sudden Death At East Budleigh. - An Inquest, which disclosed a case of fearfully sudden death, was held yesterday at Frogmore, East Budleigh, before Mr Deputy Coroner Cox, on the body of THOMAS CARTER, aged 42, an agricultural labourer. It appears that the deceased, who was strictly abstemious in his habits, came home on Thursday from his work apparently in his usual good health, and retired to rest a little before 10 o'clock. He had only been in bed a short time when his wife was alarmed by hearing him breathing very heavily and before any assistance could be procured life was extinct. It was stated that the deceased, although, apparently, in the best of health, had forebodings that his death would be sudden, as he had expressed himself to that effect on various occasions. - Dr Evans stated that the post-mortem examination showed aneurism of the aorta, which would cause immediate death, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 11 November 1891
EXETER - An Inquest on the body of a child named PHILIP CHAVE, whose parents reside at 13 Albert-street, was held at the Exeter Police Court yesterday afternoon, before Mr Coroner Hooper. From the evidence of Dr Brown, it appeared that the child, who was only four days old, died of suffocation, and, it is supposed, was accidentally overlaid. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Suffocation, but how caused there is no evidence to show."

SHOBROOKE - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned yesterday at the Inquest on SAMUEL HURFORD, who was killed by a kick from a cow at Shobrooke on Sunday.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 13 November 1891
HOLSWORTHY - While MR J. JEFFRY, dairyman, Holsworthy, Mr W. Mead and Mr F. Fishley were descending Chasty-hill on Tuesday in a one-horse cart, on their way home to dinner, the horse, a usually very quiet colt, for some reason bolted, and, jumping through its harness, the shafts were suddenly raised in the air and the occupants of the cart precipitated violently back on to the road, the cart falling on them. MR JEFFRY was killed instantly, one eye being knocked out and his skull dreadfully fractured. Mr Fishley was badly bruised and cut about the head, but was able to walk home. Mr Mead escaped with only a little cut on the hand. Dr Goodman, of Chasty, who immediately called, but his services were of no avail in the case of MR JEFFRY, for whose family great sympathy is felt. Deceased was about 55 years of age. - An Inquest was held on Wednesday by Mr Coroner Prickman. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and remarked that no blame was attached to anyone.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 17 November 1891
SEATON AND BEER - The Fatal Railway Accident At Seaton. Inquest. Porters And The Regulations. - Yesterday, at the Beach Hotel, Seaton, Mr Deputy Coroner Cox, held an inquest to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of THOMAS ALFRED MOREY, a porter in the employ of the London and South-Western Railway Company, who was killed at Seaton Station on Saturday morning, as reported in yesterday's issue. Mr Percival, Railway Police Inspector, watched the proceedings on behalf of the Company. The Foreman of the Jury was Mr Stevens. - WALTER MOREY, of Exeter, identified the body as that of his son, who, he said, was 25 years of age and had been engaged in the Company's service for about 10 years. - William Madge, signalman, deposed to witnessing the accident. He said eight trucks, containing stone, were pulled out of the yard by the engine and the deceased wanted two to be shunted on to the platform line to go by the 8.25 a.m. train. After uncoupling them he gave the engine-driver the usual signal "to knock them up." Deceased was then in the waggon next to the two he had uncoupled, and which was joined to those attached to the engine. He was standing at the end with one hand on the stone and one foot on the rim of the truck. After the engine came back some distance the deceased held up his hands as a signal for the driver to stop, and on the speed being slackened the deceased fell forward out over, and two trucks passed over him. He called witness to pull him out and with the assistance of the engine-driver he did, and removed him to the goods shed, sending for medical aid in the meantime. - By Mr Percival: Deceased was not using the pole provided for porters when shunting with which to do the uncoupling. - Edward Salway, the engine-driver, said after receiving the signal from the deceased to "knock the trucks up" he saw him standing in one of them, and afterwards hold up both his hands for him to stop. As witness did so he saw him fall forward, whereupon he immediately applied the emergency brake. On assisting the last witness to pull him out the deceased asked if his leg was off. His left leg and one of his arms were nearly severed from the body. - Benjamin Bond, fireman, gave corroborative evidence. - William Badcock, the guard in charge of the 8.25 train, said he was not present at the time of the accident, and what the deceased was doing had nothing to do with him. - Mr E. A. Suter, Stationmaster at Seaton, said the regulations of the Company were that an uncoupling pole should be used when shunting, and there was one provided for the purpose at the Station. - The Coroner: Is it generally used for the purpose? - Witness: I have seen it. - The Coroner: Sometimes it may not be? - Witness: Sometimes it may not, but I cannot say. - Witness (continuing) said the deceased came to Seaton in April last. - The Foreman: Do you think he was fully competent to do the shunting? - A.: I think so. - Q.: Is it not a fact that he never did any shunting until he came here? - A.: I cannot tell. - Mr Evans, Surgeon, gave evidence to being called about twenty minutes to nine on Saturday morning and said on going immediately to the goods shed he found the deceased dead. His leg was nearly severed just above the knee, and also his arm. He had several compound fractures and there had been great loss of blood. He considered death was due to shock consequent upon the injuries. - Mr Percival was then requested by the Coroner to give evidence with reference to the regulations of the Company as to shunting. - On being sworn, he said porters were not supposed to go into the waggons and lean over the end to uncouple the chains, but to stand by the side and do so with a pole. - The Coroner: As a matter of fact, is this pole generally used for the purpose for which it is intended? - Witness: I am about the line at different places, and I have always seen it used. - Q.: Perhaps they know when you are about? - A.: It is no part of my duty to see that the shunting is done properly. - In summing up, the Coroner said it seemed that the deceased stood on one truck while he uncouple the others, and thus acted in contravention of the Company's regulations. From the evidence it appeared that no one was responsible to see that he used the pole provided. He did not know whether it was generally used, but he seldom saw such a thing when trucks were being uncouple. No doubt if it was it would prevent many deaths, and he hoped this accident would be the means of drawing attention to the fact, and it might induce the Railway Company to put greater pressure upon their servants to see that the pole was used. With regard to the accident, the brake was applied on the engine in obedience to the signal of the deceased, and no doubt he sudden jerk caused him to fall out. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and the Foreman said they wished to endorse the Coroner's remarks that more stringent measures should be taken by the Company to see that the rules with regard to shunting were put into force.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 18 November 1891
EXETER - Fatal Accident In An Exeter Foundry. - Yesterday morning a shocking accident occurred at the foundry of Messrs. Bodley Brothers, engineers and iron founders, Commercial-road, Exeter. Several of their workmen were engaged in hoisting castings by means of the shear legs, when a casting, while being raised, slipped, with the result that the sudden jerk caused the shear legs to give way and the casting fell with a terrible crash on the spot where three men were employed. A young man named THORN was struck and killed instantaneously and his companions had a narrow escape. The deceased was only 23 years of age, and it is stated was to have been married at Christmas. - An Inquest was subsequently held on the body by the City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, in one of the offices at the foundry. Mr Samuel Yeo was chosen as Foreman of the Jury. On behalf of Mr Campion, who was prevented from being present, Mr Charles Ashford represented the firm of Messrs. Bodley Bros. - ALFRED THORN, father of the deceased, residing at Holloway-buildings, Holloway-street, identified the body. His son was 23 years of age and resided with witness. The deceased was a labourer and worked for Messrs. Bodley Bros. Witness last saw the deceased alive about 7 o'clock when they left home together to go to their employment. His attention was attracted about 10.30 to a crash caused by the falling of a crane, and he ran with others for assistance, not knowing at the time that it was his son who met with the accident, as he was not allowed to go near the spot. Witness did not know how the accident occurred, or who was working with the deceased at the time. - Owen Henry Bodley, engineer and foreman of the works, at Messrs. Bodley Bros., said he was in the office about 10.15 yesterday morning when he saw the accident occur. Witness noticed two men at the crane, but did not see the deceased. The crane consisted of three shear legs composed of wood, which were worked by a winch or crab. The men were engaged in lifting a condenser casting from off a pair of iron trucks. Witness made a remark to one of the clerks in the office that something would go, by which observation he meant that the chain would either slip or the condenser would turn over. The estimated weight of the condenser and its contents was about two tons. As the men lifted it up and it reached its balancing point it canted over and the shear legs fell down. Witness did not see the deceased until after the accident, when several of the employees went to his assistance and took out his body, which was removed to an adjoining shed. - The Coroner: How long have these shear legs been in use? - Witness: I cannot say. Ever since I can remember. - The Coroner: They have been in use a great many years, I suppose? - Witness: A great many, I should say. - The Coroner: Do you know what wood it is made of. - Witness: Pitch-pine, I should say. - The Coroner: Has the structure ever been tarred or strengthened? - Witness: It has been pickled. - Mr Williams: Was it your duty as foreman of the works to see that the machinery was perfectly safe before it hoisted up such a weight? - Witness: I believe it was perfect. - Mr Williams: Have you ever given a certificate that the structure was safe? - Witness: No, it has been examined by a competent man. - A Juror: I have myself known the triangle for 50 or 60 years. I know it is half-rotten, and the poles never could have broken if they were solid. - In answer to Mr Yeo, witness said the triangle did not give way until the condenser tilted over. - A Juror: The thing itself was half rotten. - The Coroner: I think we had better adjourn this case in order that the Inspector of Factories might be here. - Mr Williams: The opinion of the majority of the Jury is that it is not fair to call us together in the "dimpse" of the evening like this. We are not able to form any opinion now as to the condition of the wood. - The Coroner: You can view it again tomorrow. - A Juror: I should suggest that the crane be not touched until we view it again. - The Coroner: Oh, yes. - Mr John Steele Perkins, Surgeon, of Exeter, deposed that he was called to Messrs. Bodley's foundry about 11 o'clock that morning. He immediately went and saw a man lying upon a sack and some straw, apparently just dead. Witness found the head of the deceased fractured, a part of the left frontal and temporal bone smashed and projecting out some considerable distance. The eyes appeared to have escaped injury, but the nose and part of the face were flattened. There were no other external injuries, but witness considered that some heavy weight must have fallen upon the deceased and caused instantaneous death. - A long discussion took place between the Jurymen as to the real nature of the accident, and the Inquest was adjourned until Thursday morning in order that the inspector of Factories might be communicated with.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 20 November 1891
EXETER - The Sad Fatality At An Exeter Foundry. Adjourned inquest. - The adjourned Inquest on the body of WILLIAM THORN, who met with his death on Tuesday at Messrs. Bodley Bros. Foundry, Commercial-road, Exeter, under circumstances already reported in the Gazette, was held yesterday by the City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, in one of the offices at the works. Mr Bignold, Inspector of Factories, watched the proceedings. Mr Charles Ashford represented Messrs. Campion, of Bedford-circus, Exeter, solicitors for Messrs. Bodley Bros. - Thomas Farnsworth, moulder, in the employ of Mr Bodley, and residing at Ware's Buildings, Commercial-road, said that he knew WILLIAM THORN, and was at work with him on the day of the accident, in company with six other employees, named Crump, Rossiter, Bowman, Bowden, Lewis, and Shipcott, engaged in hoisting a condenser of an iron trolley by means of shear legs, chains, and a winch. Witness estimated the casting to be about 50 cwt. - By the Coroner: When the casting reached its balancing point, what occurred? - Witness: It canted over, when the poles gave way, the deceased being struck by the head of the crank and another man named Crump receiving a slight cut on the back of the head. - In answer to the Coroner, as to how long he had been in the habit of working the shear legs, witness stated that he had nothing to do with them, as his place was in the Foundry. The legs, however, had been constantly used. He could not say as to whether they were dangerous or not. The deceased at the time of the accident was not engaged in the work of lifting the casting, but was casually looking on. - Mr Bignold: Was this a hand crank or a steam crank? - Witness: A hand crank. - Mr Bignold: You say it was iron against iron which caused the slip. Did that very much increase the strain on the shear legs? - Witness: Yes. - Mr Bignold: Were you superintending the party who were in charge of the casting? - Witness: No. There were two or three men superintending the removal of the cast from the truck. - Mr Bignold: Was there any man whose duty it was to regularly work this crane? - Witness: It was left to the furnace man. - By a Juror: Who had the superintending of the crane? - One witness the other evening said he was superintendent of the works, and he saw something was going to happen. The question is whether he, as superintendent of the works, was responsible for the working of the machinery, or whether some other person was held responsible. Mr Owen Bodley ought to have seen to the matter at the time. - The Coroner: As I understand it, the accident took place so suddenly that Mr Bodley had not time to do so. - In answer to the Coroner as to how long after the casting came to its balancing point the man was struck, witness stated that the accident was instantaneous. - William Bowman, labourer, also in the employ of Messrs. Bodley Bros., and residing at Exe Island, deposed that he was at work in the foundry yard on Tuesday assisting in putting the chain around the casting. Just as they began to lift by the aid of the crane the casting turned, and the poles gave way, striking the deceased on the head. - The Coroner: How long have you known these shear legs? - Witness: I frequently work at the crane, but did not consider them dangerous. - The Coroner: Have you ever lifted heavier weights? - Witness: A great deal heavier. - Witness, in answer to a question put by Mr Bignold, said that he had assisted before in moving castings and considered that the chains were placed around the condenser quite safely. He had never seen the heavier castings surge like the one in question, or noticed anything insecure or rotten in the wood. Witness did not notice that the legs had been propped up. He did not consider that the poles were rotten. - One of the Jurymen then produced some small pieces of wood to prove that the poles were unsafe, but the Coroner did not think it right to produce the wood unless they knew exactly where it came from. - Mr Ashford: Was there a piece of wood for the casting to rest upon? - Witness: There was no wood on the condenser before being lifted. - A Juror: You never knew of a casting being hoisted without surging on one side? - Witness: No; they always do. - Mr Ashford asked Mr Bodley if he would tell the Jury what he considered the cause of the accident. - Mr Bodley said he was extremely sorry for the affair. No one could feel it more deeply than himself, as he had always taken every precaution possible to prevent any mishap, and usually assisted personally in any important work being done. On the morning of the accident, however, he was out of town. He generally took as dangerous a part as anybody on the works, and it would therefore be his duty to see that everything was in good working order. He had a new chain for the poles within the past twelve months, of the very best make, as he did not consider the old one was quite safe. - The Coroner: The chain looks remarkably good. - Mr Bodley, continuing, said that he considered the accident to have arisen from the slipping of the casting off the trucks and falling a distance of about three feet with a sudden shock, which he estimated to be equal to a strain of about twelve tons, which fell mostly on one leg. In accordance with his instruction, the poles were repaired as recently as February 1889, when they were examined thoroughly by the foreman of the wood department, who reported them to be safe. The poles were subsequently tarred to make them doubly safe. - Mr Williams, one of the Jurymen, considered it negligence on the part of the foreman of works not to have warned the men working at the crane of its unsafe condition. - Mr Bodley pointed out that he was responsible for the accident. The foreman did not notice anything wrong until the whole thing was going. The accident was instantaneous. Mr Bodley further stated that that was the first fatal accident that had happened on the works for the past 100 years. - Mr Bignold said that he had frequently visited Messrs. Bodley's Foundry and whenever he had occasion to point out anything that appeared dangerous his wishes were promptly carried out. - The Coroner, in summing up, said that what the Jury had to consider was whether the deceased met his death by a pure accident, or whether any person or persons were criminally responsible for the loss of life. It appeared that several men were engaged in lifting a condenser, which, when it reached a certain point, canted over and by so doing caused a great strain upon the shear legs, as a result of which they broke and fell upon the head of the deceased. The accident was one of the most horrifying sights he had ever been called upon to witness. He could not suggest that there was any criminal responsibility arising from the case. - Before giving their verdict the Jury said they would like to ask Mr Bodley how many years the shear legs had been in use. - Mr Bodley thought that the present poles had been in use for about 30 years, and when they were put up special wood was ordered for the job. - The Jury, after giving the matter full consideration, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death, owing to the defective state of the shear legs," but held no one responsible for the occurrence.

EXMOUTH - Mr Deputy Coroner Cox held an Inquest at the Beach Hotel, Exmouth, yesterday, on the body of ANN HOOK, an elderly woman, who had resided at that place for six and a half years. Mr Abell was chosen Foreman of the Jury. FRANK WILLIAM HOOK, son of the deceased, and described as a Naval Reserve man, at the Exmouth Battery, deposed that he last saw his mother alive about a week ago. On Monday, on his way to his drill, he was met by a Mrs Bradford, who informed him that he mother was feeling unwell. He told her that he would call in the evening. - FRANK HOOK, grandson of the deceased, said he was talking with the deceased when she fell back and expired. - Polly Densham, domestic servant, engaged at the Hotel, said deceased had been continually suffering from pains in the head and bowels, and on Monday she was called up to see her by FRANK HOOK, jun., it being about quarter to seven. Eliza Ann Richards, serving at the bar, said she was called by FRANK HOOK on the evening in question. Deceased had been dead about five minutes. Dr Hodgson said he removed the body to the Maud Hospital and on Wednesday made a post-mortem examination. He found that the deceased had died through the rupture of a blood vessel on the heart. He remarked that if MRS HOOK had consulted a medical man some time before he might have been able to prolong life. The woman said she would never have a doctor. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

SAMPFORD PEVERELL - Mr F. Burrow, District Coroner, held an Inquest at Sampford Peverell on the body of JAMES WRIGHT, of Ridge Farm, who on Friday afternoon was found by his son hanging from a beam in a stable by a rope, which was fastened round his neck. - The evidence of the deceased's son and daughter, showed that their father had been much depressed and under medical care. - Mr N. E. Grigg, Surgeon, Holcombe Rogus, said he considered that the deceased's brain was disordered, and that he was scarcely accountable for his actions. - The Jury found that the deceased committed Suicide while in a State of Unsound Mind.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 21 November 1891
LYDFORD - The Fatality At Lydford Station. - Last evening an Inquest was held at the South Western Railway office, Lydford, by Mr Prickman, Coroner, on the body of RICHARD PRIEST, a porter, aged 25 years, and a native of Northtawton. - WILLIAM OLIVER PRIEST, deceased's brother, identified the body, and said his father was killed in the same way. - From the testimony of John Richard Jones, engine-driver, of Exeter, and John Pomeroy, also an engine-driver of that city, it appeared that the deceased was assisting in shunting near Lydford Station on the previous evening, when he was knocked down and killed by the engine of the 4.15 p.m. train from Exeter. Jones, who was driving a goods train from Plymouth, noticed the down train approaching, and called out to the deceased, who was walking on the ends of the sleepers on the down road; but PRIEST was at once knocked down and death appeared to be instantaneous. Pomeroy, the driver of the passenger train, did not know that an accident had occurred until he reached Friary Station. The night was very dark. - Mr Russell, Station Master, Lydford, stated that the deceased was on the relief staff, and was relieving a sick workman. He had been at Lydford a week. The relief staff were supplied with the Company's time-table. - Dr Young, the Company's District Medical Practitioner, stated that the deceased had a wound on the head. The staff at the Station had made every provision for the comfort of the poor fellow had the accident now been a fatal one. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," adding that they did not think anyone was to blame for the accident. - Mr Whiteway was Foreman of the Jury. Inspector Foster, of Exeter, watched the proceedings on behalf of the Company.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 23 November 1891
STOKE CANON - The Sad Death At Stoke Canon. Adjourned Inquest. Death By Misadventure. - The Deputy Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, held an adjourned Inquest on Saturday afternoon at the Stoke Canon Inn, Stoke Canon, on the body of CAROLINE MOLLAND, aged 52, wife of JOHN MOLLAND, tailor, who met with her death on the 4th instant under circumstances, a report of which appeared in the Gazette of Saturday, November 7th. As death was supposed to have resulted from poisoning the Inquiry subsequently held was adjourned to have the contents of the stomach analysed. - Mr W. Friend, (Friend and Beal), appeared on behalf of Mr W. Rowsell, chemist, of Exeter, and his apprentice, William John Hodges. Mr Superintendent Jesse (Deputy Chief Constable) watched the proceedings on behalf of the County Police. The Rev. F. Robson was the Foreman of the Jury. Dr Blyth, of London (Public Analyst for the County of Devon) and Dr Puddicombe, of Silverton, who attended the deceased, were also present. - The Coroner, in opening the proceedings, said that he had summoned Dr Blyth, who had made an analysis of the contents of the stomach as well as of the mixture. He would not, however, be present until the arrival of the 3 o'clock train, and in the meantime he would take other evidence. After reading the depositions taken at the last Inquiry, the Coroner asked Mr Rowsell several questions bearing upon his former evidence. - The Rev. F. Robson then asked witness whether the mixture was ready when the carrier called for it, or whether he had to wait while it was being made up. - The Coroner thought it was a question which should be put to the carrier. - Superintendent Jesse: Was the solution you were in the habit of making up from a prescription? - Witness: We had it entered on our books as a prescription, but no signature was attached. - I notice that on the label of the bottle there were no directions as to how the drops should be taken? - No. Usually when mixtures are repeated there are no directions. - Is that so with most medical men? - As a rule there are directions. - May I take it that anybody having similar mixture without directions would be liable to make a very great mistake as to the quantity they might take? - I do not think that would apply in the case of the morphia habit. - May I ask you how often you have been in the habit of making up prescriptions for the deceased? - Two or three times a week. - Mr Friend: I understand you to mean that this is by no means an isolated case. The deceased had been a customer of yours for a long time - quite 18 months or two years - and during the whole of that period had been in the habit of dealing with you? - Yes. - In answer to Mr Friend, witness said that during the time the deceased had done business with him he had usually made up the mixture himself, and the apprentice Hodges had an opportunity of seeing him. The deceased would, as a rule, have 1s. worth of the mixture, but on one or two occasions she exceeded the quantity. - Assuming that the bottle was filled up to the blue mark, and that there was more in the bottle than the quantity ordered, that would be strong evidence that the mixture had not come from your shop? - Yes. - In further answer to Mr Friend, witness stated that Hodges had been in his employ about two years, and, although not qualified under the Act, he should think he was quite competent and capable of attending to prescriptions of the kind in question. Witness believed him to be a well-conducted youth, and had had no occasion to speak to him of carelessness. The shelves above the counter were about three feet from the floor, but were only placed there in a temporary sense. The poisons were kept in a cupboard in the other shop, but owing to the process of changing premises it was found necessary to place some of them on the shelves in question. Between the two bottles containing solution of morphia and solution of strychnine - which were about six inches apart, and both plainly labelled - there were other smaller bottles. - The Coroner: Do I understand you to say that the two bottles were on the same shelf? - That is so. - Would morphia and would strychnine be kept together whether you had a poison cupboard or not? - Yes. - Would you supply solution of morphia without any prescription? - I should make inquiries into the case, and would supply it if the bottle were labelled "Poison." - Do you ever label the bottles containing solution of morphia "Poison?" - Usually, but the labels are sometimes rubbed off. - George Downing, carrier, of Thorverton, who gave evidence at the last Inquiry, said, in answer to the Coroner, that when he left the bottle with Mr Rowsell the latter did not instruct him as to what time to call for it. Witness, however, called for the mixture about 3 o'clock on the 3rd instant and waited until it was made up. He delivered the bottle to the deceased personally the same day. When he received it from the chemist it was wrapped up in paper, but before he reached home the paper came off, and he delivered the bottle to MRS MOLLAND naked. The bottle was labelled "poison" when he received it from the chemist. - Mr Friend: We are willing to admit that the apprentice put up the mixture and handed it to Downing. - Charles Reynolds, smith, of Stoke Canon, deposed that he was passing the house of the deceased about half-past 9 on Wednesday, the 4th inst., when her son, JOSEPH MOLLAND, asked him inside to assist in lifting the deceased up, as she had fallen to the ground. Witness did so, and found MRS MOLLAND lying on her back in the kitchen. She looked up, and asked that someone might hold her legs, and subsequently said that she had been poisoned - the chemist had sent her the wrong stuff. The deceased did not mention any names, but said that the bottle was in the cupboard. She then said, "I'm dying; see to it, JOE, for me." Witness remained in the house until ten minutes to nine, when the deceased expired. - William John Hodges, apprentice to Mr Rowsell, deposed that he was 19 years of age, and had been with his employer about 19 months. On Tuesday, November 3rd, he remembered Downing calling at the shop about two o'clock for MRS MOLLAND'S "drops." Witness, to the best of his belief, measured 1 ½ ozs. of solution of morphia with an ounce measure and the same quantity of water into the bottle. There was a "Poison" label on the bottle when he took it from the counter, which he did not put on the bottle. Witness had previously dispensed drops under the supervision of Mr Roswell. - Dr Blyth then produced the bottle which he had received, and which witness identified as the one that was brought to the shop. - The Coroner: Whenever you have dispensed it has always been under the supervision of Mr Rowsell? - Witness: Yes. - How is it you did not do so on this occasion? - We were very much pressed for time just then, and I hardly thought it worthwhile to call Mr Rowsell down. - Mr Rowsell at this time was upstairs? - He was. - From what shelf did you take the morphia bottle? - The top shelf. - Is that the shelf upon which poisons are kept? - Not as a rule; but on this occasion they were. - Was the bottle containing strychnine also on the same shelf? - It was. - How far apart were these two bottles? - I should say about six inches. - How did you know what quantity was required? - Because 1s. was paid for it. - Did Downing pay you the shilling? - No, but he told me he had paid a shilling for it. - Did you refer to the prescription book? - No I did not. - What quantity would be supplied for that sum? - Three ounces - 1 ½ oz. of solution of morphia and 1 ½ oz. of water. - In answer to further questions from the Coroner, witness said that the bottle marked "A" was the one which he supplied. - Witness, in reply to Superintendent Jesse, said the two bottles were on the same shelf and the mixture in both would be of a very transparent character. The shelf was about forty inches from the counter, and the light fell fall upon it. It had been a very busy day. On previous occasions when witness made up the medicines Mr Rowsell was present. None of the writing on the bottles produced was in witness's hand. Witness had never supplied, or seen supplied from the shop, more than three ounces. To put up the solution of morphia he had to use the measure twice, once full and once half full. He also measured the water in the same way. - Witness, in answer to Mr Friend, said he used every diligence and care in putting up the mixture, and did not supply more than the quantity. The deceased was a constant purchaser, and the bottle was sent for these "drops" about three times a week. Witness had never known the deceased to purchase more than 3 ozs., for which she always sent a shilling. He would not be induced to supply more than the quantity for that sum, as that would be an improper act. The bottles were 6 oz. bottles in which the 3 ozs. were put. - Dr Puddicombe, of Silverton, said that he had made a post-mortem and on the last occasion delivered the contents of the stomach of the deceased sealed in a glass jar to Constable Parnell, which the latter proved receiving and taking to London to be analysed. - Dr A. W. Blyth deposed to analysing the contents of the bottle and of the stomach. The bottle contained a solution of strychnine, two grains to the ounce. It was an ordinary six ounce bottle divided into one ounce divisions by lines. The exact amount of liquid in the bottle was four ounces and nine-tenths of an ounce. Both the liquids - solution of morphia and solution of strychnine contained in the bottle was practically of the same strength as the solution of morphia stated to have been dispensed by the witness Hodges. He could find no traces of morphia in the bottle. Witness also made an analysis of the contents of the stomach, from which he separated a very minute portion of strychnine, not more than two-thirteenths of a grain. That would not be sufficient in an adult to cause death. - Would a great deal of it be absorbed in the intestines? - It would gradually disappear, especially if the person lived a considerable time after taking it. - Would it become absorbed in the course of an hour and a half? - Death usually occurs in two hours, so that the strychnine which causes death is not in the stomach, but in the tissues, so that a great deal of it would disappear in that time. - Have you formed any opinion as to the cause of death? - From the evidence as to the symptoms, it is clearly a case of strychnine poisoning. The difference between the quantity which I analysed and five ounces would not, in my opinion, contain sufficient to cause death. - The Coroner, after again reading the evidence given at the last Inquiry, asked Dr Blyth if he considered the symptoms there stated to correspond with his own idea. - Dr Blyth said he had no doubt that death resulted from strychnine poisoning, as there was mention of stiffness of the legs and pain in the throat. - Can you tell us whether the contents of the bottle had been measured in dispensing? - I can only say that if there was any idea of putting two grains to the ounce it was very accurately done. - Superintendent Jesse: May I ask if there was any trace of morphia in the stomach or in the bottle? - Witness: No. - Supposing the mixture to have been up to the fifth mark, would the amount of strychnine that was in the bottle be sufficient to cause death? - It would be about one-fifth of a grain; a quarter of a grain is about the smallest dose ever known to destroy life. A fifth of a grain might cause death. - Mr Friend, in the course of an earnest appeal on behalf of the lad, dwelt on the very sad circumstances both of the life and death of the deceased and the difficulty they must experience in placing reliance upon what she said and did. With regard to the mixture, he pointed out that there was the evidence of Hodges that he was most careful in making it up, and the evidence of other witnesses indirectly confirmed the apprentice's statement. He pointed out that the quantity of mixture supplied by Hodges was not so great as the quantity found in the bottle after her death, and it was, therefore, quite possible that the mixture she took was some other than that which she received from Mr Rowsell's establishment, or that it was mixed with something that had been obtained elsewhere, Mr Rowsell not being the only chemist whom the deceased patronised. To his mind the whole of the evidence pointed to the conclusion that there had been some addition to the morphia mixture after it left Mr Rowsell's shop. In any case he asked the Jury to conclude that the death was due to misadventure. - The Coroner, in summing up, said that it appeared to him that the Jury would have to consider three points - whether death was caused by poison; how that poison was obtained; and whether anyone was responsible for death. The deceased had been in the habit of taking morphia for a great many years. Sometimes she got it from one chemist; sometimes from another. And she seemed to have been supplied under circumstances which were not very satisfactory. It appeared that the deceased had only to produce money, and she was supplied with any quantities according to the sum which she tendered. He could not speak too strongly on such a system as that, for it was a system which might lead to more serious results. The evidence of Dr Blyth pointed conclusively to the fact that strychnine was the cause of death. With regard to the question as to how the mixture was obtained, they had the evidence of the carrier who took the bottle to the chemist and received it back again. If the Jury considered that Hodges was to blame it would of course be their duty to say so. On the other hand, there was a great deal to be said in his favour. He, in the absence of his master, no doubt anxious to carry out his duties with zeal, unfortunately dispensed the mixture. These were the questions the Jury had to consider, and they must say whether Hodges was guilty of culpable negligence or whether he dispensed the medicine by misadventure. - The Jury then retired, and after a brief consultation returned a verdict of "Death by Misadventure" at the hands of Hodges, and at the same time expressed their censure of the careless way in which the mixture was dispensed by the chemist.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 24 November 1891
EXETER - The Fatal Accident At Cowley Bridge. - Mr H. W. Hooper, the City Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday afternoon at the New Police Court, Exeter, into the circumstances attending the death of GEORGE LAKE, a packer, in the employ of the Great Western Railway Company, who was knocked down and killed by a train on Saturday afternoon at the Cowley Bridge. Mr Crocker was chosen Foreman of the Jury. Chief Inspector Shattock was present on behalf of the Great Western Railway Company. - Thomas Pyke, packer, in the service of the Great Western Company, and living at Three Horse Shoes, Upton Pyne, said that he knew the deceased, who was a married man, aged 35 with four children, and he also lived at Three Horse Shoes. Deceased was a packer on the Great Western Railway. Witness saw him last alive on Saturday morning, and he was then in good health. Deceased was witness's son-in-law and they lived together. - John Hookway, ganger on the Great Western Railway, deposed to seeing deceased at work about 250 yards above the Cowley Junction on Saturday. Deceased was sober at the time. Witness gave him an order to go to the hut to get some packing, the hut being about 300 yards distant. Deceased went to carry out this order. Some time afterwards the signalman at the Junction told witness that he believed that LAKE had been knocked down by the 9 train from London. Witness went to the bridge and there found LAKE lying close to the wall of the bridge, with his face to the ground. He was quite dead. Witness left a man in charge of the body and then asked the signalman to wire to Exeter full particulars of the accident. When the 9 train was coming down a South-Western train to Plymouth passed it on the bridge. - By a Juror: Witness did not caution the deceased when he sent him to get the packing, nor did he consider that it was his duty to caution the men about the trains. - Inspector Shattock said that all the men were supplied with a copy of the Company's rules and the deceased would know the times of the trains as well as the ganger. - Thomas Tams, fireman, said he was on the G.W.R. train that left Bristol at 12 o'clock on Saturday. When they reached Cowley Bridge Junction, witness saw a man walking along outside the down line of rails. Witness opened the small whistle, but the steam from an approaching train on the up line at that moment hid the man from view, and witness did not again see him. The train on which witness was riding was going at the rate of about 50 miles an hour at the time. - Charles Marment, engine-driver on the same train, said that the last witness told him, after they had passed the Cowley Junction, that he had seen a man on the line but he had lost sight of him in the steam. When they arrived at Exeter witness gave information of what his mate had told him and upon examining the engine he found marks of blood upon it. - William Steed, signalman at Cowley Bridge, said that at 1.55 p.m. on Saturday he went out of his cabin to flag the 12.0 o'clock down express from Bristol, and he saw a man walking on the near side of the down line. Witness shouted out "Down train" as loud as he could, but the man took no notice and walked on. At that moment the 1.45 South-Western train to Plymouth passed the box. Meanwhile the express had passed out of sight and as witness could not see anybody standing on the line or at the side he concluded that the man must have been knocked down. Witness called the ganger, and told him what he thought had happened and this proved to be correct. - Mr Moone, Surgeon, of Exeter, said that he was called by Inspector Shattock on Saturday afternoon shortly after 2 o'clock to go to see the deceased at Cowley Bridge. Witness saw the man was dead. His head had been smashed in, the brains were protruding; there was a compound fracture of both legs and of the right arm. Witness had the man removed to the Cowley Bridge Inn. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," the Coroner remarking that no blame was to be attached to anybody.

PLYMOUTH - The Suicide Of A Plymouth Tradesman. - The Inquest on the body of MR ALBERT CANNICOTT, stationer, of 193 Union-street, Plymouth, who shot himself on Saturday morning, was held the same evening at Tremlett's Temperance Hotel, at the corner of Bank of England-place, by Mr A. S. Clark, the Coroner. - Miss Emily Hannam, shop assistant, deposed to having heard deceased say a day or two previously, "I wish I were dead," and n Thursday he said, "I have a lot of trouble." She only saw him the worse for liquor once, about a month ago. - Walter Roberts, employed as an errand boy in the stationery business recently conducted by the deceased, deposed to hearing the report of a gun and finding the deceased on the floor dead. - Inspector Hill, of the Plymouth Police, proved being called to see the body. A revolver was tightly clutched in his hand. On examination it was found that only one chamber had been loaded, and this cartridge had been exploded. In a drawer he found a packet containing four cartridges. The revolver was purchased on the 17th inst. from Mr Edward Fox, 17 Old Town-street, for 16s. Deceased, when he purchased the weapon, remarked that it was a present for friend who was going to Australia. On the table he found a letter addressed to MRS CANNICOTT, 14 Victoria-terrace, Exmouth. It was written on a memorandum form, on which was printed the name of the deceased. - The letter said, "I consider I have been taken in over this business, and I see no chance of pulling through." - By the Foreman: Did you communicate with the wife? - Inspector Hill: Yes, I wired that her husband had been found dead and received an answer from MRS CANNICOTT to the following effect: "Will come. By in Plymouth this evening." - The Coroner, in summing up, remarked that he had known the deceased personally for some time and from his knowledge of the temperament of the man he was convinced that the rash act was committed in a moment when he was unaccountable for his actions. - The Jury returned a verdict that "Deceased had Committed Suicide by Shooting Himself with a revolver while labouring under Temporary Insanity."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 27 November 1891
EXETER - An Inquest was held yesterday afternoon by Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, into the circumstances of the death of LOUISA SMITH, who, for about six months, had been housekeeper at the Black Horse Inn, Exeter. ALFRED COLLARD, shoemaker, of Bath-road, identified the body as that of his sister; Louis Collins said that he found the deceased in bed dead yesterday morning; and Dr Kempe considered that death was caused by the deceased fainting through sudden failure of the heart's action. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

EXETER - Mr H. W. Hooper, the Exeter City Coroner, yesterday afternoon held an Inquest, at the New Police Court, into the circumstances attending the death of JANE ANN BEATRICE DARTON STACEY, of 13 Spiller's-street, which occurred on Wednesday morning. Mr Stokes was chosen Foreman of the Jury. THOMASINE SUTTON GILL, widow, of 41 Adelaide-street, Plymouth, identified the body as that of her sister, who, she said, had been a dressmaker at Plymouth, but had been living in Exeter for the past 11 years. The deceased was 31 years of age and was a single woman. Rosina Stevens, charwoman of 7 Waterloo-court, deposed to sleeping in the same house with the deceased on Tuesday night. At about 10 o'clock on Wednesday morning witness went into the deceased's room and found her dead. Dr A. Kempe, of Exeter, who was called to see the deceased at about 11 o'clock, said that she appeared at that time to have been dead three or four hours. There were no marks of violence on the body. Witness had made a post-mortem examination of the body and he considered that death had been caused by heart disease and bronchitis combined, accelerated by alcoholic poisoning. A verdict was returned in accordance with the medical evidence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 30 November 1891
TEIGNMOUTH - Sudden Death At Teignmouth. - An Inquest was held on Saturday night by Mr Hacker, Coroner, on the body of ROBERT SQUAREY, an old and respected townsman, who was found dead on Friday night. After hearing the evidence a verdict was given in accordance with the medical testimony that the deceased died from a fit of apoplexy. Great sympathy is expressed for the friends of the deceased.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 2 December 1891
TOTNES - Inquest at Totnes Workhouse. A Woman Sets Herself On Fire. - Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of SUSAN HILL, an inmate of the Totnes Union Workhouse, yesterday afternoon. Mr E. Middleton was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The body having been viewed, William Beer, house-porter at the Totnes Workhouse, said deceased was called SUSAN HILL, was 63 years of age and was not married. Witness knew of no relations of the deceased. She had been in the House some time and came from Dartmouth. On Sunday about 3 p.m. he heard someone call out "Fire!" and he went to the sewing-room, from whence screams proceeded. He found deceased sitting in the bath in the bath-room, a few stairs below the sewing-room. There was a little water in the bath and her clothes were burning, so he took an apron, dipped it into water and wrapped it around her. The Matron was sent for and deceased was removed to the Hospital. - Charlotte Ann Miller, the schoolmistress at the Workhouse, stated that hearing screams of fire she went upstairs and found deceased in the bath with the cold water tap on. She removed the clothes off her and smothered the flames. When asked how she caught fire, deceased replied, "I set fire to myself. I did it with a match. I did not think it was going to be as bad." Continuing, witness said SUSAN HILL had taken a match from the chimney-piece of the sewing-room. When last seen she was in her usual health. - Mary Smith, a very old woman, of the Workhouse, said she was in the sewing-room by herself, and, hearing cries of "Fire!" went out and made out some burning fabrics of a dress. - Mrs Babbage, the head nurse, said deceased died on Monday night, at 10 minutes to 8 o'clock. Two or three times deceased said she intended destroying herself in some way, because she was tired of life. She said she got a match and set herself on fire. - Dr Hains, Medical Officer to the Union, stated he had known deceased some time, and lately she complained to him she could not swallow. He found nothing amiss with her and then she told him it was because she had tried to cut her throat with a knife. He saw no marks about her and noticed no symptoms of insanity. When he was called on Sunday deceased said, "I got a match and paper and set fire to myself." She died from the shock of burning. - Margaret Allery also gave evidence. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Burning." They were also of opinion that deceased was Temporarily Insane.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 3 December 1891
TEIGNMOUTH - Strange Death At Teignmouth. - An Inquest was held by Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, at the London Hotel, Teignmouth, yesterday, on the body of SELINA OSBORNE, who died on Sunday last. ROBERT OSBORNE, general dealer, said: Deceased was my wife, and she was 69 years of age. Some eight week since, after I had retired, my wife on coming up the stairs fell back and remained on the floor through the night. On my getting up in the morning I inquired of her what was the matter and why she had not been to bed. She remarked, "What odds is that to you?" I tried all I could to get her to bed, but she would not go, and lay there through the Sunday and till Monday night, when with the assistance of Mr Perryman and some neighbours we forcibly got her from the position she was in, and put her to bed. The deceased was a most obstinate woman and I could not do anything with her. She was also given to drink very much and as she had often been in the habit of falling about, I did not attach much importance to the affair until Midday on Sunday, when I used every persuasion I could to get her to bed, but she would not go. In the meantime a medical man had been sent for, but she insisted on staying where she was. - Harriet Johnson, a neighbour, said she was informed by MR OSBORNE that his wife had fallen over the stairs on the Saturday night and she went to her the following morning, when she informed her that she had fallen over the stairs and hurt her leg. She asked witness to fetch her some brandy, which she did. Witness said, "You are surely not going to stay here," and she remarked that she should as long as she liked. Witness also took her different things during the day, and she again remarked that she was very comfortable and would stay as long as she pleased. She stayed there till Monday night, and witness then advised her husband to get her to bed. Assistance was got and with difficulty she was put on the bed. - Mr S. Perryman said that he was informed by the husband of the deceased that his wife had fallen over the stairs, and that she would not go to bed. He went to her and saw her lying at the bottom of the stairs and advised her to go to bed, but she would not. He told her he had come with the intention of putting her there and after great difficulty got her to bed. She informed him that she fell back over the stairs and had hurt her leg. - Mr Rudd, Surgeon, said he was called to see deceased as she lay in the passage, but as he could not examine her in that position he advised her to go to bed, but she would not. After she had forcibly been put there he again visited her and found that her leg was swollen to such an extent that he could not find out if any bones were broken. He did all he could to relieve her pain and she said she did not want to be interfered with. Dr Thomas, his partner, then visited her, and she threw something at him. In consequence of the woman's obstinate character they advised that she should be sent to the Infirmary. On the 26th f November the husband came to him again, and asked if he would go to deceased, which he did. She then told him she would not be interfered with, and that she would not take any medicine. She was also visited on the day before her death. He should say death was caused by the injury to deceased's leg, mortification having set in. - JESSIE OSBORNE stated that at the time of the accident she was living in service, but was fetched by her brother to go and see deceased, when she found her lying in the passage. She advised her in every way to go to bed, but deceased would not do so. She was most obstinate and no one could do anything with her. Deceased died last Sunday morning. - The Jury were of opinion that deceased met her death through the result of the accident and returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 4 December 1891
WOODBURY - Fatal Accident At Woodbury. - An Inquest was held at Rydon Mills, Woodbury, yesterday, before Mr Deputy Coroner Cox, touching the death of MR WILLIAM SMITH, who was drowned in the stream outside his mill on Tuesday morning. The deceased, who was 69 years of age on the Sunday previous to his death, had complained of feeling giddy. About 6.30 on the morning of Tuesday he went out, as usual, to draw up the fender. As he did not return, MRS SMITH became alarmed and sent her son to look for the deceased, but not a trace of him could be found, as it was then nearly dark. Later on, however, deceased was found in the mill let against the grating outside the mills. He was at once taken from the water, but life was then extinct. Witnesses who were called said that had there been railings around the leat at the spot in question the accident would not have happened. The Police Sergeant in charge of the case stated that this was the second case of drowning at the place in question. A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned.

COFFINSWELL - An Inquest was held at the Parsonage, Coffinswell, Newton Abbot, on Friday, touching the death of a MISS SMITH, who had committed suicide by hanging. The deceased had been staying since August last at the Parsonage with the Rev. Ellis and Mrs Dunn. She had been subject to fits of depression and pains in her head. On Thursday morning the nursemaid discovered deceased hanging in her bedroom, and she was found to be dead. Deceased had previously made an attempt on her life. The Jury brought in a verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind." The deceased lady's home was at Chichester, her father being a brewer. She was 30 years of age.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 5 December 1891
MORETONHAMPSTEAD - Suicide At Moretonhampstead. - An Inquest was held at Gray's Hotel, Moretonhampstead, on Thursday evening, by Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, on the body of a young man named GEORGE BALLAMY (of the firm of Ballamy and Son, butchers, of Moretonhampstead), aged 31 years, who was found dead in a barn in the North Bovey-road, about half a mile from his home, on Wednesday evening, death having been caused by a gun-shot wound in the mouth. The evidence showed that deceased, who lived at home with his parents, had of late complained of a cold and of pains in his back. On Wednesday he was noticed to be somewhat strange in his demeanour, though no danger was anticipated; but later in the day his dead body was discovered in a barn, with a recently discharged gun by his side. - The Jury returned a verdict "That deceased Committed Suicide by Shooting himself while in a state of Temporary Insanity."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 7 December 1891
EXETER - An Inquest was held by Mr Coroner Hooper at the Exeter Police Court on Saturday afternoon on the body of JOSEPH SIDNEY SNELL, 13, who walked into the river from the Quay near the Custom House on Friday evening and was drowned. HENRY SNELL, stoker at the Gas Works, said the deceased was his brother, and was in the employ of Mr Pugsley. He heard that his brother was in the water, and on going to Commercial-road, he identified the body. Deceased was near-sighted. - Frederick Matthews said while near the Custom House at about quarter past eight the previous evening, he heard a splash, as of someone falling into the water. Witness went back to Mr Yeo's, and a young man named Slee came out.. They went to the spot, but just as they reached it the boy sank. Someone came with a grapnel and the body was recovered after three-quarters of an hour. Witness was unable to swim. - William Perriam, who recovered the body, said the life-saving apparatus ought to be kept at the Custom House instead of at the ferry. - Dr Harrison said he was called to see the boy, who was apparently dead. Witness tried to restore consciousness, but failed. In his opinion death was due to suffocation by drowning. - A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned. The Coroner said he would communicate with the Town Council respecting the dangerous character of the spot where the deceased walked into the water.

EXETER - Mr Coroner Hooper held an Inquest on the body of SARAH LAKE, 83, widow, of Reynold's-court, Blackboy-road. HARRIET LAKE identified the body as that of her mother. On November 16th, about 7 a.m., deceased was walking across the room when she slipped and fell heavily. Deceased complained that she had knocked her knee, which got worse. - Dr Bell said he examined the deceased's left leg and found the thigh bone fractured. The accident was the cause of death. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 10 December 1891
CREDITON - Burned To Death At Crediton. The Inquest. - Last evening, at the Oat Sheaf Inn, Crediton, Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest touching the death of BERTIE ARCHIBALD STONE, aged four years, who died on Tuesday morning after being severely burned, as reported in our yesterday's issue. - SAMUEL STONE, father of the deceased, said he went to work on Tuesday morning about 7 o'clock, leaving deceased in bed, his three daughters, aged 14, 12, and 7 years respectively, being also in the house. He usually left them in charge of his niece, who was 25 years of age, but she had not arrived. After he had been at work about half-an-hour, he was informed that his son had met with an accident. He immediately returned home and found the deceased in bed terribly burnt, but quite conscious. The child died at half-past 10 o'clock. - ELSIE MAUD STONE, aged six years, said she and the deceased got up together, and shortly after their father left. They both went downstairs, neither of them being dressed. It was dark, and the deceased went into the back kitchen and procured a benzoline lamp, which he placed on the top of the fire in order to light it. The oil from the lamp fell on his nightdress, which was immediately in a blaze. He went upstairs screaming and she and her sister also screamed and Mrs Keightley, a neighbour, came to their assistance. She had never seen anyone light the lamp in a similar way before. - Eliza Keightley, wife of Martin Keightley, said she lived next door to MR STONE. On Tuesday morning, about 7.30, hearing screams she went into the house, and saw several things burning on the floor. Two little girls - MR STONE'S daughters - were in the kitchen. There was a bright light in the stairs and on looking up she saw the deceased with his nightdress ablaze. She endeavoured to extinguish the flames, and burnt her hand in so doing. She then returned to the kitchen for a piece of carpet, which she wrapped around the deceased, but could not prevent the nightdress from burning and she rushed across the road after MR STONE'S brother. - JAMES STONE gave evidence to being called by the last witness. He went immediately and found that the whole of the deceased's nightdress was burnt except the collar and a piece around his arm, which was still burning. He extinguished the fire, placed the child in bed, and sent for Dr Body, who arrived within a few minutes. - The father of the deceased, recalled, said he left no lamp burning when he went away, having extinguished a large petroleum lamp previously. - Dr Body said he went to the deceased's assistance within a few minutes of being called. The whole of the cuticle of the deceased's body was burnt from the knees upwards. The boy was conscious, but it was evident that the injuries would terminate fatally, and if he had not died shortly afterwards he might have lingered two or three days in great pain. His death was due to collapse caused by shock, the result of the injuries. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - The Coroner remarked that the sad case only showed how careful persons should be when dealing with such lamps.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 11 December 1891
EXETER - The Fatal Accident At Queen Street Station. - At the Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday afternoon an Inquest was held by Mr H. W. Hooper, Coroner, to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of SIDNEY MORTIMORE, of Cotton's Buildings, Mermaid-yard, Exeter, who was killed at Queen-street Station the previous day. - Inspector Foster, of the London and South Western Railway Company, was present. - WILLIAM MORTIMORE, father of the deceased, and a railway guard, was the first witness called. He deposed that his son, who was 19 years of age, had been employed for several years as a number-taker at the Queen-street Station. Witness last saw him alive on Wednesday morning about half-past 10, when he was in his usual health and appeared very cheerful. He heard of the fatal accident during the evening. - Charles Hurford, a telegraph messenger at the Exeter Post Office, said that on Wednesday afternoon, about a quarter to four, he was coming from the engine sheds at the Queen-street Station. Just as witness approached the archway he heard two gentlemen, standing near the archway, south "Get out of the way," and on witness looking round he saw somebody, who turned out to be the deceased, taking the number of a truck passing by. There was no engine attached to the truck. When deceased had taken the number he endeavoured to cross the line between the metals. Another truck was coming behind which MORTIMORE did not observe, as he was not looking toward it. Deceased was struck in the centre of the back and knocked down. Several porters came and picked MORTIMORE up and conveyed him to the Hospital. - Charles Bastone, a porter at Queen-street Station, said he was at the shunting-yard on Wednesday afternoon and noticed MORTIMORE there. Witness saw the deceased just before the accident and when he heard what had happened he went to his assistance. MORTIMORE, who was lying on his back, was unconscious. - In answer to Inspector foster, the Jury said they did not think it necessary to call either the driver of the shunting engine or the foreman of the yard. - Mr R. Martin, House Surgeon at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, proved to admitting the deceased into the Institution about 5 o'clock the previous day. Death had taken place previous to admittance. He had made an examination of the body, and found there were several ribs broken on the right side. In his opinion death was due to a laceration of the lung caused by the braking of the ribs. There were also marks which would show that deceased received a fracture at the base of the skull. - Inspector Foster said MORTIMORE was a very steady man and would have been promoted in a few days. Deceased had been a number-taker since 1888. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. - One of the Jurymen suggested the advisability of placing a man on duty near where the shunting was carried out to warn the number-takers when trucks were approaching. - Inspector Foster remarked that the number-takers knew the ground where they were situated perfectly well. If there were three or four engines shunting trucks an extra man might, no doubt, be advisable, but in the present instance there was only one engine shunting. The truck by which deceased was struck was moving so slowly that it did not reach the place intended for it.

DUNSFORD - Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Dandyland Farm, Dunsford, to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM HENRY WESTLAKE, aged 72 years, who was killed on Friday evening last through falling from a trap. - Ernest George Yelland, farmer's assistant, identified the body as that of his late uncle. The deceased left home on Friday morning to go to Exeter with his son. On their returning, about 6 o'clock, he heard the latter shout for a light, and, going into the yard, saw the decease on the ground by the side of the trap. He never spoke. Deceased was a sober man. - ALFRED JAMES YELLAND WESTLAKE, son of the deceased, said on Friday last he drove to Exeter with his father. They arrived home about a quarter to six, and witness got out of the trap first. Witness was going to get a light when the deceased got on the shaft and fell off. Witness never heard him speak afterwards. Deceased was perfectly sober at the time. - Mr Charles Fenwick, Surgeon, of Dunsford, stated that he was called to see the deceased on Friday evening about 7 o'clock. Witness found him dead. He had a fracture of the neck, which caused his death. There were bruises on the forehead, which were such as might have been caused by a fall. Witness concluded that deceased fell on his forehead, and in that way broke his neck. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 12 December 1891
CREDITON - Singular Death At Crediton. - Mr W. H. Gould, Deputy Coroner for the District, held an Inquest at the Railway Hotel, Crediton, last night touching the death of WILLIAM HENRY VANSTONE, a farm labourer, lately in the employ of Mr Richard Browne, of Dunscombe, Crediton, who died suddenly on Wednesday while killing a pig. The medical evidence showed that death was due to syncope, accelerated by structural disease of the heart. A verdict was returned of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 15 December 1891
SEATON AND BEER - A Sad Case At Beer. - Mr C. E. Cox, Deputy Coroner, of Honiton, held an Inquest at the Dolphin Hotel, Beer, yesterday, touching the death of MRS ELIZA RUSSELL, of Beer, wife of ROBERT RUSSELL, who is engaged in the s.s. Faraday, and now in America. - Mrs Susan Franklin, widow, stated that on Friday week she was going down the street and saw deceased's little boy emptying something into the brook. She asked what was the matter, and the boy stated that his mother was sick. Witness went indoors and into the bedroom and saw deceased, who she thought was not very ill. Witness undressed the baby, as the mother said the child had not been undressed for two or three nights. Witness also called on the Monday following, when deceased said she was better. On Friday night a message came that deceased had fallen out of bed. She then went and helped deceased into bed. She asked what was the matter with her, when she said "I am bad." - Mrs Potter corroborated. - Mary Potter also deposed to seeing MRS RUSSELL on Monday night, when she complained of being ill, and witness advised her to have the doctor, which she refused. - MRS MARIA RUSSELL, sister-in-law of deceased, said on Friday last Mrs Potter brought the children to her house about 9 p.m., and she remained with deceased until her death. - Dr Evans, of Seaton, said he was in Beer at the time and was called to see the deceased. He found her in a comatose condition and the room was in a bad state. He ordered the bedclothes to be removed and perfectly dry ones were put in. Deceased kept asking for her child, and she died on Saturday. On Sunday he made a post-mortem examination, when he found the body was healthy, but the stomach had signs of alcohol and he thought deceased died from exhaustion due to alcoholic poisoning. If she had been a constant drinker the organs would have shown it, but she seemed to go in for bouts at a time. A verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned. - The Coroner said he thought it a most lamentable thing on the part of Mrs Franklin that she did not inform the friends of deceased about the state of the poor children.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 16 December 1891
SOUTH BRENT - Sudden Death At South Brent. - Mr Sydney Hacker held an Inquiry at South Brent on Monday evening touching the death of MR HENRY SOPER, builder, who was found lying dead in the road on Saturday morning, having fallen from his horse. - Willie Prideaux, an intelligent boy, five years of age, who was not sworn, stated that he saw the deceased fall over the back of the horse. - Evidence was given by Mr W. Lake as to finding the deceased lying in the road quite dead. - Dr McCreery stated that the deceased's skull was fractured. He was of opinion that faintness was the cause of death. - The Jury, of whom Mr W. Davis was the Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 17 December 1891
BOVEY TRACEY - Distressing Case At Bovey Tracey. - At Bovey Tracey last evening, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of ROSE BREALEY, aged two years and five months. THOMAS BREALEY, the father, said he had had 12 children, of whom seven were living and five dead. Of the five which were dead three, including the present one, had been "crowned." The ages of the children ranged from 17 years to 14 months. - The mother's evidence showed that the children died about three years of age, or between two and three. Five weeks ago the child was sent to Dr Goodwyn, who prescribed a bottle of medicine. This was finished last week. The doctor did not again see the child until its death, which occurred suddenly last Sunday evening. - The doctor's evidence was to the effect that the deceased child was suffering from chronic bronchitis, congestion of the lungs and rickets. When he saw the child five weeks ago it was clear that she could not live. The post-mortem examination showed that the stomach was incapable of retaining or assimilating food, and, consequently, the body was in a most emaciated condition. It was also covered with flea-bites. - The Coroner pressed the witness closely as to the suddenness of the death, and the doctor said that, in his opinion, the child in its state of complicated disease might have died without showing any unusual symptom, such as gasping for breath, etc. - The Jury returned a verdict as follows:- "That the child died from Natural Causes, but the Jury feel it to be their duty to pass a vote of censure upon the parents for the filthy condition in which the child was found at its death." - The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children was represented at the Inquest.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 21 December 1891
UFFCULME - The Sudden Death At Uffculme. - An Inquest was held at the New Inn, Uffculme, by the District Coroner, Mr C. E. Cox, touching the death of MRS SARAH NORTHAM, wife of MR F. NORTHAM, farmer, of Ashill Court. The deceased, who was about 45 years of age, was on Wednesday morning apparently in good health and was engaged in household duties. She sent her nephew into the garden to get some vegetables, and on his return he found deceased lying in the courtyard on her face and hands and lifeless. A post-mortem examination showed that death was due to fatty degeneration of the heart, and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 23 December 1891
EXETER - An Inquest was held yesterday by Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, touching the death of MR JACOB VAN LINGE, of No. 4 Lindon Vale, Howell-road, who died suddenly that morning. The medical evidence showed that death was due to Natural Causes, and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 26 December 1891
TIVERTON - Death From Tetanus At Tiverton. - At Tiverton Infirmary on Thursday evening Mr L. Mckenzie, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of THOMAS GILLARD, 39, slaughterman, Phoenix-lane, Tiverton, who died in the Institution that morning from lock-jaw. Mr J. Williams was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - RACHAEL GILLARD stated that she was married to the deceased 14 years ago. During the first six months of their married life her husband was a teetotaller, but since then he had drank very heavily and was intoxicated nearly every day. A fortnight ago he was taken ill and complained of toothache, but witness thought he stayed at home because he had "had a drop of drink." He was "tight" when he came home on Wednesday. Six or seven weeks ago witness quarrelled with the deceased because he brought home no money, and she then ran into the room of a lodger, named Carnell, for protection. GILLARD was drunk and struck witness, but she did not strike him. Five weeks since, when about half drunk, the deceased fell downstairs backwards, and from that time he had constantly placed his hands to the back of his head. Witness was quite sure she had not struck the deceased nor thrown anything at him. On Thursday his speech grew imperfect and his mouth became misshapen. His condition being worse, Mr Cullin, Surgeon, was summoned by witness on Saturday, and on Sunday the deceased was removed to the Infirmary at Mr Cullin's request. The deceased's life was insured and witness had four little children. - By the Foreman: Last Saturday fortnight she heard that the deceased fell in Fore-street, which caused a scar over one eye. - John Britton, labourer, Phoenix-lane, Tiverton, said last week he saw the deceased in Phoenix-lane very drunk. It seemed as if he had fallen down and was trying to raise himself from the ground. - William Henry Mitchell, labourer, Chapel-street, Tiverton, deposed to seeing the deceased fall while drunk in Fore-street on December 5th. Witness assisted him home. Last Friday week the deceased showed witness a cut over one of his eyes, and his face was swollen on that particular side, but he did not account for the injury. - Mr Michelmore, House Surgeon, proved that death resulted from tetanus. The deceased told witness that the wound over his eye was caused by a fall, and he made no complaint against any person. An intemperate life would predispose a man to the disease referred to, and the fall downstairs might have contributed to death. - The witness Mitchell, recalled, said the deceased did not tell him how the wound over his eye was caused. - MRS GILLARD, also recalled, stated that she did not know how the scar over the eye was produced. - At the request of some of the Jurors, the Inquiry was temporarily adjourned, and Edward Carnell, the lodger, was fetched, it being thought that he might throw some light on the matter. - Carnell, who is a labourer, said he had never heard the deceased and his wife quarrel with blows. He had seen the deceased push her, but not strike her. MRS GILLARD drank a good deal, but he had not seen her the worse for liquor, and the deceased "enjoyed his own opinion" on that score. He heard the deceased fall downstairs one night, but did not go to his assistance, nor did he hear them quarrelling previously. MRS GILLARD had not, to his knowledge, been in witness's room for protection from her husband. - The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased died of Tetanus, resulting from a wound in his face, caused by a fall while intoxicated.

TORQUAY - Drowned At Torquay. - Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquiry at the Torbay Hospital on Thursday into the circumstances attending the death of JOHN SOPER, 31, mate of the Torquay coasting schooner Dashing Wave, lying in the Torquay Harbour. - Mr Samuel Pope, who volunteered to serve on the Jury, failed to put in an appearance, and the Coroner, after remarking that it was not fair to keep 12 business men waiting, fined Mr Pope 10s. and proceeded with the Inquiry with 12 Jurymen. - William Cundy, master of the Dashing Wave, of Fowey, identified the body, and stated that deceased was a native of Plymouth, but had for some years been living at Polruan, Cornwall. He last saw SOPER alive about 7 o'clock on Tuesday, when he went ashore in the ship's boat with Thomas Crapp, one of the seamen. He heard of SOPER'S death on the following morning. He did not know whether he could swim. Deceased was a temperate man. - Thomas Crapp, seaman on board the Dashing Wave, stated that he went ashore with the deceased on Tuesday night about 7 o'clock to get some tobacco, and returned to the South Pier just after 11 o'clock. They had in their company two females, and just after entering the pier, deceased went on in front with the intention of hauling in the boat. While so engaged he caught his toe in the stern rope of another vessel and fell over the edge of the pier into the water. He fancied deceased must have struck the steps or the boat, for he never rose to the surface. Witness got into the boat, but could not see the body, and he then raised an alarm, and the two women went in search of a Coastguard, with whom they returned. Search was made, and the body was eventually recovered with grappling irons. He and deceased were sober, and no larking took place. - Clara Perkins, wife of a painter, living at Stentiford-hill, gave similar evidence. She added that she saw the deceased rise to the surface and struggle, but he went down again before his mate had time to get into the boat. - P.C. Goddard stated that he saw deceased, Crapp and the women several times during Tuesday night. They had been drinking. About 11 o'clock, hearing some women crying on the South Pier, he went in that direction, and was informed by one of the women that a man had fallen overboard. Witness endeavoured to discover the body, but was unsuccessful, and eventually the Coastguard recovered it from the water with grappling irons. The body was conveyed to the Hospital. - Arthur Watson, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said there were no external signs of injury. Death was evidently due to drowning. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Drowning."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 28 December 1891
PLYMOUTH - Alleged Manslaughter At Plymouth. - The Inquest on the body of WILLIAM JOHN SWORD, a caulker, employed in the Dockyard, who was killed by being run over by a fish cart, alleged to have been driven furiously by William Henry Cook, was opened at the Plymouth Guildhall on Saturday Evidence of identification was tendered by a brother of the deceased, and Inspector Hill deposed to receiving the body at the Guildhall. The Inquiry was then adjourned until Wednesday evening. Cook was charged at the Stonehouse Police Court on Saturday with the manslaughter of SWORD, and was remanded until today. The two other men who were in the cart with Cook have since been arrested on the charge of manslaughter, and will be brought before the Magistrates this morning.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 29 December 1891
EXMOUTH - Mr Deputy Coroner Cox held an Inquest at Exmouth yesterday on the body of EDMUND FREDERICK SALTER. The Jury met at the Bicton Inn, the residence of the father of the deceased. The child, aged 4 years and three months, was quite well on Thursday last. It was then taken with a cough, appeared better on Friday, and died at 2.45 on Saturday morning. A post mortem examination was made by Dr Hodgson, who was called in after the child died, and he found that death was due to bronchial pneumonia and pericarditis . The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

DAWLISH - An Inquest was held at the Castle Inn, Holcombe, Dawlish, yesterday, before Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, on the body of CHARLES HENRY UNDERHILL, aged 5 months, the illegitimate child of ANNIE UNDERHILL, of Holcombe. The evidence showed that the child was found dead on Saturday morning. Dr Lovely attributed the death to suffocation, accelerated by bronchitis. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death from Suffocation."

EXETER - An Inquest was held at New Bridge-street yesterday afternoon touching the death of MRS ELIZABETH GUEST, of 5 New Bridge-street, who died suddenly on Friday evening. - MR THOMAS WILLIAM GUEST, son of the deceased, said his mother had not been in good health for about two years. She was taken ill on Friday evening about 8 o'clock and died within two or three minutes. - Dr Woodman said he was called on Friday evening to see MRS GUEST and found her in an armchair quite dead. In his opinion death was due to failure of the heart's action. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

EXMOUTH - Singular Death At Exmouth. - An Inquest was held at Exmouth yesterday by Mr Deputy Coroner Cox touching the death of META FLORENCE MOYSEY DAVIS, aged three months, who was found dead in bed. The child's parents are on their way to Australia. The child was put to bed with her elder sister on Saturday night. On their aunt, MISS DAVIS, going to rouse them on Sunday morning she found that the deceased had expired. Dr Kane, who was sent for, and who made a post-mortem examination, found that death was due to suffocation, the food from the child's bottle having run into its windpipe during the night and she had been unable to cough it up owing to her low position in the bed. - A verdict was returned of "Accidental Death, through Suffocation."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 30 December 1891
EXMINSTER - Suicide At The Devon County Lunatic Asylum. - An Inquest was held by Mr Deputy Coroner Gould, at the Devon County Lunatic Asylum, Exminster, yesterday afternoon, to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of JOSEPH MATTERS, aged 63, an engine-driver, of Devonport. - The first witness called was Dr Saunders, Medical Superintendent of the Asylum. He identified the body of the deceased, who was admitted to the Institution on the 22nd of April 1890, suffering from suicidal melancholia. Before being admitted MATTERS attempted to jump from a train. On Saturday, at midday, witness and Dr Ward were summoned to the deceased, who, the porter stated, had hanged himself in Male Ward No. 5. Dr Ward used artificial respiration, but to no purpose. Deceased had hanged himself in the yard outside the lavatory block. Witness was not prepared to say how deceased got to the yard, but he had no right there; it must have been owing to a door being left open. There were 57 patients in the ward and five attendants on duty that morning. He considered the staff on that particular occasion sufficient to attend to the patients. Deceased had been an inmate of the Asylum from March to July 1889. - The Coroner: On a former occasion when an Inquest was held here the Jury were of opinion the staff of attendants was not sufficient. - Dr Saunders: That was in the female ward, but there has been an increase of one attendant in the ward. - Joseph Williams, charge attendant of No. 5 Male Ward, said out of the 57 patients in the ward 12 were suicidal. The last time he saw deceased alive was at 11 o'clock, lunch time. Attendant Coles at 12 o'clock told witness MATTERS had hanged himself. He went to the yard, but by this time Attendant Frampton had cut the deceased down. None of the patients of No. 5 Ward had admission to the yard, and he could not account for deceased being there. A door led from the lavatories to the yard, but the attendants were responsible to see it always closed. - James Cockram, an attendant of No. 5 Male Ward, spoke to passing through the yard and seeing the deceased hanging near the lavatory. He went for Frampton, who cut MATTERS down. Every attendant had a key to the door which had been left open. Witness had never seen the deceased attempt to commit suicide. - William Coles, also an attendant in Ward 5, deposed to seeing the deceased at 11.30 a.m. walking near the lavatory. The door was closed, but he could not state whether it was locked.. When witness heard what had occurred he went for the doctor. - Another of the No. 5 Ward attendants, Richard Frampton, said he heard Cockram calling for him, and on going to the yard he saw the deceased hanging. He immediately cut him down and put him on his back. MATTERS was suspended from a large spike against the wall by a scarf and a piece of sheeting. It was usual to search the patients, and deceased's clothing was searched by Cockram on Friday evening, the clothes being left in the gallery. - Cockram, Coles and Williams deposed to the searching of the clothes on the Friday evening, but did not find the sheeting in them. - Dr Ward, Assistant Medical Officer of the male division at the Asylum, said he saw the deceased after he was cut down. MATTERS was then either dead or on the point of death. Witness applied artificial respiration, but without avail. Death was caused by suffocation, the result of hanging. - The Coroner having summed up, the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind."