Inquests Taken Into Suspicious Or Unexplained Deaths

For the County of Devon

Articles taken from the Exeter and Plymouth Gazette

[printed in Exeter.]

1902

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:  Allen; Annear; Babbidge; Balsdon; Barr; Bates; Beall; Beavis; Bell(2); Bellamy; Bingham; Binmore; Bonny; Bowers; Brand; Brayley; Brewer; Broom; Brown; Brunt; Buckley; Bunch; Byatt; Camp; Chesterfield; Chope; Chown; Churchward; Clampitt; Clarke(2); Cleave; Clist; Cobley; Connett; Coombes(3); Costello; Craze; Cross; Cruize; Cuming; Curtis; Dalling; Damarell; Daniel; Darch; Davey; Davies; Davis; Daw; Delbridge; Denner; Dimond; Doble; Dodd; Doidge; Dore; Drake; Dummett; Eade(2); Eastman; Elliott; Ellis; Evans(3); Farley; Farmer; Fisher; Fishleigh; Ford; Fouracre; Fowler; Friday; Furze; Gammon; Gee; Geen; Gibbings; Gooding; Green; Gregory; Griffey; Griffith; Griffiths; Gunner; Haggitt; Harris; Heal; Heard; Hellier; Henson; Hern; Higgings; Hill(2); Hine; Hoare(2); Hodges; Holcombe; Hole; Holmes; Huffadine; Hull; Hutchings; Ingham; Irwin; Isaac; James; Jarman; Jefford; Jewell; Johns(2); Keeffe; Kelland; Knapman; Lamble; Langley(2); Leaman; Lee; Lemon; Lewis; Lloyd; Loud; Lovering; Mahony; Major; Mandley; Manley; Marshall(2); Martin; Matters; McCarthy; McGann; McLeod; Milford; Mitchell; Moore; Morgan(2); Mortimer; Mortimore; Murray; Norman; Northcott; Oatway; O'Brien; Olsen; Osborne; Owen; Palmer; Parker; Parnell; Pearce; Penfound; Pengelly; Perriam; Perring; Petherbridge; Phillips(2); Pile; Pimm; Pincombe; Podgers; Pollard; Power; Pye; Quick; Radmore; Raymont; Reddaway; Rendle; Rice; Ridd; Roberts(2); Rolstone; Rowsell; Salter; Sanders(2); Sclater; Scoines; Seward; Shanhan; Shorthouse; Sidoti; Smale; Small(2); Smith; Soper; Southcott; Sparkes; Spedding; Splatt; Squire; Stanley; Stedman; Steere; Stevens; Stoneman; Sullivan; Sutherley; Sutton; Swinburne; Sydenham; Symons(2); Tancock(3); Tatchell; Taylor; Tooze; Totten; Tozer; Treen; Trevenna; Tripe; Underhill; Valley; Vigus; Vinnicombe; Wakeham; Walters; Ware(2); Watts; Webber; Weekes; West; Westcott(2); White(2); Williams(2); Willis; Wilson; Winne; Wonnacott; Yelland; Young

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 1 January 1902
ARLINGTON - Sad Suicide At Arlington. A Young Woman Poisons Herself. A Tragic Story. - An Inquest was held yesterday at Arlington Rectory, North Devon, by Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner, concerning the death of ETHEL ANNIE PILE, aged 20, a domestic servant, in the employ of the Rector of Arlington, the Rev. T. de L. Sprye. Deceased, who was the daughter of THOMAS PILE, a farm labourer, of Combe Martin, met with her death by taking a dose of carbolic acid on Sunday night. - The Rector said deceased had been in his employ as a parlourmaid for about three months. About 9 p.m. last Sunday she was missed. He saw her hat and jacket in the house and he thought something was wrong. Search was accordingly made for her and his son and a stable boy found her in a stick house groaning. Witness went to the outhouse, and there saw deceased lying on the floor. She was alive. A bottle of carbolic acid and a cup were lying by her side. It was an eight ounce bottle and about two-thirds of the contents were gone. There was about a tablespoonful of the acid in the cup. Deceased was carried into the Rectory, and witness sent for Dr Manning of Combe Martin, immediately, but she died before he arrived. The doctor came a little more than an hour afterwards. He did not identify the bottle. He had noticed nothing peculiar about the deceased. He produced the following letter which was found upon her: "You know, Mary Ann, I am broken-hearted, all for Ned. He has gone. Good-bye to you all if I never see you alive. I am tired of my life. Mary Ann Irwin knows why I did it." - Mary Ann Irwin, cook at the Rectory, said deceased had previously told her that Ned Dennis would be the cause of her death some day. She asked deceased why she said that and the reply was that she had some trouble, and she would tell her some day before she (witness) left the Rectory. She had never noticed anything peculiar about deceased's manner. She last saw her alive about half-past 2 on Sunday afternoon. She had not the slightest idea that deceased contemplated suicide. - P.S. Adams, stationed at Parracombe, said he had found several love letters in deceased's room, from a man who signed himself "Ned." One of them contained the remark: - "Dear, I will soon put these letters, which I have had lately, out of sight." Witness had made inquiries, but could not find any trace of the place from whence the acid had been purchased. - Dr N. S. Manning said he had made a post mortem examination, and had found deceased's lips, tongue, palate and her stomach inflamed by the carbolic acid. He was satisfied that deceased had committed suicide by drinking carbolic acid. On examining the body he found that she was enciente. Death was due to poisoning from carbolic acid and from the quantity she took she could not have lived a long time after taking it. Mrs Sprye had told him that she had tried to administer oil to the deceased before he arrived. It was the best antidote, but deceased could not swallow it. - The Coroner expressed his regret at the circumstances of the sad death of so young a girl. Whatever trouble she had had, it would have been far better for her to have borne it than to have rushed into the presence of the Almighty. The evidence showed that deceased Committed Suicide while Temporarily Insane. A verdict accordingly was returned.

QUEENSTOWN, IRELAND - Plymouth Man Drowned. - An Inquest was held at Queenstown yesterday afternoon relative to the death of ALBERT EDWARD WEEKES, artificer of the battleship Empress of India, whose body was found floating near his ship in the morning. - The chief artificer said he saw deceased at 6 a.m. when the latter appeared in his usual health and spirits. - The Officer of the watch stated he heard no splash in the water. - The Jury returned an Open Verdict. Deceased belonged to Plymouth.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 2 January 1902
KINGSTEIGNTON - A Child Suffocated At Kingsteignton. A Dangerous Practice. - MRS DORE of Pottery Cottages, Kingsteignton, awoke on Tuesday morning and found her 3 ½ month old child lying dead in the same bed where she had slept. - Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances yesterday. - Dr E. Hunt, of Newton, deposed to death being due to suffocation. He was unable to say if this was due to the mother lying on her child or whether caused by being covered with the bedclothes. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. - The Coroner spoke strongly against parents allowing their infants to sleep in the same bed with them, a practice which, he said, was regarded as being very dangerous by the medical profession. That fact was also borne out by the innumerable deaths which occurred throughout the country in the same way. The practice, however, was not so much in vogue as in the past, parents having been brought to see the desirability of using cradles or cots, but there was still a need for further knowledge of the danger being spread. - Dr Hunt concurred and the Foreman, Mr T. Butland, endorsed the remarks on behalf of the Jury.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 3 January 1902
TAVISTOCK - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquest at Tavistock Cottage Hospital, relative to the death of JOHN RICE, farm labourer, aged 54, of Broad Moor, Marytavy. THOMAS RICE stated that deceased was his father. They left New Inn, Horndon, at 10 p.m. on December 21st. It was very slippery at the time. They parted at the end of Cudlipptown Green about 10.30 his father saying that he was going to call at another son's house to join a wedding party. He then had about a mile to go. James Arthur, farmer, of Cudlipptown, deposed that between 3 and 4 o'clock on the morning of the 22nd December he found deceased lying at a gate. He told witness that he had fallen and broken his leg and had crawled about 100 yards. He seemed in a weak condition. Witness drove him home. Deceased was subsequently taken to Tavistock Hospital. Medical evidence showed that deceased had a compound dislocation of the foot and fracture of the left fibula. He appeared to have tried to walk, as the end of the bone was dirty. He died from gangrene due to the injuries. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

BRANSCOMBE - The Coroner for the District, Mr Cox, held an Inquest on the body of RICHARD STEDMAN, at one time a barman in a London Hotel, of which his brother was the proprietor and who recently came to reside at Branscombe, who was found dead on Friday. Mrs Clarke, of the Mason's Arms Inn, said deceased came to the house and left about 10 p.m. As far as she knew, he was sober. George Collier said he saw deceased leave the Inn. When witness himself left he found deceased 50 yards away, helpless. As deceased was lame, and walked with the aid of crutches, witness could not say he was under the influence of drink. A conveyance was got and deceased was taken home. P.C. Kiff, who also saw STEDMAN in the road, thought deceased was under the influence of drink. Mrs Perryman, a neighbour, said that on Friday morning she heard someone knocking and opened the door of MRS STEDMAN'S house. She was horrified at seeing the body of deceased just inside the door. MRS STEDMAN, who is bedridden, said her son came home and sat in the kitchen, where she slept. After a time she fell asleep and when she woke up next morning she thought her son had not got up. She did not know that he was dead till the neighbours came in. Dr Evans said death was due to fracture of the base of the skull. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

EXMOUTH - An Inquest was held at the Rolle Hotel, before Mr C. E. Cox, Coroner, touching the death of EDWARD WALLACE EVANS, 54 years of age, director of a Worcester vinegar manufacturing firm, who died at Exmouth on Saturday from the result of burns. Deceased suffered from gout in both hands, and in trying to light a cigar the cotton wool in which his hands were enveloped caught fire, severely burning him. The medical evidence showed that deceased died from the resulting shock and the Jury returned a verdict to this effect.

SIDMOUTH - An Inquest was held by the County Coroner, Mr Cox, on the body of JOHN DENNER, gravedigger at the cemetery, who was drowned in the river Sid. Deceased, who had been in the town shopping, had to cross the footbridge known as Lyme Park Bridge in order to reach his home. The recent floods in the Sid had washed the earth away from the foot of the bridge. There was a large volume of water coming down the river, and it is supposed that DENNER, in stepping off the bridge, stumbled, was caught by the floor and carried out to sea. The body of deceased was subsequently found on the sea shore. Part of deceased's clothing had been torn off, presumably through coming in contact with the weirs in the river and the bushes which line its banks. The opinion was expressed at the Inquest that the bridge was unsafe in flood time. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added a rider to the effect that the authorities should be communicated with and informed of the dangerous state of the bridge in times of flood.

SILVERTON - An Inquest has been held at the Bridge Paper Mills on the body of JOHN WILLIS, residing at Doberry, at the back of Killerton Park, aged 44, who committed suicide on the evening of Christmas Day by cutting his throat with a razor. A verdict of "Temporary Insanity" was returned. Deceased was a single man, had been under medical treatment since last August, and it is probable that the long inability to earn his livelihood, coupled with excessive pain, had unhinged his mind. He was a very quiet, inoffensive man.

EXETER HEAVITREE - Whipton. A verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned at an Inquest on the body of WILLIAM JEFFORD, aged 70, farm labourer, of Stone's Cottages, who hanged himself by a rope in his bedroom.

BERE FERRERS - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, resumed on Monday the Inquest on the bodies of WILLIAM WILLIAMS and JOHN TREVENNA, who were killed through being knocked down by a light engine while crossing from the up to the down platform on the 23rd inst. at the railway station. The Jury, after about half an hour's deliberation, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and decided that there was no culpable negligence attributable to any of the station officials. They added a rider strongly urging the London and South Western Railway Company to erect a cross-over bridge at the Station at the earliest possible moment.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 4 January 1902
EXETER - The Fatal Accident At St David's Station. Inquest At Exeter. - Yesterday, at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of a young woman named FLORRIE HANNAH BRAND, of Frog-street, Exeter, who was knocked down by an engine at Exwick crossing, near St David's Station, on Thursday night. Chief-Inspector Shattock represented the Great Western Railway Company, and Mr L. D. Thomas appeared for the parties interested in the level crossing. - MRS BRAND, of 25 Frog-street, mother of deceased, said her daughter was 23 years of age and was employed at the steam laundry at Exwick. - Charles Frederick, signalman at St David's Station, and residing at Brunswick-street, St. Thomas, deposed that at about 8.50 p.m. on the night in question he saw some females enter the gate of the crossing, and he called to them twice to stand back. A South Western goods train was passing, and an engine was coming in the opposite direction. The light engine whistled and as it went over the crossing he heard a scream. He left his box and went to the crossing after the goods train had passed, and found the fireman of the light engine supporting the deceased. - Thomas Pezzack, of Plymouth, employed as a fireman by the Great Western Railway Company, said he was o the light engine referred to. He saw a female about to cross the line and he blew the whistle, but heard a scream as he was pulling the engine up. Deceased was about twenty yards away when he first saw her. - The Coroner: Could you have pulled up the engine in that distance? - Witness: Certainly. - The Coroner: Why was that not done? - Witness: I did not know but that deceased had passed all right. - The Coroner: You say you saw her about twenty yards away and whistled to warn her? - Witness: I whistled to hurry her up. There was plenty of time for her to get across. - The Coroner: There did not appear to be, as you knocked her down. - Witness: In the ordinary way it would have been possible for anyone to have crossed the line and got out of the way. - The Coroner: Was it dark there? - Witness: The crossing is well lighted. - The Foreman of the Jury: You must have seen danger, or you would not have whistled. - Witness: There was no immediate danger, seeing the rate we were travelling. there was plenty of time for her to pass. - William Henry Way, of Redhills, St. Thomas, a shunter, said deceased was conscious when picked up, and said, "Oh, father, help me." One of her legs was cut off and the other was hanging. - Mr Thomas Shattock, chief inspector of the Exeter Division of the Great Western Railway, said the crossing was not a public right-of-way, though the public used it by permission of the Company, who looked upon it as a sufferance crossing. Replying to questions, Mr Shattock said the large gates of the crossing were interlocked from the signal-box when trains were passing or about to pass, but the wicket gages were not fastened. If the latter were interlocked, as the large gates were, people might be kept waiting sometimes for half an hour. - William Hudson Marsden, Assistant House Surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased was dead when brought to the Institution. Both her legs were amputated and the cause of death was shock and loss of blood. - The Coroner, in summing up, said if the engine had pulled up the accident would probably not have happened. but it seemed to be a common thing, and he thought no blame attached to anyone. - The signalman, Frederick mentioned that he had cautioned young women from Exwick on many occasions to be careful, but they had taken no notice. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added a rider to the effect that no blame attached to the Railway Company or to the men on the engine which knocked deceased down.

TORQUAY - Suicide At Torquay. - Yesterday, at Upton Parish Room, Torquay, an Inquest was held concerning the death of a seafaring man, named JOSEPH PETHERBRIDGE, 52, who was found the day previous hanging at his house in Ellacombe Church-road, to the foot of his bed. - The first witness called was CHARLOTTE PETHERBRIDGE. She informed the Court that she resided at 25 Ellacombe Church-road, and deceased was her husband. He had been a mariner and had been at home for 18 months ill. For the past six weeks he had been very despondent. Deceased had no troubles. He lived happily with her. On Thursday afternoon, about 3 o'clock, witness saw deceased alive and in his usual condition. Twenty minutes later she was horrified to find him hanging to the foot of the bed by a piece of rope, deceased being in a kneeling position. Witness screamed for help and her sister came to her aid. The rope used was that by which deceased was assisted upstairs the day previous by his son. Deceased had never threatened to take his life. - Dr Eales said he had attended deceased for some years. He suffered from chronic nerve disease, and witness sent him to Hospital on several occasions and everything was done for him. Lately deceased, in his opinion, had suffered from melancholia. Witness saw deceased after his tragic end on Thursday, and was of opinion that death was due to suffocation by hanging while in a fit of melancholia. - Rosina Emma Symons said deceased had done nothing but cry since Christmas. He was of opinion that he caused a great deal of trouble to his wife and family. - A verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane" was returned by the Jury.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 10 January 1902
WOOLFARDISWORTHY - At an Inquest at Bucks Cross, North Devon, yesterday, by Mr J. F. Bromham, on the body of RICHARD JEWELL, a fishmonger, who died suddenly late on Thursday night, a verdict of "Death from Failure of the Heart caused through excessive drinking" was returned.

TAVISTOCK - Inquest At Tavistock. A Son Censured. - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquiry at Tavistock yesterday relative to the death of SUSAN DOIDGE, the widow of a much-respected tradesman, who was found dead in bed the previous morning. - WILLIAM HENRY DOIDGE, a hairdresser and tobacconist, carrying on business at 82 West-street, said deceased, aged 80 years, was his mother. She had been ailing for some time, but had not been under medical treatment. He did not know that the deceased's room was dirty. He had not been drinking excessively, but had been unwell. - Jane Ralph said the deceased was her sister. She went to see her on Tuesday morning between 11 and 12 o'clock, having received a message that she was very unwell. She found her in a semi-conscious state and was lying on the bed dressed. The room and the deceased were both dirty and very untidy. - Dr J. Snowden-Smith said he was called to see the deceased. She was dead and her bedroom clothes and bedding were very dirty and showed neglect. - The Coroner said it was the duty of the son to have seen that his mother was provided with medical treatment and proper necessaries. Grave reflection rested upon him for having allowed his aged parent to be found in the state described. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony "That deceased died from Natural Causes, but they censured the son." - The Coroner, addressing the son, said the Jury had taken a very lenient view of the case. He believed the condition in which deceased was found was due to his having given way to drinking and he hoped it would be a lesson to him and that he would give up his intemperate habits, which could only have one possible end - that of ruin.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 11 January 1902
HONITON - Mr C. E. Cox yesterday, at the Red Cow Inn, Honiton, held an Inquiry concerning the death of a five-weeks-old infant child of MR WILLIAM WHITE, of the Old Pottery, Honiton. - Evidence was given to the effect that the child was apparently all right at six o'clock on Thursday morning, but on being visited a hour or two later it had died. - Dr R. Hedder said he had made a post-mortem examination, and in his opinion death was attributable to convulsions. - The Jury, with Mr John Clark Foreman, returned a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 13 January 1902
DAWLISH - Mr Hacker held an inquest at the Albert Hotel, Dawlish, on Saturday afternoon, relative to the death of JOHN BRUNT, aged 83, retired grain and seed merchant, who was found dead in bed on Friday morning. Dr Hudson detailed the result of a post mortem examination and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 16 January 1902
DARTMOUTH - Suicide At Dartmouth. - Yesterday at Dartmouth, an Inquest was held by Mr P. R. Hockin, Deputy Coroner, touching the death of WARWICK M. BATES, 32, steward, who was found hanging by a rope from the banisters of Fern Bank on Tuesday. - Deceased's brother, (G. BATES) and father-in-law (D. BATES) gave evidence showing that for the last three or four years he had done no work, and was somewhat eccentric. Since an accident at Southampton he had suffered mentally. - Florence Maria Burridge, domestic servant, in the employ of Mr and Mrs Sheen, Seven Stars Inn, said she was sent to Fern Bank, where deceased was sleeping alone, by MRS BATES to tell him to light the fires, as she was coming home that day. She found the deceased hanging from the banisters and at once ran back and gave the alarm. Afterwards deceased was cut down by W. T. Dunn and a lumper named Callard. He was quite dead. - P.S. Hockridge said a running noose was tightly tied round deceased's neck. The other end of the rope was twisted two or three times round the banisters. - Dr A. K. Crossfield said deceased had dislocated his neck and this showed that he must have had a considerable drop. He had, judging by the state of the body and the deeply-indented mark round the neck, evidently been hanging for many hours, at least twelve. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while in a state of Temporary Insanity."

TEIGNMOUTH - The Need Of Fire Guards. Child Burnt To Death. - An Inquest was held at Teignmouth Hospital last evening on the body of VIDIA FRANCES ELIZABETH DODD, who died at the Institution the previous day from burns. - EVA DODD, mother, said she brought the child down from bed about 9 o'clock on Tuesday morning. She gave her a piece of bread and butter and left her standing on the sofa near the fire, while she went into the yard to hang out clothes. The deceased had only her night things on. Three minutes after she had left the house she heard screams and on going into the kitchen found the little one in flames. She had got off the sofa and sat in her chair near the fire. She found a bit of burnt stick in the fender some time afterwards. Witness tried to extinguish the flames and took off the child's nightdress. She then applied linseed oil and sent to the Hospital. - The Coroner thought some precaution ought to have been taken. Witness had a nine-year old child in the house, who was quite capable of looking after the little one. Fire guards were the proper things, and were very cheap and simple. In this case one would have prevented a bit of burnt stick getting near the child. The number of children burnt every week was terrible. Of course, mothers could not always be with their children, but they should use greater precautions. If there was no fire-guard, it was simply courting a child's death. Mothers had no business to leave their children by an open fire. Mrs Rogers, a neighbour, having given evidence, Dr C. T. Holmes, House Surgeon at the Institution, said deceased was severely burnt about the back and chest and died from shock caused by the burns. - The Coroner, addressing the Jury, said this was another of those unfortunate tales. The Government was giving attention to the matter, owing to the appalling number of deaths every year. What the authorities ought to impress was the need of fire-guards. Only ordinary and proper care was required if the mother had to leave her children. A child would always go to the fire and without a guard it was an awful danger. It was not a subject to legislate upon, but he wished the matter to be given publicity, that it ought to be usual in every house to have a guard. The Jury could not administer blame to anyone, but there had been want of prudence. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Burned."

CHARDSTOCK (DORSET) - Yesterday an Inquest was held by Mr C. E. Cox, Coroner for East Devon, at the George Inn, Chardstock, touching the death of DAISY SUTHERLEY, aged five years, daughter of MR W. SUTHERLEY, labourer, of Old Town, Chard. - It appears the little girl was staying with a Mrs Louisa Bond, of Holy City,. Chardstock. While trying to take a roasted apple out of the fire her clothes caught. The child was badly burnt about her arms and suffered greatly from shock. She was attended by Dr Brogden, of Chard, but died from exhaustion. - After hearing the evidence, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," no blame being attached to anyone. - The Coroner strongly recommended that where children of such a tender age were allowed to go near a fire there should be a guard in front.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 17 January 1902
ASHBURTON - Suicide At Ashburton. - Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner, held an Inquiry yesterday at the Market Hall, Ashburton, on the body of ROSA SKINNER BEAVIS, 21, dressmaker, who was found near Holne Bridge, in the River Dart, on Wednesday morning. CHARLES BEAVIS, butcher, stated the deceased was his sister, and lived with himself and wife. He knew of no cause that would make her commit suicide. She was generally very reserved, and since Christmas had been more quiet than usual. - Mrs Willcocks, dressmaker, said deceased was in her employ. On Tuesday afternoon she left her in the work-room at 5 o'clock, when the other employees went to tea. She generally took her tea at 6 p.m. Witness went to the room again at 5.30 p.m. and found she had left. She did not come back after tea, but witness did not take notice of it. - George Routley, labourer, stated he saw a young woman going towards Holne on the bridge about 6 p.m. She had no hat or jacket on. - James Rowe, labourer, stated he saw a young woman near the bridge at 6.15 p.m., as if waiting for someone. - Charles Pomeroy, mason, stated he was in a cart riding, when by the light of the lamp he saw a hat and jacket lying in the recess of the bridge. He searched underneath the bridge, but could not find anything. He took the things to the Police. - P.S. Prew said as the result of a search conducted by him he found the body of deceased about 200 yards below the bridge in about seven feet of water. - Dr Wilson Ranson having given evidence, the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind."

LIFTON - JOHN GUNNER, labourer, died suddenly on Monday afternoon or Tuesday morning. He went to work in a wood in the parish of Bradstone on Monday morning. He had his dinner at an adjoining farm and went back to work in the afternoon. On Tuesday morning, at 12.30 noon, Messrs. Gray and Harris, gamekeepers, on the Lifton Park Estate, found GUNNER dead in a field, about 130 yards from his work. An Inquest was held on the deceased yesterday by the Coroner for the District, Mr J. D. Prickman, when the medical evidence went to show that deceased ruptured a diseased blood vessel in the lungs and that death resulted therefrom. Verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 18 January 1902
BRADNINCH - The Fatal Accident At Bradninch. - Yesterday, at the Castle Hotel, Bradninch, Mr A. Burrow, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquiry relative to the death, which took place on the previous day, of SAMUEL CLAMPITT, 55 years of age, who was employed by Messrs. Nicks Brothers, as a plumber, at Bradninch, and who resided at West-street, Exeter. Mr W. Baker was chosen Foreman of the Jury and P.C. Ball was Coroner's Officer. - MRS CLAMPITT, the widow, having given evidence of identification, William Yeo, labourer, of Silverton, described the accident. He said he was working with deceased on Thursday morning, CLAMPITT being engaged in cutting a hole in a cistern about 27 ft. from the ground at Kensham Mills, Bradninch. Having finished, deceased got on to some steps leading to the ladder which was placed against the building, when he slipped. He caught hold of a piece of wood used as a purlieu, but this gave way and deceased, over-balancing himself, fell to the ground. With witness's assistance deceased sat up and then help was called. - Dr Worth, who is acting as Dr Duncan's locum tenens, said deceased had eleven of his ribs broken. He died in about half an hour from the effects of the injury without having spoken. - The Coroner, in summing up, said deceased was almost in the prime of life, he was steady and industrious and seemed to have lost his life by a pure accident. It was a very sad case and he was sure the sympathies of the Jury would be with MRS CLAMPITT. - the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and gave their fees to the widow. Mr A. M. Alford watched the case on behalf of the widow.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette Thursday 23 January 1902
NORTHAM - Suicide At Northam. - Northam was startled yesterday morning by the news that one of its inhabitants had been found hanging to a beam in his stable. Inquiries elicited the fact that HENRY GRIFFEY, a retired ship's carpenter, who had been engaged in farming and hauling in the village had hung himself. - An Inquest was held at the King's Head Hotel yesterday afternoon by Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner. The Jury, of whom Mr William Ashplant was Foreman, expressed their sympathy with the widow and family, and referred to the deceased as a steady, hard-working, industrious man. - MRS ANN GRIFFEY said her husband was 59 years of age. He formerly worked in the dockyards as a ship's carpenter. Some 20 years ago, through an accident, one of his legs had to be amputated, but he had lately worked as a small farmer and haulier. They resided in Oxman's-lane. He retired to bed about 10 o'clock, and shortly after 6 that morning deceased got up, as usual, and left the room. About 7.30 her daughter told her that something had happened. Witness dressed and came downstairs when she found her husband had hung himself. He had been very low spirited of late, owing to slackness of work. - EDITH GRIFFEY, daughter of the last witness, aged 14, said she came down about 7.30, as she wished to see her father about some potatoes. On going out behind and after calling several times and getting no reply, she looked into the stable, where she saw a lamp burning. On opening the door she found her father hanging by a rope to the beam. She immediately informed her mother and brother of what had happened. - ARTHUR GRIFFEY, son of the deceased, stated that at about 7.30 a.m. his sister told him, as he was dressing, that she had found her father hanging by a rope. He ran for Mr Passmore, a neighbour and between them they took him down. His foot was just clear of the ground. There was a box about 18 inches high close by, which he must have stood on. One end of the rope was over the rafter, the other being a running noose. He sent his brother for P.C. Carpenter and also for the doctor. His father had been very depressed of late. - William Passmore, labourer, corroborated. Replying to a Juryman, witness said the horse appeared to have been fed and the stable cleaned that morning. - Dr Mahood said death must have been instantaneous, and, in his opinion, was caused by hanging. - The Jury returned a verdict that deceased Committed Suicide by Hanging while Temporarily Insane.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 24 January 1902
BARNSTAPLE - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at an Inquest held on Tuesday by the Deputy Coroner, Mr Archibald Bencraft, on the body of an infant named FREDERICK MARTIN GEEN, aged one year and nine months, whose parents live at Derby. The evidence showed that the deceased child ate a piece of hot potato, given by its mother, which lodged in the throat and produced laryngitis, and pneumonia supervening, death ensued on Sunday.

ST MARYCHURCH - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at the Inquest held at St. Marychurch on the body of ALFRED JOHN LOUD, who met with his death by falling off a horse. Dr Winter stated that the skull was badly injured, the whole of the bones on the left side of the head being forced into the base of the skull.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 27 January 1902
TEIGNMOUTH - An Inquest was held at Teignmouth on Saturday on the body of ELSIE OWEN, the nine weeks old child of MR and MRS OWEN, of Chapel-street. The mother said she found the child dead by her side on Saturday morning. The medical evidence was to the effect that the child had been overlaid. A verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned. The Deputy Coroner, Mr G. F. Kellock, commented strongly on the dangerous practice of parents taking their little children in bed with them, and cautioned the mother, to whom the Jury gave their fees.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 28 January 1902
AXMINSTER - Sad Suicide At Axminster. Inquest. - Mr C. E. Cox, Coroner, held an inquest yesterday at Sutton's Old Bell Hotel, Axminster, touching the death of MR WILLIAM GEORGE SUTTON, 28 years of age, son of the proprietor of that Hotel. Mr Aplin was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - MR JOHN SUTTON, father of deceased, said his son returned to his house on the 28th of last October. He was an ironmonger's assistant at Croydon, and came down for the benefit of his health. He had been for some time in a low, desponding way, and had an attack of influenza some time ago, for which he was attended by a doctor in London. When his son returned there appeared to be a certain amount of melancholy about him. On Saturday the deceased made a good dinner with the family, and it was suggested he should go for a walk as usual. This it was thought he had done. As he did not return about the usual time a search was made and deceased was found in the loft over the stables. - William Chapple, ostler at the Bell Hotel, gave evidence as to finding deceased in the loft, and his evidence was corroborated by F. Alford, another ostler of the Hotel, who afterwards gave information to the Police. - Miss Wilson, of Croydon, stated she was engaged to the deceased. She last saw him alive the Friday after Christmas Day. The deceased had not been strong for some time. He was taken ill on Christmas Eve last, and a doctor had to be sent for, who stated he was suffering from influenza. The only communication she had received from him from the time he left until the 17th January was only about two lines. - P.C. Webber stated he went to the Bell Hotel yard and found deceased hanging by his neck. Medical assistance was at once called, but Dr Langran pronounced life extinct. A note was found on deceased, written on an envelope, as follows:- "It is too much; good-bye." Cheer up." - Dr Langran also gave evidence. He had known deceased and attended him the night when he arrived and on a few occasions since. He had been told that deceased had suffered from influenza. He had no reason to think he would take his own life, but he was of a melancholy disposition. - After the Coroner had summed up, the Jury returned a verdict that deceased Hung Himself while Temporarily Insane. A vote of sympathy with the parents was passed.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 29 January 1902
TORQUAY - An Inquest was held at Torquay last night concerning the death of a coachman named HENRY WILLIAM BUNCH, who was found dead in bed that morning. A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 30 January 1902
DAWLISH - Postman's Sudden Death. Inquest At Dawlish. - Yesterday Mr Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest at Dawlish, concerning the death of the postman, GEORGE WEST, who was found dead at the Post-office on Tuesday morning. - ANNIE WEST, the widow, said deceased, who was 46 years of age, had often complained of pains in his chest, thinking it was indigestion. He was in his usual health on Tuesday morning when he left just before six a.m. to commence duties. - Mr Reed, Postmaster, said he found deceased, apparently dead, lying on the floor of the lavatory. - Dr lovely deposed that deceased's internal organs were considerably diseased. The left kidney contained a very large stone, and was an enormous size. The liver was excessively large; the left lung showed appearances of an old trouble; the heart was fairly healthy, but weak. His opinion was that death was due to syncope, the primary cause being the stone in the kidney. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," and gave their fees to the widow, who is left with nine children.

GREAT TORRINGTON - Fatal Accident Near Torrington. The inquest. - An Inquest touching the death of MR SYDNEY WILLIAM STEVENS, who was killed at Alverdiscott on Monday, was held at the Town Hall, Torrington, yesterday by Mr J. F. Bromham, Coroner for the District. Mr T. Heywood was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - Mr William Stapleton said he was a coal and manure merchant, residing at Torrington. The body just viewed was that of SYDNEY WILLIAM STEVENS. He was a confidential clerk in witness's employ, and had been with him for about thirteen months. He was 30 years of age and was a married man with two children. He was in the habit of going into the country soliciting orders and seeing customers. He generally made the journeys on horseback. Witness last saw him alive on Monday afternoon, about half-past two. He was on horseback. The horse belonged to witness's father-in-law, but deceased had often ridden it. About half-past six o'clock on Monday evening he was informed that a serious accident had happened to deceased at Alverdiscott. As soon as possible he went to that place with Dr Maunder and found deceased in a cottage occupied by Mr Thorne. MR STEVENS was quite dead. - Henry Thorne, a lad, about eight years of age, said he was the son of Augustus Thorne, a labourer, living at Windmill Cottage, Alverdiscott. On Monday, about six o'clock, he saw deceased on horseback just outside the cottage. Witness was standing in the hedge at the time. MR STEVENS inquired for witness's father. The horse would not stand still, and deceased touched him with his heels. The horse turned round and reared up straight, falling on deceased. The animal got up and walked away quietly. Deceased rose from the ground and then fell down again. Witness's little brother went into the house and called his mother. She came out and held deceased until assistance arrived. - Ann Thorne said she was the wife of Augustus Thorne. On Monday evening, about six o'clock, her little boy came in and said a man had fallen off a horse. Witness immediately went out and found deceased lying on the ground, bleeding from the nose. He was quite unconscious and groaned once. He breathed once or twice. She supported him as well as she could, and sent the last witness for assistance. Mr Petherbridge and his man came in about half an hour. Deceased was taken into the cottage, and remained until Mr Stapleton and the doctor came. She thought the deceased died about a quarter of an hour before anyone came. - Dr Macindoe, of Torrington, said he found deceased in Mr Thorne's cottage. MR STEVENS was quite dead. Witness noticed that deceased bled from his left nostril and he came to the conclusion that he had fractured the base of his skull. Witness was satisfied this was the cause of death. There was no external injury. - The Coroner having reviewed the evidence, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and gave their fees to the widow with an expression of sympathy. The deceased will be buried with military honours today, he being a member of the Volunteer Band.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 31 January 1902
LYNTON - MISS MARSHALL, aged 73, whose occupation was that of a dressmaker, was found dead in bed on Tuesday night and Dr Butler, when called in, expressed the opinion the death was due to starvation and neglect. An Inquest was held yesterday by Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 1 February 1902
AXMINSTER - The Axminster Mystery. The Inquest. Medical Opinion. - Yesterday Mr C. E. Cox, Coroner, held an Inquest at the Axminster Inn, Axminster, touching the death of MR ALBERT MORGAN, aged 59, of Axminster, the circumstances under which the body was found being fully reported in yesterday's Gazette. - Mr Thomas Stone was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - MRS EDMONDS, daughter of the deceased, said her father had been lodging with her and her husband. Deceased was in the best of health and spirits. On Wednesday, about 2.30 p.m., after having dinner, he left her residence and said he was going into the town to see a gentleman who had employed him for some time. Her father had nothing to trouble him, neither had she at any time heard him say that he would take his life. - Robert Moulding, a mason, of Axminster, stated that he knew deceased. On witness going to his work on the Kilmington-road, he noticed an object in the water in a pool at a place called "Gillett's Mead," or locally termed "Drunken Man's Bridge." He saw the shoulder of a man, with the head below the water, which was cased over by ice. He at once returned to the town and informed the Police. The water in the pool would be from three feet to four feet in depth. He thought the place in question was rather dangerous and a person walking along the road might walk in that direction. - P.C. Webber stated that at 7.40 a.m. on Thursday he was called by the last witness, and, accompanied by P.S. Stentiford and P.C. Passmore, they at once went to the spot. The body of the deceased was taken from the water. Deceased's knife was on a ledge near the water and his cap was partly imbedded in the ice. They found his note-book on him, which showed some work done, and 1s. 8 ½d. was found in his pockets. He had known deceased as a very respectable man. - Mr Heal, of the Green Dragon Hotel, Axminster, stated that deceased called there in the morning and was supplied with a pint of fourpenny. Witness had known him for the past 33 years, and never saw him the worse for liquor. - Miss Parsons, of the Old Inn, Kilmington, stated that on Wednesday afternoon the deceased called and had a glass of beer. He remained for some little time and then left. He was perfectly sober. He returned again about 8 o'clock, and remained until about 10 o'clock. When he left he was quite sober. - Mrs Adams, of the New Inn, Kilmington, stated that on the afternoon in question the deceased called and had two glasses of beer. He was perfectly sober. - Mr Jno. Love, of Axminster, stated that he was at Kilmington on Wednesday, and called at the Old Inn, accompanied by a young man named Goddard, who waited for him while he was doing his business in the village. On his return the deceased asked witness to drink. He did not accept the invitation. The deceased appeared sober and yet offered to fight young Goddard. There was an opportunity to ride to Axminster, but deceased preferred to walk. - Mr Hurford, a farmer, of Kilmington, said that he saw deceased pass Kilmington Cross about 10 p.m., and he was perfectly sober. - Dr Langran, of Axminster, deposed that he had made a post mortem examination of deceased, and found the body well nourished. There were no marks of violence and by the examination he had made it was inconsistent with a man being drowned. He had every reason to believe that deceased died from syncope, owing to the fatty degeneration of the heart. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 5 February 1902
TORQUAY - Found Dead At Torquay. - An Inquest was held at Torquay yesterday by Mr Hacker, relative to the death of GLADYS MARY, the infant child of a carpenter named WALTER WATTS, of 2 Dunmere-road, Ellacombe, Torquay. - The mother, EDITH MARY WATTS, said the child was eight months old. Its life had not been insured. On Wednesday it was poorly, but she thought it was teething. On Friday she appeared better and took food right up to Sunday night. At 5 o'clock on Monday morning she found the babe dead in its cradle. - Mrs Hayman, wife of a butcher, said she knew the baby had been poorly, but she thought it was due to teething. - Dr Wiggin deposed that, as the result of a post mortem examination on the body, he found death ensued from convulsions, due to inflammation of the lungs. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

PINHOE - Death From Exposure. Found In A Pinhoe Sand-Pit. - An Inquest was held yesterday Mr A. Burrow, Deputy Coroner, upon the body of WILLIAM BROWN, found in the sand-pit, Gipsy-hill, Pinhoe, on Sunday. - P.S. Yelland said deceased was locked up about a month ago, when he gave the name of WILLIAM BROWN, labourer, a native of Somerset, and had stated his age to be 65 years. The last occasion on which witness saw him was between 3 and 4 o'clock on Friday afternoon, passing the Station towards Gipsy-hill. He then appeared to be all right. - Albert Woodley, gardener, Peabury Cottage, Pinhoe, said he had known deceased for the last six months, and about 4.45 on Friday afternoon met him coming up Gipsy-hill, when he remarked upon the coldness of the weather. - Charles Henry Searle, printer of John-street, Exeter, deposed to finding deceased on Sunday, about ten minutes after one, in the sand-pit lying on his face, cold and dead. - Dr Sandoe stated that death was due to exposure and the Jury returned a verdict to that effect.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 6 February 1902
NORTHAM - Child Suffocated At Appledore. - At the Royal Hotel, Appledore, an Inquest was held by the County Coroner, respecting the death of the infant child of CAPTAIN JOHN STONEMAN. MRS KATE STONEMAN identified the body as that of her son, whom she left in bed about 10.40 on Sunday morning, with an elder child. The latter came down about 12 o'clock and witness asked if the baby was safely covered up. She went up herself about 2 o'clock and was shocked to find the child dead. She called a neighbour and also sent for a doctor. Dr W. A. Valentine deposed to being called about 3.30 and finding the child dead. It had most likely been choked while vomiting as it had been sick during the night. The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that deceased died from Suffocation.

ST GILES IN THE WOOD - Burning Case At St. Giles-In-The-Wood. - Yesterday an Inquest was held at St. Giles touching the death of SUSAN FARLEY, of Kingscott. In the early part of January deceased, who was very infirm, ignited her apron, which set fire to other portions of her clothing, causing extensive superficial burns. A verdict was returned in accordance with the medical testimony that deceased died from senile decay, accelerated by burns she had received. Deceased was 66 years of age and had been almost a helpless cripple from childhood.

LYNTON - At an Inquest held touching the death of ANN MARSHALL, of Jubilee House, the evidence showed that deceased was a respectable woman, but, being a great drinker, she had run through her money. Death was due to starvation and personal neglect, caused by excessive drinking. A verdict accordingly was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 8 February 1902
EXETER - Yesterday the Deputy Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, held an inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MRS ANNA MARIA CLARKE, 63, of Sydney, New South Wales, who died at Frostleigh, Grendon-road, Exeter, early yesterday morning. - John J. G. Tracy, merchant, of Newborn, Hertfordshire, identified the body of the deceased as that of his mother-in-law. She was travelling, but had never had a house in England. He had not seen her since September. Her health was good, with the exception of intense headaches. - Mrs Anna Collins, widow, of Frostleigh, Grendon-road, said deceased had been residing with her on and off for the greater part of five years. She was last there about three weeks ago. She did not appear so well as usual and had been suffering from sick headache, but after a week or so grew brighter. She last saw deceased alive on Thursday evening, about seven o'clock. She stayed in bed all day suffering from a sick headache. She had two cups of tea only all the day. At 6.45 yesterday morning witness took a cup of tea to her room, but found deceased dead in bed. The body was quite cold. - Dr Brennon Dyeball, Surgeon, of Exeter, said he saw deceased yesterday morning, when she had been dead probably for seven or eight hours. She was suffering from disease of the kidneys, which often led to haemorrhage in the brain, and he thought this was the cause of death. - A verdict of Death from Natural Causes was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 10 February 1902
HONITON - Mr C. E. Cox, Coroner, held an Inquest at the Town Hall, Honiton, on the body of the infant child of WILLIAM FREDERICK and BELLA DAVIES, described as itinerant songsters. Evidence was given by the parents to the effect that they journeyed from Exeter to Honiton on Thursday and put up at the Volunteer Inn. They retired to rest at 11 o'clock that night, when the babe, aged five months, was apparently in its usual health, but on awakening the next morning at 8 o'clock they found it dead. It had not been really strong from birth. A post-mortem examination had been made and the Jury, with Mr John Clark as Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from Convulsions, accelerated by a weak heart."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 12 February 1902
NORTHAM - The Fremington Drowning Case. The Inquest. An Lighted Quay. - Yesterday an Inquest was held at the Prince of Wales Inn, Appledore, by Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner, touching the death of CHARLES BALSDON, master mariner, and captain of the schooner Hawke, whose body was found at Basset's Ridge on the previous day. Deceased was highly respected, and resided at 50 Irsha-street, West Appledore. - The evidence showed that deceased, who was 63 years of age, arrived with the schooner Hawke at Fremington on Saturday. He intended travelling to his home by train, and went to the Station about six o'clock. He had a conversation with Mr Pearce, the Stationmaster, at the conclusion of which he said he would have another look round his vessel. Mr Pearce advised him to be careful, as it was a very dark night. Deceased, in a jocular way, said it was not the first time he had been on Fremington Quay on a dark night. He was not seen afterwards until the body was recovered, as stated in yesterday's Gazette. - Mr Pearce told the Coroner and Jury that there were three lamps on the Quay, but they were not lighted except when work was being carried on, and they were unlighted on the night in question. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned," and added a suggestion to the directors of the London and South Western Railway Company that a light should be kept burning on Fremington Quay on dark nights for the protection of sailors. - Mr Pearce, on behalf of the Company, said he would also recommend this to the Company.

EXETER - fell Downstairs And Died. Inquest At Exeter. - Yesterday the Deputy Coroner, Mr W. H. Gould, held an inquest at Exeter Police Court relative to the death of FRANK BONNY, aged 42, labourer, who died on Monday at the Round Tree Inn, Exeter. - James Frederick Berry, landlord of the Round Tree Inn, Frog-street, said he had known deceased for several years. He had lodged with him on and off for ten years. He last saw him alive on Monday morning about 10 o'clock. He was coming downstairs backwards, as he was weak and fell. With the assistance of another man, deceased was taken to his bed, where he expired in a few minutes. - The Coroner asked what deceased was suffering from. - Witness: From asthma or bronchitis. I don't know; I'm not a doctor. - The Coroner: I did not say you were, but I expect you to answer my questions in a proper and straightforward manner. - Mr J. W. Pereira, Police Surgeon, said he saw deceased about 10.30 a.m. The body was just getting cold. There were no marks of violence, and death was due to failure of the heart's action. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 14 February 1902
TAVISTOCK - WILLIAM HENRY HEARD, 71 years of age, a veterinary surgeon, died suddenly at his lodgings, 5 Pepper-street, on Sunday evening. An Inquest was held on the following day, and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 18 February 1902
EXETER - Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Exeter yesterday, which took place at 29 St Sidwell's Avenue, and was concerning the death of ALBERT EDWIN JORDAN BOWERS, tailor. ELLEN BOWERS, his widow, said deceased was 36 years of age. About 11.30 on Saturday morning he was in his workroom. Witness was downstairs and heard him fall. On going to him she found him lying on the floor unconscious. Dr Duncan was sent for, but deceased had expired before he could arrive. She had never known her husband to have fainting fits. He had complained of pains in his head, though not lately. Dr Duncan attributed death to apoplexy, to which, he said, deceased was predisposed. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

EXETER - Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at 7 Codrington-street, touching the death of MARY BUSE CURTIS, aged 67. Bessie Youlden said deceased was the widow of GEORGE CURTIS, labourer, of Bridestowe. She had been staying with witness since last Friday, when she came from the West of England Eye Infirmary as an out-patient, intending to return at the end of a month. She had been ailing for five years, suffering from her nerves and heart. When she came to witness's house she appeared to be in her usual condition of health. Witness took her a cup of tea the previous morning at 5.30 when she seemed to be all right, but on entering the room three hours later she found her apparently dead. Witness had known deceased's nervous attacks to last for hours. Dr Mackeith said when he viewed the body shortly afterwards the hands were clenched, the pupils dilated and the lips livid, appearances showing that deceased probably died from convulsions, brought on by uremic poisoning, the result of a kidney trouble. A verdict was returned in accordance with the medical testimony.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 19 February 1902
EXETER - Exeter Widow's Death. The Inquest. - Yesterday afternoon, at Exeter Police Court, the Deputy Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, held an Inquest on the body of ELIZABETH SULLIVAN, alias CROSS, of 8 Mary Arches-street, widow. - Elizabeth Dyer, of 8 Mary Arches-street, identified the body and said deceased was 66 years of age. On Saturday night deceased did not appear well and witness went to the Police Station and told of her state. She had never been quite well since about a month ago, when she was accidentally pushed against a desk in the Corn Exchange and hurt her side. On Monday at 12.30 witness saw deceased on the landing in a sitting position. She had been out to fetch some beer, and was returning with it. She was looking very bad and witness assisted her up a flight of stairs towards her bedroom. P.C. Fouracre, who had been fetched by a little girl, came and assisted deceased to her room and went for the doctor. While he was away the woman died. - P.C. Fouracre said he was called at 12.30 on Monday and found the deceased very ill on the stairs. He assisted her to her room and went for Mr Pereira, but on his return the woman was dead. He found 2s 7 ¾d. on her. - Mr Pereira, Surgeon, who saw deceased at 1 p.m. in bed, said there were no marks of violence, and that the probable cause of death was heart failure. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

EXETER - The Sudden Death At The Eye Infirmary, Exeter. - An Inquest was held at Exeter yesterday by Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, concerning the death of WILLIAM COBLEY, aged 48, porter at the West of England Eye Infirmary. Rose Penny, nurse at the Infirmary, said she went to call deceased at seven o'clock the previous morning and found him dead in bed. She saw him at nine o'clock the night before, just prior to his retiring to rest, and he was then, apparently in his usual state of health. - Dr Gordon, who made a post mortem examination, attributed death to heart failure, resulting from the fatty condition of that organ. - In answer to a Juryman he said deceased had lately been vaccinated but that had no connection whatever with his death. There was no unusual condition of the vaccine vesicles. - The Deputy Coroner: You don't associate the vaccination in any way with his death? - Dr Gordon: No. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

TORQUAY - Regarding the death of the infant child of WILLIAM HUFFADINE, carpenter, an Inquest was held at Torquay yesterday, a verdict of "Natural Causes" being arrived at by the Jury.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 21 February 1902
AVETON GIFFORD - An Inquest was held on Saturday by Mr R. R. Rodd on EDWARD MOORE, infant son of MR SAMUEL MOORE, Mill Cottage. Dr Miles, Modbury, stated that death was due to the weakly state of the child. The Jury found a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 24 February 1902
TORQUAY - At Torre Parish Room, Torquay, on Saturday, an inquest was held concerning the demise of an elderly woman named MRS CHARLOTTE SHANHAN. Evidence adduced showed that deceased on Sunday week fell in the stairs. Beyond a shaking she soon appeared all right. But the next day she became worse and medical aid was summoned. She died on Friday. Dr Pollard attributed death to shock, due to the accident. A verdict in accordance with that testimony was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 25 February 1902
EXETER - Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner for Exeter, held an Inquiry at Exeter Police Court yesterday into the circumstances attending the sudden death of WILLIAM EADE, aged 76, a newsman, of 8 Chapple-court, North-street, Exeter, which took place on Saturday morning. MRS EADE, widow of deceased, said she left her husband in bed at six o'clock in the morning and on returning at half-past eight found him dead. On Friday night he said he did not feel well enough to do his round on the following morning and witness did it for him. He did not complain much and did not see a doctor. Mr Periera, Police Surgeon, stated that deceased died from heart failure. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 28 February 1902
BARNSTAPLE - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at an Inquest held at Barnstaple by Mr Archibald Bencraft, Deputy Coroner, on the body of AMELIA MANLEY, wife of a farmer. According to the evidence deceased sustained a broken thigh a month ago as the result of falling off a ladder. Death was due to heart disease, accelerated by the accident.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 3 March 1902
TOTNES - Totnes Workhouse Inmate's Death. A Fall In The Yard. - Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, conducted an Inquest at Totnes on Saturday on the body of JOHN EVANS. - Evidence was given that deceased, who was 73 years of age, slipped and fell in the men's yard at the Workhouse on February 8th. He was immediately taken to the Hospital, where Dr Edmond found that he had broken one of his thighs. Dr Edmond said that the deceased succumbed on Friday to the shock to the system from the accident. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

KINGSTEIGNTON - Sudden Death At Kingsteignton. - A sudden death occurred at Kingsteignton on Saturday when MR JOHN HERN, who was residing with his nephew, Mr John Isaac, of Little Ambrook, became ill and died before medical aid could be summoned. At the Inquest held the same day the evidence of Dr Nisbet showed that death was due to a fatty heart and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly. MR HERN formerly kept the King's Arms, Kingsteignton, but retired from business about 13 years ago.

EXETER - Serious Charge Against A Mother. Alleged Neglect At Exmouth. - A Coroner's Inquest was held at Exmouth on the body of the infant child of HELENA GOODING, married woman, and on Saturday the mother was charged at the Police-court, before Mr C. A. Langton (in the chair), Gen. Bamfield and Mr J. C. Palmer, with the wilful neglect of the said child. - The woman, who was represented by Mr E. J. Vine, pleaded not guilty. - The evidence of the midwife, Mrs Pennell, was that the child was very small when it was born. If it was to live she thought it would require great care. - Dr Eaton, who was the principal witness for the prosecution, said the child only weighed 4lb 8 ½ oz., which was 2lb lighter than an average child at birth. Its proper weight should have been 11lb or 12lb. the body was extremely emaciated and there was not a particle of fat, either externally or internally. Very little food was in the stomach and his opinion was that the child had been neglected. He never saw such a case of extreme emaciation. The child's legs were also covered with ulcers and sores. The ulceration was due, in his opinion, to filthy bedding. He could not give an opinion as to whether the child would have lived if carefully nursed. - The defendant, on oath, said the child was very small at birth. She nursed the child for about 10 days and then gave it a pint and a quarter of new milk. When it was about five weeks old it had an attack of convulsions, which, with the assistance of Dr Eaton, it survived. The ulceration of the legs was due to her having washed some of the child's clothing in soda water. The child was not dirty. She washed it daily. Cross-examined: She had not been drinking on the day of the child's death. She had only a pennyworth of ale. - The father deposed that the child had always been weakly. In cross-examination witness admitted that it might have been two or three weeks since he saw the child. - The Bench committed the defendant for trial, although she had elected to be dealt with summarily.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 4 March 1902
TORQUAY - Mr G. Kellock, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Torquay yesterday into the death of HENRY BARR, who died on board H.M.S. Camperdown, after having rowed around the fleet with a crew. Archibald Kinley, Fleet Surgeon, said that death ensued from heart disease. Verdict, "Natural Causes."

TORQUAY - Mr G. Kellock, Deputy Coroner held an Inquest at Torquay on an old woman named MARY HAGGITT. Evidence adduced showed that deceased called upon Miss Haywood, at The Brake, on Saturday evening. Later she was found unconscious by a boy named Miller at the foot of the steps leading to the back door of the house. Dr Long, at the Hospital, said death resulted from a fractured skull. Deceased never regained consciousness after admittance. "Accidental Death" was the verdict returned by the Jury.

BRISTOL - Found In The Avon. Dartmouth Man's Sad Death. - The Bristol Deputy Coroner held an Inquest at Redland yesterday on the body of JOHN MANDLEY, aged 43, a nursing attendant, formerly of Portview House, Bear's Cove, Dartmouth. - The evidence showed that the deceased was seen at Kingswear Station on January 9th when he was going to Bristol, being an attendant at Dr Fox's Asylum, and elsewhere. He had shown no suicidal tendencies and had no worries. Nothing was heard of him by his wife after January 11th until last Saturday, when his dead body was found in the river Avon, near Rownham Ferry, having, apparently, been in the water about a fortnight. On his clothes were found various references, and four pawn-tickets, issued on the 13th and 14th of January by Mr Graham of Broadmead, Bristol. - Dr Parker, the divisional police-surgeon, could not definitely assign the cause of death and the Jury had to return an Open Verdict of "Found Drowned in the River Avon." The references found on his body gave him the highest character.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 7 March 1902
EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned at an Inquest yesterday on IVY BREWER, aged three years, daughter of WILLIAM and MATILDA BREWER, 8 Willey's Cottages, Haven Banks, St. Thomas, who died on the 4th inst., from convulsions before the arrival of the doctor.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 14 March 1902
EXMOUTH - WILLIAM MATHEW WEBBER, a chimney sweep, was sweeping a chimney at Staple's Buildings, when the apparatus stuck. He climbed on to the roof to free it, but shortly afterwards was found lying on the ground unconscious. He died the following day. At the Inquest Dr Shapland said it was evident deceased pitched on his feet and that the vertebrae of the spinal column had been driven up into the brain, thus causing haemorrhage. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Haemorrhage of the Brain caused by a Fall from a Roof."

BRIXHAM - A man named H. P. LEE, aged 70 years, was found dead in the quarries near Churston Station on Monday morning. His hat, coat and stick were on the fence above and it is presumed that he jumped off the edge, falling 46 feet below. At an Inquest at the Railway Hotel, a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane" was returned.

WHITCHURCH - The Fatal Accident Near Tavistock. Opening Of The Inquest. - An Inquiry was opened by Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, at Pennycomequick, Whitchurch, near Tavistock, into the circumstances attending the death of GEORGE PENGELLY, who met with a fatal accident through a fall or rubble at Langford Quarry on the previous day. Mr H. Rogers was Foreman of the Jury. - Mr H. Walker, Assistant Inspector of Mines, was present, and Mr J. D. Johnstone, clerk to the Tavistock Rural District Council, appeared for that body, in whose employ the deceased was at the time of the fatality. - Henry Oxenham deposed that the deceased was his brother-in-law, aged 39, a general labourer and carter. - Dr C. C. Brodrick, of Tavistock, stated that death was due to a compound fracture of the skull. The facial bones were also fractured. - The Coroner expressed sympathy for the widow, and, remarking that the Inquiry would be an important one, adjourned it until next Wednesday, when the relatives desire to be legally represented.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 18 March 1902
HONITON - The Honiton Shooting Case. Sad Death Of A Farmer. An Open Verdict. - Yesterday the County Coroner, Mr C. E. Cox, held an Inquest at Heathfield Farm, Honiton, on the body of ROBERT ROLSTONE, aged 40, son of MR T. C. ROLSTONE, who died on SAturday as the result of a gunshot wound. - The Coroner, before calling the witnesses, expressed his sympathy with the family of the deceased. - Edwin Channon, platelayer, employed by the London and South Western Railway Company, said he was in the vicinity of the farm about 10 o'clock on Saturday morning, when he was asked to go into the front, as something had happened there. He walked through the garden without seeing anything unusual, but on returning saw MRS ROLSTONE and deceased in the w.c. Deceased, who was properly dressed, was sitting down. He was suffering from a wound in the throat and face, which was bleeding freely. MRS ROLSTONE asked him to help the deceased indoors, and, with his assistance, he was able to walk in. Witness then fetched a doctor. he had known deceased for some years. He saw him frequently and met him quite recently, when he appeared to be in his usual health. He was not at all depressed. Witness denied that he heard MR ROLSTONE, sen., say that he had shot himself. Pressed on the point, witness said he heard him say that the gun had gone off and he must be shot. - P.S. Cridland said witness had told him a different story to that and had told a different tale in Honiton. - The Coroner remarked that the witness had not given his evidence in a proper and satisfactory manner. It had been like dragging things out of him. He had given his Evidence most Unsatisfactorily. - MR T. C. ROLSTONE, father of deceased, said his son was 40 years of age. He was married and lived at home with him. He assisted witness on the farm. Deceased had not been ill of late, or in any way different than usual. He had been in his customary spirits and was so on Saturday morning when at breakfast. Nothing out of the ordinary occurred at breakfast and there was nothing strange about him. He said he was going about his usual work, and observed particularly that he was going to look to the sheep. Witness heard no more until about 10.30 a.m. when, while sitting in his chair, a gun was discharged. It seemed rather close, but he paid no particular attention to it, as he thought his son was only scaring rooks off a field of recently-sown corn. He remained where he was for a short time, but, hearing sounds of what appeared to be a struggle, he went to the door. He could not go any further on account of an accident he recently received to one of his legs. He called to someone to go and see what was the matter and MRS ROLSTONE, sen., did so. Witness saw deceased shortly afterwards, when he came indoors. He did not speak to witness or anybody else. Witness believed deceased was conscious, but he did not say how he came by his wound. - MRS ROLSTONE, sen., said as far as she knew deceased had nothing to trouble him, and on Saturday he was in his customary health and good spirits. Witness saw him in the yard soon after breakfast, when they talked about going to the market. He did not regularly go and he said he should not go that morning. Deceased then went indoors and witness proceeded to attend to the poultry. Witness did not hear the report of a gun, but shortly after her husband called to her. She went to the w.c., and there saw her son bleeding from a wound in the neck. She took off her apron and endeavoured to staunch the flow of blood. She only heard deceased say "Yes" and "No" once. Witness helped him indoors. He was perfectly conscious. Nothing was said about the gun that morning, but a day or so before deceased said he would shoot the cats which had been playing such havoc with the chicken if he had the chance. - Mabel Sparks, domestic servant at the house, deposed to seeing deceased in the w.c. in the position described. The stock of the gun was standing in the corner and the barrel was resting against deceased's side. The gun was put down just like anyone would place it on the ground. Deceased endeavoured to speak, but they could not make out what he said. Miss Davey told her that MR ROBERT had shot himself. That was the first she heard of it. - Miss Davey, niece of MR ROLSTONE sen., said she had been staying in the house. She had not noticed anything peculiar in deceased's manner of late. Soon after 10 o'clock on Saturday morning she passed him in the passage. He had a gun in his hand. She asked him if it was loaded and he replied "Yes." No other remark was passed. She heard a gunshot soon after, but did not pay any attention to it. She, however, told her uncle of it. She did not think that anything had happened to deceased. - Albert Edward Moore, employed on the farm, having given evidence, Dr Shortridge said MRS ROLSTONE, jun., was quite unable to give evidence. - The doctor then gave his evidence. He said on receiving information that a gun accident had occurred at MR ROLSTONE'S he told his assistant Dr Park, to go, and sent for him if there was anything very serious. Not knowing that it was MR ROLSTONE who was shot, he told his assistant if it was a bad case to send it to the Hospital. His assistant went and on examining deceased, not knowing who he was and finding that if he survived the shock he might live some little time, he suggested his removal to the Hospital. The deceased was evidently conscious, for on the mention of the word Hospital, he immediately walked upstairs. Witness was subsequently sent for, and on arriving found that the wound was a very serious one, although there was a possibility of his living some little time if he did not succumb to the shock. The shot was almost directly on the middle line of the throat. The whole front of the larynx was all but laid bare, and a part of the larynx was frightfully injured and torn. A portion of the jaw was completely blow away and the jaws were quite separated. The tongue was shattered and had fallen back into the cavity, the muscles which supported the tongue being pulped. The front teeth in the middle were blown out and the nose was partly blown away and split. The larger blood vessels on either side of the neck had not been touched by the shot. It was impossible for deceased to have spoken after the accident; he could not have uttered a word. If deceased had survived the shock the wound would unquestionably have proved fatal sooner or later. Deceased died at 3 p.m. on Saturday from shock. The injuries might have been self-inflicted. The shot had gone upwards and outwards and not backwards. He had frequently seen deceased of late, but there was nothing in his manner which would indicate that he contemplated suicide. - The Coroner said no matter how deeply they sympathised with the family, it was their duty to return a verdict in accordance with the evidence as laid before them. They might find their duty a painful one on the present occasion, but they should perform it. There had been the greatest difficulty in getting evidence, and he was bound to say he would have liked to have had more evidence, but it appeared impossible to do so, as MRS ROLSTONE jun., was not sufficiently well to attend the Inquest. He did not desire to dictate to them as to what verdict they should return, but it was for them to consider whether the place and the circumstances under which deceased was found did not suggest that he might have taken his own life. Whether they thought that sufficient he could not say. - A Juror suggested that MR ROLSTONE, sen., who was present, should be asked to retire, but the Coroner said he did not desire him to do so while he was addressing the Jury. He desired him and the whole family to hear what he had to say. A Coroner's Inquest was not meant to e a farce. They were met to return the verdict which, on the evidence before them, they considered they should return. Everyone deeply sympathised with the friends but they must not let that affect their verdict. As long as he was Coroner he should try and put aside all feelings in an Inquest and endeavour to get at the truth. He then went on to say that the evidence before them was not absolutely conclusive. - The Jury, after considering in private, returned a verdict that Deceased Died from the effect of a Gunshot Wound, but how Inflicted there was not sufficient evidence to show. - The Coroner said that was an Open Verdict.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 20 March 1902
WHITCHURCH - Fatal Quarry Accident Near Tavistock. - Mr R. R. Rodd held an adjourned Inquest at the Whitchurch Inn yesterday respecting the death of GEORGE PENGELLY, carter, aged 39, who was crushed to death at Langford Quarry on March 11th. Mr Rogers was Foreman of the Jury. Mr J. D. Johnstone, clerk to the Tavistock District Council, watched the proceedings for that body and Mr T. P. Pearce appeared for Mr W. H. Batten, District Surveyor. - After hearing the evidence of a number of witnesses, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and expressed their opinion that Mr Batten had done all in his power to avert the accident. The Jury gave their fees to the widow, who is left with four children. - Mr Johnstone, on behalf of the District Council, expressed sympathy for the widow, and the Coroner hoped that it would be shown in a practical manner. Mr Walker, assistant inspector, was present.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 26 March 1902
NORTH BOVEY - A North Bovey Tragedy. Doctor's Action Criticised. - An Inquest was held at Blackadder Farm, North Bovey, yesterday, by Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, on the body of ELIAS CUMING, farmer, who was found dead at his residence on Monday. - MRS EMILY CUMING, wife of the deceased, said her husband was 58 years of age, having resided at the farm for 20 years. During the last month he had been suffering from influenza, complaining a good deal of pains in his head. Deceased was also very low spirited, and worried a great deal about the work on the farm. There was no reason why her husband should have been worried at all, as there was no need for it. - The Coroner: Was he troubled at all over County Court summonses? - Witness: No; we have never been troubled like that in our lives. Continuing, MRS CUMING said on Sunday her husband went to her eldest son's house to dinner, returning again about 9 o'clock. Deceased retired to bed shortly afterwards. On Monday morning witness asked him if he had slept well, when he replied that he had not. She did not see him alive again after he left his bedroom. - The Coroner: Did you hear any report of a gun? - Witness: No; I slept at the further end of the house. He had never threatened to do any harm to himself. I don't think he intended to take his life when he left the bedroom. Something must have occurred after he came downstairs. - The Coroner: Are there any members of the family suffering from weakness in the head? - Witness: His mother's brother shot himself, as also did his mother's cousin. - The Coroner: Both shot themselves? - Witness: Yes. - ALFRED CUMING said he was at work on Monday morning in the stables when his sister called him, saying something had happened to their father, who was in the lavatory. He proceeded to the place, where he found the deceased in a sitting attitude, with the gun placed in front of him. He noticed that he had been shot, as there was blood about the place. Witness at once went for a doctor. - The Coroner: Did you know whether or not there was any money trouble? - Witness: I cannot say. - The Coroner: Did he ever tell you that he had been warned by his creditors? - Witness: No; he had said that the farm work was behind. - ELIAS JOHN CUMING, eldest son said the deceased had dinner with him on Sunday. He complained to witness that the work of the farm was behind. Deceased did not complain to him of feeling unwell, although he seemed rather low spirited and quiet. He did not think that his father then intended to take his life, as he told him that they would meet at the Moretonhampstead Market. He considered that deceased pointed the muzzle of the gun to the upper part of his face. - The Coroner: Do you think your father was depressed owing to your brother's death? - Witness: My brother died in South Africa about two years ago. I do not think he was depressed through that. - Mr William John Stephens, Surgeon, Moretonhampstead stated that he was sent for on Monday morning. On his arrival at the house he found that the deceased was in a sitting attitude in the lavatory, his head leaning on his shoulder. The gun was in a standing-up position, the muzzle pointing towards the head, the end of which was about a foot from his face. He examined deceased and found that his face was split in several directions from the roof of the mouth. Witness considered that the muzzle of the gun must have been very close to the mouth when it exploded. The whole of the charge lodged in the deceased's head. - P.S. Thomas, stationed at Moretonhampstead, said when he arrived the body had been removed to another part of the house. - The Coroner: That was not advisable. - Mr Stephens: I knew it was not right to do it, but I did so for the benefit of the family. - The Coroner: It is not advisable to remove the body before the Police have arrived. - Mr Stephens: If I only thought I should have known. - The Coroner: The rule is not to remove the body until the Police have arrived. - P.S. Thomas, continuing, said he had made investigations, but could not find any reason for deceased taking his life. - The Coroner, addressing the Jury, said there was no doubt that deceased took his own life. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 31 March 1902
ILFRACOMBE - Fatal Accident At Ilfracombe. Stepping From A Moving Train. - The injuries received by MR CHARLES SYMONS, of 76 Benerley-road, Wandsworth Common, London, who stepped from a train at Ilfracombe while it was in motion on Thursday, at half-past ten, proved fatal during Good Friday afternoon at the Tyrrell Cottage Hospital. Deceased was employed by the London and South Western Railway Company in the engineering department at Waterloo and was visiting Ilfracombe for the Easter Holidays. - On Saturday afternoon an Inquest was held at the Hospital by Dr E. J. Slade-King, Deputy Coroner. Mr J. C. Clarke was Foreman of the Jury. - Edward James Tamlyn, Hotel proprietor, Ilfracombe, identified the body. For the past seven years deceased had been in the habit of visiting Ilfracombe twice a year. He was about 45 years of age and was a very careful, steady and precise man. He was unmarried. - George Herbert Jones, draper's assistant, of 55 Buckingham Palace-road, London, who was travelling in the same compartment as deceased, said that as the train was slowing up at Ilfracombe deceased took his bag from the seat and jumped on to the platform. - From the latter deceased fell on to the line. Witness told a porter that there was a man on the line and the train stopped a second later. Witness went back along the platform and saw the deceased lying between the platform and the metals. Two porters came and picked him up. There was a splash of blood on the platform at the place where he alighted. - Dr Clayton Jones deposed to seeing deceased at the Tyrrell Cottage Hospital on the evening of Thursday. No wound was visible on the face, but there was blood on it and in one nostril. The right arm was greatly crushed and Dr Toller and witness amputated it just above the elbow. Deceased ad also fractured the base of his skull and this injury caused death. Deceased was unconscious from the time of admission. - William Parkhouse, porter at the Ilfracombe Station, stated that on Thursday night the platform was lighted as usual. The platform was double the length of the train. Almost as soon as the train came alongside the platform a carriage door was opened and witness shouted to passengers to keep their seats. At the same time he saw a man (deceased) step out of the carriage and then fall on the platform. Witness ran towards the spot, but before he could reach him the man rolled off between the train and the platform. - Mr James Lock (Ilfracombe Station Master) said, according to measurements he had made, deceased was found lying 54 yards in from the far end of the platform. The compartment which deceased had occupied was brought to a standstill 72 yards farther along the platform. At the time of the accident the train was coming in with a steady swing at the rate of about five miles an hour. Witness had found some flesh adhering to a wheel of the carriage showing that it had probably passed over deceased's arm. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned by the Jury, who also found that no blame was attached to anyone.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 3 April 1902
NEWTON ABBOT - Sudden Death At Newton Abbot. - Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest at the Town Hall, Newton, last evening on the body of MRS JEMIMA CLIST, wife of WILLIAM CHARLES CLIST, employed by the Great Western Railway Company, who died suddenly the previous day. - The evidence showed that, while having a conversation with Mrs Cull, of Queen-street, Newton, deceased fell back, striking her head, rendering her unconscious and expiring a few minutes afterwards. - Dr Martin stated death was due to spasms of the heart. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

EXETER - Girl's Singular Death At Exeter. - Yesterday at Exeter Police Station, the Deputy Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, held an Inquest concerning the death of ELLEN TOTTEN, who died suddenly late on Monday night. MARIA JOSLIN, wife of WILLIAM JOSLIN, labourer, of Rack-street, said she was a sister of deceased, who was a single woman, 20 years of age. She was the daughter of a fish hawker, now dead and lived with her mother in West-street. She died shortly before midnight on Monday. In the afternoon of the same day deceased visited the house of witness and took the latter's two children to Easter Fair. She appeared in her usual health at the time. - Beatrice Joslin, aged 10, daughter of the last witness, said she went to the fair with deceased, her aunt, on Monday afternoon. Witness held her aunt's hat while she went in one of the swinging boats. When she came out she complained of headache and feeling giddy and was attacked by sickness. Witness, at her request, got her a bottle of ginger-beer, but the sickness continued, and, after three-quarters of an hour, they went home. - Mr H. B. Harrison, who had made a post-mortem examination, said he found the brain congested and, on opening it, there was a clot filling the whole of the interior of the left lateral ventricle and a smaller one on the right ventricle. This was sufficient to account for the cause of death. The condition of the brain might have resulted from the strain on the minute vessels from the violent sickness, though this was rare. There were no signs of a blow. - A Juryman: It is possible, I suppose, if she had not been in the swinging boat that she might be alive now? - The Witness: Yes. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

EXETER - Singular Death At Exeter. Attempted Strangulation Causes Heart Failure. - Yesterday the Deputy Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, held an inquest at the Police Station, Exeter, relative to the death of ALICE MORTIMER, age 39, of 6 Silver-terrace, Richmond-road, who was found dead in her room on Tuesday morning. - The evidence of MRS MORTIMER and EDITH MORTIMER, showed that deceased had been suffering from influenza and had been under treatment for mental affliction. - Mr Dyball, Surgeon, said there was a mark round deceased's neck when he saw her. It might have been caused by a tape with which he found in a drawer. He had made a post mortem examination, but the signs of death did not conclusively point to strangulation. His opinion was that deceased made an attempt to take her life by strangulation, but, finding it more painful than she at first anticipated, took off the tape and put it in the drawer and went to get back to bed again, when she dropped dead through failure of the heart's action, caused by exertion. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the case was a very singular one. He thought they must come to the conclusion, from the doctor's evidence, that the death was not a natural one. It was true she died from heart failure, but it was produced by some primary cause, the result of attempted strangulation. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 9 April 1902
TORQUAY - Suicide At Torquay. The Result Of Influenza. - An Inquest was held at Torquay yesterday by Mr Hacker, Coroner, relative to the death of ALFRED VALLEY, son of a confectioner, who was found hanging in an ice house in Upton Church-road the previous day. - Deceased, who was 28 years of age and the youngest son of MR JOSEPH VALLEY, had been ill from influenza during the winter. He, however, appeared to be recovering, and several witnesses said they knew of nothing to trouble the deceased. On Monday deceased did not go home to dinner, as usual, and inquiries resulted in his being found hanging by a piece of rope in his brother's store. - Dr Thistle deposed that death was due to strangulation. Influenza, he added, often caused depression. - A number of letters were shown to the Coroner, but none of them bore on the state of mind of deceased. One communication was from his sweetheart at Exeter. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane," one Juryman dissenting.

EXETER - Fatal Cycling Accident At Exeter. The Recklessness Of Youth. - An Inquiry was held by Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday into the circumstances attending the death of CHARLES EDWARD SCLATER, 14, son of MR C. W. SCLATER, of 3 Lansdowne-terrace, Alphington-road, St Thomas, Exeter, who met his death as the result of a bicycle accident on St. David's-hill the previous day. - Mr Linford Brown watched the case on behalf of Messrs. Collins and Son, by whom deceased was engaged. - Evidence of identification having been given by the father of deceased, Mr Collins said deceased was employed by his firm as office boy. He was in the habit of seeing witness off by train and carrying any parcels for him. The lad frequently used to meet witness with his (witness's) bicycle at the Station. He was supposed to have met the 4.40 train from Teignmouth at St David's Station on Monday. The bicycle had no brake and deceased had been distinctly told not to ride it. - William Balsom, employed at Messrs. Parkin and Son's, Bonhay-road, said he was going down St David's-hill and saw deceased on a bicycle dash across the road near the incline leading from Cowley-road. The bicycle came in violent contact with the wall on the opposite side and the tyre burst with a loud report. He picked up deceased, who was unconscious and was bleeding from his nose and mouth. The lad was at once taken to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital. - Mr N. E. Gibbs, House Surgeon at the Institution, said when deceased was brought in he was unconscious. There was a very large bruise over the left temple and two cuts on the chin. Both knees and the left arm were bruised. He never rallied and died from compression of the brain about an hour after admission. - The Coroner said it was a sad case, but purely the outcome of the foolhardiness of youth in riding a bicycle like that down a steep incline. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed the opinion that no blame was due to anybody.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 11 April 1902
WOOLFARDISWORTHY (WEST) - Inquests were held yesterday by Mr Bromham to Inquire into the death of two infants who died suddenly - one on Saturday night and the other on Sunday morning. In the first case the mother (E. JOHNS) said she had treated the child for a cold and that as soon as she saw it was getting worse she sent for Dr Emtage, but the infant died before he arrived. Medical evidence having been given that the infant died from inflammation of the lungs and bronchitis, a verdict was returned to that effect. The other child was found dead in bed by its parents, MR and MRS BUCKLEY, who said it was in good health when they retired to rest the previous evening. The medical attendant considered it had died in a convulsive fit, and the Jury, of whom Mr W. Davey was Foreman, returned a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 12 April 1902
TEIGNMOUTH - A Gardener's Suicide At Teignmouth. The Inquest. - The Inquest on MR JOHN DRAKE, gardener, who was found hanging in his garden, Mill-lane, Teignmouth, took place at the Town Hall last evening. Mr S. Hacker was the Coroner. - The evidence showed that the deceased, who was 41 years of age, was a market gardener. In consequence of his intemperate habit she had separated from his wife, and several witnesses agreed that he was not a man of strong will power. He had frequently threatened to commit suicide and on Thursday was found suspended to an apple tree in his garden, medical evidence showing that the man had died from strangulation. In his pocket-book was an entry: - "My dear, I hope this will do you good. - JOHN DRAKE. Good-bye to all." - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 16 April 1902
BICKLEIGH (NEAR PLYMOUTH) - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquest at Bickleigh, concerning the death of WILLIAM GREGORY, clay labourer, residing with his wife at Bickleigh, who was killed early on Saturday afternoon on the Launceston branch of the Great Western Railway. - Evidence was given to the effect that deceased was on the road with his brother, GEORGE GREGORY, farmer, of Lee Beer. MISS GREGORY, their sister, an elderly lady and very deaf, was seen crossing the fields carrying dinner for GEORGE GREGORY and making for the railway. She had not been in the habit of coming that way before and the deceased, knowing that the 1 p.m. down train from Tavistock was due, ran to prevent her from crossing and both were knocked down. WILLIAM GREGORY was killed on the spot, his skull having been shattered, while both legs were also broken. MISS GREGORY was brushed aside by the engine and sustained a fractured knee cap, a severe scalp wound and was severely bruised all over the body. She is now conscious at the Tavistock Cottage Hospital, and progressing favourably. - The driver was sure the engine did not go over the deceased, but that he was struck by the side of the side of the engine, where there were marks of blood. - The Coroner said the deceased had met a heroic death in attempting to rescue his sister. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - Sir Massey Lopes has sent £5 to deceased's widow, for whom great sympathy is felt in the neighbourhood.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 18 April 1902
TAVISTOCK - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at an Inquest at the Cottage Hospital on the body of JOHN HOLMES, who was killed at Merrivale Quarry through being run over by a traction engine.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 19 April 1902
ASHBURTON - The Farm Tragedy At Ashburton. - Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner, held an Inquest at Lower Mead Farm yesterday touching the death of JOHN ROGERS WAKEHAM, aged 2 ½ years, who met with his death on Thursday afternoon. - Evidence was given bearing out the facts as stated in yesterday's Gazette, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death by Misadventure."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 21 April 1902
SOUTH MOLTON - Southmolton Labourer's Death. Fatal Burns. - Mr Thomas Sanders, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest at Southmolton Workhouse touching the death of JAMES BRAYLEY, a farm labourer, and a native of Southmolton, aged 70 years. - The deceased had worked for Mr Thomas, of Horridge Farm, Romansleigh, for about two months. Last Sunday BRAYLEY was drinking all day and on Monday he did no work, but came to Mr Thorne's house, about 7.30 p.m. rather the worse for liquor. He declined to go to bed adding that he would rather sit by the fire. About 9.30 the family retired, after raking out the hearth fire and the deceased was left sitting on a stool. An hour later Mr John Thorne, junr., heard deceased shouting for assistance. On going downstairs he found the place full of smoke. BRAYLEY was sitting on the floor with his clothes on fire. On Wednesday deceased went to the Workhouse. He appeared in great pain, and, in answer to the Master, Mr William Kingdon, he said he had laid down by the fire on Monday night and fallen asleep. He was awakened by his trousers being on fire. He added that he was badly burnt about the legs and other parts of the body. Dr Smyth was sent for, but, from the first, he considered the injuries of a fatal character. BRAYLEY died on Friday morning. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Burns and shock to the system."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 24 April 1902
SIDMOUTH - Accidentally Suffocated At Sidmouth. - The County Coroner, Mr C. E. Cox, held an Inquest yesterday, at the Commercial Hotel, Sidmouth, on the body of EDITH MARJORIE BROOM, the infant daughter of ERNEST BROOM, coal heaver, of Sidmouth. - From the evidence of the father and mother it appeared that the child, which was two months old, was in its usual health on Sunday evening when they retired to reset at 10 o'clock. - The mother stated that at 1.30 she nursed the child and that at 5.15 when awaking, she found the child dead in bed. It had been healthy. - Mrs Hill, a neighbour, said she was called on Monday morning and saw the child dead. It had been well cared for and looked after by its parents. - The medical evidence went to show that death was due to suffocation and that the child had been in good health. - In answer to the Coroner, the mother said that she had kept the child away from her while in bed. - The Jury, Mr George Tramp, Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from Accidental Suffocation."

HAMMERSMITH, LONDON - Exeter Man's Suicide. A Farewell Letter. - An Inquiry was held at Hammersmith touching the death of ALFRED CRAVEN FORD, 29 years of age, a draper's assistant, son of MR THOMAS FORD, commercial agent, 32 Eldon-place, Exeter. - The deceased was formerly in business in Leicester, but, not succeeding, he went to London and took a situation, which he held until three weeks ago. When Volunteers were wanted for the Front, he offered his services, but failed to pass the medical examination on account of a weak heart. This caused him great depression and despondency. - The Coroner read a letter as follows:- "19-4-1902. Dear All, - I am sorry. Good-bye all. FRED. My darling love to my Kitty Dow." - Miss Dow, a housemaid, in service at Grosvenor-square, who had been keeping company with the deceased, told the Coroner and Jury that deceased was depressed because he was out of work, but he had never threatened suicide. - On Sunday, as he did not come down to breakfast, his landlady at 37 Richmond Gardens, went to his room and found him dead in bed, and the medical evidence showed that death resulted from a bullet wound in the heart. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 28 April 1902
WHITESTONE - Suicide At Whitestone. - The Deputy Coroner, Mr A. Burrow, held an Inquiry at Higher Hera Farm, Whitestone, on SAturday, relative to the death of GEORGE SEWARD, a widower, aged 70, who shot himself on April 24th. - RICHARD JOHN SEWARD, farmer, living at Higher Hera Farm, said deceased was his father, and they lived together. He had been unwell for about two months, suffering from a weak heart. On Thursday he appeared in his usual state of health. Witness went to bed about 10 o'clock, leaving his father downstairs. About 11 o'clock he heard the report of a gun, and on rushing downstairs he found deceased lying on his back on the floor in the kitchen, with a gun under him. He was quite dead. Deceased was in an asylum 15 or 16 years ago. He had never threatened to shoot himself. - John Harris, trapper, of Thorverton, said he had been sleeping at the farm for about five weeks. On entering the house about 11 o'clock the last witness said his father had shot himself. Witness went into the kitchen and found deceased in the position described. - P.C. Ridler, stationed at Whitestone, said that on visiting the house he saw deceased, the right side of whose face was blown to pieces. Attached to the trigger of the gun found beside him was a piece of cord, the other end of which was entangled in the feet of deceased. The gun was loaded in one barrel, the other cartridge having been discharged. - Dr Mark Farrant, jun., of St. Thomas, Exeter, having given evidence, the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 30 April 1902
EXMOUTH - Mr C. E. Cox, County Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at Exmouth concerning the death of ISAAC HARRIS, the infant son of THOMAS HARRIS, swinging-boat manager. The evidence showed that the child was in good health up to 12 o'clock on Saturday night. The mother went to sleep in the caravan with the child lying on her left arm. Just before 5 o'clock she awoke and noticed that the child's face was much discoloured, and, being frightened, she at once called assistance. Mr Beesley, Surgeon, was sent for and he found that the child was dead. He now stated that death occurred from convulsions, the result of indigestion. The Jury returned a verdict to this effect.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 5 May 1902
EXMOUTH - The Exmouth Cycling Accident. - The County Coroner, Mr Cox, held an Inquiry at the Withycombe institute, Exeter-road, Exmouth, on Saturday, into the circumstances attending the death of WILFRID DAW, of Crediton, who was killed in a cycling accident which occurred at Exmouth on Thursday. - Mr M. Ford (Messrs. Ford and Son, Exeter) represented Mrs and Miss Bryce, as the trap with which the deceased collided was being driven by Miss Bryce, and before the commencement of the Inquest said he desired in the fullest way possible to express, on behalf of Mrs and Miss Bryce, the deepest sympathy with the relatives in their sad bereavement. - The Coroner said he was sure the deepest sympathies of all of them would be with the parents of the deceased. - JOHN HENRY DAW, farmer, of Hele, West Sandford, Crediton, said the deceased was his son, and was 16 years of age. He went to Exmouth on a visit on April 28th. The deceased was not an expert cyclist, as he had only ridden a few times. - Miss Betsy Bragg, of Exmouth, aunt of the deceased, said deceased did not bring a bicycle with him to Exmouth. He hired a machine and witness's sister had gone out cycling with him. He had also ridden by himself to Salterton. He kept his seat on the bicycle very well, and passed horses and carts on the road. The deceased had not very good sight and wore glasses. - Percy Snow, a lad, of Withycombe village, said he witnessed the accident. Miss Bryce was driving up the road and the deceased on a bicycle was coming in the opposite direction. The cyclist was going rather fast, and when he reached the conveyance he ran right into the horse. Miss Bryce was on her proper side of the road and on noticing the cyclist tried to draw in, in order to allow him to pass. The bicycle struck the near hind leg of the horse. The animal swerved towards the hedge and then bolted up the road. The deceased clung to the shaft of the vehicle until he was dashed against the lamp-post by the side of the road. The cyclist was on the wrong side of the road. - John Snow, of Withycombe, said deceased appeared to swerve right into the horse driven by Miss Bryce. The deceased clung to the shafts of the vehicle and was dashed against the lamp-post. He fell on his face and hands and the wheels of the conveyance passed over his head. Witness ran to the boy, who was bleeding from his ears, nose and mouth. He died within a minute or two. - William Snow, brother of the last witness, said the road at the spot where the accident happened was 14 feet wide. Near the lamp-post the road was 20 feet wide. - A Juryman stated that at one point the road was only 16 feet wide, including the footpath, and it was a most dangerous spot. - Miss Bryce, of Bystock House, Withycombe Raleigh, said she was accustomed to driving. On May 1st she was driving a phaeton through Withycombe on her way home. She was on her proper side. She first saw deceased 20 yards ahead of the horse. He was on his wrong side. He rang the bell and not knowing why he did so she pulled up. The deceased, whose bicycle wobbled, swerved into the horse. The front wheel of the machine struck the horse's hind leg and the animal plunged and bolted. She saw the deceased clinging to the shaft. The front wheel of the vehicle struck the lamp-post a violent blow and she saw no more of the deceased. The horse ran a quarter of a mile before being stopped. - Replying to a Juryman, Miss Bryce said there was not room for deceased to pass between the carriage and the footpath unless he went on the footpath, which he could easily have done. - Sergeant Channing said there was no curbing or channelling to prevent a cyclist going on the path. - George Woodcock, second coachman at Bystock House, said he was on the phaeton which was driven by Miss Bryce. They were not driving at more than seven miles an hour. As to the accident, he saw deceased on a bicycle on his wrong side of the road. The machine wobbled and swerved into the horse, which bolted. - Dr Eaton said the deceased died from a fracture of the base of the skull. There was a large bruise on his chest, as if he had been struck a violent blow. The doctor suggested that the Jury might make a representation as to the dangerous state of the road. He had been placed in a very tight corner there on many occasions. There was a lot of traffic on the road and its dangerous state at that point might be remedied by taking in a piece of the field there. - The Coroner said deceased had only learnt to ride a bicycle about a fortnight and, under the circumstances, it was no wonder that he was not an expert. It was abundantly clear that Miss Bryce was driving properly and that the deceased was on his wrong side of the road at the time of the accident, and riding in an unskilled manner. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - The Jury expressed their sympathy with the relatives of the deceased in their loss, and with Miss Bryce in the shock she had received. - Mr Ford thanked the Jury for their kind expression. Miss Bryce felt and was feeling, the shock of the accident very much. - The Jury expressed the opinion that no blame was attachable to Miss Bryce. They also wished to call the attention of the local authorities to the narrowness of the road at the spot where the accident occurred.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 6 May 1902
CREDITON - A Crediton Child's Death. A Dangerous Practice. - An Inquest was held yesterday afternoon at the Young Women's Club before Mr A. Burrow, the Deputy Coroner for the District, touching the death of the female infant child of MR F. OSBORNE, which was found dead in bed on the morning of Thursday last, as reported in the "Devon and Exeter Gazette." Mr William Harris was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - FRANK OSBORNE, the father, said he was a carter and delivered goods for the Great Western Railway. The child was born on the 1st April and died on the 2nd May. On Thursday night the child was all right when put in bed and on Friday morning they found it dead. It was on the left-hand side of the bed, on the outside of his wife. He never heard that it was a dangerous practice to take a child to bed with them. The child was not insured. He at once went to Dr Campbell. - ROSE OSBORNE, mother, said she took the child to bed with herself and husband. She did not notice anything unusual during the night. She found it dead in the same position as she placed it on the previous night. - Dr W. Scott Campbell said he had never attended the deceased. On Friday morning he saw the body, and should consider the child had been dead for at least six or eight hours. It presented the appearance of having been suffocated. There were no marks to indicate strangulation. It was an unwise thing for so young an infant to be placed in bed with the parents. - The Coroner said it could not be too widely known that taking infant children into bed was a very risky thing. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Accidental Suffocation."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 9 May 1902
CHUDLEIGH - Suicide Of A Chudleigh Labourer. Drinking Oxalic Acid. The Inquest. - Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner, held an Inquest at the Town Hall, Chudleigh, respecting the death of a general labourer named WILLIAM CLEAVE, residing at Woodway-street, who was found unconscious in Lewel Field on Monday evening and who died early on Tuesday morning. - His widow - Mariah Cleave - stated that her husband, who was 48 years of age, had constant work with Mr J. Whiteway, the Town Mills, but at this time of the year he frequently assisted the farmers in the neighbourhood in the care of their lambs. Her husband was addicted to drink and very rarely gave her more than 2s. or 2s. 6d. a week out of his wages for the support of his family, which numbered eight, of whom six were at home. He returned home on Sunday afternoon about half-past five rather the worse for liquor and had some tea. He said he must at once start for Coombe Fishacre, a farm between Newton and Totnes. She objected to his going out again, and locked the door, putting the key in her pocket. At nine o'clock she had to open the door for her children to fetch some water from the public tap, and her husband took the advantage to depart. She had never heard him threaten to take his life. She did not see him again until he was brought home on Monday night. - Deceased's brother (CHARLES CLEAVE) stated that he was called to his brother on Monday evening about seven o'clock, whom he found unconscious in Lewel Field, adjoining the road to the Station. The following morning he again went into the field to look for a stick which belonged to his brother, and about two yards from where he had been lying the previous evening he found among the long grass a soda water bottle (produced) containing a small quantity of a white substance. He took the bottle to Mr Cleave, chemist, who said it contained a little oxalic acid and he then gave the bottle to Dr Long. - Mrs Emma Gibbs, landlady of Sandy Gate Inn, between Kingsteignton and Chudleigh, said that deceased called at her house about five o'clock on Monday afternoon and having had half a pint of beer, asked her to let him have a little hot water, as he wanted to dissolve something. She told him to help himself from the kettle, which she supposed he did, but she did not see him do so. Neither did she see him with the bottle produced, although it was similar to those she had in the room. She did not notice anything strange about his manner, and as he told her he was going to visit a farmer in the neighbourhood she thought that he was going to use what he said he wished to dissolve as medicine or something for the cattle. - Dr Long said he was called in to see the deceased on Monday evening. He found him unconscious, but after applying remedies for about two hours he recovered sufficiently to ask for drink. He also stated he was in no pain. He did not think he could possibly recover, and was not surprised to hear of his death about four hours after he had left. He received the bottle from the brother - C. CLEAVE - and handed it at once to the Police. The bottle had contained, and there was still a little left, a strong solution of oxalic acid. By the direction of the Coroner, he had made a post mortem examination of the body, and there was no doubt whatever that the deceased had died from the effects of oxalic acid poisoning. - The Jury, of which Mr R. Carpenter was Foreman, after deliberating about 20 minutes, returned the verdict that deceased had Poisoned Himself with Oxalic Acid.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 10 May 1902
ILFRACOMBE - The Ilfracombe Suicide. Inquest. - An Inquest was held at Mullacott Farm, Ilfracombe, yesterday afternoon by Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner, on the body of MARY ANN SMITH, who was found hanging by a rope in her kitchen the previous day. - THOMAS SMITH, dairyman of Mullacott Farm, said deceased was 64 years of age. He left the farm the previous morning just after 7 o'clock with milk for Ilfracombe. Deceased had assisted him in loading the cart and he left her in the barn when he drove away. She was then in her usual health, which for some time had not been very good. He returned about 10 o'clock and found both doors locked. He became alarmed and drove t a neighbour, named Blackmore, who came back with him. They broke open the door and went into the kitchen, when they found deceased hanging by a rope. His wife had been in low spirits for some time and had been worse since Christmas. The doctor had advised a change and they had intended going to Southmolton but the weather was bad. - Richard Blackmore, Twitchen Farm, said deceased's feet were six inches from the floor. There was a little box near her, from which he thought she had jumped. She was quite dead. He cut her down. He knew she suffered from depression of spirits. Witness produced a paper on which was written the words, "Don't punish no one for me," written in pencil. This was found on the table. - The Coroner said there appeared to be no doubt deceased had lost her reason and they felt sympathy towards the family. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 12 May 1902
NORTHLEIGH - Fatal Fall Near Honiton. - An Inquest was held by the County Coroner, Mr C. E. Cox, at Holly Cottage, Northleigh, on Saturday, into the circumstances attending the death of GEORGE TOOZE, the three-year-old son of P.C. TOOZE of Northleigh. It appeared that the deceased was standing at the front door waiting for his mother to take him for a walk, when he fell, striking his head against a large shell placed near the door. The injury received by the child did not appear to be serious, but as he did not appear as usual on the following morning, Dr Cousins was fetched by the father. The child, however, expired before the doctor's arrival. Dr Cousins said the cause of death was fracture of the skull. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed sympathy with the parents of deceased in their bereavement.

DAWLISH - Found Unconscious At Dawlish. Death Of A Scissors Grinder. - Mr Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest at the Vestry Hall, Dawlish, on Saturday touching the death of an itinerant scissors grinder named WILLIAM SMALL, brother to the well-known local horse dealer, JAMES SMALL. - It appears that deceased was found unconscious in a field at Wick, on the Exeter-road. He was taken to the Hospital, but expired on Friday. - Dr Tripp gave details of his post-mortem examination and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 13 May 1902
EXETER - The Fatal Accident At Kenton. Inquest At Exeter. - An Inquest was held by the Deputy Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday concerning the death of JOHN MILTON CRAZE, of 10 Radford-road, Larkbeare, Exeter. - The evidence showed that deceased, who was 46 years of age, and employed by Mr Mitchell, house decorator, was on Thursday at work at Warborough House, Kenton, when he fell from a scaffold plank. One end of the plank was held by a rope from a ladder and the other end was supported by a pair of steps, 7 feet 6 inches from the ground. The steps overturned in consequence of the weight of deceased's pressure on them. The unfortunate man struck some fretwork and fell from it to the asphalt flooring, sustaining a fracture extending from the forehead to the base of the skull. An operation was performed, but he died on Sunday evening. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TIVERTON - Suicide At Tiverton. A Popular Error. - Last evening the Tiverton Borough Coroner, Mr L. Mackenzie, held an Inquest at Tiverton Infirmary touching the death of WALTER MORGAN, of Kentisbeare, who was on Saturday found dead at Warnicombe. - SAMUEL MORGAN, dairyman, of Kentisbeare, father of deceased, said his son was 22 years of age. He had been in the Royal Marines and was invalided home about a year ago with lung disease. Since then he had been working as a mason's labourer at Uffculme. He last saw his son alive on Tuesday. That morning deceased left the house without seeing anyone, or saying where he was going. Witness inquired about him at Cullompton Fair of Recruiting Sergeant Wallis, as deceased had expressed his intention of rejoining the Army. Deceased was a quiet, sober man. His thoughts always seemed set upon rejoining the Army. - Henry Kerslake, farm labourer, in the employ of Mr Chilcott, proved finding deceased tied up to a gate in Lower Branscombe. The body was cold. - The Coroner remarked that witness should have cut the body down directly he found it. There was a popular error that in such cases one should not meddle, but it had in some instances cost the life of the victim. - W. G. Chilcott, of Warnicombe, said the last witness came to him on Saturday morning and said a man was hanging to a gate. Witness made haste and cut him down. He found deceased hanging, with his head about 9 inches from the gate and 13 inches from the ground. Both hands just touched the ground. The body was quite stiff. Deceased's hat and bag were near. Witness fetched the Police. - Thomas Marks, landlord of Barrington Bell, said deceased stayed with him a week. He did no work except one small job for witness. He paid witness all right and behaved rationally, ate well and slept well. He left him and said he was going home, taking his bag with him. He was sane and sober. - Sergeant Wallis, Recruiting Sergeant, said deceased joined the Royal Marines on the 7th August, 1899. He came to rejoin last Monday night, appearing quite well and sensible. There was nothing against him in the Service. He promised to see deceased again on Tuesday, but MORGAN did not turn up. Witness told deceased he could not on his own responsibility accept him; he must have a medical certificate. - The Coroner, in summing up, said they would be bold men if they found that deceased was temporarily insane, as the evidence on that point was most frail. There was practically no doubt that deceased committed suicide. - The Jury found that the deceased had Committed Suicide, but there was no evidence to show the state of his mind.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 15 May 1902
BIDEFORD - Fatal Accident At Bideford. The Inquest. - An Inquiry was held yesterday by Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner, touching the death of WILLIAM HENRY LLOYD, a mason's labourer, of 5 Marland-terrace, Bideford, who was killed the previous evening by falling a distance of 16 feet. - FREDERICK LLOYD, labourer, of Bideford, said deceased was about 40 years of age. He leaves a widow and one daughter. - Charles Beer, mason, deposed to being engaged with several others on the new school building at Geneva-place. Deceased was also employed on the building. Witness was present when the accident occurred, being engaged with LLOYD in carrying planks across the inside of the building. The width of the planks they were walking over were 11 inches and eight inches respectively, making a pathway of 19 inches wide, which had been used for a barrow run for some weeks. The planks were three inches think. They were making a scaffolding, and in crossing the planks had to pass a big opening in the building. A gust of wind, he believed, caught the plank deceased was carrying and over-balanced him. He tried to save himself but failed, and, consequently, fell down to the ground below. Mr Glover and some of the men went to the assistance of deceased. LLOYD must have fallen 16 feet. - By the Foreman: He could not say if in falling deceased struck anything before reaching the ground. - By the Coroner: The planks were close, but not fastened. There was a strong breeze. Deceased fell backwards. His fall did not occur through any defect in the planks he was walking on. - Henry Glover, builder, of Bideford, and the contractor erecting the Geneva Board Schools, said he was present in the building, but did not actually see deceased fall. together with some of his men, he went to his assistance. They found LLOYD on the ground in the building. He should say the man was quite dead when they reached him. Dr Grose was sent for and shortly after his arrival the deceased was removed to his home. He knew the planks very well from which the deceased fell. They were three-inch planks, used for wheeling material over. In his opinion there was no danger whatever in the men crossing these planks. Deceased was carrying a plank and witness understood the accident was owing to the wind, which was very puffy at the time. There was a 7 ft. 6 in. corridor at each end of the building leading into the central hall, and immediately on coming out into this hall, which was 61 ft. 11 in. by 33 ft., deceased would be exposed to the wind. There had been no other accident whatever during the six months building operations had been in hand. - Mr E. Ellis, Foreman of the Jury, said he had known the deceased as a very steady workman. Mr Glover replied that he was a very steady man and much respected as a workman. - Mr J. S. Grose, Medical Practitioner, Bideford, said about quarter to five the previous evening, in response to a message, he went to the buildings to see LLOYD, who had met with an accident, but who was dead when he got there. Deceased had a wound across the scalp from one side to the other. In his opinion, the actual cause of death was probably concussion of the brain, caused by the fall. He said probably because there might have been other internal injuries caused by the fall which could only be ascertained by a post mortem examination, and this he did not consider necessary. By the Foreman: He could not have done anything more had he been present at the time of the accident, as death was, in his opinion, instantaneous. - Mr Bromham, having reviewed the evidence, spoke of the sadness and suddenness of the bereavement to the family. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed their sincere sympathy with the bereaved family. They handed their fees to the widow.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 16 May 1902
BROADHEMPSTONE - Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest in the Board schoolroom on Tuesday evening touching the death of THOMAS GEE, aged 47 years, which took place suddenly on Monday morning at his residence. From the evidence of the widow, it transpired that the deceased, who was paralysed, had been subject to epileptic fits, but had not had one for two years until Sunday night, when he had several in succession. Dr H. S. Johnson said death was due to syncope, following the fits. The Jury, of whom Mr J. Parnall was Foreman, returned a verdict accordingly, and tendered their sympathy to the widow, in which the Coroner and doctor joined.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 17 May 1902
TORQUAY - Torquay Mystery. - At Torquay yesterday the Inquest concerning the tragedy of the previous day was held by Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, into the death of EMMA BABBIDGE, 33, daughter of a saddler. The first witness called was WILLIAM HENRY BABBIDGE, brother, who identified the body. Deceased used to reside with his (witness's) father at 4 Lisburn-square, and she was a spinster. Witness last saw deceased at 7.30 on Wednesday evening in his father's sitting-room, when she was engaged in writing letters. Her father was present. Next morning (Thursday) when he went to work at his father's shop, he was told that deceased had not been home during the night. He was told that his (witness's) brother had been looking for her and just then an apprentice arrived in the shop saying a young woman had been found in the bay. Witness made inquiries and eventually he saw the dead body of his sister at the Mortuary. Deceased on Wednesday night seemed pleasant in her manner and showed no signs of troubling about anything. There had been nothing the matter with her lately. He could not understand the affair at all - she was always so bright. She had no love troubles that he was aware of. She wrote a letter on Wednesday evening to Mrs Lethbridge, putting off a visit to Higher Norton Farm, near Kingsbridge, as her father was not so well as before. - Mary Ann Griffin, 5 Lisburn-crescent, said that at 8.20 on Wednesday evening she saw EMMA (deceased) and her sister on their way to the Post-office. Witness had a conversation with deceased, who appeared bright and cheerful. Witness was astonished at what had occurred to deceased, whom she had seen grow up from nine years of age. She had a happy home and was happy herself. - John Dart, fisherman, deposed to finding the body. With the assistance of the Police it was got ashore. - The reply from the cousin at Kingsbridge to the letter written by deceased on Wednesday evening was at this juncture handed the Coroner by the sister, EDITH, who corroborated what Mrs Griffin had stated. The letter stated that Mrs Lethbridge was sorry deceased could not come on a visit to them. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said the deceased rarely met anyone. She kept herself to herself. - Answering the Coroner, witness said that her brother waited up for deceased on Wednesday and she kept the gas alight in her bedroom. Witness thought that deceased was staying, perhaps, with a Mrs James, a friend of hers. - Witness added that deceased was a victim to fainting fits, but she was not a visitor to the Pier. - Further evidence was given showing that a girl named Beer and a friend heard a noise in the water at Livermead, but both thought it was a dog. - Dr Long gave evidence showing that deceased was enceinte, and that death was caused by asphyxia. A verdict of "Found Drowned" was arrived at by the Jury, of whom Mr Hill was Foreman.

TORQUAY - At Torquay an Inquest was held on THOMAS CHESTERFIELD. According to the evidence adduced, deceased went home on Wednesday at dinner time. the dinner was not ready and deceased went away again, saying he was going to the Bank, and would return in 20 minutes. Half an hour later he was seen going towards the quarry at Daddy Hole. He did not return home, and his two sons went in search of him at Daddy Hole, near by where he had been working. On Thursday they found the lifeless body of their father between two rocks underneath Daddy Hole. - Dr Long said death was due to drowning, and a verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned. - The wife said deceased had no financial or other troubles.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 19 May 1902
ILFRACOMBE - Fall From Cliff. - Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner, on Saturday held an Inquest at Ilfracombe. Mr J. G. Dadds was Foreman of the Jury. The Inquiry concerned the death of WILLIAM HENRY NORMAN, aged 13 years, son of WILLIAM JOHN NORMAN, inspector at the town office of the London and South Western Railway at Ilfracombe. Deceased met his death as a result of falling from the cliffs at Hillsborough on Tuesday. - Frank Stretch, booking clerk at the Railway Station, identified the body. Information of the accident was brought to him by two boys and he communicated with the Police. Boats had to be sent out in order to recover the deceased. Witness went in one of the four boats and saw the boy recovered and brought to the Quay. He was taken to the Pier Hotel and medical assistance summoned. The lad, who was unconscious, was ultimately taken to the Hospital, where he died on Friday. Deceased's father deeply regretted not being able to attend the Inquest in consequence of having to go to Yeovil, where the funeral would take place. - A boy, named William Lancey, aged 13, deposed to going to Hillsborough on Tuesday evening with the deceased and another boy "for a run." - Deceased saw some ferns on the side of the cliff and he tried to get them. He fell and witness and his companion ran around by the beach to where deceased was. He lay quite unconscious. The tide was rising at the time and they had to wade through the water in order to get back. They ran after a gentleman and told him what had happened, but the tide the prevented them from getting at the body. All three returned to the town and told deceased's father and Mr Stretch what had happened. - Claude Phillips, the other boy who was with the deceased, said the fall was caused by a piece of rock giving way. - Mr Owen Clayton Johns, Surgeon, said deceased had received several cuts on his head and face. Deceased had repeated convulsions and died on Friday. Death was due to laceration of the brain, caused by blows on the head. - The Coroner expressed sympathy with the parents and remarked that he thought the two boys who were with deceased deserved commendation for the presence of mind they displayed. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned and the Jury passed a vote of sympathy with the deceased's family. The Jurymen gave their fees to the boatmen who rendered assistance.

ILFRACOMBE - An Inquest was held on Saturday by Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner, touching the death of ROBERT TAYLOR, mason's labourer, aged 27, of Hele, Ilfracombe. - Thomas Davey, mason, said deceased was cleaning a window of his house on Thursday afternoon when he fell from the ladder. He was taken into the house and doctors sent for. - John Richard Jewell, mason, stated that he was whitewashing the same house at the time of the accident. Witness saw the ladder move while the deceased was on it and he fell with it - sideways. Witness at once went to his assistance, but he was unconscious. Deceased seemed to have over-reached himself. - The ladder was not fastened. - P.S. Jeffery said deceased was removed to the Hospital, where he died the same night. He had fallen from a height of 13 ft. 6 in. - Mr Clayton Jones said the cause of death was fracture of the skull, the direct result of the injury. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and gave their fees to the widow.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 22 May 1902
COLYTON - The Colyton Suicide. Inquest. - Yesterday, at the Colcombe Castle Hotel, Colyton, the County Coroner, Mr Cox, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM POWER, single man, a mason's labourer, of Colyton, whose body was, on Whit-Monday found in the river Coly with his throat cut. - Emanuel Mitchell, baker of Paignton, brother-in-law of deceased, gave evidence of identification and added that POWER had been a soldier and served 14 years in India. He believed during that time he had a sun-stroke. He told witness that he frequently had to give up work out there on account of the heat. Deceased was not of strong mind, and frequently gave way to drink. He believed recently he had been taking too much liquor and not sufficient food. Deceased-s sister had recently been taken to the Asylum. - Mrs Elizabeth Strawbridge, of Castle Hill, Colyton, said deceased had lodged with her for five years and was a most respectable man in every way. He was very quiet. He occasionally took too much drink - sometimes these bouts lasted a week. He complained of his head if he had too much drink. He had been taking rather too much liquor for the past few days, but on the Saturday and Sunday he was sober when he went to bed. He often expressed the opinion that he would be like his mother, who died in an Asylum. On the Monday night he complained of being poorly and weary and went to bed soon after seven. Witness never saw him alive again. The deceased told her about three weeks ago that he was worried about his sister, who had been taken to an Asylum. Witness did not see him on the Tuesday morning, but a neighbour heard him leave as usual. - James Blackmore, dairyman, of Road Green, Colyton, said on Tuesday morning he saw deceased walking across a field, alongside the river, in the direction of Northleigh. He was from 300 to 400 yards from the place where the body was found. - Arthur Sampson, a lad, son of Mr Sampson, carter, in the employ of Mr Strawbridge, said about 6.30 on Tuesday morning he was passing by the river and saw a razor covered with blood and a hat lying on the bank. He told a Mr Maine what he had seen. - Thomas Maine, mason's labourer, of Colyton, said he last saw deceased on Monday afternoon in the Bear Hotel. He had had some drink, but was not drunk. Deceased had not been to work for nine days and during that time had given way to drink. Having been informed of the finding of the razor and the hat by the last witness, he went to the river and there found the body of deceased. He was lying on his back in the water and had, presumably, after cutting his throat, fallen into the water. Deceased's head was nearly severed from his body. - Dr W. H. Evans said he had attended deceased, but for no serious complaint. He had seen the body. There was a terrible gash in the throat, the windpipe and blood vessels being severed. In his opinion deceased, after cutting his throat, remained on the bank till he had lost a considerable amount of blood and then fell into the river. Death was, undoubtedly, due to haemorrhage and not to drowning. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

EXETER - Yesterday at Exeter, Mr H. W. Gould held an Inquest touching the death of the illegitimate child of MAUD OATWAY of 11 Clinton-street, St. Thomas. The sister of the mother (ALICE LUSCOMBE) said the child was born on Sunday night at 9 p.m., and died at 3 o'clock the following morning. Dr Saward (doing duty for Dr M. Farrant, jun.) said the cause of death was heart disease. The Jury, of which Mr F. Wakely was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

TIVERTON - The Tiverton Poisoning Tragedy. "Oatmeal" For Beetles. - Mr Arthur Fisher, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Tiverton Infirmary last night into the death of ROBERT EBBELS DAVEY, aged 71, who was accidentally poisoned on the 19th inst. - MISS MARIA DAVEY, eldest daughter of the deceased, gave evidence to the effect that on Monday she prepared some oatmeal for her father. While making it she and her sister tasted it several times, and considered it very good. Her father, after partaking of it, however, complained that it tasted bitter. She pointed out where she took the mal from and her sister exclaimed "That is poison mixed for black-beetles." Subsequently she noticed the word "poison" on the tin. The deceased was given an emetic, a doctor was sent for, but her father subsequently died. The poisoned oatmeal was mixed for them by Mr Bleasley, a lodger, about two years ago to kill beetles, and was kept in an under cupboard. How it came to be on the top cupboard, where she found it, she did not know. Deceased was insured for a small sum, under £20. - MISS ETHEL DAVEY also gave evidence and said she and her sister, as well as the deceased, took an emetic, as they had all partaken of the oatmeal. She had no idea how the tin came in the top cupboard and thought her father must have put it there himself. - Dr Pollock said the cause of death was collapse and shock, following irritant poisoning. - The Rev. F. J. Beasley, who said he had lodged there nine years, deposed that he made the mixture of oatmeal and arsenic to kill black-beetles. He gave full instructions for its use, and told them it was a deadly poison and should be kept in the lower cupboard away from all food. On hearing deceased having taken the poisoned oatmeal, he made up an emetic. - The Jury found that deceased's death was due to Misadventure, and an expression of sympathy with the family was passed. - The Coroner strongly expressed the opinion that poison in households should be kept entirely isolated from all medicines and foods and in a receptacle which could not be mistaken.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 23 May 1902
NORTHAM - At an Inquest held on Tuesday, at Appledore, on JAMES LEMON, aged 18, an apprentice at Messrs. Cock and Sons' Dockyard, who died from the effects of an accident sustained while engaged at work in the yard, a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

STOKE DAMEREL - The Devonport Tragedy. - The Inquest was held at Devonport yesterday on NELLIE BERTHA PODGERS and WILLIAM EDWARD SYMONS, who were found dead in a bedroom at 9 Third Avenue, Rectory-road, with their throats cut, on Tuesday morning. SYMONS was formally a lodger with MRS PODGERS. The Jury found that SYMONS murdered MRS PODGERS and in his case returned a verdict of Felo De Se.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 24 May 1902
HIGHWEEK - Blood Poisoning At Highweek. A Farmer's Death. The Danger Of Anthrax. - Yesterday Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest at Highweek touching the death of JOSEPH MAJOR, a farmer and dairyman, who lived at Castle Dyke Farm. - The deceased was 49 years of age, and, said the widow, he had been unwell for some years in consequence of a weak heart. On Saturday morning he complained of being unwell. The next morning he went to the doctor. Deceased died on Wednesday morning at half-past five. He was about his usual work on Friday. He complained of a pimple in his arm. - Frederick Quantick stated he was a farm labourer, working for Mr Guise of Western House. Deceased last Sunday week came to Western House to see a bullock, which witness skinned and deceased assisted him. The bullock was not putrid. it died on Saturday night, witness thought from inflammation. He cut the bullock up so as to remove it from the place to bury it and took portions of it up to MR MAJOR'S for some dogs. Deceased did not complain to witness that he had scratched himself. Witness went to see deceased in his bedroom on Wednesday morning, the latter having sent for him. Deceased complained of great pain to his heart. The first bullock died on the 10th. Another bullock died on Tuesday, the 13th. This animal it was proved died of anthrax. It was opened by Mr Matthews and then buried. No more had died nor were suffering. The first bullock was only ill two hours. - Ann Fairchild, widow, of Laburnum Cottage, Highweek, said that on Wednesday she was called to help MRS MAJOR. She saw deceased and put a mustard poultice at the bottom of his feet. The doctor came while she was there. Deceased was quite unconscious all the time. - Dr Stanley Stephens, of Newton Abbot, said deceased came to him on Sunday afternoon about one o'clock. He complained of a pimple on his arm and said he had attended a bullock which he thought died of anthrax. Witness thought deceased was suffering from anthrax, and cut the piece out of deceased's arm at once. He continued to attend MAJOR, who died on Wednesday from blood poisoning, the result of being infected with anthrax. Witness had sent the piece of deceased's arm that he had incised away and it was found to be infected with the anthrax bacilli. - Dr H. Mapleton said there were two bullocks which died very suspiciously. He examined the second and found it died from anthrax. The portions of the first bullock which had been removed were brought back and the Police disposed of them. There were four bullocks altogether infected. Anthrax was an extremely virulent disease and was contagious. It could be caught by breathing from an infected skin. - Superintendent Roberts, Torquay, stated that in consequence of portions of the bullock having been removed to deceased's premises, he made an order declaring the place to be an "infected area," so that no cattle could be taken in or out. - The Jury returned a verdict "That deceased died from Blood Poisoning caused by Anthrax." The Coroner pointed out the importance of the Inquiry being held, so that the public might learn the dangerous nature of anthrax, and what was necessary to be done in cases of the kind.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 26 May 1902
BARNSTAPLE - The Barnstaple Sudden Death. - Mr Archibald Bencraft, Deputy Coroner for Barnstaple, on Saturday conducted an Inquest at the North Devon Infirmary Mortuary, concerning the death of HENRY QUICK, upholsterer, of Muddiford, Marwood. THOMAS QUICK, tailor of Muddiford, identified the body as that of his son, aged 25 years. Deceased had been suffering from consumption for five or six years. He broke a blood vessel about two years ago, since when he had been getting gradually worse. Henry John Kingdon, French polisher, of Pulchrass-street, Barnstaple, stated that deceased went to his shop on the previous day at 11.30. After staying for about an hour he was seized with a violent fit of coughing. Witness went for a doctor, but when they came back deceased was dead. Mr Turnbull, House Surgeon at the North Devon Infirmary, said deceased had been an out-patient at the Institution. Death was due to Haemorrhage of the lungs. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 27 May 1902
MILTON ABBOT - Sudden Death At Milton Abbot. - At Hardicott Farm, Milton Abbot, yesterday, Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest on the body of JOHN WONNACOTT, aged 17, who was found dead in his bed on Friday morning. Evidence was given by MR FRANK WONNACOTT, who shared the bedroom of deceased, his brother, and MRS E. A. WONNACOTT, the mother, who said deceased when called to breakfast did not reply and was found dead. - Dr Smith, who had attended the young man for two years, said the deceased had fits and was suffocated while attacked by one. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

EXETER - The Bradninch Railway Mystery. The Inquest. An Open Verdict. - Yesterday Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, Exeter, concerning the death of THOMAS ANNEAR, aged 46, of 69 Seymour-avenue, Lipson, Plymouth, who died at the Institution on Sunday from injuries received on the Great Western Railway. Chief District Inspector Shattock watched the proceedings on behalf of the Railway Company. - AMELIA MARGARET ANNEAR, widow of the deceased, who identified the body, said her husband left home about noon on Thursday to go on duty on the mail train between Plymouth and Bristol. She saw him afterwards in the Hospital. He was dazed, though he recognised her. - Walter Richards, signalman, in the employ of the Great Western Railway Company, stationed at Bradninch, said shortly after 3 o'clock on Friday morning he was on duty and fancied he heard groans. He left his box and some distance down the line he found deceased lying between the two sets of metals. His head was covered with blood. At first witness could get nothing out of deceased as to how he got there, but when he asked if he had fallen out of the train deceased replied "Yes." Witness went on duty at 4 o'clock and four passenger trains passed down between that time and 3 o'clock - one from Yeovil, one from Bristol and two from London, via Bristol. A special train was stopped at 3.17 at the scene of the accident and deceased was conveyed therein to Exeter. There were no traces of blood on the line except at the point where deceased had fallen. - Inspector Shattock said he had not been able to find out by which of the trains deceased had travelled, nor had anything been found wrong with any of the carriages on arrival at Exeter. The mark on the ballast, caused by the fall, was 96ft. from where the deceased was found. He must have bounded two or three times after he struck the ground. Witness did not see any blood along the track, except where deceased had fallen. - Benjamin John Gribbell, of Greenbank-avenue, Plymouth, assistant superintendent of the Post-office at Plymouth, said deceased was called at 12.30 p.m. on Thursday to proceed to the Great Western Docks to assist in the disposal of the West Indian mails. He left for Bristol by the 2.15 train from Plymouth. Witness gave him his pass. His official time to return was 9 p.m., but he was given permission to remain till a later train in order to see a friend. He would return as an ordinary passenger from Bristol. Another officer returned by the same train by which deceased, presumably, travelled back, but did not see deceased. It was very unusual for a man to travel alone. He had never known an occasion on which an officer had done so when there were other officers travelling on the same line. Deceased was a steady man. - A carriage examiner, named Hooper, stated that on the arrival at Exeter of the trains mentioned he found none of the doors open on the side of the train from which, apparently, deceased fell. - Norman E. Gibbs, Assistant House Surgeon at the Hospital, stated that deceased was admitted in a state of shock. He was semi-conscious, suffering chiefly from injuries to the chest. Several ribs were broken, and he had a number of scalp wounds, causing exposure to the bone. He recovered consciousness sufficiently to ask for his friends, but he gave no lucid explanation as to the accident. At 7.35 on Sunday morning he died from injuries to the chest, affecting the lungs. - The Coroner said he would adjourn the Inquest if the Jury wished it in order that the official who travelled in the same train as deceased might attend. - The Jury, however, after considerable deliberation, returned an Open Verdict to the effect that "Deceased died of injuries received on the Railway, but under what circumstances there was not sufficient evidence to show."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 29 May 1902
TORQUAY - The Deputy Coroner for the Torquay district yesterday held an Inquest on the body of ROSE WINNE, an aged woman in lodgings at 2 Grafton-terrace, Victoria Park, who was found dead in bed on Tuesday night. After hearing the evidence, the Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 30 May 1902
TORQUAY - The Jury summoned to Inquire into the death of MRS ELIZABETH PEARCE, aged about 55 of East-street, Torre, the widow of a market gardener, who was found hanging by a rope to the side door of her residence, returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 4 June 1902
TEIGNMOUTH - Terrible Occurrence At Teignmouth. Two Ladies Suffocated. Brave Firemen. - Last night Mr G. Kellock held an Inquest on the bodies of MRS and MISS LANGLEY, who were found suffocated at Northumberland House, Teignmouth, yesterday morning. - MRS SELINA LANGLEY, who was a widow, over 70 years of age, and who formerly lived in Newfoundland, with her daughter, ELLEN, kept a lodging-house at the above address. They with the servant, Annie Dore, retired to bed on Monday night. The latter told the Coroner she was kept awake by toothache and some time during the night found her room full of smoke. She went to her mistresses' room and awoke them. MISS LANGLEY tried to go downstairs, but could not. Dore raised an alarm and was eventually taken out of the house by means of the fire escape. Mr Easterling, a neighbour, saw the women at the window shouting for help and threatening to jump. He begged them not to do so, as he was going to alarm the Fire Brigade. The firemen were on the scene in a few minutes. P.C. Moore got in at the back of the house, but had to retreat before the flames. When Fireman Sainthorpe and a young man named Coombes rescued Dore she told them at first there was no one else in the house, but afterwards said MRS and MISS LANGLEY were there. The men went up the escape again, and in one of the rooms saw the two women crouching or kneeling near the window, with their faces on the floor. The bodies were taken out and efforts made to restore animation by Dr Howard and the Coastguards, but without avail. - The Coroner complimented the Firemen, the man Coombes and the Police on their attempts to rescue the deceased. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and gave their fees and some contributions from Dr Hayward and the witnesses to the girl Dore, on condition that the money (£2) should be placed to her credit in the Post-office Savings Bank.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 6 June 1902
SOUTH MOLTON - The Borough Coroner, Mr T. Sanders, held an inquest at the Town Hall relative to the death of PRIVATE JOHN MATTERS, aged 54, of the 4th V.B.D.R., a labourer, residing in West-street, Southmolton. Deceased met with his death on Saturday as the result of being accidentally shot while carrying out his duties as marker on the Grilstone shooting range for G. (Southmolton) Company. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, the Jury adding a rider that sufficient time should be allowed between the shots fired for the danger flag to be seen at the firing point and that the firing regulations should be printed and posted in the mantlet.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 7 June 1902
TORQUAY - A Cripple's Death At Torquay. - Into the circumstances attending the death of SAMUEL JOHN WHITE, 59, a crippled wood carver, an Inquest was held last night by the Deputy Coroner, Mr Kellock, in Upton Parish Room. ELIZABETH JESSIE LOUISA WHITE said that deceased, her father, who resided at 4 Mount Hermin-road, Ellacombe, when going upstairs to bed on Wednesday night was taken ill and fell into her arms. He died shortly afterwards and before medical assistance could be procured. Dr Wiggin deposed to being called in after death. Witness made a post mortem examination and found that deceased died from disease of the heart. A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 9 June 1902
EXMOUTH - The Suicide At Exmouth. - Inquest. - At the Rolle Hotel, Exmouth, on Saturday, Mr H. W. Gould, of Exeter, acting as Deputy Coroner for Mr C. E. Cox, held an inquest concerning the death of WILLIAM MILLWARD SWINBURNE, aged 36, a captain of the Imperial Yeomanry, who had seen service in South Africa with the 63rd (Wilts) Regiment and who the previous morning had been found shot at his lodgings at 30 Morton-road, Exmouth. - Miss Florence Bridle, of this address, who identified the body, said deceased since he came home from the front in July had lived at her mother's house. Witness saw him about two minutes before the occurrence in his bedroom. He was then out of bed, standing by the table. He had his military overcoat on, but was not otherwise dressed. There was a cab waiting for him at the door to convey him to the Station, as he was about to leave for London. She told him he had not much time and had better hurry up. He said the cabman had better drive round for a few minutes, but when she delivered the message to the cabman the latter told her only eighteen minutes remained before the departure of the train. When she told CAPTAIN SWINBURNE what the cabman said he replied, "All right; I will go." Witness said to him "You will not be able to have your bath," and the deceased answered "I will have a 'lick and a promise' now and get a bath in London." She then went to the kitchen and on returning she heard the report of a firearm come from the deceased's room. She ran to the room, with the exclamation "What has happened?" and she then saw CAPTAIN SWINBURNE in bed, lying on his right side, with a revolver in his right hand and a wound in his forehead. His overcoat was hanging behind the door, and he had only his pyjamas on. Deceased breathed once or twice after she entered and just opened his eyes, but appeared to be quite unconscious. The revolver was a military weapon, which he brought with him from South Africa. She had never heard him speak of committing suicide, and was not aware that he had any trouble. He was worried on the previous day because he did not catch a train for London, and for the last few days he had been depressed as a result of severe neuralgic pains, from which he suffered acutely. He had also been troubled with insomnia, and some time ago took sleeping draughts, though he had, she believed, dropped them of late. He left no letter behind or made any statement. When she discovered what had happened she screamed and the cabman came to her assistance and medical aid was immediately summoned. - Dr J. W. Hodgson stated that he found deceased in bed lying on his back. An examination showed that the bullet had entered his forehead. The bullet had passed through the head and had struck the wall behind, from which it had ricocheted to the ceiling, and finally dropped to the floor, witness finding it on the bath mat. The wound on the forehead had bled considerably and was, in his opinion, self-inflicted. The revolver was still held in the right hand, the thumb being placed on the pull beneath, while the fingers were clutched round the butt. - Answering the Coroner, the doctor said that people suffering from insomnia and depression sometimes developed suicidal tendencies. - Mr Charles Edward Pine-Coffin, who knew the deceased intimately, said he was in his company on Thursday, leaving him shortly before 11 at night. Deceased told him during the day that he felt very depressed, though he gave no reason for it. He had on many previous occasions complained to witness of insomnia and would in the morning say he had not slept all night. This, however, had not occurred so much lately. He was much quieter than usual on Thursday night. - The Coroner intimated that there was other evidence of a similar nature available if the Jury desired to hear it, but the Foreman, Mr H. W. Crews, said the Jury were satisfied with what evidence had been given. - The Jury unanimously agreed that deceased Committed Suicide during Temporary Insanity. They expressed their sympathy with the relatives, and gave their fees to the funds of the Maud Hospital.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 10 June 1902
HEANTON PUNCHARDON - Suicide Near Barnstaple. Oxalic Acid Poisoning. - An Inquest was held by Mr J. F. Bromham, County coroner, at Mainstone Farm, Heanton Punchardon, near Barnstaple, last evening, on the body of SUSAN CLARKE, aged 23, and unmarried, whose dead body was on the previous Saturday found lying in the farm orchard. Mr L. H. Alford was Foreman of the Jury. - EMILY HERNAMAN, wife of William Hernaman, the occupier of the farm, said deceased, who was her sister, had lived at the farm for the past nine months, assisting in the house work. Her general health had been fairly good, but for some time past she had been depressed in spirits. About half-past 9 o'clock on Saturday morning she left the house and after an hour had passed without deceased returning, witness wondered where she had gone. Her husband went to look for her. Shortly afterwards he returned, saying "Don't be frightened; SUSIE'S in the orchard and I believe she's dead." He then went for the doctor and the body was left in the orchard until he arrived. The Police Constable also saw it before it was brought to the house. - William Hernaman corroborated and stated that he found the body of his sister-in-law in the orchard, about 100 yards from the house. She was lying in the corner against a fence. She looked very queer, her face being greatly discoloured. - P.C. Westlake deposed to finding a cup (which he produced) containing "something like salts," about 70 yards from where deceased was lying. There were only a few grains in the cup. - Dr F. T. Anderson, of Braunton, said he was summoned to the orchard by Mr Hernaman. Deceased's face was rather congested. The same evening P.S. Rowse showed him a cup (the one produced), in which there were just a few grains of what he and Mr W. J. Harper had, after testing, found to be oxalic acid. At the request of the Coroner, he had, with the assistance of Mr Harper, made a post mortem examination of deceased's body. They found all the organs healthy, except the gullet and the stomach showed that corrosive poison had been taken, the appearance indicating the use of oxalic acid. The acid must have been taken dissolved in water, or otherwise grains would have been found in the stomach. He had no doubt that deceased died from the results of taking the poison mentioned. The examination had shown her to be pregnant. - In summing up, the Coroner pointed out the importance of medical advice being sought when persons got into a depressed state. - A verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 12 June 1902
TOPSHAM - The Fatal Accident At Topsham. - An Inquest was held at the Bridge Inn, Topsham, yesterday afternoon on the body of the man GIBBINGS, who was accidentally killed the previous day on the Topsham road by the wheels of a vehicle passing over his body. The evidence of two eye witnesses of the fatality showed that the deceased jumped from the waggon while it was moving to adjust the chain of the leading horse and on returning to his seat struck his head against some timber which the waggon contained. This caused him to fall under the wheels, both of which passed over his body, causing death. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

TIVERTON - Suicide At Tiverton. - Mr L. Mackenzie (Tiverton Borough Coroner) held an Inquest at the Infirmary last night touching the death of ROBERT JARMAN, who was found hanged in his garret in Westexe South on Tuesday night. - Ada Reed, wife of Edward Reed, No. 2 Westexe North, said deceased lived at No. 4. She knew him as a neighbour and saw him alive about 3.20 on Tuesday afternoon. She had been looking after him. His wife died a week ago and was buried on Saturday. Since her death he had been very down-hearted. She told him to cheer up and he said he had no heart to do it. About 4.30 or five o'clock she went to the house to tell him the kettle was boiling. She found his door locked. Again at 7.30 she tried to gain admittance and her husband went at 8.30 and saw that the key was inside the door. They then told the Police and Sergt. Perry came at about 10. Deceased had never said anything about suicide. He told her once that he was going to sell the business. There was some trouble about his wife's policy, her age not being mentioned on it, and deceased did not know how old she was. - P.S. Perry found the back and front doors locked, and, with the permission of Mr Saunders, the landlord, he broke in. He went up to the garret and there saw deceased hanging with a rope attached to the roof round his neck. A stool was under him and his feet about five inches off the ground. P.C. Norrish and Mr Saunders were with witness. - WILLIAM JARMAN, deceased's brother, said another of his brothers drowned himself and his father died rather out of his mind. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 13 June 1902
LYDFORD - Inquest At Dartmoor Prison. Allegations By Convicts. - Mr J. D. Prickman held an Inquest at the Prison at Princetown yesterday on the body of ARTHUR EADE, a convict. - The evidence showed that death was due to sudden heart failure. - Several convicts gave evidence. One expressed the opinion that the small cells and the food supplied were largely the cause of heart disease. - Another man said deceased told him he hardly knew how to do his work, but that he had been ordered out by medical orders. - A third convict heard the deceased complain to the doctor, who said there was nothing the matter with him. This witness also alleged negligence on the part of an officer, and said he believed this officer struck deceased. - One of the warders who was present at the death of EADE said deceased made no complaints. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 16 June 1902
BARNSTAPLE - The Barnstaple Drowning Case. Gaydon's Attempted Rescue. - The body of SYDNEY GEORGE FARMER, six years of age (stepson of WILLIAM POTTER, fishmonger, of the Strand, Barnstaple), who was drowned in the river Taw on Whit-Monday, was on Saturday morning found floating by some Barnstaple fishermen only a few yards from the spot where he fell in while playing at some waste ground between the Bridge Buildings and the old fish market on the Strand. The fishermen who discovered the body - at 5.30 in the morning - were John Mitchell, William Barron, Thos. Ridd and John Rolestone. The body was conveyed, with the assistance of P.C's Holland and Smith, to the Mortuary of the North Devon Infirmary. - An Inquest was held subsequently by Mr Archibald Bencraft, Deputy Coroner, Mr J. Rice was Foreman of the Jury. - Frank Gaydon, watchmaker, who lives in the Strand, stated that he was fishing on the river side of the fish-market just behind the building on Whit-Monday and the deceased was watching him and also playing about. Presently deceased left and soon afterwards witness heard another boy shout "SIDNEY'S in the water." He also told witness that the boy had fallen over the steps. Witness rushed over the steps to try to get at the deceased, but the high tide was carrying him up the river, and he had gone too far to be reached. Witness got a pole and tried to get deceased to clutch it. Several people had by this time gathered round and an old man, William List Gaydon, saying "I can swim," took off his coat and waistcoat and plunged into the river from the steps. He swam out almost to within reach of deceased, but the water was very choppy and he could not secure the boy. Gaydon was nearly drowned himself. He went under, but Mr Hewish and one or two others procured a rope, which was thrown out to him and which he caught. A boat was also launched and Gaydon was rescued. He could not have held out much longer. - Mrs Porter and William Henry Barrow also gave evidence. The latter said he thought the reason that the body had not floated before was that sand had accumulated on the boys' clothes and kept him under the water. - The Coroner remarked that Gaydon had made a very grand attempt at rescue. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death from Drowning," and expressed sympathy with the bereaved mother and family.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 19 June 1902
KINGSBRIDGE - The Duty Of Midwives. Inquest At Kingsbridge. - Mr Sidney Hacker held an Inquest at Kingsbridge Town Hall yesterday relative to the death of the infant child of JAMES CAMP, a mason, of Dodbrooke. - The father said the child was born on Sunday morning, but died three hours afterwards. Rebecca Legassick, a midwife, said she was present at the birth of the child, when all was satisfactory. She remained in the room hour, when she left. About 12 o' sent for again, and then found the child lying in the bed, dead. - Dr H. Grey, assistant to Dr W. H. Webb, Kingsbridge, said he had since made a post mortem examination and considered death was due to an accidental injury received during birth. - The Coroner pointed out that if the least difficulty was experienced it was the immediate duty midwives to obtain medical assistance. - A verdict was returned in accordance with the medical evidence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 21 June 1902
MALBOROUGH - Yesterday afternoon Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest at the Central Hall, Salcombe, on the body of MR JOHN WILLIAM ELLIOTT, posting stable proprietor, the circumstances of whose death were reported in the "Gazette" yesterday. Evidence was adduced that deceased had complained of terrible pains in his head and sleeplessness and on such occasions appeared somewhat strange. He had, however, never threatened his life. Business troubles depressed him. Deceased did not leave any letter behind. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 23 June 1902
NEWTON ABBOT - An Inquest was held at Newton Abbot on Saturday by Mr Hacker, County Coroner, on the infant child of MR FRANCIS H. J. RAYMONT, of Hillman's Meadow. The evidence showed that the child died while being suckled by the mother. Dr Culross deposing asphyxia was the cause of death. The Jury returned a verdict that "Death was due to Accidental Suffocation," and the Coroner commented upon the danger of mothers going to sleep with infants at their breast.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 25 June 1902
EXMOUTH - Exmouth Drowning Case. - An Inquest was held by Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, yesterday, at the Rolle Hotel, Exmouth, on the body of CHARLES MILFORD, a labourer, of Topsham, who was drowned in the Exmouth Bight on the 9th inst.,, while engaged in transferring railway sleepers from the s.s. Veneghoe to the barge Cozens for conveyance to Topsham. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned," and gave their fees to the widow.

EXETER - The Exeter Mystery. "Temporary Insanity." - The body of a girl named FLORENCE ISAAC, 17 years of age, the daughter of a farm labourer employed at Fortescue Farm, Brampford Speke, was last night discovered in the river Exe just below Trew's Weir by P.C. Guest. - The girl disappeared on June 9th. She left a letter addressed to her stepmother, in which, in addition to other things, she remarked that "God alone knew her trouble." Deceased had been employed for only a week as a domestic servant by Mr Lemmon, chemist, High-street, Exeter. On the night when last seen she was apparently n her usual health and cheerful. She prepared supper for the family, finished her domestic duties and was supposed to have gone to bed. The next morning, however, she was missing. - The body, which was decomposed, was removed to the Mortuary at the Police Station on the ambulance. A letter was found on deceased, but the contents could not last night be deciphered. - At the Police Station, Exeter, yesterday, Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest concerning the death of FLORENCE ISAAC, domestic servant, aged 16, whose parents live at Fortescue Cottage, Thorverton, and who since the evening of the 9th instant had been missing from her situation at Mr Lemmon's, chemist, High-street, Exeter. - MR JONAS ISAAC identified the body as that of his daughter, who left home eight days previous to her disappearance. He was not aware that she had any trouble, but he had seen little of her during the last year. In a letter addressed to her step mother deceased said that "Before she (her mother) got this she would be no more, as she could put up with it no longer. It had nothing to do with her place, as she as very comfortable there. But it was a trouble which she had asked God to take away and he had not done it, so she would bear it no more." Asked by the Coroner whether the deceased was very religiously inclined, witness said she had always attended church and Sunday school. - Mrs Harriet Lemmon, wife of Mr Lemmon, chemist, of High-street, Exeter, stated that deceased came into her employment on the 29th May. She seemed a very quiet and well-behaved girl. A little before 9 o'clock on the 9th instant deceased cleared away the supper things, and witness had never seen her since. On the following morning witness found that deceased's bed had not been lain upon and she subsequently discovered the letter addressed to her mother. - P.C. Guest said that he had taken his children out in a boat for a row on the river on the 23rd and when near the septic tank works, between the two weirs, he saw a body lying in the water. He caused it to be removed from the river and conveyed to the Mortuary, where it was afterwards identified as that of the missing girl ISAACS. On the body he found a letter from Mrs Lemmon accepting deceased's application for a situation. - Dr Pereira, Police Surgeon, said he had made a post mortem examination of the body, which was very much decomposed. There were no marks of violence on the body. Deceased was not pregnant. - A verdict was unanimously returned of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 26 June 1902
NORTHAM - The Sad Death At Appledore. Inquest On LIEUT. COLONEL BINGHAM - The circumstances attending the sudden death of LIEUTENANT-COLONEL RICHARD C. W. BINGHAM, of Cliff Cottage, Appledore, were Inquired into yesterday by Mr J. F. Bromham. Deceased was a Lieutenant-Colonel in the 3rd Dorset Militia. He had been labouring for the past week under great anxiety owing to the position in which his wife was placed by a committal to the County Quarter Sessions on a charge of stealing a diamond ring and a diamond bangle bracelet from a friend's house, at which she had lunched. - The first witness called was MRS MARY ALICE LOWTHER, sister of the deceased, who gave evidence of identification. - In answer to the Coroner, witness stated that she had never heard of deceased having been subject to an affection of the heart. He had had a great deal of trouble lately. Deceased had a place in Dorset, and had also lived at Weymouth. - Thomas Cole, ferryman, of Appledore, said on Monday he met deceased at the Station gate at Instow. He complained of feeling very ill. Opposite the Hotel he sat down for a minute on the kerb, refusing a drop of brandy, and saying he would try to get home as soon as he could. They then proceeded together over the sands towards witness's boat. On the way deceased sat down on the sands, saying he felt very ill. They afterwards reached and got into the boat, and witness rowed him to Badsteps, directly opposite Cliff Cottage. On reaching the Cottage steps deceased fell down. A doctor was summoned. - Robert Woodcock, coxswain of the Santon lifeboat, said almost immediately on the last witness (Cole) leaving to fetch the doctor deceased gave a sigh and died. - Dr W. A. Valentine said the result of the post-mortem examination showed that deceased died of angina pectoris. - In answer to the Coroner witness added that any great anxiety to a man suffering from that kind of thing would very likely kill him. - The Coroner: I should like to ask if there was any sign of poison having been taken. - Witness: None whatever. There was not the slightest cause of suspicion. - The Jury returned a verdict that "Deceased died from Natural Causes," and they expressed sincere sympathy with the relatives and the children. They also expressed their opinion that they considered it necessary for the Inquest to have been held in order to satisfy the public as to the cause of death. - The Funeral took place about an hour after the conclusion of the Inquest. The coffin was carried by hand and was preceded by the local Company of the Lads' Naval Brigade, under the command of the Rev. H. C. Muller (Curate of St Mary's Church, Appledore) and accompanied also by Chief-officer Bolt of the Coastguard service. The only mourners were the widow, Mrs Broadwick (sister of the widow), Mrs Winnetts, Mrs Lowther (sisters of the deceased) and Dr Valentine. The servants and a few friends walked behind the mourning coach. There were hundreds of people awaiting the funeral in the churchyard. The Rev. A. G. Goldsmith (Vicar) conducted the ceremony. In Church the service was choral, the hymn sung being "Now the labourer's task is o'er," Mendelssohn's Dead March in "Saul" being played.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 1 July 1902
KINGSWEAR - At Kingswear an Inquest was held by Mr S. Hacker, on the body of a nine-year-old boy named HAROLD SIDNEY COOMBES, son of a labourer. The mother took the boy along the railway path abutting on the river on Friday evening and while she was sitting down with Mrs Bath on some timber he ran down a slipway with Martha Bath, aged 9, and playing with a boat, fell overboard into deep water. His mother could not reach him, nor could two girls named Horne and Mabel Bath, who came along in a boat. Deceased sank just before they could get hold of him. A young man named Wilcocks was then called and seizing a long paddle from the boat close by he got the body ashore. The Coroner said it was an unfortunate thing the others were so much confused, or the boy's life might have been saved. A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 2 July 1902
TIVERTON - Inquest At Tiverton Workhouse. An Octogenarian's Death. - An Inquest was held at Tiverton Workhouse last night by the Borough Coroner, Mr L. Mackenzie, touching the death of ROBERT BELL, who was admitted to the sick ward at the House on the 2nd December last. He was 82 years old, was feeble and had chronic bronchitis. On the night of June 11th he got out of bed, and, in returning, fell and fractured one of his hips. Dr Michelmore attributed his death to shock and exhaustion, following the accident, deceased being decrepit with old age and chronic bronchitis. A verdict was found in accordance with the medical testimony. - The Wardsman, William Folland, who found BELL after the accident, stated that Nurse Cashin was called by him to give assistance, but neglected to do so. - The Jury expressed a wish to have her called, but she denied the allegation and stated that BELL was already on the bed when she passed, and she saw nothing amiss.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 3 July 1902
SIDMOUTH - The Sidmouth Sensation. The Fall Over Jacob's Ladder. "Saying His Prayers." - Yesterday, Mr Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of SAMUEL DARCH, aged 66 years, whose death was reported in yesterday's "Gazette." - The wife of the deceased identified the body and said that he was a painter by trade. She had not been living with him for the past six weeks. He was jealous of her; they quarrelled and fought and some weeks ago she summoned him for assault at Ottery Petty Sessions. He had threatened to commit suicide about 12 months ago, but not since they parted the last time. They had separated before, and deceased then said he would commit suicide if she did not come back. She did not think he could be right in his head, as he would come home tipsy and kick up a row for no cause whatever. - George Woolley, fisherman, said he saw deceased on Monday, kneeling on the platform of Jacob's Ladder saying his prayers. The next morning, about 8.30 he saw DARCH sitting in a shelter on the Esplanade, and asked him what he was doing the previous night at Jacob's Ladder. Deceased replied, "If you hadn't come along I should have said my prayers." He then added that he intended to commit suicide some time that day and told witness that he would find his body under the ladder. Witness informed the Police the same night. Witness sat in the shelter with him for about half an hour. He said he and his wife had fallen out a bit. Witness did not think him serious, as he had threatened to commit suicide several times. Deceased lit his pipe and walked off in the direction of Jacob's Ladder, and about 12 minutes later witness saw a man running from that direction with the news that DARCH had jumped from the ladder. - Robert Prince, gardener, deposed that he was cutting the hedge at Sea View on Tuesday morning when deceased came along. He did not speak of committing suicide, but just after witness saw him sitting on the rail of Jacob's Ladder, and told him to get off or he would fall. Deceased took no notice and witness next heard the noise of his falling. He told the servants and help was procured. - Mr St Leger Lousada said he was sitting in Jacob's-lane, when he was informed that a man had thrown himself over the cliff. Witness looked and saw the deceased lying at the bottom of Jacob's Ladder. - Mr Bingley Pullin, Surgeon, stated that he was called at 10.5 and examined deceased on the beach under Jacob's Ladder. He was quite dead, but the body was warm. He had fractured his neck and the whole of his skull was gone except the face. Witness knew deceased very well but could not say anything as to his mental condition; he believed he was somewhat eccentric and irritable. - The Coroner summed up very briefly, remarking that the evidence left no doubt that the deceased committed suicide. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

DARTMOUTH - A Fatal Accident At Dartmouth. - At Dartmouth Guildhall yesterday, before Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, an Inquest was held touching the death of WALTER C. BEALL, 22, ship's cook's mate, belonging to the tender Racer, stationed at Dartmouth. - ALFRED G. BEALL identified the body as that of his brother, whose home was at Devonport. - Ernest F. Flynn, first-class petty officer, serving on the Racer, said when deceased went to his hammock to turning on Monday night he fell as he was swinging himself into it. Witness went to him, but he got up without assistance, though he seemed a bit dazed. Just afterwards he vomited, but after that appeared all right. Witness was relieved at midnight. - Edward Horrill, first-class petty officer, who relieved the last witness, said about 10 minutes past 1 o'clock deceased vomited and got out of his hammock. Witness asked him what was the matter, but he made no answer. He called the sick-bay steward and the doctor was promptly summoned. Deceased died at 4.15. - Dr Darley, R.N., said there was no mark on the head, but on making a post mortem examination he found the skull was fractured and blood had caused compression of the brain. He must have struck against something smooth. Possibly contact with the deck might have caused the injury, or it might have been that he struck the edge of a pipe near. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 7 July 1902
EXMOUTH - Fatal Accident At Exmouth. - At the Rolle Hotel, Exmouth, on Saturday evening an Inquest was held by Mr W. H. Gould, Deputy Coroner, to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of HENRY MCGANN, who died at the Maud Hospital on the previous Friday. Deceased worked on the Exmouth and Budleigh Salterton railway. - The evidence showed that deceased, who was a labourer, employed in the construction of the new railway, was on Thursday working in a cutting in Marpool-lane removing earth from the steam navvy in railway waggons. On the approach of some waggons, William Stratford, a foreman, called to deceased to get out of the way, but he paid no heed to the warning, and was caught between the trucks and the bank. It was explained deceased had no business at that side of the line and on the approach of the waggons should have got into the 20 foot way. He was taken to the Maud Hospital. It was found he had six or seven ribs broken. Death ensued from perforation of the lungs and bleeding of the pleura. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 8 July 1902
WARKLEIGH - Suicide in North Devon. Farmer and Labourer Drowned Themselves. - The neighbourhood of Chittlehampton and Warkleigh, about eight miles from Barnstaple, have within the past four days been the scene of two suicides by drowning. The County Coroner held Inquests on the bodies. The first Inquiry was as to the death of WILLIAM SQUIRE, farmer, of Park Farm, Warkleigh. Mr Samuel Mortimer was Foreman of the Jury. - WILLIAM JAMES SQUIRE, son of deceased, and living at Park Farm, said his father was 62 years of age. He had been in an indifferent state of health for six or seven weeks and his mind had been rather affected. He had been subject to depression of spirits, although he had not been entirely prevented from superintending the work on the farm. He seemed better recently. On Thursday he went out to look at the hay mound, and then came home for breakfast. But it was not quite ready and he then went to see the sheep. He did not return and ten minutes later witness went out to call him. Deceased, however, could not be found. Witness became alarmed, and gave information to the Police. A search party, consisting of about 20 persons, was formed. On Saturday morning deceased was found in the river and the body was brought home to the house. His family had looked after deceased as well as they could, but they did not think it was necessary to watch his every movement. He had had influenza early in the spring, and he had never, apparently, recovered from it. - George Stevens, platelayer on the London and South Western Railway, stated that he was one of the occupants of the boat on Saturday morning when the river Taw was dragged. The body was taken out of Crocker's Pool, about half a mile from Park Farm. He had noticed that lately deceased had been in very low spirits. - Mr W. S. Gardner, highway surveyor, of Chittlehampton, said one of the Jurymen had seen a heel print near the pool and that had induced them to look for the body there. It was the deepest pool in the neighbourhood. Deceased did not seem to require constant attention. - P.C. Toms spoke to the pool being searched as well as it could be without any grappling irons on the Friday, and the body could not be recovered; but on Saturday some grappling irons were procured and the body found. - The Coroner, in remarking on the evidence, said it seemed to show that deceased had not required constant watching on the part of the family, for whom he was sure the deepest sympathy would be felt. - A verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane" was returned by the Jury, on whose behalf the foreman expressed deep and sincere sympathy with the family. He remarked that deceased was a highly respected parishioner and neighbour.

CHITTLEHAMPTON - The other Inquest was held at Hoe Cottages, in the parish of Chittlehampton, which adjoins Warkleigh parish. The dead body of SAMUEL WARE, an incapacitated labourer, aged 72 years, had been found early in the morning in the river Taw, which runs by the cottages and the circumstances attending the sad incident pointed to suicide. The Foreman of the Jury was Mr A. W. Eyre. - MRS ELIZABETH WARE, widow of deceased, said he had been an invalid for the past two years, when he had a seizure. Since then he had not been able to do anything for himself. He had to sleep in a chair. At 1.30 that morning witness left him in order to go to bed and her remained in the chair, as usual. At about 4 o'clock Mr Murch, a neighbour, called her downstairs, he having found the door ajar. Her husband was then missing from the chair. Mr Murch went to look for him, and about five minutes later he returned, saying he had found him. An hour or two afterwards the body was brought home. Deceased had not been quite right in his mind for some time past, and had been under medical care. But she had never thought he would have committed suicide. - Thomas Murch, farmer, said he was going to get the horses early that morning in order to plough, when he noticed that WARE'S door was not closed. He saw that deceased was not sitting in his usual place in the chair. He afterwards made a search and found deceased's stick and cap in the higher marsh, a short distance from the cottage. He then saw deceased's body in the river Taw, which was only about three feet deep at that part. The body was not more than six feet from the bank. He had all his clothes on. - As in the other case, the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane," and expressed sympathy with the widow, to whom they gave their fees.

TORQUAY - Commercial's Sad Death At Torquay. - Into the circumstances attending the death of SAMUEL DAVIS, 58, commercial traveller, who was found dead in bed at 5 Summerfield-terrace, Torquay, on Saturday, an Inquest was held yesterday. ELLEN DAVIS identified the body as that of her husband, who had been unwell from gout for a year or two past and suffered from a weak heart also. On Friday deceased was much upset at having received notice to leave his employment. He ate nothing, and said he should never get over it, the blow having such an effect upon him. - She saw deceased at 10.15 in bed, when she took him some water, she afterwards retiring. Deceased made no threats to do away with his life. Next morning at 6.15 witness went into deceased's bed-chamber and found him dead. On the dressing table beside the glass containing water was a small bottle containing acetic acid, which she thought had not been touched. After evidence by Janetta Slack, who said that there was no smell of anything about the body or deceased's handkerchief when she saw him, Dr Hugh P. Wiggin was called. He said he found deceased dead and lying in a very natural position. There was a bottle nearly full of acetic acid and presuming that it had been full in the first place, there was about 20 drops missing. Witness took away the bottle He made a post mortem examination and found that death ensued from syncope, due to heart disease. Deceased had not taken any acetic acid or poison of any sort.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 10 July 1902
BUCKFASTLEIGH - The Sad Occurrence At Buckfastleigh. - Mr Sidney Hacker held an Inquiry yesterday at Cattaford House, on the death of the two brothers, JOHN and WILLIAM HOARE, aged nine and six years respectively, who were found drowned at Cattaford Pool, near Abbotsmead, about one mile from Buckfastleigh. - MR JOHN HOARE, father of the boys, said he last saw them alive on Monday evening in the hayfield. About 7 o'clock he sent them to remove some bullocks from the Three-cornered Field to Sherwill. About 8.30 he passed by the latter field and saw that the bullocks were there. He made inquiries for the lads, but could not ascertain their whereabouts. Search parties were organised and at about 4 o'clock in the morning Mr Warren and some of his men found a cap belonging to witness's son WILLIAM near Cattaford Pool. The Police made a search for the bodies. He thought that after moving the bullocks his sons must have crossed the turnpike road and gone down by the river. He was told there was a dipchick's nest close by the pool, and it was thought that the little boy, in endeavouring to reach it, had fallen into the water and that the bigger boy must have tried to rescue him. They had been warned not to go on the railway or by the river. they were brought home about 6.30 a.m. - John Taylor, eight years of age, said he went as far as the Totnes road about 7.30 p.m. with the two boys to shift the cattle. Afterwards they went into the field and left witness, who said that if they were not long he would wait for them. As they did not turn up he went home. - Mr John Charles Warren, of Rill Farm, spoke to assisting the Police in recovering the bodies. - P.C.'s Radford and Bugler stated that there were young dipchicks near the pool, and an egg in a nest on the fence of the pool. - Dr H. Ubsdell having given evidence, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned." - The Foreman called attention to the dangerous state of the pool, and thought it should be fenced. The Coroner said this was impracticable. Children must be prevented from visiting such dangerous places. A vote of condolence was passed with the bereaved parents.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 11 July 1902
BROADWOODKELLY - The accident to MR HARRY TANCOCK a few days ago has proved fatal. Tetanus supervened. At the Inquest the Jury found that deceased died from Tetanus. The funeral took place yesterday in the parish churchyard. There were numerous mourners and many floral tributes were placed on the coffin.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 16 July 1902
TORQUAY - Naval Seaman's Death At Torquay. - In connection with the visit of the Fleet to Torquay, an accident occurred on the Galatea yesterday week, when three men were injured. On named WALTER CHARLES FRIDAY, A.B., died in Torbay Hospital from injuries to the abdomen and an Inquest was held last night by Mr Hacker, Coroner. - The Coroner remarked that the ship was now at sea with the rest of the Fleet and he proposed to take formal evidence and adjourn the Inquiry. - Ernest Lightfoot, boy, who was injured in the same accident (crushing the fingers of his left hand) said that he, with others, was engaged covering a boat aboard the ship when the boat derrick fell upon them. Deceased was jammed between the launch and the derrick. Witness, deceased and another were injured and taken to the Torbay Hospital. Witness could not say how the accident happened. - Commander Hunt was present giving orders to the coxswain of the boat. - Mr Alexander Lyons, House Surgeon of Torbay Hospital, said that the three named were admitted to the Institution that day week. Deceased was suffering from abdominal injuries. On Thursday an operation was performed, when it was found that deceased had ruptured intestines. Deceased gradually sank and died from the injuries named and peritonitis. - At this stage the Inquest was adjourned to Saturday when witnesses of the occurrence will clear up the affair.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 18 July 1902
MERTON - An Inquest was held on Tuesday touching the death of RICHARD SMALE, who lived at Merton Mill. Deceased, an old man, had been ailing for some time past. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

BISHOPS TAWTON - Child Drowned At Bishopstawton. Trying To Reach An Apple. - JAMES SCOINES, five years of age, son of a labourer, living at Westacott Cottages, Bishopstawton, near Barnstaple, fell into the millstream a few yards from his home and was drowned. - Last evening an Inquest was held by the County Coroner, Mr J. F. Bromham, and a jury of which Mr H. Hookway was Foreman. - The evidence showed that the boy went out to play with another little fellow named Scott on Thursday afternoon on the bank of the millstream. Deceased, seeing an apple floating by, called out, "I will get it," but in attempting to do so he fell into the water. Scott at once ran back to MR SCOINES'S house and gave the alarm. The water was turned off from the mill and the body was found in the stream within a few minutes afterwards. The boy was apparently quite dead. Mr Lemarchand, Surgeon, of Barnstaple, was fetched, but could be of no assistance. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death by Drowning," and sympathy was expressed with the parents.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 21 July 1902
TORQUAY - The Fleet's Visit To Torbay. Sequel To The Galatea Accident. An Able Seaman's Sad Fate. - The adjourned inquest on the seaman WALTER FRIDAY occupied the attention of Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, and Jury for four hours on Saturday in the Upton Parish Room, Torquay. FRIDAY received fatal abdominal injuries (two other men were also injured at the same time) through a derrick falling upon him aboard H.M.S. Galatea. - Evidence given on a former occasion having been confirmed, Commander George Hunt was called. He deposed that the boat derrick was being lowered, but much too rapidly, under the direction of the first lieutenant. - Replying to the Coroner, Commander Hunt said he was in general charge. The cause of the derrick falling rapidly was due to the men (100 in number) putting insufficient weight upon the rope. - John Flearty, second-class petty-officer, said he just escaped being knocked down by the falling derrick. Deceased was jammed between the derrick and the edge of a boat. King, one of the other injured, just escaped having his head torn off. The derrick, which appeared to be lowered all right at first, seemed to suddenly fall the last few feet. It was checked by the ventilator, from which it slid. Witness suggested that the men must have thought the derrick in place, hence their weight being taken off the rope. - Lieut. Charles Curtis said he looked after the guys of the derrick. Witness heard an order to lower the derrick and this was done. Men in the pinnace saw the derrick falling and made a rush, but had they remained where they were none would have been injured. Witness did not notice the derrick catch the ventilator. it was a neglect of duty on the part of the men to let the rope go as was done. The men might have thought the derrick was down, but no order was given to "Let go." - The Coroner thought it inexplicable for the sailors to do as stated. It would be more satisfactory to know the reason of such conduct. - Witness replied that he could not tell the reason. - Both Able Seamen Beedell and Bolt said that the derrick caught in the ventilator, and First-class Petty-officer Clevedon deposed that the rope was dry and slipped through the hands of the men who were told to "Hang on," but did not do so. The derrick caught the ventilator and slipped off. The men must have thought the derrick was "home," hence their letting go the rope. - Captain Cumming, present in civilian attire, made himself known to the Coroner, who invited him to give evidence. On being sworn, the captain said that he attributed the accident to the negligence of the men in charge of the "topping lift." Witness added that it was the first time he had heard anything about the derrick catching the ventilator. - Witnesses Flearty and Clevedon recalled, said they were not asked the question as to whether or not the derrick caught the ventilator at the inquiry on the ship, but they gave it as their opinion that the derrick did "hang up" on the ventilator. - Holt and Beedell, again called, said that the derrick did strike the ventilator. A.B. McCall also stated that the derrick "hung on" to something and he thought it was "home." - Answering Captain Cumming, Commander Hunt said that the derrick could not have struck the ventilator without his seeing it. - The Coroner summed up the evidence, saying that the men in charge of the rope had failed to do their duty. He was convinced that the explanation that the derrick caught in the ventilator was a true one. - The Jury, who retired, returned the following verdict, viz., "That deceased came to his death Accidentally in consequence of the derrick falling on him through striking the ventilator."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 23 July 1902
BOVEY TRACEY - The Death On The Railway At Bovey. Inquest And Verdict. - Yesterday at the Town Hall, Bovey Tracey, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of GEORGE HOLE, of Wreylands, near Lustleigh, who was knocked down on Monday by a passenger train on the branch line of the Great Western Railway, just outside Bovey Tracey, and killed. Mr William Sercombe was chosen Foreman of the Jury. Mr W. Scantlebury, Chief Inspector of the line, of Plymouth, was present on behalf of the Great Western Railway Company. - ALBERT HOLE, gardener, of Torquay, identified the body as that of his brother, aged 39. He was a general labourer. For about 12 years he had been in the Army, having served for 10 years in India. He returned four years ago in good health. Witness had sometimes heard deceased complain of suffering from ague. He was in employment under Mr Winser, builder, of Bovey Tracey, until Saturday, when he was dismissed by his employer and on Monday he came to Bovey Tracey for work. Witness last saw him on the 2nd May, when he was in good health. - MARY HOLE, mother of the deceased, said she was a widow. Deceased used to live with her. He had been in good health and left work on Saturday because the job on which he was engaged was finished. On Monday he left home in good health and spirits at 10 o'clock in the morning, saying he was going to Bovey look for work at the water works. He said he might return by a train at 12 o'clock if he could catch it. - John Courtier, engine driver, of Moretonhampstead, said he was working the 4.5 p.m. passenger train from Moreton to Newton on Monday. Between Lustleigh and Bovey, as the train was coming round a sharp curve just in sight of Bovey Station, about a quarter of a mile away, on taking his eyes off the signal - which gave all clear - he saw a man lying on his back across the left-hand rail, about 25 or 30 yards away. The man appeared to be motionless and witness immediately blew his whistle and applied the steam brake. The man never moved and the train passed over him. The train, which was travelling about 30 miles an hour, was pulled up a short distance ahead. Witness went back and found that the body, which had been dragged a short distance, was cut completely in two. Witness signalled to the Station and reported the occurrence, and proceeded with the train. In answer to the Coroner, he said if the man had been all right, and had wished to get out of the way, there would have been no time for him to do so after the whistle blew as the train was close upon him. - Mr Henry Goodwyn, Medical Practitioner, of Bovey, who examined the body, said there was a scalp wound on the head, but there was no fracture of the skull, and therefore it was not likely that he was struck thereon first. The wound might have occurred while he was being dragged along. Deceased might have tripped and fallen and become unconscious; but there was no mark to show that this had happened, and in such a possibility the position in which he lay was a most unlikely one. The mark on the forehead was not sufficient to make accused insensible. If seized by a fainting fit he would probably have fallen forward on his face. - Alfred Steer, groom, of Bovey, said he saw deceased on Monday afternoon, about a quarter to four o'clock, in the yard of an Hotel. He asked witness to have a drink, and witness complied. Deceased was not fuddled with drink, but he was not sober; he was "nothing out of the way." That was the last time witness saw him. - Samuel Heath, naval pensioner, of Bovey, said deceased had a drink with him at the same time. He did not think the man was anything but sober. He mentioned that he had been unsuccessful in his quest for work, and that he should return to Bovey in about a fortnight. - Charles Richard Causley, an insurance agent, of Bovey, said he saw deceased in Station-road, at five minutes past four, going towards the Station. He was afterwards walking, it seemed, towards the goods shed. When witness saw him first he looked a little sleepy and his head was hanging down. From the manner in which he was walking witness thought he had "got a drop of drink in him." - Mr Scantlebury said there was a space along the side of the line used by the officials, but no public footway in the locality of the accident. - Ernest P. Crocker, fireman of the train, corroborated the evidence of his mate and added that he saw the engine strike deceased, causing his legs to fly into the air. - P.C. Finch, stationed at Bovey, deposed to searching the deceased's clothes and finding a razor and other articles of no significance in the pockets. - The Coroner, in summing up, said it was for the Jury to decide whether the man lay down for the purpose of committing suicide, or whether he was a little fuddled with drink and lay down, not knowing where he was. - A Juror (Mr Alford) remarked that deceased had entered his shop during the day to be measured for a pair of trousers. He then appeared perfectly sober and made arrangements for the trousers to be sent to his house. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" the Foreman remarking that the Jury were of opinion that deceased lay down o the rails to sleep.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 28 July 1902 WITHYCOMBE RALEIGH - An Inquest was held on Saturday at the Holly Tree Inn, Withycombe, by Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, on the body of WILLIAM RENDLE, who was killed in Withycombe brickyard, through some gravel giving way under which he was working. The evidence showed that the deceased was advised to move the gravel from the top, but said he could do it all right from underneath, when four or five cartloads suddenly fell, burying him. When extricated he was dead, his neck having been broken. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

EXETER - Child's Body Found In A Rubbish Tub. Inquest At Exeter. - At the Police Station, Exeter, on Saturday, Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, opened an inquest on the newly-born child of LUCY SANDERS, a native of Hackham, near Holsworthy, but residing at St Thomas, Exeter. The mother of deceased was in the service of Mrs Elliott, of Cowick-street, St. Thomas. On Thursday Mrs Elliott thought it necessary to call in Dr Vlieland to see the mother of deceased, who, on the arrival of the medical man, declined to be examined, stating that nothing was the matter with her. At nine o'clock in the evening Mrs Elliott went to bed, and SANDERS was left to admit the assistants who resided in the house. On these returning SANDERS handed them their candles to light them upstairs. Certain things having been noticed by one of the assistants, Mrs Elliott was roused and the girl was seen to drop something into the dust tub in the lumber-room, which adjoins the kitchen. Dr Vlieland was sent for and on an examination of the tub being made the dead body of a newly-born child was found, it having apparently succumbed to insufficient attention at birth. It was decided to adjourn the Inquest until August 16th, it being stated that the mother of deceased could not attend for three weeks or a month.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 1 August 1902
CLOVELLY - An Inquest was held at the King's Arms Hotel on Wednesday on the body of ARCHIE SANDERS, aged two years, and nine months, son of MR W. SANDERS, insurance agent. It appears that the child fell over the stairs on Tuesday week and received injuries to his head, from which he died last Tuesday. The Jury returned a verdict of Death through Convulsions caused by the Accident.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 2 August 1902
TORQUAY - The Daddy Hole Mystery At Torquay. A Case Of Suicide. - Chief-Officer Crickett, of the Coastguards at Torquay, a few days ago found a quantity of wearing apparel, with a watch and chain and brooch, under Daddy Hole Plain, Torquay. The sequel took place on Thursday, when the body of FRANCES MARY ROBERTS, 17 years of age, the daughter of a claycutter of Highweek, was found floating off Torquay harbour. - Yesterday, at the Coroner's Inquest evidence was given to the effect that ROBERTS was employed at Gibbons' Commercial Hotel, but that she was discharged for keeping late hours. She then appeared to have joined undesirable company in Torquay. She was described as being "down" on the 18th inst., and her female companion did not see her afterwards. - Deceased's mother said at the age of 12 years her daughter threatened to drown herself. - The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that the young woman Committed Suicide while Temporarily Insane.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 4 August 1902
BARNSTAPLE - Accidentally Suffocated At Barnstaple. - Mr A. Bencraft, Deputy Borough Coroner of Barnstaple, held an Inquest on Saturday, at the house of Mrs Gent, of Newport, Barnstaple, on the body of the infant son of MRS HODGES, daughter of Mrs Gent. - The newly-born infant was on Thursday placed by Elizabeth Corney, a certificated nurse, in the mother's arms, but at midnight she discovered it was dead. Mr Le Marchand, Surgeon, was called in, and said there were signs that the child had died from suffocation. - In answer to the Deputy Coroner, Mr Le Marchand expressed his opinion that babies of that tender age should be placed in a cot by the side of the bed of the parent. - The Coroner spoke strongly to the same effect and the Jury returned a verdict that death was caused by "Accidental Suffocation."

SIDMOUTH - Curious Accident At Sidmouth. Death Of A Naval Man. - An accident, which proved fatal, occurred on Friday evening in All Saints-road, Sidmouth, to ERNEST THOMAS EVANS, a stoker, belonging to H.M.S. Oppossum. - EVANS, a native of Branscombe, was on leave, and left his home about midday on Friday for Sidmouth, from whence he intended to proceed to Plymouth in company with two sailor lads. They wended their way to the Station, and on getting two-thirds the way up All Saints-road, a 'bus passed them. They hailed the driver and mounted the 'bus from behind instead of in the usual manner. EVANS'S two companions succeeded in getting on top, but EVANS had not quite done so before he shouted "right", a signal for the driver to proceed. EVANS then appears to have attempted to catch hold of a "Mail" basket to help himself up, but the basket turned over, EVANS missed his hold and fell to the ground, presumably on his head. His companions at once jumped down and carried EVANS, who was unconscious to the Cottage Hospital. He remained unconscious until death, which took place at 5 a.m. on Saturday. - At an Inquest held on Saturday evening by Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, evidence bearing out the above facts was given. The father said his son was 24 years of age. - Dr Scott-Watson said he examined deceased, but the only external injuries were a long graze behind the right ear and a small cut over it. His opinion was that the cause of death was fracture of the base of the skull, causing severe injury to the brain, and that the injury was the result of a fall. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." The deceased had only lately returned from a four years' cruise. He was one of the crew of the Centurion and saw some hot fighting in China. - Arrangements for deceased's funeral will be carried out by the Admiralty Surgeon and Agent (Dr Pullin) and Chief Officer Pearce, of the Coastguard, Sidmouth. The interment will take place in the Sidmouth Cemetery tomorrow.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 5 August 1902
TORQUAY - Sailor's Death At Torquay. - An Inquest was opened by Mr Hacker at Torquay with regard to the death of a stoker on the first-class battleship Majestic, named JAMES COSTELLO, aged 32. Deceased was admitted on July 23rd to the Hospital suffering from injuries to the head, received by a fall from a bicycle in Torwood-street. Some shipmates took him to the Hospital. - Concussion of the brain followed, and pneumonia supervened, causing death on Saturday morning. William Taylor, another stoker of the same ironclad, gave evidence of identification and the inquiry was adjourned to the 19th inst. for further evidence from the ship after she returns from the Royal Navy Review at Spithead.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 6 August 1902
BARNSTAPLE - FREDERICK JOHN WARE, the two-year-old son of a labourer of Dolton, several days ago fell into a pan of hot milk. The child, after being attended to by Mr Drummond, was taken to the North Devon Infirmary at Barnstaple. At first it seemed to progress favourably, but on Monday died from shock and from the heart's failure. At an Inquest held by Mr Archibald Bencraft, Deputy Coroner, yesterday, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" after hearing the evidence of the mother and the House Surgeon, Mr Reginald Cooke.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 7 August 1902
DAWLISH - Sudden Death At Dawlish. - An Inquest was held by Mr Hacker, Coroner, yesterday touching the death of HENRY VIGUS, who suddenly expired in the street on Monday evening. Mr A. G. Curtis was Foreman of the Jury. - Deceased's widow, who lives at Queen-street, said apart from slight rheumatism he had never complained. He went to Newton Races on Monday and she was told he had dropped dead on his return by the 8.15 train. - Nicholas Ball, landlord of the Albert Hotel, said he looked through his bar door and saw deceased, who was rather excited reel and fall. - Mr F. J. H. Cann, M.B., said he was called to deceased on Monday, who was lying dead in the stable of the Hotel. From an examination he found the arteries supplying the heart degenerated. The other organs were normal. He considered the cause of death to be syncope, owing to heart disease. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 12 August 1902
TIVERTON - JAMES PARKER, 52, of Chapel-street, Tiverton, for 28 years in the employ of Messrs. Starkey, Knight and Ford, brewers, died suddenly on Saturday. At an Inquest yesterday, Dr Shields attributed death to heart disease. The Jury returned a verdict to that effect.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 16 August 1902
EXMOUTH - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at an Inquest at Exmouth on the body of SARAH MAHONY, widow of JOHN MAHONY, schoolmaster, who died as the result of burns. Evidence went to show that deceased must have been going to light a candle when she caught her nightdress alight.

TAVISTOCK - Yesterday, at an Inquest held at Tavistock by Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, on the body of THOMAS CRUIZE, aged 72, a labourer, his step-daughter, MARIA MARTIN, stated that she found him on Wednesday afternoon lying dead in his garden, with his shovel in one hand. A few weeks ago he had a fall and injured his side. Dr Smith stated that the deceased had a weak heart and death was due to syncope, accelerated by the fall. A verdict was returned accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 18 August 1902
LYNMOUTH - Lynmouth Cliff Accident. The Inquest. A Terrible Fall. - The body of MR HENRY HAMILTON GRIFFITH, of Cardiff, who was killed on Thursday by falling over the cliffs at Tillery Beach, Countisbury, near Lynmouth, was removed on Saturday morning in the tug Falcon to Cardiff. The Inquest was held by Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner, at the Reading-room, Lynmouth, with Mr A. L. Ford as Foreman of the Jury. - Herbert Henry Phillips, commercial traveller, of London, stated that while on the sands close to Lynmouth with some ladies on Thursday a dog which was with the party ran to some rocks and barked incessantly. This procedure attracted attention, and on going to the spot witness saw the dead body of a young man lying on a rock about 12 feet above the beach. Witness reported to the Police. Deceased had evidently fallen from the heights above. - DANIEL GRIFFIN, merchant, of Cardiff, identified the body as that of his nephew. Deceased had resided with his parents at 103 Cathedral-road, Cardiff. He was cashier in a ship-owner's office at Cardiff and was 19 years of age. Deceased left Cardiff about twelve days ago to visit his parents, who were staying at Perranporth. He left them last Saturday to walk to Minehead. On Wednesday morning he was at Ilfracombe, where he received a postcard from his father. He did not know when deceased left Ilfracombe. Deceased was on a walking tour. Witness had made inquiries, but could not ascertain when deceased reached Lynmouth. - P.C. Bibbings stated that deceased was lying on his face and hands, with his head between the rocks and his legs upwards. Witness found a coat on the cliffs some distance up and also a towel and a cap, all of which had since been identified as belonging to the deceased. Witness thought deceased must have fallen 400 or 500 feet. Deceased's watch had stopped at half-past 5. - Mr M. B. Hay, Surgeon, deposed to examining the body. The skull was fractured in a great many places and the brain was missing. The left eye was hanging over the cheek and there was a large cut on the top of the head about four inches long and two inches wide, through which the brains had escaped. In witness's opinion deceased had fallen from a great height. Death must have been instantaneous. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed sympathy with the parents and relatives of the deceased in their sad bereavement. They also resolved that their fees should be expended on a wreath as a token of sympathy.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 20 August 1902
EXETER - An Exeter Servant's Trouble. Baby Found In A Rubbish Tub. - Yesterday afternoon Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an adjourned Inquiry at the City Police Court concerning the death of the illegitimate child of LUCY MAUD SAUNDERS. The Chief Constable watched the case on behalf of the Police. - SAUNDERS, at the beginning of April, went into the service of Mrs Elliott, of 15 Cowick-street, as a general servant. About six weeks later her mistress, noticing certain things, spoke to the girl, who denied that there was anything the matter with her. On Thursday night, the 24th of July, Frank Harris, also in the employ of Mrs Elliott, returned home at about 10.15 and was admitted by SAUNDERS. In consequence of what he saw in the dining-room and in the passage, he made a communication to Mrs Elliott, and subsequently discovered something in a tub in an outhouse. - In his evidence, Dr C. J. Vlieland said he was summoned to 15 Cowick-street and on arriving found SAUNDERS in the sitting-room in a very weak and faint state. He examined her and found that she had recently been confined. On asking for the child she told him it was in a rubbish tub at the back. The body showed no marks of violence whatever. The post mortem examination revealed the fact that it was a well-developed child and he had come to the conclusion that it had breathed, but he would not like to say it had had a separate existence. He thought if the child had had proper treatment it might have lived. He considered that death arose through want of proper care and attention at birth. - In reply to the Deputy Coroner, who advised her to say nothing, the girl replied, "I don't know anything; I was too faint." - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony. - The Deputy Coroner remarked that there might be a charge of concealment against the girl, but he could say nothing about that.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 21 August 1902
NEWTON ABBOT - Sad Death At Newton Abbot Station. - Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held an inquest at the Newton Abbot Town Hall yesterday concerning the death of LAURA HOOK JAMES, 45, wife of JOHN JAMES, a master mariner, of 22 Birch-road, Southville, Bristol. - The evidence showed that deceased had been on a visit to relatives at St. Marychurch for a fortnight for the benefit of her health. She had suffered from heart affection for some years, but for the last 18 months had shown improvement. She was better for a visit to Torquay and left by the 11.55 a.m. train from Torre, apparently well. However, at Newton Abbot she got out of the train and sat on a trolley, where she was seen to be in a faint. Brandy was administered, but she died in a few minutes before the arrival of a doctor who had been summoned. The medical evidence showed that death was caused by syncope, the result of heart disease and a verdict accordingly was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 22 August 1902
LYDFORD - Inquest At Dartmoor Prison. - Mr J. D. Prickman, County Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at the Convict Prison, Princetown, on the body of NEVILLE SHORTHOUSE, a convict. The Governor of the Prison stated that the deceased was a native of Carshalton, Surrey, and a M.R.C.S., and L.R.C.P., and was aged 42 years. He was convicted at the Central Criminal Court in February 1898 on a charge of attempting abortion and received sentence of seven years' penal servitude. Dr Few, medical officer, said that on admission to the Hospital on the 15th July deceased was found to be suffering from dropsy, due to contraction of the liver. An operation was performed on the 13th inst., but he gradually sank and died on the 19th, the cause of death being cirrhosis of the liver. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the doctor's testimony.

TOTNES - Mr Hacker, Coroner for the Totnes District, held an Inquest in the Assembly Room on the body of MR G. LAMBLE, thatcher, who suddenly expired on Wednesday evening on his way home from work. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Heart Disease."

TORQUAY - The adjourned Inquest relative to the death of JAMES COSTELLO, seaman of H.M.S. Majestic, was held on Tuesday. The evidence given by Michael Driscoll, stoker of the ship and "chum" of the deceased, was to the effect that on July 23rd he and deceased went for a "spin" on bicycles and the latter lost control of his machine and fell off. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

POUGHILL - Mr Burrow, junior, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Welsbeare on the body of WILLIAM ELLIS, who was found hanged. The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased was found dead through Strangulation and that there was no evidence to show the state of his mind at the time. A large number of people attended the funeral on Sunday last after afternoon service, the Rev. W. B. Gurney officiating.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 25 August 1902
EXETER - Found Drowned At Exeter. Inquest. - An Inquest was held at Old Abbey, Topsham-road, Exeter, on Saturday, on the body of ROBERT HEAL, age 35, who was found drowned near Salmon Pool on Friday. - Alfred Kenwood, butcher's assistant, in the employ of Mr C. Tanner, of Magdalen-street, Exeter, said deceased had been employed by Mr Tanner, but went away on Bank Holiday and did not return. Frank Back, labourer, of Paul-street, said that on Friday morning, while on his way to work, he saw the body floating in the leat near Salmon Pool. Thomas Were, butcher, of Magdalen-street, deposed that when he saw deceased on Monday he told him he was out of work, but had got a job, provided he could get a reference. He did not seem depressed. Dr Goulston, of Heavitree, said the state of the body did not allow of his saying whether there were any marks of violence; but there were no bones broken, and he considered that death was due to drowning. The body had probably been in the water four or five days. MRS DIMOND, sister of the deceased, and living at Blue Ball, Sampford Arundell, said she could not account for the occurrence in any way. - The Coroner said there was a certain amount of mystery as to how deceased came into the water, and he suggested a verdict of "Found Drowned." The Jury concurred, and a verdict to this effect was returned.

ILFRACOMBE - Burnt To Death At Combe Martin. "I've Burnt My Pretty Pinny." - At Ilfracombe Tyrrell Cottage Hospital on Saturday afternoon Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of SUSAN IRWIN, aged six, who met her death under distressing circumstances. - JOHN IRWIN, of Combe Martin, identified the body as that of his little daughter, SUSAN IRWIN, aged six years. He was not at home when the accident occurred, but he heard of it when he returned. The child was sitting on a chair with a shawl around her shoulders. There was no adult person present, his wife being at the Cottage Hospital. Deceased said to witness, "I've burnt my pretty pinny, and I've burnt my pretty frock." Witness sent for Dr Manning. He being away, Mr Blake, a dispenser, advised her removal to Ilfracombe Hospital. - MARTHA IRWIN, aged 13, said on Wednesday, the day of the accident, her father went to work, taking her brother, aged 10, with him. There were only deceased and herself present when the accident occurred. - Deceased was putting coal on the fire and came out to witness - who was outside the front door - with her apron and frock on fire. Witness attempted to put out the flames, but could not do so, and Johnny Cornish, a little boy who lived next door, did so by means of water. Her mother had been in the Hospital a fortnight. - Emma Jane Ewens, wife of the Baptist Minister, said she heard of the accident soon after it occurred. She went to the house and found MR IRWIN there. Deceased was in bed undressed. She was burnt from the knees upwards. Witness applied linseed oil and wadding. Deceased was removed to the Hospital. - Dr Ernest Gardner stated that when he arrived he found deceased in a state of severe shock. There were extensive burns on the lower part of the face and both arms, the lower part of the body and both thighs. The child died on Friday morning, never having recovered from the shock. - The Coroner said no blame could be attached to anyone. He commended the action of the children. Mr J. Marler, the Foreman, said flannelette which was properly made was not inflammable, but when an inferior article was made it was very dangerous. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and handed their fees to Mrs Ewens for distribution among the children.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 26 August 1902
CULLOMPTON - The Fatal Accident At Cullompton. - Yesterday Mr A. Burrow, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Bell Inn on the body of GEORGE TATCHELL, who was killed on the railway near Cullompton on Saturday morning by a fast down excursion train. There were present representing the Company, Messrs. T. Shattock (Chief Inspector Traffic Department), Venn (Permanent Way Inspector), Sansom (Locomotive Foreman), H. Abraham (Station Master); also W. Bennett and A. Coleman, the driver and fireman of the train. Mr F. Labdon was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The body was viewed, recognition being almost impossible, owing to its terribly shattered condition. - The driver of the train stated that he was travelling at the rate of 40 miles an hour, and noticed three men on the line as he came level with an up goods train. Although he whistled, he was almost immediately on them, and as soon as he passed he saw that two only had got clear. He therefore pulled up his train and found that TATCHELL had been killed. - T. North and P. Burrows, platelayers, said deceased appeared not to notice the whistling. He was walking on the down line. His body was carried about 118 yards from where he was first struck. - Mr Shattock, in reply to a question, said all workers on the line, on the approach of a train, were instructed to get off the metals on the nearest side and in walking on the 4-foot way to be in the direction of a coming train. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. - Sympathy was expressed for the widow, whose first husband was also killed on the line. The Jurors' fees were given to her.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 30 August 1902
DAWLISH - A Fall And It's Result. Inquest At Dawlish. - Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest at the Vestry Hall yesterday afternoon respecting the death of LOUISA YOUNG, 72, living at Barton Crescent, who died at the Cottage Hospital on Wednesday. - Miss Knowles, a neighbour, said she found deceased suffering from what she said was the effects of a fall, she having tripped in the bedroom carpet. - Dr Phillips, locum tenens for Dr Tripp, gave evidence to the effect that deceased was suffering from a fractured thigh upon her admission to the Cottage Hospital on the 7th inst. Complications followed and she died on Wednesday, the direct cause of death being pneumonia. - A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

EXMINSTER - The Fatal Accident At Exminster. Inquest. - Yesterday an Inquest was held at Exminster touching the death of JOHN REDDAWAY, aged 65 years, who was killed on Thursday. The deceased, who was in the employ of Mr E. W. Whitton, was driving a waggon laden with iron from Exminster Station to the Devon County Asylum. When near Eden Villa he attempted to jump off the shafts of the waggon. In doing so he caught his foot in the reins and was thrown to the ground, one of the wheels passing over his chest, killing him instantaneously. Dr Willis, of the Devon County Asylum, examined the body and found several ribs broken and other internal injuries. Mr Symonds was chosen Foreman of the Jury. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 1 September 1902
SIDMOUTH - The Sidmouth Bathing Case. Inquest And Verdict. - An Inquest was held at the Victoria Cottage Hospital, Sidmouth, on Saturday, by the County Coroner, Mr C. E. Cox. It was relative to the death of ERNEST BYATT, age 19, a clerk in the Civil Service. BYATT'S parents reside at 47 Osbaldston-road, Stoke Newington, London, and are on a visit to Sidmouth, staying in apartments at No. 2 Albany-terrace. - The father of deceased said he, his wife, son and two daughters arrived in the town about a fortnight since. On Friday he and his son went for a bathe about 9.30 at the public bathing-place. Deceased, who appeared to be in his usual health, could swim a little. They remained in the water a few minutes. Afterwards rejoining the rest of the family, they went up Jacob's Ladder as far as the wicket gate leading to Peak-hill. Here, deceased, about 10.30 a.m. left them, saying he was going up the hill. As he did not return to dinner witness went to look for him along the beach. About 3 o'clock he saw deceased's clothes on the shingle near Windgate's Path and his son's body floating a few yards out, with his head under water, face downwards, in about three feet of water. Witness brought the body ashore and saw deceased had been dead some time, probably since 12 o'clock. - GRACE BYATT, deceased's sister, corroborated. - Chief-Officer Pearse, of the Sidmouth Coastguards, said he was called to the spot with his men, and, with the assistance of P.C. Hutchings, conveyed the body by boat to Sidmouth, and then to the Hospital. There was not the slightest danger to bathers at the place where deceased was found, as the water was shallow and there was scarcely any tide. Dr Bird said he was called by the father. The body showed symptoms common in cases of drowning. He considered it had been in the water some hours. There was nothing to show whether death was due to cardiac failure or an attack of cramp. The probability was that deceased was seized with cramp in the water, and that syncope intervened. The weather was very hot. The place was safe for bathing. - The Jury, of which Mr Cook was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death from Drowning," and expressed their deep sympathy with MR and MRS BYATT and family in their sad and terribly sudden bereavement.

HONITON - An Inquiry was held by Mr C. E. Cox, Coroner, on Saturday evening at the Town Hall, Honiton, into the circumstances concerning the death of WILLIAM CONNETT, aged 53, described as a labourer, but who recently was employed as an ostler at an Hotel in the town. - James Goddard, labourer, deposed that he had for upwards of three months allowed deceased, who was in rather adverse circumstances, to live in a house in his occupation situate in Silver-street. On Friday night, at 10.30, being told that CONNETT was ill, he, accompanied by a man named Frank Evans, went and saw him in bed and on inquiry elicited from him that he had suffered great pain in his stomach, but was then somewhat easier. At 6.30 on Saturday morning, on going to inquire for him, he (Goddard) found him dead. - James Bromfield, labourer, said he saw deceased in the Lamb Inn, at 6.30 on Friday evening and, in consequence of his being in great pain, he took him to a doctor, who gave him some medicine and told him to go at once to bed. He was then taken to Silver-street and went to bed. - Mr Samuel Horn, landlord of the Lamb Inn, and Emily Perry, niece, both testified to the effect that deceased frequented the house on and off during Friday and, consequent on his suffering much pain in his stomach, they prepared him some broth, which he partook of. He was also given some Hollands gin, and this appeared to somewhat relieve him. - Dr T. W. Shortridge stated that deceased came to his surgery in the company of Bromfield about 6.30 p.m. on Friday. He prescribed for him and advised him to go to bed. The man was perfectly sober. As the result of a post mortem examination he arrived at the conclusion that death was occasioned as the outcome of a broken stomach, accelerated by gastric ulcers. The Jury, of whom Mr Thomas W. Sansom was Foreman, returned a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 2 September 1902
EXETER - Devon Soldier's Suicide At Exeter. Inquest. - At the Higher Barracks, Exeter, last evening, the Deputy Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, held an Inquiry concerning the death of PRIVATE BYRON WALTERS, of the Devon Regiment, which took place at the Barracks on Sunday night. Captain Emerson, D.S.O. was present on behalf of the officer commanding the Regimental District (Colonel Kinder). - The first witness called was Captain Emerson, D.S.O., who identified the body of deceased, formerly a Militiaman, who had just been transferred to the line. He was 18 years of age and an Australian. It was reported to him that deceased had shot himself. He saw the man lying on the floor in his barrack-room and cycled for Dr Russell Coombe. He knew of no reason why deceased should have committed suicide. - Albert Mitchell, a private in the Devonshire Regiment, deposed that about midday on Sunday deceased took a rifle from the rack and put a cartridge in it. Witness told him not to play with the rifle and deceased then said, "You are not game enough to pull the trigger." He put the rifle to his shoulder, but witness persuaded him to take the cartridge out and put the rifle in its place. About 9 o'clock in the evening deceased, who had been talking with other occupants of the room, said he was going to get into bed. A few seconds later witness heard a report and, running over to deceased, who was lying at the foot of his cot on the floor, he saw blood on deceased's arm and also a hole in his left breast. The rifle was near him and a cane was through the trigger guard. The conversation previous to the affair was of an ordinary character. Deceased seemed depressed and there had been a peculiar look in his eyes, especially on Saturday. Deceased had said he did not like the regiment and would rather be at sea, where he was before he joined the Army. He did not know where deceased obtained the cartridge; the men were not supposed to have them in their rooms. He knew deceased had no right to have a cartridge in his possession, but he (witness) did not report it. - By the Jury: He did not report this fact because the corporal of the room was away on pass. - The Coroner: Did deceased get on well with all the other men in the room? - Witness: Not very well, sir. - The Coroner: Was there any quarrel between him and the others? Was he put upon by the other men, and was it made uncomfortable for him? - Witness: No, sir. - Dr Russell Coombe, acting Medical Officer to the Depot, said deceased was dead when he arrived. He had a bullet wound of entry in the left breast and a wound of exit just inside the left shoulder blade. This was the cause of death. From the position of the wound he was of opinion that the wound might have been self-inflicted. There was a hole in the ceiling which was said to have been caused by the bullet, and if this was so it must have been self-inflicted. Deceased must have been standing and leaning over the mouth of the rifle. - Captain Emerson, recalled, was asked as to how deceased could have obtained the cartridge and replied that there was no difficulty whatever in obtaining it. He might have secured it from one of the Reservists who returned from the front a day or so previously. Men were in the habit of bringing cartridges home with them from South Africa. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 3 September 1902
GREAT WIGBOROUGH, ESSEX - A Devonian Suicide's Diary. - The farewell messages of THOMAS POLLARD, the ex-coachman whose strange career ended in suicide at Great Wigborough, near Colchester, were read at the Inquest. On a newspaper he had written strange marginal notes to his relatives, such as:- "Tell my son TOM to curse the one that put his father in prison;" and "I only shoot myself to give my nice sister-in-law a fright." "Don't come to my funeral or put on mourning. I only choose the clay." - A sheet of cartridge paper was found by the body. Just before shooting himself he had written on this:- "I am now having my last pipe. It is a grand morning just as I wished." - A verdict of "Temporary Insanity" was returned.

EXETER - Sudden Death At Exeter. - Yesterday the Deputy Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, held an inquest at No. 3 Exe View-terrace, St. Thomas, touching the death of ALICE MAUDE VINNICOMBE, age 11, who died on Monday evening. Mr Richard Knowles was chosen Foreman of the Jury. LUCY VINNICOMBE, widow, of 3 Exe View-terrace, said her daughter complained on Saturday morning of a pain in the stomach. On Monday morning she seemed better and went out. About five o'clock, however, she had a fit in the room and died suddenly. She only had an egg for breakfast and milk for the rest of the day. Her family was subject to heart disease. The child had had an abscess on her neck for three weeks about a month ago. - Dr C. E. Stokes, of St. Thomas, said the deceased died from natural causes, probably heart disease. - The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 4 September 1902
BRISTOL - Death Of A Barnstaple Woman At Bristol. - The Deputy Coroner for Bristol held an inquest yesterday on the body of EMILY RIDD, aged 43, of Barnstaple, who died on Monday. Samuel Hill, a cabinet-maker, of Fore-street, Barnstaple, deposed that the deceased was his sister. She was the wife of a machinist, but had not lived with her husband for some years. A matron of the Salvation Army Home, Ashley-road, Bristol, said deceased came from Barnstaple, in August, but after she had been admitted to the Home, it was found that she was too ill to remain there and she refused to go back to Barnstaple, remarking that she would go into one of the hospitals. On Monday evening deceased was seen in the Redcross-street open space and as she appeared to be very ill she was taken to the Infirmary, but died before reaching the Institute. Medical evidence showed death was due to the clotting of blood in the vessels of the lungs, and a verdict was given accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 5 September 1902
DARTMOUTH - An Inquest was held yesterday concerning the death of EDWIN JAMES HELLIER, who fell down a well at Townstall Pathfields, Dartmouth and was drowned. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

INSTOW - An Inquest was held at Instow yesterday touching the death of GEORGE WILLIAM HENRY MITCHELL, aged 18, a tailor's apprentice, of Bideford, who was drowned the previous evening through being unable to reach shore after the sinking of a boat. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 6 September 1902
EXETER - Fatal Fall At Exeter. Serious Allegations. Inquest Adjourned. - The Deputy Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, held an inquest at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday on the body of JANE EMMA SPLATT, aged 54, of Coombe-street, Exeter. - The husband, WILLIAM ROBERT SPLATT, gas works' labourer, stated that he was told that his wife had fallen downstairs on Wednesday afternoon. He did not see her after 8.30 on Tuesday night, when she looked as if she had been drinking. As was usual when she was like that she kept away from him, but she did not often stay away all night. He did not quarrel with his wife on Tuesday night. - By a Juror: The stairs were dangerous. He believed two or three people had been previously killed there. - Mr Marsden, Assistant House Surgeon, said deceased was admitted at 12.30 on Wednesday suffering from a fracture of the ribs. She walked to the Hospital alone and said she had fallen downstairs the previous night. She appeared to be in a great deal of pain and died at 8 o'clock the next morning. - A nurse at the Hospital named Lilian Bayspoole, who was attending the deceased, said she asked deceased at 5.30 p.m. on Wednesday how the accident occurred, and she said, "Me and my master had taken too much and he knocked me, or was going to knock me, when I stepped backwards and fell downstairs." Deceased was in a collapsed condition. - Eleanor Horwill, another nurse, who was in attendance on the deceased, said MRS SPLATT, in reply to a question, said, "I was having a quarrel with my husband on Tuesday night and he knocked me and I stepped back and fell over the stairs." - The Deputy Coroner said that, having regard to the evidence given, it was undoubtedly a case for further investigation. If the deceased's statements were true, there ought to be evidence forthcoming from some of the neighbours. He would, therefore, adjourn the Inquest until next Friday to see what further evidence could be obtained.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 8 September 1902
EXETER - The Fatal Accident At Pinhoe. Inquest And Verdict. - The Deputy Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould held an Inquest at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on Saturday concerning the death of WILLIAM WESTCOTT, farm labourer, aged 55, of Poltimore, who met with an accident on the 29th August, and died in the Hospital on September 8th. - ELIZABETH WESTCOTT identified the body as that of her late husband. She had seen him while in the Hospital, and he told her that he was engaged in making a rick of corn when he stepped too far back and fell off the rick on to the ground. - James Davey, farm labourer, of Pinhoe, said he was working with deceased on the 29th ult. in company with another man, making a corn rick for Mr Frederick Havill, at Coffin's Farm, Pinhoe. Deceased and the other man were on the rick while witness was "pitching." He threw up the last sheaf and said that was all for the load. He turned his waggon round and afterwards saw deceased on the ground. Witness did not see him fall. Deceased said he had hurt his back. He called assistance, and deceased was driven to the Hospital by Mr Havill. - Mr P. Stirk, House Surgeon at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, said deceased was admitted on the evening of the 29th ult., suffering from several fractured ribs on the right side. One or more of the ribs had penetrated the lung. It was seen the case was a hopeless one from the first. He died early on Saturday morning. There were no injuries to the spine. - The Jury, of which Mr W. H. Chambers was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 9 September 1902
ILFRACOMBE - Clergyman's Sad Death At Ilfracombe. A Victim Of Drink. - Yesterday Dr Slade-King, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Town Hall on the body of a visitor to Ilfracombe, the REV. ALGERNON C. STAFFORD O'BRIEN, rector of Semer, near Ipswich. Mr J. C. Clarke was elected Foreman of the Jury. - Mrs Emma Murphy, who keeps a lodging-house in Arcade-road, said the deceased was between 50 and 60 years of age. She believed he was the rector of Semer, in Suffolk. About a fortnight ago he visited a gentleman who lodged at her house. He stayed eight nights. During this time he was drinking heavily, mostly wine and spirits. The gentleman left and deceased remained behind, as he was not in a fit condition to go. The gentleman's name was George Oswald Bear. Witness wrote for him to return and he sent to the deceased, asking him to leave. Witness also told him he must leave and he did so on September 2nd. She had not seen him since, but heard he lodged at Mrs Clarke's, Wildersmouth Villa. During the time he was in her house he was frequently very drunk. A medical man called to see him and a man looked after him. - Elizabeth Benoke, of the Lansdown Hotel, deposed that on Thursday afternoon, about 4 o'clock, deceased came into the smoke-room and asked for a brandy and soda. He seemed in a dirty, miserable condition, and asked her if she let apartments. Witness replied "Yes." He then said he had fallen out with his landlady and she might see him again. He returned about 8 p.m. and said he would take the lodgings and directed that his luggage might be sent for. A man was then sent to Mrs Anstey's, at Wildersdale, for the luggage. After deceased was settled in he asked for some food, saying he had eaten nothing for a fortnight. She gave him some fish and claret, and, as Dr C. Jones happened to be passing, she called him in. The doctor saw him and told her if she noticed anything worse to call him in the morning. Deceased then went to bed, and about 5 o'clock she was attracted to his room by hearing fearful cries. She went in and found him sitting up in bed with an empty whiskey bottle in a hatbox. He was in a dreadful state and she sent for Dr Jones and remained with the deceased in the meantime. A man stayed with him the following nights. On Sunday morning witness looked in the room and the deceased was asleep, but, seeing his arm had dropped, she considered something was the matter and sent for the doctor, but MR O'BRIEN was dead before the latter arrived. She had received no money from deceased and the only drink he had was claret and brandy ordered by the doctor. By the Jury: He did not leave the house after the Thursday. - Dr Jones said he attended deceased at the Lansdown Hotel on Thursday, but, as he was going to bed and had some food, he decided to call next morning. He did so, and found him in a very depressed condition. Deceased had evidently been drinking heavily during the night. He applied the usual remedies and MR O'BRIEN somewhat improved during the next day. He was called on Sunday morning and found MR O'BRIEN dead. He considered he died from syncope, caused by alcoholic poisoning and too much smoking. - Robert Phillips said he was employed to stay up with deceased for two nights. He did not see him take food. He smoked at intervals and had one small drop of whiskey. He had evidently been drinking hard. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Alcoholic and Nicotine Poisoning."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 10 September 1902
TORQUAY - At Upton Church Room, Torquay, last evening, Mr Kellock held an Inquest concerning the death of the wife of a carpenter living at Hatfield-road, Ellacombe, named EMMA MARTIN. The deceased on Monday was found dead lying on a sofa in the dining-room by the husband. Dr Wiggin attributed death to syncope and, secondarily, to a congested liver. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

NORTHAM - Appledore Drowning Case. - An Inquest has been held at the Bell Inn, Appledore, on the body of PERCY EASTMAN, aged 8 ½ years. GEORGE EASTMAN, master of the ketch Hematope, identified the body. He left deceased on Saturday morning looking after the boat while he (witness) went home to send breakfast on board the vessel for a sailor. Deceased was capable of looking after the boat and had done so many times. William Hobbs, master mariner, deposed to seeing deceased in the boat and being told he was going on board the Hematope. He surmised that deceased, in trying to climb on board, fell between the vessel and the boat, as the painter was hanging over the side and the oar was in the boat. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 12 September 1902
OTTERY ST MARY - Alfington. - Mr Cox, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of the infant child of EMILY CHOWN on Wednesday. The evidence went to show that the child, which was born on Monday morning, became uncovered during Monday night. When MRS CHOWN, grandmother, went to the child, she found it very cold. She took it into her own bed with herself and covered it up. She then went to sleep. On awaking she found that the child was dead. She sent for a medical man. Dr Burns, of Ottery St. Mary, stated that he had held a post-mortem examination and found that death was due to suffocation, caused, probably by the child being too closely covered. Parents and those in charge of infants made a practice of closely covering them, but he condemned such practice, for it was not only injurious to health, but very dangerous. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

HOCKWORTHY - Gipsy's Tragic End. Extraordinary Disclosures. Severe Strictures. - Circumstances of a remarkable character were disclosed at an Inquest at the South Staple Inn, Hockworthy, on Tuesday on the body of RICHARD STANLEY, a gipsy, hailing from Bristol, whose death occurred on Sunday evening. - ALICE STANLEY, wife of deceased, said her husband was 33 years of age. On Sunday they were encamped at Chimney Down, in the parish of Hockworthy. In the evening a man came along and asked the price of one of the horses belonging to deceased. The latter replied that it was the wrong day to deal in horses. The man asked witness to unfasten the horse, which was tied to a caravan. She went to do this when deceased went to the caravan and cut his throat with a knife used in making wicker chairs. Witness nearly fainted when she saw it and asked her husband why he did it. He replied "I was bound to do it." She asked the man, who was still there, to go to her husband while she went for further assistance, but he walked away across the Down. She went to a dairy close by, occupied by a man named Hurford, told him what had happened and asked him to go to her husband. He said: "I can't go." She appealed to him: "Won't you go to save a life?" He replied, "I have my milking to do and to go to church." He told her to go to another farm about 200 yards away, where there were "two able chaps." She went to this place, but could not get assistance. Witness added, "Not a would came to me." Then she went to a farm occupied by Mr Howe, and he and his wife ran back to Chimney Down. She had locked the caravan before she left, but on her return this was broken in and a gun had been taken. Deceased had never threatened to take his life. They got on well together and he was very fond of their children. - William Bradford, retired farmer, of Clayhanger, said he did not know deceased, but on the day in question he had some conversation with him about a horse. He saw him do something to his throat, but did not know what it was. Deceased fell, and his wife cried, "Oh, he has cut his throat." - The Coroner: Did you go up to him? - Witness: No, sir. - The Coroner: Why? - Witness: I had not the nerve. - The Coroner: How old are you? - Witness: Nearly 70. - The Coroner: And that is why you went away. Well, it might have been kind if you had gone to him at any rate. - Witness: I could not have done it if you had given me the world. - Herbert Howe, farmer, of Hockworthy, said he was called by deceased's wife, who said her husband had cut his throat. He went at once and on his arrival he found him lying on the ground. He had shot himself as well as having cut his throat, the gun being across his legs. He was unconscious, but alive and did not say anything. - Mr N. B. Grigg, Medical Practitioner, of Holcombe Rogus, stated that deceased and his wife came to him on Sunday afternoon. Deceased appeared to be greatly depressed and he could get no information out of him. MRS STANLEY told witness that he had been suffering very badly in his head for a week. Subsequently he was called to deceased's caravan, where he found STANLEY with his throat cut and his brains scattered about, deceased having also shot himself. The wound in the throat was serious and it was not probable that he would have recovered from this. It would have been possible for deceased to have gone into the caravan and procured the gun after he had cut his throat. - In summing up, the Coroner said it seemed rather extraordinary that a man should not go to the help of a man who had attempted to take his life, but seemed to think milking was more important than the life of a fellow creature. There was no legal compulsion on a man to render help at such times, but one would have thought that people who had been told a man had attempted to take his life would have gone to see what good they could do. If a person didn't choose to do it, there the matter ended. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane," and the Foreman (Mr Henry Cleave) added that the Jury considered it a most inhuman thing for the persons referred to not to have rendered assistance. They might have helped the woman if they could not have helped the man. They were sorry that these persons bore the name of Englishmen.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 13 September 1902
EXETER - The Death Of An Exeter Woman. Adjourned Inquest. Open Verdict. - Yesterday afternoon the adjourned Inquiry concerning the death of JANE EMMA SPLATT, of 34 Coombe-street, Exeter, was held at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital. - Detective-Sergt. Parkhouse said he had made inquiries into the case. He had visited 34 Coombe-street, which was a house let out in several tenements, and also the neighbourhood around, but had been unable to obtain any information which would throw further light on the case. He had known the deceased and her husband for the last twenty years. The husband had been convicted several times for ill-treating his wife. - The Coroner said he could not help thinking that there was something behind the case which they had been unable to fathom. The only possible verdict they could return was that the deceased died from injuries received, but that there was no evidence to show how they were received. - The Jury, of which Mr W. Godsland was Foreman, returned a verdict accordingly.

AXMINSTER - The Fatal Accident At Axminster. Negligent Pole Erection. - Yesterday, at the Axminster Cottage Hospital, the Deputy Coroner for the District, Mr Cox, held an inquest on the body of WILLIAM HENRY GEORGE SALTER, aged 28, of 41 Alphington-street, St. Thomas, Exeter, who met with an accident on September 9th and was taken to the Cottage Hospital at Axminster, where he died. - WILLIAM JOHN SALTER, labourer, working for the Exeter City Council, father of deceased, said his son had been employed as a wireman by the General Post Office for about five years. Witness saw him after an operation had been performed on Tuesday, and, in reply to questions, he said a pole on which he was working gave way under him and he jumped and pitched on the hard stones below. There was no fault with his mates, except those who put the pole in the ground, as it was not low enough, being only 2ft. 10in. deep instead of 6ft. - Edwin Harris, telegraph engineer of the G.P.O., Exeter, said he selected the men to do the work of removing a telegraph pole in a garden belonging to Mr T. B. Heal, of Castle-hill, Axminster, to a fresh position on the 9th inst. He visited the scene of the accident on Tuesday morning and found the pole had apparently fallen about 60 degrees. It had been placed less than 3ft. in the ground. It should have been from 5ft. to 6ft. The depth of the hole was left to the foreman of each party within certain limits from 4ft. to 6ft., except in rock, when a lesser depth was allowed. The soil at Castle-hill was of gravel, so that the pole was not at its proper depth. The length of the pole was 45ft. The pole was to carry five wires. He did not know by whom the pole was erected. - Second-Corporal W. Poole, of the 2nd. Telegraph Battalion of the Royal Engineers, said he was in charge of the party detailed to remove the pole. An excavation of about half a foot was made on Monday, and on Tuesday morning, at 8 o'clock, operations were continued for lowering the pole. The deceased got up the pole and disconnected two of the wires. At that time he considered the pole firm and that there was no danger. The excavation had reached about 18 inches. He told the man digging to stop and get the tackle ready for lowering. Deceased said the two wires he had removed were touching each other and went up the pole to clear them. Witness was making the cord fast and deceased was coming down, about 10ft. from the top, when he shouted, "Look out, Bob; the pole is going." The pole then commenced to give way and deceased then jumped backwards from the steps fixed into the pole and fell to the ground. Witness went to him and asked if he was hurt, and deceased replied, "Yes." Witness saw his left leg was badly broken. He went for the doctor and the stretcher, and deceased was removed to the Hospital. All the poles were dated 10ft. from the bottom of the pole for six years, but this one was dated 1880 so that rule would not apply. He was under the impression that the pole was in between 5ft. and 6ft., as that was the usual depth for a pole of that height. He visited the Hospital about 11 o'clock on Tuesday morning, and the first words deceased said to him were "How deep was the pole in the ground?" He replied, "Nearly three feet." - Robert Stevens, labourer, employed by the General Post Office, corroborated. - Mrs Heal, of Castle-hill, said at 9 o'clock she heard a shout of "Hold hard under, the pole is coming," and saw deceased jump backwards. - Miss Evelyn Gordon Henry, matron in charge of the Hospital, said deceased was admitted just after 9 a.m. on the Police stretcher. She heard a similar statement made by the deceased as that recorded by the first witness. - Dr J. Crooks, of Axminster, said he found deceased lying on the ground at Castle-hill. He was suffering very much from shock, and a compound fracture of both legs, and a fracture of one bone of the fore arm. The man was removed to the Hospital. He told witness that he jumped off the pole to avoid being jerked off as it was falling. He was present when deceased died. He had made a post mortem examination and found that death ensued from syncope. - Frederick Hoare, labourer, of Axminster, who helped to put in the pole, was called. He said the pole was erected six or seven years ago, but he did not know how deep or the names of the men engaged in the job. - It was suggested that the pole might have snapped off below ground and the Inquiry was adjourned for two hours to see if this was so. - It was found, however, that this was not the case, and on reassembling the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - The Coroner said that if it could be ascertained who placed the pole in the ground originally he would have him apprehended. - Mr Harris said they had a clue, as they knew one of the men. He expressed the regret of the department at the sad occurrence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 15 September 1902
TORQUAY - An Inquest was held on Saturday relative to the death of an old widow named ANN PERRIAM, at 26 Queen-street, Torquay. Deceased was taken suddenly ill that morning, dying almost immediately. Dr Lyons attributed death to natural causes, and a verdict accordingly was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 19 September 1902
BARNSTAPLE - Mr Archibald Bencraft, Coroner for the Borough of Barnstaple, held an Inquest at the North Devon Infirmary on the body of ROBERT DUMMETT, aged about 70, labourer, of Marwood, who died as the result of injuries sustained through falling off a load of corn while working for Mr Carder, of Milltown. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

BARNSTAPLE - Mr Archibald Bencraft conducted an Inquest at Pilton Schoolroom, Barnstaple, on Wednesday, on the body of JOHN GAMMON, aged 71, of Muddiford, blacksmith, who died suddenly on the previous day, while walking up the hill at Littabourne, Pilton. The evidence showed that death was due to failure of the heart's action and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes " was returned.

BARNSTAPLE - Mr Archibald Bencraft conducted an Inquest at Barnstaple yesterday, touching the death of PERCIVAL ARCHIBALD HILL, aged about seven years, of Lock's-court, Barnstaple, who was drowned on Tuesday in the River Yeo, near Pilton Bridge through falling into the water while throwing stones. A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned, and the Coroner was requested to write to the Railway Company stating that in the opinion of the Jury they must be careful in the fencing of their Quay and not allow any children to go upon it.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 20 September 1902
TORQUAY - The Torquay Waggon Fatality. - An Inquest was held at Torquay last evening on the body of GEORGE CHURCHWARD, of Paignton, brewer's waggoner. Mr John Lewis Rossiter, of 2 Megla Villas, deposed that he was cycling the day previous from Paignton towards Torquay, and had got as far as Brokencliff Hill, Livermead, when he passed one of Messrs. Starkey, Knight and Ford's brewery waggons. Almost immediately he heard something fall and, looking round, saw deceased lying in the roadway. He went to deceased's assistance, and afterwards rode off for a medical man. - Dr Frampton said he was cycling past shortly afterwards and he attended deceased, who died on the way to Torbay Hospital. As the result of a post mortem examination he found that death ensued from a badly-ruptured liver, the right lobe of which was torn away. The wheels of the waggon must have passed over deceased's body. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was entered.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 23 September 1902
KINGSTEIGNTON - The Kingsteignton Suicide. Singular Conduct. - An Inquest has been held at Pontswine Farm, about three miles from Newton Abbot on JOHN PYE, a farmer. The father of deceased stated that his son, 36 years of age, was a bachelor, residing at home. He was of very violent temper. On Friday afternoon witness assisted him to drive a pig to Ideford Coombe. Whether he was not going fast enough or not, he did not know; but deceased came back in a passion and said "I will corpse you." Witness replied "Don't do that, JOHN; if that is how you are going to act I'll go back again." Witness returned. About an hour or so later his son returned and went into the orchard to get a basket of apples. In returning, he passed witness in the court, and, without speaking, pushed him down. His mother intervened, and he then pushed her down. Witness caught hold of him and deceased bit his hand. Both witness and his wife left him, and deceased entered the house. He saw deceased leave the house with a gun, but it did not strike him that he was going to injure himself, although he never used the gun. The gun belonged to witness and four or five days before he had loaded it for shooting a magpie. Witness went into the backyard and immediately heard the report of the gun. His wife called him and said JOHN had shot himself. Deceased had never threatened to shoot himself. The gun was not cocked, but it was possible deceased knocked the trigger. - HARRIET PYE, mother of the deceased, added that she did not remember removing the gun from the body, but might have done so. Her husband was at the back of the house and she was in the kitchen, when deceased went out the front. - Harriet Emma Bray, nine years of age, corroborated the evidence with regard to the position of the parties at the time of the occurrence. - Dr Edward G. Dutton, of Kingsteignton, stated that the injuries of deceased pointed to self-destruction. He was strongly of opinion that the muzzle of the gun must have been placed in the mouth to cause such wounds. - P.C. Cross and George Harvey, of Ideford Coombe, also gave evidence, the latter stating that deceased said when he came to the farm, that his father came part way and had "gone back in the sulks." He complained that he could earn more if he were a farm labourer than by staying home. At the time deceased was looking very strange. - The Deputy Coroner, Mr G. F. Kellock, commented on the fact that although the father saw deceased with a loaded gun, which he was not accustomed to use, and although he knew of his peculiar temper, he made no remonstrance with him. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" and added that no blame attached to anyone.

EXETER - Death In An Exeter Police Cell. Inquest. - At Exeter Police Court yesterday the Deputy Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, held an Inquest on the body of GEORGE HENRY FOWLER, aged 28, labourer, no fixed address, who died in one of the cells on Friday night. Deceased was arrested with another man on a charge of alleged theft from a yard the property of the City Council. - SARAH FOWLER, widow, residing at 15 Commercial-road, identified the body as that of her stepson. He was very much given to drink. - In reply to Inspector Dymond, witness said deceased had been in the Army, and was invalided out, suffering from heart weakness. - P.C. Farrant said he arrested FOWLER on Friday in a yard in Exe-lane belonging to the City Council on a charge of being on enclosed premises with a supposed unlawful object. - P.C. Addicott said that on Friday deceased was handed over to him. Witness brought FOWLER to the Station and searched him. He had in his possession a pipe, a half-penny, a little tobacco, and a quart bottle containing spirit. Deceased would give no account of how he obtained it. He was drunk. He visited FOWLER twice in the cell. He appeared more the worse for drink each time. At 10 p.m. deceased was asleep and perspiring. He made no complaint. - P.C. Reed said he relieved the last witness at 10 p.m., when deceased was asleep. He again visited him at 10.45 p.m. and at 11.20, when he was still sleeping. At 11.50 he found deceased had vomited and had a peculiar look in his face. As he could not make him speak he called Sergeant Tapley. Dr Pereira was also sent for. Deceased appeared to be dead. - Mary Jane Hellier, Alexandra Inn, Bonhay-road, said deceased came to the Inn shortly before 7 o'clock with another man. They were supplied with a pint of beer. After they left the premises witness missed a bottle which contained a quart of brandy. It was in a window in the bar. She identified the bottle found in deceased's possession as her property. She also missed a collection box. - Dr Pereira, Police Surgeon, said when he arrived at the Police Station he found FOWLER dead. He had seen deceased several occasions at the Workhouse. He had complained of pains in his chest. Deceased was always drunk. He considered FOWLER died from congestion of the brain, due to chronic alcoholism. - The Coroner said the Jury had been obliged to fully consider the evidence. They entirely acquitted the Police of any blame. - A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 24 September 1902
EXMOUTH - Fatal Fall At Exmouth. A Singular Case. Comments By The Coroner. - An Inquest was held at Portland Avenue, Exmouth, yesterday, on the body of MR ROBERT DEEY SPEDDING, who was found dead at his residence on Monday morning. - MR T. SPEDDING, schoolmaster, of Sherborne, identified the body as that of his father, aged 62 years. Deceased had been in good health of late, but complained of having a weak ankle. - Mr Eaton, Surgeon, practising at Exmouth, said that when he arrived at the residence he found MR SPEDDING dead. He was lying on the landing near his bedroom. - The Coroner, Mr Cox: The servant had to deliver the message twice, I think. - Mr Eaton: I did not regard the first message as an urgent one. When the servant first called at my house, it was not mentioned that MR SPEDDING had met with an accident. - The Coroner: As far as you know there was not on the first occasion any message delivered about an accident? - Mr Eaton: Not the first time. If it had been mentioned I should have gone immediately. - The Coroner: What time elapsed between the delivery of the first message and the second? - Mr Eaton: About half an hour. When I arrived MR SPEDDING was dead. Continuing, Mr Easton said that when he saw the body the blood on the forehead was quite dry. - The Coroner: How long do you think MR SPEDDING had been dead? - He had been dead for some time. I should say certainly an hour or more. - The Coroner: Was there any blood on the walls? - Mr Eaton: Not much. Continuing, witness said he had held a post mortem examination and considered death was due to fracture of the skull. - In reply to questions asked by Superintendent Jesse, witness said a very severe blow would be required to cause the fracture. He did not notice any bandage on deceased's ankle. - MRS SPEDDING, widow of the deceased, said her husband suffered a good deal from a weak ankle. She retired to rest on Sunday night about 10.30, leaving her husband downstairs. The next morning, on waking between 5 and 6 o'clock, she found that deceased was not in bed. She at once searched for him, and on going to the landing found him lying down. She endeavoured to make him speak, but failed. She noticed a wound over one of his eyebrows. - The Coroner: Why did you not send for a doctor? - Witness: I did not know one. We have not been in the town long. - The Coroner: You eventually sent for a medical man, did you not? - Witness: Yes. - The Coroner: About two hours afterwards. One cannot help thinking that you ought to have sent for a doctor without any delay. - Witness: I was really terrified. My husband must have fallen downstairs. He was going to see Mr Bell, of Shaldon, today (Tuesday) about his ankle. That gentleman has been attending him. - Maud Bush, a domestic servant in the employ of MRS SPEDDING, said that when she first saw the deceased he was lying on the landing with his head against a wall. When she returned to her bedroom she heard her master groan a little. She asked her mistress if she should fetch a doctor, but received no answer. When she went downstairs about an hour afterwards deceased was still lying in the same position on the landing. Her mistress appeared to be upset a good deal and she went to Mr Eaton. When she went to the house she told the servant that her master had met with an accident. - Mr Easton's servant was then called. She denied that the last witness said MR SPEDDING had met with an accident. She said her master had been ill all the night and did not know what was the matter with him. As witness was going into the house she heard Bush mention the word stairs. - The Coroner: Did it not occur to you when you heard the word stairs that there had been an accident? - Mr Eaton here interposed and said he considered there had been nothing very disgraceful, as only three-quarters of an hour elapsed between the first and second messages. - The Coroner: I am quite aware of that. I am commenting on the fact that the message was not delivered to you as it should have been. It is most important that messages should be given to a doctor as they are given to a servant. I don't say it made any difference in this case as to the life or death of the deceased. At the same time I think it is only right that I should have summoned the servant, so as to ask what message was delivered to her. - Witness, continuing, said Maud Bush appeared to be so unconcerned that she did not think there was anything serious. - Mr Eaton said if he had received the message in a proper manner and had gone to the house as quick as he could deceased's life could not have been saved. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 26 September 1902
SOUTH MOLTON - A sad accident happened to a young farmer, MR FREDERICK WESTCOTT, of West Park, Northmolton. He was riding home from Southmolton on a young horse, when the animal became restive and threw him. MR WESTCOTT sustained serious injuries. Dr Kendle was speedily summoned. MR WESTCOTT was unconscious and blood was flowing from his mouth and ears. An ambulance was sent for and MR WESTCOTT was carried to the Tinto Hotel, where he expired on Sunday morning without regaining consciousness. At the Inquest the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." The funeral on Wednesday was largely attended. MR WESTCOTT was unmarried and succeeded to his father's business last March. He was most popular in the district as a farmer and a great cattle fancier, and was highly respected by all who knew him. The mourners were MISS WESTCOTT (sister), MR R. WESTCOTT (Hawkridge, brother) and Mrs Westcott (sister-in-law). The body was carried to its last resting place by six of deceased's cousins. Among those also present were Messrs. R. Louis Riccard (steward of the Manor), J. Mortimore (Devon and Cornwall Bank, Southmolton), G. W. Bird, W. Saunders, G. H. Mountjoy, W. Haydon (Combeshead), Burnell (Stitchpool), Richards (Flitton), Yendall (Nadrid), F. Dobbs, H. Westcott and sons, and Mr and Mrs Dymond. The Rev. Canon Woodman officiated. There were a number of beautiful wreaths.

SUTCOMBE - An Inquest was held on Saturday by the County Coroner, on the body of MRS R. FISHLEIGH, of Paddon. About a fortnight ago, while going upstairs, she fell, breaking a glass lamp she was carrying. The oil became ignited and caught her dress on fire. Before the flames could be extinguished she was burnt so badly as to cause death on Thursday. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was recorded. MRS FISHLEIGH, who was highly respected, leaves a family of 14 children. There was a large number of sympathising friends at the funeral on Monday.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 29 September 1902
CHARDSTOCK (DORSET) - Suicide At Chardstock. - On Saturday an Inquest was held at the George Inn, Chardstock, on the body of MARY ANN DALLING, aged 51, a widow. JOSEPH HUTCHINGS, father, stated that on the 25th instant, at 4.30 p.m., he found deceased hanging from a beam in a shed adjoining her house at Cockholds Pit, Chardstock. The deceased lost her husband about ten months ago, and had since been in a depressed state. Verdict, "Suicide while of Unsound Mind."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 30 September 1902
STOKE DAMEREL - The Devonport Tram Accident. Jurymen's Opinions. - Last evening the Borough Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, opened an inquiry at the Guildhall touching the death of HERBERT CHOPE, who died from injuries received in the tramway accident at the corner of the Technical Schools on Saturday morning. A special Jury of nineteen business men was empanelled for the occasion. - Mr T. W. Gill watched the proceedings on behalf of the relatives of the deceased; Mr J. W. Endean, manager, was present for the Devonport and District Tramway Company; and Mr J. Matters, Chief Constable, was also present. Mr Will. May was elected Foreman of the Jury. - The Coroner said he did not propose to go into the Inquiry very fully that day, because it was a most important inquiry not only to the relatives of the deceased, but to the inhabitants of the Borough generally. He therefore proposed to take evidence of identification only and then adjourn to an early date convenient to the Jury. - WILLIAM JAMES CHOPE, 28 Herbert-place, said his deceased brother was 31 years of age. He was a single man and by profession a dentist's assistant. - The Foreman, addressing the Coroner, said some of the Jury were of opinion that it was really dangerous to use that section of the line where the accident occurred, and that they thought it advisable, until a Board of Trade Inquiry was held, to stop the cars on the top of the hill and to transfer the passengers to another car at the bottom. That day, he understood, there was a narrow escape from another serious accident - that a tram showed an inclination to run away, and therefore he thought there was no security for the public as that section was now used. - The Coroner replied that it would be rather unwise at that juncture to pass any recommendation without having heard any evidence of the case. After hearing the evidence, if they thought fit to make such a recommendation they could do so. - Mr May (Foreman) said there had already been three accidents, which showed the section to be a dangerous one, and he offered it as a suggestion which should be acted on at once. It was only a short distance, but a very dangerous distance, and that day it had been proved that there was still danger there. They were not certain that a tram would not skid or "take charge" at any moment. - Mr C. Bartlett, another Juryman, said that it was not the first time that an accident had occurred at that particular spot, and it was a great mercy that a more serious accident had not happened before, especially when some hundred or hundred and twenty dockyard workmen were riding on the car. He thought there had been a great lack of consideration shown to the working classes. The men crowded the car, but it was obvious that they did so because there was not sufficient accommodation to take them to their homes. He hoped that in future there would be greater accommodation provided. The Police seemed to have no control. They stood aghast as they saw the men climbing up the car and holding on to the rails and it was time that the opinion of the public should be voiced on that matter. - The Coroner, replying, said such suggestions as had been made by Mr May and Mr Bartlett might very well be considered when the Jury were arriving at their verdict. - Mr Bartlett: Shall we have an opportunity? - The Coroner: Certainly. You will have an opportunity at a very early date. I don't propose to adjourn the Inquiry very long. - After further argument on this point the Coroner decided to adjourn the Inquest till this day week at 10 a.m.

TEIGNMOUTH - The Fatal Accident At Teignmouth. - Last evening Mr G. F. Kellock, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Town Hall to inquire into the circumstances attending the death of DIEGO SERAFINO SIDOTI, captain of the Italian brigantine Sesare, now lying in the river. Mr Nicolo Ramellar acted as interpreter. - GERIBALDI SIDOTI, son, identified the body as that of his father, who was 48 years of age. He was a native of the province of Messina, Italy. In company with the deceased witness was going on board the Italian brig Cecilia for his father to try his chronometer. Deceased went to push away his boat to get into the Cecilia's boat, when they lurched, and his father fell across the thole pins. There was no one in the boat but witness and his father. The son called for help and three men from the Cecilia came into the boat. - Carmelo Scardace, an Italian seaman on board the brig Cecilia, said he heard the last witness calling for help. He went to the boat and assisted the deceased. He did not know what had happened at the time. As soon as he lifted the deceased up the blood spurted out from the wound, and he cried "Help me, help me." - Mr A. E. Hayward, Surgeon, said the deceased came to him on Saturday morning with two of his men to be examined. About 2 o'clock a messenger summoned him to come quickly. He found deceased quite dead. There was a lot of blood in the boat and on the thole pin on which he was told he had fallen. The wound was an inch long in the upper part of the right thigh, from which the blood was congealed. There was a corresponding hole in the trousers. The main artery and vein had been severed. Deceased only lived two or three minutes. He was a very heavy man and must have fallen with great force. One of the superficial veins was also dragged out when deceased was lifted up. The thole pin was an iron one. - The Coroner said apparently there was no blame attached to anyone. They were fortunate in having evidence adduced in such a lucid manner. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and moved a vote of condolence with the wife and family and the crew, it being some years since such a distressing accident occurred in the river. The deceased was a married man with nine children, his wife now being in Italy. The vessel has been away from the country for ten months.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 3 October 1902
BARNSTAPLE - At the Inquest on the body of JAMES TANCOCK, (45), foreman carpenter at the building works of Messrs. Woolway Bros., who fell while at work and died within a few minutes, it was found that death was due to syncope, consequent on gastric catarrh, from which deceased had been suffering. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 6 October 1902
BARNSTAPLE - Mr A. Bencraft, Barnstaple Borough Coroner, held an Inquest at the Barnstaple Workhouse on Saturday on the body of AMELIA DELBRIDGE, 81 years of age, widow of a farm labourer of Bishopstawton. The evidence showed that in July last the deceased, who was very feeble, fell while walking across the kitchen at the Workhouse and injured her thigh. She was attended by Mr J. M. Cooke, medical officer, who now said that she had fractured the neck of the thigh bone. She also suffered from softening of the brain. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 8 October 1902
STOKE DAMEREL - The Devonport Tram Accident. The Jury's Verdict. - At an Inquest yesterday on the victim, HERBERT CHOPE, of the fatal electric tram accident at Devonport, the Jury returned a verdict #"That the car ran away through the ignorance on the part of the driver in not stopping at the necessary stopping places and not subsequently using the appliance for stopping. - They also expressed the opinion that the instruction given to new drivers was not sufficient to make them competent.

EXETER - Exeter Infant's Death. Want Of Attention. - The Exeter Deputy Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, held an Inquest at Exeter Police Court yesterday on the body of the infant of LOUISA TRIPE, a single woman, of 21 Quay-lane. - From the evidence of the grandmother and Mrs Hepworth, a certificated midwife, it appeared that the child was born on Saturday, about midnight, but that when the nurse arrived, it was dead. No one was present at the birth. - Dr Clapp deposed to making a post mortem examination of the body. He found no marks of violence. The child had evidently had a separate existence, but it had not breathed freely enough to prolong its existence. If someone had been present at the birth to give proper attention the child's life might have been saved. Death was due to want of attention, but there was no evidence of wilful neglect. - The Coroner, in summing up, said it was the duty of every woman to make preparations for the birth of children, but any want of attention did not necessarily incriminate the mother. He did not think in this case there had been any criminal neglect. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 9 October 1902
EXETER - An Exeter's Waggoner's Death. - An Inquest was held at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday on the body of a waggoner, named ERNEST GEORGE YELLAND, of Exeter, aged 40 years, who died as the result of an accident between Exeter and Kenton on September 15th. - Jane Westlake, widow, Paul-street, identified the body as that of her nephew. - William Helson, of 84 Fore-street, Exeter, deposed that on the night of September 15th he was cycling home by way of Dunsford when he had a puncture. Deceased, who was driving a waggon, came along, and witness asked him if he would give him a lift. Deceased replied in the affirmative. Witness jumped up and they proceeded homewards. When on top of Culver Hill, the horse stumbled. Deceased attempted to pull the animal up, but, the reins being very tight, he was pulled off his seat, and fell under the wheels of the waggon, which was laden with goods. Witness picked him up and drove to Mr Davy's, from whence he was taken by Mr Davy to the Hospital. - Mr Marsden, Assistant House Surgeon at the Hospital, stated that deceased was admitted at about 9.30 on September 15th suffering from lacerated wounds on both arms and bruises on the abdomen, chest and neck. He died on October 7th from tetanus, which, in his opinion, resulted from the injuries received on September 15th. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 13 October 1902
EXETER - The Fatal Running Down At Exeter. - On Saturday evening the Exeter Deputy Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, held an Inquest at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on the body of ELIZABETH DOBLE, a widow, aged 65, of 5 Faulkner's-place, Magdalen-street. - The deceased's son, ALBERT DOBLE, of 44 East Southernhay, said his mother was very deaf, but not short-sighted. - Alfred Elston, van driver for Mr W. J. Hearl, grocer, 53 Queen-street, said that at 3.45 on Friday evening he was driving by the Eye Infirmary at a steady trot, when the deceased suddenly stepped off the pavement about three yards ahead of him. He shouted to her, but she did not seem to hear, and, although he pulled the horse up on its haunches, the right shaft of the cart struck deceased and two wheels went over her. There was a load of about 15 cwt. in the van, which had a brake on. - Mrs Polly Hunt, of 38 Roberts'-road, Larkbeare, said the driver tried all he could to pull up, but the deceased was knocked down. - Mr W. H. Marsden, Assistant House Surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased was admitted at 5.50 on Friday evening suffering from a punctured wound on the right side of the forehead, abrasions of the right side of the face, a compound fracture of the arm, and abrasions on the right forearm down to the wrist. She was dead when brought to the Institution. - The whole of the ribs on the right side and two on the left were fractured. Death was no doubt caused by shock as a result of the injuries. - The Jury, of which Mr W. Roberts was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and exonerated the driver from all blame.

PAIGNTON - The Paignton Shipwreck. Inquest On The Skipper. Terrible Experiences. - Mr F. G. Kellock, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest on Saturday at Paignton on the body of HENRY PIMM, skipper of the ketch Thistle, which was wrecked on Paignton sands on Thursday night. Mr E. J. Wills was Foreman of the Jury. - Mr William Voisey, of Topsham, the owner of the ketch, said the deceased was a German, aged 63. The proper crew of the boat was three in the winter and two in the summer. Deceased, as captain, was responsible for everything, including the engagement of hands. - James Luxon, seaman, of Topsham, said he was on board the ketch with deceased. The ketch was loaded at Teignmouth, bound for London, and left Teignmouth on Monday. There were only himself and the skipper on board A third hand was engaged, but ran away the day they sailed. On Wednesday a heavy sea came on, with a squall from N.E., when they were under Portland. They put the ship about to come back. They could not get her under control until they got the mizen up. They tried to make for Exmouth, but could not get over the bar. They tried for Teignmouth, and were blown to sea. They mistook a rock for Mewstone, and did not know where they were. They ran before an east wind, and were blown ashore at Paignton. They took to a boat, which capsized and both were washed over a breakwater. He was washed over twice and the second time could not see the skipper. He did not know whether deceased could swim, but witness could not swim in the rough water. When he found himself on land he tried to get away. - In answer to questions by the Jury, witness said they were in distress for two days. They had nothing to eat for 48 hours, as everything was wet. They had lamps and matches, but could not light them. - George Milman, innkeeper of Paignton, proved finding deceased on the sands. - Dr Newling said he believed that life was extinct when the body was found, though everything possible was done to restore animation. - The Coroner, in summing up, said it looked as if the ship was not sufficiently manned. It seemed practically impossible for two men to control her in a storm. It did not appear whether the deceased could swim, but it seemed to him that no man should be allowed to go to sea unless he could swim. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and exonerated the owner from all blame.

TAVISTOCK - The Discovery In The Tamar. The Body Indentified. - At the Ship Inn, Morwellham, near Tavistock, on Saturday, Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of a man, about 60 years of age, found in the river Tamar, Morwelllham, on Thursday evening. -- Thomas D. Martin, labourer, Morwellham, said on Wednesday evening, about 7.45 he saw the deceased, and as he was dumb and apparently deaf, witness took him to his house and gave him a piece of paper and a pencil to write with. Witness wrote on the paper, "From Tavistock, river, Calstock." Deceased merely pencilled the letter "E," and appeared as if he did not wish to write anything. Witness took the man by the riverside, but as he did not seem desirous of going over he accompanied him, with Mr Cabot, beyond the Harvest Home public house, about two and a half miles from Morwellham in the direction of Tavistock, where he appeared to know the road and there they left him. Mr Cabot gave him some hot milk and water and biscuits. Deceased appeared to understand the deaf and dumb alphabet. - Samuel Fuge Eddy, farmer, Morwellham, deposed to seeing the deceased at 10.40 on Wednesday evening. He wished the man good night, but received no reply. On the following day, about p.m., witness heard that a man had been drowned in the Tamar, and recovered the body. - P.C. Loosemore stated that he found on the body two purses, one with two divisions, which contained £11 10s. in gold and the other purse 8s. in silver and 8 ½d. in coppers. - Dr Snowden Smith gave evidence of the cause of death. - The Jury, Mr R. Richards, Foreman, returned a verdict of "Found Drowned," and complimented Mr Martin and Mr Cabot for the care they took of the man in which the Coroner concurred. - A message received late last night said the deceased had been identified by Mr Bartlett, of Linkinhorne, near Callington, as EZEKIAL JOHNS, aged 66, a retired deaf and dumb farmer of that place. He was in easy circumstances. In returning from the Goose Fair on Wednesday he must have mistaken the Morwellham road for the Gunnislake road, and walked into Morwellham Quay, which is not protected from the road.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 14 October 1902
WINKLEIGH - Suicide Of A Reservist At Winkleigh. A Strange Case. Village Tittle-Tattle. - Yesterday Mr J. D. Prickman, County Coroner, held an Inquest at the Winkleigh Hotel, on the body of RICHARD PALMER, who died on Sunday, aged 33 years. - JOHN PALMER, of Church-street, Winkleigh, said the deceased, his son, returned from South Africa a month ago, having been there nearly three years. He was a private in the 2nd Devon Regiment and had been in the Army 12 years. He had served in Egypt and elsewhere. About three or four years ago he was placed on the reserve list, and about that time got married. On the breaking out of the South African war he was called up and left England in October 1899, leaving his wife at Bankland Farm, Winkleigh. Since the return of deceased from South Africa he had lived with his wife one day and one night only. On Friday deceased went to Exeter and returned on Saturday evening about 11 o'clock to his (witness's) house and had supper there. Afterwards he asked his mother for a piece of paper. He wrote on it and then put it in his pocket, saying his sister, ELIZABETH, should read what he had written in the morning. He then went out of the house, and directly after a report of a pistol was heard. Deceased was found in the road dead, and a pistol was found near him. The deceased had had two medals - one for India and one for South Africa. His Indian medal had two claps for Tirah, and the South African medal had five clasps. He never had a day's illness in Africa, and was a hale, strong man. - Dr Norman said on examining the body he found a bullet wound in the chest. A bullet had splintered the sixth-rib in the upper edge and penetrated the heart and lung. Death would be practically instantaneous. He considered the wound to have been self-inflicted. - MRS PALMER (wife of deceased) said she should like to make a statement respecting the letter found on deceased, in which he made reference to her leaving him. On the day of his return to Winkleigh and afterwards the deceased was in liquor and, in consequence of what someone had said about her, he (the deceased) had threatened to kill her. There was no truth in the allegation which had been made against her. - The Coroner said that it appeared from the tittle-tattle of some mischievous persons the deceased had inflamed his mind against his wife. One might have expected a happy meeting between husband and wife after the parties had been separated so long, but in this case it did not appear to have been so. It was for the Jury to say what state of mind the deceased was in at the time he shot himself. - The Jury found that the cause of death was a pistol wound and consequent shock to the system, and that the wound was self-inflicted while in an Unsound State of Mind.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 15 October 1902
NEWTON ABBOT - Distressing Suicide At Newton. The Inquest. - The news that THOMAS PENFOUND committed suicide early in the morning caused a great sensation yesterday in Newton Abbot. The young man, who was a painter, and worked for Messrs. Parker Bros., builders and contractors, was well known in the town, and on account of his cheerful habits was much liked by his fellow workmen. The first to make the discovery was Mrs Williams, living in Quay-terrace, the windows of which overlook MR PENFOUNDS'S garden. At half-past six she saw a body hanging from a telephone pole and a mason, named James Field, on hearing her screams, and on being told what had happened, got into the garden and cut the body down. - At the Inquest held last night before Mr Kellock, Deputy Coroner, the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 16 October 1902
LYDFORD - Inquest At Dartmoor Prison. - An Inquest was held at Dartmoor Prison by Mr J. D. Prickman, County Coroner on the death of a convict named JAMES GRIFFITHS, who died on Sunday, aged 43 years. - Richard Adolphus Gibbs, a clerk in the Governor's Office, said deceased was convicted in November 1897 at Hereford Assize, for assault, and sentenced to seven years' penal servitude. There were five previous convictions against him. The deceased was a native of Pembridge, in Hereford, and was described on the conviction as a jockey. He came to Princetown on the 10th August, 1898, and his conduct since that time had been fairly good. - Dr Frew said deceased was admitted to the Hospital on the 3rd inst., when he was found to be suffering from Bright's Disease. He gradually weakened and died on the 12th inst. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

LYDFORD - An Inquest was held at Dartmoor Prison by Mr J. D. Prickman, County Coroner, on the body of WILLIAM MCCARTHY, a convict, who died on Sunday, aged 46 years. - It was stated that the deceased came to Princetown in October 1900 from Chelmsford, and his conduct had been very good since that date. He was convicted at the Old Bailey on the 30th April 1900 of forgery and uttering an order for £12 12s. and sentenced to five years' penal servitude. He had two previous convictions for larceny and three under the Prevention of Crimes Act. He was a native of Bristol, widower and an account by profession. His sister had been informed of his death, but had intimated that she would not attend either the Inquest or the funeral. - Dr Frew said on the 7th May deceased was admitted to the Hospital complaining of pain in his jaws. He was treated for neuralgia. In course of time a swelling appeared and the nature of the disease ascertained, and it was found to be a tumour sarcoma, or soft cancer. Nothing could be done and deceased died on the 12th inst. - The Jury returned a verdict that death resulted from "Sarcoma, or soft cancer, in the right upper jaw."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 17 October 1902
TAVISTOCK - Mr R. Rodd held an Inquest at Tavistock Guildhall yesterday on the body of JOHN SOUTHCOTT, a miller, aged 45, who died suddenly on Tuesday evening while at tea with his wife and family. Dr Smyth said deceased had valvular disease of the heart, and the Jury, with Mr J. Chapman as Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," and gave their fees to the widow. Mr Johns, the employer, gave the deceased an excellent character.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 20 October 1902
IDEFORD - Fatal Fall At Ideford. - An Inquest was held at the Schoolroom, Ideford, by Mr Kellock, Deputy Coroner, respecting the death of JOHN HOLCOMBE, aged 72, who lived at Longthorn, one of the cottages on the Ugbrooke Estate, who was found dead at the foot of the stairs on Friday morning. From the evidence it appeared that the deceased had been unwell, and was under the care of Dr Walker. Early in the morning his wife, who is an invalid, missed him from her side and going downstairs found him, with his stockings partly on, lying at the bottom. It was supposed that the deceased had trodden on one of the stockings, which had caused the fall. The Jury, of whom Mr Hunt was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TORQUAY - At Upton Parish Room, Torquay, on Saturday, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, Inquired into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM HIGGINGS, carter, of Temperance-street, who died in Torbay Hospital on the previous day. The evidence showed that deceased, who was in the employ of Messrs. Webber and Stedham, cement merchants, of Market-street, was in charge of a horse, which on leaving the yard bolted, and the reins slipped from HIGGINGS'S grasp. He endeavoured to regain possession of them, and in so doing fell and the wheels of the cart to which the horse was attached, passed over his body, inflicting internal injuries, which resulted in his death on Thursday evening. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 21 October 1902
KINGSTEIGNTON - Sudden Death At Kingsteignton. - Yesterday Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest at the King's Arms Hotel, Kingsteignton, concerning the death of ELLEN ROWSELL, a widow, aged 48, who died on Saturday. - The evidence showed that deceased, who had acted as housekeeper to John Mallett, of Church-street, for the past 22 months, had of late complained of pains in the chest, which she had been told was caused by acute indigestion. She suffered severely from these during the past week and on Saturday morning a doctor was summoned, but she died before he arrived. The medical evidence revealed that death was due to heart failure. A verdict was returned accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 24 October 1902
ILFRACOMBE - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at an Inquest on Tuesday on BEATRICE FISHER, about 9 years of age, living in Broad-street, who succumbed to the effects of burns caused by the ignition of her clothing when attempting to move a kettle of boiling water from an open grate. P.C. Labdon was commended for the steps which he took to extinguish the child's burning clothes.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 25 October 1902
TAUNTON, SOMERSET - The Taunton Railway Mystery. Death Of The Second Victim. Coroner's Inquiry. - MRS RHODA SMALL, who fell from a Great Western express near Taunton on Tuesday afternoon in a vain attempt to prevent her husband leaping from the train, died in Taunton Hospital on Thursday night without having regained consciousness, she having lain in the same state for 55 hours. The husband, JAMES SMALL, it will be remembered, died on Tuesday afternoon, a few minutes after he was admitted. - The Inquest on both bodies was held at the Taunton Hospital yesterday morning by Mr T. Foster Barham and a Jury, of whom Mr Sibley was Foreman. - Evidence was given by George Henry Shillabeer, harness maker of Kingsteignton, Newton Abbot; James Field, mason of No. 8 Key-terrace, Newton Abbot; Wm. Collard, signal linesman on the Great Western Railway and living at Rowbarton, Taunton; and Dr William Drake, House Surgeon at the Taunton Hospital. - From their statements it appeared that SMALL, who was a coachman, was for eight or nine years in the service of Sir Perry Van Notten Pole, Bart., of Todenham, Gloucestershire, but about two months ago he was discharged, in consequence of a reduction in the establishment. He then went to lodge at Moreton-in-the-Marsh, Gloucestershire, while his wife visited her parents, MR and MRS CARNELL, at Kingsteignton, where he joined her last Saturday. During his stay there he appeared very depressed on account of his inability to get employment. Last Tuesday MR and MRS SMALL left Newton Abbot for Didcot and they had with them as a fellow-passenger, Mr Field, who was, however, unknown to them. It was a corridor train. After Exeter was passed the deceased man went to the lavatory and MRS SMALL, appearing very anxious, asked Mr Field to get him out. When SMALL came out he was untying a knotted handkerchief and looking very white and ill. A few miles farther on, when about half a mile from Taunton, he went to the door in the corridor, followed by his wife. Suddenly he opened the door and sprang out and his wife, in catching hold of his coat to try to keep him back, was dragged out after him. They were terribly injured by the fall. MR SMALL sustained a fracture of the skull and other injuries, and was, as one witness described it, "swamped with blood." MRS SMALL was suffering from severe wounds to the scalp and a laceration of the brain. They were removed to the Taunton Hospital, where the man died just after admission, but the woman lingered in an unconscious state until Tuesday night. The deceased man was described as very abstemious in the matter of drink. When the tragic occurrence took place they had with them a good deal of money, a bank book and some jewellery. The Jury, in the case of the man, returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane," while in that of the woman they found a verdict of "Death from Misadventure."

DARTMOUTH - Plum Pudding And Death. Inquest On A Dartmouth Cook. - Mr A. M. Davson, the new Coroner for Dartmouth, held his first Inquest yesterday. It was on the body of HANNAH INGHAM, 62, cook at Warfleet House, the residence of Lady Freake. Hettie Wakeham and Helen Scoble, deceased's fellow servants, deposed that she was taken ill about half-past six on Tuesday evening. she complained of pains in her back and chest and said they were due to indigestion. They grew worse, and a few minutes after being assisted to bed she expired. Dr Harris said death was due to rupture of one of the valves of the heart, probably caused by vomiting, following the deceased having eaten hurriedly some plum pudding. She had informed her fellow servants of this. The heart was diseased. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 28 October 1902
BUCKFASTLEIGH - The Sudden Death At Buckfastleigh. The Inquest. - Yesterday morning Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry at Buckfastleigh as to the death of HARRY BINMORE, who died suddenly on Saturday. - Mr J. Bartle identified deceased as his step-brother, and said he was 19 years of age on Saturday. As far as he knew deceased was in good health. - W. Fowler, foreman of the woollen mills, under whom deceased worked, said BINMORE left the mill at 12 o'clock and was in good health. - Jessie Caseley, of Jordan-street, wife of Alfred Caseley, said deceased lodged with her and enjoyed good health. He ate a good breakfast in the morning and returned from work just after 12 and seemed quite bright. After washing, and while on his way to the kitchen, he reeled and was helped to a chair. Stimulants were given, but he did not recover, and a doctor was at once sent for. P.C. Bugler, who lived in the same house, was also summoned. After a short time deceased became unconscious. - Dr T. M. Pearce, Surgeon, practising at Buckfastleigh, said he was called at 12.25 p.m. His first impression was that deceased had a paralytic fit, but afterwards symptoms of something wrong with the brain manifested themselves and deceased died at 1.15 p.m., not having recovered consciousness. He had made a post mortem examination and found extensive haemorrhage on the brain. - The Jury, Mr J. W. Warren, Foreman, found a verdict in accordance with the doctor's evidence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 29 October 1902
EXETER - Inquest At Exeter. - The Deputy Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, held an inquest at Exeter Police Court last evening relative to the death of MRS LOUISA MURRAY, 29, of Cornish's Court, Paul-street, which took place suddenly on Sunday night. - JAMES GAY VERNOUN MURRAY, a labourer, husband of deceased, who was considerably affected, gave evidence of identification. He said his wife suffered from a bad cough. She had an attack of coughing on Sunday night. He went to her and as she looked queer, and stared at the wall he took her in his arms when she lost consciousness. He at once sent for a doctor. - Mr John Moone, Surgeon, said that when he arrived the woman was dead. He was of opinion that death was due to natural causes, probably heart failure following pneumonia. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

DAWLISH - Suicide At Dawlish. - Mr Hacker held an Inquest last evening concerning the death of JAMES KNAPMAN, who died at the Cottage Hospital yesterday, after having been removed from his home with a severe cut in the throat. - The widow said her husband, who was 46, had been confined to his bed for 11 years with spinal paralysis. Since April he had suffered more pain than hitherto, but she never heard anything indicating what had happened. She left his bedside for a few minutes on Monday morning and on returning found him leaning over the bed bleeding from the throat. A pocket-knife was kept on a table beside the bed, which she saw in her husband's left hand. She said: "What have you done?" to which he replied "The pain, the pain." - Dr Tripp said he was called to deceased and had him conveyed to the Cottage Hospital, where he died yesterday morning from collapse. The throat was cut from ear to ear. Deceased used to be very cheerful and took interest in current events; but he had been declining latterly. - The Jury's verdict was to the effect that deceased committed suicide at a time when of Unsound Mind. - Mr W. Knowles, a member of the Board of Guardians, complimented the widow on the way she had looked after deceased, while the Jury, Medical officer and Coroner handed their fees to MRS KNAPMAN.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 30 October 1902
WILLAND - Singular Accident At Willand. Labourer's Fatal Slip. - Yesterday Mr Alfred Burrow, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Willand touching the death of JAMES HILL, aged 57. - ELIZABETH HILL, the widow, said the deceased had been employed at Woodcockhayes Farm for many years. After he had returned home from work on Saturday, Oct. 18, he went out and the next she heard - was that deceased was found with his head and face in a ditch and his feet on the top of the hedge, at a gap the opposite side of the road to their house, and leading to pathfields and Tiverton Junction. - Frederick Govier, labourer, said he was coming across the pathfields and found the deceased as described by the last witness. He thought he was dead. - SARAH HILL, daughter, said her father was sober when he came home. After sitting in the settle a little while he went outside and the next she heard was that he was found unconscious. - Dr Eugene Tracey, The Gables, Willand, said he found deceased totally unconscious when called on the 18th Oct. He began to recover consciousness in an hour and remained, to a large extent, conscious up to within 36 hours of death. Deceased gave witness an intelligible account of what happened. He said he went out to see the fowls, and then - why he did not know - got on the top of the bank leading to the pathfields. There his foot slipped and he remembered falling head foremost into a bramble and trying to get up, but failed. There was slight concussion of the brain, but the serious injury was to the spine, which was fractured in the upper dorsal region. That would be likely to be caused by a fall in a particular position to stretch and snap the spine. Death was due to exhaustion and hydrostatic congestion of the lungs, caused by injury to the spine. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and gave their fees to the widow. - It was decided to call the attention of the Parish Council to the bank in question, which has to be climbed to reach the pathfields, and is very slippery in wet weather. It was pointed out by Mr Coxwell that there was danger for children as well as old people, as on one side was a deep pool of water. Mr Anstey said there was no public path, but Mr Lewis said it had been used for generations and the matter must be attended to by the Parish Council.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 31 October 1902
HEMYOCK - An Inquest was held on Friday touching the death of MR WILLIAM TOZER, Lane-end Farm, who died rather suddenly on the previous day. The evidence of Dr Downe was to the effect that deceased died from fatty degeneration of the heart and other complications. The Jury, of which Mr John Wade was Foreman, returned a verdict accordingly.

SOUTH MOLTON - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at an Inquest at the George Hotel, on the body of CHARLOTTE BELLAMY, whose death occurred as the result of burns received under circumstances previously reported.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 4 November 1902
MORCHARD BISHOP - Sudden Death At Morchard Bishop. - The news of the sudden death of MRS KELLAND, wife of MR W. H. KELLAND, of Middlecott Farm, Morchard Bishop, on Friday afternoon, occasioned considerable regret in the neighbourhood. MR KELLAND had gone to Exeter and left his wife in her usual good health, but during the afternoon a servant found her mistress in one of the rooms dead. - Yesterday Mr A. Burrows, the Deputy Coroner for the District, held an Inquest at the residence of the deceased, who was 38 years of age. - Dr Barton, practising at Morchard Bishop, stated that, acting under instructions, he had made a post mortem examination of the body, and, in his opinion, the cause of death was an apoplectic fit. - A verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned, and the Jury expressed their condolence and sympathy with MR KELLAND and the members of the family in their bereavement, in which the Coroner concurred. The deceased was the daughter of MR J. SHOPLAND, formerly chairman of the Crediton Board of Guardians and was very highly respected in the neighbourhood.

TORQUAY - Accident At Torquay. Hit On The Head With A 56lb. Weight. - Yesterday afternoon, at the Upton Parish Room, Torquay, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry respecting the death of PHILIP DANIEL, 52, labourer, of Goodington, Paignton, who died at the Hospital on Sunday as the result of injuries to his head, received through a 56lb. weight falling while he was engaged in unloading a waggon at the malt-house of the Plymouth and Torquay Brewery Company in Temperance-street, on October 10th. - The evidence showed that deceased was assisting in unloading barley into the malt-house from his waggon, when the weight fell from a hoist 30ft. or 40 ft. above, striking him a sidelong blow on the head, which cut his scalp to the bone. At first the wound was regarded at the Hospital as not serious, but on re-examination five days later there was found to be a slight fracture of the skull, with inflammation, which rapidly developed, and death resulted from blood poisoning and pneumonia. - A deal of evidence was taken with a view to ascertain by whom the weight was placed on the trap doors through which the barley was hoisted and thus caused to fall, but nothing clear could be elicited, and in the end the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental death."

EXETER ST SIDWELL - Yesterday, at the King's Head Inn, St. Sidwell's, Exeter, the Deputy Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, held an Inquiry concerning the death of PERCY PHILLIPS, the two-year-old son of a labourer living in Summerland-square. The evidence showed that the child, who slept with his parents, was found dead in bed early on Saturday morning. Deceased had been in delicate health and seemed to be suffering from a cold. Mr J. Mackeith said the child appeared to have died from natural causes, and the Jury returned a verdict to this effect.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 7 November 1902
OTTERY ST MARY - Child Killed At Ottery St Mary. A Warning To Mothers. - Yesterday Mr C. E. Cox, Coroner held an Inquest at the Town Hall, Ottery St. Mary, touching the death of ELSIE EDITH MAY COOMBES, the two-year-old daughter of WILLIAM COOMBES, of Sandhill-street, who died on Wednesday as the result of an accident which took place on October 25th. - The evidence showed that the mother was attending the deceased at the door when she had occasion to go into the house. The infant was left alone. A horse and trap belonging to Mr W. Digby, of Mill-street, and driven by Henry Carter, came down the street, when the child attempted to cross the road, and was knocked down, the off-wheel passing over her head, causing serious injuries. No hopes were entertained of the child's recovery from the first, the skull being fractured. - The Coroner said more care should be exercised by mothers. It was a very dangerous practice for them to allow young children to be able to get into the street without anyone in charge of them. He hoped the case, although a sad one, would be a warning to mothers. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and exonerated the driver (Carter) from all blame. They, however, wished to endorse the Coroner's remarks in regard to the dangerous practice of allowing young children to get into the street unattended.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 10 November 1902
MARY TAVY - Inquest At Marytavy. - An Inquest was held at the Buller Arms, Marytavy, by Mr J. D. Prickman, County Coroner, on the infant daughter of JAMES and ALICE TANCOCK. The mother of deceased said that on Wednesday her baby, which was six months old, suddenly exhibited symptoms of choking and died very soon after. Mrs Stephens, a neighbour, who was present, gave corroborative evidence. Dr Marshall, Marytavy, stated that, as the result of a post-mortem examination, he had found pieces of undigested potato in the stomach. Death was due to indigestion, which brought on convulsions and a consequent failure of the heart's action. Much ignorance seemed to prevail on the subject of the proper feeding of infants. Potato was not the right sort of food for a child of the tender age of deceased. A mixture of one half milk and one half water - preferably barley water -wit sugar added, would be a far more suitable food. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony and agreed that no blame of any sort could be attributed to the mother. The Coroner said he entirely agreed with the verdict and remarked that the mother had no doubt, given the potato to the child out of kindness of heart, but it could not be too widely known that such kind of food was altogether unsuitable for infants. The Jury gave their fees to the mother.

EXETER - Fatal Accident Near Exmouth. Inquest At Exeter. - At the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on Saturday, the Deputy Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, held an Inquest on the body of JOHN MATTHEW LOVERING, a cattle drover, aged 56, of Frog-street, Exeter, who died in the Institution from injuries received in a trap accident. - The evidence of William Drake, a Honiton cattle drover, and Miss Maud Smith, of Budleigh Salterton, showed that on the 29th of October, between Exmouth and Woodbury, deceased was given a lift in a trap. After proceeding a short distance the trap collided with a waggon laden with mangold and deceased and Miss Smith were thrown out. - Mr William Maston, Assistant House Surgeon at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, said deceased, when admitted to the Institution, was suffering from a large scalp wound on the left side of the head. Deceased gave witness an account of how the accident happened, and attributed no blame to anyone. He said he went to Exmouth Hospital and had his injuries dressed there. Deceased declined to remain in the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, notwithstanding the serious nature of his injury, and he was treated as an out-patient. He afterwards became an in-patient and died of tetanus. It was hard to say whether if deceased had remained an in-patient at first that his life would have been saved. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 11 November 1902
SEATON AND BEER - The Gruesome Discovery At Seaton. The Body Identified. The Inquest. - Yesterday at the Clarence Hotel, Mr C. E. Cox, Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of the man who was thrown up by the sea on Saturday. Mr Rowe was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - P.C. Guscot, Chief-officer Stipling, of the Coastguard and Charles Trinneman gave evidence respecting the finding of the body. The only means of identification were a red webbing belt and a portion of the man's trousers. - George Baker, a yachtsman, of Torquay, gave evidence that his brother-in-law, JOHN E. BELL, an upholsterer's carman, had been missing from his home since October 9th. He had never heard him threaten to commit suicide. The portion of trousers were the same as his brother-in-law wore. - WILLIAM THOMAS BELL, a saddler, of Torquay, stated that his brother had been missing since the above date. Nothing had been heard of him until the Torquay Police acquainted him that a body with a red belt had been found at Seaton. The body was too much disfigured and decomposed for him to recognise it as his brother, but he could swear to the belt, as he had worn it himself and gave it to his brother, who had told him that it was too large and that a strap was broken ) the belt had been taken in and a strap was broken). He had no doubt whatever about it being his brother's belt. His brother was 24 years of age, married, with one child. He had never heard him threaten to commit suicide, although he had noticed the night previous to his being missed that he appeared depressed. - Dr G. E. A. Evans, who made a post mortem examination, stated that the cause of death was drowning and that the description of height and age agreed with the previous witness's statements. - The Coroner said there appeared no doubt whatever that the body was that of JOHN BELL, and a verdict of "Found Drowned " was returned. - The funeral of deceased afterwards took place in Seaton churchyard.

REWE - Found Drowned In The Exe. Inquest At Upexe. - An Inquest was held yesterday at Upexe by Mr Burrow touching the death of WILLIAM HUTCHINGS, aged 79, who was found in the river Exe on Saturday evening. the jury was summoned from Thorverton, the body being found in that parish. Mr Wippell, J.P., was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - Evidence was given by Mr J. Harding, with whom deceased lodged and Mr John Moore, farmer, of Upexe Mills, who said he found the deceased face downwards in the river Exe, near his house, in about ten inches of water. Deceased's scarf and stick were on the bank. Witness got the body out at once, but found the man was quite dead and stiff. - Mr D. Phillips, gardener to Captain Newall, Upexe House, also gave evidence, and stated that he assisted Mr Moore in recovering the body from the water. - Dr Brooks, practising at Thorverton, said he had attended deceased for an attack of dyspepsia some time back. He considered death was due to drowning. - A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned, the Jury considering there was not sufficient evidence to say how deceased got into the water.

EXETER - The Late MR A. DAMARELL, Of Exeter. The Inquest. - An Inquest on the body of the late MR AQUILA DAMARELL, 61, saddler, of High-street, Exeter, who died suddenly early on Sunday morning was held at Exeter Police Court yesterday by the Deputy Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould. Mr J. H. Hoskins was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - MR FRANK DAMARELL, of Roundhay-road, Leeds, son of deceased, gave evidence of identification. - Mr Frederick Humphreys, chemist's assistant, living next door to deceased, said he was called by MRS DAMARELL between 11.30 and 12 o'clock on Saturday night. She said her husband was seriously ill, and he went to see him. Deceased was lying across his bed, apparently unconscious. Witness immediately went for Mr Solly. - Mr R. V. Solly, Surgeon, said he found deceased lying on the floor in his bedroom absolutely comatose. He died about 1.20. Witness made a post-mortem examination, and found the cause of death was cerebral haemorrhage, the result of natural causes. - The Coroner, in summing up, said MRS DAMARELL was not in a condition to be present. He was sure the Jury would join with him in expressing sympathy with the widow and family of deceased. He had known MR DAMARELL for a good many years and always found him a cheery and good-hearted man, and most upright in all his dealings. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" and expressed their sympathy with MRS DAMARELL and the family of deceased.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 12 November 1902
DARTMOUTH - Accident At Dartmouth. Fatal Results. - Mr Arthur M. Davson, Coroner for Dartmouth, held an Inquiry yesterday into the circumstances surrounding the death of a labourer named JOSEPH FURZE. - MARY FORD, his sister, deposed that deceased, who was 36, worked at the engineering yard of Messrs. Philip and Son. - Leonard Lowe, employed at the same yard as a palter, said deceased was with him, helping to raise a steel plate to a ship's stern on October 14th. The plate had been raised some three or four feet, when it fell on deceased's foot, injuring him so much that he had to be taken to the Cottage Hospital. In reply to Mr P. R. Hockin, who appeared for the firm of Philip and Son, witness said the gear was in sound condition, and was practically new, having only been in use some two or three months. He examined it just before the accident, and it was all right. Deceased need not have stood under the plate. - James Carter corroborated. He said he thought deceased must have slipped, or his feet would not have been under the plate. - Alfred May, yard foreman, said the appliances were all in good order to his knowledge. - Dr A. K. Crossfield said deceased had sustained a bad fracture of both bones of the right leg, near the ankle. On October 25th mortification set in, and it was found that amputation was necessary. Deceased died on November 9th from blood poisoning. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence, and did not attribute blame to anyone. They expressed their condolence with the widow, Mr Hockin and the Coroner also doing the same.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 13 November 1902
HOLSWORTHY - A Tamerton Octogenarian's Death. Suspicious Circumstances. Serious Allegations Against A Woman. Censure By The Jury. - An Inquiry was held at Holsworthy Workhouse yesterday by Mr J. D. Prickman, Coroner, on the body of MRS CECILIA PARNELL, 84, who lived at North Tamerton, but who died at the Workhouse on the 18th inst. Mr J. L. Batten was Foreman of the Jury. - Before commencing the Inquiry, the Coroner asked the Jury to give the matter their careful attention. The woman came to the Workhouse with injuries and if the circumstances justified them in saying that they were received in an unlawful manner they would have to return such a verdict as those circumstances required. The issue they had to decide was rather a grave one, because the medical testimony would go to show that the woman's death was the direct result of those injuries. - SAMUEL PARNELL, son of deceased, said within the past three months his mother had lived with a Mrs Susan Pethick. He had heard disturbances between the two women and on two occasions he had gone into the house in consequence. These disturbances took the form of verbal quarrelling. On Sunday, October 19th, he went into the house, when he saw his mother trying to prevent Mrs Pethick from cooking her dinner. She kept her from the fire by means of a stick, and when she tried to get there she struck at her with a stick. Neither of the women was then injured. He did not hear any disturbance on the date when the injuries were alleged to have been inflicted. He did not see his mother between Oct. 19 and Nov. 5th. - By the Foreman: He considered his mother was keeping Mrs Pethick from the fire simply for contrariness. - MRS ANN PARNELL, wife of the last witness, who lived next door to deceased, said she frequently heard disturbances between the women, the deceased being very abusive. She had never seen Mrs Pethick strike, or attempt to strike, deceased, but she had seen deceased lift a stick to Mrs Pethick. The latter, as far as witness knew, had never abused deceased or used violence towards her. About nine o'clock on the morning of Oct. 25, witness heard deceased say she would throw Mrs Pethick's things downstairs. Then she heard a noise as of someone falling, and her little son told her that deceased was lying on the floor Witness did not go into the house to see what was the matter, and she told her son not to go in, because they were afraid of deceased. Shortly afterwards Mrs Pethick came out of the house and, showing a cut on her arm, said deceased had struck her over the arm with a stick. Subsequently she saw deceased, but noticed no injuries except black marks on her cheek. Deceased was using a stick and was wearing a shawl, but she made no statement about her injuries. Later in the day she had a conversation with Mrs Pethick, who said deceased tried to strike her with a stick, but she took it away and deceased fell down. - The Coroner had a difficulty in eliciting evidence from the witness, and Mr Prickman remarked that she was attempting to screen her friend, Mrs Pethick, by her reticence; her motive was quite apparent. - In reply to the Jury, witness said she was not friendly with deceased. This unfriendliness had existed since there was some delay in cashing a money order, which was made payable at Tamerton Folliott instead of North Tamerton and deceased thought witness had had the money. Witness had never seen Mrs Pethick strike deceased. She had never been in the house and therefore did not know whether Mrs Pethick had ever struck deceased or not. She heard no screaming on the day in question. Deceased was very irritable. - Mrs Mary Jane Webber, of North Tamerton, who lived close to deceased, said on Oct. 25, in the course of conversation, deceased bared her arm and remarked, "See how that old woman, Mrs Susan Pethick, has served me." There were three or four scars on her right arm which were bleeding, and the arm was also black with bruises. Deceased also said Mrs Pethick had beaten her while on the floor, and showed her a wound on the left knee about two inches in length. The wound was clean cut, and it looked as if it had been done with a very sharp knife. On the following day witness went to deceased's cottage to look after deceased. Mrs Pethick was present and showed a wound she had on her arm, and which she said deceased had inflicted with her nails. Deceased said then, in the presence of Mrs Pethick, that the latter had thrown her on the floor and "bumped and bowled" her. Mrs Pethick denied this and said deceased had fallen and injured herself. On the Tuesday following deceased complained of her left arm, which was swollen and black and said she felt that she was going to die. - Mrs Everard, wife of the vicar of Tamerton, who saw deceased on the day in question, and dressed the wounds, said MRS PARNELL'S face was terribly bruised. There were four bleeding wounds on one arm, a clean cut on her knee, and she also complained about her other arm. It took witness an hour to wash the wounds on the arm, which were covered with soot and dirt, as if deceased had been in the fireplace. Deceased said Mrs Pethick had caused these wounds, but Mrs Pethick, who was present, denied this. Deceased was almost helpless and witness visited her every day, bringing food for her and nursing her. On the Sunday following witness told deceased's daughter-in-law what a serious condition deceased was in. Witness arranged for deceased's removal to the Workhouse and drove her to that Institution in her own carriage. Deceased was very strong, and a wonderful old woman for her age. - Dr Gray, of Holsworthy, who examined deceased on October 29th, said he found deceased with bruises on the face and on the bridge of the nose. Both eyes were black. Both arms were extensively bruised and on the right arm were four wounds. She complained of pain in the left arm, but, on account of the swelling, he could not say whether it was fractured. On the left knee there was a deep incised wound, about two inches long. During the whole of the time witness was in the house deceased and Mrs Pethick were "nagging" each other. Deceased said the injuries were caused by Mrs Pethick throwing her down, but this Mrs Pethick denied. Deceased said the wounds on her arm were caused by Mrs Pethick using a stick. - Replying to the Jury, Dr Gray said most of the injuries might have been caused by a series of falls. Such extensive bruising on a woman of 84 years of age was, he thought, enough to cause death. - Dr Kingdom, who attended deceased at the Workhouse infirmary, corroborated Dr Gray's evidence as to the injuries and added that the left arm was found to have been fractured. Deceased told him that Mrs Pethick had knocked her down and injured her with a stick. When this statement was made witness did not think deceased knew she was nearing death. The injuries were the direct cause of death. The wound on the knee might possibly have been caused by a blow. The injuries, except the cuts on the arms, might have been caused not by one fall, but by a series of falls. - Mary Ann Short, nurse at the Workhouse, deposed to hearing deceased say that "Susan" had knocked her down with a stick. - Mrs Susan Pethick, the woman who lived with deceased, was present, and volunteered to make a statement, after being duly cautioned by the Coroner. She stated that deceased fell heavily on her back when she took away her stick. This was what deceased called throwing her down. She wanted to take away the stick because deceased struck her on the arm. She did not touch deceased. The cuts on deceased's arm were received through falling in the chimney corner. - Dr Gray, recalled, said Mrs Susan Pethick suffered from mono-mania and was not very strong. She was continually coming to his surgery and he had a difficulty in getting rid of her. - The Coroner, in summing up, commented on the terrible state of neglect in which the deceased was left by her relatives. But for the kindness of the Vicar's wife she would have been left almost to starve, uncared for, and unlooked after in any way. She was neglected almost more than an animal would have been. Whatever might be the result of the Inquest, MRS PARNELL would have something to think about when she considered the neglect which she and her husband had been guilty of. Whatever might have been the faults of deceased, nothing would excuse the terrible neglect of the deceased when it was known that she was so badly injured. It was a shock to humanity that people should have left the woman in such a terrible state. There was no doubt that the injuries caused her death. It was for the Jury to say how they were received. If they were inflicted in the cause of a fight between the two women, then it would be for them to return a verdict of manslaughter. If they thought the statements made by Mrs Pethick were correct and that she simply struggled to get the stick away from her, it was practically an accidental occurrence. - The Jury returned as their verdict that there was not sufficient evidence to show how the injuries were received. They added that they considered the conduct of MRS PARNELL in neglecting her mother-in-law in the way she admitted she had done was deserving of the most serious censure. They wished also to record their appreciation of Mrs Everard's and Mrs Webber's kindness towards the deceased. - The Inquest lasted nearly four hours.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 15 November 1902
KINGSBRIDGE - Attacked By A Ram. Fatal Accident Near Kingsbridge. - At Kingsbridge Workhouse yesterday evening the County Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, held an Inquest respecting the death of HENRY HINE, 76 years of age, a farm labourer, of Topsham Bridge, a level crossing situate between Loddiswell and Gara Bridge. - On Wednesday, October 29th, deceased went into a pathfield close by his house and his sister shortly afterwards found him lying upon his back, unable to move. He complained that a ram had knocked him down. The man was put to bed and it was found he had a broken leg. His sister did not send for a doctor till the next morning, when the doctor ordered his removal to the Workhouse Hospital. - Thomas Charles Matthews, of Coombe Farm, said the field deceased was found in was private, and there was no pathway through it. There was a ram in the field, but it was not a savage animal, and had not knocked anyone down before. - Dr L. de Courcy Harston, of Kingsbridge, said deceased seemed to be progressing fairly well at first, but eventually congestion of the lungs set in, and death took place on Wednesday. - The Coroner said it was unusual for a ram to attack a man; but the Foreman, Mr L. A. Oldrieve, said he had many times been knocked down by a ram. - The Jury found that death was due to Misadventure.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 18 November 1902
HONITON - Honiton Tradesman's Fatal Leap. The Inquest. - An Inquiry was conducted by the Coroner, Mr C. E. Cox, at Honiton yesterday, into the circumstances attending the death of MR ROBERT DIMOND, printer, of the town, who died on Sunday night from injuries received through jumping from the roof of his house into the street. - The Coroner said the circumstances under which they had met were extremely sad. MR DIMOND had always been respected in the town, and he was sure they all sympathised with the widow and family in the sad blow which had befallen them. - MRS DIMOND, the widow, gave evidence of identification. She said her husband, who was 54 years of age, had been very unwell all the summer. He had influenza in June and was confined to his bed for a week. He had not shown any depression of spirits until quite recently. On and off for three months he had been under the care of Dr Heddon. During the last few days he had been distressed. He would sigh and cry out and then after witness had soothed him he would be better. He had never threatened to take his life. The doctor had told them it was advisable to watch him. Deceased had been about as usual lately, and generally got up at seven o'clock. On Saturday night he did not seem to sleep much, but lay in bed very quiet. At seven o'clock witness was going to rouse her sons, who desired to go to early morning service. The deceased immediately cried out, "I will call the boys," and sprang out of bed. Witness got out as well, but deceased shut the door in her face, and so she lost time. Deceased ran upstairs and witness after him. As he went past the boys' bedroom he said "ARCHIE." He ran on with the same, got up into the attic and upon the ledge. Witness was quite close to him when he was on the ledge, but could not reach far enough to catch hold of him. Witness saw him fall off the ledge into the road. She looked over and saw her husband lying in the road. She ran downstairs as she was, as also did her sons. When witness got there two men, named Gigg and Newton, were holding him. Deceased was brought indoors and died at 20 minutes to 12 that night without recovering consciousness. - Charles Gigg, ostler at the Exeter Inn, Honiton, deposed that he was going to work about seven o'clock on Sunday morning, when he heard a thud and on looking round saw the deceased lying in the roadway. He rolled over on his back. The family then came out and deceased, who made no noise, was carried indoors. - George Newton, who lives close by, deposed to seeing the deceased lying in the roadway. He had a severe cut on his head and his legs were fractured. - Dr Heddon said he had been in attendance on deceased for some time, off and on. He had suffered from indigestion, and was a little run down. Witness advised him to go away for a change, but he did not do so. On Friday the deceased's daughter called on him, and said that her father was suffering from sleeplessness and was melancholy and depressed. He was told that that was the third such attack deceased had had. Witness saw MR DIMOND, who said he thought he was on the eve of ruin. Witness tried to impress upon him that in that respect his judgment was wrong, and prescribed for him. He advised that deceased should be closely watched, and that he should go away for a change. On Sunday morning witness was called to see deceased, who was in a very collapsed state. There was a wound three inches long on the forehead, exposing the bone, but the skull was not fractured. There was a compound fracture of both ankles, and the bones protruded through the skin. Some of the small bones of the feet were smashed. The deceased did not recover consciousness, and died the same day from heart failure, occasioned by the shock. The shock was quite sufficient to cause death. In his opinion deceased was of unsound mind at the time he committed the act. - The Coroner said they could have no doubt as to the condition of deceased's mind. The act itself was sufficient to show that he was of unsound mind. He as sure they all deeply sympathised with the family. - The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that deceased died from Shock in consequence of jumping from the roof of his house while Temporarily Insane. - MR DIMOND, brother, thanked the Coroner and Jury for their expressions of sympathy.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 20 November 1902
EXETER - The Cradle Fire At Exeter. Death Of The Child. - An Inquest was held by Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday on the body of the child, aged eight months, of MR and MRS NORTHCOTT, of 19 Magdalen-street, Exeter, who died yesterday morning from shock and burns caused by a cradle becoming ignited. The facts were recorded in our issue of yesterday. Inspector Dymond attended on behalf of the Police. - ELLEN NORTHCOTT, mother, identified the body. On Tuesday morning she went on an errand, leaving the child in a cradle. There were two other children in the house. Witness locked the door when she left the house. She had not been away for any length of time when she was told that the child had been nearly burnt to death and had been removed to the Hospital. - Mr A. E. Stoyle, upholsterer, of 20 Magdalen-street, said that on hearing an alarm of fire he entered the house occupied by MR and MRS NORTHCOTT, when he saw the cradle in flames. The child was not there. - Susan Tuckett, a neighbour, said she heard screams from the kitchen of the house and a man who was near burst open the door. Witness took the child out of the cradle. An elder child had a box of matches in its hand. - The junior assistant House Surgeon at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital said the child was admitted shortly after noon on Tuesday suffering from burns on the limbs, body and face. Deceased died about 9.30 yesterday morning from shock, caused by the burns. - The Deputy Coroner said he could not help thinking that it was not right under any circumstances, whatever were the positions of the parents, to leave children in a house alone, and locked up in such a manner as had been described. He was sure no one regretted the accident more than the parents of the unfortunate child, but it was exceedingly lucky that more disastrous consequences did not ensue. He was sure if it had not been for the promptitude of Mrs Tuckett the affair would have been a great deal more serious. He hoped the present case would be a warning to all parents not to allow their children to remain in a house under such circumstances. He considered MRS NORTHCOTT could have asked a neighbour to have looked after the children while she was away. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 24 November 1902
NEWTON ABBOT - Fatal Accident Near Newton. - An Inquest was held at the Newton Hospital on Saturday evening concerning the death of GEORGE TREEN, lately a waggoner in the employ of Mr George Wrayford, a farmer, at Smallacombe, Ilsington. Mr Hutchings appeared to watch the interests of Mr Wrayford and the deceased's widow and family. - The widow deposed that her late husband had left twelve children, six of whom were dependent upon her for their living. He was 52 years of age. - George Wrayford gave evidence that the accident occurred through the shaft horse swerving and throwing deceased against a tree and hedge. The waggon wheels passed over him. The events described occurred on the road leading to Teignbridge, near the clayfields, on Friday afternoon, and it was thought the horses took fright at a traction engine. - Thomas King, living at Newton, the driver of a traction engine, said he was attending to the packing of the pump and cleaning the engine when the accident occurred. He was on the right side of the road, waiting to back into the clayfields. - P.C. Cross deposed that there was a space of 11ft. along which the deceased's waggon could pass. - Dr Grimbly certified that the cause of death was three broken ribs on the left side. Death was due to shock. - The evidence showed that the traction engine was the property of Messrs. Hexter and Humpherson. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added a rider that the engine driver should be censured for keeping his engine stationary on the right-hand side of the road. They handed their fees to the widow and the Coroner added his quota. - The Coroner said that roads were only made for the passage of such conveyances as traction engines, not for them to stand upon a public highway for cleaning purposes.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 27 November 1902
TIVERTON - Fatal Street Accident At Tiverton. The Coroner And Street Traffic. - Last night an Inquest was held at Tiverton Infirmary touching the death of MRS ANN HENSON, who was knocked down by a trap the previous day. - Her son, WALTER HENSON, said that deceased was 71 years of age, and very deaf. - Mr E. Chave, farmer, Huntland, said that on Tuesday morning, about 10.30, as he was driving to market deceased commenced to cross the road obliquely from the almshouses, towards the Heathcoat Hall. He shouted to her, but she stopped in the middle of the road, and he felt his horse's head touch her. He went to her assistance. She was unconscious. - Emma Morrell said she saw deceased in the middle of the road, and they exchanged words. In doing so deceased almost stopped. The trap was only gong at a walking pace by the time it reached deceased. She thought MRS HENSON would have cleared the horse. - John Trickey corroborated and said deceased stopped in the road and looked round as she nodded to her friend. He heard Mr Chave shout. - Mr A. K. B. Baxter, House Surgeon at the Tiverton Infirmary, said that deceased was admitted at about 11 o'clock on Tuesday suffering from a compound fracture of the base of the skull. She did not regain consciousness and died at 5.10 p.m. the same day. - Dr L. Mackenzie, the Borough Coroner, considered the accident entirely due to deceased's deafness and commented on the danger of deaf persons crossing streets unaccompanied. He also said that he had recently been told by a most experienced driver that he would far rather drive through London then Tiverton, for in the City everything was regulated, but in the country people drove where they liked. - The Jury found a verdict of "Accidental Death," and absolved the driver from blame.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 28 November 1902
EXETER - Fatal Accident On The Exeter Railway. Inquest. - An Inquest was held at Exeter Police Station yesterday on the body of ROBERT W. SPARKES, a labourer, aged 51, of Arthurs Buildings, Pancras-lane, Exeter, who met with his death the previous day while working on the Exeter Railway, owing to a land slip. Mr Harris (Messrs. Ford, Harris and Ford) appeared on behalf of the contractors (Messrs. Dickson). - EMMA ELIZABETH SPARKES identified the body. - Isaac Easterbrook, who was in charge of eight men at Alphington digging bridge pits, in which the wings of the bridge had to be placed, said about 4.30 p.m. he ordered the men away from the work to load some rails. SPARKES remained behind. On returning to the spot he found deceased lying on the ground. He appeared to be dead. Witness immediately had the man placed in one of the trucks and removed to the end of the line nearest Exeter. A great deal of earth had slipped from its position. - Henry Tavener, labourer, said he was the first to return to the spot after loading the rails. He saw deceased stretched out under the pit where he had been working. There was no earth on his body. Deceased was unconscious and was bleeding. The earth which had slipped was near where deceased was lying. - John Filer, Ide, general foreman, in the employ of the contractors, said he was of opinion that the slip of earth was due to the wet weather. He estimated the quantity at about five tons. - Mr C. E. Stokes, Surgeon, St. Thomas, said the whole of the right side of deceased's skull was broken, as also was one of his legs. The fractures might have been caused by deceased falling or by the earth falling on him. - In reply to the Deputy Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, Filer said deceased fell on the permanent way, and his head might have come in contact with one of the rails. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

HONITON - At the Inquest on HARRY JOHN SYDENHAM, a coachman, aged 31, in the employ of Mr H. Banfield, of the Dolphin Hotel, who died from injuries received through being kicked by a horse, Thomas Wills said he was working in the stables, when he heard something like a smack. On looking round, he saw that deceased, who had been engaged bedding his horses, had fallen to the paved, or brick, floor of the stable. He immediately went to him and, seeing that he was unconscious, dispatched a messenger for Dr Shortridge. After hearing the evidence of Dr Shortridge, who made a post mortem examination, and who explained the injuries to the skull, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death through a kick by a Horse." The Jury gave their fees to the widow, and the amount was supplemented by 10s. each from the Coroner and Dr Shortridge. Mrs Burroughs gave the amount allowed for the use of the room for the Inquest. Mr H. Banfield said he would help the widow in every way and see that she did not want for anything.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 29 November 1902
TOTNES - The Totnes Drowning Case. Complaint By The Coroner. - Yesterday Mr G. F. Kellock, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest concerning the death of MISS PHOEBE HORSMAN SOPER, eldest daughter of MR W. A. SOPER, of Gerston Farm, near Totnes, who was found drowned in a pool near the farmhouse on Wednesday. - ALFRED SOPER, deceased's father, stated that his daughter had tea as usual on Wednesday and at about 7.30 the same night she was missing. A search was made by several members of the family without success. As a last resource the water was let out of a pond near the house and the deceased was found dead at the bottom. His daughter, he said, had been perfectly happy and his suspicions had not been aroused. - Dr W. K. Edmond, of Totnes, said he had been medically attending deceased for some time. She was depressed, and before she went to live with her father he thought she was overworked. There were no marks of violence on the body, and there was no doubt that she met her death by drowning. - Two brothers of deceased gave evidence as to lifting her body out of the pool, which was just over four feet deep. - The Coroner, who censured the father for prompting his son on a question which he (the Coroner) asked, complained that he had to drag out all the information from the witnesses, who, he said, seemed to wrap the whole thing up in mystery. It was a case for careful investigation and the witnesses ought surely to understand that it was a court of Inquiry, and that the Jury wanted straightforward information. It ought not to be necessary that the relatives should have to be constantly interrogated. - The Inquest was then adjourned.

TORQUAY - Death Under An Operation At Torquay. - Yesterday at Upton Parish Room, Torquay, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an inquiry respecting the death of SARAH PHILLIPS, 69, a widow, of 94 Belgrave-road, who died at the Torbay Hospital on Thursday. - The evidence showed that deceased was taken ill on Tuesday, and Dr Thistle was called in. He found that she was suffering from severe intestinal obstruction, and ordered her removal to the Hospital, regarding it impossible to save her life without an operation. On Thursday morning the operation was commended, Dr Arnold being the operator, assisted by Dr Lyons, while Drs. Thistle and Mackenzie administered the anaesthetic, consisting of ether, alcohol, and chloroform. The operation was half-way completed, when the contents of the intestines welled up, filled the air passages and caused death by suffocation. It was explained that such cases arose in instances of obstruction of the intestines, and it was almost impossible to prevent them. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Suffocation," and expressed the opinion that the operation was legally and properly carried out.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 2 December 1902
EXETER - The Exeter Quay Disaster. Inquest On ROBERTS. Personal Narratives. The Ferry Rope Condemned. - Yesterday afternoon an Inquest was held at Exeter Police Station by Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, on the body of JOHN ROBERTS, who was drowned as the result of the capsizing of a boat in the river Exe, at Exeter Quay on November 29th. - John Richard Williams, of Galsarna, Merionethshire, Wales, master of the schooner Bodwen, of Port Madoc, identified the body. Deceased was cook on the Blodwen, hailed from Penrhynbudreagh, Merionethshire and was a single man, 18 years of age. - Benjamin Brown, 16 Hoe-street, Plymouth, able seaman of the schooner Ocean Wave, said the latter vessel was lying at Exeter Basin on Saturday. Witness and his chum, Frederick Olsen, also of the Ocean Wave, went ashore on Friday evening and visited the Albion Inn, where they met deceased and Archibald Norman, and remained there until about 11 p.m. Subsequently they went to a fried fish shop and then proceeded to the Blodwen, at the Quay, deceased having suggested that witness and Olsen should not walk around to the Basin by way of Haven Banks, but be pulled across the river from the Blodwen and thus save a long detour. About 12 (midnight) witness, Olsen, ROBERTS and Norman left the Blodwen in the Blodwen's boat to proceed to the Ocean Wave. Witness and deceased stood in the stern of the boat and the other men went forward. Olsen sat on the thwarts, but witness could not say whether Norman stood or sat. ROBERTS had charge of the boat, and sculled down the river. Suddenly a rope spread across the river horizontally for the use of the ferry boat caught the men in the fore part of the boat, causing her to cant to starboard, fill with water and sink. ROBERTS caught witness by the shoulder, and both went under twice. On rising for the third time ROBERTS released his hold and witness swam ashore. The distance from the bow of the Blodwen, whence the boat started, to the ferry boat was about 15 or 20 yards. The river was running fast and witness afterwards learnt there was a freshet coming down. ROBERTS appeared to have no difficulty in sculling, and was going with the current. Witness and his companions were sober, and there was no skylarking. - By the Foreman (Mr R. Strang): If the ferry rope had not been across the river the accident would not have happened, and if witness had known of its existence and the flooded state of the river he would not have attempted to cross in the boat, which was a dinghey. The accident would have happened if the boat had been larger and heavier. There was no light to indicate the presence of the rope. - Archibald Norman, of Newfoundland, ordinary seaman of the Blodwen, said he was standing in the bow of the boat. He knew of the existence of the rope and immediately the boat came up to it witness put out his hand and passed under it. He said, "Mind the rope," but could not say whether the others heard him. The rope, however, caught one of the men, the boat canted, witness seized the rope again and dragged himself ashore. ROBERTS knew of the existence of the rope and had previously taken men across. Even if the other men had heard witness call out about the rope there would have been little time for them to realise the situation and grasp the rope, owing to the speed of the current. - William Greenaway, Horse-lane, labourer, deposed to finding the body of ROBERTS at the entrance to the Canal on Sunday and Mr Pereira, Surgeon, stated that the body presented the usual appearance of death by drowning. - Richard Williams, recalled, said he was in bed at the time the men must have left the Blodwen, and did not now they had taken the boat or that ROBERTS was sculling. He had never offered any objection to the men taking the boat, or made regulations regarding hours of returning to the ship from ashore. - Mr Strang: I feel there is great responsibility resting on someone for allowing the boat to be sculled by ROBERTS, who was making his first voyage and obviously not strong enough for the work with the Exe in flood. - The Deputy Coroner said he did not see how the master could be blamed, especially as there were other men in the boat, and the master did not know what was taking place. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and strongly recommended that the City Council, as owners of the ferry, should take steps for removing the ferry rope every night after the ferry had ceased working.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 3 December 1902
EXETER HEAVITREE - The County Coroner, Mr F. Burrow, held an Inquest at Heavitree yesterday touching the death of MR WILLIAM A. F. WILSON, aged 71 years, who died on Sunday. The medical evidence showed that MR WILSON died from heart failure and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 6 December 1902
SUNDERLAND - The Wreck Of The Eliza Bain. Three Bodies Recovered. - News reached Teignmouth early yesterday morning that the body of MR HULL, captain of the ill-fated schooner Eliza Bain, which was dashed to pieces off Sunderland on Tuesday evening, had been recovered and it is understood that Mr J. W. Finch, the owner, who is now at Sunderland, intends to have the body conveyed to Teignmouth by one of his vessels now at Newcastle for interment. - Later in the day Mr Finch telegraphed that the bodies of H. MCLEOD, the cook, and ALF ALLEN, the youngest member of the crew, had also been recovered and MRS HULL and MRS MCLEOD were both informed. - The latter found the news hard to bear, as she had all along clung almost in desperation to the hope that her husband had been picked up by a passing vessel and that he would return to her living. When told that he had been found, her instant reply was "Tell me he was alive," a last appeal which sadly showed how totally unable she was to realise her loss. - Much practical sympathy has already been shown in the town for the bereaved families and between £50 and £60 has been sent Mr Croydon. The response to our own appeal will be found in another column. We commend the appeal to the generous support of our readers. - At eight o'clock on Monday evening a public meeting is to be held in the Assembly Rooms, Mr F. Wheatley (vice-chairman of the Urban Council) to preside, to put the fund on a proper footing by appointing a chairman, hon. treasurer, hon. secretary, a Committee and a Canvassing Committee. - As we have stated, since the Eliza Bain left Teignmouth there has been an alteration in the harbour lights at Sunderland. A notice at the Teignmouth Customs office states that after the 28th of November - the day after the Eliza Bain left Teignmouth - owing to the insecure foundations of the Round Head of the Old North Pier, at the entrance to Sunderland Harbour, it would be necessary to take down the lighthouse at the Round Head, and that temporary lights similar in character to, but of much less power than those exhibited from the lighthouse, would be exhibited outside the lighthouse. The suggestion is, of course, that this alteration may possibly have led CAPTAIN HULL to have mistaken his bearings. - The Sunderland papers, on the fact that a woman's mantle and hat and a child's shoe were picked up, and because it was stated that CAPTAIN HULL intended taking his wife and children on the voyage, based the false assumption that the wife and one or more of the children had also been drowned. - The Inquest on the body of GEORGE HULL, the skipper, was opened later in the day by Mr Maynard, the Coroner. - Evidence was given that the vessel foundered within 10 or 15 minutes after she was first seen, and that there was no time for the life brigade or lifeboat to do anything. Even if there had been time, the position of the wreck would have made assistance impossible. - The owner, Mr Finch, expressed the opinion that HULL was deceived as to the position of the vessel owing to the change of lights recently made on the piers. Notice of this change was issued two days after the schooner left Teignmouth. - Pilot Downe said he saw the vessel's lights just before she disappeared. Just previous the light on the South Pier, where she struck was washed away. - The Inquiry was adjourned till Tuesday.

TORQUAY - Torquay Child Burnt To Death. - At the Upton Parish Room, Torquay, last evening, the Deputy Coroner, Mr G. F. Kellock, held an Inquiry respecting the death of LESLIE F. G. COOMBES, aged nine months, the son of FREDERICK G. COOMBES, of 23 Megla-terrace, Ellacombe, who died in the Hospital on Wednesday evening. - The evidence of the mother was to the effect that she went out, leaving the child asleep in the cradle. On returning half an hour after the place was full of smoke and the child was badly burnt. It died 20 minutes after being admitted to the Hospital. - The father stated that he returned home with his wife and found the room in darkness. The table cloth was burning and the baby's cradle was smouldering. The lamp was on the floor smashed in atoms. He thought the child must have pulled the table cloth and overturned the lamp. - Dr Lyon said death was due to shock. The burns were very severe. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 11 December 1902
SUNDERLAND - The Eliza Bain Disaster. Inquest And Verdict. Dramatic Entertainment At Teignmouth. - Yesterday Mr Tapper, representing the firm at Teignmouth in the absence of Mr J. W. Finch, owner of the Eliza Bain, received a telegram from Mr Finch, stating that a body had been recovered and asking if there were any tattoo marks on Williams and Woodford (the two missing men) by which they could be identified. The reply was that Williams wore a silver ring on his left hand, and that two of his top front teeth were missing. He also wore a belt and brass buckle. Woodford wore a jersey marked "Railway Steam Packet." Mr Finch later in the day telegraphed to the effect that he did not think the body was that of either of the two men. - At the resumed Inquest at Sunderland on GEORGE HULL (the Captain), MCLEOD and ALLEN, a mass of evidence was given as to the disposition, &c., of the lights in the harbour. - Mr Finch said he was at a loss to know why the port of Sunderland could move its lights without notice. In other places three months' notice was required. He attributed the loss of his vessel to the irregular lights shown on the night in question from the port. - John Davison, master of the Balmoral steam tug, gave evidence that, in his opinion, the substituted lights on the north river pier were good ones. They could be seen two miles and a half off. The old lights showed no further. - Mr H. H. Wake, engineer to the River Wear Commissioners, declared that there was nothing misleading about the lights. The Commissioners, he added, were alive to having the harbour lit in the best possible way. They were spending £7,000 on the lighthouse. - The Coroner, in summing up, said he heartily sympathised with the owner of the vessel and the families bereaved by the death of the poor men who were drowned. The loss of life occurred either through a storm at sea of such violence as to drive the vessel out of its course, or the Captain might have been misled by the lights on shore, and so brought into his dangerous position. If the Jury considered that to be the case it was for them to say to what extent there had been negligence o the part of those who had charge of the lights of the port; to say who was liable; and, if there was carelessness, whether it amounted to such gross negligence as to make anyone culpable for manslaughter. - The Jury returned a verdict that the crew met their death through the ship being driven out of her course and lost through stress of weather. - The Coroner asked the Jury if they had any rider to add in regard to the lights on shore. - The Foreman: None whatever. - The Teignmouth Opera and Comedy Company have decided to give what should prove to be a highly interesting entertainment at the Assembly Rooms, Teignmouth, on the 17th and 18th inst., the total proceeds of which will be devoted to the fund for the relief of the widows and families of the sailors whose lives were lost in the Eliza Bain disaster, and also on behalf of Mrs Aplin, who was suddenly left a widow with three children in consequence of the death of her husband, a gardener, after a few hours' illness. Seats are being booked rapidly and it is expected that £80 will be obtained from this effort.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 12 December 1902
SAMPFORD COURTENAY - Mr J. D. Prickman, County Coroner, held an Inquest on Wednesday at Corscombe Farm, on the body of MARY ANN UNDERHILL, eight years of age, who died on Monday. SAMUEL UNDERHILL, labourer, of Corscombe, said the deceased was his daughter. She had died from injury received by burning on Saturday afternoon. - SAMUEL UNDERHILL, aged 11 years, said last Saturday afternoon he was in the parlour with his brother DICK and little MARY. MARY sat by the fire, and got so close that her apron caught alight and blazed up. He and RICHARD tried to put it out, and then mother came in. No one pushed her and she did not fall into the fire. ELIZABETH UNDERHILL, mother of deceased, said on her return to her house from Okehampton on Saturday, about a quarter to six she found deceased in flames. She stripped the clothes off deceased and did not send for a doctor then as she thought she could attend to the wounds. Dr Young was summoned on Monday, but the child died on Monday evening. Dr Young said on Monday afternoon he saw deceased, and recognised at once it was a hopeless case. The wounds were very bad over the arms and body and the deceased was unconscious. He believed that the mother had done the best she could under the circumstances. The Jury found "That death was due to injury received by Burning Accidentally caused."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 17 December 1902
TOTNES - Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an inquest at the Totnes Union Workhouse yesterday morning respecting the death of ANN PERRING, of Dartmouth. The Master of the Workhouse stated that deceased was admitted to the House on December 13th, and was 74 years of age. Medical testimony showed that she fractured her neck and left thigh through falling out of bed. She died from exhaustion as the result of the injury. A verdict was given in accordance with the medical testimony, the injury being Accidentally caused.

TOTNES - The Death Of A Volunteer Sergeant At Totnes. - Yesterday an Inquest was held at Totnes on the body of SERGEANT-INSTRUCTOR F. GREEN, of Eiffel-place, Totnes. Deceased was Drill-Instructor of C. (Totnes) Company, 5th V.B.D.R., and was 38 years of age. He had suffered from giddiness and ague, and had been having medical advice. Last Saturday he said he felt much better, and went for a walk with Colour-Sergeant Green, 3rd Devonshire Regiment, recruiting sergeant. Deceased fainted when near the Kingsbridge Inn. He was taken home, and Dr Reynolds was called in. He knew deceased had a weak hart, but found there was no valvular disease. Death was due to an attack of syncope. The state of the heart was probably due to malaria. Captain Windeatt testified to deceased's efficient service to the local Company of Volunteers. The Jury returned a verdict according to the medical evidence.

DAWLISH - A Cut Finger At Dawlish. Fatal Results. - Mr Hacker held an Inquest at the Lansdowne Hotel yesterday relative to the death of MRS JANE HOARE, butcher, of Old Town-street, Dawlish, who died suddenly the previous day. - ROBERT MAY, of Stonehouse, said deceased, who was his sister, was 50 years of age. He was telegraphed for on Monday morning, saying his sister was dangerously ill. - Thomas Jennings, foreman for deceased, said a fortnight last Friday MRS HOARE was holding a piece of meat which he was sawing. Her attention was diverted, and, her hand slipping, a finger came in contact with the saw. She said it was not much injured, and, after applying some rag, she continued work. Deceased took off the rag after two days. Witness noticed that she had symptoms of a cold a week afterwards. Deceased went to bed for a few days, and came down apparently better. She would not have a doctor. MRS HOARE was taken worse on the night of the 12th. Acting on the doctor's suggestion, witness wired for the relatives on Monday morning. - Dr C. Ll. H. Trip said he was called to deceased on Saturday. There were symptoms of blood poisoning. The cut on the finger was unhealthy, not healed, the bone and joint being injured. On Monday MRS HOARE became delirious, and collapsed. Heart failure, produced by blood poisoning, was the cause of death. By the Foreman (Mr H. L. Friend): Her life would probably have been saved had he been summoned before. - The Coroner briefly summed up the facts, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," exonerating Jenkins from all blame.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 19 December 1902
OKEHAMPTON - Fatal Quarry Accident At Meldon. - Mr J. D. Prickman, County Coroner, held an Inquest at Okehampton yesterday on the body of GEORGE FOURACRE, who was killed at Meldon Quarry, near Okehampton, on Tuesday. The Jury first visited the scene of the accident. The Deputy Inspector of Mines and Quarries was present and the London and South Western Company (the lessees of the quarry) were represented by Mr Grainger and Mr Cox. - Thomas Melhuish, of S. Mary Arches-street, Exeter, said he was working at the quarry, and knew the deceased, who was a native of Exeter. He started work at Meldon on Monday, having previously been working at Northtawton. At about 9 o'clock on Tuesday morning, he heard a noise and on looking to the spot where the deceased was working saw that a heap of earth, weighing about a ton, had fallen, completely burying him. Another man named Madders was partially buried. He assisted Madders out, and then commenced to search for FOURACRE. - James Cockwill, ganger on the London and South Western Railway, stated that he was the ganger in charge of the men working at the quarry, and started the deceased and three other men at work on Tuesday morning at 7 o'clock. The ground was not then undermined. About 9 o'clock he was told that an accident had occurred and that the deceased had been buried by a fall of heading. He went to the spot and assisted in getting out deceased, who was quite dead. The deceased was an experienced steady man, and had been in the employ of the Company about six months. - Dr Edward Herbert Young said he examined the body of the deceased, which was much bruised on the head and face and injured on the left side of the chest. He considered deceased died from concussion of the brain and suffocation. There was also a compound fracture of the leg. - The Jury returned a verdict to the effect "That the cause of death was injury received by the slipping of the heading at Meldon Quarry; that such slipping was Accidentally caused."

BARNSTAPLE - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned at an Inquest held by the Borough Coroner, Mr A. Bencraft, on the body of a baby, FLORENCE LOUISA LEWIS, who was found by a post-mortem examination to have died from acute pneumonia.

CHAGFORD - Mr J. D. Prickman, Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Three Crowns Hotel on Wednesday touching the death of the infant child of MRS LEAMAN, Mill-street, Chagford, aged 12 days, who was found dead in its bed soon after midday on Monday. Evidence was given by Mr B. Hunt, Surgeon, Nurse Anderson and MRS MARY ANN LEAMAN, grandmother. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 20 December 1902
EXETER - Death Of A News Vendor. inquest At Exeter. - The Deputy Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, held an inquest yesterday at the Exeter Police Station, concerning the death of a news vendor, named CHARLES KEEFFE, lodging at the Round Tree Inn, Exeter. - ELIZABETH CLEAVE, of Woodbury, identified the body as that of her first husband's brother. Deceased was 49 years of age. He was an intemperate man. - Robert Guppy, barman of 22 Beaufort-road, said he saw deceased coming down Fore-street about 11.25 p.m. on Wednesday last. He suddenly staggered and fell. Witness went to his assistance, and, with help, laid him in a doorway, but he expired within three or four minutes. Deceased appeared to have been drinking on an empty stomach. - Dr J. Pereira, Police Surgeon, said he examined the deceased at 11.50 the same evening at the Mortuary. Death was due to natural causes, probably an apoplectic fit. - The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

EXETER - Alleged Death By Starvation At Exeter. Inquest Adjourned. - Yesterday the Deputy Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould held an inquiry at the Exeter Police Station, relative to the death of HARRIET SALTER MORTIMORE, 56, wife of CHARLES MORTIMORE, clerk, of 14 Landscore-road, St. Thomas, who died on the morning of the 17th inst. - The Chief Constable, Mr R. L. Williams, represented the Police. - CHARLES FENWICK MORTIMORE, tailor, said the deceased was his mother. She died on Wednesday morning, just after 8 o'clock. She had been ill for five or six years. Some five years ago she suffered from loss of memory, and was seen by Dr Brash, who said there was no cure for her. She had been getting worse ever since, and had been perfectly helpless for the last year. She had a kind of seizure some three weeks ago, and took to her bed, having another fit a fortnight since. She was not seen by a doctor then, the last time being about three months ago, when Dr Vlieland attended her. His father's step-sister (Maria Squires) was in the house all day, his father, himself and his sister ETHEL, being away at work during the day, only returning for dinner and after business. Mrs Tucker, of Alphington-road, used also to come in to assist when required. They always had plenty to eat. His mother was in the upstair front bedroom. The food was always prepared by Maria Squires, and was taken up to deceased by either his father, his aunt, or his sister. His sister took up Tuesday's dinner - beef and vegetables - to deceased. Witness had many times seen food taken to her every morning and dinner time when he was home. He saw deceased every day, but she was incapable of talking and sometimes he did not know whether she recognised people. - Was she capable of making any complaint had she so desired? - No. - So far as your observation led you, you say that the deceased always had plenty of food? - Yes. - Had she also had proper care and attention? - Yes. - From whom? - My sister, my aunt and Mrs Tucker - which was very necessary at times. - ETHEL MORTIMORE, daughter of deceased, said she gave her mother her food at dinner time, the last time being Tuesday, when she fed her with beef and vegetables, she being incapable of feeding herself. Witness had done this regularly ever since her mother became bedridden. She took her some Bovril and bread on Tuesday night about 11, and saw her father give it to deceased, who ate it all. Witness remained with her till midnight. Her aunt looked after the room, and did all required in nursing and keeping deceased clean. The linen was always changed two or three times a day. Witness was called by her father on Wednesday morning. He said deceased was a little worse, and witness sent for Dr Vlieland. It was said he would not be home till 10 o'clock. they then sent for Dr Farrant three times, but he did not come and deceased died in the meantime. - Dr J. Pereira, Police Surgeon, saw deceased in bed at 3.30 at the request of the Police, on Wednesday afternoon. He examined the body and found it very emaciated, and it bore two or three bed-sores. - Would you expect to see bed-sores on a person who had received proper care and attention after being a bed lier for a month? - No. - What were the surroundings like? - The mattress on which she was lying was sodden just under her, and the room did not strike him as being clean at all. - He had since made a post-mortem examination of the body, in conjunction with Mr Bell, and found no cause of death from disease of any of the organs, all of them being perfectly healthy. There was no food in the stomach. - Do you mean to say there was no trace of food whatever? - Not a trace. - If a person had taken a cup of Bovril the night before, between 11 and 12 o'clock, would you expected to have seen traces in the stomach? - Not in a healthy person, but in a person in the state of weakness of the deceased I should. - If she had taken beef and vegetables would you have expected to have found any trace of it? - I should have expected to find some food in the stomach if taken between 1 and 2 o'clock in a woman of her condition. - Did you examine the brain? - Yes. - What was the condition? - There was nothing about the brain to show any disease. - You do not associate the death with any disease of the brain? - No. - Or any injury to the brain? - No. - What is your opinion as to the cause of death? - We both came to the conclusion that death arose from starvation and want of care. - Want of care of what? - The bedclothes must have necessarily been some small factor in causing exhaustion, but they would not of themselves cause death. - And your opinion is that death was caused by starvation? - Yes. - A Juror: How do you account for the witnesses saying that the woman did not know how to ask for things nor yet to know whether she liked the thing or no? - Well, the extensive weakness of the woman would make her quite stupid and dull. The mere fact of being excessively weak might arise from want of food. - You mean to say there were no signs of disease in the brain? - No sign whatever. Two of us have examined the brain, which was as perfectly healthy a brain as we have seen anywhere. - The Coroner: Would you attribute the absence of memory to insufficient food or want of food? - Yes; to want of food. - Do you think it has been going on for years? - I think she only reached the emaciated condition a few months ago, but she must have been an invalid for some time and growing weaker and weaker. - A Juror: Do you think it possible that a person in that condition could take solid food? - I don't think she could. - If she had had a meal of solid food it surely could not digest in 12 or 14 hours in a weak stomach like that? - No. - Did the general condition of the room suggest to you plenty of care or plenty of neglect? - Id did not suggest plenty of care or otherwise. - The Coroner said this was a case in which it would be necessary and desirable that some other evidence should be forthcoming, and it would be necessary to adjourn the Inquiry for the purpose. - The Inquiry was accordingly adjourned till Monday afternoon at 4 p.m.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 23 December 1902
EXETER - Death By Starvation At Exeter. Adjourned Inquest. Verdict Of Manslaughter. Arrest Of The Husband. - The adjourned Inquest on the body of HARRIET SALTER MORTIMORE, 56, wife of CHARLES MORTIMORE, accountant, of 14 Landscore-road, St Thomas, who died on the 17th inst., was held at Exeter Police Court yesterday. The Chief Constable watched the proceedings on behalf of the Police, the deceased's family being represented by Mr W. Linford Brown. - CHARLES MORTIMORE was the first witness called, and, before giving evidence, was cautioned by the Deputy Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould. - After consulting with Mr Linford Brown witness said he had no desire to keep anything back. He stated that deceased had been an invalid between five and six years. At first she suffered from loss of memory. She had not been attended by a doctor during that period, except during the first month or six weeks of her illness. He was then told that nothing could be done for her. He had been residing at No. 14 Landscore-road, for nearly three months. Deceased took to her bed about three weeks since at his persuasion. She had not been capable of expressing any wish or desire for years. While she was in her bedroom she had similar food to what she had when downstairs. His step-sister, who was 76 or 77 years of age, was often left in charge of her, and she was able to purchase anything his wife needed. - The Deputy Coroner: The day previous to deceased's death did you see her have any meals? - Witness: Yes. She had beef and potatoes. He fed her until it was time for him to have his own dinner, so that he could be back to work punctually. His daughter continued to feed her. - The Deputy Coroner: When did deceased next have anything? - Witness: When I came home about 8 o'clock. My step-sister told me that my wife had had some tea and toast. Shortly after 8 o'clock I thought she would like some beef tea or Bovril and my step-sister made some, which deceased had. About 11 o'clock deceased had some more Bovril - a large tea-cup full - which she drank. Continuing, witness said he remained in deceased's bedroom during the night. He did not notice any change in her condition until about 3 o'clock the following morning. He then called his step-sister, who said the breathing was not very much to trouble about. Between 5.30 and 6 o'clock witness sent for Dr Vlieland, and his son was told that he would not be home until 10 o'clock. Witness immediately sent for Mr Farrant, it being stated that he would be at the house soon. Witness waited for half an hour. As Mr Farrant did not come he sent his son for him again. The servant then told the messenger that Mr Farrant would come to the house at once. Mr Farrant did not come, and his wife died without being seen by a medical man. During the night witness gave the deceased a little milk and water. He remembered a Constable named Discombe coming to his house about a month ago and complaining of a noise. The officer said nothing about the screaming of a woman. The noise was caused by a disagreement between his son and himself about money matters. He put his son out of the door and his daughter intervened. He did not think there was any screaming. Continuing, witness said the life of deceased was insured for about £10. He could not say the exact amount as the Policy had been mislaid. - The Deputy Coroner: Your daughter said in her evidence that on Tuesday she took the dinner up to the deceased, and that she had always been in the habit of doing so. You say today that you did. Which is correct? - Witness: We were both in the house at the same time and fed her. - The Deputy Coroner: That is not an answer to my question. I want to know which is right - the statement made by you, or by your daughter? - Witness: I believe I took it up to her and fed her. - The Deputy Coroner: Are you positive? - Witness: She had the dinner and I believe I took it up. - Mr Williams (a Juryman): Was deceased in the habit of taking her meals pretty regularly? - Witness: Yes. Whatever food deceased had she would take readily. - In reply to the Foreman of the Jury, witness said deceased was given all the fresh air possible. She had plenty of nourishment. - A Juryman: Why did you not call in another medical man, except Mr Brash, during the five years of your wife's illness? - Witness: She seemed to do all right with the strengthening food that was given her. - Maris Squire said she was 75 years of age, and had been housekeeper for MR MORTIMORE for five years. Deceased's husband had always kept his wife well supplied with money for the purposes of the house. Witness did the cooking and waited on deceased during the absence of her husband, son and daughter. Deceased had anything that she wished for, although she was incapable of asking for food. Witness used to feed MRS MORTIMORE five or six times every day. No one had been in the habit of attending deceased except herself. She was sure no one had during the month previous to her death. - In reply to questions by a Juryman, witness said she was capable of looking after MRS MORTIMORE, and did not consider she was too old. - Mr C. E. Bell, Surgeon, said he was present at the post-mortem examination of the body of the deceased by Mr Pereira, Police Surgeon. The body was, he considered, the thinnest one he had ever seen, and was greatly emaciated. The heart, liver, kidneys and spleen were healthy, but shrunk. The walls of the stomach were very thin and almost transparent. Speaking generally, there was no disease, but an entire absence of fat. - The Deputy Coroner: What opinion have you formed as a result of the examination? - Mr Bell: I consider she died from chronic starvation. That is the only conclusion one can come to from the post-mortem examination. - The Deputy Coroner: You have heard it stated that on the day previous to deceased's death she had beef, vegetables and other things. If deceased had food up to the hour stated, would you expect to find any trace of it in the stomach? - Mr Bell: The stomach was opened before I arrived and, therefore, I cannot say. The intestines were contracted and shrunk. - The Deputy Coroner: Supposing a person in the same condition as deceased had taken food as stated, would you expect to find any trace of it the following day? - Mr Bell: If the deceased had had food continuously, taking into consideration her extreme weak condition, I should undoubtedly think that food would have been found in the stomach. - In reply to Mr Linford Brown, Mr Bell considered a person who was thin would get bedsores more frequently than another person. - Mr Pereira, who gave his medical evidence on the day of the opening of the Inquest, on being recalled, said the gall bladder was half full of bile, but in a case of chronic starvation that would signify nothing. - Sergeant Guppy said he went to the house after deceased's death. The body was in a very dirty condition. The stench in the room was abominable, and made him and others feel quite ill. - Miss Jessie Bucksey, of Austwick House, Alphington-road, said MR MORTIMORE, husband of deceased, was a tenant of hers until the 1st of October. MRS MORTIMORE never spoke to her and she appeared to be quite helpless. She had sometimes taken her food when the old lady was out, as she considered she wanted it. She looked very exhausted. Mrs Squire had told witness she was going out and asked her to look in. - You said just now you took food in when Mrs Squire was out. Why? - Because I had an opportunity of speaking to deceased then. - She could not speak to you? - No, but she was intelligent, and they said she was not. - She took her food all right? - Yes. - Did you ever make any complaint to MR MORTIMORE, or Mrs Squire or the daughter? - I spoke to them individually. I told them deceased wanted more nourishment, and that if she had care she would get all right again. I think she was intimidated in some way, she seemed to look so frightened. That was twelve months ago. - What was the condition of the house at the time? - It was not kept in a healthy state. - Was it in a dirty state? - Yes, I consider it was. - More particularly the deceased's bedroom? - Yes, it was neglected. - How did Mrs Squire appear to treat the deceased - well or otherwise? - She was not suitable at all for a nurse. For one thing, she was 78, and was not able to keep things comfortable for the poor invalid. MRS MORTIMORE was not allowed to lie down, but was too weak to sit on the chair and used to fall off. - How did you know she was unable to lie down? - There was no place for her to lie down. - In your opinion was she well treated or not? - I have said I don't consider Mrs Squire was able to take care of her. - Yes, but an unsuitable person can act kindly towards one? - But I don't wish to judge. If I could save the poor woman's life and save her all the suffering by speaking I would have done so. Now it is too late. - The Coroner: That is not the question. Did Mrs Squire treat the deceased with kindness or otherwise? - I cannot tell. - She had sometimes heard rows in the house. She lived next door to them, MR MORTIMORE being the tenant of one of her houses. - Mr Linford Brown: I believe you and MR MORTIMORE have not been very good friends? - I believe I have been a true friend to the family in every respect. If they had listened to me they would have been spared the trouble they now have. - How many times did you take food there? - It might have been two or three times. - You say that the condition of the house was not healthy? - Yes, everyone will tell you so. - You went into the bedroom? - No. But you said it was very neglected. - I was told so. - The Coroner: You must not tell us hearsay. Did you go into the bedroom yourself? - No. - Then you cannot say anything about it. - William John Wreford, Sanitary Inspector for the City, said he went to MR MORTIMORE'S house last February. He was then living in Albany House, Alphington-road, the house belonging to Miss Bucksey. He had had a complaint about the house and the occupants were in a dirty state, and that there was an invalid who was not receiving proper treatment. He found the dwelling was in a very dirty state and in a back room on the first floor he saw the deceased in bed. The bedroom itself was dirty. The bed and bedding were in a filthy condition. He called in Dr Vlieland, Medical Officer for the District, who confirmed his opinion. Notice was sent to MR MORTIMORE requesting him to have the room and bedding thoroughly cleansed and to have it kept clean in future. Witness visited the house at intervals later and the premises were in a better condition until the 23rd of May, when, in consequence of a visit from Miss Bucksey, he arranged to go to the house on the following day, when the room and bedding were in such a state as to be injurious to health. He told MR MORTIMORE that if things were not altered legal proceedings would be taken. - By Mr Linford Brown: The doctor said, with regard to the wet bedding, it was in consequence of the complaint from which the deceased suffered. - The Coroner then summed up. He said it was a case which required thorough sifting. The deceased did not appear to have been seen by anyone save the members of the household, all of whom said she received every care and attention and everything that was necessary in the way of food. She died on the 17th inst., and the medical evidence showed that starvation was the cause of death. The Jury must consider the question of responsibility. He should tell them that a husband was primarily liable for the care and feeding of his wife. Of course, if he employed a responsible person to take care of his wife, feed her, and look after her, and that person neglected his or her duty, the husband was not liable. On the other hand, if he employed an irresponsible person, then undoubtedly the husband was liable for the result. The question was whether the husband was responsible or Mrs Squire. Was Mrs Squire a proper person to have the care of such a person as the deceased? If the Jury did not think so the husband was criminally liable. If they considered that there was want of care and attention and carelessness on the part of anyone a verdict of manslaughter would have to be brought in. If they did not think the evidence sufficient to justify such a verdict they might return a verdict that the deceased died from starvation, but that there was not sufficient evidence of criminal neglect. - At 7.40 the Court was cleared for the Jury to consider their verdict and 20 minutes later the Foreman (Mr W. Salter) said all were agreed that "The deceased died from Starvation and the husband is guilty of Neglect." - The Coroner: Then you consider the husband guilty of manslaughter? - The Foreman: Yes, sir. - The Coroner afterwards thanked the Jury for the attention they had given to the case and for the time it had taken them. He absolved them from further service for a period of two months. - Mr Linford Brown raised the question of bail. - The Coroner: I shall be quite willing to admit MORTIMORE to bail, but there is the police. They will at once arrest him, so perhaps you had better try and get bail before the Magistrates. - MORTIMORE was later on arrested and placed in the cells till the Magistrates sit this morning.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 26 December 1902
BURRINGTON - An Inquest was held by Mr J. F. Bromham on the body of WILLIAM PINCOMBE, farmer, Week. Deceased was found the previous Thursday in one of the out-buildings of the farm. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes - heart disease," and expressed sincere sympathy with the family.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 30 December 1902
DARTMOUTH - A Ship's Captain Drowned. - Yesterday, at Dartmouth Guildhall, Mr Arthur M. Davson held an Inquest touching the death of RICHARD WILLIAMS, master of the steamer Zephyr, salvage vessel. - Deceased's son said his father was 57 years of age, and apparently in his usual health when witness saw him last. - William Rogers, second engineer of the Zephyr, said that on Saturday, about 5 o'clock, deceased and an able seaman named Pollard went ashore together in the ship's boat, which was well found in every respect. Deceased was in his customary health and spirits. - James Pollard said deceased and himself, when they landed, went to the Union Inn, where they had one drink each. Deceased left the Inn, saying he was going to get some provisions. He did not see deceased again alive. - Alfred Newland, lumper, and Ernest Chase, carpenter deposed to seeing the boat drifting down the river close by the lower Embankment. Deceased was got out of the water promptly and artificial respiration was tried, but without result. Dr M. Soper was sent for at once, and when he arrived, which he did within three minutes, he continued the respiration, but he gave the opinion that the man was dead when taken out and considered, in reply to the Coroner, that nothing could have brought him round. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

STOKENHAM - Fatal Accident Near Kingsbridge. Boy Killed. - Yesterday morning Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest at Coleridge, Chillington, near Kingsbridge, concerning the death of JAMES STEERE, aged 15, who was accidentally killed last Saturday. - Deceased was in the employ of Mr Edward Stooke, at Coleridge Farm, and was driving a horse and cart, when the near wheel collided with a wall, and the vehicle turned on its side. One of the shafts apparently struck the lad on the chest. Mr Howard Skinner, of Kingsbridge, hearing screams, ran to the spot. He found the lad under the shaft, but though he released the horse and extricated deceased, he discovered that life was quite extinct. Other small lads were near and it was they who had called for help. There was no evidence to show definitely how the accident occurred. - Dr R. Orford Jones of Chillington, said there were no signs of external injuries. He considered death was due to suffocation caused by the shaft striking deceased upon the chest. - The Jury found that deceased had been Accidentally Killed.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 31 December 1902
TOPSHAM - Exeter Quay Disaster. Inquest On OLSEN. - Mr Burrow held an Inquest at the Countess Wear Inn, yesterday, on the body of FREDERICK OLSEN, 33, a Norwegian sailor, of the Ocean Wave, a vessel which was lying at the Quay at Exeter on November 29th. Deceased, in company with three other sailors was attempting to cross the River Exe in a boat about midnight, but came in contact with the ferry boat rope, with the result that the boat was capsized and the deceased and another man named ROBERTS were drowned. The former's body could not be found, but that of ROBERTS was recovered and an inquest held. - Frank Mortimer, a missionary, home from Spain, identified the body. He did not think the deceased could swim, and the two survivors said they heard no cry for help. - John Shorland, of Countess Wear, deposed to finding the body of the deceased floating in the river on the 29th, opposite he lime kilns. - Mr A. Goulston, of Heavitree, Surgeon, said he had examined the body, which had the appearance of having been in the water for some time. There were no marks of violence on the body, which presented the usual appearance of death from drowning. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added as a rider "That the City Council should take steps to see that the ferry rope be lowered before dark each evening."

TORQUAY - Yesterday afternoon, at the Upton Parish Room, Torquay, the County Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, held an Inquest on the body of the two-months-old child of JOHN and OLIVE RADMORE, of Ellacombe Church-road, which was found dead at her side by its mother the same morning. The evidence went to show that the child had been sickly since its birth, and only weighed 6lb. It was insured. Medical evidence showed that the child had a fit and died without awaking its mother. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."