Inquests Taken Into Suspicious Or Unexplained Deaths

For the County of Devon

Articles taken from the Western Morning News

[printed in Plymouth.]

1909

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:-  Abbott; Ackford; Adams(2); Allen; Amery; Amey; Anderton; Andrews; Angel; Anthony; Aplin; Armstrong; Arthur; Ashton; Atwill; Baiss; Banbury; Barber; Barry; Bastin(2); Baylis; Bearne; Beer; Bellamy; Bidder; Billing; Blackmore; Blagdon; Blight(2); Board; Bolton; Boon; Borlase; Born; Bowden(2); Bradley; Brayley; Breen; Brett; Brewer; Briggs; Bright; Brown(2); Browne; Browning; Bryant(2); Buckler; Bulley; Burgess; Burt; Butler; Cambridge; Cann; Capp; Carnell; Carter; Cetillard; Chamberlain; Chamings; Chapman; Chapple; Charley; Chilcott; Christopher; Chubb; Churchill(2); Clarke; Cleverdon; Coaker(2); Cobbledick; Cocking; Coad; Cockwell; Cole; Collings; Collins(2); Conningham; Copland; Corbey; Cornelius; Costello; Couch; Counter(2); Courtier; Covell; Cox; Craze; Creese; Crossman; Cundy; Darch; Davies; Davy; Dawe(4); Deacon; Delve; Dempsey; Densham; Derry; Dickens; Dickinson; Disney; Down(2); Drew; Dunn; Dyer; Dymond; Edger; Edmonds; Edworthy; Eggins; Elliott(2); Ellis(3); Elson; Elworthy; Essery; Eveleigh; Evely; Fairchild; Fairweather; Fennell; Fice; Fisher(2); Fitzwater; Fleet; Fletcher; Ford; Foxlow; Foy; Frude; Furneaux; Gibson; Gicquel; Giles; Glazier; Gratten; Green; Greep; Griffin; Griffiths(2); Grose; Haddon; Haddy; Hamilton; Hammett(2); Hannaford; Harding(2); Harmon; Harris(2); Harwood; Hassett; Hawker; Hawkings; Haydon; Henwood; Herbert; Herwitt; Higgins(2); Hill(3); Hillier; Hinckley; Hinds; Hinvest; Hocking; Hollett; Honeywill; Hooper; Horsewill; Horsham; Horwill; Hoskin; Howard; Howe; Howship; Hoyland; Huggins; Hutchings(2); Huxham; Huyshe; Inch; James(3); Jane; Jeffery; Jennings; Johns; Jones(2); Kessel; King(3); Kuper; Lakeman; Lamont; Lang; Langdon; Laramy; Lavers; Lawford; Leare; Lee; Leet; Legg; LeMarquand; Lethaby; Lethbridge; Lewis; Lillicrap; Lloyd; Lovering; Macarthy; Mahoney; Mann; Mantle; Marshall; Martin; Mattacott; Matthews; May; Mayne; McCarthy; McGinnes; Meal; Mercer; Miller; Mitchell; Mitchelmore; Morey; Mortimer; Mountjoy; Moxey; Mudge; Neath; Neyle; Nicholls; Nicholson; Norton; Nunn; Oakley; O'Brien; Old; Paddy; Palliser; Palmer; Parker; Parnell(3); Parr; Pascoe; Passmore; Penellum; Penfound; Pengelly(2); Penny; Penter; Pepperell; Perkins; Pestell; Phillips; Pidgeon; Pierce; Pinder; Pinney; Poole; Powell; Powlesland; Powton; Priscott; Prynn; Pugsley; Pulleyblank; Pyne; Quegle; Quinlan(2); Ratcliffe; Raymont; Rean; Redmore; Reed(2); Reeves(2); Reid; Reilly; Rendall; Rich; Richards; Ridgway; Roberts; Rook; Rowland; Rundle; Salter; Sandercock; Saunders; Scantlebury; Scott; Seal; Sellek; Sellwood; Sharman; Sherrell; Sherwell; Shields; Shilston; Simons; Skelton; Skinner(2); Smale; Smedley; Smith; Smyth; Snell; Spraggs; Staddon; Stamp; Steer(2); Stephens; Stevens; Stoneman; Susans; Syred; Taperell; Tapper; Tarr; Taylor(3); Thacker; Thomas; Thorne; Tippet; Tomkinson; Toms(3); Tonkiss; Treloar; Trethewey; Trevaskis; Trim; Truscott; Tubb; Tucker(2); Uren; Vallance; Venton; Vickery; Viney; Vyse; Wadge; Wadia; Wakeham(2); Walling; Wallis; Walsh; Warn; Warne; Watkins; Watson; Watts; Webber; Weeks; Westcott; Westlake; Wheater; White; Whitemore; Wickett; Widdicombe; Wilbrahams; Wilkinson; Williams; Wilson(2); Withycombe; Woodhead; Wormald; Wright; Yeo; Yeoman.

Western Morning News, Friday 1 January 1909
DAWLISH - The Dawlish Fire.  Some Doubt As To Where It Originated.  Inquest Adjourned.  -  The Inquest was resumed at Dawlish yesterday, by Mr S. Hacker, on the bodies of SARAH CONNINGHAM, aged 73;  MADELINE BEATRICE HOWE, 5; and JOSEPHINE MERCER CHAMBERLAIN, 2 years and 9 months, burned to death in the fire at 2 Sea Lawn-terrace, on Tuesday morning, December 22nd.  -    A Correction.   -   Whilst the Coroner was reading over the evidence already given, MISS EVELYN MERCER, Cockington, said she wished to correct her evidence.  On the previous occasion she stated that the child JOSEPHINE MERCER CHAMBERLAIN was her god-daughter;   she now stated that she was her daughter.  MISS MERCER said the child was registered in the name of CHAMBERLAIN.  -  The Coroner:  Her proper name was JOSEPHINE MERCER.  -   MISS MERCER:  She was my daughter, as well as my god-daughter.  -  The Coroner:  It is incorrect to say she was the daughter of JOSEPH CHAMBERLAIN, now in South Africa?  -  Witness:  Yes.  -  The Coroner:  It is a very good thing you have made that correction.  -  Witness added that the child had lived with Mrs Howe for 15 months and she used to see her at times.   -    Fire Brigade Superintendent.  -  Mr S. Churchward, Superintendent of the Fire Brigade, added to his evidence that, after finding the first hydrant defective, he sent a man back to the fire station for another length of hose, because the hose they had was found to be not long enough when they fixed the standpipe to the second hydrant.  The hose was not defective, and did not leak, and it was all right when they got to work.  From the time the brigade received the alarm to their reaching the fire was not more than ten minutes.  There was nothing to show where the fire originated, but in his opinion it started in No. 2.  When he arrived No. 1 was burning as well.  A portion of the roof of that house was burning, and, as No. 2 was all aflame, he came to the conclusion that the fire originated in the latter house.  -  The Coroner:  Can you say whether it began at the top or bottom of the house?  -  Witness replied that he should think it began about the middle.  Asked how he accounted for the fire being over so quickly.  Mr Churchward said it had been burning some little time before the alarm was given, and the wind was blowing half a gale.  So far as he knew there was nothing in the construction of the house to account for this quickness.  The adjoining house, No." was also burnt out.  That continued to burn after No. 2 was gutted, and the efforts of the brigade were confined to preventing the fire from doing further damage to No. 3.  Nothing had come under his notice of a suspicious character as to the origin of the fire, so as to take it out of the category of an accident.  -  In reply to Mr Lockyer, a Juryman, witness said his former statement that the hydrants in the district in question were in perfect order when tested on December 2nd, was quite correct, and that the fact that two new hydrants were put in two days after the fire was because the Urban Council were altering their system of hydrants and having two new ones he put these in.  -  Answering Mr Easterbrook, another Juryman, witness said on the occasion of a former fire, a year or two ago, there was a failure in the water supply owing to the water not being turned on the system to which the hydrant belonged.  Since then the water had been turned on in that particular district.  -  Mr Easterbrook:  Not on the low levels.  -  Witness said the pressure on the low levels was reduced during the night.  The scene of the fire was on the high level, and there the water had not been turned off since August.  The reduced pressure on the low levels would not be sufficient to cope with a fire in the town, but the water could quickly be turned on, and provision was made, in the event of the turncock being away, for another man to turn on the water in case of emergency.  The key was kept at the Fire-Station.   -    The Coroner:  there should always be someone when a fire happens whose duty it is to turn on the water.  -  There is.  -  However quickly you could have got the water on at the late fire after you got there, you don't think you could have saved life?  -  I don't think so.  We got there very quickly, but were not soon enough.  -  The Coroner mentioned that the coastguards had by that time rescued the three survivors, and the other three occupants of the house were dead.  -   MISS CONNINGHAM -   Samuel John Burnsted, company secretary, 23 Wodehouse-road, East Ham, London, gave evidence respecting MISS CONNINGHAM, saying she was his aunt, and that her correct name was SUSAN CONNINGHAM, and her age 73. She had lived at 2 Sea Lawn-terrace, for about twelve months and previously resided at Brixton.  He had not seen her for eight years, and his mother, her sister, for five years.  She corresponded with his mother.  She had private means but he did not know the source of her income.  -  The question of the expense of deceased's funeral was mentioned and it was stated that a lady of Westgate-on-Sea had offered to bear this, but the money had not yet been paid.  The Coroner pointed out that but for the offer of a friend like this the deceased would have had to be buried by the parish and he put it to the witness as to what, as the nearest relative, he wished to say about the matter, either on behalf of his mother or himself.  -  Witness replied that he did not wish to have anything to do with deceased's affairs.  -   MRS HOWE'S Story.    -    MRS ELIZA HOWE, widow, who was attended by one of the nurses at the nursing home where she has been staying since the fire, then gave evidence.  She was evidently still weak and ill from the effects of the fire, and at times she showed much distress of mind, especially when speaking of her little daughter and the other little girl burned to death.  She stated that she was the occupier of No. 2 Sea Lawn-terrace, and had lived there a year and a half, the rent being £25 a year and the owner Mr Ford, formerly of Moretonhampstead.  On the night of Monday, December 21st., there slept in the house MISS CONNINGHAM, witness and four children - her son REGINALD, her daughters GLADYS and MADELINE, and the little girl JOSEPHINE MERCER.  The three girls were in bed at 7.30 p.m., and the boy an hour or so later, and they all slept in the same bedroom as herself, in the top room, on the third floor.  MISS CONNINGHAM occupied the next room and went to bed about 9.45 a quarter of an hour after witness.  The fire in the kitchen had gone out after dinner and the fire in the dining-room had also gone out before she went to bed, so that there were no fires in the house.  -  The Coroner:  Then the rumour or suggestion is not correct, that you banked up the fire to last through the night.  -  Witness replied that it was not correct:   She never did this.  She used gas and candles.  She went to bed with a candle and MISS CONNINGHAM also had a candle in her room.  There was neither fire nor light in any part of the house except in the two bedrooms.  She awoke about 1.30 a.m. and found the room so full of smoke that she could not keep a candle lighted.  she went into the next room and awoke MISS CONNINGHAM, and afterwards awoke the children.  MISS CONNINGHAM'S room was also full of smoke.  -  The Coroner:  There was nothing to suggest the fire had originated in her room?  -  MRS HOWE:  I don't think so.  The smoke was rising from below, and coming up the staircase.  the smoke was too thick and hot, she continued, to allow her to go downstairs, and, as she found there was no way of escape that way, she went to the bedroom window.  The wall between her house and No. 1 was hot and the fire seemed to come through the wall from the latter house.  No. 1 was occupied by Mr Hirtzel and his family.  Finding she could not get downstairs, she opened the bedroom window and called for help and told her two eldest children to keep calm.  MISS CONNINGHAM would not leave her room.  As the little girls would not stop in witness's room, she carried them to and fro to the other room, and in the smoke they slipped away from her, becoming as she thought unconscious.  As she was coming from MISS CONNINGHAM'S room she saw flames through the smoke.  It seemed a long time, whilst she was waiting at the window, before help came.  She saw young George Moon (living at No. 4) below, but she felt her consciousness going and did not remember the coast-guard putting the ladder up against the window, nor her being rescued.   -   Asked by a Juror if there was a crack in the wall between the two houses, witness replied that there was, but it was not a very wide one, and she had been told that there was no danger, the wall being fire-proof.  She should not like to say for certain the fire commenced in the adjoining house, but her fire-places were on the opposite side.  -    Where Did The Fire Originate?   -    Mr Richard Ford, retired grocer, Cheltenham, formerly of Moretonhampstead, owner of No. 2 Sea Lawn-terrace, said the dining room fireplace in No. 1 was in the party wall adjoining, as was also the drawing-room fireplace.  both the sitting-room and dining-room of No. 2 were in the front and at the back, where the fire seemed to have had such a hold, were the kitchen and scullery and bedroom.  The wall between the two houses, which had been built 20 years, was of brick, and nine inches thick.  -  MRS HOWE, replying to a question, said she did not notice any smell of gas on the night of the fire.  -  A Juryman (Mr Cox) thought the circumstances very mysterious.    -    Neighbour's Plucky Efforts:   -   Mr Wm. Palmer Moon, residing at No. 4 Sea Lawn-terrace, stated that he was aroused by the servant at a few minutes to two o'clock.  He put on his dressing gown, and, finding No. 2 was on fire, sent his son to give the alarm.  On going out he found No. 2 was burning at the back.  No. 1 was burning very little, just at one corner.  He got a hatchet and tried to break in the door, but could not do so.  His sister broke the dining-room window.  He saw MRS HOWE and the children at the top room window.  When he got to the top landing he was forced by the fire to go back again.  He got a wet towel and tied it around his head and went into the house again.  Then he saw flames as well as smoke. At this time the burning of No. 1 had just commenced.  At first there was practically only one house burning, but No. 1 soon caught.  He did not arouse the occupants of No. 1;   they came out all dressed.  When he got on the first landing upstairs he could not get any further;  volumes of smoke were coming out under the skirting-board from the side of No. 1.  As he was afraid that the children were going to jump from the window, he called to them to keep quiet until the ladder and fire-escape arrived.  The coastguard came with their ladder in eight minutes after his son gave the alarm, and the Fire Brigade arrived shortly afterwards.  He believed the fire and smoke originated in the dining-room of No. 1.  He did not see any flames then, but as he went along he saw the kitchen in flames.  -  Mr Ford also expressed his belief, from Mr Moon's statement, that the fire must have originated in No. 1.    -    The Tenant Of No. 1    -    A Juryman asked if the tenant of No,. 1 (Mr Hirtzel) would be able to give them any information.  -  The Coroner:  I am surprised he is not here.  Under the circumstances I do not think it would be altogether satisfactory to close the Inquiry without having someone from No. 1, after this evidence.  -  Mr Easterbrook (a Juryman) thought the occupier of No. 1 ought to have come forward voluntarily.  -  Another Juryman remarked that it was funny the occupier of No. 1 was out dressed at the time of the fire.  -  Another Juryman, alluding to Mr Hirtzel's absence, said it seemed as if he was treating them with indifference.  -  Mr Moon, recalled, said he saw the occupants of No. 1 come out to the front door fully dressed soon after he was there.  He did not speak to them.   -    Thomas Norman Lewis, chief boatman in charge of the Coastguard Station, said on receiving the alarm he proceeded to the scene of the fire about 2 a.m., and was present when the ladder was raised and MRS HOWE and the two children were saved.  Hearing the cry:  "Save my baby!" he went to the back of No. 2, where he saw the rooms on the ground and first floors full of flame, and burning fiercely from floor to ceiling.  He could not see any fire in No. 1 until the roof was caught from No. 2.  He afterwards went into No. ! for a broom, and he saw the occupants passing in and out and removing boxes and other things to the green.  He could not see any fire in this house then, which would be about 2.45.  There was neither fire nor smoke and the house seemed all right.   -    Frederick Frost, painter and foreman of the Fire Brigade, said when he arrived No. 2 was burning and the flames were just beginning to break through the smoke.  The roof of No. 1 was on fire.  He went into this house with the idea of trying to save it, and he passed two Misses Hirtzel and Mr Hirtzel, but they did not say anything to him.  He went to the top of the house and there found the roofs of both Nos. 1 and 2 blazing all along the top.  The way in which the wind was blowing would drive the fire from No. 1 to No. 2 at the back.  He suggested that the fire originated in a bedroom of No. 1.  Smoke was also coming from half-way down the staircase.  Witness was going to take out a brick in the partition wall, to make a hole through which he could put the hose, to prevent the fire spreading into No. 1 and he commenced to do this when Mr Hirtzel objected, saying he would not have a brick shifted, as he did not want to have the house filled with water.  -  In reply to Mr Lockyer, witness said he did not notice any attempt being made to save furniture at No. 1 but he did not hear any remark to prevent it.  -    Still Some Obscurity.  -   The Coroner said there was still some obscurity as to how the fire originated and there seemed to be a doubt as to whether it might have started in the adjoining house.  They had had none of the occupants of this house as witnesses to give information on this point, and perhaps it would be hardly satisfactory to close the Inquiry without having them present to tell them all they knew about it.  It was not advisable to close the Inquiry leaving any little doubt about, so that, considering all things, he thought they would adjourn again to see if they could get any light thrown upon the affair by the occupants of the adjoining house.  -  The Inquest was then adjourned until Tuesday at 12.30.

HONITON - At the Inquest at Honiton yesterday on HAROLD TRIM, the seven-months-old child of MR W. TRIM, which died suddenly, Dr D. Steele Perkins said its liver was four times larger than normally, and the heart was very large and fatty.

Western Morning News, Saturday 2 January 1909
WESTMINSTER, LONDON - Tavistock Student's Death.  Evidence At The Inquest.  -  At the Westminster Coroner's Court yesterday an Inquest was held on DOUGLAS HAMILTON, 23, a student, at King's College Hospital, who met his death under the tragic circumstances reported yesterday at the Oxford Circus Station, on the Central London Railway, on Wednesday evening.  Deceased was the son of MR J. K. HAMILTON, of St Rumons, Tavistock, and had been residing with his brother-in-law, Dr W. M. Turner, of 17 Harley-street, W.  Mr W. T. Ricketts, solicitor, appeared for the Central London Railway Co.   -   Dr Turner, who is a Surgeon at Westminster Hospital, said the deceased was his wife's brother.  His health had been good and he was active.  Witness had inspected the place where the accident occurred, and he produced photographs taken by order of the superintendent of the line, which showed marks on the edge of the tunnel corresponding with marks found on the train.  -  The Coroner:  You had no reason to think deceased was in any way depressed?  -  No;  absolutely the opposite.  I have not the slightest suspicion of it.   -    How The Accident Occurred.   -  Aubrey Scot Gillet, of 57 Gloucester-terrace, Hyde Park, a student at King's College Hospital, said he left the Hospital with deceased on Wednesday evening.  they went to the city, and then took a train on the tube westwards about 1 o'clock.  Deceased took both tickets and kept them.  He was to get out at Oxford Circus and witness was going on to Lancaster Gate.  At Oxford Circus deceased left the train without giving witness his ticket, and he saw no more of him.  -  The Coroner:  Did you think he was perfectly all right?  Absolutely.  -   He was not excited or anything of that kind?  -  No.   -    Harry Browning, architect, of 22 Sussex-place, Regent's Park, who was a passenger on the same train, said that at Oxford Circus Station he saw deceased running along by the side of the train, as if he was saying good-bye to somebody, while the train was moving out.  Deceased gained on the train to a certain extent, and then it went faster.  Deceased ran right up to the tunnel and was caught between the tunnel and the train by the last carriage or the next one.  Witness was 20 or 30 yards behind and could not see if he was holding any tickets.  Several people witnessed the occurrence.  -   The Coroner:  What was your impression - that he was trying to speak to someone?  -  Yes.  -  And ran too far?  -  Yes, without noticing he had got near the tunnel.  -  As he ran was his head turned towards the train?  -  Yes.    -   What The Guard Saw.  -  William Joseph Penny, the front guard of the train, said that as it was moving out of the Station deceased came running up and gave him a ticket.  Witness was on the gangway between the first and second carriages and had closed the gates.  All he heard deceased say was "Give this ticket."  Deceased was about three yards from the tunnel when he gave witness the ticket.  As the train ran into the tunnel witness saw him run into the signal post and put his hand up.  -  The Coroner:  Was he running hard?  -  Yes, he seemed to be.  -  And he was looking towards you and not at the post?  -  Yes.  -  Did not you imagine something had happened?  -  I did not imagine he was hurt.  -  Did you report it?  -  Yes, at Shepherd's Bush.  -  Not at the next Station?  -  No, I did not think anything serious had happened.  He was quite clear of the train as we ran into the tunnel.  -  According to the photographs the signal-post is about a couple of feet from the train?  -   About that.  -  "Quite clear" is a relative term.  He was quite close to it?  -  He was quite clear of the train.  -  The Coroner:  He was not, as the result shows.  -   Cecil Filkins, the rear guard of the train, who gave the signal for departure, said he did not see deceased or anyone running on the platform.  The length of stay at the Station was about 30 seconds.  -    Deceased's Injuries.   -  Daniel Keefe, Stationmaster at Oxford-circus, deposed to finding the body about 25 yards down the tunnel.  There were very extensive injuries and life was extinct.  At the entrance to the tunnel were four scratches, apparently done by deceased's fingers, and there were shreds of clothing in the tunnel.  He thought deceased was run over, as well as drawn in.  -  The Coroner:  He must have been run over.  These coins found on the body are all bent.  -  P.C. 230 C., who produced a number of bent coins and a damaged cigarette case which he found on the body, said deceased's watch was untouched and was still going.  -  Mr E. P. Grove, Chief Engineer of the Central London Railway, said he found marks on the second and third cars of the train.  A man being dragged into the tunnel would have no chance, unless he happened to get on the gangway of the cars.  -  Dr P. J. Edmunds, Police Surgeon, described numerous injuries to the body and agreed with Dr Turner that deceased was instantaneously killed by a fracture of the skull. -    The Verdict.    -   The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."   -   Mr Ricketts on behalf of the Railway Company and its officials, expressed their sorrow at the sad occurrence and added that there was not the slightest doubt it was an accident.  -  The Coroner:  I think we must all tender our sympathy.  As regards the officials, I do not think there is anything in the evidence to suggest they did other than their duty.  -   Dr Turner:  I should like to say, on behalf of the relatives, that we are perfectly satisfied about the company;  absolutely satisfied.  They have treated us with the greatest courtesy.

PLYMOUTH - Sudden Death At Plymouth. -  Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on CONNIE SANDERCOCK, 65, widow, of King-gardens.  -  Deceased's son, ERNEST G. SANDERCOCK said his mother went on Thursday to visit his sister at the Plymouth School of Art.  She suffered from a weak heart.  -  John King, caretaker of the School of Art, said he went to the front door on Thursday evening and found MRS SANDERCOCK on the doorstep, gasping, and looking very ill.  He called his wife, and then went to fetch a doctor.  When he returned MRS SANDERCOCK was dead.  -  Dr Cooke said death was due to syncope.  The lungs were weak and the first stage of pneumonia had set in.  A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Burning Case.  Child's Terrible Death.  -  Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at the Royal Albert Hospital, Devonport, yesterday on EDITH ELIZABETH MCGINNES, aged 4 years and 3 months, the only child of WALTER EDWARD MCGINNES, skilled labourer, employed in H.M. Dockyard and living in Duncan-street.  -  The father said he was at work on Monday afternoon, and on returning home found that his little girl had been taken to Hospital.  It appeared that EDITH was in the kitchen about four o'clock with her mother when the latter had to go downstairs to empty a pail of water.  Whilst she was absent she heard a scream, and shouted to her brother to go up to the room as she feared the little girl had fallen down the stairs.  The child was found with its clothing in flames.  There was an American stove in the room, and this was protected by a fireguard.  -  Replying to the Coroner, the father said he was at a loss to understand how the accident originated.  He could scarcely believe it was due to the stove, as the child was found some distance away from it.  -   Alfred Charles Williams, a naval seaman and a brother of MRS MCGINNES, said he was in the back-yard of the house when he heard a scream.  MRS MCGINNES who had just passed through the passage with a pail of water, shouted, "Charles, the baby has fallen over the stairs."  Witness rushed upstairs and found the child in flames.  As he caught hold of her she cried, "I didn't mean to do it."  Witness wrapped his coat around her and extinguished the flames.  He carried her downstairs and assisted, subsequently, in removing her to the Hospital.  Witness thought the child must have got hold of a match.  -   Dr E. A. Shirvell, House Surgeon at the Royal Albert Hospital, said the child was severely burnt about the head, arms and thighs and was in a state of collapse.  Everything possible was done to combat the shock, but the child got worse and died on Thursday at 2.30 a.m.  Death was due to shock from burns.  Witness added that the child's arms were so badly burnt that they had to be amputated.  The deceased had a splendid constitution and it was due probably to this that she lived so long.   -  The Jury, in returning a verdict of "Accidental Death," warmly commended the witness Williams for his prompt action and expressed deep sympathy with the bereaved relatives.

IVYBRIDGE - Mr C. G. Brian (Deputy Coroner) held an Inquest at Ivybridge, yesterday on SARAH HADDY, widow, 56 Fore-street, aged 87.  On December 15th last the deceased, who had been an invalid for years, was found out of bed, and had received as the result of a fall a sprained hip and arm.  She became unconscious and was attended by Dr R. N. Weekes, Modbury.  She never recovered consciousness and died on Wednesday last.  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

NEWTON ABBOT -  Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Newton Abbot yesterday on the five months child of WILLIAM MOREY, dairyman, Highweek.  The infant was found dead in bed by its mother's side early that morning.  -  Dr Nesbit said the gland over the child's windpipe was abnormally large and would at any time cause difficulty in breathing.  Death was due to asphyxia.  Probably the child rolled over in the bed and became suffocated.  The Coroner remarked that this was another case which showed the danger of mothers having their infants sleeping with them in the same bed.  -  No less than 1,500 young children were suffocated annually in England in this way.  -  A verdict was returned in accordance with the medical testimony.

Western Morning News, Monday 4 January 1909
EXETER -  At an Inquest held at Exeter on Saturday on MR JOHN BUCKLER, 69, a retired drysalter, of 7 Friars'-walk, the evidence showed that on Wednesday deceased shovelled away some snow.  He was afterwards taken ill and died early next morning.  -  Mr H. B. Harrison, Surgeon, said the exertion of shovelling the snow and the cold probably acted upon an affected heart, causing a serious effusion on the brain and producing coma.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" and passed a vote of condolence with the widow and family, in which the Coroner (Mr Brown) concurred.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 5 January 1909
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest yesterday on WILLIAM FRUDE, aged 76, a fisherman, who lived at the Parade, Plymouth.  Mrs Mary Ann Morgan, a daughter, stated that deceased was apparently in his usual health when he went to bed on Saturday.  The following morning she found him dead in bed.  Dr Clarke attributed death to heart disease and bronchitis.  Mrs Morgan mentioned that FRUDE drew his old-age pension on Friday.

TOTNES - Totnes Infant's Death. - At Totnes yesterday an Inquest was held on OLIVE MAY, the month-old daughter of MR T. ARMSTRONG, pastrycook, found dead by its mother's side on Saturday morning.  -  Dr G. J. Gibson said the baby was a fine healthy girl.  When he saw it at 6.30 a.m. it had been dead 1 ½ hours.  The stomach was empty but there were no signs of suffocation.  The heart was contracted and small and death was due to heart failure, partly by being so long without food and partly through not having sufficient air.  It was not smothered as when babies were overlaid.  MRS ARMSTRONG was a very careful mother.  -  The Jury returned a verdict that the child was Accidentally Asphyxiated whilst in bed with her mother,.  -  The Coroner (Mr Hacker) remarked that when mothers took their children into bed with them there was always a risk.  Something like 1,500 small children lost their lives every year in England in that way.

EXETER - Trainer's Suicide.  Mind Unhinged Through A Professional Reverse.  Inquest At Exeter. -  An Inquest was held by Mr W. L. Brown (City Coroner) at Exeter yesterday on EDWIN BREEN, known in racing circles as EDWIN COUCH, recently a Newmarket trainer, who was found shot in the Turk's Head Hotel, High-street, Exeter, on Friday.  -   Major M. Tracey, Plymouth, said deceased was aged 54, and had been a racehorse trainer at Newmarket, but recently was employed by the International Horse Agency, London.  He was to have taken out a number of stock horses to Australia, and to have sailed on December 29th.  Witness last saw him alive on Boxing-day at Friary Station, Plymouth.  He was to have dined with witness on Christmas-day, and when asked why he did not do so, said he was too ill to come.  He also said he was going to Tavistock to put up at a quiet hotel for a couple of nights, so that he would be ready to go to Glasgow.  Witness suggested that he should go to a Hotel in Exeter, and recommended him a Hotel.  He said he would do so.  When he left he had two £5 notes on him, also £3 10s. in gold and about 30s. in silver.  He had been drinking heavily and witness took him to a chemist, where he was given a soothing draught.  He was craving for drink, and was evidently suffering from remorse.  When they parted at Friary Station deceased shook hands with him and said he was sorry to meet him under such circumstances.  Witness afterwards sent a telegram to the Hotel at Exeter, but received a reply stating that no one of the name of COUCH had been to the Hotel.  -   The Coroner said he saw that there was an agreement between the deceased and the company, and a receipt for £35.  He supposed the money he had with him was the balance.  -   A  Perfect Gentleman.  -  Mr E. J. Davey, son of the landlord of the Turk's Head Hotel, said deceased came to stay at the Hotel on the Wednesday and was very cheerful and chatty;  in fact he was "a perfect gentleman."  He spoke of racing matters and said he intended going on to London, then to Newmarket and was afterwards going to Australia with some horses.  He did not say when he was sailing.  On Friday deceased went out in the morning and returning about midday, he said he was going to lie down as he felt a bit queer.  He was perfectly sober.  He asked to be called in an hour and a half's time as he wanted to come down to the market ordinary.  He asked witness to show him to his bedroom, but witness could not say why.  Witness did so, but he did not call him as they were so very busy in the Hotel at the time with the market ordinary.  Witness heard no shots.  There was a good deal of noise in the Hotel owing to the ordinary and the playing of the piano.  -   Charles Paddon, commercial traveller, Palace Gate, said he lunched at the Hotel and about 2.30 at the request of the last witness, he went to deceased's bedroom to call him.  The door was unlocked and on entering witness found deceased lying on the floor dead.   -    P.C. Perkins, who was called to the Hotel, said there was a bullet wound through deceased's head from the right temple.  The body was warm.  there was a five-chambered revolver on the table containing three discharged cartridges and two full ones.  There were several letters on the body, but none to throw any light on the affair.  Witness also found a box of 50 cartridges.   -   P.C. Walturs, Coroner's Officer, said in deceased's room he noticed two bullet holes in the picture frame and two holes in the wall corresponding with those holes.  One bullet had gone through into the next room and the other he found lodged in the wall.   -   Brandy And Whisky.    -   Harry Sargent, boots at Alcombe's Hotel, said deceased came to the Hotel on Tuesday for the night.  He said he was going to stay two or three nights, but he did not return on Wednesday night.  He had a bottle of brandy with him on Tuesday and he was supplied with a syphon of soda.  There was no brandy left next morning.  He left his bag at the Hotel.  When he went out he was quite cheerful.  -  Major Tracey remarked that when he saw deceased at Friary Station he (witness) took two bottles of whisky out of his pockets and did not let him have them again.   -   Superintendent Dymond said on the afternoon of December 30th deceased came to his office and said his name was Matthews and that he represented the International Horse Agency, London.  He also stated that he was engaged to take a number of horses from Glasgow to Perth, Australia, and he wanted a revolver.  He had been to a shop to buy one, but he was told that he must get a paper signed by the Police.  The man spoke rationally and having answered questions put to him by the Chief Constable under the Pistol Act satisfactorily, he signed a paper as George Matthews, the Chief Constable also signed it and witness counter-signed it.  Deceased said he had been to Australia with horses several times before.  -   Mr A. Agnew, gunsmith, South-street, said on Wednesday deceased came to his shop to buy a revolver.  Eventually he picked out one and threw down a five-pound note.  Witness told him a gun licence was necessary, but he said he was going abroad.  Witness then advised him to go to the Police for a signed paper.  He did this, and was then supplied with a revolver, which he brought back the next day, as he could not understand the working of it.  By arrangement he attended the shop at midday on Friday, when witness showed him how it could be worked.  -  Mr Pereira, Police Surgeon, said there was a bullet wound in deceased's right temple and also a bullet wound on his left forefinger.  The wound in the temple was self-inflicted and the revolver was evidently fired at close quarters.  -   Depressed At A Reverse.   -  The Coroner said he had that day received a letter from Dr D. Vinrace, of Gower-street, London, which stated:-   'I think that the following information may be of some service to your Court.  On November 24th last a gentleman, giving the name of E. COUCH, and age as 54, clean shaven and with whitish hair, and stating that he was a trainer at Newmarket, called here with a lady about 27, whom he introduced as his wife and consulted me about himself and I afterwards visited him at Linden Hall, 111 Gower-street, W.C., where he and his wife were staying.  He was suffering from alcoholic excess and was mentally depressed.  He attributed his drinking attack and nervous breakdown to a serious reverse in his profession as a trainer at Newmarket.  His conversation was coherent and rational, but he had the impression that he had lapsed into an unbalanced state of mind and health, from which he would not easily recover'.   -   The Coroner said there was no doubt that the man mentioned in the letter was deceased.  Although he had a considerable sum of money when he left Major Tracey, at Plymouth, only 18s. was found upon him after his death.  -   The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Suicide.  Ill-Health And Depression.  -  The tragic death of MR EDWARD RICHARD ERNEST COLLINS, aged 38, coach-builder of 83 Union-street, Plymouth, who was found dead with a bullet wound in his head on Sunday, was Inquired into by the Borough Coroner (Mr R. B. Johns) and a Jury yesterday.   -   REGINALD COLLINS, a son, stated that on Sunday morning he found his father lying dead in the kitchen with a revolver in his right hand.  Earlier in the morning he saw his father alive and he appeared to be very much depressed.  About a month ago deceased met with a motor accident, being thrown out of a car and falling on his head.   -    Mr R. R. Rodd, who was present on behalf of the relatives, said he had acted as solicitor for the deceased and his family for many years.  There were no financial difficulties in connection with himself or his business.  For some time deceased had suffered from eczema in the face.  He had undergone treatment by specialists in London, but apparently, without success, and the fact appeared to have preyed on his mind and caused him to be depressed.   -  P.C. Morgan deposed being called to the house.  The revolver contained five cartridges, one chamber having been discharged.   -   Dr W. L. Woollcombe spoke of examining the body of deceased and finding a bullet wound in the centre of the forehead.  His right thumb was around the trigger of the revolver he was clutching.  Death was probably instantaneous.  Dr Woollcombe added that a month ago he was driving along the road near Tavistock when he found deceased standing by a motor car in a very confused state, and bleeding from a wound in the head.  witness drove MR COLLINS home.  He was suffering from concussion of the brain and a scalp wound. On two occasions since deceased had come to him and complained of headaches, giddiness and inability to attend to business.   -    A verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned.  -   The Jury passed a vote of condolence with the widow and family.  -  This was acknowledged by Mr Rodd, who, on behalf of the family, also thanked Dr Woollcombe for the consideration and kindness with which he treated deceased at the time of the motor accident.

PLYMPTON ST MARY - Fatal Fall At Plympton,. -  Mr C. G. Brian held an Inquest at Sherwood Farm, Plympton St Mary, yesterday on JOHN TRUSCOTT, retired mason.  -  ADA NORTHAM, married daughter of the deceased, said on the evening of December 28th, about 10.30, her father went out for a few minutes and in returning slipped on the doorstep and fell.  She helped him to walk in.  He had been feeble for some time.  He did not seem to be hurt much, but complained next morning of pains in his back,.  He died on Saturday.  -  Dr Stamp said he had attended deceased for some time for general old age.  There was no sign of any external injury.  The cause of death was heart failure accelerated by the fall.  -  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

BROADCLYST - Suicide At Broadclyst. -  An Inquest was held at Broadclyst yesterday on ARTHUR SALTER, a labourer, found hanging in a cow-shed on the farm where he worked.  Mr G. Fisher said deceased had no trouble so far as he knew, beyond complaining of sciatica pains occasionally.  The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane."

TOTNES - Totnes Railway Tragedy.  Foreman Porter's Suicide.  -  At the Inquest held yesterday at Totnes by Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner) on WILLIAM DAVY, the Great Western Railway Company were represented by Chief Inspector Poultney (Plymouth), Inspector Wager (locomotive department, Newton Abbot), Messrs. J. W. Jones (Stationmaster) and W. C. Sim (Permanent Way Inspector), and the Police by Superintendent Jeffery.  -  THOMAS HENRY DAVY, plumber on the G.W.R., son of deceased, said his father was 52 last birthday and was foreman porter at Totnes Station.  He last saw him alive on Saturday at 11.30 p.m., when he took him a glass of ginger wine, for which deceased had asked.  He had been depressed and forgetful for two or three months.  On Saturday at 4.30 p.m., when deceased went to bed, he said he wished he was out of it.  He had an idea that everybody was down on him, but witness did not know that he had got into any trouble.  Deceased drank more than was good for him during his fits of depression.  He was the worse for drink on Friday, getting it out of the house.  He would sit with his head in his hands at home and say nothing.  About 12 months ago he said he had fallen into the leat by accident.  Deceased went out of the house on Sunday at 8.30 before anyone else was out of the bed.  He had been employed at the Station for 26 years. -  John Cocking, parcels clerk, said on Sunday, about 10.30 a.m., deceased came into the booking-office and said he was "feeling rotten."  He put his hand to his head, said the bile was "serving him awful," and witness saw he was shaking.  -  Joseph Ashton, signalman, said he had known deceased for 26 or 27 years.  On Sunday morning he saw the deceased by the signal-box steps and spoke to him.  He seemed low and depressed.  Deceased had complained to him of pains in his head being very bad.  -   Arthur Johns, Newton Abbot, said he was the driver of the 10.44 a.m. train from Newton to Totnes on Sunday and as the train came round the corner to Totnes he saw the deceased, in uniform, in the refuge siding. He blew the whistle and the deceased turned round.  He was under the impression that it was all right until his mate informed him that the train had run over the deceased.   -   Albert Cater, fireman, said when first seen the deceased was some hundreds of yards ahead of the engine, strolling towards Totnes.  He next saw him kneeling, with his head on the line, about an engine length in front of them.  -   Dr K. R. Smith said when he saw the body it was lying prone on the railway, with the shoulders close to the rails.  The head was practically destroyed.  Deceased's coat was torn at the shoulders.  The wheel had gone over the neck and the flange destroyed the head.  He was aware that the deceased about 10 years ago showed signs of brain trouble and he then recovered.  Evidently he had not a strong brain.  -  Superintendent Jeffery said he assisted to remove the body to the mortuary.  Deceased had no paper on him.   -   James William Jones, Station-Master, produced the books entered by the deceased after the 12.18 p.m. train on Saturday.  He had always done his work well and was a trusted man at the Station.  Witness never had occasion to report him.  -  The Jury, who gave their fees to the widow, returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 6 January 1909
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth Workhouse yesterday on JAMES MAY, aged 72.  Dr c. J. Cooke said MAY was admitted to the Workhouse in September suffering from an enlarged liver and dropsy.  Death, which occurred on Monday, was due to cancer of the liver.  P.C. Voysey said deceased served in the Plymouth Borough Police Force 21 years ago.

DAWLISH - The Dawlish Fire.  Light On The Origin Of The Outbreak.  The Fire Brigade.  Jury's Rider:  Commendation Of The Coastguard.   -   Mr S. Hacker concluded at Dawlish yesterday the Inquest on SUSAN CONNINGHAM, aged 73;  MADELINE BEATRICE HOWE, aged 5;  and JOSEPHINE MERCER, aged 2 years and 9 months, burned to death in the fire at No. 2 Sea Lawn-terrace, on December 22nd.  There was a larger attendance of the general public than on the two previous occasions.  -  MRS HOWE, mother of one of the deceased little girls, recalled, said she was the widow of SIDNEY JOHN HOWE, retired hardware merchant, who lived at Northampton.  She came to Dawlish to live two months before his death.    -   Mr Hirtzel And Witnesses.    -   Upon the evidence of Mr Moon, of No. 4 Sea Lawn-terrace, being read over, Mr Hirtzel asked if Mr Moon could be cross-examined and the Coroner promised to give Mr Hirtzel an opportunity of cross-examining any of the witnesses if he wished it.  -  In connection with the evidence of Frederick Cross, foreman of the Fire Brigade, and his statement that Mr Hirtzel, the occupier of No. 1 Sea Lawn-terrace, objected to his making a hole in the wall to admit the hose, Mr Hirtzel said he denied this entirely.  -  In reply to Mr Hirtzel, Mr Moon said when he went to No. 1 (Mr Hirtzel's house) he could not see from the landing the state of the house at that time.  He had seen that the whole of the lower part of No. 2 was in flames.  -  Do you still persist in saying that in your opinion the fire originated in No. 1?  -  Yes.   -  On what do you base your opinion?  -  On account of the smoke arising from the skirting in the lobby of No. 2.  -  Mr Cross, replying to Mr Hirtzel, said when he entered his house he had a double-edged hammer and went to the top, but he could not say what time it was.  -  You aid I would not allow you to make a hole to bring water in because it would spoil my house?  -  I did not say that.  At first you said you would not have a brick shifted, and that the house would be saturated with water.  - did I not say that I would not allow a brick to be moved because it would allow the flames to come into my house?  Where was the water to come from which you proposed to throw into my house?  -  It would have come in a very few minutes.  -  Did you ask my permission before you began to make a hole in the wall?  -  No.  -  In reply to the Coroner, Mr Hirtzel said he certainly objected to the hole being made in the wall, not for the reasons stated by Cross, but in order to keep out the flames.  -    A Foul Chimney.    -   MRS HOWE, recalled, said the kitchen fire in her house was out at four o'clock in the afternoon of the 21st.  The kitchen and dining-room chimneys were last swept eight or nine months ago.  -  The Coroner said nine months was a long time to allow a kitchen chimney to go without being swept.  Most prudent people had their kitchen chimney swept every three months.  -  MRS HOWE said she did not think there was any danger.  She supposed there would have been a good accumulation of soot, but not in the flues.  -  Edmund Victor Tozer, chimney sweep, said he cleaned the kitchen chimney in MRS HOWE'S house in March or April last.  He then found the chimney very dirty, and there was such an extraordinarily large quantity of soot that he called the attention of the ladies in the house to the dangerous condition of things, saying that if the chimney had caught fire it would have been the means of the whole place being burnt to the ground.   There were many similar cases in Dawlish, and it was time that was stopped.  -  (Laughter.)   -   The Coroner:  Supposing a chimney was used every day, what sort of accumulation of soot would you expect in nine months?  -  Two bushels and a half.  -  Is nine months too long for a kitchen chimney to be allowed to go without being swept?  -  Of course it is.  There would be a dangerous accumulation of soot, especially in a house where there was much cooking.  -   A Cook's Experiences.  -  Florence Louisa Trust, cook at No. 1 Sea Lawn-terrace, in the service of Mr Hirtzel, said on the morning in question whilst in bed she was aroused by heavy knocking, which she considered came from the back of the house.  She got a light and heard screams and cries of "Fire!"  There was no smoke in her room.  She called her fellow-servant and then Miss Hirtzel.  They went over the house and saw no signs of fire, although there was a little smoke.  After Mr Hirtzel said he did not think that their house was going to catch, they went back and dressed.  She heard Mr Hirtzel say the kitchen of the adjoining house was a mass of flames.  Some little time afterwards the roof of Mr Hirtzel's house caught fire at the back.  She then left the house, taking what she could with her.  -  The Coroner:  Who was the first aroused in your house?  -  Witness said she thought it was Mr Hirtzel.  She met him coming out of his bedroom when she was going to call Miss Hirtzel.  The top of the house was all in flames when they left it.  She left her bedroom window open and smoke could have come in through it.  She did not go back again, and the house was burned down.  -   By Mr Easterbrook (a Juryman):  Mr Hirtzel was dressed when he came out of his room.  At that time she was not properly dressed.    -   The Parlourmaid Of No. 1.   -   Florence Shapter, parlourmaid in Mr Hirtzel's service, said she was aroused by the cook and heard a cry of "Fire!"  She went down into the kitchen and scullery.  There was no sign of fire there.  The walls were cold.  The dining-room and drawing-room fireplaces were all right, and she concluded there was no sign of fire in the house at all.  She afterwards went to the back and saw the kitchen of MRS HOWE'S house was one mass of flames. She was sure that her kitchen and drawing-room fires were out before she went to bed.  She saw no fire in the drawing-room.  A drum of paraffin oil  in the scullery had been delivered that night, but she saw nothing had gone wrong with this.  -  Trust, recalled, said the kitchen chimney was last swept about two months ago.  -  In reply to Mr Hirtzel, Shapter said she suggested the drum of oil should be removed when they heard there was a fire next door, and it was one of the first things taken out.    -   Mr Hirtzel's Statement.    -   Mr George Hirtzel, retired solicitor, assured the Coroner he was anxious to give evidence.  If he had received an intimation when and where it was to be held, he would have attended the Inquest on the first day.  He was at present residing in Exeter.  He was the owner and occupier of No. 1 Sea Lawn-terrace, Dawlish. On the morning of the fire he was awakened from a quarter to half-past two by a knocking.  He at first thought it was in connection with the late arrival of relatives, but on looking out, and seeing no one there, he opened the front window adjoining No. 2.  Hearing cries from this house, he asked what the noise was about, and the boys aid there was a fire in the house and that they could not get out because of the fire and smoke.  Slipping on his coat and trousers over his pyjamas, he went and awoke his daughter, who put on her dressing-gown and they both went downstairs.  It being pitch dark, he asked the servants to light all the lamps.  When he went down there was not the slightest sign of fire in his house.  The coastguard had arrived just after he came down, and he asked them to light the public lamp.  When he went out to the back he saw that the whole of MRS HOWE'S back premises were ablaze.  He helped  Mr Sexton to get a ladder, but the coastguard arrived with their ladder, and then he went back  At that time he did not think the fire would spread to his house, but it caught at the edge of the roof.  There was no water to prevent the fire spreading, and the burning roof fell on the ceiling of the bedroom, and the fire gradually burned downwards.  When the Fireman came into his house he went upstairs and began cutting a hole in his wall with a hammer. Witness asked him what he was doing that for, and the fireman said he wanted to bring the hose in there.  Witness said he would not have the hole made, as it would let the flames through into his house.  There was no water in the hose-pipe at that time.  -   The Coroner:  What is your opinion as to the origin of the fire?  -  That it originated in MRS HOWE'S  kitchen.  -  Mr Easterbrook:  Why did you not assist in saving the lives of those in the adjoining house?  -  Because the Coastguard were already there with their ladder.  -  Mr Easterbrook:  I should have thought you would have tried to save life.  That is the most precious thing.  I suppose you know that?  -  The Coroner:  You must ask questions properly.  -  Asked whether he could explain why smoke should be coming through the skirting of No. 2 on the side of No. 1, Mr Hirtzel said he did not believe that at all.  Nor did he believe anyone went up to the landing on the first floor of No. 2.   -  Mr Moon:  I went up there twice.  -  Mr Hirtzel said he assisted in having the drum of oil taken out.  He did not assist the Coastguard in putting up their ladder, as they had plenty of men and did splendidly.  If Mr Moon had got on the first floor of No. 2 it would have been possible for the children to have been removed.  -  The Coroner did not think so, as the children were on the top floor.  -   Thomas N. Lewis, clerk, son of one of the Coastguardsmen, said he removed the drum of oil at the request of the servants.  At that time No. 2 was burning and the roof of No. 1 had caught.  -  Shapter, again recalled, said the drum of oil, containing ten gallons, was brought at 10.30 the night before the fire.  The oil was for the lamps, as there was no gas in the house.  The oil was kept in the scullery and they always had it in that quantity.  It was delivered so late at night because it was Christmas time.  -   A Juror's Story.  -  Herbert Sexton, a Juryman, living in the next terrace, said he was awakened by Miss Moon at 2 o'clock, and saw the children at the window of the top bedroom with MRS HOWE.  They were calling out "Fire!"  He went round for a ladder, and on passing the back of the house and getting into the scullery found he could not get any farther because of the flames from floor to ceiling.  He went for a ladder and when he came back with it found the Coastguard there with their ladder,.  Half an hour afterwards, he went into No. 1 and saw no sign of fire or smoke.  -  In reply to a Juryman, he said he presumed from what he had said, that Mr Hirtzel followed him up when he went for the ladder, but he did not see him.  -  Mr F. S. Cole, clerk to the Urban Council, said the Fire Brigade was under the supervision of one of the committee.  -  Mr J. H. G. Lamacraft, builder, produced a ground plan of No. 1, showing that the kitchen fire was in the middle of that house and not against the party wall dividing it from No. 2  -  The Coroner:  Supposing the fire originated in the kitchen grate of No. 2, would that in any way be an explanation of the fact that smoke was seen issuing from under the skirting in the lobby on the first floor?  -  Possibly it might.  There might have been a hollow space between, under the skirting.   -   Summing Up.   -  The Coroner, in summing up, said the principal question for the Jury was whether the fire which caused the deaths of three persons resulted from some accidental cause and was not attributable to any person's criminal act.  Although they had at the beginning some difficulty in finding the exact origin of the fire, he thought some evidence had since been taken which might afford a solution of this question.  Did not the smoke seen to be issuing from under the skirting in the party wall show that the fire originated in the kitchen chimney of No. 2?  It was for the Jury also to say whether the long interval of nine months since the kitchen chimney was swept, and the dangerous accumulation of soot in consequence, did not point to an explanation of what had happened.  As to the means taken to extinguish the fire, whatever might have been done by the Fire Brigade, and however quickly they might have reached the spot, their services would have been of no avail in the saving of the lives of the deceased, as they were already dead on the arrival of the Coastguard, whose promptitude in reaching the burning house within ten minutes of being called, and who were thereby able to save the lives of the other three persons, was much to their credit.  Therefore, the quickness or otherwise of the Fire Brigade, or any want of water, were subsidiary matters, but, if the Jury thought it necessary to make any comment upon this, it would be better to do so by way of rider, calling the attention of the governing body to the matter, and leaving them to deal with defects which they might consider existed.  -    The Verdict.    -   The Jury, after about half an hour's deliberation, gave their verdict through the Foreman (Mr James Gamlin, chief of the urban Council).   They unanimously agreed that the bodies viewed were those of the deceased, and that they lost their lives by Suffocation and Burning in the Fire, which originated in No. 2, the cause of the fire being unknown.  -   The Coroner:  The Jury has not said whether the fire was caused accidentally or not.  -  The foreman said that was what they meant.  There was no doubt the fire was caused accidentally.  The Jury wished to add a rider that the Urban Council should hold an inquiry concerning the Fire Brigade appliances, hydrants and water supply for extinguishing fires.  The Jury also wished to express their high appreciation of the conduct of the Coastguard and of George Moon (who first gave the alarm) and their sympathy with the relatives of the deceased.  -  Mr Cole promised to communicate the rider to the Urban Council at their meeting on Thursday evening.

Western Morning News, Thursday 7 January 1909
EXETER - At an Inquest at Exeter yesterday on GEORGE LANGDON, 45, bricklayer, Dr J. A. W. Pereira said death was due to Tuberculosis.

EAST STONEHOUSE - PATRICK FRANCIS REILLY, 52, army pensioner, of 43 George-street, Stonehouse, died suddenly at his house on Tuesday.  Dr Waterfield, at the Inquest yesterday, stated that the bursting of a blood-vessel in the lungs was the cause of death.

Western Morning News, Friday 8 January 1909
TAVISTOCK - The Tavistock Suicide.  Widow's Fear Of The Workhouse.  -  Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Tavistock yesterday on TAMZIN HARWOOD, a widow, aged 73, found hanged in her back kitchen at Parkwood-road Cottages, Tavistock, on Tuesday.  -  Mrs Ellen Ham, a neighbour, said she had known the deceased for 30 years. She last saw her alive on Monday at 2.30 p.m., when she was drawing water.  She did not speak to her then, but had spoken to her the same morning about the weather.  The deceased kept herself very much to herself.  She complained that ulcers on her legs caused her so much pain that she was unable to sleep.  She appeared to have the necessaries of life, and kept her cottage clean and tidy.  Not seeing the deceased about on Tuesday, she went to the house, and finding the back door fastened, entered by the front door, and called, but got no answer.  The scullery door was open a few inches, and fearing that the deceased had fallen in a fit, she sent for the Police.  The deceased had occupied the cottage 35 years, and her husband had been dead 13 years.  She was worried by her wounds getting worse, and, as she put it, "eating into the bone."  She was afraid if she had the doctor he would order her into the Workhouse, which she very much dreaded.  She had kind friends.  She kept a lodger up to June last.  -   Mr S. P. Haddy, Relieving Officer, said the deceased received 3s. 6d. a week from the Parish and paid 1s. 6d. a week rent.  -  The Foreman:  that only left her 2s. a week to exist on.  -  It was stated that the deceased was helped by others, and Mr Haddy said he did not know a case where a person lived on parochial relief alone.  -  P.C. Fishwick deposed to finding the deceased hanging by a rope from a hat peg in her back kitchen.  He found 3s. 11 ½d. on the body, and bread, butter, potatoes and uncooked meat in the larder. -  Mrs Ham said Mr E. C. Rundle, steward of the Duke of Bedford, was kind to the deceased.  -  Mr Haddy said when the deceased was in the Cottage Hospital four years ago her legs were healed and friends aid her rent while she was at the Institution.  -  Mr Chapman said the deceased owed no rent.  He gave her 5s. from a gentleman on December 21st.  -  The Jury found that the deceased committed Suicide while Temporarily Insane, and commended the neighbours for their kindness to her.

KINGSBRIDGE - Kingsbridge Fatality.  Seaman's Fall From His Ship.  -  Mr Sydney Hacker yesterday held an Inquest on LAURENCE MACARTHY, who was picked up dead on Tuesday night, having fallen from the steamship Foy at the New Quay, Kingsbridge.  Mr L. P. Evans, Factory Inspector, Plymouth, was present.  -  Daniel Edwards, captain of the vessel, said deceased belonged to Waterford, Ireland, and was an able seaman, 39 years of age.  At 11.15 p.m. on Tuesday witness was going to bed, when he heard a noise of a fall, and ran on deck.  A man sent down between the ship and the quay found deceased lying flat on the mud, with his head downwards, and perfectly still.  They got him on deck in seven minutes and found he was dead.  There was no water.  -  Edward Lloyd, Liverpool, engineer of the Foy, said at 11.15 p.m. he was returning to the ship and overtook deceased, who was intoxicated.  Witness got on the ladder and helped deceased, but the ladder went over, and down he went between the ship and the quay.  -  By Mr Evans:  The ladder would have been safer if lashed. -  William Charles Scott, able seaman, also gave evidence and Dr James W. Pettinger said deceased had a heavy blow on the back of his head and a wound on his right temple, quite enough to kill him.  -  The Coroner thought the ladder should have been lashed, although that probably would not have prevented the accident.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."  -  The Coroner again commented upon the absence of a mortuary for a town like Kingsbridge.  -  Mr Bond promised to do what he could in the matter.

EAST STONEHOUSE - Sudden Death At Stonehouse. -  Mr R. R. Rodd, Coroner, held an Inquest at Stonehouse Townhall on Wednesday evening on CATHERINE ELIZABETH HARDING, aged about 70 years, widow of ABRAHAM HARDING, army pensioner, who died in Manor-street.  -  Mary Brugg, widow, 12 Stoke-road, Plymouth, said deceased had lived with her for the past six years.  MRS HARDING left home at ten o'clock to go to Devonport, and was then in her usual health, which was not good.  She was able to get about alone, and never complained of giddiness.  -  John Williams, town porter, 80 King-street, said he was in Manor-street at 10.50 a.m. and saw deceased fall.  He went to her assistance and got her into a shop.  She was not knocked down by anything.  She was a big, stout woman. -  Dr W. H. Waterfield said he made a post-mortem examination, and found that the cause of death was fatty degeneration of the heart.

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Dispenser's Death.  Inquest Adjourned.  -  Mr R. B. Johns, at Plymouth, yesterday, opened an Inquiry into what he described as the peculiarly sad circumstances attending the death of MR GEORGE FAIRWEATHER, M.P.S., G.B., dispenser at Plymouth Public Dispensary.  Deceased was found dead in the dispensing room on Wednesday evening.  He was holding in his right hand a lead pencil, and by his side lay a piece of paper, on which was written, "Dear mother, good-bye."  -  Dr Cheyne Wilson, senior physician, was present on behalf of the Dispensary.  -  MISS EDITH ADA MARY FAIRWEATHER, of Brandreth-road, Mannamead, sister of the deceased, said he was 34 years of age.  She last saw him alive on Wednesday morning, when he let home as usual.  He was ordinarily of a quiet disposition.  -  By the Coroner:  He was inclined to worry over things when there was really no necessity for him to do so.  She had never heard him threaten to take his life and she knew of no reason why he should do so.  They lived happily together and deceased had no financial difficulties.  -  Lena Burroughs, a servant at the dispensary, stated that at 5.30 p.m. on Wednesday she was about to lock up the premises, and was passing through the dispensing room when she saw MR FAIRWEATHER sitting on the floor with his head hanging down.  In his right hand he was holding a black-lead pencil.  At first she thought he was asleep, but then saw that his features were discoloured and found that he was dead.  -  Samuel John Lewarne, clerk at the Dispensary, spoke to seeing MR FAIRWEATHER in the Dispensary just after midday.  He appeared cheerful.  -  P.C. Wyatt described deceased as being in a semi-seated position, with his shoulder resting against an aperture in the counter provided for the convenience of the dispenser.  The paper on which was written "Dear mother, good-bye," was by his side.  The body, which was quite warm, was removed to the mortuary.   -   The Coroner here intimated that Dr Woollcombe had just reported that, as a result of the post-mortem examination, he considered it absolutely necessary that the stomach should be analysed, as there was not sufficient evidence as yet to enable a verdict as to the cause of death to be arrived at.  -  The Inquest was therefore adjourned until Tuesday.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 13 January 1909
PLYMPTON ST MARY - Found Drowned In The Plym. -  Mr R. R. Rodd, Devon County Coroner, held an Inquest at Plympton Guildhall on the body of GEORGE STONEMAN, aged 49, retired carriage proprietor, who lived at Mainstone House, Fore-street, Plympton St. Maurice.  -  The widow said her husband left home at 7 a.m. on Wednesday last.  witness thought he was going to get work at Saltram.  He had not been well for some time and was easily depressed.  -  Wm. Pugh, mason, said he was one of a search party sent out on Sunday to find deceased.  The body was discovered opposite Leigham, with no hat, and face down in the middle of the river in about nine inches of water.  It was handed over to the Police.  -  P.C. John Ridd said that at 4.30 on Sunday he was called to the river and there received the body of deceased, which he took to his house.  He searched it, but found nothing to throw any light on the question of his death.  The body was fully dressed.  -  Dr W. D. Stamp, of Plympton, said as a result of a post-mortem examination, he found a bruise on the forehead, which was probably caused by the fall into the river.  He had for many years attended deceased, who was often depressed and subject to melancholia.  When found he had been dead some days, and had been in the water all the time.  The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Labourer's Death. -  At an Inquest yesterday on ROBERT E. LEET, aged 51, labourer, Flora-street, Plymouth, the widow stated that he was formerly employed in the Royal William Victualling  Yard for twelve years.  In August he said in trying to save a barrel of staves from falling over board, he strained himself.  He went to work for about a week afterwards and then received medical attention.  On Sunday morning she awoke and found him dead in bed.  -  Dr T. Noy Leah deposed that the condition of deceased, as disclosed by a post-mortem examination, was consistent with the statement made by him.  The heart was dilated and the valvular orifices over-stretched, due to strain.  The damage to the heart was the result of injury and not of disease.  - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

TORQUAY - Torquay Builder's Death. -  At Torquay last evening an Inquest was held on JAMES JOHN BROWNE, 75, retired builder, of Modena-terrace. -  JOHN J. BROWNE, of the Cary Hotel, said that deceased, his father, had always enjoyed good health.  On Monday morning, between 10.30 and 11.30  witness left him in the garden.  -  BEATRICE E. BROWNE, grand-daughter of the deceased, said her younger sister, when sent to call MR BROWNE to his dinner, returned twice, saying she could not make him hear.  She (witness) went to the garden, and finding him lying unconscious against a ladder, sent for a doctor.  -  Dr Howell attributed death to the rupture of a blood vessel on the brain.  -  A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Dispenser's Death. Poisoned By Prussic Acid.  -  The mysterious circumstances attending the death of MR GEORGE FAIRWEATHER, Dispenser at the Plymouth Dispensary, were elucidated yesterday, when the adjourned Inquest was held by the Borough Coroner (Mr R. B. Johns).  Deceased was found dead at his place in the dispensary, and there was lying at his side a pencilled note, which read:-  "Dear mother, good-bye."  -  When the Inquiry was opened Dr Wilmot was unable from outward evidence to state the cause of death and the matter was adjourned for an analysis of the stomach and its contents.  -  Dr C. E. Bean told the Jury yesterday that the stomach contained half an ounce of prussic acid, or probably more than that quantity.  The amount was more than sufficient to cause death by poisoning.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity," and passed a vote of sympathy with the relatives of deceased.  -  The Coroner concurred, remarking that the case was a very sad one, and deceased bore an excellent character in every way.

Western Morning News, Friday 15 January 1909
PLYMOUTH - At the Inquest yesterday on MRS JESSIE BRYANT, 76, widow of a hawker, lately living in Grenville-road, Plymouth, who died suddenly on Wednesday, Dr Travers-Stubbs said death was due to failure of the heart's action.

Western Morning News, Saturday 16 January 1909
EAST STONEHOUSE - Death Of An Officer's Cook.  A Sad Case. -  Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at the Royal Naval Hospital, Stonehouse, yesterday, on WILLIAM JAMES PESTELL, officers' cook, R.N., 1st class, of the cruiser Cumberland.  -  Wm. Henry Martell said the deceased, his brother-in-law, had always enjoyed good health.  He had been in the service about 23 years.  He returned from a months' leave at Portsmouth last Monday.  On the Sunday after Christmas-day he complained of a pain in the region of the heart, but soon recovered.  He leaves a widow and five children.  -  Staff-Surgeon Hugh Burniston, M.B., of the Cumberland, said the deceased had been on board about 18 months.  He had never known him to be ill during that time.  At one o'clock on Wednesday he saw him in his cabin;  he was very ill, and complained of pains in his chest.  Witness thought the best thing to do was to order him to Hospital, without waiting to examine him.  This was done, and he died at 3.35.  Death was due to a large aneurism in the aorta and extensive disease of the aortic valves, which caused syncope.  This would quite account for his sudden illness and death.  -  Fleet-Surgeon C. Bunton, M.B., who was also present, concurred.  - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," and, together with the Coroner, expressed their sympathy with the widow and family.

WEMBWORTHY - Wembworthy Suicide.  Verdict Of "Felo-De-Se."  -  At the adjourned Inquest at Wembworthy, North Devon, yesterday on AARON BOON, aged 73, of Wembworthy, Elizabeth Rooks, his landlady, said on December 30th he came down and began to cry.  He said he should never tell anyone what trouble he had.  He ate very little for breakfast, said he was not at all well and would go out.  He gave her a leather case, thanked her for her kindness to him, and said, "I shall not be with you long."  She fetched a neighbour and returning found BOON sitting in a chair almost gone.  He did not struggle at all, but sat still in a chair at the table.  She saw no trace of any poison.  -  Annie Southcombe, of Wembworthy, stated that after BOON'S death she found a box (produced) in his pocket.  -  Elizabeth Rooks, recalled, stated that deceased always called himself WM. BOON.  The case BOON gave her contained his bank-book and will.  She did not know the deceased had made a will, but knew now that she and her husband benefitted by the will.  -  Dr A Wynter Blyth, public analyst, said the contents of the box found on the deceased was strychnine, of which deceased had taken about two grains, which caused death.  The Jury returned a verdict of "Felo-De-Se."

STOKE DAMEREL - At the Inquest at Devonport  yesterday on JOHN PINNEY, aged 61 years, a Corporation labourer, of Sussex-road, Ford, who died suddenly on Wednesday, Dr Fleming attributed death to heart and lung disease.

TORQUAY - At an Inquiry at Torquay yesterday on CAROLINE HUXHAM, aged two years, the daughter of JOHN and BEATRICE HUXHAM, of Lower Union-lane, the mother said on Tuesday she was attending her baby, when her other child pulled a cup, into which tea had just been poured, off the table.  She heard the noise, but when she turned the child had got the hot liquid on its throat and face.  Lionel Phillips, House Surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, whither the deceased was taken by its mother, stated that the shock of receiving a large superficial burn on its throat caused the child's death.  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Monday 18 January 1909
WALKHAMPTON - Walkhampton Case.  Verdict Of "Wilful Murder" Against The Mother.  -  Mr R. R. Rodd (County Coroner), at Walkhampton on Saturday, held an adjourned Inquest on the male child of KATHLEEN FANNY CORBEY, 34, single, employed at Eggworthy House.  At the first Inquiry, last Monday week, it was stated that on the morning of 26th December CORBEY was seen by the caretaker (William Jones) crossing the yard at the rear of the house.  Whilst walking she was noticed to fall.  When Jones went to her assistance he found under her left arm the dead body of a male child, which, it was alleged, had been strangled and also had its throat cut.  CORBEY was too ill to attend the first Inquiry, and since the adjournment has been kept under the close observation of a nurse and Police.  She was present on Saturday, accompanied by her brother and Mrs Jones, the wife of the caretaker.  During the time the evidence was being taken CORBEY was seated and appeared to be ill and depressed.  -  Superintendent Crooke, of the Devon Constabulary,  was present;  and Mr Mayburne Pearce, Solicitor (Plymouth) represented CORBEY.  -    The Caretaker's Story.   -  The Coroner read over the evidence of William Jones, the caretaker, given at the previous hearing, in which he stated that after he had taken the woman into the house he found the body of the child near the back door.  Soon afterwards he sent for the Police and Dr Crowe, of Yelverton.  -  By Superintendent Crooke:  When he saw CORBEY going to the backdoor at 7 a.m., she was wearing a long jacket and on the arm under which she carried the baby she had a shawl with spots of blood on it.  -   Witness said in answer to Mr Pearce that he could not remember called out to CORBEY when he first saw her on the morning of the 26th December.  He might have said, "What are you doing here?"   As soon as he saw witness she dropped the child and fell down on the ground.  -  Mrs Emily Jones, wife of the last witness, stated that at 7 a.m. on 26th December she went to the assistance of CORBEY, who was on the ground near the sliding doors.  She helped to carry CORBEY to her bedroom, and remained with her until Dr Crowe arrived.  Witness asked her why she went down to the passage and to the rear of the house and CORBEY replied, "I was going out to throw the baby into the river, and I was going away."  CORBEY slept on Christmas night in a small bedroom, not the one she usually occupied.  CORBEY generally used the adjoining room, with a fellow servant, two beds being provided, one being a double.  -  Have you been able, as caretaker of the house, to find any preparation by CORBEY for the birth of a child?  -  No.  -  Did she tell you of her condition?  -  No.  When I saw her on the morning of December 26th she had on a black skirt, blue blouse and a long grey jacket.  -  In answer to the Coroner and Mr Pearce, witness said when she saw CORBEY in the passage she appeared very ill, and perhaps did not know what she was saying.  On the night of 25th December the two servants who slept in the big bedroom were Annie Hayes and Annie Brown.  The latter slept there that night because she did not care to go to the attic;  she only arrived at Eggworthy on the 24th December.  -    Superintendent Crooke:  Is there a river at the rear of the house?  -  Yes, the river Walkham, at the end of the drive.  Witness further said although CORBEY occupied the small room there was sufficient accommodation for her in the large room.  CORBEY carried out her duties as cook on Christmas-day.  During the morning of 25th December she complained of being ill, and remarked that she thought she had caught a chill.  -    Discovery Of A Letter.  -  Annie Hayes, housemaid, Eggworthy, and a fellow servant of CORBEY, said on the night of December 25th CORBEY went to bed at 10.30, informing the other servants she had a bilious attack.  Witness before she retired took CORBEY some hot milk, and which she asked should be placed on a chair beside the bed.  She saw  CORBEY the next morning at 7.15 after she had been assisted to her bedroom.  CORBEY asked her not to tell her mistress what had happened.  Witness went downstairs, and on the kitchen table found a piece of blue paper with writing on it.  The paper had not been placed in an envelope, but the envelope was addressed to witness.  The whole of it was in the handwriting of CORBEY.   -  The note was read by the Coroner, and was to the effect that Hayes should not tell the mistress what CORBEY had done;  but ask the master to wire to a male person mentioned in the note.  CORBEY further stated that she was anxious that her mistress should not know as it would upset her.  The note finished "Good-bye, dear Annie."   -  Superintendent Crooke asked the witness if she found a knife on the kitchen table near the note and she replied that she did not.  -  In answer to Mr Pearce, witness said she knew that CORBEY and the name of the young man mentioned in the note were engaged to be married, but was not aware on what date the marriage was to take place.   -   Medical Evidence.   -   Dr Henry Warren Crowe, Yelverton, said when he went to Eggworthy House on the morning of December 26th and saw the body of the male child, he observed that there was a wound in the throat.  He attended to CORBEY and on December 27th made a post-mortem of the body of a male child.  The examination revealed that the child was a full term one, and completely born alive.  The umbilical cord had been wound twice tightly round the neck.  On removing the cord there were found to be groves and markings on the neck;  and which suggested great tension.  When the cord was removed there was disclosed a wound extending from a point slightly to the left of the middle line in front of the neck to a point about one inch behind and below the right ear.  The wound had clean cut edges, and the appearance of having been caused by a sharp instrument.  Above the right ear was a small bruise about half an inch long and a quarter of an inch wide.  In his opinion death was due to strangulation by the cord and which would be accelerated by the bleeding of the wound.  The cord, he thought, must have been forcibly tightened, and could not have occurred during birth.  The wound in the throat was inflicted prior to the cord being wound round the neck.  The child was born alive.   -   The Coroner:  Did CORBEY, whilst you were attending her, refer to the incidents of the morning of the 26th December?  -  Dr Crowe said she had not given to him any account of what had occurred.  In the course of a little conversation he said to her "Whatever have you done?" and she replied, "I do not know; I was quite frenzied."  CORBEY did not appear to have a clear idea of what she had done.  She told him that the child had cried and expressed great contrition for what had occurred, and particularly sorry having regard to her position in the house.  -  In answer to Mr Pearce, witness said he was prepared to say that the child had a separate existence.   -    Statements By CORBEY.  -   P.C. Podger, of Walkhampton, said on December 26th he went to Eggworthy House and saw the body, which had a wound in the neck.  He saw CORBEY and told her he had seen the body with a cut in the neck, and she replied, "I cannot account for that."  On searching the room he failed to find any instrument or knife which would indicate that it had been used in causing the wound.  -   Mrs Podger, wife of the last witness, who was attending to CORBEY on 28th December, during  her illness, said a statement was made to her.  CORBEY said;  "I should never have liked the child if it had lived."  Witness told her that she would have, because it was a beautiful baby.  CORBEY then said "I should never have been able to look at it."   -   Arrested On A Charge Of Wilful Murder.  -   Superintendent H. Crooke deposed that on the 4th of January he visited Eggworthy House, and accompanied by a sister of KATHLEEN CORBEY he searched the bedroom.  He failed to find that any preparations had been made for the birth of a child.  That morning he again went to Eggworthy House and arrested CORBEY.  He told her in the first place that he was going to charge her with a very serious offence, cautioned her, and told her she need not say anything unless she desired to do so.  He then said to CORBEY, "I charge you with the wilful murder of your child on the 26th December last."  CORBEY simply replied "Yes."  At the time of the arrest Mrs Jones and KATHLEEN CORBEY'S brother were present.  -   Coroner's Summing Up.  -   The Coroner, in summing up to the Jury the evidence given, said they would have learnt how that CORBEY at seven o'clock in the morning was seen by the caretaker Jones in the rear of the house with a baby under her left arm, and that she was endeavouring to get out at the sliding doors at the rear of the premises.  Seeing Jones observed her she fainted and the dead body of the child was found by her side.  The post-mortem examination by Dr Crowe showed that the deceased was a full term child, that it was completely born alive and had a separate existence.  The cord had been tied tightly around the neck and when the cord was removed there was found to be a wound in the neck, a clean cut, and which Dr Crowe was of opinion had been caused by some sharp instrument.  As a result, the doctor was of opinion that death was due to strangulation, and that the bleeding from the wound had accelerated death.  If the Jury were satisfied that this state of things was caused by MISS CORBEY their verdict would be one of wilful murder, because the fact that the child had a serious wound in the neck was sufficient evidence of malice with intent to kill.  Further, they had evidence he thought of malice in the extraordinary secrecy which MISS CORBEY manifested throughout this affair in not preparing for the birth of the child and going to a separate bedroom from that she usually occupied:   And also her admission to conceal the body of the child and which no doubt she would have done if Jones, the caretaker, had not seen her.  Then there was the statement to Mrs Jones that she intended to take the child to the river and then go away.  No doubt the evidence would suggest to the Jury that at the time CORBEY was in a frenzied state.  But he was bound to tell them that had nothing to do with them in considering their verdict there that day.  If she was in that state of mind it would be for another tribunal to deal with it if necessary.  -   Verdict Of Wilful Murder.  -   The Jury considered their verdict in private and were in consultation for about twenty minutes.  When the Coroner's Court was reopened and CORBEY had again appeared the Coroner said:  The verdict of the Jury against you KATHLEEN FANNY CORBEY, is one of Wilful Murder of your child.  They express the opinion unanimously that they think you were not quite accountable for what you were doing on the morning of the 26th December.  But they have unanimously arrived at a verdict of Wilful Murder, and I, therefore, have to commit you into custody to take your trial at the next Assizes for that Wilful Murder of your male child.  -  The witnesses were then bound over to appear at the next Devon Assizes.   -  Accused At Crownhill Police Court.  -  A considerable crowd of inhabitants awaited the result of the Inquiry outside the schoolroom.  When it was known that the Jury had returned a verdict of wilful murder there was very considerable sympathy expressed towards the accused and also a feeling of thankfulness that the Jury had given the unanimous opinion that at the time she was not quite accountable for what she did.  CORBEY was conveyed from Walkhampton to the Crownhill Police Station in a cab, accompanied by Superintendent Crooke, and her departure was witnessed by a large number of persons.  She appeared very weak and looked as if she was deeply distressed.  -   Before the Magistrate.  -  At Crownhill Police Court, on Saturday evening, accused was brought before Mr Francis Fox (Magistrate) and charged with the Wilful Murder of her child.  -  Superintendent Crooke formally stated the facts and his arrest of CORBEY on the charge of wilful murder.  -  The Magistrates granted a remand until Wednesday next, when the case will be fully proceeded with.

STOKE DAMEREL - The Late MRS NEATH. -  Mr J. A. Pearce, at Devonport, on Saturday, held an Inquest on MRS LIZZIE NEATH, aged 61 years, of Berkley-cottages, Stoke.  -  Mrs Marianne Burton, a widow, stated that she had resided with deceased, her sister, the widow of MR THOMAS NEATH, a solicitor.  She was very poorly throughout last summer, but had seemed better lately.  On Thursday evening she was giving lessons up to ten o'clock, after which she went upstairs to go to bed.  Witness accompanied her, and then left the room to go downstairs, when she heard moans.  On going upstairs again she found her sister unconscious.  -  Dr G. C. Sandford said MRS NEATH died within a few minutes of his arrival.  He attributed death to cerebral haemorrhage.  Her mother died from the same complaint.  -  A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned, and the Coroner and Jury extended their sympathy with the relatives.

BARNSTAPLE - The Barnstaple Suicide.  -  At Barnstaple on Saturday Mr A. Bencraft held an Inquest on MRS BETSY CARTER, 69, widow of MR GILES CARTER, of Barnstaple.  -  Evidence was given that MRS CARTER had been depressed for some time and on Friday morning she was found in her bedroom by her daughter with a wound in her throat, apparently caused by a small pair of nail scissors.  Deceased's sister, MRS ANNIE COLE, a widow, came to her assistance and at that time MRS CARTER was trying to tear open the wound with her hands.  MISS CARTER told the Coroner that thirty years ago her mother was in an Asylum for some months, and on Monday last she tried to tie something round her neck, but she prevented her.  Dr Jones, who was summoned on Friday by a neighbour, and who had previously attended MRS CARTER, was of opinion deceased was out of her mind when she inflicted the wounds.  The scissors were very blunt and the wounds could not have been caused except by one in a state of frenzy.  -  Dr K. M. Moore, House Surgeon at the North Devon Infirmary, said deceased died on Friday evening.  -  A verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" was returned, and the Jury expressed their sympathy with the family.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 19 January 1909
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held at Plymouth yesterday on MARY ANN SMALE DEACON, aged 76, the widow of THOMAS W. DEACON, labourer, of 3 Alice-cottages, Alice-street.  ROBERT I DEACON, labourer, said the deceased, his mother, was in bed on Saturday afternoon, rather poorly.  He went for a doctor, and whilst away she died.  Dr Pearce said the cause of death was Syncope.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 20 January 1909
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Tragedy.  Which Of The Deceased Turned On The Gas?  -  Mystery Unsolved.  The Coroner's Jury Return An Open Verdict.   -   Mr John Graves, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Plymouth Mortuary yesterday on ROBERT SCANTLEBURY, widower, of 3a Rendle-street and ANN CORDELIA FENNELL, wife of a torpedo instructor, Royal Navy, who were found dead together at the residence of the former on Sunday morning.  -   Mr J. W. Bickle appeared for the relatives of the man;  Mr J. G. Jackson represented the woman's relatives; and Chief Constable Sowerby watched the case in the interests of the Police.  Mr George W. Quigley was chosen Foreman of the Jury.  A large number of people congregated outside the mortuary to obtain a glimpse of the chief witnesses in the double tragedy.   -  The Deputy Coroner, opening the Inquiry, said ROBERT SCANTLEBURY was a widower, living at 3a Rendle-street, practically alone.  There was a daily servant of the name of Olive Love, who came to attend to his wants, but she did not sleep there at night.  ANN CORDELIA FENNELL was a married woman. Undoubtedly ROBERT SCANTLEBURY and the woman were on intimate terms;  they had known each other for some time, and she frequently went to his house.  It appeared from the evidence of a cabman that they went home together on Saturday night and they went there with the evident intention of staying the night.  At half-past eleven o'clock a butcher, of the name of Richard Treloase, delivered meat for the next day's dinner, which had been ordered by SCANTLEBURY himself.  SCANTLEBURY came down and took in the meat and that was the last known of him living.  The next morning, Sunday, the servant, Olive Love, came to the house and let herself in with a latchkey a little after half-past ten.  She went upstairs to deceased's bedroom and found it filled with gas.  She noticed that the gas was issuing from the pipe of the gas fire, the tap being turned on and the fire not alight.  She covered over her mouth, ran to the fire place and turned off the tap.  she then went outside and obtained the assistance of a Policeman. The Policeman also found the room filled with gas and two people in bed, lying on their sides face to face.  He also found that the nipple of a gas jet had been loosened, and that gas was issuing from this.  Both windows were closed and in the chimney, for the escape of gas fumes was a piece of clean flannel, carefully placed inside to act as a damper, or as a means to prevent gas escaping.  The question would arise as to who made those carful preparations, whether the parties themselves, or one of them, or somebody from outside.  The woman was, he believed, the wife of a man who was a sailor in H.M. navy.  He had been away two years or more, or, at any rate, some considerable time.    -    Deceased's Man's Son.   -    REGINALD ROBERT SCANTLEBURY, engine-room artificer, of 63 Amherst-road, Pennycomequick, identified the body of his father, ROBERT SCANTLEBURY.  His father was secretary to Messrs. Willoughby Bros., engineers.  He last saw his father alive on Saturday afternoon, when they went together to see a football match at Home Park.  There was nothing unusual in his father's manner, either physically or mentally.  Witness left him at 5.45 p.m., and promised to see him at his office on Monday morning.  To an uncle, who also went with them to the match, deceased said, "Don't forget, WILL:  next Saturday we will go to football again."  -  By Mr Bickle:  Four asbestos lamps were taken from the stove that morning, and there was no soot on them.  -  The Deputy Coroner asked Mr Bickle if he attached any importance to that?  -  Mr Bickle replied that he did.  In his opening remarks the Deputy Coroner spoke of the funnel being blocked.  His suggestion was that it was done to prevent soot coming on the asbestos, as well as to prevent draught.  He showed asbestos with no soot upon it.   -   The Deputy Coroner informed Mr Bickle that he could not worry the case out there.  They had to get at the cause of death;  they had not to hold an inquiry over something else.  He did not know his object in proving all that.  -  Mr Bickle quite agreed that he did not wish the inquiry to be prolonged.  -  By the Foreman:  The asbestos was in an ordinary fireplace.  -   Cabdriver's Evidence.  -   Harry Rendle, cab proprietor, 3 Garden-crescent, said between 9.30 and 9.40 p.m. he was on the Royal Theatre stand, when the daughter of the landlord of the Hoe Park Hotel engaged him to pick up fares at the Hoe Park Hotel.  SCANTLEBURY and the woman got into the cab and the man told him to drive to Willoughby's office in Rendle-street, which he did.  SCANTLEBURY went into the house and the woman remained in the cab.  A gentleman spoke to SCANTLEBURY and when the gentleman left the woman got out of the cab and entered the house.  Witness's fare was paid beforehand.  He was invited into the house for a drink, but he declined the invitation.  -  By the Foreman:  SCANTLEBURY was certainly under the influence of drink, but the woman was sober and quite jovial.  He would not be surprised if the woman had no drink at all.  The man evidently knew what he was about, but he was shaky and kept his legs outside the cab.  He nearly fell when he entered the cab by taking a false step.  Witness had to ask deceased to take his feet inside the cab.  Deceased also fumbled in opening the door, and witness proffered his services, but they were refused.  Deceased unlocked the door himself.  -  By Mr Bickle:  He did not know who the third party was, but he thought it was Mr Mallard, at Messrs. Waring's office.  -  Asked by a Juror what made him think that the woman was jovial, witness said when they came out of the Hotel she said:  "Come on, get in, get in."  She also wanted to know if the cabman knew where to drive and SCANTLEBURY said "Yes."  The woman said:  "We will go to your place."  They drove direct from the Hotel to Rendle-street.   -    Maidservant's Discovery.   -   Olive Love, domestic servant, Treville-street, said she was in the daily employ of MR SCANTLEBURY at 3a Rendle-street.  She left the house at 1.45 p.m. on Saturday.  On Sundays it was usual for her to get to the deceased's house about 10.30 and prepare dinner.  On Sunday morning last, about 10.35 she arrived at deceased's house, and let herself in with a latch-key.  She observed that the letters were still lying on the doormat and this excited her wonder;  she thought her master had overslept himself.  She found no one downstairs and she thought she smelt gas.  She went upstairs and heard a buzzing noise outside the deceased's room.  She opened the door and smelt the gas very strong in the room.  She looked towards the bed and saw MR SCANTLEBURY in bed, as well as a woman.  She noticed that deceased's face, which was usually red, was very white.  She also noticed that the tap to the gas fire was turned on.  She did not imagine that the gas was turned on;  she actually saw the tap was turned.  She covered her mouth with her hands, and went over to turn off the tap.  The tap was hard to turn, and she had to use both hands to turn it off.  She found that the gas was overcoming her and she left the room.  She ran downstairs and fetched a Policeman.  She waited downstairs while the Policeman entered the bedroom.  She cleaned the bedroom on Friday last, when she dusted the gas fire.  She noticed nothing particularly about the gas fire, and did not notice if the escape for gas was clear or not.  She knew the deceased woman. She had often seen her at the house, some time every day, but not latterly.  The two were friendly.  On Saturday deceased was in good spirits;  he usually was, being of a cheerful disposition.  -  By the Jury:    The tap to the gas fire was always very hard to turn.  She had turned it before, but not very often.  The bedroom was not locked.  The back door was unbolted, as also was the office door.  She found that state of affairs two or three mornings last week.  -  By Mr Bickle:  What she meant was that MR SCANTLEBURY forgot to put over the bolt, otherwise she would not be able to get into the house.  She had been in the service of MR SCANTLEBURY two years and five months.  -  Do you know that anything was found up the chimney?  -  I did not know that until the morning I was at the Police Station.  -  Do you know that even in MRS SCANTLEBURY'S own time that she always put a piece of flannel up the chimney to stop the soot coming down?  -  I never took that notice. The stove was there in MRS SCANTLEBURY'S time.  -   What drew your attention to the bedroom was the hissing noise outside the door? -  Yes.  -   Did the hissing noise stop when you turned off the gas?  -  I was too frightened to notice that.  -  Will you swear deliberately that you turned the tap off?  -  Yes.  -  Then what did you mean when you told the Coroner and Jury that you thought it was on?  -  I looked towards the gas and I saw it was turned in the wrong direction.  - Did you turn it off or on?  -  Turned it off, because no one else could turn it off.  I had not lit the fire many times.  MR SCANTLEBURY lit the fire about four months ago.  there are two gas jets in the room, and the one over the bed had the incandescent burner taken off a very long time ago.  -  The Deputy Coroner asked Mr Bickle whether he wanted that put down.  -  Mr Bickle replied in the affirmative, in view of the suggestion in the papers that it was taken off for the purpose of committing suicide.  -  Witness, in reply to other questions, said an ordinary gas nipple was fixed instead of the incandescent burner.  the jet was kept burning all night long.  She knew this because the gas was often burning when she got there in the morning;  she found it alight two mornings last week.  -   Dr Waterfield interposed by saying that he knew the nipple was there, because he saw it when he entered the room.  The nipple was unscrewed and just lodged on the pipe.  -  Mr Bickle asked where the nipple was now, and Dr Waterfield replied that he did not know.  -  Answering other questions, witness said in the house on Sunday there was a fowl, pork, bacon and eggs, and a cabbage.  MR SCANTLEBURY told her what to buy on Saturday.  She fetched the pork about dinner-time on Saturday.  MR SCANTLEBURY told her that he was going to have the fowl for dinner on Sunday.  -   P.C. Pearce.  -   P.C. John Pearce said at 10.50 a.m. on Sunday he was called by the last witness to 3a Rendle-street, and went to a bedroom at the top of the house.  He smelt gas strongly all the way up the stairs.  When he got to the bedroom door, which was open, he saw the two bodies in bed under the clothes.  The room was full of gas at the time, and he immediately opened the window.  He observed that the gas was issuing from a gas bracket by the right side of the bed.  He turned off the tap.  There was a nipple, of an old-fashioned type, on the bracket.  He examined it, and found that he could remove it without unscrewing it.  He left the nipple exactly as he found it.  The room was very full of gas, although the door had been partly open and he and his brother officer were glad to get out of it.  There was no means of escape for the gas than the partly-opened door.  He examined the chimney, in company with Dr Waterfield and another Police Officer.  The chimney hole was about 3 ½ inches in diameter and inside he found the piece of flannel produced.  It was lying so as to form a damper.  This would quite prevent the escape of gas.  The bodies were nearly face upwards, but that of the man's slightly inclined towards the woman.  He found neither a note nor anything in writing to indicate the occurrence.  There were no marks on the bodies and there were also no signs of a struggle. He searched the clothes.  He found a considerable sum of money in the deceased man's trousers pocket, including three £5 notes and other coins, amounting in all to £26.  In the deceased woman's purse, in her jacket pocket, he found a £5 note and 2s. 7 ½d.  The four £5 notes were numbered consecutively.  Nothing fell from the flannel when he removed it.  - By Mr Bickle:  The gas bracket by the side of the bed was easy to turn.  The fireplace was about a foot away from the bed.  The piece of flannel would stop soot or anything coming down the chimney and spreading over the bed.  It would also prevent draught.  The loose gas bracket would be about four inches below the top of the bed, and four inches from the side of the bed.  A man could not lie in bed and turn off the gas:   he would have to get out of bed to do so.  The gas bracket was on the side of the bed where the man was lying.  He was sure no man in bed could reach the gas.  He saw some liquor, which smelt like beer, in a glass.  The glass was about three-parts filled.  A bottle was beside the glass, and the liquor had apparently been poured from that.  -   I put it to you that a man getting out of bed to open a bottle of ale in that way might accidentally put out the gas four inches beside the place he was lying?  -  It was possible.  I do not know where the bottles of beer are kept.   The keyhole of the door was not stopped up.  The door is tight-fitting and requires force to open it.  - By Mr Jackson:  The windows were only fastened in the ordinary way.  -    Medical Evidence:   Dr Waterfield said he knew the man well, but not the female.  The first thing he noticed when entering the bedroom, which was an attic, was the dead body of a cat, lying on the floor by the side of the bed.  Both the man and the woman had been dead some time.  He put his hand in the hole over the gas fireplace, and found a piece of flannel slightly damp.  The flannel was clean, and it was lying perfectly flat on the inside of the hole.  Witness tried the top of the gas stove and found it extremely stiff to turn.  He turned it on, and immediately had a good supply of gas.  He then examined  a bracket on SCANTLEBURY'S side of the bed.  The old-fashioned nipple would slip in position, but would not bite the thread.  The gas made a hissing noise as it came through the bracket.  He had made a post-mortem examination, and no doubt in both cases death was due to asphyxia from coal gas.  -  By the Jury:  The woman could not have turned off the gas fire while lying in the bed.  He was of opinion that the flannel had only recently been put in the stove pipe, because it was clean.  - By Mr Bickle:  The dampness of the flannel was probably caused through rain falling through the chimney.  There was no soot on the asbestos and he did not expect to find any.  The bracket at the side of the bed was a straight one.   -   Deputy Coroner's Observations.  -    The Deputy Coroner, in summing up, said there were many speculations about the matter, but there was no doubt that the cause of death was asphyxia from gas poisoning.  There were two sources of gas which caused death - one the gas fire, and the other the gas bracket, at the other end of the room.  The windows and the doors were closed, and it was a tight-fitting door.  He did not see how they could come to any other conclusion that one or other of the parties by design turned on the gas.  It seemed to him that they might have left one burner open by accident:   They could not have left the gas fire, which the servant said it took two hands to turn on.  Then, again, they had it that the gas emptying from the pipes made a considerable noise.  It was perfectly possible that the flannel was put up the chimney to prevent smuts:   At the same time it unfortunately prevented gas going up the chimney.  They were faced with the difficulty which of the two turned the gas on and there they had no evidence;  it left them in an open state.  -  A Juror:  I take it that a person could enter by the back, the back door being open.  -   The Deputy Coroner said they could only judge by the evidence.  They had no evidence of anyone entering the house.  -  Mr Bickle said he quite appreciated what the Juror had said.  It was true they had no evidence that anyone did enter the back door, and they had not a scrap of evidence that anyone committed suicide.  -  Love, recalled, said the back door led into the foundry.  There was no appearance of anyone having entered by the back door.  A stranger would have to enter by the foundry door to get at the back door of the house.  -  The Deputy Coroner said they could not forget that if anyone did deliberately kill two people they would have some object, and their object would be robbery.  There was £27 on the man and £5 on the woman.  If they could enter the room without disturbing the people, turn on the gas, and kill the people in that way, they could take the money with them as well.  As to what happened they must draw their own conclusions.  The law was that supposing one of the parties did turn the gas on that person would have committed suicide, also murder.  -  Evidence was then given in the case of the woman:   William James Webb identified the body, and said he knew nothing about the occurrence.  Deceased was 28 years of age.  -  Olive Love said to her knowledge the woman had never slept in the house before.  -  The other witnesses said the evidence they had given in the former case was correct.       -     The Verdict.    -    After a brief retirement, the Foreman of the Jury said they were unanimously of opinion that death resulted from Gas Poisoning, and that there was no evidence to show by whom the gas was turned on.  They expressed the deepest sympathy with the relatives of the deceased persons.  -  The Deputy Coroner said it was a sad occurrence, and everybody felt the deepest sympathy with the relatives.  -  The Interment of MR SCANTLEBURY takes place today, whilst that of MRS FENNELL'S will not take place until later in the week, to enable her husband, who is now on his way from Malta, to be present.

NEWTON ABBOT - Newton Abbot Suicide.  -  At an Inquest yesterday on ROBERT PIDGEON, labourer, Vicary's Woollen Mills, Newton Abbot, the evidence showed that he was subject to pains in the head and back and that on the 31st ult., and the 1st inst., he stayed at his brother's house (where he occupied a room) instead of going to work, on the plea of being unwell.  He went out on the Friday evening, and was seen by one or two men at a public-house at Kingsteignton.  He never returned home.  On Monday James Villiers, a bargeman, found the body on the Stover Canal, near Teignbridge.  The wrists of deceased were tied together with a bootlace.  The Police were of opinion that PIDGEON wound the bootlace round his own wrists and the medical evidence was that there were no marks or signs other than those of drowning on the body.  A verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind" was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 21 January 1909
KINGSBRIDGE - Fall From  A Pony.  Chagford Farmer's Death.  -  Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest at Molescombe Farm, near Kingsbridge, on Tuesday, on WILLIAM WITHYCOMBE, aged 70 years, of Venn Farm, Chagford.  -  WILLIAM WITHYCOMBE, son of the deceased, stated that he and his father left home on Tuesday, 5th inst., with a number of sheep for Chillington.  they went to Southmolton on the following Saturday, and there witness left deceased.  On Wednesday witness heard that his father had met with an accident.  Deceased rode a pony which he had been riding for the past seven years, which was found at Halwell, near Totnes.  His father was hale and hearty.  -  Charles Widdicombe, a Stokenham farmer, stated that he met deceased on Monday, 11th inst., about a mile from the place where he was found.  He was riding a pony and was driving a number of sheep.  -  Dr L. H. D. Hale, of Chillington, attributed death to an effusion of blood on the brain from concussion and pneumonia.   There was a wound on the head, which had probably been caused by deceased falling off his pony.  -  Alfred Boon, of Chillington, stated that he discovered deceased about midday on Wednesday in a private road between Winslade and Molescombe Farm.  Deceased was conveyed to the farm, where he died on Sunday.  -  A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

STOKE DAMEREL - Officer's Suicide.  The Struggle In Stoke Hospital.  Custody Of Razors.  -  Mr J. A. Pearce, (Devonport Borough Coroner) held an Inquest at the Military Hospital, Devonport, yesterday, on ALFRED AVENEL HUYSHE, R.G.A., whose death occurred under distressing circumstances at the Hospital on Monday evening.  Mr Eric Ward was present on behalf of the relatives of the deceased.  -  Capt. A. W.D.  Roebuck, R.G.A., stationed at Plymouth Citadel, said the deceased was 26 years of age, and attached to No. 3 Depot.  Witness last saw him about 12.30 last Thursday morning at the citadel and he then appeared to be in his usual condition of health.  Witness had only known him a fortnight and he appeared to be a man in ordinary good health.  The first intimation witness had that there was anything wrong with him was that he was dead.  On Friday witness was told by Lieut. Redgate that deceased was a bit "seedy" with fever.  Deceased was an absolutely sober man and there had been no irregularity or anything to worry him.  Witness thought it his duty to ask why dangerous weapons were left in the room with deceased.  Deceased had no financial difficulties.  -  Mr Ward said he knew personally for a fact that there were no financial difficulties.  -  Capt. roebuck said that on Thursday morning he took over the whole of the accounts and found them absolutely correct.  -  Lieut. J. Redgate, R.A., said he had known LIEUT. HUYSHE several years.  He was a most efficient officer and sober man, and as a rule he enjoyed good health.  About last Thursday he complained of feeling unwell, and was about the same on Friday.  On Sunday he was not at all well and thought he was suffering from fever in consequence of service on the West Coast of Africa.  He was on the West coast two years and was unusually healthy there.  -  Mr Ward:  If an officer confines himself to quarters, how does the doctor get to know?  -   Witness:  He would send information by his servant.  If he stayed away from parade there would be some explanation.  -  Mr Ward:  Unless he stayed away from parade, short of his own application for a doctor to see him, there would not be rounds or roll call by which superiors would find out there was something the matter?  -   Capt. Roebuck said that if an officer were seriously ill his brother officers would see that he received proper attention.  -   A Sudden Frenzy.   -  Capt. T. H. M. Clarke, R.A.M.C., in medical charge of the Citadel, said that on Saturday evening he received a letter from LIEUT. HUYSHE, stating that he had had another attack of his West Coast fever, and asking him to send him some medicine.  Witness went to see him and found he had fever, his temperature being about 104.  witness examined him and prescribed for him.  He saw him three times on Sunday.  He expressed himself as feeling a little better in the morning, but in the evening his temperature was still high.  On Monday witness told him he was going to send him to Hospital, and LIEUT. HUYSHE laughed at this.  Witness went to fetch the ambulance and on his return found him up and dressed.  Witness told him he ought not to have got up until he (witness) came back.  He said he was hungry and witness remarked that that was a good symptom.  Witness put him on a stretcher and assisted to put him in the ambulance.  A Hospital orderly and deceased's own servant went with him to the Hospital.  He seemed cheerful on Monday morning and was reluctant to go to Hospital, thinking that it was rather fussy on witness's part to send him to Hospital.  He was exceedingly cohecteo and what occurred came upon witness as a horrible shock.  He could only account for it by a sudden frenzy.  Witness had heard LIEUT. HUYSHE highly spoken of by his brother officers.  -  In reply to Mr Ward, witness said he had malarial fever in his mind.  A man could be perfectly well on the West Coast of Africa, and fever might break out on the say home if one caught cold.  It was not usual for it to result in suicidal mania.  Witness had never before known a case like this, but there were very rapid changes.  Witness had had a temperature of 106 without delirium.  Delirium did not often occur in these cases.  -  The Coroner said the official report was quite in accordance with what Captain Clarke had stated.   -    Inmates And Razors.  -   Private F. J. Barden, R.A.M.C., said LIEUT. HUYSHE arrived about noon on Monday.  Witness was on duty to 1.15 and from 2.15 p.m. to 5.15.  He appeared to be quiet and rational.  Witness did not know how a razor got there, unless it was brought by the deceased's servant with his kit.  Ordinarily speaking there would not be a razor kept there unless under lock and key.  An officer's kit remained in his room.  -  The Coroner:  So that an officer might have a loaded pistol in his kit? -  No, his kit is, as a rule, searched by the sister.  -  By Mr Ward:   LIEUT. HUYSHE'S kit was unpacked while I was getting some milk for the officer.  -   Wilhelmina Potter said she was present when LIEUT. HUYSHE was admitted.  His kit was unpacked and placed about the room by the servant.  It consisted of what he might require in the ward.  Witness was responsible for the kit.  Witness did not go through it.  they were supposed to go through the kit, but as he was an officer they would not go through everything unless a patient were unconscious.  -   The Coroner:  Suppose you saw a razor unpacked and placed on the mantelpiece?  -  If he were allowed to shave himself he would be allowed to have it.  Razors are allowed in the ward, and used by the patient.  I saw nothing in the condition of the patient to cause me to think he ought not to have a razor there.  He had a high temperature, but there was nothing else, and the ward was never left.  If I had seen the razor I might have removed it.  -  The Coroner:  An attendant might be some yards away, and not be able to reach a patient in time.  There is nothing unusual or against regulations in an officer having a razor in the ward?  -  Witness:   No.  -  Replying to Mr Ward, witness said she would exercise her own discretion as to whether any but the usual course should be taken.  The return received from the Medical Officer at the Citadel did not come to her.  -  Mr Ward:  I understand you did not see that?  -  Witness:  I saw it, but did not read it.  That is for the Medical Officer, and he gave me my instructions about treatment and the medicine he ought to receive.  -  Did you gather from him that it was a case of fever?  -  He had a temperature of 103.  -  Did he tell you it had been over 105 on the previous day?  -  I knew he had had same temperature for some days.  -  Had you known that for two evenings before it had been 105, would it have altered your opinion as to the necessity for precautions?    This would have been a guide to you?  -  Yes.  -  Mr Ward:  Would you think the proximity of razors was a wise thing for a man who has had a temperature of 105?  -  If I had known it would have made a difference.  He had a case of razors, but from the box I should not have known they were razors.  -    Kit Regulations.   -    Major N. Tyacke, stationed at the Military Hospital, said he received the report, produced.  He examined the officer thoroughly and took his temperature, which was 103.  Witness considered he was suffering from malarial fever and gave instructions about medicine and food, and that somebody should be present the whole time.  The return, produced, was given to him as Medical Officer in charge of the case, and was not given to the sister.  He gave the sister verbal instructions as to treatment.  There were no regulations as to kit except where an officer was insensible or of unsound mind.  In the case of an ordinary officer there is no regulation about taking away his kit.  It was a most usual thing for an officer to have razors in the ward, and if he had seen a razor in the ward he would not have said anything about it.  There was no appearance of delirium then.  It was a matter of discretion whether an officer should have razors and shave himself.  -   The Coroner:  But now perhaps some little difference will be made in the regulations in cases of fever.  -  Witness:  I have seen thousands of cases of fever in officers and men, and do not suppose in one case in a thousand you will see delirium.  He was absolutely rational.  I had no suspicion of his becoming delirious.  -  Mr Ward:  The practice in this Hospital will permit of razors in the room of a patient with a high temperature?  -  Witness:  Yes.    -    The Attendant Overpowered.   -   Pte. G. J. Gentry, R.A.M.C., whose right hand was bandaged, said he went on duty at 8 p.m. on Monday.  LIEUT. HUYSHE was then slightly wandering.  Sister Paynter was in the ward at the time.  The wandering increased as time went on, and witness drew a chair to the end of the bed and kept observation.  He was muttering to himself sometimes and then knocked his head with his fist.  He lay quiet for a bit and then asked witness to put a cold water bandage on his forehead and to tie it with a piece of rope. Witness put on the bandage.  Witness afterwards saw him try to reach the locker with his hand, and then he raised himself and looked in the locker.  Witness put him down again and tucked him in.  He inquired where the Sister was, and witness replied that she was outside, whereupon deceased said, "Go and fetch her."  Witness rang the bell and deceased then said, "I told you not to ring, but go and fetch her. "  The Sister came, and deceased said, "Nurse, get me a glass of water," and she let to do so.  Witness then took the locker from the side of the bed and when he turned he saw that the officer was out of bed and seized him.  The officer was much the stronger and caught him by the throat and they fell, witness being underneath.  They struggled to the place where witness had put the locker and the officer put his right hand out and witness saw something glittering, which he thought was a revolver.   Witness succeeded in getting his knee on the officer's back and took a razor from him, and threw it away.  The officer got another razor and witness also took that from him and threw it across the ward.  Then witness found that the officer was bleeding from the throat, and tried to stop the haemorrhage.  The Sister, who had gone to fetch the water, then came in and witness ran for the Medical Officer.   -  In reply to the Coroner, witness said that when people were delirious they usually tried to put their hands on something that was not there, and witness thought that if he took the locker away it would take it out of deceased's mind.  He had not time to look into the locker.  If he had known there were razors there, he would have thrown them through the window.  -   The Coroner:  Were you surprised to find that razors were there?  -  Yes.  -  Would you consider that an Officer with a temperature of 103 was dangerous?  -  Not unless he was delirious.  -  Capt. Roebuck:   When you found the patient was wandering, did you think it your duty to look round and see if there was anything to be removed?  -  No, sir;  I was the third orderly on.   -   The Coroner:  Were you cut yourself?  -   I was cut across the knuckle.  -  Lieut. W. R. Galwey, R.A.M.C., said that about 9.7 p.m. on Monday he was called and found deceased lying on the floor.  Life was practically extinct, and there was a large wound in the throat.  He did in witness's presence from haemorrhage.  -  Gunner W. H. Harper, servant to LIEUT. HUYSHE, said he made up the kit.  Witness asked LIEUT. HUYSHE about the razors and he told him to put the lot in.  As was usual, witness put the razors in the locker.  The nurse was in the room at the time, but witness did not speak to her about the razors.  Witness had had razors while in hospital.   -  The Coroner's Opinion.   -   The Coroner, in summing up, said it was not for the Jury to dictate as to regulations, but they might express an opinion that there ought to e a more stringent regulation as to the admission of razors into a ward.  They had heard that it was  more a matter of discretion.  It appeared to him to be rather slack and he considered that something more ought to be done, and razors ought not to be allowed in the room unless some superior officer was perfectly satisfied that no danger would attach by the presence of razors.  He felt certain that after that case something would happen whereby some better regulation would be made even if the Jury did not express any opinion.  Another question was whether an orderly on going on duty should not search the room himself.  That was a matter for the governing authorities of the hospital.  Whatever might be their opinion as to the cause of death or the regulations, they would wish him to express to the family of deceased their very sincere sympathy in the loss they had sustained by the death of this young officer.  He was a man of irreproachable character and a most efficient officer, and there seemed to have been no reason why this should have occurred except for the poor fellow being out of his mind.  The orderly who was present did all he could under the circumstances.  -   The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while in a state of Temporary Insanity," and endorsed the Coroner's expression of sympathy.  -   Mr Ward expressed the relatives high appreciation of the kind remarks.  They had sent him there not in any way as a prosecutor.  He believed that if the orderly had known that the razors were there this unfortunate affair would not have occurred.  -  The Coroner said he wished it to be understood that his remarks did not apply to that hospital only.  They were the ordinary military regulations and one regulation said that razors among other things might be retained by patients for use in the ward.  There could not be the slightest shadow of blame to anybody in the hospital.  -  The Foreman:  We consider that no blame is attached to anybody in connection with the case.   -   Sorrow At Wimborne.  -   Profound sorrow has been evoked at Wimborne by the news of the tragic death of LIEUT. HUYSHE.  He was educated at the Grammar School in that town, where his late father was vicar for many years.  He was the third generation of HUYSHES in direct succession who had served in the Royal Artillery.  He came of a family of athletes and soldiers.  His elder brother won his blue at Oxford and his younger brother is the Dorset county wicket-keeper.  Deceased had himself assisted in the county hockey team and his two sisters had represented the county in ladies' hockey.     -  Funeral Arrangements.  -  The funeral will take place tomorrow, leaving the Military Hospital at 11.30 for Plymouth Cemetery.

EAST STONEHOUSE - Gas Poisoning Cases.  Stonehouse Woman's Worries.  An Imitated Crime.  -  Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Stonehouse yesterday on AMELIA DAWE, 53, wife of an ex-publican, late of 24 High-street, who died of gas poisoning.  -  RICHARD S. DAWE, shipwright, a son of deceased, said her husband was in London.  He (witness) last saw her on Monday night at his house.  She then appeared depressed.  She had been unwell for some time.  He could only attribute the occurrence to business worry.  -  The Coroner:  She has been very unfortunate in her speculations, and I suppose was practically reduced to want? -  Well, hardly that.  -   Her own estate was all gone, and she was in a very different condition in regard to means to what she was 10 years ago?  -  Yes.  -  Annie Laura Llewellyn, wife of a 1st class P.O., residing at 24 High-street, said she was with deceased in her room on Monday evening and whilst there deceased read the account of the Rendle-street affair.  she appeared very worried.  The following morning about 11 o'clock she found deceased's door locked.  Her suspicion increased when she found it impossible to look through the keyhole and later she detected so strong a smell of gas that she felt faint as she descended the stairs.  -  How The Body Was Found.  -  Inspector J. Joslin deposed to being summoned to 24 High-street by Mrs Llewellyn.  On breaking open the door of deceased's room gas escaped.  He opened the window and then saw deceased in bed quite dead.  There was no sign of a struggle.  The tap of a gas cooker in the room was turned on full and also a bracket.  It was a penny in-the-slot meter, and evidently the full supply had been exhausted.  He understood several pence could be inserted and a continuous supply of gas obtained.  The fireplace had been pasted over with paper, several newspapers having been gummed together so as to form a kind of screen.  Amongst the newspapers was one containing an account of the Rendle-street tragedy.  The crevices of the door, even to the keyhole, had been pasted over.  It looked a very determined case.  On a table was found a letter.   -   The Coroner (holding the letter):  This makes various rambling statements.  Here are her first thoughts:  "I am tired an cannot fight the battle any more."  Then she goes on to make rambling statements which I do not think concern us, and I do not propose to read.  I think that is sufficient to show the state of mind she was in.   -   Waiting For Death.  -   Dr W. H. Waterfield said the preliminary arrangements were carried out very deliberately and effectively.  The pieces of paper used to make the room air-tight were cut and pasted very neatly.  There was no sign of anything having been done hurriedly.  Death was due to gas-poisoning, but there was this peculiarity that instead of the serene look common to such cases, deceased's face wore a look of terror, as if she had anxiously expected death.  As a rule, suffocation took place while the person was asleep, but in this case deceased appeared to have been perfectly conscious, waiting with great anxiety for death to come.  He had attended her for some years.  -  The Coroner:  She was rather addicted to drink?  -  I am sorry to say she was and very strange in her manner.  -  No doubt due to business worries?  -  Yes.  She usually talked about business worries when you met her, and I suppose reading the other case rather upset her balance.   -  The Coroner thought having regard to her business worries and intemperate habits there could be no doubt deceased could not have been accountable for what she did.  -  A verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 23 January 1909
PLYMOUTH - At an Inquest on THOMAS RATCLIFFE, 82, a Royal Marine pensioner, of St. Andrew-street, William Gray, labourer, said deceased was taken with a bad cough on Wednesday.  The Relieving Officer was communicated with, but RATCLIFFE was too ill to be removed.  He was seen, however, by Dr Cuming.  He had done no work for some years, and had lived on his pension.  - Dr Cuming said death was due to pleurisy and heart disease.

PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held on CHARLES CHRISTOPHER, aged 66, of King-street.  John Hayes said deceased came to his lodging-house from the Workhouse infirmary, where he had suffered from boils on the neck.  He was found dead by witness about half-past one on Thursday.  -  Dr J. S. Pearse, who had made a post-mortem examination, said death was due to a fatty heart.

RATTERY - Boy Killed By A Cow.  -  ERROL COAKER, aged 12, son of the late MR A. and MRS COAKER, of Brownston Farm, Rattery, on Wednesday night was crushed against the wall in the shippen by a restive cow, and sustained such injuries to his head that he died a few hours after being carried into the farmhouse.  At the Inquest yesterday a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 25 January 1909
BUCKFASTLEIGH - At an Inquest at Buckfastleigh on Saturday on MISS LUCY KATHERINE MARY R. REED, eldest daughter of MR JOHN REED, the medical evidence showed that she had suffered for 19 years from chronic asthma, and succumbed through exhaustion caused by a severe attack of asthma, due to heart disease of long standing.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 26 January 1909
HARBERTON - Harberton Baker's Suicide.  Worried By Debts.  -  At Harberton, at the Inquest on MARK PARNELL, baker, aged 40 years, his wife stated that of late he had complained of pains in his head, but no doctor had been consulted, as there appeared to be nothing serious.  On Saturday he did his work, and, as was his custom, went upstairs to lie down about 6 o'clock.  That was the last time she saw him alive.  She was busy in the shop, and at 9.30 went upstairs to tidy herself.  She found the door locked from the inside.  Gaining an entrance by using the shop key, she found her husband in a kneeling position at the bottom of the bed with a rope around his neck attached to the brass rail.  He had never threatened to take his life.  She could give no explanation as to the occurrence, as he had no money troubles.  He was not a teetotaler, but she could not say he drank more than was good for him.  He worried about the debts owing him.  -  Frederick Blight said deceased told him he was very worried about the debts he could not get in.  -  Dr Edmond said when he arrived, about 11.30 on Saturday night, MR PARNELL had been dead some time.  Death was due to strangulation.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 27 January 1909
IVYBRIDGE - At Lower Filham, Ivybridge, an Inquest was held yesterday on JOHN SAMUEL PULLEYBLANK, labourer, aged 53, who died suddenly on Monday whilst felling a tree at Shellwood Farm.  Dr Cooper said death was due to heart failure.

Western Morning News, Thursday 28 January 1909
PLYMPTON ST MARY - WILLIAM PENTER, 67, retired merchant seaman, fainted on Monday, and after remaining unconscious at Hooe, two and a half hours, died.  At the Inquest yesterday, Dr Noy Scott, who had made a post-mortem examination, said death was due to an aneurism in the aorta.

Western Morning News, Friday 29 January 1909
LYNTON - The Lynton Fatality.  -  At Lynton yesterday, Mr G. W. F. Brown held an Inquest on THOMAS ANDREWS, aged 45, an employee on the Cliff Railway for 19 years, found drowned in the tank connected with the railway.  -  The widow stated that after breakfast on Wednesday he left in good spirits.  She expected him home to lunch at ten o'clock, but he did not come.  The next thing she heard was that he had been found dead in a tank.  -  Mr J. Baker (gardener) said he had been working over the tank about five minutes when he saw a body standing in the water at the deep end (6ft. 2in.).  With assistance he got it out, but could see no signs of life.  -  Mr G. Blackford, a fellow-employee, said ANDREWS was working on the top and he (witness) at the bottom of the cliff.  He telephoned to him at 8.45 but got no answer.  Again he telephoned at 9.45 with the same result.  He did not hear anything until 12.55 p.m., when he heard of the accident.  He thought that deceased went up to the tank to see if it was frozen, so that the lift might run.  -  Mr C. E. R. Chanter, solicitor, of Barnstaple, on behalf of the Cliff Railway, expressed sympathy with the widow.  -  Dr Norman, who had made a post-mortem examination, said death was due to heart failure, causing suffocation, the result of sudden immersion in very cold water.  Death was probably immediate.  -  Mr Medway (Foreman of Jury) suggested a covering over the tank to prevent further accidents.  -  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned and the Jury devoted their fees for the purchase of a wreath to be placed on the coffin.

NEWTON ABBOT - Newton Fatality.  Mother Who Disobeyed The Rules.  -  At the Newton Workhouse last evening Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest on ROSE ELIZABETH NICHOLLS, daughter of MRS ANN MARIA NICHOLLS, an inmate of the House.  -  William Thomas Jones, Master of the Workhouse, said the child's mother was admitted on January 12th with two children.  -  The mother of the child stated it was two months old.  It had not been well since birth.  On the previous night, because of its continual crying, she took it out of its cot and into bed with her.  -  The Coroner:  Why did not you put it back in the cot after you had fed it?  -  It was crying so.  It had kept me awake for nights and I was tired out.  She dozed off with the child on her arm and when she awoke in the morning it was dead.  -  The nurse told you to put it back in the cot.  Why did you not do it?  -  I did not want to disturb the others.  -  You see what you have done by disobeying orders.  -  Dr J. J. Scrase, Medical Officer at the House, aid death was due to suffocation.  The regulations of the House were that after a mother had nursed a child it must be replaced in the cot provided for that purpose.  -  Clara Octavia Jenkins, nurse, said she told the woman repeatedly to replace the child in the cot.  The woman replied, "All right, nurse," and witness retired, but, feeling uneasy, again went back and warned the woman.  -  Mrs Georgina Jones, the Matron, also gave evidence.  The rules were hung up in the room.  -  The Coroner said this sort of thing was growing.  That was the third Inquest of the kind he had that week. The only way to prevent it was to disseminate knowledge of the danger of the practice.  The mother had acted directly contrary to orders.  -  A verdict of "Accidental Suffocation" was returned.

STOKE DAMEREL - Sad Devonport Story.  -  Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at Devonport yesterday on THOMAS HOSKIN, aged 27 years, a labourer, of Pembroke-street.  -  The widow stated that he was at work all day on Tuesday and returned home in the evening.  He went out about 7.30 apparently with the idea of looking for another job.  He was brought home about 8.45 by two men and laid on the floor of the bedroom where he remained throughout the night.  She woke up about 4.30 in the morning and found him on the floor apparently dead.  She usually let him lie on the floor when he returned home drunk.  When he woke up he would get into bed.  She did not cover him with anything.  -  The Coroner:  Tuesday night was an extremely cold night.  -  P.C. Couch said he was called to the house early on Wednesday morning, and found HOSKIN on the floor fully dressed with his feet under the bed.  MRS HOSKIN told him that deceased came home drunk and she allowed him to remain on the floor as she frequently did when he returned home in that condition.  -  Dr McElwaine attributed death to pneumonia, accelerated by exposure.  It was probable that deceased would have been living had he passed the night in bed.  He could see that HOSKIN had been a heavy drinker.  - The Coroner, summing up, said it was a most lamentable state of affairs.  It was incomprehensible that in those days, when it was so difficult to get employment, a man after working all day should go out in the evening and spend a great part of his earnings in drink.   The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 2 February 1909
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Baby's Death. -  Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on SYBIL K. M. WALLING, an illegitimate child.  -  MRS WALLING said it had been delicate since birth.  It was taken ill on Friday evening and died.  -  Florence Gilbert said she had been looking after the child for three months.  It was fed on biscuits and oat flour and milk.  Dr Brenton said he was called on Friday and found the child convulsed and very emaciated, with evidences of intestinal disease.  A post-mortem examination showed that it had suffered from gastritis.  Death was due to insufficient and improper feeding.  Oat flour and biscuits would irritate the stomach. -  A verdict of "Death from Gastritis" was returned, the Coroner remarking that it was a suspicious case.

STOKE DAMEREL - Sudden Death At Devonport.  -  Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest in the Royal Albert Hospital, Devonport, yesterday on MISS EVELINA FANNY FERENE PENFOUND, aged 38 years, an assistant at the shop of Mr G. Risdon, baker and confectioner, Marlborough-street.  -  MISS BESSIE PENFOUND said deceased, her sister, lived with her at Neath-road, Plymouth.  Recently she had complained of pains in the head and about a fortnight ago consulted Dr Palmer, who prescribed for her.  She was perfectly cheerful and apparently well on leaving home on Friday morning.  -  Miss Nellie Curnow, assistant at Mr Risdon's shop, said she had heard MISS PENFOUND complain of pains in her head.  About 3.30 p.m. on Friday, when in the shop, she again spoke of a pain in her head.  She sat down, and whilst witness was serving a customer, left the shop.  When witness had finished, she followed and found MISS PENFOUND sitting on the doorstep, evidently very ill.  She was brought into the office, and medical aid was summoned.  On the advice of Dr Roberts and Dr Sandford, she was removed to the Royal Albert Hospital.  MISS PENFOUND became unconscious about ten minutes after she was taken ill and remained so until she was removed.  -  Dr J. H. Pridham, House Surgeon, Royal Albert Hospital, said MISS PENFOUND never recovered consciousness and died about nine o'clock in the evening of her admission.  A post-mortem examination showed that death was due to cerebral haemorrhage.  The heart was also enlarged.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes" and expressed sympathy with the relatives and with Mr Risdon.  

Western Morning News, Wednesday 3 February 1909
BOVEY TRACEY - Bovey Discovery.  Child's Body Found In A Box. -  Mr Sidney Hacker (Coroner) opened an Inquest at Bovey Tracey yesterday on the body of a female child found dead in a tin box.  -  Mr H. Thurston, of Bankside House, said EVELYN POWLESLAND had been living with them for about two months as maid servant.  She came down as usual on Sunday morning and did her work, but in consequence of their suspicions her mother was sent for and took the girl home about 11.25 a.m.  In the afternoon (Sunday) Mrs Thurston went to the bedroom occupied by the girl, and then asked witness to come up.  Seeing the end of an apron string with blood on it hanging out of the girl's tin box, he opened it and found the body of a child wrapped in a flannel petticoat.  He then went for the Police.  -  Elizabeth A. Thruston, wife of the last witness, said she was present when her husband found the body.  She was of opinion that the child was born after eight o'clock on Sunday morning.  -  Dr R. R. Huxtable said he was called on Sunday evening, with Nurse Coombes, to see EVELYN POWLESLAND at her mother's house 6 Eureka-terrace. She told him she had given birth to a child at nine o'clock that morning.  The child was of average size and fully developed.  There were no signs of bruising and no external marks.  Internally all the organs were healthy.  He thought death was due to haemorrhage.  -  Mr Mardon:  How long do you think the child lived after birth?  -  Dr Huxtable:  The lungs were expanded.  - Nurse Coombes gave corroborative evidence.  -  MRS POWLESLAND (mother) said her daughter was 18 years of age.  -  The Inquest was adjourned to the 23rd inst. for the girl to attend.

PLYMOUTH - The Late MR JNO. COLE.  The Inquest.  -  The Inquest on MR JOHN COLE, baker and confectioner, of 46 Old Town-street, Plymouth, whose lamented death took place suddenly on Monday, was held yesterday by the Borough Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns.  -   MR HERBERT JOHN COLE, baker and confectioner, identified deceased as his father, who was fifty years of age.  Witness last saw him alive about six o'clock on Monday evening, when he seemed worried, saying that two people "up above" (meaning the Plymouth Workhouse) had threatened him.  He was not able to eat his tea, and the next time witness saw him he was lying dead on the floor of Mr Bailey's shop.  -   Mr John Farr, commercial traveller, stated that at 6.45 p.m. on Monday he saw MR COLE looking unwell and walking in a stooping position in Ebrington-street.  Witness greeted him and asked him what was the matter, the reply being "I've got funny pains in my chest."  Witness assisted him several yards, when he said "It's no use, I must go home."   Seeing that he was falling, witness caught him in his arms, and he was taken into Mr Bailey's shop, where he was found to be dead.  -  Dr Palmer deposed being called to Mr Bailey's shop and seeing MR COLE, whom he believed to be dead.  In the hope of possibly being able to revive him, witness made injections, but without success.  As a result of a post-mortem examination he found that deceased had a haemorrhage at the base of the brain, which probably affected the control of the heart and caused deceased to pass away in the slow manner described by Mr Farr.  -  A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.  -  MR S. T. COLE asked to be allowed to contradict the statement which had got abroad that the family of deceased knew he was suffering from heart disease.  -  Dr Palmer added that as a matter of fact heart disease was not present.  -  The Coroner, who spoke of deceased as a much respected tradesman and a very active member of the Board of Guardians, expressed, on behalf of the Jury, sympathy with the relatives.

NEWTON ST CYRES - Inquest At Newton St. Cyres. -  Mr H. W. Gould (County Coroner), held an Inquest on WILLIAM H. SHILSTON, aged 44, a carpenter, of Tedburn St. Mary, at the Railway Hotel, Newton St. Cyres on Monday.  -  WILLIAM SHILSTON (son) said his father had been working on the mansion of Mr E. O. Quicke, at Newton St. Cyres.  His heart was weak.   -  Frederick Ash saw deceased stagger and fall on his way to the Station.  He expired at the Station.  -  Mr L. H. Moher, of Crediton, Surgeon, said death was due to heart failure.  Verdict accordingly.  Mr E. A. Portass was present on behalf of the London and South Western Railway Company.

Western Morning News, Thursday 4 February 1909
BOVEY TRACEY - Retired Solicitor's Death.  -  At the Inquest at Bovey Tracey yesterday on MR JOSEPH HARRIS, of Lower Coombe, MR ALEXANDER SUTHERLAND HARRIS, his son, a Solicitor practising in London, said his father, 75 years of age, was a retired solicitor.  He was a widower and had lived at Lower Coombe for several years.  -  Mrs S. A. Pike, the deceased's housekeeper, said MR HARRIS did not go out on Sunday as he said it was too cold.  She last saw him alive on Sunday evening, when she took him some gruel.  He then said he was quite comfortable.  When she was going to take him tea on Monday  morning, she found him lying at the foot of the staircase, near his sitting-room door.  He always came down about that time for his tea.  The broken candlestick was lying by the side of MR HARRIS.  -  Dr W. J. Scott, of Newton Abbot said death was due to influenza and cardiac failure.  - A verdict was returned accordingly.  The funeral takes place in the parish churchyard today at 4 p.m.

Western Morning News, Saturday 6 February 1909
EXETER - Exeter Railway Tragedy.  The Inquest.  -  At the Inquest at Exeter last evening on HERO INEZ SMEDLEY, single, aged 22, who was cut to pieces on the railway on Wednesday night, Mr J. W. Denham, of Blackall-road, retired coal merchant, said deceased, his daughter-in-law, had resided with him for about two months, and occasionally before. She was born in China.  On Wednesday evening she went for a walk.  She usually went out with his daughter, but she was not home on that evening.  MISS SMEDLEY did not say where she was going.  She seemed to be as calm and reasonable as usual.  Twelve months ago she was attended by a doctor for an attack of hysteria.  He had been told that she had had a sunstroke in China, but she appeared to have recovered from it.  She was of rather an excitable temperament and was in China during the Boxer riots.  He was not aware that she had any trouble, but she rather felt her sister going back to China in August last.  Her manner was never at any time strange;  on the contrary, was very bright and cheerful.  It was his opinion that on Wednesday evening she was going to take the motor train at Lion's Holt to get into the city, and was killed by accident.  -  Inspector Percival (L. and S.W.R.) said there was no motor train stopping at the halt between 6.51 p.m. and 8.27.  -   Mr Denham, in reply to the Foreman (Mr W. J. Rourke) said when deceased came to England she was examined by a brain specialist, who said she had perfectly recovered from the effects of the accident.  -  Wm. J. Clark, driver of a train which left Salisbury at 5.18 p.m., said his last stopping place before he came to Exeter was Pinhoe, which he left at 7.53.  Just under Lion's Holt Bridge he felt as if the engine was going over something, and on his returning later to the locomotive shed at Exmouth Junction his mate got to the ground with a flare lamp and found a lady's hat close to the halt.  They proceeded further and found the body of a woman right under the bridge, not 15 yards from the end of the platform.  -  Detective-Inspector G. H. Bird, L. and S.W.R., said the body was cut clean in two.  From the position in which the body was found he considered the deceased must have been lying across the rails when the engine went over her.  She might have stumbled in the ditch by the side of the rails when attempting to cross the line or walk down the side of the track.  There was no path there, and boards were placed at the ends of the platform prohibiting people from leaving the platform or crossing the line.  -  Mr E. A. Brash, Surgeon, said there was a cut on the head, a compound fracture of the right arm, both legs were broken, and the body was cut in two at the waist.  -  Thomas Burridge, engine driver, said when he passed Lion's Holt Bridge on an engine on Wednesday evening about 7.50 he saw a woman standing right underneath the bridge, against the bridge.  -  George Radford, another engine driver, said he passed the bridge on Tuesday night at 6.57 and at the extreme end of the platform saw a young lady standing right up to the wall, wearing articles similar to those produced.  He thought that the lady was waiting for a friend.  -  Mr W. H. Tarbet, who appeared for the relatives and friends of the deceased, called Arthur Samuel Horne, a demonstrator of botany at a college at Newcastle-upon-Tyne, who said he had been engaged to deceased since March.  He last saw her at Christmas, when he paid a fortnight's visit to Exeter.  She was always of a most happy and bright disposition.  He never knew of her having trouble of any kind.  Quite recently her monetary allowance had been increased.  It was her intention to go to London to reside on February 9th.  -  Mr Tarbet read two letters from deceased to witness, written the day before, and on the day of her death, both of which were couched in very happy terms, and contained not a word of sadness or sorrow, and concluded, "Ever so much love and kisses from your loving INES."  - Mr Horne, continuing, said he had had a letter from the deceased every day since Christmas, every one of which was written in a perfectly normal manner.  -  The Deputy Coroner (Mr W. R. Cocks) said he thought on the evidence it would be somewhat unsafe for the Jury to allege that the deceased put herself in the way of the train purposely.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

EAST STONEHOUSE - Stonehouse Child's Death.  -  At the Inquest yesterday on SARAH ELLEN DEMPSEY, aged nearly three years, the mother, FLORENCE DEMPSEY, wife of a canteen waiter, living in East-street, Stonehouse, stated that deceased was playing about an hour or two before her death.  She had had a cold, but appeared bright.  She died while being given a drink of milk. -  The Coroner (Mr R. R. Rodd):  It seems such a strange thing that a child nearly three years old, showing no signs of fever, should die in that way.  There is no reason why you should not have called in a doctor?  -  Witness:  No. It seemed quite unnecessary.  -  Dr. W. H. Waterfield said deceased was a delicate child, well nourished.  Death was due to convulsions, caused by congestion of the left lung.  MRS DEMPSEY was a careful mother and he had no doubt had she thought there was the least necessity she would have obtained medical assistance, as she had done on previous occasions.  -  A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 8 February 1909
BISHOPS TAWTON - North Devon Tailor's Death. -  Mr G. W. F. Brown on Saturday held an Inquest at Bishopstawton on ERNEST HARPER EDGER, 33, tailor, and agent for "The Illustrated Western Weekly News."  Evidence was given that MR EDGER drank ginger beer with a dash of cider at dinner-time on Thursday and going back to his shop resumed his tailoring at the bench.  His apprentice, Wm. Ridd, heard him say "Hullo!" and immediately saw him fall back over the bench.  He lifted him up and found him dead.  -  Dr A. W. Lemarchand said deceased had suffered from an affection of the heart since birth and death was due to distension and failure of the heart.  That might have happened at any time and it was unusual for a person born with such an affection to live to the age deceased did.  -  The Vicar (Rev. E. A. Lester) was Foreman of the Jury, who returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

STOKE DAMEREL - At Devonport on Saturday Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest on EDWIN PADDY, aged 65 years, of Hood-street, retired shipwright, H.M. Dockyard.  -  MARY PADDY, the widow, stated that she had never heard him complain.  On Thursday night, whilst in bed, he appeared to be breathing peculiarly.  She spoke to him, but could get no reply.  She lit a candle and then found her husband had passed away.  -  Dr Roberts attributed death to syncope, the result of chronic kidneys and heart disease.  -  A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned and the Jury expressed their sympathy with the relatives.

STOKE DAMEREL - Mr Pearce held an Inquest on ELLEN PRYNN, aged 66 years, a spinster of Ryder-road.  Mary Rewe, the wife of a dispenser, with whom deceased resided, stated that on the evening of the 23rd ult. she left deceased at the top of Albert-road.  She had expressed her intention of going shopping.  When witness reached home later she was informed that MISS PRYNN had fallen down on Rocky-hill and broken her leg.  Dr Rae had already set the leg and on his advice she was subsequently removed to the Royal Albert Hospital.  -  Dr G. H. Pridham, House Surgeon, stated that deceased had a compound fracture of the left leg.  An amputation was regarded as necessary, but the patient was unwilling to be operated upon.  She grew gradually weaker and died on Thursday, death being due to sceptic absorption and exhaustion.  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

TEIGNMOUTH - A Teignmouth Child's Death. -  Mr Hacker held an Inquest at Teignmouth on the infant child of WILLIAM HORN HOOPER, of 5 Stanley-terrace, aged four hours.  -  Mrs Lake, midwife, stated that the child and mother received every attention at and after its birth.  She had to leave the case, and a few hours afterwards was fetched and found the child dead.  Dr Heyward was sent for, and stated that death was due to suffocation.  The child had been wrapped up with a "head flannel" and piece of blanket besides and then laid at the side of its mother and the weight of the clothing prevented its breathing.  It was a weak child.  -  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, without blame being imputed to anyone.  -  The Coroner said there might not be direct blame, but it was a case in which a little more care could have been exercised.  People seemed to have an idea that to get warmth was to bury the little one in blankets.  As a certificated nurse he hoped Mrs Lake would impress upon all mothers not to countenance that idea.

Western Morning News, Thursday 11 February 1909
BIDEFORD - Bideford Woman's Death.  Medical Men Fully Exonerated.  -  Mr Geo. W. F. Brown, North Devon Coroner, yesterday investigated the circumstances of the death in the Bideford Infirmary of MRS MARY ELIZABETH TUCKER, 30, wife of MR JAMES TUCKER of Woodward Cottages, Bideford.  -  The Coroner remarked that deceased had been an inmate of the Hospital for four or five months, under the treatment of the medical staff there.  Dr Grose mainly had charge of the case and very properly consulted Dr Toye, also an honorary Medical Officer of that establishment, and he suggested certain treatment.  After the death of the patient, the Coroner understood a rather serious accusation was made by the husband against the medical men - especially Dr Toye - that his wife had been improperly treated.  Knowing Dr Toye and his reputation so well, he was satisfied that was not the case, but that he had given due attention to the case, as he always did.  He ordered an Inquest and got Dr Pearson, who was perfectly independent, to make a post-mortem examination, the result of which the Jury would hear.  -  JAMES TUCKER, the husband, said his wife was satisfied with her treatment in the Institution until just before the last, when she complained a little.  She began to rub her eye and noticing it was red, he asked her what was the matter, and she said the doctors the previous day dropped something in her eye, which seemed to be paining her a lot.  He spoke to Dr Grose about it.  His wife died on Monday.  -  Asked if he had made to Dr Grose an accusation against Dr Toye with regard to his treatment, witness said he told Dr Grose he was not satisfied with what Dr Toye had done to her as she had complained to him about it.  -  The Coroner:  Did you make an accusation that Dr Toye had killed your wife?  -  No, I don't think I did.  I think I said to Dr Grose, "It appears a good lot like it is going to kill her."  -  The Coroner:  Have you now any complaint to make against the Medical Staff or anyone of them with regard to the treatment of your wife?  -  No, I have not, sir.  -  Dr J. S. Grose said deceased was admitted to the Infirmary in September 1908 suffering from an abscess in the side, which was incised and otherwise treated.  She improved and by January 4th was well enough to walk out of doors. As she seemed to remain stationary after that he asked some other members of the staff to examine her with him.  Dr Toye suggested the ophthalmic test for tuberculosis and after applying it, considered MRS TUCKER had tuberculosis.  A few days later her temperature went up to 104.2;  she became delirious and died on February 8th.  He gave a certificate in the usual way, stating as the cause of death the abscess and meningitis, probably tubercular.  -  Replying to the Coroner, witness said he had no personal knowledge of the treatment Dr Toye used, which had only been in use for the last eighteen months, but had generally, he believed, met with a favourable reception.  -  The Coroner:  Was everything done for the woman that was possible whilst she was here?  -  Certainly.  -  Was anything revealed by the post-mortem examination to suggest to you that the treatment was wrong? -  No;  I think Dr Pearson will probably tell you the cause of death was much as I stated.  -  Dr E. J. Toye said he expressed the opinion about the case that it was probably tuberculosis and suggested in view of some uncertainty that it would be as well to arrive at a definite opinion and the only way to do that was to apply the ophthalmic or eye test.  He pointed out to Dr Grose the importance and value of the test and they agreed together to apply it.  Dr Grose held the eye open whilst he placed the drop in.  Their suspicions were amply confirmed the next day, showing the well-known result of putting the drop into the eye, which proved, as they suspected that the abscess was a tuberculous one.   The eye got well again before the onset of any other symptoms.  There was no case on record of meningitis following this test.  He thought the test threw great light upon the case and was of great assistance;  it might have proved of invaluable assistance in the ultimate recovery of MRS TUCKER.  -  The Foreman(Mr Adams):  You have no suspicion in your own mind that death was brought on quicker?  -  Just the reverse.  It would rather have delayed the onset and minimised the acuteness of the attack of tuberculous meningitis.  -  In reply to the Jury, witness said the eye test was practically painless.  In the eye of a patient not tuberculous it was like a drop of water, but where the patient was tuberculous the eye became inflamed just as if one had a cold in the eye.  -  Dr Ellis Pearson, giving evidence of the post-mortem examination, said the surroundings of the abscess cavity were distinctly tubercular in character.  He examined the eyes and found them quite healthy.  He had no hesitation in saying the immediate cause of death was tubercular meningitis.  In regard to the test, he had tried the same thing on children, who did not even know there was anything put into the eye.  It was a well-recognised test in doubtful cases.  -  The Coroner said it appeared that everything that could be done was done, and the test Dr Toye so carefully described to them in no way accelerated death, but in fact, otherwise, as Dr Toye said its effect was rather to prolong life.  No doubt the husband was overwrought at the time the remarks were made and was sorry for it now.  It was a very serious thing to make accusations against medical men of such standing, for once a thing was said like a snowball going downhill, it gathered and might do harm to a person, however good his reputation was.  -  The Jury found a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence, "That MRS TUCKER died from tubercular meningitis, and at the same time desired to exonerate Dr Toye from all blame, and the medical men, believing they had done everything in their power for deceased."

Western Morning News, Friday 12 February 1909
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Woman's Death.  Scene At The Inquest.  -  Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at Devonport yesterday on MARY JANE REAN, aged 51 years, the wife of a writer in Devonport Dockyard, and living in St. Aubyn-street.  The husband stated that she had suffered for many years from bronchitis.  On Wednesday morning he left her in bed apparently in her usual health.  About 8.45 a.m. he was called from his work, and on arriving home found she had passed away.  He did not think her illness was of so serious a character as to necessitate a doctor being called in.  -  Mrs Sarah Ann Minguy, living in the same house, said she was called from her bed about eight o'clock on Wednesday morning, and found MRS REAN dying.  She passed away almost immediately.  -  The Coroner:  Were you surprised that you were called down to her?  -  No;  because she was certainly ill.  She had the strongest objection to doctors.  -  Dr T. McElwaine attributed death to inflammation at the base of the right lung.  MRS REAN suffered from cirrhosis of the liver which had probably accelerated death.  -  The Coroner remarked that the condition of the deceased's liver pointed to excessive alcoholism.  -  MR REAN said if his wife drank to excess she did it whilst he was at work.  -  On the Foreman of the Jury announcing that they were agreed upon a verdict of "Natural Causes" a woman in court, apparently a relative of MRS REAN, rose from her seat and exclaiming "Thank God!"  "Thank God!" fell back in a swoon.

Western Morning News, Monday 15 February 1909
TORQUAY - The Swiftsure Fatality.  -  At Torquay on Saturday afternoon, Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest on THOMAS POOLE, aged 24, able seaman, of the battleship Swiftsure, of the Channel Fleet, who met with a fatal accident on board by falling from a bridge on to the deck on the previous day in Torbay.  -  Lieut. James Campbell Holmes, R.N., produced the ship's register showing the age of deceased, and that he entered the navy in 1900.  He was a native of Brighton, and his wife lives at Southsea.  The body was brought ashore that morning, and placed in the mortuary.  - Frederick Maidment, chief boatswain, said deceased was under his charge, and shortly after 11 a.m. on Friday he sent him and another seaman on the bridge leading to the crane on the port side of the ship.  Deceased had to fit a new lanyard on the guard rail of the bridge to prevent men from falling over.  Witness suggested that, whilst deceased was engaged in cutting out the old lanyard wire, before fitting the new one, leaned against it and fell over on to the deck below, a distance of about 12 feet.  - Selwyn Jagger, able seaman, who was doing a similar job at the time, said he saw deceased cutting a wire and he fell over directly afterwards.  -  Alfred Ward, chief yeoman of signals, stated that whilst approaching the bridge he saw deceased fall from it on to the deck, pitching on the crown of his head.  Two men immediately ran to deceased and witness informed the doctor of the occurrence.  -  Dr Ernest Stewart Reed, Staff Surgeon, R.N., said e saw deceased in the sick bay, to which he was removed, a few minutes after the fall.  He was unconscious and breathing stertorously, and blood was issuing from his right ear and both nostrils.  Witness at once concluded that he had sustained a fracture of the base of the skull, and he died a quarter of an hour afterwards.  -  The Coroner remarked that he thought a fall of 12 feet was a short distance to produce a fracture of the base of the skull, but Dr Reed said he had heard of a similar injury being sustained through a fall of only four feet from a cart.  It depended upon the way in which a man fell;  the distance was not of very great importance.  -  Frederick Wm. Gibbs, able seaman, and a friend of deceased, said he saw him the night before, when he was all right and in good health.  - Lieut. Holms, recalled at the request of a Juryman, said the ship was not rolling much at the time of the occurrence.  -  The Jury, of whom Mr R. Hodge was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

STOKE DAMEREL - Hamoaze Mystery.  Jury Return An Open Verdict.  -  The death of LEADING STOKER JOHN O'BRIEN, of H.M. Cruiser St. George, whose body was found floating in the Hamoaze on Thursday, formed the subject of an Inquest by the Devonport Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) at the North Dockyard on Saturday.  Mr J. P. Goldsmith was present on behalf of the Admiralty.  -  Master-at-Arms Thomas Donovan, of the Europa, stated that deceased was a native of Wexford, Ireland, and was about 32 years of age.  Witness last saw O'BRIEN alive on the morning of 15th ult., when he came on board the Europa, the parent ship, for his weekly payment.  O'BRIEN went on leave on the following day and should have returned by 7 a.m. on 18th ult.  He, however, never returned to the ship.  O'BRIEN bore an excellent character, had 13 years' service and was in possession of two good conduct badges.  He was a single man.  -  Replying to the Coroner, witness thought it just possible that deceased fell into the water when returning to the Europa on the morning of 18th ult.  -  Dennis Sullivan, a stoker petty officer, serving on board the Defence, stated that he was acquainted with deceased, who was an old shipmate of his.  Witness saw him about 11 p.m. on 18th ult., walking in the direction of the North Dockyard.  He seemed to have had a little to drink, but was not drunk.  -  Alfred Brown, employed by Mr Baker, canteen contractor, living in Admiralty-street, Keyham, said he was proceeding by boat from Pottery Quay to Moon Cove creek on Thursday afternoon and saw the body floating in the water about twenty yards from the cove.  He towed it to shore and handed it over to the Metropolitan Police.  The body was floating with the wide.  -  P.C. Aubrey Powell, Metropolitan Police, deposed to receiving the body from the last witness.  The name "J. O'BRIEN" was written on deceased's jumper and trousers, whilst that of "G. Morrison" was attached to the collar.  -  Surgeon Norman Howard Mummery, Devonport Dockyard, stated that the head and neck of deceased were very much decomposed, and the features were unrecognisable.  Witness attributed death to drowning, and expressed the opinion that deceased had been dead at least three weeks, and that the body had been in the water during the whole of that period.    -  There were no signs of foul play.   -   The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 16 February 1909
PLYMOUTH - Old Lady's Sad End. -  An Inquest was held at Plymouth yesterday by Mr R. B. Johns on ELIZABETH ROBERTS, aged 91 years, an old-age pensioner, living at 1 Hastings-terrace, who died on Sunday from burns received through her accidentally setting fire to her clothing.  -  Louisa Sitters, married 20 Ladysmith-road, Plymouth, said that deceased was her aunt and was the widow of a prison warder.  She lived in a single room and alone.  -  Louisa Childs, married, 1 Hastings-Terrace, said early on Sunday morning she smelt smoke and went into deceased's room.  The old lady was sitting on the floor while her nightdress was apparently on fire.  Witness immediately ran for assistance.  -  John Joseph James, grocer, 1 Hastings-terrace, said he was called by Mrs Childs, and on entering deceased's room found the old lady's nightdress on fire.  There was an open spirit lamp alight on the table and as there was no other unprotected light in the room he presumed that deceased caught her clothing on fire while attending to the spirit lamp.  MRS ROBERTS was unconscious and died almost immediately.  -  Dr J. H. Torney said he was called to see deceased, but found her dead.  Death was due to shock caused by extensive superficial burns.  -  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

WHITCHURCH - MRS SARAH EDWORTHY, aged 72 years, the wife of a retired market gardener, living in Wake-street, Pennycomequick, died suddenly whilst lighting a fire on Saturday.  At the Inquest last evening Dr R. H. Wagner attributed death to syncope, due to fatty degeneration of the heart.  A verdict accordingly was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 17 February 1909
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Child's Death. -  Mr J. A. Pearce (Devonport Borough Coroner) held an Inquest yesterday on the infant child of GEORGE ALFRED BURGESS, postman, 20 Trafalgar-place.  -  The father said deceased who was 10 ½ months old, was playing on the rug on Sunday afternoon, when he was attacked with a "catch" in his breath and died shortly afterwards.  -  Dr Elgar Down, who was called, said the child was very well nourished.  Death was due to spasmodic croup.  This was an extremely rare cause of death and he had only once before known of a similar case.  A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

PLYMOUTH - Death Of A Crimean Seaman. -  At Plymouth Mortuary yesterday afternoon, Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest on JOHN VENTON, aged 76 years, a naval pensioner, who died suddenly at his residence, 80 Treville-street, the previous day.  -  ELLEN VENTON, daughter, said her father about a fortnight since fell whilst getting out of bed, knocking his leg.  - Dr E. Travers-Stubbs deposed that death was due to heart failure and pneumonia, accelerated by the fall.  -  Verdict accordingly.  -  MR VENTON was a Crimean veteran, having seen a good deal of service both in the Crimea and in China.  Born on November 9th, 1833, he entered the navy as a lad and was invalided from the Indus with gunshot wounds in May 1866.  he was wounded in the hip, groin and knee, carrying a Russian bullet in the latter to his dying day.  He was the possessor of three medals.

Western Morning News, Thursday 18 February 1909
DARTMOUTH - Captain's Death At Sea.  Inquest At Dartmouth.  -  The s.s. Casterton, owned by Messrs. G. P. Cutting and Co., South Shields, from Benisaf, bound to Shields, arrived at Dartmouth yesterday morning, and the body of the captain, JOSEPH WILSON, 62 years of age, of 2 Belgrave-gardens, Horton, South Shields, who had died suddenly the previous day at sea, was landed.  -  In the afternoon the Coroner for the Dartmouth district (Mr A. M. Davson) held an Inquiry.  -  Edward Davey, the chief mate, said deceased had breakfast on Tuesday morning at eight o'clock, but later complained to him of feeling unwell, and went to his berth.  Witness saw him two or three times during the day, and at about twelve o'clock he appeared to be asleep.  At a quarter-past three o'clock the steward told him he thought deceased was dead.  With the exception of an occasional cold deceased had previously enjoyed good health.  At the time the vessel was about twenty miles off Ushant.  - Thomas Henry Fox, steward and William Frederick Hooper, chief engineer, also gave evidence.  - Dr J. H. Harris, port medical officer, deposed to making a post-mortem examination.  He attributed death to sudden stopping of the heart, owing to the diseased state of the aortic valves.  The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.  -  Mr J. Murphy, chief officer of Customs at Dartmouth, and Mr S. Wallis, representing the local agents, Messrs. Renwick, Wilton and Co., Limited, attended the Inquiry.

PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday on an infant who died at the residence of its grandmother, ELIZABETH WEEKS, 150 King-street.  Dr Aikman, who made a post-mortem, said death was due to acute bronchial pneumonia.  The child had been well cared for.  A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held yesterday morning on MARIA TREVASKIS, widow, aged 75 years, who was found dead in her bedroom at 9 Higher York-place, York-street.  The previous night she appeared in her usual health and retired at 10.30.  Mrs Jane cotton, living in the same house, soon after six o'clock yesterday morning took her a cup of tea, but could not gain admittance.  The window of the room was forced opened and MRS TREVASKIS was found on the bed fully dressed and dead.  Dr Brenton who was sent for stated that death was due to heart disease.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Friday 19 February 1909
EXETER - At an Inquest at Exeter yesterday on WILLIAM CHURCHILL, carpenter, aged 33, of Plymtree, who was fatally injured by a tree falling on him on Tuesday, a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

STOKE DAMEREL - Mr J. A. Pearce, Coroner, held an Inquest at Devonport yesterday, on MARIA DUNN, age 92, of 31 Mount-street.  Deceased fell in the kitchen on the 3rd. ult., and next day complained of being in great pain.  Dr e. J. C. Wilson found that she had fractured a hip joint and that in consequence of her age she could not recover.  He had attended her regularly since, but she died on Tuesday from syncope, due to old age accelerated by the fracture.  Verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Saturday 20 February 1909
EXETER - Exeter Child's Death.  Coroner And Patent Foods. - At an Inquest at Exeter yesterday on the five-weeks-old daughter of Bombardier L. ADAMS, R.F.A., Colleton Grove, the mother said the child had been weakly, and she fed her with raw milk and water.  Early this week a Mrs Luge advised her to have a patent food for the child and she went to Mr Pearse, chemist, and asked for a tin.  Mr Pearce had not the food asked for in stock, and recommended another kind.   This witness took away and gave some to the child.  Yesterday she found the child dead in bed. -  By the Coroner:  The food had done the child no good.  She told Mr Pearse the age of the child.  -  Mr H. B. Harrison, Surgeon, attributed death to convulsions, due to constipation.  Milk and water would be a proper food for the child.  In the circumstances food should not be given to children under three months old at least.  -  The Coroner (Mr Brown):  Another doctor told me once that if children were given patent food at too early an age they died like flies.  Would that be so?  -  Yes, very fatal.  In the case of an exceptionally strong child a little patent food could be given it when three months old.  -  Wm. F. Pearce, chemist, South-street, said he did advise the mother to give the child this food.  He did not remember, or he did not pay any attention to the mother telling him the age of the child.  He told her to give the child a very small quantity, as he knew it was young. At five weeks old he believed a small quantity, say a quarter of a teaspoonful, would do no harm.  -  The Coroner:  You would back your opinion against half a dozen doctors?  -  A small dose.  - Do you know that anything of a starchy nature is exceedingly bad for a young child?  -  Yes, sir.  -  I suppose you know there is starch in this food?  -  Very little.  -  There is starch in all flour?  -  Yes.  -  this is made of flour is it not?  -  Flour and sugar.  It is made by a firm in London.  I have sold it for ten years and it has never done any harm to any children before.  -  The Coroner:  I hope not.  I am not pitching into this food more than any other.  They are all made of flour.  Why didn't you suggest castor oil, or something like that?  - She didn't ask for any medicine for it.  She simply asked for food.  She said the child suffered from constipation.  There was a little malt in the food.  -  Mrs Florence Luge, Colleton Grove, who was sent for by the Coroner, said that the baby did not seem to get on with milk, and she recommended the mother to try a patent food.  -  The Coroner said he felt for the mother and believed that whatever she got she did it with the best intentions, but it was a pity that people should buy these foods.  They seemed to have the idea that something thick would do the child good, but that was not so.  It was a pity people did not stick to milk until a child was several months old.  A chemist recommending anything should know what he was recommending it for (Hear, Hear!)  The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 23 February 1909
PLYMOUTH - Infantile Mortality.  -  Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest at Plymouth Mortuary yesterday respecting the deaths of three infants.  -  In the case of the death of CATHERINE HIGGINS, a baby, the daughter of WILLIAM HIGGINS, cook's mate, of 2 Tavistock-place, Dr H. B. Palmer stated that death was due to jaundice and a verdict of Natural Causes was returned.

PLYMOUTH - A verdict of Natural Causes was returned with respect to the death of ELIZABETH ROSEINA QUINLAN, eleven weeks  old, daughter of PATRICK QUINLAN, general labourer, High-street.  The mother stated that the child had been well from birth.  On Sunday morning, at 3.30, she was about to give the baby some milk when she noticed it was very cold.  Dr Clark was sent for, but the child died before he had time to arrive at the house.  -  From a post-mortem examination which the medical gentleman had made he was able to say that the child died as the result of early stages of inflammation of the lungs.  There was no evidence of the child having been overlaid.  

PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held respecting the death of ETHEL GERTRUDE MAY BRYANT, aged 11 months, daughter of ALBERT BRYANT, journeyman painter, Looe-street. -  The mother deposed that the child had been delicate since birth, and had suffered from whooping-cough.  In the latter part of last week it was taken ill, but she thought it would get better.  There was a change on Sunday and the child died during the evening. She believed the child had measles.  Dr Palmer was sent for.  -  In answer to the Coroner, the mother said she had other children who attended school.  As the baby had died of measles she had that day kept the other children home from school.  Her husband went out to work daily.  -  The Coroner:  There is a danger of the measles spreading.  It seems monstrous that the compulsory notification of measles under the Act is not now in force in Plymouth.  Here we have a case in which the children in the same house have been going to school, and the husband out to work.  The measles might, in consequence, have been caught by other people.   There would not be the same fear of measles spreading if each case was notified.  The notifications under the Act ought never to have been withdrawn.  -  The Foreman (Mr Southern) said he agreed with the Coroner.   There was a prevalence of measles in Plymouth at the present time.  -  Dr Palmer remarked that there was greater trouble when cases of measles were supposed to be notified.  The cases were then hidden because parents did not care to notify, and a child would be almost dead before a doctor was sent for.  -  The Coroner:  That does not put the matter right.  there are cases of a house in which a child is suffering from measles, and the other children are going to school and the husband to work.  There was a case of this kind a few weeks ago.  -  The Foreman:  There ought to be notification.  It would be some means of stopping the disease, which I understand is very prevalent in this district just at present.  -  Dr Palmer stated that when he arrived at the house the child was dead.  He was satisfied from the examination he had made that death was due to measles.  -  Verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

TORQUAY - Torquay Suicide.  -  Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Torquay yesterday on the body of THOMAS FLEET, 32, fisherman, of Queen-street, who committed suicide at his home on Saturday afternoon by cutting his throat.  -  The evidence showed that deceased had been a steady, respectable man, and neither his eldest brother nor the widow could ascribe any reason for his action.  On Saturday he ate his meals as usual, and made preparations for going out fishing on Monday.  His wife left him in the house about 3 p.m., and soon after she was gone he sent his son to buy a loaf.  On the lad's return he found the kitchen door locked and blood coming from under it.  He called his mother and her brother, Pte. Hammond, of the 1st Devons, and on the door being forced, deceased was found lying dead with his throat cut and a table-knife by his side.  -  Dr H. K. Lacey said the injury inflicted was so severe that death must have taken place in a very short time.  -  Commenting on the apparent absence of motive, the Coroner described the case as a mysterious one.  -  The Jury found that FLEET "Committed Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 24 February 1909
BOVEY TRACEY - The Bovey Discovery.  Result Of The Inquest.  -  At Bovey Tracey yesterday, Mr S. Hacker held the adjourned Inquest on the body of the female child of EVELYN POWLESLAND, domestic servant, aged 18, which was found on Sunday, January 31st, in a tin box in the bedroom which the girl formerly occupied whilst in the employ of Mr and Mrs Thurston, lodging house keepers, at Bankside House.  The Inquest had been adjourned for the purpose of taking further evidence, and also to give the girl an opportunity of being present  -  Dr R. R. Huxtable said when he saw the girl she told him that when the child was born it made a few sounds.  The child was well developed, and there were no signs of bruising and no marks of violence.  Internally, all the organs were healthy, and he was of opinion that the child was born alive, and that the cause of death was haemorrhage in consequence of the child not being properly attended to at birth.  There were no signs of death having been caused by violent or unnatural means.  There was nothing to show if the child was living or dead when it was put into the box, but it was probably put there after death, as there were no signs of suffocation.  -  Nurse Kate Coombes said the girl also told her that when the child was born it made a little noise, and that she laid on it as she was and then the noise stopped.  -  MRS SARAH JANE POWLESLAND, the girl's mother, said when her daughter walked home with her on the Sunday morning after the birth she did not say a word of having been confined two hours before, but she admitted it in the evening after the discovery of the body.  -  The girl asked no questions.  -  The Coroner remarked that the case was a serious one, and involved all sorts of serious considerations for the girl.  The Jury had to consider whether the child had a separate existence, and if the mother did any act with the intention of killing it, or whether it died in consequence of there being no one present to give it the necessary attention.  The finding of the body in the tin box naturally raised some suspicion, and it was also difficult to understand what the girl meant when she said she laid on the child, but if it meant that when the child was born she continued in a helpless state, there was nothing in the statement to go against her.  Although morally culpable in not making provision for the birth, she was not legally culpable.  It had been laid down by the judges that such neglect was not manslaughter.  The question of concealment of birth did not affect the Jury.  If they brought in a verdict that the child died from inattention at birth, that was not a criminal matter.  -  The Jury returned a verdict "That the child died from Haemorrhage, due to want of Attention at Birth," and that no one was responsible.  -  The girl was subsequently arrested by P.S. Boughton and brought before Dr J. W. Ley and Mr A. J. Murrin, at Newton Abbot, and charged with concealment of birth.  The evidence given at the Inquest was repeated after which accused, who reserved her defence, was committed for trial to the Assizes on March 8th, and admitted to bail, herself in £20 and two sureties in £10 each.

Western Morning News, Saturday 27 February 1909
DAWLISH - Inquest At Cofton. - Mr G. Kellock, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at Cofton, Starcross, on WILLIAM SAMUEL COPP HAYDON, who was found dead in bed on Thursday.  -  MRS HARRIETT HAYDON, widow, stated that deceased had been at work on the Cofton Waterworks and had made no complaint of illness.  He retired to bed at his usual time.  Finding he was not moving in the morning to go to work, she called to him several times and then went to his room, to find him dead.  Mrs Ann Martin, a neighbour, was called in.  She went to the bedroom and found by the appearance of the deceased's bed that death must have occurred shortly after he had lain down to rest.  -  Dr Iles, of Starcross, said a post-mortem revealed that the heart and kidneys were in an unhealthy condition, but no signs of poison or anything to suggest death by violence.  He had no doubt that the exertion of the work the deceased had been engaged in lately, and to which he had not been accustomed, caused syncope.  -  The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

WEYMOUTH, DORSET - Devonshire Man's Death.  What A Post-Mortem Revealed.  -  A man was found dead at a Weymouth Inn.  In the clothing was found some pieces of pencil, three farthings and a pocket-book, in which appeared the name and address "GEORGE DYMOND, Chulmleigh."  At the Inquest the Coroner stated that a message had been received informing him that the deceased had a wife residing at Barnstaple.  It was stated that the deceased told the manager of the inn where he was lodging that some time ago he fell from the mast of a ship, and that as a consequence he was invalided out of the mercantile service.  The evidence of the doctor who conducted a post-mortem examination, was of a most extraordinary character.  Several of the internal organs, he said, had been misplaced.  The stomach and heart were on the wrong side and one lung had entirely collapsed.  There were several other displacements.  Death was due to pleurisy.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Monday 1 March 1909
EXETER - At an Inquest on WILLIAM BORN, 73, retired commercial traveller, of Victoria-street, Exeter, it was stated that on Thursday afternoon deceased left home to go to the Cathedral, but soon returned owing to the cold.  He was taken ill in the evening and died before the arrival of Dr Pereira, who attributed death to heart failure, due to chronic bronchitis, accelerated by the severe weather.  He had known deceased for years as a man very sensitive to the cold.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 2 March 1909
PLYMOUTH - Drowned In A Water Tank.  Plymouth Man's Sad End.  -  Mr J. Graves, Plymouth Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Mortuary yesterday on the body of WILLIAM CROSSMAN, 65, R.M.L.I. pensioner, of Wolsdon-street, Plymouth.  -  EMILY CROSSMAN, daughter, said she last saw deceased alive at three o'clock yesterday morning.  He had been taken ill on Friday.  At four o'clock she went to his bedroom, and found that he was not there.  -  Louisa Webber, widow, living in the same house, said that at MISS CROSSMAN'S request she went into the yard to look for deceased.  There was a large water tank in the yard, with a pair of steps against the side.  The lid of the tank had been taken off.  She sent for a Police constable, who, she understood, found the body in the tank.  -  P.C. Wm. Cutts deposed to being called to the house about 4.20 and finding the body in the tank.  He afterwards took it to the Mortuary.  -  Dr Torney said he was told yesterday morning that deceased had committed suicide.  He went to the house and found the body in the yard dead.  Death was due to drowning.  He attended deceased on Saturday last and found him to be suffering from influenza, complicated with pneumonia in the left lung, which would cause considerable pain.  There was no evidence of delirium, but it might come on, and cause the patient to commit suicide.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane," and their sympathy with the relatives was endorsed by the Coroner.

MORETONHAMPSTEAD - Mr G. Kellock, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Moretonhampstead yesterday on MRS MARY ANN COUNTER, aged 69.  MR JAMES COUNTER, husband of the deceased (and whose evidence had to be taken at the house owing to infirmities), said that on Friday  his wife was stooping to pick up a piece of cotton when she swooned and fell forward.  Dr R. Sutherland attributed death to haemorrhage, due to the bursting of one of the arteries.  The Jury brought in a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 3 March 1909
STOKE DAMEREL - Found Dead In A Chart House.  Inquest At Devonport.  -  Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at Devonport Dockyard yesterday on DANIEL NEIL LAMONT (48), an engineer serving on board coaling craft C 65.  -  Horace P. Scobell, a relative, stated that the deceased, who had resided in Fairfax-avenue, appeared to enjoy splendid health and seemed to be very happy when he left home on the previous day.  -  William John May, a stoker, on board C 65, said he last saw LAMONT alive in the forecastle of the vessel about 10.30 a.m. on the previous day.  Shortly after midday, whilst the vessel was lying off the Himalaya, witness proceeded to the deck house, as LAMONT had not come down for dinner.  He found him lying in a chair and thinking he was asleep, shook him.  LAMONT'S appearance aroused his suspicions and he called the remainder of the crew.  A doctor was sent for and LAMONT was found to be dead.  - Replying to the Coroner, witness stated that the deceased recently complained of something giving way in his head and blood issuing from his nose.  - Frederick Williams, of Dundonald-street, the master of C 65, said he had known the deceased during the whole of the time he had been in the ship.  On Saturday when witness left him at the Dockyard Gates, he appeared to be in good health.  -  Sergt. James Maun, of the Metropolitan Water Police, said he boarded C 65 and found LAMONT lying dead in the chart house.  -  Staff Surgeon E. Arkwright, Devonport Dockyard, stated a post-mortem examination revealed that the heart was weak and dilated and the lungs congested.  He attributed death to heart failure, accelerated by congestion of the lungs and kidneys.  - A verdict accordingly was returned and the Jury expressed their sympathy with the widow and relatives.

ROBOROUGH - Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Roborough Farm, near Roborough, yesterday on MRS SUSANNAH BICKELL EGGINS, aged 59, of Rowter Farm, Lifton.  Elizabeth Hamley, wife of a blacksmith, of Roborough, said deceased was staying with her daughter, Mrs Luce, at Roborough Farm.  On Sunday she went to see her nephew at Leigh Farm.  While walking back she was taken suddenly ill in the road and expired.  Dr L. D. Stamp, of Plympton, said he made a post-mortem examination of the body and found dead to be due to a fatty heart, accelerated by exertion on an overladen stomach.  A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 4 March 1909
NEWTON ABBOT - Newton Fatality.  Suggestion That The Woman Threw The Lamp.  -  Mr S. Hacker opened an Inquest at Newton Abbot Hospital yesterday on WILLIAM TUBB, army pensioner, aged 57, who died in the Hospital on Tuesday from the effects of burns caused by a lamp explosion at his house, 48 Bowden-hill, on Monday night, the deceased's wife being also in the Hospital suffering from injuries sustained at the same time.   -   The Coroner told the Jury this was a case in which he understood there were only two persons in the house when the occurrence happened, but what actually took place he did not know.  The Jury after hearing the evidence would be able to judge whether the injuries received by deceased were the result of accident or arose in consequence of any person's action.  Deceased's wife was still suffering from very serious injuries. She would not, he understood, be capable of giving evidence for some time.  Obviously she was the principal witness, as there was no one else present apparently when the lamp exploded and, consequently, the Inquest would have to be adjourned until she was in a fit condition.  He did not know whether the Jury would like to look at the house themselves;  there were orders that nothing was to be moved.  Possibly there might be some serious questions as to whether the fire caused by the explosion was the result of any person's wrongful action.  If so, it would be advisable for the Jury to go and look at the house.  He believed statements would come before them at the adjourned Inquest suggesting the suspicion that the woman threw the lamp at deceased, and that there was some little row on at the time.  -  The Foreman said he should like to see the house, and the other Jurymen agreed.   -    Evidence.   -   WILLIAM TUBB, private in the 1st Devon Regiment, stationed at Lucknow Barracks, Tidworth, Wiltshire, identified deceased as his father, who was formerly a colour-sergeant in the 3rd Battalion Devonshire Regiment.  He had been retired on pension for nearly eleven years and had been working as a labourer for Mr Henley, cider merchant.  He and his wife lived together and with them deceased's youngest son, 13 years of age.  Witness had been home on a month's furlough, and stayed with deceased and his wife up to Monday morning, when he wished them "goodbye" before returning to his barracks at Tidworth.  -  The Coroner:  Did your father and mother get on well together?  -  No sir.  -  What do you mean?   Used they to quarrel?  -  Yes, at times.  -   Witness explained that deceased's wife was not his (witness's) mother, but his step-mother, she being his father's second wife.  He had seen quarrels between them recently and the last was on Sunday.  In their quarrels there was nothing beyond words;  they never used violence to each other.  The quarrel on Sunday to a large extent had to do with witness.  He had words with MRS TUBB, and it had nothing to do with his father.  It was over the young brother carrying tales.  They went to Teignmouth, and whilst there some words passed between witness and his father, and the younger brother brought it back and told MRS TUBB, who then said that he (witness) would have given her more money if it had not been for his father.  Deceased and his wife had words, but there was no violence.  Witness did not see them together on Monday morning before he left.  He knew nothing about any quarrel or what happened on Monday night to lead to his father's death.  -  Mr Walter Anderson Scott, Surgeon, stated that he was sent for on Monday night.  On arriving deceased was in the front room lying on a stretcher.  He was very badly burned.  Some of his clothes had been taken off.  Witness had deceased removed as soon as possible to the Hospital.  His wife was badly burned too, and he also had her taken to the Hospital.  On his offering deceased brandy and asking him what he had had to drink, deceased replied that he had had "two or three glasses " which he supposed meant beer.  Consequently he did not press the brandy on deceased, thinking he had had enough already.  His wife then said that the man was drunk.  To this the man made no reply, and witness doubted whether he heard his wife's remark, as she did not say it very loudly.  At the Hospital witness treated the man, who was suffering from very large surface burns on his face, neck, arms, shoulders, chest - and in fact all over the front part of the body, including his sides and the upper parts of his thighs.  He died at five o'clock on Tuesday morning, the cause of death being shock from the burns.  -  The Coroner:  There were no marks besides the burns?  -  Witness:  I did not see any.  The ambulance men were there, but he did not know if they had treated the man with oil:   if so, this treatment was only temporary.  Deceased was wrapped up in a blanket when he was on the stretcher.  Witness found the ambulance men of the greatest assistance, not only in bringing deceased to the Hospital, but afterwards in helping him to do the dressing.  Witness had also been in charge of the woman.  He did not think her injuries would be fatal.  She was going on very favourably at present, and he thought she would be well enough to give evidence in a fortnight.  -  Mr Morrish, a Juryman asked Dr Scott whether, when deceased's wife said her husband was  drunk, he noticed the man was under the influence of drink.  -  Witness replied that it was very hard for him to say whether deceased was drunk or not simply because the man had so little to say to him, but from his general attitude and manner, he should say he had had something to drink and more than was good for him.  If deceased had not been under the influence of  drink he would have felt the shock more and the few things he said showed witness that he was not particularly rational.  -  The Coroner:  Do you think that he was to a certain extent under the influence of drink?  -  Yes, that was the conclusion I came to.  -  The Foreman remarked that deceased presented the same manner when he was perfectly sober.  - The Coroner:  You would not say he was drunk?   -  Dr Scott:  The shock had sobered him a good deal.   -   The Inquest was adjourned to Thursday, March 18th and the Jury afterwards inspected deceased's house.

STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Burning Fatality.  Old Lady's Terrible End.  -  The Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) at Devonport yesterday, held an Inquest on SARAH CAROLINE HERBERT, aged 72 years, wife of an engine fitter employed in H.M. Dockyard, and residing in Portland-place, Morice Town.  -  WILLIAM GEORGE HERBERT, the husband, stated that his wife had been an invalid for the past nine years.  Shortly before three o'clock on Monday afternoon, he was called from his work, and arrived home to find his wife very badly burnt.  He went for Dr Morris, from whom she received every attention. She died shortly before 4 a.m. that day.  -  Dr Morris said he found the deceased suffering from extensive burns. Her right side was terribly burnt, whilst her right thigh was literally charred.  She was also badly burnt about the right arm and right leg.  From the first the case was a hopeless one.  -  Mrs McDonald, who resides in the house, said hearing deceased screaming, she rushed upstairs and found her literally one mass of flames.  Witness threw a rug around her and succeeded in extinguishing the flames.  She subsequently got deceased into bed.  -  Replying to the Coroner, witness stated that when she entered the room deceased was sitting in an easy chair close to the fire, and she thought a portion of her clothing might have caught.  Deceased's sister, an old lady of 74, was in the room at the time, but being an invalid herself, she was unable to do anything.  -  The Coroner:  I think Mrs McDonald is to be commended for the courageous way in which she extinguished the flames. (Hear, hear.)   -  The Jury, in returning a verdict of "Accidental Death," sympathised with the husband and relatives, and warmly commended Mrs McDonald for the prompt and courageous way in which she went to the assistance of deceased.

Western Morning News, Friday 5 March 1909
TIVERTON - Farm Bailiff's Death.  Killed By Fall Of Horse At Tiverton.  -  An Inquest was held at Tiverton Infirmary last night regarding the death of FRANK CLEVERDON, 31.  Mrs Greenslade said deceased had been her bailiff for the past six years at Little Tidcombe Farm, Tiverton.  He rode to Tiverton last Tuesday on business.  The horse was about 5 years old, very quiet, and was ridden regularly by deceased.  About 7.30 in the evening she was fetched to Cleeves Laundry, where deceased was lying unconscious.  The horse came home by itself, covered with mud on the "off" side and with its shoulder grazed.  She inspected the roadway at the corner of the lane and saw blood marks.  The road was very slippery and it was freezing hard.  -  Thomas Rawle, employed at Tidcombe Laundry, said deceased called there last Tuesday just before 7 p.m.  He was perfectly sober.  He rode off at a gallop and about two minutes after he heard the horse stop. He followed and at the bend of the road by the canal found deceased lying unconscious across the road, face downwards in a pool of blood.  The road was very slippery;  no one could stand there.  -  Dr Pollock said he was called to Tidcombe Laundry at 7.45 and found him lying on a sofa, unconscious, suffering from a fractured base of the skull.  It was a hopeless case.  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 6 March 1909
CREDITON - A Lonely Life.  Man Dies From Exposure.  -  At an Inquest on WILLIAM WRIGHT, aged 53, at Crediton Workhouse yesterday, the Master (Mr W. W. Smith) said deceased was a general labourer, a native of Colebrook, and had no fixed abode.  When admitted to the Workhouse at 12.30 p.m. on Thursday he was in a state of collapse.  The porter and witness took deceased to the Infirmary and sent for Dr Campbell.  Deceased was at the Workhouse last September and had been there on about nine previous occasions.  He was of a roving disposition.  He died in the evening without regaining consciousness.  -  Mr W. S. Campbell, Surgeon, Medical officer of the Workhouse, said he saw the deceased, whose face and hands were blue from the exposure to the cold.  His feet were also very cold.  Witness advised the Master to get him to bed as soon as possible and give him some hot milk and brandy.  He was quite able to swallow.  Witness gave him some medicine to stimulate the heart, which was in a weak state.  He died from gradual failure of the heart, which was brought about by exposure to the cold.  Deceased was never very strong, physically or mentally.  -  P.C. Tancock, stationed at Colebrooke, said on Tuesday Mr Simmons, a farmer, reported that deceased was bad.  Deceased had slept on the farm for the past 22 years.  Witness did not know that deceased had been sleeping in a shed, although he knew he slept on the farm premises.  Witness told Mr Simmons to report the matter to the Relieving Officer.  Deceased was well known in the parish.  - The Coroner said it was a simple case, and everybody had acted in a straightforward manner.  The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

TORQUAY - Death By Gas.  Torquay Porter's Strange Suicide.  -  Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest at Torquay yesterday on JOHN THOMAS ROOK, aged 28, porter, in the employ of Mr R. T. Knight, draper, the Strand, who was found dead with his head in a gas oven on his employer's premises on Thursday morning.  Deceased lived at 3 Homefield-cottages, Babbacombe.  -  FLORENCE AMELIA ROOK, the widow, said she had been married two years, and had had two children, one of whom was living.  Deceased left to go to work as usual on Wednesday morning at seven o'clock and, as he did not return in the evening, she waited up all night for him.  She had no reason to suppose he was not coming home.  She told her brother and deceased's brother of her husband not having come home and they went to look for him, but without success.  -  The Coroner handed witness a letter, which with much emotion, she identified as being in her husband's hand-writing.  The letter, written in pencil, was found on deceased, and was as follows:-   "To my dear wife, - Good-bye MIN;  I cannot put up with the pains in my head any longer.  Look after the dear boy, though I know you will, as you have been a good wife to me.  -  From JACK. "   -   Witness, continuing, said deceased had complained of pains in his head off and on for the last fortnight and he said he thought it was neuralgia.  -  Asked by the Coroner if she could give the Jury any explanation of what had occurred, and whether deceased had anything on his mind, witness said he had no trouble.  He slept at night and ate his meals.  He was in regular work and got fair wages to keep herself and the child, and he was not in debt.  They lived very comfortably together and when deceased went to work on Wednesday morning he was in a good temper, and they were very good friends.  Deceased had never threatened to take his life and witness had no reason to think that he contemplated doing so.  He seemed at times to be a little depressed, and she thought this was caused by the loss of their baby, who died two months ago.  Deceased's wages were 18s. a week, the whole of which he gave her, and she would give him back what she could afford for himself, sometimes 1s. or 2s.  He was not addicted to drink.  -  Frederick A. Taylor, assistant to Mr Knight, said he had noticed that deceased had been depressed during the past week.  He had not been well for some time;  he was much quieter than usual, and complained that his head was bad.  On Thursday morning, at eight o'clock, after hearing that deceased was missing, and that he had not left the premises, witness went upstairs with Mr Greenwood, another assistant, to look for deceased.  When they went to the little kitchen on the top floor, where there was a gas stove, they found deceased lying on the floor, with his head in the oven.  The room was full of gas;  there was a ventilator open at the top.  The oven door was open, and there was a towel hanging over the front of the oven, to prevent the gas escaping.  Witness first turned the gas off, and then went outside the room until the fumes had cleared off.  He and Mr Greenwood then returned to the kitchen and lifted deceased back into the room.  He was quite dead and had evidently been where he was found for several hours, as the body was cold and stiff.  The oven was full of gas, as well as the kitchen.  The parcels which deceased should have delivered the previous evening were still in the shop.  Deceased had had no trouble with his employer, and, so far as witness knew, he was steady and sober.   -   William Crago, another assistant, said when he left the premises shortly after seven o'clock on Wednesday evening he did not know that there was anyone left there.  He did not go to the kitchen and therefore could not say whether deceased was there then.  He understood deceased was delivering parcels.  -  Harry Holland, Mr Knight's other porter, said when he left on Wednesday evening, deceased told him he was going upstairs for his "grub" basket.  He complained on Tuesday of "suffering cruel" from pains in his head.  -  Mr Knight stated that deceased had been in his employ between eight and nine years.  He had had no trouble with him, and he did his work all right.  Deceased was steady and witness never saw him take anything to drink.  He noticed that at the time deceased lost his baby he was a little depressed, but he thought that was gradually wearing off.  No one slept on the shop premises, and deceased ought not to have remained.  The kitchen was simply a small room for the work-people to boil a kettle in, and that was what the gas stove was for.  Deceased usually had his dinner there.  There were about a dozen jets in the oven, which would emit a large quantity of gas.  Had deceased been accidentally locked in, he could have got out by using the fire escape over the roof, or by means of the telephone.  -  Dr Lionel L. Phillips, House Surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said when the body was brought to the mortuary, he squeezed the chest, from which a large amount of gas was emitted.  He had made a post-mortem examination, and the engorged condition of the blood-vessels of the heart and brain showed that death was due to asphyxia or suffocation by gas poisoning.  There was no visible symptom of brain disease and to all appearances the brain was healthy.  Death probably took place about midnight on Wednesday.  -  The Coroner remarked that the letter showed the intention which deceased had of taking his life, that being the only construction it would bear.  -  The Foreman (Mr Jos. Heale) described the case as a most extraordinary and sad one, and the Jury returned a verdict that deceased Committed Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 9 March 1909
NEWTON ABBOT - The Newton Fatality.  Inquest:  Conflicting Statements.  -  Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Newton Abbot Hospital yesterday on VIRTUE TUBB, widow of WILLIAM TUBB, army pensioner, aged 57, both of whom suffered fatal injuries as the result of a paraffin lamp explosion at their house on Bowden-hill a week ago.  The man died in Newton Hospital the next day and the Inquest upon him was opened on Wednesday last, and adjourned for a fortnight, the medical man being of opinion that his widow would then be sufficiently recovered from the burns to give evidence.  She died, however, on Saturday.  -  The Coroner pointed out that, as the evidence was the same in regard to the man and his wife, the Jury would be in a position to return their verdict in respect of both.  -  At the former hearing it was stated that MR and MRS TUBB frequently quarrelled and Dr Scott, who attended the man, said he was of opinion that he was under the influence of drink at the time of the occurrence.  -  Mrs Elizabeth Jane Payne, Ashburton, daughter of MRS TUBB, gave evidence of identification, and said her mother was 53 years of age.  When she saw deceased on the previous Tuesday she and her husband threw a saucer at her, which struck the lamp and it being cracked this caused it to explode, and set her on fire.  When witness asked her mother if her husband was drunk, her reply was "Did you ever see him sober?"  -  The Coroner:  What did you reply?  -  Witness:  No.  This was literally true;  she never saw the man other than drunk.  -  In reply to Mr D. Leemon, Foreman of the Jury, witness said she had seen TUBB dozens of times.  - On what do you base your opinion that he was always drunk?  -  He was never able to walk straight, and never had a civil word for anyone at home.  -  Answering another Juryman, witness said she did not know that TUBB suffered from rheumatism.  -   Refused To Save Himself.   -    William Henry Holding, clay cutter, living near deceased, said when the alarm was given he rushed to the house and pulled MRS TUBB out of the room, her apron and blouse being on fire.  The mantelpiece, and curtains on a table, were also burning, and the room was full of smoke.  MRS TUBB begged witness to go inside to her husband, who, she said, was burning to death.  He found the man in a kneeling position, by the fireplace. The oil was burning under him and a burning piece of carpet was on his back, having apparently been placed there by someone to put the fire out.  Witness begged TUBB to come out, but he replied, swearing, "No, let me bide here."  Witness then took deceased under the armpits, dragged him out and extinguished the fire.  MRS TUBB said, "Oh, my dear BILL";  and the man replied, "It's too late now, you have murdered me and thrown the lamp at me."  MRS TUBB said, "You are going to try and put everything upon me now, I suppose."  Witness was of opinion that the man was drunk;  if he had not been he would not have been so obstinate and remained in the fire.  He was sober when witness saw him at 5.45 the same evening.  The youngest boy, age 13, was asleep in bed at the time of the occurrence.  -   Jessie Holding, wife of the last witness, spoke to helping to put out the flames on MRS TUBB.  When the smoke had cleared she saw the man in a kneeling position, with the flames around him.  He asked to be let alone, and MRS TUBB going to him her clothes again caught.  After her husband had dragged the man out he said his wife threw the lamp at him, but she denied this.  Witness asked MRS TUBB how it happened, and she said she was going to the cupboard with the lamp in her hand when her husband threw a saucer and knocked the globe off.  -  In reply to the Coroner as to the habits of TUBB, witness said he was drunk every night and twice on Sundays, but she afterwards qualified "every night" to several nights a week.  -  Dr W. A. Scott said MRS TUBB went on very favourably for two days after her admission to the Hospital, and he thought she had a good chance of recovering.  On Thursday, however, she began to get worse.  She was extremely burnt on the front of the chest, left arm and hand, and also on the right arm and around the waist on the left side;  and she died from heart failure, the result of the burns, on Saturday morning.  There was nothing to lead witness to think that the woman was anything but sober at the time of the occurrence, but he was quite of opinion that the man was drunk.    -   Was  The Lamp Thrown?    -    George Kerslake, clay miner, living near deceased, said on hearing screams he went to their house and saw MRS TUBB outside in the roadway, she having been burnt.  She said her husband was being burnt to death, and witness went in and found TUBB on the steps outside the door burning.  He cut off his burning clothes and assisted Mrs French, another neighbour, to wrap him in a blanket and place him on a chair.  TUBB said he had had a quarrel with his wife, who first threw a cup and saucer at him and then the lamp.  MRS TUBB denied throwing the lamp, but admitted throwing a saucer and said she knocked the lamp over as she was getting away from her husband.   -   Mrs Emily French gave evidence of putting oil and flour over MR and MRS TUBB.  She added that on Wednesday, in the Hospital, MRS TUBB said she threw a cup and her husband threw a saucer and, having the lamp in her hand, the saucer broke it.  -  P.C. Miller said when he and P.C. Heale went to the house, on the night of the occurrence, he asked TUBB how the explosion happened, and he replied, "My wife first threw a cup and saucer at me.  She then took the glove off the lamp and threw that at me, which caught my clothes on fire."  MRS TUBB, on hearing this, said, "What my husband has said is all lies.  I did not throw the lamp at him."  Witness said he could not say that TUBB was drunk, nor did he smell anything to lead him to think so.   -   P.C. Heale, corroborating, said he heard TUBB say to his wife, "You have murdered me!" and she replied, "Listen to that, now!"   -    MRS TUBB'S Statement.  -   P.S. Newberry stated that on the day after the occurrence MRS TUBB made a statement to him at the Hospital as to the circumstances under which it happened.  She said:  "My husband came home at quarter to nine the worse for drink and asked for 'Jumbo,' his youngest son.  I said, 'What for?' and he replied, 'I'm going to give him a hiding.'  I refused to tell him where the boy was, and he got off his chair to strike me.  I threw a cup at him and then took up the lamp to go to the cupboard to get some tea, and when I was returning he threw a saucer at me which knocked off the globe of the lamp.  The lamp caught on fire in my hand, and also caught the sleeve of my blouse on fire.  My husband then came to put the fire out, and caught himself on fire.  I rushed out to call assistance, and on my return he was on his hands and knees in the flames.  Mr and Mrs Holding then came and assisted to put the fire out."   -   Aubrey Bolt, caretaker at the Constitutional Club, said TUBB was a member and was in the club from 6.30 to 8.30 on the Monday evening in question.  He had five glasses of beer and seemed to be quite sober when he left.   -    Coroner's Opinion.  -   The Coroner said the question for the Jury was whether the burns were received under circumstances which pointed to the conclusion that there was a quarrel of some sort and which would make them think that the injuries were sustained in consequence of an accidental chain of circumstances, or whether there was any criminal act committed.  They had no evidence of what actually occurred when the lamp exploded except the statements of the man and his wife.  Even if MRS TUBB was in the position of the accused person, these statements would not be legal evidence against her, and they would not be strong enough to convict her.  There was no accused person there, and all the Jury had to do was to satisfy themselves and the public as to how the occurrence happened and to come to a common-sense conclusion.  There was no question of any person being committed for trial or of any criminal responsibility.  The husband accused his wife of having thrown the lamp at him and murdered him, but whether this was said in spite or bad temper he could not say, especially in face of the evidence that the man was drunk at the time.  If he was not actually drunk, he must have been labouring under great excitement, and it certainly looked as if he was under the influence of liquor.  He therefore thought it would be dangerous for the Jury to attach any value to the man's statement.  He (the Coroner) should say that the statement which MRS TUBB made to the Police-Sergeant was the correct version of what occurred, as it was made in the Hospital, free from excitement.  If that was so, it eliminated any idea of malice on the part of the woman, or of her having wilfully or otherwise thrown the lamp and caused the fire.  If the Jury were also of the same opinion, and thought there was a bit of a squabble, during which the lamp exploded, their verdict should be that these unfortunate persons came to their death from burns caused by the accidental breaking of the lamp.  -  The Jury returned a verdict "That the two persons came to their death from Burns caused by the breaking of the lamp, but that there was not sufficient evidence to show how this occurred.

EAST STONEHOUSE - Stonehouse Burning Case.  Police Commended.  -   Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at the Townhall, Stonehouse, yesterday, on MARY ANN REID, aged 71 years, widow, 3 East-street, who died on Saturday from burns received through the exploding of a lighted oil lamp.  -  David Durton, pensioner, 3 George-place, Stonehouse, stated that the deceased, his aunt, had lived for fifty years in the same house.  -  Amelia Coyle, married, 3 East-street, stated that on Saturday morning shortly after one o'clock she heard two low cries coming from the deceased's room, which was on the same floor as witness's.  She proceeded to MRS REID'S room, but was driven back by the volume of smoke in the passage.  Her husband also tried, but failed.  The Police were summoned.  Witness heard the deceased unlock the door of the house for another resident at 11 o'clock on Friday night.  Deceased was in receipt of an old age pension.  -  Jane Stancombe, married, 3 East-street, said that she reached her house at about 11 p.m. on Friday and was admitted by deceased.  Witness looked into deceased's room and saw the lamp alight on the table.  MRS REID always kept the lamp burning during the night.  -  Sergeant E. Babb, Devon Constabulary, said P.C. Gent and himself were summoned to the house by hearing a Police whistle blown.  They found smoke issuing from the door and windows.  Witness entered deceased's room but was driven out by the smoke.  He left the door open for some time and again entered.  He noticed that the bed was in flames and that there was a burning mass in the centre of the floor.  He discovered that it was the deceased and immediately put out the flames with buckets of water.  The old lady was quite dead.  On the floor was a broken oil lamp.  In his opinion the lamp must have exploded.  -  Dr W. H. Waterfield said death was due to shock from the extensive burns.  The upper portion of the body was charred beyond recognition.  He also believed that the lamp exploded.  There were marks of oil on the walls and windows, and the lamp itself had been splintered to pieces and blackened.  Deceased must have been saturated with oil.  -   The Coroner said he had known the deceased for thirty years as a respectable, hard-working old lady.  He felt sure that they were all grieved at her sad and unexpected end.  -  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 10 March 1909
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on MINNIE MILLER, 42, of 10 Wooton-cottages, Rendle-street.  Mary Jutson living in the same house, wife of a journeyman baker, said on Monday about one o'clock deceased was taken ill and complained of internal pains.  At 8.30 witness went back to MRS MILLER'S room and found her dead.  Dr Waterfield, who had made a post-mortem examination, attributed death to syncope, caused by two tumours, each weighing 3lb. 5oz.

TORQUAY - "Death from Misadventure" was the verdict returned at the Inquest at Torquay yesterday on ELIZA BELLAMY, who died from injuries received through a fall from a window on Thursday last.  The Coroner made strong remarks on the subject of deceased being left in the house by herself.

Western Morning News, Friday 12 March 1909
EAST STONEHOUSE - Stonehouse Tragedy.  The Inquest Opened:  Sidwell Before The Magistrates.  -  As reported in our issues of yesterday, a fatal affray occurred in the Orlando Inn, Stonehouse, on Wednesday evening, when Jobe Henry Sidwell, stoker, of H.M.S. Carnarvon, struck an ex-stoker named JOHN WALSH.  -  Immediately the blow was struck WALSH fell to the ground and expired.  The deceased had previously served in the Carnarvon and was dismissed from his ship in the early part of this week.   WALSH was a native of St Patrick's, Waterford, and Sidwell's parents reside at Birmingham.  -  At the Townhall, Stonehouse, yesterday morning, Mr R. Robinson Rodd opened the Inquest concerning the death of WALSH.  Superintendent Crooke and Inspector Joslin were present.  Mr S. Teague was elected Foreman of the Jury.  -  The Coroner explained that the Jury had been summoned to Inquire into the death of JOHN WALSH.  It had been reported that deceased, on the previous evening, visited the Orlando Inn, Stonehouse, and was drinking with other sailors:  That he was struck by a man named Sidwell, and the effect of the blow was to knock him down.  WALSH did not rise again, and died almost immediately.  It was intended that the Jury should now simply view the body for the purposes of burial, and then adjourn until Tuesday next to go fully into the case.  -  The body having been viewed by the Jury, the Coroner adjourned the Inquest until Tuesday next, at 10 a.m., stating that in the meantime Dr W. E. M. Corbett would make a post-mortem examination.

Western Morning News, Saturday 13 March 1909
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Tragedy.  MR C. T. DERRY'S Jump From A Window.  The Coroner's Inquiry.  -  In the early hours of yesterday morning MR CHAS. T. DERRY, of 8 The Crescent, Plymouth, head of the firm of Derry and Co., wine merchants, met his death under most painful circumstances.  About 3.15 a.m. P.C. Maddock, on duty in the vicinity of The Crescent, heard a thud, as of a heavy body falling.  He ran in the direction of the sound, and in the area of No. 8 The Crescent, saw MR DERRY lying at full length, his groans showing that he was still alive.  With the assistance of deceased's house-keeper, Miss Odgers, the Constable carried the injured man into the house and Dr Lucy was sent for.  At this stage MR DERRY was conscious and said he believed his back was broken.  He was suffering agonies of pain and at his request morphia was administered.  The injuries included a compound fracture of the right elbow, a severe bruise on the forehead, and a fracture of the right pelvis, and, despite every possible attention, he passed away about 6 a.m. without making any statement that could throw light on the affair.  The tragedy created a profound sensation in Plymouth, the deceased being a well-known business man.  He was only 30 years of age and was unmarried.  -    The Inquest.     -     Mr John Graves, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest on deceased last evening at 8 The Crescent, Mr E. Earwaker being chosen Foreman of the Jury.  -  The Deputy Coroner remarked that the evidence was such as to unhappily point to self-destruction.  So far as he could gather, the reasons that might have led to the deceased's mind becoming unhinged might probably be that in the past he had had some financial difficulties.  But these difficulties seemed to have been satisfactorily arranged.  However, the reaction after the trouble he had gone through seemed to have upset him and caused him to act as he did.  MR DERRY'S death under such circumstances naturally came as a great shock.  He was well-known to them all, and bore a name that was honoured and respected in Plymouth.  It was a most unfortunate thing altogether and deceased seemed to have taken a decision very suddenly.  The Inquiry would necessarily be very short, and he was sure the Jury could arrive at no other conclusion than that it was a case of self-destruction.  -  WILLIAM DERRY, brother of the deceased, identified the body.  Personally he knew nothing, he said, of the actual occurrence.  He saw his brother the previous day, when they had a long talk.  Some time ago the deceased had financial worries, which had, however, been satisfactorily arranged and his affairs were now very much brighter.  -   Miss Lilia Odgers, MR DERRY'S housekeeper, stated that the deceased retired to his bedroom at about 11.30 the previous night.  He was then quite calm and collected.  Some time afterwards she heard him moving about his room, and his window was thrown open.  About 2.30 a.m. she heard him go out of his room into another room, and she then heard a second window opened.  She left her apartment, and finding he was not in his room she then went out to the front door, and found deceased lying in the area.  -  By a Juror:  She did not sit up all night.  She could not understand the doors and windows being opened, and she naturally went to see what was the matter.  -  P.C. Charles Maddock stated that about 3.15 that morning he was on duty at the bottom of Athenaeum-street, when he heard a tremendous thump from the direction of the Crescent.  He went over and heard groans coming from the area, where he found the deceased. He (deceased) was conscious and asked witness to get him into the house.  With the assistance of the housekeeper witness got him in the passage, and Dr Lucy was sent for.  When witness entered the area the housekeeper threw up a window.  Deceased was in his sleeping suit.  When witness got him inside he found that his arm was broken and deceased then said "I have broken my back."  That was the only remark he made to him.  -  Dr R. H. Lucy stated that he found the deceased suffering from compound fracture of the right elbow and a severe bruise in the centre of the forehead.  He died about three hours after witness first saw him, the cause of death being shock.  -  The Deputy Coroner:  Did he say anything?  -  Witness:  He said he was in great pain, and asked for morphia, which I gave him.  He did not offer any explanation of the occurrence.  Subsequently witness further examined the body and found that the pelvis was fractured on the right side.  The window from which he fell was a very small one, and when the sash was raised one could only get out of the window by striding across the window sill.  If deceased had thrown himself out he would have been found on the palings or in the roadway.  He must have dropped about 40 feet.  Witness was not deceased's medical attendant.  -  A Juryman remarked that MR DERRY had been looking unwell for some time.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Temporary Insanity," and expressed sympathy with the deceased's relatives.   -     MR DERRY'S Career.  -  Deceased was the son of the late MR WILLIAM DERRY, who was thrice Mayor of Plymouth.  Educated at Sherborne, the young man at the age of 20 joined his father in the prosperous business of WM. DERRY and Co., wine merchants, general carriers and agents for the G.W.R.  On the death of MR DERRY, sen., about seven years ago, deceased became the head of the firm, and proved himself a good business man.  He was a kind and liberal employer and was greatly esteemed by his workmen, who, until the business of carriers was given up, numbered some 150.  MR DERRY was a member of the Plymouth Club, the Royal South Western Yacht Club, the Conservative Club and the Sports Club, London.  He was an all-round sportsman, and at one time was very keen on coursing.  He was a very good judge of cart horses, having himself successfully shown several.  On the retirement of Mr Ryall, he was appointed hon. secretary of the Plymouth Races, and during his period of office one of the most successful meetings ever held was a tribute to his fine methods of organization and resource.  He subsequently relinquished the office, which has since been held by Mr A. Godfrey.  Of an exceedingly generous disposition, the late MR DERRY gave liberally to the poor, in which philanthropic work he followed in the footsteps of his father.  He was also a generous subscriber to the various hospitals in the town.  The date of the funeral has not yet been fixed.

Western Morning News, Monday 15 March 1909
EXETER - The Okehampton Fatality.  Inquest At Exeter. -  At the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on Saturday an Inquest was held on WILLIAM JAMES EVELY, who died at that Institution on the previous Wednesday.  Mr L. P. Evans (Plymouth), H.M. Inspector of Factories, was present and Mr Wood, owner of the mill in which the accident occurred, was represented by Mr Pearse, solicitor, Okehampton.  -  Geo. Lavis Gay, of East-street, Okehampton, said deceased, aged 23, was a wheelwright in his employ.  He also lodged with witness.  At Mr Wood's manure works, witness had repaired the machinery for the past 35 years.  Deceased had worked for witness about five years, and had previously been to the mill to repair the machinery.  On Wednesday last, in the morning, witness was called by some workmen, who said that the deceased was caught in the machinery.  Witness found deceased on the water-wheel shaft.  He was caught in the upright shaft, and men were trying to cut him off.  When witness got him to his lodgings he asked deceased why he went on to the shaft and he replied, "I went on to screw up a bolt."  Witness told him he ought to have stopped the machinery, and deceased replied, "I know I ought to have, but I thought I could have got on without stopping the machinery.  I should have done it all right if I hadn't had on an apron;  the apron done it all."  There were three doctors in the town, and not one of them were at home.  There was no ambulance in the town and no cottage hospital.  -  The Coroner:  that's a disgraceful state of things.  The district nurse was called, and when the first doctor arrived he ordered deceased's removal to hospital.  -  By the Foreman (Mr W. V. Cole):  The machinery was guarded off, in accordance with the requirements of the Factories Act.  There was also a card there which stated that no one must go amongst machinery in motion.  Deceased said it was his own fault for trying to get on to the shaft when the machinery was in motion.  -  Ernest John Wolland, labourer in the employ of Mr Wood, said at 11.30 on Wednesday morning deceased asked him to hold a lamp for him.  Whilst doing other repairs the deceased had noticed that there was a bolt gone off the shaft.  The machinery was going at the usual speed.  Deceased had got the bolt on the shaft and was going to get on the other side to put the nut on, when his apron caught and deceased said "Quick."  Witness immediately shut off the water and stopped the machinery.  It took nearly an hour to get him out of the machinery.  -  The Foreman:  It is time Okehampton woke up.  -  Thomas Folley Wood, owner of the mills, said on Wednesday he was at Holsworthy market.  Witness had given verbal instructions that nobody should do anything to the machinery while it was in motion.  -  Mr V. H. Starr, House Surgeon at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, said when admitted deceased was suffering from shock and haemorrhage.  There was a dislocation of the right collar bone, the thigh was fractured, two ribs were broken, and there was also a compound fracture of the right knee joint.  Death was due to shock and haemorrhage.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed sympathy with the relatives of the deceased.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 16 March 1909
CULLOMPTON - An Inquest was held at Cullompton yesterday on MARY TAYLOR, aged 40.  The husband, employed at the Tannery, said deceased had been dreaming a good deal lately and would scream out in her sleep.  This she did early on Saturday morning, and he said to her, "Why don't you go to sleep."  She threw her arm near his head and he went off to sleep.  When he awoke at 5.30 she was dead.  In reply to questions witness said deceased had suffered from fits.  Dr Gidley said death was due to syncope.  Verdict, "Death from Natural Causes."

NEWTON ABBOT - The Newton Fatality.  Need Of Lifebuoys On Barges.  -  At Newton Abbot Townhall yesterday Mr Sidney Hacker held an Inquest on ALFRED ELLIS, aged 26, lighterman, who was found drowned in the Teign on Saturday afternoon.  -  SAMUEL J. ELLIS, brother, said deceased and himself were in the employ of the Devon and Courtenay Clay Co.  On Friday night, with two other bargemen, they were taking a cargo of clay down to Teignmouth.  Before starting they missed the boat, which was usually towed astern, and witness proceeded along the bank looking for it.  About one hundred yards below the quay he saw his brother fall overboard.  He could not say if he slipped, or missed his pole on turning.  Witness could not swim, so it was no use jumping in after him.  Deceased could not swim.  Witness found deceased's cap near the bank later.  -  The Coroner:  Don't you keep lifebuoys on board?  -  No, sir.  -  Didn't you tell the foreman?  -  No, sir.  He was not there that night.  -  John Spear said he missed deceased, who had gone toward the stern of the boat, and heard a splash. He threw his pole in after deceased.  -  The Coroner:  A dangerous thing to do.  You might have hit him on the head.  -  Witness stated there were lifebuoys on the boat formerly, but they wore out and had not been replaced.  -  A Juryman:  Have you been down the river without a boat before?  -  Yes.   -  Alfred Veale gave evidence of finding deceased's body about ten yards down the river from where he disappeared.  -  Dr Charles Martin said deceased died from drowning.  There were no marks on the body.  -  Thomas Luscombe, stevedore, said he was not present when the boat sailed, as he had to look after the boats at both ends of the river.  The lifebuoys previously provided had never been used.  The Devon and Courtenay Clay Co. was the only one on the river that had ever provided lifebuoys at all.  -  Mr H. G. C. Bishop, manager of the company, said he did not know there were any Board of Trade regulation regarding barges.  -  The Coroner:  I think you will find that there are.  -  Witness said it was a recognised rule that a boat should be taken with each barge, but that rule was occasionally broken.  He considered a boat and the gear on deck were more useful in case of mishap than lifebuoys would be.  It was not convenient to keep lifebuoys on the deck.  He denied that the men would have got the "sack" if they refused to go without a boat.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added a rider that lifebuoys should be provided on barges and kept on deck during the time they were in use.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 17 March 1909
EAST STONEHOUSE - Stonehouse Tragedy.  Verdict Of "Manslaughter" Against Sidwell.  -  At Stonehouse Townhall yesterday Mr R. Robinson Rodd, Coroner, resumed the adjourned Inquest on JOHN WALSH, late a stoker of H.M.S. Carnarvon and a native of Ireland who died as the result of a blow received whilst in the Orlando Inn on the evening of March 10th. John Henry Sidwell, who has been arrested on a charge of wilfully murdering WALSH, was present at the Inquest, being escorted from the Police Station by Inspector Joslin and P.C. Nicholls.  He appeared to be terribly distressed and sat all the time with his head bent forward resting on his hands.  Towards the end of the Inquiry, and whilst the Jury were deliberating, he wept bitterly.  Superintendent Crooke and Inspector Joslin were present on behalf of the Police;  Mr F. G. T. Tarn (Tarn and Vallance) appeared for the accused;  and Sub-Lieut. F. C. Schrieff-Hilton was present from the Carnarvon.  Mr S. Teague was Foreman of the Jury.  A large number of blue-jackets were also present.    -    On The Most Friendly Terms.    -     George Hopkinson, stoker, H.M.S. Carnarvon, said on Wednesday, March 10th, just before seven o'clock, Jobe Henry Sidwell, stoker first class, of the Carnarvon, and himself met JOHN WALSH.  The deceased was a first class stoker and discharged a couple of days before from the Carnarvon.  WALSH was 24 years of age last birthday. After they met, the deceased asked accused and witness to go and have a drink with him.  They went to the Orlando Inn, Union-street, East Stonehouse, on perfectly friendly terms.  When in the bar drinks were ordered either by deceased or Sidwell:  He could not say by whom.  Whilst the drinks were being supplied witness went to the rear.  When he returned WALSH was being held by Mr Bayley on a seat.  WALSH did not speak, but seemed all right.  The landlord sent for the Police, who tried artificial respiration.  Sidwell and himself were taken to the Police Station.  When witness left the bar for the rear Sidwell and deceased appeared to be on the most friendly terms.  -  Had they been drinking?  -  Very little:  They were quite sober.  I was only absent from the bar about two minutes. I had not been in the company of deceased previously that day.     -     "I Did It."     -    Superintendent Crooks:  Did you hear Sidwell say anything at the Police Station afterwards?  -  Yes, he said "I did it;  we were all chums together;  it was an accident."  -  In reply to Mr Tarn, for the accused, witness said all three were sober.  Sidwell and himself met the deceased casually and not by appointment.  One of the Constables in the bar asked who did it, referring to the helpless condition of the deceased, and Sidwell said, "I did it;  we were all chums together;  it was an accident."  Accused made the same statement at the Police Station.  Sidwell and WALSH were shipmates in the Carnarvon for about eighteen months, and were always on good terms;  practically "chummy" terms.  On the evening of March 10th, before they went to the Orlando, they were merry together.     -    Story Of The Landlord's Son.     -    Arthur Edgar Bayley stated that he was an assistant to his father at the Orlando Inn, and on Wednesday the 10th, three sailors, two in uniform and one in civilian clothes, entered the bar.  They were accused, the deceased and Hopkinson.  WALSH was wearing plain clothes.  Witness and his father were both behind the bar serving.  Sidwell ordered three bottles of beer;  but deceased said he would rather have a soda.  Two bottles of beer and one of soda were served.  Hopkinson went to the rear of the premises.  After he had served the liquor, Sidwell asked WALSH to pay for it.  WALSH replied that he could not pay, as he only had threepence upon him.  Accused then said, "If you cannot pay, come here."  At the same time accused caught hold of deceased by the collar of the coat and swung him into a corner of the bar.  With his right fist Sidwell hit WALSH in the stomach.  The result of the blow was that deceased was knocked on to a seat, a distance of four yards.  WALSH did not move or speak after he was hit.  Witness and his father went to WALSH'S assistance, and witness said to Sidwell "You had no right to hit the man like that;  you have either killed or stunned him."  Sidwell replied "Leave him go, boss;  he is all right;  he is a tired member, and that is why he was thrown out of the service."  Sidwell attempted to leave the premises, but witness and his father requested him to remain.  The Police then arrived.  During the whole of the affair he did not hear Sidwell say it was an accident.  Later Sidwell and Hopkinson were taken to the Police Station.    -     No Provocation.    -    The Coroner:  Did deceased give Sidwell the slightest provocation for striking him as he did?  -  No, sir.  -  Did e give him any warning that he was going to strike him?  -  No.  -  Did he give him an opportunity to guard himself?  -  No.  -  Do I gather from you that up to the time that deceased stated that he could not pay for the drinks the relations between him and Sidwell were perfectly friendly?  -  Yes.  -  No sign of temper on either side?  -  No.  - It was a violent blow?  -  Yes.  -  And WALSH never recovered himself?  -  No.  -  The Foreman:  Did you keep close observation upon Sidwell and deceased whilst they were in the bar?  -  Yes.  -  Mr Kestell:  Was it an intentional blow or accidental?  -  It was intentional.  -   Who paid for the drinks?  -  Sidwell, and before he struck the deceased.  -  By Mr Tarn:  When Sidwell ordered the drinks he and the deceased were standing against the counter, and WALSH had his back towards a partition.  When accused struck the blow he swung around.  Sidwell used his right hand to give the blow.  Witness had not made a statement;  that it was the left fist that delivered the blow.  Sidwell showed no temper at all.  They had been joking and laughing, but Sidwell showed signs of temper when he swung the deceased around and struck him.  WALSH was not laughing when struck.  Sidwell produced half a sovereign in payment of the drink and witness placed the change on the counter.  Accused then immediately swung around and went forward and struck him.  The Police when they came asked who did it;  but witness did not hear Sidwell make any observations.  The three men were perfectly sober.  From what he saw the cause of the attack by Sidwell was that deceased would not pay for the drink.    -     The Cause Of Death.  -    Dr W. E. M. Corbett said at about 7.45 p.m. he was called to the Orlando Inn where he saw the deceased in an inside room lying on his back on the floor.  WALSH was dead.  On the following day, by the Coroner's order, he made a post-mortem examination of the body of the deceased and found that all the organs were healthy and no signs of disease whatever in any of them.  In his opinion death was due to cardiac failure.  Having heard the evidence he thought the blow referred to by the witness A. Bayley caused it.  Deceased was struck in the solar plexus.  There were no external marks of violence except an abrasion on the right temple of some standing.  This did not contribute to death.  Deceased was a muscular and good, sound man.  The stomach was full of food.  -  Mr Kestell:  If deceased had not received this blow might he have lived for many years?  -  There was nothing I discovered in my examination that would lead me to think he had any disease that would cause death.  WALSH had no disease.  -   Then the blow must have resulted in his death?  -  The cause of death was heart failure, and the only reason for it, in my opinion, must have been the blow.  The stomach was healthy.  There was no evidence of excessive drinking or any external evidence of the marks of a blow.     -    "Take That."    -    James A. Rundle, a domestic servant, said he saw Hopkinson, Sidwell and deceased enter the bar together.  Accused called for the drinks and WALSH said he would have a soda.  Sidwell asked deceased to pay, and WALSH replied that he had no money.   Accused said to deceased, "Are you taking me out for a walk?"  and at the same time caught hold of WALSH by the collar of his coat.  Sidwell swung deceased around and hit him with his right hand, and whilst deceased was in the corner.  At the time Sidwell said "Take that."  When accused struck the deceased WALSH was standing, and he fell back into the corner on a seat.  The blow was in the stomach and direct.  -  Mr Teague (Foreman):  Did Sidwell appear to be angry when he struck him?  -  No.  -  Were they sober?  -  Yes.  -  A Juror (Mr Lawrance):  Were the drinks paid for before the blow or afterwards?  -  Before Sidwell struck the deceased.     -    Police Evidence.     -     P.C. A. Nicholls deposed that he was on duty in Union-street and called to the Orlando Inn.  He saw WALSH sitting on a seat in the bar unconscious.  P.C. Dymond and himself got WALSH on the floor and tried artificial respiration.  Inspector Joslin also assisted, but WALSH showed no signs of life.  Witness asked the meaning of it and Arthur E. Bayley replied, "This man (Sidwell) caught deceased by the collar and struck him because he would not pay for the drinks ordered."  Sidwell said, "I never meant to have served him like that."  He said further, "Me and my chum (Hopkinson) met him outside and he invited us inside to have a drink and on ordering two Bass's and a lemon he said he had no money to pay.  I put out my hand and pushed him down."  Accused and Hopkinson were then taken to the Police Station.  On the body of WALSH was a tobacco pound, 3 ½ d.  in coppers and a naval discharge paper.   -   P.C. John Dymond corroborated the evidence of the last witness and added that he took Sidwell to the Police Station.  When there accused said "do you think the man is dead?"  Witness replied "Yes."  Sidwell said "I did not mean to serve him like that, but after asking us to drink he should have paid up."  -  By Mr Tarn:  He did not hear Sidwell say it was an accident, but he did remark that they were all chums together.  Accused had been drinking, but he was not drunk.    -    Statement By Prisoner.    -    Inspector William John Joslin said on going to the Orlando Inn on Wednesday evening last he saw WALSH, and assisted in carrying out artificial respiration.  Witness returned to the Police Station and Superintendent Crooke then said to Sidwell, "Jobe Henry Sidwell I am going to charge you with a very serious crime.  I am going to charge you with murdering JOHN WALSH."  Sidwell burst out crying and looking round to Hopkinson, said "It was an accident, wasn't it?  We were all three mates together, wasn't we."  -  Superintendent Crooke:  And he also said that they were on the best of terms.  -  Inspector Joslin remarked that on searching Sidwell he found in his possession 10s. 1 ½d.   -  Mr Tarn called no witnesses.    -    Verdict Of Manslaughter.    -   The Coroner, in summing up, said the evidence proved conclusively that without the slightest provocation Sidwell struck the deceased a violent blow in the stomach and he did not, apparently, appear to have given him any warning or any opportunity whatever of putting himself on his guard.  The effect of the blow was to knock the deceased clean out and kill him.  Killing under these circumstances was either wilful murder or manslaughter;  but before the Jury would be justified in arriving at a verdict of wilful murder they must be satisfied that there was evidence before them, either implied or expressed, of malice.  He thought they must be struck in the present case that, having regard to the friendly relations existing between these two men immediately prior to the blow being struck, Sidwell manifested no malice whatever against the dead man, and he thought if they took that view of the matter they would dismiss from their mind altogether a verdict of wilful murder.  If they were satisfied that there was no excuse whatever in law for Sidwell striking WALSH in the way he did, and that what he did was without malice, then the verdict would be one of manslaughter only.  -   The Jury considered their verdict in private.  After a deliberation of twenty minutes the Coroner announced that the Jury had very carefully considered the evidence given in the case, and had unanimously decided to return a verdict of Manslaughter.  It was therefore his painful duty to commit Sidwell to take his trial at the next Devon Assizes for feloniously killing JOHN WALSH.  -  A large crowd awaited the decision of the Jury, and as Sidwell was being escorted back to the Police Station many followed him.   -   Accused Before The Magistrates.    -   During the afternoon Sidwell was brought before Mr J. H. Bishop (Magistrate) and charged, on remand, with the wilful murder of JOHN WALSH.  -  Superintendent Crooke said there had been an Inquest that morning on the body of JOHN WALSH, and the Jury had returned a verdict of manslaughter against the prisoner.  For the convenience of all parties he would ask for a further adjournment until Thursday at eleven o'clock.  He would like to say at that stage and to ease the prisoner's mind that on Thursday he should apply to have the charge reduced from one of common murder to that of manslaughter.  In view of the evidence made by the doctor who had carried out the post-mortem examination he believed he would be justified in making that application on Thursday.  (Applause in Court.)    -   Mr Tarn, on behalf of the accused, had no objection to a remand and the application of Superintendent Crooke was granted.

OTTERY ST MARY -  "Suicide Whilst Insane."  -  Mr C. N. Tweed, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Townhall, Ottery St. Mary, yesterday, on SAM SNELL, a luggage porter, of North-street, who was found dead on Monday in a field near his home.  -  Elizabeth Snell, wife of James Snell, carpenter, of Sandhill-street, Ottery St. Mary, said deceased called at her house on Friday last and appeared then to be in fairly good spirits and said he was feeling better.  He had been unwell with heart complaint for about a fortnight.  Deceased had told her he was 48 years of age, but he was no relation to her or her husband.  Deceased had two sisters, but witness did not know where they were, and she did not believe deceased knew.  He had been a widower for about twelve months.  -  Jesse Salter, aged 14, son of Mr William Salter, of Ridgeway Farm, gave evidence as to the discovery of the body on his father's farm.  -  Harriet Knight, a domestic servant, employed at the Knowle Hotel, Sidmouth, said she called to see deceased on Wednesday last, and he said he was very ill.  He was very excited and strange in his manner, and worried a good deal because he could not do his work.  She had been keeping company with deceased for about twelve months.  He sent her a letter on Saturday, in which he said he hoped they would be able to be married within the next month.  -  Dr Bartlett, of Ottery St. Mary, said there was a large wound in the throat, extending from one side of the neck to the other, just above the larynx, which was completely cut through.  Death was due to haemorrhage.  The wounds had the appearance of being self-inflicted.  -  Dr Reynolds said SNELL suffered from chronic rheumatism.  About ten days ago he called at witness's surgery and asked him to examine his heart, as he thought he had strained it by lifting or beating some carpets.  Witness told him it was nothing very serious, but he had better not do any work for a week or so.  He saw him two or three times afterwards, and he appeared to be getting better.  He did not notice anything unusual in his manner.  -  P.C. Gardiner, of Ottery St. Mary, deposed to finding a razor near deceased's body.  In the cottage they found  rent-book in which some notes were scribbled in pencil.  Most of these were illegible, but "Why I done this awful crime," and at the end "When you see this I shall be gone, so good-bye," could be read.  -  Rev. A. Steele King, curate at Ottery St. Mary, said he visited deceased on Sunday evening about six o'clock, and found him very depressed and low spirited.  He complained of pains in his head and said his thoughts were lost.  The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

Western Morning News, Friday 19 March 1909
PLYMOUTH - Pensioner's Sudden Death. -  Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Wolsdon-street Schools, Plymouth, yesterday on DAVID HORSHAM, aged 85 years, Dockyard pensioner, 21 Melbourne-street.  - Emily Rendle, 26 Arundel-crescent, said deceased, her uncle, was apparently in his usual health on Tuesday evening.  Jno. Adams, naval pensioner, said on Wednesday morning he visited deceased.  He found him in his bedroom in a kneeling posture quite dead.  Dr J. H. Turney said death was due to syncope, and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" as returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 20 March 1909
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Child's Death.  -  Mr J. A. Pearce, Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday on WILLIAM BARRY, son of JAMES BARRY, bandsman 1st Leinster Regiment.  The father said the child, born on October 12th, 1907, was attended by two doctors at Aldershot.  It had been more or less sick from birth, and at two o'clock that morning his wife asked him to get up and light the fire to warm the baby.  He did so, and the child died shortly afterwards in its mother's arms. Capt. J. W. Leake, R.A.M.C., who made a post-mortem examination, said death was due to extensive bronchial pneumonia.  The child was fairly well nourished, but appeared to have been delicate.  -  A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 25 March 1909
TIVERTON - At the Inquest on FLORENCE JANE DISNEY, parlourmaid, at Tiverton last evening, it was stated that a post-mortem examination revealed no cause of death.  The Coroner said it was the most puzzling and mysterious case he had ever had.

TAVISTOCK - Death From A Bruise.  Unusual Case At Tavistock.  -  Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Tavistock Guildhall yesterday on WILLIAM HENRY THOMAS, journeyman carpenter, aged 44 years.  -  Mr J. H. Palmer was Foreman of the Jury.  Mr G. Lithgow, district inspector, was present for the Sun Fire Office.  -  MRS THOMAS, the widow, said the deceased complained of a pain in the left knee caused by a blow against a ladder on 5th inst.  There was a bruise, but the skin was not broken.  Some embrocation was rubbed in and deceased followed his employment, but he had to give up on 13th, and he consulted a doctor on 15th.  He was always in the best of health.  -  Thomas Kerslake, builder, of Tavistock, stated that the deceased had been in his employ for more than eight years.  Deceased told him that while he was repairing a window at the Abbey Chapel, he slipped off the third rung of the ladder in ascending, and struck his left knee against one of the rungs.  The deceased thought that a little snow might have clung to his boots and caused him to slip.  He was an industrious, reliable man, and it would be difficult for witness to replace him.  -  Dr Snowden Smith stated that the deceased called at his surgery on Monday week and complained of having had a blow just under the left knee.  Witness found that an abscess had formed and ordered the deceased to bed.  On the Wednesday morning witness found that the abscess had burst and the deceased felt so much relieved that he wanted to go to work, but witness told him that he must not do so that week.  On the Thursday the deceased was suffering from high temperature, which went up first to 102 and afterwards to 104 ½.  On Sunday symptoms of pneumonia set in, and the deceased died on Monday night, death being due to blood poisoning rather than pneumonia.  Witness was of opinion that death was caused by the injury to the knee.  It was a very unusual thing to happen to such a healthy man as the deceased was.  -  The Coroner remarked that Mr Kerslake had given the deceased a very high character and he was sure they would all like to express their sympathy with the widow.  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Saturday 27 March 1909
SEATON AND BEER - Sad Death At Seaton.  Strong Comments By Coroner.  -  Dr B. R. Tweed, Coroner, held an Inquest at the Townhall, Seaton, yesterday, on MR GODFREY GIRAUD LAWFORD. -  MR FRANCIS LAWFORD said deceased was his brother and was 36 years of age.  He last saw him alive in London about the end of January.  He was then in his usual health, but he was always more or less an invalid.  He was a teacher of music, and resided at Stoke-under-Ham, Yeovil.  Dr Gomes, of South Petherton, attended him a short time ago for gastric influenza.  He had carried on is profession up to last Saturday, when his wife, who was now very ill, persuaded him to come to Seaton for a weekend.  He came alone and went direct to Gould's Hotel, and died there on Wednesday.  - Dr G. E. A. Evans said, as he could not properly diagnose the case, he did not feel justified in giving a certificate.  A post-mortem examination revealed that deceased had tubercular disease of both kidneys and the apex of both lungs showed traces of long standing tubercular disease.  In his opinion death was due to exhaustion and general tubercular disease.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from General Tuberculosis."  -  The Coroner said that people in the state of deceased ought to be placed in a sanatorium or a home, where they could be properly looked after, and not be allowed to travel about the country to the danger of the public.  The Coroner added that it was due to Mr C. C. Gould to say that the deceased's room at the Hotel would be thoroughly disinfected.  The funeral took place at the Parish Churchyard, Seaton, yesterday.

DARTMOUTH - Dartmouth Suicide.  Naval Pensioner Cuts His Throat.  -  At Dartmouth yesterday, HENRY BARBER, 43 years of age, a naval pensioner, and assistant to the ship's corporal at the Britannia Royal Naval College, cut his throat with a razor whilst in bed.  In the afternoon Mr A. M. Davson, County Coroner for the Dartmouth district, held an Inquest at the Guildhall.  -  MARY JANE BARBER, the widow, stated that deceased had suffered from a bad leg for near on seventeen years.  he had never been medically attended for it.  He had suffered from depression lately.  He seemed a little brighter on Thursday.  In the evening he had a bath and went to bed about eleven.  She thought his depression was partly due to his leg.  He declined to see a doctor and thought that if he did he would be sent to a Hospital, which he greatly objected to.  At about a quarter past one o'clock that morning witness heard an unusual noise, and spoke to deceased, who did not answer.  She then struck a match and saw a quantity of blood.  She called to her son, and he fetched a doctor.   -  BERTRAM THOMAS BARBER gave evidence as to having fetched Dr Harris.  At the time he thought his father had broken a blood vessel.  Dr J. H. Harris said deceased, on the left side of his throat, had a gash about three inches long, extending deep into his neck.  Witness remained with BARBER until he died.  Witness managed to plug the wound and deceased spoke a few words incoherently about the college and wished his son good-bye and asked him to look after his mother;  but he did not seem to realize what he had done.  The wound was self inflicted and death was due to haemorrhage and shock following the injuries.   -  The Jury found that deceased had "Committed Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind," and expressed their deep sympathy with the widow.  The Coroner concurred with the vote of sympathy.

EAST STONEHOUSE - Pauper's Death.  Hot Bath Causes Shock.  -  Mr R. Robinson Rodd held an Inquest at Stonehouse Workhouse yesterday on ROBERT ELLIS, aged 42, an inmate of the House.  -  Edwin Richard Sloggett, Master, said deceased, a naval pensioner, was admitted to the House on the 25th ult., from Clarence-place.  - Arthur Crae, male nurse, said deceased, who was of unsound mind, was under his care.  On the 15th inst. witness took him into the bathroom at noon.  Deceased was seated on a chair, with a blanket around him and witness turned on the water to fill the bath.  He turned to take down the towel and deceased stepped into the bath.  The water was very hot and seeing the man to be in pain witness immediately helped him out.  Deceased had been a difficult patient to manage.  Witness had had experience of this kind of patient at Plympton House Asylum.  -  Police-Inspector Joslin asked if the room and bath might not have been prepared before the man was taken into the room, thereby obviating the necessity of leaving him out of sight for any time.  -  Witness replied in the affirmative, but added that he did not regard the man as dangerously insane.  -  The Coroner remarked that a magistrate had visited the Workhouse for the purpose of certifying ELLIS'S suitability for removal to an asylum and was not sufficiently satisfied of his insanity to give the certificate.  -  Dr W. H. Waterfield, Medical Officer to the Workhouse, said the man's feet were severely burned and death was due to shock.  The burns were not such as would have caused the death of a normal man, but deceased's vitality was very low.  The mistake in this case had been in turning on the hot water first and the cold after.  He had given instructions in future for the cold to be turned on first.  -  A Juror asked if it would not have been more advisable to have more persons in the room at the time.  - The doctor replied in the negative.  The man might have jumped in, however many persons were in the room.  -  The Coroner remarked that the Jury had to determine whether Crae had been guilty of culpable negligence or purely an accidental judgment.  the Jury took the latter view, and returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

PLYMOUTH - Argyle Trainer's Death.  The Inquest Adjourned.  -  Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, opened an Inquest at Plymouth Mortuary yesterday on NICHOLAS ARTHUR WALLIS, 31, of 17 Amhurst-street, Pennycomequick.  The deceased was the trainer of the Argyle Football Club and died on Thursday morning at the Charlton Private Nursing Home, Ford Park.  The body was removed from the Home to the Mortuary in Vauxhall Street.   Mr R. F. Davis, Chairman of the Plymouth Argyle Football Club (Limited);  Mr S. Cole, secretary and director, and Mr W. Bishop, a director of the club, were present.  Mr Percy T. Pearse appeared on behalf of the directors of the Club and the Chief Constable (Mr J. D. Sowerby) was also in attendance.  The Coroner said the Inquest would very likely resolve itself into a case of some seriousness.  Therefore at that Inquiry he did not intend to go into any of the details, but simply to get evidence of identification for the purpose of allowing the burial of the body to take place.  -  Ernest W[?], brother-in-law, identified the body as that of NICHOLAS ARTHUR WALLIS, aged 31, football trainer and that he died at the Charlton Private Nursing Home.  -  The Coroner suggested an adjournment until Wednesday next at 4 p.m.  -  Mr Pearse said n behalf of the directors of the Argyle Football Club he desired to express their deepest sympathy with the relatives of the deceased.  The directors were ready to afford every facility in the investigation of the case.  Adjourned until Wednesday next.  The funeral will take place on Monday.

BUCKLAND MONACHORUM - Horrabridge Suicide.  -  Mr R. Robinson Rodd held an Inquest at Horrabridge yesterday on RODNEY CHAMINGS, aged 40, labourer.  -  JESSIE CHAMINGS, widow of the deceased, said he had been prevented by an injured knee, from working for the past three years and consequently had suffered from worry and insomnia.  He had three children and the family had been granted Poor-law relief.  On Thursday morning he appeared in his usual health, but later witness heard him groaning.  She went upstairs and saw him walking across his room with his neck bleeding.  She called a neighbour.  Deceased had recently complained frequently of his inability to support his family.  -  P.C. Chappel deposed to finding deceased lying on the floor of his room, face downwards, in a large quantity of blood.  His throat was cut and, after two gasps, he expired.  A razor was on the dressing-table, with the blade partly open and blood-stained.  Dr G. T. Revell, of Yelverton, said the cut was five inches in length and the windpipe and arteries were severed.  -  A verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind" was returned.  -  The Jury passed a vote of sympathy with the family, and handed their fees to the widow.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 30 March 1909
PLYMOUTH - At an Inquest held at Plymouth yesterday on the child of WILLIAM WILKINSON, a Dockyard labourer, it was stated that it was born with heart disease and only lived two days.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 31 March 1909
EXETER -  ELLIOTT Executed.  The Final Scenes At Exeter  Prison:  Inquest. -  In Exeter Prison at eight o'clock yesterday morning, EDMUND WALTER ELLIOTT, the young Plymouth hairdresser's assistant, was executed for the Wilful Murder of CLARA JANE HANNAFORD, aged 15, at Plymouth, on the night of the 17th November.   [Details of the Case and the Scenes at the Prison followed.] The Inquest:  -  The Inquest was held at the Prison at 10.30 by Mr H. W. Gould, who was accompanied by the Deputy Coroner (Mr Thomas) and there were also present Captain Clements (Prison Governor), Dr J. Mortimer (Prison Surgeon), and Mr Henry Ford (acting Under-Sheriff of Devon).  The Jury was composed of Messrs. J. R. Nethercott (Foreman), Robert Farley, John Henry Priest, Edward Bickle, Henry Oliver, Samuel Chaffe, John Vanstone, William Chamberlain, Richard Warren, Alfred Sims, Frank Chorley, Frank Wedlake and Thomas Hooper.  -  The Coroner, opening the proceedings said:  Happily it was very seldom that a Jury is summoned on an occasion of this kind.  As you know, you have been summoned to an Inquiry in connection with the death of EDMUND WALTER ELLIOTT, a prisoner here, who has been executed in this Prison this morning.  The Inquiry is prescribed by Act of Parliament, and the object of the Inquiry is to establish the identity of the person who was duly sentenced to death and executed, and to find that the execution was properly carried out.  Those are the two points on which you return a verdict.  -  The Coroner and Jury then proceeded to view the body, accompanied by the representatives of the Press.  The body had been removed from the scaffold and placed in a coffin.  A white covering had been thrown over the body, but the head, face and neck had been left exposed.  There was nothing unusual in the features.  -   The first witness called was George Edmunds, Principal Warder, H.M. Prison at Exeter.  He identified the body as that of EDMUND WALTER ELLIOTT.  He was first admitted to the Prison on march 8th, when he was transferred from Plymouth Prison.  He was a hairdresser, 19 years of age.  -  The Coroner:  Was he a native of Plymouth?  -  I understand he was born in Cornwall.  -  But where was his home at the time?  -  At Plymouth.  Witness, continuing, said the deceased was charged with the Wilful Murder of CLARA JANE HANNAFORD.  Witness was present at his trial at Exeter on Thursday, March 11th.  He was found guilty and sentenced to death.  -  Mr Henry Ford said he was Deputy-Under-Sheriff for the County of Devon.  After the trial he received a warrant for the execution of the deceased from the Clerk of Assize.  Witness was present at the execution that morning.  -  The Coroner:  You are perfectly satisfied with the way everything was carried out?  -  Perfectly.  -  Dr John Mortimer said he was the Medical Officer of the Prison and was present at the execution.  -  Was everything carried out to your satisfaction? -  Quite satisfactorily.  -  Mr Nethercott (Foreman):  Was death instantaneous?  -  Quite instantaneous.  -  He hung for an hour, but I have to examine him within five minutes and he was quite dead then.  -  The coroner:  That is all the evidence that I have to offer, and the two questions which I put to the Jury are:  Are you satisfied that the body on which you have held the Inquiry was the body of this man ELLIOTT, who was sentenced to death at the Assizes?  and secondly, are you satisfied that the execution was properly carried out?  -  The Jury returned a verdict in the Affirmative and the proceedings afterwards terminated.  -  The Foreman asked the Governor's consent for the Jury to inspect the Prison and the request was readily acceded to.  

KINGSWEAR - The Kingswear Suicide.  -  At the Inquest at Kingswear yesterday on WILLIAM HENRY LEGG, a farm labourer, his widow, SUSAN ELIZA LEGG,, said deceased was 44 years of age, and had been in the employ of Mr T. Bulley, of Brownstone Farm.  For a month deceased had suffered from influenza and had been under the care of Dr Davson of Dartmouth.  He had been low-spirited and seemed a bit strange at times.  He had not been sleeping much lately and was restless on Sunday night.  He had intended to go to work on Monday.  They went downstairs together early in the morning of that day.  He went out at half-past six o'clock, but returned about ten minutes later and put on his leggings.  After that he again went out, telling her to have his breakfast ready by the time he came back.  But he did not return and she called out for him, but received no answer.  - By the Coroner:  She and deceased had had no quarrels.  It was true that he last week threw his accordion at her.  He had been worried about a recent law case.  -  Alfred Wicks described how he found deceased hanging from a beam in a closet.  His feet were touching the ground, and his knees were bent. He was quite dead.  -  Mrs Maud Harvey, a neighbour, said she had been rather suspicious that deceased might take his life, because he had been strange during the week, and she told MRS LEGG to watch him.  On one occasion she saw him take up a knife and look at it suspiciously.  His wife was not present then.  He had never said anything to witness about intending to commit suicide.  The Jury found that deceased committed Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane.

BARRY ISLAND, WALES - Wreck Of A Bideford Ketch.  Inquest On One Of The Crew. -  At Barry Island an Inquest was held yesterday on WILLIAM COBBLEDICK, 17, one of the crew of the ill-fated Bideford ketch, Nouvella Marie, which was wrecked off Porthkerry early on Thursday morning last.  The body identified by John C. Carney, of Bude-street, Appledore, an uncle of the deceased.  Witness said the ketch had come from Newport laden with coal, and he saw the vessel on Wednesday last in Bideford Bay.  It was very rough and the vessel anchored in Clovelly roads.  There was a crew of three hands, namely, Captain Joshua Boon and his son, Wm. Boon, and the deceased.  The vessel was seen navigating across Bideford Bar and then the weather thickened and she was lost sight of in the haze.  -  Tom Jackson, Barry Dock, said that on Sunday he found the body of the deceased wedged between two rocks.  The jersey and shirt worn by deceased were found on the head, as if deceased had made an attempt to divest himself of those garments whilst in the water.  Neither of the other bodies had been recovered, but a jersey with the letters "W.B." had been washed ashore.  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Drowning."

Western Morning News, Thursday 1 April 1909
PLYMOUTH - Death of N. WALLIS.  Verdict of "Manslaughter" Against McIntyre.  -  At Plymouth yesterday Mr R. B. Johns resumed the Inquest on NICHOLAS ARTHUR WALLIS, late Argyle  Football Club trainer.  Mr J. W. Bickle (Bickle and Wilcocks) who was instructed by the Players' Union, of Manchester, through the local secretary, Mr C. Clarke, represented Edward McIntyre, the footballer, charged with the manslaughter of WALLIS, but McIntyre himself was not present.   -   The Coroner said the facts, as they came before the Police Court the previous day, seemed to be of a simple character.  There was an altercation in a railway train whilst WALLIS and McIntyre were returning from a football match at Derby, and it was a question whether there was provocation.  It appeared that WALLIS was hit in the jaw by McIntyre and Dr Lyth would tell them that in his opinion the blow was the direct cause of the death of WALLIS.  -    The Scene In The Train.    -    James Hindmarsh, professional footballer, said on 20th February they left Derby about 11.30 for Plymouth.  In the carriage there were Messrs. Vanstone and Barnett;  Horne, McIntyre, WALLIS and himself.  They commenced to play "Nap," and continued for half an hour, when Vanstone had "gone two."  Vanstone led his ace and then another of his cards, which WALLIS beat.  Vanstone thought his hand was beat, and threw in his cards.  McIntyre picked up the cards which Vanstone had possessed and asked who had beaten the nine of diamonds.  None of them exactly knew who had.  -  The Coroner:  Were you all quite sober?  -  Horne was drunk.  I think Vanstone was the worse for drink and WALLIS had had some drink.  -  That was probably the reason why they did not recollect who made the nine of diamonds?  -  I don't think so.  -  Continuing, witness said McIntyre remarked that if they were going to play, the game should be played fair.  WALLIS had held the hand which beat Vanstone's hand;  and WALLIS and McIntyre began to argue.  there were then no accusations about cheating, but simply an argument.  WALLIS seemed to lose his temper and used very bad language to McIntyre.  WALLIS said to McIntyre there was something he had not forgotten yet and McIntyre then struck him in the face.  The blow was given with the hand;  he could not say it was with the closed fist.  No remark was made by McIntyre when he struck WALLIS.  They were sitting on opposite sides of the carriage.  WALLIS made no remark when struck, and did not attempt to hit back.  He was quite certain that before the blow was struck WALLIS did not threaten to strike McIntyre.  WALLIS'S mouth bled.  Witness as soon as possible got between them to stop the altercation.  That finished the card playing.  WALLIS held his face and said to witness that he would not have minded McIntyre striking him if he had not got a weak jaw.  After the blow was struck, McIntyre went out:  But returned to the compartment in about a quarter of an hour.  Another row started between Horne and McIntyre and Horne told him it was a shame for him to hit WALLIS.  Horne then struck McIntyre twice.  There was some more confusion and McIntyre went to the corridor and came back with a water bottle.  McIntyre said to Horne, "Come on now," and threatened Horne with the water bottle.  Horne went to the door of the compartment, and McIntyre with the bottle struck Horne on the back of the head.  The blow raised a small lump on Horne's head, but did not cause it to bleed.  McIntyre then went to another part of the train.  Witness saw no more, as he slept until he came to North-road Station.  -  What condition was McIntyre in as far as sobriety was concerned?  -  He was all right.   -   The Foreman (Mr Southern):  Had McIntyre a stick in his hand?  -  No. I am sure WALLIS never struck McIntyre.    -   In answer to Mr Bickle, witness said Horne was drunk, and had given McIntyre two blows before he got the water bottle.  WALLIS used bad language to McIntyre before the blow was struck.  Witness did not notice WALLIS lean over to McIntyre when he used the bad language.  -  The Coroner:  I may say that Dr Lyth thinks if WALLIS had had a perfectly healthy jaw instead of a decomposed one the blow would not have caused the death.  -  Hindmarsh added that WALLIS, in his opinion, was the aggressor.    -    Accused Of Cheating.    -   Frank Barnett, C.E.R.A., St. Hilary-terrace, Plymouth, one of the six in the carriage, said in the card playing McIntyre accused WALLIS of cheating, and told him that Vanstone's hand could not be beaten.  The hand was, however, beaten, and Vanstone paid out.  WALLIS and McIntyre both used bad language.  He believed that WALLIS started it.  WALLIS said to McIntyre "I have not forgotten you for the beginning part of the season."  McIntyre replied "And I have not forgotten the week's suspension I had over you."  they engaged in a great argument and McIntyre struck WALLIS.  WALLIS never lifted his hand to strike McIntyre.  After the blow WALLIS bled a good deal from the jaw.  McIntyre struck WALLIS three times in the jaw;  not rapid blows. After the first blow WALLIS could hardly speak.  Witness assisted to get McIntyre out of the compartment after the assault and went into another coach with him in the corridor train.  -   McIntyre quietened down for a time, but eventually went back to the compartment.  Horne then struck McIntyre twice.  -  Witness was proceeding to speak of McIntyre having a water bottle in his hand, when the Coroner said they need not go into that, but only into the cause of the death of WALLIS.  Barnett, continuing, said he did not think McIntyre would have struck WALLIS if he had not used the bad language.  WALLIS was not drunk, but had been drinking.  McIntyre was sober.  -  By Mr Bickle:  He had heard Hindmarsh say only one blow was struck.  The second and third blows were struck after Hindmarsh had left the compartment.    -     Alleged Kicking.    -    Mrs Bessie Jacques, wife of John Jacques, Old Town-street, Plymouth, said she saw WALLIS at his lodgings the day he returned from Derby.  WALLIS was in a dreadful state, and she washed out his mouth.  She put her hand to his jaw and found it was broken.  There was blood in the mouth.  Dr Lyth was sent for.  She asked WALLIS how it happened and he replied that just after they left Derby a game of cards was started.  Some difficulty arose and McIntyre said to WALLIS "Vanstone's not going to pay."  McIntyre asked WALLIS what card he had in his hand and accused him of cheating.  WALLIS told McIntyre he did not like those remarks and that he had not forgotten what he did to him at the beginning of the season.  WALLIS then said McIntyre hit him in the face, and kicked him twice in the face on the other side.  She never knew WALLIS to use bad language.  -  Mr Bickle:  Do you know this is the first suggestion we have had of kicking?  -  I have repeated what WALLIS told me about kicking.  WALLIS had not been drinking.   -    Three Fractures Of The Jaw.    -    Dr H. A. Lyth said that he first saw WALLIS on February 21st.  He complained of pain in his jaw, spoke very indistinctly and was exhausted from want of sleep and because of the pain.  The face was swollen on the right side just over the jaw, but there was no bruise or damage to the skin.  On feeling around the chin he could easily detect that the jaw was broken.  Looking inside the mouth, he found a compound fracture of the jaw.  The mouth was in a very dirty state.  WALLIS was suffering from a disease of the teeth known as RIGG'S disease.  The jaw of deceased was of a very light build.  Some weeks before WALLIS spoke to him about his jaw, and said that sometimes it got stuck when he yawned and opened his mouth wide.  It was thought advisable to postpone an operation on the jaw for a short time, an anaesthetic being necessary.  On the 22nd February Dr Lynch administered an anaesthetic and he (witness) was able to get the fractured ends of the jaw together by fixing some wire around the teeth to maintain the jaw in position.  To do this several teeth had to be removed.  WALLIS progressed favourably for the first few days, and it was then found that the wire around the teeth had got loose and the jaw had slipped.  WALLIS was removed to the Charlton Nursing Home on February 26th, and the following morning there was another operation.  The jaw bone was cut down through the skin and the ends joined together.  It was then found that there was another fracture on the left side and that was also wired.  WALLIS recovered well from the operation and by frequent use of mouth wash his mouth got better.  Deceased was able to get up and went on well until March 8th, when there was a sudden feverish attack.  The next day WALLIS complained of a pain in his side, which was due to pleurisy.  On examining the chest it was found there was a large area of the lung affected with pneumonia, and WALLIS began to cough a great deal.  His condition slightly improved, and then he got another attack, probably an extension of the same lung.  There was a little improvement, then increased temperature and evidence of disease in the other lung.  Deceased was rapidly going down hill;  septic infection had spread to both lungs.  Death took place on March 25th at 8 a.m., somewhat unexpectedly, from heart failure.  A post-mortem examination showed that the wounds had healed.  The simple fracture on the left side of the jaw showed signs of repair and firmly fixed together;  the compound fracture on the right side was quite unhealed and the bone in a very unhealthy state.  The lower part of the left lung was completely destroyed and the right lung showed two patches of infection.  The whole of the lung showed a state of infection.  The other organs were normal, except what one would expect from the septic disease which he (WALLIS ) was suffering.  WALLIS died from abscess in the lungs, the direct result of the infection of the compound fracture by pus running from the teeth.  -    Cause Of Death.    -   The Coroner:  Did the blow accelerate this man's death?  -  Yes.  The lung did not become infected before the accident.  It was healthy before the accident.  -  In answer to the Foreman, Dr Lyth said the jaw had not been broken before.  The fact that the skin of the face of the deceased was not broken showed that the blow was not the subject of much violence.  -  Dr Lyth, replying to Mr Bickle, said when he saw WALLIS on his return from Derby he considered the matter very grave indeed.  WALLIS would not have met his death without the blow.  He did not think any kicks had been given to the jaw.  On the evidence, he believed the injury was caused by a fist.  Supposing the pus was inhaled into the lungs there would be danger of septic bronchitis and septic pneumonia.  -  The Coroner (to Dr Lyth):  What you say is that the condition of the deceased could not have been set up except through the fractured jaw?  -  Exactly.   -   Inspector Tucker handed in a statement which McIntyre made to Detective-Sergt. J. Gibson, at Newcastle.  Gibson arrested McIntyre and he said he had been expecting the Police, and that lately he had not slept a wink.  McIntyre said they all had some drink at Derby.  He was so aggravated by WALLIS that he struck him.  In return he was struck several times.  He did not fear the consequences if the witnesses would speak the truth.  -   Vanstone's Story.    -   Ernest Vanstone, fish dealer, Stoke's-lane, Plymouth, called by Mr Bickle, said McIntyre accused WALLIS of cheating at cards.  WALLIS was indignant but did not make any attempt to strike.  -  The Coroner:  What condition were you in?  -  I was not sober, sir;  neither was I drunk.  -  In answer to Mr Bickle, Vanstone said he believed WALLIS did put himself in a threatening attitude towards McIntyre.  It was whilst WALLIS was in that attitude that McIntyre struck WALLIS.  There was only one blow struck.  Deceased said to witness, "I am very sorry Mc hit me there in my bad place in the jaw."  -  As far as he could see, McIntyre gave the blow to WALLIS in self-defence.   -    Verdict Of Manslaughter.  -   The Coroner, summing up, said if the Jury thought the blow was struck in self-defence, there was an end to it, but if they thought McIntyre did it on the impulse of the moment and it caused death, there was no alternative but to return a verdict of Manslaughter.  -   After consultation in private, the Jury returned a verdict of "Manslaughter" against McIntyre.  -  The Coroner:  I do not think you could have come to any other conclusion.  -  McIntyre, who had been waiting in Mr Bickle's office, now appeared in Court, and was committed by the Coroner to take his trial at the next Assizes on a charge of Manslaughter.  -  Mr Bickle applied for bail, and this was accepted, McIntyre in his own recognisances of £100 and a surety (Mr Joe Jacobs) in £50.

Western Morning News, Monday 5 April 1909
PLYMOUTH - At the Inquest on Saturday on EDWIN HARVEY ARCHER WADGE, 73, formerly a mining expert and living at Stoke-road, Plymouth, found dead in bed on Friday, Dr Wagner said death was due to syncope and a verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 6 April 1909
PLYMOUTH - At the Inquest on MARY ANN WATSON, who died suddenly in Willow-street, Plymouth, on Saturday, Dr Burke, who had made a post-mortem examination, said death was due to Apoplexy.

STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Woman's Death.  -  Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest yesterday on BETSY VINEY, aged 56, wife of HARRY VINEY, Fleet-street, Devonport.  On returning home about 7 p.m. on Friday MR VINEY saw his wife sitting in a chair apparently asleep.  He had tea and then, thinking his wife looked strange, sent for Dr Kenrick.  After the doctor's arrival, deceased gave three gasps and died.  Dr Kenrick attributed death to Syncope, due to valvular disease of the heart.

DARTMOUTH - Dartmouth Cliff Fatality.  -  At Dartmouth yesterday Mr A. M. Davson held an Inquest on JOHN JONES, aged 16, the son of JOHN JONES, coal lumper, who had been learning engineering at Philip and Son's.  -  Frank Warren Sanders, patternmaker at Philip and Son's yard, said on Sunday morning he went with JONES to Combe Point to pick primroses.  About noon he missed deceased.  They had been close to the edge of the cliffs.  He called to deceased and as he received no answer went in search, and noticed two bunches of primroses which deceased had picked lying on the edge of the cliff.  After further search he found deceased on the beach below the cliffs.  He called to him, and JONES lifted his head and then dropped it again.  He (Sanders) then ran to the Coastguard Station for assistance.  The earth was very slippery on the cliff, and it was reckless to go where deceased fell.  -  James Pepperell, Chief Officer of Coastguard at Dartmouth said he proceeded with lifelines to the cliff, and found JONES in a sitting posture, with his left arm resting on a projecting rock.  He lifted him from the rocks and laid him on his back.  All the deceased said was "My god."  The lad died before other help could reach him.  They then placed the body on a hurdle and raised it up the cliff.  It was a dangerous spot where deceased fell.  He had fallen 150 ft.  and had pitched on his head on the rock.  -  Dr G. M. Soper said death was due to fractured skull.  -  The coroner trusted the sad affair would be a warning to others not to go into dangerous places.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed their deep sympathy with deceased's father and their appreciation of the prompt services rendered by the Coastguard.  -  The Coroner concurred.  Several of the Jury handed their fees to MR JONES.

EXETER - Late MR A. B. FISHER.  Inquest At Exeter.  -  At an Inquest at Exeter yesterday on MR A. B. FISHER, MR ARTHUR FISHER, solicitor, of Tiverton, said deceased was his eldest brother, aged 59, and had been for 33 years one of H.M. Inspectors of Schools, retiring on the 31st of last month.  He had been staying with him at Tiverton, and left on Thursday to go to Exeter.  He was in very bad health, suffering from mental trouble.  For the past three years he had suffered very badly from insomnia, and had complained about it.  Deceased had the greatest abhorrence of the idea of people taking their life.  He was one of the most conscientious men he had ever known and thought such acts wicked and cowardly.  He had been taking opiates for insomnia, but they practically lost their effect upon him.  He was staying at Tiverton for a few days for the benefit of his health.  Witness recommended him to go into Exeter to take a Turkish Bath, not knowing that the baths were closed.  Witness agreed with statements contained in a letter which the coroner had received from Dr Crouch of Weston-super-Mare, who had been attending deceased there for some years.  In 1906 he lost the sight of his right eye through the breaking of a blood-vessel.  He took leave of his duties from time to time in the hope of struggling on with his work.  He resigned his post in consequence of the advice of a specialist.  He struggled to do his work to the end:  In fact, he tried to do so too long.  He had left a widow and three children, who were almost entirely depending on his pension, which was lost on the very first day by his own act.  -  DR F. B. FISHER, Consulting Surgeon at the Dorset County Hospital, Dorchester, brother of the deceased, gave corroborative evidence as to deceased's health.  He had personally attended him for mental trouble at Ilfracombe, where he went for the benefit of his health.  He was then suffering from melancholia, with suicidal tendencies.  -  Mrs Harris, manageress at the Half Moon Hotel, said on Thursday afternoon deceased engaged a bedroom at the Hotel, and said as he could not sleep he read in bed and much preferred a room lit by gas, because the electric light was much too glaring.  He was provided with the only bedroom in the Hotel lit by gas.  He said he had just been recovering from an illness.  At his request the bed was moved under the gas bracket as he could then read better.  Next morning, as deceased did not come down at his appointed time, she went up to his room, and receiving no replies to her knocks, and detecting a smell of gas, she called the "boots" and informed Mr Finch, the proprietor, who sent for the Police.  -  A waiter gave evidence that after dinner on Thursday evening MR FISHER said he was going to bed to have a long rest, and did not wish to be called until nine o'clock.  -  Thomas Cross, the "boots" spoke to gaining an entrance to the bedroom through the window and finding MR FISHER dead in bed, with the gas turned on.  -  P.C. Perkins deposed to bursting open the bedroom door and finding gas escaping through a new tube which had been put on the gas jet.  -  Dr Pereira said when discovered deceased had been dead some hours.  Death was due to asphyxia, the result of coal-gas poisoning.  -  The Jury found that the deceased's mind was Deranged at the time he committed the act, and expressed their deep sympathy with the relatives, with which the Coroner (Mr Brown) concurred.  -  Among those present at the Inquest were the Mayor and Sheriff of Exeter and chancellor Edmonds.

TEIGNMOUTH - Teignmouth Fatality.  Life-Saving Appliances.  -  Mr S. Hacker opened an Inquest at Teignmouth yesterday on GEORGE WILSON, a seaman, aged about 21, a native of London, belonging to the schooner Pitho, now lying in the River Teign, and of which the captain is Francis Webster, Mutley, Plymouth.  On Thursday evening last the captain went ashore, leaving deceased on board.  Later deceased and the cook, William Minshell, also went ashore, deceased saying he wanted to get tobacco.  The men went to two public-houses and about ten o'clock deceased left Minshell at one of the public-houses and said he should be back again after he had got the tobacco.  He did not return and the cook went back to the vessel alone.  Meanwhile deceased had also been seen by a man named Loveridge in the Custom House Inn, where deceased had two pints of beer, and was said to be sober when he left.  On Sunday his body was found lying in the eastern dock at the Old Quay by Alfred John Adams, lumper, at low tide.  P.C. Sheppard found no tobacco in deceased's pockets.  -  The Coroner asked the captain if he made any inquiries, seeing that deceased did not return on the Friday or Saturday.  The captain replied that he did not, as he expected that deceased would eventually return.  He added that he went to his home at Plymouth on Saturday and whilst there he received a letter from the mate informing him that deceased's body had been found.  -  Attention was drawn by a Juryman to what he regarded as the unsatisfactory condition of the life-saving appliances at the quay dock, stating that there were no ladder steps there, and also that the lifebuoy was placed too high up.   Formerly ladder steps were provided, but they were removed, and although there had been some talk about replacing them it had not been done.  -  Another Juryman said the steps did not belong to the Harbour Commissioners, but to a private company.  -  The Coroner observed that that did not matter:  The Company were bound to provide them, and it was a proper matter for Inquiry.  -  The Inquest was adjourned until Thursday for the attendance of the Inspector under the Factory Acts.

TOTTENHAM, LONDON - Death Under Anaesthetic.  Barnstaple Man Expires In London. -  An Inquest was held yesterday at the Prince of Wales' Hospital, Tottenham, on WILLIAM BRAYLEY, aged 59, a pensioner from the Royal Marines, who resided at Laurel Cottage, Trinity-street, Barnstaple.  -  MARY JANE BRAYLEY, a lady's maid, daughter of the deceased, said that her father had suffered from an internal complaint for about two years and had come to London on March 23rd with a view to being treated at a London Hospital.  He seemed fairly well before he entered the Tottenham Hospital.  -  Dr Harper, junior House Surgeon at the Hospital, said that after the deceased was admitted it was considered necessary to ascertain the nature of the deceased's malady, to operate upon him , and it was inadvisable to do this without an anaesthetic.  Chloroform was decided to be the most suitable anaesthetic for the case, and it was administered by witness on Saturday last, in the presence of Mr Carson, the visiting Surgeon, and two nurses.  Witness examined the patient before applying the anaesthetic.  The anaesthetic had reached the second stage, called the excited or struggling stage, when the respiration and pulse were noticed to suddenly cease.  Everything possible was done to bring the deceased round, but every effort was unsuccessful.  Witness had made a post-mortem examination, and found the heart affected.  The cause of death was heart failure while under the anaesthetic.  -  In reply to the Coroner, witness said that the examination was necessary to ascertain the deceased's malady, and the operation could not be performed without the patient being put under an anaesthetic.  -  The Coroner said that it was one of those cases which happened occasionally and the Jury could only say that the deceased died from the effects of the anaesthetic, which was being administered for the purpose of a necessary operation.  -  A verdict of "Death from Misadventure" was returned, the Jury expressing their sympathy with the daughter.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 7 April 1909
BARNSTAPLE - At an Inquest on MARY HARRIS, laundress, at Barnstaple, last evening, Dr Thomas stated that the deceased, found dead in bed, had a diseased heart.

PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on ELIZA ANN TUCKER, wife of a labourer, residing in Raleigh-street.  Priscilla Winser, living in the same house, said deceased was subject to fits;  she died in a fit on Monday.  Dr burke said death was due to heart disease, accelerated by epilepsy.  A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 12 April 1909
EXETER - At an Inquest at Exeter on Saturday on REBECCA PARR, aged 73, it was stated that she had suffered from bronchitis for years.  On Wednesday she fell downstairs and died from shock following on the bronchitis and a wound on the head.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 14 April 1909
PLYMSTOCK - The Mount Batten Fatality. -  Mr C. G. Brian (Deputy Coroner) held an Inquest at the Castle Inn, Mount batten, yesterday, on JOHN HOLLETT, who was drowned off the pier at Batten on Monday.  -  FRANCES HOLLETT, his widow, said he was a waterman, 70 years of age, and lived at 2 Garrison-green, Lambhay-hill, Plymouth.  He was an old-age pensioner.  -  Dr S. Noy Scott, of Plymstock, said on being called just before eight o'clock in the evening, he found HOLLETT on the quay, with a soldier trying artificial respiration, which, he heard, had been kept up for over an hour.  The man was dead.  A post-mortem examination showed that death was due to drowning.  The shock of the immersion accounted for death ensuing after so short a time in the water.  -  Richard A. Pinhey, a lad, who lives in Notte-street, Plymouth, said he was about to return to Plymouth in HOLLETT'S boat.  He and six others were in the boat.  HOLLETT, standing on the steps, pushed the boat off, and tried to jump in.  He missed his footing and fell into the water.  Witness jumped after him and they were assisted out.  HOLLETT was in the water less than three minutes. -  P.C. Braund said he saw a soldier trying artificial respiration when he arrived and witness assisted.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

EXETER - Exeter Man's Death.  Shocking Story:  Sons Censured.  -  An Inquest was held by the Exeter Coroner yesterday on JOHN TRETHEWEY, 62, a mason, of Coombe-street.  -  FRANCIS R. TRETHEWEY, Coombe-street, labourer, son of the deceased, said his father resided with him, also his mother, brother and step-brother.  Deceased had remained in bed about a week, having fallen off a chair.  His mother was paralysed and deceased was looked after by his step-brother.  His father died on Good Friday.  No doctor was fetched as they did not know deceased was so bad as to want one.  He was insured by one of witness's brothers.  Witness saw his father every morning before going to work.  His mother slept in the same room as his father.  He did not know that he could have the parish doctor by sending for him.  -  SAMUEL EDWARD TRETHEWEY, porter, son of deceased, said he insured his father in the sum of £5 2s.   Deceased was taken ill on Saturday, April 3rd.  He did not send for a doctor, as he did not think he was so ill.  He saw his father every morning during the week he was in bed.  He knew the parish doctor could be called in, if required, and witness fetched him on Good Friday evening, but his father died before he arrived.  -  Why did you wait before your father was actually dying before sending for a doctor? -  We did not think he was so ill.   -  Mr Frank Cox (Foreman), said the witness was certainly old enough to know that a doctor should have been sent for.  -   JOHN HY. BALE,  stepson, said he looked after deceased during the week he was in bed, but he did not think he was seriously ill.  The bed was changed once during the week.  -  The Coroner said it was evident that deceased was allowed to lie in a dreadful state, without the bedding being changed.   -   Witness said he did not think his father was bad enough to have a doctor;  in fact, he was obstinate, and would not have one.  Witness sent for a doctor when he noticed a change in his father's condition on Friday.  - Was your object to get a certificate of death?  -  No, sir.  I did not understand anything about that.  Witness added that Mrs Sellick, a neighbour, did not tell him he ought to get a doctor;  she might have told the neighbours.    -    Cause Of Death.    -    Dr G. T. Clapp said deceased had been dead an hour when he arrived.  There was a general condition of neglect about the room.  The bedding was rotten.  Witness had made a post-mortem examination.  There were three bed sores on the left side.  In the centre of the brain he found a recent clot of blood.  The other organs were all healthy, but the body was badly nourished.  There was very little food in the stomach.  When he fell off the chair he must have had a paralytic stroke and the immediate cause of death was cerebral apoplexy.  -  By the Foreman:  Witness did not think the man was looked after as he should have been, but the haemorrhage was so situated that nothing could be done to save his life.  He was not prepared to say that his life would have been spared if witness had been called earlier.  -  The Coroner, in summing up, said even if the evidence did not warrant a verdict of manslaughter, it certainly seemed to him that it was a case which the brothers should hear more of in some way or other.  Their conduct was deserving of severe censure.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."  They did not think the evidence strong enough to support a verdict of manslaughter, but they considered that the sons should be severely censured for their conduct.  -  The Foreman said it seemed to him that the sons were simply waiting for the insurance money.   -   Mr F. Gibbons said he hoped that steps would be taken to ensure that the mother was not allowed to remain in the same condition as the father had been.  -  The Coroner said the Poor-law authorities would be communicated with.    -    Sons Severely Censured.    -    Addressing the three sons, the Coroner said:  You have not acted as sons or men, but have acted in a most brutal way.  you are a disgrace to this city or any other city, and it is a very fortunate thing for you that your father died from cerebral apoplexy, instead of from weakness and neglect, because there is no doubt if he had, all three of you would have been committed to take your trial for manslaughter, which you well deserve.  You must have known he was dying, and that you ought to have had a doctor. Instead of keeping him in comfort, you kept him in a state worse than animals should be kept in.  I do not see why they should be kept in a worse state than anybody else, but you kept your father in a filthy, shameful condition.  You are a disgrace.  -  FRANCIS TRETHEWEY:  Us could not stop home and look after our work as well. -  The Coroner:  You should have called the doctor.  I have not forgotten that you came up here drunk to see the body and I don't  know whether you are still drunk even now.  If you had been, I should have committed you.  You look a chronic drunkard, and you ought to be ashamed of yourself.  I hope the insurance people won't pay you.  Now, go away.

STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Girl's Death.  Father Censured.  -  At Devonport yesterday the Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquest on VIOLET BROWN, aged 15 years, the daughter of CHARLES STROUD BROWN, a tailor residing in Duke-street.  -  The father said deceased was a delicate girl and Dr Hall, who saw her as a school-girl, had said she was suffering from eczema.  On Friday deceased  went to Millbrook with two other girls and returned about 5.30.  She remarked that she felt a bit sick, and was subsequently ill.  About 8 p.m. she went to bed and between 11 and 12 p.m. witness left her sleeping.  Witness came down three times during the night, and the first time he gave her a drink of water, as she asked for it.  On the second occasion she appeared to be sleeping and when he came down a third time she was dead.  -  P.C. Vowel stated that he was called to the house by MR BROWN about 6 a.m. on Saturday.  He found the girl dead on an old bedchair, half of which was turned up against the wall.  Her right leg was through the iron work towards the floor.  Her left leg was bent up.  She was covered with two old coats.  Her clothing was very [?] and dirty and she was lying on an old straw palliasse.  Witness asked BROWN how he accounted for his daughter being in this condition.  He replied that he had no wife, and no-one but the girl to look after the house. Dr McElwaine was called and ordered the removal of the body to the mortuary.  -  Dr Thomas McElwaine attributed death to pneumonia and expressed the opinion that deceased had had it for two or three days.  He thought death was accelerated by exposure and want of proper treatment.  -  The Coroner said it was perfectly scandalous that a man who was apparently in continuous employment, and in receipt of fair wages, should allow a child of the age of deceased to remain in the condition shown by the evidence.  He must have known that she felt very unwell and he should have seen that she was properly covered during the night, and that she received proper attention.  Although the father had lost his wife that was no excuse for his neglect of his daughter and in his (the Coroner's) opinion he deserved a severe censure.  -  The Jury in returning a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence, concurred with the Coroner, who in censuring the man, informed him that he ought to consider himself lucky that the serious charge of manslaughter was not brought against him.

Western Morning News, Thursday 15 April 1909
TOPSHAM - The Exe Mystery.  Topsham Gardener Censured.  -  An Inquest was held at Topsham yesterday on ELIZA COPLAND, aged 14, found drowned on Tuesday.  -  ELIZABETH COPLAND, the mother, said the deceased went to work as usual on Sunday for Mrs Ponsford.  She returned at 12.30 and was sent at 12.45 for rhubarb at Mr Gale's.  She did not return until 6 p.m.  When asked where she had been she said that she had been in Mr Gale's house all the time, and had helped to wash the dishes there.  She had dinner and tea while there.  Witness told her it was not a very nice thing for her to stay at a stranger's house all the afternoon.  She replied that there was someone else there.  Asked if she was going to church, she replied that she was going to chapel.  Witness left her getting ready to go to chapel.  She never saw her alive again.  The girl was quick-tempered, but quickly made friends again.  She did not appear to take much notice of what witness said.  As far as witness knew, she did not keep company with any boys.  She had never had any trouble with her, and she had never threatened to take her life.  -  By Rev. J. Tucker:  The report that she was frequently out until eleven o'clock was untrue, as she was always in at 8.30 to 9 p.m.  -  Richard Sanders, bargeman, of Topsham, said he found the girl's coat and hat near the water.  The hat was on a stone and six inches away was the coat straightened out.  Within a few feet of where the hat and jacket were found there was twelve feet of water.  -  Miss Ponsford said she noticed nothing unusual in deceased when she came to the house to work on Sunday.  -   A Gardener's Story.    -    Charles Frederick Gale, gardener, of Topsham, said on Saturday, about 8 p.m., deceased called for rhubarb, but he could not supply her.  She appeared disappointed, and he told her that if she came up early on Sunday morning he would try and let her have some.  She came about one o'clock on Sunday and he went into the garden for the rhubarb, asking her to step inside in the meantime.  His son and a Mr Medland were the others in the house at the time.  He asked her if her parents would not be angry with her for staying so long, and she replied, "No."  They had dinner about 2.30 and he asked her to have some, seeing that it was late, and he thought she would not get any if she went home.  There was no liquor drunk at the table.   The girl afterwards fed the chicken in the garden and picked violets.  She had washed the dishes as well.  He then asked her if she was going home and that she did after tea.  She left just before six o'clock.  He saw nothing of her after that.  He was with the deceased all the afternoon with the exception of ten minutes when she was with his son in the kitchen or with Mr Medland in the sitting-room.  She had not been to his house before, except on Saturday evening.  He had seen her speaking to his son many times at the door.  He did not think there was anything strange in allowing her to stay all the afternoon, although he admitted that he should have sent her home.  Deceased was very cheerful all the afternoon and did not appear excited.  -  P.C. Rowland stated that Mr Gale told him deceased was in the kitchen with his son, whilst he was upstairs with his invalid sister.  -    The Gardener's Son.   -    Herbert Marshall Gale, electrician, of Topsham, said he had often spoken to her, but to his knowledge she had never been to the house before, although she had visited the gardens with other girls.  He was alone with her on Sunday for about ten minutes or a quarter of an hour.  -  Robert Medland, gardener, who lives with Mr Gale, said he was in the dining-room all the afternoon and was asleep part of the time.  Just before tea time he and the deceased were sitting face to face.  She turned sideways and commenced biting her fingers and he saw a tear or two run over her cheek.  Mr Gale came in and she then looked brighter.  -   Wm. Voysey, fisherman, of Topsham, said he found the body of deceased about 20 yards higher up the River Clyst from where her clothes were found.  She was fully dressed except hat and jacket.  -  P.C. Rowland said on the body were found two invitation cards for a dance at Topsham on the 14th inst.  They bore the initials "C.P.G."  -  MRS COPLAND said she had never seen the tickets before.  -  Mr Gale, recalled, said he gave the deceased one of the tickets before she left his house on Sunday evening.  -  Mr Wm. Ashford, Surgeon, said death was caused by drowning.  There was evidence of violation of recent occurrence - probably on the same day as death took place.  Mr R. R. Hatherell, Surgeon, corroborated.    -    The Coroner's Opinion.    -   The Coroner, in summing up, said he could not, and he was sure the Jury would not, approve of Mr Gale's conduct.  He admitted having given the girl a card to attend the dance because he said he had seen her "looking on" on previous occasions:   But as a man of the word, he (the Coroner) unhesitatingly said that he did not believe the statement, but that the card was given by Mr Gale with an object, or it might have been the result of an object attained.  Death was undoubtedly brought about by drowning, and he advised the Jury, having regard to the circumstances of the case, to return an Open Verdict.  -  After a short deliberation, the Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned," and requested the Coroner to severely censure Mr Gale, sen.  Having regard to his age, as a father, and the tender age of the girl, it was wrong of him to have encouraged her to remain in the house such a long time.  They also much regretted the conflicting evidence given from his house.  -  The Coroner said he thoroughly agreed with the view of the Jury.  Gale's conduct was most reprehensible.  Sympathy was expressed with the parents by the Jury and Coroner.

Western Morning News, Saturday 17 April 1909
OTTERY ST. MARY - The Ottery St. Mary Fatality.  A Dangerous Practice.  -  Dr Tweed held an Inquest at Ottery St. Mary yesterday on SIDNEY TAYLOR, of Chip-lane, Ottery St. Mary.  -  His niece, Mary Thompson, said he was a single man, 45 years of age, living with his mother.  He was an agricultural labourer, but not in regular employ.  She last saw him alive on Wednesday morning, when he passed through the town, walking in front of a traction engine, with a threshing machine attached.  She was afraid the engine would knock him down, as he was very close to it, and his gait was very unsteady, as if he was under the influence of drink.  -  Emanuel Rowland, engine driver, Axminster, said he was in charge of Mr Salter's engine and thresher on Wednesday evening and was driving it from Knightstone, where they had been working.  Thomas Howe was the only other person on the engine and TAYLOR volunteered to walk in front as the third man, but he was not employed by him on Mr Salter's behalf, but accompanied them in the hopes of getting a job for the next days threshing.  At Batts Bridge they took in water for the engine and afterwards he saw TAYLOR riding on the drawbar between the engine and the thresher.  He did not know that TAYLOR had fallen off until after he arrived at Gosford.  -  Thomas Howe, the steersman, said on their way through the town they stopped at the Half Moon Inn, but deceased was not the worse for liquor.  -  William Dommett, insurance agent, said about 7.15 p.m. near Woodford just after the traction engine had passed with two men on it he found TAYLOR lying on his back in the road.  -  Mr Alfred Cripps, of Ottery St. Mary, said he saw TAYLOR outside the Half Moon and spoke to him, but did not receive any reply.  TAYLOR was not drunk, but had had quite enough.  - Dr Reynolds, of Ottery St. Mary, said the right side of TAYLOR'S chest was badly crushed and nearly every rib broken.  Death had been quite instantaneous.  It appeared as if the wheel of a heavy wagon had passed over the body.  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and at their request the Coroner cautioned Rowland and Howe as to allowing anyone to ride on the drawbar, a most dangerous practice.

PLYMOUTH - Found Dead At Plymouth. - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on ELLEN LOUISA TOMKINSON, 44, the wife of a merchant seaman, who left her many years ago.  She resided at 3 Bath-place, Plymouth.  -  Frank Scranlin said deceased was taken ill on Wednesday.  He went for her daughter, but she did not come.  -  P.C. Pring said he was called to the house as the deceased had not been seen for some time.  On entering the room he found her dead.  The body was in a very bad condition.  -  Dr Wagner said he attended deceased some time since for cirrhosis of the liver.  That disease was the cause of death.  A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 20 April 1909
YEALMPTON - JOHN ATWILL, of the Holbeton Inn, near Yealmpton, was found ill in bed early on Saturday morning by a domestic, and died before Dr Langworthy could be summoned.  At the Inquest yesterday a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 21 April 1909
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest at the Plymouth Mortuary yesterday on ELIZA HEWITT, of 8 Cathcart-avenue, Prince Rock, who died suddenly in Grenville-road, on Saturday.  Dr McCarthy said the cause of death was a fatty heart.  P.C. Down said MRS HEWITT had been living apart from her husband, a labourer, for years.  She was a heavy drinker.  The verdict of the Jury was according to the medical evidence.

PLYMOUTH - Cattedown Fatality.  The Inquest.  -  At the S.D. and E.C. Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday, Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest on GEORGE LE MARQUAND, who died the previous day as the result of injuries received at Cattedown quay.  -  Captain Cox, of the steamship Torrington, identified the body.  -  John Murray, engine driver in the employ of the L. and S.W. Railway, stated that they were engaged in shunting operations when the accident occurred.  He saw deceased watching a man loading a cart of ashes and then when the engine had passed make a rambling movement towards the trucks.  It was his opinion that the man was intoxicated.  He immediately reversed the engine and pulled up, and on going back to see what had occurred, found that the man in charge of the cart had already gone to LE MARQUAND'S assistance.  Deceased's legs were badly injured.  -  William Ellis, the man in charge of the cart, also thought deceased was under the influence of drink.  He saw him ramble towards the train and striking against one of the trucks, his legs went under the wheels.  -  Dr C. F. Walker, the House Surgeon at the Hospital, said the man's legs were mangled and he was suffering from severe shock.  He was able to speak and asked what had happened.  He stated that his legs had got under the trucks and attributed blame to no-one.  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, and the driver was exonerated from blame.

Western Morning News, Friday 23 April 1909
PLYMOUTH - The Plymouth Fatality.  Insurance Company's Request.  -  At the Inquest on WILLIAM NORMAN RENDALL, aged 37, labourer, of Plym-street, Plymouth, killed on Wednesday, when working at the Free Library buildings, held yesterday, Mr C. G. Brian represented Pethick Bros., the contractors, and Mr Taylor, H.M. Inspector of Factories and Workshops, also attended.  -  Edward Thomas Rowson, one of Messrs. Pethick's labourers, said about eight o'clock he and the deceased were taking down the top scaffold.  A saw was knocked off the staging, and deceased said he would fetch it.  He did not see RENDALL go down, but believed he went down the pole.  He had seen RENDALL go down the pole scores of times.  A boy drew his attention to the fact that an accident had occurred, and he at once slid down the pole and went for a doctor.  From what he could see when he reached the ground, RENDALL was dead.  The distance was about 20 feet.  -  By Mr Taylor:  There were no loose planks anywhere on the staging.  -  Answering the Foreman of the Jury (Mr W. H. Parsons) witness stated that the deceased could have descended by a ladder, but it was usual to go down by the pole.  -  By Mr Taylor:  He did not think deceased fell off the staging, as there was a guard rail.  -  George Pidgeon, Plymouth Corporation Tramways Inspector, said on hearing a thud he turned and saw RENDALL lying in the street.  Although he thought he was dead, he applied artificial respiration.  He did not see the fall, but should say that the man fell flat on his back.  He did not think the man came down the pole, but believed he had fallen over the scaffold.  He considered that in coming down RENDALL had a blow on the head and that that toppled him over the hoarding.  -  Dr Newbery, in answer to Mr Brian, said all he found was injuries to the head, which were sufficient to cause death.  -  There might have been previous causes?  -  I do not say that.  -  The Coroner remarked that the suggestion was made to him that morning on behalf of the Insurance Company that a post-mortem examination should be made.  As Dr Newbery had told him that the injuries were sufficient to cause death, he did not think it was necessary, so he told the Insurance Company representative that it was a matter for him to arrange with the family of the deceased.  He was not going to have the town put to the expense of a post-mortem examination for the sake of any Insurance Company.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and thought great praise was due to Mr Pidgeon for rendering first-aid.

STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Man's Death.  Housekeeper's Story.  -  Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest, yesterday, on AMBROSE WILLIAM ABBOTT, aged 66, furniture dealer, Market-street.  -  MATILDA JANE PICKFORD, of Albert-road, wife of a chargeman in the Dockyard, said the deceased was her father.  She last saw him alive on Saturday evening.  He said he wished he was dead, as he had "a beauty" there who was driving him mad.  Witness's mother died five years ago.  She begged her father to lock up the house and come up with her.  He replied that he did not know what to do and was "afraid of her tongue" and the exposure.  He had never threatened suicide.  She did not know that he was being pressed by creditors.  -  The Coroner believed it was a fact that the deceased was in pecuniary difficulties.  -  In reply to the Coroner, witness said she heard a lot of talk about the woman her father referred to.  She asked him if she was a bad woman, and he said it was true, but he found out when it was too late.  -  Was she a housekeeper?  -  I suppose so.     -   The Deceased's Fall.  -    Frederick Truscott, electric car repairer, Market-street, said he was looking out of his window about 10.40 a.m. on Tuesday, when he saw deceased on is verandah, cutting sprigs off shrubs.  When he had finished he put his knife in his coat pocket and then turned round to go back.  After going two steps, he gave a slight list outwards and balanced for some time on one leg.  Having nothing to take hold of, deceased fell into the street.  While deceased was on the verandah Mrs Tregilgis was at the open window, and when deceased had finished cutting he handed her the shrubs he had cut.  Deceased was opposite the window when he fell.  It would have been impossible for Mrs Tregilgis to touch deceased's body and if she touched his legs no one would see it.  -  The Coroner:  What was your impression as to how it occurred?  -  It was an accident.  I have thought so all along, although I have heard a lot of talk.  -  You did not see any indication that the two had been quarrelling?  -  No, they had not been quarrelling.  - A Juryman:  Could Mrs Tregilgis have saved him by taking hold of his coat?  -  No.  -  Chief Constable Watson:  Would it be possible, supposing anyone was in the room, to touch MR ABBOTT when he was on the window-sill?  -  Yes.  -  The Coroner said he took no notice of common gossip, but told Mrs Tregilgis she need not give any evidence that would incriminate herself.  -     Housekeeper's Story.    -    Elizabeth Tregilgis said she wished to give her account of what happened.  She had been living apart from her husband for eight years and for six months had been living with deceased as his housekeeper.  On Tuesday she was going to the cemetery with flowers, and he wished her to have some of the myrtle which was on the verandah.  He thereupon went out to pick it for her, and she remained in the room the whole time.  He picked one spray, which he handed her and then went to pick another and as he was going he told her to pour out his tea.  She went to the grate, and as she was doing so, she heard a loud talking outside the window.  She then saw MR ABBOTT was missing.  She ran downstairs and met Mr Truscott and others bringing MR ABBOT upstairs.   -  Replying to the Coroner, she said there was no one in the room at the time of the accident.  She did not remember telling a little girl to say she (the girl) was in the room.  If she did so it was in fright.  - Did you push MR ABBOTT out from the window?   -  No. -  You are sure?  -  Positive.  He was only too pleased that I was going to have the myrtle from him.  -  You have had some quarrels with him?  -  Frequently.  -  And I believe you have struck him?  -  In taking my own part.  -  Do you mean defending yourself?   -  Yes.  -  You have been locked up on more than one occasion?  -  Yes.  -  Ten days ago?  -  That was through going to a wedding.  The neighbours know I have been marked black from head to foot.  -  The neighbours do not seem to have any sympathy with you?  -  They say one thing one time and then go back.  -  In reply to the Jury, witness said she was not paid for acting as deceased's housekeeper, but had her food.  She never heard deceased say he wished he was dead.  The only time she remembered him low-spirited was when a large bill came in.  No intoxicants were brought into the house that day.  -  Replying to the Coroner, witness said she had a little spirits at Mrs Conybeare's house about 8.30 that morning, as she was not feeling very well.  -  How many glasses of spirits had you had?  -  Only one.  -  And you were sober?  -  Yes.  -  P.C. Warren, who was called to the house, said deceased was unconscious, had had two large wounds on the head.  Mrs Tregilgis had been drinking and was excited and making rambling statements.  -  The Coroner:  Was she drunk?  -  She had been drinking heavily, and was very excited.  I do not think she knew half of what she was saying.    -    The Man's Injuries.    -    Dr G. H. Pridham, House Surgeon, said deceased was admitted to the Royal Albert Hospital suffering from a fractured skull.  There was just enough hope of recovery to justify an operation to relieve haemorrhage inside the skull.  The operation was performed.  Deceased died next morning.  -  The witness Truscott said Mrs Tregilgis was drunk at the time of the accident.  -  Mrs Conybeare, in reply to the Coroner, said Mrs Tregilgis fetched fourpennyworth of brandy and that was all they had.  -  The Coroner:  That was to begin the day with and that was twopennyworth each too much.  In summing up, the Coroner said there was no evidence to warrant a verdict against Mrs Tregilgis. There was not sufficient evidence to show whether the affair was accidental or otherwise.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Saturday 24 April 1909
PLYMOUTH - G.W.R. Fatality.  Rail Motor Conductor's Fall.  -  WILLIAM WARNE, aged 23, the conductor of a Great Western rail motor, who fell out of his train near Wrangaton Station on Saturday night, died yesterday morning in the S.D. and E.C. Hospital.  At the Inquest in the afternoon the G.W.R. Company was represented by Chief Inspector Poultney, locomotive department, Newton Abbot.  -  George S. Baggs, the motor driver, stated that on the 10.50 p.m. motor out of Millbay to Brent, of which deceased was in charge, reaching Wrangaton on Saturday, he received no signal to start.  The signalman told him an excursion train was waiting at Ivybridge and he went on, after sending his mate to tell the Wrangaton signalman that they had no conductor.  On reaching Wrangaton on the return journey a porter took the missing conductor's place.  They kept a sharp look-out, and about 150 yards west of the Station found WARNE lying unconscious on a bank on the up side of the line.  The first thing he noticed unusual was that the conductor failed to give the bell-signal at Bittaford.  -   Replying to the Coroner, Inspector Poultney said the only thing he could suggest as to the cause of the accident was that the deceased was opening the door in readiness for passenger to alight at Wrangaton, or that he opened the door for private purposes and fell out.  -  The House Physician (Dr Campbell) deposed that the deceased was unconscious when admitted into the Hospital on Sunday and had severe injuries to his head.  There was then a slight chance of recovery.  Deceased regained consciousness for a few minutes, but made no statement.  -  Inspector Poultney said WARNE had been a lifelong teetotaler and non-smoker and was one of the quietest men they had.  -  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned and the Coroner expressed sympathy with the father.

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Child Overlain.  -  At Plymouth yesterday, an Inquest was held on the three days old child of RICHARD JOHNS, of Well-street, Plymouth, a stoker, R.N.  The baby, sleeping with its parents, was alive at three o'clock that morning, and was dead at 5.25 a.m.  -  Dr Williams said the child seemed well cared for.  Death was due to over-laying.  It was remarkable that mothers should take their babies in bed with them. -  The Coroner (Mr R. B. Johns) said he could not understand why there was not something in the Children's Act relating to such cases.  -  The Foreman (Mr W. G. Southern):  I understood there was such a clause.  - The Coroner:  Only in the case of drunkenness.  -  "Death from Overlaying" was the verdict and the Coroner told JOHNS there was no reflection on him.

STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Suicide.  Naval Pensioner's Sad End.  -  Mr J. A. Pearce at Devonport yesterday held an Inquest on JAMES WARN, aged 68 years, a naval pensioner, who resided in Pembroke-street.  ERNEST WARN said his father, who had lived alone, was formerly a quartermaster, R.N., and subsequently a messenger at the offices of the Commander-in-Chief.  He was in receipt of a pension of £42 a year.  -  William T. Body, a labourer, in whose house deceased had lived, said he put WARN to bed about 8.30 on the previous evening.  He had evidently been drinking.  Witness left his bed about 7.45 that morning, when he discovered him hanging from the banisters.  He had been drinking heavily lately:  In fact, had drunk more during the past few weeks than witness had ever known him to do.  He was all right when "off the beer," but when he had had a drop was like a man mad.  -  Dr T. McElwaine said death was due to hanging.  -  The Coroner, summing up, said WARN'S death was no doubt due to his drinking habits.  -  A verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind" was returned.

CHUDLEIGH - An Inquest was held at Chudleigh yesterday on DAVID LEARE, butcher, of Old Exeter-street, who was found dead on Tuesday at the rear of his premises.  About two years ago he fell from a horse and injured his head.  Since then he has been subject to epileptic fits.  From the evidence, it appeared that he must have had a fit on Thursday, and in falling back against the wall his chin was pressed down upon his chest, and his collar stud caused pressure on the windpipe.  The Jury found that the cause of death was suffocation while in an epileptic fit.

Western Morning News, Monday 26 April 1909
FALMOUTH, CORNWALL - Brixham Man Drowned.  Boat Capsized at Falmouth.  -  A distressing accident happened in Falmouth harbour on Saturday, by which FRED KING, 21 years of age, belonging to the Brixham trawler, Mayflower, lost his life by drowning.  Three men - Charles Kellaway, Samuel Foster and deceased - left the trawler, which was anchored in the harbour, with the intention of going ashore pulling off for that purpose in a small craft belonging to the Brixham boat.  They had only just commenced their journey, and had put up a small sail, when a heavy squall struck the boat, and the mast, slipping out of its position, the boat was capsized and the occupants thrown into the water.  All three were soon in difficulties.  Deceased had sea boots on which reached to the top of his thighs and the other men were wearing shorter ones, which they managed to cast off.  A boat from the training-ship Foudroyant, had just started for the shore and the lads in it, witnessing the accident, at once turned about, and with great haste went to the assistance of the men who were struggling in the water, and they were undoubtedly the means of saving the lives of two of them. They succeeded after some difficulty in getting Kellaway and Foster on board, but before they could reach KING he sank.  The other men were becoming exhausted, and it was indeed fortunate for them that the boys were so near when the Mayflower's boat capsized, for both were, it is stated, unable to swim.  -  It was more than two hours later that KING'S body was recovered.  Efforts were made during that interval to recover it, and preparations were in progress for a diver to descend to look for it, when John Dunstone brought the body to the surface with grappling irons.  There were marks of injuries on his head and face, but whether these were caused by his striking something before he sank, or whether they were brought about by the irons used in the attempts to find the body, has not been decided.  At all events the poor fellow was drowned and the remarkable part of the sad affair is that KING was the only one of the trio who could swim.  But whilst the other men were able to kick off their boots, deceased's were much longer and heavier, and it would have been a very difficult, if not impossible, matter for him to have rid himself of them in such circumstances.  Wearing such heavy and cumbersome things it was impossible, according to those who are in a position to speak on the subject, for anyone to use his legs in the water, and they no doubt dragged him down, and this, added to the probability that he struck his head when the craft capsized, no doubt prevented his keeping afloat until he could have been rescued by those in the Foudroyant boat.  The body was removed to the Royal Cornwall Sailor's Home.    -   The Inquest.    -   Later in the day Mr Coroner Carlyon held an Inquest at the Royal Cornwall Sailor's Home.  -  Charles Kellaway said deceased, Foster and himself left the Mayflower  in a small boat to go ashore. They hoisted a small mizzen topsail and witness held the sheet with his hand. They got ten or twelve yards from the trawler when they met a squall and the boat capsized, throwing them all into the water.  Witness could not swim, but "paddled" away.  He did not know whether deceased could swim or not, but he had his heavy sea boots on, and these reached up to his thigh.  One of the boys of the Foudroyant put a paddle under his arms and but for one of them catching him with a boat hook he should have gone.  He was full of water and felt "done."  He did not see deceased until he (witness) was pulled into the boat and then KING sank.  About two hours later the body was recovered with a grapnel, witness at the item assisting in preparation for a diver to go down to search for the body.  -  A Juror:  Wouldn't it have been wise to have pulled ashore instead of putting up a sail in such squally weather.  With the sail you would have had to tack two or three times?  -  Witness:  No, it would have been more difficult to have pulled.  She had fetched the upper pier, and we should not have had to tack at all.  -  Replying to other questions, witness said the mast slipped out of its lace, and that caused the accident.  He had been in the habit of using that sail, and felt quite safe with it.  He had been at the business for 33 years.  He and Foster had boots on which reached to their knees, but they kicked them off and that saved them.  -  Dr Owen who had examined the body as the Inquest was proceeding, said it seemed to him as if deceased had a blow on the side of his head.  He had a cut near his eye and his right ear was cut across.  Probably the man was stunned before he went down.  Death was due to drowning.  -  Kellaway remarked that the marks mentioned by the doctor were probably caused by the implements used in endeavouring to recover the body.  -  Dr Owen said that was very likely.  -  Kellaway, in reply to the Coroner, said he did not know whether deceased struck himself on the gunwale of the boat.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 27 April 1909
PLYMOUTH - Stonehouse Cyclist's Death.  -  An Inquest was held by Mr R. B. Johns yesterday at the S.D. and E.C. Hospital, Plymouth, on ALBERT JAMES BOWDEN, aged 25, a son of MR JAMES BOWDEN, miller, Union-place, Stonehouse.  -  Mr Ernest Brock, of Plymouth, said while motoring on the Ivybridge-road, about 11.20 a.m. on Sunday, he saw BOWDEN lying beside the hedge unconscious, his bicycle lying flat on the ground uninjured.  BOWDEN was taken into the Lyneham Inn.  -  P.C. Ridd (Plymouth) deposed to cycling to the Inn on receiving information about noon.  There the injured man was being attended by Mr Prigg.  He (witness) bathed deceased's head with cold water.  Dr Stephens, of Plympton, ordered his removal to the Hospital.  He (witness)  could find no traces of a collision and there were no marks on the deceased, excepting a little mud on one knee.  -  Dr Campbell (the House Physician), who had made a post-mortem examination, said the deceased had a large haemorrhage on the right side of the brain.  That was sufficient to cause death, and thought that caused the deceased to fall.  Death occurred about 6 p.m.  -  A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - At an Inquest yesterday at Plymouth on VIOLET W. ALLEN, the twelve-months' old daughter of ROBERT ALLEN, seaman, residing at Stanlake-terrace, Dr Travers-Stubbs attributed death to brain disease, accelerated by rickets.

KINGSBRIDGE - Stokenham Woman's Death.  Doctor Censured.  -  Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Kingsbridge Workhouse yesterday on CHARLOTTE ANGEL, spinster, aged 64, who was admitted to the Institution on Tuesday last, and died on Thursday.  -  The Coroner remarked that though MISS ANGEL died last Thursday, the case was not reported until that morning.  The woman was not a  pauper and had never had poor relief.  -  Edmund Laurence, Master of the Workhouse, said he had no reason to believe the woman died an unnatural death, and he did not, therefore, communicate with the Police.  Arrangements had been made for the burial that day.  -  J. T. Langworthy, Relieving Officer, said he received a note from Dr Hale, saying the woman should be removed to the Workhouse Infirmary, and he therefore conveyed her there in a closed carriage.  -  George Tremeer, cabinetmaker, Kingsbridge, said deceased was his wife's sister.  He last saw her about six months ago, when she was in good health.  Hearing she was confined to her bed he sent Dr Webb to see her, about three weeks ago.  He sent her presents of beef and mutton, but he was informed that she would not take either food or drink.  Dr Halse saw her on Monday.  Mrs Lee, a neighbour, had tried to get her to take food, but she would not.  His sister-in-law was very bad tempered.  -  Dr L. de C. Hurston, Medical Officer at the Workhouse, said deceased was seen on April 21st by his partner, Dr Pettinger.  The Coroner at once sent for Dr Pettinger.  -  THOMAS ANGEL , brother of deceased, said his sister lived with him.  For some time deceased had refused to take any nourishment, although he had tried all sorts of food for her.  -  Dr J. W. Pettinger said he saw deceased on Wednesday morning, when she was in a dying state, suffering from congestion of the lungs.  She was very emaciated.  He did not see her on Thursday.  -  By the Coroner:  He did not see how he could have reported the case sooner.  Death was due to congestion of the lungs, accelerated by want of proper nourishment.  Refusing to take food showed a diseased state of the brain.  -  Nurse A. Smith said when deceased was offered food at the Workhouse she refused it, though witness tried several times to get her to eat.  -  The Coroner said he thought the principal question was whether the woman had been starved to death through not being able to get food, or whether she deliberately starved herself.  -  The Jury, after an absence of half an hour, returned a verdict of "Death from Exhaustion, Congestion of the Lungs and want of Proper Nourishment."  -  The Jury also unanimously agreed that the doctor should have visited the woman on Thursday, the day she died, especially considering the state she was in on Wednesday.  The Coroner said he would forward the verdict to Dr Pettinger.

PLYMOUTH - Inquest on Plymouth Veteran.  -  Plymouth Borough Coroner (Mr R. B. Johns) held an Inquest yesterday on GEORGE BROWSE CHAPMAN aged 75, a Crimean veteran, who died suddenly in Alexandra-road on Friday.  -  Mabel Hannaford, with whom deceased lodged, said he had occasionally complained of indigestion.  - Mr C. H. Randall, ironmonger, of Braidwood-terrace, said he saw deceased drop down in a heap in the road.  He went to him and heard a rattling in his throat.  MR CHAPMAN died almost at once.  -  Dr Corbett said death was due to syncope, and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 3 May 1909
EAST STONEHOUSE - Devonport Dockyard Fatality.  -  The Inquest on THOMAS QUINLAN, 51, Dockyard labourer, living in John-street, Morice Town, who died on Friday, in the R. N. Hospital, Stonehouse, from injuries received the same day in Devonport dockyard, was on SAturday adjourned until Wednesday, for the attendance of H.M. Inspector of Factories, and in order that a post-mortem examination might be held.  -  The coroner (Mr R. R. Rodd) said deceased, a naval pensioner, whilst at work on the permanent way was struck by an engine which was about to enter the tunnel leading from Keyham Yard to the Dockyard.  -  Mr Peck, Admiralty representative, and Mr A. L Perfect, representing the Works Department, attended the Inquest.

NEWTON ST CYRES - MRS M. MAYNE, aged 71, of Newton St. Cyres, on Thursday evening was found on her bed dead.  At the Inquest on Saturday, Dr Powne said death was due to fatty degeneration of the heart, accelerated by the hearty meal she had eaten just before.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 4 May 1909
HOLBETON - Mothecombe Fatality.  Cyclist's Tragic Death.  -  Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Mothecombe yesterday on WILLIAM HENRY BRIGHT, aged 22 years, a cabinet-maker, who died from injuries received in a bicycle accident.  Deceased was cycling down a hill between Yealmpton and Mothecombe on Friday evening when, at a turn in the road, he collided with a baker's cart which was being driven up the hill by Frank West.  BRIGHT was knocked off his machine.  West asked him if he was hurt.  BRIGHT said he was, and asked to be lifted into the cart.  Not being strong enough to do so, he drove to Mothecombe for assistance.  He returned with deceased's father and others, and BRIGHT was conveyed home.  In consequence of the curve in the road he did not see BRIGHT until he was about three yards away.  Deceased's father said his son's bicycle was completely smashed.  Dr Langworthy found that the shaft of the cart had penetrated his body.  Deceased told him (the father) that he was riding down the hill too fast and ran into the hedge to avoid a collision.  The driver of the cart, he said, was not to blame.  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed sympathy with the family.

PLYMOUTH - At the Inquest on CHARLES EDWARD SEAL, 73, journeyman tailor, of Flora-cottages, Plymouth, who died suddenly in bed on Friday night, Dr Pearse said death was due to heart disease.

STOKE DAMEREL - Royal Marine's Death At Devonport.  After a Hearty Meal. -  Mr J. A. Pearce (Devonport Borough Coroner) held an Inquest at Keyham Dockyard yesterday on PTE. ARTHUR SYRED, 31, of H.M.S. Theseus.  -  Sergt. Henry Lombard, R.M.L.I., serving in the Theseus, said the deceased was a native of Penge, Surrey, and single.  He had had good health since witness had known him and bore a very good character.  -  Pte. E. Nicholson, R.M.L.I., said that about 2.30 p.m. on Sunday he saw the deceased asleep on a stool in his mess.  After witness's arrival deceased awoke, took off his coat, and hung it on a peg, and said, "I'm going for a smoke."  Immediately afterwards witness heard something fall and on running back to the mess saw the deceased lying on his back on the floor.  With assistance witness carried him to the sick bay and sent for the steward.  Deceased was then unconscious.  He ate a hearty dinner and had never complained to witness of feeling unwell.  -  L. C. Steinhausen, sick berth attendant, said that when he was called the deceased appeared quite lifeless and witness immediately sent for medical assistance.  Such assistance arrived in about a quarter of an hour and in the meantime witness attempted artificial respiration without success.  -  Staff-Surgeon H. L. Whiteside, of the Theseus, said he had made a post-mortem examination and found all the organs normal except the heart, which was enlarged.  There was no valvular disease.  The stomach contained a large undigested meal.  Death was due to heart failure, probably accelerated by distension of the stomach.  There was no evidence of injury to the skull or elsewhere and the contents of the stomach were perfectly normal.  -  Verdict, "Natural Causes."

EXETER - At an Inquest at Exeter on JOHN HUTCHINGS, commercial traveller, the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 5 May 1909
EAST STONEHOUSE - Dockyard Fatality.  Inquest At Stonehouse.  -  At the R. N. Hospital (Stonehouse) yesterday, Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest on THOMAS QUINLAN, aged 53, a platelayer in Devonport Dockyard.  Mr K. E. Peck (Devonport) represented the Admiralty.  Mr H. M. Evans, Inspector of Factories, and Mr A. L. Perfect, Dockyard Works Department, also attending.  -  Wm. Henry Collings stated that on Friday he was driving No. 2 engine, attached t one coach, three covered vans and two trucks, from the North Yard to the South Yard.  He first noticed deceased at the signal-box, and, as usual, blew his whistle.  This would be about 100 yards from the mouth of the tunnel.  Deceased was standing upright on the right-hand rail and then crossed to the other side and stood as a man would if he was standing clear.  The stoker blew the whistle twice before entering the tunnel and the deceased responded by holding up his hand, a signal that all was right.  He mentioned to his mate that there appeared to be a stone on the line on his side.  About 15 feet from the tunnel he noticed the feet and legs of a man on the right side.  He shouted out to his mate, "There is a man under the train," ordered sand to be put on the line, shut off steam, and reversed the engine.  He knew the deceased was there at work, so he was looking out for him.  ~The speed of the engine was about seven miles an hour.  He believed that the deceased saw the stone, and fell when trying to clear it out of the way.  -  The Stoker (Charles Henry Parker) corroborated, adding that he saw the deceased make a dive across the line from the left to the right after he had given the signal with his hand, the engine then being only about three or four yards from him.  -  Charles Smith, chargeman of platelayers in H.M. Dockyard, said the deceased was employed removing granite slabs by the side of the rails to enable an examination of the timber to be made.  -  William Henry Wood, carpenter, who was at the time of the accident in the tunnel, deposed to seeing deceased struck.  he seemed to be trying to spring away from the engine, and was apparently caught between the buffers.  -  Dr Thomas (Staff-Surgeon) attributed death to internal haemorrhage, due to a fractured pelvis and said there was an extensive wound down the left side.  - The verdict returned was "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Friday 7 May 1909
BARNSTAPLE - Barnstaple Fatality.  Inquest And Jury's Rider.  -  At the Inquest on FRANK TOMS, a G.W.R. fireman, of Yeovil, who was killed at the company's Station at Barnstaple on Wednesday, it transpired that deceased was mounting his engine, when he was caught between the engine and the wall of a coal depot built at the side of the water tank.  There was only seven inches between the engine and the wall.  -  Reginald Broom, the shedman, stated that he told deceased to "mind the wall" as he was mounting the engine about two yards away, and Frederick Leicester, the driver, said he thought deceased had time to clear the wall.  -  When TOMS cried out he stopped the engine immediately.  -  To the verdict of "Accidental Death," the Jury added a rider that they "thought the wall in question dangerous and that it should be set back."  -  Superintendent Phillips, Locomotive Department, Bristol, promised to lay the recommendation before the Company, with a view to its being carried out.

Western Morning News, Saturday 8 May 1909
PLYMOUTH - Petty Officer's Death. -  Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on JOHN BLAGDON, 3rd first class petty officer, H.M.S. Pelorus.  -  The widow said deceased returned for six weeks' leave on Wednesday in good health.  Yesterday morning she heard a thud in his bedroom, and on going in found him on the floor in what she took to be a fit.  She sent for a doctor, but he died before his arrival.  Dr Aikman, who had made a post-mortem examination, said death was due to heart disease of long standing.

TORQUAY - At the Inquest at Torquay yesterday on MR CHRISTOPHER INCH, carriage proprietor, who died suddenly on Wednesday, Dr Powell attributed death to heart failure.

Western Morning News, Monday 10 May 1909
SALCOMBE REGIS - The Salcombe Fatality.  Dangerous Cart Seats.  -  Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest on Saturday on MR CHARLES WALTER PASSMORE, 47, a visitor from London.  - Arthur Edgecumbe, rabbit trapper, South Milton, said he was engaged on Wednesday to fetch the deceased from Salcombe to South Milton.  His trap was an ordinary market cart, drawn by a pony.  Both got into the trap and sat side by side, in Courtenay-street.   Before proceeding up Church-hill he (witness) got out to ease the pony and went to its head.  He had only proceeded two or three yards when he looked round and saw that MR PASSMORE had fallen out of the trap, and was on his back on the ground.  MR PASSMORE made no exclamation.  The seat was an ordinary one with a back.  It was fixed with holes and pins to prevent it slipping.  The back strap of the tackle was fairly tight.  When he noticed the seat, it had tilted back towards the tail of the trap.  -  Edward Cole, builder, said the deceased was on his back, his legs appearing as if doubled underneath him.  He was quite conscious and asked to be taken in somewhere.  He complained of having no feeling in his arms.  He could not get up or help himself in any way.  He said nothing to throw any light as to the cause of the accident, nor did he blame anyone for its cause.  -  Dr Pearce said deceased complained of having no feeling in his hands or legs.  He attended him regularly until Friday morning, when death took place.  The symptoms pointed to paralysis from the shoulders down.  There were no external bruises;  merely a few scratches.  He attributed death to fracture of the cervical spine at about the middle of the neck.  Deceased must have fallen either on his head or neck.  -  Mrs Lavinia Fitzwalter with whom the deceased had apartments, said deceased could not remember anything of how the accident occurred.  -  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, and the Jury called attention to the dangerous and common practice of letting public vehicles for hire with seats insecurely fastened.  In the present case they exonerated the driver from all blame.  -  The Jury expressed sympathy with the relatives.  - MR A. E. PASSMORE, a brother of the deceased, from London, thanked the Jury.

EXMOUTH - Suicide At Exmouth. - Dr Tweed, Coroner, held an Inquest at Exmouth on JOHN MANTLE, aged 35, whose body was found in a field at Simmon's Farm, Hulham, Exmouth, with his throat cut.  The deceased resided with his mother at Withycombe and went to work at Simmon's Farm on Tuesday.  After dinner Mr Crabb, who employed MANTLE, did not see him, neither did he return home.  Mr F. Palfry, farmer, of Hulham, discovered the body on Thursday night.  Deceased had been three months in an asylum and had been told not to drink as it had the effect of inducing insanity.  Deceased apparently was sober on Monday and Tuesday.  In deceased's lunch-bag was found a note, as follows:-  Through Mrs Wilmot and Mr Crabb:  "Send mother a bit of money.  And Mr Hunter.  Good bye mother, I am bound to go.  Annie will tell you. "   -  Dr Thomas said MANTLE must have been dead two or three days before his body was found.  The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 12 May 1909
ST MARYCHURCH - Kingskerswell Woman's Death. -  Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Babbacombe yesterday on MARY FURNEAUX, aged 53, wife of JAS. FURNEAUX, labourer, of Kingskerswell.  The evidence showed that deceased had been suffering since last November from jaundice and cancer of the liver, for which she was treated until February by Dr J. R. Hatfield.  A week ago deceased's sister, MRS EDITH NORMAN, of Prince's-street, Babbacombe, invited her to stay with her.  Accompanied by a young woman, deceased travelled to Torre Station and thence by tramcar to Babbacombe on Friday evening, reaching her destination about seven o'clock.  She did not then seem very well and went to bed. She died on Sunday afternoon.  -  JAMES FURNEAUX, husband, said his wife seemed to be in a fit state to travel, having been out visiting friends the same morning.  - Dr Pitt-Palmer said in his opinion the travelling hastened her death.  - Dr J. R. Hatfield said deceased's husband was very considerate towards her, making her life as comfortable as it could possibly be, whilst her sons were devoted to her.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Cancer of the Liver," and did not impute blame to anyone.

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Pensioner's Death.  -  Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth Workhouse yesterday on WILLIAM RICHARDS, 73, naval pensioner, of Grenville-road.  -  P.C. Down said he went to 41 Oakfield-terrace on Thursday afternoon and saw RICHARDS who had fallen down in the road.  He was unconscious, and was being attended by Dr Stubbs.  He was taken to the Workhouse.  RICHARDS was subject to fits.  -  Dr C. J. Cooke, Workhouse Medical Officer, said RICHARDS died on Sunday evening.  A post-mortem examination shewed that death was due to an injury to the front of the brain, caused by the fall.  -  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

PLYMOUTH CHARLES THE MARTYR - Compton Child's Death.  -  An Inquest was held by Mr R. B. Johns at Compton yesterday on MARGARET THERESA RUNDLE WATKINS, aged 2 years, the daughter of WILLIAM WATKINS, dairyman, Lower Compton-road.  -  Violet Chaffe, domestic, in the employ of MR WATKINS, said a pan of scalded milk was placed on the floor of the scullery on Saturday morning.  Shortly afterwards deceased walked into the room and fell into it.  -  Dr G. H. Warren said the baby was scalded down the lower half of the back and on the thighs and the case was almost hopeless from the first.  - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 13 May 1909
LAPFORD - The Lapford Fatality.  -  Mr H. W. Gould held an Inquest at Lapford yesterday on ELLEN JANE DENSHAM, wife of MR ROGER DENSHAM, chairman of Crediton Rural District Council.  -  MR R. H. DENSHAM, her son, a farmer of Lapford, said on Monday he was driving with his mother to the village of Lapford.  When going down a slight decline in the road, the horse, a young one, became slightly restless, although not out of control.  His mother got frightened and when rounding a bend in the road seized the left rein, which broke.  The horse then dashed off and he jumped on to the hedge.  The horse continued and MRS DENSHAM was thrown over a fence into the bed of the river, a distance of 30 feet.  He found her unconscious.  She died at 9.40 the same evening without regaining consciousness.  -  Mr E. A. Barter said there was a severe blow over the eye.  -  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 17 May 1909
OTTERY ST. MARY - The East Devon Tragedy.  Gentleman Shoots Himself.  Servant's Remarkable Story.  -  An Inquest was held by Dr Tweed at Wurlie House, West Hill, near Ottery St. Mary, on Saturday, on MR JOHN HENRY HOYLAND, 37, found shot in the plantation adjoining Wurlie House, his residence, on Friday.  -  MR CLEMENT EDWARD HOYLAND, brother, of Yorkshire, said he had been staying with deceased since Friday week, when he was in his usual health and spirits.  Deceased carried on no profession, but was a private gentleman living on his means at Wurlie.  Witness last saw him alive on Wednesday evening at 8.30.  -  The Coroner:  Did you notice anything unusual about him?  -  He was not brilliant and he refused a game of billiards with me.  Continuing, witness said he heard deceased leave the house after dinner.  Witness did not see him afterwards.  On Thursday deceased was to have taken witness to the Station to catch a train for London, but he did not appear.  Witness had to go to town, returning in the evening.  Deceased was still absent and witness, feeling uneasy about him, decided to take steps to try and find his whereabouts next morning if he did not return.  Next morning, as he did not appear, witness took deceased's spaniel with him into the wood.  The dog gave tongue and witness searched about the place until he found the body.  He was lying on his back a little on the right side.  His head appeared to be leaning forward against a tree.  He appeared to have been dead some time.  By his left side was a rifle.  He was not left-handed, but was able to use his left hand skilfully.  there was a wound in his left temple.  There were no marks of a struggle.  Witness believed he was insured.  He could give no explanation of the affair.  -  Are you under the impression that he shot himself?  -  Yes.  -  Had you ever heard him threaten to take his life?  -  Never.   Witness added that deceased had concussion of the brain owing to an accident three years ago when he fell from a bicycle.  It appeared to affect his mind afterwards.  He was a married man.  -  You know of no cause why he should have shot himself?  -  No, unless his mind was temporarily unhinged.  -  Was there any money trouble?  -  Not to my knowledge.  -  As far as you know he was happily married?  -  There might have been little squabbles.  -    A Strange Remark.   -    Annie Broom, cook at Wurlie, said she had been in service there about seven months.  She last saw deceased alive on Wednesday evening, about 7.45, after dinner.  He looked rather strange in his manner when he spoke to her.  He gave her the key of the motor-house and told her to put it in his pocket.  He had not done that before.  Later, when she went to beat the mat outside the house, deceased followed her out and said "Oh, cook, it is awful.  I have thrown myself away over Emma."  Witness did not see him afterwards.  Deceased was not in the habit of speaking to witness.  He was quite sober on the occasion referred to.  She had not seen him strange in his manner before.    -     Religious Convictions.   -    Emma White, housemaid, said she had been in service at Wurlie about eighteen months.  She last saw deceased alive on Wednesday evening, soon after seven.  She did not notice anything peculiar about him then.  Once at the dinner table MRS HOYLAND spoke to him about the dinner, and deceased said, "I don't wish to live."  -   The Coroner:  Can you tell us anything as to why the deceased should shoot himself?   -  He has told me before that he has been unhappy.  I had not spoken to him about family affairs before, and he said something about MRS HOYLAND.  He has told me he was beginning to lose faith in the Church, and I said, "You should let that draw you nearer."  He said, "Will you say a little prayer for me at your chapel," and I said I would.  He told me he said his prayers, but did not get any answer.  -  What was his religion;  was he a Protestant?  -  I don't know sir.  He seemed to be unhappy, and he looked as if he was thinking about something sometimes.  He went to church one morning, and when he came back he asked me to mark some places in the Bible.  I marked them for him, and afterwards he began to talk about them, and be more friendly.  I used to sympathise with him when I saw him unhappy.  He used to think it would do him good to talk about religion, and he used to bring it up when he talked to me.  When I marked out things for him in the Bible, I let him have my book and he kept it.  He used to seem brighter and he said he was happier.  He used to take my hand, and he seemed so grateful when he could speak to me.  -  He seemed to be a religious-minded man?  -  Yes.   -  When he said he lost faith in the Church he asked me to mark out things in the Bible.  I do not know if he ever troubled anything about that before.  -  Was he a Churchman?  -  Yes.  -  He attended Church regularly, did he?  -  Yes.  -  Have you heard him threaten to take his life more than once?  -  No.  -  And he did not say it was wrong to do so, or anything of that sort?  -  No.    -    Doctor's Evidence.    -    Dr Felix Bartlett, of Ottery St. Mary, said on Wednesday afternoon deceased and his brother were at his house playing tennis.  He always seemed fairly cheerful when witness spoke to him, but on Wednesday he seemed somewhat depressed.  He left his house about seven, but he said nothing about being unhappy then.  On Friday witness was called to Wurlie by deceased's brother, and found deceased shot.  He had been dead about 36 hours.  Witness had made a post-mortem examination and deceased had evidently shot himself through the mouth.  There was an extensive fracture of the skull and witness found the bullet flattened against the right parietal bone.  In witness's opinion deceased shot himself with his left hand.  He was in the habit of shooting with his left hand.   -   The Coroner said deceased had written something in a book, which was of a private nature, and which he did not wish to make use of unless the Jury desired it.  -  The Jury agreed that the matter should not be disclosed and returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 18 May 1909
HONITON - Suicide Near Honiton.  - At the Inquest at Honiton on JAMES APLIN, found hanging in a barn near Cotleigh Mills, on Friday, a verdict of "Suicide" has been returned.  Deceased had been missing from his lodgings at Honiton since Monday, and when found had evidently been dead several days.  He had hanged himself with a chain to a beam of the ceiling.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 19 May 1909
CHURCHSTOW - Killed By A Bull. Fate Of A Churchstow Labourer. -  Mr S. hacker yesterday held an Inquest at Sorley Farm, Churchstow, on JOHN LETHBRIDGE, 61, farm labourer, in the employ of Mr George Nosworthy.  The evidence showed that the bull was quiet as a rule.  Fracture of the base of the skull was the cause of death, caused by the man being thrown against a stone wall.  -  The widow stated that her husband on Sunday evening remarked that the bull was very quiet.  -  Archibald A. Brooking, of Thurlestone, farm labourer, said he drove two cows to Sorley.  When LETHBRIDGE tried to drive the bull into its house it would not move.  He then struck the bull with a fork, with a sharp point.  The bull would not move at first, but afterwards went back and then made a rush, and struck him in the chest, knocking him against the wall.  The bull with his head kept LETHBRIDGE on the ground.  Mr Nosworthy picked the man up and bathed his face, and afterwards carried him up to his cottage.  The bull was always quiet before.  -  Mr G. J. Nosworthy, of Sorley, said LETHBRIDGE had been in his employ for two or three years and had the care of the bull and the other cattle.  He (witness) came in just as the man was knocked down.  LETHBRIDGE was not then dead.  He seemed insensible and did not speak, and died directly after being carried to his cottage.  He had had the bull 18 months and never knew it attack anybody.  - Dr W. Tudor Webb said death was due to a fracture at the base of the skull.  The deceased was not gored.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Death by Misadventure."  

EAST STONEHOUSE - Accident In The Hamoaze.  Fatal Result Of A Fall.  -  MR WILLIAM HENRY LAKEMAN (50), master-at-arms, Royal Navy, died in Stonehouse Naval Hospital on Monday evening as the result of injuries received whilst removing cartridges from the magazine-ship Newcastle to a lighter, in the Hamoaze, on April 28th.  Deceased, who resided at 5 Edith-street West, St Budeaux, was a native of Devonport.  He joined the navy as a boy, and ultimately became master-at-arms, in which capacity he served in the Howe.  LAKEMAN was in the navy 28 years and retired some few years ago.  Since then he had been employed at the Royal Naval Ordnance Depot at Bull Point.  The Inquest was held yesterday by Mr R. Robinson Rodd, Coroner.  Mr J. P. Goldsmith (Devonport) represented the Admiralty.  -  Evidence of identification was given by the father of deceased.   -   William Morris Phillips, labourer at the Naval Ordnance Depot, stated that the deceased and himself were at work on Wednesday, April 28th, on the floating magazine-ship Newcastle, lying in the Hamoaze.  They were placing a 6-inch quick-firing cartridge box and case, weighing 2 cwt. 17lb. into position to get it lifted by a crane to a lighter alongside.  Each case was brought from the magazine on a barrow, and taken to the baggage port.  The man wheeling tipped the case out.  Whilst witness and deceased were placing the case on the crane for the lighter the deceased caught hold of a rope, or strap, attached to the lid of the case.  LAKEMAN was pulling the strap when it broke.  The deceased over-balanced himself and fell into the lighter, a distance of ten or twelve feet, injuring his head.  There were also provided two wire beckets, one on each side of the case, which could be used for the purpose of lifting.  It was, however, awkward to use them.  The straps were used for opening the case, but the men found it was easier to use them than the beckets, which were lower down.  The straps were for opening the cover of the lid, the wire beckets for lifting or moving the case.  He did not know there were any instructions as to the way the straps or the beckets should be used.  -  The Coroner said the question was whether the deceased performed his work according to instructions.  -  Witness said the straps were simply placed on the top of the case to open the lid.  -  The Coroner to Phillips:  Is there any suggestion you can make for the more ready handling of those cartridge cases without using the straps? -  No, sir.  -  George Mortimer, storeholder, said the straps were not intended for lifting.  The wire beckets ought to have been used.  It was, however, customary for the men to use the straps, and they did so at their own risk.  They considered it more handy.  This was the first time he had known a strap break.  -  Asked by the Coroner if he had any suggestion to make, the witness said the men would use the rope or strap instead of the wire becket, and nothing could prevent it.  -  The death of LAKEMAN was accidental in every way.  -  Staff-Surgeon H. Thomas, R.N. Hospital, stated that the deceased was admitted on April 28th unconscious from a blow on the head.  He was doing fairly well up to the previous day, when he showed serious symptoms and died at seven o'clock.  Death was the result of cerebral haemorrhage from a fractured skull.  A small clot of blood was also found during the post-mortem on the side of the head.  -  The Jury returned a verdict that LAKEMAN died from injuries Accidentally Received.  They also expressed their sympathy with the widow.

PLYMOUTH - At an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on EDWIN WILLIAM AMEY, 65, naval pensioner, of Beaumont-road, who died suddenly on Saturday evening in Beaumont Park, Dr Wilkinson said death was due to heart disease.

Western Morning News,  Thursday 20 May 1909
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Mystery.  Soldier's Body In The Water. -  Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth Mortuary yesterday on PRIVATE FRANK HINDS, 3rd South Staffordshire Regiment, whose decomposed remains were found wedged between rocks off Madeira-road, The Hoe, on Tuesday.  -  Lance-Corpl. Joseph Reynolds, stationed at Raglan Barracks, identified deceased by his clothing.  Deceased was 19 years of age and had been in the South Staffordshire Regiment about eighteen months.  He last saw him alive on April 25th in barracks and he then appeared to be in good spirits.  On that day he broke out of barracks.  He was constantly reported as "absent," and for that reason was nearly always in trouble.  -  Mr A. J. Smith, an assistant of the Marine Biological Association, said on Tuesday two of their boatmen reported to him that there was something funny, like a man's skull, poking through a hole in the rocks below the laboratory.  This was between 9.20 and 9.30 a.m.  He went at once and saw a man's head sticking more of less in a hole.  It appeared as if the body had drifted into a gully and then the head came up, showing in a little basin above the hollow.  When the tide receded he could see the top of the man's shoulder.  Witness summoned the Police.  - P.C. Body stated that there was nothing in deceased's clothing.  -  A verdict of "Found Drowned" was recorded.

TEIGNMOUTH - MRS ELLEN SHIELDS, aged 63, died suddenly at her residence in Bickford's-lane, Teignmouth, and at the Inquest a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 26 May 1909
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Child Suffocated.  - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on WILLIAM RALPH DICKINSON, the infant son of Bombardier DICKINSON.  -  MRS DICKINSON said her son was in bed on Sunday morning with another boy, age 4.  About nine o'clock they were both well, but a short while later she found the younger one dead, lying on his face.  - Dr J. R. Wortabet (locum tenens for Dr Cooke) said death was due to suffocation.  The younger child had evidently got mixed up with the clothes, and the other child had sat on it.  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Veteran's Death.  -  An Inquest was held at Plymouth yesterday on JOHN FITZWATER, the Crimean veteran who died suddenly in King-street, after the parade in the Guildhall-square on Monday.  The widow said she spoke to her husband in the square, but afterwards left him.  Some time later she heard that a Crimean veteran had fallen in King-street.  She went to the scene, and found it to be her husband.  She asked him to try to speak, but he could only mumble.  He was taken into a shop near and a doctor was called.  -  Dr Cavanagh said he found deceased sitting in a chair, very weak.  he administered a stimulant, but FITZWATER died some minutes later.  Death was due to Syncope.

COBH, IRELAND - Chief Writer's Death.  Accidentally Drowned At Queenstown.  -  An Inquest was held yesterday at Queenstown on WILLIAM PRISCOTT, chief writer of H.M.S. Emerald, eldest son of MR W. PRISCOTT, 73 Pasley-street, Devonport, who was found drowned on Sunday morning at the deep water quay.  -  Maurice Wilson, clerk, stated that at a quarter past nine on Sunday morning he saw the deceased on the quay.  He left one seat and went to another and subsequently walked on towards the town.   Three-quarters of an hour afterwards a boy called his attention to a cap floating in the water, and on looking he saw a body lying in the water face downwards.  The depth of water was 6ft or 7ft.  He informed a constable, and the body was recovered.  Deceased wore a naval cap and uniform.  The place where the body lay was 20 yards from the steps.  Deceased might have fallen into the water.  If there had been any possibility of saving him witness would have gone into the water.  -  Dr Townsend said that on the recovery of the body life was absolutely extinct.  There were the usual appearances of death by drowning.  There were no external marks.  -  MRS PRISCOTT, widow of the deceased, said he left home at 8.30 a.ml to go aboard his ship.  He had been on sick leave since the previous Thursday owing to weakness.  He tried to get up but could not.  He had fever once in Malta, and the effects used to recur.  On Saturday morning he got up and shaved but had to go back to bed again.  She had to assist him on Sunday.  Before he left home she wanted to go for a doctor, but he would not allow it.  This was their third year in Queenstown.  He was in no trouble, financially or otherwise.  -  The Coroner said a letter had been found in deceased's possession from some person in the navy asking for his pay.  Would the deceased pay him?  -  Witness said she did not know.  Her husband was anxious to resume duty.  He used to suffer from very severe headaches.  -  Staff-Surgeon Garde, of the Emerald, said deceased had been on sick leave only once during the year, when he had an injury to the ankle.  Witness saw him on Friday and he was suffering from a gastric attack and vomiting.  On the day previous to his death he got the following letter from deceased:  -  " I feel a lot better today, and the weakness is practically stopped, I am getting up for a bit this afternoon and will return to duty tomorrow morning."  -  A verdict of "Accidental Drowning" was returned, the Coroner and Jury sympathizing with the widow, and recommending her to the favourable consideration of the Admiralty.

STOKE DAMEREL - Naval Steward's Suicide.  Financial Troubles.  -  The Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquest at Devonport yesterday on JOHN ALFRED COLLINGS, officers' steward (second class) serving in the Commonwealth.  -  Albert Foxwell, master-at-arms, of the Commonwealth, said he had known COLLINGS for nearly two years.  He was a single man.  Witness last saw him alive on Friday morning, when he appeared to be in his usual health. About 3.15 p.m. on Sunday it was reported to him that COLLINGS was lying in an air space between the boiler rooms and the magazines, in the fore part of the ship.  Witness visited the air space with a light and found the deceased lying at full length, dead.  Deceased was usually of a cheerful disposition.  -  Examined by the Coroner, witness stated that the air space in question was just large enough for a man to enter.  It was used for cooling the magazines, and was not regularly inspected, although it might be visited once or twice a week.  -  Petty Officer Lewis Edwards stated that he was passing the air-space about 3.15 p.m. on Sunday, in company with Able Seaman Doughty, when observing that the hatch was open, which was rather unusual, he examined it, and found a man lying along the bottom.  -  Surgeon Francis Dudley, R.N., said there was a gash on the left-hand side of the neck.  He attributed death to haemorrhage, the result of the wound.  -  Frederick Hill, first steward of the Commonwealth, said he had known the deceased for about ten years.  COLLINGS was formerly a messman in the Magnificent and Victorious and on leaving the latter ship at Gibraltar, about four years ago, he returned home heavily in debt.  He was out of the service for about twelve months, and then came with witness as second steward.  He had carried out his duties very satisfactorily, and there had been no complaints from any of the officers.  Referring to the deceased's financial difficulties, witness said he had heard him swear on receiving bills from tradesmen and throw the letters on the ground.  He appeared to feel very keenly the fact that he was unable to pay the  bills.  He was a very soft-hearted man.  -  Station-Sergt. Bright, of the Metropolitan Police, spoke as to the removal of the body and produced a number of letters found in the clothing.  -  The Coroner remarked that he had no doubt the debts referred to by the messman were not all liquidated, and he thought it was possible that this fact affected COLLINGS' mind.  Referring to the correspondence, the Coroner mentioned that the letters included several from a woman, with whom the deceased appeared to have been on affectionate terms.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

Western Morning News, Friday 28 May 1909
PLYMOUTH - At the Inquest yesterday on CHARLES VICKERY, aged 25, an outfitter's assistant, of Pier-street, who died suddenly on Tuesday, Dr H. H. Parsloe attributed death to Syncope.

EXETER - The Exeter Tree Fatality.  - At an Inquest at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday on JAMES MORTIMER, aged 51, carter, Clyst St. Mary, the widow (MRS M. A. MORTIMER) said her husband worked for Mr Pratt, and had been ripping bark a few days before his death.  -  Edward Parsons, also in Mr Pratt's employ, said he was working about six feet away from MORTIMER.  Thirty feet away were three men felling a tree. They shouted to him and MORTIMER to run.  He ran and on going back to where he had been working, saw MORTIMER under the fallen tree.  -  John Willis, tree feller, said the deceased told him he dreamt he was going to be killed and when he was in a trap being taken to Hospital he said it was no one's fault.  It was purely an accident.  -  Mr V. Starr, Surgeon of the Hospital, said there was a compound fracture of the right leg and compound and simple fractures of the ribs.  Death was due to shock.  -  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned and Mr W. H. Tarbet, on behalf of Mr Pratt, expressed his deep regret at the accident.

STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Child's Sad Death.  -  Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest yesterday at the Royal Albert Hospital, Devonport, on ALBERT L. H. PIERCE, aged three and a half years, the child of a petty officer in the Royal Navy, residing in Keat-street, Morice Town.  The mother said on returning home on Thursday evening last she found her little boy scalded on both sides.  She went for Dr Morris, who attended and subsequently the child was treated by nurses sent by Dr Morris.  -  Bessie J. Meager, who resided with the PIERCES, said on Thursday the boy, in placing a plate on the table, "toppled" backwards and fell into a pan of hot water on the floor.  Dr Alexander C. Court, Assistant House Surgeon, Royal Albert Hospital, said the child was admitted on Monday.  The scalds extended over all the limbs and wee more particularly on the right leg.  The child was conscious, although suffering from shock.  His death occurred rather suddenly about seven o'clock on Tuesday evening.  Death was due to shock resulting from the scalds.  It was a grave case from the first, but hopes were entertained that the child would recover.  -  In returning a verdict of "Accidental Death" the Jury expressed sympathy with the relatives.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 2 June 1909
LODDISWELL - At an Inquest held at Loddiswell on Tuesday on FREDERICK JOHN SHERRELL, aged three months, the son of ALBERT SHERRELL, found dead in bed on Sunday morning, Dr Rudge attributed death to syncope, the result of the disease of the thymus gland.

PLYMOUTH - Fatal Fall At Plymouth.  -  At the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital yesterday, Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest on ROBERT JOHN L. MITCHELL, aged 12, of Batter-street, Plymouth, son of a general labourer.  -  Walter Chowen, Batter-street, a schoolboy, was in company of the deceased at four o'clock on Friday.  They were playing with a ball near the ice stores in Woolster-street, and the ball got lost.  MITCHELL, believing it had got on the roof, went to a loft and then commenced to scale the roof.  -  Chowen said one of the bricks that MITCHELL caught hold of slipped out and having lost his hold he fell to the ground.  -  It was stated that the lads had no right to be on the premises, and that MITCHELL fell thirty feet and struck a stone courtyard.  -  Mr C. F. Walker, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said MITCHELL was admitted on Friday unconscious, having received a severe blow on the head caused by a fall.  The boy never recovered consciousness and died early on Saturday.  The cause of death was injuries received to the brain due to a fall.  -  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - Sudden Death At Plymouth. -  MRS EMILY EDMONDS, aged 47, the wife of H. EDMONDS, Corporation Sweeper, living at Old Looe-street, was at the Sutton Harbour Inn on Monday evening with her husband and, after being served with a glass of ale, she slid to the floor and died almost immediately.  At the Inquest yesterday Dr F. G. Clarke said death was due to fatty degeneration of the heart.

SIDMOUTH - Motor Cycle Fatality.  Sidmouth Widow's Accusations.  -  Dr Tweed held an Inquest at the Victoria Cottage Hospital, Sidmouth, yesterday, on ALBERT BEN SMITH, cycle agent, of Sidmouth, who met with a motor-cycle accident between the Three Horse Shoes and Trow-hill, about four miles from Sidmouth, on Sunday afternoon, as previously reported.  Mr J. A. Rutter was chosen Foreman of the Jury.   -    MRS MATILDA SMITH, widow, said deceased, her husband, was a cycle agent living at Rodway, Sidmouth.  He left his home on Sunday afternoon on a motor cycle, with a lad named Earland, to go to meet her (MRS SMITH'S) brother, who had had a breakdown on the motor-cycle he was riding.  Her husband and her brother had ridden a motor-cycle each earlier in the day to go to Chard, but her husband returned for an accumulator.  About four o'clock her husband not having arrived home, she rode with her sister, both on bicycles, to meet him.  When walking up the Trow-hill, she met her brother, HENRY PANNELL, coming down.  He told her he was going to fetch a doctor as her husband had met with an accident and had left two men in charge, and had asked them to take him to a cottage.  When about 100 yards from the Trow cottages she saw six or seven men standing around her husband, who was lying by the side of the road in a pool of blood.  She noticed a pool of blood also in the roadway, so that he must have been moved, but not one of the men offered to help her.  She told them they were a lot of cowards.  The boy Earland helped her to get deceased to the first cottage, which was about thirty yards away.  When she got there the people of the cottage said, "Give him a seat in the garden."  They would not let her take her husband indoors.  - The Jury:  You mean to say none of them helped you?  -  Witness:   The boy Earland did, but the men didn't.  When she asked for water the people gave her half a cup full and when she asked for more they said they had to go a mile and a half for water.  -  The Coroner:  It seems a very extraordinary thing.  -  Witness, continuing, said she got some water afterwards from a water barrel in the yard and washed her husband's face.  Some time later someone offered a farmer's cart to drive to Sidmouth and Earland and herself and a woman she asked to help placed her husband in the trap and the boy with him, they were driven to Sidmouth, whilst witness rode her cycle.  Her husband was attended to by Dr Grimoldby, who had met them on the way.  He was afterwards put to bed and although he seemed conscious of pain, he never spoke except once, when he asked to be laid back on is pillow as he said he was dying.  -  In answer to the Coroner, witness said deceased was 36 years of age and was insured.  When she first saw her husband by the side of the road, the engine had been shut off.  The motor bicycle itself was not hurt except one of the pedals.  Her husband had put on a new inner tyre, but the outer covering was worn.  She asked the boy how it happened, and he said it was a puncture.  -  Frederick Earland, 14, cycle agent's assistant, said he was riding behind MR SMITH on the machine on a carrier.  They started to go to the top of Coleford-hill to meet Mr Pennell, who had had a breakdown.  On returning, all went well until near the Trow Hill Cottages, when they had a puncture and the machine skidded.  Witness was thrown off and when he got up he saw MR SMITH'S head bleeding badly, he having fallen off on the left side.  Just as they had the puncture MR SMITH turned off the engine.  -  By the Foreman:  Were you going very fast.  -  Witness:  No, slowly, because the fog was heavy on the hill.  The fog had nothing, however, to do with the accident.  They had a clear road in front and were going up a slight incline, when they had the puncture.  MR SMITH was lying in the centre of the road, when in about five minutes Mr Pennell came up on his motor cycle.  There was no one else present.  Witness spoke to MR SMITH but got no answer.  Mr Pennell and witness took deceased to the roadside.  Two young men who they had passed on ordinary bicycles came up.  He did not know who they were.  They fetched a glass of water from the cottages and Mr Pannell rode off for a doctor.  The young men went for help and four men came.  He did not know who they were, but they appeared to be labourers.  MRS SMITH then arrived with her sister.  Witness helped MRS SMITH to take her husband to the cottage, but the men did nothing until they were asked.  When the men came first they stood and looked at him.  Witness then described what damage was done to the machine and detailed the drive to Sidmouth.  -  By the Foreman:  Were you racing?  -  Witness:  We were not.  We were going slowly.  -  By the Foreman:  Those present did what they could when they were asked to help, but they did not offer to help.  -  Witness continuing, said they mended two punctures before the accident. Witness told MR SMITH he would walk, but he said "No.  The machine has carried a boy behind before and will have to do so again."  -  Witness was injured himself, but was able to help MR SMITH.  -  Mr Henry Pannell, mason, of Sidmouth, corroborated the last witness's statement.  -  Dr B. G. Pullin detailed the injuries.  His assistant dressed the wounds.  Witness first saw deceased about nine o'clock on Sunday evening:   He was fetched again later on, and remained until the death at 1.30 which was due to compression of the brain and haemorrhage.  Deceased never regained consciousness.  Many of the other injuries about the face, arms and legs were surface wounds.  He had no doubt whatever about what MRS SMITH said about obtaining water, as it was a disgrace that cottages should be let in such a manner.  Complaints had been made for years and the water had to be fetched quite a mile and a half away.  He hoped the matter would not be attended to.  -  The Foreman said the question of the help which MRS SMITH had referred to seemed to be somewhat contradictory, as Earland had said the men did help, but that was after being asked.  -  The Jury returned a  verdict of "Accidental Death," and Dr Tweed, the Coroner, was asked to write the Medical Officer of the parish of Salcombe-Regis, and draw his attention to the remarks made as to the water supply.

Western Morning News, Thursday 3 June 1909
PLYMOUTH - Modbury Cycling Fatality.  Inquest Opened.  -  Mr R. B. Johns yesterday opened an Inquest at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, Plymouth, on TOM REEVES, aged 63 years, of Church-street, Modbury.  -  Deceased's son, THOMAS HENRY REEVES, said his father was steward of the Modbury Club.  On Friday, April 9th, he took a bicycle to be repaired at a shop at the top of Brownston-street, Modbury and rode back on the bicycle after it had been repaired.  Descending the hill he lost control, struck the pavement on the opposite side of Church-street, and was thrown through the plate glass window of a shop.  -  Dr C. F. Walker said deceased was admitted to the Hospital suffering from a fractured pelvis, a wound in the wrist and spinal concussion.  He died on Monday.  He could not say definitely what was the cause of death until a post-mortem examination had been made, and the Inquest was adjourned until this morning for that to be done.

Western Morning News, Friday 4 June 1909
MEAVY - At the Inquest on Wednesday on THOMAS OLD, 68, insurance agent of Meavy, who died suddenly on Tuesday evening, Dr J. G. Bailey, Yelverton, stated that death was due to strangulation of an intestine and a verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - A Modbury Man's Death. -  The adjourned Inquest on TOM REEVES, of Church-street, Modbury, who died on May 31st, at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, Plymouth, was resumed yesterday by Mr R. B. Johns.  At the opening of the Inquiry on Wednesday it was stated that deceased fell off a bicycle and was admitted to the Hospital suffering from fractured pelvis, spinal concussion and a lacerated wrist.  Dr Cuthbert F. Walker had not then made a post-mortem examination.  Yesterday he stated that death was caused by suppuration of the gall bladder, due to gall stones.  A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

CO. CORK, IRELAND - Warrant Officer's Death.  Sad Discovery In The Leviathan.  -  At Glengariff, Co. Cork, yesterday an Inquest was held on the body of MR WILLIAM JAMES HENWOOD, carpenter, of the cruiser Leviathan (flagship of Rear-Admiral A. M. Farquhar), which is engaged with other warships in gunnery and other practices.  -  Ernest Brown, servant, deposed to taking to the deceased in his cabin at 12.30 on the 31st ult. a plate of soup.  He was looking depressed.  -  James Matthews, another servant, deposed to taking away the empty plate at 12.45.  Deceased was then sitting down, with his head on his hands and looked depressed.  Witness again entered the cabin at 1.35 to shut the windows preparatory to the firing, when he saw the deceased hanging.  -  Frederick William Baker, artificer-engineer, deposed to cutting the handkerchief by which the deceased was hanging from a crook in his cabin.  Deceased had breakfast in the morning with witness in the officers' mess.  He was unusually quiet, and did not speak during breakfast.  He appeared worried about something, probably his work.   -   Fleet-Surgeon William John Colborne deposed that the deceased died from hanging.  When the body was cut down artificial respiration was applied for a quarter of an hour or twenty minutes, but without success.  He must have been dead about an hour or so.  He was a great favourite in the ship, and also with the commander.  He had been in the ship about two months.  The commander, knowing him so well, got him to come there under him.  There being a lot of work to do as the ship's carpenter in the Leviathan, and the deceased not being pressed with work in the ship from which he came, it must have preyed on his mind.  If he had mentioned the matter to the commander he would have given him assistance.  -  P.S. Cooper, Glengariff, said from inquiries made the deceased had no family troubles, and his stores accounts, which were the only accounts he had, were quite correct.  He had no money accounts.  -  The Jury found that the deceased died from Hanging, while Temporarily Insane, and offered sympathy to the deceased's widow and family in their bereavement.    -   The deceased was 38 years of age, and leaves a widow and three children, who reside at Home Park-avenue, Peverell, Plymouth.

TOTNES - Totnes Fatality.  Inquest on REV. E. E. TIPPET.  Jury's Recommendation.  -  The Inquest on REV. ERNEST E. TIPPET, Baptist Pastor at Totnes, was held yesterday at Totnes by Mr S. Hacker.  Mr W. H. Warwick was chosen Foreman of the Jury.   -   The Coroner, in opening the Inquiry, asked the Jury not to be influenced by any remarks or letters which had appeared in the Press, and a letter which appeared in a paper that day was not, he thought, in accordance with usual custom, as it appeared to prejudge the case, which was always inconvenient and he considered it not the right thing to insert such a letter, as it was liable to direct suspicion and did not assist the legal carrying out of an Inquiry.  -  MR C. H. TIPPET, of Sudbury, retired major, Royal Dublin fusiliers, said the deceased, his brother, was 31 or 32 years of age.  He had ridden a bicycle for many years and as far as he was aware had not had an accident previously.  -  Mr Alfred e. Bate, grocer, said MR TIPPET told him he was 33 last birthday.  He considered him an able and careful cyclist.  -  MAJOR TIPPET said he did not question the witness's evidence of age.  -   Riding Very Fast:  A Crash.  -   Miss Edith Wakeham, of Moore Farm, Brent, said about five o'clock on Tuesday, MR TIPPET passed her in Follston-hill.  She could not judge at what rate he was riding, but it was faster than she had seen anyone else ride.  She heard a crash.  She passed a man named Jennings, who was walking towards Totnes.  They could not see what had occurred, owing to the bend in the road.  She met the deceased on one side of the bend in the road and Jennings on the other.  -  George M. Rogers, a hind at Moore Farm, who was in the dogcart with the last witness, said that MR TIPPET was riding down the hill very fast.  He and Jennings whom they passed at the bottom of the short pinch, were on their right sides. After he heard the crash he went back and saw MR TIPPET on one side of the road and Jennings on the other with the bicycle in the middle.  MR TIPPET was lying on his left side, bleeding from the nose.  Jennings got up and did not appear to need assistance.  The horse was restless and witness asked him to hold it, but he said he could not as he was hurt.  -  By Superintendent Jeffery:  Jennings was huddled up by the hedge.  When he passed before the road was clear and Jennings appeared to be reading a book or paper.  He could not say if anyone riding down the hill could see him.  MR TIPPET appeared to be going faster than cyclist usually went, and he remarked to Miss Wakeham that he would come to grief.  Jennings did not offer or tender assistance.  -  Gerald B. collier, of Landscore, a student of Totnes Grammar School, said that Miss Wakeham asked him to render assistance. As he was going down the hill he met Jennings and another man, but neither said anything.  At the bottom he saw MR TIPPET in the hedge in a half-sitting position.  He asked him if he should unfasten his collar, and he replied, "What?"  put out his hand to ward him off and groaned.  Jennings returned and, in reply to witness, said the cyclist knocked him down.    -    A Labourer's Story.    -    George Jennings, of no fixed abode, a labourer, said he was walking from Plympton to Totnes.  He was reading a paper when he heard the cycle bell.  He was at the bottom of the hill and saw a cyclist coming at a rapid pace at the top of the hill.  He went as near the hedge as possible.  The cycle struck him in the back and knocked him down.  He lay on the ground dazed for a few minutes.  When he got up he saw the cyclist was in an awful state.  He went to speak to him and in low tones he said he was sorry it happened, or words to that effect.  He (witness) replied, "So am I.  You have hurt my back."  He did not pick up the cyclist as his (Jenning's) back was painful.  He thought of going to the Police Station, but went the other way and met a pedlar, who told him of his mistake.  He felt dazed and did not know what he was doing.  -  Mr H. Jordan, cycle manufacturer, Totnes, said he had examined the machine ridden by MR TIPPET.  The brakes were a little tight, but there was nothing wrong with them, and they were in fair order, as was the machine generally.  There was nothing to show that the machine got out of control - only the top of the bell was knocked off.   -   A Dangerous Bend.   -   Sergeant Bolt (Totnes) said the road at Follaton was 15ft. wide.  The bend was very dangerous, and if control of a bicycle was lost it would be nearly impossible to avert an accident if there was an obstruction in the road.  -  Dr K. R. Smith said MR TIPPET was unconscious and suffering from compression of the brain.  He died at 8 o'clock.   -  The Coroner said it was pretty evident the deceased lost control of his machine, although there was no evidence to show how.  The hill was dangerous and Jennings said he got close to the hedge when he heard the bell ring.  -   Verdict And Sympathy.   -    The Jury found a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added a rider that a notice board stating that the hill was dangerous should be affixed.  The Jury sympathised with the bereaved mother and members of the family, and also with the Church of which the deceased was pastor.  -  The Coroner associated himself with the vote of condolence and Mr B. W. Hayman said it was a great sorrow to them, as MR TIPPET during his 2 ½ years' ministry by his exemplary Christian character had endeared himself to all, not only to the Church, but to the whole town.  -  MAJOR TIPPET thanked them all for their sympathy to his mother and the family in their great loss.  He had viewed the spot and was satisfied in his own mind it was a pure accident.  He thanked people of all ranks and positions and, he was glad to say, all denominations, for their most kind expressions of sympathy.

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Man's Sudden Death.  -  Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on THOMAS POWTON, aged 39, porter, of Union-place.  Albert Ford, labourer, said POWTON, his brother-in-law, had complained to him of a strain he sustained while lifting a piano.  He went to his work as usual on Wednesday.  -  Mrs Charlotte Vogwill, widow, Princess-square, said shortly after 11 a.m. on Wednesday she found deceased sitting on her doorstep.  He complained of feeling very unwell and said he thought he was going to have a fit.  He died almost immediately.  -  Dr t. P. Puddicombe, Medical Officer to the Plymouth Education Authority, said on being summoned he found POWTON dead.  Death was due to heart disease and pleurisy.  A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 7 June 1909
TEIGNMOUTH - Tramps Death At Shaldon. -  Mr R. de Y. Whiteway Wilkinson held an Inquest at Teignmouth on Saturday on a man unknown, who was picked up on the Torquay road, near colonel Williamson's house, Shaldon, on Friday.  There being no mortuary at Shaldon, the body was removed to Teignmouth, but a Shaldon Jury was sworn.  John Tremlett, lodging-house keeper of Exeter, recognised the man as a tramp, who went by the name of CAMBRIDGE.  -  Dr Bell said death was the result of cerebral haemorrhage and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 8 June 1909
COMBE MARTIN - Devon Cliff Tragedy.  Young Lady's Body Identified.  -  The Inquest on the body of MISS EDITH MILNER PALLISER, the victim of the cliff fatality at Combe-martin, will be held today by Mr George W. F. Brown, North Devon Coroner.  The deceased, who was on a visit to North Devon with lady friends, is stated to have lived at 162 Clapham-road, London S.W., and was about 23 years of age.  She wore glasses, but was of athletic appearance, and appeared to have enjoyed rambles over the cliffs, which at Combemartin are famed for the beautiful scenery obtainable from them.  As far as can be gathered on Sunday she must have walked down Sandahay-lane and gained the cliffs by a disused pathway.  At this spot the undergrowth is thick and it would not be unlikely that a passer-by should trip in the herbage.  At the point where the body was found the cliff is 80 or 90 feet high.  The body was terribly mutilated and besides the shocking injuries to the head, one finger was torn off.  -  Inquiries by a London news agency representative show that MISS PALLISSER'S father is in the Indian Civil Service.  She left Addlestone, Surrey, about three weeks ago to stay with two lady friends at a furnished house named The Rest.  MR PALLISER, who is residing in Clapham-road, received a telegram on Sunday afternoon stating that his daughter had met with an accident and yesterday he received another stating that she had died from her injuries.  MR PALLISER left London yesterday for Combemartin.

ST MARYCHURCH - Torquay Ostler's Suicide.  Mysterious Letters.  -  At St Marychurch Townhall yesterday Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest on WILLIAM THOMAS VYSE, 32, ostler, whose body was found on Petitor Common on Saturday.  Evidence of identification was given by Thomas Henry Berry, sweep, of 17 Fore-street, who said he had known deceased for eight years.  About two years ago he was invalided from the Army Service Corps on pension and since that time up to Monday in last week he had lodged with witness.  He was engaged as an ostler at the Commercial Hotel.  In witness's absence some unpleasantness occurred at home through VYSE kicking up "a row" whilst under the influence of drink and when he (witness) returned home he told deceased he would have to find fresh lodgings.  Early on the following morning deceased left, having previously paid his lodging bill and witness had not seen him since.  VYSE was occasionally depressed because he could not re-enlist in the army.  He was by no means destitute, and was receiving good wages.  Witness identified the handwriting on three letters, two of which were addressed to himself and his wife, but unopened.  -  William Damerell saw deceased in Teignmouth-road on Saturday at 10 a.m., walking in the direction of St. Marychurch.  -  Robert John Melhuish and George Kirton gave evidence as to finding the body, which was partially concealed by the bushes on Petitor Common.  In one hand was a note and in the other a handkerchief.  -  P.C. Bater gave similar evidence, and added that in deceased's pocket he found two letters addressed to Mr and Mrs Berry.  -  The Coroner said the note found in deceased's hand  commenced:-  "I, WILLIAM THOMAS VYSE, confess" and then followed a statement of an involved nature reflecting upon the character of someone else.  It had no bearing upon the death, but on rather a scandalous matter.  He did not think it should be made public.  The latter concluded:  "That is why I am doing away with myself."  The letter to Mr Berry was of quite a private nature, but that to Mrs Berry contained one or two points which he thought essential to the Inquiry.  It began:-   "I sincerely hope and trust that you will be happy now that you know the last of me."  Later on was this sentence:  "The only thing I do hope is that if ever you get over this you will not try to tell such lies, and not be ready to run everything down, and think nobody like yourself as before doing this deed I have told others of our carryings-on."  The letter was signed "Broken-hearted WILL."    -   P.C. Bater said he found a case of razors, a watch and chain and 4s. 10d. in money on deceased, and there was £1 4s. 10 ½d., a cycle and other property at his lodgings.  -  Mr John Edwards, proprietor of the Commercial Hotel, gave deceased an excellent character.  -  Dr Pitt Palmer said he found clear symptom of poisoning with oxalic acid and to which he attributed death.  -  After a short retirement the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane."

Western Morning News, Friday 11 June 1909
BARNSTAPLE - Drowned At Barnstaple.  Six Year Old Hero. -  At the Inquest at Barnstaple yesterday on ALBERT EDWARD GREEN, aged 7 years, drowned in the Taw whilst bathing, his companion, John Crocker, six years old, said he went into the water up to his armpits to try to reach GREEN, but was unsuccessful, as GREEN had got into a deep pit.  -  The father of deceased told the Coroner his boy could not swim, and there was no bathing-place in Barnstaple where boys could be taught.  -  The Coroner (Mr A. Bencraft) agreed with the seriousness of the position and regretted the general ignorance of the danger of the river for bathing, through the strong currents and continually changing sand.  It could not be too widely known that the river was not safe to bathe in at any part and it was most dangerous for anyone who could not swim well.  In regard to the provision of a bathing-place, there were difficulties, but he could not say whether they were insuperable.  The first difficulty was that the water of the river was too foul to be used for a public bath and the second was the difficulty of getting fresh water from any other source.  He did not know whether, if the Water company were approached, they would come to terms with the Town Council or whether the mill leat supply, which he believed belonged to the Town, could be tapped above the point where it was fouled by the tanneries and skin cleaners.  Certainly there ought to be a public bathing place provided for the town and he would commend it to the earnest consideration of the town Council whether they could not surmount the difficulties in any way.  -  The Foreman (Mr Ford) was not personally in favour of a bathing-place as he thought the majority of the boys would want to do something daring and still go in the river.  - Other Jurymen described the absence of a bathing place as a reproach to the town.  A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned whilst Bathing" was returned.

PLYMPTON ST MARY - Tramp's Death At Plympton. -  Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Plympton yesterday on THOMAS COSTELLO, 64, a tramp.  -  George Dawe, master of the Workhouse, said on Friday he received a telephone message from Mr Cross, of Yealmpton, stating that COSTELLO was at Yealmpton in a state of collapse.  A conveyance was sent to fetch him and he was received in the Workhouse about 9 p.m.  He said he slept at Kingsbridge Workhouse on Wednesday night and started on Thursday morning for Plymouth, sleeping out that night.  His clothes were damp and very dirty.  He had 1s. 3d. on him.  -  Dr Stamp, Medical Officer to the Workhouse, said COSTELLO was suffering from kidney and bladder disease of long standing. This and the exposure caused heart failure.  He died on Wednesday afternoon.  The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Saturday 12 June 1909
EAST STONEHOUSE - Stonehouse Child's Death.  Inquest Again Adjourned.  -  Mr R. R. Rodd at Stonehouse Townhall, yesterday resumed the Inquest on NORAH, the four months' old child of MRS BEATRICE ELLEN PHILLIPS, of Emma-place.  -  MRS PHILLIPS said Dr Wagner was called in at the birth of the child, which was small at birth and had never been very healthy.  The child had convulsions when two months old, but recovered.  She never left the child for the first three months and then Mrs Blight of Durnford-street, had charge of it for a week.  During the last three weeks of her life the child had been taken care of by Mrs Dodsworth from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.  On Monday she (the mother) did not call for the child until 10 p.m. and then she found it had been taken home and put to bed.  During the night the child was restless and she gave her milk twice.  While dressing in the morning she noticed the child looked ill and she went for Dr Waterfield.  Before she returned the child was dead.  -  The Coroner:  How do you account for the child being so wasted?  -  Witness:  She was small at birth, but had had constant attention.  Four weeks ago she was weighed and did not weigh more than 7 ¾ lb.  -  How do you account for that?  -  Witness:  She did not weigh more than 4lb at birth and was only the size of a shilling doll.  She had milk and the best of everything I could give her.  -  Have you nursed the child yourself?  -  No.  - What was the reason for your placing the child in the custody of others?  -  To enable me to follow my occupation of corset maker.  -  A Juryman:  What made you leave the child with your husband and go for the doctor yourself?  -  I had my clothes on and my husband was not yet dressed.  In reply to further questions, witness said the reason she did not call in a doctor before was because she had spoken to the district nurse about it, and she said milk was sufficient.  -  Isabella Blight, wife of George Blight, Durnford-street, said she advertised to take a baby and MR PHILLIPS arranged with her to keep the deceased child daily, except Sunday and Wednesday afternoons, from 9 a.m. until the evening, for 2s. a week, the mother supplying the milk.  At the end of the week she told MRS PHILLIPS she would not keep the child any longer, as she did not think it very strong, but that if she obtained a medical certificate she (witness) would continue to take care of it.  The child cried a good deal, but would take milk all right.  She did not see the child again.  MRS PHILLIPS was always quite sober when she saw her.  -  To Supt. Cook:  I should have had a doctor to it had the child been mine.  -   Mrs Dodsworth, a young widow, said MRS PHILLIPS arranged with her to take care of the child during the day for 2s. a week and milk.  The child was always clean.  She had three pennyworth of milk for the child each day, and she seemed to do very fairly.  She thought MRS PHILLIPS the worse for drink on one or two occasions.  -  Dr Waterfield said about 6.30 a.m. on Tuesday he was called by MRS PHILLIPS, who told him the child she had arranged for him to vaccinate had died and what was she to do?  -  He went to see it and found the child dead, its little hands tightly clenched, face and neck discoloured and the tongue protruding.  It had been dead about two hours.  He had since made a post-mortem examination by the Coroner's order.  The length of the body was normal;  it's weight was 8lb. 2oz. - much below normal for a child four months old.  It was extremely emaciated, there was not one particle of fat and very little muscle, the skin, in fact, was over the bony frame.  The lungs and heart were healthy, the stomach contained only a few sour curds and was distended with flatulence.  The bowels were entirely empty, very much congested and distended.  All the organs were healthy, and there were no marks of violence.  The cause of death in his opinion, was suffocation, caused by a convulsion or fit, brought on by the irritated condition of the stomach and bowels, due either to improper or insufficient feeding.  There was an undoubted smell of gin in the stomach.  If well fed it would have been a very fine child.  -  In reply to Superintendent Crook, Dr Waterfield said the child could not have been fed as the mother described and it must have been dead at four o'clock.  The mother told him she found the child dead by her side.  -  At this point the Inquest was further adjourned until this afternoon, for the attendance of the district nurse.

STOKE DAMEREL - Sudden Death At Devonport.  -  Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at the Stuart-road (Devonport) Council Schools yesterday on MRS MARY JANE COCKING, of 4 Hotham-place, who died on Wednesday, at the age of 55 years.  -  GEORGE COCKING, gardener, said his wife had occasionally complained of pains in her head.  Between seven and eight o'clock on Tuesday evening she was taken ill and medical attendance was procured.  She expired early next morning.  -   Dr Lander (Devonport) said deceased suffered from kidney disease.  In one lung there was a considerable patch of pneumonia and he had no doubt that was the cause of death.  The verdict was "Death from Natural Causes" and the Coroner and Jury expressed their sympathy with the husband and relatives of deceased.

Western Morning News, Monday 14 June 1909
EAST STONEHOUSE - Stonehouse Child's Death.  Mother Severely Censured.  -  The Inquest on NORAH PHILLIPS, aged four months, the child of MRS BEATRICE E. PHILLIPS, of Emma-place, was resumed at Stonehouse on Saturday.  -  GEORGE PHILLIPS, the child's father stated that the mother gave the baby milk sometime after midnight, before its death.  As to the doctor's statement that there was a smell of gin in the child's stomach, he wished to say he never permitted intoxicants of any sort to be given to his children.  -  Ella Sissons, maternity nurse, said the child was small but healthy.  She saw the baby once after birth and it was still very small.  She might have told the mother what proportions of milk and water to mix for the child's nourishment, but could not remember having done so.   -  Mr Lawrance (a Juror):  Would two parts milk and one part water be sufficient nourishment for a child four months old? -  It would depend on the condition of the child.  -  The Coroner:  The doctor says two parts milk and one part water would be too rich for the child.  -  For a very young child I should give three parts water and one part milk.  -  The Coroner:  That is what the doctor recommends.  -  The mother, replying to a Juror, denied ever giving the child gin.  -  Dr Waterfield:  There is no doubt about the smell of gin.  The Police Officer smelt it.  -  The coroner, summing up, said the Jury had been told by the doctor that death was due either to improper or insufficient feeding.  The child was properly nursed when in the custody of Mrs Blight and Mrs Dodsworth, but he did not believe the deceased was given proper and careful attention by its mother during the night time.  He believed the state of affairs was due to intemperance, because Dr Waterfield was emphatic that there was nothing to account for the emaciated condition of the child except improper or insufficient feeding.  There was an entire absence of organic disease.  -  The Jury found that the child died from Convulsions, due to neglect on the part of the mother, but they were of opinion that such neglect was not culpable.  -  Addressing MRS PHILLIPS, the Coroner said she had had a narrow escape from being committed for trial for the manslaughter of her child.  The Jury had taken a rather lenient view of the matter, but they desired him to severely censure her for the lack of proper and careful attention of her child, probably due to intemperate habits.  He implored her to really consider her line of conduct in future, remembering that children required all the care a mother could give them.  The Coroner recorded the foster-mothers (Mesdames Blight and Dodsworth) that they had not notified the Guardians they had taken the child to nurse.  They were liable to a heavy penalty if they did not report having children in their charge.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 15 June 1909
EXMOUTH - At the Inquest at Exmouth yesterday on ALFRED BASTIN, aged 48, mason's labourer, of Mutiny-street, who died suddenly on Saturday while polishing his boots, Dr Beesley attributed death to syncope, probably due to disease of the heart.

CHAGFORD - Devon Domestic Tragedy.  Sad Sequel To A Visit To The Exeter Show.  -  Mr J. D. Prickman held an Inquest yesterday on MRS WILLIAM COURTIER, of Horslake, Chagford, whose body was found in a stream near her home on Friday.  MR W. COURTIER, the husband, said:  We had been married 14 years and had one child living.  My wife was 35 years of age.  I last saw her on Thursday about 9.30 in the house.  She left me on the morning of June 5th.  We had a few words because I went to the Exeter Show with Mrs Meardon, my neighbour's wife.  She went with the knowledge and consent of her husband.  My wife came back to my house on Wednesday and asked if I would maintain the child, as she intended applying for a summons for a separation order.  I consented to maintain the child.  -  In reply to questions, MR COURTIER said he always brought home his full wages.  Mrs Meardon paid her own expenses at the show.  He made no search for his wife.  He only inquired of the baker and heard she was at her sister's at Week, half a mile distant.  -  Mr T. Burrow (Chagford), brother-in-law of the deceased, said MRS COURTIER came to him on Tuesday and asked him to go with her to Horslake.  On arriving there, they found the door locked and COURTIER not at home.  After some time, COURTIER arrived and was told that ANNIE, his wife, wanted to come back.  He replied he would not have her back.  He would not let me have the key of the house.  On Thursday morning and evening he (witness) saw her and she was very cheerful.  The domestic life of MR and MRS COURTIER had not been very comfortable for some years past.  -   Mrs Dolbear, sister of deceased, said:  I saw her on Thursday evening at nine o'clock and asked her if she was afraid.  She said no.  I asked if her husband was in, and she said no.  I was also present when she returned to her house on Thursday.  Mrs Meardon came down and had an altercation with her, and ordered her out of the house.  My sister struck Mrs Meardon with a stick.  Mrs Meardon went away for her husband, and COURTIER came back with her.  -  Mrs Meardon said:  I saw MRS COURTIER on Thursday, on going to Horslake, to feed the chick for MR COURTIER, not knowing MRS COURTIER had returned.  I only asked her if anyone was in the house with her.  Mrs Dolbear's evidence was, in many respects, untrue.  -   Mr R. Snowdon deposed to finding the body on Friday evening at 5.45 p.m. in a stream of water not far from the house.  The body was face downwards in about 13 inches of water.  There were no footsteps indicative of any struggle.  All pointed to the fact that deceased committed suicide.   -   P.C. Bugler, of Chagford, said deceased's head was in the deep portion of the stream.  Her cape and hat were carefully laid by the side of the stream. There were no signs of any struggle, neither were there any marks of violence on the body.  A slight mark over one of the eyes was evidently caused by a stick in the brook.  On visiting the COURTIERS' house earlier in the day he could get no admission.  On visiting the husband at Thorn he learnt that he had not seen his wife since 9.45 in the morning.  MR COURTIER said he did not sleep in his house on Thursday evening, but in a loft at Thorn, as he was afraid of his wife's relations.  -  Dr P. Vickerman, who had examined the body, said there were no marks of violence on it, and death was evidently caused by drowning.  -  The Coroner in summing up, strongly censured MR COURTIER and Mrs Meardon for going away for a day's pleasure against the wish of the late MRS COURTIER.  The results following were of such a nature as to constitute a very serious warning to both of them to the end of their days.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during a state of Temporary Insanity."

TORQUAY - The Torquay Suicide.  -  At Torquay yesterday Mr R. de V. Whiteway Wilkinson, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest on SAMUEL HONEYWILL, aged 63, formerly a carriage proprietor, of Tor.  -  GEORGE HONEYWILL, brother, said deceased had attempted to take his life on two previous occasions.  He had had cancer for eighteen months and had suffered a good deal of pain.  An operation was performed several months ago, but without beneficial result and that caused him to be greatly depressed.  -  EMMA HONEYWILL, the widow, and P.S. Browell also gave evidence.  - Dr Woodburn, House Surgeon, Torbay Hospital, said death was due to exhaustion, following the cut in the throat.  Deceased tried to speak, but could not make any sound.  -  A verdict was returned of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

BIDEFORD - Late COL. LLOYD, of Bideford.  Verdict of "Suicide."  -  Mr Geo. W. F. Brown yesterday held an Inquest on LIEUT-COLONEL WILLIAM CHETWOOD LLOYD, of Kiltrasna, Bideford, who died on Friday.  Deceased, 62 years of age, had a distinguished career with the 20th Hussars.  -  MRS LLOYD, the widow, said on Thursday evening her husband complained of feeling sick and was taken violently ill. She sent for Dr Ackland and her husband confessed to him that he had taken poison.  Deceased had fits of depression off and on, but has never attempted to take his life, although he has hinted at it.  -  Replying to the Coroner, witness said she cautioned people against supplying her husband with firearms twelve months ago.  -  Alfred Newcombe, deceased's gardener, said about three months ago his master said he would get something to spray the gooseberry bushes with, to kill caterpillars, but they let the gooseberries go too far, and did not use it.  The master had looked "down in the dumps" for a long time.  -  Mr J. D. Morgan, chemist, said deceased purchased two ounces of Paris green - a compound of arsenic and copper - from Mr Hogg's shop on April 7th.  He said it was for spraying fruit trees, and was recommended  in a Board of Agriculture leaflet.  Deceased signed the poison-book for it.  -  Dr Ackland was of opinion deceased swallowed the whole packet of Paris green, two grains of which would have been sufficient to cause death.  Deceased told him he had taken Paris green, but would answer no question as to why he did it.  Deceased was conscious, but there was no hope of recovery, and he died on Friday afternoon, having taken the poison on Thursday at 7 p.m.  -  Mr H. I. Meredith spoke to deceased having been in his shop a little over twelve months ago, when he spoke of buying a revolver, and saw several catalogues, but he did not order one, and witness later received a request not to supply him.  Deceased never mentioned the matter again.  -  MAJOR LLOYD said deceased was his brother and suffered from nervous depression.  -  The Jury returned a verdict that CAPTAIN LLOYD committed Suicide, and the Foreman (Mr Sanguine) said they failed to find what the state of his mind was.

Western Morning News, Thursday 17 June 1909
EAST STONEHOUSE - Stonehouse Woman's Death.  -  Mr C. G. Brian held an Inquest yesterday on ANN JOSEPHINE FOY, 60, wife of an Eastern Telegraph Company foreman, found dead at her home, Emma-place, Stonehouse, on Tuesday.  -  The husband said he last spoke to deceased, who had appeared to enjoy fairly good health, on Monday afternoon, when he met her in Durnford-street.  Between six o'clock and half-past eleven that night he came home two or three times and looked at deceased through the glass door, which had been locked from the inside.  She was lying fully dressed on the couch and evidently asleep.  He heard her breathing.  The next morning at half-past eleven he saw she had fallen to the floor, but he was unwilling to disturb her, thinking the sleep would do her good.  As she was in the same position at 1 p.m. when he returned, he borrowed a screwdriver, forced the lock of the door and discovered that his wife was dead. She was the worse for drink on Monday.  -  Thomas J. Green, master bootmaker, R.M.L.I., said the FOYS had rented rooms from him since March. Deceased appeared a quiet person until a few days before her death.  On Friday he found her talking loudly to herself and he concluded she was under the influence of drink.  She went out for two hours and on returning smashed the glass in the door.  -  Dr W. H. Waterfield said when called to see deceased on Tuesday, death had taken place about ten hours before.  All the internal organs were extensively diseased due to intemperance.  Death followed a rupture of the heart.  Probably the woman's fall to the floor caused the rupture.  A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 19 June 1909
SILVERTON - The Silverton Fatality.  Inquest On A Papermaker.  -  At an Inquest at Silverton yesterday on CHARLES EDWARD PEPPERELL, a papermaker, aged 22, at Bridge Mills, Silverton, Reginald Perkins, papermaker, of Silverton, said he was at work in the mills with deceased on No. 2 machine.  Shortly before 2 a.m. on Thursday his (Perkins's) foot slipped and his shirt sleeve became caught in the rollers.  Another workman named Martin came to his assistance and cut off the sleeve of his shirt.  -  Fredk. Martin corroborated.  -  Ernest Ploy, of Bradninch, said he was working on No. 1 machine, and saw deceased with a short bar try to throw off the belt.  He made two or three attempts to get it off, and was caught by the belt and thrown right up round the pulley and fell to the ground.  He appeared to be quite dead when picked up.  He had never seen anyone else try to throw off the belt in that way.  -  Mr Owen C. Jones, Silverton, said he found the deceased bleeding from the nose and left ear, and he concluded he had sustained a fracture of the base of the skull, which caused death.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Monday 21 June 1909
DAWLISH - The Boating Disaster.  Four Bodies And Boat Landed At Dawlish. Sail Fastened To The Boat.  Opening Of The Inquest.  -  Another development in connection with the terribly sad boating disaster between Dawlish and Teignmouth on Thursday evening, whereby seven lives were lost, took place on Saturday, when the sunken sailing boat and three of the bodies - those of MR and MRS REEVES, of Bristol, and MR HENRY NORTON, solicitor's clerk, of Exmouth, - were recovered and brought ashore at Dawlish, having been brought up about a mile and a half from the beach, and close to the spot where the disaster happened, whilst yesterday that of CARNELL, the Exmouth pilot, was recovered.  The brothers, F. and P. Hitchcock, boatmen, were out very early in the morning searching off the Parson and Clerk Rocks, when their efforts were rewarded by the recovery of the boat and the body of MR REEVES.  -  On the boat being brought in it was found that the sheet of the lugsail was securely fastened.  That goes a long way towards explaining the terrible calamity, as the danger which is always present in not having the sheet free hardly needs pointing out.  The lug and mizzen were set, and the main sheet was fastened with a jambed hitch under the thwart, or seat.  Messrs. F. and C. Cotton, father and son, Dawlish boatmen, assisted the brothers Hitchcock in conveying in the body of MR REEVES.  The two Teignmouth boatmen returned to the vicinity of the disaster, and resumed searching and grappling and within a short time recovered the bodies of MRS REEVES and MR NORTON.    -     How The Boat Was Recovered.    -   Describing to our representative the circumstances attendant upon the recovery of the boat and bodies, Mr Fred Cotton, the elderly Dawlish boatmen, stated that he and his son Charles were hauling their crab-pots about 3 a.m., and when they got down to Hole Head they saw the Hitchcocks had hold of something, whereupon they went to the spot.  "We helped to get the boat up," continued Mr Cotton, "after a great struggle.  We missed it twice, and then we found it again and got it up.  The sail was up and the centre keel down.  We got three anchors into it, and towed it about a mile and a half, getting in about seven o'clock.  The main sheet was tied to the middle thwart by a bow hitch.  The tighter the sail pulled the tighter the sheet got, but still, if Carnell )in charge of the boat) had the sheet in his hand, he might have slipped it off, but perhaps he had not time before the boat capsized.  When we arrived at the spot the two Hitchcocks, in separate boats, wee sweeping the bottom of the sea, and they caught the body of MR REEVES by the arm and pulled it up and in after having located the boat, and before raising it, the body being in one of the boats when we got there.  When the Hitchcocks had located the lost boat with a sweeping rope, they let down an anchor and caught the boat under the stern-post, and then began to haul her up stern first, and they then put another anchor under the middle thwart and hauled her right up. She was three or four feet under water as she was being towed in.  The bodies were found about a quarter of a mile off the Parson and Clerk Rocks, in about eight fathoms (48 feet).     -     A Touching Incident.    -    During the afternoon Alderman Lloyd, of Bristol, father of MRS REEVES, arrived at Dawlish and ascertained from the Police that the bodies of his daughter and son-in-law had been recovered.  With much emotion Mr Lloyd asked if the bodies of the children had also been found, but was told they had not.  The bottom board of the capsized boat was picked up by Mr A. Cooper and handed over to the Customs authorities.    -     The Fourth Body.     -  The search for the remainder of the victims was continued by several Teignmouth and Dawlish boats. Yesterday, about midday, Messrs. T. Rikley (boatmen) of Dawlish and S. Lewis (a junior clerk), when about 400 yards seaward a little to the Teignmouth side of the Parson and Clerk, felt something attached to the hooks they were dragging and, hauling in, found they had recovered the body of CARNELL, the Exmouth boatman and pilot.  There now only remain the bodies of the three children to be recovered.      The Inquest.     -   The Inquest was opened at Dawlish on Saturday evening by Mr R. de Vere Whiteway-Wilkinson, Deputy Coroner, Mr Jas. Gamlin being Foreman of the Jury.  There was a large number of the general public in the room.  Mr C. E. Isbell, solicitor, Dawlish, attended on behalf of the REEVES' family.  -   The Coroner referred to the occurrence as one of the saddest calamities that had ever occurred in the district.  The bodies recovered were those of JOSEPH WILLIAM REEVES, his wife, IDA REEVES, and HARRY NORTON.  He did not propose to go into all the evidence that evening, because the whole of it was not then forthcoming.  The bodies, however, having been in the water since Thursday evening, it was necessary for him to call the Jury together to obtain identification of the deceased and give certificates for burial.  -    Alderman Samuel Lloyd, of Wells-road, Totterdown, Bristol, said MR REEVES was employed under the Docks Committee at Bristol, but he could not tell his age.  IDA REEVES, deceased's wife and his (witness's) daughter, was 35 years old.  -  EDGAR NORTON, armourer's crew, of  H.M.S. Europa, Plymouth, identified the body of his father, HENRY JOHN BERRY NORTON, aged 57, of Little Bicton-place, Exmouth.  He was formerly a solicitor's clerk, but had not done much lately.  -  The Coroner then adjourned the Inquest until Thursday next at 10.30 a.m.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 22 June 1909
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Widow's Death.  -  Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on ELIZABETH SUSANS, aged 73 years, widow, residing at Embankment-road.  Jane Wilton said on May 9th the old lady was in one of her rooms standing with her back to the fire.  She had just got out of bed and was very weak and must have fallen back on to the grate, burning her head.  She died on Friday.  -  Dr E. A. T. Stubbs said the deceased had been attended by a qualified nurse until her death, which was due to exhaustion and heart failure, accelerated undoubtedly, by the injuries.  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

DAWLISH - The Boating Fatality.  Inquest Reopened At Dawlish.  -  Consequent upon the recovery on Sunday of the body of CHARLES HENRY CARNELL, Trinity Pilot, of Exmouth, who was in charge of the sailing-boat Bona, when she capsized, with the loss of seven lives, in Teignmouth Bay on Thursday, the Deputy Coroner (Mr R. de V. Whiteway-Wilkinson) reopened the Inquest yesterday at Dawlish before the same Jury, with Mr Gas. Gamlin as Foreman.  After the Jury had readily responded to the request of the Coroner to again act if any or all of the bodies of the three REEVES children should be recovered between then and Thursday, the day fixed for the adjourned Inquest, they proceeded to the Mortuary and viewed the body of CARNELL, which was laid in close proximity to those of MR and MRS REEVES and MR NORTON.  Upon the return to the Vestry Hall, evidence as to the identification of CARNELL was given by his brother, RICHARD C. CARNELL, lock-gate keeper at Avonmouth, Bristol, who said deceased lived at North-street, Exmouth and was 33 years of age.  

Western Morning News, Friday 25 June 1909
PLYMOUTH - A Plymouth Fatality.  -  Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on EMMA MARIA LEE, widow, aged 95 years, of Kensington-terrace, Mutley.  - Edwin Williams, grocer, said deceased, his mother-in-law, went for a drive and on returning home fell and fractured her right thigh in stepping out of the conveyance.  She was attended by Dr Eccles and died on Wednesday.  - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

WEST OGWELL - Suicide Near Newton. -  Mr Sidney Hacker held an Inquest yesterday on MRS ANNA ELIZABETH PENELLUM, aged 49, wife of MR T. PENELLUM, farmer, West Ogwell, near Newton Abbot.  -  MARY E. PENELLUM, daughter o the deceased, said:  On Wednesday my father went to Newton Market with my eldest brother, leaving me and another brother at home with mother.  She appeared all right during the earlier part of the day;  in fact, was more cheerful than she had been for some time.  She had suffered from pleurisy and influenza, but had almost recovered.  After dinner I went upstairs and there saw mother going out of the gate.  That was unusual, and I asked where she was going.  She replied, "Only going to the top of the lane."  I went down and followed, but she had disappeared.  I called my brother, and he said he  had seen her running across a field.  We followed, and searching the brook at the bottom discovered her in the water face downwards near the bridge.  She seemed to be dead.  -  JOHN PENELLUM, the son, said the water was only nine inches deep and she had thrown off her jacket and shawl.  She had probably been in the water about a quarter of an hour.  -  ELIZABETH PENELLUM, another daughter, said deceased seemed to think she was suffering from an incurable illness and the death of her two sons worried her a good deal.  -  THOMAS PENELLUM, the husband, said his wife suffered from sleeplessness, but had been getting better lately.  They lived very happily and she had never threatened to take her life.  -  Dr A. Nesbit said deceased suffered from a delusion regarding her illness, but otherwise she was a most intelligent and rational woman. Death was due to drowning.  Deceased's husband and children had always done all they could for her.  She would probably soon have been completely restored to health.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity," and the Foreman (Mr D. Wrayford) expressed their sympathy with the relatives.

DAWLISH - Boating disaster.  Verdict Of The Jury At Dawlish.  The Cause Of The Accident.  -  The adjourned Inquest in connection with the recent boating disaster off Dawlish and Teignmouth, by which seven lives were lost, was held on Thursday at the Vestry Hall, Dawlish, before Mr R. de Vere Whiteway-Wilkinson, Deputy Coroner, and a Jury, of whom Mr Jas. Gamlin was the Foreman.  The Inquiry was concerning JOSEPH WILLIAM REEVES and IDA REEVES, his wife, aged 35, of Avonmouth, Bristol;    HENRY J. BERRY NORTON, solicitor's clerk, aged 56, Exmouth; and CHARLES HENRY CARNELL, Trinity Pilot, aged 33, Exmouth, whose bodies had been recovered;  those of the three children of MR and MRS REEVES not yet having been found.  Mr C. E. Isbell, solicitor, Dawlish, again watched the proceedings on behalf of members of the REEVES family.  Capt. Harvey represented Bristol Docks Committee, and Alderman Lloyd the father of MRS REEVES.    -    The Survivor's Story.    -   Frederick Thomas Hunt, carpenter, Teneriffe-terrace, Exmouth, the sole survivor, stated that on Thursday, June 17th, at the invitation of CARNELL, he joined the boating party, which consisted of MR and MRS REEVES, their three children, CARNELL and NORTON.  The boat was CARNELL'S own, and not licensed.  CARNELL was in sole charge of the boat.  MR REEVES sailed the boat from Exmouth to Teignmouth.  Witness should not think there was too much sail;  so far as he knew, this was all right.  They got to Teignmouth safely, and landed in the river just before five o'clock.  they stayed at Teignmouth a short time, and left at 5.15 or 5.30, CARNELL ten taking charge of the boat, and witness saw nobody else interfere with this work.  CARNELL was sitting in the stern with the tiller and witness was on the right-hand side.  MRS REEVES sat opposite MR REEVES and she had one of the children on her lap.  They got along safely until they were off the Parson and Clerk Rock, when a squall struck the boat.  He could not say whether CARNELL had the sail tied.  As the result of the first squall the boat heeled over on its side and took in some water.  She came back a little and then another squall came and the boat went right over.  Seeing what was coming he got on the higher side of the boat and jumped off.  The sail held stiff when the squall came, which showed that it must have been fixed to something.  He looked around and saw nothing of the others, but he saw CARNELL swimming behind him.  He said to CARNELL, "Come along CHARLIE;  we have a long way to go," and he replied, "All right, Fred, I'm coming."  -  The Coroner:  So far as you know, this was simply a friendly outing and there was no blame on the part of anyone whatever?  -  Witness:  No sir.   -   The Coroner:  There is a rumour about concerning which I want to ask you a question.  When you left Exmouth had you any refreshment on board?   -  Witness:  No, sir.  -  The Coroner:  you had none on board going back?  -  Witness:  No, sir.  -  The Coroner:  You had refreshment at Teignmouth?  -  Witness:  Yes.  -  The Coroner:  How long were you there?  -  Witness:  About 20 minutes, or half an hour.  -  The Coroner: Then there was no two-gallon gar on board?  -  Witness:  No, sir.  -  The Coroner:  You swear to that?  -  Witness:  I will swear to it.  -  Mr Sillifant (a Juryman):  There is a rumour that MRS REEVES objected to going back by the boat and wanted to return to Exmouth with the children by train?    Is that true?  -  Witness:  No;  it is not true at all;  it is a lie.  MRS REEVES met us on the beach at 5.30, after getting tea for the children.  -  Mr Easterbrook (a Juryman):  Where did the men of the party go whilst the children were having tea?  - Witness:  We went to a Hotel;  it was a big house.  -  Do you know where it was?  -  It was about five minutes walk from where we landed.  -  What state was the party in before they left Exmouth?  -  They were quite sober from what I could see of them.  There was nothing the matter with any of them.  -  Mr Rackley (a Juryman):  You say the boat was quarter full of water when the first squall struck her?  -  Yes.   -  How long was it before the second squall struck her?  -  It came just afterwards and suddenly.  -  You had not time to see who was handling the main sheet?  -  No, I had not; it came so suddenly.  -  By Mr Isbell:  When the boat heeled over the children began to cry and they changed places.  The boat turned over on its left side towards Exmouth.  When the first squall struck the boat MR REEVES was sitting towards the bow.  -  By Mr Border:  Whilst the boat was being sailed from Exmouth to Teignmouth he did not see whether MR REEVES had the rope in his hand.  MR REEVES had the tiller in his hand and was steering.  He did not say that CARNELL had the rope in his hand at the time of the accident.  -  By the Coroner:  Whose the boat in question (the Bona) was at the time of the accident was about half a mile from the Parson and Clerk rock.    -    Antiquated By-Laws.    -    John Bray, boating inspector at Exmouth, said he knew the Bona.  MR CARNELL was a Trinity Pilot, but not a licensed boatman.  considering the size of the boat, he did not consider that five adults and three children were too many for it.  He saw the boat leave Exmouth with her sails set and he did not think she was carrying too much sail, there not being much wind at the time.  The ballast, about four hundredweight, was not too much:  If anything, the boat was the better for it, as it gave her stability.  MR CARNELL was a most careful navigator.  -  The Coroner:  There is nothing in your Exmouth by-laws about boats carrying cork bolsters?  -  Nothing whatever.  The by-laws are rather antiquated.  They were made in 1885 and we are drawing up some new ones.  -  The Coroner:  Are you putting in anything about cork bolsters?  -  No.  -  By the Jury:  It was only the boatman who was licensed and he must only take a certain number of persons.  The licence covered both the boat and the boatman, but in this particular instance it was a private boat and had nothing whatever to do with witness.  There was from 12 to 14 inches of freeboard, and that he should say was safe.  It was left to the discretion of the boatman as to how many persons he should take.   -   Mr Rackley:  The length of the boat was 14ft. 6in., and you think that, with eight persons on board and four hundredweight of ballast, it was perfectly safe?  -  Witness:  I should say it was.  -  Mr Rackley:  Well, we differ.  As a boatman, I differ, and say the boat was totally unsafe. -  The Coroner (to Mr Rackley):  You must not tell the decision of the Jury or differ with anybody until the Inquiry is finished.  -   Witness, continuing, said the boat would have gone over under the circumstances if there had been only one man in her.  She carried a centre keel and to a certain extent that would prevent a boat turning over.  She would go over a great deal more quickly if she had no ballast.  The accident would not have occurred if the sail had not been tied, but had been allowed to go free.  -  Henry Hearn, boatman, Exmouth, said he saw CARNELL and the party go down to the beach.  CARNELL was perfectly sober and so were all the others.  A boat of the same size was allowed to carry eight persons, together with ballast.  The sail was set when the boat left Exmouth, and witness did not think it carried too much sail.  MR REEVES had the rope in his hand.  -  James Robert Symons, boatman, Teignmouth, said he saw the party push the boat off on its return.  By this time the wind had freshened.  If witness had been in a similar boat, with the same number of persons on board, he should have carried smaller canvas.  -  By the Jury:  The boat had two planks freeboard, which would be sufficient in the usual way.  -  Alfred Pittaway, boatman, Teignmouth, said he saw the boat leave for Exmouth.  CARNELL was very skilful and experienced, judging from the way in which he handled the boat.  He had the rope in his hand and was steering as he went down the reach in a strong breeze.  Exmouth boats carried more sail than Teignmouth boats;  they were differently built and that was considered perfectly safe.  The party were laughing as they passed down to the boat just before starting to return.   -    Too Much Sail.    -   George Hook, boatman, Teignmouth, said whilst he was in a boat off Teignmouth Pier, he saw the Bona, and considered there were too many persons in one end, there being seven aft and one on the middle thwart.  When the first puff of wind came he let go his sheet, but the Bona did not.  A gentleman in his boat said there was "something up" in the Bona, by which he meant they had a large sail.  The sails were too big, considering the weather.  The boat was carrying 180 feet of sail, which was more than would be carried by a racing dinghy, which was allowed 129 feet.  The Bona when he saw her had only six inches of freeboard.  -  By the Jury:  He thought her sail was tied when the puff of wind came.  If it had not been it would have been let go.   -    The Rescue Of Hunt.    -    George Scagell, boatman, Teignmouth, said the Bona just before the accident, was between the breakwater and the Parson and Clerk Rock, reaching towards Exmouth.  She had too much sail for the weather.  Opposite the Parson and Clerk Rock and when about three-quarters of a mile from it, he saw the boat give a lurch.  Then she tacked and came in over about three lengths towards the land, and next she stayed.  She then went out again towards Exmouth, the wind caught her sails and she went over, going down stern first.  A gentleman on board his boat hauled up his fishing line and he (witness) pulled to the capsized boat.  When about half-way to it he saw two persons in the water.  He rescued Hunt and whilst he was getting him into his boat, the other (CARNELL) went down.  In reply to Capt. Harvey, witness adhered to his opinion that the boat was carrying too much sail.  There was too much wind for that size boat with the quantity of sail.  -  Reuben George Burton, shopkeeper, Erdington, near Birmingham, who was in Scagell's boat fishing, corroborated.  -   The Sail Made Fast.  -   William Henry Hitchcock, boatman, Teignmouth, described how he and his brother recovered the bodies of MR and MRS REEVES and HENRY NORTON on Saturday morning, and also their recovery of the boat, which showed that the sail was made fast with a knot to the after thwart.  His opinion was that, before the boat could stay after shipping water, another gust of wind came and she went over at once.  It was not usual to make the rope fast when there were people in a boat.  -  By Mr F. J. Shapter:  If the boat had been provided with cork bolsters, she would have kept afloat.  With no bolsters, and the quantity of ballast in her, she went down like a stone.  -  Frank J. Hitchcock, boatman, Teignmouth, brother of the previous witness, said it was the first rule in navigation that a sail should never be made fast.  If the man in charge of the boat had had the sheet in his hand he would have had a better chance.  -  Frederick J. Ringsman, coastguard, Dawlish, said when the boat was brought to the Station he found the sheet fastened by a bow hitch.  In the navy it was a rule always to keep the rope-sheet in hand.   -  The Coroner, in summing up, remarked that this was a very sad affair, requiring the closest attention.  It had been suggested that the persons in the boat were not in the condition they ought to have been, but it had been proved that they were perfectly sober, both when the left Exmouth and when they left Teignmouth.  Exmouth and Teignmouth had their own separate boating by-laws, Exmouth boatmen were of opinion that the boat was perfectly safe.  Teignmouth boatmen, with one exception, said there were too many people in one end of her, and she carried too much sail for her size.  It was clearly proved that the sheet was tied, a thing never safe under any circumstances.  It would be for the Jury to say whether the accident was due to this or to any other cause, and if anyone was responsible.  Exmouth Urban Council had included no mention in their by-laws as to the provision of cork bolsters and it might be of some use if a petition were sent to the Board of Trade on the subject.    -   Verdict.     -   After an absence of half an hour the Jury found that the accident was caused by the sheet being fast.  The Jury, the Urban Council and the Town generally wished to express their sincere sympathy with the relatives of the deceased.  The Jury also recorded their high appreciation of the services rendered by those taking part in recovering the bodies.

UMBERLEIGH - Devon Labourer's Suicide.  -  Mr G. W. F. Brown last evening held an Inquest at Umberleigh on JOSEPH BLACKMORE, labourer, 45.  The deceased had been in the Workhouse, but from Friday to Monday, when he was at the Rising Sun, Umberleigh, he was looking for work in the neighbourhood.  -  Sidney Ware, on Wednesday, found the body in the River Taw, near the railway station and deceased's bag in the hedge, about eighteen yards away.  -  Mrs Ware, who saw deceased the previous night, said he appeared to be quite cheerful then.  - Dr A. W. Lemarchand, (Barnstaple) attributed death to drowning and the Coroner thought the position of the body, with the head inward and cap on and the fact that the water was only one or two feet deep there, pointed to suicide.  - A verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily of Unsound Mind" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 26 June 1909
BRIXHAM - A Brixham Discovery.  Adjourned Inquest And Verdict.  -  At Brixham yesterday Mr S. Hacker conducted the adjourned inquest on a female child, whose body was discovered among brambles in Piper's-lane, off Summerland, on June 9th.  ETHEL EMMA PENNY, a young woman, of Higher Brixham, until lately in domestic service at Paignton, has since the Inquest was adjourned been charged with manslaughter and remanded.  Mr J. H. Hutchings attended on her behalf, the young woman being also present.  Inspector Pratt watched the proceedings for the Police.  Mr w. J. Sanders was Foreman of the Jury.  The body was found by Mrs Percy, wife of a railway employee.  -  Dr Tivy gave it as his opinion that it died about an hour after birth.  In reply to Mr Hutchings, Dr Tivy said he thought the body had been there about three weeks.  -   Mrs Amy B. Fitzgerald, residing at Paignton, stated that the girl PENNY was engaged at her house as a servant on January 6th.  On Sunday morning, May 23rd, the nurse told her she had been obliged to help PENNY to bed.  After breakfast, witness went to PENNY'S room, and was informed she had had a very bad bilious attack.  She visited PENNY'S room later the same day and on the Monday witness sent her to bed again, and offered to send for her doctor, but the girl declined.  She went home two days afterwards.  Witness did not notice any difference in the girl's figure from the time she entered her service to the time when she left.  -  Edith Alice Vinnicombe, nurse to Mrs Fitzgerald, said when PENNY left to go home she had a heavy brown paper parcel, which she told witness  contained books and a change of linen.  Whilst PENNY was at Mrs Fitzgerald's she became a funny figure.  -  Georgina Jago, charwoman, Paignton, said there was clothing about the girl to excite suspicion.  -  Mary Jane Ash, domestic servant in Brixham, said when she met PENNY at the Railway Station on her coming home, she said she had been under an operation in Paignton Hospital;  and Frederick S. Salisbury, who met PENNY and drove her home, said she told him that whilst in the Hospital she had two doctors and two nurses attending her.  -  Miss Emily Woods, matron, Paignton Hospital, said PENNY had not been a patient there, but Vinnicombe was recently.  -  Dr W. J. Quick stated that, as the result of his seeing PENNY, he wrote Mrs Fitzgerald that she was anaemic and in a low state.  He did not examine her, but there were no appearances of her having had a child.  -  SUSAN EMMA PENNY, mother of the girl, said the parcel she brought home contained underclothing and books.  She had no reason to suppose that her daughter expected to become a mother.  -  The Coroner said the suggestion was that the parcel which PENNY brought home contained the body of a child, of which she had been confined;  but in a case of this kind the Jury must have reasonably convincing evidence.  Was there any evidence before them to connect the child found in the lane with the girl PENNY?  It was not proved that she had had a child, and even if it had been, they would want some evidence to connect the girl with the child found.  There was nothing to show that the child came to an unnatural death.  - The Jury, after a quarter of an hour's deliberation, found that the child was born alive, but there was no evidence to show who gave birth to it or the cause of its death.  -  Subsequently ETHEL PENNY was brought up on remand, before Mr E. Owen, on the charge of manslaughter.  -  Inspector Pratt said, after the result of the Inquest he had decided not to call any further evidence.  -  The accused was immediately discharged.

PLYMOUTH - At the Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on STEPHEN H. BRIGGS, 67, plumber, of Claremont-street, who died on Thursday, Dr Aikman said death was due to Heart Disease.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 29 June 1909
PLYMOUTH - Sudden Death On Plymouth Hoe. -  Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest yesterday at Plymouth on SAMUEL NICHOLSON COAKER, aged 58 years, plasterer, late of James-street, Plymouth, who died suddenly while on the Hoe on Friday.  - P.C. Willis said he was informed that COAKER suddenly fell to the ground and died almost immediately.  Dr Soltau said death was due to heart disease.  A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

SOUTHAMPTON, HAMPSHIRE - Exmouth Seaman's Fate. -  An Inquest was held at Southampton yesterday on ERNEST ALBERT JAMES, aged 27, seaman, of Exmouth, who with three others were drowned on Tuesday evening, when going off from the town quay in a dinghy to the yacht Otter, owned by Mr E. P. Wells, J.P., of Clapham, lying a little way off.  -  The widow, MRS MABEL ALBERT JAMES, having given evidence, Mr Wells said he engaged JAMES at Teignmouth.  Deceased was a perfectly steady man and witness had no fault to find with him.  He evidently came ashore on Tuesday night to post a letter to witness, which he received the next morning.  It was customary for yachtsmen returning to their boats to assist other people to their yachts.  -  Harbour Constable Hudson said there was not room for four persons in the dinghy.  -  A verdict of "Accidental Drowning" was returned.  -  The Coroner and Jury expressed deep sympathy with the widow.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 30 June 1909
EAST STONEHOUSE -  Stonehouse Inquest.  Workhouse And Hospital Case.   -   An Inquest marked by unusual features was opened at Stonehouse last evening and adjourned for a week.  It concerned the death of a woman named QUEGLE, 49 years of age, an inmate of Stonehouse Workhouse Infirmary for many months.  Her death was not altogether unexpected and an Inquest would not have been necessary if a rumour of an assault by another inmate had not been circulated.  The assault is understood to have been a very trivial affair and the post-mortem examination is confidently expected to prove that it is in no way to be connected with the cause of death.  

PLYMOUTH - Sad Plymouth Misadventure.  County Court Clerk's Death.  -  Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on GEORGE HERBERT ELWORTHY, 40, ledger clerk, Stonehouse County Court.  -  MRS ELWORTHY, the widow, residing in Beaumont-road, said about seven o'clock on Sunday morning her husband complained of pains in his chest and went downstairs to get a cup of tea.  Shortly afterwards she found him unconscious in the dining-room.  -  John Perry, insurance agent, Cecil-avenue, said he was called on Sunday morning and found MR ELWORTHY on the floor and gave him ash and water.  He died in about half an hour.  Deceased had no family or business troubles of any sort whatever which would cause him to take poison.  He was a religious man and usually spent half an hour in prayer every morning.  -  Dr T. B. P. Wilkinson said he found MR ELWORTHY unconscious, under the influence of belladonna poisoning.  A post-mortem examination showed that poisoning was the cause of death.  He had pleurisy of long standing in the left chest, which would probably cause him so much pain that he would not know what he was doing.  He might easily have mistaken the bottle whose contents he must have taken, for another, containing medicine.  In the bottle was liniment containing about 20 per cent belladonna, and had been bought of Mr Roper, chemist.  The bottle was labelled quite in accordance with the Act, and no blame whatever attached to the chemist.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Misadventure," and expressed their deep sympathy with the relatives.  -  The Coroner referred to the deceased as a man of deep religious feeling and one who would be missed by all who worked with him.

Western Morning News, Thursday 1 July 1909
NEWQUAY, CORNWALL - Pleasure Turned To Tragedy.  Newquay Man Censured For Using A Leaky Boat.  -  Mr Carlyon held an Inquest at Newquay yesterday on MR WILLIAM HOBBS SMYTH, aged 53, of Ilfracombe.  Mr Fitzgerald was present on behalf of the Great Western Railway Company.  -  MRS SUSAN SMYTH, widow of the deceased, said she and her husband came to Newquay on Tuesday on board the pleasure steamer Cambria, which reached Newquay about a quarter to two.  Nine of the passengers got on board a boat owned by S. Billing.  Before they got half-way between the steamer and the shore the water came in very rapidly.  she felt sure it came through the bottom of the boat.  Her husband commenced baling the water out with a jar he found in the boat.  He said to the boatman, "For God's sake make haste and get ashore, or we shall all go to the bottom of the sea."  Billing replied that they were not to go "skylarking."  they were sitting in the boat with the water up to their knees.  On reaching the quay the boat foundered.  Her husband tried to get out and she believed he actually got on to the landing-steps.  The boatman when about half-way across was passing his hat round for the fare.  Her husband urged him to get to shore, and said to him, "I will see that you are paid when we get there."  As soon as her husband got to the top of the steps he died.  He had suffered from a weak heart for some years.  -  Mr James Watts said he was in the boat immediately following that in which was MR SMYTH.  When the boat came alongside the steamer he did not notice it was leaking, but almost as soon as she started he noticed it was very low in the water and that MRS SMYTH was getting nervous.  Billing's boat was completely waterlogged and for some little distance the other boat kept close to her.  She went down when just reaching the quay.  One man swam to a neighbouring boat and the others were struggling in the water.  There were about nine or ten feet of water at the quay.  MR SMYTH, helping his wife, slipped, and the water got nearly to his waist.  MR SMYTH went up to the steps and he was close to him when he reached the top.  He saw that deceased was ill, and so tried to assist him, but in a very short time he died.    -  In reply to questions, witness said that he asked the captain of the steamer to see that there was no rush or confusion in getting into the boats.  He gave orders accordingly and everything was carried out in a perfectly satisfactory manner.  The boat would have carried the passengers all right if it had not been waterlogged.  -  In reply to Dr Godsen, he said that MR SMYTH seemed to be in his usual health on the way down.  They had a splendid passage.  There was some little excitement when the boat came alongside the quay, and the passengers began to move.  They naturally got a bit nervous.   -    The Boatman's Evidence.    -    Samuel Billing said he was a boatman and was occasionally employed about the quay.  His boat was 15ft. by 4ft.  In the winter she was kept mostly on the quay;  in the summer on the beach.  The boatmen were not licensed.  They paid dues to the Great Western Railway Company.  Their boats were not examined by anyone.  He moved his boat from the quay on Monday and she floated on Tuesday.  That was the first time of bringing her down this season.  While on the quay her keel was kept down.  On Monday he moored her stern and stem, and she was there during two tides.  He was not warned about the boat on Tuesday morning.  She was built ten years ago and had not had any repairs:   He did not consider she needed any.  Everything about her was, to the best of his knowledge, quite sound.  He had had her full of fresh water for some days previous and had also painted and tarred her.  No water came into her when he was pulling out to the steamer;  or, at any rate, very little.  He took eight passengers from the steamer - three in the bow and five in the stern.  He occupied the centre seat.  The boat was quite capable of carrying that number.  The steamer was about one-eighth of a mile away.  The water came in from the upper portion of the boat.  He did not ask anyone to bale out the water, nor did anyone ask him for a baler.  He heard deceased say, "For God's sake, row up," and he put on extra speed, but he did not apprehend serious danger.  It was not true that he started to collect the money.  He asked MR SMYTH to collect it for him and he partly did so.  Had he thought the boat might sink, he could have easily taken her to the quay beach and landed the passengers.  The accident was caused by two passengers in front getting on to the gunwale of the boat.  Had they kept quiet, as he asked them to, nothing amiss would have occurred.  There were about nine inches of water in the boat previous to her sinking.  -  Mr Watts:  There were only three inches of freeboard.   -  The Coroner:  MRS SMYTH and other passengers state that they were wet to the knees.   -   Billing:  The boat was down a good bit by the stern.  The water was above the bottom boards, but my feet were not wet.  Had I thought there was any danger I should have taken the boat to the beach.  -  The Coroner:  Yes, but perhaps you don't see danger where you ought to see it.  -  Dr Gadsen said death was not due to drowning, for the water had not been above his waist.  In his opinion death was due to syncope caused by shock through the foundering of the boat.  Probably MR SMYTH made some effort when the boat sank.  MR SMYTH had been in the hands of the doctors for heart treatment up to the last week or so.  He learned from deceased's wife that the doctor had told him not to get excited or do anything hurriedly.  He probably died in about a minute and a half after getting to the top of the steps.  -    Points For The Jury.    -    The Coroner, summing up, said it was for the Jury to consider whether MR SMYTH'S death had been accelerated by the carelessness of the boatman, and whether anything could be done to prevent a similar accident occurring.  It was clear from the evidence that the boat should not have been used in that condition for such work.  It was also for the Jury to consider whether they might add to their verdict a rider that boats should be over-hauled by the proper authority and licensed for carrying passengers.  It was a serious thing that anybody should be allowed to take out a boat in such a state as the one described.  Had there been proper supervision the accident would not have happened.  -  A Juryman:  Who is the proper authority?  -  The Coroner:  The Urban District Council.  -  Mr James Vivian, chairman of the Newquay Urban District Council, said the Council had recently adopted the Public Health Amendments Act and were taking steps to get these boats licensed.   -   The Coroner:  I am very glad to hear it.  -  The Jury returned a verdict in accord with the medical evidence.  They censured Billing for taking out a boat in such a leaky condition.  They also expressed their satisfaction in learning that Newquay Council were taking steps to secure the proper over-hauling and licensing of these boats.  The Jury also expressed their sympathy with the widow and other relatives.  -  The body was conveyed by the 12.55 train to Ilfracombe, the widow and Mr and Mrs James Watts travelling by the same train.

Western Morning News, Friday 2 July 1909
BRENDON - Brendon Baker's Death.  -  ALFRED LETHABY, baker, Coombe Foot, Brendon, whose dead body was found in the backyard of the premises by his brother, was stated at the Inquest held by Mr Geo. W. F. Brown to have suffered from epileptic fits for some time, and Dr H. J. Edwards, Lynton, attributed death to suffocation during a fit.  The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

SOUTH MOLTON - At Southmolton yesterday a Coroner's Jury returned a verdict of Natural Causes in the case of GEO. NUNN, retired gamekeeper, found dead in bed.  Dr Seal said death was due to heart failure.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 6 July 1909
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Child's Death.  Body Buried In A Garden.  -  Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at Devonport yesterday on the newly-born male child discovered in the garden of a house in Fleet-street, Keyham.  Mr W. C. Vallance attended on behalf of the young married woman, LILIAN MARY CLARKE, who is in custody, and will be brought before the Magistrates this morning on a serious charge in connection with the case.  - The Coroner stated that MRS CLARKE was unwell and did not desire to be present.  -   The Birth Of The Child.    -    MARGARET HEGGARTY, a widow. living at Fleet-street West, Keyham, stated that LILIAN MARY CLARKE was her daughter, and the wife of JOHN ERNEST CLARKE from whom she had lived apart for nearly five years.  When they last heard of him he was in the Army Service Corps.  Since they separated, her daughter had lived with her.  LILIAN, 26 years of age, was married at the age of 18 years.  When taxed about five weeks ago as to her condition, she replied, "No, mother.  There is nothing the matter with me."  Her daughter continued her work in the house as usual until the morning of the 24th ult., when, about 6.30 a.m., witness found her standing with both hands behind her back, apparently in pain.  She again said there was nothing the matter with her.  She (witness) went to work and returned, when about 5.30 one of her grandchildren told her that her daughter wanted her.  She went upstairs and found the girl sitting on the side of the bed.  She said, "What is the matter, LILY?" to which she replied, "There is nothing the matter now, mother; it's all over."  Seeing her exhausted condition she put her to bed.  On the following morning her daughter got up as usual, but did not do the housework.  After remaining home for three days she (witness) resumed work on the Monday. On the following Wednesday two Police Officers came to the house and asked her daughter if she knew anything about a child found at Stoke.  The girl having given her consent to be examined by a doctor, one of the officers left to fetch one.  On the following day (Thursday) Detective-Inspector Rundle and Detective Irish came to the house.  She did not overhear the conversation or see what took place in the garden.  -  The Coroner:  Assuming MRS HEGGARTY that your daughter expected a child, what would have been her object in concealing the birth from you?  -  None.  I would rather she had faced it.  She must have been mad.  She had had two children by her husband.  Witness did not reply to the Coroner's inquiry whether the girl had had any illegitimate children and the question was not pressed.   -   Replying to Mr Vallance, witness said about three months ago, her daughter fell over the stairs and injured the small of her back and one of her legs.  She was also badly bruised.  Her daughter had been a good mother to her children.   -    Visit Of The Detectives.    -    Detective Inspector Rundle stated that he visited Fleet-street West on Thursday with Detective Irish.  MRS CLARKE, having been cautioned, said the child found at Stoke was not hers.  He told her that it was said she had had a child and asked her what she had done with it.  She replied that she had thrown it down the lavatory in the backyard.  He went into the backyard with MRS CLARKE and Detective Irish.  He probed the ground with his walking-stick, and found that it went down six or seven inches very easily.  When he pulled it up it brought with it the foot of a baby.  He asked MRS CLARKE whose baby it was.  She replied, "Mine!"  Having uncovered the baby sufficiently to see whether it was dead, he went for a doctor.  The body was covered with earth and lime and wrapped in two newspapers.  -  When he charged her with having concealed the birth of her male child, MRS CLARKE replied, "I did not know whether it was a boy or a girl."  -  In reply to the Foreman of the Jury, witness said the body was about seven inches from the surface.  It would have been almost impossible for it to have been buried in the daylight without being observed by the neighbours.  -  Detective Irish added that MRS CLARKE said if she could have called anyone it would not have happened.  Shortly afterwards she said, "I have done an awful thing:  but there, I have done it, and I must put up with it."    -    Evidence Of Suffocation.    -    Dr G. C. Sandford said on Thursday he was taken by Detective Inspector Rundle to the garden and shown the foot of a child projecting through the soil.  At his request the Inspector removed the soil and the body of a male child was disclosed.  He satisfied himself that MRS CLARKE had been recently delivered of a child.  She admitted the fact, and he believed she said the birth took place about a fortnight previously.  She said it neither moved nor cried.  The child was well nourished.  There were no marks of violence about the body, and no bones were broken.  In his opinion it was born alive and had died from suffocation.  It was  impossible for him to say whether the suffocation was accidental or wilful.  He could not say how long the child had lived.   -  The Foreman:  You do not suggest the child was buried alive?  -  No.  The woman told me she was not responsible at the time the child was born.  -  WILLIAM JOSEPH HEGGARTY, skilled labourer, Devonport Dockyard, and a brother of MRS CLARKE, gave his evidence and frequently remarked that he knew absolutely nothing about the case and once or twice he burst out crying.  -  The Coroner:  Do you think it possible your sister could have gone into the garden after seven o'clock and dug the pit herself?  -  Yes.  -  Did you assist your sister in any way?  -  witness (bursting out crying):  God strike me dead, if I know anything about it.  -  The Coroner reproved witness for the manner in which he had replied to the question.  -  Further questioned, witness expressed the opinion that his sister must have dug the pit alone.  -  MRS HEGGARTY, recalled, said her daughter had made preparations for the birth without her knowledge.  -    The Verdict.    -    The Coroner, in summing up, said he could not conceive it possible that MRS CLARKE, in her condition, could have dug the pit and buried the child without assistance.  -  The Jury found that death was due to Suffocation, but that there was not sufficient evidence to show whether it was wilful or accidental.

NEWTON ABBOT - Newton Baby Case.  Body In A Trunk.  -  At Newton Abbot yesterday Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest upon the body of a newly-born child, which had been found at Carvaen, South-road, the residence of Mr J. M. Limpus, and concerning which ALICE MAUD COUNTER, a domestic servant employed at the house, a native of Compton, near Paignton, has been taken into custody.  Mr S. Darbey was Foreman of the Jury.  -  P.S. Newberry stated that on Friday night about 10.40 Mr Limpus came to the Police Station and he went with P.S. Martin to the house.  As soon as ALICE MAUD COUNTER saw him she screamed and ran into a room, saying to her mother, who was also present, "O, mother, what have I done?  I didn't know what I was doing when I did it."  In the box in the girl's bedroom witness found the body of a newly-born male child, wrapped up in a newspaper, and around its neck was wound tightly a piece of towel, part of which had been pushed inside the child's mouth.  the towel was not tied.  When he charged the girl with causing the death of the child and concealing its birth, she made no reply.  She was afterwards removed to the Hospital, where she still was.  -   Mrs Harriet Elizabeth Limpus, wife of John Morland Limpus, said the girl had been in her employ since March 1st.  COUNTER lived for a year previously with Mrs Parsons, of Keyberry Park.  She had noticed that the girl seemed ill and she had done what she could for her, and urged her to see a doctor;  but up to the last the girl maintained that nothing had happened beyond what was consequent upon her disease, which she said was dropsy.  Ultimately the girl confessed that she had given birth to a child.  Witness asked if it had lived, and she said "Yes, it had cried."  She added "the cries are ringing in my ears now."  Witness asked what she had done with the child, and she said "It is in my box ma'am."  Witness said she must see it and COUNTER gave her the key of the box.  The girl went down on her knees and said "For God's sake don't tell the master."  Witness said she was bound to tell her husband and COUNTER said "Let me burn it and nobody will know anything about it."  -  John Morland Limpus, manager of the Heathfield Potteries, also gave evidence.  -  Dr James J. Scrase said there  was a piece of soft towelling wrapped around the child's head several times and once around the neck , a piece of it filling the mouth.  -   The Coroner:  If there was a good deal of it inside the mouth, it could not have got there accidentally?  -  Witness:  It looked as if it had been pushed in.  It filled the aperture of the mouth.  I do not think it could have got there accidentally.  One end of the towel was pushed in under the coil around the neck.  He saw the girl next morning at Carvaen, and came to the conclusion that she had been recently delivered of a child.  He ordered her removal to the Hospital.  Subsequently he made a post-mortem examination of the body, and found it was a male child, fully developed and the average weight of 7lb.   The mouth was wide open and there were two small wounds at the corner of the lower lip, indicating that the towel had been forced into its mouth with a certain amount of violence.  Around the neck, and especially distinct at the sides, was a wide groove, corresponding in size to the towel that had been removed the night before.  That showed that the towel had been wound around so tightly that it had constricted the neck.  From his examination of the lungs, he was of opinion that the child had certainly breathed, the lungs being fully inflated.  The other organs were all healthy, but the right side of the heart was full of blood, which pointed to suffocation.   -   The Coroner:  Are you of opinion that the child was a living child, with a separate existence?  -  Witness:  I have no direct evidence that the child had a separate existence.  I can only say that it certainly breathed.  -  Could the child breathe, or breathe fully, before being completely born?  -  I must qualify what I say.  -  Do you mean that a doctor could never say scientifically that the child had a separate existence?  -  Having been born so recently it is difficult to say.  -  You simply restrict your evidence to saying that?  -  I can only say the child breathed.  I do not feel called upon to say the child was born alive.  It might have breathed before it was completely born.  -  Supposing you had evidence that the child cried, would that help you at all?  -  That would have to depend upon the evidence of the person that said so.  I have no evidence of it.  -  Supposing we had evidence?    Even then I have known a child not completely born to cry.  I cannot produce any medical evidence that the child was born alive, and had a separate existence.  The umbilical cord was not tied;  death might possibly have been due to that;  but as there was no haemorrhage that was not probable.  It was only fair to state that in spite of that his opinion was that death was due to asphyxia by strangulation.  -  By this piece of towelling?  -  I am not prepared to say that.  I am prepared to say the child died of strangulation and that around the neck was a towel, which was apparently the cause of it, part of it being in the mouth.  -  The Inquest was adjourned until July 15th, in order that the girl might be present.

PLYMOUTH - Old Man's Sudden Death.  -  Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at the Prince Rock Police Court, Plymouth, yesterday on JOHN BILLING, retired brewer, Zephyr House, Tothill-road.  -  MRS LEONIE TALL, daughter of the deceased, said on Sunday morning, shortly after midnight, she heard a fall and on going to her father's room found him lying on the floor, groaning.  She sent for Dr Wilkinson, but her father died before the doctor arrived.  When he went to bed, about 9.30 p.m. on Saturday, he seemed in his usual health.  He was 80 years of age.  - Dr T. B. Wilkinson said he had made a post-mortem examination and found death was due to heart failure , the result of a fatty heart.  There was a bruise on the forehead and deceased had apparently had a fall, which no doubt accelerated death.  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 7 July 1909
EAST STONEHOUSE - Dockyard Accident.  Death Follows An Operation.  -  At Stonehouse yesterday Mr R. R. Rodd reopened the Inquest on ALBERT EDWARD BRETT, 29, shipwright, operated on for hernia and was well enough to be able to walk about the Hospital grounds, when he died suddenly on June 27th.  As his relatives desired that an outside doctor should examine the body and state the cause of death, one Inquiry had been postponed.  Mr Peck, for the Admiralty, watched the proceedings.  -  William S. Mahoney, shipwright, Devonport Dockyard, said on June 5th BRETT tried to lift an iron frame over a beam and complained of pain, saying he believed he had strained himself.  -  William Bowhay, chargeman of shipwrights, said BRETT attended the Dockyard surgery every day from June 7th to the 10th and was put on light work.  On the latter date he ceased work altogether with the intention of going into the R.N. Hospital.  -  Fleet-Surgeon Vidal G. Thorpe, said BRETT was admitted to the R.N. Hospital, Stonehouse, on June 11th suffering from hernia.  He came in specially for operation, which was performed on June 17th.  The patient went on all right until June 27th when death took place suddenly.  A post-mortem examination revealed an extraordinary and unexpected condition of things, the liver, stomach and large bowel being found adhering to the walls of the abdomen.  this state of things was undoubtedly of long standing.  The probable cause of death was pulmonary embolism, of which there was a suspicion but no definite evidence.  -  The Coroner:  Having regard to deceased's unhealthy condition, do you think the operation was indirectly the cause of death?  -  Yes, I think I must say so, although we must go further back and say the injury was indirectly the cause of death.  -  The Coroner:  Of course.  We know the operation was for hernia caused by a strain at his work, but I want to know whether the medical gentlemen can say, either directly or indirectly, the operation had something to do with the death?  -  In the circumstances it did.  -  Mr O. R. Matthews (a Juror):  I take it but for the operation, this man would have been alive today?  -  Yes, except that he was on the verge of death and might have died suddenly at any time.  - Dr Charles Llewellyn, Stoke, who had examined the body at the desire of deceased's relatives, said he was in entire agreement with all Dr Thorp had said.  -  The Coroner:  You have no doubt in your mind that the operation was necessary and proved quite successful?  -  It was a good operation and quite successful.  The man's condition of health conduced to embolism, which was quite an unusual complication.  he should always advise a young man to consent to an operation in such cases.  -  Dr Thorpe said he had performed 120 such operations in 2 ½ years and this was the first death.  -  The Coroner said a further adjournment for the attendance of the factory inspector was unavoidable.

STRATTON, CORNWALL - Bude Cliff Suicide.  -  Mr Arthur Butt, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Stratton yesterday on MRS LILY WICKETT, wife of MR TITUS WICKETT, of Hartland.  -  The husband said his wife had been depressed for about four months and they came to Stratton for a change.  There were no family worries.  When depressed she had said she would like to die.  On Thursday morning she arose at their usual time and went out to look at the shops. When he missed her he went to Bude to search for her.  -  Dr T. A. King said MRS WICKETT'S injuries were broken nose, broken lower jaw, both eyes badly bruised, body generally much bruised.  He attended her two months ago for acute melancholia.  -   Frederick May said on July 1st he saw a lady walk to a point of the cliffs near Bude, look over and about, and then return a little way.  She then went to another point, sat on the edge of the cliff with legs dangling over, then threw up her hands and slid over.  He was about a quarter of a mile away.  He rushed to the spot and sent a man for a doctor, who came in ten minutes.  He measured the cliff and found it was a perpendicular drop of 60 feet.  -  Mr Matthews of Parnscott, brother-in-law of the deceased, said MR and MRS WICKETT came to stay at his house for a change, as she was depressed.  He saw her soon after she fell.  She said, "I don't know why I did it."  -  A verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind" was returned.  The Coroner was asked to convey the sympathy of the Jury to MR WICKETT.

EAST STONEHOUSE - Stonehouse Woman's Death.  A Groundless Rumour. -  Mr R. R. Rodd, on resuming the Inquest last evening on ELIZA ANN GICQUEL, 52, an inmate of Stonehouse Workhouse, explained that an Inquest was necessary in consequence of a rumour being circulated that an inmate, whom deceased as ward-woman was detaining in a particular room, rushed at her and knocked her down.  It was suggested that had something to do with the cause of death.  -  Dr W. H.  Waterfield said death was due to cancer.  He had found that the alleged scuffle was a very small affair, and in no way responsible for the woman's death.  -  A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 9 July 1909
EAST STONEHOUSE - Devonport Shipwright's Death. -  The Inquest on ALBERT EDWARD BRETT, shipwright, who died at the R.N. Hospital, was concluded at Stonehouse yesterday.  Mr L. P. Evans, H.M. Factory Inspector, had no question to ask.  The Jury found that BRETT died from pulmonary embolism, accelerated by an operation for hernia, caused by a strain while at his work on June 5th in Devonport Dockyard.

Western Morning News, Monday 12 July 1909
PLYMOUTH - Found Dead In Bed. -  Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at the Plymouth Mortuary on Saturday on ELIZABETH COLLINS, 65, of 86 King-street, the widow of a labourer.  Albena Williams, of 1 Alice-street, said on Thursday afternoon she missed deceased and went into her room to look for her.  The door was tied on the inside with string, but witness forced it open and found her lying dead on the bed.  -  Dr Wagner said deceased was a person of weak intellect.  The cause of death was fatty degeneration of the heart.  -  A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - Cattedown Drowning Case.  Callous Companions Censured.  -  An Inquest was held at the Plymouth Mortuary on Saturday by Mr R. B. Johns (Plymouth Borough coroner) on the body of the man GEORGE ARTHUR, who was found on the beach at Cattedown, Plymouth, on Thursday.   ARTHUR, a seaman on the schooner Pet of Chester, was 19 years of age.  -  Edward Williams, mate of the same ship, of North Wales, said deceased lived at Belfast.  On Thursday night, about a quarter-past eleven, they were both returning on board, when deceased, in changing a box he was carrying from one arm to the other, fell backwards into the water.  Witness jumped down and tried to catch hold of deceased, who, however, sank.  Witness went back to the ship and told the captain, who went with him to the spot where deceased fell in.  They were unable to recover the body and told the Police next  morning.  -  P.C. Hill said he discovered the body about five o'clock on Friday morning, lying on the beach near the wharf.  He conveyed it to the mortuary.  Some time after the discovery the mate of the ship told him about the previous night's accident.  -  The Jury, in returning a verdict of "Found Drowned," severely censured the captain and mate of the vessel, and the Coroner remarked that they seemed to be absolutely callous about it.  It was a great neglect of duty on their part not to have informed the Police at once.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 13 July 1909
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Child's Death.  - Mr J. A. Pearce at Devonport yesterday held an Inquest on WILLIAM CHARLES CRAZE, aged 21 months, the child of a labourer living in Market-street.  The father said the child was taken ill on Friday evening, but witness was too late to obtain the services of a parish doctor, and having been out of work for a long time had no money for a private one.  The child died during the night.  - The Coroner suggested that witness could have fetched a doctor, intimating that he would pay him on the Saturday, but CRAZE replied that he had tried this when one of his other children was ill, but the doctor had refused to come unless he had the money ready.  -  Mr Pearce said he rather felt for these people.  When they wanted a parish doctor it was generally in very urgent cases, and they had to seek out a relieving officer before they could apply to the doctor.  A Juryman:  It should certainly be made easier.  -  Dr P. G. Bolus stated that death was due to tuberculous peritonitis, and expressed the opinion that nothing could have been done for the child even if it had received medical attention.  -  A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 16 July 1909
NEWTON ABBOT - Newton Abbot Baby Case.  Verdict Of Manslaughter.  -  At Newton Abbot yesterday, Mr S. Hacker held the adjourned inquest on the newly-born male infant found in a box in a bedroom at Carvden, South-road, Newton, the residence of Mr J. M. Limpus, in connection with which ALICE MAUD COUNTER, age 23, domestic servant, of Compton, near Paignton, who had been in Mr and Mrs Limpus's employ, had been in custody.  The Inquest had been adjourned in order that the girl COUNTER might attend, and she was now present, having, owing to her weak state of health, been brought down to the Townhall in a bath-chair from the Hospital by the Matron, Miss King.  Supt. Roberts was present on behalf of the Police.  -  The Coroner explained to COUNTER that the evidence given on the previous occasion appeared to affect her, and that she would have an opportunity, after the statements had been read over of the various witnesses, of asking them any questions.   -  P.S. Newberry added to his former evidence that on Wednesday, July 7th, the girl, who was in the Hospital, sent for him.  She said she wished to make a statement.  He advised her not to, and she replied, "I wish to, to get it off my mind."  The girl stated that on Tuesday, June 29th, about 10.30 p.m. she went to bed, and was taken ill some time afterwards. The child was born in the dark and "cried awfully."  She put something in the child's mouth to stop it from crying.  She then got out and tried to dress, but she felt faint and fell to the floor.  She made another attempt to dress, but could not do so, and she must have fainted again.  When she came round she took the baby from beneath the clothes;  it was dead.  She remained in bed until the morning about 6.30 when she dressed and went down and got the breakfast after which she went upstairs, wrapped the baby in a newspaper and put it in her box with some clothing.  She locked the box and afterwards gave the key to Mrs Limpus on the following Friday.  The girl said with regard to the child, "I had no intention of killing it;  I did not know what I was doing at the time, and when I saw what I had done I was too frightened to tell anyone."  She added that she made the above statement of her own free will, to get it off her mind, as she could not sleep.  -  In reply to Mr Cornish-Bowden, who attended on behalf of the girl COUNTER, P.S. Newberry said he did not interfere with the towel which he found around the child's neck.  He partly removed the piece which was in the child's mouth, but replaced it precisely as he found it.  He was not quite certain as to whether it was a whole towel or only a piece of one.  -  Dr Scrase repeated that he was not certain that the child had had a separate existence, nor could he say whether the small wounds on the corners of its mouth were caused before or after death.  In answer to Mr Cornish-Bowden, witness said the marks on the child's neck might not have been caused by the towel, but by something else and by some complication in birth, which was not at all unusual. The statement made by the girl COUNTER to the Police-Sergeant was consistent in every particular with the facts which witness found at the examination of the child.  -  In reply to the Coroner, Mr Cornish-Bowden said he did not propose that COUNTER should make any additional statement.  -  The Coroner having summed up, the Jury, of whom Mr S. Darbey was Foreman, unanimously returned a verdict of Manslaughter, and the girl COUNTER was committed for trial at the Assizes.  -    Accused Before The Magistrates.  -  In the afternoon the young woman COUNTER was brought before Dr J. W. Ley (Chairman), R. Vicary, and A. J. Murrin, County Magistrates, when the evidence given at the Inquest was repeated.  -  Mr Cornish-Bowden, for accused, was commenting upon the fact that it was left to the Coroner's Jury that their verdict must be one of either murder or manslaughter, whereupon the Bench intimated that they had nothing to do with the Coroner's Court. -  Mr Cornish-Bowden said he thought the point he had mentioned was a fair matter of comment.  He proceeded to refer to the evidence of Dr Scrase that when he saw the towel it was not wound sufficiently tight around the child's neck to cause death, he argued that there was no suggestion that the towel had been loosened in the meantime.  He suggested that at any rate there must be a doubt in the minds of the Magistrates on this point and he asked that accused should receive the benefit of that doubt.  He submitted that there was no case to go to a Jury, and expressed his opinion that if accused was committed to the Assizes, no Jury would on the evidence adduced bring in a verdict of Manslaughter.  He therefore asked the Bench to dismiss the case.  -  The Magistrates committed accused to the Assizes on the charge of Manslaughter.  -  Mr Cornish-Bowden applied to the Bench to grant a certificate for solicitor and counsel under the Poor Prisoners' Defence Act and also for bail.  He mentioned that it had been arranged that she should become an inmate of St. Olave's Home, Exeter, through the generosity of Dr Mapleton, who had promised to pay the fees for her admittance.  He asked for nominal bail.  -  The Bench granted the certificate for solicitor and counsel and fixed the bail in £20 for accused and two sureties in £10 each.  Rev. E. C. Long, curate of Wolborough and Miss King, Matron of Newton Hospital became the sureties.  

Western Morning News, Monday 19 July 1909
PAIGNTON - Old Man's Pension.  Coroner's Remarks On Medical Relief.  -  Mr Hacker opened an Inquest at Paignton on Saturday on ELIZABETH ELLIS, a married woman, aged 56, found dead in bed on Friday.  -  WM. ELLIS, the husband, over 70, said his wife had been suffering for a fortnight from a very bad cough and cold and had practically eaten nothing during that time.  She refused to allow him to fetch a doctor and she had no nurse.  On Thursday night she said she was comfortable and she asked him for a drink about 5 o'clock Friday morning.  He gave her cold tea and she lay down again, but when he awoke at seven she was dead.  -  The Coroner told him it was his duty to have procured medical attendance and adequate food, comforts and nursing for his wife.  -  The old man said, unknown to his wife, he went to the Relieving Officer on Monday, and applied for the Parish Doctor, but he was informed that if he did this he would forfeit his old-age pension and become a pauper.  He was also told that for a penny a week he could join the dispensary in connection with the Cottage Hospital, which would entitle him to medical attendance, but he was too old to join it.   -  Dr Adams said the appearance of the body was consistent with death from natural causes.  From what he could ascertain from the husband, he concluded that she very possibly had pneumonia, which led to heart failure.  - P.C. Kingdon said he went to the house when the husband came to the Police Station with news of the death.  Everything looked natural, and he saw nothing to suggest anything wrong.  -  The Coroner said they ought to have before them the Relieving Officer with reference to the allegation of the husband as to the attendance of the Parish Doctor, the law said he was entitled to the services of the Parish Doctor, and if there was any difficulty as to the loss of an old-age pension that was a thing that ought to be seen into.  He therefore adjourned the case until Tuesday morning for the attendance of the Relieving Officer and directed Dr Adams to make a post-mortem examination, that they might know the actual cause of death.

NORTH MOLTON - Northmolton Farmer's Death.  -  MR THORNE, of Lower Fyldon Farm, Northmolton, died on Friday and at the Inquest on Saturday it was stated that on June 30th his horse shied and threw him.  Dr Baber said death was due to fracture of the skull and laceration of the brain, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 20 July 1909
EXETER - Exeter Mystery.  Young Servant Girl's Death.  -  At an Inquest held at Exeter yesterday on ALICE L. DYER, 22, servant, who died on Saturday night at the residence of her master, Mr J. Norman, Highlands, Mount Radford, the Coroner (Mr W. L. Brown) said the young woman had apparently died from poisoning.  She had taken something, and probably that was the poison that killed her.  A post-mortem examination had been made, but it would be necessary to analyse a vessel which had apparently contained the poison, and compare the analysis with the contents of the stomach.  He proposed to adjourn the Inquiry until the result of the analysis was known.  -  Joseph Osborne, builder's labourer, 23 Oakfield-street, Heavitree, said the deceased, his niece, was the daughter of a carter, of Martock.  He was dead.  Witness last saw her alive on Tuesday night.  She was in her usual health and apparently in good spirits.  She had complained of pains in her head.  -  The Inquiry was adjourned until Monday.

EXETER - Pensioner Drowned.  -  At an Inquest held at Countess Weir, Exeter, yesterday, on HENRY JOHN KUPER, ALFRED E. KUPER, plumber, Blackboy-road, Exeter, said deceased, his brother, aged 44 years, was a pensioner from the R.G.A.  He had been out of the Army three years:  His pension was 1s. 1d. per day and he did odd jobs as a labourer.  -  Thomas B. Wyatt, brass fitter, Jubilee-street, Exeter, said on Saturday morning he was looking over the parapet of the bridge over the Exe at Countess Weir, when he saw the body of the deceased in the water, and  assisted in getting it out.  -  Fredk. Aggett, gardener, St Loyes-terrace, Wonford, said deceased had lodged at his house for two and a half years.  He left on Saturday week in consequence of witness having given him notice to quit.  He drew his quarter's pension on July 1st.  He then paid witness £1 and owed considerable arrears.  -  Edgar Snow, of Country House Inn, Topsham, said deceased called at his house nearly every night last week.  When he left at closing time on Saturday he seemed quite sober and rational.  Witness had no knowledge as to where he had been sleeping during the night.  -  Mr W. Ashford, Surgeon, Topsham, said death was due to drowning.  - P.C. Laing said he only found a knife in deceased's pockets.  -  The Jury found that death was due to Drowning, but there was no evidence to show how his body came to be in the water.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 21 July 1909
PAIGNTON - Inquest At Paignton.  Old-Age Pensions And Medical Relief.  -  Yesterday, at Paignton, Mr Hacker resumed the Inquest on MRS ELIZABETH ELLIS.  - Dr Adams, who had made a post-mortem examination, said death was due to acute pneumonia.  The body and clothes were very dirty.  -   Mr G. F. Marks, Relieving Officer, denied that the husband ever applied to him for medical attendance, or that he told him that medical attendance would entail the loss of his old-age pension.  He knew nothing of the case until he saw it in the paper.  -  Mr r. Moore, a Guardian, said on the 12th inst. ELLIS met him in the street and asked him if he could have an order for the Parish Doctor for his wife, who was very ill.  He told him "Yes, certainly," and directed him to the Relieving Officer.  Witness saw him afterwards and asked why he did not come to the Relieving Officer, and ELLIS said, "I changed my mind;  I was told I should lose my pension."  -  ELLIS, recalled, asserted the accuracy of his statement.  he saw Mr Marks at the pay table on Monday week, and asked for medical relief, and Mr Marks told him he would lose his old-age pension.  He followed Mr Moore into the room and heard a conversation between him and Mr marks on the subject.  -  The Coroner said it was stated to them on the last occasion that medical relief had been refused to a man who applied for it for his dying wife, and it was necessary to thrash this out.  ELLIS was a very old man and he did not think he intended to commit perjury, but apparently he overheard some conversation which led him to think he would lose his pension.  That impression was totally wrong and ought to be removed from the public mind.  The Act was perfectly clear that medical relief was not a disqualification as long as there was no other, or monetary, relief.  It was the duty of the Relieving Officer, totally regardless of the Old-age Pension Act, to give an order for medical relief when applied for.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Saturday 24 July 1909
EXMOUTH - Exmouth Suicide.  Coroner Differs With Jury.  -  Dr Tweed held an Inquest at Exmouth yesterday on CHARLES SKINNER, ostler, aged 29.  CAROLINE SKINNER, sister of the deceased, said he was of a cheerful disposition and had never suggested doing away with himself.  -  Samuel W. Melhuish, the engine driver of the 9.30 train from Exmouth, said he saw SKINNER walking on the track beside the rails in the same direction as the train was proceeding.  About 30 yards from the train, SKINNER turned and threw himself on the rails.  Witness applied the brakes but the train could not be stopped until after it had passed over him.  In his opinion it was a deliberate act of the deceased.  -  Dr Eaton stated that deceased's legs were cut off across the thighs.  he had two blows on the head and one on the side.  There was no hope from the first and SKINNER died at the Cottage Hospital about an hour after his admission.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane".  -  The Coroner:  I cannot agree with you about temporary insanity, but I will record your verdict.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 27 July 1909
DARTMOUTH - Dartmouth Drowning Case.  Open Verdict.  -  At Dartmouth Guildhall yesterday afternoon the County Coroner for Dartmouth district, Mr A. M. Davson, held an Inquest on JAMES HENRY TAPPER, formerly in the employ of Messrs. Philip and Son (Limited) and recently a coal lumper.  THOMAS TAPPER, blacksmith, identified the body as that of his brother, who was 31 years of age.  He saw deceased between eight o'clock and half-past on Saturday night, and he was then in his usual health, and did not appear to be worrying about anything.  Deceased had lately been working as a coal lumper.  -  Frank Alexander, coal lumper, said he saw deceased at a quarter to eleven o'clock on Saturday night.  He did not speak to him.  -  Robert Stevens, a coal lumper and night watchman in the employ of Messrs. G. H. Collins (Limited) said between four and five o'clock on Sunday morning he saw a coat floating in Bayard's Cove, just across the moorings and called the attention of James Fisher to it.  -  James Fisher said he put off in his boat and upon reaching the object saw what he at first considered to be a child.  He shouted to Stevens to fetch the Police and then called to Robert Blamey, who assisted him to fetch the body ashore.  - P.S. Rogers deposed to moving the body to the Mortuary.  He searched it, but found nothing bearing on the deceased's death.  Deceased was of a reserved nature and was a steady man.  He had several times seen him asleep on a seat on the Embankment.  Deceased had been wearing rubber shoes, the bottoms of which were likely to be slippery.  Several of those who had seen deceased on Saturday night stated that he was sober.  -  Dr G. M. Soper said he found slight abrasions on both shin bones.  Deceased had, in his opinion, been in the water about ten hours.  -  By the Foreman:  He thought the marks had been caused before deceased entered the water.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

PORTLAND, DORSET - Late MR T. B. C. NICHOLSON.  Inquest At Portland. -  The body of MR THOMAS BOONE CARLYON NICHOLSON, bank clerk, Torquay, son of the REV. H. J. NICHOLSON, of Plymouth, who was drowned on July 3rd while boating in Torbay, was recovered at Portland on Sunday by Richard C. Andrews, a quarryman, who was on the beach at Church Hope and saw the body in the breakers.  -  The Inquest was held yesterday by Mr G. P. Symes, Coroner for South Dorset.  -  MR GEORGE NICHOLSON, said the deceased, his brother, was a clerk in the National Provincial Bank, Torquay.  On Sunday morning, July 4th, he received information from his brother's landlady that he was missing.  He went to Torquay and learnt that he went out in a boat on the evening before, that the boat had been found adrift and brought into Torquay.  In the boat were his brother's hat and pair of spectacles.  He identified a watch and chain, a charm, and visiting cards found on the body, which from the dress he had no doubt was that of his brother.  -  George Brown, boatman, of Torquay, said on the evening of July 3rd MR NICHOLSON hired a sixteen-foot boat, the only one in at the time.  He handled the boat well and went out of the harbour all right, he (witness) telling him which way to go.  He saw no more of him.  The boat was brought in next day, with the hat and pair of spectacles in it.  -  The father of the deceased said he was perfectly satisfied with the evidence.  He had examined the boat, and as an old yachtsman could say it was in good order and that no fault could be found with it.  -  The brother of deceased asked if he could account for the accident, said he could not.  His brother was fond of climbing, and perhaps he tried to climb a rock and the boat got adrift.  There was no reason whatever why he should have committed suicide.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned," the Coroner offering the condolences of himself and the Jury to the family of the deceased.  -  The REV. H. J. NICHOLSON feelingly expressed his thanks.  the body of the deceased will be removed to Plymouth tomorrow for burial.

EXETER - Exeter Poisoning Case.  Servant Girl's Sad Death.  -  At the adjourned Inquest at Exeter yesterday on ALICE DYER, the young woman who died at the residence of her master, Mr J. J. Norman, Highlands, Mount Radford, on Saturday week, Bessie Ellis, housemaid, said the deceased was engaged as cook, and had never threatened to take her life.  She was generally cheerful.  She did not, to witness's knowledge, keep company with a young man. On the morning of Saturday week she washed out the side passage and DYER walked over it two or three times.  Witness locked the door, but did not say anything to the deceased.  The deceased complained to Mrs Norman.  Witness did not say anything to her until after dinner, and they were then good friends.  In he evening she retired to rest.  DYER came up afterwards and brought up a jug of water with her.  After she had got into bed she heard her drinking something and then vomit.  she lit the candle and then discovered DYER leaning out over the bed.  Asked if she was ill she said, "No, I am all right."  She asked for water and a handkerchief and put her arms around her neck and kissed her.  She fetched a nurse, who asked her what she had been taking and she replied something she found in the back kitchen.  -  Jessie Sloye, Hospital Nurse, at present engaged at Highlands, said on being called she found DYER lying in bed and vomiting.  By the side of the bed was a cup of brown powder mixed with something and a jug half full of water.  Dr Thomas and Dr Davy were sent for, but she continued to vomit.  Witness said, "ALICE, what have you done?" and she replied, "It is a brown powder.  I took it from a tin in the back kitchen."  She die dearly next morning.  -  By the Jury:  Witness asked deceased why she took the powder, but she gave no reason, and said, "I wish I hadn't took it now."  -   John Warren Norman, of Highlands, said he recognised the tin produced.  It contained arsenical paste, which he bought about twelve months ago.  It was not marked "poison."  He kept it at the back of the scullery and used it for curing skins of birds  He used it a few days before the occurrence.  Both servants knew it was poison and he had told them to be very careful because there was enough poison there to kill a regiment of soldiers.  He was at Exmouth when he heard of the occurrence and on returning home found a good deal of the poison had gone, together with a piece of cotton wool placed on the top.  There was cotton wool in the cup found by deceased's bed.  -  Miss Annie Norman said deceased had been in her father's service five years and they respected her very much.  She was an intelligent girl, and not bad tempered.  On Saturday morning, when she brought the breakfast, she noticed her hand was shaking.  She asked her what was the matter, and she replied that she would be all right in a few minutes.  She had seen no disturbance between the two servants.  -  Detective J. P. Hill, acting Coroner's Officer, said he had ascertained that the mixture in the tin was composed of white arsenic, camphor, slaked lime, carbonate of potash and soft soap.  In deceased's box was found a Bible, in which some morbid poetry had evidently been recently written.  On the Saturday she wrote a letter to her sister at Martock.  It appeared to be a rational letter.  On the same day she had a new dress and took money from the Post-office Savings Bank, to pay for it.  From inquiries made at the house, he found that on the Saturday afternoon deceased packed her box and gave away two light reading books to employees of Messrs. Norman.  The cupboard in which the tin was kept was high up from the ground.  -  Dr Raglan Thomas, who had made a post-mortem examination, said death was due to arsenic poisoning.  She must have taken a very large dose.  -  Mr T. Tickle, City Analyst, said the contents of the stomach corresponded with the contents in the cup and tin.  -  The Coroner said it seemed a pity that poisonous things of this sort should be left about and not locked away.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 28 July 1909
EAST STONEHOUSE - Stonehouse Woman's Death.   Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Stonehouse yesterday on ANNIE MARIA POWELL, 28, of High-street.  -  James Shopland, naval pensioner, said deceased had kept house for him for the last eight months.  Early on Monday morning he spoke to her, but she did not answer.  He thought she was ill and called a neighbour.  He afterwards sent for Dr Waterfield.  Deceased was in good health, but was addicted to drink and had sold or pawned most of his effects.  -  Dr Waterfield said the woman was dead when he arrived.  The body was very dirty.  Her liver, lungs, and kidney were very much diseased, and her stomach quite empty.  The cause of death was oedema of the lungs, due to alcoholism.  The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Thursday 29 July 1909
BIDEFORD - Suicide At Bideford. - At Bideford yesterday, at the Inquest on WILLIAM BLIGHT, dairyman, of Meddon-street, who died on Monday as the result of taking carbolic acid, it was stated that the Sheriff's officer was in possession for a debt which deceased had promised to meet that day.  -  A verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 4 August 1909
PLYMOUTH - Fatal Fall At Plymouth. - At the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, yesterday, an Inquest was held on CHARLES WESTBROOKE NEYLE, of the Melbourne Inn, Cecil-street, Plymouth.  - The Coroner, (Mr R. B. Johns) informed the Jury that deceased was 61 years of age and on July 9th last, whilst altering the cord of a Venetian window blind, he fell and received very severe injuries.  He was immediately taken to the Hospital and operated upon, but he succumbed to his injuries on Sunday.  -  Ivy Mabey, domestic, who witnessed the accident said MR NEYLE was in the act of adjusting the cord of the window blind, standing on the window sill, when he slipped and fell on a chair.  He struck the first chair violently, and then, fell on to a second.  It was seen that his injuries were severe and he was removed to the Hospital.  -  Dr Joseph F. Porter, House Surgeon, stated that when admitted deceased had a very severe injuries.  An operation was decided upon, but NEYLE gradually sank and died on Sunday.  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Lady Drowned.  Subject To Giddiness.  -  An Inquest was held by Mr R. B. Johns at Plymouth Mortuary yesterday on MISS SUSAN ANN ANTHONY, aged 66, who was found dead on Sunday in a tank in the garden of Morley Villa, Fernleigh-road.  The Coroner remarked that Dr Hingston who had attended deceased for many years, had written to him saying that for a considerable time MISS ANTHONY had a feeble heart and giddiness, and he thought there was little doubt but that at the time of the accident, she had an attack of giddiness.  She did not have any signs of a suicidal tendency or any mental depression.  -  EDWARD ANTHONY, brother, of York-street, identified the body.  He never knew deceased to have any suicidal tendency.  There were times when she complained of giddiness.  -  Mr Harry Fitch (Messrs. Bewes and Co.) stated that he had business transactions with the deceased for many years and she was able to conduct all business affairs.  He was aware that Dr Hingston had treated her for giddiness.  Three months ago she went for a trip to London.  there was no reason to suppose she had a suicidal tendency.  She was very fond of the pen air and walked about the garden.  -  P.S. Allen deposed to being called to the garden on Sunday.  He found the body in a rainwater tank, 2ft. deep 2 ¼ wide, and 8 ft. long.  It was an open tank, level with the ground and the water in it was 18 in. deep.  Deceased was lying in the tank face downwards.  Anyone feeling giddy might fall into the tank, which had no protection around it.  -  Mrs Burt, a lady who resided in the same house, saw the deceased on the previous night, when she appeared to be in good health and spirits and she was also moving about on the Sunday morning.  Dr Hingston attended deceased the previous Wednesday.  It was believed MISS ANTHONY became giddy and fell into the tank.  -  A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 5 August 1909
PLYMOUTH - FLORENCE QUEENIE WAKEHAM, the child of a printer living in Well-street, Plymouth, was found dead in bed and Dr burke held a post-mortem examination to ascertain the cause of death.  At an Inquest yesterday, held by Mr R. B. Johns, Borough coroner, Dr Burke certified that death was due to bronchitis.  

EXMINSTER - At an Inquest at Devon Asylum, Exminster, yesterday, on LUCY HANNAFORD, 22, nurse, Buckfastleigh, the head attendant (Miss Holberry) said deceased had been medically attended since July 18th, when she complained of pains in the head.  She never spoke of any accident until last Friday week, when she said she fell off her bicycle on 14th June last.  Dr Seward, assistant medical officer, said he had made a post-mortem.  Deceased died from meningitis, which was in no way associated with the accident.

Western Morning News, Saturday 7 August 1909
PLYMPTON - Plympton Man's Death. - Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Plympton yesterday on THOMAS GILL DOWN, aged 67 years, of Underwood, Plympton.  -  Dr Stevens said death was due to cerebral haemorrhage and fatty degeneration of the heart.  There were also traces of old pleurisy of the right lung.  MARIA DOWN, deceased's widow, said her husband lived in a cottage at Underwood.  Last Wednesday he fell from his chair while having his tea, and died at once.  A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

BOW - The Suicide At Bow. -  An Inquest was held yesterday by Mr H. W. Gould on ALFRED ROMER SIMONS, who was found hanged in a barn on his farm, known as Brownsland, on Wednesday.  Miss Brawn, housekeeper, saw deceased alive about one o'clock in the afternoon of Wednesday when she did not notice anything strange in his manner.  -  Mrs Jane Morgan saw the deceased at three o'clock on the same afternoon, but did not speak to him.  -  John Morgan said he found the deceased hanging from  a beam in the barn.  He immediately cut down the body and raised an alarm.  -  Dr Haycroft, Medical Attendant to the deceased, said on Saturday last he seemed confused and complained of pains in the head.  Death was due to strangulation.  There was nothing in deceased's manner to make him think he would be likely to take his life, but he had suffered from sunstroke whilst living in Australia some years ago.  Verdict "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

SIDMOUTH - Sidmouth Drowning Case. -  An Inquest was held at the Victoria Cottage Hospital, Sidmouth, yesterday, by Dr Tweed, on ALBERT ANDERTON, aged 58, steam circus proprietor, who was found drowned on Thursday in the River Sid, near the eastern end of the Sidmouth Esplanade.  -  ALBERT ANDERTON, son, said the deceased was his father, who was a travelling showman, formerly of Sheffield.   He last saw him alive about 10 p.m on Wednesday.  Deceased was then perfectly sober and in his usual good health.  His van was about 20ft. from the river, and sometimes his father had a smoke outside before going to bed.  Witness was called on Friday morning by someone saying there was a man in the river, and on going to the spot, found his father partly covered with water, face downwards.  The water was about 4ft. deep.  In answer to the Coroner, witness said there had been no quarrel and he was of opinion that deceased accidentally fell in.  -  ETHEL ANDERTON also gave evidence to getting the van ready for her father to retire, and did not see him alive afterwards.  -  Thomas Rowland gave evidence to finding the body in the river.  He had never known the family to quarrel.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned," and expressed sympathy with the deceased's family.

Western Morning News, Monday 9 August 1909
TAUNTON, SOMERSET - Suicide At Taunton.  "The Benefit Of The Doubt."  -  An Inquest was held at Taunton on Saturday on WILLIAM WHITEMORE, butcher, a native of Axminster, found hanging in a shed at Prior's Wood last Thursday.  Deceased was found by a farm labourer, named Haggett, hanging in a linhay.  -  P.C. Read stated that deceased left his lodgings on the Tuesday, taking with him a box containing papers, which he burnt at the rear of his employer's premises.  Among the fragments was found part of an army discharge paper, showing that he had served 12 years with the Dorset Regiment.  -  The Coroner said there was nothing to show that deceased was not in his normal state of mind and health, but the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity," the Coroner remarking:  "Very well, you give him the benefit of the doubt."

STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Baby's Death. -  An Inquest was held at Devonport on Saturday before Mr J. A. Pearce, Coroner, as to the death of VERA LILIAN MAY JANE.  -  EVELYN JANE, the mother, the wife of a labourer, living at Camel's Head, said the child was 2 ½ years old and had been delicate from birth.  She had had several doctors and had been to the Hospital with the child.  When the child had pneumonia she took it to Dr Fleming, who blames her or bringing the baby out.  On Thursday the child had convulsions.  She sent for Dr Davis and afterwards for Dr Kenrick, who arrived just as the child died.  -  Detective S. Lucas said the house was clean and the JANES were respectable, hard-working people.  - Dr Kenrick said he had made a post-mortem examination.  He found the child of very low vitality and badly nourished.    There was tuberculosis in both lungs and death was due to convulsions following on that disease.  In reply to a Juryman, the mother said the child was insured.  She paid a penny a week, but was in arrears, and did not know what she would get.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

BIDEFORD - Bathing Fatality. - Welsh Miner's Death At Bideford. -  At Bideford on Saturday Mr W. Pyke, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest on ENOCH DAVIES, a miner, from Mardy, aged about 26, who was drowned in the river Torridge on Friday.  Deceased was one of a large number of young Welshmen now holidaying in North Devon.  -  P.C. Bastin said DAVIES came to him on the bridge at 2.30 on Friday and said, "What can I do, they're all laughing at me.  I've done no harm to anyone."  Witness advised him to go to his lodgings and have a sleep and deceased said he could not sleep.  Witness suggested that he had been drinking too much and he replied:  "Yes;  been on the beer for days."  Witness took him to his lodgings, which were at the King's Arms Inn, saw Mrs Hookway and told her not to let him have any more drink, as he seemed to be getting in a bad way.  The next that was seen of deceased was that he was standing on the sportings of the eighth arch of Bideford Bridge, the tide being out, although there were deep pools round.  He was then dressed.  Ten minutes afterwards a lad (Thos. Kelly) was passing over the bridge and saw him naked in the water.  Kelly saw him sink and shouted for assistance.  The workmen rowed round and others brought out the grappling irons and poles kept on the Quay.  -  Samuel Thomas, a fellow workman with deceased, said he came to Bideford with deceased about a fortnight ago.  Witness had never noticed anything strange in his manner.  He had been drinking a glass or two of beer, but he should not say he had been drinking a good deal.  -  Mrs Hookway described deceased as a quiet, well-behaved man and a most moderate drinker.  He went out to different places, but she had never seen him the worse for drink.  She saw nothing strange about him when P.C. Bastin came.  -  P.S. Newberry:  If you had not promised to look after him the Police might have taken other steps and got someone who would. -  The Coroner thought it rather a tall order for witness to look after the men.  -  Witness said she had thirteen of the Welshmen staying at the house.  If she had considered deceased required special attention she should have most certainly given it to him.  -  Evidence was given that the body was recovered on Saturday by P.C.'s Horn and Hammacott.  -  Dr Ellis Pearson said death was due to drowning.  The stomach was inflamed, probably by alcoholic liquor.  -  By the Jury:  He could not tell whether deceased had been seized with cramp.  -  P.S. Newbery produced a Post-office Savings Bank-book found in deceased's clothes which showed that in three weeks he had drawn nearly £25 reducing his credit to about a sovereign.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned," with no blame attaching to anyone, and added a rider calling the attention of the Town Council to the state and unsuitability of the body recovering apparatus on the Quay.

DAWLISH - Dawlish Mystery.  Exeter Tradesman Dead On A Cliff. -  Late on Friday Henry Charles Strickland, cliff inspector, G.W.R., found the body of a well-dressed man amongst the bracken and fern on the top of the cliff overlooking the railway, a few steps from a popular walk leading to the Warren from Dawlish, known as the "Ladies Mile."  The Police were communicated with.  The body, which was considerably decomposed, was conveyed to the mortuary by P.C.'s Stratton and Burrow.  Mr Sidney Hacker (Coroner) held an Inquiry at the Vestry Hall on Saturday evening.  -  Henry Charles Strickland, of Dawlish, in the employ of the G.W.R., said on Friday night he was at work on his allotment alongside the railway, when he heard stones falling on the line from the top of the cliff.  He went to the top of a steep pathway and found that some stones had become loosened on the face of the cliff.  He was turning to go back, when he noticed a strong smell.  Looking round, he saw a man lying on his back in the grass a little outside the railway fence, about six feet away.  -  MARY JANE SMALE, of Northam, identified the body as that of FREDERICK WM. SMALE, her nephew.  She last saw him alive on May 29th.  He was 23 years of age on May 16th last.  Deceased formerly lived with witness and another aunt at Bideford until his marriage, on September 29th last, when he went to live at 80 Paris-street, Exeter, where he kept a dairy.  She did not know anything of his business circumstances.  He was always very delicate.  His lungs were weak and he used to suffer a lot in his head, consequent upon an attack of influenza four years ago.  He had an aunt on his mother's side in a lunatic asylum.  -  Horace James Allen, house decorator, of 81 Paris-street, Exeter, also identified the body as that of F. W. SMALE.  He last saw him alive on Monday night last.  As far as witness could judge, deceased seemed to be doing all right in his business.  Deceased was in the habit of riding a bicycle and witness identified the machine in court as his.  - [This bicycle was left at Crispin's Restaurant on the Warren by someone about two days ago.]   -   Charles Edwin Down, of West Grove-road, St Leonard's, Exeter, saw deceased last in the Exeter Market on Friday, July 30th last.  He had a chat with him about business matters and asked him if he could pay anything towards an account which he owed witness.  Deceased replied that he found money rather close just then, but would give witness something on account in a fortnight.  He seemed in good spirits.  Witness added that about three weeks ago deceased came to him and said he wanted to purchase some poison to kill ants, with which they were plagued at his house.  Witness went to West and Aplin's, chemists, with deceased, the latter purchasing a shilling packet of some poison.  Last Thursday a lad employed by deceased, when delivering milk, told witness that his master had gone away on his bicycle on the Tuesday and they had not seen him since.  Witness saw deceased's wife the same day and mentioned to her about the poison.  she said she knew about it and that her husband had used it for the purpose of killing ants.  -  It was stated that the wife of deceased was in  a delicate condition and with the shock of the occurrence was in a state of collapse.  A medical certificate as to her unfitness to attend had been received.  -  The Coroner said the doctor's evidence was the only evidence for them to go by, no weapon of any kind having been found at the spot by the Police.  This,  however, was not yet forthcoming, as they had hoped.   This was in consequence of the great disadvantage which the medical gentlemen laboured under owing to the inefficient regulations at the mortuary.  The mortuary belonging, it seemed, to the Parish Council, was not provided with the proper appurtenances and accoutrements to enable the doctor to at once make the examination of a body in such a dreadful state as this one was.  It would be a question for the Jury to consider whether they would not wish to add any rider on this matter to their verdict.  -  The Inquiry was adjourned to Thursday next.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 10 August 1909
MARWOOD - A North Devon Suicide.  Farmer's Pathetic Letter. -  Mr Geo. W. F. Brown, last evening held an Inquest at Marwood on PHILIP JOHN LARAMY, of Kennscott Farm.  -  Miss Rudd, his sister-in-law, said she saw him alive at 11 on Saturday morning, and at dinner-time MRS LARAMY discovered him hanging in the linhay.  He had been depressed of late and had intended going to London to see a specialist.  -  Witnesses, who gave evidence as to cutting down the body, said deceased appeared to have jumped off a cattle manger, which gave him a drop of six feet.  The rope had been taken from the linhay.  -  P.C. Sanders produced a note found in deceased's pocket, which read:  "My poor mind is so bad I cannot stand it any long.  Nobody knows what I suffered.  My mind gave way."  -  The Jury found that deceased Hanged Himself whilst of Unsound Mind.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 11 August 1909
TAVISTOCK - Bathing Fatality. -  Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Newbridge on Monday on HAROLD FREDERICK JENNINGS, 18 years of age, of Gunnislake.  -  James Hookway said he was bathing with JENNINGS on Saturday afternoon.  They entered the water from the Cornish side, and waded to within a few yards of the opposite bank.  The water being much deeper there they had to swim.  On leaving the water he saw JENNINGS was in difficulties.  He could only swim a little himself, and was afraid to go back to him.  It was the first time JENNINGS had bathed in the river.  -  Harry Jones said he was about 200 yards away when he saw JENNINGS struggling.  He slipped off his clothes and went to his assistance, but he sank before he reached him.  He raised the body and got it out on the bank.  -  P.C. Rockey of Gunnislake was quickly on the spot, and made every effort to restore animation by artificial respiration, but without avail.  Dr A. Bowhay was fetched and pronounced life extinct.  -  The Coroner warmly congratulated Jones on the plucky manner in which he had gone to JENNINGS' assistance.  -  A verdict of "Accidental Drowning" was returned, and the Jury suggested that a notice should be erected warning bathers of the deep water on the Devon side.

SHAUGH PRIOR - Naval Pensioner's Suicide.  -  Mr R. R. Rodd, Coroner, held an Inquest at Shaugh on Monday on THOMAS ELLIOTT, aged 34, naval pensioner.  GEORGE ELLIOTT, Purp's Farm, Shaugh Prior, said his brother had been an inmate of Devon County Lunatic Asylum at Exminster since about April last until Wednesday, when he went to the Asylum in response to a telegram from his brother to fetch him.  He brought him to Purp's Farm the same day.  The Poor-law authorities informed him that he had been discharged for a month's trial.  Before his brother went to the Asylum he had a suicidal tendency and he was told by Dr Stamp he must be carefully watched.  He appeared bright and cheerful when he brought him home.  The following day he got up and said he would go to Plymouth to visit his brother and sister.  Asked at what time he would return, he replied that if he was not back by dark he was not to wait up.  He did not return.  Witness's wife went to Plymouth on Saturday on business and then found that his brother had not been to see his sister.  On his wife's return home he went to his brother's at Egg Buckland to make inquiries and then Mr Willis came in and told him his brother was down the river.  -  Miss Emily Watts said on Thursday morning, at 9.35 she met ELLIOTT at Ham Farm, returning in the direction of Shaugh Bridge.  He spoke quite cheerfully.  -  Richard Smale Willis, gamekeeper to Sir Henry Lopes, living at Bickleigh Bridge, said on Saturday, about 6.45 p.m., his attention was drawn to a body in the river.  He took it out and found it to be that of ELLIOTT.  there was from three to four feet of water.  ELLIOTT'S coat and hat were on the bank, the coat carefully folded and the hat on top.  -  Dr L. D. Stamp, Plympton, said he had known ELLIOTT since the early part of the year.  Before being taken to the Asylum he was suffering from acute melancholia and he cautioned the relatives accordingly.  The cause of death was drowning.  ELLIOTT had probably been dead since last Thursday.  There were no marks of foul play.  -  The Jury found that deceased Committed Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind.

Western Morning News, Friday 13 August 1909
PADSTOW, CORNWALL - Devonport Wife's Death.  Inquest At Padstow.  -  Mr John Pethybridge held an Inquest at Padstow yesterday on MRS LAVERS.  -  MR ROBERT W. LAVERS, of George-street, Devonport, retired naval shipwright, said his wife, SARAH POLLARD LAVERS, aged 68, had been unwell for two years and was attended by Dr Roberts.  He advised that a holiday spent in Padstow, if taken quietly would probably benefit her.  They had been a week in Padstow, and she seemed better, more cheerful and ate her meals better.  On Wednesday, with a family party, they spent the day picnicking on St Minver Sands.  On the way back to the ferry-boat she felt unwell.  She sat down and took some brandy and a tabloid prescribed by her doctor.  She recovered slightly, then asked to lie down and died in a few minutes quite peacefully.  A doctor and lady nurse on the sands came to his assistance, but his wife was dead.  Another picnic party made an improvised stretcher with their coats and boat oars and brought the body back in their boat.  He was very thankful to them all for their kindness and sympathy.  The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Heart Failure," and expressed sympathy with MR LAVERS.

DAWLISH - Dawlish Cliff Mystery.  The Fate Of An Exeter Tradesman.  - The adjourned Inquest concerning the mysterious circumstances surrounding the death of FREDERICK WILLIAM SMALE, married, aged 23, dairyman, of Exeter, formerly of Northam, near Bideford, was held at Dawlish yesterday.  The body was found on Friday night in the grass about six feet from the edge of the cliff, near the walk known as the Ladies' Mile, by Charles Henry Strickland, a Great Western Railway employee, and the body, which was partially hidden by furze and bracken, had apparently been at the spot three or four days.  Deceased was stated to have been in delicate health.  It was also said that about three weeks since he purchased a quantity of poison from an Exeter chemist for killing ants, and that he had used it for this purpose.  -  Charles Edwin Down, Exeter, recalled, said deceased, who was a friend of his, had never said anything to him to lead him to think he contemplated taking his life.     -   The Widow's Evidence.    -    ANN SMALE, widow of deceased, of 80 Paris-street, Exeter, identified the watch and chain, finger ring,, tobacco pip and pouch, and bicycle found as belonging to her late husband.  She added that she had lived with him in Exeter since November last, after her marriage in September.  He had lately complained of pains in his head.  On Bank-holiday (August 2nd) she and deceased went to the Warren for a day's holiday, returning in the evening.  He seemed in fairly good spirits, and did not complain of anything until after he came home, when he said he had headache.  That was all he suffered from.  On the next day, the Tuesday, he seemed in his usual health and spirits.  He left home about a quarter to ten on his bicycle on a visit to his customers, saying he should not be long, but he did not return.  He had never threatened to take his life.  Before he left home on the Tuesday he said nothing to indicate such an intention.  He said "Good-bye" but not as if he was going for a long journey.  He generally said "Good-bye" when going on a business round, so that there was nothing unusual in this.  She and her husband had no words on the Tuesday morning;  they lived comfortably together always.  His only trouble was that he could not get in his money in business.  She knew that he had a struggle in consequence, and that a milkman and others had been pressing him for money.  He said nothing, however, to show that this was worrying him.  She had searched the house, but could not find that deceased had left a letter.  A few weeks since he brought home some poison for killing ants, and she saw him laying this poison down in the crevices of the skirtings.  -   Dr Arthur Hudson, Dawlish, gave evidence of the result of his post-mortem examination of the body.  There was no bullet wound, as was at first suspected, and nothing had gone into the brain.  He was a well-nourished man, and there were no external marks of violence.  The body was in a very bad state of decomposition, owing to its having been some days in the sun.  There was no evidence of any haemorrhage of the brain.  The heart and lungs and other organs being normal, he came to the conclusion that poison was the cause of death.  He then removed the contents of the stomach, put them in a glass jar and took them to the Public Analyst at Exeter to be analysed.  An examination of the left side of the base of the brain showed that he had suffered from ear disease.  This would account for headaches and pain, which might have caused deceased to be depressed and have led him to take his life.   -   In reply to the Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) witness said he was not able to make the post-mortem examination in a comfortable way at the Mortuary on Sunday.  There were no cloths or towels and before he had finished there was no water, it having been cut off, and what he had was supplied by the caretaker.  It would help very much if doctors were supplied with proper disinfectants, buckets and cloths which were necessary, instead of having to take them there themselves, or to borrow from the caretaker.  There was also no proper covering for bodies.  -  Answering the Coroner , the Foreman (Mr H. Hartwill) said the mortuary belonged not to the Urban District Council, but to the whole parish, which was divided into two parts.  It was a resting-place for bodies, but it did not follow that post-mortem examinations should take place there.  -  The Coroner asked where else they could be held.  The bodies could not be taken out into a field or the public road.  Was it not a public mortuary?  -  The Foreman:  Yes.  -  The Coroner:  Therefore it is a place where all bodies have to be taken.  The Urban Council were without a mortuary for years, and after he had pressed them on the matter at last he was informed that they had arranged to build a mortuary, and this was it.  -  Dr Hudson said there was an arrangement with the Burial Board to provide the mortuary.  It was faulty in construction as a place in which to make a post-mortem examination.    -     Cause of Death.    -    Thomas Tickle, the Exeter Public Analyst, stated that as the result of his examination of the contents of the stomach he found they contained cyanide of potassium in sufficient quantity to cause death.  -   Mr F. S. Cole, Solicitor, clerk to the Urban District Council and to the joint burial committee of the parish, who had been sent for by the Coroner, said he had no authority to give evidence or to speak on behalf of the bodies named, but the Coroner said that as a British subject he must give evidence.  Mr Cole was then sworn, and said the mortuary did not belong to the Urban Council;  it was the cemetery mortuary, and, strictly speaking, the public had no power to take a body there, and therefore in that sense Dawlish had no public mortuary.   -  The Coroner asked what would happen if a shipwreck occurred, and a dozen dead bodies were cast ashore. -  Mr Cole said in such a case for the good of the parish the bodies would be allowed to be taken to the mortuary, as was done recently in connection with the boating disaster.  He had not gone into the legal position, but he regarded the mortuary as merely a place of deposit.  The town, in that sense, had not got a mortuary.   -   The Coroner:  Then there is no mortuary for Dawlish at all.  -  Mr Cole:  Only in this restricted sense.  -  P.C. Stratton said in deceased's coat pocket was a small white poisonous substance, which he had handed to the Public Analyst.  No packet of poison was found.  -  Edgar Mallen, carter, in the employ of deceased, spoke to seeing him on his bicycle in Exeter on Tuesday morning, August 3rd;  and James Anker stated that a man left a bicycle (afterwards identified as that of deceased) at Crispin's Restaurant, on the Warren, on the same day, stating that he wanted to go into Dawlish on business.   -  Isaac Weston Aplin, chemist, Exeter, stated that on July 16th deceased, introduced to him by Mr Down (whom he had known for eight or nine years), asked to be supplied with a quantity of cyanide of potassium for killing ants, saying that he had been a gardener and knew how to use it.  Witness supplied him with 2oz. (870 grains) which was not an unusual amount to sell.  The requirements of the Act were complied with, and deceased signed the book, which witness produced, bearing his signature.  -  The Coroner, in summing up, said it was evident that deceased used some of the poison for the purpose of killing ants, but that he had kept some in his pocket, which he took.  In regard to the mortuary, it was a scandal that the doctors could not get the necessary facilities for making a proper post-mortem examination.  It was high time that Dawlish had a proper mortuary, with proper requisites.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind," and added a rider recommending in the strongest possible way that the authorities, whoever they were, should see that the mortuary contained everything necessary for the proper conduct of a post-mortem examination.

Western Morning News, Saturday 14 August 1909
ST MARYCHURCH - Babbacombe Cliff Fatality.  Is Additional Fencing Needed?   -  The Inquest on NEHEMIAH MEAL, a visitor from Huddersfield, was held at St. Marychurch, Torquay, last evening.   -  JOHN MEAL, weaver, of Huddersfield, said the deceased, his son, was 22 years of age and an assistant woollen designer.  He was down for a week's holiday, with two companions.  -  Fred Parkinson, pattern weaver, Huddersfield, said on Thursday, MEAL with himself and Mr Lumb, also from Huddersfield, crossed the cricket field by Wall's Hill, and walked along on the top of the cliffs towards Anstey's Cove.  The wire fence ended on the Babbacombe side of the slope.  All three went by the path down the slope towards the cliff one behind the other.  He as first, deceased next and then Mr Lumb.  They went about 20 yards down, as they had done two or three times before.  Then MEAL suggested going round by the bend to a spot shaded by the rocks.  He assented and started along the path to the left and was just about to sit down when MEAL slipped to a ledge two or three feet, and then rolled off on his side over a slope of grass and fell to the bottom of the cliff, going out of sight.  They found the body on the rocks in a disused quarry.  His skull was broken and brains protruding and he was quite dead.  They had no difficulty in getting to the spot where MEAL slipped and he did not feel there was any danger.  Railings ought to be put at the spot t prevent people going there.  Not being fenced, people would naturally think it was safe.  Replying to Mr P. Almy, Assistant Town Clerk, Torquay Corporation, witness said he could not say whether they were between the fence and the sea when the accident happened.  His complaint was that the fence was not at this spot, near enough to the sea.   -   Herbert Lumb, cotton warehouseman, Huddersfield, corroborated.  -  P.C. Davey said several coins belonging to MEAL were scattered about and £8 in gold was found in his pocket.  -  By Mr Almy:  The quarry was fenced and the body was lying 36 yards inside the fence, so that the body was between the fence and the sea.  -  A Juryman (Mr Southcott) said the path down the slope was made by golf caddies who went there looking for balls.  -  Mr J. S. Walton, Assistant Corporation Surveyor, said there would be no difficulty in putting a fence on the slope where the accident happened.  -  Mr Almy said the land was leased by the Corporation, but it was not thought practicable to fence the slope, although the quarry and the ground to which the public had access was fenced, because that had legally to be done according to the Quarry Act.  -  The Coroner (Mr S. Hacker), summing up, remarked that where a fence suddenly stopped it was only natural that people should go down the unfenced slope to explore. Now, however, that there had been two persons killed at this place, the question arose whether the Jury should not make some representation to the Corporation to continue the fence along the top.  -  The Jury (Mr Elijah Hearn, Foreman) returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and expressed sympathy with the relatives.

EXETER - Inquiry into the death of REBECCA TAPERELL, 61, living with her brother-in-law and sister, MR and MRS FEWINGS, at 18 Well-street, Exeter, was made yesterday by Mr W. L. Brown.  Mr Fewings said he found deceased in the kitchen dead, when he came down soon after half-past five in the morning.  She had been laughing and joking the night before, and had never had a doctor. Mr Duncan, Surgeon, said death was due to syncope, induced by a sudden attack of congestion of the lungs, and the Jury found accordingly.

TAVISTOCK - Death From Lockjaw. -  Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Tavistock yesterday on GEORGE EVELEIGH, of Pixon-villa, Tavistock, aged 59, a superannuated police-sergeant of the Devon Constabulary.  - Dr Lesley Biggs said on Saturday MR EVELEIGH had cramp in the jaw and back.  He treated him for tetanus, giving him three heavy doses of anti-toxin, but he got worse and died on Wednesday.  He told him he had run a nail from his boot into the sole of his foot.  The foot blistered, but the puncture had healed, as it had occurred ten days previously.  A post-mortem examination showed that the tissues where the blister was appeared quite normal.  The body was healthy except the heart, which was rather fatty.  Death was due to lock-jaw.  -  BERNARD BERTRAM EVELEIGH, chemist's assistant, said his father bathed his foot twice in hot water, and the puncture appeared to have healed.  He did not hear him complain until Saturday.  -  The Coroner said they all felt quite shocked to hear of the death of SERGEANT EVELEIGH, whom they all knew and their sympathy went out to the widow and family in the very sad loss they had sustained.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TORQUAY - The Great Heat.  Death Of A Paignton Lady.  -  Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Torquay yesterday on ELIZA JANE MUDGE, wife of HENRY CHARLES MUDGE, mason, Collyend, Paignton.  -  Deceased's husband said she was 53 years old on Thursday, the day of her death.  She had never had a day's illness during their married life of over 32 years.  On Thursday morning she left home with friends to go to Torquay, where she had intended taking the excursion steamer for a trip to Plymouth.  -  William Binmore, of London, staying with his wife at Paignton on holiday, said they accompanied MRS MUDGE to the train.  They all got out at Torquay Station, and MRS MUDGE was quite jolly and comfortable.  -  They got just outside the Station, when she suddenly exclaimed to his wife, "Oh, whatever is the matter with my head?"  She fell back in his arms and never spoke again, apparently dying almost immediately.  -  James Bartling, also of London, on a visit to Paignton, the other member of the party, said MRS MUDGE was talking quite rationally as they went up the steps at the Station, and did not seem to be distressed.  -  Miss Ellen Hollis, matron at Kent House Nursing Home, Torquay, who was passing at the time, said she had MRS MUDGE carried into the Railway Station and was then still breathing.  Her head was bathed with water and she died in about ten minutes.  She was insensible all the time, and her breathing was stentorious towards the close.  -  Dr W. C. Halpin expressed the opinion that death was due to apoplexy, accelerated by the heat.  MRS MUDGE was a very stout person and the heat would be likely to exhaust her.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Monday 16 August 1909
CHUDLEIGH - Suicide At Chudleigh. - At the Inquest held on Saturday at Chudleigh, by Mr S. Hacker, on the body of JAMES HASSETT, who committed suicide the previous day, by cutting his throat, the Jury returned the verdict that the deceased committed the act while of Unsound Mind.  The Jury gave their fees to provide clothing for the two children.

LYDFORD - Princetown Prisoner's Death.  -  Mr J. D. Prickman held an Inquest on Saturday at Dartmoor Prison on JAMS BOLTON, a prisoner who died on 12th inst.  -  The Governor of the Prison deposed that deceased was convicted at Blackburn in January 1907, and was sentenced to four years' penal servitude.  He was received at Dartmoor in October 1907.   His conduct had been excellent.  His friends had been to see him during his illness and had expressed their pleasure at the kind treatment he was receiving.  -  Dr Murray, Senior Medical officer of the Prison, stated that deceased, who was admitted into the Infirmary in June last, had pleurisy of both lungs.  - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 17 August 1909
IVYBRIDGE - At the Inquest yesterday on THOMAS PARNELL, 62, farm labourer of Cadleigh Park, near Ivybridge, who died suddenly on Sunday morning, a verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Child's Death.  Cyclist Severely Censured.  -  Mr J. A. Pearce (Borough Coroner) held an Inquest at the Royal Albert Hospital yesterday afternoon on WILLIAM HENRY FAIRCHILD, son of HENRY FAIRCHILD, chief writer, R.N., Northbrook-street.  -  The father said his son was 3 years and 10 months old.  On the night of the accident, about 7 o'clock, he was in the road with a sister, age 8.  -  The Coroner remarked that in his opinion a child of that age ought to have been in bed.  Even a child of eight years should be in bed by seven or eight o'clock.  -  Wm. Smale, joiner, 96 James-street, Devonport, said on Friday, whilst in Mr Pound's shop, he saw a cyclist riding down Catherine-street.  there were two children walking hand in hand in the middle of the street going towards Northbrook-street.  The cyclist knocked the little boy down and he himself was thrown from his machine.  Witness picked the child up and found he was quite unconscious.  Somebody asked for water and he gave the child to another man to hold while he went to fetch some.  On returning he was told that the boy had been taken to the Royal Albert Hospital.  The cyclist did not appear to be travelling very fast.  Witness did not hear any bell sounded.  -  Montagu Gosling, assistant to Mr Robbins, pawnbroker, Princess-street, said he witnessed the accident, and considered that the cyclist was travelling at a high rate of speed.  It was the speed which drew witness's attention to the rider before the accident occurred.  -  William Henry Searle, hairdresser, 2 Duke-street, said he also witnessed the occurrence, and he agreed with the previous witness with regard to the speed of the cyclist.  He heard no bell sounded, and in his opinion the rider was travelling at least ten miles an hour.  -  Detective-Inspector William Rundle, Devonport Police, said he was standing at the bottom of Catherine-street, when he heard a crash and on looking around saw the cyclist and the two children lying in the road.  The boy was handed to him and he took it to the Royal Albert Hospital in a cab.  Later he called on the cyclist in question, James A. Bowley, of Clowance-street.  In reply to witness, Bowley said he was riding slowly - in fact, at no more than a walking pace.  He rang his bell the whole time.  Witness examined the bicycle and noticed that the only brake would not act owing to being out of adjustment.  The rims had also been oiled to keep them from rusting.  The machine was fitted with a free wheel.  Witness heard no bell at the time of the accident.   -   Bowley was called to give evidence, being cautioned by the Coroner that in the event of any subsequent proceedings, his evidence might be used against him.  Bowley said he was a labourer employed in the Works Department at the Devonport Dockyard.  On the evening in question he cycled down Fore-street at a walking pace and on turning into Catherine-street the hill caused him to travel a little faster.  He was ringing his bell the whole time.  When about twelve yards from the lamp in the centre of the street he saw the two youngsters hand in hand.  On seeing him they separated and paused.  He ran into the boy, knocking him down.  Witness was thrown from his machine and was taken into a neighbouring shop in a dazed condition.  Subsequently he went home.  He had only ridden a bicycle about a dozen times previously.  He was travelling at about six or seven miles an hour.   -   By the Coroner:  He did not examine the machine being using it.  He had not ridden it previously since Easter.  -  The machine was brought into the court and examined.  It was found to have a front rim brake which was hardly of any use, while on the back wheel was a hub brake in good working order.  -  Inspector Rundle observed that in his opinion the back brake had been put right since the accident.  -  Bowley protested that such was not the case.  -  The Coroner observed that Bowley must have lost control of his machine.  -   Dr G. Pridham said when the child was admitted to the Hospital it was dead.  Death was due to a fracture of the base of the skull.   -  The Coroner, addressing the Jury, said they would have no difficulty in finding that death was due to the fracture, and that the fracture was due t the bicycle accident.  They had also to decide whether the accident was due to the negligence of any person.  After hearing the evidence there was no doubt to his mind that Bowley was travelling at a very high rate of speed.  He saw no reason why Gosling and Searle should have paid so much attention to the cyclist save for what they had said themselves, and that was the high speed.  There was ample evidence that the cyclist travelled at a furious speed.  The man himself confirmed that.  He admitted he knew very little of cycle riding and there was also the fact that the cycle was out of order and Bowley took no steps to find this out before leaving home.  It was a wonder to him both the children were not killed.  The Jury had to consider whether the man was not responsible for the death of the child through what was termed culpable negligence.  If such was the case, then they would have to bring in a verdict of "Manslaughter."  If they were not of that opinion then they could find, if they thought so, that Bowley should be severely censured for his recklessness.  Indeed, in the present case, they would find a difficulty in drawing the line.   -    After retiring for some time the Jury returned a verdict to the effect that the boy died from a Fracture of the Base of the Skull and that Bowley should be severely censured for the manner in which he rode the bicycle and be cautioned to exercise grater care in the future.   -   The Coroner, addressing Bowley, said he had had a very narrow escape, and the Jury had a difficulty in framing a verdict which would allow of them not to make a charge of "Manslaughter".  They desired him to censure him (Bowley) severely.  It was certain he rode the cycle in a most reckless manner and he was very greatly to blame.  -  In answer to an observation by the Coroner, Bowley said he would never ride a cycle again.  The Jury passed a vote of sympathy with the parents.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 18 August 1909
EGG BUCKLAND - Plym Drowning Case.  Inquest At Leigham House.  -  Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Leigham House, the residence of Mr Vere Cholmondeley, yesterday, on SIDNEY HAROLD BIDDER, aged 18 years, footman at Leigham, who was drowned in the Plym on Monday afternoon.  -  WM. HENRY BIDDER, of Coffinswell, Newton Abbot, deceased's father, said his son had been away from home about 16 months.  He was unable to swim when he left home.  -  Ralph Edward White, ironmonger, of Plympton, said he went with deceased and Frederick Evans to the Plym for a bathe on Monday afternoon.  Evans did not enter the water.  Witness, after swimming for some time in the middle of the pool, noticed deceased in difficulties.  He had sunk twice before witness could reach him and sank a third time without giving witness time to catch hold of him.  -  Fredk. Evans, butler at Leigham, said when Mr White called out that deceased was in difficulties, he waded into the water up to his waist, but finding he was unable to render any assistance, he went to fetch help.  About five minutes later he returned with two labourers, and then went to fetch some brandy.  On returning again he found the body had been recovered.  -  Dr W. D. Stamp said he was called by telephone from Leigham House.  Deceased had suffered from indigestion and must have had cramp as a result.  This would account for the suddenness of his sinking.  Death was due to drowning.  -  The Jury, in returning a verdict of "Accidental Drowning," expressed their sympathy with the deceased's father.

Western Morning News, Thursday 19 August 1909
EAST STONEHOUSE - Stonehouse Infants Death.  -  An Inquest was held before Mr R. Robinson Rodd, Coroner, at Stonehouse, yesterday on MARY WINIFRED DARCH, aged about six months, the daughter of a refreshment-house keeper.  -  ELIZABETH ANNIE DARCH, the mother, said about 12.30 a.m. on Tuesday, when she was going to bed, she found her daughter lying face downwards on the pillow dead.  -  Dr Waterfield said the child was in splendid condition.  Death was due to suffocation, through the last meal of milk choking the air passages.  There was no reflection on anybody, but it was always advisable to remain with a child some little time after it had been fed to see that it properly digested its food.  -  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

SHEEPSTOR - Sudden Death At Sheepstor - Mr R. Robinson Rodd, Coroner, held an Inquest at Sheepstor on Tuesday evening on ELIZABETH BROWN, 75, widow of a master blacksmith.  -   WILLIAM HENRY BROWN, general labourer, said deceased was his mother.  About 6.30 p.m. on Monday she left to go to Plymouth and was being driven to Dousland Station.  Half an hour later the trap returned with deceased, who was unconscious.  He got her out of the trap into the house and she expired within fifteen minutes.  She was very bright and cheerful during the day.  -  Carl Trather said he fetched deceased to drive her to Dousland Station.  Just as they got to Sheepstor Day School deceased said, "I am feeling bad;   please return home."  She had not been speaking to him previously, beyond asking him to drive quietly.  He got back as quickly as possible.  She never spoke afterwards.  -  Dr Revell  said the cause of death was apoplexy, and a verdict to this effect was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 20 August 1909
SUTCOMBE - Motor 'Bus Upset.  North Devon Police Sergeant Loses His Life.  Evidence At Inquest.  Jury And "Unsuitability" Of The 'Bus.  -   Deep regret was expressed yesterday at the death of POLICE-SERGEANT PARNELL, which occurred at Sutcombe on Wednesday, near Holsworthy, as the result of the capsizing of a motor 'bus, the Devonia.  The 'bus is a double-decker one, and runs between Holsworthy and Bradworthy and Wednesday was market-day at the former place.  In the evening, on the journey to Bradworthy, the 'bus was full of passengers.  -  Everything was apparently all right until the vehicle was ascending Sutcombe-hill.  Instead of going forward the 'bus slid backwards and P.S. PARNELL, who was one of the inside passengers, attempted to get out.  Just as his feet were touching the ground the 'bus swerved suddenly to the right and capsized.  The 'bus struck the Sergeant and he was pulled underneath the vehicle.  The Devonia contained sixteen other passengers, who were practically unhurt.  P.S. PARNELL was seen to be seriously injured and the worst fears were entertained that he was killed.   -   Messengers were sent in haste for assistance and from Holsworthy there arrived Drs. Betts, Kingdon and Gray.  The medical men examined P.S. PARNELL, and found that he was dead, the back of his head having been completely crushed.  The deceased, who went to Holsworthy about 12 months ago, was 48 years of age, and leaves a widow and two sons, for whom the greatest sympathy is felt.  In a short time deceased would have retired from the Police Force.  He joined on December 19th, 1882, and was promoted Sergeant sixteen years later.  Amongst his stations were Teignmouth, Ashburton, Stoke Canon, Landkey and Bampton.    -    The Inquest:  "A Pure Accident."    -    The Inquest was held at Sutcombe yesterday afternoon before Mr George W. F. Brown.  Mr H. R. Bazeley represented the Kingsley County Motor Car Company, and P.S. Mogridge, of Crediton, was present on behalf of the Police.  -  Evidence of identification was given by P.C. W. H. Clements of Pyworthy.  -  John Chubb stated that he had driven the 'bus for about twelve months.  Going up the hill the engine stopped, and his assistant, named Percy, got out to start it.  Before the engine was started the 'bus had commenced to run back.  Something appeared to be wrong with the 'bus.  He shouted to the people inside, who numbered fifteen or sixteen, not to jump out, but the Police Sergeant seemed to have got out.  T he car still ran back and he steered it into the hedge.  One of the wheels going up the hedge, the 'bus capsized.  When he got out he saw the Sergeant underneath.  The car went up the hill all right the same morning.  He put on the brakes and ran back, but they would not act.  -  A Juror asked if there was sufficient petrol in the box and witness replied that there was.  -  Another Juror wanted to know if the driving pinion sheered off.  -  Witness said he could not say as he had not examined the car.  -  Witness was cross-examined by Mr Bazeley, and said he was quite sure that the whole of the car was examined before he came away from Holsworthy.   The deceased asked him if he could ride with him to Bradworthy, and he told the Sergeant that he could.  The Sergeant did not pay for riding.  Deceased told him he wanted to come back at a certain time and witness told the Sergeant that if he rode it would be at his own risk.  -  Further cross-examined, witness remarked that the Sergeant must have heard him tell the passengers that they must not get out.  -  Dr Betts, of Bradworthy, attributed death to fracture of the skull and injuries to the chest and said death was instantaneous.  -  The Coroner said the death of the Sergeant was a loss he was sure they would all feel.  The Sergeant had done his duty in the force for 27 years, and was carrying out his duty visiting his Stations on this occasion, when he met with his unfortunate accident.  The driver appeared to have done everything possible for a man to do.  There was the evidence of a blacksmith who saw the affair and who told them the brakes were applied, and he heard something snap, and was of opinion that the driver did his very best in steering the car into the hedge instead of letting it run down the hill, when the impact would have been much greater.  The result was that only one pane of glass in the car was broken.  If the Sergeant had not fallen in getting out he would probably not have lost his life.  One thing was merciful and that was that death was instantaneous.  He did not think there was any blame to be attached to anyone, but it was one of those accidents in which something went wrong.  -  Mr H. R. Bazeley, on behalf of the Company, expressed sympathy for the family, which was acknowledged by P.S. Mogridge on behalf of the family and the Police Force.  -  The Jury, after expressing sympathy with the family, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and attached no blame to anybody.  They added a rider expressing their opinion that the car was unsuitable for the neighbourhood.  -  The Coroner agreed with the verdict, and promised that the rider should be communicated to the proper parties.  

PLYMOUTH - Fatal Result Of Skipping. -  At Plymouth Workhouse Infirmary yesterday, Mr R. B. Johns (Borough Coroner) held an Inquest respecting the death of EDITH MAY WESTLAKE, ten years of age, Desborough-road.  The mother stated that on August 7th, the girl went to Bere Alston to her school treat.  Whilst there she had a game of skipping and accidentally fell on the back of her head.  She became very ill and was removed to the Plymouth Workhouse Infirmary, where she died on Monday night last.  -  Dr C. J. Cooke said he attended to the deceased on her admission to the Workhouse Infirmary.  She was suffering from meningitis due to injuries received and a post-mortem examination showed that this was the cause of death.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed sympathy with the mother.

Western Morning News, Saturday 21 August 1909
STOKE DAMEREL - Sudden Death In Devonport Dockyard. -  Mr J. A. Pearce (Borough Coroner) at Devonport Dockyard yesterday held an Inquest on EMMA JANE SKINNER, 54 years, a widow, of Chapel-street.  -  Emma Maud Walklin, of Queen-street, said she was related to the deceased, who had been employed in the colour loft at the South Dockyard.  Witness saw her alive on Monday evening, when she complained of feeling rather unwell.  -   Elizabeth Ann Everly, a widow, with whom deceased had resided, said that MRS SKINNER had not been well since she fell over a flight of stairs in the Dockyard on July 17th last.  She was at home for ten days, returning to work on July 26th.  On Wednesday morning she went to work as usual, but complained of a pain in her head.  In the afternoon of the same day it was reported that she had died suddenly.  Deceased had no parents or children living.  -  Mary Jane Ruse, of Dixon-place, stated that she was engaged in the colour loft with deceased.  On Saturday, July 17th, MRS SKINNER was cleaning up and was going downstairs with a bucket of water when she fell, receiving a wound at the back of her head.  On Wednesday last she was passing witness's machine when she fell on the floor unconscious.  She never spoke again.  -  Eliza Jane Conning, of Pasley-street, another employee in the colour loft, also gave evidence relating to deceased's fall on July 17th.  -  Surgeon Gordon Moir, Devonport Dockyard, said deceased came to the surgery on July 17th suffering from a contusion behind the right ear.  She remained away from work for a time, and was considered in a fit condition to resume on July 26th.  She was quite dead when witness was called to the colour loft on Wednesday, and a post-mortem examination revealed that death was due to cerebral haemorrhage.  The accident mentioned had nothing to do with the cause of death.  -  Sub-Divisional Inspector F. Meacham deposed to having the body removed to the Dockyard mortuary.  A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 23 August 1909
BARNSTAPLE - MRS BETTY CHAPPLE, aged 96, who resided with her daughter (MRS HAMMETT) in High-street, Barnstaple, died on Friday from shock following a fall which she had last Bank-holiday. At the Inquest on Saturday a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.  The deceased was a native of High Bickington, and her husband died 54 years ago.

WOODBURY - Woodbury Farmer's Death.  -  Dr Tweed (District Coroner) held an Inquest on CHARLES CAPP, of Venmoor Farm, Woodbury, who was found dead in a field on Wednesday.  It was stated that deceased had felt pains in his back and had been medically attended for some years.  A post-mortem examination showed that fatty degeneration of the heart was the cause of death, and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

PAIGNTON -  Paignton Fatality.  The Motor' Bus Driver Exonerated.  A Bicycle Side-Slip.  -  Mr S. Hacker, at Paignton on Saturday afternoon, held an Inquest on ROBERT HILLIER, aged 16, a page, in the employ of Mr A. E. Wood, Maplestead, Torquay, who was run over by a motor omnibus and killed on the road between Paignton and Torquay on the previous day.  Mr S. H. Easterbrook attended on behalf of Mr George Senior, Torquay, owner of the motor omnibus.  -  Mr Easterbrook stated that the deceased had no near relatives to whom sympathy could be extended, but this did not mitigate Mr Senior's extreme regret at the sad occurrence, nor did it minimize the sympathy he felt for the other relatives.  -  The Coroner pointed out to the Jury that it would be their duty, after having heard the evidence, to say whether the sad occurrence was the result of a want of care on the part of the driver of the omnibus, or whether it could be placed under the category of an accidental occurrence.   -   Jessie Squire, Cheriton, Conway-road-Paignton, cousin of the deceased, gave evidence of identification.  -  Walter Pomeroy, of Paignton, described the accident, of which he was an eye-witness.  He stated that a few minutes before one o'clock on Friday deceased passed him riding a bicycle on the top of Hollacombe hill.  At that moment there were two motor cars passing each other about 30 yards ahead, one car coming from Torquay and the other going in the opposite direction.  The cars were going more slowly than usual.  As they passed each other they were near their respective hedges, and, as the road was not very wide, there was not more than about four feet between them.  When the car going to Torquay had passed the other by about two lengths, deceased approached the car that was coming towards him, and witness presumed that the lad was trying to ride between the conductor standing waiting in the road and the car.  There was plenty of room, as he was not forced to go between the two cars.  When he had got within two or three feet of the car he seemed to slide round and go between the conductor and the car.  Immediately he did so he had a side-slip and went over, falling on his right side, within 18 inches or two feet of the car, both right-hand wheels of which went over him.  The car was immediately stopped and brought up within its own length.  From an examination of the spot since, witness said the side-slip of the bicycle was caused by the machine being ridden in a road rut, the road being very greasy.  But for the side-slip, deceased would have had sufficient space to pass.  There was nothing on the left side to block him, and he was not driven by anything close up to the car.  -    Accident Unavoidable. -  Mr Easterbrook:  Do you think that anything could have been done to avoid the accident?  -  No;  I don't see that anything could have been done to prevent it.  The side-slip occurred when deceased was almost immediately in a line with the car.  It was all over in a few seconds, and in my opinion it was a perfectly genuine accident.   -   A Juryman:  Don't you think that the fact of the conductor being in the road caused deceased to hesitate?  -  Probably it caused him to hesitate as to which side he should pass him, but it did not cause the accident.  -  Frank Wm. Fox, a visitor from London, stated that he was riding on the car from Torquay to Paignton.  At the time of the accident the car was on the left side of the road and about three feet from the hedge, and there was plenty of space for passing on the right side.  Witness commended the driver for the smart way in which he pulled up the car in about its own length.  The driver was also the first to get to deceased, who was lying curled up in the middle of the road.  At the time of the accident, the car was going slowly, about six to eight miles an hour.  -  Reginald Geo. Veith, a lad, of Preston, Paignton, the conductor of the motor car which started from Paignton, said he met the other car, coming from Torquay, on the top of the hill.  He got off the one car in order to go on the other and was standing in the road on the level when deceased came along.  When he was about three feet from him, deceased turned his bicycle to get out of his way and then the bicycle slipped.  There was nine feet between witness and the car.  -  The Foreman:  Did you call out to the driver?  -  No;  I was too much frightened.  Deceased was not in front of the car until his bicycle slipped.     Frederick Alexander Emmett, Paignton, driver of the motor car, said that as he was going up Hollacombe-hill, he met their other car coming from Paignton, and he had got about half a length past this vehicle when deceased fell underneath his wheel.  He did not see deceased approaching because the lad was tight behind and hidden by the other car.  He saw him turn the wheel of his bicycle, and did not realise anything more until he felt the bumps from the wheels of the car.  Deceased was on his right, about three feet off and level with the car, when witness first saw him.  He did not see the conductor standing in the road, as he was looking straight ahead, nor did he see the side-slip of the bicycle.  Witness was on his right side of the road, about three feet from the wall.  He was always careful about this, as there were generally children playing at the spot.  Witness added, in answer to the Coroner, that he had driven the car since January.  This was his first employment of the kind, but he had always been on the road with horses.   -    The Medical Evidence.    -    Dr Harold C. Adams, Paignton, said the boy was dead when he saw him in the Hospital very soon after his admittance.  He had sustained considerable injury to his head.  There were two or three wounds on the side of the face and on the scalp, and considerable contusion on the back of the neck.  He thought one wheel went over the lower part of the head and neck, at the juncture and that there was a fracture of the base of the skull, as there was bleeding from the ears and nose.  There were also extensive bruises over the front of the chest.  Death was caused by the fracture of the skull and other injuries.   -    The Coroner, summing up to the Jury, remarked that it always required careful Inquiry when a person was killed on the public highway by a vehicle running over him.  The drivers of vehicles of heavy weight and great speed should exercise the greatest care and the greatest skill, so that none of the public might run any risk of injury or loss of life.  In this case he evidence was fairly clear and unfortunately, it showed that deceased was killed by being run over by the motor car, and therefore the driver was responsible for the death, unless the Jury found that the circumstances were such as to satisfy them that the occurrence was accidental.  The fact of the side-slip of the bicycle on the slippery road clearly explained the unfortunate accident.  There was nothing at all in the evidence to suggest that there was any negligence or want of care on the part of the driver;  in fact, he appeared to have acted in a very proper way, and apparently he had his car under good control.  It was for the Jury to say whether the driver was free from responsibility, and, if they thought the circumstances justified it, to being in a verdict of accidental death.   -  The Jury, after a brief consultation, returned a unanimous verdict of "Accidental Death," and exonerated the driver from all blame.  They added a rider, however, recommending that when in future a conductor is being changed he shall not stand in the middle of the road.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 24 August 1909
TORQUAY - Fatal Run At Torquay. -  An Inquest was held by Mr S. Hacker at Torquay yesterday, on SAMUEL ASHTON, aged 24, first class stoker in the Royal Navy.  Deceased, whose mother lives in Francis-street, Plymouth, had been in the service five years, and was invalided home from China.  He visited his mother on Friday and she saw him off at North-road Station for Torquay, where he spent the night at the Sailors' Rest.  On Saturday morning, whilst walking in the direction of Castle-circus, he fell, and on being picked up by P.C. Patch said that his having had to run to catch a tramcar had upset him.  He became a little better and was assisted up the street, but fell again, upon which he was removed in a cab to the house of his cousin, Mrs Mead, Upton Church-road, where he died about half an hour afterwards.  Dr Thistle, who had made a post-mortem examination, stated that this revealed the fact that deceased had an abnormally small heart, about half the usual size and that it showed the effects of enteric fever.  Death was due to the condition of the heart, accelerated by the strain caused by running to catch the tramcar.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

PLYMOUTH - Mr Johns, Coroner, held two Inquests on infants at the Mortuary, Plymouth, yesterday afternoon.  In the case of VICTORIA RUNDLE, aged two hours, the daughter of WILLIAM HENRY RUNDLE, labourer, Cambridge-lane East, Dr Brenton said death was due to failure of respiration. In that of BESSIE SKELTON, aged about one hour, the daughter of SAMUEL ROBT. SKELTON, shoemaker, Lipson-vale, Dr Leah deposed that the cause of death was general debility.  In each case a verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

TEIGNMOUTH - Painter's Sudden Death.  Inquest At Teignmouth. -  At the Townhall, Teignmouth, yesterday, Mr Sidney Hacker held an Inquest on WILLIAM HENRY PARKER, aged 40, or Pike's-cottages, Fore-street, Teignmouth, a house painter, who collapsed whilst engaged in a game of bagatelle at the Teignmouth Unionist club on Saturday, and died before the doctor who was called could reach the club premises.  -  The Coroner mentioned that deceased had previously suffered from lead poisoning, and if, after hearing the evidence, there was reason to suppose that the cause of death was a result of this, it would be necessary to adjourn the Inquest for the purpose of giving notice to the Factories Acts Inspector.  -  JULIA ANN PARKER, the widow, gave evidence of identification.  Deceased had been rather delicate in health, and five years ago was laid up in Exeter Hospital with lead poisoning.  He had not had an attack since he left that Institution.  He had often complained of a severe pain in the left side, but this did not prevent him following his employment.  Witness added that on Saturday last at 8.30 p.m. they went together to the Railway Station to see some friends off, afterwards doing some shopping.  On the way home deceased left her, saying that he was going to the Unionist Club.  That was about 9.45 and the next thing witness heard was on being called to go to the Club, where she found her husband was dead.   -  James Curry, gardener, 14 Bitton-street, Teignmouth, said deceased was on Saturday night at the Unionist Club engaged in a game of bagatelle with him and two others.  They had played 100 up, and had started the second.  Deceased struck a ball and as he did so he fell forward on to the table and then rolled on to the floor.  He had not complained during the progress of their game.  They were having a quiet game, other members looking on.   -  The Coroner:  Did he have anything to drink?  -  Witness:  No, sir;  not whilst I was there.  To my knowledge I think I could say he was a teetotaler.  -  Dr G. H. Johnson, Teignmouth, said he was called about 10.30 and found PARKER dead.  Witness had since made a post-mortem, finding extensive disease of the arteries and an enlargement of the heart, the cause of death being a rupture of an aneurism in the arch of the aorta.  The other organs were in a normal state.  The disease mentioned might have been caused by the lead poisoning from which deceased had previously suffered.  -  The Coroner:  You would not say the cause of death was lead poisoning?  -  No.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes"; and expressed sympathy with the relatives, the coroner and also Mr Bert Valentine, secretary of the Unionist Club, joining in the same.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 25 August 1909
PLYMOUTH - Sudden Death At Plymouth. - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on WILLIAM PINDER, a pensioner from the Royal Engineers, aged 67 years, of 4 Baring-street, Plymouth.  -  ELLEN STEVENS PINDER said her husband on Monday morning, about nine o'clock, went downstairs to do some work about the house.  Not feeling very well, he went into the sitting-room to rest and an hour or so later witness found him dead in an arm-chair.  -  Dr Pearse attributed death to syncope of long standing.  - A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.  -  MR PINDER, who had enjoyed good health, except for a cough, served for some time in the Royal Engineers, being a member of the clerical staff at Mount Wise, Devonport and the War-office, London.

Western Morning News, Thursday 26 August 1909
WESTWARD HO! - Golfer's Tragic Death.  Inquest On MR HARDING. -  The North Devon Coroner (Mr G. w. F. Brown) and a Jury, of whom Colonel Digby was Foreman, held an Inquiry at Buckleigh House, Westward Ho! last evening, concerning MR JAS .JOHN HARDING, solicitor, of Barnstaple, who died on the golf links on the previous evening.  -  According to his brother, MR REGINALD HARDING, of London, deceased was 55 years of age, and had been staying at Buckleigh House for the past three weeks.  The witness said that during the latter part of his stay he had been complaining of pains which he put down to indigestion.  He went to Barnstaple on Friday, and saw Dr Gibbs.  On Tuesday morning he went down to the links with the intention of playing, but it was wet and he came back, playing in the afternoon.  Asked if deceased had complained of his heart, witness replied in the negative.  Some years ago he knew he had a weak heart, but he believed it had recovered its normal condition, and recently he refused to believe his indisposition had anything to do with his heart.  -  Thos. J. F. Webber, who carried deceased's clubs the previous afternoon, said on Tuesday he was playing with Mr B. Davis and Mr Trask, and at the eleventh hold he (witness) was rather surprised to see him pick up the ball and put it in his pocket.  He apologised to his partners and asked if they would mind his walking in.  He then offered to take the clubs from him (witness) and place them on the thirteenth green.  Witness asked him if he could manage it and as he seemed rather to hesitate in his reply witness said, "Never mind, I will take them."  He then left and walked towards the pavilion.  Witness looked several times and noticed that he was walking very slowly.  When he last saw him he was about 200 or 300 yards from the Club House.  -  In reply to the Coroner, witness said deceased looked a bit out of sorts, but thee did not appear to be anything especially wrong with him.  -  Benjamin Jewell, a caddie boy, said he was returning from the links about 6.30 when he saw MR HARDING lying on his back near the pavilion gates.  Witness drew the attention of Mr Gore Brown and another gentleman to him, and they fetched assistance.  -  Dr S. R. Gibbs said his partner, Dr J. R. Harper, of Barnstaple, had been deceased's medical attendant for some years.  He was away at present, but witness had communicated with him and found that until last Friday it was eighteen months ago that he had been medically attended.  Dr Harper did not regard him as a robust man, but examinations had not shown his heart to be affected.  His illness eighteen months ago was a bad attack of influenza.  Deceased came to the surgery at Barnstaple last Friday and complained that he was suffering from what he believed to be indigestion, and asked witness to prescribe for it.  He said he had an uncomfortable feeling after breakfast and while playing the first hole at golf, but that then all right for the rest of the day.  He did not tell witness that he had been suffering from pains in the chest, and he did not look like a man who was ill.  What he had heard that afternoon pointed to death from sudden heart failure and syncope and the appearance of the body was quite in accordance therewith.   -  In summing up, the Coroner referred to the very sad features of the case, and said the news of MR HARDING'S death came as a great surprise and shock to himself as well as to the family.  The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" and expressed their deep sympathy and condolence with the family, an expression in which the Coroner sincerely joined.

STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Man's Death.  Caused By Accident In 1902.  -  Mr J. A. Pearce, Devonport Borough Coroner, held an Inquest at Johnstone-terrace School yesterday on JAMES JOHN SELLEK, labourer, of 52 Beatrice-avenue, who died on Monday.  ELIZA SELLEK, deceased's widow, said that about seven years ago her husband worked for a Mr Long, a miller, at Exmouth, and that one day the piston of a small oil engine flew out and struck him in the chest.  He did not feel any immediate ill effects, but his health began slowly to deteriorate and his employer, finding that his ill-health interfered with his work, discharged him after a short while.  They then came to live at Devonport, and her husband obtained work at the Royal Naval Barracks.  Five years ago, however, he had to give up work altogether, on account of weakness.  He had not been compensated by his employer.  -  Dr W. H. Davis said he had attended deceased for the past three years.  At that time he suffered from curvature of the spine, with a slight fracture, which was due to the accident.  Since then the fracture had gradually been getting worse and partial paralysis of the of the legs had set in.  The cause of death was paralysis and exhaustion, following the fracture of the spine.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed their sympathy with the widow.

Western Morning News, Friday 27 August 1909
DAWLISH - Strange Dawlish Case.  Infant Child's Death.  -  An Inquest was held by Mr Hacker (Coroner) at the Vestry Hall yesterday concerning the death of the infant child of JOHN FRANK COX, dairyman, of Queen-street, Dawlish.  -  Giving evidence, MR COX said that the child was born on Sunday, but that he had not seen it.  Witness first saw his wife after the confinement at 6 a.m. on Wednesday, when she called and told him that the child was dead.  He fetched the nurse.  He did not inquire of his wife the cause of the child's death.  He had no inclination to do so, as the child was not his.  -  Dr C. N. Lovely said he attended MRS COX on Sunday last, when she gave birth to a male child at 11.30 a.m.  Everything was satisfactory.  It was a particularly healthy child.  He called in the evening and again on Tuesday, and found the mother and child thriving.  He was called at 6.30 a.m. on Wednesday by the nurse, who reported the child dead. He went at once and found the child dead in bed  beside the mother.  It had been dead about two hours.  Witness said he did not think MRS COX realised that the child was dead until the nurse came.  He had made a post-mortem.  There were no external bruises.  The appearances were that the child died from suffocation, the face being blue and congested.  The internal organs were healthy.  There was nothing to show how suffocation was produced.  -  The Coroner said the important nature of the evidence tendered made it necessary to have the mother before them, and he adjourned the Inquest to that day three weeks.

Western Morning News, Saturday 28 August 1909
EXETER - Fatal Drugging.  Barrister's Sad Death At Exeter. - At an Inquest at Exeter yesterday on HENRY THOMAS LETHBRIDGE MARSHALL, 45, barrister-at-law, and formerly a commissioner on the West Coast of Africa, who died somewhat suddenly on Wednesday, DR W. L. MARSHALL, of Huddersfield, brother, said deceased underwent a serious operation last year, since which he had been taking sleeping draughts under medical advice.  -  MISS M. E. MARSHALL, sister, said deceased had been in the habit of taking things to make him sleep.  He was seen by Dr Sayres last Monday.  A week previously he took an overdose and, admitting it to her, he promised not to do so again.  On Tuesday he did not get up.  Although he was sleeping peacefully, she found he was not breathing so well and that his veins were swelling.  She had never heard him threaten to take his life.  -  Wm. Bennett, assistant at Mr Milton's, chemist, stated that deceased was a customer and on Monday he bought three bottles of veronal tabloids.  Asked why he wanted so many, he said he was going away.  Witness informed him that it was a dangerous drug.  there were 70 tabloids in the three bottles purchased, of which 49 (equal to 245 grains) were missing.  fifteen grains was the maximum dose.  -  Dr J. Harmer said death was due to veronal poisoning, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Misadventure."

Western Morning News, Monday 30 August 1909
PLYMPTON - Inquest At Plympton. -  Mr R. Robinson Rodd held an Inquest at Plympton on Saturday on JOHN PASCOE, of Plymouth.  PASCOE was returning to Plymouth in a cart, with his stepson, W. Carter, on Friday, and near the Lyneham Inn, on the Ivybridge-road, fell forward and died.  -  Dr Stevens said death was due to syncope.  Deceased, who had an abnormally large and heavy heart, had partaken of a meal of bread and cheese at Lee Mill Bridge, and that appeared not to have been properly masticated.  "Death from Natural Causes" was the verdict.

KINGSTEIGNTON - At Kingsteignton on Saturday Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest on JOHN CORNELIUS, 65, of Fore-street, who was found dead in a field on Thursday.  Wm. Vallance said on going past the field where deceased had been working he saw him lying on his face, dead.  Dr Martin said deceased's heart was very diseased and death was due to that cause.  A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

PLYMOUTH - Oreston Widow's Death.  - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, Plymouth, on Saturday, on ELIZA ANN CHUBB, widow, aged 77 years, of 56 Grenville-road, who died on Friday.  -  Charles Horsham, brass finisher, of Woburn-terrace, Oreston, said MRS CHUBB was on a visit to his house on Friday week.  She walked with a stick, and as she was going out she slipped and fell, badly injuring herself.  -  Dr Porter, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased was admitted on the 20th inst., suffering from a broken thigh and died on the 27th.  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

TORQUAY - At Torquay on Saturday an Inquest was held by Mr S. Hacker on WILLIAM DELVE, 46, painter, who died suddenly on Friday.  -  The evidence of Mrs Rose Crocker, deceased's  landlady, and other witnesses, was to the effect that he had no friends in Torquay and received no correspondence but was believed to have a brother in Cornwall.  Deceased, who had done no work since June, and had been kept by his landlady, had been unwell for a considerable time.  On Friday he had not got up when his landlady returned from work at noon.  She sent for P.C. Friendship, who found DELVE dead on is bedroom floor with a pool of blood near him.  - Dr W. H. Woodburn, House Surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said that a post-mortem examination had revealed consumption of practically all the organs.  Haemorrhage of the lungs was the direct cause of death.  - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

TORQUAY  -  An Inquest was held on FREDERICK MARTIN, electrical engineer, who died on Friday.  WILLIAM HENRY MARTIN, said the deceased, his father, worked all through the morning and ate a good dinner, although complaining of feeling ill.  - James Graham said that about 4 p.m. deceased had nearly completed sawing through a piece of flooring, when he fell back, and died almost instantaneously.  -  Dr J. E. Payne having attributed death to heart failure, a verdict was returned accordingly.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 31 August 1909
AYLESBEARE - An Aylesbeare Sensation.  Suicide To Escape Agony.  -  At the Inquest on ARTHUR BREWER, 17 of Aylesbeare Common, yesterday, George Wheaton, keeper, in the employ of Colonel Garratt, of the East Devon Hunt, said BREWER was in the habit of shooting rabbits.  Last Friday he was missed and could not be found.  Permission was next day obtained to search the neighbouring farm, and in a ditch in one of the fields BREWER was found dead.  -  Dr Bartlett said on being called on Saturday he saw in a field called Lower Withybed, BREWER lying in a shallow ditch by the side of the hedge.  The feet were close to the hedge and the body was quite stiff, whilst the head was resting on the bank.  Decomposition had commenced, showing that the body must have been there for over 24 hours.  Deceased's cap was lying close to his head.  In front of the hedge were bushes about 3ft. 6in. high, and the barrel of BREWER'S gun rested on them.  The stock  had been taken out of the gun, which was pointing in the direction of the body, though over it.  Within 18 inches of the deceased was the dead body of a fox, whilst at the foot of the hedge the broken stock of the gun lay.  The post-mortem examination revealed a gunshot wound over the left temple, about the size of a four-shilling piece.  The upper part was blown away. About three inches above and a little to the left of the centre of the abdomen was another gunshot wound.  The wounds were separate, and could not have been caused by the same cartridge.  Death was caused by the gunshot doing injury to the brain.  The wound in the body must have been caused before the one in the temple.  His assumption was that BREWER, while running after the fox, which he had killed, received an abdominal wound and then, sinking in the ditch, realised that the wound was serious, and then shot himself.  -  In reply to the Jury, Dr Bartlett said it would have been quite possible for the deceased to have inflicted the wound in his head after receiving the one in the abdomen.  -  The Coroner remarked that BREWER was probably on land where he had no right to be for shooting.  It would be for the Jury to say if they thought he received the abdominal wound first and then shot himself in the head.  -  A Juryman put forward the following theory:   After firing one shot, BREWER quickly put another cartridge into the gun, and then suddenly resolving not to waste another shot, determined to strike the fox with the butt end of the rifle, thereby receiving the wound in the abdomen by the gun accidentally going off.  -  The Coroner said that the evidence showed two separate shots, and Dr Bartlett remarked that the first one was probably caused at a distance of three feet, while the latter was about six inches away.  -  The Jury returned a verdict that the deceased Accidentally shot himself and then to escape the agony he was suffering Committed Suicide.

TORQUAY - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Torquay last evening on GEORGE HUGGINS, 74, tailor, of 47 Ellacombe Church-road, who died suddenly on Saturday night.  The widow and Richard Wyatt, builder, gave evidence, and the Coroner characterizing the case as a simple ne, the Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

HARTLAND - Hartland Innkeeper's Death.  - At an Inquest on WILLIAM THOMAS PYNE, 55, licensee of the New Inn, Hartland, held by Mr George W. F. Brown, William Westlake stated that on Friday morning he went to MR PYNE'S house to ask him to help grind a hook.  He came out into the garden, and while turning the grindstone suddenly dropped down and died.  Dr Martyn said a post-mortem examination revealed that all the organs were congested, and an aortic aneurism in the main artery leading to the heart had burst, causing sudden heart failure.  - A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

BRAUNTON - Unfounded Rumours.  Inquest On A Braunton Woman.  -  At Braunton yesterday Mr Geo. W. F. Brown held an Inquest on MRS SUSAN LOVERING, 85, of S[?] Cottage, a widow, who on July 23rd fell down stone steps in her house and was found by her son with her leg broken.  -  Mrs Susannah Barrow, her daughter, said she told her she fell over the steps, and did not accuse anyone of pushing her.  -  FREDERICK LOVERING, deceased's blind son, said he was out of the house when his mother fell down and he heard her calling for help as he came up the lane.  He found her at the foot of the steps.  -  The Coroner:  Has there been any allegation that anyone pushed her down?  -  I understand there has been a little of that, but it could not have been so, because there was no one in the house.  -  Dr Walter Harper said MRS LOVERING told him she was fetching water when she fell over the steps.  She made no accusation against anyone.   Dr Wright said MRS LOVERING had a broken thigh and died from exhaustion, the result of the accident.  He was satisfied she had been looked after since the accident to the best of the ability of those who had charge of her.  -  The Coroner said no doubt there had been rumours, but there was the advantage of an Inquest, that they could be either proved or dispelled.  Evidently everything was done which could be for the deceased, and no blame attached to anyone.  -  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, the Jury (of which Mr Yeo Tucker was Foreman) concurring in the Coroner's remarks.

Western Morning News, Friday 3 September 1909
MILTON ABBOT - Tavistock Fatality.  -  Mr R. R. Rodd, Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at Milton Abbot on WILLIAM PHILIP DAWE, who was killed by falling from a wagon.  -  RICHARD R. DAWE, of Ford Farm, Milton Abbot, said deceased, his son, was eight years of age.  On Monday last he sent him to Mr Adams to borrow a horse and failing to get one he rode back from the farm with a Mr Channing, an employee of Mr Rowe of Milton Abbot.  The horse bolted at a turning on Tuell Down and deceased appeared to have fallen from the wagon and was picked up very much injured.  The horse was stopped some distance further on.  The boy died on Tuesday, at 1 p.m., and was not able to tell how the accident happened.  His son was a very capable boy for his age.  Witness did not attribute blame to anyone.   -   Dr Thos. Snowden Smith, of Tavistock, said death was due to a fractured base of the skull.  Witness was attending Mr Channings for injury and shock and he told him that it was a young horse and was unaccustomed to having a wagon behind it.  Channings left the farm with the deceased riding on the wagon.  Shortly after coming down the hill from Shortburn the horse was frightened and bolted and when in the road he jumped off and endeavoured to reach the head of the horse but failed to do so.  The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Injuries Accidentally Received."

PLYMPTON ST MARY - Plympton Woman's Suicide.  "A Cruel Rumour."  -  Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Plympton Workhouse yesterday on EDITH EMMA MATTACOTT, 21, wife of a journeyman carpenter, who was killed on the railway near Plympton Station on Tuesday evening.  -  Chief Inspector Poultney and Mr Hodges, Locomotive Department, represented the G.W.R. Company.   -   MARY REAVELL, of Old Priory-villa, Plympton, the mother, with whom deceased and her three children lived, stated that in December last, failing to get work in England, the husband went to Toronto.  A letter, in which £3 was enclosed, was received by the wife on the morning before her death.   -   The Coroner read the letter and to the Jury afterwards said:-  "It is quite an affectionate letter and there is nothing in it to lead to what has happened.  It is a very affectionate letter indeed.  The husband appears to be with an uncle and aunt."    -   Witness further stated that her daughter retired to bed as early as half-past seven on Tuesday evening, as she was suffering from a headache, but half an hour later she was found to have left the house.  Of late she had suffered considerably from headache.  Witness thought family responsibility and the absence of the husband had unnerved her.  -  Elizabeth Willcocks, of Underwood, said she saw MRS MATTACOTT going towards the railway about a quarter-past eight.   -   William Michelmore, driver of the 8.30 p.m. motor from Plympton, said he noticed something in the permanent way just on the Plymouth side of the skew bridge, and made a report on reaching Laira Halt.  An express had passed through while his train was standing at Plympton Station, and it was probably by this train that the woman was knocked down.  -  William Bending, relief man, spoke to receiving a message from Laira Halt and inspecting the line.  He found the body lying on the down line.  To get to the place deceased must have climbed a fence.  -  P.C. Fry gave deceased an excellent character.  Dr W. D. Stamp spoke as to the woman's condition.  -  The Coroner:  "So that the cruel rumour which has got about is absolutely without foundation."  -  A verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind" was returned.

PILTON - Barnstaple Baker Killed.  The Hoop Danger.  -  MR ALBERT WILLIAM WATTS, baker, aged 32, died at Pilton, Barnstaple, yesterday from injuries sustained through being thrown from his cart.  At the Inquest it was stated that MR WATTS was driving at Pilton the previous evening, when his horse, becoming unmanageable as the result of children playing hoops in the street, bolted.  MR WATTS being thrown in the roadway on his back, his head striking the kerb.  He sustained a nasty wound in the head, but walked to his home, a short distance away, without assistance.  -  Dr Ware stated that the skull was not fractured, but an internal vessel bled into the brain.  MR WATTS passing away about six hours after the accident.  -   The Jury, in returning a verdict of "Accidental Death" expressed sympathy with the widow and other members of the family.

Western Morning News, Monday 6 September 1909
GREAT TORRINGTON - Torrington Fatality.  -  Mr Geo. W. F. Brown on Saturday held an Inquest on HORACE HERBERT STEVENS, the kitchen boy on the Waterloo train, killed at Torrington Station, on Friday.  Inspector Percival and Locomotive Inspector Moore represented the Company, and the lad's father, of Twickenham, said his son had been employed by Spiers and Pond for three months.  -  Fredk. Geo. Ford, restaurant car attendant, said STEVENS, on bringing back a dustbin he had emptied, and while coming down the slope from the up platform, he was knocked down by the engine of the passenger train which had just come in.  The tender being foremost, neither the driver nor fireman could have seen the boy.  The lad had the dustbin on his back, which might have taken off some of the sound, his back being to the engine.  -  Richard Lee, the driver, said he never saw the boy.  His attention was attracted by the rattle of the can under the engine.  -  Geo. Yendell, shunter, said when he gave the signal to the driver to come back on the other end of the coaches, he did not see anything of deceased.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," expressing sympathy with the relatives, in which they were joined by the Coroner.  Mr Pearce (for Spiers and Pond) and Mr Willcocks for the Railway Company.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 7 September 1909
EXETER - Exeter Schoolgirl's Death.  An Invisible Fracture.  -  The death in Exeter Hospital of ELLA BOWDEN, 10, daughter of FRANK BOWDEN, of Well-street, was Inquired into by the City Coroner and Jury yesterday.  She had lived with her grandfather at Church-lane, St Sidwell's and while at St. Sidwell's Girls' School on Wednesday afternoon fell in the playground and was sent home.  - Elsie Ireland, a schoolfellow, said there was a shed in the playground with a water trough and tap.  Before afternoon school deceased got on the trough and, saying, "See me swing," jumped for one of the rafters of the shed.  She touched it, but missed her hold and fell to the ground.  -  Miss Bunclarke, the teacher, said deceased came into school after the accident, but became ill and she sent her home.  -  James Coombs, the grandfather, said Dr Brash was called in on Thursday and thought she was suffering from a severe bilious attack.  He ordered her medicine, but after deceased had had one dose somebody called with a fresh bottle, said a mistake had been made, and took away the first bottle.  -  Dr Brash said he examined the child's head, but found no sign of fracture, and, suspecting bile, wrote a prescription.  The dispenser's mistake was in taking "alk" for "alb," and no harm resulted.  He first thought there might be slight concussion and when he found that the symptoms did not pass off he ordered her to the Hospital.  -  Dr Starr, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased told him when admitted that she had no pain.  The idea of a fracture naturally occurred to him, but there was absolutely no definite sign of it, and he found none.  Deceased suddenly became worse and died in an hour or so.  By a post-mortem examination he discovered a fracture in the right temple region, but so fine that it could not be seen, being only perceptible to the touch.  Death was due to the haemorrhage causing compression of the brain.  -  The Jury found that death was accidental and added their opinion that no blame attached to Dr Brash.  -  The Coroner said the dispenser would no doubt be careful in future;  prescriptions were not always written in the most legible manner.  -  Preb. Bird expressed the sympathy of the school managers for the relatives, the Coroner and Jury concurring.

Western Morning News, Friday 10 September 1909
BIDEFORD - Killed By A Horse.  Inquest Near Bideford. -  The North Devon Coroner (Mr G. W. F. Brown) held an Inquest at Gammaton Cross, near Bideford last evening upon WILLIAM YEO, aged 58, of Huntshaw, who died that morning half an hour after being kicked by a horse which he had taken to be shod.  Mr Stapledon had shod the fore feet and Wm. Waldron was clinching the nails when the horse reared.  Waldron had to jump out of the way with his box of tools, and as soon as he looked round he saw deceased on the ground with the horse's fore feet on his chest.  He jumped at the horse's head and got the animal off, and then lifted deceased.  Waldron held him, as he was struggling a good deal and said to him, "I think you will be all right directly."  he replied, "I hope so," and those were the last words he said.  Witness placed him in a chair and he died in about half an hour.  - Dr Ellis Pearson, of Bideford, who was sent for, said YEO was dead when he arrived.  There were no bruises on the body, which was accounted for by a heavy metal box which deceased had had in his waistcoat pocket and which was crushed in, apparently by the horses' hoof.  Deceased, he considered, died from the shock of the blow.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," adding that no blame attached to anyone.

PARRACOMBE  - Ilfracombe Visitor's Death. -  Mr Geo. W. F. Brown, North Devon Coroner, yesterday held an Inquest at Parracombe, on MR MARK WADIA, a visitor to Ilfracombe, who died suddenly at Parracombe whilst on a char-e-banc trip.  Evidence was given of heart failure and a verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 14 September 1909
THORVERTON - At the Inquest at Thorverton yesterday on JOHN H. FICE, the two year old son of MR S. FICE, dairyman, the evidence showed that the child fell into a pan of hot water, which had been left on the floor.  He sustained extensive scalds, death resulting from shock two days later.  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, and the Jury expressed their sympathy with the parents.

PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday.  At that relating to ERNEST HENRY HAWKER, aged three months, his mother said she found him dead beside her in bed about 7 o'clock on Saturday morning.  Dr E. R. Clarke said death was due to overlaying.  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on WILLIAM HENRY MANN, 50, mason's labourer, who died on Sunday.  JOHN MANN said his brother had complained of pains in the chest.  Matthew Snell, labourer, living in the same house, said he found him dead on Sunday morning.  Dr R. H. Wagner said death was due to a rupture of an aortic aneurism.  "Natural Causes" was the verdict returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 15 September 1909
SOUTH BRENT - An Inquest was held yesterday on the infant child of MR JARVIS H. LANG, platelayer.  The mother said about midnight, after nursing the child in bed, she placed it by her side.  She then went to sleep and on awaking about 5.45 a.m., found the baby was dead. Dr Style, who had made a post-mortem examination, said death was due to suffocation.  The Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) spoke strongly of the danger of the practice of infant children sleeping in bed with their parents.  The Jury (Mr R. H. Gill, Foreman) returned a verdict of "Accidental Suffocation."

EAST STONEHOUSE - Torpoint Football Fatality.  No One To Blame.  -  Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at the Royal Naval Hospital, Stonehouse, yesterday, on FRANK EDGAR BAISS, aged 26 years, A.B., H.M.S. Vivid.  -  William H. Brooks, of St. Aubyn-street, Devonport, said he was referee in a Rugby football match on Saturday at Torpoint, between the Ramblers and H.M.S. Leviathan.  BAISS played stand-off for the Ramblers.  About eight minutes after the interval the ball was passed out from a scrum to BAISS, who immediately went towards his opponent's goal.  At the same moment, he was collared and threw the ball away.  The ball was at once taken up by another of the Ramblers, who went through and scored.  As soon as he had awarded a try, he looked around and saw several players standing around BAISS, who was lying where he saw him take the ball out of the scrum.  BAISS complained of pains in his back between his shoulders and it was thought he had broken his collar-bone.  -  The Coroner:  Up to the time BAISS was given the ball from the scrum was everything fair in the match?  -  Yes;  it was a very quite game.  -  Ernest H. Oatzies, shipwright, one of the players, said BAISS received the ball about 35 yards from his opponent's line.  He ran about ten yards, and was then tackled.  BAISS threw the ball from him and then twisted round and fell.  At the time the opponent had left the side of BAISS.  He heard him exclaim "Oh," as he fell.  There was nothing unfair or foul about the tackling.  A doctor was sent for, and advised the removal to the Royal Naval Hospital.  It was a quiet and good-tempered game.  BAISS was a good athlete and sportsman.  -  By the Jury:  BAISS was tackled by the legs.  Could not say that caused the twist.  It was a slight tackle.  In throwing the ball BAISS twisted around quickly.   -    A Fair Game.   -   William H. Leonard, engine-room artificer, H.M.S. Leviathan, who was playing in the match, said he tackled BAISS around the hips when he had the ball, and to prevent him passing it.  He believed they fell together and BAISS said "Oh!"  He remained by the side of BAISS as soon as he had been hurt.  The game was played fairly and quietly.  -  William Jenkins, leading seaman, of H.M.S. Leviathan, one of the linesmen at the match, said when BAISS was passing the ball he twisted around his body very quickly and fell on his right shoulder.  -  William Bennett, hon. secretary of the Ramblers Club for sixteen years, said he never saw a better contested or sportsmanlike game.  There was no rough play.  It was quite an accident that BAISS met his death.  -  Fleet-Surgeon Vidal Thorpe, R.N. Hospital, said that BAISS was admitted on Saturday at 6.30 p.m., suffering from symptoms of fracture of the spine.  He was completely paralysed in the lower portion of the body.  An operation revealed that the spine was fractured between the shoulder-blades.  The fractured bone was removed.  BAISS died on Sunday.  He was a fine, athletic man.  The twist and the fall would account for the accident.  -  The coroner said the case was a sad one and they would express their sympathy with all who were associated with the deceased in the game on Saturday, and which terminated in such an unfortunate way.  Their sympathy would also be expressed to the relatives of the deceased.  The evidence had fully proved that the game was fair, and that the death of BAISS was the result of an accident.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," the Foreman adding:  There is no blame attached to anyone.  -  The funeral will take place at the home of his relatives, Newport, Monmouth.  The body will be removed from the Hospital today.

Western Morning News, Thursday 16 September 1909
ROMANSLEIGH - Coroner's Law.  Explained At A North Devon Inquest.  -  At the Inquest at Romansleigh yesterday on MR FREDERICK WEBBER, 56, farmer, of the Barton, Romansleigh, the Coroner (Mr G. W. F. Brown) said he understood that on September 6th deceased was alighting from his trap when he felt a pain in his right side.  He became very ill and died on Sunday, but it was only on Tuesday afternoon that he (the Coroner) was informed of the death, and he also ascertained that the funeral was arranged for that day (Wednesday).  It was well that everyone should understand that if a person met with an accident, however trifling, which in any way accelerated death, an Inquest was bound to be held, for more reasons than one.  In the case of accidental death, for instance, if a man was insured, it would affect an accidental policy.  In this case, although deceased might have been suffering from an enlargement in his side before the sudden jerk he sustained, yet the accident accelerated the illness and that being so, an Inquest had to be held and a post-mortem examination made.  He was sorry for the relatives who had arranged the funeral for that day, but he was prepared to have held the Inquest the evening before.  -  Mr John Thorne spoke to seeing deceased get out of the trap and hearing him complain that the pain in his side was worse when he got out.  -  Dr Smyth (Southmolton) said he saw deceased the same night.  Death was due to inflammation of the kidneys, set up by the injury sustained by the jerk in getting out of the trap.  He had made a post-mortem examination, and Drs. Seal and Tucker agreed with his diagnosis.  - A verdict of Accidental Death was returned, the Foreman (Mr Adams) expressing the sympathy of the Jury with the relatives.  -  The funeral took place immediately after the Inquest.

Western Morning News, Friday 17 September 1909
DAWLISH - Dawlish Infants Death.  Extraordinary Evidence:  Jury's Strong Censure.  -  At Dawlish yesterday, Mr S. Hacker held an adjourned Inquest on the infant male child of JOHN FRANK COX, dairyman, which was found dead in bed by the side of its mother three days after birth.  -  Dr Lovely said it was a particularly healthy child, and he did not think the mother realised that it was dead until the nurse came.  There were no external bruises and the appearances were that the child died from suffocation, though there was nothing to show how that occurred.  -  In his previous evidence COX had stated that the child was not his, and the Inquest was adjourned for three weeks to allow of the attendance of the mother.  Mr J. Hutchings was present on behalf of MRS COX.  -  JOHN FRANK COX, recalled, admitted that at the previous Inquiry he had said he was not the father of the child, and did not wish it to be born alive.  He now said he was not quite clear what he was saying on the previous occasion.  He based his statement that he was not the father of the child upon something which his wife had said to him, and he treated it as a joke.  -    The Coroner:  It is for the Jury to judge, but it seems to require more explanation.  -  Witness:  I cannot give you any more explanation.  -   Anna White, nurse, said on the Tuesday night, MRS COX said she did not want her to stop the night, as before.  The next morning when she went to the house, the child was dead.  -  By Mr Hutchings:  Up to the time of her leaving, the mother had done all she could for the child, and had made provision for it for the following weeks.  She had given witness money the day before to buy more clothes for the child.  -  The Coroner:  During the time you attended MRS COX, before the birth or after, did she make any statement to you as to endeavouring to get rid of the child?  -  No, sir.  -   BESSIE COX, mother of the child, was asked as to the previous statement of her husband that the child was not his.  this, she said, was "all rubbish."  She took no steps to prevent the child being born alive.  Her husband had said something, repudiating the parentage of the child, but it was all a joke, and he had no grounds for thinking so.  She sent the nurse away on the Tuesday night because she thought it unnecessary to have her any longer.  -  The Coroner said there was no doubt the child died from suffocation.  The exceptional thing in this case was the husband's most serious allegations at the previous Inquiry, suggesting as they did a strong motive on the part of the mother and himself for putting this child out of the world.  Now, however, the husband said he hardly knew what he was saying, being so upset at the Inquest.  This would require some consideration by the Jury before they accepted a statement like that from a full-grown man, unless he had any weakness of intellect.  There was no proof that the child came to its death by violence, or that it had been wilfully suffocated.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of Death from Suffocation, and stated that there was no evidence to show how the suffocation occurred.  They added a rider strongly censuring the father for his unsatisfactory evidence.  -  The Coroner said he quite agreed with this, after MR COX'S very extraordinary evidence and extraordinary explanation.

Western Morning News, Monday 20 September 1909
THURLESTONE - Sudden Death At Bantham.  Prominent Oarsman's Collapse.  -  CECIL WILLIAM COVELL, aged 20, son of a meat contractor of 24 Chapel-street, London, residing with his father at Oxford and Cambridge Mansions, Marylebone, died suddenly at Aunemouth, Bantham, near Kingsbridge, on Thursday.  -  At the Inquest on Saturday, a cousin, Henry Reginald Best, a stock jobber, of London, stated that he and deceased cycled down from London, leaving there the previous Saturday, and arriving on Sunday.  On Wednesday they attended Bigbury harvest festival, and deceased, and deceased, himself, his brother and a friend joined in the sports held after the service, and it was remarked that deceased was in good form, although afterwards he said he felt "rotten," and had a glass of wine.  The next morning they went out shooting, but not finding any birds they decided to bathe.  Deceased was a fine athlete, being 6ft. 3in. in height.  They were drying themselves, when their friend, Mr A. Barnes, called out from the opposite bank of the river that he could give his cousin a "a Yankee crawl" race across.  Deceased accepted and swam over, and they started together, Barnes winning by a few feet.  On landing deceased fell in a heap on the ground.   Witness found him unconscious and sent for assistance and a doctor, whilst with the help of a coastguard and others they kept up artificial respiration.  When Dr Webb arrived he said his cousin must have died as he dropped.  Deceased was an athletic enthusiast, and two years ago he entered the 90 yards swimming competition at Marylebone Institute.  He had done 60 yards when he sank.  He was rescued and artificial restoration was successfully used.  He was afterwards examined by two doctors, and found to have a weak heart brought on by a strain caused when rowing in July 1908, in the Diamond Sculls at Henley, when he was beaten in the semi-final heat by A. McCulloch, who beat A. A. Stuart in the final.  -  Dr Tudor Webb stated that death was due to syncope, probably caused by over-exertion in the "crawl."  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 21 September 1909
PLYMOUTH - Retired Schoolmaster's Death. -  Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on MR EDWARD HENRY HAMMETT, aged 67 years, retired schoolmaster of Lonsdale-villas, Mannamead.  -  MR THOMAS T. HAMMETT, commercial traveller, said on Friday evening his father complained of being slightly unwell and just before 11 o'clock his mother went to his room and saw him fall on the floor.  He died almost immediately.  -  Dr C. D. Lindsay attributed death to syncope, caused by fatty degeneration of the heart.  -  A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.  -   MR HAMMETT served his apprenticeship as pupil teacher at the Plymouth Public School, under the late Mr George Jago, and was beloved by his boys.  Abandoning the teaching profession he was for many years cashier at the West of England Manure Works, Torpoint, and won the high esteem of his employers.  Of late years he was in the employ of Plymouth Education Authority as a teacher of mathematics and book-keeping in the evening continuation classes.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 22 September 1909
KINGSBRIDGE - West Alvington Fatality.  -  An Inquest was held yesterday at Kingsbridge by Mr Sidney Hacker on ROGER HORSEWILL, who died in the Cottage Hospital on Monday.  Mr W. Beer, solicitor, watched the proceedings on behalf of the relatives.  -  MRS LOUISA EASTLEY of Ugborough, said deceased, her father, a farm labourer, was 68 years of age, and retired from the Metropolitan Police about 18 years ago.  On September 4th he told her he fell from a wagon.  -  Dr Jas. Wilson Pettinger said he had HORSEWILL removed to the Cottage Hospital.  He was suffering from shock and injuries to his back.  His death was accelerated by the disease from which he was suffering.  -  Robert A. Gloyns, of West Alvington, farmer, said HORSEWILL was in his employ for eight years on and off.  On the 4th inst. he was loading a wagon and HORSEWILL was picking up the rakings.  He threw him a rope to bind the load and, walking backwards, he overbalanced himself and fell to the ground, pitching on his shoulders.  He was partly conscious and was carried to his home.   -   William Johns, West Alvington, who was also at work with HORSEWILL on September 4th said the cause of his fall that he did not pull up the rope tight enough.  -  Charles Leonard Ash gave similar evidence.  -  LOUISA HELEN HORSEWILL, widow, said her husband told her he thought the rope was tight when he fell.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Thursday 23 September 1909
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Child's Death.  A Pitiable Case.  -  Mr J. A. Pearce (Borough Coroner) held an Inquest at Devonport yesterday on ADA MAY JEFFERY, aged 2 ¼ years, the child of HENRY CHAS. JEFFERY, general labourer, of Cornwall-street.  The evidence showed that on Sunday the child was apparently in her usual health, but on the following morning her mother noticed a swelling on her hands and face, and having also noticed similar swellings on another child, five years of age, she telephoned for Dr Flemming.  Afterwards, finding that Dr Flemming could not come, she sent for Dr Bolus, but the child died at 4.45 p.m.  -  The mother stated that she had five children at home.  Her husband had been out of work for a long time and beyond earning a few pence from selling papers they had no means.  -  Detective-Inspector Rundle said that hearing on Monday night that a child had died suddenly, he went to the house and finding that no doctor had been there and that Dr Flemming could not possibly come, instructed the mother to send for Dr Bolus.   Dr Bolus said that when he was called at 8.15 p.m. he found the girl dead, and the other child (a boy) very ill indeed.  The boy was undoubtedly suffering from diphtheria, and died on the following morning.  He had made a post-mortem examination of the girl's body and in his opinion death was due to diphtheria.  It was not unusual for young children suffering from diphtheria to die suddenly.  -  The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence and the Coroner remarked that it was a very pitiable case.

Western Morning News, Friday 24 September 1909
PLYMOUTH - Coal Porter's Fatal Fall. - In the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, Plymouth, Mr R. B. Johns yesterday held an Inquest on VINCENT ELIAS HILL, coal porter, aged 37, of Holborn-street, Plymouth, who received fatal injuries by falling into the hold of a coaling steamer belonging to Plymouth Co-operative Society.  The Society was represented by Mr Percy T. Pearse;  and Mr Fred Cowell, Inspector of Factories was also present.  -  William Harris, coal porter, St. Leonard's-road, said whilst HILL on Tuesday was carrying baskets of coal from the steamship into the stores on the North Quay, the hook ran up to the pulley arm and became fast.  HILL Immediately went up "hand over hand," and having "slack enough" to reach the plank, he called out to the man at the winch to let out more rope.  Then, owing to the jerk, or because he could not hold on, he fell into the hold.  -  In answer to the Coroner, Philip John Foster, a foreman of the Co-operative Society, remarked that all the gear belonged to the ship, and it was the duty of the sailors to clear anything that went wrong.  Had he known about it, he should have prevented HILL from going aloft.  - Dr Gerard F. Porter, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said the deceased was admitted suffering from concussion of the brain, and died on Wednesday.  -  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.  The Jury and Mr Pearce expressed sympathy with the relatives.

Western Morning News, Saturday 25 September 1909
TEDBURN ST. MARY - Devon Farmer's Suicide.  -  At an Inquest at Huish Farm, Tedburn St. Mary, yesterday, on WILLIAM HORWILL, retired farmer, aged 77, James Taylor, son-in-law, said deceased resided with him.  Witness left him at the dinner-table on Thursday, and afterwards heard he had gone out with his gun, as he often did.  As he did not return witness made a search, but without result and yesterday morning he sent for P.C. ford, who found him dead in one of the fields, in a ditch close to a hedge, with the gun between his legs and a stick clenched by both hands.  He had never heard him speak of doing away with himself, and he appeared to be in good health.  He had taken a business at Exmouth and was to have

NORTH PETHERWIN - Distressing Case At North Petherwin.  - Mr J. D. Prickman held an Inquest at Kilford, North Petherwin on Thursday, on ARTHUR BANBURY, 14 years of age, whose body (as stated in our Wednesday's issue) was found in a coppice near the farm on Tuesday, under conditions pointing to suicide.  -  The evidence of the father (MR S. BANBURY)  was to the effect that deceased had been home for some time on the farm, but previously had been to school.  It was arranged that he should go back to school on Tuesday about two or three in the afternoon.  He had lunch with them and witness did not see him alive again.  He did not come in to dinner, and when they afterwards found that a gun was missing from its place on the top of the cupboard behind the backdoor, witness directed a general search to be made, deceased being found in the coppice by his brother, SAMUEL.  -  Replying to the Coroner, witness said the boy had not been blamed for anything and had no trouble of any kind.  Nothing was said by him which would lead them to suppose that he contemplated suicide.  It was not their custom to keep the gun loaded and the cartridges were kept in a drawer in the kitchen.  He had never made any complaint about his school life, and witness had the fullest confidence that he was taken care of at the school.  -  Evidence was given by the mother, who said the boy had not left school because of any fault of his own or of the school.   -   Strange Noises.   -  Mr John Polkinghorne, farmer, of Tresmeer, said on the previous Tuesday, from 2 to 3 p.m., he was on his farm, near Kilford, when he heard somebody making a distressing noise as if they were in great trouble.  The noise rather frightened him, and he could not say whether he heard the report of a gun.  He ran as fast as he could in the direction of the sound, and afterwards saw MR SAMUEL BANBURY, jun., who said he had found the body in the covert.  Witness went over and saw the boy lying on his back, with the gun lying over the body in a direct line with the head.  -  By the Coroner:  I should think I heard the sounds of crying for about two minutes.   -   Brother's Discovery.   -  MR SAMUEL BANBURY, jun., deceased's eldest brother, said he knew his brother had some dislike to going to school, but witness could not find out the reason.  Witness, describing the search for his brother, said whilst standing in a gate place he heard an awful noise, like a terrible wail.  He made for the place as fast as he could.  It seemed to come from about 300 yards away, and when witness had got about half-way, the noise stopped.  He got down to the coppice, and went through twice without seeing anything, but on going through again he found the body close to where he had passed before.  There were bushes about, but the body was lying on a fairly clear spot.  The stock of the gun was between the legs and the barrel on the body pointing to the head.  Witness obtained a counterpane to put over the body, which was warm.  From where witness had been working previous to the search to the place where the body was found was about 200 yards, but he did not hear any gun.  -  By the Coroner:  Do you think it was possible your brother could have slipped his foot and tumbled in the position he was found?  -  In don't think so.  -  Replying to further questions, witness said a stick the deceased had was over the body, with the handle near the trigger of the gun.  The hands were one each side, not touching the gun.  Witness had searched for about 25 minutes before he heard the nose.  -   In answer to the Coroner, a Juryman said the school to which the deceased went was well known and held in very high repute.   -   Medical Evidence.    -   Dr W. F. Thompson said he saw the body about 4.30 when life had been extinct for nearly three hours. Witness described the terrible injuries to the head, and said the wounds were sufficient to cause instantaneous death.  The wounds were such as would be caused with the muzzle of the gun held close to the head, and it would be impossible for anyone suffering from such injuries to have cried out after he was shot;  death must have been instantaneous.  He was certain that the sound were not made by the deceased after he was shot, and everything pointed to the fact that the wounds were self-inflicted.  There was nothing in the boy's previous history to make anyone suppose he would commit suicide.   -   The Verdict.    -  The Coroner said they must all feel the deepest sympathy with MR BANBURY, his wife and family in their sad misfortune.  The boy loved his home life, and was beloved by his parents, brothers and sister, and seemed to feel a reluctance in going back to school.  He (the Coroner) could not see that any verdict could possibly be returned except that the wound was self-inflicted at a time when the boy was not able to look at things in their right proportion and was in a state of unsound mind.  If they thought there was a possibility that the wounds were not self-inflicted they could bring in an open verdict, but he thought it would be impossible to say they were not satisfied that the wounds were self-inflicted.  They could not offer any explanation for hearing those sounds;  that was the mysterious part of it.  -   The Jury returned a verdict "That the cause of death was a Gunshot Wound, Self-Inflicted, whilst in a state of Unsound Mind."  -  The Coroner said the Jury would wish to tender their sympathy to the parents and family, and would agree that there was nothing in connection with the school life that could have led to this.  -  The Jury unanimously agreed.

DAWLISH - Dawlish Warren Suicide.  Phantom Financial Troubles.  -  Mr Sidney Hacker (Coroner) held an Inquest at the Dawlish Vestry Hall yesterday, on MR JOHN HOWELL VALLANCE, of Grove Park-road, Redland, Bristol, secretary of the Western Finance Association.  The deceased had been found with his throat cut on Thursday in the yard of the "Zuyder Zee" bungalow on the Dawlish Warren, where he had been staying with his brother, MR G. F. VALLANCE, district superintendent of the London and South-Western Railway, Exeter.  Mr F. R. H. Orchard, solicitor, of Exeter, represented the family at the Inquest.  -  GEO. FURLONG VALLANCE, of "The Birches," Exeter, said his brother was aged 62, and unmarried.  About five weeks ago he became unwell and had to give up work for a time.  Witness went up to see him at different times and finding that he was somewhat depressed, got him to come down and join him last Monday on the Warren.  Deceased had an idea that things were not quite right at the office.  Witness had satisfied himself that it was only a delusion, and that everything was absolutely right.  Witness believed that this state of depression had been coming on for some time.  Deceased was not strong physically, and seemed to have overtaxed his strength.  In order to prove, however, that there was no real cause for all his worry, witness had endeavoured to get one of the directors of the association to be present at the Inquest.  As this was not possible, he had done the next best thing and sent a message to the chairman and received a wire in reply, which Mr. Orchard handed to the Coroner.  This read:-  Replying to your wire, Mr Condick, chairman, Western Finance Association, absent ill.  Other directors are unanimous in stating everything in order, and they deeply regret sad occurrence and the great loss to the association.  -  Latham, vice-chairman.  -  Witness added that his brother's private financial position was very sound.  On Wednesday he was more cheerful.  he had made no threats as to taking his life.  Witness found it necessary to pay a brief visit to Exeter on the morning of the occurrence (Thursday).  His brother and himself took a walk together before breakfast that morning.  He seemed to be improving in health.  Witness's conjecture was that when going out to the back deceased saw the knife lying on the table in the kitchen and had a sudden impulse to take his life.  -  ADA GERTRUDE VALLANCE, daughter of the last witness, said that after her father left to go to Exeter, her uncle had a short sleep.  He seemed quite cheerful on waking up.  A few minutes later witness's mother called out to her that it sounded as if her uncle was sick.  She ran out and saw her uncle with his back to her in the yard bending over.  She saw blood and thought first that he had haemorrhage of some kind.  It then flashed across her mind that he had perhaps cut himself, and she ran out and called to some workmen who were near.  The knife produced, covered with blood, was the one her sister had been using for cutting vegetables and was left on a slab in the kitchen.  -  Emmanuel Arthur, foreman carpenter, said he was working near the "Zuyder Zee" bungalow, when he heard "screeching", and saw two ladies on the sands beckoning to him and his mates.  They ran to the spot and witness was directed to the yard at the back, where he found a gentleman lying on the ground, covered with blood.  Witness held him up.  He was alive and breathed once or twice, and then expired.  The knife produced was in the closet close at hand.  -  Dr Hodgson, of Exmouth, who was called to the spot at about ten o'clock, said deceased was quite dead when he arrived.  There was a cut in the throat four or five inches long and three inches deep.  The windpipe was severed.  -  P.C. Marshall stated that he found £18 10s. in gold, three threepennypieces and 11s. 8d. in cash in a purse on deceased;  also a five-pound note, a cheque-book, and other articles.  There was a number of letters, but all were of a business nature and containing nothing relative to the suicide.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity," and expressed sympathy with the relatives.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 28 September 1909
EXETER - Exeter Boy Killed. -  At the Inquest at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday on ALFRED WESTCOTT, aged 7, son of a mason's labourer, of Coombe-street, the evidence showed that Vernon Hooking was driving a Co-operative Society's van down Coombe-street on Saturday and saw the deceased lad on the footpath when about three feet away from him.  He was playing with other children and suddenly ran on to the road.  He passed the horse all right, then halted, turned round, and went back right between the legs of the horse.  The animal reared and before Hooking had time to pull up the wheels had gone over him.  It was thought that the boy tried to avoid another vehicle coming in the other direction.  -  Mr C. H. Lilly, Assistant House Surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased died very shortly after admission.  A post-mortem examination revealed internal haemorrhage sufficient to cause death.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and attached no blame to the driver.  -  Superintendent Dymond said he had known Hooking for several years as a careful driver.  -  Mr C. T. K. Roberts, on behalf of the Co-operative Society and the van driver, expressed sympathy with the parents and said his clients would bear the costs of the funeral.

BIDEFORD - Charge At Bideford.  Alleged Murder Of An Infant. -  At Bideford last evening Mr G. W. F. Brown Inquired into the death of the female infant child of SUSAN MOUNTJOY, a single woman, living with her mother at New-street, Bideford.  The mother was not present, being confined to her bed.  P.S. Newbury watched the Inquiry on behalf of the Police.  -  MRS HELEN MOUNTJOY, a widow, said her daughter, SUSAN, was 34 or 35 years of age.  She had been in service for two years at Ilfracombe, and came home on September 1st.  After some time witness noticed her condition and her daughter promised to go in the Union.  SUSAN was absent for part of the day on Sunday, and witness became suspicious, and sent for the nurse.  Witness afterwards saw the body of a child in the courtyard.  She did not know whether it had lived.  This was the fourth child her daughter had had.  One was living, aged 12, another died in infancy and a third died in the Union between one and two years old.  -  Mrs Grace Rounsfelle, monthly nurse, said she saw SUSAN MOUNTJOY, and asked her if she had given birth to the child ,and she replied "Yes."  Witness said she had better send for the parish doctor, which she did.  -  Dr C. R. Thompson said when he arrived the child was dead, but still warm.  It was fully developed and apparently a full-time child. Witness made a post-mortem examination with Dr Pearson.  The child had had a separate existence.  There were bruises on the forehead and pressure marks on both collarbones and on the neck.  Death was due to suffocation, and in his opinion the marks round the neck were caused by the hands of a person.  -  Dr Ellis Parson fully concurred with the evidence of the previous witness.  -  The Coroner, summing up, said these cases were becoming terribly prevalent.  It seemed now that when these women got themselves into trouble they paid no more attention to the infant than anyone would of throwing a kitten in a bucket of water.  He pointed out that to take the life of a human being was murder.  -  The Jury found a verdict of "Wilful Murder" against SUSAN MOUNTJOY.

PLYMOUTH - At the Inquest yesterday on JOHN BOSS STEPHENS, 63, shoemaker of Kensington-terrace, Plymouth, whose wife found him dead in bed on Sunday, Dr Gardiner stated that death was due to heart disease.

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Baby's Death.  -  Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest yesterday on the infant son of WINIFRETH JAMES, wife of a cook's mate, living in Chudleigh-road, Plymouth.  -  MRS JAMES sated that when she awoke on Sunday morning her baby, two months old, was lying on her arm dead.  -  The Coroner remarked on the unwisdom of allowing infants to sleep in bed with the parents.  -  MRS JAMES replied that she had tried to get the child to sleep in a cot, but it was so restless that she had to abandon the idea.  -  Dr Dunstan deposed that death was due to suffocation, no doubt caused by overlaying.  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 30 September 1909
ILFRACOMBE - Fatal Fall At Ilfracombe.  -  Mr G. W. F. Brown held an Inquest at Ilfracombe on JAMES WORMALD, aged 89, a retired grocer, of Beaufort House, Station-road.  -  Mrs Parry, his sister-in-law said on Wednesday of last week she left deceased seated in the breakfast-room.  Hearing him fall she went to him, and near the drawing-room found him groaning, but unable to speak.  She at once sent for Dr Kettlewell.  for many years MR WORMALD had always been accompanied when going up and down stairs.  On this occasion he must have attempted to go up by himself, and in doing so, fell.  -  Dr Kettlewell said the immediate cause of death was heart failure, due to shock, caused by the accident.  -  The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

MORETONHAMPSTEAD - Inquest At Moretonhampstead.  -  Mr Sidney Hacker (County Coroner) held an Inquiry at Moretonhampstead yesterday into the death of the infant daughter of W. G. HILL.  -  MRS CLARA HILL, the mother, said the child was all right about eleven on Monday night, but her husband woke her up about 3 a.m. on Tuesday saying that the child was dead.  -  Dr Robert Sutherland said there were no external marks of violence and the child had been dead two hours.  A post-mortem examination showed that the body was well nourished and he came to the conclusion that the child had died from suffocation.  -  The Coroner pointed out the danger of infants being allowed to sleep with their parents and the Jury returned a verdict that the child was Accidentally Suffocated while lying in bed with its parents.

Western Morning News, Friday 1 October 1909
EXETER  At the Inquest at Exeter yesterday on MARY JANE ELSON, aged 52, of Sandford-street, death was stated to be due to chronic bronchitis.

Western Morning News, Saturday 2 October 1909
EAST STONEHOUSE - Naval Pensioner's Death.  Accidental Or Natural?  -  Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at the Royal Naval Hospital, Stonehouse, yesterday on JOHN HENRY HINCKLEY, aged 47 years, naval pensioner, master of the C.80 Dockyard craft, Devonport.  Mr K. Eyton Peck (Venning, Goldsmith and Peck) represented the Admiralty.  Mr H. Lawrence Spear the widow.  -  The Coroner explained that apparently about three months ago HINCKLEY fell down a ladder on board ship injuring his head.  He was for some time under the care of Dr Waterfield and after being admitted to the R.N.  Hospital, died on September 28th.  With the consent of the widow, the medical Officer in charge made a post mortem examination and a certificate was given that the cause of death was a natural one.  On the certificate being presented to the Registrar he refused to register the death owing to a communication received from the widow with reference to the fall and injury.  The Registrar in turn referred the matter to him, the Coroner.  -  Wm. H. Lacey, Master of C. 73 coal depot, said on June 19th at 7.30 a.m. HINCKLEY and himself were on the upper deck hatches of C. 80.  As HINCKLEY was descending from the hatches to the deck, the ladder slipped and he fell on the ballast below, the side of his head striking the combing of the hatch.  He was nearly nineteen stone in weight.  He was not rendered unconscious, but was dazed for a moment.  The ladder was a portable one and was not lashed.  -  Mr Harvey, recalled, said HINCKLEY was never the same man after the accident.  -  Dr W. H. Waterfield said on the day of the accident he visited deceased at his home, Adelaide-street.  He complained of pains in the back of the neck, the base of the skull, the arm and hip.  The worst injury was to the hip, the skin being badly discoloured.  There were no fractures.  Witness attended him for six days and his condition so improved that he resumed work.  On September 1st HINCKLEY being a naval reservist, attended drill and on his way home saw witness and complained of pains in the head and loss of memory.  Witness found that he could not walk on a straight line.  He advised HINCKLEY to lay up in bed, but he said he would finish his drills.  Witness again saw him on the 3rd ult., and he was then much worse.  He attended him until September 9th when he was removed to the Royal Naval Hospital.  On Thursday he examined the body and found the internal organs fatty, but with no apparent disease.  On the front of the brain he found the remains of a gummata which had formed into an abscess.  That would account for the symptoms shown by deceased.  The fall on June 19th did not, in his opinion, directly or indirectly  cause death.  Death was due firstly to cerebral disease and secondly, the involvement of the respiratory centre.  -  By Mr Spear:  It was impossible for the gummata to have been caused by the fall.  In his opinion it was there before the fall.  -  Staff Surgeon Stanton, R.N., said HINCKLEY was under his supervision on the 26th ult, and he was then unconscious.  He remained so until he died on the 28th ult.  He agreed with Dr Waterfield that death was not in any way due to the fall.  -  The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony and the Coroner and Jury expressed sympathy with the widow.  The Coroner remarked that, doubtless, the Admiralty would favourably consider the case of the widow.

Western Morning News, Monday 4 October 1909
NEWTON ABBOT - An Inquest was held at Newton Abbot on Saturday on HENRY BEARNE, 69, of Mill-lane, who was found dead in Highweek Church-lane the previous evening.  Deceased had been to Highweek Rectory for the key of the church in which he acted as organ blower.  He then complained of feeling unwell.  The medical evidence showed that death was due to syncope and a verdict to that effect was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 5 October 1909
CHURCHSTOW - MRS MORRISH HILL died suddenly at Churchstow on Saturday and at an Inquest yesterday a verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

STOKE DAMEREL - "Natural Causes" was the verdict returned at Devonport last evening at an Inquest on MAUD PERKINS, infant child of ALFRED JOHN PERKINS, skilled labourer in H.M. Dockyard of 37 Warleigh-avenue.  The child died suddenly on Saturday morning and Dr G. K. Pearson attributed death to syncope, due to pneumonia.

PLYMOUTH - Mr J. G. Graves, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Plymouth Mortuary yesterday on EDWIN BAYLIS, aged 45 years, a leather merchant, of Stafford-street, Birmingham.  John Atkins, chemist of Kingsbery-road, Birmingham, said deceased had been staying in Plymouth for his health for some weeks.  -  Wm. Webb, domestic at a lodging-house, Leigham-street, said he had attended deceased for about a week.  On Saturday morning he found him dead in bed. Dr Cooke said death was due to syncope, caused by fatty degeneration of the heart.  A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - Mr J. G. Graves, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Plymouth Mortuary yesterday on SUSAN ANN TRELOAR, aged 44, a widow, of Buckwell-street, her daughter said that on going into deceased's bedroom on Sunday morning she found her suffering from severe internal pains.  She called Dr Travers Stubbs, who gave deceased medicine.  She died the same evening.  Dr Travers Stubbs said death was due to syncope, accelerated by kidney disease.  A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - Laira Railway Fatality.  -  Mr J. G. Graves, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Arnold's Point, Plymouth, yesterday, on the body of REGINALD DAWE, aged seven years.  -  JAMES DAWE, labourer, of Embankment-road, Plymouth, the father of the boy, said on Saturday afternoon he sent him across the railway to fetch eggs from Mr Stranger's farm.  -  Charles Northcott employed by Mr Stranger, said the lad called to him and asked if he had any eggs for sale.  He was then walking along the line and singing.  A London and South-Western motor train came round the curve at that moment.  He called out to deceased three times, but he did not hear and the train went over him.  -  Charles Haggett, engine driver, L. and S.W. Railway Co., said he was driving a motor train from Friary to Mutley.  He did not notice the boy, probably owing to the sharp curve of the line.  He was not aware that he had run over anyone until he was told of the accident on arriving at Mutley.  It was probable that in any case he could not have seen deceased in time to prevent the accident.  -  Dr E. A. Travers Stubbs said DAWE had a large semi-circular cut across the back of the head, presumably where the front of the engine struck him.  In addition, both his thighs were broken.  Death was instantaneous.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and expressed their opinion that no one was to blame.

GREAT TORRINGTON - Death From Eating Plums. -  At Torrington yesterday Mr G. W. F. Brown held an Inquest on BEATRICE BLIGHT, the fourteen-year-old daughter of ALFRED BLIGHT, postman, of New-street.  Deceased was taken very ill after eating plums, and died.  -  The father said he, as well as his daughter, ate plums for supper on Saturday week and he also experienced pains in his legs and eyes, but was now better.  -  Dr H. C. Parsons said he found the girl feverish on Tuesday, and the next day she was worse and had pleurisy:  acute peritonitis followed. -  Dr Macindoe agreed that the chief trouble was the peritonitis, probably due to the fruit eaten on Saturday night and that death was due to peritonitis.  -  The Jury found a verdict of "Accidental Death from Peritonitis, set up by eating Unsound Plums."

Western Morning News, Thursday 7 October 1909
SOUTH HUISH  - Salcombe Lady's Death.  Her Delusions. - Mr R. de V. WHITEWAY-WILKINSON held an Inquest at Hope Cove yesterday on MRS SARAH HELEN WOODHEAD, of Northsands Cottage, Salcombe.    -   The Husband's Evidence.    -   MR WALTER WOODHEAD, the husband, said his wife, aged 52 years, was of a very cheerful disposition.  Occasionally she was a little depressed.  She was very devotional.  -  The Coroner:  Would it come to a sort of mania?  -  It might have had some sort of influence.  Continuing, he said he last saw his wife alive between 2 and 3 o'clock on Tuesday morning. She was then at home in bed.  He had occasionally known her leave the room for an hour or so, he thought for devotional reading.  -  Have you never followed her?  -  Occasionally, and she would say "I am returning;  nothing is the matter."  Continuing, MR WOODHEAD said there was nothing as far as he was aware that would cause her to leave the house and walk to Thurlestone unless a sudden impulse caused by devotion.  She had explained very abhorrent views against suicide.  Possibly she lost her reason.   -   It has been stated that she had no clothing on.  Did you find clothes or anything?  -  At 3 o'clock in the morning I went into the bathroom and saw her nightdress and her wedding ring was also found there.  All her other clothing was also found in the house.  ~She was greatly attached to her home and very happy.  -  Mr W. Kingsland, engineer, London, at present staying at the cottage, said he had known MR and MRS WOODHEAD and the family for a large number of years.  He last saw MRS WOODHEAD about 11 o'clock on Monday night.  She was of an extremely cheerful disposition and was especially so on Monday night.  She had been suffering from visions and voices, not often, but occasionally and they were entirely of a religious nature.  He was convinced she had some vision or voice that led her to do what she had.  She was always against suicide.    -   How The Body Was Found.   -   Frederick Adams, a youth, deposed to finding the body at 8 o'clock on Tuesday morning in the surf at Thurlestone Sands.  -  Richard H. Gill, H.M.S. Bulwark, said his attention was directed by Adams to the body of a lady floating in the surf, and he rode off to Malborough, three miles, to inform the Police.  -  The Coroner:  Could you see she was dead?  -  She appeared to be.    but if you saw a body floating, it is possible it might be a live one, someone suffering from cramp.  Another time it would be the right thing to fetch the body in.  I do not mean to say there was life in this case, but if there was, after going three miles and returning, it would be dead.  -  James Spillar, coastguard, Hope Cove, said on arriving at Thurlestone Sands, he waded into the water and with the assistance of Adams and a rope got the body ashore.  Life was extinct.  There was no clothing on the body.  -  Dr Webb, of Kingsbridge, said there were no external marks, except that the skin from the soles of both feet was rubbed off and a portion of the structure underneath it, probably caused by walking.  The brain was healthy, as were the other organs except that the liver was rather enlarged. There was nothing to show that deceased was in anything but her right mind.  Death was caused by drowning.   -   The Coroner said the case was a very sad one.  Mr Kingsland had corroborated the husband's statement that the deceased lady was of a most cheerful disposition, and that any suicidal thought was abhorrent to her.  Occasionally, however, she had suffered from delusions.  There were a good many people like that, but not insane by any means.  The evidence showed MR and MRS WOODHEAD were devoted to each other;  that she was a devout woman, and apparently went out of the room occasionally for devotions.  Why did she on this particular night go out of the house absolutely nude and walk five or six miles?  -   It was the opinion of the husband and Mr Kingsland that when she was ultra-religious she thought she heard a voice, thought she had a call, and followed the instinct with no idea of suicide.  He should suggest an open verdict of "Found Drowned."  -  The Jury unanimously adopted the Coroner's suggestion and the Foreman (Mr Taylor) asked Mr Whiteway-Wilkinson to convey the deep sympathy of the Jury to MR WOODHEAD.

Western Morning News, Monday 11 October 1909
MORTLAKE, LONDON - Keyham Traveller's Death.  Found Drowned In The Thames. -  An Inquest was held at Mortlake, London, on Saturday on JOHN PENGELLY, aged 48, of Victory-street, Keyham, Devonport, whose body was found on Thursday morning in the Thames at Mortlake.  -  HAROLD JOHN PENGELLY, boilermaker, of Keyham in giving evidence of identification, said his father was a commercial traveller.  Deceased left home on the 21st September saying he was going to London to see a firm he represented.  On the 28th ult. they received a postcard from him, simply saying he had called on the firm.  Deceased, about five years ago fell from a ship at Barry Docks, hurting his head and since then he had had frequent attacks of giddiness.  He was following his usual occupation in taking orders from the sailors on board a ship at the time of the accident.  -   Joseph William Poulter, manager for Messrs. Benson, of Ludgate-hill, London, said deceased had been engaged by his firm as a spare time agent for eleven months and received £11 5s. 5d., as commission for introducing two agents to sell watches to sailors on board H.M. ships.  It was the duty of the deceased to go on board these ships and induce the petty officer or someone else to take up an agency.  The deceased ought to have done five or six times as much business and he could easily have given the whole of his time to the work.  As the agency was not satisfactory to the firm, and could not be to the deceased, the agency agreement was terminated.  There was no question as to the deceased's books being wrong.  Deceased called on him some time before the 28th ult., and asked the firm to reconsider its decision, but witness told him they could not do that.  -  Dr Crookshank said that the body was in a very advanced state of decomposition in view of the short time it had been in the water.  The heart and lungs had every appearance of deceased having been drowned, but the change had been so rapid it was impossible to say anything more definite.  -  The Coroner said there was no evidence to show how the deceased got into the water and a verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned by the Jury.  -  Deceased was formerly in business in the Three Towns and afterwards at Bristol as a grocer, but for some years past had been engaged as commercial traveller.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 12 October 1909
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Child's Death.  Manslaughter Charge Against The Mother.  -  Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth Mortuary yesterday on the 16 months old female child of EDWARD and JOHANNAH MAHONEY, of Granby-square.  Mr J. W. Bickle represented the N.S.P.C.C.   -  The Coroner stated the child was born some months previous to the marriage of its parents.  Taken to the workhouse on Thursday last, the child died on the following day.  -  JOHANNAH MAHONEY, mother of the child, said she took the child to Dr Burke early in September, and a second time a week later, when the doctor changed the medicine.  The medicine was again changed a week afterwards.  The child had been delicate from birth.   -   Mary Flood, nurse at the Plymouth Workhouse, said the child was admitted on Thursday morning, when it was pale, thin and dirty.  There were traces of vermin and there were many abrasions.  The temperature was 97 and the pulse was feeble.  -  Mr Bickle:  What was the weight of the child?  -  Ten pounds four ounces.  -  Inspector Pearce said he first became acquainted with the child when it was three weeks old.  The child was then fat and healthy and remained so until May.  Since that time it had been gradually getting feeble and thinner. The child had been very much neglected and improperly fed for a long time and on many occasions he had warned the mother.  On October 6th, when he visited the house at 11.40 a.m., he found the child alone.  It was crying feebly and its body and limbs were little more than skin and bone.  The baby appeared to be in intense pain.  There was no suitable food for the child to be seen.  The mother came in at 12.15 when she was the worse for drink. When he saw the child on the following day, it appeared to be somewhat cleaner.  There was still no food.  The child with its clothes turned the scale at 11 ½ lb.  He removed the child on Thursday to the Workhouse.  He had known the family since 1907 and on several occasions had warned the mother.  -  The Child's Father:  -  Now Mr Pearce tell the truth.  Don't tell any lies.  -  The Coroner:  You will have plenty of opportunity of asking questions later.    -    The Mother's Denial.   -   MRS MAHONEY denied that the house was filthy and said that if it was not so clean as it should be it was because she was shifting furniture.  She was not likely to have had medical attention for the child if she had intended to neglect it.  Mr Pearce was belying her.  -  Inspector Westcott said he visited the house and saw the mother under the influence of drink.  The mother attempted to wash the child with cold water, but that he prevented.  -  P.C. Cutts deposed to visiting the house with Inspector Pearce on October 6th.  He had previously seen the mother in a public-house.  The woman was greatly addicted to drink, but the husband was an industrious man.  -  The Father:  Can I speak, sir?  -  The Coroner:  You are getting a very good character, and you had better let well alone.  -  MAHONEY denied the nurse's statement that the child was dirty when taken to the Workhouse.  It was washed and powdered the night before.   -   The Doctor's Evidence.  -  Dr Burke said when he first saw the child early in September if was suffering from diarrhoea and sickness.  It was weakly and delicate, but he could find no trace of organic disease.  When he first saw the child he gave the mother absolutely no hope of its recovery.   -   The Coroner:  Why did you arrive at that decision?  -  It was in such a delicate and puny state and it seemed to have had very little blood to nourish the tissues or revive it.  -  Was that condition caused naturally?  -  I formed the opinion that it was.  -  Dr Burke, continuing, said he saw nothing to lead him to suppose that the child had been neglected.  He formed the opinion that the disease and sickness were quite sufficient to bring the child to the condition he saw it in.  -  Mr Bickle:  Neglect would help to bring the child into that emaciated state?  -  It might.  -  If the child had got over the diarrhoea and sickness would he neglect, if it existed, have accelerated its death?  -  Yes.  -  Dr Vawdrey said he examined the child on October 7th when it was pale, weak and emaciated.  It weighed only eleven pounds with the clothes, when the average weight of a child that age should have been from 20 to 21 pounds.  He considered the child in such a dangerous condition that he advised its immediate removal to the parish infirmary.  He took this step, as he believed that if the child had remained where she was she must inevitably have died.  There were vermin marks on various parts of the body.  If Inspector Pearce's evidence was correct that would account for the loss of weight.  The child should have been treated continuously and not intermittently.  -  By Mr Bickle:  The bedding was filthy and unfit for human use.  -   The father stated that his average weekly earnings in the winter were 17s. 10d., and in the summer £1, and he had six children.  -  Dr Ward, who made a post-mortem examination, said when he saw the child a short time after admission to the Workhouse it was evidently in acute pain, and in a condition of exhaustion.  The organs were in an extremely anaemic condition, and the child was evidently very weak and exhausted as a result of diarrhoea and sickness.  He could not say that the child had suffered from want of food.  -   The Coroner:  Do you think the child's condition could be accounted for apart from the evidence today?  -  hardly.  If the child had been properly cared for it is possible it might have improved.   -  The child's mother, recalled, deposed that her baby had only been fed in a natural manner.  She was poor, but as clean as she could be.  It was not true she told Inspector Pearce that the child had been fed on bread and milk.  -  Mr Bickle:  Is it not a fact that you have kept your house and your children in a neglected and filthy condition?  -  No.  -  Is it true that your husband has himself sent in a  signed statement to the N.S.P.C.C. complaining of the way in which the children have been kept?   -   The Father:  It was three years ago I went to Mr Pearce and complained of her.  -  Inspector Pearce denied this.  The last complaint of the husband was received twelve months before last August.  -   In reply to Mr Bickle, Dr Ward said he had no doubt the child had been improperly fed.    -    The Verdict.   -   After conferring in private, the Jury found that the deceased died from Exhaustion, through Criminal Neglect.  -   The Coroner:  That is a verdict of Manslaughter.  -  The Foreman:  Yes.  -  MRS MAHONEY was committed for trial at the Assizes.  She was granted bail, herself in £40 and her husband in a similar amount.

HONITON - Honiton Baby's Death.  -  On Saturday evening PERCY STAMP, the two-year-old child of FREDERICK WILLIAM STAMP, of Honiton, fell into a pan of hot water, which had been placed on the floor of the room preparatory to giving it a bath.  The little fellow, fearfully scalded, lingered until Sunday afternoon.  At the Inquest yesterday, William Cassie, the lodger with the STAMPS, said the mother placed the hot water on the floor while she went out to get the cold water.  He called to the child to come away from the bath, but apparently its foot slipped and it fell into the hot water.  Dr Ash said that with the exception of the face, the chest and below the knees, the child was a mass of scalds.  -  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 13 October 1909
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns yesterday held an Inquest on FREDERICK JOHN GLAZIER, aged seven months, the son of WILLIAM F. GLAZIER, of Ilbert-street.  Its mother said it had been fairly healthy since birth.  Yesterday morning about 8.15 while lying on the bed it was taken with convulsions and died soon afterwards.  Dr Torney said a post-mortem examination revealed status lymphaticus, the lymph glands throughout the body being  very much swollen.  A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

TORQUAY - Ex-Popular Footballer's Suicide.  -  At Torquay yesterday Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest on the body of CHARLES H. KING, 40, who was found dead on the premises occupied by the Torquay Publishing Company in Cary-place.  Deceased was well known as secretary of the Torquay A.F.C. for three years, of which club he had also been a playing member.  -  ANN JANE KING, Marguerite-villas, Ellacombe, identified the body as that of her husband, who was manager of the printing department at the Torquay Publishing Company's Works.  On Tuesday morning the deceased got up at 6 o'clock, telling her he had a special job to do.  He did not wash himself or have breakfast, but went off in a great hurry.  He had been very strange in his manner, but she did not know the cause.  He had never threatened to take his life, and his strangeness had only been shown during the past few days.  She had been married fifteen years and there were six children.  -  Charles W. Ford, Secretary to the Torquay Publishing Company, said deceased on Monday was carrying out his duties in the usual way.  They discussed Saturday's football match together and witness did not notice anything strange in his manner.  On Tuesday morning witness and the machine man opened the door of the stereo-typing foundry and saw deceased's body lying on the floor.  Two india-rubber gas tubes used for the stereo-typing apparatus had been disconnected and were emitting gas.  The windows in the room were closed.  Deceased had told him on various occasions that he was in financial difficulties outside, and this was worrying him.  -  The Coroner:  Were his accounts right?   -  I have only found one small sum of 2s. not accounted for.  Witness added that at the end of May last deceased complained of being in difficulties and said "I feel at times tempted to get rid of myself."  KING had been in the employ of the Company 17 or 18 years.  -  After Dr Carver had given evidence that death was due to suffocation by ordinary coal gas, the Jury returned a verdict of Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane.

TORQUAY - Child's Death From Burns.  -  Another death Inquired into was that of ALBERT W. BORLASE, the five-year-old son of a labourer, living at Myrtle-cottages, Stentiford's-hill, who succumbed at Torbay Hospital to the effects of burning.  -  LOUISA BORLASE, the mother, stated that on Thursday morning about 7.30 o'clock she heard screams coming from downstairs.  She had not dressed, but immediately rushed down and out into the court, where she saw Mrs Uglow, a neighbour, with the deceased, whose clothes were smouldering.  Witness afterwards took the boy, who was conscious, though in great pain, to the Hospital.  Her other boy told her that a candle had fallen off the mantelpiece.  The children must have got the match with which it was lit outdoors, as there were none in the house.  -  Dr Woodburn, House Surgeon, at Torbay Hospital, said the burns were very extensive and the deceased never recovered from the shock.   -  In reply to the Coroner, MRS BORLASE recalled, said that deceased was wearing a flannelette shirt only at the time.  She had heard of people wearing flannelette being caught with fire.  -  The Coroner said that in ninety-nine out of every hundred burning cases such as that, the fatalities would not have occurred if flannelette had not been worn.  -  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 14 October 1909
STURMINSTER MARSHALL, DORSET - Devon Pensioner's Singular Death.  -  WILLIAM HADDON, 43, an army pensioner, belonging to Devonshire, has died at Sturminster Marshall, Dorset, under singular circumstances as revealed at the Inquest held by Mr H. O. Chislett (Coroner).  -  Daniel Dunn, of no fixed abode, said he was passing through Sturminster with deceased and they obtained relief at the Police Station.  Deceased picked up an apple and ate a part of it.  He spat some of it out and with a cry of "Oh!" would have fallen had witness not caught him.  He put him on the ground and ran for assistance.  A man named Grant came up and found him dead.  -  Dr Thompson said death was due to rupture of an artery caused by the strain of trying to dislodge a bit of apple from the oesophagus.  The man's heart was weak and diseased.  The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Friday 15 October 1909
TIVERTON - A Young Publican's Death.  -  Tiverton Borough Coroner, Mr A. Fisher, held two Inquests at the Infirmary last evening.  A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned in the case of MRS SARAH KING, of Westexe South, aged 44, who died from Apoplexy just after retiring to bed on Tuesday night.   The second case was that of HENRY SAUNDERS, 26, of the Lamb Inn, Tiverton, who on September 24th fell outside the Inn and broke his leg.  Next day he was taken to the Infirmary, and remained there until his death.  Twelve months ago he had been a drinker and had been away for "the cure."  He had been better since his return, and had taken nothing but a glass of beer on the day of the accident.  The House Surgeon said the day after his admission SAUNDERS developed delirium tremens and died on Tuesday.  It was a common thing for persons addicted to drink - even when they had given it up some time - to develop delirium tremens, after an accident or any kind of shock.  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 19 October 1909
TORQUAY  - Dartmouth Woman's Death.  Result Of Inquest.  -  Last evening at Dartmouth Guildhall, Mr A. M. Davson held an Inquest respecting the death of FLORENCE MAY WIDDICOMBE, of Dartmouth, who died at Torbay Hospital, Torquay, on Thursday last.  Mr G. E. Bates was chosen Foreman of the Jury.  -  MARGARET WIDDICOMBE, widow, identified the body as that of her daughter.  Deceased was 28 years of age, a single woman, and had been in a situation at Torquay.  Deceased had a boy five years old.  Witness saw her daughter in the Torbay Hospital on Monday last, but she was scarcely conscious.  -  Florence Rawlings, Plainmoor-terrace, Torquay, wife of a tram conductor, said that on Thursday, the 7th inst., deceased told her she thought she had strained herself.  On Saturday she complained of being worse, and on Sunday witness took her to the Hospital.  Witness asked her if she had been taking anything, and deceased replied that she had taken some pills, and asked her not to tell the doctor.  On the way to the Hospital she made another admission and witness informed Dr Carver of that.  -  Ethel Susan Fortescue, matron of Torbay Hospital, said the only thing deceased said to her which could have a bearing on the case was, "Will the Lord forgive me;  will he forgive me?  If He spares me, I will be good to my mother?"   -  Stella Fanny Smith, nurse at the Torbay Hospital, said deceased had only spoken to her of a fair man with blue eyes, whose name she mentioned.  She did not think she quite knew what she was saying then.  - Dr A. E. Carver, of Torquay, said that he had attended deceased.  Witness was suspicious that she might be pregnant.  He questioned her very carefully, but could get nothing out of her.  On the Sunday it was obvious the girl was very ill and he directed her removal to the Hospital.  -  Dr T. Horton said he saw deceased at the Hospital.  She was suffering from severe blood poisoning, and never rallied.  A post-mortem confirmed this diagnosis.  -  Mr William Harrison Woodburn, House Surgeon at the Hospital, confirmed the evidence of Dr Horton.  The Jury found that death was due to Blood Poisoning, caused by abortion.  They handed their fees to the mother of the deceased.

BIDEFORD  - A Torrington Man's Death.  -  Mr G. W. F. Brown held an Inquest at Horn's Cross, Bideford, yesterday, on WILLIAM CREESE, of Torrington.  Mr W. Stapleton, traction engine proprietor of Torrington, said on Friday his engine was drawing two trucks.  CREESE'S duty was to manage the brakes.  On the top of the hill near "Hoopes," he got off the engine and applied the brakes.  When nearing the bottom he called to CREESE to release the brakes.  As that was not done he turned round and saw CREESE lying in the middle of the road.  -  M Passmore, who was steering the engine, said on going to CREESE he said to him "What's the matter, BILL?" and he turned and said, "I am a dying man."  Witness asked "How did you do it?"  and CREESE said his right foot slipped and he fell off the hinder truck, the wheels passing over him.  -  Dr E. J. Toye (Bideford) said CREESE'S right thigh was completely crushed and he had sustained a fracture of the right leg and skull.  He died within half an hour.  -  The Jury, in returning a verdict of "Accidental Death," exonerated the driver from all blame and expressed the opinion that if a seat could be placed at the back of the truck it would be an improvement, as it would make it more convenient for the person in attendance to get up and down.  He would also be able to command a view of the traffic at the back and communicate with the driver.

EXETER - The Exeter Fatality.  Streets Dangerous Playgrounds.  -  Mr W. Linford Brown yesterday held an Inquest at Exeter on GLADYS REED, aged 1 year 9 months, who on Saturday was run over by a haulier's cart.  -  Deceased's father, HARRY REED, whitesmith, said he saw her playing with her sister at 4.15.  He went to the football match and was called home at 4.40 and found her dead.  There was not much traffic on the road as a rule.  -  MRS REED said she went out shopping, leaving her five children at home.  The eldest was ten years old.  She usually let them play in the street.  Wm. Davey, carter, said he was driving a cartload of stones through Shaftesbury-road.  Another cart was in front of him was driven by James Heard.  The carts weighed from 20 to 25 cwt.  He saw the deceased lying under the foremost cart.  She was not knocked down by the horse.  He shouted to Heard to stop, but it was too late.  He saw no other children in Shaftesbury-road at the time.  -  James Heard, carter, said he was leading his horse on the left side.  He saw two children in the road.  When he saw them they were about six or seven yards away from the cart on the right-hand side.  He heard Davey shout and stopped instantly, and found that the wheel had passed over the child.  -  By the Jury:  He did not notice the children coming towards the cart.  He should say the child had fallen backwards.  P.C. G. Parker said both carters were sober when he saw them immediately after the accident.  -  Mr S. E. Atkins, Surgeon of St. Thomas, said the child's skull was smashed in.  -  The Coroner, summing up, commented on the practice of letting young children play in the street.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and attached blame to nobody.  They drew attention to the bad state of the road and expressed sympathy with the parents with which the Coroner concurred.

PLYMPTON ST MARY - Crimean Veteran's Sudden Death At Plympton. -  An Inquest was held at Plympton yesterday on JOHN GRIFFIN, 81, naval pensioner, who died suddenly on Sunday at his home in Brookingfield-terrace, Underwood.  -  Caroline Jones, 84, sister, said her brother had been poorly off and on for some months, but had refused to see a doctor.  Mr c. H. Stephens said death was due to syncope from old age and a verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.  -  GRIFFIN joined the Royal Navy as a boy and retired after about 25 years' service with the rank of chief petty officer.  He was in the Baltic in 1854 and also took part in the siege of Sebastopol, for which he received the Crimean medal with Sebastopol clasp, and also the Turkish medal.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 20 October 1909
MARY TAVY - The Marytavy Suicide.  -  An Inquest was held at Marytavy yesterday by Mr H. C. Brown, Deputy Coroner, on ADA ACKFORD, found drowned in a well on Sunday.  -  WILLIAM ACKFORD, her father, stated that his daughter, who was twenty-one years of age, had for the last month lived at home, having left her situation at Bridestowe as she was ill.  She was then very low-spirited and depressed and suffered much from bad teeth.  He had never heard her complain of any other trouble.  On Saturday she went to bed about nine o'clock and the following morning about six o'clock he heard the door of the house opened.  Half an hour later it was found she was not in her room, and he immediately arose and went in search of her, but without success.  He had never heard her express an intention of taking her life.  -  Henry Westcott, a labourer, of Marytavy, said on Sunday he formed one of a party who went in search of the girl.   They returned at half-past one, and set out again shortly after two o'clock, and continued the search without any result until half-past four.  P.C. Heales, who is stationed at Marytavy, suggested that a well near the deceased's home should be examined.  -  Grappling irons were procured and the body of the deceased was brought to the surface.  The well was 39 feet deep and there was about 30 feet of water in it.  The deceased was in her nightdress and stockings only.  -  Dr William R. Griffin, of Marytavy, said about half-past four on Sunday, when on his way to the house, he met a party of men carrying the body.  The girl had been dead some considerable time.  Death was due to drowning.  There were no marks on the body.  He was not her medical attendant, but she spoke to him about her teeth some two months ago and he had advised her to have them seen to.  -  Dr C. C. Brodrick, of Tavistock, said he had been the medical attendant of the family for many years.  On September 28th the girl sought his advice.  She was suffering from melancholia and sleeplessness.  A week later he saw her again, when she appeared brighter and that was also the case when he saw her later.  He formed no opinion of her mental state further than that she was suffering from melancholia.  -  The Coroner reviewed the evidence and said there was no room for doubting that deceased took her life, and the Jury would have to determine her state of mind at the time.  It seemed that she had a fit of depression and was unable to view things in the right way.   -   The Jury (Mr S. Harvey, Foreman) returned a verdict of "Suicide during a fit of Temporary Insanity."  The Jury gave their fees to the mother of the deceased.

EXETER - An Exeter Inquest.  -  At an Inquest at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, yesterday, on WILLIAM BOARD, engine-driver, Swansea, who died in the Hospital, the Coroner (Mr W. L. Brown) said  he would be obliged to adjourn the Inquiry because the necessary evidence was not forthcoming.  BOARD was injured at Swansea and came to Exeter, his home, and went to the Hospital, where he died.  -  Alice Escot, of Trinity-street, said BOARD was her brother, and 29 years old.  He had been working at Swansea for the past ten weeks.  He was a native of Talaton, where his widow resided.  The doctor at Clyst Hydon said he was suffering from blood poisoning, his left arm having been burnt when attending to his engine.  Deceased told her he was feeding his engine when the flame came out and burnt his arm.  The Inquest was adjourned until Tuesday.

Western Morning News, Thursday 21 October 1909
NEWTON ABBOT - Alleged Child Neglect.  Arrest Of Newton Parents.  -  At Newton Abbot yesterday Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of BEATRICE AMELIA PUGSLEY, aged four years, the child of WILLIAM HENRY PUGSLEY, labourer and LOUISA PUGSLEY.  -  The father of the child stated that he worked for Mr Blackmore of Highweek, and earned 2s. 6d., but his employment was not always regular.  He had been turned out of his house.  The child was taken ill on Friday and became worse on Saturday.  His wife took her to the doctor, who advised her to go to the Relieving Officer and get an order for the child to be admitted to the Infirmary.  Mr Webber, the Relieving Officer, told them he could not give the order unless they all came into the House.  At first he and his wife thought they would not do that, but late in the evening decided to do so.  Mr Webber could not be seen then, so they went to the Police Sergeant, who said he could not give an order for all of them to go into the House.  The Sergeant then got lodgings for them.  Witness said he went without food himself so that the child might have milk.  About one o'clock on Tuesday the child woke up and cried, and witness went for Dr Scrase, who returned with him to the lodging-house, but the child was dead then.  -  In reply to a Juror, witness said the Inspector of the N.S.P.C.C. saw the children last week and said they were looking better then.  Dr J. J. Scrase stated that he made a post-mortem examination.  The head of the child was bound around with a dirty, foul-smelling rag, and the body was emaciated.  In his opinion death was due to pneumonia following neglect.  -   LOUISA PUGSLEY said she did what the Inspector told her in order to free the child from vermin, to which it was very subject.  She worked at the old Bradley Mill from 9 a.m. to 5.30 p.m., and put the children out to keep with a neighbour during the day.   -   John F. Webber, Relieving Officer, Newton Abbot, said as the mother and father were in work it was not a case of destitution.  Stretching a point, however, as the mother told him they had nowhere to go, he said he would give an order for all the family to be admitted to the House.  The woman approved the idea, and said she would fetch her husband, but never returned.  -   Dr W. Howells said he examined the child, and seeing that what it really required was care and attention, he advised the mother to get an order for it to enter the Infirmary.  The child was in a foul and filthy condition, and he thought it ought to have been taken away from the mother to receive proper attention.  -  Inspector James Jones, N.S.P.C.C., Torquay, stated that he had paid frequent visits to the parents' house following a complaint.  He advised the mother what to do, but she did not appear to have carried out his instructions properly.  On the occasion of his last visit the child's head was covered with ointment, but it had apparently just been applied he thought in consequence of someone informing the woman that he was in the town.  -  P.S. Newberry gave evidence and the Jury returned a verdict that Death was due to Pneumonia, accelerated by Neglect on the part of the parents.  -   The father and mother were afterwards arrested and brought before Mr A. T. Murrin at the Police Court.  On the application of the Police they were remanded until today.  They applied for bail, which was granted in the sum of £10 or two sureties of £5.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 26 October 1909
AVETON GIFFORD - Aveton Gifford Man's Death.  - Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Aveton Gifford yesterday on WILLIAM HENRY ADAMS, 34, a journeyman mason, who died from injuries received on Wednesday.  -  Dr W. H. Andrews of Modbury, said he was called to see deceased on Friday, and found him unconscious.  There were no traces of external violence. The man died the same day.  Witness made a post-mortem examination and found a fracture at the base of the skull, with a large clot on the left side, which caused death.  Nothing could have been done to save his life.  -  THOMAS ADAMS, mason, said his son was brought home about 9.30 on Wednesday in a dazed condition, and they were told he had fallen from some steps.  he was not in a fit state to explain his condition.  Witness watched him through the night and found him restless.  The next morning he seemed disinclined to talk about the accident, but asked for some tea.  He did not complain of any pain, and witness did not think him sufficiently ill to send for a doctor.  Deceased left home after supper about 7.30 on Wednesday and had been drinking.  -  William Thomas Elliott, farm labourer, stated that he met deceased in the village, and went with him to the Commercial Hotel, where they had two half-pints of ale each.  On serving the second half-pint the landlord told deceased he had had enough, so they went to the King's Arms and had another half-pint of ale each.  Later another mug of ale was served to deceased, but before drinking it he went out.  Two or three minutes after deceased left the room witness heard that he had fallen down some steps which led into the yard.  He went out and helped to pick him up and seeing that he was hurt, got him home.  Witness said he was quite sure that deceased before leaving the room showed no signs of drunkenness.  He was quite capable of descending the steps.  It was very dark, with misty rain falling and there was no light near the steps.  Witness thought deceased must have slipped.   -  James Henry Farley, proprietor of the Commercial Hotel, corroborated the first part of the last witness's evidence, and added that he thought he was a little too cautious in telling deceased he had had enough.  He showed no signs of being the worse for drink.  -  John Andrew Steere, proprietor of the King's Arms, corroborated Elliott's evidence of what happened at his hotel.  Witness thought deceased must have slipped in opening the door at the top of the steps.  Deceased was sober.  -  The Coroner, summing up, said it was quite plain that deceased was sober at the time of the accident, and no blame attached to the landlord.  He suggested that Mr Steere should place a lamp at the head of the steps.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and expressed their sympathy with the deceased's family.

EXMOUTH - Exmouth Disaster.  The Jury and "Incautious" Driving Of The Car.  -  Dr R. Tweed, the East Devon Coroner, yesterday held an Inquest on the body of WILLIAM GIBSON, builder, of Beaufort-road, Exeter, one of the victims of the Exmouth motor smash.  Mr S. Andrew (Exeter) represented the deceased's family.  Mr W. H. Tarbet (Exeter) for Mr T. Dymond, and Sergt. Rattenbury appeared on behalf of the Police.   -   The Coroner said they would deeply deplore the second death in that terrible tragedy, and under the circumstances things were altered a little.  If it was possible they would finish the case of MR CUNDY.  -  Mr Sidney Andrew, solicitor, Exeter, identified the body and said deceased was 29 years of age.  In view of the statements made at the last hearing, he should like to say that from his personal experience of the deceased he had never seen him the worse for liquor.  He was a man of most temperate and steady habits, particularly during the past year or two.  He was about to be married, and was working at his business with a view to realizing his ambition.  Witness had extracted half a promise from the deceased not to buy the motor car, but he seemed to have avoided the wish of witness.  He was a man of very careful habits.  -  By Sergt. Rattenbury:  The reason he advised the deceased not to buy the car was because he had come into certain property, and witness did not think his means justified it.  He thought the Police had no right to make suggestions such as they had made.  -  Sergt. Rattenbury:  Did you know he was refused drink at the Mount Pleasant Hotel?  -  I have heard so, and I also know that there has been one or two prosecutions in the city against publicans and probably in this case the manager was over-careful.  Proceeding, Mr Andrew said he could not understand the attitude of the Police, with those men lying dead.  It was most indecent.  It was a case of persecution, and they were following the suggestions to a discreditable death.  -  Sergt. Rattenbury:  I don't think you have any right to say that.  -  Well, that is my view.   -   Intoxicated Or Not?   -   Edwin James Soper, brother-in-law of the deceased, and assistant sanitary inspector to the St. Thomas Rural District Council, said he had known GIBSON for 15 years, and in that time had never seen him the worse for liquor.  Witness always thought him very careful.  He should think deceased was a nervous driver, in that he was very careful in passing vehicles on the road.  -  By the Jury:  He would not assume he was a total abstainer.  During the time he knew him he had not seen him drink half a dozen glasses of beer.   -   P.C. Brown, Exmouth, repeated the evidence given at the Inquest on CUNDY.  when he arrived at the scene of the accident GIBSON was there unconscious.  He was taken to the Hospital.  Dymond was drunk without a doubt.  witness tried to obtain information from him as to how the accident happened.  He said, "It was all GIBSON'S fault.  I told him to be careful, but he (GIBSON) said "Let the ..... go;  let's see what she can do."   Witness continued the evidence which he gave at the last hearing.  -  By Mr Andrew:  You are sure he staggered down the road?  -  Yes, sir.   -  Did you see any brandy given him?  -  No, sir; I heard that he had had some.  -  Witness said he had ascertained that they had taken an hour and a half to come from Exeter, but he could not find out that they had stopped drinking anywhere on the road.  He thought the delay was brought about by the wrong road being taken.  -  P.S. Rattenbury corroborated and James Robert Wheeler, manager for his father at the Mount Pleasant Hotel, Exeter, spoke to refusing to supply drink to the deceased, as he was red in the face and "boisterous" in his manner.  -  By Mr Andrew:  Licensed holders in Exeter had to be careful by reason of several prosecutions lately.   -   John Chas. Lamacraft, landlord of the Coach and Horses Inn, Exeter, repeated his evidence.  -  Cross-examined:  All three men were highly respected in Exeter, and he had never known any of them drunk.  -  Harry Cross, boots at the Bude Hotel, Exeter, in cross-examination by P.S. Rattenbury, said the men might have been drinking, but deceased was in a fit state to have charge of the car.  -  Wm. Dale Glossop, of Hulham-road, Exmouth, in answer to Sergt. Rattenbury, said he could not say whether Dymond was sober or not, as he was so excited.  -  By Mr Andrew:  He ran down the road for assistance all right, although he was excited.  Witness thought the corner was dangerous.  There was danger of mistaking the white wall for the road, and the lamp on the corner had the tendency to make people believe that there was a road running straight along.  -  Dr Beesley of Exmouth, said he found GIBSON unconscious and bleeding from a small wound on the left side of the forehead, whilst on the right side of the forehead there was an abrasion.  Witness ordered his removal to the Hospital.  On Friday morning GIBSON appeared to be a little better, although he was still unconscious and in a critical condition.  At 3.15 p.m. he was considerably worse, and serious symptoms developed.  -   Dr Bell, Surgeon, of Exeter and Dr Vlieland saw deceased with witness on Friday evening.  They all agreed that the only course was to operate on the deceased, and this was done at 8 p.m., but he died at 10.15 p.m., without regaining consciousness.  He died of fracture of the skull and compression of the brain, as the result of the accident.   -   Mr Andrew:  do you think that this accident may be attributable to the fact that they had been drinking?  -  Dr Beesley said there seemed to be an opinion that he was a hostile witness.  He was not hostile. He did not care two pins whether they were drunk or not.  He came there to speak the truth.  -  You rather gave the impression on the last occasion that they had been drinking?  -  No, you are quite mistaken.  I knew nothing about the condition of GIBSON before the accident.  -  Mr W. H. Tarbet (Exeter), for Dymond, said there was absolutely no foundation for the statement as regards Dymond.  -  Dr Beesley:  There is absolutely no doubt that Dymond was under the influence of drink.  Continuing, witness said there were cases in which a man would walk to the Hospital and be refused admission as being drunk when he was suffering from concussion.  -  Mr Andrew:  The suggestion that the accident was attributable to drink is wrong, is it not?  -  Witness:  You don't know, you were not there.  You have nothing to do with it.    -    Dymond's Story.    -    Thomas Dymond, the survivor of the accident, who appeared with plaster on his face, said he was a commercial traveller, of School-road, Exeter.  he met GIBSON and CUNDY, at the Mount Pleasant Hotel between 7.30 and 8 p.m.  When they arrived he had been in the Hotel about a quarter of an hour.  Both the deceased men were old friends of his, and they were quite sober when they came to the Mount Pleasant Hotel.  Witness was there on business.  The landlord refused drink to GIBSON, who said, "Come along, Dymond, come with me," and they left the Hotel, and went off in the car to the Coach and Horses, Sidwell-street.  They went there for the purpose of getting the lamps right.  They each had a drink, and were at the Coach and Horses a few minutes, but they were half an hour getting the lamps right.  They were then going to Exmouth, and broke the journey at the Bude Hotel, where each had a drink.  Witness had a whisky and soda and they others had a dry ginger.  They then proceeded to Exmouth, stopping on the way to inquire the road.  They were told that they were on the right road.  When they left Exeter witness advised GIBSON to be careful.  He was not driving furiously.  GIBSON made no remark.  He did not say "Let her go."   -    The Coroner:  Will you also say that you did not make that statement to the Police?  -  I might have made the suggestion, but I was not responsible after the accident.  Continuing, witness said he remembered nothing until he got home at Exeter.  He could not remember seeing Dr Beesley, or being at Exmouth Hospital until he was told.  He did not remember seeing Mr Dale Glossop at the scene of the accident.  The only thing he could account for the accident was that MR GIBSON mistook the wall for the road.  He remembered seeing something white before they got to the wall.  He did not think the car was travelling at too great a rate, and although he was injured himself he did not blame the driver for the accident.   -  By Sergeant Rattenbury:  They did not almost run into the hedge on two or three occasions.  They got out to light the lamps two or three times.  -  Francis Oscar Crosby, motor engineer, said he advised GIBSON to buy a car, but was giving him lessons in driving, but did not consider the car was wholly under his (deceased's) control.  The change speed lever was in the second notch, and this would not allow of the car travelling at more than 16 or 18 miles an hour.  It would be impossible for the car to travel 35 miles an hour, even in that gradient of one in 30 and with the engine shut off.  Witness had come to the conclusion from the tracks of the car that GIBSON was driving very carefully at the time of the accident.  -  The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence, and added their view that the accident had been caused by inexperienced and incautious driving.  They also expressed their sympathy with the relatives of the deceased men.  -  Mr Tarbet, on behalf of Dymond said he (Dymond) desired to express his deep regret at the calamity which had ended in the death of two of his friends;   and Mr Andrew, on behalf of the relatives and friends of GIBSON, expressed thanks for the assistance that had been rendered, especially by Mr Dale Glossop, Lady Stuart and Mr Stuart, and the Doctor.

STOKE DAMEREL - The Hamoaze Discovery.  Inquest On Plymouth Fish Hawker.  -  At Devonport yesterday Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest on CHARLES KESSEL, aged 52 years, a fish and fruit hawker, of St. Leonard's-road, Prince Rock, Plymouth.  -  SOPHIA KESSEL, the widow, said she last saw deceased alive on the morning of the 11th inst., when he left the house expressing his intention of going to work.  He never returned.  He left on good terms, but had been worrying greatly at his inability to get sufficient food for his children.  He had been suffering from the heart, and had frequent attacks of rheumatism.  Lately deceased had not enough money to buy fish to sell.  Deceased left five children, the youngest being only a year and five months old.  Witness made inquiries at the Barbican and other places for her husband, but without result.  -   Frederick Maloney, a fish porter, living at The Parade, Plymouth, said he had known the deceased intimately.  Witness saw him near St. Andrew's Church about 6.45 p.m. on the 11th inst., and when witness left him to go home, KESSEL remarked that it would not be long before he, himself, went home. Witness added that the trade was very slack at the present time, a fact which was in a great measure due to the many steam trawlers about.  They were ruining the fishing trade, for they killed everything at the bottom of the sea.  Deceased was usually a jolly sort of man.  -  William Kinsman, waterman of Tamar-street, Morice Town, said he discovered the body floating in the Hamoaze off Pottery Quay at 6.30 on Saturday morning.  -  P.S. Voss spoke to removing the body to the Mortuary with the assistance of P.C. Pryor.  - Dr T. McElwaine said the body was in a very decomposed state.  Parts of it had been eaten away.  It was impossible to say the cause of death.   -  The Coroner characterized the case as a very sad one, and added that there was not sufficient evidence to show how deceased met his death.  -  In returning a verdict of "Found Dead," the Jury expressed sympathy with the family, and handed the widow their fees.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 27 October 1909
EXETER - Pensioner's Sudden Death.  -  In the case of SAMUEL JONES, aged 59 of Springfield-road, James Sidney Jones, Inspector N.S.P.C.C. of Torquay said deceased was a pensioner clerk of the Royal Engineers.  -  ELIZABETH JONES, widow, said deceased had always enjoyed good health and had not had a doctor for seventeen years.  On Sunday last he slipped off a chair, but said he was not hurt.  he did not wish to have a doctor.  At midnight she heard him gasp whilst in bed.  He looked very ill and did not speak.  She sent for Dr Bradford, but he died before anything could be done.  - Mr J. Bradford, Surgeon, said a post-mortem examination showed a fatty heart.  There was evidence of old pleurisy and congestion at the base of the left lung.  Death was due to heart failure.  A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.  -  The deceased commenced his career at an early age in the 1st Battalion Devon Regiment and was associated with that regiment until 1898, when he was discharged on a pension with 34 ½ years' service.  Since that time he has been connected with the band of the 3rd Battalion.  In 1885 on his removal to Exeter, he was transferred to the pay-office of the 11th Regimental District as paymaster-sergeant.  At the time of his death he was a clerk in the R.E. office at the Higher Barracks, performing his duties until as recently as Saturday last.  Quartermaster Sergeant JONES came from an old army family.

Western Morning News, Thursday 28 October 1909
NEWTON ABBOT - Death From Lockjaw.  -  Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday upon MRS FLORENCE GEORGINA RIDGWAY, wife of WILLIAM R. RIDGWAY, engine fitter, of Forde-road, Newton Abbot.  -  Deceased's husband said she had enjoyed good health up to a few weeks ago, when she had an attack of influenza.  On Sunday he carried a cup of tea to her room and found her with her jaws hard set.  She died of lockjaw on Tuesday.  Dr. A. Nisbet's evidence showed that deceased had suffered from an in-growing toe nail, and although there was no evidence of abrasion of the skin, that seemed to be the only possible explanation of the origin of the attack of tetanus.  -  A verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 30 October 1909
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Stonemason's Death.  -  An Inquest was held in the Summerland-place Schools, Plymouth, yesterday on WILLIAM RICHARD REDMORE, aged 67, a journeyman stonemason, of Queen'-street, Plymouth.  -  RICHARD JOHN REDMORE, plumber, said the deceased, his father, complained on returning from work on October 4th that he had been knocked down by an unknown cyclist as he was coming from the docks into Bath-street.  Next day the deceased was too unwell to go to work and he was ill up to the time of his death yesterday morning.  -  Richard Corder, bargeman, King-street, Plymouth, stated that at 5.30 p.m. on October 4th he saw a young man cycling rather furiously in Millbay-road.  Then he heard a shout and saw deceased in a dazed condition on the ground.  He had heard the remark passed that there was no brake and no bell on the bicycle.  -  The Deputy Coroner, Mr J. Graves:  Was the rider present when the remark was made?  -  Witness said he did not know, and added, in answer to questions from the Jury, that he asked bystanders to take the young man's name and address and those of his employer, but the deceased, on recovering a little, said "It is only a poor boy, and you may as well let him go."  -  Dr J. H. Torney, who has attended deceased since October 6th, said there was a wound on one of deceased's fingers and the ribs on the left side were contused.  The injuries, which were very slight, would not have caused the death of a strong man, but deceased had been of intemperate habits.  Death was due to heart failure, following on delirium.  -  The Deputy Coroner remarked that no one really examined the bicycle and there was no evidence that there was no brake and no bell.  It would, therefore, be hardly fair on the cyclist to make any comment on that.  -  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, and the Jury expressed sympathy with the relatives.

Western Morning News, Monday 1 November 1909
IPPLEPEN - Fatal Accident At Ipplepen. - Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, on Saturday held an Inquest at Newhouse, Ipplepen, on JOHN FORD.  -  JOHN FORD, son of the deceased, stated that his father, who was 63, left home at half-past seven in the morning in his usual health.  -   Thomas Willcocks stated that he and Mr Coysh were working with deceased collecting apples.  FORD was on a ladder, Coysh holding the ladder.  Deceased lurched to the right and fell headlong to the ground.  -  Dr Norman, who was summoned, stated that deceased had sustained a dislocated neck.  He conjectured that a paralytic stroke was the cause of deceased falling.  -  The Jury gave a verdict of "Accidental Death," adding that no one was to blame.

EAST STONEHOUSE - The Hogue Explosion.  Coroner's Jury to Inspect The Engine-Room.  -  After taking evidence of identification, Mr R. R. Rodd on Saturday afternoon adjourned the Inquest on GEORGE GILES (19) stoker, second class, who died at the R.N. Hospital, Stonehouse on Friday, from injuries caused by the explosion in the cruiser Hogue.  -  The Coroner stated that Deputy Inspector General Eames had informed him that there was every hope of the other seven men injured in the explosion recovering from their burns sufficiently to be able to attend and give evidence as to the cause of the explosion on the 8th inst, to which date he proposed to adjourn the Inquest.  The body was identified by Thomas James Hoskins, stoker of the Hogue.  The coroner said he proposed to inspect the engine-room of the Hogue on Monday afternoon and those of the Jury who wished might accompany him.  -  The funeral of STOKER GILES who was a native of Burton-on-Trent, will, according to present arrangements, take place tomorrow morning at Plymouth Cemetery.

PLYMPTON ST MARY - Plympton Pauper's Death. -  Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Plympton Workhouse on Saturday on JAMES MATTHEWS, 73, an inmate of the Workhouse Infirmary who died on Friday.  -  Dr W. D. Stamp said deceased had been under his treatment for paralysis agitates.  On the 6th inst. he was called by the head nurse to see deceased whom he found suffering from a fractured thigh. Deceased did not appear to know how he came by the injury.  He said he had not been ill-treated or hurt in any way.  To a man in deceased's condition such an injury might come as the result of muscular contraction and spasms of cramp.  This was what he thought actually happened.  Death was due to paralysis agitates accelerated by the injury.  -  William Henry Wills, an inmate of the Workhouse, said deceased complained of pain after he had had assisted him back to bed and he informed the nurse.  A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 2 November 1909
PLYMOUTH - Fisherman's Sudden Death. -  An Inquest on GEORGE HENRY TOMS was held by Mr R. B. Johns at the Plymouth Mortuary yesterday. Deceased, a fisherman, living in Castle-street, died on board the hooker Queen Alexandra on Saturday.  -  Albert tucker said he saw deceased fall backwards about one o'clock on Saturday afternoon.  He was sitting mending the trawl of the boat in readiness for their putting out to sea.  Witness had known TOMS for ten years, during which time he had never heard him complain of a weak heart.  Dr Clarke said death was due to chronic heart disease.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 3 November 1909
WOODBURY - Dr Tweed (District Coroner) held an Inquest at Woodbury yesterday on MRS ELIZABETH HAWKINGS, widow, who died on her way home from church on Sunday evening.  Miss Pine, Miss Glanville and Mr Lock gave evidence as to finding her in the roadway.  On the evidence of Dr Furnivall, it was found that deceased died from Heart Failure.

STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Doctor's Death.  Open Verdict Returned.  -  At Devonport yesterday Mr J. A. Pearce conducted an adjourned Inquiry into the death of DR EDWIN JONATHAN HINVEST, of St Aubyn-street, who was found dead in his bedroom on the morning of the 21st ult.  The Inquest had been adjourned in order that an analytical examination of the stomach might be made.  The Coroner intimated that the public analyst (Dr Bean) had sent his report of the analysis.  This stated that the contents of the stomach were submitted to the usual exhaustive method for detecting strychnine, and finally a minute white crystalline residue was obtained giving faintly the reaction for strychnine, but quite in an unmeasureable quantity.  Taken by the mouth, liquor strychnia passes rapidly into the circulation, and as a fatal dose takes generally two to three hours to kill, the traces of the poison thus found may bear but a small proportion to the amount originally swallowed.  It should be remembered that the drug is largely prescribed in cases of nervous exhaustion, &c.    -    Accidental Or Wilful Suffocation.   -   The Coroner said the report did not carry them one bit further than they were before.  Death was undoubtedly due to suffocation and it was for the Jury to decide whether suffocation was accidental or wilful.  If they came to the conclusion that there was not sufficient evidence to warrant them in bringing in a verdict to either effect, a medium course remained open to them and they could say that death was due to suffocation, but that there was not sufficient evidence to show how it was caused.  -  At the request of the jury, Dr T. McElwaine was recalled and, in reply to the Coroner, said he could not say now the suffocation was caused.  -   The Coroner:  After hearing the public analyst's report, can you say whether suffocation was due to an accident or whether it was due to strychnine poisoning?  -  I cannot say either way.  -  Mr Mayburne Pearce, who watched the proceedings on behalf of an interested party, asked the Doctor whether, in view of Dr Bean's report, suffocation might have been due to strychnine poisoning.  -  Witness:  Yes, it may have been.  -  A careful examination, externally and internally, might not show sufficient strychnine to cause death, even if it had been caused by strychnine poisoning?  -  Witness concurred with this view.   -   A Juror:  We have heard that deceased vomited.  Can you say whether he vomited any of the strychnine?  -  I should say that as there was strychnine in the stomach deceased must have vomited some.  -  The Coroner:  Is it a fact that strychnine is taken to produce sleep in cases of insomnia?  -  Not exactly to produce sleep, but, as Dr Bean says, it might e taken in cases of nervous exhaustion or chronic alcoholism.  -  The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that Death was due to Suffocation, but that there was not sufficient evidence to show how it was caused.  -  The Coroner:  I think that is the only verdict you can arrive at under the circumstances.

Western Morning News, Friday 5 November 1909
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Widow's Death.  Asphyxiation By Accident.  -  Mr J. Graves (Deputy Coroner for Plymouth) held an Inquiry at the Borough Mortuary yesterday into the death of MARY ANN HOCKING, widow of a waterman, living at Sutton-road.  -  Eliza Sutcliffe, living in the same house as deceased said she was unable to obtain any response when she knocked at MRS HOCKING'S door yesterday morning.  She called in a passer-by, who burst open the door, and the discovered the unfortunate woman lying dead on the bed.  There was a strong smell of gas in the room, and a naked gas bracket was alight.  There had been a smell of gas in the room the previous day, but they had sent no complaint to the gas company.  -  Dr Clarke said he found MRS HOCKING in the room dead.  A post-mortem examination revealed the fact that death was due to asphyxia from gas poisoning.  -  In reply to a question by the Coroner, witness said cases had been known where death had occurred from gas poisoning from a leakage of gas, where at the same time a naked light was burning in the room.  -  John Arthur Richmond, manager of the distribution department of the Plymouth and Stonehouse Gas Co., said he had that morning examined the house and vicinity for a leakage and had found that a socket joining two lengths of one-inch pipe, which conveyed the gas service to the house, had been fractured.  The main, which ran along the middle of the road, was 3 feet 2 inches below the surface, but owing to a necessity for raising the service to enter the house, the socket which was broken was only 12 ½ inches from the surface.  The fracture in the socket was quite new, and it was practically certain that it had been broken the previous afternoon, when a steam roller had passed over the granite sett.  The gas escaping from the fracture must have got into the room where deceased was sleeping.  -  Replying to the Coroner, witness stated that the conditions made it necessary that the pipe should be raised to the extent it was.  The road was not one which had a lot of heavy traffic on it, and it was a very rare occurrence for a steam roller to pass over the sett at the side of a road.  -  Mrs Sutcliffe, recalled, said it was only the previous afternoon, after the roller had been at work, that they had noticed an escape of gas.  They did not think of notifying the gas company of the leak, and considered it safe for MRS HOCKING to sleep in as she had lost her power of smell.  -  The Jury, after a short deliberation, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Saturday 6 November 1909
TAMERTON FOLIOT - Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Langley Farm, Tamerton Foliot yesterday, on ERNEST BAYLEY HIGGINS, aged 16, farm labourer, who died on Wednesday.  -  CHARLES SAMUEL HIGGINS, general labourer of Portland House, Portland-ope, Devonport, said deceased, who was his brother, had never been very strong.  He had always expressed himself as content with his work at Langley Farm.  -  Ann Eliza Brown, wife of William Winnicott Brown, of Langley Farm, said deceased had been in their employ since last May, during which time he had always got on very satisfactorily.  On Saturday morning he had a sick headache, to which he said he was subject.  He recovered the same day and continued his work until the following Tuesday, when he became worse.  he did one or two jobs on the farm, and went early to bed.  Next morning he was much worse and witness sent for a doctor.  - Dr T. Alger, of Crownhill, said deceased was dead when he arrived.  Death was due to double pneumonia which developed very quickly.  A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 8 November 1909
TOTNES - At Totnes Guildhall on Saturday Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest on MARY ANN BEER, 69, widow of a Totnes carter, who lived in the Grove Almshouses, receiving 3s. a week from the Parish.  Mrs Sixsmith deposed that deceased paid 1s. a week for assistance.  On the previous day at 12.45  p.m. she saw her and three-quarters of an hour later found her dead on the floor.  Dr W. R. Edmond attributed death to syncope, and a verdict was returned accordingly.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 9 November 1909
PLYMOUTH - At Plymouth Mortuary yesterday, Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest on SARAH ANN DOWN, widow, aged 75, of 40 St Andrew's-street, Plymouth, who was found dead in bed on Saturday.  Dr C. J. Cooke said death was due to pneumonia and pleurisy and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

EAST STONEHOUSE - The Hogue Explosion.  -  At the adjourned Inquest yesterday on GEORGE GILES, stoker second class, who died from injuries caused by the Hogue explosion, the Coroner (Mr R. R. Rodd) said he was informed by Deputy Inspector General Eames that only two of the seven other injured men were in a fit state to appear and give evidence.  Consequently he proposed to adjourn the Inquest for another week.  -  Mr K. E. Peck represented the Admiralty and H.M. Inspector of Factories was also present.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 10 November 1909
EAST STONEHOUSE - The Hogue Explosion.  A Second Death. -  A second death has resulted from the explosion which occurred a fortnight since in the cruiser Hogue, Leading Stoker EZRA OAKLEY, 27, succumbing to his injuries at the R.N. Hospital, Stonehouse, late on Monday night.  deceased, who belonged to Weston Turville, Buckinghamshire, where he leaves a widow and two children, was badly burned about the face and neck, and had been in a critical state ever since the accident.  -  Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, opened the Inquest last evening, and after evidence of identification had been given, it was adjourned until Monday next, to which date the Inquest on 2nd Class Stoker GILES, the other victim, had already been postponed.

NEWTON ABBOT - Guy Fawkes-Day Fatality.  Sad Affair At Newton.  -  At the Hospital, Newton Abbot, last night, Mr S. Hacker conducted an Inquiry concerning the death of ARTHUR RAYMONT, a boy who was injured, together with three others, in an explosion which occurred on November 5th in East-street.  Emily Bassett (13), William Coombes (6) and William Bassett (19) were the other victims and they are now in the Hospital, but recovering.  WILLIAM HENRY RAYMONT, labourer, Pear Tree-place, said the deceased was his son, aged 6 ½ years.  On November 5th deceased went out to see the fireworks and shortly after witness heard a tremendous explosion.  Then his little son came in crying "Daddy."  He was black all over.  Witness afterwards found his son's injuries were serious and he took him to the Hospital.  The boy said "Oh, daddy, I am going to die."  He knew that Bassett, another boy, had some gunpowder, and he advised him to take it up on the hill in a field and throw it about, so that it would not be dangerous.  This he agreed to do.  -  EMILY RAYMONT, 13, said she was playing with the other children.  Deceased was sitting on the edge of the kerb and there was a small Chinese lantern alight in the gutter.  Bassett came out and to amuse the children started to sprinkle a little of the gunpowder around the lantern.  The paper in which it was wrapped caught fire, and then there was an explosion.  She did not see any tin;  only a paper parcel.  -  Dr J. Culross said he found deceased suffering from severe burns on the face and hands and knee, and shock.  Septic poisoning ensued.  Death was due to the burns and shock.  The other children and Bassett were more burnt than deceased, but they were recovering.  Bassett would probably be able to give evidence in a fortnight.  -  Thomas William King, retired schoolmaster, Wolborough-street, said he was formerly a schoolmaster in Cornwall and had always assisted his boys in Fifth of November celebrations.  He had two small tins of powder, only partially filled and practically airtight, which he gave to Bassett, which strict instructions to be careful what he did with it. Bassett sold papers at the office where witness was employed and he thought that a lad of his age - almost a man - was a safe person to give the powder to.  He only gave it to him out of kindness.  He told him not to take it near a fire and Bassett seemed well aware that gunpowder was dangerous if not properly handled.  He would never have thought of giving a younger lad gunpowder.  Bassett told him he was going to use it in a backyard.  Witness expressed his deep regret at what happened.  -  The Inquest was adjourned until the 20th inst., in order that Bassett's evidence might be taken.

Western Morning News, Friday 12 November 1909
BARNSTAPLE - A Barnstaple Inquest. -  At Barnstaple last evening Mr A. Bencraft, Borough Coroner, opened an Inquest on the body of the newly-born male child of NELLIE FOXLOW, a young woman who has been employed in the bar at the Mermaid, Barnstaple.  The Coroner said the Jury would have to Inquire into the death, but he thought it expedient to adjourn, as it was desirable that the mother should attend.  Dr Ware having given evidence that the child was born on the evening of November 9th, and that the mother was NELLIE FOXLOW, the Jury viewed the body and the Inquest was adjourned for a week.

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Man's Pathetic End. - At the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital (Plymouth) Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest yesterday respecting the death on Tuesday of FREDERICK JOHN WAKEHAM, aged 24 years, of 3 Stoke-gardens, Plymouth.  -  LUCY WAKEHAM, wife of a dock labourer, said her son, the deceased, was invalided out of the R.M.L.I. about two years ago.  For the last month he had been very depressed.  On November 2nd a neighbour, who had been sitting in the bedroom with him, left the room for a few minutes, and just afterwards, at 4.30 p.m., they heard groans.  She ran upstairs and finding in what condition her son was, sent for Dr Waterfield, who ordered the removal of deceased to the Hospital.  -  Dr Porter, House Surgeon, stated that the deceased was admitted to the Hospital with a wound in his throat about two and a half inches long, which just touched the windpipe.  He did not think this was the cause of death, for the deceased was practically dying from consumption when he was admitted to the Hospital. -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" and joined the Coroner in an expression of sympathy with the mother of deceased.

Western Morning News, Saturday 13 November 1909
TIVERTON - Tiverton Man's Death. -  THOMAS CHILCOTT, of Tiverton, a powerfully-built stone breaker, age 46, was found by some boys yesterday morning lying dead in St Peter's Churchyard.  He left home to go to work about eight o'clock and was seen alive and apparently well a quarter of an hour before the boys' discovery.  The Police were quickly on the spot, and the body taken to the Infirmary, and found the man died from heart disease.  Death from "Natural Causes" was the verdict found at the Inquest later.

EXETER - The Exeter Fatality.  Strange Presentment. - At the Inquest at Exeter yesterday on THOMAS DICKENS, aged 64, a decorator of Peckham, who was killed whilst at work in the West of England Eye Infirmary on Wednesday, Mr A. Bridge Barrett of Peckham, managing director of Bridge Barrett & Co., builders and decorators, Regent-street, London, said deceased was an employee of the firm and very steady.  He was engaged doing work in the stairway at the Eye Infirmary at the time of the accident, working on a plank.  - Edward Lawrence, a fellow employee, said he was also engaged in decorating the interior of the Infirmary. One end of the plank rested on the top rung of a ladder and the other end on a wall, and was apparently firm.  The ladder was used at the time by deceased himself.  They returned to work after tea and witness was about to descend the stairs where deceased was working when he heard him call out, and there was a crash.  He found the deceased on the cement floor, the bucket he was using had fallen and the ladder and plank had shifted from their position.  The plank was 11 ft. 3in. from the ground.  Deceased had previously complained to witness that he was not feeling quite well and said he had a presentment that he should not go back to London alive.  -  Dr Ransom Pickard said deceased died about a minute after he arrived at the Institution.  He had a fractured base of the skull and a laceration of his brain.  The authorities at the Infirmary desired to say how much they regretted the accident and to express their sympathy with the relatives.  -  Mrs Vosper, 32 Magdalen-street, with whom deceased lodged, said he had complained of faintness.  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

EAST BUDLEIGH - Budleigh Fatality.  Dangerous Corner For Cyclists. - Dr E. R. Tweed, the East Devon Coroner yesterday held an Inquest at the Budleigh Salterton Cottage Hospital, on SIDNEY STAFFORD PALMER, aged 22, of Brookside Cottage, East Budleigh.  -  W. PALMER, labourer, brother of the deceased, said his brother always cycled to his work.  He could not say whether he was a careful rider or not, but he never heard of any accident to him.  -  James Pengelley, painter, of Stoneborough, Budleigh, said he was picking up leaves near the spot where the accident occurred.  Hearing a call he went and saw the deceased who was apparently dead and helped to take him to the Hospital.  -  By P.S. Hutchings (on behalf of the Police):  [NOTE:  Section very faint and difficult to read ].  Dr T. G. C. Evans said he saw deceased at 7.30 a.m. and death must have taken place half an hour previous.  He came to the conclusion that deceased had broken his neck.  There were no external wounds.  Death was due to fracture of the neck.  -  The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony, expressed sympathy with the parents and gave their fees to the deceased's mother.  They attached no blame to anybody.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 16 November 1909
EAST STONEHOUSE - The Hogue Explosion. -  The Inquest on GEORGE GILES, stoker 2nd Class, and EZRA OAKLEY, leading stoker, victims of the explosion in the cruiser Hogue, was again adjourned yesterday owing to the other men who were injured being too unwell to attend.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 17 November 1909
BAMPTON - Bampton Child's Death.  -  The Inquest on FREDERICK WILLIAM GRATTEN, the twelve-months'-old child of MR and MRS WILLIAM GRATTEN, of Mill Head, Bampton, was held on Monday by Mr H. W. Gould.  MRS GRATTEN, the mother of the child, deposed she gave the child on Saturday morning a piece of lean pork and laid it back in the cradle.  A few minutes afterwards, upon looking round, she observed the child appeared to be choking.  Being unable to relieve the child herself, she called in a neighbour (Mrs Hagley), who was not able to do anything.  She then ran for Dr Paine and by the time they arrived the child was dead.  -  Mrs Hagley, Mrs Hill and Mrs Hancock corroborated the evidence given by MRS GRATTEN.  Dr Paine said the child died from asphyxia.  He found a piece of meat, about an inch square, in the upper part of the windpipe and in the stomach partly digested food.  In answer to the Coroner, Dr Paine said it was improper feeding.  -  The Jury returned a verdict "That the child was Accidentally Choked to Death," and exonerated the mother from all blame.

Western Morning News, Saturday 20 November 1909
PLYMOUTH -  Plymouth Burning Fatality.  -  Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday, on ARCHIBALD CYRIL STADDON, aged 3 years.  The child's mother, wife of LEWIS JOHN STADDON, journeyman carpenter, 3 Hewers-row, said on Wednesday morning deceased ran from the kitchen into his brother's bedroom while in his night shirt.  He obtained a box of safety matches, and igniting one set his clothing on fire.  His sister heard him screaming and at once rolled rugs around him.  -  Richard Henry Oats, pensioner, R.M.L.I., said he found the child severely burned and took him straight to the Hospital.  -  Dr D. Macnair said deceased suffered from extensive burns.  It was a hopeless case from the first and the child died some hours after from shock caused by the burns.  -  The Jury expressed their sympathy with the parents and the Coroner said the little girl's action was most plucky.  - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

RICHMOND, SURREY - Exeter Man's Death.  -  An Inquest was held at Richmond, London, on Thursday, on JOHN FISHER, 62, an Exeter man, who died at Richmond on Sunday last.  -  John Short, Kew-road, Richmond, said that the deceased had lodged with him for the past 18 months, and had been employed during that period as a horse-keeper by the London United Tramways.  Deceased, who was very eccentric and peculiar in his manner, had told him his home was at Exeter and that before coming towards London, he had been living on the outskirts of the city about three times.  Deceased had not corresponded with anyone there, however, so far as witness knew - or with anyone else for that matter.  Of late he had not been able to do his work well and he was transferred from the Futwell to the Kew-road depot to an easier job.  On Monday evening, August 23rd, whilst descending the stairs at the Kew-road depot, he fell.  On the advice of a doctor, witness arranged for the deceased to go into the Hospital.  -  Dr Chapman said that his case, apart from the injury to the leg through the accident, was quite hopeless.  Death was due to softening of the brain and was possibly somewhat hastened by shock consequent on the fall.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," but the Coroner said he could not accept that in view of the fact that the accident hastened the death possibly, and the Jury altered their verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

Western Morning News, Monday 22 November 1909
EAST STONEHOUSE - A Stonehouse Inquest. -  Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Stonehouse on Saturday on the child of MRS WHEATER, Adelaide-street, wife of a private, R.M.L.I.  -  Nurse Sisson, of the Three Towns Nursing Home, said the child was dead when she arrived.  To save the child's life a little skill was wanted at the birth.  The lungs needed to be filled.  -  The Coroner:  You could not say blame attached to anyone?  -  Except that they did not send in time.  No violence?  -  Not the slightest.  -  Dr T. Leah said death was due to debility at birth, and added, "Something has been said about not having sent at the proper time.  Of course, it is very difficult to judge, and I should not say there is any blame attached to the mother."  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

EAST STONEHOUSE - Leading Stoker's Death.  Three Years Medical Treatment.  -  At the R.N. Hospital, Stonehouse, on Saturday, Mr R. R. Rodd opened an Inquest on Leading Stoker JEREMIAH MCCARTHY (36) a native of Cork, who had been under treatment since September 1906 when he was admitted from H.M.S. Isis suffering from injuries to the spinal cord and base of the skull.  The Coroner said he understood the injuries were caused by a boiler falling on the deceased, through the snapping of a chain which was being used to hoist it.  It would be necessary to adjourn the Inquiry in order to get together the eye-witnesses, now scattered in various parts of the word.  -  Surgeon McDowell said the deceased had been paralysed, but was gradually improving.  Death was due to a sore becoming septic.  The Inquest was adjourned until December 3rd.

EAST STONEHOUSE - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at the Inquest on Saturday on WILLIAM SCOTT, 52, pensioner, resident since 1898 at the R.N. Hospital, Stonehouse.  Surgeon J. H. McDowall said deceased slipped up in one of the wards on November 4th and fell against a bucket, inflicting a small wound in the head.  Blood poisoning set in a week later and death resulted on Tuesday.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 23 November 1909
EAST STONEHOUSE - Naked Lights.  The Fatal Explosion In The Cruiser Hogue.  An Order Violated.  -  The adjourned Inquest on Leading Stoker EZRA OAKLEY and Stoker GEORGE GILES, who died from the effects of an explosion of bunker gas on board the cruiser Hogue on October 26th, was resumed before Mr R. R. Rodd, at the R.N. Hospital, Stonehouse, yesterday.  Mr K. Eyton Peck represented the Admiralty.  -  Stoker John Briggs appeared with both hands and arms, as well as his head, in bandages.  -  The Coroner said they congratulated him upon his recovery so far, also on the recovery of his comrades.  -  Witness said on Tuesday, October 26th, he was on board the Hogue at 3.30 p.m.  He was inside No. 7 coal bunker for the purpose of taking out large pieces for the topping of the boiler.  Had you a light with you?  -  Yes, we had a light at the door of the bunker.  -  Was it one of the safety lamps?  -  No, an oil lamp. -  A naked one?  -  Yes.  It was passed to me when I was in the stokehold by Stoker Charles Tomkinson.  -  What was the result of that light being passed in?  -  I could not say for certain that it was the result of the light.  -  How long after did the explosion take place?  -  The light was not there a half-minute before the explosion took place.  -  What happened to you?  -  I held the light down.  In the far corner I noticed a blue light went up.  I was surprised at first.  I watched it, and then I fell down and was blown through the door.  I had been in the stokehold fifteen minutes.  The door of the stokehold was open.  -  You know that safety lights are provided for these stokeholds?  - Yes.  -  They are kept locked up, I understand?  -  Yes.  -  If you had used a safety light, how would you have got it lighted?  -  I should go to the stores.  The stores are in the engine-room, about half-way up the stokehold.  -  It is contrary to the regulations to take naked lights into the bunkers, I believe?  -  There is scarcely time to go and get the lights.  -  Men take the risk and go into the bunkers with naked lights?  -  No;  they leave the light at the door.  -  There has not been an accident before, so far as I know.    -  The Coroner:  Clause No. 514 reads as follows:-   No naked lights is to be used inside of the coal bunkers, or within 20ft. of any opening into the bunkers, until it has been ascertained by means of a safety lamp that they do not contain explosive gas.  Special precautions in this respect are to be taken for a few days after coaling.  In any case in which the distance of 25ft. is impracticable the distance maintained should be as great as possible.  -  Is that regulation generally known by the stokers, that a naked light must not be taken into bunkers or within 20ft. of it? -  I could not say.  -  Is that regulation posted up in the stokehold in big letters so that you can see it?  -  No;  I have never seen it.  -  You know it is contrary to regulations for a naked light to e taken in?  -  Yes.  -  An Officer:  It is customary to use naked lights in a stokehold when the doors have been open for a long period.  -  Where was the dead man GILES at the time?  -  I don't know.  -  You can only locate Tomkinson?  -  I never saw anyone.  I saw Tomkinson when he passed in the light.  -  The stokehold is well lighted with electricity?  -  Yes.  We are not provided with electric lights for getting into holds.  I have seen wandering leads, but not on H.M.S. Hogue.  -  Who gave the order that these large pieces of coal were to be got out for topping?  -  It would be the usual thing.  We know what we had to do, and we were doing it.  -  Do you tell the Jury that in all these instances the naked light is used?  - Yes, it is quite a common thing.  We primed and topped three boilers in the morning from the same bunkers.  -  Did you have a naked light in there then?  -  Yes.  I was in there myself in the morning.  Chief Stoker Coleman was in charge in the afternoon.  -     Second-Class Stoker Charles Tomkinson, whose wrists and hands were bandaged, said he was employed at the entrance whilst the last witness was in the bunker.  He could not say whether Briggs had a light, or whether one was passed to him.  Witness was just going to the entrance of the bunker with a skip when the explosion took place.  GILES was attending the furnace nearest the bunker.  Witness had not been working in that stokehold in the morning.  As far as he knew there was no naked light taken into the stokehold.  -  By the Jury:  There was a naked light with GILES.  -  You did not pass the light into Briggs?  -  No, sir.  -  Stoker P.O. Harry Goodman, whose head was heavily bandaged, whilst both arms were also bandaged, and in slings, said he went down the stokehold about 4 o'clock to relieve the deceased, OAKLEY.  He asked OAKLEY if there was any fresh orders, and he said he was putting one boiler fire out and the other had to be lighted up as soon as they had finished topping it.  Before completing the turning over of the orders the explosion took place.  One of the chief stokers would be in charge;  OAKLEY was a watchman.  He could not say whether there was a light in the bunker or not.  It was not a common practice to use naked lights in bunkers;  he himself had been most careful.  He believed it would be safe to enter a bunker with an electric wandering lead, and he had seen some fitted in ships.  None were fitted in the Hague at the time of the explosion.  -  Second Class Stoker Alfred West said he was standing about three yards from the bunker when the explosion took place.  He was speaking to the deceased, GILES, at the time.  -  Did you see a naked light with GILES?   -  I did not take much notice.  -  You cannot say whether GILES had a naked light or not?  -  He never had a light.  There was a light in the bunker at the time of the explosion.  -  Who put it there you cannot say?  -  No.  -    Second Class Stoker Edward Cadamy said as he was coming up to the furnace he was caught by the flames.  He could not tell whether there was a light or any person in the bunker.  -  Second Class Stoker Albert Ward stated that he was priming and topping a boiler.  He heard a noise and turned round.  he saw a flame and Cadamy, with whom he was working, was blown up against him and knocked him down.  They both got up and went out of the stokehold.  That was all he knew.  He could not say who was in charge of the working party.  -  By the Foreman:  If there had been a light in the stokehold he would have seen it.  -  By Mr Peck:  Beyond a thud, which he could hardly describe, there was no noise.  -  By the Jury:  He had seen men go into stokeholds with naked lights, although it was contrary to regulations.  -  Chief Stoker Thomas John Coleman said he was in charge of the working party, and was asked to tell off some hands to prime and top No. 2 boiler.  some of the witnesses were from the depot and some belonged to the ship's company.  He took them into No. 7 stokehold and turned them over to Leading Stoker OAKLEY.  -  Engineer-Commander H. V. R. Batchelor, of the Hogue, said two boilers were lighted at 12.15 and the remaining one was ordered to be lighted in the afternoon.  It was being primed and topped when the accident happened.  -  How long had the bunker door been opened prior to what took place?  -  Six hours.  -  Which in your judgment was long enough to allow coal gas to escape? -  Certainly.  -  And for a man to assume that he could enter with a naked light with safety?  -  Yes.  -  There is no discretion allowed in regard to this order?   It would still be a violation of the order to go in?  -  When that bunker was opened there was no question about entering it, because there was no room to enter.  -  But there is the fact that a man did go in with a naked light, and we know what took place.  A man might assume that he could go in with a naked light.  -  I would have gone in myself without any hesitation.  -  The regulation means that a naked light must never be used in a bunker?  -  I don't read it in that way.  -  "No naked light is to be used inside of the coal bunkers, or within 20 feet of any opening into the bunkers until it has been ascertained by means of a safety lamp that they do not contain explosive gas."  That was not ascertained?  -  No.   -  It shows that it was not a safe thing to be done on this occasion.  You heard the evidence of Briggs.  Would you say a naked light was the cause of the explosion?   -  I could not say.  In view of the boilers being alight it is very difficult to say.  -  The naked light might have been the cause of it?  -   It might have been.  Careful search was made immediately after the explosion, and no lamp of any description was found either in the vicinity of the bunker, inside the bunker, or in the stokehold.  -  It might have been shot out with him, but you say no trace of it was found in the vicinity?  -  No.  -  There is no reason to doubt Briggs's word that he was in there with a light?   He had no object in saying so?  -  Oh, no.  I was only saying that search was made.  -  The men knew that they ought not to be in there with naked lights, and they might have got rid of the evidence?  -  Yes, that is so.  -  You do not consider there was a violation of the regulation, having regard to the fact that the door had been open so long?  -  No.  -  It only shows that it was better to stick to the regulation until the test had been made.  Could it have been ascertained by means of the safety lamp whether there was any coal gas or not?  -  It might have been.  -  What is the test?  -  You go to the bunker by one of the other routes.  -  A man of practical experience would be able to make that test?  -  Yes.  It does not require an expert.  -  With regard to electric leads, have you seen them fitted in ships for going into bunkers?  -  Yes.  -  That is an absolutely safe light?  -  I should think so.  The Hogue was not fitted in that way.  the stokehold was brilliantly lighted and coal was running from the stokehold.  There was no object in entering the bunker.  It is always customary to keep an oil lamp lighted on account of the possible failure of the electric light.  Provision has been made in the Hogue for electric leads, but the fittings have not been placed on board.  -  By the Jury:  My theory is that the gas had not remained in the hold any length of time, but owing to the conditions of the weather the evolution of gas had taken place very rapidly.  The doors had been opened six hours and the ventilators opened.  -  The Coroner:  When did you coal these bunkers?  -  From the 20th to 23rd of September last.  She was coaled in fine weather and the coal was comparatively dry.  -  Asked to explain his theory more clearly, witness said:   The accident was due probably to the rapid falling of the barometer which had taken place that day, causing a rapid generation of gas.  -  I suppose these bunkers are treated in a scientific way from time to time?    You take their temperatures?  -  The temperatures are taken daily, or when the bunkers are being used and furnaces are alight every four hours.  -  Every proper precaution is taken to guard against explosion?  -  Yes.   Answering other questions, witness said the tests were not taken on that day because the bunker had been open so long.  If the witness Briggs was in there when the explosion took place, it was curious that he was blown just outside the bunker door.  The stoker in charge would not have been allowed to violate this regulation if the door had not been open so long.  -  So if there was anyone to blame it would be the poor man who was dead?   He was in charge?  -  Yes.  He is the only one to whom the Jury could attribute blame?  -  Yes.  -  By the Jury:  The regulation respecting naked lights in bunkers is an amended regulation.  The Admiralty have given no instructions that these regulations should be printed in large letters in the stokeholds.  -  Staff-Surgeon R. L. Dickinson, R.N. Hospital, said the deceased men died from shock, the result of severe burns.  -  The Coroner, in summing up, said they had it in evidence that by regulation 514 no naked light was to be used inside the bunker.  The evidence of Stoker Briggs was clear that he went into the bunker with a naked light and that he had not been there more than half a minute before the explosion took place.  He did not think that there would be any hesitation whatever in their minds that the cause of the explosion was the naked light.  The engineer officers very rightly said that notwithstanding that regulation, having regard to the fact that the door had been opened for six hours previous to the explosion, they would have no hesitation in entering that bunker with a naked light, but he (the Coroner) thought from the experience they had had in that case it would be far better for everyone to adhere to the regulations.  Oil lamps should be a thing of the past and not provided in these ships, except, as the commander said, one in case the electric light failed.  The sooner the Admiralty abolished oil lamps and have electric leads the better.  -  After a long consultation in private, the Coroner announced that the Jury had unanimously agreed that GILES and OAKLEY died from Shock, the result of Burns, caused by an explosion of coal gas in No. 7 stokehold, on H.M.S. Hogue, in consequence of a naked light being taken into the bunker, which was a violation of the Admiralty regulation against taking naked lights into bunkers until it had been ascertained by means of a safety light that they did not contain explosive gas, this through the neglect of the officer in charge of the stokehold at the time.  The Jury, however, said that such neglect was not culpable.  The Jury wished Mr Peck to forward these recommendations to the proper quarter.  From the experience of the present case, they thought under no circumstances whatever should naked lights be taken into bunkers.  They thought also that the regulation with regard to naked lights should be printed and placed in a conspicuous part of the stokehold so that any men employed in the stokehold could read it.  -  Mr Peck said he would forward the recommendations to the Admiralty.

HOLBETON - Holbeton Farmer's Death.  -  Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Holbeton yesterday on MR ELI STEER, 51, of Furzdon Farm, Holbeton.  -  Thomas Carne, labourer, said MR STEER and himself were on Saturday working a colt in a plough beside an aged mare, when it jumped, knocked down, and stepped on deceased, who had been holding the reins and walking by the colt's side, while he (witness) steered the plough.  -  Dr W. S. Langworthy, Yealmpton, attributed death to peritonitis, caused by the laceration of the small intestines.  -  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.  The coroner and Jury expressed sympathy with the family.

BARNSTAPLE - Child's Death At Barnstaple.  Septic Rash Or Scarlet Fever?  -  At the North Devon Infirmary, Barnstaple, yesterday, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft (Borough Coroner) held an Inquest on LESLIE ARTHUR HOWARD, aged two years and eight months, the child of MR and MRS HOWARD, of the Windsor Hotel, Bradiford.  -  MRS MATHILDA HOWARD, mother of the deceased, said on October 31st she was with the child in the kitchen. Whilst she laid the table for dinner, her little boy upset a saucepan of boiling water, scalding himself severely.  Dr Manning ordered the child to the North Devon Infirmary, where it died on Saturday.  Last Wednesday evening she received a postcard from the Institution stating that cases of infection had broken out, and therefore she must not visit her child.  On the following Tuesday she heard the child was dying, and went to see him.  She was quite certain the child was then suffering from scarlet fever.  -  Dr Evans, House Surgeon at the Institution, stated that when the child was admitted it was suffering from very severe scalds.  The child went on very well up to the following Friday evening, when rash was apparent on the neck and chest.  there was no sore throat, but he treated the child for scarlet fever.  The treatment would have had the same effect in any case.  However, the child died early on Saturday.  -   The Coroner:  In your opinion, was it a scarlet fever rash or a sceptic rash?   -  Dr Evans:  Oh, the rash was quite undistinguishable.  As another child had scarlet fever, he thought at the time the deceased might be suffering from it.  The child suffering from scarlet fever came into the ward on the previous Friday morning, and remained in the same ward up to the following Thursday morning.  Up to the Wednesday before he died he had no conception that deceased was suffering from scarlet fever or any other infection.   -   Is it possible that the child had scarlet fever without the parents knowing it?  -  Yes;  but rather unusual.  He did not remove the child to the Isolation Ward the same evening, but waited until the following morning. This was because the ward was being disinfected after a case of diphtheria.  There was only one isolation ward, so that there was no other course.  -  A Juror thought the first case of scarlet fever should have been isolated.  -  By the Coroner:  It was rather unusual for a child to develop scarlet fever so quickly.  Most likely the child took the infection before it was known that scarlet fever was in the establishment.  Two or three other children played with the first child who suffered from scarlet fever besides deceased.  Probabilities pointed to the child having died from septic poisoning from the effects of the burns.  There was nothing to guide him in the appearance of the body after death.  -  Do you think it advisable to have another isolation ward provided in the Infirmary?  -  It is very seldom the necessity arises for the use of two isolation wards at the same time.  Of course, two isolation wards would be advantageous.  -  A Juror said the cases should have been removed to the Barnstaple Isolation Hospital, which was costing a lot of money to the town.  -  Dr Manning said probabilities pointed more to the septic rash developing from the burns than from scarlet fever.  There was no dryness in the throat, which was the first stage of scarlet fever.  -  A Juror pointed out that the deceased was more than a week in the ward with the child suffering from scarlet fever.  -  The Jury announced that in their opinion the child died from Septic Poisoning following upon the burns.  They considered the isolation accommodation was insufficient, and that some improvement could be made.  -  The Coroner said no doubt the House Surgeon would bring the matter before the committee.  In the circumstances he thought it would be advisable to provide more isolation hospital accommodation in connection with the Infirmary.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 24 November 1909
BISHOPS TAWTON - MRS MARY STEER, aged 67, wife of a farmer residing at Bishopstawton, sustained a slight injury to the right arm while lifting a basket of apples on to a cart.  Subsequently serious symptoms developed and MRS STEER died from lockjaw.  At the Inquest on Monday a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 25 November 1909
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Child's Death.  -  At Devonport Workhouse yesterday Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest on BRIDGET HARMON, aged four months, the daughter of BARTHOLOMEW HARMON, first class petty officer, R.N., now serving in the Mediterranean.  -  Mr T. H. Gill, who appeared on behalf of the N.S.P.C.C., mentioned that ANNIE HARMON, the mother, had been convicted of neglecting the child and sentenced to a month's imprisonment.  -  Miss Daisy Read, a nurse in the Devonport Workhouse Infirmary, said the baby was admitted on the 17th inst.  It was very emaciated, but tolerably clean.  The child was so weak that it could hardly take any nourishment.  It did not progress in the slightest and died on Saturday.  -  Dr G. C. Sandford, Medical Officer of the Workhouse, said the child weighed only 7 ¼ lb.  There was no organic disease.  The cause of death was malnutrition, either due to the non-assimilation of food or the want of food.  It was not possible from his examination to say which.  He had known cases where children of parents in good circumstances have been unable to assimilate food.  -  Have you ever seen children with parents in good circumstances who have weighed so little as this child?  - Yes.  Even less.  -  Dr T. McElwaine said he visited 44 James-street with Inspector Westcott, N.S.P.C.C. on the afternoon of November 4th and examined the child BRIDGET.  She was very emaciated and only weighed between 6 ¼ lb. and 6 ½ lb.  There was no trace of organic disease,.  The child had on a little shirt and a white thin dress, which were in a most filthy state.  A bed-chair on which it slept was very foul smelling.  In a feeding bottle was a small quantity of very sour milk.  Death was due to neglect and improper food.  -  A Juryman:  do you think that if the child had been given proper food from its birth it would have lived?  -  Yes, I do.  -  By Mr Gill:  He warned MRS HARMON that if she continued in her treatment of the child it would probably die and she would be charged with manslaughter.  -  Samuel J. Pile, a bootmaker, James-street, said MRS HARMON always appeared to look after her children.  He had only seen her the worse for drink once.  -  By Mr Gill:  He was not aware that she had suffered from delirium tremens or had attempted to commit suicide.  -  Inspector G. Westcott, N.S.P.C.C. and P.C's Couch and Harper also gave evidence.  -  The Coroner, in summing up, said the case was a very bad one indeed.  If the Jury were convinced that malnutrition was due to neglect and improper feeding caused death and was due to the mother's neglect, they must hold her criminally responsible.  -  The Jury found that death was due to Malnutrition, but there was not sufficient evidence to show the cause thereof.  

Western Morning News, Friday 26 November 1909
LYNTON - Major-Gen. CHARLEY'S Death.  Victim Of Insomnia.  -  At Lynton yesterday Mr George W. F. Brown held an Inquest on MAJOR-GENERAL JOHN CHARLEY, 70, of Woodlands, Lynton, late of the King's Royal Rifles, and an Afghan war veteran.  - The Coroner said the first news of the sad event was intimated in a letter to the vicar of Lynton (Rev. W. E. Cox) written by MAJOR-GENERAL CHARLEY in which he stated he was about to commit a very rash act, and said where his body was likely to be found.  The latter was dated November 23rd, and read:-    "Dear Mr Cox.  -  I cannot bear this any longer.  Under the Castle Rock.  May I ask you to break the terrible news to my dear one.  -  J. CHARLEY."   -   Mr Cox at once, the Coroner added, communicated with the Police and a search made resulted in the discovery of the body, terribly mangled, on the beach at the spot indicated, and it had eventually come from the top of the cliff, which was about 500 ft. high.  -  Rev. W. E. Cox said he had known deceased for more than 25 years, and last saw him alive on Monday.  There was not the slightest doubt that deceased's mind was unhinged, and that he was suffering from a form of religious melancholia, no doubt brought about by the constant insomnia from which he suffered.  -  The Coroner:  Did you notice that he had suffered from melancholia for some time?  -  Yes, he had been in a depressed state for some weeks.  -  Witness added that MAJOR-GENERAL CHARLEY, however, said or did nothing to lead him to think he was about to take his life.  The letter the Coroner had read, and which bore a postmark showing that it was posted at Lynton at 11.45, witness received at 1.15 on Tuesday, when he came back and he immediately communicated with the Police.  He had paid a visit on Monday morning.  MRS CHARLEY having come to him in great distress to say the General was in a very depressed state.  "It would be well," the rev. gentleman concluded, "if we all could live such an honourable, noble and consistent Christian life as the late General."   -   Dr. H. J. Edwards said since 12th July he had attended deceased for his recent ailment, and last saw him alive professionally a week ago.  He was suffering from a malignant growth affecting the throat and neck, and, whether as a consequence of that or not, he also suffered from insomnia, which witness understood had usually been a difficulty with him.  He always feared as a result of that insomnia a recurrence of his nervous depression, which he told witness he dreaded much more than the malignant growth.  -  Mr Cecil Bevan (Foreman):  He did not strike you as a man likely to take his life?  -  Not in the least, and I have been unable to gather from anyone that he had ever hinted at such a thing.  -  P.S. Guscott said on Tuesday he was cycling, and at the head of Directions Cross Hill saw the Major-General going towards Lynton.  He saluted him and GENERAL CHARLEY replied, but he noticed a difference in him.  Formerly GENERAL CHARLEY acknowledged him with a cheery smile, but on this occasion he seemed to be in great distress and to be very much depressed.  Later, from information he received from the vicar, he went to Castle Rock and at the foot found deceased's body, practically knocked to pieces.  Leaving P.C. Sparkes in charge of the body, he obtained a boat, in which the remains were taken to Lynmouth and conveyed by the members of St. John Ambulance to the Mortuary.  Deceased's overcoat, hat and walking stick were found nearly at the top of the rock.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane."  -  The Foreman said it was the wish that their condolences should be conveyed to the widow and son.  All of them were connected with GENERAL CHARLEY in everyday life, and they all loved him.  Their fees they wished to go towards a wreath.  -  The Vicar said he would convey the Jury's kind expressions of sympathy to the family.

Western Morning News, Saturday 27 November 1909
STOKENHAM - "Best Man's" Suicide.  -  An Inquest was held yesterday on ALPHAEUS MITCHELMORE, aged 38, who had resided with his parents and sister about two years at Crace Cottage, Chillington, and was an insurance agent of the Pearl office.  He was found outside the cottage with his throat cut, dead, a razor close by and an empty razor case in his pocket.  He was to have attended the wedding of his uncle, Mr Philip Straw, of Torquay, on Thursday as "best man."  His sister sent her father to find him to remind him of the wedding and on his return found the body.  The father and sister stated that he had been very unwell lately and depressed.  -  Mr s. J. H. Congdon, superintendent of the Pearl Insurance Office, stated that the accounts of the deceased were perfectly right and that his work was done in a satisfactory manner.  - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane," and expressed sympathy with the family.

STOKE DAMEREL - Sudden Death At Devonport.  -  Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest yesterday on MARY DAWE, age 77, widow of a naval pensioner of Prospect-row.  She had enjoyed the best of health until Tuesday night, when she complained of a slight cold.  She was restless during the night and next morning was given a glass of best port after which she seemed a little better.  About an hour later her condition became serious, and Dr Saunders was sent for, but she died before he arrived.  -  Dr Saunders attributed death to aortic valvular disease of long standing and a verdict was returned accordingly.

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Child's Death.  - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest yesterday at the Plymouth Mortuary on JOHN HENRY HOWSHIP, aged 4 years and 8 months, son of FREDERICK J. HOWSHIP, labourer, residing in Canada.  Mr J. D. Sowerby was present  while Mr E. Elliot Square represented MRS HOWSHIP.  -  The Coroner explained that in September deceased was knocked down by the knee of a horse.  MRS HOWSHIP said the lad was not medically treated before the mishap.  It was true that he partially recovered from the accident, but never properly so.  He returned to school, but rambled in his walk and could not hold his head up properly.  -  Dr H. J. Patchett said he first attended deceased on September 28th, eight days after the accident.  He was then suffering from a feverish cold and rheumatic pains.  -  MRS HOWSHIP:  You did not tell me so, sir.  -  Dr Patchett, continuing, said he attended deceased until October 16th and then he did not see him again until November 12th.  Witness was quite aware of the accident having occurred.  Deceased got well enough to return to school for a few days.  he conducted a post mortem examination in the presence of Drs. E. B. Thomson Stamp, George Wilson and W. Harle, and they were all unanimous that death was in no way due to the accident.  Death was due to pneumonia and infantile paralysis.  Death took place on Tuesday last.  -  A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.  -  Mr Square intimated that MRS HOWSHIP was most anxious that a verdict of "Natural Causes" should be returned.  They wished no aspersions to be thrown on the driver of the cart which caused the accident.

Western Morning News, Monday 29 November 1909
NEWTON ABBOT - At Newton Abbot on Saturday Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest on WILLIAM TAYLOR, of independent means, whose body was found lying in the River Lemon on Friday.  Deceased was 65 years of age.  -  John S. Steer said that he saw TAYLOR at the Swan Inn at 8 o'clock on Wednesday night.  He was partly blind, but could see enough to get about out of doors fairly well.  -  Mrs Jessie Lias, The Avenue, said MR TAYLOR had lodged at her house since July.  He left there at 4 o'clock on Wednesday and she did not see him again.  He formerly resided in London.  -  John Edward Hawke and Thomas H. Frost stated that MR TAYLOR visited their licensed houses on the night of Wednesday.  He had one or two drinks, but was quite sober.  -  James Blight said he saw MR TAYLOR near the cricket field leat at 25 minutes to eleven.  He appeared to be going to walk into the leat and he (witness) sprang forward, pulled him back, and took him part of the way home.  He was not the worse for liquor.  -  Reginald J. Stevens spoke to finding the body lying partly out of the water, the tide being down.  Timber was usually stored at the spot, but there was a clear space unprotected just above where deceased was lying.  -  Dr J. J. Scrase said death was due to drowning.  He must have been in the water a couple of days.  As the result of the condition of his eyesight he might have been deceived by the light of the lamp opposite the spot.  -  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned and the Jury added a rider recommending the Urban Council to call the attention of the owners to the unfenced condition of the bank.

NEWTON ABBOT  - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest upon CHARLOTTE BRADLEY, domestic, of Paignton.  The deceased came to Newton on Saturday week and took lodgings with Mrs Burley.  She stated she had left her situation suddenly because the place was too hard and worrying.  She died on Wednesday.  -  Dr Scrase stated that deceased was very anaemic.  That was the cause of death, but he understood she had recently suffered a great disappointment and worried a good deal about it.  That lowered her vitality.  A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

TAVISTOCK - Kelly Girl Burnt To Death.  Parents Censured.  -  Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Tavistock Cottage Hospital on Saturday on EDITH, daughter of HENRY JAMES, farm labourer, of Horneybrooke, Kelly.  -  ANNIE JAMES, the mother, deposed that her daughter was 7 years old.  On Thursday she left home about 11.30 a.m. for Milton Abbot, three miles distant, to visit her mother-in-law, who was ill.  She left the deceased, with a brother age 14 years, a sister 5 years and a baby 16 months old in the house alone.  There was no neighbour residing within five minutes' walk of the house.  She returned home about 3.30 and was informed that the child had been burned.  The child was conveyed to the Cottage Hospital, Tavistock, and died within ten minutes after her admission.  The stove by which deceased was burned had not an open grate but she appeared to have got her pinafore damp and while drying it before the fire, the door being red hot, she caught it on fire and was severely burned.  -  Susan Hocking stated that deceased's brother came to her in a state of great excitement on Thursday and said his sister had caught her clothes on fire, and that he had made out the flames, but he thought his sister was much burned.  She went at once and saw the girl in her chemise much burned about the body.  She applied linseed oil and sent for the doctor.  The child seemed too shocked to feel much pain.  The girl told her that the door of the stove was closed, but it was so hot as to set fire to her clothes.  - Dr Cecil B. T. Musgrave said Mrs Hocking's treatment was good, but he had the child removed to the Cottage Hospital as her only chance of recovery.  -  The Jury returned a verdict that deceased died from Shock, due to Burns received through the thoughtless neglect of her mother, but they did not consider such neglect was culpable.  -  The parents having been called before the Court, the Coroner expressed sympathy with them in their loss and read the verdict.  He pointed out how serious the consequences would have been to them had the Jury found that there had been culpable neglect which would have amounted to manslaughter.  He could not but censure the parents for leaving such young children in the house with a fire unprotected and five minutes' walk from any other residence.  Under the Children Act 1908 they had just escaped a penalty of £10 by the child being seven years of age on the 16th inst.  -  The mother expressed her deep regret and promised to be more careful in future.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 30 November 1909
BRIXHAM - Brixham Lad's Death.  Fall Of A Wall. -  Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Brixham yesterday on the young son, ALFRED, seven years old, of MR FRANCIS MOXEY, fisherman.  -  The father said when he saw his son after the accident he spoke quite rationally for a time, but died two hours afterwards.  -  William John Thompson, age nine years, said on Saturday morning he and MOXEY were digging a cave under a wall.  About 2 p.m. the wall fell, and MOXEY was buried beneath the stones.  Five boys were playing there, but George Glanville was the only other boy hurt.  He (witness) had been warned not to go into the yard to play.  - Walter Savery, butcher, Fore-street, said he was on Station-hill when he heard the wall fall.  On looking through the gate he saw MOXEY almost buried under the stones.  He took the boy out and cleared the earth from his mouth to enable him to breathe.  MOXEY was then unconscious.  -  Dr F. Brett Young said the lad had four ribs and a leg broken.  Death was attributable primarily to shock, possibly induced by an internal rupture.  -  Harriet Webber (nurse) and John Siller (surveyor, Brixham Urban District Council) also gave evidence.  -  John E. Philp (owner of the premises) said every precaution had been taken to keep children from the yard.  The wall was safe as far as he was aware prior to the accident.  -  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 1 December 1909
WOOLACOMBE - Sad Affair At Woolacombe.  Young Man Shoots Himself.  -  A painful sensation was caused in Woolacombe and neighbourhood when it became known at the Inquest, held yesterday by Mr G. M. F. Brown (North Devon Coroner) that the young man named JOE TARR, whose death was recorded in our columns yesterday, due to the breaking of a blood vessel, had committed suicide by shooting himself through the temple with a walking-stick sporting gun.  The affair took place early on Monday morning and Drs. Young and Bromley Moore were immediately called, but life was extinct.  No theory has been advanced as to the reason of the young man taking his life, but at the Inquest Dr. Young stated that he had been attending TARR for a period of three weeks, and eventually the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."  -  The Jury expressed their sympathy with the parents, and handed MR JOSEPH TARR (the father) their fees.

NEWTON ABBOT - Guy Fawkes Fatality.  Reckless Use Of Gunpowder At Newton Abbot.  -  At Newton Abbot yesterday Mr S. Hacker conducted the adjourned Inquest on ARTHUR CHARLES RAYMONT, aged six years, son of WILLIAM HENRY RAYMONT, labourer, Pear Tree-place, who died in the Hospital from injuries which, with three others, the little boy sustained in an explosion of gunpowder, which took place in East-street on the evening of November 5th.  A youth named Bassett, aged 18, whilst having in his possession some gunpowder, which had been given to him by Thomas William King, a retired schoolmaster, threw a portion of it over a lighted paper lantern in the street, the result being an explosion, which resulted in more or less serious injuries being sustained by Bassett, the deceased boy, Emily Bassett, aged 13, and William Coombes, aged six, all four being removed to the Hospital.  The Inquest had been adjourned in order to obtain further evidence, more particularly that of the youth Bassett.  -  Mrs Fanny Bassett, of Pear Tree-place, stated that early on the evening in question her son, William, brought home two tins of gunpowder, which he said had been given him by Mr King, who is employed in a newspaper office.  He said King gave the powder to him to let off in the backyard, but witness said he should not do so.  She then took the powder to RAYMONT'S place in her apron and asked RAYMONT to throw it into the drain, but he objected.  She then covered up the powder and placed it under an old tub in the back-yard.  At 8.45 p.m. she told her son where the powder was and he said he should take it down to the river and throw it away.  -  William Henry Bassett, labourer, son of the last witness, who appeared with his head and face bandaged - and who was cautioned by the Coroner before giving his evidence - stated that when King gave him the powder he told him it was to make fireworks with, and he warned witness not to let off the powder in the street.  he (witness) did not know how to make fireworks and had never handled powder in his life before.  When he took away the powder at 8.45 p.m. he told his mother that he intended to throw it into the river, but when he got outside in the street he saw a paper lantern burning and near it were standing deceased and his sister.  He then sprinkled some of the loose powder which was in a paper over the lighted lantern, and immediately his eyes became full and he was "properly deaf."  He remembered nothing more at the time, and when he came to himself he was in the Hospital.  In doing what he did with the gunpowder he disobeyed his mother and also disregarded King's caution.  -  In reply to the Jury, witness said he left his house with the intention of throwing the powder away, and he should have done so if he had not seen the lighted lantern.  What he did was done to amuse the children and at the moment he did not see any danger in it.  -   Thomas W. King, recalled, and who seemed distressed, said when he gave Bassett the powder he thought he would make a "train" with it on the backyard.  He knew that Bassett could not make ordinary fireworks, but it did not strike him (King) for a moment that a lad of his age would do anything dangerous with it.  -  The Coroner:  You must have known he would not be able to use it unless it was in some very dangerous way.  If you had thought at all, you must have known that it was not prudent?  -  King:  Young men are used to making loose fireworks.  -  The Coroner:  You did not inquire whether Bassett knew anything about it?  -  King:  I thought a lad of his age would know the use of powder.  I gave it to him out of kindness, as he had behaved himself very well.  -  The Coroner, in summing up, said death was undoubtedly due to the explosion which was caused by the act of Bassett.  The evidence showed clearly that there was no malicious intention on the part of Bassett to do the deceased child any harm, and therefore it came to the question of negligence and carelessness and a want of taking ordinary precautions in dealing with a dangerous article like gunpowder.  It was illegal to ignite gunpowder in any public place, the penalty being £5, and it was to be presumed in the case of a young fellow of 18 that he knew what his responsibilities were.  Bassett must have known that he was doing wrong in playing with or lighting this gunpowder;  he had been warned by his mother and King, but he paid no attention to either of them.  The question for the Jury was whether the act of Bassett in using the powder in this careless and negligent manner, was such gross negligence and carelessness as in their opinion to render him guilty of criminal negligence of manslaughter, or whether under the circumstances there was anything sufficient to excuse him from this charge, and to warrant the Jury in finding that the child's death was due to an accident, for which no person was responsible.  King's conduct in giving Bassett loose gunpowder seemed to him (the Coroner) most imprudent.  One could hardly imagine a man who had been a schoolmaster, and who, therefore, knew what boys were, doing such a thing.  There was all the distinction in the world between giving a boy a squib and a tin of gunpowder.  What did King expect Bassett was going to do with it except to ignite it?  -  King's conduct in acting as he did was most imprudent and highly censurable.  -   The Jury, after about ten minutes' deliberation in private, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death from the Explosion."  The Coroner asked if there was a rider, but the Foreman (Mr A. Sampson) replied that the Jury did not wish to add anything.

Western Morning News, Thursday 2 December 1909
STOKE DAMEREL - The Deputy Coroner, Mr Albert Gard, held an Inquest at Keyham yesterday on HAROLD FRANK WILLIAMS, aged 23 years.  He had followed no occupation for some years and was subject to fits.  On Tuesday morning his mother found him lying dead in bed in Avondale-terrace. Dr Davies expressed the opinion that WILLIAMS was suffocated while in a fit.  A verdict accordingly was returned, the Jury expressing sympathy with the relatives.

Western Morning News, Friday 3 December 1909
STREATHAM, LONDON - The Late MR J. G. UREN.  Inquest And Funeral.  -  The Inquest on MR JOHN GEORGE UREN, of Plymouth, and formerly postmaster of Penzance and Maidstone, was held yesterday at Stretham by Mr g. P. Wyatt.  -  Mr E. A. Harris, Civil Servant, Tierney-road, Streatham, said MR UREN, his father-in-law, was 75 years of age and had been staying with him since November 22nd, the visit being consequent on medical advice.  He was suffering from great depression.  On Saturday morning he found him lying in the bath, which was full, apparently, of blood.  Witness took him out and gave him a stimulant, and he revived sufficiently to say, "Ernest, the house has fallen."  Medical aid was summoned but death took place a few hours later.  MR UREN had suffered from sleeplessness for the past ten years.  It was discovered that the blood was flowing from deceased's wrists, which had been cut with a razor.  -  Dr Fenn said a wound on deceased's right wrist was a deep one and there was a smaller wound on the left wrist.  The wounds were evidently self-inflicted.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."  -  The funeral took place yesterday at Streatham.  It was, by request, of a private nature, the only mourners being MR G. G. UREN, and MR T. A. UREN, (sons) and Mr E. A. Harris (son-in-law).

BERRYNARBOR - Admiral's Sudden Death.  Sad Event At A North Devon Shooting Party.  -  The death of VICE-ADMIRAL ORFORD CHURCHILL, which occurred with tragic suddenness whilst with a shooting party at Berrynarbor, has caused a painful sensation in North Devon.  The deceased officer lived at 56 Stanhope-gardens, London, S.W., but had been on a visit to his brother, REV. R. CHURCHILL, vicar of Berrynarbor, and was shooting with a friend, Colonel Woodland, on Wednesday afternoon, when he suddenly expired.  Considerable sympathy is felt with the family of the deceased admiral, whose son was lost in the A1 submarine disaster in March 1904.  -  Mr G. W. F. Brown, North Devon Coroner, held the Inquest last evening in Berrynarbor village-room, when the vicar spoke of his brother's visit and said he appeared quite in his usual health on Wednesday morning.  -  Alfred Leworthy, one of the beaters, who was with ADMIRAL CHURCHILL, said he was carrying deceased's coat and just after he had gone up a steep hill the Admiral called for it.  witness was actually assisting the Admiral to put his coat on when he placed his hand over his heart and fell back with a groan, expiring immediately.  -  Sidney wills, another visitor, corroborated.  -  Dr. N. S. Manning, of Combemartin, who was immediately sent for, attributed death to heart failure, and said a post-mortem examination revealed extensive fattening of the heart.  -  A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned, and the Jury, through the foreman, Mr Hibberd, expressed deep sympathy with the family, in which the coroner joined.  -  ADMIRAL CHURCHILL joined the service in December 1857 and retired in December 1897 with the rank of Captain, his subsequent promotion on the retired list being rear-admiral , June 1901, vice-admiral July 1906.  As senior lieutenant of the Icarus he commanded a company of the Naval Brigade at the occupation of Yangchow, North China in November 1868 and six years later received the thanks of the Secretary of State for the Colonies for services rendered in connection with the abolition of the slave trade in the Gold Coast Protectorate.  He was in command of the Ariel in the Congo Expedition in 1875, for which he was mentioned in despatches, and in the following year was thanked by the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs for services in conducting negotiations with the native chiefs on the Cameron River.  He also commanded the Ariel during the expedition up the Niger in August 1876, when he landed with the storming party at the capture of the stockaded towns of Sebrogvega and Agheri, being again mentioned in despatches.  In April 1866 he was presented with the bronze medal of the Royal Humane Society for having jumped into the sea at Gibraltar and supported G. Skinner, who had fallen overboard.  ADMIRAL CHURCHILL was a justice of the peace for Hants and a nautical assessor.

Western Morning News, Saturday 4 December 1909
BRADNINCH - Suicide At Bradninch.  Barber's Desperate Act.  -  An Inquest was held yesterday on WILLIAM ROWLAND, aged 43, a hairdresser, of Fore-street, Bradninch, who was formerly in the Lancers.  -  His widow said on Saturday he was taken with pains and lost the use of his left leg and hand.  She assisted him upstairs after he had fallen down in the shop.  When he got out on Thursday morning he complained of pains similar to those he experienced on Saturday.  Just after he went downstairs she heard him fall.  On going down she found him lying on the floor of the shop, as if dead. She did not hear the report of firearms.  -  The Coroner:  Was he in financial difficulties?  -  Yes, and that worried him a lot.  He had lost a lot of work lately.  He got depressed.  -  How long had he been like that?  - For the last six months.  -  P.C. Lewis deposed that ROWLAND on the left side of the neck had a large gash, and a gunshot wound in the right temple.  By the side of the neck was a blood stained razor and by deceased's right side he found a "Bulldog," a six-chambered revolver, containing four cartridges.  Both weapons were the property of the deceased.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity," and handed their fees to the widow, whom it was stated was left with five children.

EAST STONEHOUSE - The Isis Accident.  An Eye-Witness's Evidence.  -  At the R.N. Hospital, Stonehouse, yesterday, Mr R. R. Rodd resumed the Inquest on Leading Stoker JEREMIAH MCCARTHY, who, since an accident in September 1906, on board the Isis, remained under treatment at the Hospital up to his death on the 19th ult.  It was stated at the opening of the Inquest last month that MCCARTHY was struck by a boiler which fell from the davits in consequence of the chain parting.  Deceased's spinal cord was injured and he became paralysed.  His condition improved, but sores he had developed became septic and death resulted from exhaustion.  The Inquiry was adjourned in order that eye-witnesses of the accident, who were scattered in various parts of the world, might be called.  -  The Coroner said the Admiralty had written that so far as they knew all the eye-witnesses were abroad.  No further evidence would, therefore, have been forthcoming that morning had not P.O. Gaylard, now serving in the Isis, seen the report of the Inquiry in the Press and written that he was an eye-witness and could give evidence.  -  P.O. Ernest Gaylard describing the accident, said the boiler was being hoisted back into a boat which was on the boom, and had been hoisted to within a foot of the davit head, when the chain parted.  Witness saw the boiler falling and, seizing the deceased by the shoulders, partially pulled him out of danger, but the boiler struck him in the lower part of the back.  The chain had been used on the previous day and found quite strong.  It was a pure accident.  -  Mr K. E. Peck, representing the Admiralty, said the official Inquiry held at the time found that the accident was due to the breaking of a link in the chain, due probably to defective welding.  -  The Coroner, replying to an inquiry by one of the Jury as to whether the chains were regularly inspected, said questions bearing on this point might have been asked if the chain had not been used and practically tested the previous day.  -  Gaylard stated that the chains were periodically examined by the engineer.  -  The Jury found that death resulted from injuries Accidentally received whilst on duty.

PLYMOUTH - At the Inquest held at the Plymouth Mortuary yesterday by Mr R. B. Johns, on HENRY GRIFFITHS, 32, labourer of King-street, deaf and dumb, who had been lodging in King-street, and was found dead in bed on Thursday, Dr Cooke attributed death to Apoplexy.

Western Morning News, Monday 6 December 1909
STOKE DAMEREL - Sudden Death In The Hamoaze. -  Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at Devonport Dockyard on Saturday on JOHN AMERY, aged 56 years, of Edgcumbe-place, Millbay.  -  WILLIAM AMERY, son of the deceased, said his father, who was a licensed waterman and coal porter, left home on Friday morning in his usual good spirits.  -  Samuel J. Hopper, coal porter, said he was working with deceased in the hold of the s.s. Francis Duncan in the Hamoaze about 10 a.m. on Friday, when AMERY fell forward while in the act of taking up a shovelful of coal.  Witness hastened to his side, and found he was dead.  Fleet-Surgeon H. W. G. Doyne, H.M. Dockyard, attributed death to cerebral haemorrhage.  -  A verdict in accordance was returned.

BERE FERRERS - Found Dead In A Boat.  - Saltash Labourer's Death.  -  An Inquest was held by Mr R. R. Rodd, at Bere Ferrers on Saturday, on JOHN FLETCHER, 60, labourer of Saltash. -  Samuel Thomas Nanscowen, Dockyard labourer, of Saltash, deceased's brother-in-law, said early on Thursday morning FLETCHER left home to go picking weeds and had not been seen since.  He was a seafaring man and used to boats.  Lately work had been very scarce and he had been able to earn very little.  -  Dr P. W. Wilkinson said he thought death was due to syncope, accelerated by want and exposure to the severe weather of Thursday night.  The exertion of rowing might have caused heart failure.  the body was fairly nourished.  -  P.C. Churchill said while on the cliffs near Bereferrers, about 11.30 on Friday morning, he saw a boat on the beach below, with a man lying in the bottom.  Witness thought he was asleep and called to him, but he got no reply.  He then went down and found that the man was dead, the body being cold and stiff.  In the boat were a bottle of tea and an oilskin coat, but there was no food, nor anything that might have contained any.  There was a small quantity of weed in the bottom of the boat.  It had not a fresh appearance.  The oars were inboard and properly stowed.  -  The coroner said from the position of the oars it might be assumed that deceased was collecting weed when he was taken ill, and returned to the boat to rest.  This had probably been left on the beach by the tide.  The jury returned a verdict of "Death from Syncope, accelerated by want of food and Exposure."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 7 December 1909
EXETER - At an Inquest at Exeter yesterday on JOSEPH BASTIN, aged 70, an old-age pensioner, it was stated that he had suffered from bronchitis and death was due to asphyxia.

COCKINGTON - At Chelston yesterday Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest on JOHN SADLER CANN, 79, retired farmer, who died suddenly on Friday last.  The evidence showed that deceased had been an exceptionally healthy man, but that after retiring to rest on Friday he was suddenly taken ill and died before a doctor could be called.  Dr Black attributed death to heart disease and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

STOKE DAMEREL - Keyham Child's Death From Scalds. -  At Keyham yesterday Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest on KENNETH ROY COCKWELL, the ten-months-old son of a naval pensioner living in Victory-street East.  -  The mother of the child stated that on the afternoon of the 28th ult. she was holding the deceased on the mat before the fire, when one of her little daughters came over and before she was aware upset a saucepan of boiling water over the child, severely scalding its shoulders and arms.  Witness immediately snatched the child up and applied oil to the scalds.  The child appeared to be progressing satisfactorily on the following day, but on the Tuesday there seemed to be no improvement and Dr Kenrick was sent for.  It developed measles on the Thursday and died on Saturday morning.  Dr Kenrick attributed death to shock, the result of the scalds.  A verdict to the effect that the child died from Accidental Scalding was returned.

PORTSMOUTH, HAMPSHIRE - Naval Fatality.  A Plymothian's Death.  -  Mr L. Warner, County Coroner for Hampshire, yesterday held an Inquest at the Royal Naval Hospital, Portsmouth, on JOHN GRIFFITHS, naval seaman who was fatally crushed between a picket-boat and the side of a tug at Spithead on Thursday.  According to the evidence of Petty Officer Easterbrook, the deceased was one of the crew of the picket-boat, which on Thursday was conveying officers from the Majestic to the Edinburgh, both ships being off the Nab lightship at Spithead.  A tug was lying alongside the Edinburgh on the lee side and a very heavy sea was running.  As the picket-boat approached, ropes were called for to haul the craft alongside.  It was then that in the heavy sea the deceased, who was standing on the gunwale of the picket-boat, fell overboard and was caught between the streak on the tug and the bottom of the boat.  He was pulled into the picket-boat by Easterbrook and taken to the Majestic, where Staff-Surgeon Sheward attended to him.  Death occurred at midnight, the Surgeon attributing it to the result of spinal injury.  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.   The deceased, who was described as a very smart young seaman, belonged to Plymouth.

Western Morning News, Thursday 9 December 1909
EXETER -  At an Inquest at Exeter on JOHN HAMMETT, carter, of Paris-street, who died in Queen-street on Tuesday after his horse had fallen down, evidence was given that he sustained an injury to his head and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 10 December 1909
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Man's Death.  Delirium Caused By Erysipelas.  -  Mr Pearce held an Inquest at Devonport workhouse yesterday on JOHN LEWIS, aged 43, Dockyard labourer.  -  M[?] LEWIS, his widow, said on November 30th he complained of pains in his head.  Dr McElwaine found him suffering from erysipelas.  Her husband stayed in bed until the Thursday morning following, when he insisted on getting up.  Later he came in from the back yard with his hand bleeding and behaving in a strange manner.  She bound up his hand in a towel without examining the injuries.  Just afterwards a finger was found lying in the yard and she found that he had cut it off.  Police-Sergt. Jane said he was called to LEWIS'S residence at Mount-street, and found him making rambling statements about the finger he had cut off.  He was conveyed to the Workhouse Infirmary.  -  Dr Stafford said LEWIS was suffering from erysipelas and after being in a delirious state for several days, died on Wednesday from exhaustion.  The wound was quite healthy and was not the cause of death.  A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned by the Jury, who expressed sympathy with the relatives.

NEWTON ABBOT - Newton Tragedy.  SELLWOOD Shot While Bound In A Chair.  Alleged Confession.  Verdict of "Wilful Murder" At The Inquest.  -  In Newton Abbot Townhall yesterday morning Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held the Inquest relative to the death of WILLIAM EWINGS SELLWOOD, aged 35, horse dealer, who was shot in the forehead with a revolver by Alfred Andrew Stevens, age 27, labourer at the Great Western Railway works, at the house of the latter in Knowle-terrace on Wednesday, November 24th, and who died in the Newton Hospital early on Tuesday morning last.  The hall was full, and the proceedings were followed with great interest.  The prisoner, Stevens, was in attendance, having been brought from the County Prison at Exeter in charge of two warders, who sat on either side of him.  He looked haggard and dejected, and evidently felt acutely the seriousness of his position.  Mr J. H. Hutchings, solicitor, Teignmouth, again attended on prisoner's behalf.  Mr D. Leeman was chosen Foreman of the Jury.    -    The Coroner, in opening, told the Jury that they were summoned to perform the important and responsible duty of Inquiring as to the death of the deceased.  The scope of their Inquiry would be first to ascertain the cause of death;  and, secondly, the circumstances leading to it, and who was responsible for the act which caused death.  If the Jury found that a crime had been committed, the person they found responsible might be in due course of law sent to take his trial before a Judge and Jury in the Assize Court.   -    The Jury then proceeded to the Hospital where they viewed the body of deceased and upon their return evidence was taken.    -    Arthur William Badcock, draper, brother-in-law of deceased, gave evidence of identification and stated that deceased lived at 34 Courtenay-street, with his wife and family.  The last time witness saw deceased alive was on the morning of the occurrence when he saw him come out of the house in Knowles-terrace with his head bandaged.    -    SELLWOOD'S Father-In-Law.     -   William Badcock, draper, Somerset Lodge, Newton Abbot, stated that deceased was his son-in-law.  On Wednesday fortnight Stevens called at his residence about eleven o'clock in the morning and asked witness to accompany him to his house.  Witness knew Stevens and had seen him before twice.  He said if witness went to his house he would be surprised at what he would see and hear there, and that this was "the beginning of the end."  Witness at first refused to go and Stevens then said he would be sorry if he did not do so.  He then said that MR SELLWOOD was at his house and that he wished witness to hear a confession from him.  Witness asked how SELLWOOD got to Stevens's house and Stevens replied, "I brought him there."  He then took a revolver out of his pocket and several cartridges, which he showed to witness and then put away again.  Witness naturally thought from this that Stevens intended to shoot SELLWOOD.  Stevens again asked witness to come to his house, but as he was not very well that morning he said that after being allowed ten minutes to take a glass of warm milk he would come on.  Stevens then left, and witness followed a few minutes later.  Before leaving his house he telephoned to his son to get a Police Officer to meet him and on coming to the road leading to Stevens's house he saw Stevens standing at the door.  Witness then went on to SELLWOOD'S stables close by, and found that SELLWOOD was not there.  He then saw the Policeman coming towards him and he beckoned to him to follow.  Witness went on towards Stevens's house.  Stevens being still at the door and seeing the Policeman following, Stevens commenced to shout and throw about his arms, but witness did not hear what he said.  Stevens's wife came out and asked witness to keep back the Policeman and witness then beckoned to him to stop.  In the meantime Stevens had gone into his house and when he entered he considered he heard someone say the words "You are too late," but he could not say who said them.  -  Mr Hutchings pointed out that witness had only said he "considered " he heard the words and witness said he was not too clear on the matter as to be able to swear to it.  He heard something said, but could not swear what the words were.   -   Proceeding, witness said almost immediately afterwards, whilst he was in the passage, he heard the report of a firearm.   He went to the door of the room, and there he saw SELLWOOD sitting bound to a chair, with blood flowing from his temple.  Stevens was standing close by with a revolver in his hand.  Stevens put the muzzle of the revolver to his own forehead, and the weapon went click as if it had missed fired.  Stevens then took down the revolver as if he was about to open and examine it.  Witness rushed to the front door and called the Policeman, after which he went back and cut the rope with which SELLWOOD was bound.  By this time Stevens had gone out of the room.  Witness left him in charge of the Policeman and ran to fetch a doctor.  SELLWOOD was conscious.   Stevens had come to witness's house on two previous occasions, and had accused SELLWOOD of certain conduct with regard to his (Stevens's) wife.  This was about four weeks before the occurrence, at the end of October or the beginning of November.  Stevens said to witness:  "I have something serious I wish to bring you acquainted with in regard to your family,"  and he added that SELLWOOD had been too intimate with his (Stevens's) wife.  Witness said, "I am awfully sorry if this is so, but it has nothing to do with me."   -   Stevens said SELLWOOD had been the means of breaking up his house and that he should expect him to maintain his three children.  Witness replied that he did not see how he (Stevens) could expect SELLWOOD to maintain his children.  On the other occasion, Stevens said he should take up the case, that he had been to a lawyer in Exeter and that he should go back and tell him to proceed with it.  Witness said if it was money Stevens was after, he could not get any out of SELLWOOD, as he had none, and his business was not his own.  Stevens asked whose it was then, and witness replied, "it is mine."    -     In reply to Mr Hutchings as to whether on the first occasion, SELLWOOD denied the accusation made against him by Stevens, Mr Badcock said SELLWOOD had denied it all through.  Whilst witness was standing at the door SELLWOOD'S head was hanging over his shoulder and the blood was coming from his forehead.  SELLWOOD did not then say anything;  if he was not conscious then, he was just afterwards.  Stevens had the revolver in his hand all the time.  -  In reply to the Foreman, Mr Badcock said no demand was made on him for money.     -    Accused's Wife Refuses To Answer.    -    Elizabeth Stevens, wife of the prisoner, was then called.  -  Mr Hutchings remarked that he knew the practice in a Coroner's Court differed from that in a Police Court, but he was rather surprised that the wife of a man charged with the most serious crime possible should be placed in the witness-box.   -   The Coroner said he had considered the point, and it had been decided by the late Lord Chief Justice Russell.  It was clear from that decision that every person was a competent witness in a Coroner's Court, and that the only principle to observe was that no person should be compelled to answer questions if the answers would have a tendency to expose the wife or husband of the witness to a criminal charge.  He should caution the witness according to that principle, and, if she objected to answer a question on the ground that it would expose her husband to a criminal charge, he should not insist upon an answer.   -   Mr Hutchings said it must be apparent that there was a charge against this woman's husband, and, as he understood, the Coroner was about to ask her what took place in the house, he thought the decision acted did not justify any Court in asking the wife to give evidence as to what occurred between her husband and some other man which was the subject of a most serious criminal charge.   -   The Coroner said it was the duty of a Coroner's Court to admit any evidence with the restrictions mentioned.  In this case they must naturally have anyone who could give information.  He understood that the wife was present or in the neighbourhood of the house  at the time.  -   The Coroner proceeded to examine Mrs Stevens and, after asking her a few unimportant questions, he informed her that she was not compelled to answer any questions if the answers would have a tendency to expose herself or her husband to a criminal charge.  -  Witness, resuming, said on the morning of November 24th her husband was at home.  He went out for about half an hour and returned alone.  He then said he was going to look for MR SELLWOOD, and the two men afterwards came into the kitchen together.   -  Mr Hutchings, interposing, asked that no further questions should be put to the witness as her answers must tend to incriminate her husband.  -  The Coroner said if the questions were considered as of that character they would not be answered.  -  Mr Hutchings gave advice privately to the witness, and when the Coroner asked her, "You say that you saw both men, SELLWOOD and her husband come into the house," she replied, "I will not say any more, sir."  -  The Coroner:  If I ask you what took place in the house, do I understand that you object to answer?  -  Witness:  Yes, sir.  -  The Coroner:  On the ground that it may incriminate somebody?  -  Witness intimated assent.  -  The Coroner:  Then I will not insist on your answering any further questions if you object on that ground.  -  Mrs Stevens then left the witness-box.  -  Henry Woodhouse Clarke, gun-maker, Newton Abbot, stated that on November 20th he sold a revolver to prisoner, who signed a paper with his full name and address.  -   Henry Ball, ironmonger, proved selling revolver cartridges to Stevens on November 22nd.    -   Doctor's Dilemma.    -   Dr Edgar Haydon said shortly after 11 a.m. on November 24th, whilst on Knowles-hill, he heard that there had been a shooting case and on going to Knowles-terrace he saw a large crowd there.  As he walked into the open space near Stevens's house he was advised to clear away, or he would be shot.  Mr Arthur Badcock came forward and told him that SELLWOOD was in the house and had been shot and might be bleeding to death.  witness was also told that Stevens had threatened to shoot any doctor that went in.  Witness entered, and at the end of the passage he was met by P.S. Newbery, who advised him not to enter the room or he would be shot.  He looked in, and saw SELLWOOD walking about.  He suggested that SELLWOOD should be got out of the way of the window at the back and a ladder was placed for this purpose, but SELLWOOD was got out at the front door.  Witness afterwards saw SELLWOOD in Mill-lane and walked with him to his stables, SELLWOOD being able to walk there perfectly well and without support.  His wound had been very ably attended to, and the bleeding had been staunched to a very considerable extent.  There was a pad over the wound which had been tied on.  Witness and SELLWOOD went into his office, where he (witness) took off the pad and saw a round wound on the left temple, from which blood was coming.  He replaced the bandage and took SELLWOOD in his car to the Hospital.  He walked in and was conscious and there was no sign of any paralysis whatever.  The wound was a punched-out one produced by a bullet:  it was just under half an inch in diameter.  In the first place witness probed the wound, and found it was about four inches in depth;  it went in as inward and backward direction.  He dressed the wound and put SELLWOOD to bed, and in the afternoon he was put under chloroform and the bullet (produced) was extracted.  The bullet went to the base of the skull and rested on a bone there.  A large piece of bone had to e taken away.  The brain was lacerated, and there was a hole right down to the base.  Deceased made good progress for a time.  He showed signs of irritation in the base of the brain on the fourth day and on the fifth his temperature commenced to rise.  On Friday last he became unconscious, and he died at 3.35 a.m. on Tuesday.  witness made a post-mortem examination the previous day, and found the condition as had been diagnosed.  There was no suppuration and no complications, except what came from the injury produced by the bullet.  The cause of death was injury produced by the bullet in the brain.  witness added that he did not know how deceased was able to remain conscious so long and to hold conversations as he did, considering the nature of his injuries.   -   The Coroner:  It was an unusual case.  -  Very unusual.   -   Charles Norrish, a lad, who was in the employ of SELLWOOD at his stables, spoke to Stevens coming there between 10.30 and 11 in the morning in question, and speaking to SELLWOOD, after which they walked away together.  Later he saw SELLWOOD, after he had been shot, and when he returned to the stables with Dr Haydon and Mr Badcock, his head then being bandaged.  Stevens had been to the stables to see SELLWOOD three weeks previously, but witness did not know what passed between them.    -    Police Produce Confession.   -   P.S. Newbery said on November 24th about 11.30 a.m., he was called to the cottage occupied by prisoner.  Witness went in the passage, and when near the kitchen door he saw prisoner standing on the stairs leading up to the bedroom, leaning over the banister with a revolver in his right hand and pointing towards witness.  Prisoner said to him, "Stop, Sergeant;  if you come another step I shall shoot you."     Witness advised prisoner to put the revolver down and come off the stairs, to which he replied, "No;  you're not coming to have me like that.  As soon as I knew that man in there is dead I am going to swallow a pill or two from this one myself," indicating the revolver.  Witness went into the kitchen where he saw deceased sitting on a chair by the back window, bleeding from a wound in the left side of his forehead and being attended to by P.C. Horne.  He was then unbound.  Witness went back to the passage and said to prisoner, "Come down and let me have the revolver before you do any more damage."  He replied, "No, I'm not coming, and if you come any closer I shall shoot you;  but if you keep off I won't hurt you or anyone else;  but I'm not going to be taken alive.  I've given that man in there one, and as soon as I know he has bled to death I shall swallow one myself;  and don't you attempt to let him out or a doctor in to see him;  if you do I shall shoot them."   Prisoner then handed witness a piece of paper with some dates on it being only three feet from him at the time and said, "You take charge of this;  you will be able to explain the meaning of it after I am gone,.  That is the dates that man has been here with my wife."  Witness handed in the paper to the Coroner, who read the several dates given and the hour of the day, the last date being Thursday, October 21st.    Proceeding, witness stated that prisoner added, "He (SELLWOOD) has also wrote a confession, which is on the kitchen table:  will you take charge of that as well?"  Witness went in the kitchen and brought out a piece of paper which was lying on the table and said to prisoner, "Is this what you mean?" and he replied "Yes."  Witness handed the paper to the Coroner, who read the contents as follows:-  "I hereby confess that I have misconducted myself with the wife of Mr Stevens.  -  Signed W. E. SELLWOOD, Newton Abbot."  -   Witness, continuing said by this time prisoner's relatives had arrived, these being his mother and sister, his brother-in-law coming later.  They all asked prisoner to give up the revolver, and after some time witness went into the kitchen and let down the window,  SELLWOOD and P.C. Horne being still there.  Prisoner went upstairs and witness let SELLWOOD out at the front door.  After that prisoner came back and took up his position in the stairs.  He was again asked to give up the revolver, and they all told him that SELLWOOD had left the house, and that he was not injured as much as he (prisoner) thought he was.  They again asked prisoner to give up the revolver, and after some time he said, "You all go back, and let me look into the kitchen to see for myself."  He did so, and after shaking hands with his brother-in-law (Mr Davies), he (prisoner) gave up the revolver.  He also took 18 loose cartridges from his pocket and handed witness a box containing 26 more.  The revolver was loaded in three out of the four chambers and one chamber had the appearance of having been discharged.  Witness charged prisoner with attempting to kill MR SELLWOOD by shooting him with the revolver, and he replied, "All right Sergeant;  you know I have had a cause for this."   -  In reply to Mr Creech, a Juryman, witness said nothing was said by SELLWOOD about the confession.     -    Constable Too Late.    -    P.C. Horne stated that when, following Mr Badcock, he arrived at Knowles-terrace, Mr Badcock shouted to him to go back.  At the same time prisoner appeared at his doorway and shouted, "You're too late."  He (prisoner) then went into the house, followed by Mr Badcock.  witness went towards the house and when he was a few yards from the front door he heard the report of a gun.  Mr Badcock then came rushing from the passage and said to witness, "Go in quick;  he has shot my son-in-law."  Witness went in, followed by Mr Badcock and in the kitchen he saw deceased sitting on a chair, to which he was bound by a rope (produced).  The rope was carried round deceased's legs, body and arms, his arms being bound down by his side.  He was bleeding from a wound in the left side of the forehead.  Mr Badcock cut the rope in two or three places, and witness then sent him for a doctor and Police assistance.  He then released SELLWOOD and attended to his injury, making a pad for the wound and obtaining some hot water in which to soak it.  Witness then went to the kitchen door and, on looking into the stairs directly opposite, he saw prisoner sitting there with the revolver pointing in his (witness's) direction.  Thinking prisoner was going to shoot, he ducked his head.  Prisoner then said, "All right, Constable, I will not hurt a hair of your head so long as you remain where you are, but if you try to rush me, I shall fire.  I do not wish to hurt anyone but that man in the kitchen, who has broken my heart."   (Prisoner seemed to be much affected at this evidence.)  -  Witness, continuing said he asked prisoner to give him the revolver, and he replied, "No, not likely."  Witness then asked him to let MR SELLWOOD pass out, and he replied "No, you can go out if you like."  Witness returned to the kitchen, and was rearranging the pad on deceased's forehead when P.S. Newbery arrived.  Witness corroborated the Sergeant's statement that prisoner said as soon as SELLWOOD was dead he intended to shoot himself.  -  In reply to the Jury, P.C. Horne said SELLWOOD must have submitted very quietly to be bound;  he could not have resisted.  -  The Foreman asked if SELLWOOD said anything as to the conditions under which he was asked to sign the confession.  -  Witness replied that he did, but that prisoner was not present at the time.  -  The Coroner decided that under the circumstances SELLWOOD' statement should not be given.  -  In answer to another Juryman, witness said it was impossible for SELLWOOD to have shot himself, as owing to being bound he could not raise his arms.    -    Prisoner's Brother-In-Law.   -   Thomas Davies, innkeeper, brother-in-law to prisoner, who married his sister, stated that on the morning of the day named, he went into the kitchen of prisoner's house and there saw SELLWOOD with blood on his forehead.  He was conscious and appeared to recognise witness.  Stevens was on the stairs, holding a revolver in his right hand.  witness asked him what had happened and he replied, "That man has ruined my home and I am going to finish myself."  Witness told him not to be foolish as he did not think that SELLWOOD was very badly injured and Stevens replied, "I can't help that;  I can't bear it."  He afterwards said to witness, "I didn't intend doing anything like this, Tom," and witness remarked, "If you had given him a good hiding and put him in the leat once or twice it would have done him good."  Before giving up the revolver, Stevens said he could not stand it through being jeered at because of the way in which SELLWOOD had been carrying on with his wife.   -  Mr Badcock, recalled, identified the signature to the confession, as being in the handwriting of deceased;  although it was a little shaky, he should say it was his.  -  Mr Hutchings:  There is no doubt about it, is there?  -  I should say not.    -    Coroner's Summing Up.     -    The Coroner in summing up, told the Jury that in considering their verdict they must deal with these two points - was SELLWOOD'S death caused by the bullet wound in his head, the result of his being shot with a revolver, and who inflicted the wound and thus caused his death.  It was for them to say whether the evidence was sufficiently strong to show that death was caused by the bullet wound and that the person who inflicted that wound was Stevens.  If they thought the evidence was convincing on these two points, then they had to consider whether Stevens committed this act wilfully and with malice aforethought, in which case, of course he would be guilty of the murder of SELLWOOD, and it would be the duty of the Jury to bring in a verdict accordingly.  Before the crime of murder could be reduced to manslaughter, it must be clearly proved that the killing was not malicious.  Provocation was no ground for reducing murder to manslaughter, unless the act was committed at the same time as the provocation, in the first paroxysm of passion, and whilst the blood was hot and before there was time for reflection.  If, however, sufficient time had elapsed after the provocation to allow the blood to cool, the crime committed was murder.  Where a husband found another man guilty of misconduct with his wife and killed him in the passion of the moment that would be manslaughter, because the act was done in the frenzy of passion at the same time.  Apparently, in this case there seemed to be evidence of a plan on the part of Stevens as shown by the paper on which he had entered the dates on which he complained that SELLWOOD had been to his house, and it was for the Jury to consider whether this did not point to the act not having been committed in any frenzy of passion at the time of the provocation.  If they found that this was so, it would be their duty to return a verdict of murder against Stevens.  The question as to the state of mind of the guilty person was not within the province of a Coroner's Jury, but it might be raised when he was brought up for trial at the Assizes.  -    Verdict Of "Wilful Murder."    -    The Jury retired, and after an absence of about eight minutes, the Foreman announced that their unanimous verdict was that deceased came to his death by the bullet wound caused by Stevens against whom they returned a verdict of "Wilful Murder."   -   The Coroner, addressing Stevens, informed him of the verdict, and committed him for trial at the next Devon Assizes for the Wilful Murder of WILLIAM EWINGS SELLWOOD.  -  Prisoner, who said nothing in reply, and who looked more pale and dejected than ever, was then removed in the custody of the warders.  He will be brought before the Magistrates this morning.   -  A portrait of Stevens appears in this week's issue of "The Illustrated Western Weekly News."

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Baby's Death.  Danger Of Unguarded Fires.  -  At the S.D. and E.C. Hospital, Plymouth, an Inquest was held yesterday on WILLIAM T. WILBRAHAMS, aged nearly 12 months, the son of S. WILBRAHAMS, labourer, of Neswick-street, Plymouth.  -  The child's mother stated that the deceased was in a room about 5 p.m. on November 30th with two other children, age 5 and 3 respectively.  She left the room for about five or ten minutes and during her absence the baby must have been lifted out of an armchair and had crept up to the fire, which was without a guard.  Mrs Spinney, who lived in the same house, discovered that the child was in flames, and called her husband, who extinguished the flames by wrapping the deceased in his coat.  - Dr G. F. Porter, House Surgeon at the Hospital, attributed death to shock from extensive burns.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."  -  The Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, commented on the large number of similar fatalities.  He did not think he could remember when so many children died from being burnt in so short a time.  The attention of parents ought to be drawn to the fact that it was a criminal thing to leave a child before an unprotected fire.  He understood the deceased was a fine child and that it took a prize at the Mayoral baby competition.  The child's mother said this was so.  -  The Coroner expressed sympathy with MRS WILBRAHAMS and added that he hoped this would be a lesson to others.

Western Morning News, Saturday 11 December 1909
TOTNES - The Totnes Fatality.  -  The Inquest on JOHN DREW, an aged man, who died at Totnes through burns, was held yesterday.  -  His daughter-in-law (MRS PACK) stated that he was confined to his bed, and she saw him about 10.30 a.m. on Wednesday.  Shortly afterwards she noticed smoke coming from the room. She called for help, as she could not enter.  -  George Collis said he found DREW near the grate with his clothes and some of the bedding on fire.  He extinguished the flames and removed him to an adjoining room.  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

PLYMOUTH - At the Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on ORLANDO ESSERY, single man, aged 35, found dead in bed in Octagon-street on Thursday.  Dr Wagner attributed death to syncope, due to a fatty degeneration of the heart.  A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Youth's Death.  Suffocated By Gas. -  Mr J. A. Pearce at Devonport yesterday, held an Inquest on WALTER STANLEY LILLICRAP, aged 18, shipwright apprentice in H.M. Dockyard, who resided with his parents at Salisbury-terrace, Stoke.  -  MR CHARLES LILLICRAP, assistant constructor, H.M. Dockyard, his father, said his son on Wednesday night retired to bed apparently in good health, except for a cold.  About 6.20 a.m. on Thursday his wife told him she did not hear STANLEY moving.  As he was due in the yard about 7 a.m., he went to his bedroom and finding he was not there, assumed he had gone downstairs.  It had been his son's custom to bring his mother a cup of tea before leaving.  As he did not come up, witness went downstairs about 6.40, and discovered him on the floor of the lavatory.  The gas was turned on, to what extent he could not exactly say.  He carried him to his bedroom and despatched another son for Dr Pullen.   WALTER had sat for an examination during the three previous day, and had remarked that he had not done as well as he would have wished.  -  The Coroner:  had he been working hard for this examination?  -  He had done his best.  He was anything but depressed on Wednesday night.  He was a very affectionate son, and we had never had a cross word.  -  ALBERT ERNEST LILLICRAP said his brother slept with him on the Wednesday night as usual and STANLEY was apparently in his usual cheerful spirits.  Witness was aroused in the morning by hearing his father's banging at the lavatory door.  Deceased had remarked that he had not done very well in the examination, but that was what he usually said.  -  Dr R. S. M. Pullen said all attempts to restore animation, although continued until 8.45 a.m., failed.  Death was due to gas poisoning.  His opinion was that the tap was not fully turned off on the previous night, and that when deceased entered the lavatory, he was over come by faintness and the fumes.  -  The Coroner said the case was one of the saddest he had had to Inquire into for some time.  There did not seem sufficient evidence to show that the youth took his own life.  On the other hand, the evidence was insufficient to show that death was accidental.  The only safe course they could adopt was, it seemed to him, to say that death was due to suffocation from gas poisoning, and that there was not sufficient evidence to show whether it was accident or otherwise.   -   The Jury, in returning a verdict in accordance with the Coroner's advice, expressed deep sympathy with the family.  -  Rev. A. T. Head, on behalf of the family acknowledged the Jury's vote of sympathy.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 14 December 1909
DAWLISH - Dawlish Tunnel Tragedy.  The Body Identified.  -  An Inquest on the body of the man found cut in two on the railway between Dawlish and Teignmouth on Saturday, was held at Dawlish yesterday by Mr S. Hacker.  chief Inspector Mapledoram (Exeter) and Locomotive-Inspector Wager (Newton Abbot) represented the G.W.R. Co.  -  Louis Martin, porter, Dawlish Station, said on a message arriving from the engine driver of the 6.19 p.m. (Dawlish) down train that he had "knocked against something" the Stationmaster (Mr Gibson) sent him to make a search.  About 65 yards in the tunnel towards Teignmouth, he found the body lying across the rails, with the feet towards the left side of the tunnel, going down.  He had never seen the man before.  -  P.C. Marshall said on the body was found a certificate of character, written by Mr J. Windsor, of Haut Mont, Jersey, dated 1904, and stating that LOUIS CETILLARD had been in his service as a farm hand and gardener for two years, and that he could recommend him as an honest, trustworthy man.  In deceased's coat pocket was a handkerchief, with the name "L. CETILLARD" in the corner.  -  Rose Weeks, of Victoria-street, Exeter, identified the deceased as M. LOUIS CETILLARD, who had been lodging with her for the past six weeks.  He had been employed for over 12 months at Mr King's, nurseryman, Exeter, as foreman.  He left his situation (the witness did not seem to know the reason for his doing so) on Saturday week last.  He was an excellent lodger in every respect, thoroughly straightforward, and regularly paid his way.  He left home on Tuesday morning.  She thought he was going to look for work, but he did not return.  He left two boxes of clothes and other things behind him.  She had not examined his belongings to see if he had left any message behind.  Three letters that had arrived for him also remained unopened.  He was a native of Jersey and a widower.  He had three daughters;  two he had left behind him in Jersey, and one was in service at Whimple.  He had given no hint that he intended taking his life  -  John Westcott, the engine driver of the 6.2 train from Exeter on Saturday evening, said, when nearing the end of the first of the tunnels between Dawlish and Teignmouth, he heard a peculiar sound - a kind of "rumble."  On arriving at Teignmouth he and his mate examined the engine, but could find nothing wrong.  he told the signalman to telegraph to Dawlish to ask them to search the tunnel.  He felt no jerk.  He concluded that the body had come into contact with the brake valves, which were low down and this caused the sound he heard.  -  The Coroner thought it prudent to have deceased's daughter before them, and also to have deceased's belongings examined, and he therefore adjourned the Inquiry until Wednesday at 2.30.

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Child's Death.  -  Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest yesterday on ROBERT CHARLES BURT, the five-year-old son of a Plymouth fisherman.  -  LOUISA BURT, its mother, said on the 7th inst. she left it for a few minutes in front of an open fire, with no guard.  Hearing screams, she ran back and found the child's clothes in flames.  She extinguished them, and sent the lad to the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital.  -  The House Surgeon of the Hospital said when admitted the child was suffering from extensive burns, and died on Saturday.  -  The Coroner remarked that it would be impossible to show some people their responsibilities with regard to the safety of their children until prosecutions were undertaken to make examples.  He did not believe for a moment that the parents did these things with any criminal intentions.  -  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

STOKE DAMEREL - At the Inquest on the infant son of MRS SHARMAN, the wife of a Royal Marine pensioner, living in Ker-street Ope, Devonport, Dr Symes Saunders attributed death to suffocation, the result of pressure of an enlarged thymus gland.

PLYMPTON ST MAURICE - With respect to the death of JAMES SHERWELL, aged 80, an old-age pensioner, of Plympton St. Maurice, an Inquest was held yesterday by Mr R. R. Rodd.  A niece of deceased deposed to finding her uncle dead in bed when taking him a cup of tea on Sunday morning.  Dr L. D. Stamp attributed death to syncope, accelerated by old age and recent bronchitis.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 15 December 1909
PLYMOUTH - At the Inquest on STANLEY GROSE, found dead in bed in a lodging-house in Octagon-street, Plymouth, on Monday, Dr Wagner attributed death to heart failure due to chronic asthma.

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Child's Death.  Poisoned by Tinned Fish. -  Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on WINIFRED EMILY HARRIET SPRAGGS, aged 2 years, the daughter of WILLIAM JOHN SPRAGGS, a Plymouth fisherman.  The father stated that at tea on Saturday, when she appeared to be in good health, the child had some potted conger.  Later she complained of a headache and was very sick all night.  Dr Stubbs attended her on Saturday evening.  She died at six o'clock next morning.  -  Dr Travers Stubbs said he had made a post-mortem examination and found that death was due to ptomaine poisoning, due to eating the tinned fish.  There was also evidence of congestion of the lungs.  -  A verdict in accordance with the doctor's evidence was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 17 December 1909
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Girl's Death.  Coroner's Jury And The Mother.  -  Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest yesterday on ELLEN LILIAN WHITE, aged 7 years, the daughter of GEORGE WHITE, labourer, of Morley-street, Plymouth.  -  MRS WHITE said on Tuesday, at 9.30 p.m., she left her daughter in bed alone, in a room in which there was a fire protected by a guard. She was not away many minutes, when Ida Casley, living in the same house, told her that her child was in flames.  She returned and found her daughter was being taken to the Hospital.  -  Ida Casley said she heard the child scream, and on running into the room, found it in flames.  A neighbour extinguished the flames and Mr Coles took the girl to the Hospital.  -  The Coroner:  Where was your husband all this time, MRS WHITE?  -  He does not leave work until late.  -  Ida Casley said she could not say how long MRS WHITE was away from the house.  -  Dr G. F. Porter said the girl was admitted to the Hospital on Tuesday night.  Her mother arrived later.  -  The Coroner:  What was her condition?  -  She was under the influence of drink.  -  MRS WHITE:  I deny it.  I had not been in a public-house for the day.  - Dr Porter, continuing, said the child was extensively burnt and it was a hopeless case from the first.  She died on Wednesday morning.  -  The Foreman remarked on the condition of the mother on the evening of the accident.  - The Coroner said it would not affect the case very much as the mother was not present at the time of the accident.  -  A Juryman (to MRS WHITE):  Did you visit a public-house during the evening?  -  No.    My face was a little red on arriving at the Hospital, but that was caused by hurrying.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."  -  The Coroner remarked that they could bring nothing back to the mother, unfortunately.  -  The Foreman said the Jury desired that MRS WHITE should be reprimanded somewhat, and if she had other children she should be more careful in the future.  In reply to the Coroner, MRS WHITE said she had two little boys.  -  The foreman, on behalf of the Jury, urged that MRS WHITE should be more careful in the future.  -  The Coroner:  The mother had a fire-guard, and that clears her.

PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held at Plymouth yesterday on ROBERT COAD, 83, of 58 Greenbank-avenue, Plymouth, who was found dead in bed on Tuesday morning.  Dr Eccles who made a post-mortem examination, said death was due to fatty degeneration of the heart and a verdict was returned accordingly.

Western Morning News, Saturday 18 December 1909
STOKE DAMEREL  Devonport Man's Suicide.  -  Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest yesterday on EDWIN PENGELLY, aged 57, retired blacksmith, 24 Fore-street, Devonport.  ALERT PENGELLY, tobacconist, fore-street, his son, said he last saw his father at 9 p.m. on Thursday, when he asked him to take an empty box to a store in Pe[?].  About 11.30 a.m. as he was missing, he went to the store with his brother and a constable, and in the loft they found him hanging to a beam quite dead.  His father had been very depressed lately and at times was very strange.  P.C. J. Saunders said when he cut down the man he had apparently been dead for  some time.  Dr McElwaine attributed death to suffocation from hanging.  The Jury found that deceased Committed Suicide while Temporarily Insane and expressed sympathy with the family.

KINGSBRIDGE - The Sherford Fatality.  -  An Inquest was held at Kingsbridge on GEORGE YEOMAN, aged 45, who died in the Cottage Hospital from injuries received by being thrown out of a trap at Sherford on Tuesday.  Mr W. Dale was chosen Foreman of the Jury.  -  William Goodyear of Dodbrooke who was driving with MR YEOMAN, said they first went to Aveton Gifford, then to Loddiswell and East Allington, then on to Sherford.  Turning a corner too sharply the trap went up a hedge and turned over.  YEOMAN was under the wheel of the trap;    the night was very dark.  He had nothing to drink all day "except one or two."  He had one light, an off lamp.  -  Dr J. W. Pettinger, of Kingsbridge, said the cause of death was haemorrhage of the brain.  George Henry Nunn, of Keynedon Mill, said Goodyear was as sober as he was at the present time.  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Monday 20 December 1909
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Pensioner's Death.  - Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at Devonport Workhouse on Saturday on WILLIAM C. BROWNING, 41 years of age, a naval pensioner, of Warleigh-avenue.  He was admitted to the imbecile ward of the Infirmary in October last.  At times he was subject to epileptic fits and would be very violent just before they came on.  On these occasions he was placed for a short time in the separation cell.  On Thursday night last, he was seized with a fit, and was removed to the cell.  He was under the care of the night nurse, who looked into the cell from time to time to see how he was progressing.  In the morning he was apparently better, but shortly afterwards he looked strange, and died within a few minutes.  -  Dr Sandford, Medical Officer of the Workhouse, attributed death to meningitis and a verdict was returned accordingly.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 21 December 1909
BUCKLAND MONACHORUM - The Buckland Fatality.  Labourer's Astonishing Pluck.  -  Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Milton Combe yesterday on HENRY GREEP, 45, farm labourer, who died on Saturday from injuries caused by a wagon accident.  -  The evidence of ANNIE GREEP, widow, and Harry Hearn, a fellow-labourer, at Bloiscombe Farm, was that deceased appeared in the farmyard on Friday looking extremely ill and leading his wagon team.  He explained to Hearn and his wife that as he drove across the moors from Plymouth with a load of oil cake, he stepped out on the shafts to "touch up" the riding horse, which had not been pulling well.  In doing so he fell to the ground and the wheels of the wagon, weighing with the load about two tons, went over him.  He found himself too ill to drive the wagon down the long hill to the farm, so drove it slightly off the turnpike and then releasing the horses, led them home.  -  Dr G. T. Revell, Yelverton, deposed to finding deceased on Friday suffering severely from shock and internal injuries.  He died the following afternoon.  A post-mortem examination showed that the small intestine and kidney were ruptured and a rib fractured.  There was in addition extensive bruising.  -  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, and the Coroner commented on the great pluck and foresight shown by deceased.

PLYMOUTH - Devonport Barman's Death.  -  Mr R. B. Johns (Borough Coroner) held an Inquest yesterday at the Plymouth Mortuary on JACOB TONKISS, aged 36.  -  Mrs Annie Ferris, 2 Owen's-cottages, said she had heard that deceased had been invalided out of one of the services.  She had known him about seven months.  -  Wm. Henry Waterfield, manager of Thomas' Hotel, Fore-street, Devonport, said deceased had been in his firm's employ for about three months as a barman.  He had complained of pains in his side.  It was part of TONKISS' duty to carry cases of minerals from the cellars to the bar.  On Saturday evening he again complained of pains and rested for some time.  Witness eventually sent him home in a cab.  -  Dr W. H. Brenton said he was summoned to see deceased and found him in intense pain.  Witness injected morphia which gave some relief.  He saw deceased on the Sunday morning and he was then suffering from peritonitis in an acute form.  He suggested that deceased should go into the Hospital, but this was against the wishes of his wife and himself.  Soon after he received a message to say that the man was dying, and on arrival at his home witness found him dead.  He had made a post-mortem examination and found that death was due to an ulcer in the stomach of long standing, which set up general severe septic peritonitis.  The action of lifting might have caused the rupture of the ulcer.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes," and expressed their sympathy with the widow, to whom they gave their fees.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 22 December 1909
EXETER - At an Inquest at Exeter yesterday on RICHARD BEVAN RICH, 69, tailor's cutter, of Portland-street, who died suddenly on Sunday, Dr Bradford said death was due to heart failure and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.  The Coroner fined the widow of deceased 40s. for coming half an hour late, but later remitted it on the suggestion of the Jury.

Western Morning News, Thursday 23 December 1909
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on JOHN PERCIVAL THACKER, aged two weeks.  Deceased, the son of a sailor of York-street, was found dead bout 7 o'clock that morning and Dr Keily said he attributed death to asphyxia.  The child was well nourished.  A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 27 December 1909
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Woman's Death.  Found Drowned In The Sound. -  Mr R. B. Johns (Borough Coroner) held an Inquest at Plymouth Mortuary on Friday on SARAH ANNIE ADA HUTCHINGS, aged 33, wife of WILLIAM EDWARD HUTCHINGS, painter, Melbourne-street.  -  The husband said he last saw deceased on December 1st.  She was then at home, and was apparently in her usual health.  She had been attended by Dr Wagner for some time.  His wife let home and he had not seen her since.  Witness had not heard deceased threaten to take her life.  -  Thomas Coombs, an attendant on the Hoe, said he found the body of deceased floating in the ladies' bathing-place on Thursday morning.  The body was removed to the mortuary.  -  Dr Wagner said he saw the deceased on November 30th.  He had treated her for some time.  She was suffering from delusions and had the idea that she had kidney disease.  She also fancied that she was always doing wrong.  She threw away his medicine, and pretended that she had taken it.  About eight weeks since her husband found her in the pantry with the gas turned on.  She was then in a fainting condition.  she had not, in his opinion, suicidal tendencies.  -  The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned," and expressed their sympathy with the husband.

Western Morning News, Thursday 30 December 1909
EXETER - At an Inquest at Exeter yesterday on the body of JOHN THOMAS BUTLER, 74, retired coach trimmer, the evidence showed that deceased went to bed on Sunday evening apparently well, and was found dead on Monday morning.  Dr Bradford said death was caused by heart disease.

BUCKLAND MONACHORUM - Buckland Girl's Death.  Pathetic Letter read At Inquest.  -  At the Church schoolroom, Buckland Monachorum, yesterday afternoon, Mr C. G. Brian, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest relative to the death of ELIZABETH GRACE BULLEY, aged 16, a general servant at Coppice Town Farm (Buckland Monachorum), occupied by Mr Edwin Joseph Ward.  -  ISAAC BULLEY, a farm labourer, stated that his daughter had not to his knowledge been ill recently, and he had never noticed her depressed.  The last time he saw her alive was on Saturday, when she appeared cheerful.  -  Mrs William Ward, of Coppice Town Farm, said the deceased had been employed at the farm for about ten weeks.  She had lately complained of pains in her head and side, but there was nothing unusual in the girl's behaviour on Sunday or Monday.  She missed deceased from the kitchen between eight and nine o'clock on Monday evening and discovered that she had gone out, first telling the other servants that she would be back soon.  As she did not return a search was instituted.  On Monday afternoon she noticed deceased writing, and on the Tuesday the following letter in the girl's handwriting was found:-   "My dear Granny and Father.  -  I expect it will be sad news to you and all of my relations and friends when you hear what I have done to myself, but I thought it would be the easiest way to get out of pain and suffering - out of the world's temptation and troubles.  No one knows the pain I am in, and they never will now.  If doctors say I am not ill, people think it is true, but I know my own feelings.  I hardly know how to stand for pain in my left side and my head aches day and night.  I have been tempted to do this ever since dear grandfather died;   it was a terrible blow to me.  I thought I should not have lived up to now, but God knows best.  My granny, grieve not for me, but let me go out of your mind.  Tell father, brother and sister, I will meet them all again.  I am gone for the best.  God knows all that hangs over their heads.  I am going with my dear grandfather and mother, whom I cannot remember.  I hope for the joyful meeting when we all meet to part no more.  By the time you get this letter I shall be gone, resting in the Lord.  God hath forgiven me.  -  With love from GRACE BULLEY."    -    P.C. Lynn stated that about midnight on Monday he was informed that deceased was missing, and a search was instituted.  On the next morning, noticing footsteps leading from a lane adjoining the farm to the River Tavy, he followed the river with five others, and about three-quarters of a mile from the spot where the footsteps joined the river the body was found.  The body was brought back to the village to the house of the girl's father.  In a pocket was found the following note:-    "Whoever finds me will find a note at Coppice Town Farm in my writing-case, addressed to MRS. W. BULLEY, Buckland Village, near Yelverton.  Please give it to her.  -  The Deputy coroner said that in the circumstances he had thought it advisable to have a post-mortem examination made.  -  The evidence of Dr Revell, Yelverton, who made the examination, showed that the state of the body was quite regular, excepting traces of old meningitis and the unusual condition of the girl's liver, which would account for the pains mentioned in the letter.  Death was due to drowning.  -  The Jury (Mr W. J. Baker, Foreman) returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."  They expressed sympathy with the father and handed him their fees.

Western Morning News, Friday 31 December 1909
MORETONHAMPSTEAD - Manaton Man's Death. -  An Inquest on FRED TOMS, of Manaton, was held at Moretonhampstead yesterday.  MR JOSEPH TOMS, late of Launceston, now of Sutton Coldfields, said the deceased, his son, was 18 years of age, and had been working at Town Barton farm, Manaton, for about 12 months.  -  Mr Edward L. Cuming, of Town Barton, Manaton, said on Monday he sent TOMS to see some cattle on an off farm, called Beckham.  -  Mr W. Derges of Manaton, stated that he and TOMS were together on Monday on horseback.  TOMS went to the top of a field to see some cattle, and while there his horse bolted.  TOMS was thrown off on his head in the lane.  Dr Laurie said TOMS sustained laceration of the brain and a severe fracture of the skull.  he had him taken to the Moreton Cottage Hospital, where he expired on Wednesday.  The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."