Inquests Taken Into Suspicious Or Unexplained Deaths

For the County of Devon

Articles taken from the Western Morning News

[printed in Plymouth.]

1914

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:-  Abbot;  Aldridge; Ash; Ashton; Austin; Balchin; Balkwill; Band; Barratt; Barriball; Bawden; Beer; Bennett; Benny; Berry(2); Bevan; Bibbings; Bickford; Bird; Board; Bowden; Brooking; Broom; Bubeer; Bullen; Bulley; Bullinaria; Burgoyne; Callard; Cameron; Campbell; Cann; Carslake; Chapple; Charles; Clark; Clemo; Cobb; Cole; Connolly; Cooper; Courage; Davey; Denby; Dockett; Dodd; Donaghy; Doney; Drake; Dyer; Dymond; Earl; Eastcott; Easterbrook; Easton; Endacott; Eva; Fehrenback; Fewings; Fey; Figg; Foote; Freeman; Fulwood; Gage; Garvan; Goodban; Gooding; Gordon; Green; Greenwood; Gruhner; Halladay; Ham; Hammett; Hannaford(2); Harris; Hawkins; Heard; Hemstock; Heydon; Hill; Hodge; Horne; Howard; Johnson; Johnstone; Joliffe; Jones; Jordan; Joyce; Kennear; Kershaw; Kistle; Knight; Lake; Lane; Lawlor; Lewis(2);  Livingstone; Loader; Lobban; Luscombe(2); Luxton; Mackenzie; Maddick; Madge; Manley; Martin; Matthews; May(3); McBean; McCullock; McEvoy; McLeod; Monaghan; Moore; Moran; Murphy; Mutton; Nickells; Norriss; Oke; Parker; Patey; Pearse; Penrose; Perry; Pett; Phillips(2); Pickard; Pope; Porter; Purdie; Pym; Pyne; Reynolds; Richards; Roberts; Rosewell; Rowe(2);  Rundle; Salmon; Salter; Sampson; Segar; Seymour; Shapley; Sharp; Short; Shute; Sims(2); Smith; Snell; Sparkes; Stable; Stanbury; Street; Taylor(2); Thom; Thomas; Tolman; Toy; Trembirth; Trout; Truscott; Tucker; Veale; Vickery; Warne; Warren(2); Webb; Webber; Webster; Westcott; Whipp; White(2); Wodehouse; Wood; Yaxley; Young

Western Morning News, Thursday 1 January 1914
TAVISTOCK - Fatal Neglect. Collapse Of Staging In The Prince Of Wales Mine. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd yesterday resumed the Inquest at Tavistock Guildhall on JAMES JOHN SMITH ABBOT, miner, aged 47, who met with fatal injuries while working at the Prince of Wales Mine, Harrowbarrow, on December 17th. As a result of staging giving out, he fell a considerable distance. After being attended by Dr Leakey, he was removed to the Tavistock Cottage Hospital, where he died. - Dr Bowhay, who made a post-mortem examination, attributed death to peritonitis and shock. - Shadrack Gale, miner, stated that on December 17th ABBOT and himself went some way below the 135-fathom level. The staging on which they were working consisted of a tram rail, on which two planks had been placed. After they had been working about twenty minutes the rail gave way, causing the staging to collapse. Deceased fell a distance of 20ft. Witness also would have fallen had not a miner named Studden saved him by pulling him aside. The opening of the pass into which the deceased fell was 2ft. 9in. by 2ft. 3in., and was not protected. It was usual, however, to place rails across the opening. Witness agreed with the Coroner that the lengthening of the pass should not have been proceeded with until the work on the staging had been completed. - Mr T. Boydell, H.M. Inspector of Mines, pointed out that any dangerous openings should be protected and that any defects should be reported to the captain of the mine. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said no official of the mine came below ground just before the accident, but an inspection had taken place on December 16th. Mr Sleep, the foreman, came below every day about 10 a.m. to inspect the works. Witness thought the staging had been made secure. - The Coroner said it struck him that some suitable cover should be provided to place over the opening of the pass. - Questioned by Mr Boydell, witness stated that after the staging had been fixed deceased and himself tested it with a hammer. When Mr sleep made his inspection the pass was covered. - James Henry Langsford, miner, said when ABBOT fell he (witness) was engaged in building up the pass. He was knocked down by the staging and just saw deceased fall through the opening. - Replying to the Coroner, witness said he began his work before deceased and Gale started theirs. He did not assist in erecting the staging. Six pieces of rail were available for the protection of the pass, if required. - Questioned by Mr Boydell, witness said ABBOT must have dived right over him. On December 16th the pass was protected with six rails. The miners were not denied materials for that use if they asked for them. - The Coroner suggested a stout chain net for the purpose of covering the opening of the pass. - Langsford added that when the pass was not being used it had always been protected. - Varcoe Sleep, foreman, stated that had he gone below and found the two jobs proceeding at the same time he would have stopped the men. Evidently the ledge of ground to which the rail had been fixed was not safe, and the staging should not have been erected as it was. He considered that the rails were an ample and safe protection for the pass when they were used. - The Jury returned a verdict that "ABBOT died of injuries received in consequence of a fall through the collapse of the staging, the collapse being due to the neglect of four workmen (including the deceased) but that the neglect did not amount to culpable negligence."

Western Morning News, Friday 2 January 1914
GREAT TORRINGTON - Letter Which Came Too Late. Sad Coincidence At Torrington. - Mr G. W. F. Brown held an Inquest in Torrington Townhall yesterday on WILLIAM BRIGHT FEWINGS, aged 55, grocer's messenger, who was found by his wife on Wednesday 'hanging in the house.' MRS FEWINGS said her husband had been ill since last May. About 8.30 on Wednesday morning he brought her a cup of tea, and suggested that as she had had a restless night she had better lie on. She heard nothing more of him. Witness got up just before 11 a.m., and found her husband hanging in the passage. - Richard Davey, who was called about 11.10 a.m., said deceased was suspended from a hat hook in the passage leading to the kitchen. He was dead. - Dr Watkins stated that he had attended deceased since June. He was suffering from severe depression, but never showed any suicidal tendency. Death was due to suffocation . - The Coroner said apparently deceased was much worried and depressed through losing his employment. A strange and somewhat sad coincidence was that the midday post brought a letter offering FEWINGS employment. Had this arrived before things might have been all right. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" and expressed sympathy with the widow and family.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 6 January 1914
PLYMOUTH - Found Hanging At Plymouth. Son's Sad Discovery. - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest at Plymouth Mortuary yesterday on ALFRED LAKE, labourer, who was found hanging in a back room at 17 Cambridge-street, on Sunday. Deceased's eleven-year-old son said on Sunday morning his father sent him on an errand and on returning he found him hanging. - David Jones, another occupant of the house, said that when informed of the tragedy he proceeded to the room and found deceased hanging by some twine to the bedpost. - Deceased's eldest son said his father, who had been separated from his wife for some years, had lately worked for the Corporation. Dr Thomson said death resulted from strangulation and a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Pensioner's Death. - At the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, Plymouth yesterday, Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner held an Inquest on CHARLES VINNICOMBE PENROSE, 70, naval pensioner, of Pounds Park-road, who was taken ill whilst walking along Cemetery-road, and who died early the next morning. Mrs F. Kelland, deceased-s married daughter, living at Godolphin-terrace, Devonport, said that on the previous Friday deceased left her house at about 8.30 p.m. to go to a picture palace. He was all right when he left. He had previously had two seizures. - P.C. Mann said he removed deceased to the Hospital on the ambulance and Dr J. B. Donalson said that when admitted deceased was suffering from brain haemorrhage. He died shortly after midnight. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 7 January 1914
STOKE DAMEREL - Mr J. A. Pearce, Coroner, held an Inquest at Devonport Guildhall yesterday on WILLIAM HENRY F. C. LOADER, single, 34, ship's steward assistant, who had lodged at St. Levan-road. Mr K. E. Peck was present on behalf of the Admiralty. - James H. Matthews, master-at-arms, H.M.S. Forth, said deceased's mother resided in Ireland. He last saw him on Sunday, when he appeared in his usual good spirits. He had recently been in Hospital suffering from a broken arm. - Charles Wadge, St Levan-road, pensioner, said deceased had lived with him for the past five years. Witness went to call him on Monday morning at 6.30, and found him dead in bed. He was lying on his side with all his clothes on. That was a common thing. The previous evening they were at Saltash together. Deceased then appeared to be as usual. He was always muddled with drink. It was a common thing when he was drunk to go to sleep with his clothes on. - Dr R. B. Wagner said he was called to the house shortly before 7 a.m. He had made a post-mortem and found death was due to coma, the effect of chronic alcoholic poisoning. - P.C. Dunn said deceased, whom he knew by sight, was always more or less in drink. - The Coroner said it was very sad that a young man of 34 should die from alcoholic poisoning. - A verdict was returned in accordance with the medical testimony.

Western Morning News, Thursday 22 January 1914
PLYMOUTH - At the Inquest in Plymouth Mortuary yesterday on the two days old son of HARRY EARL, bookmaker, Tower House, Walker-terrace, Winifred Morris, nurse, said she went out on Monday evening, and returned later to find the child dead in bed on his mother's arm, MRS EARL being asleep. Dr Parsloe attributed death to suffocation, due to overlaying and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

STOKE DAMEREL - Officer's Plucky Action. Seaman Drowned At Devonport. - The Borough Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, held an Inquest at the Royal Naval Barracks, Devonport, yesterday, on DUNCAN MACKENZIE, able seaman, of the destroyer Brisk, who was drowned in the Upper Trot on Monday evening. - Staff-Surgeon W. P. Kingston, R.N. Barracks, attributed death to drowning. - Sub-Lieut. K. Wilkinson, H.M.S. Brisk, gave evidence of identification, and said deceased was about 22 years of age. He was not a married man as far as was known and his home was in Scotland. On Monday evening, at 7.15, witness was in the wardroom when he heard the shout "Man Overboard." He went on deck and sang out "Away lifeboat's crew." The coxswain went forward to lower the whaler and witness went aft and saw a lifebuoy being thrown. Witness thought he saw the lifebuoy quite close to the man. The dinghey in which deceased had been was adrift, and witness surmised that there had been some accident. Witness jumped overboard and reached the dinghey, which was about six yards astern, and got into her. He pulled to where he saw the man last, but there were no signs of him. The quartermaster of the Nemesis, which was stern on to the Brisk, also threw a lifebuoy to the man and it fell within a yard of him, but he failed to get it. Several boats arrived on the scene, and the search was kept up until 9 p.m., without success. The next morning some boatmen recovered the body. Deceased had taken the postman ashore in the dinghey and had practically returned to the ship when the accident occurred. He was a man of good character and had a brother, who was serving in the Staunch, in the same flotilla. Deceased was a good swimmer. - C.P.O. William Sambells, H.M.S. Brisk, said they had the whaler away in about three minutes. Just before he got to the spot he saw Sub.-Lieut. Wilkinson jump overboard and swim to the dinghey. The dinghey had apparently fouled the wires at the stern of the destroyer. Deceased was an experienced hand with the dinghey. - Stoker F. A. Smith, H.M.S. Brisk, said he heard a man shouting "Help." He rushed aft and saw deceased struggling in the water, and threw the lifebuoy quite close to him. Witness saw him go towards the lifebuoy and asked him if it was all right. He heard him make a noise and then he disappeared. - The Coroner expressed his appreciation of the efforts of Lieut. Wilkinson in jumping overboard. It was most praiseworthy and he deserved their very best thanks. - The Foreman also said it was a most praiseworthy action on such a bitterly cold night. The officer had shown a bit of British pluck. - A verdict of "Accidental Drowning" was returned and sympathy expressed with the relatives.

EAST STONEHOUSE - Sailor Boy's Death. - The adjourned Inquest on JOSEPH THOMAS SMITH, boy, 1st class, H.M.S. Impregnable, was concluded yesterday by the Coroner, Mr R. Robinson Rodd. Fleet Surgeon, F. J. A. Dalton said that as the result of a post-mortem examination he discovered a large abscess in the head set up by the bruising of the brain. Such a bruise would have been caused by a fall. - MRS SMITH, mother of the boy, stated that when he was at Starbridge for Christmas leave he had a fall while sliding. He cut and bruised his nose. Three days later he returned to his ship apparently all right. A verdict was returned in accordance with the medical evidence.

EAST STONEHOUSE - Comdr. HAMILTON-GORDON. Death Probably Accelerated By Severe Chill. - The Inquest on COMMANDER DOUGLAS WALTER HAMILTON-GORDON, of H.M.S. Thrasher, was held by Mr R. Robinson Rodd at the Royal Naval Hospital, Stonehouse, yesterday morning. - Evidence of identification was given by Lieut. R. F. Pitt Maton, R.N., brother-in-law, who stated that the deceased was 35 years of age. - Jack W. Davie, officers' steward, H.M.S. Thrasher, said he last saw Commander HAMILTON-GORDON on Monday. All that day the Thrasher was engaged in sweeping for the lost submarine and the deceased was in command of the ship. It was a bitterly cold day. They returned to port at 5.30 p.m., but the Commander did not go ashore. Witness took a letter to his wife and on returning with an answer saw the deceased in his bunk, at 10.55 p.m. He did not complain of feeling unwell. - Frank Fowler Wilson, stoker, 1st class, H.M.S. Thrasher, said he went to call the deceased at 6 a.m. on Tuesday morning and found him dead. - Surgeon H. A. Browning. H.M.S. Leander, who had made a post-mortem examination, said he found a certain amount of valvular disease of the heart and aorta, and the commencement of double pneumonia. This, in his opinion, caused syncope, from which death resulted. - Answering the Coroner, the Surgeon added that it was probable he contracted a severe chill on Monday, and that would cause the commencing of double pneumonia. He would have had a severe illness in any case. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence, and associated themselves with the Coroner's expression of sympathy with the widow and relatives. - Commander DOUGLAS WALTER HAMILTON-GORDON was the son of Mr Douglas George Hamilton-Gordon, J.P., of London, and Mrs Gordon. He was a grandson of the late Canon Gordon, of Salisbury and a cousin of the present Earl of Aberdeen. On June 30th 1903 he married Emilie, elder daughter of Mr Leonard Maton of Sundial House, Kensington. He entered the navy in January 1902 and served in the following ships:- Royal Sovereign (which was then flagship of Admiral Fitzroy), Cordelia, Desperate, Bittern and Prince George. He served as a staff officer in the Sheerness Gunnery School and as gunnery lieutenant of the St. George, Resolution, Bulwark, Niobe, Suffolk and Sutlej. He was promoted commander in 1911 and was serving in the Defence when she was one of the escorting ships during the visit of H.M. the King to India. In October 1913 he was appointed to the command of H.M.S. Thrasher and as a divisional leader of the Seventh Flotilla. With all ranks and rating she was a most popular officer and the news of his sudden death has been received with sincere regret throughout the service. - The funeral will take place tomorrow, the first portion of the service being held in the chapel at the R.N. Hospital at 10 a.m. The interment will take place in Plymouth Cemetery.

Western Morning News, Saturday 31 January 1914
PLYMOUTH - Fatal Accident In Laundry. Inquest At Plymouth. - Mr J. Graves, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday, on HILDA ALBERTA LUSCOMBE, aged 19, of 14 Willow-street, employed as a laundress at Seymour Laundry, Plymouth. - Helena Leslie, 81 Cothele-avenue, laundress, stated that on the 20th inst., about 3 p.m., deceased was helping witness to put clothes on rollers, which were revolving, the handle being turned by witness. Deceased called to witness to lower the rollers and this was done. Witness then heard deceased scream as her hand was between the rollers. Witness had set the machine working by machinery power prior to this accident and this was stopped as soon as witness shouted. Shortly before the accident witness told deceased she was about to engage the rollers with the machinery. - Kathleen Marshall, wife of the proprietor of the laundry, said only the engineer was allowed to interfere with the machinery and the girls were not allowed to touch the machine except under his direction. - Dr J. B. Macdonalson said deceased was admitted to the Hospital with her left hand badly crushed. On the 28th inst. she became collapsed and died the following day from shock. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, the Jury expressing sympathy with deceased's family, and exonerating Leslie from blame.

EAST STONEHOUSE - Naval Cadet's Death. An "Athlete's Heart." - Mr R. Robinson Rodd held an Inquest at the R.N. Hospital, Stonehouse, yesterday on HAROLD HEMSTOCK, naval cadet, serving in the training-cruiser Highflyer, who died suddenly on Wednesday, when the ship was returning to Devonport from Portsmouth. - MR ALFRED HEMSTOCK, of 30 Denbigh-road, Ealing, said the deceased, his son, was 18, entered the navy in September last. He was an expert rower and was in the first form at his school, St. Paul's, London. Prior to 1913 he did a good deal of rowing and always showed good health. He was used to Swedish drill from a child. - John Schlee, naval cadet, H.M.S. Highflyer, said on Wednesday morning the deceased turned out at 6.20 a.m., when the ship was at sea. They all had a cup of cocoa. Deceased appeared quite fit and did not complain. At 7.5 they went on the upper deck for fifteen minutes' physical Swedish drill. Towards the end of the drill they were about to bend at knee exercise, when deceased fell backwards. He was unconscious and never recovered. - The Coroner: You don't find this drill in any way over-exerting? - No. - Capt. B.F. Trench, R.M.L.I., H.M.S. Highflyer, said he was in charge of the drill on Wednesday morning. He saw HEMSTOCK fall backwards. He was carried to the sick bay and immediately attended to. He showed no sign of unfitness during the drill. He was a good and keen athlete, playing hockey and swimming well. Witness had never observed anything wrong with him. - Staff-Surgeon P. T. Nicholls, H.M.S. Highflyer, said he had made a post-mortem examination, and found an enlarged heart, which he rightly described as an "athlete's heart." That no doubt set up heart failure, which was the cause of death. There was a slight wound at the back of the head, caused by striking the deck when he fell backwards. - The Coroner: These lads undergo a severe medical examination. Should this condition of the heart be overlooked in a superficial examination? - In any young man who plays games strenuously you find a certain enlargement of the heart. It is a most common thing. It is not disease. The valves are quite sound. - Had it been detected would the boy have been rejected? - I don't think so. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes, " and expressed their sympathy with the father and the officers of the ship. - The Funeral. - The funeral of cadet HEMSTOCK took place in the Plymouth Cemetery after the Inquest. The service was conducted by the chaplain of the Highflyer (Rev. G. S. Kewney). The first portion of the service was held in the church at the Hospital. The mourners were MR HEMSTOCK (father) and a friend.

Western Morning News, Monday 2 February 1914
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Fatality. Railway Shunter Exonerated. - Mr J. Graves, Deputy Coroner, conducted an Inquest at Plymouth Mortuary on Saturday on WILLIAM ROWE (60) smith's labourer, engineering department, Great Western Railway, residing in Looe-street, Plymouth, who was killed at the Great Western Docks on Thursday. Mr J. Evans (Inspector of factories and workshops), Chief Inspector A. Poultney (representing G.W.R. division), Chief Inspector F. M. James (Great Western Docks) and Mr G. W. Brown (representing the South-Western District, National Union of Railwaymen) were present. - Albert Edward Thomas, shunter, Great Western Railway, Plymouth, stated that on Thursday about 5 p.m. he was on duty at the Great Western Docks on the east side. Whilst he and others were engaged in shunting some thirty or forty sailors crossed the line near the place where he was working. His attention was thus momentarily distracted and when a number of trucks had passed over the crossing which witness had left open, he ascertained that deceased had been run away. - Mr Brown (through the Coroner): Is there a proper road for sailors to take? - Yes. - The Coroner: Were they on the proper road? - No; in the wrong place. - They were taking a short cut? - Yes. - Witness added that the passing of people in such a manner was confusing to himself and others in their work. - George Cooper, craneman, Great Western Railway, said he was standing n the level-crossing at the Great Western Docks and observed deceased walking across the railroad between two sets of trucks. Deceased was knocked down and killed immediately. He was going to the workshop to put in his time-ticket before leaving work. The crossing was a proper way for deceased to have gone. The trucks were standing still when he started to cross and were suddenly set in motion by impact. - Mr Brown: Owing to the position of the lobby where men have to put in their checks, have they to stand very often in a dangerous position to put them in? - No. - The Coroner: Is the ticket-office in such a position that men have to put themselves in a dangerous position? - I have never heard that. - Are you obliged to stand on the line? - No. - Mr Brown: Is it not a fact that nearly all of you have to cross the line always? - No. - Mr Brown: I think witness is making a mistake. I have been informed that men have to stand along the wall side and wait their turn one after another, and when it is pay time they have to cross again to get their money. - The Coroner: You cannot address the Court. You are not here in the capacity of an advocate. - After retiring, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and exonerated Thomas, the pointsman from all blame. They expressed their sympathy with deceased's family and thought the occurrence was a pure accident.

EAST STONEHOUSE - Gymnastic Instructor's Death. Fall Of A Derrick. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd held an Inquest at the Royal Naval Hospital, Stonehouse, on Saturday, on WALTER SIMS, petty officer, first class, and a gymnastic instructor attached to the R.N. Barracks, Devonport. Mr K. Eyton Peck appeared on behalf of the Admiralty. - Deputy Surgeon-General A. Wildey, who had made a post-mortem examination, said the deceased was admitted on January 27th to the R.N. Hospital suffering from injuries to the head and spine. He was not unconscious, but was paralysed below the spinal injury, which was about six inches down the back. Death, which occurred on Friday, was due to fracture of the spinal cord. Deceased's condition was hopeless and an operation would have been of no avail. - Leading Seaman T. Dingle said that about 10.30 a.m. on Tuesday he, with the other members of the tug-of-war team, went to have a practice for the Naval and Military Tournament, under the instruction of deceased. The team, which consisted of 12 men, assisted in rigging two sheer legs stayed by means of two 3-inch ropes, secured by 6ft. wooden pegs driven for about 4ft. into the ground. They then lifted two 5 cwt. sinkers which were attached to the rope. Deceased gave the order to pull, with the result that the pegs gave out and the derrick fell over on to the deceased, pinning him to the ground. He was released as quickly as possible and conveyed to the Hospital, where it was found that he had received serious injuries. SIMS, who was in charge, gave all the orders and the derrick was erected under his instructions. It was the first practice. It was the usual way of practising, and witness had never known pegs to be drawn out before, none of the team were in danger, and witness was under the impression that the deceased was also standing clear. - Lieut. T. M. Barrett said he gave permission for the derrick to be rigged. In the ordinary course it would be the duty of deceased to have reported to witness that the apparatus was ready before using it. Witness went to see if the apparatus was ready when he met the members of the tug-of-war team conveying SIMS to Hospital. He went later and satisfied himself as to what had happened, and said he would not have given permission for the use of the derrick as erected. The deceased could not have observed the effect of the strain when the team pulled from a safe distance. Witness was of opinion that the pegs were not driven into the ground deep enough. Deceased was a very capable and keen man, and was solely responsible for what happened. In future a third leg would have to be used. - The Foreman: I consider that the ground is too soft for this kind of work. It is all made ground. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and expressed sympathy with MRS SIMS, who is in a delicate condition. The funeral will take place tomorrow morning with service honours.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 3 February 1914
STOKE DAMEREL - A Stoke Nonagenarian. - At an Inquest on SARAH JANE EASTON, widow, aged 95, Mr Jeremiah Collins, of 4 St Hilary-terrace, said deceased was the widow of a pensioned shipwright. She was his mother-in-law, and had lived with them for some years. She had had a slight cold and died peacefully in her bed early on Saturday morning. - Dr Ingram attributed death to heart failure due to extreme age. - The Coroner said it was an occasion of great rarity to have to hold an Inquest on a person 95 years of age. - Verdict, "Death from Natural Causes."

STOKE DAMEREL - Sudden Death At Devonport. - Mr J. A Pearce, Coroner, yesterday investigated a case of sudden death at Devonport regarding DAVID BLAIR BENNETT, aged 6 months, the child of ALFRED JAMES BENNETT, bandsman, 4th Middlesex Regt. living at Granby Barracks. After hearing the evidence of the mother and Major T. F. Fielding, R.A.M.C., the Jury found that death was due to pericarditis.

STOKE DAMEREL - A Dockyard Coppersmith. - Mr J. A. Pearce, Coroner, held an Inquest on PHILIP HENRY TRUSCOTT, age 38, coppersmith, unmarried of 11 Beatrice-avenue, who died suddenly in the Dockyard. G. E. TRUSCOTT ship fitter, 37 Barton-avenue, said he last saw deceased, who was his brother, at noon on Friday, when they mustered for dinner. Deceased was then bright and cheerful. Witness had just commenced his dinner when he was informed that his brother had dropped down and cut his temple. He immediately went to the surgery and there found that his brother was dead. - Staff-Surgeon W. T. Haydon attributed death to syncope. The Coroner expressed sympathy with the relatives, who were much respected. The Jury endorsed the Coroner's remarks, and returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 4 February 1914
SEATON AND BEER - Cycling Fatality Near Seaton. - Dr E. R. Tweed, Coroner, held an Inquest at the Townhall, Seaton, yesterday, on MR JOHN TOLMAN, jeweller, who died as the result of a collision with a cart when cycling from Rousdon to Seaton on January 15th. Evidence was given that deceased was riding very fast on the wrong side of the road and at a dangerous corner. The deceased had stated that the accident was entirely his own fault and the Coroner said MR TOLMAN had acted in a very honest and straightforward manner by exculpating everyone but himself. If others would only do the same it would save a lot of actions against motorists and others. If deceased had been killed on the spot no doubt others would have been blamed. - The Jury returned a verdict of " Accidental Death," and recommended that the corner of the road should be improved.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 11 February 1914
AXMINSTER - Axminster Tragedy. Auctioneer's Death From Bullet Wound. - At Axminster yesterday an Inquest was held on MR JOHN GAGE, auctioneer, who died on Monday as a result of a bullet wound. Mr W. Pinney was Foreman of the Jury. - The widow said her late husband, 47 years of age, rose as usual on Monday morning about 6.45, dressed and went downstairs. He returned to the bedroom shortly afterwards and partook of some tea with her. He remarked that he had had a splendid night. He went downstairs again. About an hour afterwards she heard a report and on going down saw him lying on the floor of his office. She had never heard him threaten to take his life. - The Coroner, Dr E. R. Tweed: Do you believe he had any intention of injuring himself? - I am sure he had not. He was so afraid of that sort of thing. - The Son's Evidence - STANLEY J. GAGE, son of deceased, said his father came into his bedroom just before seven o'clock on Monday morning and appeared in his usual spirits. About 7.45 a.m. he heard a noise in the office and thought that a stool had been knocked over. His sister, DOROTHY, at the foot of the staircase, said "Come quickly, a rifle has gone off and hurt dad." He went into the office, and saw his father on the floor and a Yeomanry rifle beside him. On being asked if he was hurt, he said "No." Blood was coming through the shirt, as his father's coat and waistcoat were partly unfastened. The rifle contained a spent cartridge. He (witness) was a trooper in the Royal 1st Devon Yeomanry and kept his own rifle and those belonging to four other troopers in his father's office for convenience. - The Coroner: How much ammunition had you? - About 10 rounds. My father knew where the cartridges were kept. My father had no financial difficulties, and never threatened to injure himself. There was no cartridge in the rifle when I finished with it after drill on the previous Monday evening. My father was insured, but not for a large amount. - So far as you know, there is nothing to show that the injury was self-inflicted? - I think it must have been accidental. - John Troom, labourer, Axminster, said he saw MR GAGE about 7.30 a.m. on Monday. He appeared in his usual health and made an arrangement to see him again at 10 o'clock. - How The Trigger Was Pulled. - Dr W. Langram said on being called he asked MR GAGE where the bullet went in and he replied, "In my stomach," but he could not say whether it had gone through his body. When asked how he pulled the trigger, he said with his thumb. A bullet had entered the epigastric region and came out a little behind the left hip joint. Death occurred at 10.40 a.m. MR GAGE, who had been suffering from nervous depression for some months, and had been under his treatment since December 22nd last, attributed his depression to a motor accident. - A sergeant-major of the Royal 1st Devon Yeomanry demonstrated that it was impossible to discharge a rifle when it was "cocked" by allowing it to fall on the floor. It was, he added, possible for troopers to have ball ammunition in their possession. - The Jury found that death was the result of a bullet wound, but there was not sufficient evidence to show whether the wound was caused intentionally by himself or accidentally.

PLYMOUTH - Fatal Fall At Walkhampton. - An Inquest was held by Mr R. B. Johns at the S.D. and E.C. Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday, on GEORGE CHAPPLE, aged 49 years, of Peak Hill Farm, Walkhampton. - John V. Watkins said CHAPPLE was in the employ of his father, and on New Year's-day was at work on the top of a rick. As he was pulling out a sheaf the cord snapped and he fell to the ground. A doctor ordered his removal to the Hospital. - MRS CHAPPLE said her husband told her it was quite an accident. - Dr J. B. Donaldson, House Surgeon, stated that when CHAPPLE was admitted he was suffering from a broken back. Complications afterwards set in, and death took place on Friday. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and with the Coroner extended sympathy with the relatives.

Western Morning News, Friday 13 February 1914
EXETER - At an Inquest at Exeter yesterday on JOHN MARTIN, 49, cabman, who was taken suddenly ill in his cab on Tuesday and died on the way to the Hospital, Dr L. Shiel, Assistant House Surgeon, who made a post mortem examination, attributed death to valvular disease of the heart. Verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Saturday 14 February 1914
ST BUDEAUX - Mr J. A. Pearce, Coroner, held an Inquest at St Budeaux yesterday on ELEANOR DONEY, aged 75, widow, of 9 Kathleaven-street. - John Williams, engine fitter, said deceased, who was his mother-in-law, had been living with him for some years, and her health had been uniformly good. On January 29th deceased left a downstairs room to go upstairs and shortly afterwards he heard a bumping noise. On going upstairs he found deceased lying on the second landing. She was put to bed and Dr Slater, who was sent for, found she had broken her thigh and collar-bone, and that the collar-bone had penetrated the lungs. Her death occurred last Wednesday. Deceased told him that she was going from one room to the other with a lighted match, which went out and thinking she was in the room, she stepped out, but found she was falling downstairs. Verdict - "Accidental Death."

THORVERTON - Mr H. W. Gould held an Inquest at Chilcote Gate Farm, near Thorverton, yesterday, on WILLIAM MANLEY, blacksmith, whose body was found hanging in a shed the previous day. Evidence showed that deceased's mind had become unhinged through ill-health and that prior to his death he wrote three letters to friends, stating that he could bear his sufferings no longer. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

Western Morning News, Monday 16 February 1914
STOKE DAMEREL - Artillery Sergeant's Suicide. - Mr J. A. Pearce, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest at the Military Hospital, Devonport, on Saturday, on Sergt. WILLIAM GREENWOOD, 45th Co., R.G.A., who died at the Hospital during Thursday night. - Sergt. F. J.B. Oman, quartermaster-sergeant, No. 3, Depot, R.G.A., Citadel, said on Saturday morning last MRS GREENWOOD came to him and said her husband had cut his throat. He ran upstairs to his room at No. 3, Married Quarters, and found deceased in a stooping position at the foot of the bed, with a razor in his right hand. Witness took the razor from him and laid him on his back. He thought deceased was dead. After binding a cloth around deceased's throat witness went for a doctor, leaving a sentry in charge. He thought family troubles had affected deceased. He had had one child ill and another was in Hospital waiting for an operation. Deceased was just about to retire from the service on pension, having almost completed his time. - Lieut. J. C. Sproule, R.A.M.C., said on receiving a telephone message on Saturday last he went to the Citadel in a taxi, and found GREENWOOD in a semi-conscious condition. The wound was dressed and deceased was removed in the motor ambulance to the Military Hospital, where he received further attention. The wound progressed satisfactorily, but on Tuesday deceased developed septic pneumonia. He gradually became worse and died during Thursday night, the immediate cause of death being septic pneumonia. There were two distinct attempts. The windpipe had been cut in two places. - Second-Lieut. Rockingham Conyers, R.G.A., said deceased was 44 years of age, and resided at the Married Quarters, Lambhay-hill. He bore an exemplary character. Deceased was markedly attached to his children and their illness had caused him to be depressed. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity," and expressed their deep sympathy with the widow.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 18 February 1914
STOKE DAMEREL - Late COLONEL A. T. WODEHOUSE. Ill-Health And Depression. - At 4 Winfield-villas, Stoke, Devonport, yesterday, Mr J. A. Pearse, Coroner, held an Inquest on COLONEL A. T. WODEHOUSE, R.A., who was found dead in his bedroom the previous day with a gunshot-wound in the head and a revolver lying near. - Mr G. N. Dickinson, solicitor to MRS WODEHOUSE, stated that deceased was 74 years of age. He had been in ill-health a considerable time and had worried over trifles which would have caused a person in normal health no anxiety. - Jane Bennallack said she had been in attendance on deceased as nurse about three weeks. His state of health varied from time to time. Occasionally he was despondent, but on Sunday last was bright and cheerful. On Monday she was in and out the room continually during the morning. Deceased got out of bed about half-past ten, but witness reminded him that Dr Clay was coming to see him that morning and he said he would go back to bed and wait for him, and witness need not return to the room until he rang. She did once afterwards go into the room, although the Colonel's bell had not rung and remarked to him that the doctor had not arrived. Witness left the room again and was not absent more than five minutes when she heard a pistol shot. Entering the room she found deceased sitting in the chair with a revolver in his hand. - Dr E. Down stated he had been in attendance on deceased a considerable time. During the last few weeks, COL. WODEHOUSE had suffered from a cold which had necessitated his staying in his room. He was progressing quite well, but was sleeping badly and draughts had been prescribed for him. Deceased took a very gloomy view of his state of health and thought he would never get better. He had at no time, however, hinted at suicide. Only last week he commissioned a dentist to make a new plate for him. When he reached the house on Monday morning death had occurred. The bullet had entered the head at the right temple and come out on the other side. - The Coroner, having reviewed the evidence, and remarked on deceased's failing health, and the common effect of ill-health and insomnia on the nervous system of a patient, said he was sure the Jury would wish to join with him in expressing deep sympathy with MRS WODEHOUSE. Deceased, since residing in Stoke, had always shown himself ready to assist in any good work which was brought to his notice and he (the Coroner) knew from personal knowledge his keen and beneficial interest in St. Barnabas Church. - The verdict of the Jury was that deceased shot himself while of Unsound Mind. They expressed sympathy with the widow, Mr Dickinson acknowledging the vote.

Western Morning News, Friday 20 February 1914
BISHOPSTEIGNTON - Death Under An Anaesthetic. - Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest at Bishopsteignton Schoolroom yesterday on MARION ALICE HILL, who died at the Manor Inn during the administration of an anaesthetic. - LOUISA MARY GEORGINA HILL identified deceased as her sister, aged 17 years. They lived together. - Dr Johnson said he attended deceased for a nose trouble about four years ago. Chloroform was administered and a slight operation performed. He was called to see deceased on February 1st, and found symptoms of an abscess in the lower part of the stomach. On February 12th further troubles were discovered and thorough examination under chloroform was made on Sunday, and an operation was deemed necessary. - Dr F. E. Little, in answer to the Coroner, said he sounded deceased's heart and administered chloroform on Wednesday for the purpose of performing the operation. Within 45 seconds deceased gave a loud scream and expired. Artificial respiration was tried, but without success. - Nurse Rodway corroborated these statements. - Dr Patterson gave evidence of the result of a post-mortem examination. Dr Johnson said Dr Little was a most capable administrator of anaesthetics, having given them in more than 1,000 cases to his knowledge. He had never had a similar experience in all his practice. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Sudden Death during the Administration of an Anaesthetic, due to status lympathaticus."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 24 February 1914
ST BUDEAUX - Drowned At Play. The Honicknowle Fatality. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd, Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at Woodland Fort Inn, Honicknowle, on LESLIE JAMES CONNOLLY, aged 7, of the Woodland Fort Inn. Mr R. H. Walling (Messrs. Lane and Cottler) represented the Western Counties Brick Co., Ltd. - MARY CAROLINE CONNOLLY said on Saturday afternoon the boy, her son, went out with his boat, with the intention, so witness thought, of showing it to some children. About six o'clock witness became alarmed as he did not return and a search was made. His body was found in the pond at the brick works. Witness had frequently cautioned the boy about going near the pond, and about a week ago he asked whether he would be drowned if he fell in and witness told him that he would. - George Seldon, age 7 and Albert Maunder, age 8, who were playing with deceased at the time of the accident, said they were sailing a boat on the water. It floated away and CONNOLLY over-balanced himself trying to recover it. The two boys ran away, being too frightened to render assistance. - P.C. Percy Hutchings stated that MRS CONNOLLY informed him of her child's absence on Saturday evening and eventually he dredged the pond, where the accident occurred, recovering the body from 14ft. of water. The pond was situated in the private property of the Western Counties Brick Co. Limited, and there were sufficient notices displayed stating that trespassers would be prosecuted. Boys had been in the habit recently of frequenting the spot for play, and throwing stones into the pond. They had been cautioned and four larger boys of the village wee recently summoned for trespass with a view to cautioning them more than for any other reason. Generally speaking, the legal proceedings had a good effect, but during the past month witness had received further complaints and cautioned several lads. Children in the neighbourhood were rather inclined to trespass on people's land partly because there was no playground in the village. - Dr T. Olver (Crownhill) who had made a post mortem examination, found that death was due to drowning, the child being alive when he entered the water. - A verdict of "Accidental Drowning" was returned, the Coroner expressing sympathy with deceased's parents, in which Mr Walling joined on behalf of the Western Counties Brick Company.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 25 February 1914
LYDFORD - Dartmoor Mystery. Warrington Science Master Dies From Exposure. Missing For Months. - An Inquest was held by Mr H. C. Brown, Coroner, at Princetown, yesterday, on WILLIAM DONAGHY, of Aigburth, Liverpool, who was found dead on Saturday afternoon by two farmers on Dartmoor, near Postbridge, under peculiar and somewhat mysterious circumstances. Mr W. H. Brown was Foreman of the Jury. - The Coroner said the case was peculiar in some ways, but if the circumstances were as they were reported to him he did not think they would have any difficulty about the verdict. - Brother's Evidence. - The first witness was MR JAMES ALLEN DONAGHY, of 99 Rosslyn-street, St Michael's, Liverpool, a cashier on the Midland Railway, who said the deceased was his brother, WILLIAM DONAGHY, who was 33 years of age, a science master at Warrington Technical School, and lived with two sisters at Aigburth, Liverpool. He last saw his brother on Sunday, November 16th. On the following Friday evening he received a short note from his brother by post:- Dear JIM - Please settle my affairs as best you can; I am going away. - WILL. - The witness said he was shocked by the receipt of that note and at once went to his house, where he found that the deceased had left in the usual way early in the day, saying nothing to his sisters except "Good morning." He searched through the deceased's papers and found nothing that served as a clue to his sudden departure, except that later on he found that on the Wednesday before he left the deceased had drawn £50 from his bank. Inquiries at the railway station and at Warrington failed to trace him. The head master of the technical school at which the deceased was engaged could not explain his disappearance; but the caretaker remembered that for some time previously "Something had come over" MR DONAGHY. He did not seem to be himself and looked very ill. On the Saturday morning before he went away he was found with his head buried in his hands, but said there was nothing amiss. The deceased was well known in Liverpool and Warrington and especially on the railway, on which he travelled to and fro daily, but in spite of diligent inquiries and the publication of a description and photograph in the local newspapers, they failed to trace the deceased, and nothing more was heard of him until last Sunday. The witness could not understand what caused his brother to go away unless it was that he was in ill-health. The medical man who had been consulted by the deceased told witness that he had been treating him for over-exertion, and that this trouble might produce a subsequent condition of morbid melancholy, under the influence of which the patient might seek a quiet place in the hope of getting better. - Nothing Wrong Medically. - The Coroner: Was anything the matter with him mentally? - The witness: Oh, no. - Had he over-studied? - I don't think so. - Or been overworked? - He had to take on extra duties during the absence of the principal. - Was there anything in his conduct to make you suspicious that he might do anything of this sort? - No, in fact, the principal of his college said he was not at all likely to commit suicide. He was not that sort of man, and if he had any wish to do such a thing he had access at the college to the most deadly poisons in the world. - Had he any financial trouble? - No. He was a bachelor? - Yes. - Was he engaged to be married? - Yes, he was engaged last winter and so far as I know that relation was continued. - The Foreman: Had his young lady heard from him while he was away? - No; nobody that I can hear of. - Mr George French, Hartland Farm, described the finding of the body on Saturday afternoon. The spot was in an enclosed newtake about half a mile from the roadway, and the body, of which only a part of the side of the face was at first visible, was in the furze near the River Dart. It was sheltered from the east and north, where the wind was during a recent spell of frosty weather, but exposed to the full force of the heavy storms of rain and wind experienced last week. It might have been there some days and he might have passed the spot a thousand times without seeing the body, which was lying on a waterproof sheet or cloth. He telegraphed to the Police. - Went By Name Of Jones. - P.C . Weeks enumerated the money and property found in the pockets of the deceased, and said that in addition he found a piece of paper with a route from Exeter to Plymouth across the Moors indicated upon it, and another piece of paper with the names of several football clubs, apparently relating to the second round of the English Cup competition. On an inside page of a Dartmoor guide were written in a very shaky hand the names and addresses of the deceased and his brother. (MR JAMES DONAGHY said the handwriting was that of his brother, but was evidently written under difficult circumstances). A ticket for an apartment at a restaurant was made out in the name of Jones and Jones was also the name given by the deceased to the cloak-room attendant at Queen-street, Exeter, where some more property was left. The witness narrated the way in which the Police were able to trace the deceased's relatives at Liverpool. They were, however, unable to trace his movements from the time he left Exeter; but a Moretonhampstead butcher, Mr Dommett, said he saw a gentleman answering the description of the deceased carrying a roll of something on his back go through that village last week. - Dr Brodrick, Tavistock, who made a post-mortem examination of the body, said the deceased was apparently a healthy man, although thin. The organs were normal, except the liver which was enlarged. There were no traces of poison, nor any marks of violence. He could find nothing to which he could attribute death unless it was exposure to the cold and wet. He was unable, of course, to say anything about the mental condition of the deceased. - The Coroner said it was fairly plain that, whatever the state of the mind of deceased, he wished to keep his whereabouts unknown to his relatives. The Jury were probably satisfied, as he was, that death was due to exposure. He expressed sympathy with the brother and other relatives. - A verdict that Death was due to Syncope following upon Exposure to the intense cold and wet was returned by the Jury.

Western Morning News, Friday 27 February 1914
NEWTON ABBOT - Newton Abbot Fatality. - An Inquest was held at the Townhall, Newton Abbot, yesterday on WILLIAM JOHN NORRISS, aged 23, labourer, of Ashburton, who was killed near Newton Abbot Station on Wednesday. The Great Western Railway Company was represented by Mr F. A. Brown (engineer), Mr C. E. Needs (Stationmaster at Newton Abbot), and Inspectors Vernon and Cook. - Frank Hawkings, labourer, said at dinner-time deceased, who was working near the Station with a gang, told him that he was going to the Station to get some cigarettes. - John Percival Trickey, passenger shunter, said he found deceased between the metals. He was quite conscious and said "I was watching the up train go out and I did not see the down train coming in." Witness found that the man's right leg had been nearly severed from the body. - Henry Shere, Bristol, fireman, who was on the engine of the down train, said he saw deceased standing near the line apparently waiting for the up train to pass. When the latter had gone by deceased moved as though to cross the line, and witness blew the whistle. Deceased turned his head in the direction of the down train and then crossed the line. - The Coroner: Do you think he knew of your approach? - Witness: Yes, sir; and apparently he thought he had time to cross the line. - Henry Charles Thornell, ganger, said he had warned the men about crossing the lines; and Mr C. E. Needs, Stationmaster at Newton Abbot, said a printed notice was posted in the shunters' cabin where the men had their meals. - Dr Culross said amputation of the leg was necessary. Deceased rallied well after the operation, but died early in the evening. The cause of death was from shock due to the injury. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 28 February 1914
STOKE DAMEREL - Suicide At Devonport. - Mr J. A. Pearce, Coroner, held an Inquest at the Royal Albert Hospital, Devonport, yesterday, on FREDERICK JOSEPH TREMBIRTH, aged 32. JOHN W. TREMBIRTH, brother, said deceased was a skilled labourer in H.M. Dockyard. - George Light, restaurant keeper, William-street, said deceased had lodged with him for the past six months. He had been unwell this week and had not been to work. He complained of pains in his head. At 6.40 that morning he went to deceased's bedroom to see if he was going to work, and found him on the floor in a pool of blood. He sent for the Police. - P.C. Pryor said deceased had a wound in his neck, and in his right hand he held a razor, which was closed. Witness bound the wound up and removed deceased to the Royal Albert Hospital. Dr L. Ramsay, House Surgeon, Royal Albert Hospital, said deceased was admitted to the Hospital in a collapsed condition. There were two wounds on the throat, one about two inches long, which was superficial, and the other across the throat, severing the windpipe and several blood-vessels. There was no hope for him. He died an hour later, from haemorrhage and shock. - A verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned.

TAVISTOCK - Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest yesterday on MRS HANNAH BURGOYNE, aged 80, widow of EDWIN HAMILTON BURGOYNE, journeyman carpenter, who died at her home in Tavistock on Thursday. Dr C. C. Brodrick said the cause of death was aneurism of the aorta. Nurse Alice Teague said she visited the deceased at noon on Thursday at the request of a neighbour, as she was not well. She was sitting in a chair and complained of pains. Witness wanted to send for a doctor, but MRS BURGOYNE refused to have one. - The Coroner said, having regard to her profession, he thought the nurse should have called in a doctor, and she promised to do so on any future occasion. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Monday 2 March 1914
DAWLISH - Dawlish Lady's Death. Pathetic Letter Showing Great Distress Of Mind. - Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest at Dawlish Vestry Hall on Saturday on ELLEN CLARE CAMPBELL SALMON, daughter of MR EDWARD A. SALMON, of Ermenhurst, solicitor, Dawlish, who died on Friday evening. The deceased lady was a prominent member of the Dawlish Lawn Tennis Club. - MR SALMON said his daughter, aged 30, had been suffering from insomnia during the last few months. She had been to Switzerland since Christmas and returned evidently much better. She was cheerful on Wednesday and Thursday. - Witness went to Bristol on Thursday and on returning in the latter part of the day was joined by his daughter at Exeter. She said she had been there to do some shopping. They had dinner and spent the evening together, retiring to bed at about 11.15. The next morning, as she was not down at 8.30, he sent the parlourmaid to rouse her and give her breakfast. The maid came back saying that she could not wake her, and that she was blue in the face. Witness ran upstairs and at once sent for Dr Lovely. A small tumbler was found in the adjoining dressing-room containing the dregs of some liquid, but no bottle could be found anywhere, although all the rooms and the garden had been searched. All that had been discovered was some pieces of paper with a red seal, on which was the name of an Exeter chemist, and in which a bottle had probably been wrapped. Although his daughter suffered badly from sleeplessness at times, she was invariably cheerful in the day. She was engaged to be married and the wedding was to have taken place next summer. She had said, however, that she could not very well get married whilst she suffered from insomnia. A letter, undated and unaddressed, was found under his daughter's pillow by Dr Lovely. It was in her handwriting. - Portions of the letter, which was a very pathetic one, were read to the Jury by the Coroner. It stated:- "I have thought hard for the past six months. I cannot go on any longer. My head aches and aches trying to find a solution. I seem to be living in a miserable dream, and hardly know what is going on around me from day to day. I have prayed to God so hard to guide me, but have got no reply and I do not know what to do. I have always tried to play fair, but life has beaten me. I do not seem to know the difference between right and wrong. All I want is to go asleep and bring rest and peace. If I go on living, I feel it will only bring anxiety to those around me. That is why I am going to do what I am going to do. I have always believed in another life; nowadays such lots of people doubt it." - The letter also made reference to being given "a second chance" in another life and contained affectionate message to relatives and friend with requests for forgiveness and concluded:- "I could not decide whether I would or not. Then I saw a verse on Longfellow's Calendar, and that decided me. I do hope I have done right." - MR SALMON added that his daughter had never given the least impression that she was thinking of suicide. She was engaged to be married about four years ago. Her fiancé, however, went abroad and married someone else. They did not think this had left a permanent impression on her. - Ellen Grace James, parlourmaid, corroborated the last witness, and said that when she went into deceased's room in the morning the electric torch was alight. - Dr C. N. Lovely said death was due to poisoning by laudanum. Despite the trying of every known remedy, deceased did not recover consciousness all day, and died at six o'clock. He had attended MISS SALMON for the past six months. She was subject to occasional fits of depression and insomnia. He thought the one reacted on the other. She was nervous, high-strung and very energetic and vivacious. How she had put it to him was "that the colour had gone out of her life, and she did not enjoy things as she used to do." No one would know of this from her manner; she was always very cheerful. She had never once suggested anything that would lead him to think of suicide. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane," and offered their sympathies to the family.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 3 March 1914
ST MARYCHURCH - Revolver Mystery. Remarkable Evidence In The Torquay Case. Dining-Room Tragedy. Coroner Adjourns Inquiry For Further Evidence. - Mr S. Hacker opened an Inquest at St. Marychurch Townhall yesterday on JOHN CLIFFORD KERSHAW, aged 35, who died from a revolver shot at his residence, Barton Lodge, St Marychurch, Torquay, on Saturday evening. Mr W. Terry was Foreman of the Jury. - RAYMOND KERSHAW, Myton Grange, Helperby, Yorkshire, brother of deceased, gave evidence of identification, and said deceased had no occupation and was living on private means. He had been at Barton since last June and lived with his wife and daughter. Witness had not seen his brother for about eighteen months, the last time being at Blackpool. So far as witness knew, everything was going on comfortably at home, and deceased and his wife always appeared to be on the best of terms. In reply to the Foreman, witness said deceased was not a captain in the artillery. He was in South Africa at the end of the war, arriving just as peace was declared. He was in the Army, but not as an officer, and he soon after left it. This was before he was married. - Scene In Dining-Room. - JESSIE ALBERTA KERSHAW, the widow, said she and deceased and her daughter had resided at Barton Lodge since shortly before Christmas, having lived at other houses for some time previously. In addition, there was a chauffeur, and maid-servant in the house. Deceased had not enjoyed good health. In the morning they were out in the motor car together. He left the car at the Palk Arms Inn, and she went away in it afterwards with her daughter, to Torquay and did not see deceased again until quarter to eight in the evening. He then came home in the car with Mr Frost. Deceased remarked to her, "Oh, you're in, I see," and she replied that she had been in for hours and that she and her daughter (GLADYS) were going to the pantomime. Deceased was rather angry at this and he said, "You're not going out of this house tonight; there has been too much pantomime in this house lately." Witness thought that she said she was going, but they did not have any words. Deceased asked for his tea, and said there was no one to get it and he asked for the servant, who had gone out. He was in a temper and banged the doors and she went upstairs and did not hear what he said further. This went on in the hall and deceased then went into the dining-room. He was calm and she did not think that he was the worse for drink. He was angry because he objected to her going to the pantomime. She had seen him the worse for drink many times. She went upstairs to her bedroom, spoke to her daughter and came down again. She was dressed to go out and went into the dining-room through the kitchen. Deceased was in the dining-room; also Mr Frost. Deceased was angry at seeing her dressed to go out, and took off her hat and threw it in the fireplace. He next made a grab at her coat and caught hold of it and she asked Mr Frost to take deceased away before she did anything she might be sorry for, as she did not wish to retaliate. Deceased was very aggravating and got hold of her coat again and in her own defence she struck him in the face. He was being kept back by Mr Frost, who got him to sit down in a big armchair in the corner, her daughter also trying to keep deceased away from her. She took her coat off and placed it on the settee. In grabbing at her coat deceased had hurt a finger of her left hand and she felt a little faint and went into the kitchen. She returned to the dining-room again, when deceased asked to look at her injured finger "without prejudice." She replied that she did not want him to look at it. Witness said down on the opposite side of the table and Mr Frost, who was near the fireplace, said he did not think her finger was broken. Mr Frost and deceased then left the dining-room together and went upstairs and came down again shortly afterwards and joined her in the dining-room. - A Swollen Eye. - When he came down she noticed that his left eye was swollen; she did not know that her blow in the face caused this. She did not deliberately hit him in the eye; she simply hit out, but not with her closed fist. Deceased looked in the glass, but said nothing; he had a grieved expression. - Witness (sobbing) said she was sorry when she saw deceased's face and that shortly afterwards she left the room and went into the kitchen. Deceased was then standing by the fireplace and Mr Frost was near him. Almost immediately after she had gone into the kitchen she heard a revolver shot. When she left the room deceased had something in his right hand. It might have been a cigarette; it was not a revolver, or else she would not have left the room. She did not know that there was a pistol about; deceased would sometimes carry a pistol in a pocket at the back of his trousers. He carried it chiefly when he went out at night in the motor car. When he did not carry the pistol in his pocket he kept it in his bedroom. He had another pistol there which belonged to a Manchester friend. Some of the cartridges were kept in the bedroom and a few he carried in his pocket. He used to load the pistol at night on going to bed and to unload it in the morning. Shown a nickel-plated pistol, produced by the Police, witness said she could not recognise it as deceased's as his pistol appeared to be bigger. After the occurrence she saw a box of cartridges in the dinning-room, but she did not know how they got there. Resuming her story, witness said she was not frightened when she heard the revolver shot because she thought deceased had fired after her at the door. He had done this to frighten her before, but not in this house. Once he fired through the floor and another time he fired in the garden, but this was not after a quarrel. - Fascination For Firearms. - Firearms seemed to have a fascination for deceased. On one occasion he put the pistol to his ear, but this was not with the intention of shooting himself; he did it in fun, and was only playing about with the weapon. On hearing the shot she stood still for a second, and then she heard what appeared to be a second shot, but this might be her imagination. She ran out towards the hall and heard Mr Frost say, "Send for a doctor, quick." She said, "Oh, my God, what has happened?" Mr Frost did not answer, and she said, "Has he done something?" Mr Frost said she was not to go into the room and she said, "My husband has done something to himself," and Mr Frost replied "I'm afraid he has." She rushed past him into the dining-room and saw deceased lying back in the armchair, with his head bent over to the left and his legs stretched out in front and his hands resting on the inside of his thighs. She poured some brandy and water on to deceased's lips whilst he was breathing, and then her daughter and Mr Frost came. She did not see the revolver until afterwards, when it was in the hands either of her daughter or the doctor. - Police-Inspector Pratt asked witness if there was not a little quarrel between deceased and her about a week since and if deceased did not then say that if a quarrel occurred again he would shoot himself. - Witness: I have answered you that question already. - Inspector Pratt: But you haven't answered it to the Coroner. - The Coroner: Then I will ask you. Had your husband on any previous occasion threatened to take his life? - Yes; he said if we quarrelled again he would shoot himself. - When was that? - Not very long ago. - Two or three weeks ago? - Possibly, yes. - Mr Frost was there on that occasion. This quarrel on Saturday was the first quarrel that had taken place since deceased uttered the threat. - Has there been any other occasion when he threatened to kill himself? - He has often said so when he was put out of temper, but I did not pay much attention to it. After he had been drinking he was very aggravating. He was naturally irritable and would quarrel about the least thing. - The Daughter's Evidence. - GLADYS KERSHAW, daughter of deceased, said at the time of the occurrence she was in the kitchen with the chauffeur, Mitchell. She heard no sound of quarrelling in the dining-room when her mother came into the kitchen. She said, "Isn't it awful?" referring to an earlier quarrel. She stood by the table for a minute or two, and then witness heard a shot. Her mother an towards the hall and Mr Frost came in from the dining-room, saying, "Send for a doctor, quick." Her mother said, "What has happened?" and Mr Frost replied, "I'm afraid it is done, MRS KERSHAW." Her mother, who was excited, went past Mr Frost into the dining-room and witness followed her, but did not go up to the chair where deceased was lying. She saw blood coming from his mouth and took the pistol from the left-hand side of the table. When witness went into the room first deceased's chest and head were moving and she did not realise that he was dead. There were also on the table two glasses, a cigarette, and a letter. It was impossible for deceased to have put the pistol where she found it whilst he was sitting in the armchair; he would have had to stand up to do it. She noticed that the wound was behind the right ear. When she took up the pistol she gave it to Mr Frost, but she was not sure that the pistol produced was the same, although it was like it, and she was sure it was her father's. As she picked up the pistol by the handle she found it was wet, and afterwards she noticed blood on the hand she had held it in. Nothing in the room was moved before Dr Dalby and the Police came. - Chauffeur Hears High Words. - Harry Cecil Mitchell, chauffeur, in the employ of MRS KERSHAW, said on Saturday he had been out driving about Torquay in the motor car with deceased and Mr Frost since five o'clock, stopping at places on the way. They arrived home about 7.45 and deceased and Mr Frost went in by the side door. Shortly afterwards witness heard some high words. Witness went into the kitchen, where he saw MISS KERSHAW. Half a minute later MRS KERSHAW came in from the dining-room and said MR KERSHAW had hurt her finger. A bell rang and he went into the dining-room and supplied MR KERSHAW with beer and stout. Deceased then asked him for an account in a very "demanding" manner. Witness started to make out the account, and deceased asked for it the second time. Witness did not take it in, as he was told that it had only been asked for by MR KERSHAW because he was in a bad temper. Subsequently, whilst MRS and MISS KERSHAW were in the kitchen, he heard the report of a pistol shot, and immediately afterwards Mr Frost came out. Witness followed MISS KERSHAW into the dining-room and saw deceased in the armchair. His head was moving to and fro as if he was trying to speak but could not because he was being choked by the blood which was coming from his mouth and head. Witness was only in the room about a quarter of a minute, as he got out the car and went for the doctor and the Police. On the way he might have passed a Policeman without speaking to him; he was so unnerved at what he had seen that all he thought about was to go for a doctor. The revolver produced was the one that he saw on the table and he thought deceased could have reached and put it there from the position in which he was in the armchair. - When The Doctor Arrived. - Dr H. E. Dalby said after being called by the chauffeur at 8.28, he arrived at Barton Lodge at 8.40. Witness saw MRS and MISS KERSHAW and Mr Frost. The latter said, "Come in here," and witness went into the dining-room, followed by others. He saw deceased lying back in an armchair in the left corner, and he was inclined to the left side of the chair, with his head to the left. His legs and feet were extended and his arms were resting just above his knees. Deceased had no shoes on; he was in his socks. His coat was off, and he had on a khaki-coloured waistcoat. Just below the right ear there was a wound. Mr Frost handed witness a revolver, which he said MISS KERSHAW gave him, and she explained the position in which she found it on the table. As deceased was lying the revolver was out of his reach by either hand; he could not have placed it where it was found without rising from the chair. Witness asked MISS KERSHAW how the revolver could have got on the table where it was found, and she replied, "That is what I can't understand." Mr Frost said he did not put it there and on witness asking him where he got the revolver from, he replied, "I never saw it until MISS KERSHAW handed it to me." There was no sign of life when witness arrived, but the body was still warm. He had made a post-mortem examination, which revealed that there were no signs of violence on the body except the wound just below the lobe of the right ear. The edges of the wound were scorched and its size was about that of a sixpence. The edges were blackened; he could not detect any powder, and this showed that the muzzle of the revolver was held quite close to the skin. The wound went in an upward direction, and slightly forward. The bullet had fractured the base of the skull and broken off a portion of the temple bone, afterwards recoiling from the top and embedding itself in the brain substance on the left side. Death must have been instantaneous. The movement spoke of must have been caused by muscular contraction. - Pistol On The Table. - The Coroner: Would it have been possible for deceased after having inflicted this wound to have raised himself from the chair and put the pistol on the table? - No. - Would it in your opinion have been possible for him after inflicting the wound himself to have put the pistol down if the table had been within reach? - No. - What do you consider would happen immediately after the infliction of the wound? - Instantaneous death. - And in the case of instantaneous death what would be the natural effect on the pistol which was held in the hand of the deceased? - It might have been clenched in the hand. - Does muscular rigidity at once take place? - Frequently; it is the usual thing. - Did you find rigidity when you came? - Yes. There was a certain amount of rigidity, but the hands were not clenched. - Can you give any suggestion as to what would have naturally happened in this case? - The arm would fall down. - You think it would have been quite impossible for the arm to be stretched out to put the pistol down? - Quite impossible. - Then in the ordinary way you would expect to find the pistol in the chair or on the floor? - Yes. There was rigidity here, but not sufficient to retain the pistol in the hand. - Can you suggest, from a medical point of view, anything to explain the pistol getting on the table? - No, I cannot account for it. - Witness added that the cause of death was fracture of the skull and laceration of the brain. - A Juryman asked if the wound had been inflicted whilst deceased was standing, whether he could have dropped the revolver on the table and fallen back into the chair. - Witness replied that he did not think so from the position in which he found deceased. There was no blood between the table and the chair. It was a wound that could have been self-inflicted; if it was not self-inflicted, it could not have been caused except by someone holding a pistol below deceased. - At this stage, after the inquiry had lasted from 2.30 p.m. until 7.15, the Coroner intimated that, as he had other witnesses he wished to call, he should adjourn the Inquest and this he did until Thursday next.

LYDFORD - Mr H. C. Brown conducted an Inquest in Dartmoor Prison yesterday on JOHN JOHNSON (49(, a prisoner, who died on Friday. Evidence showed that deceased, who was convicted for larceny at Clerkenwell in March and was sentenced to three years' penal servitude, was received into the Hospital on Wednesday, but objected strongly to the proposed treatment of his case, declaring he was not so ill as was suggested. Dr Holby attributed death to colitis and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

EXETER - Servant Girl's Suicide. Companion Censured. - An Inquest was held at Exeter yesterday on GERTRUDE MAY HODGE, 15, of Cowick-street, who was found drowned in the River Exe at Trews Weir Mills on Friday. - RICHARD HODGE said deceased was his only daughter. She had been staying out late at night for the past fortnight or three weeks. On Wednesday night she came home about 9.30 and witness said to her, "Nice time again to come home," or something like that. She said, "I have not been walking the streets, father." Witness told his daughter that if she did not come home earlier he should put her somewhere else - to a penitentiary or reformatory. On Thursday morning she left home to go to her employment, and seemed pleasant enough. She did not return in the evening and witness went out to look for her. He stayed out until two o'clock in the morning, but could find no trace of her. The girl had never threatened to take her life. She was always jovial. - Primrose Peek, 15, said she had known deceased for some years. On Thursday night they both went for a walk along the Topsham-road. Deceased said, "You will see my name in the papers tomorrow night. I am going to drown myself." She also remarked that a picket had been to see her mother, and that she was afraid to go home. Deceased threatened to take her life several times. Witness told deceased that she would not go home unless she did and if she did anything she (witness) would follow. - The Coroner: Were you going to drown yourself as well? - Witness: I said I was. - Witness, continuing her evidence, said a soldier tried to make them go home, but deceased ran away at the bottom of Weirfield-road. She met deceased's father, but was afraid to tell him that she had threatened to drown herself because he had forbidden them to go together. - Alfred Henry Johnson, driver, R.F.A., said he had known deceased about 12 months. He met both girls outside the barracks on Thursday evening. They said they were not going home that night; but witness succeeded in getting Peek as far as Exe Bridge. He left deceased on the bridge, close to the paper mills, thinking that she would follow. She did not, however, and witness went back to look for her, but could not find her. - John Cocker, employed at the mills, deposed to finding the body in the weed rack of the mills. - Mrs Laura Lane, of the Friars, said she employed deceased as a day girl. She always found her honest and hard-working. When she left on Thursday evening she said she was going home. - Dr Pereira said death was due to drowning. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity," and the Coroner censured the girl Peek remarking that she had behaved very badly indeed. She was going to ruin as fast as she could, and if she did not alter she would bring trouble not only on herself but on other people.

EXETER - Exeter Tragedy. Wilful Murder And Felo-De-Se Against WHITE. His Letter To Coroner. - At Exeter yesterday, before Mr W. L. Brown, Coroner, an Inquest was held on HENRY FAULKNER WHITE, 67, of Exmouth, who was found dead, together with a domestic servant, in a field in St. Thomas on Saturday. George Edward Saunders of Howell-road said deceased was his father-in-law. - Edward Stone, labourer, Whitestone, said on Saturday morning, about 8.30 he was in Barley-lane, St Thomas, when his attention was attracted by a man and woman lying in a field. He took no particular notice, but on returning about an hour later, they were in the same position. He thought there was something wrong, and on going into the field he found they were dead. He saw a bottle beside the man and then reported the matter to the Police. - Samuel Ford, tram driver said on Friday he was at the tram terminus in Alphington-road, about 8.30 in the evening. He saw deceased in company with a woman, and they appeared to be having an argument. Later he saw them walking towards the city and at ten o'clock they were close to Exe Bridge. He heard the deceased say, "We will go this way," pointing to Cowick-street, and the woman said, "No; we will go back the way we said." Witness had frequently seen them together during the past two months. - P.C. Harris said he was on duty at Dunsford-hill on Friday when he saw deceased and a young woman. They were walking arm in arm and seemed to be on friendly terms. - Detective-Sergt. Hill observed that on Saturday morning in company with Inspector Lewis and Dr Pereira, he proceeded in a motor car to Barley-lane. In a field near Barley Woods he saw two bodies lying side by side. By the side of deceased he found a bottle and tumbler. Life had apparently been extinct some hours. By the side of the woman, he found a bag of cakes, sweets, a muff and a glove. In one of the man's pockets he found a letter written in the following terms:- "February 27th, 1914: Dear Sir, - This is written in the hope that it may save you some trouble in the investigation that must take place by you. I assert positively and emphatically that neither I nor the dear girl who dies with me is in the least insane. We have both resolved to die for more than twelve months should my affairs come to an unsatisfactory ending. They have so come, and we therefore decide to neither trouble nor be troubled more. Moral cruelty and want of appreciation on the part of those I have spent my last penny to assist has thrown us together, and though I deplore her decision to go with me and have used my best endeavour to dissuade her doing so, I am sorry to say it has been without success. She is the truest woman I have ever known. H. FAULKNER WHITE. Woman's Life Taken. - Evidence was then heard concerning the death of ANNIE ROWE, 24, domestic servant, of Drewsteignton, who was found dead by the side of WHITE. - ALICE ROWE, domestic servant in a situation in the city, said deceased was her sister. She last saw her alive on Sunday week, and she then said she was in view of a situation. She was cheerful and had never threatened to take her life. MRS FAULKNER WHITE formerly kept a lodging-house and deceased was with her as a servant for three years. Witness did not know her sister was in financial difficulty, or that she was going about with MR WHITE. - Katherine Pope, Alphington, said she had known deceased for over two years. She stayed at her house from January 9th to February 27th. Witness knew deceased was short of money. - Detective Hill gave similar evidence as in the previous case. Both persons were practically destitute, not a coin being found upon them. Nearly all WHITE'S relatives were abroad. No letter or communication was left on her. - Dr Pereira said he made a post-mortem examination on the bodies. With regard to the woman, the body was intensely congested and smelt of acid. The man's stomach was much more charred, and it was intensely inflamed. It smelt strongly of brandy or whisky and acid. Death in both cases was due to an asphyxiant poison. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the Jury would have to ask themselves the question whether they thought one of the deceased took poison and then administered it to the other. Was one induced by the other to take the poison, or did both enter into a compact to commit suicide? - After a short retirement the Jury returned a verdict of Wilful Murder and Felo-de-se against WHITE.

PLYMOUTH - Bantham Man Dies Of Lockjaw. - At the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital yesterday, Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest on THOMAS BROOKING, who died on Friday. On February 14th, BROOKING, who was a gardener, aged 62, of Bantham, near Kingsbridge, cut his finger and thumb with a bill-hook, while cutting grass. The wound was dressed, but last Wednesday lockjaw supervened and he was removed to the Hospital. - Verdict, "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Friday 6 March 1914
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, yesterday, held an Inquest at Prince Rock Police Station, Plymouth, on HENRY WEBB aged 74, of 17 Tothill-road. - Sarah Anne Parsons, of 13 St Jude's-place, said she last saw WEBB alive on Tuesday afternoon, when he appeared to be in his usual health. Deceased was taken ill about 12 o'clock the same night and died early on Wednesday morning. He had never complained of illness before. - Dr Deery said he found deceased bleeding freely from the mouth and was in a state of collapse. Death resulted from rupture of the aorta. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held on ELIZABETH TROUT, aged 72, widow, of 66 Embankment-road. - Mrs Hill, daughter of deceased, said her mother complained of her heart on one occasion. Dr Stubbs said death was due to heart failure. Verdict accordingly.

PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held on HENRY EASTERBROOK, aged one year, son of MABEL ANN EASTERBROOK, of 43 Cromwell-road. The mother said she put the child to bed on Tuesday evening and later in the night found it dead. She gave the child bread and butter before it went to bed. Dr Stubbbs said death was due to convulsion, accelerated by error in feeding. The Coroner said a child of that age ought not to have had bread and butter. Verdict, "Death from Natural Causes."

ST MARYCHURCH - Revolver Tragedy. Mr Frost Gives Evidence At Torquay Inquest. Deceased's Threats. Verdict: Suicide During Temporary Insanity. - At St Marychurch, Torquay, yesterday, Mr S. Hacker held the resumed Inquest on JOHN CLIFFORD KERSHAW, aged 35, of independent means, who died on Saturday evening from a revolver wound at his residence, Barton Lodge, near Torquay. - At the opening inquiry on Monday it was stated that deceased was out in his motor car during the afternoon and early evening with Mr Frost, a neighbour and friend. Upon his return he was angry with his wife because she persisted in her intentions against his wish to go to the theatre to see the pantomime with her daughter, and there was an altercation, during which deceased threw his wife's hat into the fireplace and grabbed at her coat, and she retaliated by striking him in the face with her hand, Mr Frost being also present. She left the dining-room, and almost immediately afterwards she heard a shot, and upon her return to the room she found deceased reclining in an arm chair with a bullet wound in his head, from the effects of which he died before the arrival of Dr Dalby. on a previous occasion deceased had threatened that he would kill himself if there were any more quarrels between his wife and himself. The revolver with which the wound was inflicted was found in such a position on the table that, in the opinion of the doctor and deceased's daughter, it would have been impossible for deceased to have put it there after shooting himself in the chair. Mr Frost said to the doctor that he did not place the revolver on the table and deceased's wife stated that she did not see the weapon until some time after the occurrence. - The adjourned Inquest was held in the large room of the Town Hall, in order to accommodate many of the general public, who displayed much interest in the proceedings, this being the most largely-attended Inquest at St Marychurch since that held in the same room in connection with the murder of Miss Keyse at Babbacombe, over a quarter of a century ago. Police-Supt. Roberts was present yesterday during the Inquiry. Mr W. Terry was again the Foreman of the Jury. - Upon the resumption of the Inquiry, the Coroner remarked that it had been adjourned for the purpose of taking further evidence, but he believed that before this was done, the Foreman of the Jury had an application to make. - Jury Inspect Dining Room. - The Foreman, on behalf of the Jury, asked that they should be allowed to visit the premises and inspect the room where the fatal occurrence took place, as they felt that, if they went there and saw it for themselves, they would be better able to give their verdict than from the sketch plan which had been produced in court. - The Coroner granted the application, considering the responsibility that rested upon the Jury, and they then left the room and proceeded to Barton Lodge, accompanied by the Police. They were absent nearly an hour, and upon their return, after the Foreman had expressed the opinion that the Jury had not lost anything by visiting the premises, the Coroner read over the evidence taken by him on the previous occasion and the witnesses, including deceased's widow and daughter, signed their depositions. - Harry Cecil Mitchell, the chauffeur, added to his previous evidence that several times during the last two or three weeks he heard deceased threaten to take his life. On one occasion he said, "If I have another quarrel I shall shoot myself, as sure as eggs are eggs;" and on another occasion he said, "I will blow out my brains and go to my God like a soldier." Deceased did not have his pistol with him when he said this. He was speaking about having a tour, and said he did not see how things stood at the time. - Might Have Been Self-Inflicted. - Dr Dalby repeated that the wound in deceased's head might easily have been self-inflicted and that, from the position of the body, it would have been difficult for a second person to have caused it. - The Coroner: Supposing deceased had been shot whilst standing up opposite the mirror, would there have been blood on the floor at that spot? - In all probability there would have been. - Blood would have come from the wound before deceased could have got back to the chair? - Yes. Directly upon the firing of the shot there would have been instantaneous bleeding. When I came into the room the blood was principally issuing from deceased's nose and ears, and from the wound. - Was there any blood on the right hand of deceased at that time. - No; I saw no blood on his right hand, but I cannot swear there was none there. - P.C. Bater said on Saturday evening, about 10.30, he went to Barton Lodge with the Inspector and Sergeant. He saw Mr Frost, who informed him that MR KERSHAW had shot himself. Witness went into the dining-room, where he saw MR KERSHAW lying in the armchair in the left-hand corner of the room. He was quite dead. Witness had the pistol handed to him by Dr Dalby on Sunday morning. Witness made a search, but found nothing to throw any light on the occurrence. - Statement To The Police. - Police-Sergt. Wm. Hunt, St. Marychurch, stated that whilst in the dining-room he saw deceased lying in the armchair. Mr Frost was in the room and Inspector Pratt asked him what he and deceased had been doing during the evening. Mr Frost, in reply, said they left Barton Lodge about five o'clock and were driven by the chauffeur in the motor car to the Palk Arms, where they remained about ten minutes. From there they went to Mr Bendle's, St. Marychurch, where he paid a b ill. They then went on to Torquay, where he (Mr Frost) went to Mr Codner's, and deceased went into the Commercial Hotel, where he (Mr Frost) joined him. They remained there about an hour and afterwards went to the Marine Tavern, where they stopped about ten minutes, and they then returned to Barton Lodge, arriving about 8.15 p.m. Mr Frost also said that deceased asked for something to eat and that he got angry, upon which he (Mr Frost) said he should go home. Deceased said, "You won't go until you have had something to drink," and the chauffeur brought in a jug of ale and porter, which was poured into two glasses. Deceased drank about three-parts of his and Mr Frost had a small drink. They then went to the lavatory, where deceased said to Mr Frost, "Don't go, or I'll shoot you!" They then went down into the dining-room. MRS KERSHAW was sitting at the table and she and deceased spoke to one another, but what they said Mr Frost could not remember. Mr Frost said to deceased, "Don't get excited; keep cool," to which deceased replied, "That's all right." He took up his glass and said, "Here's good luck, " and had a drink. Mr Frost then took up his glass and had a drink, at the same time looking towards the window on the right-hand side of the room. As he (Mr Frost) was drinking he heard a shot, and he rushed into the kitchen, where he saw MRS KERSHAW and the chauffeur. Witness added that there was no sign of Mr Frost having been drinking; he was sober and quite cool. - Mr Frost's Evidence. - Robert Frost, apparently about 30 years of age, was next called, but before he proceeded to give evidence the Coroner said it was his duty to caution him that any statement which he made would be taken down and might be used in any proceedings in any other court. - Mr Frost said he lived at The Bungalow, Barton, close to Barton Lodge. He had no profession, living on his private means. He had known deceased about four months, and was a great deal in his company. On Saturday afternoon, after lunch, he and deceased went into the stables and around the garden and about five o'clock they went out in the motor car to St Marychurch and Torquay. At the Palk Arms deceased had two drinks. Witness joined deceased, at Torquay, in the Commercial Hotel, where he had more drinks. At the Marine Tavern they had a couple of drinks and then went straight home. The drinks did not affect deceased, who seemed perfectly sober. They arrived home about 7.45, and when they got in deceased said to his wife, "Oh, you're home!" to which she replied that she had been home some time. She also said that she and her daughter were going to the pantomime. Deceased said she was not going and that there had been "too much pantomime". He said he wanted something to eat and MRS KERSHAW said she could not get tea at that time of night. Deceased was very angry and went into the dining-room, and witness followed him. Whilst in the room deceased was talking to himself a lot and he said excitedly that "when they came back he would shoot the lot of them." MRS KERSHAW came in dressed to go out, whereupon deceased grabbed at the plume in her hat and pulled it off and he also caught her by the coat. She then struck him and she asked witness to take deceased away before she did something she would be sorry for. Witness caught deceased by the arms and got him away, and whilst he was doing this, MISS KERSHAW came into the room and struck her father on the left side of the head. Deceased came away quietly as witness turned him round, and then he saw deceased looking in the looking-glass. MISS KERSHAW took her mother out of the room. Witness told deceased he wanted to return home and that he would come back later. Deceased said, "Don't leave me, old man." They afterwards went to the lavatory and whilst there deceased said to him, "If you go, I'll shoot you!" They went downstairs into the dining-room and MRS KERSHAW, who was sitting there, went out. Deceased ordered the chauffeur to bring him two glasses of beer and stout and, whilst sitting in the armchair, deceased took up his glass and had a drink, saying to witness, "Good luck, old man!" He put down his glass and witness then took up his glass, and said, "Here's good luck!" and turning his head on the side he took a sip. At the same instant and whilst his head was turned towards the window, which faced the back entrance, he heard a report. He immediately rushed into the kitchen, without looking to see what had happened. MRS KERSHAW said, "Oh, Mr Frost, what has happened?" and he replied, "I am afraid he has done for himself." Witness also said, "Send for a doctor." He realized that a tragedy had happened, although he did not know what. He had not seen deceased with a pistol during the motor drive; he had only previously seen him carrying a pistol in his hand from the house to the garden. Always after rows with his family deceased threatened to shoot himself. - Quarrels "More Often Than Not." - The Coroner: Were there constant quarrels? - More often than not. He followed the chauffeur into the dining-room, where he saw deceased's head moving and his wife lying across him. - Who picked up the pistol? - I saw the pistol in MISS KERSHAW'S hand. I don't know who picked it up; she gave it to me about three minutes after everything had happened. - What made you go out of the room? - I don't know. - Can you explain how it was that, when you heard the report, you did not look to see what had happened? - I was fearfully shocked. - What reason had you for thinking the deceased had shot himself because you heard the report of the pistol? - Because he had always been threatening to do it. - And were you expecting this to happen? - Yes, because I had heard these threats before. We were sitting together one evening when he said he was going to shoot himself. I told him it would be a very foolish thing, and that he ought to consider those whom he would leave behind; and he replied that this was right and that he would not do it that evening. - You expected this to happen because of the frequent occasions on which deceased had threatened to shoot himself? - I didn't exactly expect it, but when I heard the report I realised what had happened. - What position was deceased in when you last saw him alive? - He was reclining easily in the chair; he had not got a pistol in his hand that I saw, nor was it on the table. The first time I saw the pistol that night was when MISS KERSHAW gave it to me. I was rather afraid whether he was going to shoot at me from the threat he had made. I might have looked up when he had shot himself, but I do not remember. I have a faint recollection of seeing blood, but I am not certain. - Pistol On The Table. - You and deceased were the only two persons in the room when this happened. Can you give any explanation as to how the pistol came to be on the table in the position in which it was found? - No, none. - Did you put it there? - No, I did not. - It is for you to make it clear to the Jury how the pistol got on the table. - I can't make it clear; I don't know. - Did you handle the pistol at all? - No, not until MISS KERSHAW gave it to me. - Did you pick up the pistol after the report? - No. - Did you see the pistol after the report? - No. - What was the reason for your rushing from the room without ascertaining what had happened? - Because I realised what had happened. - How could you realise what had happened without looking to see? - From what I had known beforehand. - You concluded that deceased had shot himself without looking up to see? - I did, yes. His wife knew he had threatened to shoot himself, but I didn't expect it that night. - You took these frequent threats seriously? - I took them seriously and not seriously at the same time. - What do you mean by that? - I was doubtful about them. - The Foreman: In what condition was deceased when he made these threats? - Sometimes sober and sometimes drunk. - Was he excited after being struck? - No; he was strangely calm after having been struck by his wife, also by his daughter. - At The Palk Arms. - Replying to the Coroner, Mr Frost denied that, whilst he and deceased were at the Palk Arms, he (Mr Frost) said to deceased, "I will toss you whether I shall shoot you tonight or you shall shoot me." Deceased was not the worse for drink on Saturday evening. He had been drinking gin, but it had not had any effect on him, although he generally got very excited after drinking spirits. The only time that deceased was excited on Saturday evening was during a part of the quarrel. - In answer to the Foreman, witness said deceased had not to his knowledge been drinking heavily during last week. In connection with the incident about his wife's injured finger and her objection to deceased looking at it, deceased did not seem excited by witness having the preference. He showed no temper about it. - Dr Dalby, recalled, repeated that in his opinion death was instantaneous; also that he did not think the pistol could have been placed on the table by deceased either voluntarily or involuntarily. If death had not been instantaneous there would have been a possibility of deceased putting the pistol on the table. If deceased had risen from his chair and placed the pistol on the table there would have been blood between the table and where deceased was lying. The picking up of the pistol and placing it on the table might have been the sub-conscious act of any person rushing into the room. - MISS GLADYS KERSHAW (age about 16) recalled, said her father always used his right hand. - Alice Gibson, domestic servant at Barton Lodger for the past month, said she was not in the house when the occurrence happened. She had not heard any quarrelling during the day between deceased and his wife, nor had she ever heard deceased threaten to take his life at any time. - John Nott, proprietor of the Marine Tavern, Torquay, stated that whilst deceased and Mr Frost were in his house on Saturday evening they each had a whisky and soda. Deceased did not show the effects of drink at all, nor was Mr Frost the worse for drink. - Coroner's Summing Up." - The Coroner, in summing up, said on the evidence there could be no doubt that deceased came to his death as the result of a pistol shot wound in the head, and that this wound caused instantaneous death. The important and difficult question for the Jury to consider was the point as to how that wound was inflicted. They would have to satisfy themselves as to whether the wound was inflicted by deceased or whether there was any evidence upon which they would be justified in coming to the conclusion that it was inflicted by any other person. It was also for the Jury to see if there was any reasonable explanation as to how the pistol got on the table where it was found, considering that in the doctor's opinion death was instantaneous and that deceased would have been unable to have raised himself sufficiently to have put the pistol down in that position. It might be possible that someone who went into the room soon after the occurrence might have picked up the pistol and placed it on the table. The Coroner impressed upon the Jury that they must find their verdict on the evidence without regard to any rumours or gossip; and, in asking them to consider whether there was any evidence which would in any way implicate Mr Frost, he pointed out that there was no affirmative evidence against him. - The Verdict. - After 20 minutes' consultation by the Jury in private, the Foreman announced that their unanimous verdict was that deceased Committed Suicide by Shooting Himself with a revolver during a fit of Temporary Insanity. - The Foreman was proceeding to add what the Jury wished him to say with reference to the revolver being found on the table, when ---- The Coroner interposed, and suggested that he should say nothing more. He had given the verdict of the Jury and he should not give reasons for it. No doubt they had found some explanation which satisfied them with regard to the pistol being placed where it was found. - The Foreman replied that that was so, and the Inquiry terminated, after having lasted four hours.

CREDITON - Crediton Fatality. - Jury And "The Great Temptation To Run Across Line." - Mr G. H. Stephens, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Crediton yesterday on JAMES MADGE, landlord of the Swan Inn, who was killed by a passenger train at Crediton Station on Tuesday. - Mr M. J. McGahey (Exeter) represented the London and South-Western Railway Co., and expressed the company's regret at the unfortunate occurrence and sympathy with the widow and relatives. - ERNEST MADGE, son, said his father, aged 66 years, was district traveller for a firm. On Tuesday deceased, whose sight and hearing were fairly good, intended going to Lapford. - Jeffrey Hoare, Exeter, said he was driving an express train from Torrington, the last stop before he reached Crediton being Yeoford. The train left Yeoford at 1.32 and the next stop was at St. David's. When about halfway down the Crediton Station platform he noticed a man walking down the line outside the four-foot way. He was not in danger when witness saw him first, but he subsequently turned and went across the line. Witness then blew the whistle sharp two or three times to try and attract his attention; but when the train passed he knew deceased had been knocked down. He stopped the train at Newton St. Cyres to send back a message to Crediton; he also examined his engine and found nothing unusual about it. - By Mr McGahey: He sounded the whistle several times when rounding the bend just before the Station. The engine was travelling between 45 and 50 miles an hour and witness first saw deceased when about 30 or 40 yards from him. He thought he was going into the goods shed; and when the whistle was sounded deceased did not appear to take any notice. - Ernest Hoskings, Exeter, fireman of the engine, said he heard the whistle sounded when rounding the bend, also when passing through the Station. He saw the buffer of the engine strike deceased and turn him around on the six-foot way. - By Mr McGahey: If deceased had gone another six inches he would have got clear. He had his back to the train. - Alfred Rogers Wilks, commercial traveller, Pentille-road, Plymouth, said he was on the down platform when the express approached the Station. It whistled before it came in sight, also when passing the booking-office. He saw deceased fling up his arms and get twisted in towards the first carriage. - William Hill, Exeter, relief horseman in the company's employ, said he came out of the porters' room and watched the express come in. He saw deceased lying between the up and down lines after the train had passed, and he appeared to be dead. - By a Juryman: Witness could not say whether there was a porter on either platform. - Mr McGahey: Do you know that there are five notices on this Station warning passengers to cross only by the bridge? - I believe there are sir. - At the spot where the accident occurred is there a crossing? - No. - Not even what is called a sleeper crossing? - No. - Mr McGahey: It is an experience on good many lines that people, unfortunately, will not use the bridges. - Dr W. S. Campbell said deceased's neck was dislocated. The left shoulder was fractured and the ribs of the left side were smashed. His hearing was dull, but not unduly dull for a man of that age. - The Coroner having summed up and commented upon the risk which people ran through not crossing the line by means of bridges, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - The Foreman (Mr W. Labbett) said it was generally accepted by the Jury and the public that the facilities for passengers to get from one platform to another at Crediton Station were bad. Admittedly there was a bridge, and notices also posted warning people to cross by the bridge only, but the bridge was at such an inconvenient place that elderly people had to be at the Station five or ten minutes before the train left. It was inconveniently situated, and it was a great temptation to people to run across the lines, thereby risking their lives. A few years ago the Urban District Council appealed to the company to alter it, and some officials were sent down. The Council asked that a subway should be provided, or some light bridge erected close to the booking-office, or that the booking-office should be shifted elsewhere, but nothing had been done. He supposed "dividends were stronger than life."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 10 March 1914
EAST STONEHOUSE - Boxing Fatality. Private SAMPSON'S Death: Verdict "Misadventure." - The Inquest on PRIVATE WILLIAM JAMES SAMPSON, R.M.L.I. who collapsed in the twelfth round of a boxing contest with Young Lippo at the Cosmopolitan Gymnasium, Plymouth, on Friday evening, was held by the County Coroner, Mr R. Robinson Rodd, in the Royal Naval Hospital, Stonehouse, yesterday. - The attendance included Mr J. D. Sowerby, Chief Constable of Plymouth; Supt. Crook, of the Stonehouse Police; Mr John W. Bickle, representing Mr Harry Jenkins, manager of the Cosmopolitan; and Arthur Alexander Lippell ("Young Lippo"), deceased's opponent in the contest; and Mr Eyton K. Peck, representing the Admiralty. - Sergt. F. A. Voysey, H.M.S. Majestic, identified the body, and said deceased was 26 years of age and a member of "H" Company. - James Thomas Hulls, sporting journalist, Lewisham, stated that on Friday last he refereed the boxing match between the deceased and Arthur Alexander Lippell, known as "Young Lippo." In the twelfth round the deceased was boxing well, and up to that period had the advantage over his opponent, when he suddenly sat on the floor and held the ropes. Witness was waiting for deceased to get up, because once down the rules allowed ten seconds for a man to get up. Deceased did not rise and was counted out and then fell back. His seconds picked him up and removed him to his corner. - The Coroner: Had you any occasion to caution either man? - In one or two rounds there was clinching and I ordered them to break away. They immediately did so. Clinching was contrary to the rules, the fight being conducted under National Sporting Club rules. - The Coroner: Who was the offender in the clinching? - Each in turn. - No Complaint Made. - Did either complain of the other to you in any round? - No. - In your opinion was it a fair contest in every way? - Yes. There was no foul play and no unfair advantage was taken. - Answering further questions, Mr Hulls said he had twenty-five years' experience of referee work. These two men were well matched and the affair was clean throughout. There was no adverse demonstration by the spectators against his verdict. The deceased was lifted out to his dressing-room; there was no stretcher. - A Juror asked if Lippo was cautioned for fighting unfairly. - The Coroner repeated Mr Hulls statement. - Mr Bickle said he was not sorry the question was asked because it had appeared in the Press. - The Coroner: I taker no notice of the Press on occasions like these. I don't say that disrespectfully, but the Press must not be considered on occasions like these. - Answering Mr Bickle, Mr Hulls stated that the deceased when he went down was watching the time-keeper and he fully expected him to get up. This was the first time anything had happened in his experience. - Lashed Out At His Seconds. - Sergt. J. Ponsford, R.M.L.I., one of the deceased's seconds, agreed with the referee's evidence. There was no unfair advantage taken and no foul play. Within three minutes from the time deceased was taken to his corner he was in his dressing-room and Dr Wagner immediately saw him. When he was lifted from the ropes to the corner he did not speak, but started to cry and all at once lashed out at his seconds. He was unconscious. He was in a fit condition for this contest and did well throughout. Witness had known deceased for five years and in his opinion he had sufficient stamina to stand fifteen rounds. - The Coroner: You are a bit of a boxer yourself are you not? - Yes. - Do you like it? - Yes, very much. - By Mr Peck: Deceased had taken part in service boxing, and had won championships. - James Leonard, sawyer and Thomas Bridgeman, who also acted as seconds, gave similar corroboration. - Inspector Davis, Plymouth Police, said he witnessed the contest and agreed with the evidence of the previous witnesses. - The Cause Of Death. - Surgeon A. J. MacDiarmid, R.N. Hospital, said he conducted the post-mortem examination and found death was due to haemorrhage and laceration of the base of the brain at the joint of the spinal cord. - The Coroner: Would that be caused by a blow from gloves in a boxing contest or by a fall? - It might be caused by either. - The gloves were then shown and the witness, asked if such a glove as that could have caused the injury, replied, "Quite Possible." - Answering further questions the doctor stated that deceased had quite a normal skull and was otherwise perfectly healthy. - The Coroner: This laceration might have been caused early in the fight and gradually bled until he collapsed? - Yes. - The witness added that the laceration was in a most vital spot for respiration. - Mr Bickle: This laceration might have been caused from other causes? - Yes, such as a fall. - And might have been caused early in the evening? - In the contest. - Or earlier in the evening? - In the contest. - Do you know what time the contest commenced? - No. - Then how can you say that. It might have been earlier in the evening? - Yes. - It might have been caused by other reasons than a blow? - Yes. - The Coroner: Having regard to the evidence, you consider it was received in the contest? - Yes. - And was caused by a blow? - Yes, it could have been, by a blow to the jaw, probably. - A Clean Contest. - Summing up, the Coroner said properly conducted, under certain rules, boxing contests were permissible and the only question the Jury had to decide was whether the contest was conducted under fair and proper circumstances. They had the evidence of the referee before them, and he, a man of over 25 years' experience, had told them that from start to finish the contest had been a fair one. That evidence had been corroborated by an independent witness, Sergt. Ponsford, who had seconded the deceased, and it seemed to him that the contest was a clean one. Everything was conducted properly and if they held that view they would find a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence that the deceased met his death from misadventure. - The Jury returned a verdict accordingly and the Coroner observed that the only thing elicited during the inquiry was that in the event of an accident there was no proper appliance to enable the man to be removed. He thought a stretcher should be provided in case of emergency. - Mr Bickle, on behalf of the management, stated that over 3,000 contests had been conducted at the Cosmopolitan, and this was the first case of misadventure that had occurred. There had been no need for a stretcher, and if there had been a stretcher provided in this case it would have been of little use, for the man was not allowed to be removed for some time, and when he was there was ample time to fetch the stretcher from the Police Station. However, the management would provide one in future, but hoped it would never be required. He would like to add that no one was more grieved over this sad affair than Young Lippo himself, for the pair went into this contest upon the most friendly terms and spirits and on behalf of Young Lippo and the representatives of the Gymnasium he desired to express his sympathy with the relatives of the deceased. - The Coroner and Jury concurred.

PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns conducted an Inquest yesterday at the Cattedown-road Schools, Plymouth, on SAMUEL COOPER, 73, army pensioner, 77 South Milton-street, who died on Saturday. Eliza Oliver, who lived in the same house as deceased, stated that on Thursday she gave him a cup of tea. Some time after leaving him she heard a thud and going to his room, found him with his head on the fire. - Dr G. Derry, who had been attending deceased, stated that death was due to shock, caused by the burns received. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 12 March 1914
LIFTON - Found Dead At Lifton. Husband Reprimanded "For His Apparent Neglect." - Mr H. C. Brown, Coroner, on Tuesday held an Inquest at Cawdrons, Lifton, on LOUISA JANE EASTCOTT, aged 67, wife of THOMAS EASTCOTT, retired seed merchant, who was found dead in bed on Sunday afternoon. - MR EASTCOTT said MRS EASTCOTT went to bed about eight on Saturday evening, apparently in her usual health. About 11 o'clock on Sunday morning witness got his breakfast and never thought of inquiring about his wife until about 3 o'clock, when he called upstairs to ask if she was coming down. Not getting a reply, he went up and found her fully dressed in one of the bedrooms, but dead, and apparently she had been dead for some time. The bed had not been made use of. They had lived happily together. He had not seen her from the time of going to bed on the Saturday evening until he found her dead. - Harry Rich, of Lifton Down, a neighbour, said deceased and her husband frequently quarrelled and he had seen MR EASTCOTT take deceased by the neck and throw her into the road; but he put that down to drink. He had also seen him whip her when she only had a nightdress on. That happened once in the morning. He believed deceased was addicted to drink. Witness heard voices on Saturday evening in deceased's house, but could not distinguish anything, and no notice was taken. The last quarrel that he knew of between deceased and her husband took place about a fortnight ago. - Eva Jane Madge, daughter of the last witness, said the EASTCOTTS quarrelled often and on Saturday evening she heard a sort of "grumbling row" in their house as if things were not pleasant. She had on one occasion seen deceased being beaten by her husband with a whip. - Dr Musgrave (Lifton) said he saw deceased between 4.30 and 4.45 on Sunday afternoon. She was then quite dead and rigid, and was lying fully dressed on a bare mattress. He had made a post-mortem examination, and in his opinion death was due to compression of the brain, as the result of haemorrhage inside the skull, which was due to a fracture. The fracture must have occurred as the result of an injury, but he could not say in what form, nor could he say how long before death the injury had occurred, but the general period would be from four to six hours, though the time might vary, and it might run into days. He thought death must have taken place at least six hours before he saw the body. - The Jury found that "Death was due to Fracture of the Skull caused by an injury, but that it was not known how deceased came by such injury," and at their request the Coroner severely reprimanded the deceased's husband for his apparent neglect and inattention to his wife.

Western Morning News, Friday 13 March 1914
LYDFORD - Inquest At Dartmoor Prison. Convict's Sad Death. - Mr H. C. Brown, Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at Dartmoor Prison on EDWARD MONAGHAN, a convict, who died on Tuesday, aged 80 years. - Alfred Gaukroger, clerk in the Governor's office, said deceased, who had no settled address, entered Dartmoor Prison on 31st January 1912. He was convicted at Manchester City Sessions on the 2nd October 1911, of burglary and sentenced to three years' penal servitude, and his licence was forfeited in respect of a former sentence, on which 279 days were left. Prior to that there were six convictions of penal servitude, mostly for stealing and shoplifting. - Dr Helby said deceased was admitted to Hospital on 25th February suffering from influenza. He had suffered from gangrene of the foot and it extended up the leg to above the knee. Dr Woollcombe, of Plymouth, had been called in for consultation, and it was decided that an amputation would be of no avail. The cause of death was gangrene of the foot, exhaustion and syncope. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 17 March 1914
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Hawker's Sad Death. - Mr Albert Gard, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Devonport Workhouse yesterday on MICHAEL BURLEY MAY, aged 61, hawker, of Canon-street. MARTHA MAY, wife, said about the beginning of February deceased went out with his handcart and when he had sold his goods he returned home very drunk. As his son was approaching the door deceased rushed at him with a knife. The son ran away and deceased fell down on the pavement and struck his head. He was taken indoors and the injury attended to. He was afterwards taken to the Royal Albert Hospital. - Evidence was also given by the son. - Dr M. Ramsay, House Surgeon, Royal Albert Hospital, said deceased was admitted to the Institution on February 3rd. He had a small cut on the back of the head and was semi-conscious. They got him to bed, and he became so violent that witness deemed it advisable to have him removed. He was suffering from delirium tremens. - Mr G. Prior, workhouse master, said deceased was admitted to the Workhouse on February 4th as an alleged lunatic. He was examined the following day, but no order was made and he had since been allowed to remain in the Infirmary. He died on Sunday. - Dr G. Sandford said on February 4th deceased was in a state of coma. The main injury was the cut at the back of the head. A post-mortem examination showed that the skull was fractured. That was the cause of death. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and sympathy was expressed with the widow and family.

TORQUAY - Seen Through A Window. Torquay Labourer's Steps Over Wall And Is Killed. - Mr P. C. Cornish-Bowden, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Torquay yesterday on GEORGE LUSCOMBE, aged 38, builder's labourer, of 3 Bath-cottages, who died in Torbay Hospital on Sunday morning from injuries to his head, caused by his falling over a wall into Old Mill-road, Torre, on Saturday night. - JOHN HENRY LUSCOMBE, carter, Paignton, brother of deceased, said he had never known before that deceased had been on private premises looking into windows. - Mr Alfred James Ackworth, Strathearne, Cleveland-road, stated that on Saturday night, about ten o'clock, he was sitting in the dining-room with his wife and a young lady, when his terrier barked at the window from indoors. Witness suddenly lifted up the blind, and saw a face looking in. He called to the dog and went out into the conservatory, and as soon as he had opened the door he called to the dog, "Go for him." The dog ran out barking, and witness heard rustling in the laurels, and then a sound as if something or someone had fallen. He called in the dog and returned to the dining-room, remarking that he believed that a man had fallen and the young lady said she would go out and see. Witness had never had a similar experience before of anyone looking into his window, nor had he had any trace of anyone having done so. - Gertrude Gegg, domestic servant, Chelston, said just after ten o'clock on Saturday night she was in Old Mill-road (near Strathearne) with her sister when they heard a dog bark and almost immediately afterwards they heard rustling in the hedge and saw a man fall over the wall into the roadway with a thud. Her sister called to Sergeant-Major Tomney, who was near, and he went down and lifted deceased up. - Frank Law, bricklayer, Cockington, said he had worked with deceased for several hears. He was with him in the Rising Sun Inn on Saturday night between nine and ten o'clock and he left deceased outside the Inn, he (witness) going t the Avenue Hotel. - The Deputy Coroner warned witness to be careful, intimating that, if he was found to have stated what was untrue, he would render himself liable to prosecution for perjury. - Witness, continuing, said he and deceased were sober. Deceased said he was going home when witness parted from him and that was the last time he saw him alive. He had never heard deceased say that he was in the habit of looking into people's windows, nor had he ever been in his company when he had done such a thing. - George Hill, labourer, 2 Bath-cottages, said he saw the last witness and deceased together between twenty and ten minutes to ten in the lane where the cottages were situated. The two men had been drinking, but deceased was the worst. - Kate Valentine Short, domestic Servant, St Marychurch, stated that one night about twelve months ago she saw a man, whom she believed to be deceased, looking into the windows of a house opposite her father's house in South-street, Torre. - P.C. Voaden said he found deceased lying in the footpath close to the bridge, with Dr Masterman Wood attending to him. The doctor said deceased had sustained a fracture of the base of the skull and witness assisted to remove him to the Hospital. - P.S. Bromell said footprints which he found in the lawn of Strathearne between the window sill and the top of the bridge, corresponding with the boots of deceased. From the window sill to the place on the wall where ivy was broken down, was 33 feet and from the edge of the wall to the footpath was 18 ½ feet. - Dr Walshe, House Surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said when deceased was brought there he was unconscious and was suffering from compressed fracture of the skull. He was operated upon about midnight by Dr Lacey and a piece of bone was taken away, but the brain was found to be much lacerated. Deceased never regained consciousness and died about 4.45 on Sunday morning, the cause of death being laceration of the brain and shock to the nervous system. - The Deputy Coroner said undoubtedly deceased came to his death by falling over the wall. As to how he came there, or why he had been looking into the window, was a matter of conjecture. Whether he intended to commit a burglary or a felony, or whether he was there out of idle curiosity, they would never know, but this was not absolutely necessary for the purpose of the verdict. The evidence of the witness Law was very unsatisfactory, but, although the Jury would probably come to the conclusion that he had committed perjury, it was not sufficiently near to the purpose of their Inquiry to bring it home to him. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

MODBURY - Modbury Farmer's Death On Eve Of Emigrating. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd, Coroner, yesterday held an Inquest on RICHARD PEARSE, aged 36, farmer of Ashbridge Farm, who was found dead in a field on Saturday morning. The deceased had arranged for the sale of his farm implements today and intended emigrating. - Nicholas Furzeland, labourer, in the employ of deceased, said on Friday his master went out about 8 a.m. taking his dog to turn sheep from a meadow into a grass field. Witness did not see him again that day. On the following morning, as witness was going to work, about 7 o'clock, he noticed something unusual in the grass field. When he got to the farm MRS PEARSE, mother of the deceased, said her son had not been home for the night and that he must look for him. Witness went into the grass field and discovered that what he had noticed earlier in the morning was the deceased, lying face downwards on his arms. He had evidently fallen forward and not moved afterwards, there being no sign of a struggle. The sheep had been removed and the dog returned about 12.30 on Friday without the deceased. - The Coroner: Was there nothing unusual in that? - We did not think anything about that; the dog was a sulky-tempered one. - You did not attach any importance to his going away to put these sheep out and not returning? - He went away as usual. - Had he been in the habit of going away in the morning and not coming back? - No; he was generally about the farm. - The Coroner observed that it was extraordinary that this poor fellow should be allowed to go away at 87 a.m., and no attempt made to locate him until 8 a.m. the next day. - SAMUEL GEORGE PEARSE, cousin of deceased, of Oldaport Farm, Modbury, said a lot of stuff on the farm had been sold and there was very little to keep deceased on the farm. Witness came down on Friday morning and was told that DICK (the deceased) had gone up to turn the sheep out. In the evening witness came again and deceased's mother stated that DICK had not been home for the day. He replied, "Oh, I expect he has gone to Modbury." Deceased did that once before and stopped away all night. - The Coroner: He was in the habit of going to Modbury? - Not Modbury only; he would go anywhere, because he had several friends. - The reason he was not looked for was that he was in the habit of getting about and returning late without informing the members of the family of his intentions? - Yes, that's about it. - Dr W. H. Andrews said death was due to suffocation. There was very marked cirrhosis of the liver due to alcohol, and the heart was fatty. From the manner in which the deceased was found he should say that probably he had an attack of syncope, causing him to fall - hence the suffocation. Had someone been with him when he fell and pulled him over he might have been saved. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence and the Coroner, on behalf of the Jury, expressed sympathy with the relatives, the Foreman (Mr H. Dennis) remarking that he should not think the deceased every made an enemy. - The Coroner: Yes; I understand he was a popular man. - The funeral took place in Modbury Churchyard yesterday afternoon, the Vicar (Rev. J. E. Champernowne) officiating. - The mourners were Mrs Hoppin (sister), Messrs. J. Pearse (uncle), S. J. Parse (cousin), S. Hoppin (brother-in-law), F. Wyatt, J. Wyatt, J. Boon, H. Manning and S. Manning (cousins).

Western Morning News, Wednesday 18 March 1914
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Labourer's Suicide. - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, yesterday held an Inquest at S.D. and E.C. Hospital, Plymouth, on WILLIAM MCBEAN, general labourer, Lee Moor, who was found in a room on Saturday with a throat wound. - Anne Jane kingdom, wife of William Henry Kingdom, of Lee Moor, who lived in the same house as deceased, said she went to MCBEAN'S bedroom on Saturday morning and attended to him as usual. A little later witness heard a thud and on going to the room again found deceased bending over the side of the bed. Witness then went for her sister and on returning found deceased bleeding from the throat and Dr Stamp, who was called in, ordered his removal to the Hospital. MCBEAN had been ill two months. Dr Donaldson, House Surgeon, said deceased was admitted to the Hospital suffering from a cut throat. The wound was fairly high and had it been a little lower almost instantaneous death would have resulted. Deceased was in a hopeless condition and death was due to air embolism. - A verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - Depressed After Illness. - An Inquest was held yesterday on ARTHUR HANNAFORD, aged 47, naval pensioner, who was found in a room at 22 Densham-terrace, Plymouth, lying in a pool of blood on Friday. - Amy Ireland, wife of Arthur Ireland, of 22 Densham-terrace, said on the 3rd inst., about 6 p.m. deceased returned from work, and finding that his tea was not prepared he pushed witness against a sideboard, with the result that she had to have three stitches inserted into her head, which was badly cut. Deceased had been drinking previously. Witness had seen him on two occasions since that occurrence, but he had not paid his rent. - Bessie Rendle, wife of Alfred Rendle, of the same address, said on the 13th inst., about 5.30 a.m., deceased went away to work as witness thought and her husband left a little later. When witness came down about 10 a.m. she found pools of blood at the bottom of the stairs, with deceased's bedroom door wide open. Deceased had seemed very depressed as he was in debt, and had been threatened with a judgment summons. He was in the habit of drinking heavily and had a cut on his head, which deceased said was caused when he attempted to get knocked down by a train. - P.C. Davey said on his arrival at the house he saw HANNAFORD in a sitting position, and only just alive. Deceased had wounds in his throat and head. Witness asked him what he had done, and deceased replied, "I have cut my throat." He also said that the cut on his head was due to a fall and that he had experienced trouble of late. Dr Parsloe was summoned and he ordered the man's removal to the S.D. and E.C. Hospital. - Dr Donaldson said death was due to loss of blood and deceased only lived a few hours after admission. - "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was the verdict.

Western Morning News, Thursday 19 March 1914
CLOVELLY - Clovelly Gardener's Terrible Fall. - At Clovelly yesterday Mr George W. F. Brown conducted an Inquest on WILLIAM OKE, 77, gardener and sexton, a well-known figure in Clovelly, who on Monday fell over a cliff nearly 200 feet high, while working in a garden at the New Inn. - Mr G. C. Caird, agent for the Clovelly Estate, said he employed OKE to clean and prepare for seed the garden in question. He did not tell him to do any pruning, and did not know why he did so. Witness thought deceased was trying to throw the limbs of trees over the cliff, when the soft ground close to the edge, on which he stood, gave way. There were marks where he had dragged branches to the edge and two limbs had been thrown over. Deceased had no right where he was as he had strict instructions not to throw anything over the cliff. Deceased had been in their employ for some years and was a very steady man. - Robert Badcock, who was on the beach under the cliff, said he heard something falling and looking up saw it was a man, who fell right into a boat beneath. He did not seem to be struggling to catch hold of anything as he came down. - Dr Crew, of Hartland, said the back of the head was scalped but the bone was not fractured on the outside, and there was no sign of any serious external injury. He thought the man's head struck a piece of iron in the boat. The injuries were not sufficient to cause death, which he should say was due to shock. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" attaching no blame to anyone and expressed deep sympathy with the widow and sons.

PLYMPTON - Plympton Fatality. Wind And Steam Lead To Death In A Dangerous Siding. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd conducted an Inquest at Plympton Workhouse yesterday on JOHN HENRY BAND, 25, shunter, employed by the Great Western Railway Company, who was killed on the line near Plympton on Monday. Mr John W. Bickle represented the deceased's relatives, and John Rogers, goods guard, and Mr Arthur Poulteney, chief inspector and Inspector Cook, locomotive superintendent, were present on behalf of the company. - John James Rogers, of 8 Bernice-terrace, Plymouth, stated that on Monday he was guard of the 12.5 p.m. train from Kingsbridge, which arrived at Plympton at 4.10 p.m. Several shunts were commenced at Plympton about 4.15 p.m. Deceased assisted witness, and a considerable proportion of the operations were successfully carried out. Witness had an understanding with deceased as to the way in which the subsequent work was to be performed and deceased told witness that he would do the uncoupling, while witness looked after the brakes and turned the points from the ground frame. Witness told him before commencing work to look out for himself at the bottom end, and deceased replied, "All right, I will." Witness had not seen deceased before and regarding him as a stranger, thought it advisable to caution him. It was a dangerous place. When deceased signalled the train to go ahead, he was standing with one foot on the six feet way, and the other on the permanent way of the up line. This was the only position from which he could conduct the work. While witness was working the points, he heard a whistle and, looking around, saw an up train strike deceased. As it hit him it pulled him right under and dragged him about twenty yards. Owing to the wind it was impossible to hear anything coming, which the steam from the shunting engine would hide the approach of the up train. The up train was signalled and the signal could have been seen by witness or deceased. The goods train was about an hour late and the trains witness were accustomed to had gone up. If witness had noticed the signal, he would have instructed deceased to stand clear until the train had passed, but his attention was completely taken up with his own work. Deceased had been in the station about a week and would have had recent knowledge of trains. He seemed to be an experienced shunter. According to regulations the signal should have been observed. - The Coroner then read Rule 24 of the company's regulations, which stated that employees must not expose themselves to danger and were directed to prevent such exposure. Reckless exposure would be punished. - Asked whether he considered there should be a warning of some sort, witness thought it would save future accidents. Another signal placed near Skew Bridge would be for the better working of the traffic. - Mr Poulteney: Would it not be possible for the man to stand at the end of the 38 trucks and give the driver a signal from that position? - He could see it. - The Coroner: Were you not attempting too much, having regard to the danger? Were you not trying to make up too big a train? - No, sir. - The Coroner: The question is whether you did not handle too many trucks. It may be a question as to whether the company should not allow more time for shunting. - In reply to Mr Bickle, witness stated that deceased and himself did the shunting, with only the occasional assistance of the Stationmaster. - Mr Bickle: You have the work of bringing out all these trucks? - Yes. - Your duty would be to watch the signals of down trains? - Yes. We have to watch our own signal to see that it is not put at danger. - The Coroner: He says it is his duty to watch up signals. - Witness: Oh, no sir, not he up signals. - The Coroner: You said it was part of your duty to see the signal. - If I had seen it, I should have warned deceased. - Mr Poulteney: Was it not part of your duty to observe that signal? - Not that I am aware of. - Mr Bickle: Would it be reasonable for the company to expect you to do this shunting business and also look out for up trains? - You cannot do it. - The Coroner remarked that he thought the matter of sufficient importance to adjourn the Inquiry, with a view to an inspector coming down. He did not like the siding. It seemed to be a dangerous place and he felt an independent gentleman connected with the railway department of the Board of Trade should see it. He had mentioned it to the Foreman and they had decided on that course. - The Inquiry was adjourned until next Tuesday.

STOKE DAMEREL - Stoker Petty Officer's Death. - Mr Albert Gard (Deputy Borough Coroner) held an Inquest at Devonport Dockyard yesterday on WILLIAM GARVAN (38) stoker petty officer, who died suddenly on board the battleship Marlborough on Tuesday. - Master-at-Arms F. P. Barry said he saw GARVAN half an hour before his death. He was unmarried, was on the recording staff and had not been doing any heavy work. He made the remark that he was going on shore. - W. E. Furzer, able seaman, said that at 12.5 p.m. GARVAN spoke to him and appeared to be in his usual health. - At 1.20 p.m. witness was sweeping the mess deck when he saw deceased fall against a stanchion. Blood was flowing from his nose. - A. C. Crago, chief stoker, under whom GARVAN had worked, said that at noon he was in his usual health. - Staff-Surgeon H. Woods said he was summoned at 1.20 p.m. and found GARVAN in a dying condition. Blood was flowing from his mouth and nose and he died a few minutes later. Witness had made a post mortem examination and found that death was due to the rupture of an aneurism in the chest. A. E. Watson, sick berth steward, also gave evidence, and W. J. Harner, stoker petty officer, deposed to finding deceased vomiting blood and taking him to the sick bay. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 20 March 1914
TORQUAY - Mr P. C. Cornish Bowden, Deputy Coroner, opened an Inquest at Torquay yesterday on the newly-born child of IDA HARRIS, 22, domestic servant, in the employ of Mrs Stevens, Oakhurst, Thurlow-hill. - The young woman, who had been at Oakhurst since January 1st, slept in the same room as her fellow-servant, Ellen Fife. - The latter stated that early on Monday morning she heard the cry of a child and she afterwards saw HARRIS tying something up in a parcel. She said she was getting some underclothing. Witness had not then fully realised what had happened. On Tuesday morning, whilst HARRIS was downstairs, witness went to the bedroom and saw in her box a brown paper parcel. In the evening she found this contained a child and she informed Mrs Walters, a lady staying in the house. - Elizabeth Jane Fletcher, who was at work at Oakhurst on Tuesday, said HARRIS confessed that the child was hers. Witness got the young woman lodgings and took her there. - Dr Hugh Wiggin said there were no marks of violence. The post-mortem examination showed that the child had breathed fully. He could not form any definite conclusion as to the cause of death, but it was probably due to inanition or from want of attention. - The Inquiry was adjourned to April 7th for the attendance of the mother.

EXMOUTH - Exmouth Child Crushed To Death. - Mr E. R. Tweed held an Inquest at Exmouth yesterday on HENRY HUBERT MUDGE PYNE, aged six, son of HENRY ERNEST PYNE, gardener, who was killed the previous day by being run over by a furniture van drawn by a steam lorry. Mr W. J. Petherick, of Exmouth, watched the case on behalf f the parents of the child. The boy and his sister got on the connecting bar between two vans to ride. As the vans reached a narrow street by which the younger scholars enter school, the children got off. The sister ran out safely between the vans and as the deceased got off the bar he fell, his head falling in front of the rear wheel of the van, which passed over it, crushing it and instantly killing him. The driver went on oblivious of the tragedy until asked to stop at the corner of the road. - Asked by Mr Petherick if there was a third man with the lorry, the driver replied "No," and further said he was not required to have a third one, the motor lorry coming under the provisions of the Motor Car Acts. - Dr Thornton described the injuries to the skull of the deceased and said the wound across the head was 2 ½ inches wide. Death was due to laceration of the brain and was instantaneous. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added that no blame was attached to anyone. They passed a vote of sympathy with the bereaved parents and also handed to the father their fees.

EXETER - Killed On Line At Exeter. Labourer's Singular Death At Railway Crossing. - Mr W. L. Brown, Coroner, held an Inquest at Exeter last evening on WILLIAM BULLEN, 69, general labourer, Smythen-street, who was killed at Exwick crossing, St David's Station on Tuesday. Mr J. I. Pengelly and Inspector Mapledoram (Exeter) and Inspector Cook (Newton Abbot) appeared on behalf of the Railway Company. - Mr G. W. Brown (organizing secretary of the South Western District of the National Union of Railway Workers) said he appeared on behalf of three witnesses who were railwaymen. - The Coroner asked Mr Brown if he were a solicitor or barrister. - Mr Brown replied that he was not and said he was appearing in accordance with a circular issued by Lord Gladstone to Coroners. - The Coroner said it was not as if a railwayman had been killed. It was his custom to hear only professional men. He acted on his own responsibility and he refused to hear him. - Mr Brown: I must accept your ruling, and I am sorry you look at it in that way. - ALFRED EDWARD BULLEN, son, said he last saw the deceased, his father, alive on Sunday night. His sight and hearing were good. - JANE BULLEN, the widow, said when her husband left home on Tuesday he was going to look for work. - Arthur Groves, manager at the Lamb Inn, Exwick, said deceased had a glass of ale on Tuesday evening about 6.30. He was perfectly sober and happy. - James Weeks, signalman, said he opened the crossing gates about 6.36 to let the traffic pass. He closed the gates again and saw no one on the lines. Soon after he saw a horsebox being shunted to No. 2 siding and when it got to the points he heard a bump. Deceased's body was picked up some yards from the crossing. - Charles James Harris, foreman shunter, said he pushed a horsebox towards the siding. It was not attached to the engine. Witness, hearing someone shout, applied the brake and on examination found that deceased had been knocked down. His right arm was lying across one of the rails. - George Pike, signal linesman, deposed to seeing deceased trying to get out from under the horsebox, and he assisted him. Witness considered that the box was not travelling faster than two miles an hour. - William Greenslade, porter, said he saw deceased soon after he was knocked down and he was dead. - John Churchward, groom, said he saw deceased get on to the line in front of the horsebox, which, witness believed, pushed him along, causing him to trip. An engine had previously gone into the bay. - Dr Bell said all the injuries deceased received were on the right side. The upper part of the right arm was fractured, as well as all the ribs on the right side. There was a small wound at the back of the skull. How those injuries were caused by a slow-going truck he was absolutely at a loss. He could not help thinking that deceased must have been knocked down by an engine that went into the bay, and that the horsebox was simply knocking about a dead body. Death was instantaneous and was due to the smashing of the brain. - The Coroner, summing up, said it was impossible for the deceased to have been smashed about like he was by a slow-moving vehicle, however heavy. He could not compliment the railwaymen upon the way they had given their evidence or answered the questions. There was no really getting at the actual point he wanted to know, and they were unable to get a clear statement. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and were of opinion that deceased was knocked down by an engine.

EGG BUCKLAND - Girl's Death Near Crownhill. Lack of Mortuary Accommodation. - At Crownhill yesterday Mr R. Robinson Rodd conducted an Inquest on MARY JANE RICHARDS, whose body was found on Tuesday under a hedge on the Tor Grove estate, Crownhill. Considerable mystery was attached to the death, but Dr C. E. Bean, public analyst for Plymouth, said he had examined the contents of the stomach and found no signs of poisoning. There were some signs which indicated a form of heart disease. - Dr Olver, Crownhill, who made the post-mortem examination, said there were no signs of violence, external or internal and he attributed death to heart disease. - Questioned by the Coroner, witness said a police cell was not a suitable place in which to make a post-mortem examination. He again desired to draw attention to the need of a mortuary. - JOHN WILLIAM RICHARDS, commission agent, St. Budeaux, father of the deceased, said he had not seen his daughter since last May. She was a travelling companion to a lady and on Monday morning he received a letter saying that she hoped to see them that day. She was not very strong, and about three years ago had a severe illness. On Monday she reached Plymouth, after travelling from Hertfordshire and visited Mrs Watkins at Mannamead. Subsequently, he surmised, she took the wrong turning when endeavouring to walk home, became faint owing to fatigue, excitement and perhaps, fear at being lost in the dark, and sat down under the hedge. - Mrs Watkins, wife of Engineer-Captain B. Watkins, 3 Barton-crescent, Plymouth, said the deceased called on her on Monday with a view to being engaged as a domestic servant. She appeared perfectly well, although she said she had been travelling all day. She said she was going to St. Budeaux. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned, the Coroner thinking the father's theory a likely one.

Western Morning News, Saturday 21 March 1914
EAST STONEHOUSE - Mr R. Robinson Rodd, Coroner, yesterday held an Inquest on MAUD MIRIAM DODD, aged 35, wife of MR S. J. DODD, licensee of Battery Inn, East-street, Stonehouse. - MR DODD said on Wednesday his wife did not feel very well and remained in bed. About 3.30 p.m. he went to see her and found that she was dead. She had sickness in the night, due, it was thought, to biliousness. Witness suggested a doctor, but his wife did not think it necessary to call one in, and neither did witness at that time. - Dr W. E. M. Corbett said death was due to syncope and exhaustion, caused by gastritis. He would have thought that she must have suffered a great deal during the last few days. - Inspector Rogers said he placed MRS DODD on the floor and attempted artificial respiration. - The Coroner: It was very good of you. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 24 March 1914
EAST STONEHOUSE - Seaman's Fatal Fall. Verdict Of "Accidental Death." - Mr R. Robinson Rodd held an Inquest at the Royal Naval Hospital, Stonehouse, yesterday, on ROBERT MCCULLOCK, ordinary seaman, H.M.S. Thunderer, a native of Dumbarton, who died as the result of a fall from aloft. - Lieut. H. L. Hitchings. H.M.S. Thunderer, stated that the deceased was 19 years of age. On Saturday at 11.40 a.m. they were preparing to hoist a boat from the water to the davits and at the same time the deceased was clearing the starboard fore guy which had fouled the topping-lift block. Having cleared it, he slipped and fell about 40 feet. Nothing gave way, and there was no interference to cause the accident. The guy frequently fouled and could easily be cleared by running up the ladder by the side of the mast, having on fast with the left hand and pushing it clear with the right. Deceased could have gone further up and pushed it clear with his feet. He should have held on more firmly with his left arm. - The Coroner: If one might so describe it, it might have been carelessness on his part. - Witness: Yes; it might have been familiarity breeding contempt. He had been up so often that he was rather casual about it. He was quite competent to do the work. - Chief Petty Officer Coussins stated that MCCULLOCK was well acquainted with the ship and was a smart youth. He had done this kind of work scores of times. The work was quite simple and not dangerous. He agreed with the evidence of Lieut. Hitchings, and thought the deceased over-balanced himself and fell. - Surgeon A. J. MacDiarmid, R.N. Hospital, said death was due to shock caused by a fracture of the lower left ribs, with laceration of the left lung, a fracture of the pelvis and internal haemorrhage. He was admitted to the Hospital at 12.30 on Saturday and died at 8.30 the same evening. - Staff-Surgeon W. E. Ormsby. H.M.S. Thunderer, stated that after the accident the deceased was semi-conscious and not in a fit state to give an account of the accident. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned and the Coroner and Jury expressed sympathy with the ship's company and the relatives.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 25 March 1914
PLYMPTON - G.W.R. Shunter's Death. Jury's Important Recommendations At Plympton. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd, Coroner, yesterday resumed the Inquest at Plympton Workhouse on JOHN HENRY BAND, 25, shunter, in the employ of the G.W.R. Co., who was killed on the line on March 16th. The Inquest had been adjourned for the attendance of Mr J. P. S. Main, assistant inspecting officer of railways for the Board of Trade. Mr John W. Bickle represented deceased's relatives, and John Rogers, goods guard; Mr W. Rowe, divisional superintendent; Mr B. Giles, locomotive superintendent; and Mr A. Poultney, chief inspector; and Inspector W. Cook, locomotive inspector, represented the railway company. - At the opening of the Inquest John James Rogers, goods guard, explained that deceased, when signalling for shunting, was standing with one foot in the six-foot way and the other in the permanent way of the up line. This was the only position from which he could conduct his work. Witness heard a whistle; and turning around saw deceased knocked down and dragged under by the 4.15 p.m. train. This train had been signalled and cold have been seen by either witness or deceased. The wind made it impossible to hear anything. The witness was questioned at some length and said a warning of some sort would prevent such accidents occurring. - The Coroner in opening the adjourned Inquest yesterday, said the Board of Trade Inspector had visited the place where the accident occurred and would give them the benefit of his opinion. The Coroner also read the evidence of Rogers, the goods guard and asked this witness if the ballast of the road was properly made on the down side and whether if precautions were provided, such as a horn or shunting gong, could the work have been safely performed from that side. - Witness: By doing that it could be, but under present circumstances there are no precautions. - Taking Unnecessary Risks. - John Jeffery Mathews, engine driver, said on Monday, the 16th, he was shunting at Plympton. The deceased was standing in the six-foot way. Witness saw his signal to stop and that was the last he saw of him. He noticed the signal for the up train was down and he saw the train coming as he turned around. The deceased would have been all right standing where he saw him. He did not know why the deceased stepped over the main line. When he gave the signal to the goods guards to change the points he must have turned round. - By the Coroner: Placing himself between the main lines he voluntarily went into danger. He was not ordered there. He could not have given witness the signal with fourteen trucks on the line from the other side. It was not necessary to get in the four-foot way to have given the signal to stop, but they generally did that. - The Coroner: They get so familiar with doing these things that I am afraid they take a good deal of risk. - Answering other questions, witness said they were pressed for time and the deceased was probably anxious to get on with the work, and followed the wagons down that side on the up-lines. The Station Master assisted to tutor the deceased in the working of the siding. Deceased appeared a fairly smart man, seeing that he was new to the Station. The Stationmaster generally assisted when he could leave the Station. He had taken the signals from whistles and fog signals during foggy weather. - If you took your signals by whistles or bells at this siding, would it not prevent the shunter exposing himself? - Except for cutting off waggons. - If the ballast was properly made up? - Yes, that would alter it. - "A Really Good Idea." - It would cure the whole thing? - Yes. It is a really good idea. - The Coroner: It is not mine. The deceased had fifteen months' experience at Truro and do you think with his experience he should have exposed himself to such a risk? - That is a peculiar question. He was anxious to get on with the work, and did not think of the risk he was running. - With is experience? - He might not have had main line experience; he might have been in a yard. - In your opinion there was no necessity for him to step inside the four-foot way, and if there was he should have looked to see if anything was coming? - That was the natural thing to do. - He did not satisfy himself that there was anything coming? - There is such a thing as "familiarity breeding contempt." - The Inspector: He exposed himself without thought? - Yes. - There was no necessity to get inside the four-foot way, and having done so he should have satisfied himself there was nothing about? - Yes. - Mr Bickle said he did not want it to go forward that this man voluntarily exposed himself to danger. He would not say suicide, but it was getting precious near it. - The Inspector: No, Mr Bickle. Exposed himself from want of thought. - Witness, answering Mr Bickle, said it was usual to give signals from the place where deceased was giving them with the length of train. - Mr Bickle: You were late this day, and I take it you would have been reported? - Of course, explanation would be asked for and given. We were delayed in our work. - To carry out the whole of his work it would be necessary to be in the four-foot way? - Yes. - Were two men sufficient for this work? - It would be better to have three. - Cold two do the work in safety? - Yes. - It was a dangerous corner? - Yes. - The Inspector: A corner that demanded a man to exercise extraordinary care, as distinct from ordinary care? - Yes. - Inspector Main did not think there was any suggestion that the deceased carelessly exposed himself to danger; it was want of thought. - Thomas Mathews, driver of the 4.15 from Plymouth, said he noticed the shunter on the line at Plympton and blew his whistle. Deceased made an attempt to get out of the way, but it was too late. He was struck by the right buffer. - The Coroner, in his summing up, said Mr Main had made a valuable suggestion for the safe working of this siding in future, and if carried out shunters would have no reason to expose themselves to any risk. The suggestion was to level up and ballast the road of the siding and provide either a horn or electric gong by which the signals could be made from the one side. That was the remedy for the future, and it was a very desirable outcome of the Inquiry. The deceased no doubt exposed himself to danger by getting into that four-foot way, and what happened was through his own inadvertence. - A verdict of "Accidental Death whilst Shunting" was returned and the Jury agreed with the recommendations. - The Coroner, on behalf of the Jury, sympathised with the relatives and Mr W. Rowe on behalf of the company, associated himself with the expression of general regret that such a zealous and promising young man should be cut off. The recommendation of the Jury would have the careful consideration of the company. - Mr Bickle, on behalf of the family, thanked the Coroner and Mr Rowe for their sympathetic tributes. - Immediately after the Inquest, Mr J. P. S. Main conducted a Board of Trade Inquiry into the accident at North-road Station. The evidence given at the Inquest was repeated and the Inspector intimated that his recommendations would be identical with the Jury's recommendations.

Western Morning News, Friday 27 March 1914
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Woman's Shocking Death. - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, yesterday held an Inquest at Plymouth Workhouse on ADA MARY BENNY, wife of Chief Petty Officer BENNY, of 50 Cromwell-road. The Coroner said on February 18th deceased had a fit and was found in a fireplace with her clothes burning. - Elizabeth Sambells, wife of John Sambells of 58 Cromwell-road, said deceased was 43 years of age and had one son, aged 15. About 7.30 p.m. witness was informed that deceased was on fire. Deceased was then just getting off the fire, in which she appeared to have been for quite 45 minutes. She was terribly burnt and her ear was nearly gone. She had suffered from fits before. Deceased was advised by her husband to have a fireguard in case of accident. - Dr Cooke, Medical Officer of Plymouth Workhouse, said deceased was admitted on the 6th inst., suffering from very extensive and severe burns on the head, neck, throat, shoulders, back, breast and arms and died on Tuesday. Witness was surprised that she lived so long. Death was attributed to heart failure the result of shock caused by the burns. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 28 March 1914
BRIXHAM - Washed Overboard In Mount's Bay. Brixham Man Drowned. - Mr P. C. Cornish Bowden held an Inquest at the Market Hall, Brixham, yesterday, on JAMES GEORGE BUBEER, of the Brixham trawler Fair Play, who was drowned in Mount's Bay on the 11th inst., and whose body was picked up on Thursday last by the trawler Floweret, and landed at Brixham. - JOHN BUBEER, rope-maker, of Church-street, said deceased, his son, was aged 20. George Reckley, skipper of the Fair Play, said on the night of the 11th inst., at 9.30, they had hove up their trawl in Mount's Bay with a strong wind blowing. Deceased was on deck, with others of the crew, picking up the fish. Witness was in the hold, when he heard a heavy sea break on board. He at once came on deck and found that the boat had been washed overboard and the deceased was clinging to it. The vessel was manoeuvred to save him, and getting near him he threw the lifebuoy, with a line attached, but it did not reach him; they then tacked again and getting near the boat, saw that deceased had disappeared. They then cruised around a considerable time and showed flares to attract the attention of other vessels in the neighbourhood. At 11.30 they made sail for Brixham. - Eliezer Pitman, skipper of the trawling ketch Floweret, deposed to catching the body in the trawl in Mount's Bay and identifying it by the initials of deceased on his jersey. - A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 1 April 1914
EXMOUTH - Exmouth Tragedy. Inquest On MAJOR CAMPBELL. - Mr E. R. Tweed conducted an Inquest at Exmouth yesterday on MAJOR HENRIE MONTGOMERY CAMPBELL, 50, of Foxholes, Exmouth, who received on Sunday terrible injuries in the discharge of a Colt's automatic-chambered pistol. - JOHN HENRY DUNCAN MONTGOMERY CAMPBELL, son of deceased, said his father never spoke of making an attempt on his life. Deceased purchased the pistol about eight weeks ago with the intention of giving it to witness to take back to Ceylon. Deceased used it about three weeks after with a target on the shore. Witness believed deceased was cleaning the pistol, and had forgotten that when the chamber had emptied itself one charge would be left in the mouth of the pistol. - Annie Scadding, housemaid, said deceased rang the bell, and asked her to telephone for a doctor, as the pistol had gone off whilst he was cleaning it. - Dr Hodgson also said deceased told him he was cleaning the pistol at the time. Witness sent for Dr Roper, and deceased was examined in the X-ray room at the Hospital. After the anaesthetic had been administered witness, when preparing for an operation, found the bullet under the right armpit. The injuries in the upper part of the body were of a serious nature. Death was due to shock following the accident. The wound showed that it was caused by accident. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence, and passed a vote of sympathy with the widow and family.

Western Morning News, Friday 3 April 1914
EAST STONEHOUSE - Royal Marine's Suicide. Kills Himself Through Troubles Over A "Modern Girl." - At the Royal Naval Hospital, Stonehouse, yesterday, Mr R. Robinson Rodd (County Coroner) held an Inquest on PRIVATE GEORGE ROBERT FREEMAN, R.M.L.I., aged 18 years, who was found shot dead in a room on Wednesday morning with a rifle by his side. Mr Peck appeared on behalf of the Admiralty. - Colour-Sergt. Cady, R.M.L.I., said deceased was a private in his company, and he last saw him alive about 8 a.m. on Wednesday in his dormitory, when he was filling his bed, and he then appeared all right. At 9.15 he was to have gone on guard and had been warned on the previous evening. When the guard paraded FREEMAN was missing, and witness then went in search of him and found him in a loft over 109 and 110 room, lying on his back in fatigue dress. He had been shot through the head. The rifle, produced, was by his right side, and contained one empty cartridge, the property of deceased. A packet containing nine cartridges was found in his pocket, but there should have been ten. He thought deceased might have obtained the cartridges at field fire by pretending to fire, but keeping them. FREEMAN had been at Tregantle for musketry duties for about three weeks, and returned to the barracks on Monday. No one was allowed to be in possession of cartridges, and deceased was guilty of a breach of discipline. The men were always searched, as far as their pouches were concerned, after firing drill. Deceased had a clean character and had been in the service about 17 months. - Private W. Lea, R.M.L.I., stated that on Wednesday morning he was in the 102 barrack-room with deceased and others. FREEMAN wanted to know what time the armoury shop opened, as he wished to have his rifle cleaned, and he had the rifle with him in the room. Witness did not see any cartridges, and could not give any reason why FREEMAN should have taken his life, as he had always been bright and cheerful. - Private F. Thorpe, R.M.L.I., said he sat behind the deceased at the Palace Theatre on Tuesday evening, and met him outside the barracks on returning. On Wednesday morning FREEMAN referred to one of the turns at the Palace on the previous evening, and appeared to be cheerful. Witness had known him for eight months. - Dr Arthur Holmes Joy, Surgeon, R.N. Barracks, said FREEMAN was dead when he arrived. He had a gunshot wound in the head. The bullet had passed through the roof of the mouth, cut the left side of the head and the left half of the vault of the head was blown away. In his opinion the wound was self-inflicted and that instantaneous death resulted. - Letters Read. - The coroner read the following three letters concerning deceased. The first was from his parents, and arrived after FREEMAN had taken his life:- " 28 Beltring-road, Seaside, Eastbourne. - Dear GEORGE, - We received a postcard after waiting for a month to hear from you. Surely you could find time to write a letter once a month instead of a postcard. We cannot think what has come over you lately to treat us as you are doing, and for no cause at all. If we have done anything, why not be open and say? We thought that when you joined the service you would behave to us as you ought to. I am sorry to say that you are neglecting your home and parents, who looked after you better than anyone of the family but never mind! The day may come when you will be sorry for it, my boy. - Your loving parents, W. and E. FREEMAN." - A letter addressed to Mrs Taylor, 30 Park-street, Plymouth, from deceased, dated March 31st:- "Dear Mrs Taylor, - Just a line to wish you a final farewell, as I shall be in peace tomorrow. I thank you for the extreme kindness you have bestowed upon me in the past. Kindly remember me to the kiddies, and don't think too badly of me. Again I thank you for your kindness. - I am, your very downhearted, GEORGE ROBERT FREEMAN." - The third was a letter written by deceased to his parents:- "Dear Parents, - I am very sorry for the trouble I am about to bring upon you, but I have been beaten in the revenge I craved for upon Ada, the girl who ruined me some years ago, and who, through the cleverness of a girl's craft, has drove me to do what I am about to do. - I have found out the modern girl is a curse to creation; they lure a fellow to his destruction by sapping away his affections, and then laugh at you as they add you to their list of victims. But I thank God I cannot get near her, for I should make my crime more serious by adding murder to it, but she has beaten me. The fact of me ending it all may prick the flesh of her haughty conscience. Do not think I am insane, but I can assure you I am as right in mental conditions as any man. Please convey to all at home that I wish nobody to grieve for me, as I am the family one who brought clouds into our sunny home, but I ask forgiveness of you all; having obtained this, I may rest contented. - Your very miserable GEORGE. - P.S., - Excuse writing, for my nerves are severely strained. " - The Coroner remarked that if the Jury considered it necessary they could adjourn the Inquest in order to trace the girl in question, but he thought the best thing to do would be to return a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind," and to this the Jury agreed. - The funeral will take place on Saturday at 10 a.m., with service honours.

Western Morning News, Monday 6 April 1914
TEIGNMOUTH - Bishopsteignton Man's Suicide. Decapitated On Railway Line. - Mr P. C. Cornish Bowden conducted an Inquest at Teignmouth on Saturday on ERNEST RICHARD COLE, 27, gardener, of Bishopsteignton, who was found decapitated on the Great Western line between Teignmouth and Newton Abbot late on Friday night. Chief Inspector Mapledoram (traffic department), Exeter; Inspector Cook (locomotive department) and Inspector Bowditch (engineering department), Newton Abbot, represented the railway company. - BERTRAM GEORGE COLE, compositor, of Bishopsteignton, said deceased, his brother, was quite cheerful when he last saw him alive on Thursday. He had, however, been somewhat depressed of late, owing to inability to find constant employment. Witness had never heard him threaten to take his life. - RICHARD COLE, deceased's father, jobbing gardener, said deceased was with him at 8.50 on Friday night. He seemed depressed. They went to the Bishopsteignton Unionist Club together and after they had been there a few minutes, deceased left without saying where he was going. - By the Coroner: He knew of no business that would take deceased on the railway line. Deceased was as strong as a lion so far as his general health was concerned. - Thomas Court, signalman, of Teignmouth, said while on duty in the Teignmouth signal cabin on Friday he received information which caused him to walk along the line towards Newton Abbot, and rather over two miles from Teignmouth he found deceased lying between the rails on the down line, the head practically severed from the body. A special train was sent from Newton and the body was conveyed to Teignmouth mortuary. - James Kince, Exeter, driver of the 9.8. passenger train from Teignmouth, stated that on passing Bishopsteignton his train was stopped by the automatic vacuum brake. Witness had not felt his engine strike anything, but on examining his engine he found the front vacuum flexible pipe off. He could see no marks on the engine, and he proceeded to Newton Abbot. Upon the engine being further examined, witness saw three or four very small spots of blood. The light carried on the engine was not always sufficient to avail the driver to see anything in the road. It was a warning to anyone on the road, which it was not meant to illuminate. The automatic vacuum pipe was about four feet above the rails and if anyone were lying on the line the vacuum brake would not have been struck. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

PLYMOUTH - Mr J. Graves, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the S.D. and E.C. Hospital, Plymouth, on Saturday, on JOHN HOSKINGS PETT, aged 65, retired greengrocer, of 30 Clarence-street, Plymouth. - P.C. Hampshire stated that he was called to deceased's house on March 20th, about 8.30 p.m., where he saw the man, who admitted that he had cut his throat with a safety razor blade. Deceased explained that he had experienced money troubles, which worried him. He was taken to the Hospital, where Dr Donaldson attended to him. - Dr Donaldson (House Surgeon) said it was found that in addition to the injury to his throat the man was suffering from extensive gangrene of the foot. Deceased was greatly perturbed because it was thought it might be necessary to amputate the foot. His physical condition was low, but the wound in the throat had practically healed. Deceased expired on the previous morning, the cause of death being due to heart trouble from his foot, which would have been amputated had not the deceased been so weak. - Verdict of "Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 8 April 1914
NORTH MOLTON - Unguarded Fire. Child's Sad Death At Northmolton. At Northmolton yesterday Mr George W. F. Brown, Coroner, held an Inquest on GEORGE HOWARD, aged two years, the child of a labourer, of Walscott, Northmolton, who died as the result of accidental burns. - The mother said on Friday she left the room for two minutes, leaving the child with another, age three, finishing breakfast at the table. The fire was lit, but there was not much in the grate. She heard a scream, and ran back to the room, where she found the child with its clothing in flames. Its print frock and calico shirt were burning. She immediately put out the flames with her hands, and did not think the child was hurt until she had taken the clothes off, when she found a burn on the back. She applied linseed oil and bound up the burn. An hour afterwards the child did not seem to take any notice of it, and appeared quite all right when she put it to bed. It slept comfortably, but was worse next morning, and she sent for the doctor, who came, but later the child died. - Replying to the Coroner, the mother said they had a fireguard, but it was not much use now the children had got bigger and it was not put up that day. She said she sometimes used it, but the children could take it back as well as she could, and she never left the children by themselves for more than two minutes. The Coroner observed that it was usually during that two minutes that something happened. - Witness produced the fireguard, and, in reply to the Coroner, said she was aware she should keep up the guard if she left children in the room. She said she did not think it advisable to send for the doctor before, as the child was so cheerful and played about in the house. - Supt. Chamings asked when the guard was last used, and witness said she could not tell. She put it up sometimes, but if she went out to stay she took the children with her. From what she could gather from the other child, she thought deceased must have been picking up a stick from near the fire, and caught its clothes alight. - Dr Baker said the burn was a superficial one, being more of a scorch than anything else, and about as big as one's hand. The mother had done the best thing she could by putting an oil dressing on, which covered the whole of the wound. Death was due to shock, the result of the burn. - The Coroner was afraid this was another of the cases they got so frequently of children catching their clothes on fire with fatal consequences. Generally the complaint was that there was no fireguard, but in this case they had one, though they might just as well have not had it as not use it. It was incredible that, in spite of the warnings people got, of the inquests they saw in the Press, and the cases brought by the Police where people were summoned and fined for not providing fireguards, there were those who still neglected to carry out of the requirements of the Act which was passed entirely for the protection of infant life, there being so many deaths owing to children catching their clothes on fire when the people looking after them had left the room. It was when one's back was turned that children got up to mischief. The mother in this case did all that was possible afterwards, but that was like locking the stable door after the horse was stolen. It would have been better, however, had she sent for the doctor earlier. - The Jury, of which Mr Dobbs was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," Mr Dobbs remarking that they did not think there was negligence, but carelessness. It was a pity people did not put up fireguards, but they knew they did not. - The Coroner impressed on the parents the need of carrying out the requirements of the Act in future.

Western Morning News, Saturday 11 April 1914
HALBERTON - Suicide At Halberton. - At the Swan Hotel, Halberton, on Thursday evening, Mr H. Gould, Coroner, held an Inquest on MRS S. WARREN, wife of an army pensioner, of Halberton. MRS WARREN, aged 40, the mother of five children, had been unwell for several months past. On Wednesday evening, about 9.45 while her husband was interviewing the landlord of the house (Mr Rowe, of Willand) about a choked drain, MRS WARREN called downstairs to her daughter, DORIS (age 11), "Bring me up father's two razors; I want to cut my corns." The child did so, handing the instruments to her mother, who was in bed with her little boy of four years beside her. DORIS left the room as requested, and a few minutes later she heard a thud. Going upstairs with another little sister, DORIS found her mother on the floor with a fearful wound in her throat and her nightdress covered with blood. The little boy was sitting up in bed. The woman was not quite dead when the next-door neighbour, Mrs Ridgeway, was called. The only word she uttered was "water." - The Coroner said it was an extremely sad and pathetic case. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane," and expressed condolence with the husband and family, in which the Coroner joined.

Western Morning News, Monday 13 April 1914
BIDEFORD - Pensioner's Suicide. Comments On Bystanders' Inaction. - Mr G. W. F. Brown at Bideford on Saturday conducted an Inquest on THOMAS CLARK, 74, pensioner, R.M.L.I., who died by hanging in an out-building of his house, Sunnyside, East-the-Water, that morning. - At the commencement the Coroner commented upon the fact that the deceased was not cut down when found and that there was a delay while the Police were being fetched. In all such cases the body should be cut down immediately. - The widow said deceased got up about 5.40 that morning, and when he did not return to breakfast a search was made. He had suffered from his head lately, but had never threatened to take his life. - ERNEST CLARK, deceased's son, said he found his father in an out-house hanging from a beam. His mother was in a state of collapse and witness helped her into the house. He did not go back again. He met another brother, who telephoned to a third brother to come home with a doctor, witness going to the Police Station. Asked by the Coroner why he did not at once take the body down, witness said his mother was in a state of collapse and these things did not occur to everyone at the moment. He did not know whether a doctor would be of use and one was telephoned for. The body was hanging quite still when he saw it. Before he got back the body had been cut down and artificial respiration tried. He had never heard his father threaten suicide and he could not offer any explanation. His father, however, had been complaining and talking strangely during the past few days. He went to a doctor a fortnight ago, feeling unwell and complaining of pains in the stomach and back of the head. - P.C. Wilde spoke to finding deceased hanging as described. His feet were about four feet six inches off the ground. P.C. Rayner at once cut him down and they tried artificial respiration until Dr Pearson came. There were five or six men looking on in the garden when he got there, but not one had attempted to take the body down. They seemed to be waiting for the Police to arrive. The body was quite warm. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 14 April 1914
EXMOUTH - Death Under Anaesthetic. Strange Case At Exmouth. - Mr E. R. Tweed conducted an Inquest at Exmouth Cottage Hospital yesterday on PERCY WILFRED DYMOND, 17, farm labourer, of Lympstone, who died in the Institution on Saturday under an anaesthetic. - The evidence showed that deceased on January 27th, while driving cattle, slipped and bruised his right knee. A swelling ensued and an abscess formed. He was attended by Dr Gaitskill, of Lympstone, but on Thursday week Dr Hodgson received a letter from the Commercial Union Assurance Office (Exeter) asking him to see the deceased. Having first consulted Dr Gaitskill, Dr Hodgson saw the lad, and advised an operation, as he feared the wound was tubercular. On Saturday deceased was taken into the theatre and placed under chloroform by Dr Hanna. The operation had been in progress ten minutes, when Dr Hanna warned Dr Hodgson that the patient was not taking the anaesthetic well. The latter at once ceased and for three-quarters of an hour both doctors tried artificial respiration, but without avail. - Dr Hanna said he had made a post-mortem examination, and found that the heart was quite healthy. They found, however, that the thymus gland had persisted in an abnormal manner. This gland was found in young children, but gradually disappeared, and they would not expect to find it in the deceased at all. Unfortunately it could not be detected in life and it sometimes caused sudden death, particularly in bathing. The cause of death was the administration of an anaesthetic to a person suffering from "status lymphaticus." - The Coroner having remarked that there was not the slightest blame attached to the doctors, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and gave their fees to deceased's mother.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 15 April 1914
STOKE DAMEREL - Singular Suicide At Devonport. - Mr J. A. Pearce, Coroner, held an Inquest at Devonport Guildhall yesterday afternoon on WILLIAM HENRY HALLIDAY, 24, labourer in H.M. Dockyard, who had lived with his parents at Gloucester-street, Morice Town. - The father said at 10.30 on Monday night his son appeared in his usual health and spirits. Just after 7 a.m. yesterday he was called to the court, and found his son hanging to a rafter. His son-in-law came and cut him down. He could offer no explanation why his son should take his own life. - The Coroner: In July 1903, another son of yours hanged himself? - Witness: Yes. - It is a terrible business to have two sons meet their death in this way. You cannot account for it in any way? - The first was due to over-study. My son was passing through a gunnery course. - You cannot give any reason for this case? - Nothing at all. - Did he brood over his brother's death? - He might have done that. He used to speak about him a great deal. - Frederick Geo. Phillips said he cut deceased down. He had hanged himself with a rope of white flannelette. - Dr Fleming said death was due to strangulation from hanging. Death had taken place several hours. - The Coroner remarked that it was a very peculiar case. - The Jury returned a verdict that deceased Committed Suicide but that there was not sufficient evidence to show the state of his mind at the time.

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Labourer's Death. Fall From House Top. - At the S.D. and E.C. Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday, Mr J. Graves, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest on JOHN WHITE, who died on Sunday as the result of a fall. - Richard Frederick Matthews, labourer, 4 Pier-street, West Hoe, said deceased was 63 years of age and was a mason. - Alfred George Linscott, 67 Clare-buildings, said on Wednesday he was working with deceased on the roof of 5 Ford Park-lane at about 4 p.m. They were fixing new chimney tops and the roof was about 20 feet high. The usual ladders were used for such a job. The roof was not very steep. Witness descended one of the ladders to fetch some material, when he heard a fall at the back of the house and found deceased in the court. He was conscious, but did not say anything an witness went for Dr Price, who ordered the man's removal to the S.D. and E.C. Hospital. - Dr Donaldson, House Surgeon, said the man was admitted suffering from a compound fracture of the arm, six broken ribs and head injuries. Death was due to a fractured base of the skull. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 17 April 1914
WESTLEIGH - Coroner's Warning. Mothers Who Go To Picture Shows Leaving Children Behind. Fatal Sequel In North Devon. - At Southcott-cottages, Westleigh, near Bideford, yesterday, Mr Geo. W. F. Brown, Coroner, conducted an Inquest on DORIS MELINDA BEER, aged 4 ½, daughter of ARTHUR BEER, gamekeeper, who died as the result of burns. The mother said on Monday she left home about 6.30 and the deceased not wanting to go with her to Bideford, she left her playing with the next door neighbour's child, Dorothy Badcock. Witness went to a picture show at Bideford, where she went about twice a week. She came out close on eleven, had a glass of beer, and went straight home. Her husband was not with her, but left home a bit later than she did. Usually she left a boy, aged 15, at home, but on this occasion he was also at Bideford. She had a fire guard. - ARTHUR BEER, the father, said he left home about 7.30, going on his beat around the plantation and then to Bideford. He left a public-house about 10.40 and was on his way home when he heard of the accident. He had never left the child like that before when they were both away. - Thomas Badcock, next-door neighbour, said he left home about 8.50, and went to Westleigh. His wife had gone to Bideford, and there were left at home Dorothy, aged 11, his two boys, aged ten and eight, and deceased. He got back about 10.30 and heard of the accident, and went into Bideford for BEER, and a doctor. His wife went to the pictures sometimes, but it was not often he was off. - The Coroner: Your little boys have to put themselves to bed? - Yes. - And to take a light? - Yes. - A Juryman: It's a wonder there was not an accident before. - Dorothy Badcock said she played with deceased until it got dark, and then they went into her own house. DORIS wanted to go upstairs and she lit a lamp and they went up. Coming down deceased asked to carry the lamp. Witness went into the yard and when she came back deceased's clothes were alight. Witness immediately got a bucket of water and made out the fire, after which she took off deceased's clothes and wrapped her in a towel, sending her little brothers meanwhile to get the help of Mrs Titheycott, a neighbour. In answer to questions, she said there was a fire in the house, but no fireguard up. She was left to look after the others on Saturday nights. - Mrs Titheycott spoke to being fetched by the little boys. She asked deceased how it happened, and deceased, who was conscious, replied, "With the lamp." - Dr Ellis Pearson (Bideford) said he found the child very badly burnt about the chest, throat and neck. It was a hopeless case from the first and the child died next day. - P.C. Wilde spoke to seeing MRS BEER and Mrs Badcock at Bideford on Saturday night. - Coroner's Comments. - The Coroner commented on the fact of the child being left to stay up to such a time of night, with no arrangements made for it to be put to bed. There was one bright spot in the story, and that was the admirable conduct of Dorothy Badcock. She acted with commendable promptitude and great foresight. As to the absence of a fireguard at Badcock's house, the Coroner again pointed out the provisions of the Act of Parliament bearing on this, spoke of the number of warnings he had given at inquests and said after his last inquest at Northmolton a fortnight ago, where a child was burned, there was a special paragraph in "The Western Morning News" calling attention to the requirements of the Act and warning parents who were neglectful of its provisions. In this case at the bottom of it all was this love of going away from the homes to picture palaces. He was not going to be so narrow-minded as to condemn these, but for the benefit of people in the country he pointed out there were afternoon performances. Here were two women, both with families, going off to Bideford and leaving their children unprotected. BEER he did not think went away so much, but he was neglectful here in going away when his wife was out. They could not get out of their duties by placing the responsibility on a small child who had her own little brothers to look after. If the negligence in this case - and he could not help thinking there was some - was considered by the Jury culpable they must place the parties on their trial. The warnings in the Press and by the N.S.P.C.C. seemed without effect. The picture palace ruled the roost. - The Jury, after consulting in private, found a verdict of "Accidental Death." - The parents were then called in and severely admonished by the Coroner, who said the Jury had been in some doubt as to whether they would not bring a verdict which would have amounted to manslaughter against both. They were both guilty of considerable negligence and the Jury had taken a very lenient view of it indeed. He hoped they would let it be a warning to them. - Badcock and his wife were also called in and warned, and the Coroner, addressing Mrs Badcock, said she did not seem to appreciate that she had a very dear little daughter, an extraordinary child for her age, whose conduct was the admiration of the whole of the Jury. (Hear, hear). She should be proud of such a child as that, and proud to stay home and look after her. - The Jury wished to place on record their very high appreciation of Dorothy Badcock's conduct and gave their fees to her, the Coroner himself increasing the gift to a sovereign, which is to be placed in the Bank.

EXETER - Exeter Child's Death. Delay In Going To Hospital. Removal Too Soon. - Mr W. L. Brown held an Inquest at Exeter yesterday on HAROLD KNIGHT, aged three years, son of HENRY H. KNIGHT, meter-maker, Commercial Road, who died after removal from the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on Wednesday. - The father said on March 15th a saucepan of soup was placed on the fire. Witness and three of his children were present, including deceased. Whilst witness had his back turned to the children one of them upset the saucepan, and deceased was scalded. The mother went to a doctor, who, having another engagement, advised her to take the child to the Hospital. Witness took the child to the Hospital a week later. There was no fire-guard shielding the fire at the time of the accident. - The Coroner: If a guard had been there the child could not have met with the accident. - I don't think so. - Don't you think it would have been better to have taken the child to the Hospital at once? How long was it in the Hospital? - About three weeks. - And then you took it home? - Yes. - Did you sign a paper that it was against the doctor's advice, and that you took it away at your own risk? - Yes. - Didn't you think it very unwise when the child was seriously ill? How did you take it home? - In a cab. - I suppose it got worse? - No, it did not get any worse. - Witness was questioned regarding the bandaging of the wounds whilst the child was home, and said his wife did it to the best of her ability. He knew the doctor had trouble to take off the bandages when the child was admitted and he did not think there was any danger. - The wife was questioned by the Coroner as to why she did not take the child to the Hospital immediately she was advised by the doctor. Her reply was that by the time she got home again the child was better, and she thought she could attend to it herself. - The Coroner: Do you think it would have been better to have brought him to the Hospital at once? - I am only sorry that I did not. - What made you take it away after it had been there three weeks? - Because it failed to take nourishment whilst at the Hospital. - Dr Shields, House Physician, said deceased suffered from extensive scalds on the back. The burns had been dressed and he had to put the child under an anaesthetic to relive the pain whilst removing the bandages. It did not appear as if the dressing had been done daily. The wounds were septic. He could not say that the child would have survived if it had been taken to the Hospital immediately after the accident, but it would probably have been saved much suffering. - Dr Fisher, House Surgeon, said death was due to exhaustion from scalds. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and expressed regret that the child was not taken to the Hospital earlier.

Western Morning News, Saturday 18 April 1914
PLYMOUTH - Painter Dies In Prison. - Mr J. Graves, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Plymouth Prison yesterday on CHARLES LIVINGSTONE. - James Thomas Bassett (Governor) said deceased was a painter, of no fixed abode, and was 46 years of age. - Dr Wolferstan, Medical Officer to the Prison, said deceased was admitted on the 2nd February and since the 24th March had been on the sick list. He died on the previous morning, owing to cancer of the liver. - "Death from Natural Causes" was the verdict returned.

PLYMOUTH - Fatal Fall Downstairs. - An Inquest was held by Mr J. Graves, Deputy Coroner, on ELIZABETH MATTHEWS, 57 Tresillian-street, who met with an accident on the 3rd inst. - CHARLES EDMUND MATTHEWS, Dockyard labourer, said deceased, his mother, was aged 74. In the early hours of the morning of the 3rd inst. witness heard a thud and deceased called for assistance. Witness found her at the bottom of the stairs. Deceased told witness that she had fallen off the bottom step and that she had broken her leg. Deceased was taken to the S.D. and E.C. Hospital, where she died. Dr Donaldson, House Surgeon, S.D. and E.C. Hospital, said deceased was admitted to the Hospital suffering from a compound fracture of the leg, which had extended to the joint. It was found necessary to amputate the lower part of the leg. Pneumonia set in, which was the cause of death. - Verdict: "Accidental Death."

HOLSWORTHY - Suicide At Holsworthy. - Mr G. F. Brown conducted an Inquest at Holsworthy on Thursday on WILLIAM HENRY DOCKETT, 32, a farmer's son of Manworthy Mill, Holsworthy, who was found on a canal bank the previous evening with his throat cut. - MR WM. DOCKETT, deceased's father, said his son got up as usual at about 6.30 and milked the cows. Witness then asked him to have his breakfast and go over to Newcourt to assist witness in loading some furniture for a neighbour. As he left deceased muttered something, but he did not know what it was. When witness found that deceased had not been to breakfast a search was made for him, and at 5.15 in the afternoon his body was found. His son had been depressed for several days. He was naturally quiet and reserved, but occasionally got excited. Witness had never heard him threaten to take his life. He had no troubles as far as witness knew. When about eight years of age his son was seriously ill and had not been so bright since. - Mr Richard Perkin, butcher, described the finding of the body. In deceased's right hand a razor was clasped. - A Juror inquired if there was any particular reason why the search was instituted so quickly and the father replied that he knew of no reason. There had been no cross words. - P.S. Tooze said judging from the traces of blood, deceased must have walked from 15 to 20 paces after he had cut his throat. Dr E. O. Kingdon, describing the wounds, said there were no marks of violence. Deceased had always been of a quiet and reserved nature from boyhood. He was just such a character as did such rash things. - A verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned, the Jury expressing sympathy with the family. In this the Coroner joined.

Western Morning News, Monday 20 April 1914
TAMERTON FOLIOT - Tamerton Carrier's Sudden Death. - Mr Robinson Rodd, Coroner, held an Inquest on Saturday at Tamerton Foliot, on CHARLES VICKERY, aged 65, carrier, who died suddenly on Tuesday night. - JOHN VICKERY, son, said his father carried on the business of carrier from Tamerton to Plymouth. On Tuesday he went to Plymouth as usual with his van and returned in the evening. He had tea with the rest of the family and feeling tired, went to bed. Shortly afterwards a peculiar noise was heard and on witness's arrival he found his father dead. Dr Thomas Olver said death was due to fatty degeneration of the heart. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 21 April 1914
STOKE DAMEREL - Ex-Soldier's Sad End. - Mr J. A. Pearce, Coroner, held an Inquest at Devonport Guildhall yesterday on EDMUND JOHN CAMERON, 56, skilled labourer, Works Department, H.M. Dockyard, of 29 St Levan-road. - James Henry Hicks, chargeman of painters, said deceased had resided with him for the past nine years. He had never seen any of his relations. He last saw him alive in his room on Thursday evening. He had been home from work for the past week, and had been on the drink. On Friday evening at 5.30 he went to deceased's room and failing to get an answer in response to his knocks he opened the door and found him lying on the floor, face downwards in a pool of blood. He called the Police. Deceased had been a sergeant or sergeant-major in the Royal Field Artillery and took part in the march to Candahar. - P.C. Dunn said deceased had two wounds - one on the right side of the neck and the other on the left wrist. A razor was lying on the floor. - Dr T. McElwaine said deceased must have been dead some hours when discovered. A number of blood vessels had been severed. - The Jury returned a verdict that deceased Committed Suicide, but that there was not sufficient evidence to show the state of his mind at the time.

EXETER - Broken-Hearted. Sad Death Of Domestic At Exeter: Coroner And Witness. - At Exeter yesterday an Inquest was held on ELLEN SALTER, 27, domestic servant of Plymtree, near Cullompton, daughter of JAMES SALTER. She was in service in Wonford-road. Her father said she visited home last August Bank-holiday with a young man, whose name he did not know. The mother said that last Friday morning she received a short letter from her daughter as follows:- "Just a line to say I am worried. I don't value this world. Good-bye, mother and father." - A few hours later the Police called upon her and told her, her daughter was dead. - Mrs Agnes Webber, by whom the deceased was employed as a domestic servant, said her character was quite good. At Easter she appeared to be grieved and upset because of some difference with a young man, and said that as he would not be with her she did not want to go out. Last Thursday she went to bed as usual, but on Friday morning she was found dead in bed by Mrs Webber and Dr Wreford was fetched. The doctor said the girl had been dead several hours and the lips, tongue and throat were burnt and swollen, as the result of carbolic acid. The girl had evidently taken about an ounce of carbolic acid out of a medicine bottle, which she had placed in a tumbler and then taken. Death was due to carbolic acid poisoning. - P.C. Walters said that everything in the girl's bedroom was carefully and deliberately placed. She was in bed, and on the chest of drawers were letters and directions for the disposal of various articles and the return of presents to William Hawkins. In the letters the girl repeated several times that she was not insane, but only broken-hearted. She said;- "I am very, very sorry to cause all this trouble; but there is no one to blame, only William Hawkins, Devon County Staff, Exminster. It is all his fault." - In a second letter she said:- "I can't live in the world to be laughed at by him. I hope he will be happy with his nurses now I am gone." - The Policeman said the bottle of carbolic acid was such as could be obtained at many local chemists for 6d. - William Hawkins, Devon County Asylum, Exminster, who volunteered his evidence, said he had kept company with the deceased from about December 1912, until the first Friday in this month when they had a disagreement about a postcard, and she told him to "Go where he came from." He saw her home and later he had some tobacco from her. Last Friday he received a letter to say that by that time she would be dead and perhaps he would be sorry then. - Replying to the Coroner, he said he did not know why he should by sorry. Pressed by the Coroner, the witness, who was hard of hearing, could give no explanation of the quarrel or why the girl took her life except that she spoke to him about a post-card her mother had sent to her insufficiently addressed. He remarked, "Well, accidents will happen," and then she told him to go. - Some of the Jurymen also tried, but failed to get anything more enlightening from the witness. - The Coroner: Candidly, I have great difficulty in believing you. I don't believe a word you have said. Don't think you are talking to children. I am disgusted with you. - Laying the facts before the Jury, the Coroner said Hawkins' explanation was an exceedingly weak one. He could not help feeling there was something behind which they had not heard about. - The Jury found that the deceased Committed Suicide during Temporary Insanity, and added a rider that the witness Hawkins made a very bad impression upon them, and that they considered his evidence very unsatisfactory.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 22 April 1914
IVYBRIDGE - Mr R. R. Rodd yesterday held an Inquest at Ivybridge on ELIZABETH PURDIE, 74, of Blachford-road, who died on Sunday. Mrs Irene Scantlebury, a neighbour, said on March 27th she found deceased on the floor in a pool of blood. It was found the deceased had a deep cut on the forehead. Deceased progressed for a few days, but then she got worse, and the doctor was sent for. Dr Cooper gave evidence and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Heart Failure, accelerated by the injury received and shock."

EAST STONEHOUSE - Inquest at Naval Hospital. - At the Royal Naval Hospital, Stonehouse, yesterday, Mr Robinson Rodd, Coroner, held an Inquest on JAMES TUCKER, naval pensioner, of 11 George-street, Stonehouse. - MARY JANE HAMMETT, wife of Albert Hector Hammett, 11 George-street, said deceased, aged 68, was her father. He lived in the same house as witness and died on Saturday about 10.15 a.m. On Friday night, deceased went out for a walk, but on the next morning he was taken ill and died before the arrival of the doctor. - Dr George Jameson Carr, R.N. Hospital, said death was due to chronic bronchitis and heart disease. The body was extremely emaciated, possibly from want of food. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 24 April 1914
PLYMOUTH - The Plymouth Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, held an Inquest at the Mortuary yesterday concerning the death of ELIZABETH MARY WARREN, spinster, 64 years of age, of Lipson-avenue. - Percy Masters, writer, H.M. Dockyard, who lived in the same house said deceased had been suffering from bronchitis, and Dr E. B. Thomson said he found she also had a weak heart. The slightest exertion might have had a serious effect on her heart and he had no doubt this was a case of failure of the heart's action. - Verdict accordingly.

PLYMOUTH - Found Under the Hoe. - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at the Mortuary concerning the death of JOHN MARTIN MORAN, a compositor, whose body was found under the Hoe on the previous Day by Mr Moulding, who saw it on the beach from the flagstaff of the Corinthian Yacht Club. - PATRICK MORAN said deceased, his brother, was 48 years of age. He had been missing since March 27th. At 6.30 on the evening of that day deceased seemed all right. Witness had never heard him threaten to take his life, and he knew of nothing that would lead him to do it. Deceased was in regular employment. He was married, but had no children. - P.C. Goard, who searched the body, found 6s. in a pocket. The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

PLYMOUTH - Neighbours' Unkind Remarks. - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday, at the Mortuary, concerning the death of a girl, ELIZABETH JANE HAM, 11 years of age. Her mother, the wife of a labourer, living in Thistlepark-cottages, said her daughter complained of pains last Sunday afternoon. She gave her a little brandy and water, which made her sick. But she seemed to get weaker. On Tuesday a doctor was sent for, but that evening the child died. Asked whether she had been ill before, the mother said, "She had complained of her head, and her inside, of course; her father suffered in his head and his stomach." - Mrs Elizabeth Wyatt, whose mother lives at Thistlepark-cottages, said she was in-and-out of MRS HAM'S house all day, and was there when the child died. - In reply to the Coroner, she said the child was well looked after and in her opinion there was no justification for the rumours that had been set afloat about her treatment. She thought the mother did what she could for the child. - Dr H. A. Brooks, of Brunswick-terrace, said when he was called in on Tuesday afternoon he found the child in a dazed state, but quite conscious. He believed her to be suffering from acute peritonitis, and he also found the left lung chronically inflamed by a former attack of pleurisy. - The Coroner: There is nothing to lead you to believe this is a case of neglect? - Dr Brooks: No. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." - The Coroner told the mother he thought it a good thing this Inquest had been held. Apparently there was no reason for the rumour that had got about. He wished there was some means of getting hold of people who started such rumours. - The Foreman (Mr W. G. Southern) asked if it was in the province of the Jury to censure people who started such rumours. - The Coroner: I think it is right you should express some opinion; I think it is monstrous. - The Foreman said the Jury were of opinion that people who started such rumours should be brought forward to prove them, and punished if they were not able to do so.

Western Morning News, Saturday 25 April 1914
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Child's Fatal Joy Ride. - At the Royal Albert Hospital, Devonport, yesterday, Mr J. A. Pearse, Coroner, held an Inquest on FRANCIS JACK BULLINARIA, aged 4, who was knocked down by a Devonport Corporation steam lorry on Wednesday morning. The deputy town clerk, Mr E. R. Royle, appeared on behalf of the Corporation. - FREDERICK WM. BULLINARIA, 13 Sennen-terrace, skilled labourer, said the deceased was his son. - Magdalene Ellis, widow, Sennen-terrace, said about 11.45 a.m. she saw three children playing in the road at Sennen-terrace. The Corporation steam lorry came from St Levan-road into the road where the children were playing. The lorry passed the three children, who afterwards ran after it. Two of them clung to the side of the lorry between two wheels. Witness did not see the accident, but this was the state of things as the lorry passed her window. A little later witness heard screams and then went to the front door and saw the driver with the deceased in his arms. The child was taken to deceased's home. The lorry was not travelling fast, and the man was driving carefully. - George Henry Humphries, 22 Moon-street, Morice Town, driver of the lorry, said the children were in the footpath when he passed them. Shortly afterwards witness felt the engine jump over something, and heard screams. Witness stopped the engine and ran behind and found the child lying on its side. Witness picked the boy up and took him home. The wheel had passed over the child. Witness was travelling at the rate of about three miles an hour. - Hy. John Baker, 5 Sennen-place, machinist in Devonport Gas Works, said he took the child to the Hospital. - Dr Maxell Ramsey, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said there was a large wound about six inches long on the right arm of the child and another big wound at the top of the right leg, and a compound fracture of the thigh bone. The child gradually lost consciousness and died about 7 a.m. on Thursday. Death was due to shock following the injuries. - Replying to the Coroner, Mr W. P. Tervet (gas engineer, Devonport Corporation) said he would see that a guard was put around the van to stop children climbing on to the vehicle. - Mr Royle, on behalf of Devonport Corporation, sympathised with the parents of the deceased, and regretted very much that the accident led to fatal results. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and together with the Coroner expressed their sympathy with the bereaved relatives. The driver was exonerated from blame.

BARNSTAPLE - Barnstaple Child's Death. Witness Commended For Example To "Unknown" Men. - At Barnstaple last evening Mr Beaumont T. James, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest on HORACE BERRY, aged 2, who was drowned in a leat at Raleigh while at play the previous afternoon. - MRS MARY BERRY, of Raleigh Cottages, the grandmother, with whom the child lived, said the boy was playing with two other children about the same age when one of them afterwards told her the other had pushed HORACE into the water. She ran towards the stream and saw Mr F. J. Codd and Mr Ley, who asked her what was the matter, and she said her little boy was in the stream. She was going to run on when Mr Ley called out "There he is." She ran back and a Mr Symons hearing her screaming went into the stream and got the child out. When she got back she believed Mr Codd was rubbing the child, but there were so many there she did not know. - Mr D. Moxham, a Juryman, criticized the conduct of the two men in not attempting to get the child out. - Francis John Codd said his nursery gardens were close by. Where he was standing he could not see the child. Ley, who was on the lower side of the stream, came up on the bridge and said the child was thee, or something like that, and witness told him to hurry down, or something to that effect. - The grandmother, questioned by Mr Moxham as to whether neither made an attempt to get the boy out, said she could not say, but they had not got him out when Symons got there. - Charles Ley, in the employ of Mr Codd, said he saw the child in the stream three or four yards below the bridge. He went down the bank, but did not go into the water, and by the time he got into the garden Symons was there, and Symons went from the bridge in the stream. They were there together to a hair's breadth. - Asked by the Foreman, Mr Wallis, how long that was after he saw the child, witness said not more than two or three minutes. - The Grandmother: It was more than that, because I ran all down the road and up to the laundry and back again and saw Mr Symons. - Witness: It was three or four minutes. - Mr Moxham: What was the depth of the water? - Witness: About two feet. - Charles Symons, a labourer, who said he was on the sick list, stated that he jumped in the stream and ran down, but could not get along very well because of the force of the stream. It nearly washed him off his feet. He thought the boy was alive when he saw him in the water, and he took him out and turned him upside down. He could not get over the bank very well and asked one of the men to take the child and they never offered to take him. - Charles Ley: "He was there waiting to take him." Witness said one of them took the child and they rubbed it and did what they could to restore it. Witness said he did not know the two men and when Mr Moxham said he must have recognised them, said he did not even know at the time that his wife was there. - Dr Manning said he was fetched and on arrival found them trying to restore the child, but he should think it had been dead about half an hour. - The Deputy Coroner said there was a comment he thought the Jury would make as well as himself as to the two people - names unknown - who saw the child in the water before Symons got to the spot. It was incredible that anyone with the slightest degree of pluck and calling himself a man could see a little kiddie like that in two feet of water without going in. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned," and wished to commend the witness Symons, who, they thought, showed an example to the other two. - A Juryman: Two men who would stand there and see a child drowning are not worthy the name of men. - The Deputy Coroner tendered the Jury's commendation to Symons for his prompt action, when, he said, two other people "unnamed" stood there when he, coming later on the scene, got the child out.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 28 April 1914
PLYMOUTH - Man Found Hanging From Top Of Bedroom Door. - At Plymouth Mortuary yesterday Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest on JOHN MADDICK, aged 64, of Norley-street. - Mrs Elizabeth Whiting, widow, said she last saw deceased alive on Sunday evening, when he seemed to be rather strange in his manner. MADDICK had been out of work for a long time and was inclined to be depressed. - P.C. Jeffery said he broke open deceased's bedroom and found him hanging from the top of the door. A rope was twisted four or five times around his neck, also around his arms. - Dr A. E. Bishop said he attended the deceased on April 18th. He was then suffering from chronic bronchitis and valvular disease of the heart. He also suffered from senile dementia. - A verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - Young Clerk's Sad Death. - Mr Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest on LEONARD CHARLES YOUNG, aged 14, clerk, Thronton-avenue. - CHARLES T. YOUNG, coal merchant, said the deceased, his son, went with a companion to Norley Congregational Church on Sunday morning. When the service was over the deceased was given the key of the house so that he might return home. Later in the morning, when the other members of the family came home, the deceased was found in the wash-house. He was hanging by a rope from a beam. - The Coroner: Has he been depressed? - Witness: No; he was as bright and cheerful as he could be. He was looking forward to next Wednesday when his sister comes of age. - Evidence was given by P.C. Strike, who produced the rope. - Dr C. F. Glinn said when he arrived the lad was dead. Artificial respiration had been resorted to, but without success. He attributed death to asphyxia due to hanging. - A Juror suggested that the boy might have met his death through misadventure, but that the Coroner thought very unlikely. - A verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned. The Coroner, with the Jury, expressed sympathy with the relatives.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 29 April 1914
PLYMOUTH - Blown Down In The Street. - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest last evening at the Mortuary, on a little girl, aged 20 months, daughter of E. T. ASHTON, a labourer, living in Neswick-street. The child suffered from eczema and was seen by Dr Earle, who, not being able satisfactorily to account for death, made a post-mortem examination, and now said he found the child in a state of status lymphatious, in which a slight ailment would cause death. - Verdict accordingly.

Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest last evening at the Mortuary on JOHN ROBERT LEWIS, aged 71, of Richmond-street. - MRS GARD, a daughter of deceased, having deposed to the death that morning, Dr Hardwicke said he had been attending deceased for the last six months for rheumatism and senile decay. On March 10th he was called to him and told he had been blown down in the street by a strong wind and the Police brought him home unconscious. Seventeen days afterwards he was called to deceased again and found he had had a stroke, and he gradually got worse and died that morning. A post-mortem examination showed no evidence of any injury to the brain from the fall and he came to the conclusion that paralysis was the cause of death. - Verdict, "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Saturday 2 May 1914
NEWTON ABBOT - Mr P. C. Cornish Bowden conducted an Inquest at Newton Abbot Hospital yesterday on VERA MAY BULLEY (14), daughter of MRS EMILY BULLEY, Dewy-road. Evidence was given by Dr A. T. Nisbet and others that on April 23rd deceased was walking along a wooden trench when she fell, breaking both bones of the left forearm, and receiving a wound about two inches long across the forearm. She went on satisfactorily until Tuesday, when she showed symptoms of tetanus, and died on Thursday afternoon. A verdict was returned in accordance with the medical evidence and the Jury and Coroner expressed sympathy with the relatives.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 6 May 1914
WESTMINSTER, LONDON - Motor Fatality. Tiverton Lady's Death In London. - An Inquest was held at Westminster yesterday concerning the death of ALICE FIGG, 45, wife of a laundryman of Tidcombe Laundry, near Tiverton. The deceased went on a visit to her sister at Charing Cross at Easter and on the Monday she was crossing the Strand with her cousin when she was knocked down by a motor-car. She died in Charing Cross Hospital on Friday last. - Annie Reynolds, of The Gardens, Barton Mills, Mildenhall, Suffolk, described the accident. She said she was walking across the Strand with her little girl and the deceased (her cousin) when she felt something touch her. She then found that she was between the front wheels of a motor-car, partly underneath. Witness did not see her cousin, but she picked up her little girl, who was injured. Witness was bruised and received a shock. She had seen no traffic when she left the pavement, and she did not see the car approach. - P.C. Collard, who made inquiries at the time of the accident, was unable to be present at the Inquest, as he had to go up for an examination. - Station Sergeant Read read a statement which had been made by the absent constable. In it the officer said that the deceased remarked, "It was entirely my own fault; I should have looked first before crossing." The motor-car belonged to Mr Alfred Rose, of Lonsdale-road, Leicester. - Medical evidence showed that death was due to heart disease, accelerated by a fracture of the neck of the left femur. - Leslie Matthew Lane, a commercial traveller, of Dean-road, Barnes, stated that he was driving the car. He had just set his mother down at a tea shop at Charing Cross-road, and was proceeding at two miles an hour past Agar-street, when the deceased and her cousin and the little girl suddenly appeared in front of the car. He pulled up immediately and avoided running over them. When Mrs Reynolds was struck, she appeared to drag the deceased and the little girl to her. In the Hospital, the deceased aid it was her own fault, adding, "I am a stranger to London - I came from Devon." She also said she had a lot of jewellery with her and would like to see her sister quickly. - The Coroner described the accident as a very regrettable one, the deceased having lost her life without being run over. - In returning a verdict of "Accidental Death," the Jury exonerated the driver from blame, and recommended that a refuge should be erected at the spot where the accident occurred.

Western Morning News, Thursday 7 May 1914
EXETER - Death From Lockjaw. Alleged Delay In Treatment At Exeter Hospital. - Mr W. Linford Brown held an Inquest yesterday at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on LESLIE CHARLES SHUTE, aged five years, who died on Tuesday of lockjaw. - MRS SHUTE, the boy's mother, said on Tuesday, April 28th, he was brought home about five o'clock with his right foot very badly cut. On the way to the Hospital he told her he got into the stream at Heavitree Pleasure Grounds with his boots and stockings off, and cut his foot on something. Frederick Smith, who was in the pleasure grounds at the time, tied the wound up with a handkerchief and took the boy home, where P.C. Wood applied fresh bandages before taking him to the Hospital. - Smith said the doctor was a good half-hour before he attended the lad and he thought the porter had to go and look for the doctor. - P.C. Wood said they got the boy to the Hospital at 5.50. No doctor was seen then, and a nurse attended to the boy. He called at the accident ward at 6.20, and still no doctor had arrived; but when he called again at seven o'clock, he was told Dr Sherlock had attended the boy. - Dr Sherlock, Assistant House Surgeon, said he was on duty at the Hospital at the time the boy was admitted, but he did not hear about the case. When he was informed he attended to the wound at once. The wound was so bad that he obtained assistance and chloroformed the boy before cleansing and closing it up. the tendons were cut. The boy progressed well until Monday morning, when there were symptoms of tetanus, which caused death on Tuesday. - The Coroner: The constable said he was here for half an hour and you hadn't come. It is an extraordinary thing. I am told they searched for you on bicycles. - I was on the premises all the time. - Were you alone here? - No. The House Surgeon was here, too. - The Coroner: It is extraordinary that they could not find either of you. - A Juror: How do the nurses communicate with you? - They ring up the wards until they find in which one we are. - And despite that, the nurses could not find you? - Apparently not. My own recollection is we attended to the case by six o'clock. - The Coroner remarked that he had no doubt every attention was given to the case when the lad was seen by the doctor, but under such circumstances as had been described, the life of a person admitted suffering from haemorrhage might be sacrificed if a doctor could not be found. It was a great pity there should not be instant attention to accidents when they were brought in. - The Jury found that death was due to Lockjaw, and the Foreman added: "We regret there was such a delay, and trust the matter will be brought before the authorities and will not occur again.

Western Morning News, Saturday 9 May 1914
STOKE DAMEREL - Plymouth Girl's Fatal Fall. - Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at the Royal Albert Hospital, Devonport, yesterday on BEATRICE ENDACOTT, aged 13, of Cotehele-avenue, Prince Rock, Plymouth. - The mother said the child had suffered from a diseased leg since birth, and her father had made her a pair of crutches. Last Saturday, while playing in front of the house with other children, she caught her crutch in an iron gutter which ran across the pavement and fell. A doctor ordered her removal to the Hospital. The Royal Albert Hospital was the only place they could get her in. - Dr M. Ramsay, House Surgeon, Royal Albert Hospital, said the girl, who was suffering from a fracture of the left leg, was a very under-sized and ricketty child. Last Friday she showed signs of collapse and died on Wednesday evening. A post-mortem examination showed congestion of the bases of both lungs. Death was due to cystic disease of the kidneys, accelerated by the fracture. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 11 May 1914
PLYMOUTH - "Very Dangerous Spot." Elphinstone Barracks Fatality. - Mr R. B. Johns conducted an Inquest at Plymouth Mortuary on Saturday on JAMES BADDINGTON FULWOOD, 23, a sapper in the Royal Engineers, stationed at Elphinstone Barracks. - Corporal H. P. O'Grady, R.E., said he last saw deceased alive on Tuesday at 1.30 a.m., when he posted him on sentry duty. An hour later deceased was gone. When witness left him there was nothing unusual about deceased. The weather was very rough, the wind blowing off the shore. - A lady relative of deceased asked where he was standing. Was he near that "Wretched, dangerous part?" - Witness replied that deceased was responsible for his own behaviour. After witness posted him his work finished. - James Rambridge, labourer, Lambhay-street, Plymouth, deposed to finding the body about sixty yards from Lambhay Point on Thursday morning. - The Coroner observed that there was only one electric light at the place and that did not seem to light all the spot. - The Foreman (Mr Parsons) said he knew the place well. There was no protection and he thought a guard should be placed there. - The Coroner: Apparently it is a very dangerous spot. - An Officer from Elphinstone Barracks said steps were being taken to put a chain at the place. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned," and recommended that a chain should be placed on the quay where the sentry was posted.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 12 May 1914
DARTMOUTH - Drowned In The Dart. Sad Sequel To Bluejacket's Pleasure Excursion. - At Dartmouth Guildhall yesterday Mr A. M. Davson, Coroner, held an Inquest on RICHARD NICHOLAS LAWLOR, 29, seaman, H.M.S. Pomone, who was drowned last Sunday week as a result of the upsetting of a sailing boat. - Alfred John Thorne, master-at-arms, H.M.S. Pomone said LAWLOR was an able seaman. Deceased's mother lived at Kingstown, Ireland, and he was a single man. - William Joyce, able seaman, H.M.S. Pomone, said on Sunday, the 3rd inst., he left the Britannia at 1.15 in a 12-foot skiff with deceased. They sailed up the river to Stoke Gabriel, which they reached at about four o'clock, others following in another boat. They landed there, and remained in the village about twenty minutes or half an hour, each having one drink there. On leaving Stoke Gabriel witness and deceased embarked first in their boat, the others following. On the Dittisham side of a channel the boat struck the mud. They lowered the sail, and witness remarked that the only thing to do was to get the boat off the mud. They endeavoured to do so with the aid of an oar each, but deceased appeared to slip and fell over the side of the boat into the water. Witness also fell into the river and the boat turned half-turtle. When the boat had settled a bit witness told deceased he thought the best thing they could do was "to make for it." He reached the boat, but found that deceased was not making headway very quick, and so he secured him. Deceased let go and again seemed to get into difficulties. Witness supported him again for a few seconds. Deceased, however, then commenced to struggle and witness was obliged to release his hold of him, and he disappeared. - By the Coroner: Deceased could swim. - Gilbert Fred Bellamy, petty officer, H.M.S. Pomone, said that with four others he visited Stoke Gabriel in a sailing boat. Witness and his party and Joyce and deceased landed together. On the return trip the latter's boat was seen to be in difficulties, and witness and a companion entered a dinghey they had in tow and went to the men's assistance. They recued Joyce, but deceased had disappeared. Joyce was transferred to a boat in which were Dartmouth Territorial cadets, and witness and his companions remained near the scene of the accident for about an hour and a half in the hope of finding the boy, but they were not successful. - Albert Robert Baker, landlord of the Victoria and Albert Inn, gave evidence as to the recovery of the body on Saturday. - Lieut. H. E. C. Blagrove, R.N., pointed out that the fatality had not been due to a sailing accident. - The Jury found that deceased was Accidentally Drowned, and that all possible efforts had been made to save his life. They expressed their sympathy with the relatives and gave their fees to deceased's mother.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 13 May 1914
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Infant's Death. - Mr J. A. Pearce, Coroner, held an Inquest at Devonport yesterday on JOHN A. T. WHIPP, the infant son of a naval pensioner, of Edgcumbe-avenue. On April 7th the mother had just filled a cup with boiling water from the kettle, and turned round to replace the kettle on the stove, when the child caught hold of the cup, the contents going over it. - Dr Lander said the child sustained several extensive burns, but got on very well at first. Last Friday it became worse. He examined the throat and its appearance suggested diphtheria. This was confirmed by the examination of a swab. In the meantime the child died. Death was due to diphtheria, accelerated by the scalds. He could not say the source of infection, but there were several cases scattered about Stoke. - Verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Saturday 16 May 1914
LYDFORD - Dartmoor Mystery. Widow's Death: Was It From Poison Or Shock? Analysis To Be Taken. - Mystery surrounds the death of MRS CLARA ANN KISTLE, aged 42, widow, of Okery Bridge, Princetown, who was found dead in bed in the early hours of Thursday morning. MRS KISTLE had carried on a farming business since the comparatively recent death of her husband. Mr Harry Caunter, an adjoining farmer, of Bachelor's Hall, lost two pigs not long since, and it is stated that one of the missing animals was found on the farm at Okery. MRS KISTLE is reported to have endeavoured to sell a portion of a pig at Tavistock on Tuesday. The deceased leaves a family of several young children. - At the Inquest held by Mr H. C. Brown, Coroner, at Princetown, yesterday - Doctor's Doubts. - Dr C. C. Brodrick, Tavistock, gave the result of a post-mortem examination. He said the body was well nourished, although thin. There was ulceration of the stomach, apparently of recent date. Whether this was due to an irritant poison he could not say, but seeing that the woman died suddenly he thought the case suspicious. He would certainly advise the Jury to have the contents of the stomach analysed, to find whether the ulceration, coming on suddenly, had caused death from shock, or whether death was due to poison. When a person died from shock, one usually found the heart weak, but in this case the heart and lungs were perfectly sound. It looked as if the deceased had taken some irritant poison, and that had caused her collapse. One could tell a good many poisons by their smell, but in this case there was no smell. If the analyst's report was favourable, then death must have been due to acute inflammation and shock. - The Foreman (Mr J. C. Budd): By the state of her face she appears to have died in agony. - The witness said by this and the lumps in her stomach he thought death was due to some irritant and shock. He could find nothing in the room or about the body indicating that poison had been taken. - NELLIE KISTLE, age 13, who slept with her mother, said the deceased was sick on Tuesday night, and complained of feeling unwell on Wednesday afternoon. In the middle of Wednesday night her mother was taken ill. - Another daughter, MINNIE KISTLE, age 15, said she had never heard her mother threaten to take her life. - The Case Of The Pigs. - P.C. Weeks said on going to the house on Thursday morning he found MRS KISTLE dead in bed. - The Coroner: I believe I am right in saying that the day before you and the sergeant called upon deceased in connection with a case in which she was concerned? - Witness replied that on Wednesday he obtained search warrant from Tavistock and in company with P.S. Screech he went into the house and found deceased in bed. She stated that she was unwell. The Police searched the drawers, but could find nothing suspicious. While they were there she got up, but went to bed again. She appeared better when they left. - The Coroner: Did you search the house? - No. - Having regard to the turn things have taken it is a pity you did not do so. - The witness stated that he visited the house on Tuesday, and told the deceased that she was suspected of taking two pigs. - The Coroner: Can you tell me if she knew what was pending before the Tuesday? - She had no information on the part of the Police. - You know of no complaint made except on the part of the Police? - MRS KISTLE was asked by Mr Caunter if she had taken his pigs. - Had she been accused? - Not until I told her on the Tuesday evening that she was suspected of taking the pigs. She went to Tavistock that day with a portion of a pig. Inquiries made at Tavistock showed that she bought no poison there. - The Coroner: I wish the Jury to understand that I felt bound to ask these questions with the object of finding some motive, not to bring out the facts about this unfortunate business, but with the idea of showing how soon the deceased knew she was suspected or accused of having these pigs in her possession. - Replying to a Juror, the Constable said deceased appeared somewhat distressed at the appearance of the Police. - P.S. Screech: She was not at all distressed. - The Coroner: Who is right? - Coroner's Remarks. - Summing up, the Coroner said there was a difficulty to know what to do in the case, having regard to the inconclusiveness of the doctor's evidence. There seemed to be circumstances which might point to the presence of some poison; one could not say for certain. The only thing to do was to wait until a proper analysis of the contents of the stomach had been taken. That being so, there was no alternative but to order an analysis and adjourn the Inquest. The Jury might be satisfied, or just guess at it, and say that the unfortunate woman died from shock. The doctor had said that her heart was not affected to such an extent as to cause death. There might be nothing in it; it might be one of those mysterious cases which even doctors could not account for. Having regard to the peculiar circumstances, he thought there ought to be a further Inquiry. If analysis did not disclose any sign of poison, then they would have to fall back on the doctor's evidence, and say that deceased died from shock. That shock might be caused from anxiety or by the presence of two men in uniform. The statement of Sergt. Screech rather discounted the idea that the presence of the Police frightened the deceased. - The Foreman: Having known MRS KISTLE personally, I should say she was not a woman who would be frightened by the appearance of the Police. - A Good Mother. - Mr Rowe (a Juror): Being a mother of little children would she have taken poison? - The Coroner: Mysterious things do happen; but that point is a great argument against the suicide theory. But unless we are sentimentalists we cannot found a verdict on that. You know she was a good mother? - Mr Rowe: Yes. There existed a great love between mother and children, and unless the woman was driven to extremes through fright, I do not see how she could have taken poison. - The Coroner remarked that although he touched on the subject of poison, it did not follow that he thought the deceased took poison with suicidal intent. He only touched on the suicide theory having regard to the circumstances which happened before her death. - Mr Rowe said the woman had had a very great struggle for a long time. Although her body might have been healthy her mind might have been deranged for the time being. - The Coroner: A woman of 42, who has brought up eleven children, must have had times of distress, and have been worried to distraction. That might have been the possible cause of death. At any rate, I would ask the Jury to keep an open mind until we get the result of the analysis. - The Inquest was adjourned until Friday next.

Western Morning News, Monday 18 May 1914
DARTMOUTH - Dartmouth Postman's Death. Worried About A Holiday. - At Dartmouth on Saturday Mr A. M. Davson held an Inquest on GEORGE HEYDON, 58, auxiliary rural postman. - MRS HEYDON said her husband returned from his round at about eleven o'clock on Friday morning. She made him a cup of cocoa and left him in the kitchen. She then went to the Railway Station to see a relative off. Returning at twelve o'clock she found the back door locked and entered the house through the front window. Finding the kitchen door locked she called for assistance. Her husband had lately been upset, because he could not last week have a week's holiday, although he had had two days' leave. - Albert J. Whitemore, mason, said on being called to the house by MRS HEYDON, he in the scullery found MR HEYDON hanging from a ventilator. He cut the body down with the assistance of Mr F. Gooder, and for ten minutes tried artificial respiration, but without success. - Dr F. A. Davson said that when he arrived life was extinct. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane" and expressed their sympathy with the widow.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 20 May 1914
PLYMSTOCK - Drowned At Batten. Danger Of Bathing After A Meal. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd held an Inquest at the Castle Inn, Mount Batten, yesterday, on WALLACE HERBERT BARRIBALL. Mr K. Eyton Peck (Admiralty Law Agent) was present representing the Admiralty. - Dr S. Noy Scott (Plymstock) who had made a post-mortem examination, found that death was due to drowning. The stomach was filled with semi-digested food and its loaded condition would have hampered deceased's power of resistance. It was an improper thing to have gone into the water so soon after a meal. There was evidence of slight sickness, and as a consequence a small particle of food was lodged in the left bronchus, which impeded respiration and hastened death. This probably had some effect on the inutility of artificial respiration. - Alfred W. Crane, sick berth steward, R.N. Hospital, Stonehouse, said BARRIBALL was 20 years of age, and a probationer sick berth attendant at the Hospital. He had a meal at the Hospital on Sunday at 1 p.m., and then left. - David Mowat Slovach, probationer sick berth attendant, R.N. Hospital, Stonehouse, stated that he left the Hospital with BARRIBALL on Sunday shortly after one o'clock and crossed to Mount Batten. They decided to bathe off Dunstone Point. When undressing BARRIBALL complained of a pain in the stomach, but made light of it. BARRIBALL went into the water first, and began to swim towards a rock. On following him he noticed BARRIBALL in trouble. Witness tried to assist deceased by getting hold of him, but the latter pulled him down and not being a good swimmer, he had to relinquish his hold. Help came shortly after and the body was recovered. Artificial respiration was tried without effect. - Samuel Masters, labourer, Turnchapel, said he was walking round the cliffs at Jennycliff on Sunday, when he saw a crowd of young men on the rocks and Slovach on the rock shouting to a passing boat. The boat was some distance out, but came in. Witness went into the water twice and dived each time to try and reach BARRIBALL. He could see him, but was too far off to be reached. When the boat came in BARRIBALL was raised by a boat-hook. He and those who were present did everything possible to save the man's life. - The Coroner said he was quite satisfied everything had been done to attempt to rescue the man, but his position in the water made such an undertaking impossible. There was one lesson to be learnt from that accident - that it was extremely dangerous to bathe on a full stomach. - A verdict of "Accidental Drowning" was returned.

IVYBRIDGE - Lady Killed On Railway. Inquest At Ivybridge. - An Inquest was held at Ivybridge yesterday by Mr R. Robinson Rodd on SUSAN BIRD. George Chaffe, dairyman, Albert Cottage, Ivybridge, said MISS BIRD was of independent means, and had been for about three years a lodger in his house. She left home on Sunday afternoon to go for a walk, which was quite usual. She seemed rational and had not been unwell the previous week. Nothing transpired before she let home to upset her. On Monday, about 5.45 a.m., P.C. Pike told him the body had been found on the line. Proceeding to a spot on the main line near Dinnaton Bridge, he saw the mutilated remains of MISS BIRD. He was able to identify her by the clothing. It would have been necessary for her to get over the bank by the side of the railway to be where she was found as there was no gateway or level-crossing near. He had no reason to believe that she intended to take her life. - Inspector T. M. Ellis, Great Western Railway, Plymouth, stated that on the engine of the 4.30 p.m. express on Sunday from London blood marks were found at Plymouth. The train passed Dinnaton at about 9.20 p.m. and was due at North-road Station at 9.28 p.m. The driver and fireman of the train reported that they saw nothing, nor did they hear anything. The driver of the down passenger mail train on the previous morning noticed the remains, and reported the fact at Hemerdon signal-box, he stopping especially to do so. - The Coroner thought the safest verdict would be one of "Found Dead". - The Jury agreed and that verdict was returned accordingly. - A vote of sympathy with MISS BIRD'S family was passed.

Western Morning News, Saturday 23 May 1914
LYDFORD - Dartmoor Woman's Death. Arsenic The Cause: Mystery As To How She Got It. - The Inquest on MRS CLARA ANN KISTLE, aged 42, widow, of Okery-bridge, Princetown, was resumed yesterday by Mr H. C. Brown. - At the Inquiry on Friday, May 15th, the doctor's evidence showed that death was due either to poison or shock. The latter might have been caused by the appearance of two Police Officers who had called to search MRS KISTLE'S premises for two pigs missing from a neighbouring farm. The doctor stated that the deceased's heart and other organs were sound, and advised that the contents of the stomach should be analysed. For that purpose the Inquest was adjourned. The statement of Police-Sergeant Screech was that MRS KISTLE did not seem distressed by the appearance of the Police. - Analyst's Report. - The report of the analyst, now presented, stated that the inner walls of the stomach were intensely congested, strongly suggesting the presence of an irritant poison. There was no characteristic smell. A chemical analysis of the stomach revealed the presence of arsenic in quantities sufficient to cause death. - Mr Rowe (a Juror): Can you suggest how the woman came by the poison? - Dr Brodrick: No; I cannot make out how she could possibly have got hold of it. - Poison Found. - Mrs Charity Redcliff, of Princetown, said on Monday last she assisted to turn out MRS KISTLE'S bedroom, and between the wool and the spring mattress of the bed she found a small cocoa tin (produced). She was called in on the morning of MRS KISTLE'S death, and then saw a bottle and a glass in the room. - P.C. Weeks produced the bottle (labelled "Raspberryade") and the glass, and said on Tuesday last he went to Tavistock to inquire if MRS KISTLE purchased poison, as in the cocoa tin he found a packet labelled "Arsenic." The chemist whose name was on the packet examined his books and found that arsenic was purchased by a Mr Sampson, of Princetown in August, 1912. There was no further entry on his book for arsenic purchased by a resident of Princetown since. The substance remaining in the packet was stated by the chemist to be arsenic. Further inquiries made of chemists in Tavistock and Yelverton were without result. Mr Sampson told him he had a slight recollection that he bought the poison for a person at Postbridge for curing sheep-skins; he bought nothing for MRS KISTLE. - "In Great Trouble." - The Constable produced the following note, handed to him the previous Sunday by Mr Coaker, of Sherberton: - " Mr Coaker. - Will you be so kind as to come out? I am in great trouble. I have not a friend in the world, and have five children under 14 to keep. It is about Harry Caunter's pigs. I will give you anything if you will come out and you told me you would any time I was in trouble. - C. KISTLE. P.S. - Come out this morning, please." - The Coroner (to the doctor): Could arsenic be taken dry? - Dr Brodrick: No. - No matter how deranged a person might be? - It was probably taken in some liquid, because arsenic has a great tendency to make a person sick, and the evidence last week showed that MRS KISTLE was very sick on the night before her death. She might have taken the poison in tea. - NELLIE KISTLE, age 13, who slept with MRS KISTLE, said she could not remember her mother drinking anything on the night of her death. She and her sister drank the contents of the raspberryade bottle. - The Coroner, summing up, said having regard to the fact that the woman was in trouble over the unfortunate affair of the pigs, it looked very much as if the arsenic was self-administered, although it seemed quite inexplicable how she obtained it. - A verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 26 May 1914
NEWTON ABBOT - Newton Lady's Death. - At the Inquest at Newton Abbot yesterday on EMILY PATEY, aged 69, MR GEORGE S. PATEY, her husband, of 32 Decoy-road, said when he returned home on Saturday evening he found her lying in the passage. Thinking she was in a fit he went for a doctor. There was no one else in the house at the time. - Dr J. R. Culross said on Saturday afternoon he had visited MRS PATEY. Just before eight o'clock in the evening he received an urgent summons and going to the house he found her lying on her face at the bottom of the stairs dead. A stair-rod was out of place. It was three-cornered, one end of it being very sharp. MRS PATEY was only partly dressed and lying in such a position that she was unable to breathe. There was a severe bruise over the left temple, and other bruises on the shins. His opinion was that she stepped on the sharp stair-rod; that gave her a shock, and she over-balanced, stunning herself against the umbrella stand. MRS PATEY had a weak heart and would succumb easily to suffocation. - In reply to the Coroner, Mr P. C. Cornish Bowden, the doctor said MRS PATEY suffered from dipsomania, at times having an irresistible craving for alcohol, while between the attacks she would have a loathing for it. - A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

BARNSTAPLE -At the Inquest at Barnstaple on WILLIAM H. HORNE, solicitor's clerk, a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Woman's Fatal Fall. Worry And Delusions. - An Inquest was held at Plymouth yesterday by MR R. B. JOHNS on MISS BESSIE BARRATT, aged 54, of 29 Millbay-road. - The Coroner said the case was a sad one. Apparently she was of a very nervous temperament and had indulged in some small speculation. For no reason whatever the speculation appeared to worry her. HENRY D. BARRATT said for the past three or four weeks before her accident his sister had been worrying. On the night of Sunday, May 10th, he let her sleeping on the sofa in her room upstairs. Shortly afterwards he heard a thud. On going upstairs he found the staircase window open, and his sister lying on the top of the tenement. She was unconscious and bruised about the arms and legs. - The Foreman remarked that he thought MISS BARRATT was looking out of the window after a cat, when she fell out. He did not think her action intentional. - Dr Wagner said the woman's head was cut, and she was bruised on the back and legs. She rallied somewhat, but fell into a state of collapse and died on Sunday. He had attended her previous to the accident. She then appeared to be suffering from the delusion that somebody was following her. His opinion was that she ran away from an imaginary person and in doing so fell out of the window. - The Foreman: Not intentionally? - Dr Wagner: Not necessarily. - The doctor attributed death to collapse, consequent on the injuries received. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 27 May 1914
PLYMOUTH - Death From Lockjaw At Plymouth. - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday, on JOHN RUNDLE, 45 years of age, blacksmith, living at Galmpton. The evidence showed that a piece of iron fell on one of RUNDLE'S fingers on the 7th inst., causing a cut. The wound apparently healed and he took no notice of it until ten days later, when severe pain set in. RUNDLE was then seen by a doctor, and later admitted to the Hospital suffering from lockjaw. The finger was amputated and RUNDLE for a time progressed favourably, but the poison had become so strong that it affected his heart and he succumbed to cardiac failure. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 29 May 1914
EAST STONEHOUSE - Naval Pensioner's Sudden Death. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquest at Stonehouse Townhall yesterday on WILLIAM HENRY LUXTON, naval pensioner, of 55 George-street, East Stonehouse. ELIZABETH LAVINIA LUXTON, daughter of deceased, said her father was 64 years of age. About 9 a.m. on Wednesday she heard her father groan and fall in his room, and she found him lying on the floor on his face. She went for assistance, and her sister arrived and a doctor was then sent for. Her father appeared all right on the previous day. - Dr Leah said when he arrived LUXTON was dead. He made a post-mortem examination and attributed death to a fatty heart. - "Natural Causes" was the verdict returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 1 June 1914
NEWTON ABBOT - Ex-Soldier's Suicide At Newton. - An Inquest was held at Newton Abbot on Saturday on JOHN CARSLAKE, an ex-soldier, a native of Sidmouth. - THOMAS CARSLAKE, a packer, of St. Thomas, Exeter, said his brother, age 48, had had no fixed abode for ten years. He last saw him a year ago, when he said he was a pedlar. He was formerly in the Devon Regiment, the Lancashire Fusiliers and served in the south African war with the Royal Garrison Regiment, now disbanded. When he had money it went in drink. He was a single man. - Sidney Sanders, of 30 Wolborough-street, Newton, said deceased had been staying in Neil's lodging-house for about a month and was peddling. On Friday evening he was sitting by the fire. When offered some tea, he replied that he did not want anything from anybody. He was usually cheerful, but for the last few days had been depressed. He had not seen him the worse for drink. - Charles B. Ford, also lodging in the house, said as he was passing a shed at the back of the house at 5.30 on Friday evening he saw CARSLAKE lying in a the shed on a mattress. By his side was a knife which deceased used for his food. - Dr J. J. Scrase said CARSLAKE must have been very determined to inflict such a wound in his throat. A verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 3 June 1914
TORQUAY - Torquay Fire Tragedy. Mother And Two Children Lose Their Lives. Father's Serious Condition. Circumstances Recounted At The Inquest. - Early yesterday morning an outbreak of fire at 101 Union-street, Torquay, not only did considerable damage to shop property and stocked goods, but led to the death of a mother and her two children, and to the father being seriously injured. - According to the Police account, the outbreak took place about ten minutes to two in a shop and living premises occupied on the one side by THOMAS SHORT, gilder, his wife EMILY, aged 27, and their two children, a boy aged three years and ten months and a girl aged sixteen months. On the other side is a lock-up shop in the occupation of Ernest J. Moore, tailor. The premises were originally one shop, which had been divided. MR SHORT and his family lived over and at the back of his shop. Mr Moore resides away from his business premises. MR SHORT and Mr Moore had work-shops at the rear, one over the other. MRS SHORT and the two children, it is stated, were overcome by smoke and died from suffocation. MR SHORT was taken to the Torbay Hospital in an unconscious condition. Although he recovered consciousness, he remained in a critical condition. The fire is believed to have originated at the foot of the staircase of MR SHORT'S premises, on the ground floor, spreading through the wooden partition to the shop of Mr Moore. - The Fire Discovered. - At 1.30 a.m. P.C. Voaden passed the door of MR SHORT'S shop and tired it with his hand to see if it was secure. At that time everything was apparently all right. When he returned twenty minutes later, he observed a glare of fire through the shop blinds and, on looking in, saw that the shop was a mass of flame and that it had extended into Mr Moore's adjoining shop. The Constable kicked in the door, but, finding it impossible to get upstairs because of the burning staircase, he blew his whistle, and gave an alarm to the occupants of the premises on either side - those of Farrant and Co., railway carriers, the living part of which is occupied by a man named Frost and his wife and others, and those of Mrs Priston, newsagent, and members of her family. The Constable shouted and he saw MR SHORT come to the window of the front room immediately over the shop on the first floor, evidently from the bedroom behind. MR SHORT tried to life the window, but he could only raise it a few inches. He threw up his arms, screamed and fell back. - The Constable, seeing that he could do nothing alone, ran down the street blowing his whistle, and almost immediately met Police-Sergt. Bromell, who returned with him to the scene of the fire. They tried to enter the burning premises, but found it impossible. P.S. Bromell then ran to the Fire Station at the Corporation-buildings in Market-street and gave the alarm to the Brigade, who promptly arrived, with the fire escape, followed by the steam fire engine. Police Inspector Huland arrived as soon as the fire escape and it was fixed up to the front window, which was smashed in. A number of Constables went through Mrs Priston's adjoining premises, which are separated by a wooden partition only, to the back part of the burning premises, but they could not for the moment enter because of the dense smoke. The Policemen afterwards tied handkerchiefs across their mouths and entered, and they then ascertained that there were no persons in this part of the building. - Sad Discovery. - Meanwhile the Firemen who had got in by the upstairs front window discovered in the sitting-room the dead body of MR SHORT'S eldest child. Next they found MR SHORT himself lying on the floor unconscious. Both were handed out and immediately conveyed to the Torbay Hospital, a short distance up the street. The bodies of the youngest child and of MRS SHORT were then found and both these bodies were also removed to the Hospital and placed with that of the elder child in the Mortuary. MR SHORT was placed in a ward for medical attention. All four were discovered lying on the floor of the front sitting-room underneath one of the two windows, not the one which MR SHORT had vainly attempted to open, but another three or four feet from it. - The Fire Brigade soon got the fire under, and prevented the spread of the flames to the properties on either side, neither of which was damaged. The interior of the gilding shop, however, was completely burnt out, as were the rooms above and the two workshops behind, and the stock in Mr Moore's shop was also considerably damaged and most of it destroyed. - Probable Cause Of The Fire. - It is not known how the fire originated, but there is a theory that it happened in this way: MR SHORT'S two children were suffering from whooping-cough, and the assumption is that he left his bedroom to go downstairs to get something for them. It is conjectured that at the time he was carrying an oil lamp, and that it fell and exploded, causing flame, which spread to the shop, the contents of which were of a highly inflammable nature. As the bodies were only scorched when found on their faces and hands, lying on the very hot floor of the sitting-room - where they had come from the bedroom at the back - it is believed that the cause of death was suffocation. - Chief Officer, F. G. Rowland was in charge of the Corporation Fire Brigade and directed the removal of the dead bodies and also of the unconscious MR SHORT, all being found, after only a few minutes' search, in the front sitting-room, into which the unfortunate persons had apparently rushed from the bedroom at the back, and then collapsed in the smoke, their escape from the back part of the premises having been cut off by the burning staircase. - The burnt-out premises were insured in about £700. - MR SHORT'S Condition. - Upon Inquiry at the Torbay Hospital at a late hour last night it was ascertained that MR SHORT had spent a quiet day, but that his condition had not improved, and was still causing anxiety. He was fairly conscious, but had to be kept under the influence of drugs, in order to alleviate the pain caused by the serious nature of his injuries. MR SHORT is 35 years of age. - The Inquest. - The Inquest was opened last evening by Mr P. C. Cornish Bowden, Mr F. Callard being Foreman of the Jury. - William V. Vanstone, wagoner, Alexandra-road, said EMILY SHORT was his sister, 27 years of age. He also identified REGINALD THOMAS SHORT, aged three years and ten months, son of THOMAS SHORT, and EDITH EMILY SHORT, the daughter, aged one year and four months. - P.C. John Voaden stated that that morning, about 1.50 he was coming up the slope in Temperance-street, leading towards Union-street, when he saw a reflection of light in the shop occupied by MR SHORT. Looking inside the blind, he saw a fire in the shop. He forced the two outer doors and blew his whistle. On looking up he saw a man at the window, and shouted to him, "Your place is on fire; get out as quick as you can." The man shrieked and fell back. The window was not open. The man, he believed, had attempted to open it, as he had heard a rattling noise with it. He heard a woman shrieking. He then smashed the glass in the door leading into Mr Moore's shop adjoining, as when he got into MR SHORT'S shop it was like a furnace, and it was no good trying to get through there, and so he tried the other place first. He attempted to go upstairs and had got up two or three stairs when the flames burst forth from the doorway of MR SHORT'S premises. He and P.S. Bromell then attempted to get into MR SHORT'S place, but it was all ablaze. P.S. Bromell ran to the Fire Station and called the brigade. Witness went out into the street and called out "Fire!" to the upstairs window, but got no answer. He then went into the premises on either side and warned the occupants. By this time the Fire Brigade had arrived. The fire escape was put up to the window over the shop which was about 15ft. from the footpath, on the first-floor, where he had seen the man. Several of the Firemen got in, and eventually they got out the bodies. The children were brought out first. - P.S. Norman Bromell said between 10 and 15 minutes to two o'clock that morning he was coming up Union-street, when he heard shouts of "Fire!" and the sound of a Police whistle. He ran up and saw P.C. Voaden in MR SHORT'S shop. Both shops were burning fiercely. Voaden tried to go upstairs, but the volume of flame was so great that he was driven back. Seeing that nothing could be done to get to the upper rooms, he rushed off to get the Fire Brigade. The Fire Brigade turned out very smartly and got to the place about five minutes past two. They at once ran up the escape and Engineer Carne, after some difficulty, brought out the eldest child, which was handed to witness. It was apparently dead. He laid the child on the footpath and tried artificial respiration for a few minutes; and, as he was about to take it to the Torbay Hospital in a motor car MR SHORT was brought down, and was also taken to the Hospital in the car. MR SHORT gasped when they passed the Castle-circus corner on the way to the Hospital. When there, with the assistance of one of the nurses, he renewed his attempts at artificial respiration until the doctor said the child was dead. A few minutes afterwards P.C. Uglow brought in the younger child, and after examining it, the doctor pronounced life to be extinct. MRS SHORT was brought to the Hospital on the chemical engine belonging to the Fire Brigade. He did not see her, but the doctor told him she was dead when she arrived. Just as he was leaving to go to the Hospital in the motor car, he heard a woman shriek, but could not say where the sound came from. - The Coroner: The matter will be further gone into at a future date. - House Surgeon's Evidence. - Dr J. A. H. Walshe, House Surgeon, Torbay Hospital, said MRS SHORT and the two children evidently died before being admitted to the Hospital. MR SHORT was unconscious, severely burnt and suffering from shock. Whilst he was attending to MR SHORT his wife was brought in, and he left to see her in the female ward. She was dead. The two children appeared to have died from shock rather than asphyxia, but MRS SHORT appeared to have been asphyxiated. All three of the deceased were burnt about the face, but not sufficient to cause death. MR SHORT was extremely ill, but there was hope that he would recover if he lived during the next 24 hours. If he survived, it would be three or four weeks before he would be able to give evidence before the Jury. - The Coroner said they could not conclude the inquiry that day, and perhaps it would not be better to Inquire into the fire on that occasion. It was for the Jury to consider, but they would hold an adjourned Inquest in the hope that the father of the children would be able to attend, and give some evidence as to the outbreak of the fire. They would have to go into the matter at very considerable length, and, if the man should not survive, they would require every scrap of evidence they could get as to the cause of the fire. - The Inquest was adjourned until Thursday, July 2nd.

EXETER - Exeter Sawmill Fatality. - Mr W. L. Brown held an Inquest at Exeter last evening on ALFRED SPARKES, 17, son of WILLIAM SPARKES, of Russell-street. - Mrs Emily Bowden said SPARKES was her nephew, and she had brought him up from babyhood. He was a labourer in a sawmill, and about five weeks ago told her that whilst at work his cap caught in some machinery and it was swung round, hitting him on the nose twice. He felt faint and sick and fell. After a few days she noticed he was getting very thin, and about three weeks ago she took him to Dr Pereira. He died on Thursday. - John Milford, employed at the mills, said SPARKES was clearing the shavings when his hat fell on the spindle. He was struck in the forehead by the peak, but did not fall. - Dr Pereira said death was due to diabetes, accelerated by the accident, but diabetes was generally fatal in the young. - The Jury retired for about half an hour and on their return the Foreman said they were of opinion that the cause of death was diabetes, accelerated by the accident at the sawmills, according to the Doctor's evidence. - The Coroner asked the Jury whether he should add that deceased was "Accidentally Killed." - A Juryman: We understand our verdict if "Accidental Death." - At the suggestion of the Coroner, the Jury again retired, and in returning into Court, the Foreman repeated the same verdict. - The Coroner: And you say the cause of his death was? - The Foreman: Accidental.

Western Morning News, Thursday 4 June 1914
PLYMOUTH - The Late MR A. P. BALKWILL. - It was necessary to hold an Inquest on MR A. P. BALKWILL, who died at Plymouth on Monday last, because of a fall he had about seven months ago, and the certifying doctor having stated that the fall was the cause of death. The Inquest was held yesterday morning by Mr R. B. Johns. - MRS BALKWILL deposed that on November 2nd last her husband got out of bed to call her, and fell down six stairs, fracturing his shoulder. - Dr Webber attributed death to heart failure, accelerated by the fall, and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

STOKENHAM - Beesands Tragedy. Baker's Wife's Delusions. - Mr P. C. Cornish Bowden held an Inquest at Beesands yesterday on MRS MARY JANE PEDRICK SEYMOUR, aged 50. - MR ROBERT SEYMOUR, master baker, Beesands, said fourteen years ago a thunderbolt struck his house and frightened his wife, who had suffered from nerves ever since. For a fortnight before May 15th she had not slept at all. Early this year she suffered from influenza. Since then she had been rather more despondent. On May 14th she was very depressed. She fancied she was ruined. He had assured her there was no reason for this fancy; but it was no good. About 7 p.m. on May 15th he was in the bakehouse, when he was told that his wife had done something. In the back kitchen he found her standing up bleeding from the throat, with a blood-stained razor of his lying in a washing-up basin in front of her. He caught her as she fell. She told him since that something came over her, she did not know what. She died at her home on Sunday evening. - Dr D. B. Todd, of Chillington, said MRS SEYMOUR had been suffering from insomnia, and had delusions about financial affairs. The wounds in the throat were extensive, but she had not severed any important artery. Death was due to exhaustion. But for the first-aid rendered she might have died before he got there on May 15th. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind". The Coroner and the Foreman, Mr F. A. Hedges, expressed sympathy with the widower and family.

Western Morning News, Friday 5 June 1914
ILFRACOMBE - The Woolacombe Fatality. - An Inquest was held at Ilfracombe yesterday on MISS ETHEL ANNIE BEVAN, aged 36, a trained certificated school teacher, of Bishopston, Bristol. Miss Elizabeth Pincombe, of Bristol, said she and MISS BEVAN came to Ilfracombe on Friday last for a week. On Wednesday, with friends, they went to Woolacombe Sands to bathe. MISS BEVAN went into the water quickly, and was suddenly taken ill. She tried to move her, but she seemed helpless. Everything was done to restore her, without success. MISS BEVAN'S mother was on the sands, but did not see the accident. MISS BEVAN had been in the habit of having baths, but since an operation at Easter, the doctor had warned her against going into cold water. - Dr Kettlewell, who had made a post-mortem examination, said the heart was small, and the pericardium was attached to the heart and somewhat inflamed. The cause of death was heart failure, due to shock. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," and passed a vote of condolence with the relatives.

EXETER - Aged Exeter Man's Suicide. - An Inquest was held at Exeter last evening on GEORGE WEBSTER, 77 Smythen-street, who died in the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on Wednesday. WEBSTER, a cooper, had complained of shortness of breath and on Saturday was found in a lavatory on the quay with his throat cut. He had a knife in each hand and said he had sharpened them both that morning on purpose to get rid of himself. - William Thomas, who occupied a room with WEBSTER, said on Friday morning he complained of having passed a restless night. He said he wished the Lord would take him, and added that he would do away with himself before the day was out. When advised to go into the Workhouse he said he would rather do away with himself than that. - Dr Fisher said death was due to chronic bronchitis, accelerated by shock and haemorrhage through the wound. A verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 6 June 1914
SEATON AND BEER - Chard Man Found Drowned. - Dr E. R. Tweed held an Inquest at Seaton yesterday, on the body of FREDERICK WILLIAM DRAKE. - WILLIAM HENRY DRAKE, of Langham Farm, Chard, said his son, aged 27 years, was formerly a grocer's assistant at Andover, but left his situation about seven weeks ago in consequence of ill-health. He had been treated by Dr G. Evans, of Chard, for nervous debility, but had never threatened to take his life. He visited Seaton on Whit-Monday and as he felt better for the change he decided, against the advice of his parents, to go to Seaton again the following day. His son was not married and had no troubles of any kind, and was of a very quiet disposition. - William Bartlett, engineer, of Chard, said he with two friends visited Seaton on Tuesday and saw DRAKE near the Railway Station, having missed the last train to Chard. DRAKE was under the impression there was another train and spoke quite rationally. - P.C. Strang said at midnight on Tuesday he found the body fully dressed in the sea in about two or three feet of water lying face downwards. The body was quite cold. There were no marks or bruises and no evidence to show how the deceased got into the water. - P.S. Brown said the man's watch had stopped at 1.49. On the body he found a return half of a ticket from Chard to Seaton, and a purse containing 3s. 4 ½d. - Dr A. T. Rimell said the man had probably been dead about an hour when found. He and Dr Tonge had made a post-mortem examination, and there was no evidence either externally or internally of any violence and the cause of death was undoubtedly drowning. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

STOKE DAMEREL - Dangerous Devonport Quarry. Constable's Son Drowned. - Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest last evening at Camel's Head, Devonport, on LESLIE CHARLES BAWDEN. - CHARLES BAWDEN, constable in the Devonport Police Force, said his son was six years of age. On Thursday, about 5 p.m., he left his home at 2 Bridwell-road, Camel's Head. Ten minutes later a little boy came and shouted "LESLIE is in the quarry." He ran to the quarry and saw his son's cap floating on the water in it. Mr Morrison dived in, but in some places the water was shallow and dangerous for diving. A boat was fetched and grappling irons were used. The search was continued until dark, but without success. The steam fire-engine was brought and the Firemen began to pump out the water. About 5 a.m. that morning the body was found by Mr Joy. The quarry was at the rear of Bridwell-road and in places contained a depth of about 30ft. It was disused and had a steep drop from top to the bottom. There were four rows of barbed wire around it on the lane side about 18 inches apart, and he had warned boys not to go there many times. - Harold Mitchell, 7 years of age, said he and BAWDEN went to the quarry to pick horse daisies. BAWDEN said, when near the edge. "I will show you the way to five," and raising his hand over-balanced and fell into the water. - Dr W. H. Davis stated that he found no marks of external injury on the body, except two faint scratches on the nose, which he attributed to grappling irons or hooks. Death was due to drowning. - A Juror: Do you not consider the quarry containing stagnant water is a menace to the health of the inhabitants living in the neighbourhood? - Dr Davis: In hot weather I think it would. - The Juror: It seems to me that this quarry should be brought to the attention of the Medical Officer of Health (Hear, hear.) - The Coroner: The neighbourhood have a perfect right to communicate with the Medical Officer of Health if the quarry is a nuisance. - A Juror remarked that many people were not aware of the existence of the quarry. - The Coroner: That being so, it cannot be such a nuisance as is suggested. - Mr Jackson (Foreman) said as the representative of that ward on the Devonport Council, he had tried on several occasions to have the existing state of affairs in regard to the quarry remedied. It was private property and the owner should put an unclimbable iron fence on the spot or take steps to prevent a similar occurrence. The pond was the receptacle of all sorts of dead animals and pots and pans. - A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned, the Jury expressing deep sympathy with the child's parents. - The Coroner said he would write the owner of the quarry, and the Rev. W. N. Watson (vicar of St Budeaux) said he felt sure the owner would desire to prevent any such occurrence.

NORTHAM - Fatality Near Bideford. Farm Labourer Run Over. - About eight o'clock yesterday morning on the road from Northam to Appledore, near Bideford, JOHN REYNOLDS, a labourer, aged 58, was killed. REYNOLDS was in the employ of Mr J. Steer, of Bidna Farm, and was driving a horse and cart loaded with about 4cwt. of manure towards the farm. The horse is stated to have shied at a traction engine which was standing still in the road, the engine not running. REYNOLDS attempting to stop it tripped over the kerb, and fell under the cart, one of the wheels going over him. Mr Steer, of Kimberley, who saw the accident, ran after the horse and stopped it. Others picked up REYNOLDS, who was apparently dead. Drs. Valentine and Francis were fetched and came to the conclusion death had been practically instantaneous. Several ribs over his heart were fractured. - At the Inquest held by Mr G. W. F. Brown, the Jury (Mr W. H. Friendship, Foreman) returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," with no blame attaching to anyone, and expressed their sympathy with the family. They gave their fees to the widow.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 9 June 1914
EXETER - Death At An Exeter Auction.- An Inquest was held yesterday on MR GEORGE MAY, Devonport Inn, Exeter, who died suddenly during an auction on Friday. Deceased's son, ERNEST MAY, farmer, said his father, 75 years of age, appeared to be in good health. - GEORGE MAY, nephew, said MR MAY and he were together at the New London Inn on Friday afternoon, when without warning of any kind MR MAY collapsed. - Dr C. J. Vlieland, deceased's medical man, said he had a weak heart, and in his opinion died of heart failure. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 12 June 1914
SOUTH MOLTON - At the Inquest on MR T. H. BICKFORD, farmer, Southmolton, knocked down by a motor car, the Coroner said the accident was clearly due to the man not being sober.

Western Morning News, Saturday 13 June 1914
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Builder's Suicide. - Mr R. B. Johns yesterday held an Inquest on MR CHARLES ANTHONY POPE, aged 66 years, of Glanville-street, Plymouth. - MR C. A. POPE said his father, who had retired from business as a builder, had been depressed for some time, but had never threatened to take his life. At midday on Thursday he appeared as usual. When he returned home his father had not returned to dinner, and on going to look for him he found him in the workshop suspended from a beam, and quite dead. - Dr W. Brenton stated that MR POPE had an attack of bronchitis some time ago, and never seemed to properly recover. He suffered from insomnia, and told witness that curious thoughts entered his head. He was in a nervous condition the last time witness saw him alive. - A verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned, and sympathy was expressed with the family.

Western Morning News, Monday 15 June 1914
CAMBERLEY, SURREY - Officer's Delusions. Sad Death Of An Exeter Gentleman. - CAPT. E. D. ROBERTS, of the Indian Army, was found shot through the head at the Military Staff College, at Camberley, on Saturday morning. CAPT. ROBERTS, who belonged to the 11th Rajputs, was undergoing the first of his four years' course of study at the college. He did not attend breakfast on Saturday morning and subsequently a shot was heard from his room. He was found with a bullet wound through the forehead and died almost immediately. - At the Coroner's Inquest which took place in the afternoon, it was stated that CAPT. ROBERTS had left no papers and that no reason could be assigned for his committing suicide beyond the fact that he had been studying too hard. It was also said that he had formed the opinion that he was unpopular and that people, particularly golf caddies, laughed and jeered at him. After a walk with a brother officer on Friday, he complained on his return that people in the streets jeered at him. These opinions were quite unfounded. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity, brought on by over-study." - CAPT. ROBERTS was the eldest son of MR C. T. K. ROBERTS, clerk of the peace and ex-Mayor of Exeter. He was 32 years of age and unmarried. He had a brilliant scholastic career at Exeter School and Rugby, and won early army promotion in India. His brother is MR G. D. ROBERTS, who until recently was a distinguished Rugby footballer, playing for England and Devon county. His mother is a member of Exeter Corporation of the Poor.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 16 June 1914
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Porter's Last Message. - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on JABEZ TAYLOR, 49, a coal porter, of Lifton-road, Plymouth. - MRS TAYLOR said her husband had been in constant work. About seven years ago he had enteric fever and had never been the same since. When his head was very bad, he used to say, "I'll have a penn'orth of gas." There was insanity in the family. - Sidney W. Rid, a warehouseman, said on Sunday morning he looked into TAYLOR'S room and saw him seated in a chair with a coat over his head. On trying to rouse him, he found he was dead. When the coat was pulled of TAYLOR'S head, a pipe attached to a gas tap was found in his mouth. - P.C. Hill said the gas tap was turned on full from the gas stove, but the gas from the slot-meter was all used. - Dr MacNair attributed death to gas poisoning. - A letter written by the deceased was read. It began, "Not insane, but felo-de-se," and wished his wife "goodbye," and concluded, "Thank you for the kindness shown me." - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

STOKE DAMEREL - Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at Devonport yesterday on ELIZA WEBBER, the wife of a bricklayer, employed in H.M. Dockyard and residing at Granby-street. The husband said his wife, who was 50 years of age, on Saturday complained of pains in the head. On Sunday she was better and would not let him send for a doctor. She died that morning. Dr S. Saunders said death was due to fatty degeneration of the heart and a verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 17 June 1914
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on CHARLES KENNEAR, 56, seaman, of the ketch Phoenix. Captain Hambly, of Looe, the master, said KENNEAR had complained of pains and he heard him groaning in his bunk about 1 o'clock that morning, while the ketch was in the G.W. Docks. Before a doctor could be summoned the man died. Dr Parsloe attributed death to heart disease and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 18 June 1914
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Hotel Porter's Death. - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest yesterday on FRANK PERRY, 40, hotel porter, lately living at Belmont-street. - Dr Torney said in his opinion death was due to acute pneumonia. The man had an unsigned panel insurance card. - The Foreman: Like thousands of others, who are paying for a doctor. - A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 20 June 1914
TAVISTOCK - Late MR JOLIFFE, of Tavistock. - Yesterday at Tavistock an Inquest was held by Mr R. R. Rodd, jun., on MR ORLANDO JOLIFFE. Sergt. Major D. Bowles was Foreman of the Jury. - Mr John T. Perry, postmaster at Bude, and a brother-in-law, said MR JOLIFFE was 53 years of age and had carried on the business of a printer in Tavistock. On Thursday they decided to go for a circular trip over the Moor, and started from the Great Western Station, Tavistock, about 11.30. When they got to Pork-hill, the driver asked all gentlemen who were able to walk up the hill. MR JOLIFFE, with others, walked slowly up the hill and made no complaint. On reaching the top of the hill they got on the char-a-banc again and proceeded, but had not gone far before he saw MR JOLIFFE throw his head back and raise himself a bit in the seat. He immediately put his arm round him to prevent his falling off. He said nothing, but gasped two or three times. They drove on to the Dartmoor Inn, Merrivale Bridge, laid him on the grass, bathed his forehead and applied brandy to his lips. They also tried artificial respiration. He believed MR JOLIFFE, who was an apparently healthy man, died within two minutes of having the attack. - Dr C. C. Brodrick, of Tavistock, stated that a post-mortem examination revealed that all the internal organs were perfectly healthy except the heart, which was very fatty. No doubt walking up the hill on a hot day was too much for MR JOLIFFE. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural causes." - The Deputy Coroner said he was sure the Jury would concur with him in an expression of sympathy with the widow and family. - Mr Perry promised to convey the sympathy of the Coroner and Jury. It was stated that a Medical Officer from Dartmoor Prison, as well as Dr Brodrick, went to Merivale to see MR JOLIFFE, in response to a call from a motor cyclist.

PLYMPTON - Plympton Labourer's Death. - At Plympton yesterday Mr R. Robinson Rodd, jun., held an Inquest on JOSEPH MCEVOY, farm labourer, of Leigham Farm. - MRS MCEVOY said about five o'clock on Wednesday morning her husband complained of being unwell and was unable to go to work. He had frequently suffered in the same way. In the evening on going upstairs she found him dying. Dr W. D. Stamp, who had made a post-mortem examination, said MCEVOY suffered from heart disease with extensive congestion of the lungs. A verdict was returned accordingly.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 23 June 1914
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Baby's Sad Death. - An Inquest was held at Morice Town, Devonport, yesterday, by Mr J. A. Pearce, on RICHARD MORRIS SHARP, aged 1 year 4 months. - MARGARET SHARP, of 26a Gloucester-road, the mother of the child, said on Wednesday morning she left the kitchen to go to the back court. The baby was seated in its chair, with another child bout 3 years of age. On hearing screams from the elder child she rushed back to the room and found the younger baby in flames. She wrapped a skirt around him to extinguish the flames. - A neighbour, Kate Halloran, took him to the R.N. Hospital, where after receiving attention he was brought home. Dr Sandford saw the baby on Saturday, and it died on Sunday. Some matches were found in the room after the occurrence. She thought the elder child struck them. She had a fireguard. - Dr Sandford said the child had an extensive burn on the left side of the chest, one on the inner side of the left arm and a third on the chin. There were no burns on the hands. Death was due to septic absorption following the burns. - The Coroner said he thought it was quite an accident, but the matches must have been left in the room by someone. - The Jury expressed their sympathy with the bereaved relatives and returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Friday 26 June 1914
PLYMOUTH - Servant's Fatal Burns At Yelverton. - An Inquest was held by Mr R. B. Johns, at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday, on BEATRICE ALBERTA MOORE, aged 17, domestic servant, who died on Wednesday. - The Coroner explained that the girl met her death through burns. She was in the service of Mrs Spooner, of Homeleigh House, Yelverton, and it was there that the accident took place. Just after the accident the door of the copper fire was found open, and it was believed that as the girl was passing her apron was drawn in and ignited. - HENRY JAMES MOORE, blacksmith, Two Bridges-road, Princetown, said he spoke to the deceased, his daughter, some time before her death took place. She did not attach blame to anyone. - Amy Philp, nurse, employed by Mrs Spooner, stated that on Monday morning she and the deceased were in the scullery. There was a fire under the copper. She told the girl to take some clothes out of the copper and then left her to go to the nursery. About five minutes later she heard cries of "Nurse, nurse, nurse!" and on hurrying back to the scullery found the girl in flames. She pulled off the girl's burning apron and part of her burning dress. Witness's sister also came to her assistance, and poured water on the flames. After the deceased had been attended to she was, on the doctor's orders, taken in a motor car to the Hospital. - Dr J. B. Donaldson, House Surgeon, said the burns were superficial but extensive. It was a hopeless case from the first. Death was due to shock as the result of the burns. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 30 June 1914
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Tragedy. "Worried About Amalgamation." - Mr R. B. Johns, holding an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on MR CHARLES A. K. WOOD, chief clerk, Plymouth branch of the Wilts and Dorset Bank, said it was a particularly sad case. He had known MR WOOD for many years. He had been in the employ of the bank for a considerable time, but was not very strong mentally. From what Mr Wilson (the manager of the bank) had told him (the Coroner) it appeared MR WOOD had been worried over amalgamation of the bank with another, and the alterations consequent thereon. The manager had received a letter from the general manager at the head office at Salisbury stating that MR WOOD, who had visited that office, was very depressed, and he had advised him to have a holiday, and someone would be sent to relieve him on Monday. - The Manager of the Plymouth branch (Mr St. A. R., Wilson) said MR WOOD, aged 53, had been with the bank at Plymouth about 20 years, and in the bank's service about 35 years. On Friday morning he was very depressed and nervous - more nervous than depressed. - The Coroner: There was nothing further you know of to account for his death? - No. He had no financial troubles whatever, and he was quite comfortably off. - Charles H. Bowden, caretaker of the bank, said his wife knocked at MR WOOD'S room about 8 a.m. on Saturday and received no reply. The door was locked. On her telling him this he went out on the leads, and looking through the window saw MR WOOD lying across a hip bath, face downwards. His throat was cut and in his right hand was a razor. MR WOOD the night before seemed all right. - The Coroner: Had he been nervous for some time? - I noticed no difference; he was always a quite man and very pleasant. - You never heard him threaten to take his life? - Never. - You know no reason for his so doing? - None. - Dr E. R. Clarke said death must have been instantaneous. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity," and the Coroner, on their behalf and his own, expressed sympathy with the relatives.

TEIGNMOUTH Late CAPT. P. C. JOHNSTONE. Verdict of "Found Drowned." - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Teignmouth yesterday on CAPTAIN PEARSON CAMPBELL JOHNSTONE, R.N. (retired) of Ashton Lodge, Buckeridge-road, who had resided at Teignmouth for about seven years and was for nearly 15 years governor of the Naval and Military Prison at Bodmin. - Son's Evidence. - LIEUT. NOWELL CAMPBELL JOHNSTONE, of H.M.S. Endymion, said his father was 70 years of age. His wife died about ten days ago, but although his father had naturally been very much worried about it, he had carried on his duties as usual. He had complained of sleeplessness and also nightmares. On Friday last they went for a walk, and at 11.15 the same night he went to the Railway Station to see if his sister arrived, his father waiting up until he returned. Then they talked of the preparations they were to make the following morning, when it had been arranged for a solicitor to come to Ashton Lodge in connection with the settling of family affairs after the death of MRS JOHNSTONE. It was his father's intention that they should afterwards go away and stay with relatives until his daughter returned to "run" the house for him. They retired to bed at 11.45. He heard nothing of him during the night and when one of the servants told him in the morning when she brought tea that his father was about rather earlier than usual, he did not worry, as his father was in the habit of getting up early and going round the garden. About half an hour later (8.30) his father not having returned, he went out to see if he had taken a walk up the road. At about 9 o'clock he began to wonder if his father had gone for a long walk. - The Coroner: You began to get alarmed? - Not alarmed, but I began to think he had probably gone off for a long walk. Continuing, witness said he later looked in at the Police Station and told them his father was missing. On being informed that there was a body lying at the Mortuary, he went there and identified his father. The clothes found floating on the water were what his father wore when at work in the garden. - Since your mother's death or at any time has he said anything to you that he contemplated taking his life? - Certainly not. My brother-in-law and I have been through his papers, but found no trace of any message. Everything was in order, his diary was written up, and his watch wound in his bedroom. My father might have gone for a walk and an early morning bathe, it being a very hot morning. - Has he been in the habit of bathing in the sea whilst he has been at Teignmouth? - No. - Can you tell the Jury anything that would be likely to throw any light upon the affair? - My father was a most excellent father and a devoted husband. They were always together and naturally he was very much upset at my mother's death. - There was no sign of suicidal tendency? - None whatever. - Mr T. Somerville (solicitor): Is it not a fact that your father was a good swimmer? - Yes. - Annie Edwards, house-parlourmaid, said although it was usual for CAPTAIN JOHNSTONE to be about early in the morning, he had never before left his dressing-room before he had had his tea at about 7.30. - Finding The Body. - Arthur Currey, mason's labourer, Dawlish, said at the water's edge, about a quarter of a mile on the Teignmouth side of Hole Head tunnel, he found the body, which was quite nude. It was about a mile from Teignmouth. - Charles Cotton, fisherman, Dawlish, said he and his father were about 200 yards off the shore in a boat between 4.30 and 5 o'clock on Saturday morning when they found CAPTAIN JOHNSTONE'S coat. The sleeves were turned inside out. A little distance away they came across the nightshirt and trousers and they later found the cap against the Parson and Clerk rock, a quarter of a mile away. The action of the tide would have carried the things towards Teignmouth. - And yet you found the cap against the Parson and Clerk rock in the direction of Dawlish? - Yes. The clothes were being carried in the direction of Teignmouth when we found them. - Dr F. W. Morton Palmer, who had made a post mortem examination, said the only external injury was a very slight cut on the bridge of the nose, probably sustained before death. Such an injury might be attributed to a slight fall - about a man's own height. - It does not suggest that he jumped into the water from any great height? - Certainly not. Continuing, Dr Palmer said death was due to drowning. He had attended deceased professionally, on and off, for the last five years. He had a slight stroke about three years ago, but had completely recovered from that. He had been upset over his wife's death, but nothing unusual. He talked of his plans for the future, looking forward to his daughter's return in August. - Mr Somerville: Having regard to his age and the fact that he had not bathed lately in the sea, is it not possible that he might have been overcome in the water if he had been bathing that morning? - Yes. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned." - CAPT. JOHNSTONE, who entered the navy in 1856, was promoted lieutenant in 1865 and was first-lieutenant of the boys' training ship Ganges, then stationed at Falmouth. His last service on the active list was as inspecting-officer of the Plymouth Coastguard division from November 1884 to August 1890, when he retired. Afterwards he was deputy-governor of the naval prisons at Bodmin until October 1908.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 1 July 1914
PLYMOUTH - Sudden Death At Plymouth. - In the Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on MRS ELIZABETH SARAH SATCHEL SNELL, aged 64, MR WM. JOHN SNELL, pensioner, R.M.L.I., Stanley-place, said on Monday night about 10.40 he was walking with his wife in Grenville-road when she suddenly collapsed and died almost immediately. She had never before complained of heart trouble. - Dr Stubbs, who had made a post mortem examination, attributed death to fatty degeneration of the heart and chronic bronchitis. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 2 July 1914
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Motor Fatality. Verdict of Manslaughter. - Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at Devonport yesterday on MRS ELIZABETH BACKHOUSE BERRY, late of Warleigh-avenue, Devonport. Mr R. R. McDonald appeared for MR BERRY and Mr J. W. Bickle for the driver of a taxi-cab and Humm and Co., Plymouth. - Husband's Sad Experience. - MR ALFRED BERRY, shipwright, Devonport Dockyard, said his wife was 27 years of age. On Monday evening, about 6.40 he left home with her to go for a cycle ride. In Tavistock-road they were riding in single file, he being about twelve yards ahead of his wife. Their pace was very slow because he had a child, three years and two months of age, riding on the machine in front of him. Abreast of Outlands House he heard a loud noise and looking back saw a large cloud of dust. Going back, he saw his wife being carried to a taxi, she having been knocked down. He believed she was killed on the spot. He heard no sound of a horn and the evening was beautifully clear, with no vehicles in the road. - A Juror: What is the distance between the tramway line and the kerb? How many feet? - About a foot or eighteen inches. There is no room to pass. - A Police Officer: The distance is about 3ft. 6in. - A Juror (to MR BERRY): Were you riding on the left side of the road? - A car was proceeding the same way as we were, and we had to keep on the right side of the road to let it pass. - Mr Bickle stated that the total width of the road was 22ft., and asked MR BERRY whether he was on the right side of the 14ft. part of the road. - Witness: I was on the right side of the road. - Dr T. B. Price, House Surgeon, Royal Albert Hospital, said MRS BERRY'S chief injury was a very extensive fracture of the skull, extending across the vault of the skull from one ear to the other. Death must have taken place in a few seconds. - Mr McDonald: She must have struck the ground with considerable force? - Yes. - What A Stoker Saw. - William J. Perry, stoker petty officer, R.N., Camilla-terrace, Peverell, said in the Tavistock-road, about 7 p.m. on Monday he was walking towards Devonport, and when about midway between Elm Cottage and the lane at the back of Outlands he saw two cyclists coming up round the bend from Devonport. The man was ahead with a small child in front of him, the woman behind. They were on the wrong or off side of the road, having to avoid a tramcar which was going in the same direction as they were. The next thing he saw was two taxicabs coming round the bend at a furious pace in the same direction as the cyclists. Another tramcar was coming along from Milehouse. The woman was pulling in to her own side of the road, but afterwards she pulled out again into the centre of the road to avoid the tramcar coming along behind. The first taxi-cab flashed past the woman, the second cab swerved to the left, apparently with the intention of passing the leading taxi. In doing this the driver struck the back wheel of the lady's machine with the left fore part of the taxi-cab. It swerved to the right and nearly collided with a bank, being pulled up in about fifty yards. The speed of the taxis was 30 miles an hour. He had never seen anything go so fast on the road in his life. He only saw the two taxis, a tramcar, and the cyclists in the road at the time. The cyclists were going along very slowly. - A Juror: What was the distance between the two taxis? - When the taxi struck the woman there was only about five yards between them. - Mr Bickle: How far was the taxi-cab from you when you saw it? - About 150 yards. - Are you prepared to say it was going at 30 miles an hour? - There was a considerable time between my seeing it and it knocking down the woman, about a second. - How can you judge that from a distance? Were you capable of judging it? - Yes. Witness added that when the collision took place the driver put on his brakes, and the taxi nearly capsized. The lady was proceeding on the same course when the second taxi reached her as when the first passed. There was ample room for the first taxi to pass, and it did so without flurrying her or causing her any discomfort. If the second had passed her as did the first it could have done so with safety. The second taxi tried to pass the first by cutting in on the near side. In his opinion, the two cars were racing, and were furiously and recklessly driven. - Tram-Drivers Story. - William J. Soper, tram-driver, of Plymouth, said he was driving a car from Morice-square to Tor-lane on the evening of June 29th. While rounding the bend at Milehouse Corner he looked towards St Hilary-terrace, and saw two motor cars coming down the road at as tremendous speed. As they came in line with him one of them was just in front of the other, and as he stopped his tram they got parallel with each other. The occupants of the taxis stood up and leaned one towards the other and shouted at one another "Hooray" as if they were on a racecourse. He started as they got in line, and could not see more than fifty yards ahead of him because of the dust the taxis had raided, and for that distance the cabs ran parallel. When he reached Jenkins's lane he saw a lady on the ground with the taxi-drivers running back to her. There was not sufficient space for the cyclists to keep to the left of the train lines. The taxi-cabs were being driven recklessly and furiously. His estimate was that they were travelling at 40 miles an hour. - Mr Bickle: Do you know taxis cannot do 40 miles an hour? - If they cannot do that I have never seen it done. - Would it not be far more reasonable to assign their hooraying to the fact that they had come from a cricket match? - I didn't know anything about that. - Mr McDonald: You thought they were having a race from the conduct? - Yes. - Car Passengers' Evidence. - Henry Edwin Baker, of Devonport, a passenger on a car proceeding to Peverell, said he saw two cars coming from behind at a tremendous speed. The passengers in the cab which overtook the other stood up, waved their hats, and cheered to those in the other taxi. They then passed out of sight and could not be seen on account of the dust they raised. The cabs were actually racing, and in his opinion were travelling at a rate of from 35 to 40 miles an hour. - William J. Nicholson, shipwright, Devonport Dockyard, who was also on the tramcar, said the rear taxi-cab put on a spurt as it neared the tram and "literally flew through the air." They were being driven at least over 30 miles an hour. No horn was sounded, and one of the cabs was on the wrong side of the road. - An Officer In The Taxi. - Lieut. H. D. Saward, 2nd Battalion, the Royal Scots, Crownhill, said his regiment was playing a match at Mount Wise on Monday against "The Details." He was a player in the match and left the ground in a taxi about 6.50 p.m. in company with two brother officers. After passing the last house in Trevarthen-terrace he saw a tram coming up from the let towards the Britannia Inn. At that time he was in the leading taxi-cab, and by the time the Britannia Inn was reached the tram had turned the corner. While alongside the tram the second taxi, in which were other officers of the Royal Scots, caught them up and passed them on their right. Immediately after it drew into the centre of the road and raised a very dense cloud of dust. After witness's taxi had gone about a hundred yards from the Inn, they were in the centre of the road, when suddenly he saw a lady on a bicycle only a few feet away from the left front mudguard of the taxi. She appeared to be either in the centre of the road or towards their left hand side. She was not seen sooner owing to the dust. Immediately the driver of the taxi saw the lady he did all he could in the short time to avoid hitting her, so much so that they went right across the road and grazed along the bank on their right side. It was only through good driving that the taxi was not smashed up. The driver did not lose his head, and pulled up in about 35 yards. Witness and his companions jumped out and ran to where the lady was lying in the road. She was very badly injured and was carried to the taxi and conveyed to the Royal Albert Hospital. He estimated roughly the speed of the taxi at 26 miles an hour. - The Coroner: Were there any instructions to the drivers of the taxis to drive fast? - None whatever. - If the cars were not racing, what was the object of the other car passing yours when you were passing the tram? - I cannot say what others say about the matter. I do not think it was a good thing. - What about this cheering? - I cannot speak for other people. I am quite certain I did not stand up or cheer. - Did you see those in the other taxi stand up and cheer? - I honestly cannot remember. - Do you consider the other taxi was recklessly and furiously driven? - I consider it was unwise of the second taxi to pass so, and this was aggravated by the amount of dust it raised. - Do you think your driver was driving recklessly and furiously? - I think he was going too fast under the conditions. But had there been no other taxi or dust I do not consider he would be travelling too fast after passing the tram. - Mr McDonald: Is it your opinion that the drivers were having a race between themselves? - I think they were. - Mr Bickle: But you do not know they were? - Oh, no. - The Chief Constable: Do you consider that the question of negligence is governed by traffic on the road at particular times? - I understand so. - Witness added: I consider 26 miles an hour a safe pace if the supposed traffic in the road at that time is behaving in accordance with the ordinary rule of the road. - Mr Watson: Did you hear any occupant of your car shout "Go on"? - No. - Or of the other car? - No. - The Coroner, summing up, said the question arose "Was the taxi which had knocked down the woman driven recklessly and furiously without regard to human life?" Was the taxi driven in such a reckless and furious manner as to cause the death of the woman, making it so that the driver was guilty of culpable negligence? - If the Jury thought it was their duty would be to say the driver was guilty of the crime of manslaughter. He desired to express deep sympathy with the husband in his sorrow and felt sure the Jury would do likewise. - Mr Bickle expressed the deep regret of the driver and his employers. - The Verdict. - The Jury found that MRS BERRY'S injury was caused by the reckless and furious driving. - The Coroner: That amounts to manslaughter. - Mr Bickle asked for bail. - The Coroner fixed bail for accused himself in a surety of £100 and two others of £100 each. - Mr Bickle asked that two sureties of £50 be accepted. - The Coroner did not consider he would be doing his duty if he did not demand substantial security. They must consider the public, as such an offence as was alleged was regarded as very serious. - Ultimately Mr Pearce granted bail to Smith, £100 himself and two sureties of £150 and £50 respectively.

Western Morning News, Friday 3 July 1914
PLYMOUTH - Death From Agitation. - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest at the Homeopathic Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday, on ELLEN EVA, widow, aged 51, of 2 Summerland-street. The Coroner said the deceased was admitted to the Hospital on June 30th, and on Tuesday she was to have undergone an operation on her arm. The anaesthetic had not been administered, but apparently in anticipation of the operation the woman collapsed and died. Her heart was in a shocking condition. - Dr P. McK. C. Wilmot, Consulting Surgeon at the Hospital, said the deceased was suffering from semi-starvation and blood-poisoning. Before the operation she appeared very agitated and distressed. He put the mask on her face, without any chloroform at all, and when he took it off he saw she was dead. He had made a post-mortem examination, and found she was suffering from valvular disease of the heart. No doubt agitation was the determining cause of her death. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 9 July 1914
STOKE DAMEREL - Mr A. Gard held an Inquest at Devonport yesterday on ELIZABETH PHILLIPS, aged 76 years, of Haddington-road. Mr T. H. Spiller, warrant officer (retired), said MRS PHILLIPS was his mother-in-law. On August 11th, 1913, whilst visiting friends, she slipped from a chair to the floor, and had been confined to her bed ever since. She died on Monday. Dr Gard said MRS PHILLIPS fractured the upper part of her thigh-bone, and death was due to exhaustion, brought about by the injury. A verdict was returned accordingly.

PLYMOUTH - At Plymouth yesterday, Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest on FRANCIS JAMES CLEMO, newsvendor, aged 50 years. John Morris, labour master, Plymouth Workhouse, said CLEMO was admitted to the House on the 6th inst. The next day he was given work, and appeared to be in good health. He had been in the Workhouse about six times before, and had had no serious illness. On Wednesday he was found dead in the ward. Dr Cooke, Medical Officer of the Workhouse, who had made a post-mortem examination, said death was due to apoplexy and a verdict was returned accordingly.

Western Morning News, Saturday 11 July 1914
DAWLISH - The Dawlish Tragedy. Inquest And Verdict. - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Dawlish yesterday on ARTHUR EDWIN JONES, aged 67, of Langley Lodge. Mr J. H. Lamacraft was Foreman of the Jury. - MR HAROLD WIGHTMAN JONES, dentist, Hampstead, said his father was a widower, and had lived at Dawlish with his daughters for twelve or thirteen years. He had been in ill-health and took to his bed four or five days ago. Witness was called out of bed by his sister and the maidservant just after seven o'clock on Thursday morning. They were agitated, and pointed out to him his father lying on the pathway under one of the windows, which was 13 to 15 feet from the ground. Witness went down and found him flat on his back, attired in his dressing-gown and slippers. He was conscious and when asked what he was doing there replied that he was "just napping." They placed deceased on a mattress and asked him if he had any bones broken. His breathing was very distressed. - Replying to a Juryman, witness said he did not think his father was accustomed to walk in his sleep. He was depressed the previous night and worrying about trifling things. He seemed to make up his mind that he was going to die; he had been talking in that strain of late, having the impression that his ordained time had come. On July 5th he wrote a kind of testamentary letter to his sons, in which he set out facts regarding his property and gave directions. The letter ended that "he hoped to see them all next month." - In answer to the Coroner, witness said it was unthinkable that his father should have taken his life; it was against his whole outlook and view of things. - MISS DOROTHY JONES said she stayed up with her father on Wednesday night. He was quiet and slept fairly well. He left the room about seven o'clock on Thursday morning. The gardener would be coming about that time and he might very likely have gone to the landing window to speak to him. Her father was always dreadfully against the idea of suicide. - Louisa Maunder, domestic servant, said about seven o'clock MR JONES came into the kitchen from the garden and went upstairs without speaking. She had found the drawing-room windows open and he might have got into the garden that way. A few minutes afterwards, on going into the garden, she found him on the ground under the landing window. - Dr C. N. Lovely said he found MR JONES conscious, but in a state of collapse. He was suffering from a severe scalp wound on the left side, a large abrasion on the top of the skull and abrasions on the back of both hands. He got rapidly worse and succumbed about eight o'clock. He did not think that the wounds could have been caused by a mere fall in the yard. It might be possible that he was looking out of the window, became giddy and fell. - At the instance of the Jury, the Coroner asked Dr Lovely whether it was known that a case of somnambulism might arise on one occasion. - Dr Lovely replied that he never heard of such a case; somnambulism generally began in early life. - The Jury, after much deliberation, returned a verdict that MR JONES met his death through throwing himself from the window whilst of Unsound Mind. - The Foreman said the late MR JONES was an ideal English gentleman, and beloved by everyone and the Jury asked the relatives to accept their sincere sympathy in their loss. The Coroner joined in this expression and MR HAROLD JONES thanked both the Coroner and the Jury.

EAST STONEHOUSE - The Devonshire Fatality. Conflicting Evidence At The Inquest. - The Deputy Coroner, Mr R. R. Rodd, jun., yesterday held an Inquest at the R.N. Hospital, Stonehouse, on HENRY BRODIE GREEN, able seaman, of the cruiser Devonshire. - The body was identified by HENRY A. GREEN, father, of Manchester, who stated that his son was 19 years of age. - Petty Officer F. Snell, of the Devonshire, stated that on Wednesday morning they were provisioning ship from a lighter alongside. The work proceeded satisfactorily until about 9.50 a.m., when he heard a shout and saw a man falling. Witness explained that the work was carried out by means of a derrick, attached to which were a couple of guys. The whip was rove through a leading block at the heel and ran up the side of the derrick to a block at the end, and when the whip was hauled taut the derrick swung out over the side of the ship. When he saw the accident had happened hoisting was in progress and the whip had just left the lighter with a net of provisions. - Mr G. W. Morrison, mate, stated he was in charge of the operations for provisioning ship and the working of the derrick and motor was controlled by his orders. The order was given by him to hoist and the man working the motor hove in the slack of the whip that took the derrick outward. When the hoist was clear of the lighter he looked around and saw the deceased falling. - He (deceased) was then clear of the side of the ship, but witness did not actually see him commence his fall. The deceased was standing clear of everything, and he did not think it possible that the whip could have struck him. Witness had been standing where the deceased was all the morning and had just left as the accident happened. In his opinion the position was a safe one. - Answering the Coroner, witness said it would have been impossible for the derrick to have knocked the deceased over. To have hit his head deceased would have had to stand about a couple of feet from the heel, and then he would not have been near enough to the side of the ship to have been knocked over. - In reply to Mr Lawrence (Juryman), witness said one guy being unattached had nothing to do with it, and it was impossible for the derrick to have struck him in the position he was in. The whip was taut at the time of the accident and that could not have struck him. The deceased was standing further forward than witness at the time, and if the derrick had hit anyone it would have hit witness. - The Foreman (Mr Reed): It is a most extraordinary thing that no one seems to know how this man fell. They saw him falling and that was all. I am not satisfied with this evidence. - Mr J. Dugdale, boatswain, corroborated Mr Morrison's evidence, and added that he was in a better position to see what occurred than anyone else. He saw the deceased in the air, but nothing touched him and he formed the opinion that deceased went to the side to look at the hoist and over-balanced himself, falling into the lighter below. - Boy A. J. Peters said he was standing next to the deceased. At the time of the accident the derrick was in board and the hoist, which was in the lighter, was a little slack. The deceased was standing close to the whip. As the hoist started he saw deceased fall over the side. He did not see him trip in anything. He could not say what caused him to fall. Some time after the accident he (witness) was very nearly knocked over. As the hoist started the wire went out, and if Petty Officer Snell had not pulled him back he would have been knocked over. - The Coroner: Do you think the whip knocked the deceased over? - I can't say. - Boy Wm. Johnstone stated that he was standing near the deceased. The whip was drawn taut, and swung out the derrick. As it swung out the whip caught him on the shoulder and knocked him forward. The deceased had his back to the whip. - Boy Jackson said he thought when deceased fell that he was stretching to recover his cap that had either blown off or been knocked off. - Fleet-Surgeon S. Roach (Devonshire) stated that after the accident deceased was quite unconscious and had sustained a compound comminuted fracture of the frontal bone of the skull and compression of the brain due to the fracture. He was removed to the R.N. Hospital. - Surgeon G. S. Harvey, R.N. Hospital, Stonehouse, stated that the deceased was admitted at 11 a.m. on Wednesday and died on Thursday morning without regaining consciousness. - The Coroner directed attention to the evidence of the boy Johnstone, who was most emphatic in his statement that the deceased was struck by the whip. Mr Morrison told them by no chance could the hoist, whip, or derrick have struck the deceased, but the deceased might have changed his position from where he was told to go. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," caused by deceased being struck by the whip of the derrick. - Sympathy was expressed with the father and relatives.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 14 July 1914
BISHOPSTEIGNTON - Suicide At Bishopsteignton. - Mr Hacker held an Inquest at Bishopsteignton yesterday on FREDERICK WILLIAM FEY. - ARTHUR JOHN FEY (baker) said his father, aged 52, was a builder. After supper on Saturday he went out at 11 p.m. to see the lights and watch at a sewer he was laying by the church. As he did not return, his mother called him (witness). Together they went to the works, but could not persuade him to come home. He said he could not leave the work. He came home, however, at 4.30. At 6.45 he was in the sitting-room upstairs and he remained with him continually for some time. - MRS ELIZABETH FEY (the widow) added that when her husband came home at 4.30 she made him a cup of tea and then went to dress. On returning she found he had not taken the tea. He said he did not want it. Neither did he have any breakfast. He had been in good health until Saturday evening, when he seemed very flushed and restless. She called his brother at 6.30 and sent for Dr Johnson, who came about 11 a.m. and prescribed. Her husband had a delusion that the traffic was being held up at the work. On the doctor telling him it was all right he seemed to be greatly cheered. She was with him until 11.30, when her son returned from Teignmouth with the medicine. It was with great difficulty they got him to take it. He rested on the sofa and seemed very quiet. Her son left him for about ten minutes and on returning found him on the floor in a pool of blood. - Dr F. E. Little said death took place shortly after he arrived. MR FEY had a wound in his neck, severing the jugular vein. The wound was self-inflicted with a razor. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane," and expressed sympathy with the widow and family. The Foreman (Mr Wallis) stated he saw MR FEY several times on Saturday. He was working very hard and no doubt the hot sun had affected his mind.

DARTMOUTH - Drowned At Dartmouth. Thirteen Drinks A Night and Half Drunk. - Yesterday at Dartmouth Mr A. M. Davson held an Inquest on EDWIN ARTHUR PYM, aged 20, coal lumper, whose body was found in the harbour on Sunday morning. Mr R. T. Pillar was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - DANIEL PYM, fisherman, said he last saw his son on Saturday evening, the 4th inst. He then told him he was going to take his line and go fishing. - John Webber, labourer, said he was with PYM on the Saturday evening from about half-past six until a few minutes to eleven o'clock. They visited various licensed houses and had altogether thirteen drinks each. He and another young man named Prettyjohns left PYM at Oxford-street. He did not notice which way PYM went. PYM was about half drunk, but quite capable of taking care of himself. - Frank Prettyjohns, a coal lumper, in reply to the Coroner, said they had all been half drunk. - Richard Down, landlord of the Lindsay Arms, said deceased and the two witnesses visited his house on the night in question. They did not have the amount of drink in his house which it was alleged they had. There had evidently been a fight in another house, and when the young men left his premises to return there he advised them not to make any row. They came back again later to his house, but PYM did not finish his drink. PYM was all right when he left. He could tell when he was drunk, for then he was perfectly mad. - P.C. Turner said that last Saturday week at 10.55 p.m. he saw PYM by himself in Lower-street, and he appeared under the influence of drink, but was capable of taking care of himself. - Dr G. M. Soper said there were no marks of violence on the body. - The Coroner said it was for the Jury to decide whether PYM had been in such a state that he had fallen overboard. The two witnesses themselves had admitted having been half drunk. It was rather a lamentable thing that in that town - although he supposed it happened in other places - young men should go from public house to public house during an evening, as deceased had done. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned" and expressed sympathy with the relatives of deceased. They also regretted that PYM should have spent his evening in the way the evidence indicated.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 15 July 1914
EAST STONEHOUSE - Pensioner's Death From Injuries Received In A Cycle Accident. - The Deputy Coroner, Mr R. R. Rodd, jun., yesterday held an Inquest at the R.N. Hospital, Stonehouse, on WILLIAM VEALE, officers' cook (pensioner), 1st class, late of H.M.S. Challenger. Mr K. Eyton Peck represented the Admiralty, and Mr Elliot Square the Devonport and District Tramways Company. - MARY VEALE stated that the deceased was 50 years of age and was her husband. He was a pensioner, but was serving as a sort of supernumerary until the age of 60. At the time of the accident he was serving in the Talbot. - Walter Perrin, tram driver, of Devonport and District Tramways, stated that on April 22nd he was driving No. 6 car between St. Budeaux and Morice-square and, proceeding up William-street, he noticed a little girl hesitating as to whether she should cross the road or remain where she was. He watched the little girl and no sooner had she decided to remain in the same position until he had passed than the deceased, who was riding on a cycle, ran into the car. He did not see the cyclist until he was practically into the car. He was travelling at about six miles an hour, but the deceased must have been cycling at a terrific rate to have done the damage to the cycle that he did. The accident happened at a point where witness could not have had a good view of anything approaching from the direction of New Passage-hill. Directly witness saw deceased he jammed the brakes on. The deceased was taken to the Royal Albert Hospital. - The Coroner: Do you think he lost control? - I should say he did. - Replying to Mr Elliot Square, witness said the road was steep on New Passage-hill, and had a curve there which interfered with the driver seeing for any distance. It was a dangerous corner, and cyclist and motorists coming down the hill did not appear to consider the fact that it was a busy thoroughfare. He always rang his bell at that corner. - Frederick G. H. Jarvis, of 38 Union-street, Stonehouse, stated that on the say in question he was walking up New Passage-hill and noticed the deceased cycling down. He thought at the time there must have been something wrong with his machine, because the front wheel was wobbling and he did not appear to have full control. A few seconds later the accident occurred and he saw the deceased on the ground clear of the car on the left-hand side. Deceased was conscious after the accident and requested him to 'phone to the ship. - Henry C. Jeffery, labourer, of Cornwall-street, Devonport, gave evidence of hearing the crash when the cyclist collided with the car. - P.C. Rogers stated that he saw the deceased in the Hospital, and he stated: "My brakes gave out, and I went down the hill into the tramcar." Deceased was a big, heavy man, but the bicycle was a well-made one, and, although the brake was tight, it did not hold the wheel. The corner where the accident happened was a dangerous one. - Dr Noy Leah said the deceased was under his care from the time he was admitted to the Royal Albert Hospital, and was then suffering from compound fracture of the left leg and other minor injuries. An operation was necessary and from thence onward he appeared to make satisfactory progress. He was removed to the Royal Naval Hospital on June 12th, it being thought the case would be a long one. He should think the deceased was removed because of pressure on the beds. He had no recollection of the removal. - Mr Reeves (Foreman of Jury): It was not necessary to remove the man from the Hospital because he was a pensioner? - Not necessarily. - Do you think such removal accelerated his death? - No; and I do not know what progress he made at the Hospital after. - Surgeon A. J. MacDiarmid, R.N. Hospital, Stonehouse, said the deceased was admitted on June 12th suffering from a compound fracture of the left leg. He had an operation in the Royal Albert Hospital and came to the R.N. Hospital with an open wound still in the leg. He went on all right and progressed favourably until a week ago, when he developed septic poisoning. An operation was performed, but he did not improve under it and he died on Sunday. As the result of the post-mortem he found that he died from septic poisoning due to the fracture which was accelerated by consolidation of the lungs, or hydrostatic pneumonia, caused by the bed lying and a fatty heart. - Mr Reeves: Do you consider the removal, which I consider unnecessary, accelerated his death? - No, I do not. - The Coroner having addressed the Jury, and remarked that the driver of the tramcar did all in his power to prevent the collision, a verdict was returned that the deceased died of Septic Poisoning caused by a compound fracture of the left leg, accelerated by hydrostatic pneumonia. - On behalf of the Tramway Co., Mr Elliot Square expressed the company's regret at the accident, and sympathy with the widow, with which the Jury concurred.

PLYMOUTH - At an Inquest held at Plymouth yesterday by Mr R. B. Johns on BRIDGE TAYLOR, aged 46, wife of ARTHUR TAYLOR, dentist, St James-terrace, Dr R. B. Burke said a post mortem showed that death was due to a rupture of the muscular wall of the heart, and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - MRS MARIA STANBURY, a nonagenarian widow, living at Marina-cottages, Mutley, was found dead in bed yesterday morning. At the Inquest held by Mr R. B. Johns, Dr Price, who had attended the old lady for heart trouble, but had not seen her for some time, attributed death to heart failure, and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Monday 20 July 1914
ARLINGTON - ELIZABETH MARY COURAGE, 49, wife of ALBERT EDWARD COURAGE, employed at Arlington, died suddenly and at the Inquest Dr W. J. Olivey said death was due to syncope, the heart being much enlarged.

BEAFORD - Callous Conduct. Beaford Man Allows Companion To Drown Before His Eyes. - At Beaford on Saturday a remarkable story was told at an Inquest conducted by Mr G. W. F. Brown, Coroner, on THOMAS PICKARD, 24, labourer, who was found drowned in a pool where he had been bathing, and who had on at the time a pair of boots weighing 3 ¼ lb. - The Coroner said it was on Wednesday that deceased was drowned but it had only come to the knowledge of the Police that morning that at the time Sidney Bird, another labourer, was with the man, that PICKARD called to him when he was in the water, and that Bird went away to his work and never told PICKARD'S parents their son was drowned or informed the Police, even after the body was found, that he was there and witnessed the man die without raising a finger to help him. The Jury would have Bird before them and he would have to tell the whole story. - HENRY PICKARD, deceased's father, said on Wednesday morning about eight, his son left home to go to work, and when he did not come back in the evening witness was not alarmed, as he often stopped away a night. Deceased drank a "middling drop of beer" at times. Witness thought no more of the matter until the body was brought home and Bird never made any communication to him. Deceased was fond of bathing and always bathed with his boots on because of the rough bottom in the river. - Sidney Bird, 49, labourer, of Beaford, said on Wednesday morning about ten he went to the Globe Hotel, Beaford, and had a pint of beer. Deceased was there before him and they ate their lunch together and then went to the Gunsmiths' Arms, where they had three pints of beer apiece. Deceased then asked witness if he would go as far as the Gribble Inn, Little Torrington with him and they took two pints in two bottles, which deceased paid for and left. - Asked by the Coroner if they were on a "walking drunk, witness said they were not. He had been to work that morning, but stopped owing to the wet. He drank four pints of beer. - Went In Knee Deep. - Proceeding, witness aid they went to the Three-cornered Field, where they had an allotment and there they saw his mangolds. Deceased said they might as well drink one bottle there and they did so. Deceased proposed crossing by the Pool to get to the Gribble, as it was a nearer way, and he said they could cross on the rocks without wetting their feet. When they got to Potheridge Pool witness asked where was the best place to cross and deceased said he should have a bathe. He undressed, put his boots on again, because the bottom was rough and got into the water, witness sitting down on the bank. Deceased swam about a bit and was turning round when he called "Sid, Sid." Witness jumped up and went in to the water knee deep. There deceased was staring witness in the face. Witness said, "TOM, TOM," and with that went right away, because he was frightened. He went to the Three-cornered Field, and there he stayed until 6 o'clock in the evening, hoeing a drill of mangolds, then stopping to think a bit, and then hoeing again. He was very frightened. - The Coroner: And you made no attempt to save him ? - I could not swim; if I went there I should have been in with him. - Did you get a stick or anything? - No, I went right away. I was that frightened. - Asked why he did not tell anyone, witness said he was afraid they would say it was he who did it, though there was no reason why anyone should suggest that. Deceased was about eight feet from him in deep water when he went down, lifting his hands and saying, "Sid, Sid." Next day he knew the man was missing and there were inquiries about him, but he said nothing. He never told the Constable or his own wife. When that morning the Constable came to him he said he would tell the truth and told the story. He knew he had done wrong now and that he ought to have obtained help, but he was very frightened. He was sober. - P.S. Bastin: The story you first told the Constable as to the last time you saw deceased was a deliberate lie? - I was afraid to tell. - It was a lie? - Yes, it was wrong altogether. - Arthur Eastmond, farmers' assistant, said he was looking for a sheep he had lost, when near the Pool he found a workman's bag with a bottle of beer and some food in it and then he saw the body in the water 12 to 13 feet from the edge. - James Lee spoke to helping to get the body out. - Dr Lusk said a post-mortem examination showed that deceased had only one kidney which was greatly enlarged and the stomach was inflamed. His drinking beer and going right into the water would be against him and might have acted on his heart. He might also have had cramp. Death was due to drowning. - "Disgrace To North Devon." - The Coroner said in the whole of his experience he had never come across a case where such want of pluck was shown as by Bird. There was no small boy in an elementary school but would have helped to save a companion in trouble in the water. At Bideford at an Inquest held by his Deputy last week they had the story of little boys of ten and twelve going to help a companion in a swiftly running tidal river, far deeper than this man went, who wetted his trousers up to his knees. Bird did not atone in any way afterwards, but kept the story in his wretched heart, and had not the pluck to tell the Constable when inquiries were first being made. - The Jury, of whom Mr Wm. Heard was Foreman, found that deceased was Accidentally Drowned, and they desired he Coroner to censure Bird for his callous and unmanly conduct. - The Coroner strongly censured Bird, whose conduct he could only describe as that of an abject coward, not only at the time, but by the heartless manner in which he neglected to inform the man's parents. - Bird: I know that now it is too late. - The Coroner said he was a disgrace to his parish and to North Devon. - Bird replied that he could not swim if he went in. - The Coroner said he could have tried to do something - torn a bar from a hurdle or gate or tried to help in some way, instead of leaving the man to drown and then saying nothing about it.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 21 July 1914
STOKE DAMEREL - Petty Officer's Suicide. Weighted Himself And Jumped Overboard. - The Borough Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, held an Inquest at the North Yard, Devonport, yesterday on ARTHUR LEWIS, first class petty officer, who was drowned in No. 3 basin on Sunday. - Mr K. Eyton Peck was present on behalf of the Admiralty. - Petty Officer Dunn said deceased, who was serving in torpedo-boat No. 22, was a native of Glendower, Black Rock, Co. Cork. Just after 2 o'clock on Sunday afternoon he saw deceased on the upper deck. A few minutes later he heard a splash, and on looking over the side saw LEWIS'S hat. Witness dived into the water, but could not find deceased, and on returning to the ship reported the matter to an officer. Deceased was a quiet man, and bore a good character. - George Newman Small, chief gunner, of torpedo-boat No. 22, said he was duty officer on Sunday, when a report was made to him by the last witness that he thought deceased had fallen overboard. A search was made for the body and a diver recovered the deceased at 4.20. - Replying to the Jury, witness said deceased was passing in seamanship and had been put back six months. On the 1st of next month he expected to go up again. That might have worried him a bit. - Patrick Lynch, able seaman of the Pelorus, said he dived for deceased and after an hour's search found the body. Deceased was lying on his back. Both legs were tied together with a weight attached. - Staff-Surgeon E. R. Townsend, H.M.S. Forth, said death was due to drowning. - Sergt. Hirst, Metropolitan Police, said around both ankles of deceased was a line to which was attached a 56lb iron sinker. - Frederick Alonzo Johnson, 2 Northumberland-street, naval pensioner, said he had known the deceased intimately for the past two years. He was of reserved disposition. During the past fortnight witness had noticed a great change in him. In the course of conversations, deceased had complained of "work and worry." - Two members of the crew of the boat were called, and they stated that nothing had happened in the ship for deceased to worry about. - An officer added that deceased was likely to do extremely well in the service. - The Jury returned a verdict that deceased drowned himself whilst in an Unsound State of Mind, and commended Petty Officer Dunn for his action in diving for the deceased. The fact that he was unsuccessful was due to deceased having had a weight on his feet.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 22 July 1914
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on ELIZA JANE PARKER, aged 34 years, the wife of JOHN PARKER, stoker, R.N., of Staddon-cottages. MRS PARKER was unwell on Saturday. On the following morning a doctor had to be sent for and she died shortly after. Dr H. B. Palmer attributed death to pneumonia, and a verdict was returned accordingly.

DAWLISH - Dawlish Fatality. Rider Of Motor Cycle Censured. - Mr P.C. Cornish Bowden held an Inquest lat evening at Dawlish on MABEL BOWDEN, aged 26, of Lower Clapton, London, who died on Monday after being run into on the Teignmouth-road by a motor cycle, ridden by William Henry Lock, son of Mr Edwin Lock, miller, of Dawlish. Mr E. A. Border was Foreman of the Jury. Mr A. M. Alford attended on behalf of the rider of the motor cycle. - Sister's Story. - ETHEL ELIZABETH BOWDEN, of Glenarm-road, Lower Clapton-road, London, said her sister was a domestic servant. She came to Dawlish on Saturday for her holidays. She was a little deaf in one ear. At 2.30 on Monday afternoon they went for a walk with a little girl age ten on the Teignmouth-road. They were kicking a ball whilst going up the hill and had nearly reached the top when she heard a motor cycle coming along. Before she could look around it was on them. They had just time to clear the road. She went to the right-hand side and her sister went to the other side, the little girl being a few yards in front. After she had cleared the road the motor cycle came right towards where her sister was, and knocked her down. Two or three ladies were walking towards them at the time. The road was clear of other traffic. Her sister went close in to the hedge before she was struck. She could not say at what pace the motor was going; it seemed to come upon them very quickly, otherwise the accident would not have happened all of an instant. Asked as to the immediate cause of the accident, witness said she considered the rider of the cycle thought her sister was going to run across the road and went round to go behind her. When she saw the cycle coming towards her she called out to the little girl. She might have taken one step across the road, but she could not really say. - In reply to Mr Alford, witness said she heard the rider of the cycle ring his bell when he was just on the brow of the hill, but she could not say whether it was 100 yards away at the time. She did not know whether her sister ran across the road when the bell rang. She called out to the little girl when she had crossed over. If the rider had gone on he would not have knocked down herself and the little girl, as they were close to the hedge. If her sister had come back to where she and the little girl were the accident would not have happened. - Dr C. N. Lovely said MABEL BOWDEN had a scalp wound about two inches long at the top of her head. She had symptoms of fracture of the skull and a fracture of the left thigh-bone about four inches above the knee joint. She died about a quarter of an hour after she was admitted to the Hospital, the fracture of the skull being the immediate cause of death. - Fatal Hesitancy. - Henry White said he was coming towards Dawlish and saw deceased, her sister and the little girl playing with the ball as they were coming up the road on their right hand. All at once he saw the ball go across the road, and the little girl go after it, but he did not see her get to the other side of the road. He did not hear the bell of the cycle rung, nor did he hear the noise of the machine until it was passing him, because he was driving a wheelbarrow at the time. The cycle was going from 14 to 16 miles an hour. He saw deceased rush across the road, as he thought, to prevent the little girl being run over. When she rushed out the cycle was seven to nine yards away. She hesitated, apparently not knowing what to do. The rider tried to pass her on her left hand, which brought him over to the wrong side of the road, and that was unavoidable. He did not think the accident was caused by the speed of the cycle or by unskilfulness on the part of the cyclist. Deceased must have lost her nerve because of the cycle being close on her. - In reply to P.S. Rowland, witness said he told the rider (Lock) that he thought he was going too fast By Mr Alford: He thought the rider went to the right side of the road to prevent colliding with the little girl. - Herbert West, insurance agent, said whilst cycling he saw the motor cycle coming. The sister and girl were on the right hand side of the road going up the hill. Looking up just before the accident happened, he saw deceased near the middle of the road. She moved first one way and then the other. She then went to her left-hand side, and the rider of the motor cycle collided with her. He could not estimate the speed of the motor. On account of the bend in the road he could not see White. - The Cyclists' Speed. - Percy Ernest Frost, Westcliff-on-Sea, a visitor to Dawlish, said he was within 20 to 25 yards of the scene of the accident. He heard no bell of the motor cycle which was emitting much smoke from the exhaust as it passed him. He could not estimate the speed of the machine, but after the accident Lock admitted to him he was travelling 20 miles an hour. The cycle was going too fast down the hill. - In reply to Mr Alford, witness said he would not swear that what Lock said was that he was not travelling 20 miles an hour. - By the Coroner: Lock appeared to be dazed, but he was not so upset as might have been expected after such an accident. Deceased's sister acted in a very courageous manner and did all she possibly could. - Herbert West, recalled, said he heard something said, but he could not say whether Lock said he was going 20 miles an hour or was not going at that speed. - P.C. Shapland said the road was 19ft. 9 in. wide. There was a spot of blood on the road six feet from the hedge on the left side going up the hill. Marks on the road showed that the brakes of the motor had been applied and that it skidded 15 feet. The distance from the corner on the brow of the hill to where the accident happened was 121 yards. - The Motorist's Version. - William Henry Lock, rider of the motor bicycle, stated that he had had his motor cycle three years next October. He joined the main road at the top of the hill, where he saw White and the young ladies and the little girl. When he came round the corner he rung his bell. Then he passed the man with the barrow, and when approaching the three ladies in rang his bell again. He saw the little girl throw something across the road. At that time he was going from 12 to 15 miles an hour. Deceased and her sister and the little girl were all on the right side of the road going in the direction of Teignmouth. He swerved to his right side to avoid the little girl He just missed her and deceased then commenced to hesitate, and was jumping about near the centre of the road. She appeared to be losing her nerve and was moving in and out and he immediately applied the brakes, but it was impossible to avoid a collision. His head struck her forehead, and he was thrown from his machine and for a few seconds remained dazed. He remembered telling Mr Frost that he was not travelling more than twenty miles an hour. The front mudguard of the cycle was slightly damaged and the lamp knocked around to the right side. He applied both brakes and pulled up in double the cycle's length. - By the Jury: He was three yards from deceased when she seemed to be losing her nerve. - Mr Sillifant (a Juryman): There is a rumour in the town that you and another young gentleman went to Teignmouth to race. Is that true? - No; we had not been to Teignmouth. - Mr Alford: Had you been to Teignmouth? - No; I went after the accident. - The Jury having decided to visit the scene of the accident, returned after an absence of about an hour and the interest in the Inquiry had then become so great that the back o the hall was crowded. - The Coroner, summing up, said the point for the jury was whether deceased met her death owing to the criminal behaviour of the man riding the motor cycle, or whether it was due to an accident. They must also consider whether the accident was contributed to by deceased getting nervous, and whether the occurrence might have happened if she had been more collected. Lock gave his evidence very fairly. He was of opinion that, if the Jury believed the facts as given in evidence, they would not say this man was so criminally negligent that he ran into deceased feloniously. If, however, they thought he did so, he would have to take his trial at the Assizes. But, if they thought that the accident occurred through deceased running out into the road and was knocked down in consequence, they would return a verdict that she was accidentally killed. - White, recalled at the request of the Jury, gave, as the reason for his having said that he anticipated an accident, that it was because of the direction of the motor cycle and the position of deceased in the road, and that she was not decided which way she was going. He also thought that, if the motor cycle had been going more slowly, the accident would not have been so serious. - The Verdict. - After half an hour's consultation, the Jury found that deceased came to her death Accidentally through the excessive speed at which Lock was riding, but that his conduct did not amount to criminal negligence and they considered him deserving of severe censure. They desired to convey their sincere sympathy with the relatives of the deceased and to call the attention of the Police to the excessive speed at which motor cycles are ridden in the neighbourhood. - The Coroner, addressing Lock, told him that, after the decision of the Jury as to his riding at excessive speed, they had taken a most lenient view. They wished that he should be very severely censured, and in his (the Coroner's opinion, and having regard to the fact that his speed was excessive, he had great reason to be grateful that he was not to be committed to Exeter on a charge of manslaughter. He hoped this would be a lesson to him for the future. - Mr George Pearson, of Willesden, a visitor to Dawlish, protested against the excessive speed at which motor cycles were ridden in the neighbourhood, mentioning that he had a narrow escape on the same road last Saturday evening. - The proceedings lasted five hours and the result was awaited by a large crowd outside the hall.

Western Morning News, Saturday 25 July 1914
ILFRACOMBE - Fatal Fall At Ilfracombe. - EMMA JANE HAMMETT, who resided at 13 Belvedere-road, Ilfracombe, was looking out of her bedroom window when she over-balanced herself and fell a distance of about 25 feet. She appeared to pitch on her face. Dr Osborne and Dr Stephenson were quickly in attendance and also was P.C. Evans, who rendered valuable assistance, but death ensued within a few minutes of the arrival of the doctors. The deceased, who was somewhat eccentric, and lived with her daughter was about 66 years of age. At the Inquest last evening Dr Osborne said she fractured the base of her skull and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

BERE FERRERS - Bere Alston Suicide. Due To Influenza And Bereavement. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd held an Inquest at Bere Alston yesterday on HARRY FOOTE, aged 52, storekeeper, found hanging by a rope from a beam in one of Perry, Spear, and Co's stores at the Railway Station. Inspector W. Trump watched the case on behalf of the London and South Western Railway. THOMAS FOOTE said his brother was a storekeeper for Perry, Spear and Co., merchants of Tavistock. He controlled the business at the Bere Alston Station and had been in their employ for about 20 years. He left a widow and one child and within the past ten months had lost by death a son and a daughter. He grieved a good deal over this loss and had been under medical treatment for his nerves and influenza. He had not been himself for some time, and only returned to work about three weeks ago, and then was not quite fit to do his work. - Cyril Hill, goods clerk, in the employ of the London and South Western Railway Company, Bere Alston, said he saw MR FOOTE on Thursday about 11 p.m., and in the office transacted business with him. That was the last time he was seen alive. - Samuel G. Hocking, carter, said on Thursday afternoon at the Station his attention was drawn to MR FOOTE hanging in the store. The door had been locked from the inside and the key left in the lock. A bag of feeding meal weighing about 2cwt. had been placed against the door on the inside. The body was hanging from a beam, with the toes almost touching the ground. MR FOOTE evidently secured the rope and jumped off two bags of meal. The drop would be about three feet. He cut the body down. - Dr Rowland Hill said he had attended MR FOOTE for the past two months for influenza and nervous depression, the latter largely attributable, no doubt, to the influenza and the family sorrow. - A member of the firm stated that the firm had every confidence in the deceased, and that confidence had not been misplaced. They had lost a good servant. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity," and expressed sympathy with the widow and relatives.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 28 July 1914
PLYMOUTH - Son's Sad Discovery. - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at the Plymouth Mortuary yesterday on JOHN HENRY LANE, aged fifty-seven, labourer, Hill-street. BERTRAM LANE, shop assistant, said he last saw the deceased, his father, alive on Sunday night when he was in bed. In the afternoon he seemed to be somewhat strange in manner and complained of pains in his head. About 8.30 a.m. yesterday he broke open the door of a lavatory and on entering found the deceased hanging by a rope from a beam. - Dr G. Deery, who was called in, attributed death to strangulation. A verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest, at the Mortuary, on the death of the infant daughter of JESSIE SIMS, Henry-street. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned. Dr J. S. Pearce said death was due to convulsions, as the result of irritation of the stomach caused by indigestion.

PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest at the Mortuary with regard to the death of WILLIAM WARNE, labourer, aged 53, Commercial-road, Coxside, who died on Sunday, the Jury brought in a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" The widow stated that the deceased became unwell on Sunday evening and died before a doctor could come. Dr D. Macnair attributed death to heart failure, due to an ante-mortem clot.

Western Morning News, Thursday 30 July 1914
EAST STONEHOUSE - A Fatal Slip. Stoker Drowned In The Hamoaze. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd, County Coroner, yesterday held an Inquest at the R.N. Hospital, Stonehouse, on WILLIAM GEORGE MUTTON, stoker, of the destroyer Nemesis. Mr K. Eyton Peck appeared on behalf of the Admiralty.- Petty Officer H. H. F. Herbert, of the Nemesis, said deceased was 44 years of age. On Monday about 10 p.m., deceased came aboard in a waterman's boat, and appeared to be in his usual good health. After the customary inspection had taken place deceased walked forward and later witness heard a splash and saw the man in the water. Witness succeeded in catching hold of him, and got him aboard the destroyer, where artificial respiration was resorted to without avail. - George Ringland, 1st class stoker, Nemesis, said he was with the deceased on the night in question when he went aboard. After inspection deceased walked forward and slipping on the iron deck, fell into the water. He was rescued by the last witness. The fall was quite accidental. - Staff-Surgeon J. G. Peeble said he found the last witnesses trying artificial respiration, which was carried on for three and a half hours. - Surgeon T. R. Lloyd-Jones said he made a post-mortem examination and considered death was due to drowning. All the organs of the body were in a healthy condition. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Monday 3 August 1914
TORQUAY - Boy's Sudden Death At Torquay. - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Torquay on Saturday on FREDERICK GEORGE ASH, aged 12, son of WILLIAM ASH, coachman, of 72 East-street, Torre. On Wednesday the boy complained of his throat and of giddiness and at night, on going to bed, he was sick. He slept with his father, to whom he complained of feeling unwell on Thursday morning. The father gave the boy tea, and left him in bed shortly before ten, and when he returned home at 12.45 he found the boy lying dead on the bed. - ELIZA ASH, the boy's grandmother, said as she understood the boy had gone to sleep she did not go to look at him. - Dr Thistle stated that as the result of a post-mortem examination he found a considerable enlargement of the tonsils and thymus gland. This would produce paralysis of the heart, which was the cause of death. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

STOKE CANON - Late MR S. J. SHAPLEY, Exeter. - The Inquest on MR S. J. SHAPLEY, whose body was found in the River Exe, near Stafford-bridge, Exeter, was held at Stoke Canon on Saturday afternoon, before Mr G. H. Stephens, Deputy Coroner. - Mr C. W. J. Bartlett, accountant, who gave evidence of identification, said the deceased was his colleague on "The Western Morning News" at Exeter for 14 years. - MRS SHAPLEY said her husband had a nervous breakdown and had been away for several months, returning to Exeter on July 23rd. Although his health had greatly improved, he appeared to be somewhat depressed on the previous Friday week. She last saw him alive in the middle of the afternoon of Friday, the 24th July. He was then on the couch at home. She did not see him leave the house and thought he had gone to see a neighbour. He had never threatened suicide; such a thing was foreign to his mind. - Mrs Tollick, who was at work in the house, said MR SHAPLEY told her to prepare the tea, and then said he was going for a little stroll. - William Warren, railway employee, and P.S. Harvey gave evidence of the recovery of the body on July 31st. Dr Sandoe said death was obviously due to drowning, and the body had been in the water several days. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned," and expressed sympathy with MRS SHAPLEY and her son in their bereavement. Mr Stephens, associating himself with the expression of the Jury, said he knew MR SHAPLEY personally as an exceedingly capable journalist and a genial and happy acquaintance.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 4 August 1914
MALBOROUGH - Gallant Conduct. Visitors' Efforts At Salcombe Bathing Fatality. - At Salcombe yesterday Mr S. Hacker conducted an Inquest on MR HERBERT STANLEY COBB, 31, bank manager, of Wimbledon, who was drowned while bathing on Saturday. - MR ROBERT SAMUEL COBB, architect, Shortlands, Kent, said he had been staying with deceased, his brother, at Gara Rock Boarding-house. They had bathed regularly close to where they were on Saturday. Early on Saturday witness and deceased entered the water. There was a very heavy sea and when up to their waists, they agreed on no account to go in far. A lady and her boy were also bathing at the same time. Witness was drying himself when deceased, who was still up to his waist, shouted that the boy was in difficulties. Witness ran into the water and the mother shouted, "My boy is in danger, for God's sake go and save him." Both reached the boy, who had been carried out and one on either side of him they assisted him. They could make no progress together, and separated. Witness was carried out fifty yards and gave up all hope, but then swam for a rock on the edge of the bay and made great progress. The boy had then got close to the shore, and landed. Witness went to help his brother, who said, "We have a stiff thing before us, but will pull through." They were then under 100 yards from the shore. Witness was carried ashore by the heavy sea, but he again attempted to reach his brother, but was pulled back by those ashore. There were several other persons there, but no swimmers. His brother, meanwhile, had drifted rather to the east. Soon a Mr Grevill, another visitor, swam out with the belt and lifeline, but could not see his brother, and with great difficulty was brought ashore. Later Mr Grevill made another attempt. - A Dangerous Place. - By the Coroner: He did not consider it a dangerous bathing place from what he knew of seaside places. There was no current as far as he knew, but just the heavy sea running to and fro. - The Coroner: There was a bather drowned there last year; that shows it is dangerous. - Ernest Grevill, architect, Kew Gardens, said he was in bed at the boarding house when he was told a man was in difficulties. He went down to the sands, but could not see deceased at all. He went into the sea with the lifeline and belt. One minute it was very rough and the next it was smooth. Although he waited 20 minutes he failed to see anyone in the water. - By the Coroner: He had not noticed any dangerous current. There was only a back-wash. - He had no difficulty in getting back, with exception of the last 20 yards, because of the back-wash. - Ethel Victoria Long, Faringdon, Berks, said she and her boy went to bathe at 7.45. She had been told by Mr Jordan, the proprietor of the boarding-house, that bathing was absolutely safe, except when the tide was going out. She and her boy had bathed each morning before breakfast. Suddenly a huge wave came and knocked them over. She found MR H. S. COBB holding her up and had it not been for him she would have been drowned. MR COBB then went to her boy's assistance while she ran for the lifeline and buoy. When she got back three people were in the water. Her boy came in first. She never lost sight of deceased except for five minutes, when he must have sunk, when he reappeared he had turned on his back. MR R. S. COBB was in an "awful state," and was totally unfit to make any further effort. - By the Coroner: Each morning they had bathed they had noticed a most dreadful current sucking them under. On this occasion they were most careful in consequence. - William Tolcher said with Alfred Cook he was asked by Sergeant Manley, doing duty at the Salcombe coastguard station, to go to Rickham Sands. When they got near a man from the shore directed them to a spot in the breakers, where they found a man floating about 15 or 20 yards from the shore. There were signs of life and when they got him on board witness commenced artificial respiration. On the way back deceased lifted his head up and opened his eyes. Two local gentlemen also boarded the boat and assisted until Dr Pearce came. - Dr Pearce said when he examined deceased he had been dead probably for a quarter of an hour. - Recommendations Carried Out. - The Coroner, calling Mr Jordan, said: You last year gave evidence here in a similar case, and as a result you undertook to supply life-saving appliances and issue a caution to bathers. - Mr Jordan said this had all been done and a board erected cautioning bathers on a receding tide. These were on the most conspicuous place on the sands. He would be glad to do anything suggested, but he expected people to use a little judgment. As a result of the last drowning occurrence, he now had from the Board of Trade the key to the rocket-house which made the telephone available. It was used on the present occasion. - The Coroner suggested that the wording of the notice board should be made a little stronger. Last year certain recommendations were made in case of accident, and he was very pleased to see all these had been carried out. There appeared to have been a very rough sea, and unfortunately the gallant conduct of Mr Grevill was unavailing. The conduct of all concerned was much to be commended, and he was convinced all connected with the accident did their best. - A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned Whilst Bathing" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Man's Suicide. - At the Pitts' Memorial Hall, Plymouth, yesterday, Mr R. B. Johns conducted an Inquest on WILLIAM HANNAFORD, 47 Gibbon-street, Plymouth. The widow stated that her husband was in the employ of the Lifeboat Institution. Witness last saw him alive about 4.30 on Saturday morning. Deceased had suffered from Bright's Disease, heart trouble and dropsy for some time, but although he had been very depressed, deceased never threatened to take his life. - Philip Jones, Gibbon-street, retired tradesman, said he saw deceased, who had been a great sufferer, hanging from a beam in the washhouse. - Dr W. P. Hardwicke attributed death to hanging, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 5 August 1914
AXMINSTER - A verdict of "Found Drowned Accidentally" was returned at an Inquest at Axminster yesterday on HENRY CHARLES ROSEWELL, brushmaker, of Axminster, who was drowned in a leat near the brush factories last Saturday.

BUCKLAND MONACHORUM - Baby Drowned In Bath At Lopwell. - An Inquest was held by Mr R. Robinson Rodd, jun., Deputy Coroner, at Lopwell, last evening, on NORMAN JOHN MCLEOD, aged 2 years. The mother stated that on Sunday afternoon she went upstairs to speak to her husband. She left her brother-in-law with the deceased in a room downstairs. After a minute or two her brother-in-law came upstairs, whereupon she asked "Where's the boy?" He replied, "Near the door." She went downstairs immediately, and found the child lying on his back in a bath containing water. She pulled him out and her husband and herself then tried artificial respiration, but without success. Her brother-in-law went to Maristow House to telephone for a doctor. The bath was in the passage, and was filled with water for drinking purposes. - Dr J. G. Bailey, Yelverton, said death was due to suffocation from drowning. The Coroner suggested that the case was one of pure accident, and a verdict was returned accordingly.

Western Morning News, Thursday 6 August 1914
LYNTON - Bather Drowned At Lynton. Brave Attempt At Rescue. - An Inquest on WILLIAM BIBBINGS, who was drowned at Lee Bay on Sunday, was held on Tuesday at the Foresters' Hall, Lynton, by Dr Pearson, Deputy Coroner. - The father gave evidence of identification, and said his son left home at 11 o'clock on Sunday morning with AUGUSTUS, his brother, to bathe at Lee Bay. -- Miss Jennings, of Birmingham, said she saw the two lads bathing, and one of them got into difficulties. Someone shouted for help and she saw a young man take off his coat, rush into the water, and seize hold of one of them. The other disappeared. The would-be rescuer himself was then in trouble, and was saved by a lady extending a mackintosh to him and pulling him in. The other lad was pulled in by two gentlemen joining hands and reaching out. Witness and others tried artificial respiration on the two rescued lads, who were unconscious and after hard work they came round again. - The Foreman (Mr H. P. Woodcock): Do you think if a rope and buoy were there the lad might have been saved? - Yes, decidedly. - Frank Rogers of W. H. Smith and Son, deposed that he and a friend had bathed and were walking up the beach when they met the two BIBBINGS and lent them their costumes. Soon after they heard cries for help. He pulled off his coat but removed nothing else and swam out to where he could see both. He swam to one of them and caught hold of him. But the sea being rough, and he having his boots and clothing on, he got exhausted. He could not have got ashore if a lady had not stretched out a mackintosh to him. He was afterwards unconscious. - In answer to the Coroner, witness said he was not a first-class swimmer. - The Coroner warmly complimented Mr Rogers on his gallant conduct. Conduct under such circumstances was very much to his credit. - R. Burgess said he found the body in four feet of water, and with the help of Mr Witney Jones and Mr J. Marlby recovered it. He suggested, as one who knew the coast, that a board be placed at Lee Bay warning bathers that bathing there was dangerous. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and warmly commended Mr Rogers, and asked the Coroner to bring his conduct before the Royal Humane Society for recognition. They also thanked the ladies and gentlemen for their aid and efforts in artificial respiration. The Foreman also promised to call the attention of the Urban Council to the danger of bathing at this place.

Western Morning News, Friday 7 August 1914
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns conducted an Inquest at the Mortuary, Plymouth, yesterday on WILLIAM CALLARD, 55, engine driver. Mrs Eliza May, Hotham-place, Stoke, said deceased lived with his mother and sister, in the same house as witness. She last saw him alive on Tuesday afternoon, when he appeared to be all right. Deceased, a single man, had not been in constant employment of late. - Constable George Roach, of the Plymouth Water Police, said early on Wednesday morning he rowed, in consequence of information received, to a Government buoy, near Drake's Island. The body of deceased was made fast to the buoy by a rope under the arm. He did not think the deceased could have done it himself. He took the body to Plymouth. On searching the clothing he found a notebook containing notes on the war. - Dr W. Crosbie Hamilton, who had made a post-mortem examination, attributed death to drowning. There were no marks on the body. - The Jury were not satisfied with the evidence, and the Inquest was adjourned until today.

PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth Mortuary yesterday on the death of JOHN LOBBAN, 82, naval pensioner, St Jude's-place. - MRS SARAH A. STEWART, said the deceased, her father, brought her a cup of tea early on Wednesday morning. About two hours later she missed him and at last found him hanging by a rope from a beam in the lavatory. - George Adams, a neighbour, spoke of cutting the deceased down. - Dr J. H. Heaney attributed death to strangulation, and a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned.

EXETER - Broadhembury Fatality. Doctor's Action Criticized. - Mr W. L. Brown held an Inquest at Exeter last evening on WALTER EDWIN BROOM, 37, carter, Broadhembury, who died in the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on Wednesday, as the result of an accident near Cullompton on Tuesday. Deceased fell from the shafts of a waggon, the wheels of which passed over him. - Edwin Hemings, chief steward to Colonel Gundry, in whose employ deceased was, said he rendered first aid, with the assistance of others. He communicated with Dr Gidley, Cullompton, explaining the nature of the accident, but the doctor refused to come because deceased was not on his panel. Several hours elapsed before they were able to obtain the assistance of a doctor, and during that time deceased suffered agonies, his body having been terribly crushed. - Dr Fisher, House Surgeon, said deceased suffered from internal injuries, shock, and haemorrhage. He died a few hours after admission. - By a Juryman: Witness was of opinion that if medical aid had been obtained earlier deceased's life could not have been saved. Shock and haemorrhage were the causes of death. - Summing up, the Coroner said it did not reflect much credit on the doctor who refused to attend the man because he was not on his panel. They could not compel the doctors to attend such cases, but he thought it was cutting it very fine. He thought common humanity would have dictated to the doctor what he should have done, and his action in not attending the man was exceedingly inhuman. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and agreed that Dr Gidley should have attended the deceased.

Western Morning News, Saturday 8 August 1914
HONITON - The Honiton Fatality. Verdict Of "Accidental Death." - An Inquest was held on Thursday at Honiton on WILLIAM BALCHIN, 39, of Axminster, who was run over by a motor lorry the previous day. - Evidence showed that deceased was in the employ of Mr William Goldsmith Potter, removal contractor, of Axminster, and on Wednesday he left Axminster in charge of a furniture van attached to a steam lorry, the latter belonging to Messrs. Morrish, of Axminster. The furniture wagon, which was originally built to be drawn by horses, was attached to the steam lorry by a V-shaped draw-bar, the front of the wagon projecting about 18 inches in front of the draw-bar. BALCHIN sat on this projection, and in order to make a more comfortable seat he took with him on Wednesday a piece of board and a rug. All went well until about a mile out of Honiton on the return journey, when the driver of the lorry saw BALCHIN lying in the roadway. He stopped immediately, but deceased was dead. - Dr Shortridge said deceased's neck was broken and several ribs on the right side were crushed, while there was evidence of serious internal injuries. Death must have been instantaneous. - The Foreman of the Jury, Mr R. Tucker, questioned the employer as regards the seat provided for the men, and expressed the opinion that a safer one should have been provided. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

PLYMOUTH - Found Drowned At Plymouth. - At Plymouth Mortuary yesterday the adjourned Inquest was held on WILLIAM TOWEL CALLARD, of 88 Hotham-place, Stoke, who was found hanging to a Government buoy in the Sound on Wednesday. - P.C. Roach, recalled, said he Central-office received a message from the Custom-house boat to the effect that the body was tied to the buoy. It was quite possible that a Government tug had tied the body to the buoy and afterwards informed the Custom-house boat. Deceased could not have tied himself in the position found. A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned.

EAST STONEHOUSE - Stonehouse Suicide. Husband Censured For Bad Treatment Of His Wife. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd, Coroner, yesterday held an Inquest on SELINA PORTER, aged 46, of Buckingham-place, Stonehouse, who died from gas poisoning on Wednesday. - The Coroner said deceased had left some letters. They were badly written, but he had succeeded in deciphering them and would read two: - "To R. PORTER, Husband, - I am now writing you for the last time. You almost took my life on last Wednesday night. You know what I have suffered by your hands night and day. You have served me very bad. Now I am going to end it all. Let me tell you that my death is through your ill-use. I cannot stand the strain any longer. You are a two-faced man. You go out with me to let people think you are happy. When I get home I get a beating. You have run me down to the very lowest to Mrs. ----, that is a worthy one; but you both got to answer for my death. I do not want you or my sister to follow me to the grave. You can please let my sons know. I don't forget to tell them that you nearly strangled me. If there is such a thing as haunting you, I will to the day of your death. No wonder you cannot sleep by night. You say your two wives haunt you and your children. Now you will be able to go to your son JOHN, and his beautiful children, and represent yourself as a Christian man when you are a slow murderer and king of the liars." - The other letter was to Mr A. J. T. Ede, and read:- " My dear son and daughter, - I am writing you for the last time. I know you have forgotten me; but never mind, it will be all over by the time you get this letter. I have been driven to this by that rogue I married. If you should come down and see me, look at my neck and see how he tried to kill me last Wednesday night. I was almost gone. I have suffered greatly at this man's hands. If you should come to Plymouth, look at my neck, where he tried to strangle me. I have put this down because my time is drawing near. Good-bye all. - Your loving mother, S. PORTER," - Deceased The Third Wife. - REUBEN PORTER, pensioner from the army, said he lived at Tracey-street, Plymouth. The deceased was his third wife, and they were married in December 1912. His wife left him on several occasions, the last being on Wednesday, July 29th, and he had not spoken to her since. - The Coroner: What happened that evening? She says you nearly strangled her. - Witness replied that his wife had been drinking and he remonstrated with her, and offered to read to her. She refused to listen and he put the gas out. Then she abused him before the workmen in the house. At tea time she refused to have tea with such "an old ---- as me." After the workmen had gone, she continued drinking and became filthy. After eight o'clock she returned three-parts drunk and wanted to fight him. "I said," witness continued, "SELINA, you would not hit me," and she tucked up her sleeves and said, "I'll knock your ----- head off." She came toward me, and I shoved her down and she fell on a coal scuttle. She had been nothing but a worry to me ever since I married her." - The Coroner: It would take a very powerful woman to hurt you, with the activity you are showing now. If you will listen to me we shall get on much better. - Witness agreed, but soon after he continually ejaculated that he was not going to be knocked about by a drunken woman. - The Coroner: You have frequently been before the magistrates? - Yes, once, and they dismissed the case. The whole of our domestic unhappiness has been caused through her drinking habits. - The Coroner: But the report states that your solicitor, Mr Duff, consulted the husband with a view to settling the case, and the magistrates agreed to dismiss the summons on the understanding that the two would make an endeavour to live amicably together. There was also a summons for cruelty issued by your wife and returnable for hearing before the Plymouth justices on Thursday? - Yes, and I should have summoned her myself, but Mr Duff said: "Don't be troubled with her." - You appear to suggest to the Jury that you are the aggrieved party and not your wife? - Yes, sir. She struck me. - She has been the sole cause of your domestic unhappiness? - "Yes," said witness, and striking the table with his fist, added, "Drink! drink! drink!" - If she liked she could have had a happy home? - Yes, and her allegations are quite untrue, and I say before you sir, and the other gentlemen, that I would not have the guilt of lie upon me. It is that drink. I have treated her with the best respect and would not allow her to wash a cup and saucer. I am well known in Plymouth and I will not forfeit my rights and my character for a half-drunken woman when she likes. Never! Never!" - The Coroner: I am afraid by your conduct here you might be likely to convince the Jury that you are a difficult man to live with. - Witness: No, sir. It has been all through her drinking habits. - Injuries Described. - Dr F. W. Perry stated that the deceased had visited him about four weeks ago and she was suffering from general gastritis. On Thursday morning she came to him and complained of being knocked about by her husband the previous night. There were marks on her neck and throat which were consistent with her story. She was a strong woman and he should think would be a fair match for her husband. To inflict the injuries the deceased received would require the application of a fair amount of force. He would say from his observation that the deceased was addicted to drink, and that accelerated the gastritis. She had a bruise on her shoulder, probably caused in falling. - John Conibear said the deceased lived in the same house as he did, with her husband. There had been quarrels, but he could not say who was to blame. There had been a few words between them, but being between man and wife they did not take much notice of them. (Laughter). - ELIZABETH CLEMENCE, Bishop's-place, Plymouth, said the deceased was her sister, but her married life had been a very unhappy one. For eight years prior to her marriage, she had lived the life of a good, Christian woman. She did not believe she drank intoxicating drink. - Mrs S. Hamblyn, Millbay-road, Plymouth, said she knew the deceased well, and she had always been a good, respectable, honest woman. For eight years before she married she lived a good life and if she drank she must have done it very slyly. - The Coroner said there was a letter for Mrs Hamblyn, which read:- "Thank you for your kindness to me. I hope God will forgive me taking my life, which is not mine to take, but God alone knows Himself what I have had to go through from this man's hand. I have been served cruelly by my husband. Let no one but Bertie have my mother's photo, and all the rest of my things you can have." - Dr W. H. Waterfield said he was called to the deceased's room, and found the ventilation of the room carefully stopped up and the room full of gas. She died of asphyxia from gas, and there was also a severe contusion under the left jaw. Around the neck were marks caused by pressure; there was also a bruise on her right shoulder and slight marks under both arms. She had an extraordinarily fatty heart and her liver was enlarged. The preparation of the room was very deliberate. - Husband Severely Censured. - Summing up, the Coroner observed that the sole cause of the tragedy was the unhappy life which the woman had experienced with her husband. She was 46 years of age, and he was 76. He was a man of ripe experience and certainly ought - if it was true that the woman was addicted to drink - to have manifested greater forbearance than he appeared to have done. The letter which the deceased had written complaining of his treatment, in fact brutal treatment, on Wednesday 29th, was borne out by the evidence of the woman's doctor and Dr Waterfield. He could not believe that her condition, as stated by the medical men, would be solely due to a mere action, as the husband called it, of self-defence. The mere catching hold of her and placing her upon the floor would not have caused such injuries. The poor woman had not received the treatment she deserved from the hands of her husband, and as a result it had so preyed upon her mind that she got into such a state of frenzy and fright that drove her to commit suicide. If they accepted that view, their verdict would be "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind," and whether the man should be censured or not was a matter for the Jury to decide. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind," and the Foreman added that the Jury felt the man should be severely censured. He thought the man's manner there that afternoon was enough to show that he would be quite guilty of ill-using his wife. - The Coroner, censuring the husband, said: The Jury feel that the condition of your wife's mind has been brought about by your brutality, and personally I quite agree with them. I think you are morally responsible for this woman's death, and if you have any conscience at all, I am sure it will prick you for the remainder of your life. I consider you have meted out to this woman very bad treatment indeed, and the Jury severely censure you for such conduct.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 11 August 1914
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Dockyard Fatality.- At an Inquest held at Devonport yesterday on JOHN CHARLES ALDRIDGE, 22, electrical fitter, who was found dead in a bunker on board a vessel at the North Yard on Saturday night, the evidence showed that deceased fell through an open hatchway down a bunker shute, a distance of over 40 feet. Deceased had been working with a candle. There were no stationary lights around the hatchway. He was dead when found, having fractured his skull. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and recommended that greater care should be taken in future to see such places were efficiently lighted.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 12 August 1914
STOKE DAMEREL - Plymouth Artilleryman's Suicide. - Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at the Military Hospital, Devonport, yesterday, on Gunner JOHN MURPHY, 107th Siege Co., R.G.A., who was found with his throat cut at Egg Buckland Fort early on Thursday morning. - Corpl. W. J. White said deceased, who was 25 years of age, was very excitable, especially when anything out of the ordinary was going on. On Thursday morning deceased was seen staggering through the doorway with his throat cut. Two razors were found in the passage. - Dr R. B. Burke, civil Surgeon attached to the Military Hospital, said deceased died on Sunday night from heart failure, due to the wound in the throat. - Verdict, "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

Western Morning News, Saturday 15 August 1914
TEIGNMOUTH - Teignmouth Tragedy. Visitor's Gallant Conduct: Jury's Recommendations. - The Inquest on the two young ladies drowned whilst bathing at Teignmouth on Thursday afternoon was held at the Townhall yesterday. - SAMUEL ALFRED AUSTIN, lace curtain agent, St Margaret's-on-Thames, near Richmond, said the deceased were his third and fourth daughters, RITA and ENID respectively, the former being 14 years of age, and the latter 19. - John Alexander Gray, gas manager, said he bathed from a tent next to deceaseds. They were a party of four, Miss Burgoyne being with the MISSES AUSTIN and another lady. The tide was practically dead low at the time, but there was a very rough sea. Witness entered the water and was surprised at the strength of the undercurrent. He found such difficulty in keeping his feet, that he went ashore and warned a gentleman not to venture out into deep water. Witness went back into the water about 20 yards from the shore. On turning round he saw Miss Burgoyne at his elbow. He advised her to swim in towards the shore, and she attempted to do so, but discovered that she could make no headway. She asked witness to help her in and he accordingly got behind her and gave her an occasional push, and she ultimately got in where she could stand. Witness lost sight of the ladies for a time, and the next he heard was six or seven persons in the water shouting for help at the same time. They had all lost their feet, and were apparently doing their best to make for the shore. The first one he reached was Miss Burgoyne, whom he again assisted in getting ashore. He then turned his attention to Mrs Badcock, of Newton Abbot. He assisted this lady also, but he did not see the MISSES AUSTIN. When Mrs Badcock got in something was said about someone else being in the water, and witness saw a visitor - Mr Curling - dash down the beach and bring in another lady. There would certainly have been a third fatality but for the prompt action of Mr Curling. - Joseph William Sharland, bathing attendant on the pier, stated that he saw something lying in the water, and he thought there must be something wrong. He accordingly lowered the boat and recovered the body. Mr Percy Foster, who was bathing at the time, swam to the boat and tried artificial respiration. - Herbert Sidney Curling, of Leytonstone, a visitor, said while returning to the beach he heard that someone was in difficulties. He went back and saw three ladies in the water. They were helpless and crying faintly for help. He advised them to stop shouting and to turn over on their backs. Witness saw the elder MISS AUSTIN sink before he arrived. The younger MISS AUSTIN was lying face downwards and helpless. Mrs Mills was also unconscious. He turned Mrs Mills on her back and went towards the younger lady, who was apparently dead. "I did not know what to do under the circumstances," added the witness, "so I saved Mrs Mills." When he went out again to the young girl her head was under water. He tried to hold her up but could not. "I was so exhausted," continued witness, "That I had to get back to the shore." He was going out again, but the people on the beach would not let him. - Dr Patterson said MISS RITA AUSTIN was brought in whilst he was on the beach. They tried artificial respiration, taking turns, but without avail. - Robert Woodgate, boatman, deposed to the recovery of the second body near the lighthouse. - Replying to the Coroner, witness considered it would have been unsafe for a boat to patrol the water between the pier and the Ness on this occasion. - Frank Willis Knight, surveyor to the Urban Council, said the Council provided two men and two boats, one on each side of the pier, whenever it was possible for them to go out. Warnings as to the danger of bathing at these times were invariably given. - The Coroner said it seemed rather important that some official warning should be given, whereupon Mr Knight said that Mr Percy Foster, hon. secretary of the Teignmouth Swimming and Life-Saving Society, had very kindly offered to make arrangements for the hoisting of a flag of a distinctive colour at the pier-head, when bathing was dangerous, and he (Mr Knight) might add that notices to this effect would undoubtedly be placed in prominent places on the beach so that bathers could see them. - The Coroner suggested that the Council might also consider the advisability of providing life-lines and lifebuoys. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Drowning," and unanimously recommended that two fully-qualified men, good swimmers, and medically fit, should be stationed on either side of the pier in the event of rough weather; that the boats be prepared for launching from the beach; that notices be posted stating that it was dangerous to bathe west of the lavatories; that the Council be asked to consider the provision of life-belts in certain places ready for emergency; also that the Jury considered the pluck shown by Mr Curling was deserving of the town's highest praise, and that it should be brought to the notice of the Royal Humane Society. They also commended the plucky efforts of Messrs. Gray and Sharland, and extended sympathy to the bereaved parents. - The Surveyor promised to bring the recommendation to the notice of the Council.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 18 August 1914
STOKE DAMEREL - Fall From A Window. Reservist's Death At Devonport. - An Inquest was held by Mr J. A. Pearce, Coroner, at the Military Hospital, Devonport, yesterday, on PTE. JAMES CHARLES, of the 4th Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders (Special Reserve). Deceased, who was 37 years of age, was a native of Greenock. - Colour-Sergt. J. A. Hindmarsh said he found the deceased lying on the ground below his barrack-room window at the North Raglan Barracks, Devonport, early on Saturday morning. The deceased was unconscious. Witness had the man removed to a room, and, in the meantime, a doctor was summoned. The window of the barrack-room was open. Deceased fell about 18ft. - Colour-Sergt. A. McRae gave the deceased a good character, and said he had received the good conduct medal. Witness last saw him alive at 10.15 p.m. on Friday at the door of his barrack-room. He then asked witness about the duties he had to perform the following day. He saw the deceased turn round to go to his bed. In his opinion the deceased met his death through accident. He had made inquiries of the other men in the room, and they knew nothing about the occurrence. - Evidence was given by Capt. J. H. P. Leschallas and by Dr R. B. Burke. the latter stated that death was due to dislocation of the neck. The Coroner suggested that deceased might have mistaken the window for the door. - An Open Verdict was returned by the Jury.

TORQUAY - The child of MRS LUCY GOODING, of Lower Union-lane, Torquay, which on Saturday night fell into a bath and was badly scalded, died on Sunday night. At the Inquest yesterday a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 19 August 1914
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns yesterday held an Inquest at the Mortuary, Plymouth respecting the death of EDGAR CHARLES TOY, aged five, of Regent-street, who fell off Sutton Harbour Quay on Sunday afternoon. Mr Percy T. Pearce represented the Sutton Harbour Improvement Company. - The evidence showed that when deceased fell into the water, Thomas Mardon, errand boy, Russell-street, got into a boat and pulled the boy out of the water. On shore artificial respiration was resorted to by a gentleman who was standing by. - Dr G. Deery attributed death to drowning and a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned, it being suggested, both by the Coroner and the Jury, that more Police should be on duty on the quays, especially on Sundays.

Western Morning News, Saturday 22 August 1914
NEWTON ABBOT - At the Inquest at Newton Abbot yesterday on JOHN SEGAR, jun., 40, dairyman, Fairfield-terrace, who died on Thursday as a result of a trap accident in which he broke his thigh, a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 27 August 1914
TOPSHAM - A verdict of "Accidental Death by Drowning" was returned at the Inquest at Topsham yesterday on ARTHUR SIDNEY MAY, aged 6, who was drowned in the River Clyst on Monday morning, when trying to bathe. The child was with another boy named Harold Luxon, age 7, who stated that deceased undressed, putting his clothes on the bank, after which he got into the water, where he immediately sank.

Western Morning News, Saturday 29 August 1914
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Child's Sad Death. - An Inquest was held at Morice Town School yesterday by Mr J. A. Pearce, Coroner, on KATHERINE ELIZA THOM, aged one year, daughter of WILLIAM JOHN THOM, of 31 Haddington-road, Devonport. KATHERINE LUCY THOM, mother, said on Monday, about 9.30 p.m., she put the child to bed in a room where a candle was burning. Witness left the room for a moment, and during her absence the child caught hold of the candle and set her sleeve on fire. Witness hearing the crying of the child rushed into the room and squeezed the child's sleeve in order to extinguish the flame, and in so doing the arm of deceased was burnt. Witness dressed the burn, and deceased slept for the remainder of the night, and was in good spirits on the following day. On Wednesday, however, a change took place and the child became stiff, when a doctor was sent for. The infant died the same evening. - Dr Gard said death was due to convulsions, accelerated by the burns. - Verdict accordingly, and the Jury expressed sympathy with the bereaved parents.

PLYMOUTH - Soldier's Death At Plymouth. - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest at Plymouth Mortuary yesterday on PRIVATE JAMES GOODBAN, of the Notts and Derby Regiment, stationed at Plymouth. Colour-Sergt. Brailsford said the deceased, a native of Nottingham, was 31 years of age. On Wednesday evening witness saw him stagger and fall in St. John's-road. He was taken into the Cattedown Schools and artificial respiration resorted to. When the doctor arrived he pronounced life extinct. Medical evidence showed that death was due to angina pectoris. Verdict accordingly.

STOKE DAMEREL - Drowned At Camel's Head. Soldier's Sad Death. - Mr J. A Pearce, Coroner, yesterday held an Inquest at Devonport Guildhall on PRIVATE EDGAR CHARLES YAXLEY, aged 18, Somerset Light infantry, who was found dead on the beach near Camel's Head. PRIVATE JAMES HENRY YAXLEY said the deceased, his brother, could not swim. - Private Ernest Edward Baker said on Wednesday, about 6.15 p.m. deceased, with witness and several others, went bathing in Camel's Head Creek. The last witness saw of deceased was when he was in the water. Deceased was then in the best of spirits. On coming ashore deceased was found missing, and his absence was reported to an officer. A search was made, with futile results. - Second-Lieut. John Weathered Power said on Wednesday he was in charge of about twenty men, all of whom entered the water. Witness, with a sergeant-major, went out in a boat and continued a long search without success. - P.C. Bawden said about 2 a.m. on Thursday, in company with P.C. Pryor, he went on the beach at Camel's Head in search of deceased, who was found lying on his back. The tide was low at the time. Witness was of opinion that deceased walked out of his depth. Dr McElwaine said death was due to drowning. - The Coroner said it was a very sad case, although a simple one. It was quite probable that deceased got out of his depth, and, being unable to swim, was drowned. He was sure the Jury would express their sympathy with the bereaved family, and to this they agreed, and returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Thursday 3 September 1914
NEWTON FERRERS - Frenchman Drowned In The Yealm. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd, Coroner, held an Inquest at the Reading Room, Newton Ferrers, yesterday, on a young Frenchman, named ERIC GRUHNER, who was drowned while bathing off Wembury beach on Tuesday, August 25th. Mr Oakley was Foreman of the Jury. Deceased's stepfather, M. L. M. FICHOU, said the deceased was aged 18, and very tall. He identified him by his features and general appearance. Deceased was staying at Braeside, Newton Ferrers, with Mr and Mrs Russell, in order to learn the English language. - Mrs A. Hartley Russell said she, her two children, and deceased went by boat to a place on Wembury beach for a picnic and to bathe. It was low tide and she and the deceased thought it quite safe to bathe there, as they had done several times before. All the party got into their bathing costumes and deceased threw out the stern moorings; he also fixed a rope from the bow to a rock on the beach. Witness stood at the edge of the water watching him. He got into the boat and proceeded to put on some water wings. He then got into the water, but found it too deep, as the tide was coming in fast. He got back into the boat and tried the depth with an oar. Witness continued, "I called to him to come back ashore, but ERIC got over the side of the boat, saying, "One, two, three," and went into the water. He made two strokes, when a wave struck him from behind. He threw up his hands, crying out, "Mon Dieu." He seemed to lose all control over himself and sank. I gave an alarm, and climbed up the cliff. Two young men from Langdon Court came to my help, but deceased had disappeared. One of the men, named Reece, sprang into the water, but it was of no use. This occurred about 3 o'clock. - Mr Oakley asked witness whether she thought it advisable to bathe in such a dangerous spot. She replied that she considered it perfectly safe. - Mr A. Axworthy, fisherman, said he recovered the body in a few inches of water in Wilcox Cove, Wembury. He towed it up to Newton Ferrers and it was placed in the boathouse on the quay. - In answer to the Jury, witness said he considered the place on Wembury beach most dangerous to bathe, even in fair weather. - Mr Russell said he was away on business, but before going he made deceased solemnly promise not to go sailing and to be most careful if he went bathing. Deceased was disposed to be most headstrong and wilful. He said it would be most unsafe to bathe from a boat, though not from shore. - A verdict of "Accidental Death from Drowning" was recorded, and the Jury said they thought that Mrs Russell had acted indiscreetly in allowing the deceased to bathe at that spot. Great praise was due to Reece for his gallant efforts to recover the body.

PLYMOUTH - Aged Plymothian's Death. Failure To See A Motor Car. - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on GEORGE PHILLIPS, 86, of 14 Watson-place, Plymouth. - Dr E. Rogers retired medical practitioner, living at Modbury, said he was driving a motor car, containing five other persons, near Friary Railway Station on Monday. The car was proceeding at about ten miles an hour when MR PHILLIPS crossed the tram lines at the end of Grenville-road, evidently looking at something away from the car. Sounding his motor horn he endeavoured to avoid him. MR PHILLIPS, however, must have walked into the side of the car. He did not actually see him come in contact with the car, but the other occupants realised that he had been knocked down. He was driving close to the kerb. - Wm. E. Blake, builder's contractor, said he was standing on the kerb near by when the car came along at, he thought, from 15 to 20 miles an hour. The off-wheel of the car was near the centre of the road, and he thought a wing must have struck MR PHILLIPS. He did not notice that MR PHILLIPS was looking away from the car. - P.S. John Soper said the car was proceeding at from 12 to 15 miles an hour. He saw MR PHILLIPS fall between the near tramlines, but did not see him struck. The speed of the car did not appear excessive. - Dr Wolferstan said MR PHILLIPS was unconscious, and the case soon became hopeless. A post-mortem examination showed that MR PHILLIPS had ruptured a blood vessel on the brain. It seemed as though he must have been tripped up by the car, and violently struck his head on the kerb. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, several Jurors expressing the opinion that a man of MR PHILLIPS' age ought not to have been out alone. - The Coroner said people often crossed the streets without paying sufficient attention to vehicular traffic.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 9 September 1914
EXETER - At the Inquest at Exeter last evening on ANN CANN, 83, widow, of Ide, it was stated that on July 28th last she was walking near her home when one of her boot-laces became undone. She stooped to lace it, and fell, injuring her thigh. Dr Fisher said death was due to cardiac failure, following a fracture of the right femur. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

EXETER - An Inquest was held at Exeter last evening on MRS EDITH SARAH WESTCOTT, 35, of Ide, who died in the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on Sunday. SAMUEL WESTCOTT said his wife had a gathering on one of her fingers and a doctor advised her removal to the Hospital. Dr Fisher said death was due to blood poisoning, and the verdict was "Death from Natural Causes."

WESTMINSTER, LONDON - Suicide Of A Plymouth Lady. - An Inquest was held at Westminster yesterday on MRS EDITH ANNA STABLE, aged 40, widow of MAJOR RUSSELL L. STABLE, of the North Lancashire Regiment, who committed suicide by jumping from a window, 75 feet from the ground, in Knightsbridge, on Sunday. - Miss Elizabeth Mary Bayly, of Torr, Plymouth, a sister of the deceased, said MAJOR STABLE died three years ago. MRS STABLE had no children and was apparently in her right mind until April, when she made an attempt on her life and was certified insane. Since then she had been confined in a private asylum. Last Saturday she was examined by two doctors, who said she might be discharged on Monday. On Sunday morning she met MRS STABLE, who was in charge of a nurse and they went to church. After lunch at the Strand Palace Hotel, they went to the Ladies' Park Club, Knightsbridge, of which they were members. MRS STABLE asked her to telephone to a lady about a trivial matter and upon coming out of the telephone-box she found her sister had disappeared, and was lying in Hyde Park, having fallen from her (witness's) bedroom window on the fifth floor. She had shown no sign of depression that morning, nor had she said anything about suicide. There was a history of insanity in the family. - Dr Bernard Hart, Medical Officer at Northumberland House, said MRS STABLE had apparently quite recovered on Saturday. At the beginning of August, on the outbreak of war, she had made great improvement, the war having acted as a stimulant and taking her out of herself. She had since been buying materials and making woollen and other garments for the soldiers and had expressed a great anxiety to be allowed to go home. She knew she was to be discharged on Monday. He did not think she premeditated suicide for any length of time before the act, and had no doubt she yielded to a sudden impulse. She had had numberless opportunities of committing suicide when out for walks. - Death took place in St George's Hospital four hours after admission. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

Western Morning News, Saturday 12 September 1914
JACOBSTOWE - Jacobstowe Gravel Pit Fatality. - Mr H. C. Brown held an Inquest at North Piend Farm, Jacobstowe on Saturday, on JOHN DAVEY, aged 15, the son of MR JOHN DAVEY, of Exbourne. - Richard Weekes, jun., of North Piend Farm, said that on Friday he was working with DAVEY in a gravel pit on the farm. He left to take a load of gravel to the farmyard. When he returned he found DAVEY lying on his back, covered with gravel up to his knees, and had a cut on his forehead. There had been a fall of about two barrow loads of soil. The pit was about eight feet deep. - Dr G. V. Bird, Okehampton, said the cause of death was a fracture of the base of the skull. He also thought the neck was dislocated. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 15 September 1914
STOKE DAMEREL - Fall From A Window. Open Verdict At Devonport. - At the Royal Albert Hospital, Devonport, yesterday, Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest on EDWIN WILLIAM BOARD, naval pensioner, of 74 Duke-street. - MRS EMMA BOARD said her husband, 47 years of age, had been attended by Dr McElwaine since last October for melancholia. On the 3rd inst. she left him in a room with himself, whilst she did some washing. In about a quarter of an hour she heard something fall out of the window and found her husband lying on the ground outside. She thought he was looking for her and accidentally fell. The window was on the third storey. He had not done any work for about twelve months, and never threatened to take his life. - Emily Baser, of James-street, opposite 74 Duke-street, said she saw BOARD inside the window, which he afterwards lifted up, and leaning out fell head first to the ground. - P.C. Healey said the height of the window from the ground was between 35 and 40 feet. When he arrived BOARD was moaning and lying in a large pool of blood. The window was three-parts open. - Dr James Parnell O'Flynn, House Surgeon, said BOARD died on Saturday, death being due to a fracture of the skull and other extensive injuries. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony, but could not say whether the fall was accidental or intentional.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 16 September 1914
STOKE DAMEREL - Soldier's Fatal Fall. - An Inquest on PRIVATE JOSEPH THOMAS, 3rd North Staffordshire Regt. was held by Mr J. A. Pearce at the Royal Military Hospital, Devonport, yesterday. - Sergt. Sydney Bentley said THOMAS, who was 34 years of age, and had a wife and three children, was on Saturday driving a horse with a light cart along Tavistock-road, Devonport. Near the Dockyard Orphanage the horse became frightened, the wheel of the cart came in contact with the kerb, THOMAS fell into the road and the wheel went over him. - Corpl. John Watwood said he was of the opinion that the wheel of the cart got into the tramline, and the horse became frightened. - Miss Vera Armstrong, of Trevarthian-terrace, said she saw the horse and cart going along at a mad gallop. THOMAS held on to the shaft until the left wheel caught the kerb and he was thrown off. She went to his help with bandages, &c. - Dr Hamilton Whiteford said when admitted to the Hospital THOMAS was in a state of collapse, caused by broken ribs, torn lung and internal bleeding. He never rallied and died on Monday morning. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, and the Jury commended Miss Armstrong for her kind assistance. - Inspector Goodridge and Miss Armstrong gave their attendance fees to the widow.

Western Morning News, Thursday 17 September 1914
OKEHAMPTON - At the Inquest at Okehampton yesterday on PHYLLIS AGNES HAWKINS, aged 2 years, daughter of JOHN HAWKINS, of the Castle Lodge, Okehampton, found dead in a pool of water in the Castle grounds on Tuesday morning, a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. The mother stated that the child had often gone to play in the grounds, but never remembered her going near the pools before.

NEWTON ABBOT- HENRY NICKELLS, aged 50, engine driver, employed by Whiteway and Co., clay merchants, Kingsteignton, was seen at work in the engine-room about 8 o'clock on Monday morning. About o'clock a claycutter noticing that the machinery was running slowly went to the engine-room and found NICKELLS lying on the floor unconscious. He was taken to Newton Hospital, where he died on Tuesday morning. Death was due to the rupture of a large artery on the brain. At the Inquest yesterday, a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 18 September 1914
EGG BUCKLAND - The Fatality At Crabtree. Telephone Wire Inspector's Death. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd held an Inquest at Crabtree yesterday on WILLIAM JOHN JORDAN, of Thornbury Park-avenue, Plymouth, and employed by the Government as a telephone wire inspector. - MR W. G. JORDAN, assistant inspector of messengers, Plymouth G.P.O. said his son, 22 years of age, was married. He was quite capable of doing the work given him. - Kate Butland, of Lakeside Cottage, Crabtree, said she saw JORDAN about 2.30 p.m. on Wednesday attending to wires on the Crabtree side of the G.W.R. permanent way. He came down and spoke to her. - P.C. Lake, of Crabtree, said on Wednesday, about 3.5 p.m. he was on the Plymouth-Plympton main road and looking over a wall saw the body of JORDAN lying on his back on the waterside of the down railway line, a few feet away from the post on which he had been working. The body was quite warm, with severe injuries to the head and injuries between the shoulders. The signals could easily have been observed. A telephone and climber were found near. - Mr G. Sherman, engine driver, G.W.R., said he drove the 10.30 a.m. train from Paddington on Wednesday and passed the spot where JORDAN was found about 2.34 p.m. On examining his engine the only thing connected with the matter he found was a coil of wire hung up around a bolt at the head of the cylinder, about 4 feet from the front of the engine. He did not see JORDAN. - Mr Ernest E. Henwood, inspector, G.W.R., said JORDAN had a right to cross the line to perform his duty. The signals were quite visible. A motor train from Plympton passed the spot about ten minutes after the Cornish Riviera. - Mr Christopher G. Roach, sectional engineer, Plymouth Post-office, said JORDAN, who was under his control, was sent on Wednesday to trace a fault on the Plymouth-Ivybridge junctions. It was work he was quite capable of performing alone. JORDAN was one of their best men and he had every confidence in him. JORDAN was on the pole between 2.15 p.m. and 2.30 .m., and spoke to the test clerk at the Whimple-street Exchange to say all was clear to that point. Every man was provided with instructions warning them to be careful when working on railways and JORDAN had one of these instructions. - The Coroner said it was a very sad case, and he was satisfied that JORDAN was knocked down by the express from Paddington, and that nobody in connection with the matter was to blame. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death whilst in Execution of his Duty," and expressed sympathy with the bereaved relatives.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 22 September 1914
EXETER - Suicide At Exeter. - An Inquest was held at Exeter yesterday on Quarter-Master-Sergt. HENRY THOMAS DYER, of Mount Pleasant-road. - SAMUEL A. DYER, of the 9th London Territorials, said his father was 58 years of age, and an army pensioner, having been in the 2nd Devons. Latterly he had been overworking in connection with the enrolment of recruits, but until Saturday was very bright. - MRS DYER said on Saturday night her husband came home in his usual health. The next morning she woke up and missed him. She found him in front of the kitchen fire with a wound in his throat. He had never threatened suicide, and did not grieve overmuch for his son lost with the Titanic. - Evidence was also given by P.C. Harris and Dr Bradford. - Verdict, of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity." The Coroner and Jury expressed sympathy with the widow and family.

STOKE DAMEREL - Soldier's Suicide. Tragic End Of An Invalid. - Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at Devonport yesterday on PTE. WALTER VERE JOYCE, 1st Somerset Light Infantry. - HERBERT WILLIAM JOYCE, of Bristol, said his brother, a Reservist, 27 years of age, was a postman in civil life. He accompanied his battalion to the front and was invalided home with a bad foot. He was not wounded. - Pte. Frank Upham, 1st Somerset L.I., said on Saturday evening as he was going to his room about 8.30 he heard a shot. He ran into the room and found JOYCE on the floor dead, a rifle by his side. Pte. Edward Oakham, 1st Somerset L.I., said he met JOYCE at Taunton Station on Saturday. He seemed worried about his foot and asked if he thought he would get into trouble for being sent home. Witness told him he would not, as he was invalided home. JOYCE could not walk well. - Escaped From Mons. - Asked by the Coroner how he got home, the witness said "I was one of the lucky ones to escape after being cut off from the battalion at Mons. We were in the rear and made our way to the French Consul, who sent us across. - How many of you got cut off like that? - When I ran through the village they fired three volleys at me. I found Capt. Clarke and five or six more of our men and twenty or thirty of other regiments lying in a ditch, and I joined them. We picked up several other soldiers, and when we got to Shorncliffe the party numbered about 100 belonging to various regiments. - Dr R. J. Thomas, Medical Officer in charge of Bull Point Barracks, said he had examined JOYCE'S foot. It had probably been bad through a poisoned in-growing toe-nail. It would undoubtedly interfere with his marching. - Replying to the Jury, witness said often after the first battle the men got very highly strung. That might have affected JOYCE'S mind, especially if he was left behind or lost. Between JOYCE'S knees was a blood-stained envelope on which deceased had written in pencil: "As I am unable to march, I am no good as a soldier. England will win." - The Coroner said it was evidence that the bad foot played on JOYCE'S mind. He was sure his friends and even the man himself would rather he had been killed on the battlefield than have met his death in this manner. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind," and expressed deep sympathy with the widow and relatives.

Western Morning News, Thursday 24 September 1914
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Mason's Plucky Act. - Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at Devonport Workhouse yesterday on JOHN SAMUEL DENBY, aged 68. - Eveline Rickard, at whose house at Mutton Cove he lived, said his sole means of subsistence was parish pay of 5s. a week. He had been failing for a long time. On Saturday evening he caught his clothes on fire. She thought that affected him, but he had never threatened to do away with himself. About 6.30 on Sunday evening he went out and she did not see him again until called to Mutton Cove, where he had been taken out of the water in an unconscious state. She could not say how long he had lived apart from his wife. - Samuel J. Brickwood, mason, said about 8.30 on Sunday evening he was on Mutton Cove Pier and a friend drew his attention to a body in the water. He at once jumped overboard in his clothes and brought the man ashore. - P.C. Turner, Metropolitan Police, said when Brickwood brought the man ashore he and P.C. Braund used artificial respiration for some time. There were chains along the wall and pier to prevent people falling over. - Dr G. Sandford said on Monday morning the man was in a state of collapse at the Workhouse and died on Tuesday morning. A post-mortem examination revealed pneumonia of both lungs and old-standing kidney disease. Death was due to pneumonia, as a result of the immersion. - A verdict was returned accordingly, there being not sufficient evidence to show how deceased got into the water. The Coroner complimented Mr Brickwood on his gallant conduct.

Western Morning News, Monday 28 September 1914
ILFRACOMBE - Ilfracombe Motor Fatality. - Dr Ellis Pearson, of Bideford, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Ilfracombe on Saturday on WILLIAM STREET, 58, a labourer, employed by the Ilfracombe Gas Co., who was knocked down and fatally injured by a motor car the previous evening. Mr R. M. Rowe, solicitor, appeared in the interest of deceased's widow; and Mr F. B. Wyatt, solicitor, Southmolton, for the Autocar Co., Ilfracombe, whose regret he expressed at the occurrence and sympathy with the relatives. - A son of the deceased said his father was returning from work at the time of the accident. - Jas. Wm. Ellick, of Bridgwater, the driver, said he was returning from Hunters' Inn with a party in a touring car. In Hillsborough-road, near the junction of the Barnstaple and Combemartin roads he was following a char-a-banc, which he attempted to pass. Seeing he had no chance, he decided to wait until he reached a wider portion of the road. His car was then proceeding at the same pace as the char-a-banc, which, as far as he could judge, would be ten to twelve miles an hour. He afterwards received a signal from the driver of the first car to pass, and endeavoured to do so. As soon as the front of his car got into line with the tail of the char-a-banc he saw deceased in front of him, but he could not say from where he came. The char-a-banc slowed down as he was passing to about seven miles an hour. Immediately witness saw STREET he sounded his horn and applied both brakes, but an accident could not be averted, and deceased was struck by the off-lamp. To pass the char-a-banc his accelerated speed was about twelve miles an hour. - Witness admitted, in answer to a question by the Jury, that it was not absolutely necessary for him to have passed the char-a-banc, but he supplemented this with the remark that a char-a-banc was a slower vehicle. - In answer to Mr Wyatt, witness said STREET might not have heard his motor approaching owing to the noise the char-a-banc was making. He added that an accident was inevitable. If he had taken either of the other alternatives of driving his car into the other vehicle, or into the hedge, it would probably have resulted in the sacrifice of his party. If deceased had not been a little irregular in his movements, apparently endeavouring to regain the path, witness thought he might have passed him. He produced a clean licence, and said he had several years' experience in large centres. James Henry Gubb, the driver of the char-a-banc said when he first saw STREET he was about three feet off the footpath and he should not think that the other driver could have possibly seen him, coming out as he did from behind the char-a-banc. - Dr Toller said deceased died from the shock of internal injuries. One of the wheels of the car must have passed over him. Witness, who is a motorist, in reply to the Jury, said he thought two cars should have been able to pass at the spot quite safely. - The Deputy Coroner said the whole question was whether the driver had exercised a reasonable amount of car and the Jury, after a short consultation in private, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," exonerating the driver from blame.

ILFRACOMBE - Ilfracombe Woman's Death. Left In Cellar "To Come Round." - At Ilfracombe on Saturday Dr Ellis Pearson, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest on MIRIAM GRACE HEARD, 25, wife of SILAS HENRY HEARD, licensed victualler, found dead that morning. Deceased was of intemperate habits. On Friday evening the husband retired to bed early under doctor's orders, suffering from pleurisy, leaving his wife in charge of the business. Later in the evening he ascertained that his wife was drunk. Going downstairs he found her behind the bar, and assisted her into the cellar, which was between the kitchen and the bar, on the same level, where she fell down. He left her there thinking she would "come round" all right, as she had done previously. He saw no more of her until 7.30 a.m., Saturday morning, when she was found in practically the same place, dead. - Dr Osborne, who was sent for, said he had attended deceased several times previously. Death was due to suffocation, following vomiting. - The Deputy Coroner said he did not think it a wise thing for the husband to have left his wife there as he did, but he evidently thought it would be all right, as it had proved before. - Verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 30 September 1914
STOKE DAMEREL - Died On His Wife's Grave. Devonport Man's Suicide. - At the Inquest yesterday on ERNEST FEHRENBACK, 45, working jeweller, of Balmoral-avenue, Devonport, who was found dead on his wife's grave at Plymouth Cemetery the previous day with a bottle and glass near by, JOHN FEHRENBACK, son, stated that deceased had been considerably upset by the death of his wife, three months ago, and on the day of his death seemed particularly depressed. - Dr Price said the condition of deceased's stomach was consistent with his having swallowed an irritant poison. - A verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind" was returned, sympathy being expressed with the relatives. - The statement made yesterday that deceased was of German extraction has caused the relatives pain. Deceased, we are informed, was born in England; has a brother serving at the front in the Rifle Brigade and a son undergoing training with Lord Kitchener's New Army.

The months of October, November and December missing from Archive.