Inquests Taken Into Suspicious Or Unexplained Deaths

For the County of Devon

Articles taken from the Western Morning News

[printed in Plymouth.]

1917

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:-  Adams(2); Allison; Amor; Ancliffe; Austin(2); Avery(2); Axworthy; Babb; Baker(2); Barriball; Barry; Bennett; Bishop; Blatchford; Boer; Bowson; Branton; Brickwood; Broad; Brown(2); Bull; Bullen; Burnard; Burton; Candey; Cartmell; Charles; Ching; Chivers; Clark; Cole; Colledge; Cox; Davis; De Fouses Loura; Dench; Didham; Doidge; Donovan; Dyer; Eady; Earland; Eastment; Eddy; Elford; Ellery; Elliot; Elliott; Ellis; Engraffoff; Enyon; Etherington; Eva; Evans(2); Fabian; Farr; Fedrick; Fenner; Fice; Finch(2); Finnamore; Fone; Ford(2); Gardner; Gill; Gillanders; Gosling; Gould; Graham; Greenaway; Greaves; Griffiths; Ham; Harris(2); Harvey; Hasking; Herring; Hill; Hine; Hooper; Howe; Hunt(2); Ivey; Jackson(2); Johns; Johnson; Jones(4); Judge; Kellaway; Kirton; Knowles; Kramer; Laine; Lamerton; Lancaster; Lanksbury; Larsen; Lawford; Layborn; Leach; Leaman; LeNeveu; Letten; Lewis; Liggins; Lindsey; Lock; MacDonnell; Mainwaring; Mallett; Marshall; Martin(2); May; McBryde; McDougall; McGuinness; McHardy; McKenna; Mears; Metters; Morton; Moyse; Newland; Nicholson; Nimmo; Nivison; Nygren; Oliver; Osborne; Packer; Parson; Pascoe; Paterson; Pearce; Penny; Penwill; Peters; Pratt; Pring; Prior; Purdey; Reed; Rendle; Riddler; Robins; Robinson; Sage; Sammels; Sanders; Scantlebury; Schofield; Scoles; Sears; Seaward; Sergeant; Sharland; Shute; Singers; Skewes; Sloman; Smerdon; Smith(2); Soan; Stone(2); Strudwick; Sullivan; Sycamore; Taylor; Thompson; Tithecott; Toner; Trussell; Tucker; Tyler; Varicas; Wakeham; Waldren; Walk; Wallace; Waller; Ward; Warden; Westlake(2); White(2); Widdicombe; Widlake; Williams(3); Wills; Witheridge; Woodward

Western Morning News, Monday 1 January 1917
NORTH TAWTON - Northtawton Child's Death. Chocolates Suspected. - Mr R. Brown, Coroner, held an Inquest in the Market Hall, Northtawton, on MARGERY GARDENER, age 5, daughter of Q.M. Sergt GARDENER, R.M., and MRS GARDENER, of the White Hart Inn. - MRS GARDENER said the child was taken ill early on Wednesday morning with sickness. The child seemed to recover, but on Thursday morning she was again sick. Dr Desprez was sent for, and the child died about 8 p.m. The children had boxes of chocolates out of their Christmas Club money. - Dr Desprez said when he arrived the child was in convulsion and he instructed Mrs Long, a neighbour, what to do, as the mother was much upset. On his return at eight o'clock he found the child dead. The child died of convulsions, but whether from natural causes he could not say. He had not examined the contents of the stomach, which would have to be analysed. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said another child was sick and displayed similar symptoms after eating chocolates. - Mrs long said two of her children were sick and her boy threw his chocolates away, as he complained that they were bitter. - A Juryman also said his child had been sick after partaking of chocolate. - Mr F. Muller said he remembered selling the boxes of chocolates to both families. He bought them from a London firm for his Christmas trade, and they had been in stock about 10 days. He sold about three dozen boxes. - The Coroner said the Jury were in a difficulty as to the actual cause of death. He suggested that in the public interest, the Inquest be adjourned in order that the contents of the stomach might be analysed, unless the Jury were satisfied as to cause of death. It was somewhat curious that of seven of Mrs Long's children only two experienced any ill-effects. - The Jury agreed to an adjournment until Friday next.

TAVISTOCK - Death On Roadside At Tavistock - Mr R. R. Rodd, Coroner, held an Inquest at Tavistock on Saturday on HARRY W. A. R. BARRIBALL, aged 50, of no occupation, who lived with his unmarried sister in Parkwood-road, Tavistock. Sergt.-Maj. Bowles was Foreman of the Jury. - LUCRETIA BARRIBALL said the deceased, her brother, had epileptic fits about once a month. His appetite was fairly good. The fits generally occurred after a meal, and they dieted him accordingly. He had been in the habit of going alone to Pitland Farm for many years. Last February, while returning from there he had a fit on the road, but he walked into the town. They thought he was all right to take the journey to the farm, or they would have left him home. He was of a happy disposition. - George Vivian Perkin, farmer, of Pitland Farm, Lamerton, said the deceased was able to assist in the indoor work. Before he left on Thursday evening he had a piece of cake and a glass of milk. Witness had never known him have a fit at the farm. - Thomas Palmer, Newington Farm, Lamerton, deposed to finding the body on the main road, about ten minutes' walk from the farm, at 6 p.m. on Thursday. The deceased was fond of going to the farm, where he was shown every kindness. Dr W. R. Griffin, of Tavistock, said death resulted from syncope, due to an epileptic fit. He was satisfied that the deceased was well looked after. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" and the Coroner expressed their sympathy with the relatives in their bereavement.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 2 January 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - Late MR J. B. ANCLIFFE, Stoke. - Mr J. A. Pearce, Coroner, held an Inquest last evening at Somerset-place Council School, Stoke, on MR JOHN BENJAMIN ANCLIFFE, retired army bandmaster and parish clerk of Stoke Damerel, of 14 St Hilary-terrace. Deceased, who retired from the army about eight years ago, together with his wife, visited MR ALBERT J. ANCLIFFE, a son, in Trafalgar-place, on Saturday, to spend the afternoon. Within five minutes of his arrival he was taken ill and died before medical aid could be secured. - Dr Ingram said death was due to syncope caused by fatty degeneration of the heart. - The Coroner said it was a grief to him to have to hold an Inquest on a personal friend. He was one whom all respected and was as good a man as he ever met. His death was a great loss to Stoke and would be felt for a long time. He personally wished to extend his sympathy to MRS ANCLIFFE and the rest of the family. - The Foreman of the Jury, Mr Wall, desired, on behalf of the Jurors, to be associated with the expression of sympathy and the son, acknowledging the vote, said he would convey the message to his mother. A verdict was recorded according to the medical evidence.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 3 January 1917
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Woman's Death. Result Of An Illegal Operation. - The adjourned Inquiry into the death of EVELYN WILLIAMS, aged 30, of Turret-grove, Plymouth, was conducted by Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, yesterday. - THOMAS WILLIAMS, the husband, said his wife was not in a certain condition at the time. Dr Macdonald suggested that she should go to the Hospital, but for what cause he could not say. She was at first suffering from inflammation. She was admitted to the Hospital on December 16th. He visited her in Hospital and she told him she had to undergo an operation for appendicitis. The House Surgeon asked him if his wife was in a certain condition and he said no. He then asked him who was attending her when she was first taken ill and witness replied that a nurse was. The nurse sent for the doctor on December 15th whilst witness was away. Witness saw his wife again after the operation, when she was conscious and told him she thought she was dying. - Dr Woo, House Surgeon, at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, said deceased was admitted to the Institution on December 16th, suffering from a combination of internal haemorrhage and peritonitis. An operation was adjudged necessary, but she died the following night. He had since made a post-mortem examination and found a perforation caused by an instrument of some kind. He had no doubt that some instrument had been illegally used upon her. - The Coroner: Do you think that the effect of that instrument being used upon her caused her death? - Yes. - The Coroner said that was all the evidence they had. There was a suggestion that another person might be implicated in the matter. He had given that person an opportunity of being present, and could do no more. The only verdict that could be returned was that death resulted from an Illegal Operation, but who performed it there was no evidence to show. That was an Open Verdict, and it would be for the Police to take proceedings if they obtained any further information. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the Coroner's advice.

EAST STONEHOUSE - Mr Robinson Rodd, Coroner, held an Inquest at Stonehouse Townhall yesterday, on MARY JANE LANKSBURY, an elderly woman, who came up from Cornwall to spend Christmas and died suddenly. The brother of deceased, a boiler-maker, of Battery-street, said his sister was 56 and unmarried. She came from Redruth to visit him on Saturday and died on Monday morning. She was stout and suffered from shortness of breath. Dr Waterfield said death was due to syncope from fatty degeneration of the heart. Verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Saturday 6 January 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - Young Soldier's Suicide. - Devonport District Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, held an Inquest at Ford House Hospital yesterday on JOHN WILLIAM ETHERINGTON, aged 22, private in a cyclist corps. - The father, a joiner, living at Faversham, Kent, said deceased joined the army last May. There was an explosion at the works at which he was employed last April, and that had considerably affected him. When at home on furlough, about six weeks ago, he was suffering from a bad cold. By consent of witness, the Coroner opened a letter addressed to deceased's mother, which was found on him, with the words "Please post" on the addressed envelope. In the course of the letter the writer said: "Goodbye to all. I hope that in time you will try and forgive me." - F. C. Lakeman, Yeoman's-terrace, St Budeaux, telegraphist, H.M.S. Defiance, stated that he heard the report of a firearm when in Victoria-road, St Budeaux at 7.30 p.m. on Monday. He found deceased lying on the ground in Barn-lane. Deceased was alive and said he wanted to die. - B. Coward, Coldrennick-terrace, St Budeaux, said he heard deceased say, "I have shot myself. You may not believe me, but if you will go on a little way to the left you will find a revolver." Witness found a five-chambered revolver by the side of the hedge where deceased indicated, and ascertained that it contained one spent cartridge. - Dr R. J.P. Thomas said he was called to see deceased, who said he had shot himself and that he wished to die. Witness found a bullet wound just beneath the heart and there was evidence that the muzzle of the revolver had been placed against the skin when the weapon was discharged. Witness conveyed deceased to the Hospital in a taxi-cab. - Dr T. Y. Simpson said that when he examined deceased at the Hospital he could feel the bullet in his back. His condition improved and on Wednesday he was decidedly better. Witness was going to visit deceased at 9 p.m. on Wednesday, when it was reported that he had died suddenly. The bullet had injured deceased's left lung, and the cause of death was heart failure through haemorrhage in the chest. - The Coroner said there was no doubt the injury was self-inflicted and deceased appeared to have been of unsound mind when he committed the act. - The verdict was: "Suicide whilst in an Unsound State of Mind."

YELVERTON - An Inquest was held by Mr R. Robinson Rodd, Coroner, at Yelverton yesterday, on JOHN EVA, age 56, a [?] pensioner, of Moor View-terrace. WILLIAM EVA said deceased, his brother, whilst having dinner on Thursday, collapsed and died. Dr F. F. Willington said death was caused by apoplexy. Verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 10 January 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - Cerebro-Spinal Fever. Child's Death At Devonport. - Mr J. A. Pearce, Coroner, held an Inquest at Devonport last evening on GLADYS HARRIS, aged 11, daughter of WILLIAM C. HARRIS, carpenter, of Leslie-terrace, Lostwithiel. The father said deceased had been spending a holiday with MRS M. J. HICKS, her aunt, living at Maristowe-avenue, Keyham. She was in good health when she left home. The aunt stated that deceased was poorly a week ago, but got better. She went to the Grand Theatre on Saturday evening and complained there of a slight headache. At 9.30 she went to bed and vomited. At daybreak on Sunday witness's daughter called her and she found deceased unconscious. Dr G. K. Pearson was summoned and advised Dr T. Y. Simpson being called in for consultation, but before the latter arrived, she passed away. - Dr Pearson said death was due to cerebro-spinal fever. - Verdict accordingly.

STOKE DAMEREL - Dockyardman Drowned. Accident During Salvage Operations. - Mr J. A. Pearce, Devonport District Coroner, held an Inquest at the North Dockyard yesterday on JOHN HENRY IVEY, 42, skilled labourer in the captain of the Dockyard's department of 1 High-street, Plymouth, who was drowned on the 28th ult. whilst engaged in salvage operations. Mr K. Eyton Peck, Admiralty law agent, watched the proceedings. - Staff-Surgeon A. B. Cox, R.N., attributed death to drowning, and said the body had been in the water for some time. - Lieut.-Commander D. C. Richardson, R.N., said he was in charge of a working party employed in trying to float a trawler off Plymouth Breakwater. After some time the trawler was moved off the Breakwater by a Dockyard tug, which had her in tow, but directly she floated she gave a list to starboard and filled with water, sinking gradually by the stern. A launch and some rowing boats went to the rescue of the men on board the trawler, of whom deceased was one. When the working party was mustered deceased and another man were missed. Before the tug returned to Devonport a search was made for the missing men. There were about 24 men on board the trawler. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said a court of inquiry had been held for the purpose of determining the cause of the vessel sinking, but without success. Some water that was in the trawler's hold before it was towed off had been pumped out. The sinking of the vessel was not anticipated. witness considered that all proper precautions were taken, but he had not had experience before of similar work at Plymouth. There was one hawser being used for the towing. The sea was calm at the time. - By the Jury: Previous to the towing operations, the trawler had been repaired. - Charles T. Cowburn, Somerset-place, Devonport, who was in charge of the workmen on board the trawler, said he saw no danger at all in the operations, in connection with which all precautions were taken. The vessel was moved without great difficulty. Her position on the Breakwater was east and west. - Henry J. Tall, diver, Desborough-road, stated that on the Saturday following the accident witness descended to the trawler and found the body of deceased about five feet from the vessel. He did not examine the trawler. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, the Coroner, Jury and Captain of the dockyard expressing their sympathy with the relatives.

WESTMINSTER, LONDON - The Late COL. W. H. EVANS. Inquest In London. - An Inquest was held at Westminster yesterday concerning the death of COL. WILLIAM HENRY EVANS, 72, retired, who was found dead in bed at the Junior United Services Club. - MRS GEORGETTE NEWMAN, Powderham-place, Teignmouth, stated that COL. EVANS, who was her stepfather, had resided at Teignmouth. He enjoyed good health, and had had no medical attendance lately. - A valet at the club said he had known the Colonel for some years. He came to the club on Sunday, December 31st, and had slept there every night. Witness dressed him for dinner at 5 p.m. on Wednesday and he dined at the club and retired to bed about ten o'clock. At 7.55 a.m. on Thursday witness went to his room and found him dead. He lay as if asleep and near his right-hand was a copy of "Truth." The electric light was still burning. - Dr George Haslip spoke to being called to the club and finding the Colonel dead. Witness explained that the Colonel had lost his left arm, and that was why he had to be helped to dress and undress. A post-mortem examination showed that he had a large and flabby heart and that death was due to syncope. Verdict: "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Thursday 11 January 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - Inquest At Devonport. - Mr J. A. Pearce, Devonport District Coroner, held an Inquest at Ker-street Guildhall yesterday on the newly-born female child of ALMA FLORENCE MARSHALL, widow, of Mount-street. - Dr T. McElwaine said he examined the body superficially on the 8th inst. It was in such a charred state that it was useless to make a thorough post-mortem examination. After being cautioned by witness, MRS MARSHALL made a statement, in which she admitted that it was her child. She said she had put it on the fire. She also said it was born on New Year's-eve, and that she put the child on the kitchen fire on New Year's night and took it out on Tuesday morning. Witness was unable to state the cause of death, or to say if the child was born alive. - Detective Sergeant W. H. Sanders said he went to Mount-street on the 7th inst. with P.C. Cox, and told MRS MARSHALL that the Police had been informed that she had been confined during the past week. MRS MARSHALL said she had had a miscarriage. She did not tell the neighbours of her condition for fear of a scandal. The Coroner said as the infant's condition was such as to prevent a post mortem examination being made, the only thing they could say was that the child was found dead, and that there was not sufficient evidence to show whether it was born alive. The Police would probably take action with regard to the mother's alleged concealment of birth. - The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Friday 12 January 1917
PAIGNTON - Plymouth Child's Death. - Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, yesterday, held an Inquest at Paignton on the male child of BEATRICE STONE, of St Paul's-street, Stonehouse, Plymouth, kitchen-maid at North Raglan Barracks. The child was born on October 17th last at York-street, Plymouth, and died at Paignton on January 8th. By arrangement with the Salvation Army at Mutley a home was found for the child at Ridgway-terrace, Paignton, with Mrs Eva Daniels, who on December 2nd transferred the baby to Mrs Ellen Daniels, Ridgway-terrace, who in turn passed it on to Mrs Annie Townsend of High-Park terrace, on January 2nd. While in the charge of Mrs Daniels (both) it throve, but when Mrs Townsend took it, it developed vomiting and diarrhoea, dying as the result of exhaustion from that illness on Monday night. Mrs Townsend said she fed it on a patent food mixed with skim milk. Dr King, who was called in when the baby was dying, said he did not recommend these foods for infants until they were about nine months old. - Ensign Eliza Matthews, of the Salvation Army Reserve Home, King-street, Plymouth, said she saw the child about three weeks before Christmas, when it was looking healthy and the home (of Mrs Ellen Daniels) was clean. She told Mrs Daniels later that she had no right to pass the child on to Mrs Townsend, who was not one of the nurse-mothers recognised by the Rescue Home. - Mr B. P. Trant, child protection visitor for the Paignton district, said the transfer to Mrs Ellen Daniels was not registered, as it should have been, nor had he any official knowledge of the transfer to Mrs Townsend. - Mrs Ellen Daniels said she passed the child on to Mrs Townsend on account of her own children being as much as she could deal with. - Mrs Townsend, questioned by the Coroner, admitted that she did not know much about children. She did not know it was as ill as it was or she would have fetched a doctor before. - The Jury, of whom Mr B. P. Milsom was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Friday 19 January 1917
TORQUAY - Need Of Protection At The Harbour. - Mr S. Hacker held two Inquests at Torquay yesterday. The first was on ARTHUR HENRY BULL, aged 45, foreman porter to G. R. Smith and Son, auctioneers, whose body was found in the inner harbour on Tuesday afternoon. - MRS GLADYS WILLIAMS said her father on Sunday night was suffering from cold and a bad bilious attack. He left home at 7.45 a.m. on Monday for his work and did not return. - John Esam, senior clerk to Smith and Son, said MR BULL left work at 6 p.m. on Monday and he afterwards saw him in the bar of the Old Market Inn, Torwood-street, about 10 p.m. He then said he felt much better. He let about 10.45, not the slightest the worse for drink. He might have walked down to the Strand to get a car in which to return home and in the darkness fell over into the harbour close by at full tide, it being very dark and slippery at the time. Sam Priestley, landlord of the Old Market Inn, said BULL partook of bovril earlier in the day and had four or five drinks in the evening. When he left he was quite capable of taking care of himself. - William Brown, boatman, spoke to finding the body near the south pier, and about 30 yards from the boathouse, on Tuesday afternoon. At midnight on Monday, just after full tide, the water would have been 11 feet deep. - Dr Allen Bennett, House Surgeon, Torbay Hospital, who had made a post mortem examination, said that there was a recent bruise on the right knee. His impression was that deceased fell into the water and immediately became unconscious as he had made no struggle. He died before he took in any water, so that he was not drowned. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TORQUAY - Sudden Death In A Cellar. - An Inquest was held on SWEEDLAND M. MAINWARING, who died in the cellar of his house, Springleton, Thurlow-road, on Tuesday. - MRS ISABEL MAINWARING said her husband and herself went into the town in the morning and after luncheon he went down into the cellar to attend to the radiators. In a few minutes the servant maid told her he was lying on his back, and she sent for a doctor. She knew he had a weak heart and he had lately complained of difficulty in breathing whilst walking uphill. - Dr G. M. Winter said death was due to valvular disease of the heart of long standing. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Saturday 20 January 1917
DAWLISH - Banker's Sad Death At Dawlish. - An Inquest was held on MR SYDNEY LAWFORD, retired banker, of Barton-villas, Dawlish. - MISS AMY LAWFORD said her father, aged 81, despite his great age, enjoyed good health. On Wednesday night he retired to rest just before 10. She slept in a room near at hand. If he had called out she would have heard him, but she heard nothing during the night. Her father was quite able to look after himself, but had had attacks of dizziness of late, and had been shaky on his legs. As was customary a cup of tea was made for her father at about 7.15 the next morning. Her sister took it to the room, and, finding the gas burning, called her. Entering the room she saw her father lying back in his armchair quite dead. He had on no clothes and there were bits of burnt clothing on the floor. The gas was alight in the room and the gas-stove was full on. He always turned the gas stove out before he went to bed. The bed had not been used on this occasion. She thought it possible that the night-shirt, a loose, linen one, caught fire at the stove, and that he fell into the chair and became unconscious with the shock. She could not have been asleep at the time, and must have hard him if he had called out. - Dr F. J. H. Cann said he found MR LAWFORD quite dead, sitting in a natural position in the armchair, which was about 10 ft. from the stove. He had been dead several hours. There were very extensive burns about the body, chiefly the upper part and on the right side. The chair was much burnt. From his position he should gather that he flung himself into the chair and that he became unconscious immediately. It was quite likely in a person of his great age; it was also quite possible that he did not call out. His position in the chair was rather striking. He was simply sitting there with his arms resting on the arms of the chair. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Shock and Burns as a result of his night-shirt Accidentally catching afire."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 23 January 1917
NEWTON ABBOT - Schoolboys' Quarrel. Newton Lad's Sad Death From Lockjaw. - At Newton Abbot yesterday Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest on CYRIL EDWARD STRUDWICK, aged 11 years, second son of Petty Officer and Mrs ALBERT STRUDWICK, Wolborough-street, Newton. - MRS STRUDWICK said when her son returned from school on the 10th inst., he showed her a small wound in the back of his head, which was bleeding. His father bathed the wound and bound it up with lint and for a week the lad did not complain anything more about it. Last Wednesday, however, the place became very sore and his neck grew stiff. Dr Scrase was called in the next day. Towards evening the jaw became stiff, convulsions set in and death occurred on Friday. - Dr J. J. Scrase attributed death to tetanus, due to the wound. From the wound he extracted a particle of slate. The wound was a serious one. - Ernest Lucy, age 11 years, said when they came out from school in the dinner hour a quarrel took place between STRUDWICK and John Eggbeer, concerning a lad named Stacey. A fight ensued. At first STRUDWICK seemed to get the better of it, but Eggbeer afterwards commenced to master him and STRUDWICK called for help from witness and other friends. Eggbeer picked up a piece of slate near the wall and when only four or five yards away threw it at STRUDWICK, causing a wound in the back of the head, which bled a good deal. - Evidence was also given by Leslie Stacey and Arthur Embury, schoolboys. - P.C. Anstey and Mr G. H. Hollis, B.A. (headmaster of Highweek Boys' School) said Eggbeer had caused the death of STRUDWICK, but the presumption of the law was that no person under the age of 14, unless possessed of exceptional intelligence and strong understanding, was capable of murder or manslaughter. Eggbeer did not appear to possess anything beyond average intelligence. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Tetanus," but did not think there was any felonious intent.

PLYMOUTH - At an Inquest held by Mr R. B. Johns at Plymouth yesterday on the five-months-old son of AGNES SCOLES, 31 Rendle-street, Dr Vawdrey said the child appeared to have been very well cared for and most carefully fed. Death was due to convulsions, the result of teething. Verdict: "Natural Causes."

PLYMOUTH - Seaman's Death At Plymouth. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday by Mr R. B. Johns, on ARCHIBALD GRAHAM, aged 19, a seaman. Surgeon R. S. Overton, R.N., said a steamer entered the Sound on Saturday flying the signal for a doctor. A picket boat went alongside and took off GRAHAM, with the intention of taking him to Hospital, but he died almost immediately. The cause of death was fracture of the skull sustained, according to the report of the captain, by the youth falling down a hatchway in the 'tween deck to the lower hold.

YEALMPTON - Grandmother's Error Of Judgment. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd held an Inquest yesterday on the female child of MRS ROSE EDDY, Dunstone, Yealmpton, wife of SAPPER J. H. EDDY, R.E. - Nurse Emily Thomas said she was called on Friday at 11.55 p.m. and found the child dead. Apparently nothing had been touched. MRS GOAD, mother of MRS EDDY, was there and said she had not touched the child, because she was afraid to make the other children cry if that one cried. The child was under the bed clothes. The mother said the baby had not cried, but had moaned. It was MRS EDDY'S third child. - MRS MARY JANE GOAD said the child was born at 11.30 p.m., and she treated her daughter as she had done for the other children. The child seemed all right, but she went down to let the nurse in and when she came she said the child was dead. - Dr E H. Bruce Fox said the child weighed 9lb., and was healthy in every respect. The cause of death was suffocation, due to need of stimulation at birth. - The Jury returned a verdict that the child was Suffocated through Neglect at Birth and that the neglect was an error of judgment on the part of the grandmother.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 24 January 1917
TORQUAY - Torquay's Dearth Of Doctors. - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Torquay yesterday on JOHN GEORGE LEAMAN, 60, house painter, of Ellacombe, who had been in the employ of T. Vanstone and Sons, builders. He had a cough on Sunday and when he reached his place of work at Messrs. Farrant's warehouse on Monday morning he looked so ill that Alfred Cann, plasterer, went for brandy which LEAMAN sipped. Shortly afterwards, however, at the suggestion of another man, Cann went to get a doctor, but he could not get one. He went to the houses of four; three were at home and one was out. "I don't think it is right," said Mr Cann, "That out of three doctors at home neither would come to a dying man." - The Coroner: They might have calls to other patients. - A Juror: Did the doctors give any reason for not coming? - No. - The Juror: Did either of the doctors refuse to go? - At one house they said, "Can't you get another doctor?" and that the doctor was not ready to go out. At the third house a motor-car was waiting for the doctor. I spoke to the driver and the doctor arrived after death had taken place. The Coroner: It is unfortunate. - The Juror: Is there any reason why the name of these doctors should not be given? - The Coroner: Oh, yes; they are not here to explain. They might have had serious cases to go to. - Dr Allan Bennett, House Surgeon, Torbay Hospital, who said he was not one of the medical men called, stated his post-mortem examination revealed that LEAMAN had cancer of the liver and fatty degeneration of the heart of many months' standing. - The Coroner: I suppose that in Torquay the doctors are very much occupied? - Dr Bennett: That is so. It is with great difficulty that we can get one at the Hospital. - The Coroner: It is unfortunate that the circumstances should have been as stated. It has to be left to the humanity and common sense of the doctor according to the circumstances and we can trust that doctors will do their best under difficult circumstances. - Dr Bennett: Yes, I think so. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Tragedy. Officer And Wife Dead In Hotel Bedroom. Tabloids And Letters. - On January 10th, CAPT. HUGH EDWD. EDMUND MACDONNELL, of the Surrey Regiment, attached to a Works Battalion of the Devonshire Regt., took rooms at the Duke of Cornwall Hotel, Plymouth, with HELEN AIDE MACDONNELL, his wife. He was about 43 years of age; she was a charming blonde of pleasant personality. Her age was about 24, and she is said to have been of French nationality. - According to the manager of the Hotel (Mr C. M. Fenn) and those who had associated with them at the Hotel, they were an exceedingly devoted couple and of more than usual charm of manner. They were last seen at about 6 p.m. on Monday. Nothing then indicated any sort of trouble. They usually joined the table d'hote, but their places were vacant on Monday evening. A servant was sent by the manager to their room to call them to dinner. The messenger got no response and later further efforts to arouse the couple were made, but with no greater success. Following on this came a message from the military authorities for CAPT. MACDONNELL. The manager himself then went to their room, but got no reply, and suspecting that all was not well, decided to force the door. - When, after no inconsiderable effort, the bolts yielded, Mr Fenn saw the lady in bed in her night-clothes and the Captain lying across the bed in his uniform. Dr H. H. Parsloe, of Buckland-terrace, was immediately sent for and on arrival said the couple had been dead for some hours. - The Police were at once informed and P.C. Richard Body was despatched to the Hotel. On a table by the side of MRS MACDONNELL was a medical glass, containing a small quantity of liquid. On the table also was a packet of tabloids marked "Packet - contents, two crystals." On a table on the other side, close to the body of the officer, was a similar glass containing a sediment. What the packet contained or what were the contents of the glasses has not yet been made public. Dr Parsloe will make a post-mortem of the bodies and the results will be revealed at the adjourned inquest on Thursday. - The Police at first removed the bodies to the Hoe Police Station and thence, under the charge of Police-Sergt. Cook, on the ambulance to the mortuary. - When the clothes of the captain were searched two letters are said to have been found, one indicating that a certain gentleman in London was his legal adviser, and another making, it is stated, arrangements for the burial of the bodies. - The Inquest. - The Borough Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, opening an Inquest at the Mortuary yesterday, remarked that the circumstances pointed to determined suicide. It was, he said, one of the saddest cases he had had to Inquire into for some time. CAPT. MACDONNELL had been living at the Duke of Cornwall Hotel with his wife for some days. The previous night they failed to appear at dinner and, furthermore, a communication from the military reached the Hotel for CAPT MACDONNELL inquiring why he had not been at the barracks. On investigation it was found their bedroom door was locked, and, suspicion being aroused, the manager burst it open. CAPT MACDONNELL and his wife were found lying on the bed dead. There were medicine glasses beside the bed and a packet, which he had no doubt on analysis would prove to contain poison. Letters were left by CAPT MACDONNELL and in one he referred to a gentleman who appeared to be a solicitor in a London firm. He (Mr Johns) had communicated with that gentleman, and in order that he might have time to come to Plymouth and Dr Parsloe have the opportunity of examining the substance found in the room, which was no doubt poison, he proposed to adjourn the Inquest. - Mr C. M. Fenn, manager of the Duke of Cornwall Hotel, said CAPT. MACDONNELL and his wife had been staying at the Hotel since the 10th inst. He was about 42 years of age and she 24. They were found dead at 10.15 p.m. The wife was in bed and he outside. At the side of each carefully placed on a table was a medicine glass. Both CAPT. MACDONNELL and his wife were seen alive at six o'clock. - The Coroner (to the Jury): There is no doubt whatever, I think, that I shall satisfy you from the letters it is a case of determined suicide. - The Inquest was on this evidence adjourned until tomorrow.

Western Morning News, Friday 26 January 1917
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Tragedy. Life's Struggle Too Hard For Captain & Wife. - The adjourned Inquest was held at the Mortuary yesterday by the Plymouth Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, into the circumstances attending the death of CAPT HUGH EDWARD EDMUND MACDONNELL, East Surry Regt., attached to a Works Battalion of the Devonshire Regt., and HELEN AIDE MACDONNELL, his wife, who were found dead at the Duke of Cornwall Hotel, Plymouth, on Monday night. - The Coroner said the Inquest was adjourned in order partly that deceased's London solicitor, Mr Gamble might have an opportunity to attend, but Mr Gamble was a very busy man and saw no reason for attending. There had, however, been communication between himself and Mr Gamble and, furthermore, he had in his possession a letter which MRS MACDONNELL sent to Mr Gamble, which would show beyond doubt, he thought, that it was a case of determined suicide on the part of both. CAPT. MACDONNELL at once time held a staff appointment at Plymouth. He was a very talented officer and one of the first to take a Maxim gun up in an aeroplane. He was also a distinguished linguist. Like some other very clever and highly-strung men, deceased appeared to have collapsed when things did not look rosy. - Deceased's' Letters. - On January 22nd, the day of his death, he wrote a letter, in which the following passage occurred:- "It is ages since I wrote, and I blame myself for not having kept you informed of the terrible struggle for life and hopelessly-persistent run of ill-luck that has been ours. But the end has come. I see no outlook, and we think it best to go. But, above all, I implore you to do what you can to prevent publicity and not to separate us. " - In another letter he wrote:- "My commanding officer, Lieut.-Col. Shephard:- I explain to you the torment, physical and mental that my poor little wife's illness and to disappointments of the career have landed me with." - That in itself, remarked the Coroner, was a pretty conclusive letter. Then there was a letter written on the 20th inst., by MRS MACDONNELL to her solicitor:- "I am not sure how the letter will stand in the event of my dying suddenly and at the same time my husband, with regard to my money. Will you therefore see that my last wishes in this are carried out to the best of your ability? I want all liabilities to be settled, including this Hotel and all my personal effects to be sent to my sister to deal with at her discretion. It is our wish that we should be buried together." - The Coroner remarked that in the face of these facts there could not be much doubt about the manner of their death. MRS MACDONNELL was of French origin. CAPT. MACDONNELL wrote another letter which was picked up in the room, and in it he said:- "It is my last wish that I should be buried by the side of my dearest wife and that all my papers be destroyed unopened by my executor." - For the Manager of the Hotel, CAPT. MACDONNELL left this message:- "In the event of anything happening to either of us, please communicate with Mr Gamble at the address I have given. My wife has two rings on her hand. Please see they are not removed." - The Coroner said it was not easy to conceive the terrible state of mind CAPT. MACDONNELL and his wife must have been in to lead them to discuss the matter probably time after time, and ultimately deciding that life was not worth living, to deliberately arrange and take poison together. They probably both died at the same moment. - MRS MACDONNELL'S Illness. - Charles M. Fenn, Manager of the Duke of Cornwall Hotel, repeated his evidence as to the finding of the bodies, and at the side of each a medicine glass. CAPT. MACDONNELL was of a very nervous temperament and always seemed very agitated. He spent the whole of one night walking the corridors. On Thursday he gave him a cheque for his week's bill, but asked him to hold it over for a bit. He and his wife seemed devoted to each other. CAPT. MACDONNELL told him when he first arrived at the Hotel that his wife was ill. MRS MACDONNELL, as a matter of fact, did not leave her room the whole time they were at the Hotel. - Lieut.-Col. C. S. Shephard, commanding the Works Battalion of the Devonshire Regt., to which CAPT. MACDONNELL was attached, stated, in reply to questions, that CAPT. MACDONNELL was a very highly-strung man and he was not altogether surprised when he heard of the suicide. MRS MACDONNELL had heart disease and that caused him great anxiety. He was very keen on machine guns and was responsible for an invention which he hoped would bring him considerable money. But cold water was thrown on it and he instead lost a good deal of money. - Cause of Death. - Dr Parsloe stated that death in each case was due to poisoning by cyanide of potassium. - The Jury asked the question and was informed that there was great difficulty in obtaining cyanide of potassium, but how deceased got it, it was impossible to say, because it was contained in a pin box, without any name upon it. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" in both cases.

TORQUAY - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Torquay yesterday on MRS ELLEN SMERDON, 90, who lived with her middle-aged daughter at Ellacombe Church-road, Torquay, and who died as the result of extensive burns on Wednesday. While her daughter was engaged in laundry work in another part of the house, deceased was left sitting in her bedroom before a fire. She fell forward and when discovered her head and other parts of her body were very badly burnt. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

PLYMOUTH - At the Inquest yesterday on JAMES WALLER, 62, Dockyard pensioner, found dead in bed at his home in Wolsdon-street, Plymouth, on Wednesday, Dr R. H. Wagner said death was due to pneumonia following influenza. Deceased was said to have been well on Tuesday and to have eaten heartily. A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 30 January 1917
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest yesterday on SARAH JANE SLOMAN, aged 75, of 5 Southern-terrace, Plymouth, a widow. Dr Deery, who made a post mortem examination, said her sudden death was due to syncope, arising from senile degeneration of the heart. Verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

TEIGNMOUTH - Teignmouth Mystery Solved. Pathetic Letter Of A Suicide. - An Inquest was held at Teignmouth last evening on HANNAH WILLIS LETTEN, 72, widow of JAMES R. LETTEN, Channel pilot, of Gravesend, whose body was found floating in one of the docks at the Old Quay, Teignmouth, on Saturday. - MRS NELLIE MADELINE LETTEN, of Gravesend, wife of a pilot, said deceased was her husband's cousin and had been living alone at Parkland-road, Gravesend. Witness last saw her on [?th] inst. She then expressed her intention of going away for a holiday before Easter. She remarked how well she felt. She generally enjoyed good health. - The Coroner: How did she support herself? - She had independent means. - Can you throw any light upon what has happened? - Nothing whatever. It came as a great surprise to me. She was of a somewhat nervous temperament and a little irritable at times. She never threatened to take her life. - Do you know when she left Gravesend? - I knew nothing of her movements until I received a letter on Friday last, bearing the Teignmouth postmark. - The letter, registered from Teignmouth and written in pencil, was dated, "Thursday, January, 1917," and was addressed to MR LETTEN. It contained instructions as to furniture and wearing apparel at her home and went on to say:- "I want you and NELLIE to go up home and take down JIM'S (her late husband) photo and mine. S[?] mine. I am in trouble with the Gas Company with reference to consuming more gas than was registered. How long it has been going on I don't know. I was terrified, and, unfortunately, I left it. Believe me, I have been living in awful fear. It was not the money, for I would have given all I have got. Three weeks ago one of the principals came and said he would have the meter tested. On Tuesday of last week I withdrew from the bank £100, out of which I paid the doctor £14 and other little debts. What my life has been since then only God and myself know. I am mad - mad with disgrace brought on the good name. Will you go to the Gas Company and pay what is owing and any fine they may make? On my bended knees, DICK, I ask you not to make public my shame and disgrace. I shall be dead and nothing can be gained by exposing a dead woman. As soon as it is dark enough I intend to jump into the sea from here. My God, what shame and disgrace and not brought on myself at my old age. Good life spoilt, all for a few pounds. I have paid the penalty with death. Goodbye." - Witness said MRS H. W. LETTEN had a nervous breakdown after the death of her husband about five years ago. - JAMES H. LETTEN, of Barnby-street, London, a stepson of the deceased, said she had influenza at Christmas. She often left home at short notice and never acquainted anyone. - Alice Maud Newman, waitress at the Royal Hotel, Dawlish, said deceased had rooms at the Hotel on Wednesday night. She left about noon the following day, saying she was going back to Gravesend. Instead of going to the Station she turned in an opposite direction. - Dr R. Lloyd Patterson said death was due to drowning. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

Western Morning News, Thursday 1 February 1917
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Barmaid's Sad End. Suffering From "Brain Storms." - An Inquest was held at the Plymouth Mortuary last evening concerning the death of FRANCES VIOLET MCGUINNESS, aged 19, a barmaid at the Bedford Wine Vaults, Old Town-street. Mr John Graves acted for the Coroner. - ERNEST LESLIE MCGUINNESS, skilled labourer, of Union-street, father of deceased, said his daughter was a barmaid at the Bedford Wine Vaults. He saw her on Sunday and she then seemed well in health and spirits. He knew of no reason why she had taken her life. - Wallace Edwin Bonney, licensee of the Bedford Wine Vaults, said he left deceased about a quarter to three on Monday in the bar, and returned at 6 o'clock expecting to see the bar lighted up. Just as he got inside Mrs Rendle, another bar helper, came to him and said she smelt gas. He ran around testing the taps and Mrs Rendle went inside the bar and saw deceased lying on the floor. They tried to revive her, but in vain. There was a rubber pipe used for a gas ring beside her. During that morning deceased seemed very depressed. He could only give one reason why she was depressed. She had a very bad cold and was afraid of pneumonia again. She had a very narrow escape two or three months ago. He had suggested that she should go home, but she would not. She had become a changed girl since she underwent an operation for appendicitis. She had since been subject to violent fits of temper and delusions. A few weeks ago she ran away to Coventry without any reason, and after three days wired for money to enable her to come back. She had behaved very strangely for some time. She had sudden fits of temper and the people about her said: "VI has a brain-storm again." - Dr Mabel Ramsay, who was called in on Monday evening, said she found life extinct. The body was smelling of gas, and a post-mortem examination showed that death was due to gas poisoning. - In reply to the Coroner, Dr Ramsay said an abdominal operation often resulted in a state of mental depression for a year or more. - The Foreman (Mr Full) asked if Dr Ramsay thought deceased ought to have been left alone in the bar. - Dr Ramsay said work was a good thing for slight mental depression. - Mr Bonney added that the deceased generally went out before he did. On this occasion he got out first because he wanted to attend a licensed victuallers' meeting. MISS MCGUINNESS generally went out about 3 o'clock and came back at 5.30. It was also stated that she was never left alone in the house; there were always other people about. - At the opening of the inquest, the Deputy Coroner had said that what had been described as a letter left by deceased was only a scribble in pencil, undated and unaddressed and as it gave no indication that the girl was about to take her life there was no object in making it public. - Verdict: "Suicide while in a state of Temporary Insanity."

Western Morning News, Friday 2 February 1917
TORQUAY - Torquay Drowning Case. - Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest at Torquay yesterday on FRANK TUCKER, aged 29, of Ellacombe, a porter in the employ of Messrs. Shapley, grocers and provision dealers, at their Chelston branch establishment, who jumped into the sea from Torbay-road on Tuesday evening and was drowned. - Pte. Connor, London Regt., stated that whilst sitting in the shelter near the Promenade Pier he saw deceased come look over the railings for a short time, after which he took off his hat and topcoat and threw them down, together with a parcel, and he then went through the rails and jumped into the water. Witness ran to the pier and procured a lifebuoy and threw it into the water close to deceased, who, however, refused to lay hold of it, and he soon afterwards disappeared. - Pte. Marlow, of the same regiment, stated that, when about 50 yards from the pier, he heard shouts of "Man overboard" and stopped two tramcars and got two pieces of rope and tied them together and threw them towards deceased, but the rope was not long enough to reach them. - P.C. Willis said he found deceased's hat and coat and also a cash bag belonging to his employers. - P.C. Johns gave evidence of recovering the body on Wednesday morning about 50 yards from the spot where deceased went in over. - Mr W. E. Aggett, manager of Messrs. Shapley's Chelston branch, said deceased had been employed there eight years and that he was a very good man and highly respected. On Monday deceased went before the medical board at Exeter and was passed for general army service, although he had previously been rejected on account of mental deficiency. Witness thought that the face of deceased's having been passed for general service somewhat affected him. - The Coroner commended the prompt action of the two soldiers in their endeavour to render assistance, and the Jury returned a verdict that deceased Committed Suicide whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity.

STOKE DAMEREL - Sad Death At Devonport. - Mr J. A. Pearce, Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday on KATHLEEN BULLEN, aged 25, wife of a private in the Worcestershire Regt., who resided at Goschen-street, Devonport. JOHN BULLEN, the husband, said he belonged to Churchtown, St Ewe, Cornwall, and his wife had lately been living at Devonport. They had been married seven years and had two children. Deceased had never had a day's illness. - Millicent Lander, living in the house where deceased resided, said MRS BULLEN appeared well on Tuesday evening. The following morning witness went to ask her if she required any milk, and received no reply when she knocked at the door. Deceased's daughter said her mother was asleep and witness found her lying on the bed with her arms folded. She noticed her condition was peculiar and bathed her face, and then got some brandy and sent for a doctor. - Dr E. K. Pearson said he found the woman had been dead five or six hours. Death was due to pericarditis. - Verdict: "Death from Natural Causes." The Coroner remarked upon the pathetic circumstances of the case.

Western Morning News, Monday 5 February 1917
KINGSWEAR - Kingswear Inquest. Gentleman's Death By Poison: Suicide Or Misadventure? - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Kingswear on Saturday concerning the death of ERNEST PLEASANTS FENNER, who was found on Thursday lying on the floor of the bathroom at his residence, "Mount Ridley," Kingswear. Deceased, who was 52 years of age, was a gentleman of independent means. His brother, MR LEONARD PLEASANTS FENNER of Great Yarmouth, attended the Inquiry. - MRS FRANCES FORD FENNER, widow, said her husband had not been well. On Thursday morning they had breakfast together. Witness left him to go to Dartmouth. Two hours later she was met by the gardener, and on going to the house she found her husband on the bathroom floor. He was in his usual dress. - The Coroner: He had taken something apparently. There was an empty glass there? - Witness: Yes, there was a glass there. - Can you throw any light upon that? - No; the only thing I can suggest would be Epsom salts. I know he was in the habit of taking them. - Where did he keep them? - In a little medicine cupboard in the bathroom. - Do you know what was there besides? - No; I could not tell you, but there were various things. The cupboard was always open. - Had he any poisons there? - Yes, there was a bottle of laudanum, but I do not know of any other. - Was he in the habit of taking laudanum? - No. - What did he keep it for? - We have many things in our house. That is the only bottle I remember looking at and the doctor asked me if I could tell him what it was. - Did you know before that he had it there? - I knew little medicine arrangements were there. That was what the cupboard was for. - You say he never took laudanum? - I can almost positively say so. - Did you know there was a bottle of oxalic acid there too? - Yes, I daresay that would be there too. - Is that all you can tell us? - I can only add that the bottles would not be there for any improper use. It is not unlikely that anyone might have poisons about in any house. - The Coroner: Oh, yes, quite so. - MR LEONARD PLEASANTS FENNER (brother of deceased): I take it that as a professional man (a solicitor) I can ask a question? - The Coroner: With my consent - yes. - MR FENNER: Is there any reason for the suggestion that he should have taken his life? Did he ever mention that he had any reason? - MRS FENNER: No. I should have thought him the last man to do that. - Dr Andrews said deceased had been his patient for a short time. He considered he was suffering from the after-effects of influenza. Witness was called on Thursday, and found deceased on his back on the bathroom floor. He had been dead probably about 20 or 25 minutes. The features were placid and there was a little foam on the mouth. The jaws were rather tightly clenched, the limbs a little rigid, and the fingers bent in. Witness could not then account for his death. On looking round the room he noticed a glass on the dressing-table. It contained a few drops of fluid. Witness tasted it and it had a sharp, acid, pungent taste. There were crystals in the bottom of the glass (produced), which had since become plainer, and the fluid had got less. There was a faint smell in the glass - too faint for him to swear to. - The Coroner: You cannot say whether it was Epsom Salts, cyanide of potassium, oxalic acid or anything else? - Witness: It was not Epsom salts. Cyanide of potassium and oxalic acid I have never tasted. MRS FENNER then came in the room. - The Coroner: Did you see the oxalic acid there? - Witness: No, I did not. I could see no reasonable cause of death and I telephoned for Dr Hodson, of Brixham. - Dr Hodson, of Brixham, said when he arrived, about 3 p.m., deceased was still lying on the floor. Witness made a post-mortem examination. There were no external marks or bruises and internally the only sign of disease (and that was quiescent) was in the apex of each lung. There was one patch of atheroma of the coronary artery, but otherwise the heart was healthy. The stomach he did not open. - The Coroner: I wanted you to tell me about that. - Witness: Judging from its appearance there was congestion; the mucous membrane of the gullet was congested. This might have been caused by an irritant poison. - The Coroner: The Jury cannot arrive at the cause of death unless we know. Unless you have made a complete post-mortem examination you would not be able to say what was the cause of death. - Eventually, at the suggestion of the Coroner, Dr Hodson went to the house close by and made a further examination of the stomach. Upon his return he reported that he found evidence of irritant poisoning, which, in his opinion, would account for death. - The Jury found that deceased came by his death through an Irritant Poison, taken by himself, but that there was no evidence to show whether he took it with an unlawful intention or by misadventure.

UGBOROUGH - Ivybridge Railway Fatality. - Mr T. Edmonds held an Inquest at Ivybridge on Saturday on WILLIAM PURDEY, aged 63, widower, of North Fileham, Ivybridge, platelayer, in the employ of the Great Western Railway Co. - Eli Lethbridge, platelayer, said on the morning of the 31st. ult. he was working with deceased in a siding 8 feet from the up main line. They went across the main line to bring back a sleeper, which they put down in the 8ft. way. When a Red Cross train passed on the down main line deceased was standing between the up main line and the siding, with his back towards an up train coming in another direction. Through the noise of the Red Cross train they did not hear the up train, which struck deceased on the head and knocked him down. - George Oliver, engine driver, Newton Abbot, said he was the driver of the up train due at Ivybridge at 11.10 a.m., which was driven to time. As they came to the siding the fireman blew the whistle, and said he believed they had knocked a man down. As they were practically in Ivybridge Station he did not stop the train until he arrived at the platform. Owing to the curve they could only see about 15 yards ahead. - William John Lyddon, fireman, said on coming round the curve he saw two men standing dangerously near the up rail and he at once jumped to the whistle. They were then about 15 yards distant, and it was impossible to avoid the accident. - Charlie Matthews, checker, said he found Lethbridge with his arm around deceased, who was unconscious, with his head badly fractured. Witness rendered first aid, and assisted in removing deceased. - Dr C. E. Cooper, Ivybridge, said the case was hopeless from the first. The man died the same evening without regaining consciousness. - The Jury, of whom Mr W. Martin was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - Chief-Inspector Poultney, of Plymouth and Inspector Cook, of Newton Abbot, represented the G.W.R. Company at the Inquiry. The deceased had been in the company's employ over 43 years.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 6 February 1917
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at York-street Schools, Plymouth, on ELIZABETH ANN TYLER, age 65, of William-street, widow of JNO. TYLER, mason. Deceased was last seen alive on Friday by Mrs Beatrice Bunt, of the same address. On Saturday afternoon deceased was found lying on the floor with her head over a gas ring, supplied from a slot meter, which had run out. - Dr Palmer said death resulted from gas poisoning. - Verdict, "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane." Deceased, it was stated, had grieved of late over the loss of her son.

STOKE DAMEREL - Mr J. A. Pearce, Coroner, held an Inquest at Somerset-place Council School, Devonport, yesterday on WILLIAM JOSEPH BISHOP, aged 76, of 25 Beresford-street, a retired plumber, formerly of James-street. - ROSA BISHOP, deceased's daughter, said deceased was taken ill at about 9.50 p.m. on Saturday and witness sent for Dr Pullen, who arrived promptly, but found life extinct. During the day her father appeared well, and walked to the town and back in the morning. - Dr R. H. Pullen said death was due to syncope from aortic valvular disease of the heart, probably accelerated by the cold weather. - Verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Saturday 10 February 1917
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on ELIZABETH JANE PEARCE, 78, widow of SAMUEL PEARCE, farmer. EDITH ANN DYER, 14 King-lane, widow of a R.N. seaman, said on Tuesday deceased, her mother, went downstairs to get coal, taking with her a candle, which was left on the stairs. Returning, her shawl caught fire. Mrs Jeffrey found the deceased in flames, which she extinguished, burning her hands in doing so. - Dr F. J. Woo, House Surgeon at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, said the woman was admitted suffering from extensive and severe burns on the face, arms and body. The case was hopeless and she died from shock, the result of the burns. Verdict¨ "Accidental Death."

STOKE DAMEREL - Ex-Stationmaster's Death. - Mr J. A. Pearce, District Coroner, held an Inquest at Devonport yesterday on CHRISTOPHER SCHOFIELD, aged 63, retired L. and S.W. R. Stationmaster, living at Renown-street, Keyham. - R. H. Blackmore, G.W.R. ticket collector, said at 9.45 p.m. on Wednesday he and three or four others, including deceased, were talking near the booking-office at Devonport Station. When the down train came in deceased made a step forward towards the platform and suddenly fell backwards to the floor and died. - Dr C. W. Seccombe said death was due to degeneration of the heart and its muscles, accelerated by old-standing pleurisy. - Verdict: "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Monday 12 February 1917
SOUTH SHIELDS, NORTHUMBERLAND - Plymouth Seaman's Death. "Dying, Not Drunk." - An Inquest was held at South Shields on Saturday on JOHN HINE, 50, a seaman, belonging to Plymouth. - Herbert Watson said his father kept the Metropole Temperance Hotel in the Market Place, South Shields. At 8.15 p.m. on Tuesday the deceased engaged a bed. He appeared to have had some drink. He went out five minutes afterwards and returned at 8.45. He was then drunk and was taken straight to bed. At 10.15 a.m. on Wednesday witness was informed that the man had been found dead on the floor of his room. - John Robinson, a coloured seaman, living at the Metropole Temperance Hotel, said he went out with the deceased on Tuesday night. They had a glass of rum each. After drinking it deceased went to sleep, and they were in consequence told to go out of the public-house. They went to another public-house and had each a glass of rum, when the same thing occurred. When they got outside the deceased fell, and witness thereupon took him back to the Hotel. - Dr Galloway said in his opinion the cause of death was pneumonia. - The Coroner: Do you think the pneumonia was accelerated by drinking? - The Doctor: Undoubtedly it was the finishing touch; but the man had certainly been very ill. The witnesses mistook his condition. The man was dying - not drunk. He was so seriously ill that he would feel in need of a little stimulant. - Verdict: "Death from Pneumonia."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 13 February 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - Death After Eating Shellfish. Devonport Inquest. - Devonport Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, held an Inquest at Stuart-road Council School last evening on MARGARET VICTORIA KATE JOHNSON, aged 21, of Rutger-place, wife of FRANK W. JOHNSON, tram driver, who since November 1915, had been employed in Canada. - VICTORIA MARY LOCK, aunt of the deceased, said deceased's husband came over to England with the first Canadian contingent and after being wounded in France returned to Canada. Last Tuesday afternoon witness bought a crab in Union-street, and in the afternoon they both partook of the white portion of the shellfish, deceased making rather a hearty meal. At 10 a.m. on Wednesday deceased informed her of sickness. On Thursday morning while at work witness received a telephone message to return home at once. She found deceased, who was lying on the bed fully dressed, in great pain, and ascertained that she had been very sick. Dr R. B. Wagner was sent for and prescribed for her. Deceased remained in terrible pain that day, but was a little easier on Friday morning. She passed away at 10.30 that evening. Deceased had been delicate all her life. - Dr R. B. Wagner said he had found deceased suffering from acute gastritis, and treated her accordingly. Death was due to acute gastritis through eating a particularly heavy meal of shellfish, accelerated by valvular disease of the heart. - Verdict: "Death from Natural Causes," and sympathy was expressed with the relatives of the deceased.

Western Morning News, Thursday 15 February 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Pier-master's Death. - Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at Devonport yesterday on RICHARD SANDERS, aged 65, pier-master at Northcorner, Devonport, who died suddenly on Monday evening. - MRS SANDERS said her husband had enjoyed good health until about three months ago, when he had a fall on the pontoon. After being laid up for six weeks he returned to work, but had never completely recovered. He complained of the cold when he returned home on Monday evening, and said he was glad witness had made up a nice fire. Deceased went downstairs a little later to answer the front door, and as he did not return in six or seven minutes she called. She got no answer, and then found him lying on the floor. She sent for a doctor. - Dr E. McElwaine attributed death to syncope, from fatty degeneration of the heart. There were indications that deceased's ribs had been fractured, but that had nothing to do with the cause of death. - Verdict, "Death from Natural Causes."

PLYMOUTH - Death From Burns At Plymouth. - At the Homeopathic Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday, Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest on LILLIAN JESSIE FONE, age 2 years. - The mother, MURIEL FONE, said on Monday she left the child in her room, Morley-place, for a few minutes to seek someone who could look after it while she visited her husband, who was engaged on war work. She heard a scream, and on rushing back found the child enveloped in flames. The child was taken to the Homeopathic Hospital, where it died the next day. The child was wearing flannelette, and there was no guard to the fire. - Dr Wilmot said death was due to shock from burning. - The Coroner said there was no evidence of wilful neglect, but it was a dangerous and illegal practice to leave a baby near a fire without a guard. He could not promise that there would be no prosecution. The Jury could do no other than pass a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 20 February 1917
LISKEARD, CORNWALL - Plymouth Woman's Death. - Mr A. de C. Glubb, Coroner, held an Inquest on FLORENCE HERRING, aged 42, of Connaught-avenue, Plymouth, who died at Tuelmenna Farm, near Liskeard, where she had been on a visit since January 6th. - Arthur Coram, Saltash, brother-in-law, said deceased was the widow of the late JOHN HERRING, proprietor of the Commercial Hotel, Saltash. - Questioned by the Coroner, witness said he had been unable to trace that she was married to another man, also deceased, with whom she had lived in the same neighbourhood. He did not think she ever was. - Dr R. Hingston, who had made a post-mortem examination, attributed death to valvular disease of the heart and oedema of the lungs, a condition brought on by excess of alcoholic liquor. - Mrs Kelly, with whom deceased was staying, said deceased had been unwell ever since she had been there, and had seen a doctor four times. Since last Monday she had been confined to her room, and on Thursday morning passed away - By the Coroner: Deceased had had no intoxicating drink of any kind since she had been at Tuelmenna. - By Supt. Gard: Deceased went into Liskeard one Wednesday and came home from a certain house in a motor car. Deceased said something to Mrs Kelly the morning she died about fetching a doctor, but did not say she was much worse. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 22 February 1917
BARNSTAPLE - Fatal Accident At Barnstaple. - Last evening Barnstaple Coroner held an Inquest on ALFRED G. BAKER, aged 49, labourer. Deceased was engaged in tipping coal into the cellar at Barnstaple Gasworks on Monday, when he was struck in the knee by the cart, as the result of which he fell over the platform into the cellar, a distance of 10 or 12 feet. The deceased was removed to the North Devon Infirmary, where he died. - Dr Lemarchand attributed death to haemorrhage of the brain, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. - Mr C. H. Morris, his Majesty's Inspector of Factories, was present at the Inquest, and expressed satisfaction with the arrangements made by the company for discharging coal at the works. The deceased was an ex-soldier, having served 12 years in the Royal Welsh Fusiliers, while his father and five brothers also served with the colours.

Western Morning News, Friday 23 February 1917
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Borough Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, held an Inquest yesterday afternoon with reference to the death of SARAH WAKEHAM, who was killed at the Great Western Docks on Tuesday evening. Mr Morris, Inspector of Workshops and Factories, and Mr K. Eyton Peck, representing the Ministry of Munitions, attended. - MRS DINGLE, widow, of Granby-street, said deceased was her daughter. She was 32 years of age and the wife of a private in the Devon Regiment. - Elizabeth Dobson, of Flora-street, said she was returning from work in the Great Western Docks on Tuesday night with deceased. They were going through two lots of trucks when witness said, "They're moving." She stepped back, and deceased stepped forward, and was caught between the buffers. Deceased breathed once or twice after she was released, but never spoke again. Witness could not see any engine or signs of shunting at the time, and many other women had gone through the same way. - Mr Poultney produced a plan of the yard. - Felix Wm. Hill, engine driver, who was employed in shunting on the occasion said the accident occurred 200 yards from his engine, which was not attached to the trucks. there was a man kept at the crossing to warn passengers up to 7 o'clock. He knew nothing of the accident. - James T. Parsons, shunter, said he was a hundred yards away from where the accident occurred. There was nothing unusual in the shunting that night. Verdict: "Accidental Death."

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Borough Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, held an Inquest yesterday afternoon with reference to the death of LARS LARSEN, master of a Norwegian vessel. Mr Carlile Davis appeared on behalf of the Norwegian Consul )Mr Orlando Davis). - A. E. Monson, ships' chandler, said he saw deceased about 4.20 on Saturday, the 11th., on board his ship. Deceased said he was feeling cold and he walked up the companion ladder. When near the top he fell back and knocked his head on the deck. They found him unconscious, but when they got him into the cabin he came round. - Dr Deery was called, and next day ordered him to the Hospital. - Mr Davis: You think he may have slipped? - Witness: He did; he slipped and fell backwards. - Miss Florence Miller, House Physician, South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, said the man was unconscious when admitted and remained unconscious until he died on Sunday. A post-mortem examination revealed a fractured skull. - In reply to Mr Davis, Dr Miller said they could not find the fracture before the post-mortem examination. Verdict, "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Saturday 24 February 1917
RUNCORN, CHESHIRE - Teignmouth Skipper's Death. £200 Left With A Landlady. - An Inquest was held at Weston Point, near Runcorn, on Thursday, on FREDERICK WALLACE PRATT, aged 45, captain of the schooner Gavanwood, and who lived at Alexandra-terrace, Teignmouth. - MRS JESSIE PRATT gave evidence of identification. A Russian mate of the vessel, said deceased went ashore at 10.30 on the morning of the 16th February. He said he was going to Runcorn, and as he did not return on Monday witness reported to the brokers that he was missing. Deceased was quite healthy and in good spirits when he left the vessel. - Elizabeth Worrall, wife of Abraham Worrall, of the Clarendon Hotel, Church-street, Runcorn, said on the 16th inst., deceased came to the Clarendon about 9.15 in the morning. He had a bottle of ale, but was perfectly sober. He asked her mother if he might leave a few pounds with them and she said "Yes." He then produced £200 in notes, which he deposited with her mother. It was suggested that as the amount was so large a young man who was in the room had better count it over for him and that was done. - The widow said she did not believe her husband would trust anybody. Witness said deceased remarked that he would like to leave the money because it was such a dark night. :Witness knew him by sight only: he had called at the house before. - Reuben Stubbs, of Princess-street, Runcorn, bore out Mrs Worrall's statement as to what had taken place in the Clarendon Hotel. When the deceased deposited the money he remarked it was a large sum to carry about with him, but he was not afraid. - Joseph Miller, a tonnage clerk, Weston Point, described the recovery of the body from No.1 Lock of the Runcorn and Weston Canal on 20th February, after grappling for a few minutes. He thought deceased had probably attempted to cross the lock gates as a short cut to his vessel. - P.C. Passer said there were no marks of violence on the body. - The Coroner remarked that the night on which deceased must have met his death was very dark and the Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned. - It is understood that the money deposited at the Clarendon belonged to the owners of the schooner. MR PRATT was interred in Runcorn Cemetery.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 28 February 1917
ST MARYCHURCH - Babbacombe Cliff Fatality. Gentleman Loses His Life While Seeking Lost Dog. - Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest at St. Marychurch Townhall yesterday on WILLIAM KIRKUS LAYBORN, aged 64. - Mr Herbert Curtis, of independent means, said deceased lived with him at Anstey's Lea. He was a retired medical man, a bachelor, of independent means and he had lived with witness and his wife for eleven years and a half. Deceased was never a strong man, but he had not suffered from anything except occasionally from influenza and a small leg trouble. Witness saw deceased about 12.15 on Saturday, when he went out alone for a walk with his favourite terrier dog. He was expected home to lunch at 1.30 but as he did not come, nor the dog, witness became alarmed, and soon after 2 o'clock he went out and sought deceased on Babbacombe Downs, this being one of the places he was in the habit of going to. Not finding deceased on the Downs, witness went to Anstey's Cove and Bishop's Walk and then returned and made inquiries, after which he gave information to the Police. He was informed of the body of deceased being found on Sunday afternoon, and he saw it in the Mortuary. Deceased had no coat on then, but he had with and on him the dog whip, silver watch, two pocket knives, a purse containing over £5 and a latchkey. Deceased's coat was found on the beach near the body. - Asked if he could throw any light on how deceased came by his death, witness said his idea was that deceased, being so devoted to his dog, when he came to the fence which divided that portion of the cliff the dog went through and down the slope and deceased went after it and got lost in the mist. Witness knew of nothing to suggest that deceased might have taken his own life. He had never threatened to do so and no letter shad been found containing any references to such a thing. - Rev. F. H. Bickersteth Ottley, vicar of St Matthias, Ilsham, said whilst walking on Babbacombe Downs his attention was attracted to the dog running along with its tongue out panting. He tried to get the dog to go with him, but it would not do so. The animal was inside the fence and had apparently been running up the slope. There were patches of thick mist coming in from the sea at the time. Witness heard afterwards that deceased was missing, and with his verger and the dog and others he searched the cliffs until late in the evening. During this time the dog strained very much at the leash, and when released it ran straight to the place when where witness had seen it in the afternoon. Deceased was a great botanist and witness's impression was that he was either picking a flower or attempting to call back his dog on the edge of the cliff when, in the mist, slipped on the grass and fell over the cliff. Witness had never seen anything in deceased's conduct at any time to suggest that he contemplated doing any harm to himself. He was very methodical and retiring, but always exceedingly pleasant and kind. He had never given witness the smallest impression that he contemplated suicide from nervous depression, or that his mind was unhinged in the least. - Robert Windeatt, coast watcher, said about three o'clock on Saturday afternoon he saw deceased with his dog close to and outside the fence. There was a mist coming in from the sea at the time. - Joseph William Brown, engineer to the Nigerian Government, proved finding the body of deceased after going down a very steep and slippery slope, in the water at the bottom of the cliff. He signalled for a boat and one came with the Police and the body was removed to the Mortuary at St Marychurch. - Dr G. M. Winter said the cause of death was fractures of the skull and other injuries, from the nature of which witness thought deceased fell on his feet. He was dead before he got into the water; it was the fall that killed deceased, and not drowning. - The Coroner said deceased might have come by his death by his own act by throwing himself over the rugged cliff, or he accidentally fell over in the mist whilst wandering about gathering a flower. There was nothing in the evidence to lead to the suggestion that deceased committed suicide, whilst on the other hand there were many suggestions that death was the result of an accident. - The Jury, of whom Mr S. Burrows was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

PLYMOUTH - Stoker's Strange Death. - At the R.N. Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday, Mr R. Robinson Rodd held an Inquest on JOSEPH GOULD, aged 29, a stoker, R.N., of H.M.S. Vivid. - Arthur Henry Daniels, also a stoker, H.M.S. Vivid, said he and a man named Ernest Berrick attended a theatre with deceased on Saturday evening, and went to the Royal Oak, Pembroke-street, Devonport, to sleep. He could only remember being hurriedly awakened by the landlady and told that deceased had fallen out of the window. - He slept in a double bed, facing the window, with deceased. Other evidence showed that at midnight a Constable on duty found deceased lying on the footpath and conveyed him to the R.N. Hospital, where he died soon afterwards. - Surg. A. V. S. Davies, R.N., who made a post mortem examination, found that death was due to a fracture of the base of the skull. - The Coroner said there was not sufficient evidence to prove how deceased fell out of the window. An Open Verdict was therefore returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 2 March 1917
PLYMOUTH - Measles Not Notified. - At Plymouth yesterday Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest on MURIEL IRENE WALK, of Bate's-buildings, St Andrew's-street, daughter of a motor driver. On Tuesday evening, having been taken suddenly ill, Dr Blades was sent for, but found her dead, from bronchitis. - The Coroner, having found out from the mother that the child had had measles, a notifiable disease, and that she had not given notice to a doctor, told the mother it was a serious thing, and she might get into trouble. - It was stated by the officer of the court that there were scores of children in the neighbourhood. - Verdict, Natural Causes.

Western Morning News, Saturday 3 March 1917
LISKEARD, CORNWALL - Plymouth Engine Driver's Death. Inquest At Liskeard. - The death took place yesterday at Liskeard Great Western Railway Station of PHILIP WILLIAMS, 60, a passenger engine driver of Derry-avenue, Plymouth, who had nearly 43 years' service with the G.W.R. Co. He anticipated retiring shortly on account of failing health. - At the inquest by Mr A. de C. Glubb, it was shown that deceased travelled as a passenger to Liskeard by the early morning mail train, it being his duty to drive the 7.25 a.m. train from Liskeard to Plymouth. On alighting from the train he complained to Sidney Hollway, his fireman, of the heat, and was breathing with difficulty. They proceeded to the engine shed together and deceased went into the cabin close by, where he was in the habit of eating his breakfast. In a minute or two a cleaner called to Hollway that WILLIAMS was ill, and the assistance of John Albert Arthur, signalman, was also obtained. The latter stated that he found deceased in a semi-sitting position, breathing stertorously, and not quite conscious. His hands were cold and no pulse could be felt. His collar was loosened, but each breath grew weaker, and he died in about 10 minutes. - MRS WILLIAMS said her husband had been under Dr Wagner's treatment. - Dr R. Hingston, of Liskeard, attributed death to heart failure, with possible bronchial trouble. - Verdict - "Natural Causes." - The deceased, a native of Chacewater, entered the G.W.R. Co., service at Carn Brea when 18 years of age, and had attained the grade of first class driver. He was highly respected by his acquaintances in Plymouth, and esteemed as a steady, reliable man by his superiors and colleagues on the line.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 6 March 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - Motor Cycle Fatality. Singular Evidence At Pennycross. - Mr J. A. Pearce, Devonport District Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday on WILLIAM KELLAWAY, aged 6, son of IRA KELLAWAY, G.W.R. Co. labourer, of 30 Hawthorn-grove, Pennycross. - MRS KELLAWAY said the boy went out to play after tea on Thursday. A little later his sister brought him back and said he had been knocked down by a motor cycle ridden by a young man named Vosper, living in the same street. Witness did not think the child was seriously injured, and did not call in a doctor. She had some difficulty in awakening him at 9.30 a.m. on Friday and a neighbour told her he was unconscious. She called in Dr Vosper, who recommended her to take him to the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital. Witness conveyed him to the Hospital in a taxi-cab and the doctor there told her he was very ill and was going to die. He suggested an operation, but could give her no hope of its being successful. Witness therefore took deceased home, where he died at 4.45 the same evening. Vosper, the youth who was riding the cycle, called to ask if the child was hurt. Deceased did not appear to be in pain. - Edgar Charles Vosper, age 20, newsagent of 21 Hawthorn-grove, said he was riding his motor-cycle from Plymouth on Friday and turned into Holly-grove, Pennycross, at 6 p.m. He saw four or five children playing with a small trolley on perambulator wheels on one side of the road and there was a handcart on the other. He sounded the horn and as the children did not take any notice he shouted to them. They gave him room to pass, but just as he got level with the handcart the deceased ran from behind it. Witness saw that a collision was inevitable and stopped the bicycle, which caught the child in the stomach as he (witness) jumped off. The deceased sat down and then fell back, striking his head on the ground. Deceased's sister picked up the child, who they thought was only frightened, and took him home. Witness called twice at the deceased's home, and he appeared to be uninjured. Witness stopped the engine of the cycle before he turned the corner, and it was only moving at walking pace. - Dr Sydney Vosper said death was due to the rupture of a large artery and the consequent haemorrhage which caused a clot of blood to press on the brain. Deceased had had a malformed heart from birth, and his condition was such that a comparatively slight knock on that particular spot would have had the same effect. There was no sign of injury where the wheel of the bicycle struck the boy. It was probable that deceased would not have grown to manhood. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," exonerating Vosper from blame and expressing sympathy with the relatives.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 7 March 1917
TAVISTOCK - Objection To Doctor At Tavistock. - Mr R. R. Rodd, jun., Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at Tavistock, on ELIZABETH ANN EARLAND, aged 56, wife of FRANCIS EARLAND, formerly a labourer and now in the Royal Engineers. - FRANCES MAY EARLAND, a daughter, stated that her mother had been ill with rheumatism for five or six years, and was not able to stand. On Monday morning, after her mother had had some food, witness gave her brandy. She died about two hours later. A doctor was not called in because her mother objected to see one. - Dr W. R. Griffin stated that death was due to exhaustion from general debility. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." - The Coroner told the daughter that she should have called in a doctor, notwithstanding her mother's objection to seeing one.

Western Morning News, Saturday 10 March 1917
PLYMOUTH - Fatal Accident At Plymouth. - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest at Plymouth Workhouse yesterday on MARY ALICE KNOWLES, aged 64. - It was stated that deceased was the daughter of ABRAHAM KNOWLES, a Dublin jeweller, and that she slipped on the kerb in Bedford-street on the 24th ult., and was rode over by a sailor on a bicycle. - P.C. Wilcocks, who witnessed the accident, took deceased to the S.D. and E.C. Hospital, after which she was removed to the Workhouse. - Dr C. J. Coke said death was due to a wound in the head caused by the fall. Verdict: "Accidental Death."

EAST STONEHOUSE - Chief Boatswain's Fatal Fall. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd, Coroner, held an Inquest at the R.N. Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday, on GEORGE FORD, aged 47, chief boatswain, R.N., who died from injuries sustained through a fall on board a vessel on Wednesday. - Nathaniel Toms, able seaman, said the ship was made fast to a buoy in the Hamoaze, and he saw deceased leaning over the rail on the forecastle, when suddenly it gave way and he fell on to the buoy and into a Dockyard cutter. His weight must have caused the rope to slacken, as the bottle screw was not properly screwed up. - Mr W. H. Chubb, carpenter, R.N., said he was responsible for the condition of the screw, and he made an examination after the accident and found two end threads defective. It was examined on Feb. 26. - John Powell, blacksmith's mate, said he thought the screw probably worked loose because of men leaning and stepping on the rail. - Surg. A. LO. Pearse Gould, R.N., made a post-mortem examination and found the breast bone fractured and the heart penetrated by a splinter of the bone, causing sudden death. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. - The deceased attained warrant rank on Mar. 1, 1901, and was promoted to chief boatswain on Mar. 1, 1916.

Western Morning News, Monday 12 March 1917
KINGSKERSWELL - At an Inquest at Kingskerswell on JOHN M. ADAMS, 75, of Wellington-terrace, the widow stated that deceased had been in ill-health for some time, and was only able to walk a short distance with the aid of a stick. On March 1st he went for a little exercise in the front of the house and she heard him fall. She found him lying on the footpath, bleeding from a wound in the head. - Dr R. H. Grimbly said the wound would probably have healed if deceased had been a healthy man, but he had a constitutional disorder and erysipelas set in, causing death. - Verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 13 March 1917
EXETER -Death Of An Exeter Recluse. - An Inquest was held by the Deputy Coroner at Exeter last evening on DR BINDON F. V. BURTON, retired medical practitioner, aged 68, who was found dead at his house, East Gove-road, last Thursday. - Mr Walter R. Moss said that for 12 years, since the death of his wife, DR BURTON lived alone. - Mrs Gilbard, charwoman, said on Wednesday the doctor told her he had fallen in the street on the previous night. He did not complain of injury. On Thursday morning Mrs Madge, a neighbour, heard the dog barking and whining and knocked at the door. ~The doctor came to the door and said he was all right. The dog continued to whine all day and at night she drew the attention of her husband to the fact that the doctor had not closed his door. P.S. Madge, her brother-in-law, went in and found the doctor dead on a pile of rubbish on the floor of the kitchen. - Dr Pereira attributed death to heart failure consequent upon kidney disease. The deceased was of delicate constitution. - Verdict: "Death from Natural Causes."

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Bath Tragedy. Danger Of Down Draughts In Geysers. - Plymouth Borough Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns yesterday held an Inquiry into the death of MRS LAURA RENDLE, 43, who was found dead in the bath at her residence, Endsleigh Park-road, on Sunday. Mr G. F. Sibley, livery stable proprietor, said deceased lived with her father, MR J. KERSWILL, and on Sunday witness had dinner with them. Afterwards witness and MR KERSWILL were together in the front room until about six o'clock, when deceased's father said "LAURA is not down yet; I will give her a call." Getting no response, he went upstairs, and on coming down again said "She does not answer; she is in the bathroom." A little later witness went upstairs and on the bathroom door being burst open, saw deceased in the bath, which was full of water. She was apparently dead, although her head was not under water. There was a smell of gas. Witness lifted her out of the water and endeavoured to revive her while a doctor was being brought. The gas in the geyser was partially turned on, but was not alight. - Mr J. A. Richmond, outdoor manager for the Plymouth and Stonehouse Gas Co., produced a plan of the bath and geyser and attributed the mishap to down draught in the geyser flue. The geyser had been fixed in the way usual with builders in Plymouth, but the Gas Co. never fixed them without a baffler to prevent down-draughts. - Dr G. J. Wilson said MRS RENDLE had been dead several hours when he arrived. Death was due to gas poisoning. - The Coroner said he was informed by Mr Richmond that the Gas Co. were prepared to send competent men, without charge, to inspect the installation of geysers. If people would take more trouble in seeing they were properly installed there would then be no danger of such regrettable accidents. Verdict, "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 14 March 1917
EGG BUCKLAND - Egg Buckland Mystery. Absentee Soldier Found Dead In The Churchyard. - At Egg Buckland yesterday Mr R. Robinson Rodd, Coroner, held an Inquest on ALFRED THOMAS REED, of the Devons, who was found dead in the yard of Egg Buckland Parish Church. It was stated that deceased was never strong mentally. He was declared to be an absentee on Jan,. 27, and search was made, the Police being warned. A letter was sent to an officer of deceased's regiment by the vicar of his parish, Gillingham, Dorset, to the effect that he had suicidal tendencies. - L.-Cpl. Barrett said he discovered deceased lying face downward in the shrubbery of Egg Buckland Churchyard, with only his boots showing. He was fully dressed with the exception of his putties and belt. Among other things found on him was a New Testament, a watch and a few coins. - Dr T. Olver said the body was too decomposed to determine the cause of death. The man had been dead at least a fortnight. There was no evidence of poison, and there were no external marks. Deceased had no food in his stomach and if he had lain in the position he was found for long exposure in the excessive cold might have been the cause of death. - Verdict "Found Dead."

Western Morning News, Thursday 15 March 1917
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Docks Fatality. - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on ERNEST GEORGE FEDRICK, warehouseman, 40, of Harwell-street, a son of MR N. G. T. FEDRICK, retired sanitary inspector, of Saltash. - Mr T. Y. Teague, dock foreman for Messrs. Waring, said on Monday they were at the docks moving railway trucks. FEDRICK thought some trucks had been moved far enough and were going to bump and he went between them to apply the brake. Soon afterwards he heard him groaning and found he had been caught between the buffers of two waggons. He died in a few minutes. - Dr Parsloe said death was due to internal haemorrhage and perforation of the stomach. - Verdict "Accidental Death." - Mr H. Wolferstan, on behalf of Messrs. Waring, joined in an expression of sympathy passed by the Jury with the family. Deceased had been employed by the firm 25 years and was highly respected. He left a widow and six children, the youngest being three weeks old. The firm would do everything it could to mitigate the severity of the blow. - Mr F. M. James, chief inspector, G.W.R., in answer to the Coroner, said tenants were permitted to move wagons to suit their requirements.

EAST STONEHOUSE - Sailor's Fatal Fall. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd held an Inquest at the R.N. Hospital, yesterday on WILLIAM HENRY BOER, P.O., R.N. - Thomas A Smith, able seaman, said on Thursday last he and BOER were by the hatchway of a ship hoisting coal out of the hold. Two bags were attached to the hoist and when the signal was given to heave they caught under the beam, throwing it up. He jumped to starboard. BOER jumped to port, and, missing his footing, fell into the hold. Dr Cohen said death was due to fracture at the base of the skull, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. A vote of sympathy was passed to the relations of the deceased.

Western Morning News, Saturday 17 March 1917
MAKER WITH RAME, CORNWALL - Plymouth Marine's Sudden Death. - An Inquest was held at Cremyll yesterday concerning the tragically sudden death of PTE. GEORGE HAM. aged 26, R.M.L.I., stationed at the Royal Marine Barracks, whose mother resides at Adelaide-street, Plymouth. The evidence showed that HAM, who was highly respected in his corps, had won prizes for running. On Wednesday he accompanied other Marines who went for a cross-country run from Cremyll to Millbrook and back. When on the highway near the Home Farm, Maker, HAM fell, groaned and expired almost immediately. Just before falling he had kept pace with his companions, with whom he had been joking. The fleet surgeon from the Impregnable was quickly on the spot, but he could only pronounced life extinct. The medical evidence showed that death was due to sudden heart failure, and a verdict accordingly was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 20 March 1917
BRIXTON - Brixton Woman's Death. - At Brixton yesterday Mr R. Robinson Rodd held an Inquest on ELLEN DAVIS, 42, wife of a gardener, who died on Saturday. - Emily Horswill said she was sent for by deceased on Feb. 9 and found her confined. She did what she could until the doctor arrived, as the District Nurse was not available. The husband said he had ten children and they lived in a cottage of three rooms. - Esther Ann Greep, sister-in-law, said the doctor who was attending for the parish, ordered deceased a pint of beef tea a day, but the Relieving Officer wrote back refusing to comply with that order. The District Nurse also refused to look after the case as she was going to the Exeter Assizes. But though the confinement took place after she had returned, no offer was made to take it on. - Dr E. H. B. Fox, Yealmpton, said the child had been born an hour previous to his arrival. The bedclothes were dirty, deceased was suffering from haemorrhage, and death was due to general weakness and severe haemorrhage. If she had received proper attention she might have lived. - The Coroner adjourned the Inquiry for the attendance of the nurse and the Relieving Officer.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 21 March 1917
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Child's Death. Complaint Against Doctor. - At Plymouth yesterday Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest on THOMAS REGINALD FINNAMORE, aged 4, son of MR and MRS REGINALD FINNAMORE, 2 Northumberland-terrace. The child was taken ill on Saturday night and Dr Clarke was sent for, and he being engaged, the mother telephoned to Dr Cooke, but was told that he was too tired to come. Eventually Dr Parsloe arrived and Dr Clarke, on being again sent for, came just before the child's death. In her evidence the mother condemned the action of the doctors, and said she thought her son died through lack of attention. - The Coroner pointed out that doctors could not be compelled to attend, and that the address was not left at Dr Clarke's house. Medical evidence showed that the case was quite hopeless and that the child's life could not have been saved, death being due to pneumonia. - Verdict, "Death from Natural Causes."

PLYMOUTH - Holbeton Child's Fatal Scalds. - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on WILLIAM HENRY DYER, aged 7, Holbeton. On Friday night the child was in the kitchen, when he slipped against the fire, and a kettle of boiling water fell over him. Dr Fox, of Yealmpton, ordered the child's removal to a Hospital. - Dr F. Millard, House Physician, S.D. and E.C. Hospital, said the case was hopeless from the first. The cause of death was shock from scalds received. - Verdict, "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Thursday 22 March 1917
BRIXTON - Brixton Woman's Death. No Beef Tea: Censure Passed On Plympton Guardians. - The adjourned Inquest on ELLEN DAVIS, of Brixton Road, who died on the 17th inst., was held yesterday. - Henry Felderman, Relieving Officer, admitted that the Guardians declined to grant the recommendation of the doctor that the woman should have beef tea each day. He said he visited relatives of the deceased and put the matter before the Guardians. The view they took was that the husband had constant work, and that maternity benefit would be received. - The Coroner, Mr R. R. Rodd, said in refusing the doctor's order the Guardians took on themselves a grave responsibility, and had the doctor only said that the death had been accelerated by the lack of the article the act would have been very serious. - Mr Felderman replied that the doctor ordered brandy, but the doctor did not ask the Guardians for Brandy. The Board as a rule were very generous. - Mr A. W. Miller, Foreman of the Jury, said he could not see what justification the Board had in refusing the doctor's order, as the husband received only 30s. per week and had ten children. - Emily Thomas, District Nurse and certified Midwife for Brixton and Yealmpton, in the employ of the Devon County Association, said the matter rested entirely with herself as to refusing or undertaking a case. She received a letter from the deceased asking her to attend her confinement about Jan. 20. She called to see her, and was told the confinement was expected either the end of Jan. or the beginning of Feb. She told deceased she could not take the case, as she was attending the Assizes on Jan. 31. However, she did not stay at Exeter more than one night, but was busy with cases up to Feb. 7. She did not offer to take deceased's case on her return, as she heard that a woman and a doctor had been engaged. What happened was unavoidable, as she could not have arrived at the house until after the baby had been born. The calls for the nurse and the doctor wee generally very late, in many cases the birth taking place before they arrived. - In reply to a question on what steps she took as to cleanliness, witness said she gave advice to patients beforehand. - The Coroner said leaflets as to how confinements should be prepared for should be left at the patients' houses. - Mr A. J. Steer (Juryman) said the local committee under which the nurse worked should have control of cases; they should not be left to the discretion of the nurse. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the Guardians were most imprudent in refusing the doctor's order. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the doctor's evidence, with a rider suggesting the distribution of leaflets on cleanliness to patients and expressing the opinion that the Guardians' action was scandalous, and that in future they hoped more care would be taken; and that attention should be drawn to the crowded condition of the cottage. - The fees of the Jurymen were directed to be spent on deceased's children.

Western Morning News, Friday 23 March 1917
HOLSWORTHY - Suicide At Holsworthy. - An Inquest was held at Holsworthy Workhouse on Wednesday on JOHN CHING, aged 65. - Mrs E. Bassett said deceased, her brother, had been living with his two sisters at Holsworthy for three years. He was always strange in his manner, and when in a temper would threaten to take his life. They missed him last Saturday and on making search found him in Chasty-lane walking towards home. Deceased said he had fallen over a gate. - Dr W. G. Gray said deceased had suffered from insanity. ~ The cause of death was haemorrhage and shock. Verdict: "Suicide whilst Insane."

Western Morning News, Saturday 24 March 1917
TIVERTON Coroner On Needless Inquests. - "Death from Natural Causes" was the verdict at an Inquest at Tiverton Hospital last evening on MARY HOWE, 65, spinster, who died suddenly at Pileywell Farm, Tiverton, while sweeping up leaves, on Wednesday morning. The Coroner, Mr Clutsom, said he thought an Inquest could be dispensed with in such simple cases. Nevertheless, they were bound to be held - it was a little defect of the law. It meant a great deal of trouble, waste of time and expense to the country. Jurors endorsed this view.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 27 March 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - R.N.R. Stoker's Suicide. Tragic Discovery At Devonport. - Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at Devonport Guildhall yesterday on CHARLES TONER, aged 32, sto., R.N.R., who was found hanged in a lavatory at Camel's Head last Friday. - Mr K. Eyton Peck represented the Admiralty. - Neil Campbell, sto., R.N.R., of Glasgow, said he had known deceased since the beginning of the war. He was a native of Govan. Witness last saw deceased alive the previous Monday, when he said he had been in Queensferry Hospital, and was going to ask for some leave. He appeared to be quite cheerful. - Richard E. Bebb, 1st. cl. sto., R.N., said deceased had belonged to his mess at the R.N. Barracks for a week, during which time he did not appear to be despondent, or in any sort of trouble. He had been missing since last Tuesday. - F. H. Reed, ldg. sto., living at Camel's Head, said he found deceased hanging by his silk handkerchief to the support of a cistern, his feet being 18in. from the ground. - P.C. Bulley said he was called and found a broken lanyard attached to the cistern support, as well as the silk handkerchief by which deceased was hanging. It appeared that an attempt had been made with the lanyard. The place where deceased was found was cleaned out on Friday just before noon. - William Brooking, chief master-at-arms, produced papers showing that deceased was married and bore a very good character. Last Thursday a telegram was received from Liverpool stating that deceased had surrendered as an absentee and was being sent on to Devonport. A special messenger was sent to meet the train and saw a man who said he came from Liverpool and took him to the barracks. The man was not the deceased, who they next heard had been found in the lavatory. Deceased could have obtained leave easily if he had applied, as he bore a good character and had been in Hospital. - Dr T. McElwaine attributed death to suffocation, and the Jury found that deceased had Committed Suicide, but there was insufficient evidence to show the state of his mind.

Western Morning News, Saturday 31 March 1917
PLYMOUTH - Petty Officer's Sudden Death. - An Inquest was held at the R.N. Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday, on WILLIAM CLARK, aged 56, 1st class P.O., R.N. - Staff-Surg. W. Betenson said on Thursday morning he was called to attend deceased, who was suddenly taken ill and a little later expired. A post-mortem examination showed death to be due to syncope. - Verdict: "Natural Causes."

NEWTON ABBOT - Newton Abbot Man's Suicide. - Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at Newton Abbot on SAMUEL FREDERICK HASKING, 37, coal merchant, of The Avenue, Newton Abbot, who was found hanging in the loft at the back of his premises. - W. J. HASKING, Chelston-road, said deceased, his brother, enjoyed fairly good health, but since an accident three years ago, when the wheel of a wagon went over his head, he had frequently complained of pains in his head, especially when stooping. Witness knew of no troubles that might account for the tragedy. - Mrs Shepheard, next door neighbour, said during the last month she had been attending to MRS HASKING, who was ill in bed. On Thursday morning when witness went into the house MRS HASKING said her husband had not brought her a cup of tea as he usually did, and she asked witness to see if he was in the stables. Some time afterwards witness went into the stables and finding the horses had not been fed went up to the loft. She saw deceased hanging and at once sent for the Police. - P.C. Anstey said deceased was hanging from a rope attached to a beam. A ladder was close by. - Dr Nisbet said death was due to suffocation by hanging. - Verdict: "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind," sympathy being expressed with the widow and children.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 3 April 1917
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Borough Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, yesterday held an Inquest on MRS CHARLOTTE ANN AXWORTHY, 61 years of age, 15 Summerland-street, who died suddenly in bed on Monday morning. Dr R. H. Wagner attributed death to heart disease. Verdict, "Natural Causes."

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Borough Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest on PHILLIP BRANTON, aged 82, who was discovered hanging from a beam in the wash-house at 82 Cecil-street, on Saturday morning. MRS BERTHA ROBERTS, his daughter, said deceased was a retired gardener and an old-age pensioner. He lived happily and comfortably and had no cause for worry. Verdict, "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

PLYMOUTH - A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned after an Inquest on STELLA MARY JONES, the eighteen-months-old child of JOHN JOHNS, labourer, Rendle-street, who died on Saturday as the result of bronchial pneumonia and convulsions. The medical evidence showing the child had been well nourished.

Western Morning News, Friday 13 April 1917
DARTMOUTH - Naval Man's Sudden Death. Only One Kidney. - Mr A. M. Davson, Dartmouth Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday on JAMES HENRY FARR, a station orderly employed at the R.N. College. Deceased, who was 30 years of age, died in his bedroom shortly after retiring to rest on Tuesday at 9.5 p.m. Dr Soper said a post-mortem revealed a rather unusual thing in that deceased possessed only one kidney. It was quite three times the normal size and was lying on the left side. There were no signs that a right kidney ever existed. Death was due to heart failure, secondary to an attack of pleuro-pneumonia. Verdict. "Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Saturday 14 April 1917
EAST STONEHOUSE - Russian's Suicide At Plymouth. - An Inquest was held at the R.N. Hospital, Stonehouse, yesterday, on NICHOLAY ENGRAFFOFF, 30, engine-room mechanic, who was admitted to the Hospital suffering from hydrochloric acid poisoning. The ship's surgeon said the deceased told him that he took the poison because he felt life was not worth living under the new conditions in Russia. Deceased was known to be a keen Royalist, and was, perhaps, said the witness, one by himself on the warship. The Jury found that death was due to Poison, Self-administered in a fit of Temporary Insanity.

STOKE DAMEREL - Seaman's Sudden Death. - Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at the R.N. Barracks, Devonport, yesterday, on JOHN RIDDLER, ord. seaman, of Rock Cottage, Lustleigh, who died suddenly on Thursday. - E. E. Redwood, sig., said he found RIDDLER dead in his hammock at 6 a.m. - F. J. Jenkins, ldg. sig., said that on the previous evening deceased told him he was suffering from a cold and rheumatism and would be all right in the morning. - Surg. J. F. McQueen, R.N., attributed death to cerebro-spinal meningitis and a verdict to that effect was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 17 April 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Dockyardsman's Death. - The Devonport Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, yesterday held an Inquest at the Royal Albert Hospital on WILLIAM THOMAS AUSTIN, skilled labourer in the Dockyard - The widow, EVA ELIZABETH AUSTIN, 10 Cumberland-street, said deceased, who was 39 years of age, met with an accident whilst working at Invergordon last July, when a plate fell on his right foot, cutting off the big toe. He was conveyed to the R.N. Hospital, Stonehouse, for treatment, and remained there three weeks, being some time longer on the sick list before returning to work at Devonport Dockyard. On Mar. 26 he complained of feeling unwell and remained in bed the next day and Dr McElwaine attended him until Wednesday last, when he recommended Hospital treatment. Witness endeavoured to get him into the R.N. Hospital, but the officials there could not accept the case as it was not an accident, the Institution being reserved for the fleet and for Dockyardsmen in case of accident only. He was taken to the Royal Albert Hospital the following day. Dr B. S. Ray, House Surgeon, said deceased was conscious when admitted, but in a very bad condition and died on Friday morning. A post-mortem examination showed death to be due to blood poisoning, owing to abscesses. The accident did not in any way lead to death. - A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned, and, on the suggestion of the Coroner, sympathy was expressed with the widow.

Western Morning News, Thursday 19 April 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Fatality. Railwayman Avoided One Danger To Step Into Another. - Mr J. A. Pearce, District Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday on THOMAS EDWIN BLATCHFORD, 55, foreman porter, who was killed at Devonport L. and S.W.R. Station on Monday - Mr A. H. E. Stevens, Stationmaster, and Inspectors Trump and Moore represented the railway company and Mr G. W. Brown attended on behalf of the National Union of Railwaymen. - Deceased's son said his father had been engaged with the railway company over thirty years. - Sergt. Caff, Military Police, said about 5.15 p.m. horses were being entrained at a siding adjoining the up platform when an up train entered the Station. Some of the horses were startled, and to avoid them apparently deceased stepped backwards and was caught by the approaching train. He was twisted around between a carriage and the edge of the platform and eventually dropped between the train and the platform. The train was pulled up and deceased, who was then practically dead, was taken to the Military Hospital. - Farrier-Corpl. Hubberstey, A.S.C., said the entraining of horses had been carried on in a similar manner for some time past without mishap. The platform was amply wide enough for the purpose. - Fredk. Bowden, who was driving the 4.55 p.m. train from Friary, said whilst slowing down in Devonport Station, the fireman called to him to stop as someone had fallen under the train and he immediately brought it to a stop. - Edward Lewis Dart, fireman on the train, noticed the horses become restive as the train entered the Station. Deceased stepped back and apparently could not stop himself and was caught by the train. The horses were within a yard of the edge of the platform and deceased evidently was trying to avoid being kicked. - Dr Cooke said death was due to shock. - Richard Beer, porter, said as the train approached the Station a signalman shouted to the soldiers, "Hold tight the horses boys; there is a train coming." BLATCHFORD, who was with witness, also said, "Look out"; and as the horses were plunging stepped towards the edge of the platform along which the train was approaching. To avoid the danger from the horses he stepped into another. In reply to Mr Brown, witness said there was no one specially told off to warn men working on the platform when trains were approaching. - Mr A. H. E. Stevens, Stationmaster, said thousands of horses had been entrained in a similar manner from the same platform without mishap. - The Coroner said he had known deceased for many years as a very estimable man. - Mr Stevens replied it was gratifying to hear the Coroner say that. Deceased had been with the company 35 years. He was a lifelong abstainer and an excellent comrade and the relatives had the sincere sympathy of the staff and himself, whilst the company had lost an able worker. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, the Coroner and Jury expressing sympathy with the relatives.

Western Morning News, Saturday 21 April 1917
PLYMOUTH - "Found Drowned" was the verdict at an Inquest at Plymouth Mortuary yesterday on FREDERICK CHARLES ROBINS, 44, dockyard labourer, whose body was found in Sutton Pool the previous day.

Western Morning News, Thursday 26 April 1917
EAST STONEHOUSE - Devonport Dockyard Fatality. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd held an Inquest at Stonehouse yesterday on WILLIAM WALLACE, aged 61, of Portland-square, skilled labourer in H.M. Dockyard. - John Frederick Flynn, of the same occupation, said that on Tuesday morning he was working on board a ship with deceased, whose duty it was to attend to the gas generator. His light kept on going out and deceased, on coming down to see what was the matter, apparently slipped and fell over the scaffolding. He was taken to the R.N. Hospital, but died before medical examination. A post-mortem showed that death was due to fracture of the skull. - Verdict, "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Saturday 28 April 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Man's Suicide. National Service Worry. - Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at Devonport yesterday on WILLIAM JOHN HENDERSON BARRY, aged 57, single, superannuated shipwright from Devonport Dockyard. - Mrs J. Sandercock, 10 Valletort-road, Stoke, said deceased had lodged at her house for 13 months. Last Sunday he left at 1.30 p.m. for Scotland, where he had been directed to go on volunteering for National Service. Deceased was rather depressed. Witness was much surprised on Tuesday afternoon at deceased returning home, saying he had come back because he could not get lodgings. Shortly after 8 a.m. on Thursday witness went to deceased's room to take him a letter, and getting no reply when she knocked she opened the door and noticed a strong smell of gas. She found the top of a jet turned on and turned it off, and then saw a man's bare feet on the hearthrug. She called Sergt. Sanders, who lived near by. - P.S .Sanders said deceased was quite dead when he was called. There was a thick tablecloth secured round the upper part of his body and through a hole in it a piece of gas tubing passed to his mouth. Witness found a letter addressed to deceased's brother, in which he explained that he had gone to Ayrshire on National Service. He saw the manager of a works, who said he would send the foreman to him and he would commence work the next morning. He waited for the foreman until long after the men left work, and then wandered about the town looking for lodgings and food. Afterwards he went to Glasgow, and, without considering the consequences of his action, he took train for Devonport and reached home on Tuesday afternoon. He had since realised the seriousness of his position. There was an addition to the letter, timed 6.30 a.m. Wednesday, stating that deceased had had another sleepless night and that he had found another way of getting over his trouble. He mentioned that he had made provision for a rainy day and that he hoped someone would have as much pleasure in spending the money as he had had in saving it. - Mr W. Godfrey said he saw deceased off by train on Sunday, when he was depressed and feared he would break down at the work he was undertaking. - Dr T. McElwaine said death was due to gas poisoning, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 1 May 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - Naval Man's End At Devonport. Depression Leads To Suicide. - Mr J. A. Pearce, Devonport Coroner, yesterday held an Inquest on ARTHUR CARTMELL, seaman, R.N.R., who was found dead in a field in Wolsely-road, Ford, as the result of gunshot wounds. ROBT. CARTMELL, 63 St Andrew's-road North, St Anne's-on-Sea, pier manager, said deceased, his brother, was 37 years of age and a landscape gardener, but was serving as a deck hand in the R.N.R. He was not married and wrote home periodically. On March 14 last in a letter to his father and mother, he said he had been out of his mind all the summer and other letters produced also showed deceased to be very depressed, and were very disjointed. Deceased was exempted from service for two months. This was subsequently extended to another month, after which he had to join up. He did not seem depressed at that time. - H. A. Bullen, deck hand, R.N.R., said deceased generally seemed depressed and witness did what he could to cheer him up. One day he said, "I ought not to be here. I had a good business at home. If it were not for my mother I would end it now." When ashore he was cheerful and witty. Witness saw him at 9.30 last Thursday in Marlborough-street, proceeding towards the barracks. He was then carrying two parcels, one about three feet long on his left shoulder. Deceased said they were some things he had bought cheap to send home. If witness had had any suspicion one was a gun he would have taken it from him. - In reply to Mr R. McDonald, who appeared on behalf of the relatives, witness said deceased never appeared to be reconciled to service in the Navy. - By Mr K. Eyton Peck, who watched the proceedings on behalf of the Admiralty. Deceased had never been punished for any offence. - F. H. Edwards, gunsmith, George-street, Plymouth, said on Thursday evening a man wearing a naval uniform entered the shop to purchase a rifle as a present to send away. Witness told him he was not allowed to sell a rifle larger than 22 bore, and then, while looking about the shop, the man saw a single-barrelled sporting gun of 12 bore, produced, which he eventually purchased, in addition to 25 sporting cartridges. - He gave the name of A. CARTMELL, 63 St Andrew's-road North, Manchester, giving his occupation as an able seaman, afterwards correcting it to deck hand, R.N.R. There was nothing in the man's demeanour to excite suspicion, otherwise witness would not have sold the gun. - G. T. G. Manley, general dealer, Victory-street, said about 7.30 a.m. on Friday in a field at Ford he discovered the body of deceased in a huddled position on his knees, with a gun close by. - P,.C. Batters said when he saw the body the gun was lying between the knees, with the muzzle in the mouth. An empty cartridge lay at deceased's feet and there was another in the gun, with a package containing 21 full cartridges on the ground. A loaded cartridge was afterwards found in one of the pockets., - Dr T. McElwaine having described the injuries, Mr Sydney Sincock, boatswain, R.N., produced deceased's record, showing he joined the Navy last Oct. His conduct was very good. - The Coroner said deceased appeared to have acted very deliberately, but it was for the Jury to consider whether he was in his right mind. Undoubtedly he was depressed by the change in is employment from civil life. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind," and deceased's brother, acknowledging a vote of sympathy, thanked the Police for the kind services they had rendered.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 2 May 1917
BRENTOR - At Brentor yesterday Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest on RICHARD DOIDGE, of Stag's Head, labourer, 49, found hanging in a mine engine-house at Monkstone on Sunday. DOIDGE had suffered from nervous depression, and, on Dr Postlethwaite's suggestion, recently had a holiday, returning in apparently better health. He had showed anxiety about his two sons in the service. He was a respectable, intelligent, hard-working man. Verdict: "Suicide while of Unsound Mind," the Jury and the doctor handing their fees to the widow, who is left with four young children.

Western Morning News, Thursday 3 May 1917
DARTMOUTH - Revolver Cartridge Mystery. Dartmouth Boy's Fatal Play. - At the Inquest on BERTRAM CECIL STONE, aged 11 years, son of RICHARD J. STONE, C.P.O., in the Royal Navy, stationed at Plymouth, it was stated that the lad picked up an old revolver in the sitting room of his house in Victoria-road, Dartmouth and is supposed to have been playing with it, when it exploded. The bullet entered his mouth and killed him instantaneously. - The mother said her son was in the sitting-room, and she called that his dinner was ready. She again called out "What are you doing there?" He replied, "I am not in any mischief mother; I am playing with my cigarette cards." Just then she heard a fearful bang, and, rushing in, found the ld dead on the floor. - The Police stated that no cartridge to fit the revolver could be had at any of the Dartmouth shops. - The Coroner said someone must have known how the boy came by it. There were none in the house and whoever knew how he got it should have attended and given evidence. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. - A short time ago the parents lost their other son at the front.

Western Morning News, Friday 4 May 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - Officer's Tragic Death. Inquest At Devonport. - Mr J. A. Pearce, Devonport District Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday on JAMES RONALD NIMMO, aged 22, of Glasgow, sec.-lieut. in the Scottish Rifles, who was found shot through the head at a Devonport hotel on Tuesday evening. - CHARLES NIMMO said deceased, his nephew, at the outbreak of war joined the Scottish Horse, and served through the Gallipoli campaign, on the conclusion of which he was given a commission in the Scottish Rifles. Last Friday morning deceased visited witness's office in Glasgow, to say "good-bye." He was in good spirits. Witness had heard from a colleague of deceased that the latter had said he was going to buy an automatic pistol. The friend advised him not to meddle with the weapon, because the mechanism was complicated. Witness knew of no circumstances which would suggest that his nephew would be likely to take his own life. - Isobel Spottiswoode, chambermaid, said she went to deceased's room at 7.45 p.m. on Monday, and found it locked. When she knocked he called out "Don't trouble about my room. I have gone to bed." At 7 a.m. next day witness took a cup of tea and shaving water to the room. She noticed that deceased was looking worn out and tired. He told her not to come to the room again unless he rang, as he was very tired, and wanted to sleep. At noon she got no answer to a knock and the door was locked. At 7.30 p.m. her knock was again not answered and she reported the matter. - Charles H. Lee, head porter, said he forced the door open, and found deceased in bed dead. - P.C. Braund said he found on the bed an automatic revolver. One cartridge had been expended. - Dr T. McElwaine said the body was cold and stiff when he saw it. There was a jagged wound between the eyebrows, which was, in his opinion, self-inflicted. It was possible the occurrence was accidental; that deceased might have been examining the pistol in bed. - Tempy. Surg. H. S. Martyn, R.N., said deceased was a cousin of his wife's. Last Monday they had tea together with witness's brother-in-law. He was then happy and in good spirits. - Maj. W. H. Radcliffe Saunders, transport officer, said deceased was reported to have left his ship without permission on the 30th ult, and to be absent. Witness did not know how deceased could have got ashore without a pass, but there was a large number of officers aboard the transport and he must have got into the leave boat. - The Jury returned a verdict that death was due to a gunshot wound, but there was not sufficient evidence to show whether it was accidental or otherwise.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 16 May 1917
PLYMOUTH - Collision In The Hamoaze. R.F.R. Man Drowned. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd held an Inquest yesterday at the R.N. Hospital, Plymouth, on THOMAS EVANS, aged about 46 years, 1st class stoker pensioner, R.F.R., whose body was picked up by the water police on Monday in the Hamoaze. - Richard McCann, able seaman, said he was one of the crew, among whom was deceased, in a service launch from Devonport to Mount Wise on January 12 last. Witness identified the body. - George Gregg. P.O., coxswain, living at Ross-street, Morice Town, said his mind was wandering a little at the time of the accident, owing to family troubles, and he was looking towards Devonport instead of straight ahead. Consequently he did not see the Torpoint ferry, and a collision occurred with the ferry boat. Witness gave the order to jump. Deceased jumped into the water, and witness tried to rescue him, but failed. - The Coroner, summing up, said that the Jury had to decide whether to return a verdict of manslaughter or not. - The Foreman of the Jury announced that, in view of the fact that Gregg bravely endeavoured to save deceased, the Jury took a lenient view, and returned a verdict that death was the result of a collision, brought about through the negligence of the coxswain, but that the negligence was not culpable.

Western Morning News, Thursday 17 May 1917
PLYMOUTH - Window Cleaning Fatality. - An Inquest was held at Plymouth yesterday on MRS FLORENCE ANN CHIVERS, aged 44, who fell while cleaning a window in St Leonard's-road. - Florence Nosworthy, a little girl, said she saw MRS CHIVERS pull up the sash. Sitting on the window sill, she had to pull down the upper sash, when her hand slipped and she fell out. - Mrs Rowe said when called she found MRS CHIVERS lying inside the railings. A spike of the railings had gone right into her head. - Dr Florence Miller, House Surgeon, S.D. and E.C. Hospital, said MRS CHIVERS was suffering from a compound fracture of the base of the skull. She only lived a few hours after admission. - The Coroner said he often saw women cleaning windows in a most dangerous position. - Verdict: "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Saturday 26 May 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Fatal Tram Rush. - Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at Devonport yesterday on DAVID M. PRIOR, 30, seaman, R.N. Barracks. Mr R. J. Fittall (consulting town clerk) represented the Corporation Tramways Committee, and Mr K. Eyton Peck the Admiralty. Evidence showed that PRIOR was on Thursday crushed between cars going in opposite directions at a point in Morice-square where they converged, and in endeavouring to board one was caught by the other and crushed. - Herbert S. Palmer, seaman, R.N., said there was frequently a rush of bluejackets early mornings to catch trams, but there was no necessity for it on Thursday. - The Coroner: Why did they rush? - A bluejacket if he misses his time is fined one day's pay for every three hours. PRIOR had only a quarter of an hour to get to the barracks. No Policeman can keep a lot of bluejackets in order under such circumstances. It would want a regiment to do it. Witness added that the driver had his chain across his platform and expostulated with those trying to get on the car, and could not have done more than he did. - Dr Raj, House Surgeon, R.A. Hospital, said PRIOR died within five minutes of entry. Six ribs were broken on each side, and the lungs and liver were ruptured. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, and no blame was attached to the tram officials. It was stated that deceased was from Bradfield, Manningtree, Essex.

Western Morning News, Monday 28 May 1917
TORQUAY - Torquay Bathing Fatality. - At Torquay on Saturday an Inquest was held on CORNELIUS KRAMER, aged 40, Dutch seaman. The evidence showed that on Friday, after registering at the Police Station, he proceeded to Torre Abbey Sands bathing station, borrowed a costume, swam out to the raft, from which he took a somersault and never came up again. The body was recovered some time later. Dr Himely attributed death to drowning. Returning a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" the Jury requested the authorities to see whether something could be done to the raft, as the bars underneath might prevent a person who got under it from getting out.

EXMOUTH - The Late LIEUT.-COL. A. F. ELLIOT. Inquest At Exmouth. - At the Inquest at Exmouth on Saturday on Lt.-Col. A. F. ELLIOT, late R.A.M.C., of Alstor-terrace, Exmouth, MISS FLORENCE ELLIOT said her father, aged 83, had been totally blind since Christmas, in ill-health following influenza, and very depressed. At about four o'clock on Friday afternoon he was apparently asleep on his bed. Ten minutes later she heard a report and found that he had shot himself in the temple with a revolver. - Dr Cook said the deceased suffered great depression, especially on account of his blindness, and latterly had shown evident signs of mental and physical failing. - A verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 29 May 1917
AWLISCOMBE - Death From Shock At Awliscombe. - An Inquest was held at Awliscombe, near Honiton, yesterday, on a child, aged 11 months, the son of MR JOHN PRING, Heathfield Farm. Last Wednesday the infant pushed a fir cone into his throat, and this was successfully removed by Dr Heddon, of Honiton, but on Friday the child developed pneumonia and died the same evening. Verdict, "Death from Shock."

STOKE DAMEREL - At Devonport yesterday an Inquest was held on KATHLEEN PAMELA, the 6-year-old daughter of CAPT. A. D. SEARS, A.S.C., Granby Barracks. The child when a few months old fell out of bed and since then had suffered from periodical fits, in consequence of one of which she died on Friday. Dr Ingram said that death was due to meningeal haemorrhage, following violent convulsions due to her injury to the head. Verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 30 May 1917
PLYMOUTH - Garston Man's Death At Plymouth. - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday, on SAMUEL LINDSEY, of Garston, near Liverpool. - Henry Thomas, checker, Great Western Docks, said on SAturday he saw deceased, boatswain of a ship in dock, rolling a coil of rope with a view to throwing it on board. Turning his head for a minute he found him being rescued from the water. He was got out quickly, but was unconscious. First-aid was rendered by an army doctor and railway officials. Dr Woo, House Surgeon said LINDSEY had a lacerated scalp and suffered from the after-effects of immersion. He recovered consciousness and seemed to be doing well, but on Sunday had a relapse and died from compression of the brain caused by acute spreading oedema. Mr Leaman represented the owners of the ship and Mr James the Great Western Railway Co. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

PLYMOUTH - SAMUEL BROWN, aged 46 years, pensioner, R.N., messenger, H.M.S. Vivid, was admitted to Plymouth R.N. Hospital on 23rd inst. delirious. He said something about having fallen astride some wire. He died on 26th inst. At the Inquest held by Mr R. R. Rodd yesterday, Mr G. W. Carte, the Surgeon of H.M.S. Vivid, said he treated BROWN on 19th and 23nd inst., and he then said nothing of having fallen. A verdict of "Death from Blood Poisoning" was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 31 May 1917
PLYMOUTH - Unattended Children In Busy Streets. - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at the S.D. and E.C. Hospital yesterday on WALTER EDWARD LAINE, the 4-year-old child of a mine-sweeper living in Cattedown-road. The child had been attending school since 3 years of age and was accustomed to go and return alone. On Tuesday he wandered into Embankment-road on leaving school and being frightened away from the tail of one wagon, on the axle of which he had been riding, ran into another wagon laden with wood. He was removed to the Hospital and died soon after. - The Coroner commented severely on children of such tender age being allowed unattended in the streets, especially in such a busy thoroughfare as Embankment-road. There were creches in which little children could be left if the mothers found it necessary to go out to work. He was surprised that a child so young should be admitted to school. He could not see the use of trying to cram knowledge into a child of three. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest on ROBERT EASTMENT, 10, son of a postman living in Beaumont-terrace. It was stated that the boy fell from a high wall, which boys were accustomed to climb, into the backyard of a house in Ladywell-avenue and received fatal injuries. - The verdict was "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Saturday 2 June 1917
TORQUAY - Sequel To Torquay Fatality. - At Torquay yesterday an Inquest was held on JOHN HENRY COX, aged 52, driver in the employ of Farrant and Co., who died in Torbay Hospital on Wednesday. - John O. Humphries, tramcar driver, said COX was driving a furniture van from Torquay towards Paignton on the wrong side of the road. The driver of the tramcar coming behind sounded his gong and COX pulled in his van still more on the same side. The van cleared the rails, leaving ample room for the car to pass. The tramcar driver attempted to pass, when COX started to get across to the other side in front of the car. Discovering the car was close behind him, he turned the horse's head around to his wrong side again. This cause the van to swing round and it was struck by the car. - Robert Satterly said after the collision COX fell from the shaft. There was not sufficient room at the spot for a vehicle to pass between the sea-wall kerb and the tram-lines. - Chas. Andrews, furniture porter, said he was riding on the back of the van when the car ran into them. "It did not slow down," he added, "and I was thrown a dozen yards or so into the road." - Verdict of "Accidental Death" and the driver of the tramcar, George Pelossi, of Paignton, was exonerated.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 5 June 1917
PLYMOUTH - Depressed By The War. - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on JAMES NIVISON, aged 64 years, of Prestwick, Ayrshire. A brother of deceased said on receiving an intimation of his brother being depressed about the war and a personal matter, he came to Plymouth. He arrived too late, however, as his brother had been found in his room with a wound in his throat. The head porter at the Grand Hotel, Harry Osmond, said MR NIVISON had his lunch on Saturday and shortly after went upstairs. He was never seen alive again. He had stayed at the Hotel for ten days and been somewhat depressed. Verdict: "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest on PHILIP SYDNEY LAMERTON, a Dockyard labourer, who went out in a tugboat on Jan 26, and never returned. His headless body was picked up by John Bissett, coxswain of a steamboat, just inside the Breakwater on Wednesday. Verdict: "Found Drowned."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 12 June 1917
PLYMOUTH - Suicide At Plymouth. - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on WILLIAM HENRY GREENAWAY, age 50, dockyard pensioner, who was found hanging in his bedroom in Belmont-street on Sunday. Apparently deceased tied a rope around his neck and kicked away a chair on which he stood. - Dr Mabel Ramsay said she treated GREENAWAY for some time, giving him morphia to relieve his pain. - Death was due to strangulation. Verdict: "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 13 June 1917
PLYMOUTH - At the Pitts Memorial Hall, Plymouth, yesterday, Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest on RICHARD BAKER, the infant son of ALFRED BAKER, of Gibbon-lane. The child was born on the previous night, and on the arrival of the midwife shortly afterwards she found it lying on its face dead. Dr Palmer, as the result of a post-mortem examination, certified that death was due to suffocation, due to want of attention, which, however, he thought was not wilful. Verdict: "Death by Misadventure."

Western Morning News, Thursday 14 June 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - After Care Of Wounded. Important Statement At Devonport. - Mr Albert Gard held an Inquest yesterday on SIDNEY METTERS, aged 25, of Ford, Devonport. - MRS METTERS said her husband was discharged from the Army on Aug. 9, 1916, with a pension of 14s. per week. A few weeks afterwards he obtained employment in Devonport Dockyard. On the outbreak of war he went from Egypt to the Western front and was wounded in 1914. He was sent on active service again in 1915 and was again wounded, and on going to the front a third time was poisoned by gas. After treatment he was discharged as unfit, and went to Didworthy Sanatorium, which he left in a week of his own accord. He was under the care of Dr W. H. Davis from Dec. until Feb., and was away from work all that time. Since Feb. he had worked irregularly. Last Monday she went to meet him returning from the Dockyard at five o'clock, and they sat in Devonport Park for some time. When they reached Cambridge-road his nose began to bleed profusely and he died a few minutes after they got home. He had not had a good night's sleep since leaving the Army. - Dr Davis said a long course at the sanatorium would very probably have cured METTERS. Witness understood it was for financial reasons he left the sanatorium, and went to work. He was quite able to do light work, but should not have attempted anything heavy. Death was due to the rupture of a blood-vessel in the lungs, the tissues of which had been affected by gas poisoning. - The Coroner said it was not sufficiently known to discharged soldiers and sailors and their dependants, that under the new warrant for dealing with pensions and allowances every facility was provided for men like METTERS suffering from a complaint on their discharge from the services to be nursed back to health again, and made fit to resume their former employment in civil life. If a man would elect to go for treatment immediately he was discharged, whether to a sanatorium or other institution, under the new warrant ample provision was made to continue the separation or other allowances to his wife and dependants. If men did not know to whom to apply on leaving the military hospitals, where it should be pointed out to them, they should go to the War Pensions Committee, the address of which could be obtained at the municipal offices in any town. It was not only in the interests of the men themselves that they should be nurses back to health, but also in the interests of the community, and they should be discouraged from seeking work under the impression that they had to maintain their wives and families, or with the idea of getting good wages. - Dr Davis said when a man was discharged from the Army through a Military Hospital, he was given a card on which was indicated the nature of his complaint, and the kind of treatment which had been most successful in its cure of alleviation. He could take that card to any Hospital in the place where he was living, and continue to receive the same treatment he had been obtaining. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

TRUSHAM - Trusham Farm Tragedy. Angry Words Lead To Youth's Suicide. - On Tuesday Mr Edmonds held an Inquest at Symons Farm, Trusham, on WALLACE SAGE. - ANNIE SAGE, of Exeter, recently employed at Symons Farm, said her brother, WALLACE, was employed as a labourer by Messrs. Callard and was 19 or 20 years of age. She last saw him alive on Saturday evening, when there were some words between her and Miss Callard, her brother taking her (his sister's) part. Miss Callard later said she would see that WALLACE was put before the mouth of a cannon. He then left the house. He was a sensible lad, and had never threatened to take his life. She did not go to bed until one o'clock and he had not then returned. - Frederick Northway, a lad employed on the farm, said he found WALLACE hanging to a tree on Sunday morning, about 8.30, not far from the farmhouse. He drove home the cows and then told Miss Callard about it. He thought that WALLACE was funny at times. - The Coroner said he had heard enough from this witness, who appeared to treat the matter as a huge joke, laughing at times. - Frederick Charles Hamblin, of New Inn, Norley, a visitor at Symons Farm, said there had been high words between the girl SAGE and Miss Callard, WALLACE taking his sister's part. On Saturday evening Miss Callard said she would have nothing more to do with them; she would put WALLACE before the mouth of a canon. The lad then left the house and did not return. He always appeared sensible, though not bright. On Sunday morning, between 9.30 and 9.45, Miss Callard called out to him that "WALLY" had hanged himself and asked him to come down and help. With assistance he got down the body. WALLACE had got into the tree with the aid of a ladder and then climbed on to another branch. A large chain was round the neck and then round the branch, with about a foot length of chain clear, the body hanging about seven feet from the ground. There had been frequent rows in the house and SAGE had a horror of joining up. - Mary Grace Callard, living at Symons Farm, said words took place on Saturday evening. She admitted she said she would put WALLACE before the mouth of a cannon if he did not behave himself. He had been exempted from the Army on two occasions, but she could not say whether he had a horror of joining up. At times he was irritable, but she did not find fault with him. He was in the habit of staying out late at night and could always get in. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

Western Morning News, Saturday 16 June 1917
PLYMOUTH -Plymouth Child Fatally Scalded. - Mr J. Graves yesterday held an Inquest on RONALD NEWLAND, the three-year-old son of a leading seaman, residing at 20 Penrose-street. The mother said she placed a bath of boiling water on the floor of the wash-house on Wednesday morning and warned the child. On turning round to procure cold water she heard a scream, and saw the child in the bath. After dressing the scalds with oil a neighbour took the child to the Homeopathic Hospital, where it died that evening. Verdict : Accidental Death.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 19 June 1917
SALTASH, CORNWALL - Naval Instructor's Sudden Death. - MR MARSHALL HALL ROBINSON, naval instructor, Royal Naval College, Devonport, died suddenly at Saltash on Friday in the midst of a game of tennis. He had been at Saltash about six months. He was 38 years of age and leaves a widow and two young children. - Mr de Castro Glubb, Coroner, held an Inquest at the house, Sparnon Port view, yesterday. Mr K. Eyton Peck, represented the Admiralty. - Mr John Gill Green, naval instructor, R.N. College, said he was playing with the deceased at a tennis ground in Essa-road on Friday from 3.45 p.m. to 6.15 p.m. When they had played one game in a fourth set deceased said "Would you mind if I stopped; I am not feeling very well." He sat down on a bench, complained of pains in the chest and became unconscious. Witness ran for Dr Lewis, who arrived in about four minutes, but deceased just then seemed to breathe his last. MR ROBINSON lived a rather sedentary, studious life, but played tennis occasionally. He did not look very heated on Friday afternoon. - Dr E. W. Lewis said he found deceased lying on the floor of the pavilion. He tried artificial respiration and restoratives, but they were of no avail. He died from heat apoplexy. He had not been looking well for some time. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Heat Apoplexy." - The funeral took place soon after the Inquest with full service honours. Flag-Capt. Thorp represented the Com.-in-Chief. The funeral party was in charge of Lt.-Com. J. R. Allen, and Lt. Harper was in charge of the mourning party, nearly 150 in number, besides about 50 naval cadets and a firing party. The coffin was placed on a gun-carriage, drawn by blue-jackets and the band of H.M.S. Powerful, under Mr Osman, attended, and played the Dead March in "Saul," and afterwards Chopin's Funeral March. The Royal Naval College was represented by Capt. G. R. Mansell, M.V.O.. The burial took place at St Stephen's Churchyard.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 20 June 1917
HULL - Devonport Stoker's Suicide. - A verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind" was returned at an Inquest held at Hull yesterday on CHARLES MARTIN, naval stoker, 1st class, of 11 Fort-street, Devonport. Evidence was given that on Monday morning deceased was found bleeding from a wound in his throat inflicted with a razor. He made another attempt to inflict injury upon himself and fell exhausted from loss of blood. A doctor attended him, but death supervened within a few minutes. MARTIN was 34 years of age.

Western Morning News, Thursday 21 June 1917
BERE FERRERS - Drowned In The River Tavy. Need Of Life-Saving Appliances. - An Inquest was held at Bere Ferrers yesterday by Mr R. R. Rodd, jun., on PERCIVAL JOHN HOOPER, 16, Dockyard apprentice, son of ERNEST J. HOOPER, of Cambridge-street, Plymouth, who was drowned in the River Tavy. - Frank W. Cuer, of St Levan's-road, Devonport, fellow-apprentice, said they took train to Bere Ferrers on Monday to walk to Denham Bridge. When they reached Lopwell, HOOPER bathed. Witness was undressing, when HOOPER shouted for help. He rushed in to save him. HOOPER had gone from shallow water into a pit about 20 feet deep. He caught hold of HOOPER but he also slipped into the deep part. HOOPER told him he could swim before he went in, but he did not think he could swim very much. As witness could not swim at all, he had to let HOOPER go. He went under twice himself, but the third time his feet touched the slope of the hole and he struggled out and ran for help. - MR HOOPER: My son could swim very well. - Norman S. Grills, fruit grower, Bere Ferrers, said he heard shouts for help from the river and Cuer told him where HOOPER disappeared. Witness undressed and dived several times, but was unable to find the body. - P.C. Jas. Hutchings said about one o'clock he, with Mr E. Trout, recovered the body from a pool about 12 feet deep. - In reply to the Foreman (Rev. J. Sharpe), P.C. Hutchings said he had nothing but a very old grappling iron and no ropes to work it. - Mr Trout thought it a great shame that on their lovely river, which attracted hundreds of visitors, there was not a yard of rope available in case of accident. - The Foreman moved that a representation be made to the Parish Council on the subject. - Seconded by Mr Balkwill, this was agreed to. - Mr Balkwill said there was a lifebuoy and line at the Church ford, placed there, he believed, by Sir Henry Lopes. - There ought to be one at the Quay. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Drowning." - The Coroner said Cuer ought to be commended for his pluck in going to the rescue of his friend when he could not swim himself. The Foreman said the Jury associated themselves with that commendation, and would also wish to express their sympathy with the father on the sad loss of a promising son. - The Coroner added that Mr Grills did his best, although he was far away when the accident occurred.

Western Morning News, Monday 25 June 1917
BRIDESTOWE - Bridestowe Lady's Sad Death. - Mr H. C. Brown, Coroner, held an Inquest at Linkstor, Bridestowe, on Saturday, on MRS D. J. J. MAY, 68, widow, of Linkstor Cottage, Bridestowe, who died that morning. On Sunday, the 17th inst., MRS MAY, accompanied by two other ladies, was driving to the evening service at the Lydford Parish Church in a low four-wheeled pony carriage. When descending Dartmoor Hill a bolt gave way, or slipped out, and the carriage parted in two. The pony bolted, and MRS MAY, who was riding in the second part, fell from her set and rolled to the ground. She got up, walked across the road, sat on the bank, and then collapsed. She became unconscious and from that time until her death she did not regain consciousness. Evidence was given by Rev. Cecil Hope-Gill (son-in-law), Mr H. Heathman, and Mr W. May. - Dr Postlewaite, who was called in on Sunday, and Dr E. H. Young, Okehampton, also gave evidence. The former stated that there were no external marks or bruises. - Dr E. H. Young said in his opinion death was due to shock caused by the accident. Verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 27 June 1917
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Burning Fatality. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned yesterday at the Inquest held by Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, at the S.D. and E.C. Hospital, Plymouth on MARY JANE WITHERIDGE, North-street, Plymouth, wife of a butcher now serving in the Devons, who died the previous day from severe burns received on Saturday. - It was stated that a saucepan of fat left boiling on a gas ring caught fire, and that in removing the utensil deceased's clothing became ignited. A small girl, Millie Jope, snatched a baby from the woman's arms and escaped from the room, whilst other tenants in the house attended to the mother. A rug to wrap round the burning dress not forthcoming, the clothing was partially pulled off and the fire for the rest extinguished by water. The fire brigade arrived promptly under Inspector Allen, who represented the chief constable at the Inquest, and removed the woman to the Hospital, but Dr Woo, House Surgeon, said the case was hopeless from the first.

Western Morning News, Thursday 28 June 1917
PLYMOUTH - Fatal Accident At Plymouth. - At Plymouth Workhouse yesterday Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest on CHARLES WARD, factory worker of 14 William-street. Mr Mayburn Pearce watched the proceedings for the widow. It was stated that deceased was injured at Laira Bridge factory in June of last year. His widow stated that her husband while in Hospital told her he was wheeling a trolly at the factory, when he slipped and fell. He was in Hospital ten days, and after his discharge was attended by a private doctor. He, however, was never able to work again. - Replying to Mr Pearce, MRS WARD said her husband was awarded compensation for the accident by the County Court judge. - Dr Cooke, Medical Officer of the Infirmary, said deceased was admitted on May 23 with an abscess on the right hip. He opened the abscess and found an extensive bruise of the thigh bone. The man was also suffering from blood poisoning, owing to the condition of the bone. He died from acute inflammation and blood poisoning. The indirect cause of death was the result of the fall. - Verdict, "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Friday 29 June 1917
COMBEINTEIGNHEAD - Combe Sexton's Tragic Death. - At Combeinteignhead yesterday an Inquest was held on HENRY GRANT PENWILL, whose body was found hanging. - ALICE MAUD PENWILL, postmistress, said her husband was sexton of the parish and assisted in his father's business. He was 45 years of age. His health had not been good lately and he had complained of pains in his head. He had no other worry so far as she knew. Rev. Pound, Rector, said on entering the [?] at the church on Tuesday morning, he saw deceased hanging from a beam. He was dead. Verdict: "Suicide whilst Temporarily of Unsound Mind." Sympathy was expressed with the relatives.

Western Morning News, Monday 9 July 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - Effect Of Trench Fever. Soldier's Sudden Death At Devonport. - Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at the Military Hospital, Devonport, on Saturday, on CHARLES RICHARD DENCH, 23, rifleman in the City of London R., of 213 Exchange-road, West Bridgford, Nottingham, who died on Thursday. - Dr John Ingram said deceased was admitted to the Hospital on the 27th ult., on arrival from France, suffering from fever. The documents that accompanied deceased showed that he had been ill since June 13. Witness first saw deceased last Thursday, when he was called to him shortly before noon because of his having been suddenly taken ill in the bathroom. Witness found him struggling violently on the floor, and he died in a minute or so. The cause of death was unknown to witness. - Capt. A. Griffiths, R.A.M.C., under whose care deceased had been, said DENCH was suffering from trench fever when admitted to the Hospital. He was in a feeble state and complained of pains in his legs. Deceased was, however, bright and cheerful and there was nothing in his condition to cause alarm. On the 1st inst. his temperature was 101 deg., but that was the only symptom of an abnormal character. During the forenoon of Thursday last DENCH, who was confined to bed, was laughing and chatting with his wardmates. He went to the lavatory about 10.30 and at 10.45 the wardwoman reported that somebody was breathing heavily in the place and Dr Ingram was sent to see him. Deceased had received proper attention whilst he had been in Hospital. - Capt. W. L. Pethybridge, R.A.M.C. who made a post-mortem examination, attributed death to an enfeebled heart due to trench fever. He also noticed slight pericarditis. - Sister N. M. Buckley, in charge of the ward, supported the statement that deceased was properly treated. He was cheerful and appeared to be favourably progressing. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

TORQUAY - Fatal Dose Of Morphia. Death Of A Recluse Near Torquay. - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Torquay on Saturday on CECIL JOHN VARICAS, 34, of independent means, of Wincot Cottage, Barton, St Marychurch. - Henry Jas. Keast said deceased had been his tenant for two years and a half. VARICAS, who used to amuse himself with electrical and torpedo experiments, was the son of a mechanical engineer, and very reserved. Since his father's death in March 1915, in the same cottage, he had lived by himself. On Thursday, as he could not get any answer to his knocks and the door being locked, witness entered through the back bedroom window and found VARICAS in bed almost nude and unconscious. He was moving his arms about and noises were proceeding from his throat. A phial and a hypodermic syringe were near. Deceased's mother had been in Weymouth Lunatic Asylum for 20 years. VARICAS was a total abstainer and non-flesh eater. He took bromide of ammonia, and was found of doctoring himself. - Dr R. A. Bennett, House Surgeon, Torbay Hospital, said on being called to the cottage by Mr Keast, he found, in addition to the hypodermic syringe and the phial containing morphia, a broken needle which had been used for an injection sticking in the flesh of VARICAS'S thigh. - He commenced artificial respiration with the assistance of Mr Keast, but as the man did not come round, he had him removed to the Hospital, where artificial respiration was kept up until three o'clock the next morning. At four o'clock the heart suddenly stopped and death ensued. The post-mortem examination showed no trace of punctures for hypodermic injections. Both lungs revealed consumption in an advanced stage and there was evidence of a recent very severe attack of pleurisy. His opinion was that the morphia was injected by deceased to stop the pain. The cause of death was an overdose of morphia. - The Inquest was adjourned to enable the Police to make inquiries as to deceased's relatives.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 11 July 1917
MILTON ABBOT - Suicide AT Chillaton. - Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Chillaton yesterday on LUCY OLIVER, aged 60, wife of CHARLES OLIVER, a superannuated police-sergeant, Plymouth Constabulary. - MR OLIVER said he found his wife about 8 a.m. the previous day hanging to a crook in the ceiling, with the window cord round her neck. He cut her down and placed her on the sofa. She did not recover consciousness and died in two hours. She was subject to fits of depression and a sister of hers was detained in a lunatic asylum. Dr Musgrove of Lifton, said he had known deceased for several years. She was not strong, and suffered from fits of depression, for which he attended her. From his knowledge of the deceased, he thought she was temporarily insane. - Verdict accordingly and the Coroner and Jury expressed sympathy with the husband.

Western Morning News, Thursday 12 July 1917
PLYMOUTH - Motor Fatality Near Plymouth - An Inquest was held at Plymouth yesterday by Mr R. B. Johns on WILLIAM THOMAS PENNY, checker at Devonport Dockyard, aged 58, of Southside-street. MR PENNY and his son went on a motor journey to Exeter on June 3. Between Lee Mill and Cadleigh Park one of the front wheels of the car collapsed and the motor turned completely over. MR PENNY and his son were taken to the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital in an unconscious state. A fortnight later MR PENNY was discharged under the care of Dr Stubbs, but he died on Monday from the result of the injuries. Verdict: "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Saturday 14 July 1917
TORQUAY - Torquay Man's Death. An Overdose Of Morphia. - The Inquest on CECIL J. VARICAS, aged 34, of independent means, who resided at Wincot Barton, St Marychurch, was resumed yesterday. He was found unconscious on his bed with a phial that had contained morphia on his body. The landlady with whom VARICAS and his late father lodged in Torquay 11 years ago said he was then in the habit of taking morphia, by injection and otherwise. The Police had been in communication with the Receiver in Lunacy, acting for the trustees of the mother's estate, she being in the Dorset County Asylum, but the solicitors to the trustees wrote that they knew nothing of the VARICAS family. - Sgt. Hunt said on searching the house he found a good deal of morphine-sulphate and several morphia phials, filled and empty. Between the mattress of the bed he discovered a will, in which VARICAS bequeathed all his personal property and rights to Mr Keast, his landlord, but it was unsigned. There were also documents relating to shares. - The Manager of the Torre branch of Lloyds Bank, said MR VARICAS had a credit balance of £116. - The Coroner remarked that all VARICAS' property would be dealt with by the Receiver in Lunacy, on behalf of the mother's estate. The Jury returned a verdict of "Misadventure."

TORQUAY - Torquay Motor Van Fatality. - An Inquest was held at Torquay yesterday on EDWIN A LOCK, aged 59, a packer at the Long Park Pottery, and residing at Kingskerswell. The evidence was that while cycling back to work after dinner on Wednesday he suddenly swerved from his near side to the off side, and was knocked down by a butcher's motor van, driven by the owner, Mr Bootherston, of Wellswood, which was coming up behind. - Mr Bootharston said MR LOCK, without the slightest warning, swerved, when the van was within two or three yards of him. He (witness) at once turned sharply into the hedge. The Jury passed a verdict of "Accidental Death" and exonerated the driver of the van.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 17 July 1917
PAIGNTON - Paignton Lad Drowned. - At the Inquest yesterday at Paignton on THOMAS MARTIN A. SHARLAND, 13, employed to look after the gentlemen's bathing-box on the Pier, his mother said he left home at 7.15 a.m. on Friday. When she sent his dinner the Manageress of the Pier said she had not seen SHARLAND. - Mr Card, a palmist on the pier, said he saw SHARLAND just before 9 o'clock on Friday morning. After that no one saw the boy. - The Police stated no one was bathing at the time. - Mr Sidney Earle deposed that at low tide on Saturday evening the body was raised near the Pier. A fishing line was wound around SHARLAND'S hand. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

EAST STONEHOUSE - An Officer's Delusions. Sad Tragedy At Devonport. - An Inquest on COMMANDER ROBERT PRESCOTT MCHARDY, R.N., single, aged 35, who had seen considerable active service, was held at the R.N. Hospital, Stonehouse, yesterday by Mr R. R. Rodd, Coroner. - Tempy. Surg. J. D. Bangay, R.N., said that on Thursday the deceased returned from four days leave, and that night performed an action which was not quite right, and came under witness's observation. They thought at that time deceased had "not got hold of the right end of the stick" regarding a nightmare. He thought he had been drugged when on leave, and that some confidential keys he carried had been tampered with. He was under medical observation until the time of his decease. As he did not appear better on the Saturday night witness determined to remove him to Hospital on the following day. Witness did not consider he had been drugged. He thought it was a delusion. He had other delusions - harmless ones. They would come on now and again. One delusion was that he had been asleep during the battle of Jutland. He was in the battle of Jutland. Another delusion was that he smoked a cigarette during that battle. Witness did not think he was under the impression that he was to be punished for this. He was quite quiet when in delusions, except once on Saturday, when he was excited. Witness added that he was called to deceased at 7.10 a.m. on Sunday, and found him in his cabin unconscious, with a gunshot wound in the right temple, the bullet having passed through the brain, struck the bulkhead and fallen on to a shelf flattened. The commander died in 1 ¼ hours from the injuries, which were self-inflicted. Witness had known deceased since August 1916. His disposition was very happy; witness did not remember seeing him otherwise. Deceased was a Scotsman, but his parents lived at East Liss, Hants. He was all right when he went on leave. - The Coroner: Can you assign any reason for these sudden delusions? - No. - You are quite satisfied they were sufficient to unhinge his mind? - Yes. The delusions were a symptom of his mind being unhinged. - Witness said deceased had seen a great deal of active service, having fought at Heliogoland as well as Jutland. - Pte. Fredk. Carlin, R.M.L.I., deceased's servant, deposed that deceased was kept under observation by two sick berth attendants. At 5.50 a.m. on Sunday deceased was lying in his bunk. The attendant outside said the officer was all right, and had slept on his bunk the whole of the time. Witness went again at 7 and found a large pool of blood in the cabin and deceased lying in his bunk bleeding at the head. The service revolver (produced) was kept in deceased's wardrobe, with two packets of ammunition. No one on board heard the report of the revolver; there would be a great deal of noise at the time, as they were washing decks. - Fredk. Wm. Smith, detective sergt., Metropolitan Police, said three chambers of the revolver had been loaded and one discharged. The revolver was found on the bed. A search of the deceased's effects was made by the chaplain, but nothing was found in writing to throw any light on the affair. Deceased was described by the captain as a good fellow and the captain regretted his death very much. Deceased seemed to have been very popular on board. The verdict was that the deceased officer shot himself while Temporarily Insane.

Western Morning News, Thursday 19 July 1917
MORETONHAMPSTEAD - Dangerous Moorland Road. London Tradesman Killed Near Moreton. - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Moretonhampstead yesterday on ERNEST MALCOLM MEARS, 44, stationer, of Clerkenwell, London, who died in Moreton Cottage Hospital on Sunday. Mr A. M. Alford, Exeter, appeared for Devon County Council. - MR A. MEARS, stationer, Stoke Newington, London, said deceased, his brother, a bachelor, started for Devon on a fortnight's holiday on Saturday week. He had ridden a bicycle for 26 years. The road where the accident occurred was in a very bad condition. On Monday he found a hole in the middle filled up with loose gravel. This made it extremely dangerous for cyclists, being just at the foot of the hill. - Mr Geo. Philips, stationer, Cottenham Park, said he accompanied MR MEARS on the cycling tour. On Saturday they went from Dartmouth to Totnes by boat, and cycled thence to Buckfastleigh and on to Two Bridges, leaving there for Moreton at 8 p.m. They stopped for awhile at the Warren Inn. When approaching the spot where the accident happened deceased, who was going at from 12 to 14 miles an hour, got to the bottom of the steep hill first. He saw him fall. He was unconscious, with three wounds on his head bleeding copiously. Dr Laurie had him removed to the Cottage Hospital. Gravel had been put over the hole since the accident. - Never A Year Without Accident. - Dr L. V. Laurie said MR MEARS never regained consciousness. He died from concussion of the brain and cerebral haemorrhage. As to the road, never a year passed but there were accidents at this particular spot, owing to the looseness of the surface and the curve at the bottom. On the same evening two other cyclists fell off there. - Mr W. J. Dymond, chemist, Torquay, said he was cycling down the hill at 8.30 on Saturday evening on his way to Moreton, and fell off at the bottom. The cause was a hole, 6 to 10 inches across, in the centre of the road. He was going at from 20 to 25 miles an hour. The gradient at the bottom of the hill was deceptive. A cyclist would think he had got to the bottom, whereas there was another dip before reaching it. He saw MR MEARS coming down the hill at a rather fast pace; and held up his hand to warn him. When MR MEARS reached the bottom he did exactly what witness had done, and fell on crossing the centre of the road where the hole was, falling over his handle bar. - Mr Stanley Olver, road surveyor to Newton Abbot Rural Council, said he was not aware of any hole in the road. He was there a fortnight ago and six weeks before and did not notice any hole. The hill was dangerous and his men had frequently reported accidents there. The Rural Council had not started putting up warning notices. That was done by the Motor Union, to whom complaints were referred by the Council. He would bring the matter before the Council next week so that either a warning notice might be put up by them or try to have it done by others. If a bridge was built at the spot it would do away with the danger of the deceptive gradient at the bottom of the hill. - Verdict And Rider. - The Coroner thought a danger signal ought to be put up until something permanent was erected. It would be a serious thing if next day they heard of another fatal accident there. - Mr Olver promised that this suggestion should be acted upon, and that he would write at once to the Motor Union. - The Coroner told the Jury that they could not return any other verdict that that of "Accidental Death". That the Jury, Mr A. Blackmore, Foreman, did, and added a rider recommending the Rural Council to place a danger signal on the top of the hill and to erect a bridge at the bottom instead of the present stone culvert.

Western Morning News, Friday 20 July 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - On Marriage Eve. Devonport Police-Sergeant's Sad End. - Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at Keyham yesterday on WILLIAM ALBERT GOSLING, aged 34, of Renown-street. - MRS GOSLING said her son was a sergeant in the Metropolitan Police Force, and on Tuesday began a 10 days' leave for the purpose of being married. During the day he went shopping with his sweetheart, Miss Harrington, and in the evening played bezique. After accompanying her home that night he stayed up after witness had gone to bed. About ten minutes later she heard two heavy thuds. On going downstairs she found him on the floor with a rifle by his feet. He was bleeding from the head. She called to her neighbour, who sent for medical assistance. On the doctor's arrival her son was removed to the R.N. Barracks. During the day he had been in his usual cheerful form. Some cleaning material was on the table and she believed that while cleaning his rifle it went off. He never went to bed before eleven, and although he was unusually late she did not think that suspicious. Her only other son was in France. He had been keeping company with Miss Harrington for two years, and was to have been married at St James' Church the day after his death. Though she did not intend to attend the wedding on account of a recent trouble, he felt no resentment. She wished him to marry, and he had her whole-hearted goodwill. - Miss Jessie Mary Harrington of Balfour-terrace, said she had been engaged to MR GOSLING since Easter. When he said "good night" to her, he was in the best of spirits, and was looking forward to the marriage. - Dr Davis described the injuries to deceased's head, and said he died at the R.N. Barracks about 3.50 a.m. It might very well have been an accident, as GOSLING had lent the rifle, and a cartridge may have been left in it unknown to him. Inspector Carter said he had known GOSLING for two years and he bore an excellent character. - The Coroner and the Jury extended sympathy to MRS GOSLING and Miss Harrington. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 25 July 1917
THURLESTONE - Bantham Bar Tragedy. Plucky Rescues: Reflection On Fishermen. - The Inquest on the two youths drowned at Bantham last Friday elicited further particulars of the sad event. On the previous Monday 219 officers and cadets from Taunton College O.T.C., encamped on Burgh Island, Bigbury-on-Sea. The commanding officer is Capt. E. L. Watkins, and he issued an order that no one was to go out in boats without his permission, or he himself accompanying them. At the entrance to the River Avon, Bantham, there is a bar, most dangerous for bathing or boating on the first two hours of flood tide. The fresh water coming down the Avon meets the inflow of the sea, causing a bad surf, and residents rarely attempt to enter then. After that bathing or boating can be done with the greatest safety. On Friday two coast-watching Scouts accepted the invitation of the cadets to lunch. One of the cadets asked Capt. Watkins' permission to go boating, and remembering the previous year's experience and thinking the Scouts had their own boat he gave permission. The boys took charge of the officer's boat, and at first pulled out to sea, but finding it was time for them to return to Bantham, where the Scouts were stationed, they asked to be rowed to the landing-place. The cadets pointed out the surf running on the bar, but the Scouts assured them boating was safe. No sooner had the boat got into the surf than it was turned over, and one cadet and one scout were drowned. Every effort was made to rescue the boys, many of the lads trying to swim from the shore to the boat, to which the boys were clinging. One of the boat's party, Sergt. Sankey, very pluckily swam ashore with two boys. - The Inquest. - On Monday Mr S. Hacker held the Inquest at Bantham. - MR J. W. EADY, merchant, Cairo, residing temporarily at Market Harborough, said one of the bodies was that of his second son, JOSEPH ANTHONY, 15 years of age, who was being educated at Taunton College and was a member of the Officers' Training Corps. - Coastguard F.G. Woods, leading boatman, Bantham, said the other body was that of CLAUDE BOWSON, 14, attached to the Boys' Coast-watching Scouts at Bantham. His parents reside at Bootle, Liverpool. He granted permission to the two Scouts to go to Burgh Island to lunch. BOWSON was an active, well-built boy, could swim a little, but knew nothing about handling boats. At 2.45 p.m. on Friday he received a message and on going to Bantham Sands saw a boat upside down with several boys clinging to it. The boat was about half a mile from the shore. The sea outside was quite calm, but on the bar was a lot of broken water. He had a line with him, but it was impossible to throw it the distance. - Captain's Serious Statement. - Edward L. Watkins, Taunton College, officer commanding Taunton College O.T.C., said on receiving a message that an accident had occurred on the river he gave instructions to effect a rescue. He saw many cadets on a long spit of sand were taking off their clothes and trying to swim out to the rescue of their comrades. Mr Bickford and his son-in-law from the island launched their boats. He asked other fishermen fishing in the vicinity to go to the rescue, but they refused. - The Coroner: That is a very serious statement to make. Are you sure of your facts? - Absolutely. - The Foreman (Rev. E. C. Coope): Can you say who they were? - No; but they pulled to the shore and launched a heavier boat and then came out again, and brought one cadet ashore. Mr Bickford had to take his boat nearly a mile and he rescued another cadet, to whom his son-in-law had to apply artificial respiration for a considerable time, and the boy was still ill. One boy was landed on the Bantham side of the river, two were saved by the two boats and Sergt. Sankey, one of the boat's party, rescued two of his comrades, although he was fully dressed. - Boat Orderly's Story. - Cadet W. G. Rusett, O.T.C., said he was aware of the rule that they were not to go out in boats without permission. He was a boat orderly and was in the boat keeping her afloat for the captain. The other boat orderly was EADY , who was drowned. Whilst they were waiting three other cadets and two scouts came down and said they had permission to go out in the boat. They thought the scouts knew something about rowing and the management of a boat. The scouts wanted to be taken to Bantham. The cadets did not know it was so dangerous, the scouts saying they could pull through the surf. A big wave struck the boat, and the whole of them were turned out. Sergt. Sankey swam to the land with one of the boys. EADY, who was a very good swimmer, said he was going to swim ashore, and that was the last witness saw of him. The scouts were supporting themselves on a board from the boat, but later the scout who was saved swam to him (witness) and said his friend had gone. The boat was quite comfortable with seven of them in her. He did not think EADY received a blow. He was quite cheerful when he swam away. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed sympathy with the parents of the boys.

PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns yesterday held an Inquest at Plymouth, on SUSAN LIGGINS, aged 73, who resided at 60 St Leonard's-road, who was discovered by her daughter, MRS JEWEL, at 6.30 a.m. on the 16th inst. lying in the courtyard underneath her bedroom window, a height of 11 ½ feet, from which she had apparently fallen. She was conscious, but could give no account of the accident, and it was surmised that feeling faint she opened the window and fell out. - Dr Wilkinson found her suffering from a broken arm and severe shock and she died on Monday. Verdict: "Accidental Death."

PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest on Ord. Seaman G. E. C. AMOR, H.M.S. Victory, who met his death whilst bathing at Tinside on Sunday. Mr K. Eyton Peck represented the Admiralty. - Miss Cannaford, Glendower-road, said that just before he went for a swim AMOR appeared in good health. Col. J. W. Bullen, R.A.M.C., said he saw AMOR dive from the raft. He did not reappear. There were a great number of people about and on the recovery of the body he tried artificial respiration, but without success. A post-mortem examination showed that all the organs were very healthy. He could only surmise that AMOR had a fit whilst in the water. - Verdict: "Death from Misadventure."

PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest , where he remarked that the death of REGINALD TITHECOTT, the 14-months-old child of MRS TITHECOTT, Union-place, wife of a soldier in the Devon Regt., was very sad. The mother said on Friday she went to her sister's house, where the child went to play in the garden. Entering the kitchen from there, he rushed towards the stove, from which the fireguard had been removed whilst her sister was cleaning the grate and before she could reach him he pulled the kettle containing boiling water over himself. - Dr Wilmot, hon. surgeon, Homeopathic Hospital, said the case was hopeless from the first, so badly was the child scalded, and death ensued on Saturday. The Coroner said evidently no blame could be attached to anyone, as it appeared customary in the house to have fireguard, which had necessarily been removed whilst the grate was being cleaned. - Verdict: "Accidental Death."

PLYMOUTH - A verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned in the case of ANNIE LEWIS, 63, found hanging in her bedroom at Pentyre-terrace on Sunday. - Mrs Bennett, of Edith-avenue, said MRS LEWIS was the widow of a ship's corporal, since whose death she had been very depressed. She had threatened to take her life, but witness warned her of the wickedness of the idea and spoke to a relative and the vicar about it. On Sunday she failed to obtain any reply on calling at MRS LEWIS'S house, and informed P.C. Philips, who on gaining entry found her hanging from a rope from the bed rail. Dr Wilkinson said death had occurred several hours previously.

Western Morning News, Thursday 26 July 1917
DARTMOUTH - Suicide At Dartmouth. - An Inquest was held at Dartmouth on Tuesday on WILLIAM H. CHARLES, (58), clerk to the head master of the Royal Naval College, found suspended by a rope in one of the college lavatories on Monday night. - Mr Ashford, head master, said ever since mobilization at the outbreak of war CHARLES had not been the same man. A great deal of work was entailed and the staff had been extremely reduced in numbers. CHARLES did not actually break down, but got very near it. He was a pensioner, retired from the service, and was too old to be mobilized, and he felt it very much, as it seriously affected his financial position. - The Coroner (Mr Davson) said from letters found on deceased he also seemed to have been worried over taking a house at Paignton and finding he could not travel backwards and forwards to Dartmouth every day. A verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 3 August 1917
CREDITON - Crediton Man Crushed To Death. - "Accidental Death" was the verdict at an Inquest yesterday on WILLIAM WALTER LEACH, age 65, of Park-street, Crediton. Deceased was employed by Mr S. B. Francis, Crediton, as a foreman mason, and on Wednesday was engaged in demolishing outbuildings at Guristone when a cob wall which he was pulling down fell on him. The wall was 15 to 20 feet high, and deceased was buried in cob except for his head. - Dr Ross said that when he was called deceased was breathing, but semi-conscious. His skull and jaw were fractured and he died half an hour later.

Western Morning News, Saturday 4 August 1917
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on MRS EMMA HILL, aged 42, living in Cranbourne-avenue, apart from her husband. Mrs Murphy, a neighbour, said on July 26 deceased called out to her, "I have done it. I can stand it no longer," adding that she had taken salts of lemon. Witness administered an emetic and sent for a doctor. Deceased had had a very hard life and was in poverty. Verdict, "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner held an Inquiry in respect of WILLIAM HENRY NICHOLSON, merchant seaman, employed on a transport. Petty Officer Kimber said on the previous afternoon the lighthouse keeper signalled that there was a body at the eastern entrance to the Breakwater. He recovered the body and landed it. - Dr Palmer certified that death was due to drowning. - Surgeon Walter Murphy said he saw the man alive in the early morning of May 28 in the Hospital of a ship in the Sound. He had become insane. He told witness he was going ashore the next day. Witness asked him how and his reply was, "Find out." No one saw him fall overboard. Deceased was 41 years of age and his address was at Liverpool. Verdict: "Found Drowned."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 8 August 1917
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Fatal Accident. - An Inquest was held at the Homeopathic Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday, before Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, on GEORGE HENRY JONES, aged 56, labourer, Hoegate-place, employed by Hurrell and Co., who met his death through an accident on board a steamship at Millbay Docks on Saturday. - John Friend, dock labourer, King-street, said JONES was removing a bundle of sacks from the ship's side to the hold, when he stepped on the hatch, which gave way beneath his weight and precipitated him into the hold, a distance of 30ft., the sacks following. The hatch was not lashed with rope. Witness thought it was the duty of the mate to examine the hatch. After the accident the hatch was tested before the mate and found to be defective. - Dr Wilmot said death was due to a fractured skull. - Mr Neilson, representing the Dockers' Union, of which deceased was a member, alleged that the Board of Trade regulations had not been carried out, and the Inquiry was adjourned until today for the attendance of a representative of the ship and of the Board of Trade.

Western Morning News, Thursday 9 August 1917
TAVISTOCK - The Gunnislake Tragedy. Suicide Of A Devonport Woman. - Mr R. R. Rodd, Coroner, held an Inquest at Tavistock Hospital yesterday on ELLEN WIDLAKE, aged 43, of Coronation-buildings, Morice-square, Devonport, widow of P.C. THOMAS JAMES WIDLAKE, Metropolitan Constabulary. - ANNIE BEATRICE WIDLAKE, first help maid, Royal Albert Hospital, Devonport, said the deceased (her mother) had a nervous breakdown and was staying at Gunnislake for the benefit of her health. She had an attack seven years ago and went to the Blackadon Asylum for some time . She worried about the loss of her husband, who died nine years ago, also about a son who died last year. She was missing nine days. - Richard Bragg, tailor, Gunnislake, said his mother, Mrs Dunn, kept house for him. Deceased was lodging with them. She went out on July 28 and did not return. She had complained of not feeling well and of sleeplessness. - P.C. Rogers stated that he and others searched for deceased. Acting on information he received from two little girls, he went to the Duke of Bedford's woods, near Newbridge, Gunnislake, but on the Tavistock side of the River Tamar, and found the body lying across the fork of a tree about 18 inches from the ground. A handkerchief was around the branch of a tree, and the hem, torn off the handkerchief, was round deceased's neck, but had parted with the weight. Her hat was about three feet from the tree. Deceased had written at the back of a letter from her daughter, "Dear ANNIE, fear I can't leave 'Lake' alive." - Verdict, Suicide while Temporarily Insane.

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Dock Fatality. - At the Homeopathic Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday, Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, resumed the Inquest on GEORGE HENRY JONES, aged 56, dock labourer, who was killed through falling into the hold of a ship while discharging cargo at the Great Western Docks. Mr C. H. Morris, Inspector of Factories, represented the Board of Trade, Mr Neilson, the Dockers' Union, of which deceased was a member and Inspector James the Great Western Dock Co. - Mr R. Allan, second mate of the steamer, said he did not inspect the hatch. It was not the custom of the ship to examine hatches in port. Stevedores were there to work the cargo. It was the only port he had seen where the hatches were used for that purpose at all. After the accident he saw the hatch, which was defective at that place. - The Coroner intimated that there was nothing in the Board of Trade regulations forbidding the use of a defective hatch. - Mr Stephen Morand, who witnessed the accident from the deck of the steamer, stated that the ship's crew had nothing to do with the discharge of the cargo. If the hatch had been in its proper place it would not have fallen. - Mr Morris said he should send a report on the defective hatch to the chief inspector. Verdict: "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Monday 20 August 1917
BUCKLAND MONACHORUM - Found Drowned AT Clearbrook. - Mr Robinson Rodd, Coroner, held an Inquest at Clearbrook, on Saturday, on ADA ELIZABETH ELLEN BABB, aged 47, of Fernleigh, Cothele-villas, Stoke. - JAMES ERNEST BARTLETT WEBBER, of Wilton-street, brother of deceased, said his sister left home on Monday, unknown to her friends and was not heard of again until she was found drowned. She had complained a lot of sleeplessness and at times had been despondent. - Stanley Northey, baker's assistant, said he drove MRS BABB to Hoo Meavy on Monday. He saw her go by the marsh path in the direction of Shaugh. During the drive she was very quiet and looked ill. - Cpl. S. Wilson said he found the body on Friday in a pool by the River Meavy. - Dr G. T. Revell, Yelverton, said death was due to drowning. - Verdict: "Found Drowned."

Western Morning News, Thursday 23 August 1917
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Child Killed. - At the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday, Mr J. Graves, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest on DORIS ADAMS, aged 6, of Gilwell-cottages, who died from injuries caused by being run over by a horse and cart. Mr Mayburne Pearce watched the proceedings for the owner and driver. - William Tucker said he was driving a horse and cart laden with coal along Regent-street on Monday afternoon. He was going at two miles an hour. Deceased and another child were in the gutter and others were on the pavement. They were skylarking. He shouted to them, and stopped the horse while they went on the pavement. Getting on the shafts he drove on again, when he heard a cry. He at once stopped the horse, and jumping down, he saw the deceased crawl out from under the waggon. - Dr Wu, House Surgeon, said the child was admitted to the Hospital on Monday suffering from fractured ribs and injury to the lungs, and died on Tuesday. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and exonerated the driver from blame.

Western Morning News, Friday 24 August 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - Naval Captain's Suicide. Result Of Overstrain. - At The South Dockyard, Devonport, yesterday an Inquest was held by Mr J. A. Pearce, Coroner, on CAPT. GEORGE PERCY EDWARD HUNT, R.N. (retired), aged 54. Deceased, whose home was The Great House, Ardeley, Hertfordshire, was assistant to the captain of the Dockyard. - Mr F. J. Kingcombe, assistant to the captain of the Dockyard, said he last saw deceased alive between 11.30 and 12 noon on Wednesday at witness's office, when he appeared to be quite normal, although rather shaky. He seemed to be overtired. On Sunday deceased and witness had been very busy in their department. Deceased handed witness a report which he had drafted, and he asked witness to look through it, and if he agreed to get it typed. Deceased came to witness's office on Wednesday, inquiring if the report was ready, and witness told him that it was not, whereupon deceased left the office. At 12.30 p.m. witness was told that one of the maids at deceased's house was inquiring where CAPT. HUNT was, as she had heard strange noises and a heavy fall in MRS HUNT'S bedroom. Witness went to the house, being accompanied by their chief messenger. Witness found the bedroom door unlocked, and, entering, saw CAPT. HUNT on the floor between the bed and the dressing-table. There was blood flowing from the mouth and head, while a revolver, with bloodstains upon it, was lying under the dressing-table. Two letters were found in the room, one (unopened) being addressed to the deceased by the Admiral-Superintendent, and the other to MRS HUNT, the latter being fastened with stamp paper. In witness's opinion deceased may have been overwrought by the general pressure of the office work, as lately he had appeared depressed and tired. - Ada Morgan, parlour-maid, also stated that deceased had appeared tired of late. - Rear-Admiral John Nicholas, captain of the Dockyard, said he saw deceased on Wednesday, when they met in the office and discussed several minor matters. Deceased was to proceed on leave this week, and appeared in his usual spirits. His duties were of an arduous description, being practically a one-man job, although he had two officers to assist him. He had, however, never complained, and when questioned always said he could manage the work himself. He had received no official criticism, and was a slave to duty, his work being more than satisfactory. Witness considered his act the result of overstrain. - Fleet-Surgeon W. Hackett, R.N., said he was called to deceased's residence, where he found him dead as the result of a bullet wound. The bullet had entered the mouth, passed through the brain, and come out at the top of the head. - The Coroner, referring to the two letters found in the room, said the one in the handwriting of the Adml.-Supt., was simply an invitation to dinner. With regard to the other, which was addressed to MRS HUNT, he did not propose to open it if the Jury considered they had sufficient evidence to form their verdict. Reviewing the evidence, he said that, although there had been no official criticism, deceased might have imagined he was not doing his work properly. - A verdict that deceased shot himself whilst of Unsound Mind was returned and a vote of sympathy with the widow was passed. - CAPT. HUNT entered the Navy as a supplementary lieut. in Oct., 1895. As lieut. of the Forte, he served with the Natal Naval Brigade in South Africa, during 1899-1900 with two 4.7in. guns, and was awarded the D.S.O. in Oct., 1900 for services during the war. Capt. Jones, in his despatch, said: "LIEUT. HUNT has acted as brigade-major, quartermaster and chief of my staff all rolled into one, as well as commanding a 4.7in. gun, often being up the greater part of the night with paper work after long fatiguing days. His services have been invaluable to me." and again in his despatch of June 14, 1900: "I desire particularly to mention LIEUT. HUNT, who acts as chief of staff for me and gunnery officer. His ability in a tight place, energy and hard work are beyond all praise." He was mentioned in Sir R. Buller's despatch of June 19, 1900, and served in the Gambia expedition, 1901, under Lieut.-Col. Brake. He was promoted to commander on Jan. 1 1902 and captain in Dec., 1907, retiring from the service in July 1913 at the age of 50 years.

Western Morning News, Monday 27 August 1917
PLYMOUTH - Mr J. Graves held an Inquest at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, Plymouth, on Saturday on ELIZABETH ANN MOYSE, aged 60, wife of a dockyard labourer, living at Saltash. Whilst being removed to the Hospital on the previous day she died in a cab at the Hospital gates. Dr Woo, House Surgeon, attributed death to internal strangulation caused by disease and the Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Friday 31 August 1917
ST MARYCHURCH - Hint To Lodging-House Keepers. Notification Of Consumption Cases. - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at St Marychurch yesterday on ERNEST TAYLOR, 44, son of MR W. TAYLOR, of Birmingham, found dead at his lodgings at 9 Portland-road, Babbacombe, where he had been staying for six weeks after having been two years at Clevedon. He had been unable to follow any occupation for eight years and when he came to Babbacombe was in an advanced stage of consumption. Although Mrs Poplar, the lodging-house keeper, had an impression that he was so suffering, she did not know it authoritatively, as MR TAYLOR was not attended by a medical man, that being thought unnecessary, as he followed out a prescription from his last doctor at Clevedon. He died whilst dressing, having ruptured a blood vessel in the lungs, which Dr Pitt Palmer said were full of tubercular disease. - Dr T. Dunlop, M.O.H. for Torquay, said under the Notification of Diseases Act it was the duty of the keeper of a lodging-house in which a person was suffering from a contagious disease like consumption to notify the authorities; but in 99 cases out of 100 the person who notified the case was the medical man in charge, and if there had been a medical man in charge of this case, he (Dr Dunlop) would have received the notification. A year and a half ago, when it was known there was a number of cases of this kind at hotels and boarding-houses, which were not receiving medical attention he was instructed to write the managers and occupiers requesting notification to be made and arranging for the disinfection, free of cost, of the rooms occupied by the patients. The Coroner asked whether other lodgers in a house where there was a consumptive were not in danger of infection. - Dr Dunlop: It would depend upon the precautions taken. - The Coroner hoped lodging-house keepers would be a little more careful in future to notify the medical officer of health of such cases. The Jury, Mr E. Field, Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" and the Coroner told Mrs Poplar that by not giving notification of a case of this kind she might subject herself to a prosecution, as would any landlady who failed to comply with the regulations.

Western Morning News, Saturday 1 September 1917
EAST STONEHOUSE - A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned at the Inquest yesterday by Mr R. R. Rodd at Stonehouse on ISABELLA PATERSON, 58, widow, living in High-street. Seized with sudden pain while in bed, she died in half an hour. Dr W. H. Waterfield attributed death to rupture of the aorta.

Western Morning News, Monday 3 September 1917
CHUDLEIGH - Chudleigh Child's Death. Unsatisfactory Evidence. - On Friday, Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, opened an Inquest at the Townhall, Chudleigh, on BOURBAS RUSSELL WIDDICOMBE, infant child of FLORENCE ELIZABETH WIDDICOMBE. - The mother said she lived at Victoria- row, Fore-street, and was the wife of Pte. WILLIAM GEORGE WIDDICOMBE, Devon R., who had separated from her on account of misconduct. She was formerly in receipt of 24s. 6d. a week; the sum had been reduced to 7s., for witness and two children. The child lying dead was hers, but not her husband's, who had been away for two years. The child was born on June 11, in the presence of witness's mother and the District Nurse. She had made no arrangements for the birth. The child was very healthy when born, and continued to thrive, having no illness whatever. It had not been in her care all the time; it was away for eight days at Crediton, where it was going to be adopted by some people. On Aug. 13, witness took the child to Exeter, and handed it over to a Mrs Bennillick, who brought the child back on Aug. 21 on account of its being cross. She said she could do nothing with it. The new home for the child was at 17 Hookway, Crediton. The child had been fed on new milk for the past ten days and nothing the matter had been noticed. On the night before its death the child went to bed with witness at eight o'clock and awoke at 4.30 when it went to sleep again. Witness rose at 8 o'clock, when the baby was still asleep. She went downstairs with her other child and cleaned up the house. On going up to the room at 11 o'clock she found the child dead. It had not moved from the position in which it was laid, neither had she covered it right up. Witness knew of nothing that would account for its death. - ROSA LILIAN WHITE, mother of the last witness, and wife of WILLIAM HENRY WHITE, now of the Berkshire R., said she saw the child frequently. Since coming back from Crediton the child was fed on new milk and water and was never ill. - Dr H. B. Walters said he was called about noon. With Dr Young, of Bovey Tracey, he had made a post-mortem examination. There were no external marks. The body was that of a well-nourished child. They found nothing to show the cause of death. It was possible for suffocation to ensue without showing marks, but not probable. Death might have been brought about by some unnatural cause. He thought an analysis should be made of the contents of the stomach. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the evidence was most unsatisfactory and he would adjourn the Inquest until Friday, Sept. 14. In the meantime an analysis would be made. - Mrs Bennillick, with whom the child was entrusted, should be present at the adjourned inquest.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 5 September 1917
EAST STONEHOUSE - Fatal Accident At Stonehouse. Boy Cyclist Loses Control Of Machine. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd, Coroner, held an Inquest at Stonehouse yesterday, on EDGAR SMITH, age 14, of Prospect-row, Devonport, who met his death as the result of a cycle accident on Monday. - MRS SMITH said her son started to work for a poulterer on Monday, but he was not an experienced cyclist. - G. T. Mitchell, motor driver, in the employ of the Plymouth Brewery Co. (Ltd.), said on Monday he was driving a lorry from Edgcumbe-street to Chapel-street. Just as he turned the corner he saw the boy descending Chapel-street at a rate of about ten or twelve miles an hour. His first impression was that the lad was skylarking, but afterwards he realized that he had lost control of the machine. Witness sounded his horn, but that appeared to frighten deceased still more and he rushed down on his wrong side. To avert an accident witness stopped the lorry, but the boy crashed into it, and when picked up he was dead. There was plenty of room for a good rider to have passed, even on the wrong side. - Mrs Annie Jones, an eye-witness, gave confirmatory evidence. - Mr J. A. Head said he engaged the boy on behalf of Mr J.T. Pawley, poulterer, of Devonport, as an errand boy cyclist. When he applied for the situation he said he was a capable cyclist. - Dr Leah said the cause of death was fracture of the skull. - Verdict, "Accidental Death," the Jury exonerating the driver from blame.

Western Morning News, Friday 7 September 1917
DIPTFORD - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest on GEORGE FINCH at Diptford on Wednesday. An employee of Tucker and Sons, Totnes, he was sent to fetch hay at Bradridge Farm, Diptford, and fell from the hayrick. He was accustomed to the work, having formerly been a farm hand. Mr Hurrell, of Bradridge Farm, said FINCH fell from the hayrick, about nine feet. On being lifted up he sighed once and did not move. Dr Stile, South Brent, who had made a post mortem, said there was no injury to account for death. The heart was enlarged. The cause of death was, in his opinion, syncope. Any sudden shock was likely to cause death. Verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Saturday 8 September 1917
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on MARY ANN PARSON, Collings Park, spinster, 76 years of age. A sister-in-law stated that MISS PARSON, who was very short-sighted, fell downstairs at 1.30 in the morning at her home. Dr Price said death was due to heart failure, resulting from shock, and a verdict accordingly was returned.

PLYMOUTH - Plympton Burning Fatality. - At the S.D. and E.C. Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday, an Inquest was held on SOPHIA MARY ELFORD, 21, domestic servant, and a native of Lutton, Cornwood, who died from the result of burns received on Aug. 19. - Charles Albrecht, Plympton, said the girl, who had an excellent character, had been preparing breakfast, and rushed into the hall a mass of flames. By wrapping overcoats which were hanging in the hall, round her, he extinguished the flames, catching his own clothing afire in the effort and immediately obtained medical aid. In charge of a nurse she was removed to Hospital in a motor car. Dr Woo. House Surgeon, said death was due to septic poisoning from the clothing. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. - The Jury expressed appreciation of Mr Albrecht's efforts on the girl's behalf.

Western Morning News, Friday 14 September 1917
ALPHINGTON - Alphington Child's Death. Gallantry Of An Exmouth Cadet. - At the Inquest on RALPH B. SEAWARD, the child of Co. Q.M.S., SEAWARD, R.E., and MRS SEAWARD, 1 Spring Garden-cottages, Alphington, yesterday, it was presumed that he was playing by the side of the canal and fell in. He went home to tea after school and then unknown to his mother, left the house. Vera Payne, a girl neighbour, saw him in the water and called MRS SEAWARD, who had the anguish of watching her child drown, being powerless to save him. A young naval cadet named Manley, age 15, of Crossingfield House, Exeter-road, Exmouth, whose name almost had to be dragged from him by the Police, gallantly plunged in time after time, fully dressed, in an effort to save the child, but could not find him because of the weeds. The body was recovered by Mr Payne with grappling hooks. Just before Vera Payne saw the boy in the water two cyclists passed the spot and she called to them; but they did not stop. - A verdict of "Accidental Drowning" was returned. - The Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, said the greatest credit was due to Manley. He wished the boy might have been there so that he could personally commend him. As to the two cyclists, it was only charitable to assume that they did not see the child in the water. He could not imagine anyone being so callous as not to stop if he saw the child there.

Western Morning News, Saturday 15 September 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - Drowned At Devonport. Plucky Attempt To Rescue. - Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at Devonport Dockyard last evening on WILLIAM C. MCDOUGALL, fireman, mercantile marine, of Liverpool, aged 21, drowned in the Hamoaze. Mr K. Eyton Peck represented the Admiralty. - John Murphy, fireman, of Liverpool, said last Sunday week, at 10.30 p.m., he and other firemen left the Flagstaff Steps at the Dockyard in a steam launch to go aboard their ships. As they approached the ship he was lying down signing and MCDOUGALL told him to get up. As he did so MCDOUGALL put a pocket-handkerchief down the back of his neck. Getting up he stumbled and fell into the water. He was unable to say whether in stumbling MCDOUGALL caught hold of him or he of MCDOUGALL. He swam to a buoy and was rescued. He did not know until he got aboard his ship that MCDOUGALL had also fallen into the water. - The Coroner: You did not accidentally knock him overboard? - No. - You were skylarking? - No, sir. - Ernest Taylor, A.B., R.N.V.R., Leyton, said the launch was crowded, and it was impossible for one to see what was happening in any other part of the boat. He heard the cry, "Man overboard," and seeing the man in the water he jumped in to save him, but the tide was running very strong and carried the drowning man away. - Edgar Dumble, coxswain, Dockyard steamboat, deposed to finding the body in the Hamoaze the previous day. - Fleet-Surg. J. D. Hughes, R.N., said death was due to drowning. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned and the Jury joined with the Coroner in an expression of warm appreciation of Taylor's plucky attempt at rescue.

PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, Plymouth, last evening, on ALFRED COLE, mason's labourer, aged 60, of Claremont-street. - MRS MINNIE TRUMPFIELD said her father went out to see a panel doctor. He suffered from slight deafness. - John Crawford, motor man, said about 3.10 p.m. on Thursday, when driving a tramcar down Ebrington-street, near Gascoyne-place, he saw COLE walking between the tram rails and the pavement. He rang his bell and called out to him. He suddenly seemed to stagger across the track right in front of the car. Though the brakes were applied immediately, COLE was knocked down. - Daniel Hayes, St John's-road, said it was a pure accident, and Mrs J. North, of Cattedown-road, said the driver did all he could to avoid it. - Dr Woo, House Surgeon, said death was due to shock. - Verdict, "Accidental Death." - The Jury considered that no blame was attached to the driver.

PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, Plymouth, on PERCIVAL WARREN PASCOE, aged 13 years of Mount Gold-road. From the evidence of his aunt (MRS FLORENCE PASCOE) and Staff-Sgt. C. May, R.A.M.C., the lad was riding a bicycle in Mount Gold-road on Thursday evening, when he lost control of the machine and fell. He was taken to the Hospital, where he died later, according to Dr Woo, from compression on the brain. - Verdict "Accidental Death."

EAST STONEHOUSE - Mr R Robinson Rodd held an Inquest on Thursday on AARON DONOVAN, aged 59, labourer, H.M. Dockyard. - Ernest Eustace Benham, assistant electrical engineer, H.M. Dockyard, said on Friday 7th inst., coal was being discharged from a slip at the Dockyard by an electric crane. DONOVAN was walking near by, and was hit by the grab of the crane. The button of the crane must have slipped out of its place. Such a thing had only occurred once before during the last eleven years and then no one was injured. - James Clark Kendall said the grab came down with a run, and struck DONOVAN on the back. - Verdict: "Accidental Death," the Jury expressing sympathy with the widow.

Western Morning News, Monday 17 September 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - Collision In The Channel. Plymouth Man Killed. - The Devonport Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, held an Inquest at the Dockyard on Saturday on WILLIAM CHARLES FINCH, aged 20, sto., P.O., R.N., who was killed whilst asleep aboard the vessel in which he was servicing during a collision at sea last Thursday evening. - OLIVE FINCH, Portland-square, Plymouth, said deceased was her brother and was unmarried. - Sub-Lt. A. R. Alston, R.N., described the condition sunder which the collision occurred and expressed the opinion that the collision could not have been averted. - Fleet-Surg. J. D. Hughes, R.N., described the injuries, and said death was due to shock and must have been instantaneous. - The Coroner said it was no doubt for a naval court of Inquiry to ascertain if the navigation was as it should be, and whether the officers were carrying out their duties in accordance with the regulations, but whatever the result of an inquiry might be, there was no evidence, if they accepted Sub-Lt. Alston's statement, that there was such culpable negligence on the part of anybody on board as to make them criminally responsible for deceased's death. Ships were obliged to steam under war conditions and, considering the circumstances under with the Navy had to perform its duties, he thought it a wonder there were so few accidents of that character. The Navy had lost a valuable man and they all greatly sympathised with his relatives. - Verdict: "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 18 September 1917
SOUTH BRENT - Plymouth Girl's Death At Brent. - Mr J. Edmonds, of Totnes, yesterday held an Inquest at Brent, on LOLA E. WESTLAKE, the young daughter of MR S. WESTLAKE, of Pennycomequick, Plymouth, who on Saturday was run over by a motor car driven by Dr Style. - Mr W. Selley, market gardener, said the child appeared to dash across the street immediately in front of the car, which was going, he thought, about six miles an hour. The near hind wheel went over her. The driver had no opportunity of avoiding the occurrence. The child was clear of the car when picked up. - Dr Style said several children were about. He was, perhaps, driving 10 miles an hour. The child came in front of the car in a second, and there was no opportunity of preventing what occurred. The child was quite unconscious and died within a quarter of an hour. The cause of death was fracture of the skull and laceration of brain. - P.S. Beer stated that he saw Dr Style within 40 or 50 yards of the scene of the accident, and he was then driving about eight miles an hour. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," exonerated the driver of the car from blame, and expressed sympathy with the parents.

Western Morning News, Friday 21 September 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - Soldier's Suicide At Plymouth. - Devonport Deputy Coroner, Mr Albert Gard, held an Inquest at the Military Hospital, Stoke, yesterday, on Gnr. ALFRED GRIFFITHS, R.G.A., aged 37, who on Tuesday was found with his throat cut in a lavatory at Plymouth Citadel. - MAUDE E. GRIFFITHS, the widow, said deceased was a greengrocer at Newbury, Berks., before being called up and had given up the business. they had been married for three years and during all the 16 years she had known him he had suffered from his nerves. He was home on leave last week, and was then unwell and depressed. In a letter he had written since his return he said he was still poorly. - Gnr. W. G. Harries, R.G.A., described how he saw blood issuing from under a latrine door at the Citadel, and found deceased standing with his back against the door with his throat cut. When witness entered he threw the razor down. Deceased tried to speak, but could not do so, and witness took him to the medical inspection-room. - Bombr. G. Mitchell said he had noticed that GRIFFITHS had been very depressed. - Dr C. J. Cook said that when called to deceased at the Citadel he found a very deep and large cut across the throat and he had lost a lot of blood. He was conveyed to the Hospital and died on Wednesday. Death was due to syncope through haemorrhage and shock caused by the wound. - Lt. C. Conran, R.G.A., said deceased joined the Artillery at the Citadel on June 29. He was in Hospital from July 4 to Sept. 7 and on sick leave from Sept. 8 to 14. The Jury's verdict was that deceased committed Suicide and that there was not sufficient evidence to determine the state of his mind.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 26 September 1917
YEALMPTON - At an Inquest at Yealmpton yesterday by Mr R. R. Rodd, jun., Coroner, on JAMES SKEWES, aged 60, of 3 Mutley Park-terrace, Plymouth, who died suddenly in Yealmpton cattle market on Monday, a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned. Dr E. E. B. Fox said the heart was dilated and had been seemingly affected by deceased's exertions in walking up the hill from the Railway Station.

PLYMOUTH - Naval Seaman's Death. Lost Overboard At Plymouth. - The adjourned Inquest on ARTHUR COLLEDGE, aged 38, A.B., R.F.R., of Aston, Birmingham, whose body was picked up in the Hamoaze on the 21st inst., was held by Mr R. Robinson Rodd, at the R.N. Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday. Mr K. Eyton Peck, Admiralty law agent, was present. - Ernest Race, A.B., of the vessel in which deceased was serving, was qrmtr. of the watch at 1 a.m. on the 13th inst., when the ship was lying off Drake's Island. At that time deceased came to him whilst he was lighting the fires in the galley and said he was going on deck. A few minutes later he heard that COLLEDGE had fallen overboard. Witness went on deck, but could not see deceased in the water. There was a strong ebb tide running at the time. - Herbert Gratwick, P.O. 1, said he was coxswain of a vessel berthed alongside the other boat. At about 1.30 a.m. he was passing over a plank from one vessel to the other when he missed his footing and fell into the water. Witness saw deceased leaning over the side of his boat trying to catch a line that had been thrown to witness's assistance. He did not see deceased fall into the water, but believed he must have over-balanced himself in trying to reach the rope and guide it to witness. In witness's opinion deceased was accidentally drowned. - An officer said there was no letter or anything known to lead them to believe deceased had intended to drown himself. - William E. Casey, P.O. 1, deposed to recovering the body, which he saw floating in the Hamoaze last Friday. - The Coroner explained that through a misunderstanding the medical officer in the case had not held a post-mortem examination. In view of the fact that there was a cut on deceased's throat it was important that there should be an examination. Consequently the Inquiry would be adjourned until Thursday.

PLYMOUTH - Fatal Accident At Plymouth. - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest at the S.D. and E.C. Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday on SELINA ELLEN AUSTIN, aged 75, of Pembroke-lane, Devonport, who was knocked down by a tramcar in Union-street on Friday. - Mrs Nicholls living in the same house as deceased, said MRS AUSTIN'S hearing was not very good; her sight was sound. - William Jeffery, tram-driver, said that he was driving through the Octagon on Friday, about 8 p.m. when he suddenly caught sight of deceased about two feet from the car. At once he applied the emergency brake, but was not in time to avert an accident. He was going slowly at the time and sounded his bell. - Sergt. Voss, who witnessed the occurrence, said it was a pure accident. Witness tried to pull deceased back, but was not quick enough. - Dr Woo said death was due to shock. - Verdict, "Accidental Death" the Jury exonerating the driver from blame.

CHUDLEIGH - Headache Powders: Mother Charged With Murder. - At Chudleigh yesterday the Inquest was resumed by Mr S. Hacker on BOURVAS RUSSELL WIDDICOMBE, aged 11 weeks, the son of FLORENCE ELIZABETH WIDDICOMBE, wife of Pte. WILLIAM GEORGE WIDDICOMBE, Devon R (T.), who for over two years served in India, and who, separated from his wife, is now in another part of England. The evidence at the two previous Inquiries showed that the child died from the effects of a poison known as acetanalide, or anti-febrin, a constituent of certain headache powers: also that, on the morning of the death, the mother fed the child at 4.30 with new milk and water and when last seen alive, at 8 a.m. the child was fast asleep, but that on going to the room at 11 o'clock the mother found the child dead. A post-mortem examination showed that the internal organs were in a healthy condition, that the child was well nourished and that there were no marks of external violence or any signs that would suggest suffocation. Supt. Carey watched the proceedings on behalf of the Police. - Public Analyst's Evidence. - Mr Thomas Tickle, public analyst, Exeter, gave additional evidence. He said he had been able to distinguish a grain and a quarter of anti-febrin in the stomach and contents, and two grains and over in the intestines and contents, but he would not say how much more there was in consequence of decomposition. He had no doubt that three grains and a quarter would be sufficient to cause death in a young child. He did not say that it would kill quickly, although its first effects would be quickly seen. The anti-febrin could be mixed with milk and water, and could be easily administered. In reply to the Jury, Mr Tickle said there was nothing on the label to show that these headache powders contained poison, but there was a warning that they were not to be given to children under 13 years of age. These headache powders, as sold in the shops, each contained about four grains of anti-febrin as a general average. - Dr Walters, recalled, said the child died from acetanalide poisoning, the body having all the signs of this being the cause of death. - MRS WHITE, grandmother of deceased, said she was not in her daughter's house on the evening prior to the child's death. - MRS WIDDICOMBE, mother of deceased, was asked by the Coroner if there was anything she wished to say further to the Jury, and she replied in the negative. - Dr Walters, who saw the child at 12 o'clock on the day of its death, was asked if he could say how long it had been dead, and he replied that, as it had been washed, he should not like to say anything further than that in all probability it died between 8 and 11 o'clock. - The Coroner's Remarks. - The Coroner said after the evidence they could hardly come to any other conclusion than that the child died from acetanalide poisoning. That led to the important question, how did the poison get into the child's inside? Was it given the child in its milk, or in some other way? The last food which the child took was given to it by its mother; if this was any evidence that the child took the poison in this way, it was circumstantial evidence, and in dealing with this sort of evidence they should be very careful. It was possible that the poison was given in one of the headache powders, and it was also possible that the powder might have got mixed up with the house milk. It might further have been given as medicine without a knowledge that it was dangerous to the child, and, although the label contained a warning against giving these powders to very young children, there was nothing to show that this warning was read by the mother. There was evidence that she had tried to get rid of the child eight days before, but that did not prove that she intended to kill it. If the Jury thought the evidence was strong enough to justify them in thinking that the mother administered the poison with a view to causing the child's death, they would return a verdict of murder against her, on which she would be tried; but if they did not think the evidence was sufficiently strong to enable them to bring in such a verdict, they would return an open verdict that the child died from poison, but that how it was administered there was not sufficient evidence to show. - After an absence of a quarter of an hour the Foreman of the Jury (Mr J. Hellier) read their verdict, which was that the child Died from Poison administered by the Mother, and a suggestion that the powders should be labelled "Poison." - The Coroner pointed out that this was not sufficient, there being no expression of opinion respecting the mother. - Mr Cove, one of the Jury, asked if the Coroner would take the unanimous opinion of seven of them; and in reply the Coroner said there must be either a verdict of murder against the mother or not. Did they consider she administered the poison maliciously, with the object of killing the child? They must say this or else return an open verdict that there was not sufficient evidence to show by what means the poison was administered. He would accept the unanimous verdict of seven members of the Jury. - The Verdict. - The Jury again retired, and, after a few minutes' absence, the Foreman said that the verdict of seven members of the Jury was one of Murder against the mother of the child, FLORENCE ELIZABETH WIDDICOMBE, the Foreman adding that he did not fall in with this view. - The Foreman, still adhering to his dissension from the other seven, declined to sign the paper. - The mother of the child was called forward by the Coroner and informed by him that the Jury had returned a verdict of "Murder" against her and he formally committed her to take her trial on that charge at the next Assizes at Exeter. In the meantime she would be taken to the gaol at Exeter.

BERE FERRERS - Bere Ferrers Tragedy. Another Death: Opening Of The Inquest. - At Bere Ferrers Railway Station yesterday, Mr R. Robinson Rodd opened an Inquiry into the deaths of the nine soldiers killed in the railway accident of the previous day, and a tenth whose death occurred at Tavistock Hospital early yesterday morning. - The Coroner said they had been convened that afternoon to Inquire into a very sad tragedy. It appeared that a train was standing in Bere Ferrers Station the previous day, when some soldiers who were travelling by it got out on the permanent way, not knowing that an express train was due. The express dashed into these poor fellows, killing nine and injuring three, one of whom had since died in Tavistock Hospital. He did not propose to go into the evidence that afternoon beyond that of identification, as he had to notify the Board of Trade of the Inquest. It would be necessary to agree on a date for the adjourned Inquiry, to enable the inspector of the Railway Department to attend if he desired. - "I am sure, gentlemen," continued the Coroner, "our deepest sympathy will go out to the relatives of these poor fellows - (hear, hear) - in their very sad bereavement. They had come from one of the dominions to assist to uphold the honour of the British Empire and freedom and justice, and it seems very hard lines indeed that they should have met with such an untimely death in the old country." (Hear, hear.) - The Foreman of the Jury (the Rev. J. Sharpe) said he should like on behalf of the Jury to express their deepest and sincere sympathy with the relatives of the poor men and their sorrow at such an occurrence in their midst. (Hear, hear). - The Coroner said perhaps the military representatives would convey their expressions to the relatives. - The Brig-Gen.: Thank you very much. - The Captain of the company to which the deceased soldiers belonged said one body was still unidentified, the disc having been smashed to pieces. - The names of the other nine were:- Pte. 55753 J. S. JACKSON; Pte. 56795 C. C. KIRTON; Pte. 55776 B. A. W. MCBRYDE; Pte. 57122 R. V. MCKENNA; Pte. 55050 W. S. GILLANDERS; Pte. 56883 J. F. WARDEN; Pte. 57068 W. F. GREAVES; Pte. 56791 JOSEPH JUDGE; Pte. 56874 W. J. TRUSSELL. - The Inquest was adjourned until Monday next. - The bodies were placed in coffins, probably by last night and will be removed by the Red Cross ambulances to Plymouth today for the funeral, which will probably take place at Plymouth on Thursday. - Yesterday Nathaniel Johnson Gatley, age 34, and Robert James Barnes, 39, who had their arms broken in the accident, were progressing favourably in Tavistock Hospital.

Western Morning News, Thursday 27 September 1917
TIVERTON - Devonport Woman's Death. Victim of Chlorodyne. - Mr F. R. D. Clutsom held an Inquest at Tiverton Hospital last evening on EMILY ELIZA CANDEY, wife of JAMES CANDEY, of Granville-street, Devonport, who died the previous morning at her brother-in-law's house, Alexandra-terrace, Tiverton. - The mother, who resides at Devonport, said her daughter had been ill for some time and had been in the habit of taking chlorodyne. She had been warned by her doctor and relatives against it. Deceased, however, took it secretly. - MRS CANDEY, wife of RICHARD CANDEY of Alexandra-terrace, Tiverton, said that about two weeks ago she noticed that her sister-in-law was very weak. Witness found some empty bottles in the bed, and deceased asked her not to show them to the doctor. Afterwards witness's husband showed them to the doctor. - WINIFRED CANDEY, 13 years of age, said that she fetched the chlorodyne. The deceased wrote the order in a sealed envelope. She was given by the chemist a packet apparently containing two bottles. - Dr C. E. Liesching, of Tiverton, said he warned the deceased of the injurious effects of chlorodyne. Death was due to chronic catarrh, set up by the chlorodyne, which led to exhaustion. - Verdict accordingly. - Dr Liesching said it was iniquitous that people should be allowed to take chlorodyne like the deceased had unfortunately done. It was a very dangerous drug for the public to handle.

Western Morning News, Friday 28 September 1917
EAST STONEHOUSE - Fatal Accident. - Mr Coroner Rodd held an adjourned Inquest at the Royal Naval Hospital yesterday concerning the death of ARTHUR COLLEDGE, 38, seaman. - Surgeon F. M. Moseley, R.N., said a post mortem examination showed that death was due to drowning. A mark on the throat was quite superficial and had nothing to do with the cause of death. - Upon this the Coroner said he supposed the verdict of the Jury would be "Accidentally Drowned." This the Jury agreed to and the Coroner asked the Police Officer to convey the sympathy of himself and the Jury to the mother of the deceased. He understood this was the third son she had lost during the war, and the officer might assure her that her son had died in endeavouring to save a shipmate's life. - COLLEDGE came from Bozel[?]e, near Birmingham.

EAST STONEHOUSE - Mr R. Rodd held an adjourned Inquest concerning the death of Petty Officer ERNEST GILL. - Deputy Surgeon General F. D. Thorpe said deceased was admitted to the Hospital about 11 p.m. on Sept. 19. He found a wound in the stomach and extensive peritonitis had been set up, but he was unable to extract any bullet. GILL died on the 24th. He had made a post mortem examination and found the bullet; it was a revolver bullet. - Alfred J. F. Underwood, of the armourer's crew of a ship, said on Friday, Sept. 14, whilst at sea the paymaster asked him to clean his revolver and he had just got the revolver from the paymaster's cabin and was on the well deck when Petty Officer GILL came up to speak to him. He had the revolver in his right hand, and putting his left hand over it must have knocked up the safety catch. The revolver went off, wounding his finger and striking the deceased. He (witness) did not know the revolver was loaded. GILL was his best friend. J. W. A. McDuff of the sick berth reserve, said GILL was under his care in Hospital and he gathered from him that it was a pure accident. - Verdict, "Accidental Death." - Mr K. Eyton Peck watched the case on behalf of the Admiralty.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 2 October 1917
BERE FERRERS - Bere Ferrers Tragedy. Non-Rationing Of The Men Cleared Up. Nobody To Blame. At Bere Ferrers (L. and S.W.) Railway Station yesterday Mr R. Robinson Rodd held the adjourned inquest on the ten soldiers killed by an express train in the Station on Sept. 24. Mr R. B. Johns (Plymouth) represented the L. and S.W. Railway Co., and Inspector W. Trump was also present on behalf of the company. The Rev. J. Sharpe was Foreman of the Jury. - The Coroner said he had received a telegram from the Board of Trade to the effect that they would not be represented. - Rations At The "First Stop." - Pte. Archibald Graham Porteous said the men were told on entrainment that they would be provisioned at the first stop the train made. They had breakfast at six o'clock and entrained at 3 p.m. On the train reaching Bere Ferrers some of the men left their carriages as soon as the train stopped. Two men got out of his carriage. They had been told on leaving that two men from each carriage were to leave the train to get out rations. West got on to the permanent way. - The Coroner: Would that be the correct way of carrying out the order? - Yes, the order they received. - Would not some further command be given on the train stopping, or would it be expected that the men would immediately get out without further order? - As I understood the order two men had to go to the break van to draw rations at the first stop. - You saw the men get out on the wrong side of the train? - That was the side on which we got in. - Witness was questioned at length regarding the conditions of railways in the colony whence he and the men came and in this country. - He said in some places there were double lines at Stations, but the tracks were chiefly single line. Otherwise the conditions were very similar. - The Brig.-Gen.: There are hundreds of Stations with six or seven lines through them. - The Coroner: When these men got out of the train on the wrong side they knew they would be exposing themselves to danger if a train was passing? - No answer. - There was a signal warning you of an approaching train? - The Brig.-Gen.: He would not know that. - Witness: I was in the centre of the compartment. - The Coroner: There must have been thoughtlessness if they realised they were exposing themselves to danger by getting out on the permanent-way. Were there many getting out this side? - There must have been as there were so many killed. I only saw two get down. - Mr R. B. Johns said the train was too long for the platform. - The Coroner: How long had they left the carriage before the express went through? - Witness: Anything up to a quarter of a minute. - So there was no time for anyone to warn them from that side? - No, sir. - Witness said he thought they could have had a meal before leaving in the train. - The Brig.-Gen.: The question is who gave the order for them to get out. - Sergt. Stanley Edwd. Deacon said he repeated the order he got before leaving. One or two men were to be detailed off to hold themselves in readiness to get out of the train at the first stop for the purpose of drawing rations for the remainder of the men in their compartment. The quartermaster told him that he told the men they were not to get out before they were called upon. - The Men Very Hungry. - The Coroner asked if the men were complaining that they had to go so long without food, and an officer remarked: "..... never complained; they always take things as a matter of course." - The Coroner: I may take it they were hungry? - I should think they were if they felt as I felt. (Laughter). The Brig.-Gen. said from a military point of view, a soldier had no right to get out of a train unless ordered. - The Capt. of the company to which the deceased men belonged said dry rations were provided and he heard nothing about "the first stop," but that it would be "at Exeter," where they were to receive their rations. He saw some men getting out and ordered them back. - Witness, continuing, said the stopping of the train containing the deceased and the passing of the express were practically simultaneous. "It was like a flash." - The Coroner: There was an honest attempt to do everything in the interest of the men? - Yes. - And under the circumstances it would have been practically impossible to do more? - That is so. - Frank Kidwell, signalman at Bere Ferrers Station, said the train before that in which the deceased wee travelling stopped at the Station at 3.38 and left at 3.40 p.m. It was stopped by "block," the line not being cleared from Bere Alston. The train in question arrived at 3.53 and was also "blocked" for a similar reason. The express ran through about 3.53, the train with the soldiers in it having hardly stopped. The express was whistling, but there was no chance to warn the deceased. - An Officer from Devonport explained the reason why the men had not received rations before leaving. The instructions given were to leave a sergeant and half a dozen men in the brake-van with the rations and issue them at Exeter to two men from each compartment, who were to draw for eight - the number in each compartment. - The Coroner: Under all the difficult circumstances prevailing before the men entrained, do you think everything in reason was done? - Yes. - "A Good Deal Of Talk." - The Coroner: There has been a good deal of talk about the fact of the men not having been served with rations; it ought to be cleared up. Under the circumstances do you consider the best was done? - We could not have done anything more. - In reply to the Foreman, witness said they would have had a cup of tea and a bun at Exeter as a free gift from the Mayoress and others; but that was altogether outside the proper rations provided. - Chas. Hy. Thorn, Exeter, fireman of the express, said, in reply to Mr R. B. Johns, that the train left Exeter at 2.12 p.m. and stopped at Tavistock. When nearing Bere Ferrers he was standing on the right side of the engine and saw a train standing, as he thought, in the Station on the up line. They were then about 30 or 40 yards above the bend near the Station, on entering which he saw some men on the line and shouted to his mate (the driver) "Whoa! Soldiers on the road!" The engine was whistling and the train travelling at about 35 miles an hour. The soldiers seemed confused and scuffled away as best they could. The express was pulled up in about 300 or 400 yards. The driver he should say saw nothing of it. - Mr Johns said the driver was there if thought necessary to call him; but the Coroner said he considered sufficient facts had been elicited. - With this the Foreman concurred, unless the military wished more. - The Brig.-Gen: No. - An Officer said he should like it to be definitely understood that it was not usual for soldiers to travel as these were, without food. It was due to exceptional circumstances at the time. - The Coroner: I think under all the circumstances the facts are perfectly satisfactory. I have only ventilated the subject in the interests of the service. I am satisfied and I think the gentlemen of the Jury will be. - In summing up, the Coroner said he thought it was clear that men, without orders, leaving their train and getting down on to the permanent way exposed themselves to danger. Having regard to the evidence he was of opinion that no one was to blame in the matter, and he thought the verdict should be one of "Accidental Death." - To this the Jury assented. - The Foreman said the question of rationing had been so much discussed that he was glad it was cleared up. The Jury were also gratified that their railway officials, in whom they had the greatest confidence, were exonerated from blame. They could but express sincere regret that the accident happened amongst them. Two memorial services were held the previous day to show their respect for these brave men, who came to such an untimely end. - Mr R. B. Johns, on behalf of the directors of the L. and S.W. Railway, deeply deplored the distressing accident, rendered more distressing, as these poor men had come from across the sea to do their part for the mother country.

STOKE DAMEREL - Death After Anaesthetic. - Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at the Royal Albert Hospital, Devonport, yesterday, on RICHARD JOHN ELLIS, painter's labourer, 38, widower, Edgcumbe-street, Stonehouse, whose death took place at the Hospital on Saturday. - Dr M. M. Bainbridge, House Surgeon, said ELLIS was suffering from intestinal obstruction and an operation was his only chance. On Saturday he was removed to the operating theatre. Dr Preston being operating Surgeon. - An anaesthetic was given the deceased, who almost immediately collapsed. They used artificial respiration and administered restoratives and ultimately deceased came round. He lived about ten minutes longer and then again collapsed and died. - A post mortem examination showed the cause of death to be strangulation of the intestines. - Verdict accordingly.

EAST STONEHOUSE - At an Inquest yesterday on JOHN WILLS, aged 79, naval pensioner, found dead in his room at Anstis-street, Dr E. Blades said deceased's heart weighed 24 ½ ounces, compared with a normal weight of 11 ounces. Verdict, "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Saturday 6 October 1917
PAIGNTON - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Paignton yesterday on MRS SARAH FABIAN, aged 82, of Bournemouth, who died on Wednesday as the result of a fall down the back stairs of D'Arcy House, Paignton, a week previously. Deceased had apparently missed her way in strange surroundings and fell down the stairs, which, the Coroner pointed out, were dangerous - a lodging-house. Miss Ketley, the occupant, promised to get a handrail and gate, and light the stairs. Verdict, "Accidental Death."

STOKE DAMEREL - An Inquest was held at Devonport yesterday on EDWARD THOMPSON, aged 56, engine-room storekeeper, of Southampton. Deceased was crossing Devonport Park on Thursday, to go to the L.S.W. Railway Station, when he was taken ill. He was removed to the Royal Albert Hospital, but died shortly after. Verdict, "Death from Natural Causes."

PLYMOUTH - Fall Overboard. C.E.R.A.'s Accidental Death. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd held an Inquest at the R.N. Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday, on ALBERT EDWARD SMITH, age 51, chief engine-room artificer, R.N. - Act. Gunner Albert J. Milford, R.N., said that last Wednesday while deceased was working on the starboard side of the ship, the sea caused the vessel to lurch and during a sudden roll he fell overboard. Assistance was immediately procured and deceased caught one of the lifebuoys. Witness went out in a boat with several others and picked up deceased. He was then unconscious. Artificial respiration was used, but when a doctor saw him an hour later he had expired. - 1st Class Stoker Charles R. Collings, R.N., corroborated. - Surgeon Wm. H. Murray, R.N., said that when he examined deceased life was extinct. Death was due to syncope, brought on by sudden immersion in the sea. - Verdict of "Accidental Death."

EXETER - An Inquest was held on Thursday on GEORGE HARRIS, aged 64, of Church-lane, Sidwell-street, Exeter, who was found dead in the River Exe, near Head Weir on Wednesday morning. Deceased, a labourer on the L. and S.W. Railway, recently complained very much of feeling ill and his landlady stated that one day last week he said he felt so bad that he was almost tempted to put his head under the train. - P.C. Parrish said he saw a black felt hat and stick on the river bank and recovered the body with grappling irons about twelve feet from the bank. - Dr Pereira said there were no marks of violence on the body. - Verdict, "Found Drowned."

Western Morning News, Monday 8 October 1917
PLYMOUTH - Suicide At Plymouth. - At the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital on Saturday Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest on EMMA WALDREN, aged 60, of Flora-street. Her daughter, ROSE WALDREN, said she found her mother on the floor of her bedroom at midday on Tuesday with her throat cut. She was removed to the Hospital, where she died. Her mother had been very depressed lately, owing to her brother having joined up. She had said she should not live long, but they never took her remark seriously. - Dr Woo, House Surgeon, stated that MRS WALDREN when admitted was suffering from an extensive cut on the throat which was self-inflicted. She died on Friday from asphyxia caused by the cut. - Verdict, "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 9 October 1917
NEWTON ABBOT - Fatality At Newton. Danger Of Jumping From A Train In Motion. - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Newton Abbot Townhall yesterday, on Pte. GEORGE BENNETT, 32, R.M.L.I., of Lime-street, Moretonhampstead, who died in Newton Hospital from injuries sustained by falling underneath a train at the Railway Station on Friday night. The Great Western Railway Company was represented by Chief Inspector J. Mapledoram, Exeter and Mr C. Needs, Stationmaster. - MRS HANNAH BENNETT, wife of a stonemason and mother of deceased, said he came home on leave from Liverpool on the previous Monday, and was going back to join his ship on Friday night. Witness and her sister came into Newton to wish deceased good-bye and they were leaving by the last train for Moretonhampstead at [?] p.m. Deceased was standing at the carriage door saying "Good-bye" when the train started. She said to him "Let go my hand," and he slipped and fell under the train. - Dr R. H. Grimbly stated that both legs were practically amputated. Witness had him conveyed as soon as possible to the Hospital where he and two other medical men treated him, but it was impossible to do much more than complete the amputation of his legs. Every method was adopted to keep him alive, but he sank and died at 8.40. - George Edwin Bowden, railway porter, stated that about two minutes before the train started he saw deceased standing partly in the compartment in communication with two passengers inside. One of deceased's legs was in the compartment and the other on the footboard. - Witness asked deceased if he was going by the train, and he replied, "No, old boy." He then got out on to the platform, and witness closed the door of the compartment. He proceeded along the train closing the other doors, and when he got to the rear of the train it had just started. He looked round and saw deceased standing on the footboard, still talking to his friends inside and looking in at the window. Witness shouted to him to stand clear, upon which deceased turned round towards him, and got off the footboard practically with his back to the engine. He staggered back, tried to recover himself and fell between two coaches as the train was gradually getting speed. Witness shouted and the train was pulled up within its length. - Cornelius Cottey, wireman in the [?]department at North-road Railway Station, Plymouth, said he saw deceased stagger and fall underneath the two coaches. - Richard Andrew Bailey, guard of the train, said people were supposed to be off the footboard when a train was starting. - Inspector Mapledoram said that at every Railway Station there was exhibited a set of by-laws stating that it was an offence to ride on the footstep of a train. - The Coroner said this was well known, while in addition the porters called the people to stand off and this was done on this particular occasion. It might be necessary to give another warning to the general public as to the danger of stepping off a train whilst it was in motion. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed deep sympathy with deceased's relatives, with which Inspector Mapledoram associated himself. - A soldier brother of deceased was killed in action in France in August, and another brother is serving in the Navy.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 10 October 1917
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest at Plymouth Mortuary yesterday on SUSANNAH WESTLAKE, 85, widow, of Gifford-terrace, who, while crossing Mutley-plain on Saturday staggered and fell. She told P.C. Mann she felt giddy. She was taken home and died. Dr Francis said death was caused by extensive disease of the heart. Verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Thursday 11 October 1917
PLYMSTOCK - Death Under Chloroform. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd, Coroner, held an Inquest at Pomphlett yesterday on MARJORIE EDITH JACKSON, aged 11, Coom's-cottages, Plymstock, who died under an anaesthetic. - Dr Scott said on Monday he assisted Dr T. Y. Simpson in an operation on deceased to remedy a form of club foot. Witness administered chloroform, and the patient continued very well until the close of the operation, which lasted about 20 minutes. He then noticed that the eyes were dilated and the pulse began to fail. Immediately the operation was stopped, and artificial respiration was resorted to, but their efforts were of no avail. The cause of death was syncope. He had had over 30 years' experience in medical matters. - SARAH JANE BUNKER, Sunnyside, Pomphlett, said the deceased child was her grand-daughter. She had no complaint to make with regard to the treatment received from Dr Scott and thought that he did all he could to save the child's life. - A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned, the Jury exonerating the doctor from blame.

Western Morning News, Saturday 13 October 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - Dockyard Fatality. Explosions In A Motor Launch: Caused By A Light? - Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at the North Dockyard, Devonport, yesterday, on JOHN PETERS, aged 58, ship-wright, of Alfred-road, Ford, who died from injuries sustained through an explosion on board a motor launch at the Dockyard. Mr K. Eyton Peck represented the Admiralty and Mr G. H. Morris the Home Office. - H. C. Kidd, chief motor mechanic, R.N.V.R., said he was employed in a motor launch. Between 10 and 11 a.m. on Thursday witness was on deck near the engine-room hatch when two explosions occurred. Witness did not remember anything more until he found himself aft. After the flames had been extinguished witness found that the two after petrol tanks had exploded. ~The boat was in basin for the purpose of the tanks being removed for repair. Men were at work on the tanks and before anything was done to them they were emptied so far as possible and three times filled with water. There was always a certain amount of vapour gas in petrol tanks, however much they were washed out. The tanks were emptied a month ago. Just before the explosion the workmen were disconnecting the pipes preparatory to slinging the tanks. - W. J. Trist, shipwright apprentice, said he was in the cabin with another apprentice when he heard a shout and saw a flame in the bulkhead. When on deck he saw two men in the water; they were recovered. There was no light in the cabin and neither witness nor the other apprentice was smoking. - J. P. Littleton, shipwright, said he noticed a strong smell of petrol just before the explosion. Witness had no light and did not see any lights used. He was using a saw shortly before, but had stopped work because of the petrol fumes. - E. A. Oiler, P.O. 1, said he was in charge of a picket-boat, and just as he got alongside the motor launch the explosion occurred and a man was blown into the water. One of the crew threw a lifebuoy, and witness picked the man up. ~Then deceased was seen in the water. He was recovered and found to be unconscious. - Insp. F. Symonds, Metropolitan Police, said two other men were injured and were in Hospital. - Fleet-Surg. J. D. Hughes, R.N., said he found deceased suffering from shock following immersion and minor injuries. Artificial respiration was performed for two hours without success. - Chief Motor Mechanic Kidd, recalled, said his commanding officer had made inquiries among the crew, but he believed he had been unable to discover what had caused the explosion. - The Coroner said it was a pity the commanding officer was not present. - Summing up, Mr Pearce said he had tried to ascertain the cause of the explosion, but without success. It was admitted that the petrol vapour must have come into contact with a light, but where and what the light was they could not find out. It was just possible it might have been due to somebody smoking, but if that was the case it was difficult to ascertain who the culprit was. Nobody seemed to know anything about any other kind of light. The affair would probably remain a mystery unless the authorities could probe the matter further than they had been able to do. - The Jury found that death was due to shock following immersion caused by an explosion, and there was no evidence to show what caused the explosion. They expressed sympathy with the relatives, as did also the Coroner and a Dockyard official, MR EDWARD PETERS returning thanks.

Western Morning News, Monday 15 October 1917
LIVERPOOL - Plymouth Woman's Suicide. - Because accused of stealing other servants clothing, CISSIE LANCASTER, of Plymouth, employed as a waitress at the North-Western Hotel, Liverpool, jumped from a window, 70ft. high, into the street. She was killed instantly and at the Inquest on Saturday it was stated that she was very excited and jumped only in her nightdress. "Suicide while Temporarily Insane" was the verdict.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 16 October 1917
SURBITON, SURREY - Late Vicar Of Tavistock. Inquest At Surbiton: Cyclist Who Ran Into Him Exonerated. - An Inquest was held at Thames Ditton yesterday on the REV. H. G. LE NEVEU, 60, vicar of Tavistock, who was knocked down by a cyclist on Ditton Hill road. - Mr Wm. Mackie, Langley-avenue, Surbiton, identified the body of deceased, who was his brother-in-law. He was a strong healthy man. Some three years ago he lost an eye, but this had been no great inconvenience to him. His hearing was perfect. He had come on Wednesday last to stay with witness for a fortnight, as he had been working hard in his parish and needed a rest. On Thursday he said he would go to see a presbyter who was in Hospital wounded. That would necessitate a walk of eight or nine miles. Deceased was capable of walking 20 miles a day. - Edwin Hall said he saw a cyclist coming down Ditton Hill road at about five miles an hour. Deceased was walking in the middle of the road. There was no other traffic and the vicar was walking at a quick pace. The cyclist, who was on his proper side, rang his bell just as a dog scampered into the roadway and barked at the cyclist. The deceased did not immediately alter his direction, but just as the cyclist swerved to avoid him deceased turned in the same direction and collided with the front wheel of the bicycle. - The Coroner: Do you think the cyclist was collected? - Yes. - What would you have done in the circumstances? - I should have gone over the god, but he endeavoured to pass the dog, thinking the pedestrian would continue straight on. - William George Taylor, residing at Ellerton-road, Tolworth, a fitter in a munition works, said he had been to dinner and was returning to work and as he was slowly cycling down the road he noticed a dog at his left-hand side. The dog made no attempt to snap at him, but ran on in front. Deceased was walking along in front of him in the middle of the road, and he continued in that position until witness was about to pass him, and then suddenly made a dash for the pavement - there is only one footpath - running right into witness's front wheel. Both he and deceased were knocked down by the impact, which was not heavy. If deceased had not shifted witness was of opinion he could have passed him safely. Witness was going slowly, just about five miles an hour. He was an expert cyclist, and knew the road well. - Mr Mackie: If you are an expert cyclist could you not have come off your cycle? - Well, I did not expect the man to move in my direction. If he had remained where he was I would have passed him safely enough. - The Coroner: I cannot exactly agree with you, Mr Mackie. The boy was trying to go round the gentleman in the legitimate manner and the deceased rushed across the boy's way. - Mr Mackie: The cyclist ought to know that if he rings his bell the pedestrian will go to the footpath. Of course, I agree we are all wise after the event and I do not blame the cyclist for the accident. I do not think there is the necessary control of dogs. They are allowed to stray all over the place. I see them often attacking cyclists. - Dr Moberley, Surbiton, who was called to the scene of the accident, said the clergyman was in a dying condition. There was a cut one and a half inches on the head behind the right eyebrow. The post mortem revealed a large fracture of the skull and extensive haemorrhage under the covering of the brain. It would require force to cause such a fracture. It was an unusual thing for a man to receive such extensive injuries unless he had received a greater blow than the evidence tended to show. Still, it was quite possible, and probable. Witness protested against the bad state of the roadway. - The :Coroner remarked that that was due to bad weather and shortage of labour, but the doctor replied that it was a condition which existed before the war. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," exonerating the cyclist, but adding that they were of opinion that the speed which he was travelling was greater than five miles an hour.

Western Morning News, Thursday 18 October 1917
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Street Fatality. - At the Homeopathic Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday, Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest on TERENCE ROBERT SULLIVAN, aged three, son of Lce.-Sgt. SULLIVAN, Royal Marines, who was killed by a taxi-cab driven by Henry Heard, in the employ of Mr Cooper. Mr P. T. Pearce appeared for the driver. - MRS SULLIVAN, of Quarry-street, said the boy came home from school on Monday afternoon and went out to play with his sister. - Henry Heard said he was driving down Stoke-hill about 4.45 p.m., going slowly, and blowing his horn. He saw the child on the pavement and when he was only three or four yards off the child ran across the street towards the opposite side. He at once applied the brake, but the car struck him on the hip before he could stop it. The child was picked up, and he took it to the Hospital. - Mrs Cunningham, who witnessed the accident, said the child ran right in front of the motor. The taxi was going at a moderate pace, but there was no time to stop it before the accident occurred. - Dr Wilmot said deceased was admitted to the Hospital suffering from shock and other injuries. He died within an hour. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," exonerated the driver from blame, and expressed sympathy with the mother. - The Coroner, referring to the danger of children playing in the streets, said it was a marvel there were not more of these accidents. It was stated that MRS SULLIVAN had recently lost another child and her husband had been reported as missing at the front since April.

Western Morning News, Monday 22 October 1917
SIDMOUTH - Plymouth Guardian's Death. Fatal Gun Accident At Sidmouth. - Sincere regret is widely felt at Plymouth at the death of MR J. DIDHAM, of Lisson-grove, a valued member of the Board of Guardians and a leading Salvationist, who has been killed by a gun accident. A few days ago MR DIDHAM went on a visit to his father, a retired farmer, over 90 years of age, at Sidmouth Junction, where he was joined by his brother from Bristol, the brothers making it a practice to hold an annual reunion at their father's home. While at Sidmouth Junction, MR DIDHAM spent much of his time shooting. On Thursday the brothers spent the morning rabbiting. On returning for lunch they deposited their guns in the kitchen against the wall, intending to resume their sport in the afternoon. After lunch MR DIDHAM left the dining-room, asking his brother to join him when he was ready. Going into the kitchen, MR DIDHAM took up his gun. As he lifted it the charge exploded, and the shot entering the side of his head killed him on the spot. - An Inquest was held the following day and a verdict of "Accidental Death" returned. The body was removed to Plymouth on Saturday and the funeral will take place tomorrow, a service at the Congress Hall, Martin-street, preceding the interment at Plymouth Old Cemetery. - Born at Sidmouth Junction 54 years ago, MR DIDHAM came to Plymouth as a young man and established himself in business as a baker and confectioner. For about a quarter of a century he conducted his business in King-street, and built up a prosperous concern. Within the past year he sold his business intending to devote his leisure to the public work he had undertaken, but his successor having been called up for military service he was superintending the business for him until his release from the Army. His connection with the Board of Guardians commenced in 1906, when he was elected as one of the representatives of Millbay Ward. On the Board he was assiduous in his duties, and his care for the poor was always marked by the most sympathetic consideration. His business aptitude received recognition from his colleagues by his appointment as chairman of the Industrial Committee, which has control of the farm and gardens on which the able-bodied male inmates are employed. On the formation of the Devon Volunteer Regt. he enlisted and qualified for any military duty which might be required of him. He was a Freemason of many years' standing, and was to have been shortly nominated for election as W.M. of his lodge. In politics he was an ardent Liberal. It was, however, in the religious sphere that MR DIDHAM found chief scope for his sympathies and useful work. The Salvation Army, with its social reform work, strongly appealed to him. For 36 years he was actively identified with its work, and had long been recognised as one of its most prominent and zealous supporters in the district. Among the offices which he held in connection with the Salvation Army was that of sergt.-maj. of the Sunday-school for many years and afterwards that of Treasurer of the Salvation Army Corps. MR DIDHAM leaves a widow and one son, who holds the position of capt. in the Salvation Army and is stationed at Beverell, East Yorks.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 23 October 1917
EAST STONEHOUSE - Seaman's Fatal Fall. - Mr Robinson Rodd, jun., (Deputy Coroner), held an Inquest at Stonehouse, yesterday, on HERBERT WILLIAM SOAN, leading seaman, R.N. - Mr J. S. Dennitts, torpedo gunner, R.N., identified the body, and said the deceased was 23 years of age and single. Tempy.-Surg. H. Cockcraft, R.N., said deceased was dead when admitted to the Hospital on 20th inst. A post-mortem examination showed death to be due to drowning. - Insp. Maddeford, Metropolitan Water Police, said that on 20th inst. he found the body floating in the water at Northcorner. There was £8 12s. 9d. in the clothes. The deceased's ship now being at sea it was impossible to obtain first-hand witnesses. He had ascertained that deceased fell from a motor boat near the ship at 11 p.m. on 8th inst. The night was dark and stormy and although an alarm was raised, and search parties were organised, no trace of the man could be found. He believed deceased was to have been married in a few days. Verdict: "Found Drowned."

Western Morning News, Thursday 25 October 1917
BISHOPSTEIGNTON - Davidstowe Man's Suicide In Barn At Bishopsteignton. - An Inquest was yesterday held by Mr T. Edmonds, Deputy Coroner, on Pte. EDWARD J. BURNARD, aged 36, attached to the Agricultural Co., Labour Corps, a smallholder of Davidstowe, Cornwall, who was found dead in a barn at Venn Farm, Bishopsteignton, on Monday morning. - John Wills, Dymond, of Venn Farm, said deceased was horseman on his farm, having been sent to him by the military authorities in May last. He enjoyed good health and witness had never heard him complain. BURNARD was very reserved. On Sunday evening deceased cleaned his boots to go out as usual and witness did not see him after that. The next morning witness found that he had not eaten his supper and that he had not slept in his bed. Accompanied by one of the farm hands, witness went to the barn, where deceased was found lying on some straw under a beam. There was a piece of rope tied around the beam, also around deceased's neck, his weight having apparently broken it. Deceased was a most temperate man. - CHRISTOPHER ARNOLD, of Camelford, father-in-law of deceased, said before joining up deceased lived at Griggs Down, Davidstowe and had worked at some clay works. He had a wife and six children. He had always lived happily at home and witness did not know of any trouble. - Sec.-Lt. F. H. Stokes, Agricultural Co., Labour Corps, Exeter, said deceased was a B 1 man. - P.C. Cockwill deposed to finding in deceased's pocket a purse containing over 10s., also a watch and chain, and in his kit-bag was £12 18s. in cash. Among his letters was nothing to throw any light upon the affair. - The Deputy Coroner read one of the letters, from deceased's wife, which contained only family matters. - Mr W. Parsons, a Juror, said deceased had told him that he never wished for a better employer than Mr Dymond. - Verdict: "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

Western Morning News, Friday 26 October 1917
BOURNEMOUTH, DORSET - Death Of MR J. ELLERY, Plymouth. - The death took place suddenly at Bournemouth on Wednesday of MR JOHN ELLERY, Teddington, Houndiscombe-road, Plymouth, chairman of Ellery and Co., wine and spirit merchants. Deceased was 87 years of age, and during the last year or more had suffered from heart attacks. He went to Bournemouth about three weeks ago and had intended to spend the winter at Torquay. Born in Cornwall deceased came to Plymouth early in life, and after being for a period in business in Stonehouse and afterwards in partnership with the late Mr Narracott, he founded the firm which bears his name. Some years ago it was made a limited liability company, with deceased as chairman and his son, MR REGINALD ELLERY, managing director. Deceased took no part in the public life of Plymouth, but all his life was a keen and active High Churchman. He was one of the first workers of the late Rev. G. R. Prynne, for 50 years vicar of St Peter's, and sang in the choirs, both at St Peter's and St James-the-Less. Deceased's wife died about three years ago. In addition to MR REGINALD ELLERY, there are a son at Montevideo, and three daughters, one of whom, MRS HAMBLY, resides at Teddington. - At the Inquest at Bournemouth yesterday, evidence of identification was given by MR REGINALD ELLERY. Dr Nankiwell stated that death was due to an affection of the heart and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

NEATH, GLAMORGAN, WALES - Kingsbridge Man's Death. Murder And Suicide Sequel To Wife Desertion. - A man who, under the name of "ERIC YORK," was found poisoned by gas at the Star Inn, Neath, on Wednesday, with a dead woman in his arms and their baby also dead, was (says our Bath correspondent) really WILLIAM HENRY SHUTE, of Kingsbridge, aged 37. In June 1916 he went to Bath with his wife and three children, being an assistant superintendent of the Prudential Assurance Co. In January last SHUTE left Bath to visit his wife's parents at Blandford and while there acted in an extraordinary manner to give the impression that he was insane. He left there in two days' time, and the same week all his clothes, with a gold watch in the pocket, was found on the beach at Bournemouth, to convey the idea that he had committed suicide. His wife and family, being left penniless, obtained Poor-law relief and their chargeability was accepted by the Kingsbridge Union. The Police, however, were suspicious and last week confirmed their suspicions, for "Eric York" was identified at Neath as being SHUTE. "Mrs York" was a young woman named Cecil, the adopted daughter of a Bath publican, who left her home shortly after SHUTE disappeared. She was 25 years of age. MRS SHUTE only became aware of her late husband's heartless conduct on Wednesday night when told by the Bath Police that she must travel to Neath yesterday for the Inquest. - At the Inquest at Neath yesterday, a Police Sergeant stated that when the Hotel was forcibly entered it was full of gas. He found the man and woman locked in each other's arms lying dead on the floor, and the baby was on the sofa dead. Empty champagne and brandy bottles were on the table. In a letter addressed to his wife, SHUTE wrote: "You are quite free now. I never loved you. You know the only woman I have ever loved is with me." - The Jury returned a verdict of "Wilful Murder" against SHUTE in connection with the child's death, and of "Suicide" against SHUTE and the young woman.

TOTNES - Found Drowned In The Dart. - At Totnes Guildhall last evening an Inquest was held by Mr T. Edmonds, Deputy Coroner, on FREDERICK SAMUEL FICE, aged 59, an employee at the Government fruit pulping station. - Mrs Elizabeth Owen, of Steam Packet Inn, said deceased had three pints of cider there and left just after 10 p.m. He was quite sober. Deceased was a quiet man and always seemed happy and cheerful. - William Murch said deceased always went home along the quay. There were three lamps there, but none were lit. The Deputy Coroner: That is on account of the war. - Witness said it was possible to mistake a light and walk over the quay. - Richard King said he found the body of the deceased in mid-stream just off the crane on the quay. He considered deceased walked into the river. - Dr A. P. Salt said death was due to drowning. - The Deputy Coroner said there was no reason to believe the man committed suicide; it was very possible he mistook his way and walked into the river. - The Jury returned the verdict "Found Drowned," and the Foreman expressed the opinion there should be some lights to prevent accidents. - Supt. Jeffery said he was afraid they could not be permitted. The Foreman: There should be some protection.

Western Morning News, Saturday 27 October 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Tragedy. Twice Submarined Cadet's Suicide. - At Devonport Dockyard yesterday Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest on DALTON SINGERS, aged 18, a mercantile marine cadet, of 36 South Western-street, Workington, whose body was found in the Prince of Wales Basin, North Dockyard, on Thursday. Mr K. Eyton Peck represented the Admiralty and Mr S. Carlile Davis watched the proceedings on behalf of MR W. SINGERS, the father, and Messrs. Alfred Holt and Co., ship-owners of Liverpool, in whose service deceased was. - Lt. Newton Campbell, R.N.R., said deceased recently joined the R.N. Barracks, Devonport, with other cadets under an Admiralty scheme for training officers in the mercantile marine in naval work. Deceased was a quiet, unassuming boy, and, with the other cadets, was quite comfortable and happy, so far as witness was aware. Deceased was reported missing on the 16th inst. Owing to something another cadet told witness, he went to a cabin near where deceased slung his hammock and saw blood stains in the bunk and on the torpedo-net stanchion outside the port-hole. The cadet also handed witness a blood-stained penknife, which, he said, belonged to deceased. Deceased could have climbed out of the port-hole. Divers descended later in the day to search for the body. Witness had heard from cadets who had been ship-mates with him that deceased had served in two ships which had been torpedoed and that on one occasion he was in an open boat for three days and for two days on the other. Practically all the boys had had similar experiences. Deceased's course at the Barracks would have terminated last Friday. It was possible that the fact that he had to go to sea again worried him. - By Mr Davies: The course was comparatively easy and voluntary. The mercantile cadets were kept entirely separate from other cadets and witness had seen no signs of any ragging. Witness considered there would be no advantage in having additional roll-calls. He had been informed since that deceased was restless at night time. - Insp. A. Stoner, Metropolitan Police, said that when called to the cabin he found a large quantity of blood on a mattress and small curtain on the bunk. Finger-prints appeared to indicate that deceased had severed a blood-vessel and reached out towards the port-hole. - C.P.O. Geo. Bond, R.N., said he was diving in the basin on Thursday and found the body, which was fully clothed. - Fleet-Surg. J. D. Hughes said death was due primarily to a deep wound on the left side of the throat, and secondarily to drowning. The wound could have been inflicted by the pocket knife, and was apparently self-inflicted. If deceased had not got in the water and had received prompt medical attention he might have recovered from the injuries. - The Jury's verdict was that deceased Committed Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind and they expressed sympathy with the relatives. - Mr Carlile Davis said the death must be laid at the door of the ruler of Berlin. Messrs. Holt and Co. had instructed him to say that deceased was a good sailor, and had given every promise of becoming a good officer, none but satisfactory reports having been received concerning him. They had no doubt that the strain, exposure and shock he had undergone had temporarily unhinged his mind and they thought he had concealed the strain he felt out of his zeal for the service. They were satisfied that everything was done in the barracks and ship for the health and comfort of the cadets.

Western Morning News, Thursday 1 November 1917
EAST STONEHOUSE - Stonehouse Child's Death. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd, Coroner, held an Inquest at Stonehouse yesterday on BESSIE JONES, aged 10, of Clarence-place. The child was found dead in her bed on Tuesday morning. During the night she had been unwell, probably due to the excitement caused by going on the Hoe on Monday and eating fish and apples. She was one of 21 children, only 11 of whom were alive. - Dr W. H. Waterfield said death was due to asphyxia. The child had most likely had a fit in the night which brought on suffocation. Verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Saturday 3 November 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - Fatal Joy Ride At Devonport. - Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at Devonport yesterday on RONALD RICHARD WILLIAM WILLIAMS, aged eight, son of WILLIAM WILLIAMS, gun-fitter in H.M. Dockyard of 59 Beatrice-avenue, Keyham. - Richard S. Congdon, 21 Cotehele-avenue, said about 11.30 a.m. on Thursday he saw a motor lorry laden with coal approaching him in Station-road, Keyham, and deceased was hanging on a rail on the right side of the lorry with his legs dangling between the wheels. Just afterwards the boy let go the rail and fell to the ground. The after wheel passed over his left leg. Witness considered the driver in no way to blame. There were also four boys swinging on the back of the vehicle. - Mrs Lilian Jones, wife of a bluejacket, of Spencer-avenue, said she saw the accident and accompanied the boy to his home. - Jonas Squire, the driver, living at 65 Princes-street, Devonport, said he felt the lorry jolt and heard shouting when the boy was run over. He did not know there were any boys hanging on the lorry. It was a difficult matter to prevent boys riding on the vehicles. - Dr R. Bird Wagner said death was due to laceration of a portion of the large intestine. - The Coroner said it was a great problem to know what to do with boys who ran after vehicles and to prevent such accidents. The wonder was, from what they saw in the streets every day, that instead of holding inquests only now and then, they were not holding them every day. It was most unfair to the drivers and at times much tried their nerves. A great amount of good might be done by parents inculcating into their children the great danger of riding on lorries and other vehicles. - MR WILLIAMS said he thought the boy must have got on the lorry before it started from the Station yard. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and exonerated the driver from blame.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 6 November 1917
PLYMOUTH - Suicide Of A Woman At Laira. - The Borough Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, held an Inquest last evening as to the death of ELEANOR EASTLEY HUNT, 66 years of age, who was found by her husband, CHARLES JAMES HUNT, of Burnett's-cottages, The Avenue, Laira, hanging in the wash-house at 8.30 that morning. - MR HUNT said he was conservancy man at Fort Efford. His wife appeared to be dead when he found her. He loosened the rope and carried the body into the house. She had been bad on her chest, but had not seen a doctor. He last saw her alive a quarter to eight that morning. She seemed all right then. Letters had been found in which deceased said: "I cannot live any longer, for my poor chest is so bad. Forgive me for taking my life. Your poor, broken wife. You will find me in the wash-house. Bury me in the Laira." - Dr Phelps said death was due to strangulation. - Verdict: "Suicide, while Temporarily Insane."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 7 November 1917
EAST STONEHOUSE - Stonehouse Man's Sad Death. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd, Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday on THOMAS SYCAMORE of 4 Newport-street, Stonehouse. - Pte. J. Woodhall, R.M.L.I., said deceased had been living alone for the last three years. He appeared to be able to look after himself, and he was of a very unapproachable demeanour. The last time witness, who lived in the same house, saw him was on Monday week. When Thursday came his suspicions were aroused, and he called in the Police. He estimated deceased's age at 42; he remembered meeting him many years ago in the services. - Mrs Woodhall also gave evidence, emphasising the eccentricity of deceased. - P.C. Jeffery said he was called by Pte. Woodhall to deceased's rooms, and found him in a semi-conscious condition, with his room in a wretched state. - Dr W. H. Waterfield said the man was in an extremely emaciated condition, suffering from tuberculosis. Even if he had been well cared for he could not have lived more than two or three months longer. He died at the Infirmary on Saturday. Verdict - "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Saturday 10 November 1917
DAWLISH - Death From Burns At Dawlish. - An Inquest was held at 2 Vaughan-terrace, Dawlish, last evening, on EMILY MARY AVERY, aged 38, domestic servant. - Miss Mary Russell Pierce, said on Wednesday morning, when in her sitting-room, she heard a cry outside the door, and on going out she saw deceased on the top of stairs leading down to the kitchen, with her clothes smouldering. Witness cut off the clothing, and ran for a doctor. - Dr Hudson said deceased had very extensive burns about the body. He gave her a dose of morphia and immediately got the matron from the local Hospital with dressing. The District Nurse also assisted and she had every care and attention, but died at 7.30 the next morning. He questioned her, and gathered that she was opening the front of the kitchen range when a piece of coal fell out. She thought it had gone into the ashtray, but it must have gone into her apron. She leant over to see to something in the oven and when she stood up her apron burst into flames. The cause of death was shock. - Verdict: "Accidental Death."

PLYMOUTH - QIL Launch Fatality. Par Man's Death Through Burns. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd, Coroner, held an Inquest at the R.N. Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday, on WILLIAM ERNEST BROAD, ch. stoker, R.N., of Par. - Tempr. Surg. A. L. P. Gould, R.N., said BROAD was admitted to the Hospital on the 2nd inst., suffering from extensive burns and shock. He died early in the morning of the 3rd inst. from septic poisoning, due to burns. - Ernest Murtison, ch. engine-room art., R.N., said deceased was serving on board an oil-driven launch. About 2.30 p.m. his clothes, which were saturated with oil, suddenly caught fire, burning him and another man very badly. Nobody actually saw deceased's clothes ignite, but witness surmised that it might have been due to an accident with a blow-lamp, used to heat certain parts of the engine. - William Nosworthy, ch. stoker, R.N., said he was on board the launch and saw deceased in flames. Two blow-lamps were in the room, only one of which was screened. Deceased probably tried to pull down the screen of the lamp, when his sleeve came into contact with the flame. Another stoker went to his assistance and also took fire. The cries of the men attracted attention and witness threw the latter man overboard to extinguish the flames. The whole accident was over in 30 seconds. - Verdict, "Accidental Death," the Coroner expressing admiration at the prompt action of Mr Nosworthy in rescuing the second stoker.

Western Morning News, Monday 12 November 1917
NEWTON ABBOT - Newton Abbot Tragedy. - An Inquest was held at Newton Abbot on Saturday by Mr T. Edmonds, Deputy Coroner, on THOMAS WILLS JONES, 43, photographer of Rhyll, whose body was found hanging by a rope from a tree in Decoy Brake, on Thursday. - MRS EDITH JONES, the widow, said the last time she saw her husband was in June, when he was in a very weak state of health. As far as she knew, there were no financial troubles; deceased had never given her any reason to suppose he would commit suicide. He was ordered away by his doctor, and came to his parents at Newton Abbot. - JOHN JONES, gamekeeper, Decoy Brake Cottage, Newton Abbot, said his son, the deceased, came to him in June to stay for a change. On Thursday morning deceased was in the garden until about 11 and then went out. About two o'clock witness found him hanging from a tree 300 yards from the cottage. He must have climbed part way up the tree, fastened the rope and jumped off. - Dr A. T. Nisbet said death was due to hanging. A fortnight ago deceased went to him for a certificate that he was not fit to attend to his business. He was in good health physically, but said he was very depressed and nervous, although he was better than when he came to Newton. There was no signs of a suicidal tendency, except the man's statement that he was depressed. - P.C. Anstey said in deceased's pocket was an envelope with the words "These wretched fits of depression take away my right senses." - Verdict: "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind," and the Jury expressed sympathy with the relatives.

Western Morning News, Monday 19 November 1917
EXETER - The Late DR JOHN BROWN. Death Accelerated By Accident. - An Inquest was held on DR JOHN BROWN, of Southernhay, East, Exeter, and Mount Lodge, Callington, at Exeter, on Saturday, when the Jury found that death was due to natural causes, accelerated by a street accident on March 19 last. The deceased was riding in a cab, which was struck by a motor van belonging to the Exeter Co-operative Society and overturned. He was much bruised and shaken and his ribs were injured and dislocated. Although in pain, he insisted upon driving out the same afternoon to see a patient who was seriously ill. He went to Cornwall for a rest afterwards. He suffered from bronchial weakness.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 20 November 1917
PLYMOUTH - Nerves Upset By The War. - Plymouth Borough Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, held an Inquest yesterday on ALFRED CHARLES ELLIOTT, 33, R.N.A.S., who was found hanging to a bedrail at his home, Thornbury Park-avenue, Peverell, the previous evening. - WILLIAM ELLIOTT, brother, a carpenter, said at 6.45 p.m. deceased had tea and appeared cheerful. An hour later witness went to deceased's bedroom to warn him that it was time for him to return to duty and found him hanging by a rope to the rail of the bed, dead. Deceased had been in a more or less nervous and depressed condition since the wear, and had left a letter, in which he said his nerves were unstrung and life on foreign service would be a burden to him. - Dr Francis proved that death was due to strangulation. - Verdict: Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

PLYMOUTH - An Escape Of Gas. - At an Inquest on HARRY MARTIN, Connaught-avenue, engine fitter, 61, it was stated that he was found dead in his bedroom. The windows of the room were open and the unlit gas slightly turned on. - Dr Price said deceased was in a bad bronchial state; otherwise the escape of gas would not have affected him. The verdict was "Natural Causes", accelerated by Gas Poisoning.

EXETER - Exeter Woman's Death. Bedridden For Months, But No Doctor Consulted. - At Exeter last evening Mr W. Linford Brown, held an Inquest on ANNE JANE MORTON, aged 48, of Woodah-road, St Thomas, wife of FREDERICK W. S. MORTON, commercial traveller. - MR MORTON said his wife had been in ill-health for a long time at Fleetwood, but she had not had medical attention since coming to Exeter about 18 months ago. She had been bedridden for practically 12 months, but he had not called in a doctor because his wife had a shrinking from it. He noticed a change in her last Wednesday and had arranged for a doctor from Clifton to see her on Friday. On Friday morning she appeared to be asleep, and remained semi-conscious all day. She died shortly before midnight. - The Coroner: Didn't you think it was a long sleep? - Well, she had had so little sleep for so long. - Was anyone there when she died? - I was alone. My brother was there a few minutes before. Her sister lived in the same house. - Dr Adkins said MRS MORTON was dead when he was called. The body was well nourished, but all the organs were flabby and weak and the liver abnormally large. Death was due to syncope, probably due to a sudden movement which caused pressure on the heart by the liver. Replying to the Jury, Dr Adkins said he could not say that anything could have been done to prolong or save life by a doctor; but ordinary prudence should have prompted the calling of medical assistance to a woman who was bedridden for so long. - The Coroner thought it was reprehensible that medical advice was not obtained under the circumstances, although the Jury would probably agree that death was due to natural causes. The Jury agreed with the doctor and the Coroner and returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

EXETER - Exeter Boy Drowned. - An Inquest was held at Exeter last evening on WILLIAM HENRY JOHNS, aged 8, of Okehampton-street, who was drowned in the Exe on Saturday morning. The boy, who was very fond of the water, left home saying he was going to gather sticks. He was warned by his mother to keep away from the water. He was seen by William Andrews, a carter, crossing Head Weir, with his boots and stockings off. There was about a foot of water running over the weir, and the current was very rapid. The boy missed his footing and was carried into the river. - Returning a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned," the Jury expressed the view that something more effectual in keeping boys from this weir than a notice board "Trespassers will be prosecuted" should be resorted to. - Sympathy was expressed with MR and MRS JOHNS.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 21 November 1917
PLYMOUTH - Killed By A Taxi-Cab. Inquest On A Portuguese: Danger Of Walking In Roadway. - An Inquiry was held yesterday by Mr R. B. Johns, Plymouth Borough Coroner, as to the death of MANUEL DE FOUSES LOURA, of Real, Braza, Portugal, who was struck by a taxi-cab in Ebrington-street, on Sunday, and died soon after in the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital. Deceased was a Portuguese pit-prop cutter. Mr Carlile Davis watched the proceedings for the commandant of the Portuguese Labour Colony and the relatives of the deceased. Mr Orlando Davis, Portuguese Consul for Devonshire, was represented by his secretary, Mr E. E. Palk. - Mr Woo, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased's skull was fractured and he died from haemorrhage on the brain. There were three Portuguese men with the deceased walking down Ebrington-street on Sunday afternoon, and one of them gave evidence, interpreted by Mr Jas. McGregor. He said the party of four were going towards Friary Station, walking in the roadway. Their attention was attracted by a tramcar coming towards them and the next thing witness saw was the deceased on the ground knocked down by a taxi-cab. Deceased was behind the other three. - Fred Perkins, residing in Sussex-place, the driver of the taxi-cab, said at the time of the accident there were a good many people in the street. He was going six or eight miles an hour and blowing his horn. He came to four men walking in the middle of the road; three branched away to the right, and when he reached the fourth man (the deceased) he turned round and walked into the taxi. Witness said he was driving on his proper side, but reminded the Coroner that in other countries the proper side would be the opposite side. - To Mr Davis: His taxi swerved across the road to the wrong side in his effort to avoid hitting the man. - Pte. Allinson, from the Salisbury-road Hospital, deposed to hearing Perkins blowing his horn. In his opinion the cause of the accident was the four men "sprawling over the road and the deceased stepping back and trying to get across the road again." - Deceased walked right into the taxi; it was not the taxi driver's fault. - The Coroner said it was clear that it was a pure accident. - The Jury agreed to a verdict of "Accidental Death," and were of opinion that there was not the slightest blame on the driver. - The Foreman added that the Jury wished to express sympathy with the relatives. Mr Davis expressed the relatives' thanks and the Coroner suggested he should also ask the commandant to explain to the Portuguese under him that the rule of the road here was the opposite to what it was in their country.

Western Morning News, Monday 26 November 1917
PLYMOUTH - Devonport Girl Found Drowned. - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest at Plymouth on Saturday on IVY WHITE, aged 16, of Princes-street, Devonport, whose body was found under the Hoe. She was employed at Brendon's printing works and lived at Devonport. She left her home on Wednesday to go to work, and her body was found on the following day. Nothing was elicited at the Inquest to show how she came into the water and the Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 27 November 1917
PLYMOUTH - Death From Burns At Plymouth. - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on JAMES ALBERT WOODWARD, aged 38, engine fitter, of Whimple-street. On Sunday evening deceased took a lighted candle to the lavatory. A little later smoke was seen issuing from the building, and an alarm was raised. Whilst the fire brigade were being called Mr C. F. Withecombe, postman, burst open the door and found deceased lying unconscious. WOODWARD was taken to the S.D. and E.C. Hospital but died shortly after admission. Death was due to extensive burns and shock. Verdict: "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 4 December 1917
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Child's Death. - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest at Plymouth Mortuary yesterday on DOUGLAS GEORGE MILLER, aged two months, the illegitimate child of BEATRICE PAULINE BRICKWOOD, John-street. - Ada Liza Hodder, Rosebery-avenue, said the child was brought to her last Tuesday, the mother offering 8s. per week for its care. The child was very small and she advised the mother to see a doctor about it. On Saturday the child, who had been unwell, became worse and witness sent for a doctor. - MRS BRICKWOOD, widow, John-street, said she handed the child over to the care of the first witness because she was going to get married. - Dr A. R. Phellps said the cause of death was lack of nourishment. The child practically died of starvation, which might have been due to "thrush." He would not like to say that it was intentionally starved, but it only weighed 4lb. 6oz. - The Coroner said a doctor ought to have been fetched when the "thrush" was first discovered. Verdict: "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 5 December 1917
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Woman's Death. - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest at Plymouth Workhouse yesterday on JANE FORD, aged 36. - Dr Cooke said the woman was admitted to the Institution in a very emaciated condition; she died on Saturday. - EDWARD FORD, Belmont-street, said he sent his wife to the Workhouse because she had an abscess in her breast. Dr Corbett had told him it was an infirmary case. - Dr Cooke said the woman had been suffering from an uncommon disease - a peculiar form of anaemia and was very poorly nourished. Verdict: "Death from Natural Causes," the Coroner observing that it was an extraordinary thing for a man who was in a position to keep his wife to put her on the rates.

Western Morning News, Friday 14 December 1917
PLYMOUTH - At an Inquest held at Salisbury-road Hospital, Plymouth, on BERNARD L. HARVEY, a gunner in the South African Artillery, a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" was returned. Deceased, who had been a patient for three months and had at times complained of his head and sleeplessness, was found in one of the wards with his throat cut.

Western Morning News, Saturday 15 December 1917
PLYMOUTH - Poisoned By Wood Alcohol. - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on ALEXIEL NYGREN, aged 33 years, a Swede. - The Captain of the ship to which deceased was attached as a boatswain said he last saw deceased on 12th inst. He had been drinking some wood alcohol, given him to varnish the deck. An emetic was administered, but he succumbed to alcoholic poisoning. - Dr Cooke said death was due to pneumonia, aggravated by strong alcohol. Verdict in accordance.

Western Morning News, Monday 24 December 1917
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Fatality. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at the Inquest on Saturday at the S.D. and E.C. Hospital, Plymouth, on FANNY ALLISON, Barrack-place, Stonehouse, 73 years of age, who was found lying injured under the cliffs at Cattedown on the 14th inst., and died at the Hospital last Friday. - SARAH ALLISON, daughter-in-law, stated that deceased had left home to draw her old-age pension. She was a trifle queer in her ways, but witness could not account for her presence at Cattedown. - George Conibeer, Looe-street, who found the deceased, said she told him she fell over the bank near the tar works. - P.C. Algate deposed to having on occasions taken deceased home when she had been found wandering. - Dr Woo, House Surgeon, gave evidence that the deceased was admitted suffering from fractured arm and pelvis, doubtless caused by the fall, and shock.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 26 December 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Infant's Death. Inquest Adjourned. - Mr Albert Gard held an Inquest at Morice Town, Devonport, on Monday, on the newly-born male child of the wife of STANLEY J. SAMMELS, licensed victualler, Martin-terrace, Devonport. - MR SAMMELS said the child was born between midnight and 7 a.m. on Sunday. Witness, who said he had been married for five years and had no children, stated that he was unaware of his wife's condition, or that the child had been born until the doctor arrived on Sunday morning. No preparations had been made for the confinement. His wife had complained of pains in the back and he thought she was suffering from a chill. - Dr J. E. C. Wilson said he was called to the house and found MRS SAMMELS in bed and the child dead. He told her she had been confined and then informed MR SAMMELS, who was astonished. Death was due to suffocation through inattention at birth. MRS SAMMELS told him she was unaware of her condition. Witness had heard of similar cases, but had never experienced one. - The Coroner suggested that the Inquest should be adjourned for the mother's attendance, and the Jury decided upon this course.

Western Morning News, Friday 28 December 1917
HOLBETON - Fatality At Holbeton. - At an Inquest held yesterday by Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, on HAROLD JAMES WHITE, 16, labourer, of Coulston Farm, Holbeton, it was stated that deceased and his father were in the employ of the Plymouth Co-operative Society. On the 21st inst. WHITE was drawing manure and, according to James H. Finch, 12, who was riding with him, he fell off the shafts on which he was sitting, after having made the horses gallop. Finch got off at the back of the cart without injury and informed WILLIAM WHITE, who found his son lying in the road. - Dr E. H. B. Fox said death was due to paralysis of the hart following fracture of two ribs. The injuries were probably caused by the horses' hoofs. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. - Mr Percy T. Pearce represented the Co-operative Society.

STOKE DAMEREL - Verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned at an Inquest yesterday on JOB PACKER, 56, skilled labourer in the Dockyard of Pembroke-street, Devonport.

STOKE DAMEREL - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned at an Inquest on the infant child of ANNIE ENYON of Ann's-place, Devonport.

EAST STONEHOUSE - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned at an Inquest held on FANNY SCOTT OSBORNE, 80, of Adelaide-street, Stonehouse.

Western Morning News, Saturday 29 December 1917
STOKE DAMEREL - Workman's Sudden Death. - At the Inquest yesterday at the Royal Albert Hospital, Devonport, on FREDERICK E. R. SCANTLEBURY, aged 79, Home Park, Devonport, a tramway track cleaner in the employ of Plymouth Corporation, it was stated that deceased was found lying in the hedge on Swilley-hill in a semi-unconscious condition by Amos Pethick, Cambridge-road, Ford, who with assistance got him into a tramcar, whence he was in due course taken to the Hospital. Dr M. M. Bainbridge said death was due to meningitis. Verdict accordingly.

STOKE DAMEREL - Master-At-Arms' Sudden Death. - Mr Albert Gard, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the R.N. Barracks, Devonport, yesterday, on THOMAS AVERY, master-at-arms, about 398 years of age, a native of Kingsholme, Gloucester, who died suddenly the previous day while doing clerical work at the barracks. - Francis Crudge, master-at-arms, stated that deceased, without any preliminary sign of illness, fell dead from his office stool. Deceased was a strong athlete, and he had never heard him complain concerning his health. He had not been doing athletic exercises that morning. - Surg. A. H. Harkness stated that death was due to syncope. All the organs of the body were healthy, and there was nothing to explain the sudden collapse. His medical history was excellent. - In reply to a Juror, witness said the sudden heart failure might have been due to the cold weather. A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned. Mr K. Eyton Peck watched the case for the Admiralty.

PLYMOUTH - Found Drowned In Sutton Pool. - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest at Plymouth Mortuary yesterday on CHARLOTTE MALLETT, aged 62, of Park-street, whose body was found floating in Sutton Pool on Tuesday. - ALICE MALLETT, daughter of deceased, said she last saw her mother alive on Christmas-eve. Of late she had been depressed about an operation she had to undergo. She had at one time been an inmate of Blackadon Lunatic Asylum. - Wm. Robert Ham, Exeter-street, said he found deceased floating in Sutton Pool on Christmas morning. - Verdict: "Found Drowned."

PLYMOUTH - Child Burned To Death. - An Inquest was held at the S.D. and E.C. Hospital on ELSIE MAUD SERGEANT, who died as a result of burns on Wednesday. - MRS SERGEANT said she went out on an errand on Wednesday, leaving the child playing in the streets. When she came home the child was burnt badly and had to be conveyed to the S.D. and E.C. Hospital. Apparently the child took a box of matches from the mantelpiece and began playing with the fire, with the disastrous consequences. There was a high guard before the fire. - Dr Woo said the child died of burns on Wednesday evening. - Verdict: "Accidental Death."