1722

 

July 2. Gloucester,  June 28.  On Monday last one STEPHEN WEBB of Hardwicke in this County was unfortunately killed by an accidental Blow, which (‘tis said) was given him by one JOHN PHELPS of Longhope, in the aforesaid County.

 

July 23.  JOHN PHELPS,  who was indicted for killing STEPHEN WEBB, as in our Journal of the 2d. Inst. Page 78, was acquitted.

 

Oct 1.  Gloucester, September 29.  Last night Mr JAMES DOWEL, of Chalford near this city, fell from his Horse as he was riding homewards and broke his Scull, and died in 3 Hours after.

 

Oct 22.  Gloucester, Oct 22.  One JANE LIMMOCK, from Larford’s Gate, near Bristol, is committed to this County Gaol, for barbarously murdering her Husband, by cutting open his Guts.  One JOHN HARDWICK is also committed, for being an Accomplice in the same Fact.

 

 

1723

 

Jan 14.  Gloucester, Jan 12.  One SARAH GAY of Burton, a Mile from Cainson and 5 from Bristol, living in a Farmer’s House, her Belly being got up, she endeavour’d to conceal it for fear of Shame, and when her Pains came on her she said she was violently afflicted with the Colick; but her Mistress thinking her to be with Child, went up Stairs with her, and coming down soon, the maid was delivered in the meanwhile, murder’d the Infant, and wrapt it in a Blanket; her Mistress coming up again soon discover’d it, tho’ the Maid had the Impudence to deny it, till her Mistress open’d the Blanket.  The Coroner sate on the Body, and brought her in guilty of Wilful Murder.

 

Mar 18.  ELIZABETH POULSON, of Prestbury, was indicted for the Murder of her Bastard Child, on the 25th of December last; but the Evidences agreeing in their Opinion that the Child was Stilborn, the Jury acquitted her.

   ANNE WILMOTT was indicted on Suspicion of being concern’d with SARAH BENBOW  alias CASELEY, both of the Parish of St Philip and Jacob, in the Murder of Benbow’s Bastard Child; which Child was taken out of Wilmott’s Vault, and had its Mouth Stuffed full of Paper and Cinders.  Benbow, in her Defence, said, that as soon as She was delivered of the said child, she wrapp’d it up in her Petticoat, and left it on the Dresser in Wilmott’s wash house; the Jury looking upon that as a great Disregard to the Preservation of her Child, and considering by the Strength of the Evidence that Wilmott could have no Advantage by murdering it, she having forewarn’d Benbow some Time before of frequenting her House, &c. Wilmott was acquitted, and Benbow found Guilty - Death.

   JANE LEAMOUCKS,  of the Parish of St Philip and Jacob, was indicted for the murder of her husband JAMES LEAMOUCKS, on the 12th of October last, by giving him one mortal wound on the Navel with a knife.  Several witnesses deposed that they had often heard her threaten to kill him; but one John Harding swore positively that she told  him she had stabbed her Husband, and desired him to hide the knife in the Garden, for fear it should be discover’d.  She said very little to the Purpose in her Defence, and being a Person of a very bad Character, the Jury brought her in Guilty of Wilful Murder. - To be burnt.

   MARY BARRETT was indicted for the Murder of her Bastard Child, on the 2d of December last.  Several Evidences deposed that the Child was full grown, but did not perceive any sign of violence that had been us’d to the Body of it, and the Prisoner in her Defence alledging that it was Stillborn, the Jury, being favourable, acquitted her.

 

Apr 1.  EXECUTED.  ... but Cam denied the Fact for which he Died, as did Sarah Benbow also the murder of her Bastard Child.  At the same time Jane Leamoucks was burnt for the murder of her Husband; she likewise denied the Fact, and behaved herself very stubborn, from the time of her receiving Sentence to the place of Execution.

 

Apr 15.  Gloucester, Apr 12.  They write from Woodchester, a Place about 9 or 10 Miles from this City, That last Tuesday some Persons going to dig for sand in that Parish, discovered all the Bones of a full grown Person.  By their position it seems, the Body had been thrown there in haste.  No signs of any Coffin appeared; but, by the Skull, in which was a preternatural Hole, there lay a great Nail.  The Neighbourhood is full of Conjectures, &c.

 

May 20.  From Mist’s Journal, May 11.  On Tuesday se’nnight, one JOHN FLOWER kill’d a Boy with a Pick Axe, as he was at work with him in a Coal pit, near Pensford, four mile from Bristol.  He confess’d the Fact, and that he did it without any Provocation; the next Day he was committed to Ilchester Gaol.  It appeared to the Coroner’s Inquest, that the man was Lunatick, he having attempted to kill his own Father but three Days before, and was prevented only by the timely coming in of his brother.

 

Jun 3.  Bristol, May 30.  We had a very unhappy Accident happen’d near this Place; a Gentleman walking from hence to Stapleton, in Gloucestershire, meeting of a Collier Boy on the Road, ask’d him some Questions, the Boy returned him very impudent Answers, which so provoked the Gentleman, that he pulled a Knife out of his Pocket and Cut his Throat; the Gentleman is since Committed to Newgate.

 

June 10.  Bristol, June 5.  A Collier in this City got very drunk, coming up towards Kingswood, rode over a Boy about 12 Years old and kill’d him on the spot; the Coroner’s Inquest brought it in Wilful Murder, the Man rode off and has not been heard of since.

   The same Day 3 or 4 Taylors, with several others went a Swimming in the Piles between Bedminster and Bristol, one of the Taylors was prevail’d with to try first, who, as soon as he Leapt in sunk, and rose up 2 or 3 times, which made the rest think him in jest, but finding themselves mistaken endeavour’d to save him, but could not by reason the Water was too deep.

   We have an account from Kingswood that 9 Colliers were kill’d by the Fall of a Mine, ...

 

Aug 12.  Gloucester, August 10.  On Sunday Morning, the Fourth of this Instant, one JAMES EARL, of the Parish of Melksham in Wiltshire, hang’d himself.

 

Aug 19.  Gloucester, August 17.  ... and the Lieutenant who was try’d for killing another Lieutenant on Durdham Down, was found guilty of Manslaughter.

 

Dec 2.  We hear from Upton on Seavern, That a Child coming into a Shoemaker’s shop there, and eating a small Ball of wax which lay in the said shop, died in a short time after.

 

1724

 

Apr 13.  Gloucester, April 13.  On the 8th instant one WILLIAM WHITE was committed to our Castle for the Murder of one THOMAS PARRY, by stabbing him in the Belly with a Knife, of which Wound he instantly died.

 

June 15.  Gloucester, June 15.  And on the 7th Instant four Boys washing in the River Severn near the said place, three of them were drowned.

 

June 22.  Gloucester, June 20.  They write from Stow in the Would, that on Thursday was Sev’night two Men sitting under a Bush, near that Place, one of them (with a Dog they had with them) was kill’d by a Flash of Lightning, and the other was dangerously wounded, who we hear is since dead.

 

July 27.  Gloucester, July 25.  (Assizes) WILLIAM WHITE,  for stabbing and murdering of THOMAS PARRY, of Wootton Underedge.

   FRANCIS WATHEN, charged by JOHN TAWNEY for murdering RICHARD MERRY of Upton, and also charges WALTER PEACH for the same.

 

Aug 3.  WILLIAM WHITE of Wootton Underedge was indicted for the Murder of Thomas Parry, on the 6th of April last, by giving him a mortal wound under the Right Arm with a knife.  The Evidence against the Prisoner was very full and plain, but there being a Quarrel between them about kicking a young Woman’s Lanthorn, and it appearing there was no premeditated Malice in the case, and likewise that the Deceased struck the Prisoner two Blows on the Face, he was found guilty of Manslaughter only.

   Sentence.  WILLIAM WHITE, Burnt in the Hand.

 

Oct 5.  Gloster, Oct 5.  And from Ashchurch, near Tewkesbury, that a Man Servant being sent to Shake a Tree of Pears before he went to Tewkesbury Fair, and being in haste, the Bough broke with him, and the Poor Fellow was found under the tree with his Neck broken.

 

1725

 

Jan 4.  Gloucester, Jan 4.  They write from Campden, That on the 23d of last Month, one Mr FLETCHER of Yberton, being at an Inn, was set upon by three Men, who so Barbarously used him, that on the 29th of the same Month he died.  One of them made his Escape, but the other two have given in Bail to appear at the next Assizes.

 

Jan 11.  Gloucester, Jan 11.  On Thursday Night last, a young Man who had been on board one of the trows to see his Friends, slipt off the Plank as he was coming a Shore, and it is said has not been found since.

 

Jan 18.  Gloucester, Jan 18.  On Monday last a Young Man, about 14 Years of Age, Son to the Clerk of St Johns in this City, accidentally Shot himself with a Pistol, not knowing it to be charg’d, of which Wound he instantly died.

 

Jan 25.  Gloucester, Jan 25.  The beginning of last Week, the Hostler, belonging to the Star Inn, near the Key, through some Discontent, went and Hang’d himself.

 

Mar 1.  Gloucester, Mar 1.  They write from Bristol, That a Captain of a Ship belonging to London, had the Misfortune (being unacquainted with the Streets of Bristol) to fall over a Precipice between two Roads, whereby he beat out his Brains, and died immediately.

 

Mar 8.  Gloucester, March 6.  Commitments to our County Gaol: SARAH CLAPEN, alias HARPER, for concealing or Murdering a Bastard Child.

 

Mar 15.  At the Gloucester Assizes THOMAS HERBERT and three other Persons were arraign’d and try’d upon an Indictment for the Murder of Richard Fletcher, and upon a full Hearing of the Cause, in which the King’s Council appeared, the Defendants were acquitted of the said Indictment, and only one found guilty of Manslaughter.  This is published to justify the Coroner’s Inquest (who found the Death of the said Richard Fletcher to be only Manslaughter) and the Persons concerned for the Defendants from the many odious, vile and false aspersions unjustly charged on them.

 

1726

 

Jan 4.  Gloucester, Jan 1.  We have an Account from Burford, in Oxfordshire; that the letter end of last Week a Farmer’s wife within three Miles of that Place, cut her Throat with a Penknife and Died immediately.  ‘Tis said she did it thro’ some Discontent.

 

Jan 11.  Gloucester, Jan 8.  We hear from Stow in this County, that at Broad Rissington near that Place, on Tuesday last, as one Mrs HEMING (a Farmer’s Widow who had nine Children) was frying some Meat to entertain her Neighbours, and wanting some Mustard, she immediately takes a Ball to make some, but it being rusty, she put it into the Fire to clean it, when to her great Surprize the Ball, as soon as it was hot, burst into several pieces, whereby the poor Woman was so desperately wounded, that she died the next Morning.  The windows of the House were also broken.  It seems this Ball had been appropriated to the use of making Mustard seed for many Years, before this false Catastrophe; and ‘tis supposed by its bursting that it was a Bomb-shell fill’d with combustible matter, used in Engagements by Sea or Land.

   From Cheltenham, That a poor woman was lately found dead in a field near that place, having two Loaves of Bread lying by her.

 

Feb 8.  From Bristol, That on Wednesday Morning last one GEORGE PRUETT of Horfield near that City, was found dead in his Bed, with his Brains beat out, and three Stabs in his Body.  And we hear, there was also found an Iron Bar in the Room, with which ‘tis supposed his Life was finished; and likewise an old stocking all bloody in the Bed by him, as tho’ the Bar had been wiped therewith.  How this fatal Accident happen’d is not yet known; but a Kinsman of his who (we are inform’d) was to be his Executor, has been examined before a Justice, but we don’t hear that they can prove any thing upon him.

 

Apr 19.  Bristol April 16.  On Monday last a young Man, who, they say, was to be married the next Day, had the Misfortune to fall off a Causway and break his Neck, as he was coming down St Michael’s Hill.

 

Apr 26.  Gloucester, April 23.  Yesterday was Sev’night, about two in the Afternoon, a MAN UNKNOWN leap’d into the River Severn, near Wopill, in sight of several Persons, and was drowned.  The Body being taken up on Tuesday Morning last, it was found to be Mr WILLIAM TERIL of West Kinton in Wilts.  He was about 30 years of Age, and somewhat disorder’d in his Senses.  The Body was carried away in a Hearse, in order to be buried at Kinton.

 

May 3.  JOHN JEANE> RICHARD PYE (Cabbin Boy) > Guilty.

 

May 3.  Gloucester, April 30.  On Thursday last one GILES MAJOR was Committed to our Castle, from Cheltenham, on suspicion of Murthering his Brother in Law.

 

May 31.  Bristol, May 27.  On Sunday last a Boy [Francis George] was drowned by going into our River to wash himself.

   ... And on Tuesday one JOHN EWEN of St Leonards Parish in this City, who last week beat and whipt a Boy of about three Years old, who was put to Nurse to his Wife, till he died under his Hands, was taken and committed to Newgate.  The child’s Offence, for which he used him so barbarously, was only fouling the Bed.

   ... And on Thursday last a Porter in St Thomas street putting a Barrel of Pitch up one pair of stairs, his Foot slipping, the Barrel returned upon him and so bruised him, that he died in two Hours after he was carried to his Lodgings.

 

Jun 7.  Advert.  re Male child aged 1 week left at Tetbury in a basket.

 

Jun 21.  Ross in Herefordshire.  A Servant Girl here who was brought to bed of a Bastard Child, murder’d the Infant by breaking its Neck, and afterwards hid it in a parcel of Feathers.

     Gloucester, June 18.  On Tuesday last, one of the Dragoons washing himself in the Severn, near this City, was drowned.

 

Jul 26.  Gloucester, July 23.  The Assizes for this City beginning this day at the Booth Hall in this City, the following Persons are to be brought upon Trial, viz. Giles Major on suspicion of murdering FRANCIS GEORGE.  John Hooper for Manslaughter.

 

Aug 23.  Bristol, August 20.  Wednesday night last one Farmer YOUNG of Redland, near Durdham Down, was barbarously murdered in his Bed, himself only being in the house, but it is not yet found out by whom, tho’ it’s fear’d his Wife is not wholly ignorant of it, they having lived a disagreeable Life, and she having left his bed for some time, besides which, a Key belonging to him was found upon her.

 

Aug 30.  Gloucester, August 29.  MARY YOUNG and THOMAS BOWEN her Son were on Thursday last committed to our Castle for the Murder at Durdham Down, mentioned in our last.  Since when BENJAMIN BOWEN another of her Sons is apprehended at Abergavenny for the same, and being under examination, will be speedily sent hither.

 

Sep 6.  The Account we received from Bristol (in our last) of the apprehending of BENJAMIN BOWEN at Abergavenny is a groundless aspersion cast upon him, he now living in London.

 

Sep 13.  Bristol, September 3.  The Coroner’s Inquest have given their Verdict before the Justices that Mr YOUNG of Redland, near Durdham Down, was most barbarously and wilfully murder’d.

    .... Advert re escape of JANE ATKINS, aged 30/40, of Kingswood Wilts.  Convicted of murdering her new born child; description.

 

Sep 20.  Bristol, September 18.  This Morning JACOB DAVIS one of our Neighbours, a lighter-man, who was drown’d last Night, is taken up at the Key.

 

Oct 4.  Gloucester, October 1.  From Bristol, That on Saturday last in the Afternoon five men belonging to the Brass works at Baptist Mills, having been up the River in a boat, as they were coming back again, the boat being driven by the rapidity of the stream struck, against a stake, or some such thing, with such force, that every one of them was thrown out of the boat; however, some of them caught hold of the boat, and the rest of the Twiggs which grow on the bank of the river, by which means they were all saved, except on JAMES THOMAS, whose Twigg broke off, and he was unfortunately drowned.

 

Oct 18.  Gloucester, October 15.  They write from Wotton Underedge in this county, that on the 14th of last month (being their Fair) one JACOB ROBINS being intoxicated with Liquor, and mistaking his Son had received an abuse from some persons at the Turnpike, went thither, where a battle ensued between him and two Lime carriers; after which, Robins went off: But meeting with an acquaintance by the ways they both concluded to go back again to the Turnpike.  By this time the Keeper of the Turnpike (who was absent during the Skirmish) was returned; and Robins demanding of him his wig, which he said he had lost there, the Keeper strove to pacify him, by telling him if he had lost any thing there, he would look after it; but Robins not content with this reply, gave him abusive Language, and assaulted him; upon which the Keeper closing with him, they both fell to the Ground, and Robins’ Leg was so broke with the fall, that in a weeks time he died with a mortification.

 

Oct 25.   They write from Bristol, 22 Inst.  Last Night a Man was drown’d by the Lime kiln on St Philip’s Backs.

                 Gloucester, Oct. 24.  Last Week a Jeweller going from hence to Bristol on horse back, on a sudden lighted, and went to a pond near the road side, and drowned himself.

 

Nov 1.  Gloucester, Oct 29.  We have an account from Little Sodbury in this county, that on Tuesday last a poor Man who keeps a Shop there, and sells Drams, &c. going out and leaving his Wife (who was blind) to serve in it; some villains ‘tis supposed took an opportunity to murder her, and afterwards carried off to the value of 10/- in Money.

 

Nov 15.  Gloucester, Nov 14.  On Wednesday last one CHARLES BUTLER was committed to our Castle for the Murder of MARY HARWOOD of Little Sodbury formerly mentioned.

 

Dec 13.  Gloucester, Dec 10. .......perished by the extremity of the weather, since which another poor Man has also been found dead on Horton hill near Petty France.  And we hear that the Roads are render’d so bad by the vast quantity of snow, ....  

 

 

1727

 

Jan 30.  Bristol, Dec 30.  We hear that a young man, an Apprentice to a Pipe-maker in this City, upon some Disrespect from his Sweet heart, stabb’d himself in her presence, and ‘tis suppos’d to be mortal.

 

Jan 17.  Bristol, Jan 7.  A barbarous Murder was committed last Tuesday, by HENRY BROOKMAN, (an idle fellow, about 18 years of age)  on the body of MARY COFF, a Quaker, who was found in the Meeting House last Wednesday, with her throat cut from Ear to Ear.  It happened, that one of the Neighbours seeing the said Brookman coming from thence, caused him to be apprehended upon suspicion, and being brought before the Justices then sitting at Pensford, they immediately ordered him to be search’d, and found a Bloody Knife in his Pocket, which prov’d to be the poor Woman’s; whereupon he made an ample confession of the Fact, viz. That he first knocked her down, then searching her pocket, found therein 18d. in Money, and that Knife, with which he cut her Throat; he was thereupon committed to Ivelchester Gaol.

               Worcester, Jan 11.  Last Sunday was 7 Night, as a Man of this City was halling up his Oister boat below Gloucester, in his way hither, going very near the River side, the Ground fell away from under him, whereby he fell with it into the water and was drown’d, leaving a Wife and two Children.

 

Feb 14.  Gloucester, Feb 11.  On Monday Night last, one MATTHEW GIROD, a Person that dress’d wash’d or Oyl’d Leather, at a Mill in or near Barton street, fell into the works and was kill’d, he hath left a wife and two children.

 

Feb 21.  Gloucester, Feb 18.  They write from Ross, in Herefordshire; That on Wednesday last in the Evening, one Mr LONGBOTTOM fell into a Cellar, and broke his Neck.

 

Feb 28.  Gloucester, Feb 25.  By the great Quantity of Snow and Rain, that fell on Tuesday and Wednesday last, we hear there has been great Floods in all parts of the Country, and several Men and Horses have been drowned; ...

 

Mar 14.  Gloucester, Mar 11.  Our Assize beginning this Day at the Boothall in this City, the following Persons are to be brought upon Trial, viz. GILES MAJOR, on suspicion of murdering FRANCIS GEORGE; JOHN HOOPER alias WILLIAMS, for Murder; ... CHARLES BUTLER, for the Murder of MARY HORWOOD of Little Sodbury; JOHN GOWIN alias LEVANS, for being concerned in a Murder with JOHN HOOPER, &c.

 

Mar 21.  GILES MAJOR indicted for the Murder of his Brother in Law (FRANCIS GEORGE) on the 26th of April last.  MARGARET LAD, a near neighbour to the Prisoner, depos’d, That on the 26th of April, about 10 a’clock at Night, she heard Francis George cry out Murder several times, and also heard a Person say, was not you the Death of my Sister? which (she said) was like Major’s Voice: Hereupon she arose and went to some of her Neighbours, and told them what she had heard; but they not being willing to get up, desired her to call to her Neighbour George to know what was the matter, which she did; and having no Answer, went to bed again, thinking all was well.  The next Morning about Five she arose and went to Spinning; and after some time, not perceiving her Neighbour George go to his labour as usual, she went to his Door, and opening it, saw him dead on the Floor; at which, being much surprised, she went back again, and acquainted the Neighbours with it, who immediately took a Constable and entered the House, where they saw the Deceased lying against a Post in the Chimney corner with his Throat cut in a very barbarous manner, and a great deal of Blood on the Ground.  Among the rest, was the Prisoner, (Giles Major) who seem’d to take but very little notice of his deceased Brother; however, being seized on suspicion of the Murder, his Wastecoat, Breeches and Shoes were found to be bloody: And farther to corroborate the Fact, a Gentleman of Cheltenham going to view the Body of the murder’d Person, discover’d some Blood on the Ring of the Door, as also upon a Stile that lead into an Orchard, which induced him to make a stricter search, in order to a farther discovery; and going by the side of a Hedge that led to the House where Major liv’d, he discovered the print of a Man’s Foot on the Grass, which was very tender, and looking narrowly into the Hedge to see if there was nothing hid there, as a Knife, or the like, found a Garter tied all in knots, all bloody, and with it some Hair, of the same Colour with tht of the Deceas’d; after which, there was also found in a Chair in the House of the said George a piece of a Garter exactly agreeing with the bloody Garter.  And what is still more remarkable, when the Prisoner was apprehended he had no Garters on; and a witness (who work’d with him) depos’d, that he had seen Major put on and pull off those Garters several times.  These and several other Circumstances being very full against the Prisoner, and he producing no one to his Reputation, the Jury found him guilty of the Murder.

 

CHARLES BUTLER indicted for the Murder of MARY HORWOOD  of Little Sodbury, and taking a Sum of Money out of the House.  Several witnesses depos’d, that they saw Butler have some Gold about him, which he took pains to shew a day or two after the Murder was committed; and particularly a Moidore, which was lost out of the House, and he was so ignorant, that he knw not the value of it: But what was still more evident, one of the witnesses depos’d, that she saw Butler on Sodbury Common the Morning the Fact was committed, and talking together bout it, Butler said he had been there that Morning for some Tobacco, and that Mary Horwood was then very well as far as he could perceive; but her Husband was gone out to look after some Oxen, as he really was.  These and many other Circumstances gave the Jury reason to find him Guilty.

 

The Trials being over, the Judge proceeded to give Sentence as follows:

Received Sentence of Death, 6. viz.  GILES MAJOR, CHARLES BUTLER, ...

[4 SINCE REPRIEVED; Giles Major to be executed Friday next.]

 

Mar 28.  Gloucester, Mar 26.  Yesterdy GILES MAJOR and ABRAHAM CAYNES were executed here.  Major during the time he lay under Condemnation was very obstinate, and would not confess the Murder, tho’ often press’d to do it by the Minister that attended him; but the Day before his Execution, being earnestly entreated by Caynes on his knees to acknowledge his Crime, he made an ingenious Confession to him, declaring that he himself was the only Murderer of his Brother in Law, and that no one else was concerned with him in committing the same. ...

   They desired the Spectators to taking warning by ‘em, and after having some time allowed them for their private Devotion, the Cart drew away, they calling on God to receive their Souls.

          Gloucester, Mar 27.   We should have inform’d our Readers in our last, that MARY YOUNG and WILLIAM BOWEN (indicted for the Murder of EDWARD YOUNG) were both acquitted, she bringing several witnesses to prove where she was when the Fact was committed, and the Evidence not being full enough against Bowen to convict him.

 

Apr 18.  Bristol, Apr 8.  We hear that at the Assizes at Taunton 10 Malefactors receiv’d Sentence of Death; among whom is HENRY BROOKMAN for the Murder of a poor Woman at Belton Meeting House near Pensford, ... Brookman is to be executed on Wednesday next on a Gibbet near the said Meeting House, and to be hang’d up in Chains on the same.

             Gloucester, Apr 15.  Last week a Maid Servant of TOBIAS LUTON, of Doynton had her Brains knock’d out in her said Master’s House, which is suppos’d to have been rifled by a Fellow whom her Sweetheart (who was going to see her) saw go from the House, a Way where there was no Road, and seeing what was done, caused him to be pursued and taken on Lansdown: He was deliver’d into the Custody of an Officer, who set a Watch over him, however the Fellow (who was very urgent with the Coroner to let him go, and said he would list himself for a Soldier) found means to make his escape.

 

Apr 25.  Bristol, Apr 22.  On Tusday last a Sailor being in Liquor fell overboard at our Key and was drown’d.

 

May 2.  Bristol, Apr 28.   On Friday last about one in the Afternoon, HENRY BROOKMAN was executed, and afterwards hanged in Chains, on Hursley-hill, for the Murder of MARY CUFF, a Quaker.  He confess’d the said Murder, and said he stabb’d her in seven Places, and then cut her Throat and robb’d her of 1s. 6d.  Some Gentlemen having the Curiosity to ask him, why he was Guilty of such a Crime? He answered (as he did before the Judge) that ‘twas Hunger made him do it.  

          Gloucester, Apr 27.  On Friday last was committed to our Castle ROGER BRYANT, for the Murder of the young woman at Doynton, as mention’d in this Paper of the 18th Instant.  He hath since confess’d the Fact.

 

Jun 13.  Gloucester, Jun 10.  Last Saturday a Boy was kill’d by the Kick of a Horse in Barton street; whose Father lost his Life about a Year or two ago by the same unhappy Accident.

 

Jul 4.  Gloucester, Jul 1.  This Week BENJAMIN BOWEN was committed to our Castle on suspicion of murdering his Father in Law Farmer YOUNG at Redland in August last.

 

Jul 25.  Gloucester, Jul 22.  ROGER BRYANT, for Wilful Murder.

 

Aug 1.  Gloucester, Jul 29.  On Wednesday last our Assizes ended here, where several Persons were tried for the following Crimes:

ROGER BRYANT, indicted for the Murder of ANNE WILLIAMS, on the 3d of April last, by giving her a mortal Wound on the Head, of which she died:  TOBIAS LUTON, depos’d, That on Easter Monday he and his wife went to Church, and when they returned, they found Anne Wiliams (their Servant) murder’d, and their House robb’d of a Silver Tankard, two Silver Mugs, a Gold Ring, and Several other things.  The Prisoner being a Person of ill Repute was taken up on suspicion of committing the said Murder, &c. but found means to make his escape from the Constable and his Assistants: However, in about three weeks after he was retaken at Cirencester, where he had sold a Ring, which was proved to be Mrs Luton’s; and when he was brought to Gloucester he confess’d the Fact to the Persons that guarded him thither, whilst he was at an Inn, and likewise said that he had hid the Plate in a Field near the House from whence he had stolen it; but tho’ diligent search was made, yet it could not be found.  Upon his Trial, he denied the Fact; but the Evidence being very full against him, he was found guilty of Wilful Murder.

 

BENJAMIN BOWEN, indicted for the Murder of his Father in Law, EDWARD YOUNG of Redland, near Bristol, in August last: The Prisoner brought his Master from London, who depos’d that he was in his Service on the 17th of August, the Time the Murder was committed, which was also corroborated by another Evidence from thence; whereupon he was acquitted.

 

Sentence of Death.  ROGER BRYANT and JOHN EVANS.

Note, JOHN EVANS is since reprieved, and ROGER BRYANT order’d for Execution on Wednesday the 9th Instant, near the Place where the Murder was committed, and afterwards to be hang’d in chains there.

 

Aug 15.  Gloucester, Aug 12.   On Wednesday last ROGER BRYANT (condemn’d for the Murder of ANNE WILLIAMS, Servnt to Mr LUTON of Doynton, and robbing the House of several Pieces of Plate) was executed on Tug Hill, near the Place where the Murder and Robbery was committed, and afterwards hang’d in chains there.  He was about 24 years of age, born of mean Parentage, at Doynton aforesaid, and was put forth Apprentice to a Sheerman, but not liking that Employment, he run away from his Master, and inlisted himself for a Foot Soldier; after which he betook himself to the Business of a Pargiter; and in the latter Part of his Life was a Draoon in the Hon. Brigadier Churchill’s Regiment, but deserted.  As to the Particulars of the Fact for which he suffered, he said, That having been playing at Skettles on Easter Monday, and Luck running against him, he went to Mr Luton’s, thinking to have received a small Matter that was due to him for Work, but Mr Luton and his Wife being gone to Church, he was disappointed: Hereupon he began to tell his Complaint of the Want of Money to an idle Fellow that was begging a draught of Small Beer of the Maid: To which, the Fellow reply’d, D--n it, I believe there is a good Wedge of Money here, let us have it; and accordingly knock’d down the Girl with a great Stick he had in his Hand, and then bid him strike her, which he did; but his Heart failing him, he said, he did not hurt her much; then he went up Stairs and took the Plate mentioned in the Indictment: Bryant added, that whilst he was up Stairs, the other Fellow struck the Maid such a violent Blow, that it made the House shake, (which stroke he believed finish’d her Life) and then made his Escape into a Wood.  As he was going to the Place of Execution he discovered where he had hid the Plate, which being found, he had 5 l. given him.  ‘Tis also very remarkable, that when he came within sight of the House where the Fact was committed he began to be terribly shock’d, and wept bitterly.

 

Oct 31.  Gloucester, Oct 30.   On Friday last a Boy belonging to one of the Troughs at our Key, tumbled over board, and was drown’d.

 

Nov 7.  Gloucester, Nov 6.  One ---- JOHNSON, of this City was committed to the Northgate, last week, for the Murther of a Child she was Mother in Law to; which she acted in a very cruel manner.

 

End.

 

 

1728

 

Jan 16.  Bristol, Jan 13.  We hear of several sad Accidents, particularly a young woman near this City, who poison’d herself, because her Sweetheart slighted her; and another in the City hang’d herself on the same account: As did also a young Man, tho’ we don’t hear that this was for Love.

 

Jan 23.  Gloucester, Jan 22.  The late Rain have occasioned such Floods in these Parts as have not been known for many Years past, whereby vast Tracts of Land are overflowed, and Passengers go to and from this City in Boats. - Last Saturday a Boat passing through one of the Arches of our Bridge, to which a Barge was fastened, was overset by the same, and a Boy, son of the Widow Baily, of the Cross Keys, near the Westgate, was drown’d; but two Men who were in the same Boat, fortunately caught hold of the said Barge, and were saved.

 

We have the following melancholy Account from the City of Bristol, That a Shoemaker’s Wife of that City being in Labour, and her Life despair’d of, they open’d her, in order to save the Child, which was found dead within her: Hereupon the Husband was so afflicted, that he murder’d a Child of his of about 4 Years old, and afterwards hang’d himself.

 

Mar 26.  Gloucester, Mar 23.  On Saturday Night last, Five Persons were Drown’d near Minsterworth, viz. one Man and four Women, as they were going from Gloucester Market in a Boat, they were eight in all, but three were saved.

 

Apr 9.  Gloucester, Apr 6.  The Assizes for this County beginning this Day, at the Boothall, in this City, the following Persons are to be brought upon their Trials, viz. JANE WOODRUFF, charged with destroying a Bastard Child. - SARAH BIDMEAD for the like Crime.  RICHARD HARMER and ELIZ. HOLDER on suspicion of Murder.

 

Apr 16.  Bristol, Apr 13.  Last Night 3 Small Children going hand in hand to the waterside, all fell in and were drowned.

                Gloucester, Apr 13.  A NEW BORN INFANT was lately found in the Severn, near this City, supposed to be murder’d.

 

ELIZABETH HOLDER indicted for the Murder of her Bastard Child, and RICHARD HARMAR for concealing the same.  JOHN MOSS depos’d, that the Prisoner lodg’d in his  House, and that he heard a noise, like that of a Cat, but heard no more of it.   SUSAN MOSS depos’d, that several People accus’d the Prisoner with being with Child, but putting it to her, she denied it; and hearing the aforesaid Noise, she ask’d the Prisoner if she heard it, who reply’d, she did not:  In the Morning, the wench ask’d for some Bread and Cheese, and Drink, and soon after arose: Sarah Moss further deposed, that two or three Nights after this she was much surpriz’d in her Sleep, by Dreaming she saw a young Child, which made her mistrust something more than common; but her Daughter making an excuse, to look for somewhat she pretended she wanted, went up stairs, where she discovered signs of a Child being newborn; whereupon, she charged the Prisoner with the Fact, who still denied it:  After this, some of the Neighbours being called in, the Prisoner produced the Child, and a Midwife being sent for, declared she had not gone the full time; and upon the Trial the Midwife likewise depos’d, to the same Effect.  The Prisoner in her Defence said, that she did not think her Time so near by 6 or 7 Weeks, and that she had provided for lying-in; so that the Jury brought her in Not Guilty, and acquitted Harmer.

 

JANE WOODRUFF and SARAH BIDMEAD were also indicted for the like crime, and acquitted.

 

Burnt in the Hand: ABRAHAM ANDREWS for Manslaughter.

 

May 7.  Bristol, May 4.  On Thursday Mr WALTER VAUGHAN, Jun. Cooper, was found dead under the Rocks below the Cupaeloes, with his Brains dash’d out, and his Body much bruised.

 

Sep 24.  Gloucester, Sep 21.  Tuesday a Waggon loaded with Cheese (with two Women therein) coming to our Fair, was overturn’d at the Wainers Hill, near this City; one of  the woman was killed on the spot, and the other much hurt.

 

Oct 8.  Bristol, Oct 5.  One Day last Week ELIZABETH GOUGH, the Landlord’s Wife of the Boarded House in Kingswood; was convey’d from Bridewell, without Lawford’s Gate, to Gloucester Castle, for maiming, and in an inhuman manner stamping on the Body of a Woman six Months gone with Child, who came to call her Husband from the Alehouse, of which Bruises she died in a few Days, and the Child within her.

 

Oct 29.  WHEREAS JOSEPH SMITH of Henton, near Derham, was found robb’d and murder’d in a ground near Marshfield in Gloucestershire, supposed to be murder’d by JOHN WOODHAM, Jun. of Marshfield aforesaid, on Friday night last, being the 18th of October, he having since absconded: Whoever therefore shall take and secure the said John Woodham, will be Intitled to 40 l. as by Act of Parliament.  Note, he is a slender Fellow about 5 foot 10 inches, of a pale Compexion, about 24 years of age, supposed to have on a brown bobb Wig, and a grey Coat.

 

Nov 5.  Gloucester, Nov 2.  On Tuesday last JOHN WOODHAM (advertis’d in our last) was committed to our Castle, being charged with the Murder of JOSEPH SMITH, near Marshfield, in this County:  He hath since his Committment confess’d the Fact; and farther declar’d, that one WATTS, now in Ilchester Gaol, was concerned with him in the said Murder.

 

Dec 3.  Gloucester, Dec 2.  We have an Account from Bristol of the 29th ult. that the Tuesday before, as some Boys were throwing Snowballs there, one fell on a Drummer who was lately come from Ireland to raise Recruits, as he pass’d along, which so inrag’d him, that he drew his Sword, and stabb’d a Man, that endeavoured to pacify him, in such a manner that he instantly dropt down dead on the spot.  The Drummer was immediately secured, in order to receive the just Reward of so rash an Action.

    On Thursday Night last ROBERT COLE at Reedford, near this City, was kill’d by the Wheel of a grist Mill, as he was striking down the shut, that stops the water, with a Sledge, the weight whereof (he missing his Blow) pull’d him into the Water, and the Wheel catching hold of him, tore his Head and one of his Legs so violently, that he immediately expired.

 

Dec 17.  Gloucester, Dec 14.  They write from Bath, That the beginning of this Month died in Ilchester Gaol, one THOMAS WATTS, committed on suspicion of being concerned in the Murder of JOSEPH SMITH, near Marshfield, with one Woodham, now in Gloucester Gaol; and tho’ Woodham since his Commitment hath accused Watts as an Accomplice with him in the said Murder, yet ‘twas generally believed he was innocent of it, and Watts declar’d to the Rev. Mr Harris, in his dying Moments, that he was no ways accessary to it.

 

Ends

 

 

1729

 

 

Jan 7.  London, Jan 4.  We hve an Account from Bristol, that a few Days ago one of the Tide Surveyors from that Port, cut his Throat in such a violent manner, that he died soon after.

              Gloucester, Jan 4.  They write from Bath, that THOMAS WATTS, who died in Ilchester Gaol, where he was committed for being concern’d in the Murder near Marshfield, did confess to the Keeper of the said Gaol, that he was Guilty of the said Murder, notwithstanding he solemnly denied it to the Minister who attended him in his last Moments, as was lately mentioned in this Paper.

 

Feb 18.  Gloucester, Feb 17.  On Thursday last died in our Castle Gaol, JOHN WOODHAM, some time since committed for being an Accomplice (with one THOS. WATTS, who died lately in Ilchester Gaol) in the Murder of JOSEPH SMITH, near Marshfield.  Woodham, before he dy’d, confess’d, That he, together with the said Watts, and one WALTER WEBB, now in Salisbury Gaol, did murder the said Joseph Smith, for informing against the said Watts and Webb, for stealing a Deer out of ‘Squire Blathwait’s Park at Derham.

 

Apr 8.  Gloucester Assizes: Sentences:  ELIZ. GOUGH, that was Indicted for the Murder of MARY WILLIS, was found Guilty of Manslaughter, and burnt in the Hand.

 

Apr 22.  Gloucester, Apr 19.  On Thursday Night a Farmer’s Son near this City, as he was fishing for Elvers, tumbled into the Severn and was drowned, before any Help could come to him.

 

Sep 16.  Bristol, Sep 13.  Yesterday, ... WILLIAM TAYLOR, a Drummer ... executed on Mile Hill Gallows; ... for Murder.  They both died very Penitent.

 

Oct 28. Bristol, Oct 25.  On Thursday was committed to our Gaol, Capt. JAMES NEWTH, being charg’d on Oath with suspicion of hving Murder’d his Cabin Boy on the Coast of Guinea, about two Years ago.  It seems he has made a Voyage since he did the Murder, along with those that are the witnesses thereof; and had they not fallen out, about making up some Accounts, the Boy’s Death had not been call’d in Question.

 

Nov 18.  Gloucester, Nov 17.  On Wednesday last one Owner CUTTS fell over board, near this City and was drowned; we don’t hear his Body is yet found.

 

Dec 16.  Gloucester, Dec 15.  Two Men and a Woman were drowned in their Passage between Bath and Bristol.

 

Ends.

 

 

 

1730

 

Apr 7.  Gloucester, Apr 6.  We hear from Horton, in this County, the following Melancholy Account, that on Sunday the 29th of March, a Gentleman’s Servant near that Place, being in the Bellfrey, among the Bells, when the great Bell was standing, which he not observing, unfortunately stept upon it, by which it gave Way, and in its Fall cut the young Man almost in two in the midde, so that he died immediately.

 

Apr 14.  Gloucester, Apr 11.  They write from Newnham in this County, that one HENRY GOVET, Carpenter, being at work on board a Vessel there, had the Misfortune of having his Skull fractur’d by the Fall of a Piece of Timber, of which he dy’d, having left behind a Widow and four Children.

 

Jun 9.  Gloucester, Jun 6.  On Monday last one Mr KING of Marston coming from Cirencester Market, his Horse threw him, and he died on the spot.

 

Jun 16.  Gloucester, Jun 13.  One CHARLES JONES, of Sherbon in this County, kll’d himself this Week with drinking of Brandy.

 

Jul 7.  Bristol, Jul 4.  One Day last Week a Drummer’s Wife of Lord Mark Ker’s Regiment quarter’d here, pison’d herself, being jealous of her Husband.

 

Incomplete

 

 

 

1731

 

May 11.  Accidents.  Bristol Old Street man fell off own cart, son of farmer at Bristol Causeway, burnt in barn fire??

 

Jun 15.  This week one GREEN, a Shoemaker in this City, being much heated with Liquor, went into the Severn with an Intent to cool himself, and was unfortunately drowned.

 

Aug 3.  A list of the prisoners to be try’d here this Assizes:  SUS. DANGERFIRLD and THOMAS CLARE, for Murder.

 

Aug 10.  THO. CLARE, who kill’d JOHN WAYNE at Frogmill on the 26th past, was found guilty of Manslaughter, and burnt in the Hand.

 

Sep 7.  Gloucester, Aug (sic) 4.  This Week a Woman dropt down dead on the Farthing Bridge in this City.

    [On Wednesday] Likewise the same Day in the Evening, a Boy fell out of a Boat into the River Severn, near Gloucester, and was drowned.

 

Sep 14.  Bristol Assizes, Sep 11.  Yesterday our General Gaol Delivery ended here, when the four following Malefactors received Sentence of Death, viz.  ... and THOMAS CARROLL, lately belonging to the Lord Kerr’s Regiment of Foot, quarter’d in this City, for the Murder of JOHN BOYSE, of the said Regiment, at the Angel in King street.

 

Sep 21.  Thomas Carroll, condemn’d for the Murder of John Boyse, fter Sentence pass’d, on his Knees told his Lordship that he expected to die, and begged to have Time allow’d him to prepare for another world; adding, that he died for Joseph Allen, that Day arraigned with him by the name of John Allen; and declared him to be the Person who committed the Fact.

   The said Tho. Carroll, ... is since repriev’d; and it has been thought fit to continue Joseph Allen in Prison, lest an Appeal should be lodged against him by some of the deceased Boyse’s  Friends.

 

Oct 12.  Bristol, Oct 2.  Yesterday was Se’nnight a Man fell over the Key, suppos’d to have miss’d his Way to the Bridge, and was drowned.  And on Saturday Night last another Man fell out of a Loft, the Backside of the White Horse Inn in Redcliffe Street, into the River, and was drowned.

 

Oct 19.  Bristol, Oct 9.  One Mr HEAD, a Master Mason, and one ------ were drowned on Thursday Night last in Sea Mill Brook.

 

 

 

1732

 

Jan 4.  Gloucester, Jan 1.  About the middle of this week a young Woman, Daughter in Law to Owner Williams, going to push off her Father’s Barge a little above the Key, accidentally slipp’d into the River, and was drowned; the News whereof so surpriz’d her Mother, who had been ill for some time, that she died son after; and both were interr’d together this Evening.

 

Jan 25.  Gloucester, Jan 22.  We have an account from Chepstow, that on Thursday Night last JAMES DAVIS, (formerly Servant to Sir William Morgan, but of late to Mr Robert Morgan) endeavouring to leap his Horse over some Stiles in the Footway between that place and Tidenham, the Horse fell upon him and kill’d him.

 

Feb 1.  Gloucester, Jan 29.  We have an Account from Tetbury, that on the 20th Instant, GEO CONSTABLE, a Youth about 12 Years of Age, went with some other Lads into his Father’s Garden, in order to divert themselves with a Play representing Bull baiting, and having ty’d one Part of a Girth round the Body of a Tree, and the other about his Neck, he slipp’d off a Bank, and strangled himself:  His unwary Companions, not being appriz’d of the Danger, view’d him for some time with Pleasure, but finding that he was speechless, they ran to acquaint some of the Neighbours therewith, but too late, for before any Person came to his Relief, the unfortunate Youth was dead.

 

Mar 7.  Gloucester, Mar 4.  Assizes.  JOHN GILES, alias CHILD, and MARGARET GOULDING, on suspicion of Murder.

 

Mar 14.  Gloucester, Mar 8.  JOHN GILES, found Guilty of Manslaughter, by striking EDWARD DYER, jun. Of Compton, 2 Blows on the Head with a Stick, whereof he dy’d, was burnt in the Hand, and order’d to remain in Gaol eleven months, without Bail or Mainprize.

 

Mar 21.  Gloucester, Mar 20.  Last Monday Evening two Men, Brothers in Law, having borrow’d a small Boat, in order to go a fishing; as they were endeavouring to pass through one of the arches at Over’s Bridge, near this City, the Boat overset, and they were both drowned.

   But a more melancholy Accident of this Nature happen’d last Saturday within two Miles of Newnham, where Owner Pearse’s Passage boat, bound from Bristol to that Place, struck against a Sand, and sunk down immediately, whereby eight or ten People lost their Lives.

 

Mar 28.  Gloucester, Mar 25.  They write from Newnham, that the Number of Persons drowned last Saturday was 7-night, (as mention’d in our former) appears to be 17, Men, Woman, and Children.

 

Apr 18.  Bristol, Apr 15.  Last Saturday Night one of the Drawers at the Bush Tavern in Corn Street, fell over Wade’s Bridge, and was drown’d.

   And the next Morning, a Lad of about 14 was also drown’d near the same Place.

 

May 9.  Gloucester, May 6.  They write from Mitchel Deane in this County, that on Friday the 28th of April last, between the Hours of Seven and Eight in the Evening (as is suppos’d) one THOMAS TURBERVILE of that Town, Carpenter, was in a most barbarous and inhuman Manner murder’d in his own Shop, by having his Brains dash’d out, and afterwards his Skull chopp’d and beat all to Pieces with a broad Axe.  The Deceased being a Widower, and having no Child, liv’d alone, and was not found till the Saturday Evening, where the Axe was lying by him all over Gore Blood.  The Person who is justly suspected to have committed this villanous and bloody Fact, is one ELY HATTEN, a weaver, son of Thomas Hatten, of Ruar Deane, Victualler; who was seen between the Hours above mentioned to follow the said Turbervile into his House; and the Deceased was never seen afterwards till found dead in the Manner aforesaid.  There are a great many other Circumstances which induce People to believe he was the Person that committed the Fact; one in particular was, that a Shirt and a Pair of Stockings of the Deceased were found on his Back and Legs, when he was under Examination before the Jury at the Inquest.  He is now confined in our Castle, and, ‘tis to be hop’d, at the next Assizes will meet with as just a Punishment as so desperate and bloody minded a wretch deserves, in order to deter others from committing the like Offence.

 

May 23.  Gloucester, May 20.  On Tuesday last a very melancholy Accident happen’d near the Horse pool not far from this City, in the road to Stroud, viz. One Farmer Townsend and his Servant coming through a Clover Ground belonging to THOMAS BURCHAL, a Butcher, accidentally broke the Gate, and he being at an Ale house near the Road, and hearing thereof, was so enraged, that he took his Horse and rode after the waggon.  The Farmer offer’d to satisfy him for the Damage done; but he said he would have no other Satisfaction than beating the waggoner for it, which he did with a Stick so violently, that he broke the young Man’s Scull, who dy’d a few Hours after he got Home, which was about a Mile from the Place.  We hear that the Butcher had his Collar Bone broke in the Scuffle.  The Coroner’s Inquest sate on the Body of the Deceased on Thursday, and brought in their Verdict, Wilful Murder.

NB  We are inform’d that the said THOMAS BURCHAL had taken the ground but a few Hours before this happen’d, and that he has a Wife and four Children.

 

May 30.  Gloucester, May 27.  On Tuesday last STEPHEN BLISS, a Baker of Painswick, pull’d off his Cloaths, and jump’d into a Well, and drowned himself; there was 10 or 15 l. found, which he had laid by the side thereof.  He dy’d with 6 or 700 l. And as he was generally thought to be Lunatick for the greatest Part of his Life, this last desperate Act shews the Opinion not to be ill grounded.

 

June 20.  Gloucester, June 17.  Last Week two Boys quarrelling at Highnam, near this City, one of them in the Fray snatch’d up the Hedge Bill of a Man who was at work just by them, and struck his Antagonist on the Head with it: The Person with whom the Boy Liv’d, apprehending there was no Danger, neglected to have the Wound dress’d in Time, so that he is since dead; for it seems the other had cut him into the Brain.

 

Aug 8.  Gloucester, Aug 5.  On Friday last THOMAS BURCHILL, some Time since found guilty (before Edward Webb, Gent. Coroner) of the Murder of one JOHN CAUSON, voluntarily surrender’d himself to the Keeper of our Castle.

 

Aug 22.  Gloucester, Aug 19.  Assizes.  ELY HATTON, and THOMAS BURCHELL, for Murder; the former for killing Tho. Turbervile, late of Mitchel Dean, Carpenter; and the latter for killing John Causon.

   Last Saurday was se’nnight Mr LITTLE, a Farmer at Ashler near this City, threw himself into the Severn, and was taken up this week at our Key drowned: ‘Tis supposed he was disorder’d in his Senses.

 

Aug 29.  Gloucester, Aug 26.  On Wednesday last the Assizes ended here, when one Man received Sentence of Death, viz. ELY HATTON, for the most barbarous and inhuman Murder of Tho. Turbervile, late of Mitchel Dean, Carpenter, on Friday the 28th of April last, who was found in his Shop the next Day with his Brains dash’d out, and his Skull chopp’d to Pieces with a broad Axe, that was lying by him, all over bloody.  There were several reputable Witnesses called to prove this horrid Fact, which nothing but ocular Demonstration could tender more plain, for when he was apprehended, he had on a Shirt and a Pair of Stockings of the Deceased’s, and his Coat was bloody in several Places.   He acknowledged that he was with the Deceased that Evening, and had only to say in Excuse, that the Deceased and he went to a Hill near the Town to view some Deer; but called no body to prove that they were there: He likewise produced no Person to speak to his Reputation, or that could say the least Thing in his Favour: One Man whom he called as a Witness to prove that he saw him about 9 o’clock that Night the Murder was committed, said, he verily believ’d he was the Person that committed the said Murder: In short, no Circumstances ever concurr’d better to prove a Man guilty, than those alleg’d against the Prisoner.  One Thing was very remarkable: The Prisoner on his Trial said, the Shirt he had on when apprehended was his Brother’s, and on his Examination before the Coroner said it belonged to his Father.

 

Aug 29.  Gloucester, Aug 26, cont’d.  Three were burnt in the Hand, viz. THO. BURCHELL and Wm MOULDER, for Manslaughter.

PS.  ELY HATTON, we hear, is to be hang’d at Mitchel Dean on Monday the 4th of Sept. Next, and then to be put up in Chains.  He is very illiterate, and as yet persists in the Denial of the Fact.

 

Sep 5.  Gloucester, Sep 4.  About 7 o’Clock this Morning ELY HATTON, attended by the proper Officers, and a prodigious Concourse of People, was carry’d to Mitchel Dean, in order to be executed near that Place, for the barbarous Murder of THO. TURBERVILE, late of the said Town, Carpenter.

 

Sep 12.  Gloucester, Sep 9.  We have an Account from Tetbury, That on Sunday and Monday last there was a great Meeting of the People call’d Quakers, some say, to the number of 1200.  A Carpenter of that Place fell down dead, as he was putting up some Seats for the Conveniency of their Meeting, and we hear they collected 25 l. For his Widow and Family, and that they also gave 15 l. To be distributed among the Poor of the Parish.

   On Monday last ELY HATTON was executed and afterwards hung in Chains on Meane Hill near Mitchel Dean, for the barbarous Murder of Tho. Turbervile, late of that Town, Carpenter.  At the Tree he was in a very moving and tender Manner exhorted to confess his Crime, but persisted in the Denial of it to the very Moment that he was turn’d off the Ladder, declaring, as he hop’d for Salvation, he was entirely innocent thereof.  He own’d that he had been a great Sabbath Breaker, saying, ‘twas usual for young People thereabouts to work all the week, and on the Sunday to go and steal Deer; also that he had been very much addicted to Whoring, which, he said, gave his Conscience the greatest uneasiness.  There were near 10,000 spectators present.

 

Sep 26.  Gloucester, Sep 23.  Last Thursday Mr ESCOATE, the Custom house Officer at Berkeley, and six other Persons, were overset in a small Boat, by a sudden Squall of wind, in the Severn; and the said Mr Escoate and one other Person were drowned; but the remaining five saved themselves by swimming, and getting fast hold of the Boat, till assistance came.

 

Oct 10.  Gloucester, Oct 7.  They write from Burford in Oxfordshire, that on Tuesday last a Man who was very ill and light headed, got out of his Bed and ran into the River there, and was drowned before any Person could come to his Assistance.

 

Nov 7.  Gloucester, Nov 4.  We hear from Mitchel Dean, that the Gibbet on which ELY HATTON was hung, was cut down on Sunday Night last, and his Body left on the Ground.

 

Nov 14.  Gloucester, Nov 5.  Last Week the old Boatman at the Haugh near Tewkesbury, suppos’d to be in Liquor, fell into the Severn, and was drowned.

   This Week a Trowman at our Key, having also drank too plentifully, fell over board, and met with the same unhappy fate.

 

 

1733

 

 

Feb 27.  Gloucester,  Feb 24.  Last Tuesday Night a Quarrel happen’d on board Owner Stewart’s Vessel of Bradley, then lying near Tewkesbury, between two of his Men, one of whom push’d the other overboard, and struck him with the shaft, so that he sunk immediately; after which the villain jump’d into the River, swam to the Shore, and made his Escape.

 

May 22.  Gloucester, May 19.  Last Tuesday a poor woman of this City, being disorder’d in her Senses, hang’d herself.

   About the same time, two Children were burnt in a terrible Manner, at Hempstead near this City, one of which is since dead, and the other lies dangerously ill:  it is observable, that the affectionate Father was then attending upon a Company of Morrice Dancers with his Tabot and Pipe, and when the News of this melancholy Accident was brought to him, he refus’d to return Home, saying, He would not lose his Whitsuntide.

 

Jun 12.  Gloucester, Jun 9.   And from Stroud in this County, that on Sunday last a Girl about 12 or 13 Years of Age, returning Home from Church last Sunday, was seiz’d with a violent Fit, and dy’d soon after.

   On Tuesday last the Wife of Mr Watson, an Upholsterer in this City, went into a Neighbour’s House, and sate down, taking a Book in her Hand, and dropt down dead.

 

Jul 10.  Gloucester, Jul 7.  Assizes.   ARTHUR HOOPER, for the Murder of one JOSEPH MILES.

 

Jul 17.  Gloucester,  Jul 14.  On Friday last was brought to our Castle one ISAAC MAYO,  a young Man, for the most barbarous and inhuman Murder of his Uncle, Mr THOS SNOW of Moreton in Marsh in this County: which Fact he confess’d.

 

Aug 20.  Gloucester, Aug 18.   They write from Tewkesbury, that on Sunday Morning last Mr JAINE, a Baker of that Town, dy’d suddenly in his Pew, just before Divine Service.

 

Sep 4.  Gloucester, Sep 1.  From Fox Farm in the Parish of Swell near Stow we have an Account, that the same Day some Leasers, &c. , retir’d to a Wheat rick for Shelter from the Rain, when the Rick slipt from off the Props, and kill’d two of them.

 

Oct 30.  Bristol, Sep 27.   Last Night one GEORGE BARON, a poor Man that kept a Huckster’s Shop without the Petty Gate, was inhumanly murder’d by three Soldiers, who were all committed to Newgate this Day for the same.

 

Nov 27.  Gloucester, Nov 26.  On Saturday Night died in our Castle  ---- MAY, committed there for the Murder of his Uncle at Moreton in Marsh:  And about the 8th of this Month died there one PARKER,  a noted Horse stealer.  

 

    

 

 

1734

 

Jul 9.  Bristol, Jul 6.  Last Sunday Morning one of the Serjeants belonging to Col. Montague’s Regiment, drown’d himself in Earl’s Meads River; his Hat and Coat he left on the Bank: The Reason of his committing this rash Act is not known, being well in his Senses, as thought, the Day before.

 

Sep 24.  Bristol, Sep 14.  THOMAS KITCHINGMAN, a Scotchman, SAMUEL OWEN, and THOMAS BADGER, three Centinels belonging to Col. Montague’s Regiment, lately in Quarters here, were indicted for murdering ROGER BARON, who kept a little Shop near the Pithay Gate, by striking him on the left side of the Head, and thereby fracturing his Skull, of which wound he died on the Spot, when KITCHINGMAN was found Guilty of the Murder, and OWEN and BADGER of Manslaughter.

   MARTHA MORGAN, for the Murder of her Female Bastard Child, by strangling it with a small Cord, and throwing it into a Bog house, of which she was found guilty.  Sentenced to Death.  (Also mentioned Sep 28 and Oct 1.)

 

Oct 8.  Bristol, Sep 27.  Yesterday about 11 o’Clock in the Forenoon, THOMAS KITCHINGMAN, and MARTHA MORGAN, were drawn from Newgate in a Mourning Coach with Four Horses, the the Place of Execution on St Michael’s Hill, attended by a Divine, the Sheriff, and all the City Constables, and a Great Concourse of People; before the Coach went a Cart with their Coffins.. They behaved with much Penitence; but KITCHINGMAN denied to the very last his being guilty of the Murder he was about to suffer for, affirming, that OWEN (indicted with him for the same Fact) was the Man that gave the Deceased the fatal Blow.  There seems to be something in this Matter to verify his assertion; for the Night OWEN was discharg’d, he fell on his Kness, and looking towards the Condemn’d Room, in Effect said, That he ought to be there in KITCHINGMAN’s Place, and hop’d that God would forgive him.  MARTHA MORGAN  confess’d the murdering her Female Infant; and after about an Hour’s Respite for their Devotion, the Cart drew away. 

   The Day before their Execution, MARTHA MORGAN sent a very melancholy Letter to the Father of the Child.

   Four Soldiers took Care of the Body of KITCHINGMAN, and convey’d it to St Michael’s Churchyard, where after being put in the Ground, they put Lime into the Coffin, and pour’d Water upon it, to prevent the Surgeons stealing the Body; and the Woman’s was deliver’d to her Brother.

 

Dec 24.  Gloucester, Dec 21.  On Thursday Night an Oyster Boat, bound for Worcester, was overset near our Bridge, and two young Men belonging to her drowned.  

 

 

 

 

1736

 

Mar 16.  Gloucester, Mar 13.  Assizes.  JANE KILMASTER, for the Murder of her Bastard Child.

 

Mar 23.  Gloucester, Mar 17.  JANE KILMISTER ... acquitted.

 

Apr 6.  Bristol, Apr 3.  The Trial of JAMES SMITH, brought by Habeas Corpus from London, and charg’d with the Murder of JAMES BELLARDINE, Soldier in Col. Hargrave’s Regiment of Foot, is put off till the next Assizes, the Evidence not being in Town.

   Gloucester, Apr 3.  A few days before this [Saturday last] a Youth about 11 or 12 Years old, being sent for a Roasting Pig to a Neighbour’s in the Country, the Pig’s squeaking so frighten’d the Horse, that he ran away with the Boy, whose Leg hanging in the Stirrup Leather, he was dragg’d a considerable Way, and his Brains dash’d out.

 

Apr 13.  Gloucester, Apr 10.  They write from Blackney, that one JOHN WHITE, a Butcher of that Place, coming from Berkeley  on Wednesday last, and the passage boat at Perton not going off in an Hour, he would not stay, and attempting to ford over at Gatcomb, both he and his Horse were drowned, and have not been seen since.

 

Apr 20.  Bristol, Apr 10.   Last Thursday was committed to Bridewell an unhappy young Woman, for the Murder of her new born Male Child, by throwing it into a Horse Pond, the further end of Milk Street:  She confess’d the Fact, and that she was deliver’d last Tuesday; but she appear’d well abroad the next Day.  An Ostler at the Inn is the Father.

 

May 11.  Bristol , May 1.  Entry not completed.  Mrs NORMAN, Huckster’s Shop, St Philip; Murder.

 

Jun 29.  Bristol, Jun 19.  A small Estate near Tedbury in the County of Gloucester, having lately fell to the Wife of Mr MILTON, a Ship Carpenter at Shirehampton, four Miles from this City, they both went on Tuesday in Whitsun Week, with an Intention to view the same; but unhappily as they were at the Foot of a Hill, endeavouring to avoid two Waggons, particularly one coming down with great Violence, the Drag Chain having broke, she accidentally fell off the Horse, and before her Husband had the Power to quit his Saddle, the Waggon went over her Body, and crush’d her to Death.

 

Jul 27.  Gloucester, Jul 24.  Last Wednesday were committed to our Castle, ROBERT DOWERS, BENJAMIN POPE, ANTHONY FARRIER, and GEORGE DOWERS, (son of the said Robert) being found guilty on the Coroner’s Inquest, of the Murder of SARAH WILLIAMS of the Parish of St Philip and Jacob in Bristol.

 

Aug 3.  Gloucester, Jul 31.  Last Week a young Woman of Hempstead near this City, took a Dose of Poison , (tho’ for what Reason is unknown) and tho’ all Measures were us’d to expel it, she died this Evening.

 

Aug 31.  Gloucester, Aug 28.  Assizes.  And MICHAEL CASTLE, for the Murder of SARAH WILLIAMS.  [See Jul 27.]

 

Sep 7.  Gloucester, Sep 4.  At the said Assizes, ROBERT DOWERS was indicted for the Murder of SARAH WILLIAMS, and, after a Trial which lasted Seven Hours, was acquitted: But BENJAMIN POPE, ANTHONY FARRIER, GEORGE DOWERS, and MICHAEL CASTLE, had no Bills of Indictment found against them for the said Murder by the Grand Jury.

 

Dec 21.  Gloucester, Dec 20.  Ship sunk; 28 drowned. 

 

 

 

1737

 

Jan 4. Bristol, Dec 26.   On Wednesday Morning ABRAHAM HODGES, a Kingswood Collier, was found on his Belly in a Lime Kiln without Lawford’s Gate, miserably burnt to Death: Being in Liquor the Night before, ‘tis thought he fell asleep on the Kiln.

 

Feb 22.  Bristol, Feb 12.  On Tuesday last an Ox broke out of the Slaughter House belonging to Mr JELLY, a Butcher in Tucker Street, and gor’d a Boy in the Groin, so that he died the same Evening; Mr HOBHOUSE, an eminent Merchant, and several other Persons narrowly escaped Mischief by the said Ox, who run at every Person in his Way.

 

Mar 8.  Gloucester, Mar 5.  Assizes.  HANNAH FLETCHER, for the Murder of her Bastard Child.

 

Apr 5.  Bristol, Apr 2.  Tuesday Morning one PATRICK, a Shoemaker, aged upwards of 76, tied his two Legs, which were much deform’d, and flung himself into the River, in order to drown himself, near the Passage Boat on St Philip’s Backs; but being prevented for that Time, as he had been several times before from hanging himself; on Wednesday Night he stabb’d himself in several Parts of his Belly, and died the Night following.

 

Apr 12.  Bristol, Apr 9.  Advert by Stephen Baugh, Coroner, re Estate Queens Square, Bristol.

 

May 3.  Bristol, Apr 28.  On Monday last a Cart passing through St John’s Gate in this City, by the Carelessness of its Driver crush’d a Girl, so that she died the next Day.  The Man is committed to Bridewell.

 

Jul 19.  Gloucester, Jul 16.  On Tuesday last a very melancholy Accident happened near Bourton on the Water in this County; viz. One JOHN ARCHALLof that Place, Carpenter, with a neighbouring Farmer and his Servants, went to fetch some Timber, in order to make some Implements of Husbandry for the Farmer’s Use; and on their Return, the Timber (as is supposed) not being well placed in the Waggon, lay too much on one Side, whereupon they all three got up in order to balance it; and the Farmer’s Boy driving down the Hill, the Waggon was overthrown, whereby the Carpenter was killed on the Spot, one of the Farmer’s Legs so desperately crush’d, that ‘tis thought it must be cut off, and his Man so miserably bruis’d that his Life is despair’d of.  The Carpenter has left a Wife and four small Children, and had the Character of an honest industrious Man.

 

Aug 2.  Bristol, Jul 23.  This Week was committed to Newgate Gaol BENJAMIN YOUNG, a little deformed Lad about 16 Years of Age, for the Wilful Murder of JAMES WEBB, an Infant about 20 Months old, by throwing it into the River Avon, by which it was drown’d.  It seems he is noted for trying Experiments on Children in the Hanging Way, and that not long ago he had like to have made an End of two Children in this Branch of the Art; one of whom he ty’d up with a Martin Twine, which with the struggling of the Child stript the Skin off the Underjaw.  The Body was taken up at Rownam Passage on Wednesday or Thursday last, and three Persons have swore to the Fact.   Various are the Conjectures on this Murder; some being of Opinion that he cannot be convicted on account of his Age; but he would be of Age to be convicted; for the Law says, (vide Judge Hall’s Pleas of the Crown) That if a Child of Ten Years Old shall kill a Man, it’s not Death; but if he shall kill one younger than himself, that then in such Case he shall be convicted, and suffer Death as in all other Cases of Felony.

 

Sep 13.  Bristol, Sep 6.  Assizes.  JAMES YOUNG, (a Lad of 15 Years of Age) for the Murder of JAMES WEBB, an Infant of 8 Months old, by throwing him into the River Avon, and drowning him; ... received Sentence of Death.

 

Sep 27.  Bristol, Sep 17.  BENJAMIN YOUNG, the Boy who received Sentence of Death, for drowning a Child of 20 Months old, is reprieved; but unhappily his poor Mother had taken his Misfortune so much to Heart, that she died Yesterday Morning.

 

Nov 22.  Bristol, Nov 19.  Female, Body in sack on Durdham Down.

 

 

 

 

1738

 

Jan 3. Gloucester, Dec 31.  Last Tuesday, about Five in the Evening, Farmer PECK of Bampton returning from Faringdon Market., after he had pass’d Ratcot Bridge, his Horse would go no further on account of the Ice, but starting back, rear’d up and threw the Farmer into the Brook, whereby he was drowned.

 

Jan 17.  Gloucester, Jan 14.  From Thornbury, that one PH BEASY, near the New Passage, had the Misfortune to lose his Wife and five Children, and two Maids, by the Sea Banks being broke down, and the Floods coming in.  He was sav’d by breaking through the Thatch of the House, and sitting on the Roof ot it, in which Posture he continu’d till the next Morning, when a Boat came and fetch’d him away.  He likewise lost all his Sheep and Cattle, as did most of his Neighbours.

 

Jan 24.  Death of Leonard Monk, Coroner, and Election adverts by EDWARD BAUGH, STEPHEN POWELL, and JOHN BAYLEY.       

 

Mar 14.  Gloucester, Mar 11.  Assizes.  Three were burnt in the Hand, viz.  SAMUEL HALLIDAY, for Manslaughter.

   Notice of Election of Coroner by Sheriff, at Tewkesbury.

 

Mar 21.  Gloucester, Mar 19??   Last Tuesday Night, Mr HINTON of South Cerney, a Gentleman of 100 l. Per ann. Who was on the point of Marriage, coming from Minty, accidentally fell from his Horse into the Millpond at Cosly’s Mill, in the Parish of Somerford, and was drowned.

   Notice of Election of Coroner by Sheriff, at Tewkesbury.

 

Jun 20.  Gloucester, Jun 17.  We hear from Stow o’th’Wold, that on Saturday Night EDWARD ROWLAND of Winchcombe in this County, who was taken up there the Day before for stealing a Horse, and sent to the Blind house ‘till they could convey him to our Castle, hang’d himself.  He was about 18 or 19 Years of Age.

 

Oct 31.  Bristol, Oct 28.  Sunday Night last a most shocking Murder was perpetrated by one WILLIS, (who kept a Huckster’s Shop without Lawford’s Gate, and sold Spirituous Liquors) his Wife, and one BETTY DARBY, on the Body of EDWD FINKS; belonging to the Brass Works at Baptist Mills.  They are now in Custody for this horrid Fact. 

 

 

 

1739

 

Jan 2.  Gloucester, Dec 30.  We have an Account from Dursley of a very melancholy Accident which happen’d there on Tuesday last, in the following Manner, viz.  Six  young Lads of that Town being out a shooting in the Fields adjacent; two of them shot at a Bird and kill’d it, and each claiming it as his particular Right, the Dispute grew so high, that they proceeded to Blows; and whilst three of the rest were endeavoring to part them, the fourth took up a loaded Piece, and said, Stand away, I warrant ye I’ll part them, and immediately shot at them, whereby one was kill’d on the Spot, and the other is so desperately wounded in one of his Arms, that ‘tis dubious whether he’ll ever recover the Use of it.  The Coroner’s Inquest have since sate on the Body of the Deceased, and brought in their verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Feb 13.  Gloucester, Feb 10.  ... The Water being so prodigiously out, that in many Parts of the Country ‘tis dangerous to travel: An Instance of which happen’d Yesterday at the Lye near this City, where a young Man was drowned, in attempting to get over a Place that was flooded, to save himself the Trouble of going a Quarter of a Mile out of the Way.

 

Apr 3.  Gloucester, Mar 31.  Assizes.  JOHN WILLIS, for the Murder of STEPHEN FINK.

 

Apr 10.  Gloucester, Apr 7.  Four were burnt in the Hand, viz. JOHN WILLIS, for the Manslaughter of STEPHEN FINCH.

   FRANCIS HOBBS, charged with the Murder of his fellow Servant, Mr ABBOTTS, at his Grace the Duke of Beaufort’s, was honourably acquitted.

 

Apr 24. Bristol Assizes.   Sentence of Death, viz. JOHN KINNERLEY, for the Murder of JAMES BURGESS.

 

Jun 12.  Gloucester, Jun 9.  The same Day [Saturday last] JAMES HUNT, who kept the Crown Inn at Churcham, within four Miles of this City, loading a Waggon with Poles, one of them fell on his Head, and kill’d him on the Spot.

   The same day also, JOHN ROBERTS, of Ross in Herefordshire, Carrier, returning Home from Hereford, at Hoarwithy, both he and the Horse he rode on fell down a Rock, near the River Wye, and were kill’d; the Man’s Brains being dash’d out by the Fall, and his Hair was found hanging on several Places of the Rock.

 

Aug 7.  Gloucester, Aug 4.  Assizes.  GRACE HYETT, for the Murder of her Bastard Child.

 

Aug 14.  On Saturday Night last a Boy unfortunately fell off a Trow near this City; one of the Crew immediately jump’d in after him and brought him almost to Shore, but growing faint, he deserted him, and, with much Difficulty, got to Land; another presently after coming to his assistance, the Boy fasten’d round his Neck, and both were drown’d.

 

Nov 6.  Advert re male child aged 1 month left Gloucester St Catherines on 27 Oct.

 

 

 

 

1740

 

Jan 8.  Bristol, Dec 29.  The Beginning of this Week a Soldier was committed to Newgate for the Murder of a Child, by striking it with a Stick when in the Arms of its Father as he pass’d along the Street.

            Gloucester, Jan 5.  The Beginning of this Week a poor Man of this City, suppos’d to be in Liquor, was frozen to Death in a Brew House.  We have also Accounts from divers Parts of the Country (too many here to mention) of several Persons who have perish’d thro’ the Extremity of the Season.

 

Jan 15.  Bristol, Jan 5.  Sunday last a poor Man who begg’d about the Streets, was found perish’d to Death in Marsh Street through the Extremity of the Cold.

    A few Days ago a poor Woman, who liv’d in Milk Street, also perish’d with Cold, after she had been deliver’d. 

    Also re Child (Father Philip Brimscombe).

 

Apr 1.  Gloucester, Mar 29.  Assizes.  THOMAS HAYS, for the Murder of JOSEPH FISHER, late Keeper of the Park on Robin Hood’s Hill.

 

Apr 8.  MUSTO and VARLO, two Soldiers, were try’d for the Murder of an Infant in Merchant street on the 26th December last, and acquitted.

 

Jun 17.  Bristol, Jun 7.  Last Thursday Mr EVANS of St Augustine’s Back (formerly a Cork Cutter, in Marsh street, who having acquired a handsome Fortune, retir’d from Business)  stopt in his Chaise at Temple gate to speak with an Acquaintance, and died the very Instant that his Friends came up to him without speaking.

 

Jul 22.  Gloucester, Jul 16.  Assizes.  MARY MARCHANT, and SARAH COX, the former on Suspicion, and the latter for being found guilty on the Coroner’s Inquest, of murdering her Bastard Child.

 

Nov 18.  Bristol, Nov 8.  Tho’ the great Storm on Saturday last was very violent here, yet it providentially happen’d that little Damage has been done thereby, as we can yet hear of, excepting the following sad Disaster, viz.  JOHN GOULD, a Pilot at Pill, with three other Men, being unfortunately out in the Channel on the Lookout for the homeward bound ships, the Boat overset, and all Four lost their Lives; the Boat has since floated on Shore in its right position, and two of the dead Men in her, one lash’d, and the other with his Foot jam’d between the Boards.

 

Dec 2.  Bristol, Nov 22.  One Day this Week the Body of a Match Woman was found in the Mud in the Key, cut and mangled in a most barbarous Manner, suppos’d to be done by a Black belonging to a Ship, who was seiz’d near the Bridge with a bloody Hanger about him, and was committed to Newgate on a violent Suspicion of his being the Perpetrator of so horrid a Deed. [GOREE WEBB]

   Gloucester, Nov 29.  On Thursday last JOHN LEONARD, alias BOUCHER, was committed to our Castle, by J Rous, Esq. For Felony and Suspicion of Murder.

 

Dec 23.  Gloucester, Dec 23.  Last Saturday a Woman of Barton street near this City, came to our Market, and left four Children at Home, two of them in Cradles, (one a Nurse Child,) and whilst she was absent, her second Child having set Fire to its Apron, pull’d it off and threw it upon the Cradle wherein her youngest lay, which catching the Flame, the poor Infant was burnt to Death.  This melancholy accident, it’s hop’d, will be a Caution to others not to leave their children unattended.

 

Dec 30.  Bristol, Dec 20.  One Day this Week a poor Woman perish’d with the Cold in the Horse Fair.  She was almost naked, and was pelted with Snow balls a little before she died by a Parcel of  wicked Boys; - the unhappy Effect of a loose Education, and a Reproach to their Parents and Friends.

 

 

 

1741

 

Jan 27.  Bristol, Jan 20.  Account of the murder of SIR JOHN DINELEY GOODIER, of Charleton, Evesham, aboard the RUBY Man of War, by the Captain, his brother, and CHARLES WHITE (of IRL) and MATTHEW MAHONY (of IRL) ; Coroner’s Inquest, Wilful Murder.

 

Feb 3.  Gloucester, Jan 31.  On Thursday the 15th Inst. A barbarous Murder was committed at Forden’s Bridge, near Wotton Underedge.  Two Fellows had some Difference, but seem’d afterwards to be reconcil’d, and agreed to go out shooting Rooks in the Evening: when one of them went up Stairs and brought down a Fowling Piece which he had loaded the Day before, and presenting it at the other, who was within three Yards of him in the House, shot him in the Back; of which Wound (notwithstanding all possible care was taken of him by Mr HUNTRIDGE, Surgeon, of Wotton Underedge) he languish’d till the 21st, anmd then dy’d.  The Coroner’s Inquest have brought in their Verdict, Wilful Murder; and the Fellow that committed the Fact (whose name is JOHN HATT) has absconded ever since.

 

Feb 10.  Bristol, Jan 31.  Burial of Sir JOHN DINELEY GOODIER.  Arrest of CHARLES BRYANT, EDWARD MacDANIEL and WILLIAM HAMMOND, for forcible seizure of Sir John.

Also:

We hear that Capt. GOODYER, late Commander of the RUBY Man of War, MATTHEW MAHON, and CHARLES WHITE, are order’d by Habeas Corpus from Bristol to London, to be tried at a Session of the High Court of Admiralty, for the Murder of Sir JOHN DINELEY GOODIER, Bart. Committed on board the said vessel the 19th of January.

 

Feb 17.  London, Feb 10.  Repeats the above from Bristol, Jan 31.

 

Mar 3.  Bristol, Feb 21.  We can now assure our Readers, that tho’ the Habeas Corpus to remove Capt GOODIER (which was obtain’d by his Friends) did actually arrive here, and even a Party of Soldiers were draughted out to attend him, yet the same is now return’d, the Captain being determin’d to take his Trial here; the obeying of the Habeas being at his own Option.

 

Mar 17.  Gloucester, Mar 14.  Assizes.  WILLIAM CALDHOUND, indicted for beating HANNAH LEE, his Apprentice Girl, and starving her to Death, was acquitted; ....

 

Mar 24.  Gloucester, Mar 21.  Last Sunday an unhappy Accident happen’d at a Fishpond, about half a Mile from Chipping Sodbury, belonging to RICHARD STOKES, Esq; viz. Four lusty young Men going in a Boat on the said Pond, about Two o’Clock in the Afternoon, the Boat overset, and two of’em were drowned: The other two narrowly escaped, being almost suffocated before they could get out.

   We hear from Bristol that the Trial of Capt. GOODIER is deferr’d till next Thursday or Friday, on account of his ill State of Health.

 

Mar 31.  Gloucester, Mar 28.  We hear from Bristol, that this Day Capt. GOODIER, MATTHEW MAHONY, and CHARLES WHITE, received Sentence of Death for the barbarous Murder of Sir JOHN GOODIER, Bart.  The Captain’s Trial lasted upwards of 8 hours.

 

Apr 7.  London, Apr 4.   Capt. GOODIER, WHITE and MAHONY, are order’d to be hanhg’d the 15th Inst. At Bristol, for the Murder of Sir JOHN DINELEY GOODIER, Bart.

 

Apr 14.  Bristol, Apr 4.  Capt. GOODERE, MATTHEW MAHONY, and CHARLES WHITE, for the Murder of Sir JOHN DINELEY GOODERE, and JANE WILLIAMS, for the Murder of her Bastard Child, are all order’d for Execution Wednesday se’nnight.

   This Week a Smith took Measure of MATTHEW MAHONEY, for his Chains, he alone being order’d to be hang’d in Chains some where down the River.

   

The three Ruffians who were convicted of seizing Sir John, are each of them sentenced to pay a Fine of 40 s. To suffer a Twelve Month’s Imprisonment, and to find Sureties for their good Behaviour for a Twelve Month after.

    When the Captain (Samuel Goodier) came from the Guildhall with the above Prisoners last Saturday, after Sentence was pass’d upon them, he chose to walk on Foot through the Streets to Newgate, having his Scarlet Cloak on, and pull’d off his Hat to divers Persons.

 

Apr 14.  Mrs GOODERE has deliver’d a Petition to his Majesty, praying for Transportation for Life, or whatever his Majesty thought proper, for her Husband, so that his Life was spar’d, but without any Effect.

 

Apr 21.  Last Wednesday Capt. GOODERE, MATTHEW MAHONY, and  CHARLES WHITE,  for the Murder of Sir JOHN DINELEY GOODERE, Bart. And JANE WILLIAMS, for killing her Bastard Child, were executed at St Michael’s Hill, Bristol.  The Captain went thither in a Mourning Coach, the other three in a Cart; and all confess’d the Crimes for which they suffer’d.  MAHONY dy’d a Roman Catholick.   The next Day the Captain’s Body was put into a Hearse, and carry’d into Herefordshire, to be interr’d there; and the Body of MAHONY has since been hung in Chains.

 

May 12.  Bristol, May 2.  Last Tuesday, about Eight in the Morning, Mrs ELEANOR CLARKE of Temple street, cut her Throat, and expir’d two Hours after; She was very well esteemed by her Neighbours, and was of a cheerful agreeable Disposition, ‘till since last Sunday, when she married a neighbouring Tradesman entirely against the Consent of her Friends.

   Last Wednesday a Quarrel happen’d at JAMES BRERETON’s , over the Bridge near Kinsham, between one Farmer COX, and BENJAMIN SALMON; and, in the Scuffle, SALMON gave the Farmer a mortal Wound over the Head with a Shovel, of which he expir’d a few Hours after; and the Murderer is fled.

 

Jun 30.  Gloucester, Jun 27.  This Day a Man, suppos’d to be in Liquor, fell from the Shafts of a loaded Cart near Over Turnpike, which run over him and kill’d him on the Spot.

 

Jul 21.  Gloucester, Jul 18.  Last Wednesday the Assizes ended here, when one Man receiv’d Sentence of Death, viz. JOHN LEONARD, alias BOUCHER, for robbing his Uncle (an ancient and honest Man of the Parish of Wotton Underedge)  on the Highway: He was likewise indicted for Murdering him, but the Evidence not being sufficient, he was acquitted; and is to be executed on Friday next.

 

Jul 28.  Gloucester, Jul 25.  Yesterday JOHN LEONARD was executed here, for robbing his uncle of 4 l. 10 s.   At the Place of Execution several of his Neighbours desir’d him to confess, whether he was also guilty of murdering him, which he absolutely deny’d; but acknowledg’d the Robbery.  He was about 28 Years of Age, born at Wotton Underedge in this County, and by Trade a Shoemaker; and, to all outward Appearance, dy’d very penitent.

 

Aug 4.  Gloucester, Aug 1.  They write from Tewkesbury, that two melancholy Accidents happen’d near that Town this Week, viz. On Tuesday one of the Troopers quarter’d there, bathing himself in the River, was in Danger of being drown’d; Whereupon another of them immediately stripp’d off his Cloaths and went in; but, by endeavouring to save him, they both unfortunately perished.

   And, On Friday they had a violent storm of Rain, accompany’d with dreadful Thunder and Lightning; when a poor woman and three Children, that were Leasing in the Fields, ran for Shelter under an Oak near the Lower Lode, and were all struck dead by the Lightning:  At the same Time a great deal of Damage was done to the Bridge that leads to Worcester.

 

Sep 15.  Gloucester, Sep 12.  This Week the Seat of Sir WILLIAM KEYTE, Bart. At Norton, in the parish of Mickleton, in this County, was entirely consumed by Fire, and he himself wilfully perish’d in the Flames, notwithstanding the utmost Endeavours of his Servants to save his Life; which is a glaring Proof that he was disorder’d in his Senses: @Tis said he set it on Fire himself.

 

Sep 22.  A rebuttal of the above report.

 

Nov 10.  Gloucester, Nov 7.  The following Persons have been lately committed to our Castle, viz. ...THO LAWRENCE,  for the Murder of his Wife; he is 77 Years of Age.

 

Nov 24.  Gloucester, Nov 21.  This Week died in the Castle Gaol THOMAS LAWRENCE, who was lately committed there for the Murder of his Wife: He was 77 Years of Age.

 

Dec 22.  Bristol, Dec 12.  Yesterday was found drown’d in the River near Stapleton Bridge, Mr PIDDING,  an eminent Corn factor in the Old Market: His Coat was at some Distance on the Bank side.    

 

 

 

 

1742

 

Jan 19.  Gloucester, Jan 18.  Yesterday morning ---- CHAMPNESS, a young Man of Thornbury, by Trade a Saddler, was found dead in a Ditch adjoining to Sudbrooke, near this City.  He was coming hither on Saturday, and in the Night unfortunately fell into the said Ditch, where thro’ want of assistance, and the Fatigue of his Journey, occasion’d by the Violence of the Storm, ‘tis suppos’d he perish’d.

 

Feb 2.  Gloucester, Feb 1.  Yesterday WILLIAM SEYMOUR, of Bitton in this County, Gentleman, was committed to our Castle, being charged upon Oath on Suspicion of Shooting his Brother, BERKELEY SEYMOUR, through his Body in the Bed on Wednesday Night last, and robbing him of about 20 l.

 

Feb 16.  They write from Bristol : They add, that upon enquiring into the Affair of the Murder of Mr BERKELEY SEYMOUR, by his Brother WILLIAM SEYMOUR, it appears that BERKELEY was in Bed when his Brother came to the side thereof, and shot him into his left Side, thro’ his Coat, Waistcoat and Bed Cloaths.  His Body was found in an adjacent Room, with his Skull broke (as suppos’d by the Butt End of the Gun, so that his Brains came out;) a great Quantity of Blood lay by him, and by the Stains of Blood on Several Parts of the Ceiling, ‘tis believ’d he made some Resistance after he was Shot.

 

Mar 16.  Gloucester, Mar 13.  Trial List.  WILLIAM SEYMOUR, for killing and robbing his Brother; SARAH SKERTON and RACHEL EVANS, for the Murder of GRACE HILL.

 

Mar 23.  Gloucester, 20 Mar.  Assizes: Sentence of Death.  WILLIAM SEYMOUR, of Bitton, for the barbarous Murder of his Brother, Mr BERKELEY SEYMOUR.  The Fact was prov’d by divers strong Circumstances; as his being the last Person seen in Company with his Brother, his Coat being bloody, and a Gun having been heard to go off in the House, that was never afterwards found, &c.  To which the Prisoner making but a weak Defence, the Jury soon brought him in Guilty.  The Trial lasted upwards of seven Hours.

 

Mar 30.  Gloucester, Mar 27.  Commitments to our Castle Gaol: ... and HANNAH ROOCH, for killing her Bastard Child.

 

Apr 6.  Gloucester, Apr 3.  The same Morning [last Wednesday], about Eleven, the other five Malefactors, viz. WILLIAM SEYMOUR, condemn’d for the Murder of his Brother; ... were carried (the first in a Mourning Coach) ... to the County Gallows, and executed; where, contrary to Expectation, SEYMOUR persisted in his Innocency to the very last; ....

 

Jul 13.  Gloucester, Jul 12.  On Sunday last a Carpenter, upwards of 60 Years of Age, who for some time had work’d in this City, being infatuated by an excessive Love of a young Woman that was  deaf to his Addresses, for Vexation’s sake drown’d himself:  The Coroner’s Inquest have since sat on the Body, and brought in their Verdict Felo de se.

 

Aug 3.  Gloucester, Jul 31.  Assizes.  HANNAH ROACH, for the Murder of her Bastard Child.

 

Aug 24.  Bristol, Aug 14.  Last Saturday morning a large Swedish Vessel, about 500 tons, that had discharg’d her lading, and lay at anchor in Hongroad, overset for want of Ballast, by which means the Second Mate, who was in the Hold, was drown’d.

 

Sep 7.  Gloucester, Sep 4.  This Week were committed to the Castle Gaol, EDWARD BOUTON and MARGARET HUNTLY, on Suspicion of murdering a Male Bastard Child.

 

Dec 7.  Gloucester, Dec 4.   Last Wednesday, between Two and Five in the Afternoon, JANE CLARKE, Widow of JASPER CLARKE, of Rodborough in this County, was barbarously murdered (as suppos’d) by a Man that was seen at her House about Two the same Afternoon. - NB. He is tall, thin, very ill looking Fellow, near six Foot high, with small Bow legs; and had on, when seen at the said House, a light colour’d ragged Coat with White Metal Buttons and flash’d Sleeves, a red and white spotted Handkerchief, and a dirty Cap.  The Murder was committed as follows: She was strangled with a Handkerchief, and her Skull fractur’d with a Wool Card, that lay by her with the End of it bloody; after which, the Villain took off the Fingers two Gold Rings; and one Gold Signet, the Posies as yet unknown; and then rifled the House, and left his own bloody Coat and Waistcoat with small Mohair Buttons, and a narrow old Hat unloop’d: By his Discourse he appears to be a Herefordshire Man, and by Trade a Blacksmith; and ‘tis thought he was seen at Nailsworth Yesterday Morning, in the same brown Coat and Hat, with a Handkerchief full of Linnen.

 

Dec 21.  Gloucester, Dec 18.  Last Tuesday a melancholy Accident happened in the Parish of Thornbury, in this County; One WILLIAM DEAN, Servant to Mr Roach of Upper Moreton, having been with the waggon and Cattle halling some Barley to Thornbury; upon his Return, as he was sitting upon the Tongue of the Waggon, he fell off, and was killed on the spot.

   Bath, Dec 14.  Yesterday JOSEPH MUTTLO, of  Herefordshire, a Blacksmith, was apprehended here, on Suspicion of murdering JANE CLARKE, Widow, of Rodborough in Gloucestershire; and some of the Things that were lost out of the Deceased’d House were found upon him; (of which Murder and Robbery a particular Account was given in our Journal of the 7th Instant).  He acknowledged the Fact,  and that he sold the Rings in High Street, Bristol, one of them for 12 s. And the other two for 10 s. 6 d.  The Reason for murdering her, he says, was because she would not give him some Money he ask’d her for: He is committed to the County Gaol of Somerset.  

 

 

 

1743

 

Feb 22.  Bristol, Feb 12.  Yesterday Morning one MARTHA WHITE was apprehended, and carried to St Peter’s Hospital, on a violent Suspicion of murdering her two Bastard Children, which she was deliver’d of in a Necessary House, in the Back lane behind the Old Market, On Wednesday last, and being found there on Thursday Night.  The Jury sat on the Bodies Friday Evening, and brought in their Verdict Wilful Murder.

   The usual Experiment was made on swimming the Lungs of the Children, by which it appear’d one of them was born alive, and the other dead.

   Gloucester, Feb 19.  This Day was brought to our Castle, by Habeas Corpus, from Shepton Mallet Bridewell in Somersetshire, JOSEPH MUTTLOE, charg’d with the Murder of JANE CLARKE of Rodborough in this County.

 

Mar 8.  Bristol, Feb 26.  Account from Bedminster mentions EDWARD LINE, Weaver, sons JAMES and THOMAS, SUSANNAH his daughter; and a THOMAS SHORT.

    Gloucester, Mar 8.  Assizes.  JOSEPH MUTLOE, for the Murder of JANE CLARKE.  MARGARET HUNTLY and EDWARD BOUTON, for murdering a Bastard Child.   JOHN HORNSBY  and RICHARD HORNSBY,  for beating and killing ROBERT LAND.

 

Mar 15.  Gloucester, Mar 12.  Last Wednesday the Assizes ended here, when the six following Persons received Sentence of Death, viz. JOSEPH MUTLOE, for the barbarous Murder of JANE CLARKE, Widow, of Rodborough.  The Prisoner had little to say in his Defence, only that he wanted her to give him some Money, which she refus’d to do, and in a Passion threw a Wool Card at him, which he threw at her again, and kill’d her; and then he rifled the House, and took off some Rings from her Fingers, which he sold at Bristol.

   JOSEPH MUTLOE is order’d to be executed on Rodborough Hill, on Tuesday the 22d instant.

 

Three were burnt in the Hand, viz. ... JOHN HORNSBY, for Manslaughter.

 

Mar 29.  Gloucester, Mar 26.   Last Tuesday JOSEPH MUTLOE was executed on Rodborough Hill, and afterwards hung in Chains, for the Murder of JANE CLARKE, of that Parish, Widow.  He confessed the Fact, and desired the Spectators to pray for him.

 

May 3.  Bristol, Apr 30.  Long account of Press Gang; member killed by an ALEXANDER BROADFOOT, found Guilty by a Coroner’s Inquest, but taken on ship.

 

Aug 30.  Bristol, Aug 20.  Monday last a poor Fellow dropp’d down dead in the Shambles, after having drank four Noggins of Rum.

 

Sep 13.  Bristol, Sep 3.  Thursday ended the Assizes for this City and County, which prov’d to be a Maiden one.  Among the Persons try’d were the following, viz. ...ALEXANDER BROADFOOT, charged with the Murder of CORNELIUS CALLAHAN, found Guilty of Manslaughter, burnt in the hand.

 

Sep 27.  Bristol, Sep 17.  Monday last Mr LYDIARD, a Barber in Broadmead, was unhappily kill’d by the Kick of a Horse in his Breast.  It seems he and his Wife, with other Company, were going to Bath to a Wedding; but the Saddle of one of the Horses not sitting easy, they unlighted in order to shift it; and as Mr LYDIARD was standing a little behind one of the Horses, the unfortunate Creature threw up his hinder Legs, and kill’d him on the Spot.

   And the beginning of this Week, Mr PARSONS, an eminent Carpenter in the Old Market, was kill’d by a Fall from a Horse, after being at the Horse Races on Clerken Down, near Bath.

 

Nov 8.  Bristol, Oct 19.  We hear a Tinker and his Wife are taken up on London Road on a violent Suspicion of murdering a poor Woman, in one of whose Pockets were found two Fingers, which they had cut off the Hands of the Deceased for the sake of her Rings.

    Gloucester, Nov 5.  Last Wednesday, THOMAS CAMBREY, of Cirencester, Saltman, and JOHN CURTIS,  Labourer, were committed to our Castle Gaol, being charg’d on the Oaths of THOMAS STEPTOE (their Accomplice) and ESTHER ILES, with breaking into the House of JAMES MILLINGTON, in the Parish of Cirencester aforesaid, on the 25th of October last, and robbing the same of Money, &c. To the value of 20 l. And upwards; and also with wounding the said MILLINGTON, his Wife and Daughter; of which Wounds his said Wife is since dead.

   The same Day JOHN GRAHAM was committed to the said Gaol, on Suspicion of being concern’d in the Robbery and Murder of RICHARD RUDDLE, late Coachman to Sir ROBERT CANN, Bart.

[Advert. Re above in adjacent column.]

 

Dec 27.  Gloucester, Dec 24.  Last Tuesday ANDREW BURNET and HENRY PAIN, two foot Soldiers, were brought from Bristol, to our Castle, for the Murder of RICHARD RUDDLE, late Coachman to Sir ROBERT CANN, Bart. and robbing him of his Watch, &c. which  Watch was found in the Possession of the said BURNET.

 

 

 

 

 

 

1744

 

Jan 3.  Half column re murder of RICHARD RUDDLE; confessions of HENRY PAYNE and ANDREW BURNET.

 

Mar 6.  Gloucester, Mar 3.  THOMAS CAMBREY and JOHN CURTIS, for breaking into the House of JAMES MILLINGTON, and robbing the same of Money, &c. To the Value of 20 l. And for killing the said MILLINGTON’s Wife.

  ANDREW BURNET and HENRY PAYNE, for robbing and murdering RICHARD RUDDLE.

 

Mar 13.  Gloucester, Mar 10.  Trial and condemnation of THOMAS CAMBREY and JOHN CURTIS; also  ANDREW BURNET and HENRY PAYNE.

                 Gloucester, Mar 12.  Yesterday about One o’clock in the Morning, JOHN CURTIS died in the Condemn’d Room.

 

Mar 20.  Gloucester, Mar 17.  THOMAS CAMBREY, condemn’d at our last Assizes for the Murder of JAMES MILLINGTON’s Wife, and robbing his House, has, since the Death of his Accomplice, JOHN CURTIS, been very ill, but is now much better, and is to be executed on Tuesday next, near the Bowling Green House at Cirencester, and afterwards to be hung up in Chains: He denies both the said Crimes. As he has been ill, the Under Sheriff intends to take him, HENRY PAYNE, and ANDREW BURNET, in a Coach to Cirencester.  And on Wednesday Morning sets out with the two latter for Tetbury, Didmarton, Petty France, Sodbury and Bristol; and they are to be executed on Thursday at Durdham Down, where they robbed and murdered Sir ROBERT CANN’s Coachman; and afterwards to be hung up in Chains on Horvill Green.  They are very penitent, and  confess the Robbery; but say they had no Intent to have committed the Murder.

 

Mar 27.  Gloucester, Mar 24.  We have an Account from Cirencester, that on Tuesday last, at the Execution of THOMAS CAMBREY, for the Murder of Mrs MILLINGTON, &c. There was the greatest Number of People ever seen on such an Occasion: He deny’d the Fact; and also declared, that he never saw CURTIS till they were sent to Gaol together; upon which one of the Spectators said to him, How can you die with such a Lie in your Mouth!  I have seen you several Times drinking together.  He was afterwards hung in chains.

   And on Thursday, HENRY PAYNE and ANDREW BURNET were executed at Durdham Down, on the Rocks, above the Hot Well: They were both very penitent, and own’d the Robbery and Murder of Sir ROBERT CANN’s Coachman, tho’ they said it was not their Intent to have kill’d him; but he being a Stout resolute Man, BURNET gave him the unhappy Blow that occasion’d his Death.  They are likewise in Chains.

 

May 1.  Bristol, Apr 28.  Last Friday Night the bodies of HENRY PAYNE, and ANDREW BURNET, (who were executed for the Murder of Sir ROBERT CANN’s Coachman) were stolen off the Gibbet on Durdham Down; but have since been found among the Rocks, and hung up again.  

 

 

 

1745

 

Jan 22.  Gloucester, Jan 19.  Last Tuesday JOSEPH WILLIS, (who kept the Ship, one of the common Houses near Traytor’s Bridge, Bristol)  JOSEPH BOSTON, and ANNE LEWIS, were committed to our Castle; being charged, on the Coroner’s Inquest, with Suspicion of murthering one JOHN BENNETT, who was found drowned in the Rope Walk River; it appearing to the Jury, that the Deceased was first murthered, and then thrown into the said River, to prevent Discovery; and that he had been at the Ship above-mentioned.

 

Mar 12.  Gloucester, Mar 9.  Assizes.  MARY WAKEFIELD, for the Murder of her Bastard Child.

JOSEPH WILLIS, JOSEPH BOSTON, and ANNE LEWIS, for the Murder of JOHN BENNETT.

 

Mar 19.  Gloucester, Mar 16.  To remain for the Assizes: JOSEPH WILLIS, JOSEPH BOSTON, and ANNE LEWIS, charged with aiding and assisting in the murder of JOHN BENNETT; ANN PERRY, the Principal, being at large.

 

Jul 23.  Gloucester, Jul 22.  We hear from Marshfield, that Yesterday a Man, whose name was JOHN SYMONDS, a Blacksmith, of North Wraxall, was found murder’d near that Place on the London Road.

 

Jul 30.  Gloucester, Jul 27.  Assizes.  JOSEPH WILLIS, JOSEPH BOSTON, and ANNE LEWIS, for being aiding and assisting in the Wilful Murder of JOHN BENNETT.  [NB. These four were continued from the last, in order to have their Trials at this Assizes.]

   ADAM KEEN, and MARY TAYLER, for the Murder of a Bastard Child, of which he was the Father, and she the Mother.

   BENJAMIN TAYLOR, for the Murder of WILLIAM RAWLINS.

   ELIZABETH ANDREWS, for the Murder of her Bastard Child.

 

Aug 6.  Gloucester, Aug 3.  One was burnt in the hand for Manslaughter.

 

Aug 13.  Gloucester, Aug 10.  Horse accident @ Cheltenham last Thursday morning.

 

 

 

1746

 

Feb 4.  Bristol, Jan 25.  Saturday last in the Afternoon was committed to Newgate, JOHN BARRY, who kept the Harp and Star on the Key; 1st, On a violent Suspicion of poisoning one JAMES BARRY, a Sailor, and an Officer of the Duke Privateer (whom he invited and got to his House, where he died in a Short Time after:) 2d, for forging his Will, in Company with one P HAYNES, an Attorney, (whom he kept in his House for drawing Seaman’s Wills, &c.) and a Servant Boy of his own: And 3d, for Perjury, in swearing to the said Will himself.  It seems the Deceas’d was entitled to near 2000 l. Prize Money.  HAYNES  and the Boy are both confin’d in Bridewell.  BARRY was taken out of his own House by the Sheriffs of the City in Person, attended by their Officers, where he had conceal’d himself under his Bed.

    Gloucester, Feb 2.  Yesterday THOMAS SMITH, of Stow o’th’Wold, was brought to the Castle Gaol, being charg’d with the Murder of JOHN TAYLOR, of Cudson, by stabbing him with a Knife in one side of his Breast; the horrid Effect of a Quarrel that happen’d between them at a Public House in Stow aforesaid.

   This day SUSANNAH STONE was brought to the same place, having been found guilty (on the Coroner’s Inquest) of concealing the Death of her Female base born Child.

 

Mar 11.  Gloucester, Mar 8.  Assizes.  THOMAS SMITH, for the Wilful Murder of JOHN TAYLOR;  SUSANNAH STONE, for concealing the Birth of her base born Child; ...

 

Mar 18.  Gloucester, Mar 15.  THOMAS SMITH, of Stow o’th’Wold, was found guilty of Manslaughter, and burnt in the Hand.

   From the City Gaol three Persons were brought upon Trial; one of which was found guilty of Manslaughter, and burnt in the Hand.

 

Apr 15.  Gloucester, Apr 12.  On Tuesday last, as three Men, viz. The Landlord of the Mermaid on our Key, and two Fishermen, were going in a small Pig-Trow Boat, to catch Elvers; the Boat, by some unlucky Accident, (before they got a Quarter of a Mile down the River) sunk, and the Men were all drown’d.  We have had more Accidents of this Nature, this Winter, than have been known in the Memory of Man.

 

May 20.  Gloucester, May 10.  On Saturday last, MATTHEW DAILY, of the Duke Privateer, was committed to Newgate, for the premeditated Murder of WILLIAM SULLIVAN, his Comrade; which was occasion’d by no other Motive, than barely suspecting that the Deceas’d struck him with a Stone some little Time before, when they were ashore together on the Holmes.

 

Jun 17.  Gloucester, Jun 14.   Since our last Assizes, the following Persons have been committed to our County Gaol, viz. MATTHEW TYLER, for the Murder of SARAH TWISSELL.

 

Aug 12.  Gloucester, Aug 8.  The following Prisoners are to be try’d at the Assizes for this County, viz. MATTHEW TYLER, for the Murder of SARAH TWISSELL.

 

Aug 19.  Gloucester, Aug 16.  Assizes.  JAMES BALLINGER was burnt in the Hand for Manslaughter.  MATTHEW TYLER, indicted for the Murder of SARAH TWISSELL, was acquitted.

 

Sep 9.  Gloucester, Sep 6.  This Week was committed to our Castle, (on Suspicion of murdering his Wife) DANIEL CLARKE, a Millman, near Painswick.

 

Oct 7.  Bristol, Sep 27.  Long column re execution of MATTHEW DALY [also DAILY], aged 22, born Cork, for the murder of WILLIAM SULLIVAN.

 

Dec 30.  Bristol, Dec 20.  On Monday last the Body of Mr FARRAR, (late a Grocer on the Bridge) who was suspected to have been murder’d by some Villains in the Rope Walk, having been missing ever since the 27th of October, was found in BRICE’s Mill Pond, near Stapleton, with his Gold Watch in his Pocket, and his Silver Buckles in his Shoes, without the least Mark of Violence about him.  The Miller, who found his Body, is intitled to 15 Guineas, ten for the Body, and five for the Watch, by virtue of a printed Reward offer’d for Intelligence of the Body or Watch.  The Coroner’s Jury, which sat on the Body, brought in their Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

 

 

 

1747

 

Feb 17.  Gloucester, Feb 14.   This Morning the following Accident happen’d, viz. A Pig trow Boat, bound from Elmore for this City, with three Men in it, who hoisted a Sail to expedite their Passage, was, by a sudden Squall of Wind, overset, and two of the Men drowned.

 

Mar 24.  Gloucester, Mar 21.  Assizes.  DANIEL CLARK, on Suspicion of the Murder of his Wife.

 

Sep 29.  Bristol, Sep 19.  Murder of JOHN SWEET, Tobacco Cutter, by PETHERLY, a Dragoon of Cobham’s Regiment.

 

Oct 20.  Gloucester, Oct 19.  Committed to our Castle, viz. JOHN DELL, and GEORGE PYRKS, charged with the Murder of JOHN PHILLIPS.

 

 

 

 

1748

 

On Thursday last as one THOMAS HIGGS, at Over, near this City, Miller, was pecking his Mill stone, the Spindle unfortunately caught hold of his Frock, and so squeez’d him to the Stone, that he soon expired.  He has left a Wife and four children.

 

Mar 1.  Gloucester, February 29.   On Wednesday last the Cirencester Stage Coach, on its Return from London, was overturn’d on Gangsden Hill, near Nettlebed; by which Accident, Mr HAYWOOD, an eminent Attorney, of Cirencester, was unfortunately kill’d on the spot.  He was a very worthy Gentleman, was therefore much esteem’d, and is now greatly lamented.  [Mar 8. Note that it was the Oxford Coach.]

 

Apr 19.  Gloucester, Apr 18.  Yesterday in the Afternoon, during the time of Divine Service, a young lad went up into the Steeple of St Nicholas Church in this City, intending therein to catch Jack Daws; but, (unhappy for him!) he chanc’d to let slip his Hold, and so bruis’d himself and fractured his Skull by the Fall, that he Died in an Hour after.

 

Sep 27.  Gloucester, Sep 26.  We hear from Cirencester, that, on Monday last, the Jury came to an Agreement concerning the Death of Mr JAMES DUBBERS, who was found on the Foss, near the four mile House, on the road between Cirencester and Gloucester, on the 23d of last month at Night; and their Verdict was, That his Death was occasioned by some Person or Persons unknown.

 

Oct 18.  Gloucester, Oct 15.  We hear from Stow, in this County, that, on Sunday last, the following unhappy Accident happened to Mr BROOKS, who kept the King’s Arms in that Town.  He went to the King’s Head at Northleach, to desire Mr HOWE’s Assistance at Stow Fair on the Thursday following; and, on his Return home, his Horse fell down on the Hill, near Bourton on the Water, by which Means the said Mr BROOKS’s Neck was broke, as was one of the Horse’s Legs.  Mr BROOKS was found dead the next Morning.   [continues .....] 

 

 

 

1749

 

Jan 17.  Gloucester, Jan 16.  Commitments to our County Gaol.  Last week were committed to our Castle, ... MARY PROPERT, on Suspicion of the Murder of her Bastard Child.

 

Jan 31.  Gloucester, Jan 30.  On Tuesday last, as Farmer BALDWIN, of Sandhurst, near this City, was returning home from shewing a Butcher, who had been at his House buying a Calf, the nearest way thro’ the Water, by some unfortunate accident his Mare slipp’d into the River, and both he and his Mare were drown’d.

 

Feb 7.  Gloucester, Feb 4.  They write from Burford that, on Saturday last, SARAH SAVAGE, of Broad Rissington, having, on her Return home from Burford market, lost her Way on the Downs, was found starv’d to Death near a Sheep fold.

 

Mar 7.  Gloucester, Mar 4.  General Quarter Sessions: MARTHA PROPERT, on Suspicion of Murdering her Child; ....

 

Mar 14.  We hear that EDWARD WEBB, Gent. one of the Coroners for this County, lives now at Chalford Bottom, in the Parish of Bisley.

 

Apr 11.  Gloucester, Apr 8.  Last Monday, in the Forenoon, a very melancholy Accident happen’d to Mrs STEVENS, of Grovening, near Thornbury, in this County, aged 82; saying that she must write a Letter that Morning, her Servant put a Table by the Fire side, and, (as it appears), the Fire caught hold of her Cloaths, (being all Linen) and she was either burnt or suffocated to Death; but no Damage was done to the House:  She was a kind Mistress, a good Neighbour, and much given to Hospitality.  

   And on Monday Night, JO CHARDE, of Wotton Underedge, who rode Post from Bristol to Gloucester upwards of 30 years, was drowned in a brook in Cromhall Common.

 

Sep 5.  Male body hanging in wood @ Horton.

 

Nov 28.  Gloucester, Nov 25.  On Thursday morning one STEEL, a Scotchman, well noted in this County, &c. for a Hair Buyer, was found dead in a Ditch near Apperley Common, betwixt this City and Tewkesbury.

 

 

 

1750

 

Jan 9.  Case of WILLIAM WEBB & JOHN FREAME.

 

Mar 13.  Trial of WILLIAM WEBB.

 

Mar 20.  WILLIAM WEBB, burnt in the hand for Manslaughter.

 

Apr 10.  Gloucester, Apr 7.  Yesterday was committed to our Castle, RICHARD CULL, of Laverton, in this County, for stabbing THOMAS ROBERTS with a Knife in so violent a Manner that he immediately expir’d: They were both Youths, the Prisoner himself being but about 14 or 15 Years old.

 

Apr 17.  Gloucester, Apr 14.   Last Tuesday Evening Farmer PIFFE, of Uckington, had the Misfortune to be thrown from his Horse into a Slough on the Cheltenham road, near this City, where he was suffocated.  He was a sober, careful Man, and has left a Wife and five Children, who, as well as his Neighbours, have sustain’d a great Loss by his Death.

 

May 29.  Gloucester, May 26.  Last Thursday Morning a violent Shower of Rain fell between Huntley and the Lea, which swell’d the Water that runs a cross the Road to a prodigious Degree, and the Current was so rapid, that JAMES NORTON, of Hampton, Carrier, (who was going to Ross Fair) and his Horse, were beat down thereby, and the former, being lame in one Arm, drowned, to the great Loss of his Family and the County, he having been a very careful, honest Man.

 

Jun 19.  Gloucester, Jun 16.  They write from Leachlade that, Yesterday was se’nnight, RICHARD GODFREY, Esq. was seized with an Apoplectic Fit, of which he died immediately.

 

Jul 10.  Gloucester, Jul 7.  On Saturday the 23d of June last, about One o’Clock in the Morning, a terrible Fire broke out at the White Lyon in Acton Turvil, in this County, which consumed the same, with all the Goods therein; among which were those of TIMOTHY SWAIN, of Hampton, consisting of Linnen, Woollen, Bedding, and all his Earthenware, to a great Value, which were lodg’d in the said House; and what renders his Case the more deplorable, is the Loss of his Child, (a Girl, about 11 years of Age) who was burnt to Ashes.

 

Jul 31.  Gloucester, Jul 28.  Assizes.  RICHARD CULL, for the Murder of THOMAS ROBERTS, and MARY CULL, charg’d on Suspicion of being accessary to that Murder.

 

Aug 7.  Gloucester, Aug 4.  Two were burnt in the Hand, viz. RICHARD CULL, for Manslaughter ....

 

 

 

 

1751

 

Jan 22.  Worcester, Jan 17.  And, last Friday in the Afternoon, as one Mr BUTLER, a Shopkeeper at Aston under the Hill, was returning from Evesham, both he and his Horse fell into Merry Brook, and were drown’d; and, when they were found, his and the Horse’s Head were close together.

 

Mar 5.  Gloucester, Mar 2.  Last Saturday Night a Fire broke out in the Stable of Farmer WHITE, at Apperley, in this County, occasioned by the Servants not taking proper Care of their Candle; when the Farmer, in endeavoring to free his Horses, which were six, from the Flames, was very much bruis’d by the falling in of the Building upon him, insomuch that he died the Morrow Evening.  Four of his Horses had got out, but his Attempt after the other two, which perished, prov’d thus unfortunate to him.  He has left a wife and four Children.

 

Mar 19.  Gloucester, Mar 16.  Yesterday was committed to our Castle ELIZABETH DUSNER, for the Murder of her Bastard Child.

 

Apr 2.  Gloucester, Mar 30.  Assizes.  ELIZABETH DURSNER, charg’d with the Murder of her Bastard Child.

    We hear from Ledbrook, in this County, that, on the 27th instant in the Morning, the Wife of SAMUEL RASNICK, belonging to the Forge at that Place, cut her Throat in so terrible a Manner, that, tho’ Mr STEEL, a Surgeon in Coleford, was sent for, who sew’d up the Wound, she expir’d in two Hours after.  This unhappy Woman and her Husband were Methodists; and, which is worthy Observation, they had but just been very earnest in their Devotions before she committed this rash Act.   She has left behind her Seven children, the last of which she lay in with about nine Weeks ago.

 

May 14.  Gloucester, May 11.  We hear from Ross, in this County, that on Monday evening last, as Mr BONNER, of the Marsh, near that Town, and some of his Neighbours, were returning from Dean Market, they took it into their Heads to try whose Horse could run fastest, when unhappily one of them, in endeavouring to get before Mr BONNER, so violently forc’d him and his Horse against a Tree, that he was thereby kill’d on the Spot.

 

May 21.  Gloucester, May 20.   Last Saturday Evening as Farmer ROBERTS, of Eldersfield, in Worcestershire, with some others, was returning home on Horseback from our Market, upon leaving the Turnpike at Over they set out full speed for a Wager agreed upon by them, and being come pretty near Maisemore Bridge, they were seen by a Boy thereon, who, to avoid any Misfortune that might happen to himself, entered one of the Nooks, but at whom Farmer ROBERTS’s Horse was so frighted, that he leap’d very violently against the opposite side, whereby the Farmer was unhappily thrown over his Head, and tho’ he had the Presence of Mind to hold the Bridle in his Hands, yet, before any Assistance could be given him, the Bridle slipp’d off the Horse’s Head, when he fell into the River and was drown’d; and Yesterday Morning he was taken up.  He has left behind a Wife and four Children.

 

May 28.  Gloucester, May 25.   The Account of Mr BONNER’s Death, inserted in our Journal of the 14th inst. is, we are assured, erroneous in that part relating to his being forc’d against a Tree by one of his Neighbours; it appearing since, that the  Person nearest him, when that melancholy Affair happen’d, was distant 10 or 12 Yards from him.

 

Jul 16.  Gloucester, Jul 13.  On Monday last one GOSLING, a Farmer’s Son near this City, and formerly an Exciseman, being disordered in his Senses, threw himself into the River Severn, and was drown’d.

 

This day some Fishermen took up with their nets at Minsterworth a Man’s Body, sew’d up in a Pack sheet, with a Stone put at each end to sink it.  ‘Tis said he was a weaver, and that he hang’d himself a few Days ago, for which he was deny’d Christian Burial, and therefore his Friends took the Method above mentioned for the Disposal of his Body.

 

Aug 20.  Gloucester, Aug 17.  Last night: Ostler & Dragoon, Inquest, Manslaughter.

               Bristol, Aug 10.  And the Next Day [last Tuesday] were committed to the said Gaol [Newgate] BETTY, alias ELIZABETH, BOWER, and MARY HORWOOD, being charged on Oath with having voluntarily and wilfully murdered a Male Infant, by throwing it over the Back into the River Avon.

 

Aug 27.  Bristol, Aug 17.  Suicide, by cutting throat, of Mr RICHARD IVY, Lt Half Pay RN, in the Bog House of a public house at Pill.

               Bristol, Aug 24.  ELIZABETH BOWYER, and MARY HORWOOD, indicted for murdering a Male Infant, were acquitted.

 

Sep 17.  Bristol, Sep 7.  Yesterday se’nnight, as the Son of Mr BRIGHT, a Brewer in this City, and two men, were standing on some Boards that were fasten’d on a Beam that lay a cross a Furnace, the Beam being rotten, and not able to support the weight of the three Persons, broke; by which accident they all fell into the Furnace, in which were about two Feet of boiling liquor, and Mr BRIGHT’s Son and one of the Men were dreadfgully scalded, but the other received little Hurt.  Mr BRIGHT’s Son, soon after falling into a violent Fever, liv’d till Monday, when he expir’d, to the inexpressible Grief of his disconsolate Parents, he being an only Child.  The Man continues in a dangerous Way.

 

Oct 1.  Bristol, Sep 22.   Last Saturday Night Mr RICHARD TYLER, some Time ago an eminent Grocer in this City, but retired from Business, died suddenly at his House on St Michael’s Hill.  He had been that Evening at a Club; and, soon after his Return home, he complain’d of a Pain in his Stomach, and expired instantly.

 

Nov 12.  Bristol, Nov 2.  A few Days ago the Body of the Huntsman belonging to his Grace the Duke of Beaufort was found drown’d in a Fish pond belonging to his Grace.  The Occasion of this Affair is variously related, his Cloaths, Hat and Wig, his Watch and 16 Guineas, lying by the side of the Fish Pond.  It is said he had lived in the Family upwards of 30 Years, and had, at the time of this accident, upwards of 1500 l. at use.

 

Dec 3.  Inquest by Edward Webb into the death of JOHN LAWRENCE, bagger, at Pucklechurch.  Lists the Jurors.

 

Dec 24.  Gloucester, Dec 23.   Last Monday were found murder’d, at Cut Mill, in the Parish of Westbury, the Wife of JOHN JONES, and his Neice, whilst he was at Mitchel Dean Market.  As no Body besides was in or near the House, ‘tis impossible as yet to get any certain Particulars in regard to the Murderer.  All, therefore, we can now assure our readers concerning this tragical Affair is, that the Woman receiv’d four Wounds, all on her Temples,  and the Neice, seven, four on the Temples, one on her Forehead, and one on each Jaw; and that a Box was broken open by the villain, in Expectation of meeting with some Money, but there was none.               

 

 

 

1752

 

Jan 28.  Gloucester, Jan 25.  The Waters about this City have been at a prodigious Height, insomuch that, the Beginning of this Week, one JOHN BAKER, an ancient Man, of this City, Carpenter, was drowned in going to Elmore, and a Fisherman taken up, who had met with the same Misfortune.

 

Feb 25.  Gloucester, Feb 22.  This Week, were committed to our Castle MARY READE and JAMES BLEWITT, of the Parish of Longhope, charged with the Murder of her Bastard Child.

 

Mar 10.  Bristol, Feb 29.   We have an Account from Sodbury, in Gloucestershire, that, on the 20th Instant in the Evening, ROBERT TANNER was kill’d by his Son in Law, WILLIAM TANNER, from whom he receiv’d three Stabs in the Breast, and a fourth in the Side of his Body, with a Knife, which pierced his Heart.  They were Butchers, had quarrell’d about some trivial Affairs, and, being both on the Ground struggling, in the Conflict WILLIAM TANNER, who was undermost, drew his Knife, and gave the fatal Wounds aforesaid.

   Listed for trial: MARY READE, JAMES BLEWITT, and SAMUEL TANNER.

 

Mar 17.  Bristol, Mar 7.  Last Thursday Morning, Mr ROBERT BROWNING, in Redcliffe street, Tobacconist, at the time of High Water, threw himself out of a Window at the Back Part of his House into the River, and was drown’d.  The Day before, he ask’d several of the Neighbours which was the easiest Death, Hanging, or Drowning; and, being told the latter, he was ask’d whether he had a Mind to try the Experiment, but made no Answer.

   Gloucester, Mar 16.  Assizes.  Nine, viz. ..... SAMUEL TANNER, for Manslaughter ... were burnt in the Hand.

   At this Assizes also, MARY READE, and JAMES BLEWITT, were try’d for the Murder of her Bastard Child.  Upon this tryal, JOAN READE, the Girl’s Mother, was call’d, who, after some time (for both the Judge and Council were a considerable time before they could get her to speak anything to the Purpose, arising, as was thought, from the melancholy Reflection of swearing against her Daughter) swore positively that the Man kill’d the Child; but the Girl absolutely declared that he was not in the Room when the Child dy’d, but that her Mother, who deliver’d her, as soon as it was born, put her Hands to the Neck of it, and then said it was dead.  Upon this, the Judge spoke to the Mother, bid her consider of what she had said, and told her of the great Guilt that lay upon her, first in murdering the Child, and then in endeavouring to take away the life of an Innocent Man, by laying that very Murder to his Charge; which had such an Effect upon her, that she deny’d her former Evidence, and said she knew not who kill’d it.  The then Prisoners were immediately acquitted, and the Daughter is continued an Evidence against her Mother, who is committed to Prison, to be try’d, next Assizes, for the Murder of the Child.

 

Mar 31.  Gloucester, Mar 28.   We hear from Coleford that, on Thursday last, the Coroner’s Inquest sat  on the Body of SAMUEL COOPER, who was found hanging, the Day before, to the Bacon Rack in his own House; when, upon an Examination of several witnesses, which lasted near five hours, the Jury found him Felo de se; and he was immediately bury’d in the next Cross Road, and a Stake drove thro’ his Body.

 

May 12.  Gloucester, May 9.  The following Persons have this week been committed to our Castle, viz. MARY KING, for the Murder of a Female Bastard Child; MARTHA HICCOCKS, on Suspicion of poisoning WILLIAM HUGHES, late of Cirencester.

 

Jun 30.  Gloucester, Jun 27.   On Thursday last, as Mr BLISS, of Chalford, in this County, Clothier, was returning home from Cheltenham, in Company with three others, he unfortunately fell from his Horse, which so fractur’d his Skull, that he dy’d on the Spot.

 

Jul 14.  Gloucester, Jul 11.  Assizes.  JOAN READE, MARY KING, and ELIZABETH KING, for murdering Bastard Children.

 

Jul 21.  Gloucester, Jul 18.  On Wednesday last the Assizes ended here, .... Four were order’d for Transportation, viz. JOAN READE, for Perjury (who was also sentenc’d to be pillory’d, which was executed upon her this Day,)....

   ANN WILLIAMS, charg’d with poisoning her Husband, and ELIZABETH and MARY KING, suspected of murdering a Bastard Child, were order’d to remain in Gaol till next Assizes.

 

Aug 4.  Gloucester, Aug 1.  This Week the following melancholy Affair happen’d in this City, viz.  On Tuesday last, ---- DOGGETT, a labouring Man, was employ’d to kill a Cat, to effect which he took him by the Hind Legs and dash’d his Head against a Wall, when the Cat immediately seiz’d him by the Hand, and bit and tore it most terribly.  At last, however, he was master’d, and the poor Fellow apply’d to a Surgeon with his Hand, but his Blood was so poison’d by the Venom of the Cat, that he dy’d on Thursday in the Afternoon.

 

Sep 19.  CHANGE OF PUBLICATION DATE.

 

Dec 5.  Gloucester, Dec 2.  We hear from Bristol, that as one RICHARD FLUCK a labouring Man, was assisting in cleaning a deep Well, the Wall thereof fell in on him, and killed him on the Spot.

 

Dec 26.  Gloucester, Dec 23.   From Westbury, about Six Miles from hence, we are told they [the floods] are much higher there than ever they were known by the oldest Man thereabouts; and that, this Morning, as two Men were fishing in a Stock boat, the Tide ran so very Swift, that the Boat was overset, and one of the Men drowned.

 

 

 

1753

 

Feb 20.  Gloucester, Feb 17.  Yesterday Morning was overset near this City, by a Trow’s running against her, the Worcester Wherry, in which were five Men, one of whom was drowned, who has left behind him a Wife and five children.

 

Feb 27.  Gloucester, Feb 24.   On Tuesday last, the Trow of WILLIAM HARRISON, of Newnham, laden with 24 Tons of Iron, from Lidney Works for this Port, was unfortunately overset by the violence of the Tides and Quick sands, and Mr HARRISON  himself, in endeavouring all he could to save his Vessel, was drowned; the rest on board saved themselves by timely getting into their Boat.  Most of the Iron, we hear, has been since taken up.

 

Mar 6.  Gloucester, Mar 3.  On Sunday Night last, one MARGARET LATTIMORE, aged 80, who kept a Public house at Frampton Cotterell, near Bristol, as she was going (as is supposed) to Bed in the Dark, fell down Stairs and dislocated her Neck; and, next Morning, she was found with her Head doubled under her.  It is remarked of her, that, notwithstanding her great Age, she would suffer no Person to live with her, not even her nearest Relations.

 

Apr 10.  Trial of ANN WILLIAMS for poisoning her Husband.

 

Apr 17.  Gloucester, Apr 14.  ANN WILLIAMS burnt at the stake.

 

Apr 24.  Gloucester, Apr 21.   They write from Bristol, that, last Tuesday Morning, was brought into St Peters Hospital, commonly called the Mint, one JANE THOMAS, a Pembrokeshire young Woman, who had that morning delivered herself, ina Bog house, of a Male Bastard Child, which she threw into the same, whereby it was stifled; and the Coroner’s Jury have brought in their Verdict, Wilful Murder. 

 

 

 

1754

 

Feb 5.  Gloucester, Feb 2.  A few Days ago, a Man and his Son of Wickwar, in this County, went to fodder some Cattle; when, in attempting to cut some Hay for that Purpose, the Rick gave way, whereby the Son fell, and the cutting knife lodged in his Heart and killed him.

 

Mar 19.  Gloucester, Mar 16.  They write from Bristol that, about a Fortnight ago, as two Colliers were fighting, one of them had several of his ribs broke, and was otherwise greatly hurt, insomuch that he was taken into the Infirmary, where he died last week.   The Coroner has sat on the Body, and brought in his Verdict, Wilful Murder.

 

Apr 2.  Gloucester, Mar 30.  On Thursday Night last, the Newnham Sloop, Burden about 50 Tons, that traded from  Newnham to Bristol, laden with Lime, and other Goods to a very great Value, was unfortunately burnt by the Lime’s taking Fire, with every Thing on board; and an old Man, a Passenger, who lay in the Cabin, was also burnt to Ashes.

 

Jul 2.  Gloucester, Jun 29.  From Winterbourne, near Bristol, we have an Account of the following melancholy Accident, which happened there a few Days ago.  As one WILLIAM MILES, a lad about 10 years of Age, was riding a Mare on the Turnpike Road between Winterbourne and Framptonn Cotterell, he put her on faster than her usual Pace, and, having no saddle under him, he was thrown off her Back; by which Means, his Head pitching on a Stone, his skull was fractured, on the Crown and behind his Ear, in so terrible a Manner, that, tho’ several Persons ran instantly to his Assistance, he died on the Spot.

Jul 23.  Gloucester, Jul 23.  We hear from Longhope, in this County, that on Saturday Night last, one SIMON TURNER, aged 18, hanged himself in a grove where he was cutting wood. -- He never seemed to be in any  ways disordered in his Senses; so that his committing this rash Action cannot be accounted for.  The Coroner’s Inquest sat on the Body, and the Jury brought in their verdict Felo de se.

 

Aug 27.  Gloucester, Aug 24.  Last Wednesday, as one HENRY HARRIS was driving a load of Mortar down a very narrow, steep Lane to the Building at the Parsonage house at Danglingworth, near Cirencester, he had Occasion to lock one of the wheels, but by some Accident the Drag chain slipped, by which means he fell into the Rut and was crushed to Death by the wheel.  The Coroner’s Jury have brought in their Verdict, Accidental Death; and the Owner of the Waggon was fined 10 s. in lieu of the Wheel.

 

Oct 15.  Bath, Oct 7.  Last Monday, Mr SHIPWAY, who kept the waggons between Tetbury and London, was thrown from his Horse near Cold Harbour, in the County of Gloucestershire; whereby he dislocated his Neck, and died the next Day.

 

Nov 5.  On Thursday the 24th past, one ANNE OCKFORD, of Wotton Underedge, in this County, Widow, delivered herself of a Female Bastard child, which she confessed the next Day, and said she put it in the Vault, where diligent Search was accordingly made after it, but without success: However, on Sunday last the Child was found in a Coal hole under the Stairs, with a Tile stone over it; and the Coroner’s Inquest have since sat on its Body, and brought in their Verdict, Wilful Murder, against the said ANN OCKFORD, who is therefore put under proper Confinement. 

   On this Occasion, Mr HUNTRIDGE, of the samer Place, first dilated the Cjild’s Breast, and extracted the Lungs freed from their Teguments, which appeared very white and light without the least Discoloration, then put them into a large Quantity of Water, when they emerged above the Surface; after which, he Scalped the Head, and found a Contusion and Depression in the Occipital Bone: all the other Parts of the Body appeared fair and without the least Mark of Violence. His Opinion was, That the Child was born alive, from the Experiment of trying the Lungs in Water, which forms the truest Hypo thesis; for, when the Child is in the Womb, the Lungs are of a ponderous Quality, equal as other Parts of the Body, and have the same Motion, Circulation, &c. but as soon as the Child breathes, they are rarefied by the Air, and become specially lighter, which is the Cause of their Swimming.

   We hear from Bristol that, last week, CATHARINE GARDNER, otherwise HEMMINGS, was committed to Newgate there, charged with the Murder of a Female Infant born of her Body.

 

Nov 12.  Gloucester, Nov 9.  They write from Chipping Sodbury, in this County, that, at the late Celebration of his Majesty’s Coronation, there were two Bonfires, one at each End of the Town; when a Boy went from one Fire to the other, where having some Words with another Boy, a Scuffle ensued; upon which, a Brother to one of them called a Third Brother, who accordingly came, and knocked his Brother’s Antagonist upon his Knees with a Club, and then gave him another Blow, which dashed his Brains out.  The Coroner’s Jury have brought in their Verdict, Manslaughter.

  

 

 

1755

 

Jan 28.  Gloucester, Jan 25.  By a Letter from Bristol, of the 18th Inst. we have the following Account of the Loss of Five People belonging to the Customs, viz.  “About Two o’Clock in the Afternoon of Tuesday last, the Excise boat with Six Persons therein coming in the River under a Foresail, the Surveyor’s Hat blew off opposite the Conger Rocks; on which, they turned the Helm, and ran towards the Shirehampton shore, when, in striving to reach the Hat, they all fell overboard, and Mr PILSON, Mr WEBBER, Mr SMITH, Mr EYNON, and Mr CULL, were drowned, but the other, Mr PARSONS, was saved by a Tow boat.”

 

Feb 18.  Gloucester, Feb 15.   By a Letter from Bath we hear that, last Week, a Black Girl, Servant to a Gentleman in the Square, was buried at Walcot Church.  There were six Black Men to support the Pall; and several others attended the Corpse as Mourners.

 

Mar 4.  Gloucester, Mar 1.  On Thursday last were brought to our Castle gaol, ELIZABETH EVANS the Elder, and ELIZABETH EVANS the Younger, charged with the Murder of a Bastard Child.

 

Apr 8.  Sentence of Death.  .... and ANN OCKFORD, for the Murder of her Bastard Child; accordingly ANN OCKFORD was executed Yesterday, in consequence of the late Law in Cases of Murder.  After Condemnation she behaved very penitent, and received the Sacrament by her own Desire the Morning she suffered, but positively denied her using any Violence to the Child, whose Death (she said) was occasioned by a Fall and the Want of proper Care afterwards, for which (she likwise said) she thought herself accountable, but begged very much for a longer Time to prepare herself, and when at the Place of Execution stood near two Hours before she gave the signal.  She was a Widow, about 40 years of Age, and has left two children.

 

Jul 29.  Gloucester, Jul 26.  We hear from Cirencester that, on Tuesday last, Mr CAPPS, Steward to the Right Hon. the Lord Bathurst, and who had for some Time been observed to be greatly troubled in his Mind, after having given some Directions to the Workmen, went up into his Chamber and shot himself thro’ the Head.  This rash Action could not be caused by any Misconduct in his Accompts, as they were settled with the greatest Exactness; but the following Letter, which he wrote just before he shot himself, shews (it is thought) the Cause of his Troubles, viz.

             MY LORD,

                                  I solemnly declare before Almighty God, and as I hope for Pardon  for all my Sins and Offences, I am innocent of that beastly and detested Sin of  SODOMY, and that I loath and abhor it as much as any Man.  I don’t write this to vindicate myself to a World I shall soon leave, and be soon forgotten, but that your Lordship would have that Charity not to think the worse of those Persons who have laid the Imputation to me, and have taken the Advantage of my Imbecility of Spirit.  I could bear Poverty, but not Shame.  I hope Mrs S--- will do me the Justice to relate the Conversation that lately passed between us, and of a casual Circumstance.

 

Sep 23.  Bristol, Sep 13.   Mrs SARAH GARRETT killed on ship; son impressed; charge against PETER JONES alias DUNGARVON.

 

Oct 21.  Tenbury, Oct 15.  On Sunday last one JOHN JEWKES, a Labouring Man, (who had formerly been a considerable Farmer in the Parish of Burford) was found dead in a By-road in a Coppice of Underwood near this Town.

 

Nov 25.  Newport, Glos. Nov 21:  MARTHA PRITCHARD, Found Dead; WILLIAM PRITCHARD  of New Barn, Herefordshire, and THOMAS POOLE.

 

Dec 2.  Gloucester, Nov 29.  Last Week EDWARD SANSUM, Night Constable, and DAVID LEWIS, ABRAHAM CURRY, JOHN GRIFFITHS, THOMAS WILLIAMS, RICHARD PAYNE, and JOHN PACKER, Watchmen of St Nicholas Ward in the City of Bristol, (appointed under the late Act of Parliament) were committed to Newgate there, for the Wilful Murder of one MARY WHEELER, whom, under the Pretence of taking her up for Misbehaviour and carrying her to Bridewell, they knocked down several times with their Staves, and afterwards strangled her with a Handkerchief pretending therewith to bind her on some Trucks, the better to secure her.

 

Dec 9.  Gloucester, Dec 6.  On Wednesday last WILLIAM CROSS PEARCE, of Hatherley, near Wotton underedge, was brought to our Castle Gaol, for the Murder of his Wife.

 

 

 

1756

 

Apr 27.  Gloucester, Apr 24.  Yesterday was committed to our Castle MARY DOUGLAS, on Suspicion of murdering ELIZABETH KNIGHT, of the Moorse, in the Parish of Ruar dean, in this County.

 

May 4.  Gloucester, May 1.  MARY DOUGLAS, the Person mentioned in our last as committed to our Castle for Murder, was found Guilty, upon two several inquisitions before the Coroner, of the Wilful Murder of EDWARD ROBERTS and ELIZABETH KNIGHT, her Master and Mistress, by Poisoning them, in mixing Arsenick with Treacle, Ale, and other liquids.

   Tuesday last the Assizes ended at Bristol ... the seven Watchmen, for the Murder of the Woman (formerly mentioned in this Journal) were acquitted.

 

May 18.  Gloucester, May 15.  Thursday se’nnight last THOMAS JAMES, of Long-Hope, in this County, hanged himself; since which the Coroner’s Inquisition on the Body brought in their Verdict, Felo de se.  He was to have been married in a few Days to a young Woman of the same Parish, with the Consent of all Friends; and ‘tis thought his Want of Money to bring Matters about was the cause of his Rashness above mentioned.

 

Aug 10.  Gloucester, Aug 7.   This Evening the Assizes ended here, at which WILLIAM CROSS PEARCE, for the Murder of his Wife by giving her an unhappy Blow under her left Breast, received Sentence of Death, and is to be executed on Monday next:  His Wife, it seems, bore but a very indifferent Character; and, it is said, Jealousy was the Cause of this Rashness in her Husband.

 

Aug 17.  Gloucester, August 14.  On Monday last WILLIAM CROSS PEARCE  was executed here for the Murder of his Wife, pursuant to his Sentence.  He declared to the last Minute his Innocence of the Fact for which he suffered, and that the wounds which appeared upon his were occasioned by a Fall into a Saw Pit on her Return home.  His Behaviour was decent, and his Repentance for the Errors of his Life seemed to be sincere.

 

Aug 25.  Gloucester, Aug 21.  On Monday last one BARNS, a Labouring Man in the Parish of Bulla, near this City, was killed in a Storm of Thunder and Lightning.  It is very remarkable that the Instant before he was Struck dead he had been cursing his Son, and swearing he would murder him before Night.

 

Sep 21.  Gloucester, Sep 20.  They write from Mickleton, near Campden, in this County, that a few Days ago, Some Men having been mowing there, one of them, named CHARLES JACKSON, attempted unawares to leap on the Back of one of his Companions, which occasioned him to stumble, whereby JACKSON was thrown on the Edge of a Scythe, which cut him so terribly across the Belly, that, after getting up, and saying, “Lord, have Mercy upon me! I’m a dead Man! he expired immediately.  The Coroner’s Inquest, having sat on the body, brought in their Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Oct 12.   Gloucester, Oct 9. From Bristol we have the melancholy News, that on Wednesday Night last the Old Passage Boat, crossing the River Severn at Beechly, was overset in a Storm; by which Accident 22 Passengers, and 18 Horses, were drowned.

Oct 19.  More details of the above accident.

 

Nov 2.  Gloucester, Oct 23.  On Thursday last WILLIAM PLESTAGE, alias OCKLESTONE, was committed to our Castle gaol, for beating, in a very Cruel Manner, a poor Man, who is since dead.  Another Person, who is not yet taken, was concerned with him.

 

Dec 21.  Gloucester, Dec 18.  Last Thursday Se’nnight the following melancholy Accident happened at Beckford, in this County: As Mr HIGGENS, of that Place, was putting a Gun upon a Rack,  not knowing it to be loaded, the Gun, being half cocked, went off, and shot the servant maid, who was sitting near, dead on the spot.  The Coroner’s Inquest, having sat on the Body, brought in their verdict, Accidental Death.

 

1757

 

Mar 29.  Gloucester, Mar 26.  RICHARD AYRES and WILLIAM PRESTAGE, tried for the Murder of JOHN HODGKINS, were acquitted.

 

Aug 23.  Murder of BENJAMIN HEDGES of Hopwood, nr Alvechurch, by THOMAS ROBERTS, a servant.  [Advert dated 16th page 2 col b]

 

1758

 

Jan 10.  Gloucester, Jan 7.  Last Wednesday, as two Boys of this city, named JOHN WADLEY and WILLIAM BLANCH, were gaming together, at a little Distance from the Town, a Dispute arose between them concerning a Trifle won by the former, who, being provoked by some Expression of his Playfellow, immediately struck him; whereupon BLANCH told the other, that, if he repeated his Blow, he would stab him to the Heart.  WADLEY, however, was not discouraged by this Threat, did strike him again; and BLANCH, directly seizing his knife, which was stuck up in the Ground, gave WADLEY such a Wound therewith as at first expected to prove mortal; but, as he was immmediately carried to our Infirmary, and proper Care taken of him, the Surgeons are now in Hopes of his Recovery.  BLANCH is under Confinement in our Castle Gaol.

 

Mar 7.  Trial of THOMAS ROBERTS.

 

Mar 14.  THOMAS ROBERTS sentenced. 

 

 

 

1759

 

Feb 6.  Gloucester, Feb 3.  Last Saturday Night MARGARET GRIFFITHS, of Newent, in this county, was brought to our County Gaol, having been found guilty, on the Coroner’s Inquest, of wilfully murdering ELIZABETH TRAP, of the same Place, by giving her a violent Blow on the Head with a Stick, of which she instantly died.

 

Feb 20.  Gloucester, Feb 17.  On Monday last ANN MORGAN, of Oxnall, was brought to our County Gaol, for the Murder of her Bastard Child.

   And on Wednesday EDITH SAUNDERS was brought to the said Gaol, for murdering JAMES SHORT, of Berkeley, with a Penknife, in so desperate a Manner, that he is since dead; as was likewise WILLIAM ROBINSON, suspected to have been an Accomplice with the said EDITH SAUNDERS.

 

Mar 27.  Gloucester, Mar 27.  Last Thursday Afternoon a poor Man [THOMAS COATES] , who had been drinking too freely, was driving a Waggon from hence for Cirencester; but at a few Miles distance [Hucclecote] from this City he unhappily fell from the Carriage into the Road, and one of the Wheels going over his Neck, he was instantly crushed to death.

 

Apr 3.  Long account about poisoning of the HEWER family by  RICHARD HAINES @ HAYNES of Maiseyhampton.

 

Apr 10.  Gloucester, Apr 9.  MICHAEL HAINES, mentioned in our last Journal to have been committed to Cirencester Bridewell for procuring the Arsenick with which his Son, RICHARD HAINES, poisoned Mr HEWER’s children, was brought to our County Gaol on Saturday; but the Son is not yet retaken.

    List of prisoners for trial: MARGERET GRIFFITHS; ANN MORGAN; EDITH SAUNDERS and WILLIAM ROBINSON for the murder of JAMES SHORT; SUSANNAH ATKINS  and ANN OWEN,  for the Murder of a Bastard Child.

 

Apr 17.   EDITH SAUNDERS guilty, to be hanged; Bill found against MICHAEL and RICHARD HAINES.

 

Apr 24.  Gloucester, Apr 21.  On Monday last EDITH SAUNDERS, convicted at our late Assizes for the Murder of JAMES SHORT, of Berkeley, was executed near this City, and her Body afterwards carried to our Infirmary to be dissected, in Pursuance of her Sentence.  She owned the Commission of the Fact for which she suffered, and seemed very devout and penitent.

 

May 15.  Gloucester, May 12.  On Wednesday a Man [possibly THOMAS MASON]  who was driving a Waggon near Newnham, in this County, unfortunately fell under the Wheels, which going over his Neck instantly crushed him to Death.

 

Jul 14.  Gloucester, Jul 13.  For trial: GEORGE NORTHCOTT, BENJAMIN FOX, both for murder; MARY COCKS.

 

Jul 21.  Gloucester, Jul 20.  Our Assizes were concluded on Saturday Evening, when BENJAMIN FOX, who, by his barbarous Treatment to his Daughter, was the Cause of her Death, and GEORGE NORTHCOTT, convicted of murdering his wife between Stroud and Hampton, received the Sentence due to their atrocious Crimes, and are to be hanged this Day Se’nnight, and afterwards dissected.

 

Jul 28.  Gloucester, Jul 27.  BENJAMIN FOX and GEORGE NORTHCOTT mentioned.

 

 

 

 

1761

 

Aug 4.  Gloucester, Aug 3.  On Monday last BENJAMIN FOX , for the Murder of his Daughter, and GEORGE  NORTHCOTT, for the Murder of a Woman, who passed for his Wife, were executed here agreeable to their Sentence.  Their Bodies were afterwards delivered to Mr PORTER  and Mr CHESTON, Two Skilful Surgeons of this City, in order to be dissected.  It is remarkable that tho’ FOX  had hung the usual Time when he was brought to the Infirmary he breathed very distinctly, and upon opening a Vain it bled with as much Freedom as if he had been perfectly in Health.

 

1762

 

Mar 2.  Gloucester, Mar 1.  80 recruits marched Northleach to Stow; 4 died.

 

Mar 9.  Gloucester, Mar 8.  SARAH WILLIAMS, SARAH WATTS, and SARAH LODGE, for murdering their Bastard Children.

 

Mar 16.  SARAH WILLIAMS, SARAH WATTS and SARAH LODGE acquitted.

 

Apr 12.  On Monday last one of the Light Horsemen quartered here was riding near this city, his Horse took fright, and ran away with him, and a Farmer coming along the Road at that Instant with a Cow and Calf, the Horse ran over him, and struck him with such violence that he immediately expired.

 

Apr 26.  Gloucester, Apr 26.  On Wednesday last JANE TURNER, of Iron Acton, was committed to our Castle for the Murder of her Bastard Child.

 

May 31.  Gloucester, May 31.  On Tuesday last Mr THOMAS PORTER, Surgeon, of this City, unfortunately fell from his Horse, in coming down Painswick Hill, and received such a violent Concussion on his Head that he died the next Morning.  His abilities and Experience rendered him very eminent in his Profession.

 

Jul 26.  REBECCA JONES, for the Murder of EDWARD JONES; JANE TURNER, for the Murder of a Female Bastard Child.

 

Sep 20.  Last Friday was committed to our Castle by J Moor, Gentleman, Coroner, THOMAS HANKS, of Wick Rissington, in this County, for the Mirder of his Wife [Ann].

 

 

 

1763

 

Jan 17.  Gloucester, Jan 17.  We think the following shocking instance of brutish cruelty not to be equalled by the most savage barbarian.  A girl who lodged at a house in Barton Street, near this city, on Friday night last was taken in labour; when the woman of the house, deaf to the poor wretch’s intreaties, and destitute of all the feelings of humanity, pulled her out of bed, and turned her into the street in that deplorable situation: a farrier’s shed was all the shelter she could find; and there she was discovered early in the morning delivered of her child which the extreme severity of the cold had killed; but the mother, through the benevolent care of some of the inhabitants, is likely to recover.

 

Feb 28.  Gloucester, Feb 28.  A few days ago, as a man was coming from Campden fair, on horseback, one of his stirrups broke as he was passing through a deep water near Badsey bridge, and he fell from his horse, and was drowned.

 

Mar 7.  Assizes.  For trial: THOMAS HANKS.

 

Mar 14.  Our Assizes were concluded on Saturday morning; at which THOMAS HANKS, of Wick Rissington, for the murder of his wife, was the only person capitally convicted.  The trial of this man lasted seven hours, and during the course of it there appeared such a combination of concurrent circumstances as fully evidenced his guilt.  The pathetick eloquence of Mr Justice WILMOT, in his admonition to the unhappy convict, was beyond conception great; but the prisoner’s obdurate insensibility was observed with concern by the whole court; for after sentence was pronounced against him, he said, I am an innocent man; in which declaration he still persists.  His body was at first ordered to be dissected, but the sentence is since changed, and he is to be hanged in chains near the scene of that horrid fact.  He will be executed this day.  His mother, charged as being accessary to the murder, was acquitted.

 

Mar 21.  On Monday last THOMAS HANKS was executed here, agreeable to his sentence.  His behavioiur was expressive of the deepest penitence for the sins of his past life, but he persevered in denying the murder for which he suffered.

 

Mar 28.  On Wednesday last, a person who was lately committed to our Northgate gaol for a debt which, he said, he never had contracted, and therefore refused to pay, took the desperate resolution of hanging himself.  That the friends of the other debtors may not be alarmed, we are desired to mention that the man’s name was RICHARD B------TT.

 

Apr 11.  On Friday last a young lad [JAMES DOWELL]  fell from a dung cart in a field at Longford near this city, and the wheel going over him, crushed him to death.

 

Jun 27.  Gloucester, Jun 20.  Last Tuesday one [STEPHEN] ALDRIDGE, a fisherman, at Arlingham, in this County, was choaked by a small fish, which accidentally slipped into his throat as he was going to bite its head, in order to kill it.  He has left a widow and five small children.

 

Jul 18.  Cain’s Cross, July 17.  Letter from a Coroner:

TO THE PRINTER

SIR,                                                                                                                       Cain’s       Cross, July 17.

Yesterday morning I was sent for to Minety, in this county, on the following melancholy accident, that happened on Friday evening about six o’clock, which you will please to insert in your paper as a caution to people not to shelter themselves under trees in storms of thunder and lightning.  Mr THOMAS BROWN, a Gentleman Farmer of Minety, was a-haymaking with six of his servants, at a ground about a mile from his house, on Friday evening, when a violent storm of rain and hail fell, with frequent claps of thunder and lightning.  To avoid the storm, Mr BROWN and his servants ran to a haw thorn tree for shelter; but, unhappily for them, no sooner were they got there than a terrible clap of thunder and lightning broke over their heads, which killed Mr BROWN and one THOMAS VINES on the spot.  The other five were dangerously wounded, particularly the widow of THOMAS VINES, whose life is despaired of.  It is very remarkable, that tho’ their bodies were quite excoriated by the lightning, and their linnen burned, yet their other garments were not affected.  This is what appears by the evidences taken on the inquisition before, SIR,

                           Your humble Servant, 

                                                            Geo. Nayler, Coroner.

 

Jul 25.  On Thursday evening last, one WILLIAM GRINING, a weaver, in the parish of Cam, in this county, having some dispute with his wife, in the heat of passion gave her a violent kick, which broke some of the blood vessels and killed her on the spot.. The man is committed to our Castle by Mr Nayler, Coroner.

   Report of the taking of a highwayman, no names.

 

Aug 1.  Notice re taking of highwayman.

 

Aug 8.  Assizes: WILLIAM GRINING  for the murder of his wife; THOMAS TILL for murder; DANIEL NEALE, (the highwayman who cut his throat) for several robberies.

 

Aug 15.  Sentence of DANIEL NEALE.

 

Aug 22.  More re DANIEL NEALE.

 

Aug 29.  Execution of DANIEL NEALE.

 

Dec 26.  Beggar killed at St Nicholas.

 

 

 

1764

 

Mar 19.  On Wednesday last a boy [RICHARD CROARSE] who was riding on the shafts of a waggon, near the Dog at Over, fell down, and the wheels going over his head, he was killed on the spot.

 

May 28.  On Monday last WILLIAM WALTER, of Westerleigh, in this county, was committed to our castle, for killing one JAMES WALTER in a fray.

 

Jun 18.  On Tuesday last a little girl about ten years old, the daughter of a farmer at Longney, in this county, apprehensive of her mother’s correction, jumped out of a window, and running to a pond which was in the garden, threw herself in, and was drowned.

    On Wednesday last SARAH WORKMAN, of Bisley, was committed to our Castle by Mr Nayler, Coroner, for the wilful murder of her bastard child.  Upon her examination she confessed, that she was delivered on Saturday the 2nd instant, of a live male child, in the workshop of her own Father, who is a weaver; and that, when she cut the navel-string, the child fell into a hole under the loom, called by the weavers a truddle-pit; from thence she took it, wrapped in her petticoat, into the stable, and in endeavouring to climb into the tallet with the child in her lap, she fell down with it under her, by which means she says it was killed.  The child’s neck was dislocated, the left shoulder twisted off at the articulation, and the lower jaw fractured in a most violent manner.  The girl always denied being with child, ‘till the infant was discovered on Friday morning the 8th instant in the tallet, concealed under some hay.  She did not seem the least indisposed by her delivery, but went about her business as usual.

 

Jul 2.  Unnamed apprentice from Bath drowned at Lydney Park.

           The dreadful storm which fell on Saturday the 23d past did not extend to this city, but we are told it was very tremendous at a village near Sodbury, in this county, where a young woman [ANN WEBB?] and four cows were struck instantly dead by a most awful flash of lightning, in sight of several people making hay in an adjouining field.

 

Dec 31.  On Monday evening last Mr BUCHANAN, a Shopkeeper in Tewkesbury, missing his road in the dark, fell into a deep ditch near the Ferry-house at the Load, and was drowned.

 

 

 

1765

 

 

Jan 21.  Advert re estate of WALTER BUCHANAN of Tewkesbury.

 

Feb 18.  Burglary at WALTER BUCHANAN’s house.

 

Mar 18.  Winchcomb woman dead.

 

Apr 29.  A shocking accident happened a few days ago near Cirencester, in this county.  A boy [WILLIAM COBB] about ten years of age was sent to hold a horse whilst he was grazing in Lord Bathurst’s Park, and imprudently fastening the halter to his arm, the horse took fright upon some occasion, and dragg’d him 'till his arm separated from his body, and he expired in a few minutes.

    A servant [NATHANIEL PACKETT of Sapperton] to Mr JOHN CRIPPS, jun. of Cirencester, was unfortunately killed on Friday last, near the five mile stone between Cirencester and Hampton, by his horse falling and tumbling over him.

 

May 20.  A few days ago , as a soap boiler [PHILIP JARRETT] of Bristol was going to see his friends at Coleford, in this county, his horse fell with him on a full gallop, near Frampton on Severn, and he was so terribly bruised that he expired before he could be carried to any house.

 

Jun 10.  Om Monday last, as a man [JAMES GRIMES] was digging stone for the highways in the parish of Hascombe, in this county, having undermined the ground a little too far, the earth from the top fell in, and crushed the poor fellow to death.

 

Jul 22.  Assizes: ... SAMUEL DANIELS, for the murder of FRANCIS SUTTON, of Minchinhampton; ....

 

Jul 29.   The death of FRANCIS SUTTON, at Hampton, who was killed by SAMUEL DANIELS, proved to be nothing more than manslaughter, as the deceased had given the prisoner great provocation; DANIELS therefore was only branded, and ordered to be imprisoned two months.

 

Sep 23.  Strange death of Hostler at Falcon in Painswick, intoxicated, “a few days ago.”

 

Oct 14. On Tuesday last WILLIAM SUTTON was committed to our castle, charged with the wilful murder of LYDIA SUTTON, his wife, in the parish of Berkeley, in this county.

 

Oct 21.  On Friday last two men coming from Newnham fair, very much in liquor, quarrelled at the Bell in Westbury, in this county, and the one struck the other such a violent blow on the temple as killed him on the spot.   The coroner’s inquest broought in a verdict Manslaughter.

 

Nov 25.   On Tuesday night last the master of a Tewkesbury barge hanged himself on board his vessel, which was waiting at Stone bench for the tide to bring her up the river from Bristol.  it is said the man had fallen into bad company at Bristol, and had there spent some money which his friends at Tewkesbury had given him to lay out in goods for them; and this affected him with such remorse, that he determined to rid himself of his trouble at the expence of his life.  

 

 

 

1766

 

Mar 3.  A few days ago died in our castle WILLIAM SUTTON, who was committed for the murder of his wife.

 

Mar 17.  Mysterious death at Chalford of RICHARD PARSONS, playing cards on a Sunday.

 

Apr 28.  On Tuesday last Mr JAMES EVANS, of the Golden Hart in this city, fell down dead as he was digging in his garden.

 

Jul 21.  Thursday last JOHN HARVEY and EDWARD PEIRCE were brought to our castle, charged with the wilful murder of ELIZABETH HARVEY, at Horsley, in this county.

 

Aug 4.  Assizes: JOHN HARVEY and EDWARD PEIRCE  for the murder of ELIZABETH HARVEY; MARGARET HOWELL for the murder of her bastard child.

    Fight in city between Blacksmith and Journeyman Currier, and Blacksmith taken to Northgate.

 

Aug 11.  Assizes: ... and six acquitted, among which were HARVEY  and PEARCE for the murder of HARVEY’s wife.

 

Nov 17.  On Friday last NATHANIEL CLOSE was brought to our Castle, charged upon the Coroner’s inquest with the wilful  murder of SARAH VINES, of Minchinhampton, in this county.

 

Dec 22.  On Friday came on the trial of NATHANIEL CLOSE for the murder of SARAH VINES, near Hampton, in this county.  He was convicted upon the strongest presumptive evidence of committing the horrid fact; a murder attended with the most barbarous, the most unmanly instance of brutality that was ever heard of in any age or nation.  He is to suffer this day.

 

Dec 29.  On Monday last NATHANIEL CLOSE  was executed pursuant to his sentence, for the murder of ANN VINES.  He persevered to the last in obstinately denying the fact.  Before he left the prison he seemed much shocked at the approach of death, and with great fervour exclaimed, The Lord have mercy on my unhappy soul1  He said, that if he had no other crimes to answer for than that for which he died, he should not have regarded his untimely end.  His body was delivered to the Surgeons for dissection.

 

 

 

1767

 

Jan 26.  Letter from Coroner to Editor.  It may not be improper, etc. .......

MR RAIKES,

 It having been represented to me by a clergyman of the neighbourhood of Moreton Valence, that a boy [JOSEPH BROWN] , about 12 years of age, was famished to death, I proceeded according to my rules of office, and had the body taken up this day, and held an inquest upon it; and the jury agreed, that the boy, actually died for want of every necessary of life.  The boy’s sister, who was a material evidence, declared upon oath, that her brother was starved, and that he had many times eaten coals and ashes from the hearth for want of other food.  Upon which I opened the body, and found the abdominal viscera perfectly sound; and upon opening the stomach, found a considerable quantity of coals and ashes, as described by his sister.  His head was covered with lice, which in many places had penetrated even to the skull.  His body was so extremely emaciated, that to me it was one of the most dismal spectacles I ever beheld, scarcely skin sufficient to cover the bones.  So that, through the neglect of the parish officer, this poor boy must have actually died of hunger, and many poor people, there is too much reason to believe, are dying of the same disease.  I am, SIR,

                 Your very humble Servant,

Jan 23.                                                Geo. Nayler, Coroner.

 

Feb 2.  Last week died in our Castle, WALTER GRIFFITHS, who was committed for horse stealing.

 

Feb 9.  The following tragic affair has been transmitted to us by Mr Nayler, one of the Coroners of this county.

MR RAIKES,

 On Monday I was sent for to Mr TOMBS’s, of Coates, near Cirencester, to hold an inquest on the bodies of two of his daughters, one of the age of 24, the other of eight years, who, on the day before, were, together with a maid servant of the age of 22, poisoned by taking, for a cutaneous eruption, a dose of arsenick, which was sold to Mrs TOMBS for Cream of Tartar, by an Ignorant quack of that neighbourhood, some months ago.

  They were, soon after taking it, seized with all the dire symptoms which usually attend the internal use of that cursed drug, such as violent vomiting, excessive heat in the throat, and intolerable oain in the stomach and abdominal region; and after enduring inexpressible torture for nearly eight hours, they all three miserably expired.

  It is impossible to describe the grief of Mr and Mrs TOMBS for this affecting and almost unparalleled event, particularly that of Mrs TOMBS.   But even in this extremity of distress, the divine goodness seems to have thrown a circumstance of consolation.  Their other daughter was to have taken the same medicine, but she desired to postpone it ‘till the next day that she might go to church; and thus she escaped the fate of her sisters.

   Now, the tragical catastrophe of these three young people should serve as a caution to all people not to purchase drugs of ignorant stockheads, who, in many instances, don’t know how to distinguish one drug from another.  I am, Sir, etc.   Stroud, Feb 7.

 

Feb 23.  On Saturday evening Farmer BALDWIN of Sandhurst, returning home from market, missed the road over Longford ham which was overflowed, and fell into the river, and both he and his horse were drowned.  His neighbours endeavoured  to dissuade him from going that way, but he would not hearken to their advice.  His father was drowned some few years ago in the same place. [See Jan 30 1748]

 

Mar 9.  On Wednesday died in our Castle, WILLIAM SMITH, committed for breaking and entering the dwelling house of WILLIAM TROTMAN of Bream, in this county.

   On Thursday last died suddenly, RICHARD WARREN, Esq. of Redcliffe,  near Bristol, one of the Captains of our Militia.  He was waiting for the boat at Rownham Ferry to carry him over to the Hotwells, and dropped down dead as he stood on the bank.  This gentleman is a general loss to society, for few men were a greater ornament to it.

 

Jun 1.  On Friday last ROBERT JONES was committed to our Castle, on a violent suspicion of perpetrating a most horrid murder on the body of Mr STEPHEN MATTHEWS, a very wealthy farmer, of Hinchwick, near Stow on the Wold, in this county.  It appears that Mr MATTHEWS was returning home from Evesham market, where he had received about 200 l. and in passing through his own grounds the villain knocked him off his horse, as he was attempting to open a gate, which the murderer had made difficult, by placing a large stone against it.  The body was not discovered till the next morning.  The head was terribly bruised, and the skull fractured as supposed with a plow pudder, and the throat seemed to have been stuck thro’ with a knife.  As soon as it was noised in the county, suspicion immediately fell on the prisoner, who had paid off some ale scores and boasted that he did not want for money.  And on Wednesday, he was pursued and taken by Mr WILKS, of Chipping Norton, and Mr JOSEPH KNIGHT, of Stow.  Mr MATTHEWS’s watch and a considerable sum of money were found upon him.  Since his commitment, he affects unconcern, and asserts his innocence.  He says he can prove that the watch was his own, and that he bought it at Broadway.  But it was remarkable that Mr MATTHEWS had received but two days before a new seal from Worcester, which was found to the watch at the time it was taken from thee prisoner.

 

Jun 22.  On Friday evening, as Mr CALLOW NEW, a very considerable farmer at Charlton Abbotts, was returning home from the Visitation at Cheltenham, he was thrown from his horse in going down Prestbury street, and was killed on the spot.  He has left a family of twelve children to mourn his loss.

 

Aug 3.  ROBERT JONES listed for trial at Assizes.

 

Aug 10.  On Wednesday morning came on the trial of ROBERT JONES, for the barbarous murder of Mr STEPHEN MATTHEWS, of Hinchwick, when he was found guilty upon the clearest evidence.  After he received sentence, he confessed the fact, and related very circumstantially the manner in which he committed it.  He said that he formed the design of murdering and robbing Mr MATTHEWS, on Monday the 21st, and in going to the place by which Mr MATTHEWS was to pass, he picked up the plow paddle that he murdered him with; that he lay down in the grass, and was almost asleep when Mr MATTHEWS came by; that he let him pass, and then followed him at a distance; and observing Mr MATTHEWS  to alight to ease nature, he waited till he was putting his foot in his stirrup to remount his horse, in that instant he ran up and gave him such a violent blow as brought him to the ground, which he repeated two or three times, and afterwards robbed him of 17 guineas and a half.  From the time of his commitment to his condemnation he has behaved so audaciously, that it was judged necessary to handcuff and chain him to the floor; but after sentence was passed his behaviour was very penitential, and at his death he expressed the greatest contrition for the crimes of his past life.  He had been supposed by some of the murder of Mr WYNNIAT, but protested in the most solemn manner his innocence, and desired it might be published to the world.

He was executed on Friday, and the next day his body was conveyed to the Spot where the murder was committed, and there hung in chains.

 

Sep 7.  On Tuesday last  a taylor  of Charlton King’s sent his son [RICHARD RUSSELL], a young man about 19, into a wood near that place to cut some furze; but the young man not returning  home, his friends were alarmed, and made enquiry after him in the neighbourhood.  No one could give any account of him; upon which they made a strict search the next day through the wood, and at last found him hanging upon a lofty branch of a tree with his legs tied.  The hatchet and the rope which he had taken to cut and bind the furze, were found at some distance.

 

Sep 14.  Murder of wife by MARKS of Bristol.    

 

 

 

1768

 

Jan 18.  On Thursday an elderly man fell into one of the pits that are so injudiciously dug by the roadside near the New Barn, and perished.

   Two boys were frozen to death at Cowley, and several others have been lost.

 

Feb 1.  On Thursday, one of the most horrid instances of barbarity was perpetrated at Wotton Underedge, in this county, that ever was heard of, by one SAMUEL WALLINGTON, a shearman, who, about 10 o’clock in the morning left his work and went home, and killed his father.  He first knocked the poor man down with a hammer, and afterwards cut his head almost off.  It seems he had frequently for some time past threatened to kill him for opposing his inclinations to marry.  The villain afterwards went and told what he had done, to some of his neighbours, and he was immediately apprehended and committed to our castle.

 

Feb 8.  On Wednesday morning, Owner SMITH, of Tewkesbury, was unfortunately killed, by the falling of a mast upon his vessel, coming up the Severn near Framilode.

 

Feb 15.  The Owner who was killed on board his vessel, as mentioned in our last, was Owner E------- of Tewkesbury, not Owner SMITH.

 

Mar 7.  Assizes:  WILLIAM MARKS for the murder of his wife; SAMUEL WALLINGTON for the murder of his father.

 

Mar 14.  WILLIAM MARKS, committed for the murder of his wife, was convicted only of manslaughter, and burnt in the hand and ordered to be imprisoned for six months. 

   SAMUEL WALLINGTON, for the murder of his father, was acquitted, as insane.

 

May 2.  On Wednesday last, HESTER PEYTON, of Rodborough, was found guilty by the Coroner’s Inquest of the murder of her bastard child; it appeared by the evidence taken by Mr Nayler, Coroner, that as soon as the child was born she dislocated its neck, and then wrapt it in a d[ay] shift and put it under the rug of the bed, - went to a neighbour’s house and complained - her landlady had used her ill in suspecting her to be with child; but the fact was soon discovered and the woman is now in custody till she is fit to be committed to gaol.

 

May 9.  On Wednesday last, Mr LAURENCE MILLS was elected one of the Coroners for this county, in the room of Mr BAUGH.

 

Jun 6.  Commitments:  JOHN JAMES, for killing THOMAS TILLADAMS, in a fray at Winterbourne.

 

Jul 18.  For trial: HESTER PEYTON.

 

Jul 25.  HESTER PEYTON  was acquitted of the murder of her child, as it appeared she had made known her condition to her mother, and had prepared the linen for the child.

 

Oct 24.  A few days ago a lad [THOMAS KITCHEN]  about eight years old, who had been sent to borrow a gun at Lower Slaughter, and was carrying it down the village, not knowing it was loaded, unfortunately snapt it at some children, when the piece went off, and killed the daughter of Mr JOHN COLLET, of that place.

 

Oct 31.  Commitments: THOMAS KITCHEN, (the lad mentioned in our last) for killing BETTY COLLETT.

 

On Wednesday evening the 2d of this instant, between five and six o’clock, a lad about seventeen, an apprentice to Mr HENRY LAWRENCE, in Temple street Bristol, was sent to speak with the Captain of the Chepstow boat, then lying in Bristol Back, and going across the plank from one vessel to the other, his foot missed the plank, and he fell between the vessels, and was drowned.  His body is not yet found, and there being a great fresh in the river he is supposed to be carried into Kingroad, if any of the watermen upon the river Severn, or in the Bristol Channel, should find him, and will give notice to his master, or to his unhappy father Mr LOCKIER, Postmaster at Wotton underedge, they shall be rewarded for their trouble.

 

Dec 26.  On Saturday morning an unfortunate accident happened to farmer RUCK’s brother, who was coming down to this market with corn.  As he was walking by the side of the mill house in a place called the Fair Mile, between this and Horseferry Bridge, he fell down across the rut, and both the waggon wheels went over him, and killed him on the spot.  

 

 

 

1769

 

Jan 30.  On Tuesday night last, in a violent storm of wind, a trow from Bristol, belonging to Owner HUMPHRIS of this city, was cast away in the river Severn near Gatcomb, and one man was drowned.

 

Mar 20.  HENRY RUSS, died in Gaol.

 

Apr 10.  At the Sessions here last week, a person was fined 5 l. for disobeying the warrant of Mr Nayler, one of the Coroners of this county, in not appearing to be sworn as one of the Jury in an inquest before the coroner.

 

Jul 31.  On 19th inst. Inquest at Tewkesbury on a Male unknown aged about 50 taken from the river.

 

Nov 13.  On Thursday died at his father’s at Stonehouse, in this County, Mr AMBROSE RUDHALL, eldest son of Mr RUDHALL, an eminent Clothier.  This young gentleman, riding home in a dark night, unhappily fell, with his horse, into a quarry, and received --------------------------------

occasioned his death.

 

Nov 27.  Fire at Berkeley; housekeeper burnt.

 

 

 

1770

 

Jan 15.  We have an account from several parts of this county, that the severe cold wind on Wednesday evening, the 10th inst. had nearly killed many people who were exposed to it upon the road.  The miller of Ablington, near Bibury, on his return home from Northleach market, lost his life.  He was found dead the next day upon his knees, with his face to the ground as if blowing in his hands.  Others returning from the same place had great difficulty to reach their own houses.

 

Mar 19.  GOREY WEBB, the black, that attempted to murder Mrs DIXON, at Stapleton, died in the gaol on Monday last.

 

Mar 26.  Account of accident at Little Rissington to RICHARD LANE, Carpenter; well collapsed.

 

Sep 3.  For trial: ELIZABETH RUDDER  for the murder of her bastard child.

 

Nov 26.  3 men dead at Minsterworth - recheck.

               On Monday night as SAMUEL OVERTHROW was returning with the letters for Ledbury, his boat being carried by the current against the Westgate bridge was sunk, and the man was drowned.  He has left a wife and six or seven children quite destitute.

 

 

 

1771

 

Jun 10.  Last week MARY BATT was committed to the castle by Geo. Nayler, Gent. Coroner, for the murder of her bastard child.

 

Jun 24.  Last week were committed to our castle, .... by Geo. Nayler, Gent. Coroner, JANE PEPWORTH, for the murder of her female child.

 

Jul 15.  Assizes: JANE PEPWORTH and MARY BATT.

             On Thursday a man employed in making potash in this city, fell into a pit of hot lye; he was immediately taken out, but died before he could be carried to the Infirmary.

 

Jul 22.  Long account of assault/murder of MARY JONES daughter of WILLIAM JONES, Esq. of Nass, and a Miss GOUGH [Jul 29 - recovering] of Monmouth, by a WILLIAM MORGAN, sawyer, of Lydney.

 

Sep 9.  On Saturday the Coroner’s inquisition sat on the body of a woman, who was wife to one RODWAY, a carrier, at Upton St Leonards near this city, who was found dead on Friday morning.  It appeared, that the woman and her husband had supped the preceding evening at a neighbour’s house, where they got so fuddled they could not go home.  The people went to bed, and left them in the kitchen.  In the morning RODWAY went upstairs and told them his wife was dead.  The Coroner was sent for, and a jury sat on the body, who acquitted the husband.  But some circumstances have since appeared, which afford good grounds for suspecting him of the murder, and the Justice has committed him for further examination.

 

Sep 16.  The relatives of RODWAY’s wife, mentioned in our last, being dissatisfied with the Coroner’s inquest,  a ------ inspection of the body by dissection and further examination, was made at their request, and several striking circumstances appeared to justify the suspicion of the woman’s having been murdered by strangling; upon which Sir WILLIAM STRACHAN, who has been at great pains to detect the villainy, took the depositions anew, and committed RODWAY to the castle to be tried at the next Assizes.

 

Nov 18.  On Tuesday last died suddenly, at her house in St Mary’s Square, in this city, Mrs CLUTTERBUCK, relict of the late GILES CLUTTERBUCK, Esq. of Millend, in this county.

   On Thursday last ELIZABETH TWIGG, widow, was brought to our castle, for the murder of her child, which was found in a horse pond in the parish of Almondsbury.

 

Dec 2.  Long obituary and circumstances of death of Mrs CLUTTERBUCK, who was buried at Eastington.

 

 

 

1772

 

Jan 20.  A few days ago the daughter of Mr FRYER of Wheatenhurst, fell into the fire in a fit, and was so terribly burnt that she died soon afterwards.

 

Jan 27.  Last week three persons died suddenly in this city, one of whom (Mr THOMSON, an Exciseman) has left a widow and five small children in great distress.

 

Feb 19.   On Thursday se’nnight died in a most shocking state of madness, the wife of Mr JOHN SCOT, of Sheepscombe, near Bisley, who was bit by a mad dog upwards of three months ago.   She was bit in her hand, and a few days before she died, she was taken with a pain in one finger, which ran up her arm, and spread through her whole frame. It is astonishing, etc.

 

Mar 16.  Condemned: ELIZABETH TWIGG for the murder of her child.

               Acquitted: JOHN RODWAY for the murder of his wife.

 

Mar 23.  On Monday last WILLIAM MORGAN and ELIZABETH TWIGG were executed here pursuant to their sentence ............  ELIZABETH TWIGG declared at the tree that she was innocent of the fact for which she suffered, but it is to be feared she left this world with a falshood, as she one time said it was a sailor, another time a soldier, that took the child from her.  She acknowledged that her life had been such a scene of abandoned prostitution and wickedness, that her fate was not unmerited.

   Obituary of NEAST HAVARD, Tewkesbury Coroner.

 

Mar 27.  On Thursday last Mr LITTLE, of Aston Ingham, in Herefordshire, a farmer of considerable fortune, whilst he was over-looking some workmen repairing a barn had the misfortune to be crushed to death by the fall of a beam.  The poor have a great loss in the death of this worthy man, for he was ever their sturdy friend.

 

May 11.  We can assure the public, that our castle gaol is now quite free from the small-pox, notwithstanding reports to the contrary.

 

May 18.  On Tuesday last were committed ... RICHARD DAW, of Ashleworth, a substantial farmer, upwards of seventy years of age, and RICHARD ROOK his servant, for the murder of a male bastard child [of HANNAH MANNS], of which DAW was the father.

   The same day a poor woman of Nailsworth, picking up chips near a tree, which some men were hewing down, had laid the child at the but of the tree; the woman, seeing the tree falling ran to catch up her child, but before she could get clear of it the tree fell and killed her.  She had the presence of mind to throw the child from her, by which means it escaped unhurt.

 

Jun 1.  Yesterday se’nnight, between one and two o’clock in the afternoon, JOSEPH DYER, a gardener and nurseryman, of Campden, in this county, was found murdered about half a mile from that place.  There was a shocking fracture on the back part of his head, and his cheek from the corner of his mouth to his ear was laid open by a violent blow of a stake.  It was about two o’clock when the body was found, and was then quite warm.  A girl had taken notice, that one WILLIAM KEELY, a labourer of Campden, passed by her just before the murder was discovered, with some blood upon his breeches.  This giving suspicion he was immediately apprehended.  At first he denied the fact, but afterwards acknowledged that he and one TRACY  committed it; but his father and mother begging him to declare the truth; he recanted what he had said concerning TRACY, and swore that he alone was guilty of the murder; that he had waylaid the deceased, who had been to receive some money that morning; and that as he was getting over a stile, he came behind him, and with a stake knocked him down at two blows, that he afterwards robbed him, and then ran home.  As the constable was bringing him to our castle, the villain charged one JAMES WARNER with being his accomplice, and WARNER is now brought to gaol; but it is generally imagined that KEELY’s information is false.  [He] seemed to express some concern yesterday th[at he had] brought the poor man into so much trouble.

 

Jun 8.  By a letter received from Campden last week, we find there is too much reason to believe, that WARNER was an accomplice with KELLY in the murder of RICHARD DYER.  It seems that KELLY  is a famous Morrice-dancer; and on Sunday morning before the fact was committed, he was teaching a set of fellows to dance.  WARNER, used to play on the tabor and pipes to the dancers.  It is to be hoped the Justices will suppress such nurseries of idleness and drunkenness as Morrice-dancings have generally proved.

 

Jun 29.  On Saturday the 21st inst. during the thunderstorm, one man and a boy were crushed to pieces as they were digging stone, with three others, in a quarry on Brockthrop hill, by a large quantity of stone and rubbish falling upon them from the top.  The rest, being providentially at work at a little distance, received no hurt.  This is the second accident of the kind which has happened in the same quarry, within these few years; and it is hoped, will be a caution to quarrymen leaving the tops of their quarries in the precarious state they so generally do.

   On Monday last RICHARD SMART, a bricklayer’s labourer, had the misfortune to fall from the top of a ladder, in this city, and was killed on the spot.  He has left a distressed widow, with two small children.

 

Jul 31.  Assizes:  WILLIAM KELLY for the murder of RICHARD DYER; RICHARD DAW, for being an accessary to the murder of a male bastard child, which he had by HANNAH MANNS.           

Acquitted, JAMES WARNER.  Reprieved, RICHARD ROOKE, a servant to RICHARD DAW, who hid the child under a hayrick, where it perished.

   Long account of the execution of WILLIAM KELLY, aged 22, with a wife and children.

 

Sep 7.  Executions awaited: RICHARD DAW.

            A few days ago two boys washing in a brook near Stroud, one of them stood on the stump of a tree, and turning about he saw the head of a woman rise to the top of the water.  Frightened out of their wits the boys ran home, and told what had happened; upon which the people went to the place, and found the body of a woman with a child tied to her, which seemed as if they had lain in the water several days.  Upon examination it proved to be the body of a woman who was called POL JENKINS, and the child was a bastard she had lately had.  One HOUSE, a carpenter, who kept company with the woman, has been taken up on suspicion of murdering her, as some people deposed, that they heard the cries of a woman a few nights before the discovery of the body; but we suppose there is not evidence sufficient to fix it on this man, as he is not yet brought to our castle.

 

Sep 14.  Execeution and speech by RICHARD DAW.

      On Sunday the 30th of August last a young man aged about 21 was drowned in the Severn, near Awre.  Mr WILLIAM JOHNSON, of Elberton, near Thornbury, will give a guinea and reasonable charges to any person who takes up the body and will bring it to his friends at Elberton.  He was naked when drowned.

 

Nov 2.  BENJAMIN SHEPPARD, committed lately for stealing cloth, is dead.

 

 

 

1773

 

Jan 18.  On Saturday last SARAH MILLS [also SARAH HILL] was brought to our castle, charged on the Coroner’s Inquest with the wilful murder of a male infant in the parish of Hartpury.

 

Mar 8.  Berkeley, Mar 6.  On Sunday last one JOHN FRYER , a fisherman of this parish, going to fish upon an adjacent shoal in the river Severn, after taking a fish he had been in pursuit of, the sands he stood on a sudden sunk under him, whereby he instantly perished, leaving three poor children to lament his loss.  It is to be hoped the accident which happened to this unfortunate man will deter fishermen from such a notorious abuse of the Sabbath, many others having of late made a most shameful practice of folowing the business of fishing on Sundays.  It is also to be wished, that the constables and churchwardens of this and other neighbouring parishes would properly exert their authority, in order to put an effectual stop to so abominable a practice.

 

May 24.  Sudden floods; servant of Mr TURBERVILLE  drowned at Tewkesbury.

 

Jun 21.  Last week a woman of Sandhurst was drowned in the Severn, and at Minsterworth a man and a child about seven years old were drowned.  The child fell out of a boat, and the man, in endeavouring to save it, was lost.  The bodies of each were taken up soon after, but no means were tried for their recovery.  It is therefore recommended to every person who lives near the river to preserve our Miscellany of this week, in which the means of recovering people that are drowned is plainly set forth.

 

Aug 2.  On Monday last died JOHN MOORE, of Wickwar, Gent. one of his Majesty’s Coroners for this county.

 

Sep 13.  On Friday an elderly decent looking woman dropt down dead in the Southgate street in this city. 

 

 

 

1774

 

Apr 11.  On Wednesday last an inquisition was taken by Mr Lawrence Mills, Coroner, on view of the body of a female infant, which was laid naked under some straw at the bottom of a hayrick in the parish of Maisemore, near this city.  The jury were satisfied the infant had been put there alive, it having some straw clenched in its hand.  All parish officers, especially those adjoining in the counties of Herefordshire and Worcestershire, are desired to make diligent enquiry if any stranger is come into their parish, who has had a child within the last three months, and no such child with her, the infant being about that age.  It is suspected it was a woman who left the infant, and that she afterwards went towards Ledbury.

 

Apr 18.  Refers to a murder at Huntley previously.

 

Apr 25.   On Wednesday last an inquisition was taken by George Nayler, Gent. Coroner, on view of the bodt of THOMAS CARTWRIGHT, a convict under sentence of transportation for stealing hay, who hanged himself in our castle.  The Jurors on their enquiry found him a Felo de se.  In his pockets were found a written paper acknowledging that his ruin was in consequence of keeping company with lewd women; this he recommended to be published as a caution to others.

 

May 2.  Skeleton child in Vicarage Hall, Staunton, buried in churchyard.

 

Jun 13.  On Thursday morning farmer [JOHN] WILLIAMS, of Goodrich, in Herefordshire, was thrown from his horse at Eastington, on the Bath road, and killed on the spot. 

 

 

 

1775

 

Jan 23.  Last week four young men of Awre, in this county, in a most shocking bravado, who could drink the greatest quantity of brandy, drank to such excess that one of them, whose name was HOPKINS, fell down dead on the spot, another is since dead, and the two others are not expected to recover.

 

Feb 6.  We hear from Newnham, that the tide on Wednesday morning was so high that it ran over the sea walls, and laid the low country on the Arlingham side all under water.  The weather was so very tempestuous that only one vessel upon the Severn dared to quit her moorings, a small sloop from Gatcombe to Frampton, laden with coals, and she was lost, with two men and a boy.  The poor men have left widows, one with five, the other with six children. --  Since receiving the above account we hear that another Gatcombe sloop was lost, and that she belonged to the owner of that before mentioned, one BARRETT, who, we are informed, by his double misfortune, is reduced to great distress.

 

May 1.  On Thursday last an inquest was taken before James Rudge, Gent. one of his Majesty’s Coroners for this county, on the body of the Rev. Mr. THOMAS NEWNHAM, who, on the 17th of March last, fell  into Pen Park Hole.  The jury brought in their verdict Accidental Death.  It must be great consolation to the deceased gentleman’s friends and relations that he is found, as it entirely contradicts the many false, ridiculous, and scandalous reports raised and propagated by the foolish, ignorant, and designing.  On Tuesday some gentlemen of Bristol went to Pen Park Hole to decide a wager, and a person going down discovered the body floating on the water.  It appears that Mr NEWNHAM had received a violent contusion of the back part of his head, and also broke one of his arms.

 

Jun 26.   At Greatten, near Winchcombe, a few days ago, as a child [ANN ROBERTS?] about two and a half years old was playing in the road, two waggons passing along, whilst their drivers staid behind drinking, went over the child, and the wheels severed its head from its body.  It might prevent many accidents if the penalty inflicted by Parliament on those drivers that ride upon, or leave their waggons whilst in the road, was constantly inflicted.

 

Sep 4.  Cirencester, Aug 30.  Last night about four o’clock died, raving mad, WILLIAM MOSS, servant to DANIEL WEBB of Talton, in this county.  About the 18th of June last. he with several others in the parish were bitten by a mad dog, and all went to the salt water; nevertheless, last Sunday, MOSS discovered evident signs of the hydrophobia, and continued getting worse to the time of his death.

 

Oct 9.  n Wednesday morning last, MARY PARTRIDGE, a poor old woman of Maisemore, near 80 years of age, was found dead under a hayrick by the limekiln near the Westgate bridge.  Her cloaths were very much cut and torn; and from the situation in which the body was found, it was suspected that some villains had been offering violence to her, which was the cause of her death.  The rumour of a murder getting abroad, suspicion quickly fell on three labourers of this city, who were known sometimes to be out from their lodgings, and sleep at the Limekiln; and it appeared that they were all out very late that night; on which they were apprehended, and one of them, who is deaf and dumb, was brought before the Inquest; this fellow seemed greatly agitated, and by signs and motions made to some persons who had been long used to him, he discovered that they all three went to the kiln together, where they met the poor woman, when they laid hold of her, and took her up into a hayloft just by; and after forcing the woman against her consent, one of them dragged her by the legs down the steps from the loft, and left her where she was afterwards found dead.  The fellows are all committed to our Northgate Gaol.

 

Oct 16.  On Wednesday last five women were drowned near Beachley, in this county, in the cabin of the Bristol boat, which was overset in the passage to Chepstow.  The boat, cargo, and the people upon deck were saved.

   Thursday an inquest was taken by Mr Nayler, on the body of a labouring man in the parish of Westonbirt, who was found dead about five o’clock in the morning on the turnpike road between Tetbury and Didmarton, supposed to have been robbed, as the right side pocket of his breeches was turned inside outwards.  He was seen on Wednesday to offer himself at Tetbury mop for service, and likewise at several public houses with money in his pocket.  On view of the body his throat was found cut from ear to ear, and under the left ear was a most shocking wound which divided the bones of the neck, as also a large piece of skin under the left jaw cut off which was found by him.   No evidence appearing to prove the fact, the jury returned their verdict, Wilful Murder by a person or persons unknown.

  On Saturday a man, a native of Painswick, was apprehended upon the hue and cry in Bristol, and committed to the bridewell there, on suspicion of the above murder.  He denied the murder; but, as he was seen on Wednesday evening in company with the deceased at a public house near the place where the murder was committed, and there saw the poor man change a guinea, and when apprehended his cloaths and pockets were very bloody, and he had several shillings about him (besides buying himself a frock and stockings) although he declared at the public house he had but two pence; these circumstances make very strongly against him.  The man murdered had a wife and four children.

 

Oct 23.  On Friday last THOMAS HARMER was committed to our castle, for the murder of JOHN HAYWARD, at Westonbirt, as mentioned in our last.

 

Nov 27.  On Thursday last Mr Steel, Coroner, sat on the body of a young man, the only son of Mr COOK, of the Morewood, in this county, who was unfortunately drowned in the river Wye, by falling from one of the barges.

    Extract of a letter from Withington, Nov 20:  This morning a young woman of our parish (being to all appearances in perfect health, and busy at work) was so disturbed by a little trifling accident, that she peevishly cried out, I wish I was dead.   The words had no sooner escaped her lips than her wish had its full effect; and her passing bell is now tolling.  May this event furnish some useful inferences.

  

 

 

 

1776

 

Jan 1.  On Thursday the 21st instant, one WILLIAM GODWIN, of Broughton, on Oxfordshire, having been out upon a shooting party, called at the house of the widow LUCKETT, the Royal Oak, in Leachlade, in this county, somewhat intoxicated; being known to ANN ILES, a servant in the house, she asked him how he did, and added, What have you got a gun?  He replied, Yes I have, and will shoot you.   A little girl who was present, on seeing him level his piece, pulled the maid by the sleeve, saying, Have a care, Nanny, for he’ll shoot you; No, he won’t,( replied the servant) be it only upon his fun.  She had scarce uttered these words, when the piece went off, and blew out her brains.  The jury brought in their verdict, Manslaughter, and he was by the Coroner’s warrant committed to our Castle.

 

Apr 8.  Assizes.  Sentence of death:  THOMAS HARMER, for the murder of JOSIAH HAYWARD.

             On Wednesday THOMAS HARMER was executed according to his sentence.  He expressed great penitence for the crime he had committed, admonished the spectators to beware of frequenting ale houses, and giving up their time to dissolute company, which brought him to such an untimely end.

 

Sep 30.  On Friday was committed to our gaol, by Geo. Nayler, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county, JOSEPH ARMSTRONG, on suspicion of having poisoned the lady of Capt. A’COURT, with whom he lived a servant, and who was then at Cheltenham.  This lady had been ill ten days, but no suspicion was suggested ‘till the morning after her decease, when information was given by an apothecary of that place, that the servant had bought some arsenic at his shop the day preceding her first attack of illness, and again in the course of the following week.  On receiving this intelligence, the man, who had that morning got leave of his master to set out for London, in consequence of a letter he had received from his friends there, was pursued to Frogmill by Col. BRADFORD, the lady’s father, and after some time was apprehended in a neighbouring wood, whither he had fled on seeing the Colonel drive up to the house in a chaise and four.  Upon being interrogated for what purpose he bought the poison, he prevaricated very much, and since his confinement has been in several different stories.  Upon an examination by several gentlemen of the faculty, it is said the lady’s bowels were found mortified.

 

Dec 30.  Sloop lost near Shotts; woman passenger.

 

 

 

1777

 

Mar 17.  At our Assizes JOSEPH ARMSTRONG was tried before Mr Baron Perryns, for the offence of petty-treason, in poisoning his master’s lady Mrs A’COURT.  The prioner was hired into the family of Captain A’COURT, and shortly after attended his master and mistress to Cheltenham, in this county.  The unfortunate lady had often expressed her dislike at the prisoner’s conduct, and had frequently intimated to her husband a wish that he might be discharged from their service.  This conduct of the lady, ARMSTRONG was determined to be revenged of, and by infusing small quantities of arsenic into the mistress’s beer and tea, she contracted a disorder which carried her off in about ten days.  After a trial which lasted eight hours, the evidence was summed up in a very masterly manner by the Judge to the jury, who found him guilty, to the satisfaction of a very crowded court.  He is to suffer this day.

 

On Monday morning, about seven o’clock, JOSEPH ARMSTRONG, who was that morning to have been executed for the murder of his mistress, desired the keepers to give him leave to have two or three minutes to himself to devote to prayer; this request seemed so reasonable, that after securing his garters, and even the string with which his chains were supported, they left him and stood on the outside of the door, but no sooner had the door shut than he took a little strap, which it is imagined his mother hid in the straw, and tying this round his neck, he fastened it to a nail in the wall, and then by a sudden jerk dislocated his neck, and died before the people could open the door.  Though he had positively denied that he had been guilty of the crime for which he suffered on Sunday evening, yet just before he destroyed himself, he said to one of his keepers, it did not signify denying his guilt any more.  And he acknowledged to one of the prisoners that he had been guilty of other villainies worthy of death before this for which he was condemned. 

   His body was afterwards hanged in chains near Cheltenham.  [See also Jun 2].

 

May 5.  Cirencester, May 3.  Last Sunday night, as SAMUEL WORTHINGTON, M.D. of this town, was returning home from Tetbury, he was thrown from his horse, and killed on the spot.

 

Jul 21.  Assizes.  MARGARET LUDLAM, who killed her own child [JOAN], appeared to be insane.

 

Jul 25.  On Thursday last the passage boat was lost as she was crossing from Beachley to Aust; four boatmen and one other person, with 18 head of oxen and some horses, were drowned. 

 

 

 

1778

 

Jan 5.  On Thursday evening a fidler [JOSEPH GREEN], very much intoxicated with liquor, fell down in the road near Littledean, and was found the next morning frozen to death.

 

Mar 16.  Assizes.  At our Assizes ELIZABETH GRIMMETT, of Treddington, convicted of the murder of her bastard child, was condemned to be hanged this day.

 

Mar 23.  On Monday last ELIZABETH GRIMMETT was executed here for the murder of her bastard child.  This unhappy wretch was in great agonies at the approach of death, and wept most bitterly as the cart drew away.

 

May 4.  On Saturday farmer BRUTON, of Upleadon, in this county, returning from this market, was thrown from his horse and killed.

 

Aug 17.  On Monday last an inquest was taken at Clifton, in this county, by Mr James Rudge, one of the coroners, on the body of THOMAS BONNER TOWNSHEND, who was on Sunday night found drowned at Clifton.  Upon examining  the body there appeared several cuts on his head, and on his wrists, which he seemed to have received in guarding his throat, on which appeared several scarifications.   Three woman were taken into custody on suspicion, but no evidence appearing against them, the jury brought in their verdict wilful murder against some person or persons unknown.

 

Aug 24.  3 for Manslaughter: JELFS, YOUNG  and SCUDMORE??

 

Oct 5.  RICHARD CLUTTERBUCK  of Eastington fell down suddenly in church.

 

Oct 19.  Long account of a Press Gang incident at Blakeney on 16th; one killed.

 

 

 

1779

 

Mar 8.  Assizes; for trial: a woman for the murder of her bastard child.

 

Mar 22.  On Monday last Mr THOMAS BLUNT, Surgeon, of Mitchel-Dean, was unanimously elected one of the Coroners of this county, in the room of Mr STEEL, of Coleford, deceased.

 

Jun 21.  On Monday evening last a very melancholy accident happened at Twinning, near Tewkesbury, in this county.  GEORGE MAXWELL, Esq. having been requested by some of his children to shoot some small birds for a hawk which they had in the garden, was loading his gun in his courtyard, and as he was ramming down the shot, by some accident the piece went off, and lodged the whole charge in his face, and killed him on the spot.  The distress of his family is not to be described.

 

Aug 16.  At our Assizes last week CATHARINE JENKINS was convicted of the murder of her neice, a little child, which was left to her care by her brother, who is gone to sea.  She was executed on Thursday, and appeared very penitent.

 

Aug 23.  On Monday last an inquisition was taken before Neast Havard, Gent. his Majesty’s Coroner of the borough of Tewkesbury, on the body of Mr THOMAS PRITCHARD, who was accidentally drowned as he was bathing in Severn, within the jurisdiction of that borough.

 

Sep 27.  On Tuesday last an inquisition  was taken at Coleford., before Thomas Blunt, Gent. one of his Majesty’s Coroners for this county, on view of the body of MARY ROSSER, who was killed by the kick of a horse.  The jury brought in their verdict,  accidental death.

   And on Wednesday last an inquisition was taken before the same Coroner, at Brims Pill, on view of the body of JOHN WILLIAMS, who was unfortunately drowned in attempting to cross the river Severn.  The jury brought in their verdict accidental death.

 

Nov 22.  Brsitol, Nov 20.  Tuesday evening, a melancholy accident befell Mrs Oakley, an elderly gentlewoman, at the bottom of Montague street, St James’s.  She is supposed to have fallen asleep, whilst setting very near the fire, which caught her clothes, and she was so terribly burnt before anyone came to her assistance,  that it was out of the power of the several medical gentlemen called in, to relieve her.  She languished till Thursday afternoon, when she expired.

 

 

 

1780

 

Jan 10.  A few days ago Mrs COOKE, the landlady of the Plough Inn, in Wotton Underedge, in this county, being gone to the cellar to draw some beer for a boy who was sent for it by a relation, the boy unfortunately took up a charged gun, which happened to be at that time in the kitchen, and, just as she returned, it accidentally went off, and lodged the whole contents in her breast, on which she instantly expired.

 

Jan 17.  A few days ago was committed to our castle gaol, ANNE, wife of CHARLES JENKINS, of Blakeney, in this county, against whom a bill of indictment was found, at last Lent Assizes, for the murder of JOHN YOUNG, who with several others forced a way into her dwelling house in the night, in order to impress her husband (see this Journal of October 26, 1778).   Criminal as this woman may appear at present in the eye of the law, there is great reason to hope, that when the fatal act shall be fully investigated, it will be found to have proceeded not from malice aforethought, but from a sudden irresistible impulse of conjugal affection.  We therefore scruple not to recommend her to the compassionate regard of our readers.  She is now big with child, and was committed with an infant in her arms, whom she supports in prison.  It ought not to be omitted, that the wretchedness of a gaol, at this severe season, is aggravated by her having offered to surrender herself for trial, at the last assizes, when she could not be arraigned, on account of her not having observed the forms necessary on such occasions.  Any donations will be received and applied to the woman’s use by the Rev. B NEWTON.

 

May 15.  The Birtsmorton Murders.

 

Jul 3.  On Saturday the 24th of June last, inquests were taken by James Rudge, Gentleman, Coroner, on views of the bodies of SARAH BRIGHT and MARTHA HULBERT, who were both murdered by one JOHN ABBOTT, a carpenter, of Hanham, near Bristol, who had lately been confined as disordered in mind.   The preceding day, ABBOTT came home to his house about ten o’clock in the forenoon, and his wife being ill, he went upstairs and sat down by her on the bed; during that time, a woman who looked after his wife came into the room, he immediately went to her, and with his fist struck her down on the floor, she got up and ran down stairs, and he pursued her: his wife, fearing the consequences, arose, and endeavoured to escape, but he met her, and having a hatchet in his hand, he held it over her head, and asked for money.  She thereupon delivered to him all the money in her pocket; he then struck her several violent blows on the head with the hatchet, and then locked the door.  Sometime afterwards, the deceased, SARAH BRIGHT, (not knowing what had happened) called at the house with raddishes to sell, upon which he opened the door, and immediately with a hatchet beat out her brains.  He then went out, and going up a lane near his house, he unfortunately met with the deceased, MARTHA HULBERT, and her sister, two little children, coming from school, and immediately, with the hatchet, knocked them both down;  but a woman in an adjoining field hearing the cries of the children, ran towards them, and asked ABBOTT if he was going to kill the children, he answered he was, and would kill all he met; upon which an alarm was made, and he was with great difficulty taken, and is now secured in our gaol.  MARTHA HULBERT died immediately, his wife is since dead, and it is feared the other child cannot recover.

 

Aug 7.  JOHN ABBOTT, for the murder of SARAH BRIGHT, MARTHA HULBERT, and his wife [LYDIA ABBOTT] being insane, to remain in gaol until two magistrates order him to be taken care of by his parish.

 

Sep 11.  On Monday evening last died suddenly, in an apoplectic fit, on his return home from Ampney, Mr GEORGE  NAYLER, Gentleman, Coroner of this county, and an eminent surgeon and apothecary at Stroud.

 

Nov 6.  On Thursday Mr THOMAS BONNER BISHOP, of Stroud, attorney at law, was elected a Coroner of this county, in the room of Mr Nayler, deceased.

 

 

 

1781

 

Feb 26.  Last Monday evening as WILLIAM CRIPS, of Barnsley, in this county, farmer, was returning home from Cirencester market, he was met near Barnsley by a man disguised in liquor, riding full speed, when both were thrown from their horses, and CRIPS unfortunately killed on the spot. - The Coroner’s Inquest was taken - verdict - accidental death.

   Last Wednesday as JOHN DEAN, miller, was greasing one of the wheels of a mill in Woodchester, whilst the same was going, he was unfortunately dragged in amongst the wheels, and instantly killed, his skull was shockingly fractured, and arms broke to pieces.  The Coroner’s Inquest was taken - verdict - accidental death.

 

Mar 5.  Great damage was sustained in all parts of this county buy the high wind on Tuesday. ... But we have heard of one person [MARY CAUDLE] only killed, a woman at Dowdeswell, by the fall of a tree.

   Shooting incident at Bristol in elections: 2 dead: self defence.

 

Apr 23.  The number of accidents that have happened in this neighbourhood within these three days are remarkable.  On Tuesday GEORGE TURNER, a shepherd to Farmer LINE, of Post Farm, getting over a gate with a pair of sheep sheers in his hand, accidentally fell, and stuck the sheers into his throat, which killed him upon the spot; and about the same time JOHN PALMER, shepherd to Mr MASTERS, fell from a hayrick, and dislocated his neck; and about nine o’clock this morning MICHAEL COWLEY  dropt down dead in the street.  TURNER has left a wife and six children, and COWLEY a wife and two small children.

 

Jul 2.  A few days ago the body of a young woman was taken out of the river near this city, upon which several marks of violence were conspicuous.  The Coroner’s inquest brought in their verdict, Wilful Murder.

 

Jul 9.  On Tuesday last as four men belonging to the press gang stationed in this city were going up the Severn in a boat, by a sudden squall they were overset, and two of the fellows were drowned.

 

Nov 19.  On Thursday last the wife of PHILIP SCOT, gardener, who had lost the use of her limbs, being left alone by the woman appointed to take care of her, fell into the fire, and was burnt to death.

 

Dec 31.  About six o’clock on Friday morning last, in the violent storm, a barge, belonging to Owner YOUNG, of Newnham, laden with timber and barley, bound for Bristol, was sunk at her moorings near Nass Point, and the owner, and one of his men, were drowned.  One man saved his life by swimming on shore.

 

 

 

1782

 

Jan 7.  On Friday evening last as WILLIAM HEMMING, the distributor of this paper through Chepstow, Cardiff, &c. was returning to his home at Sandhurst, in passing near the river, which had overflowed its banks, it is supposed that he missed the road and fell in, his horse being found the next day, in a meadow on the opposite side of the river.  He was very much dissuaded, as he passed through Gloucester, from attempting to go so dangerous a road in the dark, but he was not to be prevailed upon.  If the body should be found, it is requested that immediate notice be given to the Printer.

 

Feb 11.  Gloucester.  On Friday the 1st inst. an inquisition was tken before James Rudge, gent. coroner, on the view of the body of WILLIAM MILLARD, of the parish of Mangotsfield, in ths county, labourer, who was found early that morning, most inhumanly murdered in his bed.  The poor man was 75 years of age, and was supposed to have saved some money.  The same morning a pair of leather breeches, and a flannel jacket, the property of the deceased, were offered for sale to a broker in Bristol, by a thin faced man, about 36 years of age, five feet nine inches high, sallow complexion, short strait black hair, had on a light coloured coat, which appeared to have been turned, and wore a round hat. 

 

Feb 18.  The villain who committed the atrocious murder mentioned in our last is apprehended.   His name is STALLARD, a native of Yatton in Somersetshire.

 

Mar 4.  STALLARD, who is committed to our castle for the murder of WILLIAM MILLARD, at Mangotsfield, says, that he assisted in breaking open the window of the house, but that the robbery and murder was committed by one JOHN TAYLOR, who entered the house; and that he soon after heard the deceased cry out, the Lord have mercy upon my soul, which so terrified him, that he ran into the garden, and staid there till Taylor came out.

 

Apr 1.  On Saturday at our Assizes, RICHARD EYNON, for the murder of his wife, and THOMAS STALLARD, for the murder of WILLIAM MILLARD, of Mangotsfield, were ordered to be executed this day, but Eynon has been since respited to the 22d of April.  Stallard is to suffer.

   JAMES BROWN, the coachman at the Hotwells, who killed Mrs HEWSON, by driving over her, was found guilty of Manslaughter, and fined 20 l. and to be imprisoned six months.  THOMAS HASKINS, for killing WILLIAM SMITH, was fined 1 s.

 

Apr 8.  On Monday last THOMAS STALLARD was executed here for the murder of WILLIAM MILLARD of Mangotsfield, in this county.  This man was a deplorable instance of the shocking hardness to which the human heart is to be reduced by long habits of vice and profaneness.  His behaviour before he was taken to the place of execution was like one that defied the Almighty to punish; but when he was brought to the gallows the dreadful apprehension of eternal torments could no longer be concealed, and he died in the greatest agonies of fear.

 

Apr 15.  The alarming depravity of the lower class of peoplein this part of the country seems to demand some extraordinary exertions in those who have any regard for its credit, or the lives and properties of its inhabitants. - Two shocking murders have been committed within these few days in the neighbourhood:  The one by JOHN HARRIS, of Whaddon, on the body of his own son, a bot about 11 years of age, who, having been sent out to steal some wood, did not bring home so much as his barbarous father required; the inhuman wretch tied up the poor child by the hands, and with a doubled cord beat him ‘till he was a spectacle too shocking to behold.  The villain is committed to our Castle. - The other was perpetrated at Aure, a village on the banks of the Severn, where one MATTHEWS, a fisherman, was found lying murdered upon the sands, with his head most dreadfully bruised.  Suspicion immediately fell upon one PHELPS, another fisherman, in the same parish.  However, when he was apprehended, and brought before a Justice, no proof could be brought sufficient to warrant his commitment, and he has been discharged.

 

Apr 29.  On Friday last were executed near this city, pursuant to their sentence, RICHARD EYNON, for the murder of his wife, .....  They behaved with a decency becoming their unhappy situation.

 

Aug 5.  On Tuesday evening WILLIAM LEWIS, a young man who was learning to swim in the river Leddon, near the mill at Over, going out of his depth, was unhappily drowned.

   A few evenings ago, one GEORGE GOUGH, who had been committed to our castle for a breach of the peace, attempted to leap from the top of a high tree in the court yard of the prison, over the wall; but not jumping far enough he fell down upon the pavement in the court; and was taken up so much bruised that there are little hopes of his recovery.

 

Sep 2.  Wednesday last WILLIAM FRANCIS, suspected of the murder of EVAN DANIEL, on Durdham Down on Friday, the 23d inst. was taken near Neath.  And on Saturday morning a lad, brother to the above Francis, was taken here.  From the boy’s story it appears that the murderer and the deceased had stolen two oxen, and having sold them at Bristol, they retired to the quarry to divide the money, when the devil suggested to the one, that by  murdering his comrade, he might possess the whole booty.  The boy said he left them together in the pit.

 

Sep 9.  Cirencester, Sep 4.  This morning a melancholy accident happened to a female child, about seven years of age, belonging to one SAVORY, a poor labouring man of this town.  The child was playing with several others in a timber yard, where a parcel of boards were carelessly placed in a pile, which suddenly tumbled down, and crushed it to death.

 

Sep 30.  Tuesday last was committed to our castle, by James Rudge, Esq: Coroner for this county, JENKIN WILLIAM  PROTHERO, charged with the wilful murder of EVAN DANIEL, in August last, in the Westbury upon Trim, in this County.

 

Dec 16.  Last week were committed to our castle, the following persons: ... WILLIAM UNDERWOOD, weaver, of Bisley, charged with starving to death SARAH DARNSELL.

 

 

 

1783

Feb 17.  On Tuesday a boy belonging to a farmer of Longford coming with a horse in a cart to this city, the waters being out, the boy rode on the horse, and mistaking the road, fell into a ditch, where the boy and horse were drowned.

 

Apr 28.  On Tuesday last Mr JAMES BROWN, of Whaddon, in this county, was seized suddenly at a parish meeting with a shivering, and in going to a farm house near at hand to warm himself, he fell down and expired immediately.

 

May 5.  On Thursday evening, one ANN BARNES, a poor beggar woman, was murdered near Cainscross.  Two legs of a stool were found lying near the body, which are supposed to be the weapons with which the deceased was knocked on the head.

 

May 19.  On Saturday also was committed, WILLIAM PAVEY, of Millborough Heath, for stabbing his uncle, DAVID BROWN.  It seems the uncle had struck PAVEY for some fault he had committed; PAVEY, who was eating his dinner, flew into a violent passion, and with his knife in his hand struck at his uncle, and stabbed him between the two lower ribs on the left side.  The surgeon is of opinion that the wound is likely to prove mortal.  The contrition of the poor unfortunate young man, renders him an object of great pity. 

 

Jul 28.  On Thursday evening, WILLIAM PUGH, a bargeman, being a little elevated with liquor, attempted to swim through the Westgate bridge with his cloaths on, but as soon as he had passed the bridge, his strength failed him and he was drowned.  He was a fine active young fellow, whose conduct in general was remarkably sober and industrious; and his death is the more to be regretted as he kept to school, and maintained by his own labour a little brother and sister that were entirely dependent on him for support.

 

Oct 20.  On Wednesday last JOHN JEFFERYS, a mason, being employed to repair a well, in Stroud, which had not been opened for 15 years, went down without taking one precaution, and was suffocated.  Others were going down, who would have shared the same fate, had they not been prevented; but by throwing down several buckets of water, after a kettle of live coals had been let down, the air was rendered fit for respiration, and two men then descended, who brought up the corpse.  Had JEFFERYS been properly secured by cords fixed round his body, he might have been drawn up, tho’ insensible, and his life recovered.

 

 

 

1784.

 

Feb 9.  On Friday last died, Mr THOMAS BONNER BISHOP, one of the Coroners of this county.

 

Feb 16.  Yesterday se’nnight died here of a malignant fever, Mr THOMAS POWELL, in partnership with Mr MILLS, apothecary.  This valuable young man had engaged in the care of the sick confined in our county gaol, where a dreadfully malignant fever at present rages; and it is presumed he has fallen a sacrifice to the contagion; of which Mr GILES, the keeper of the prison, lies also now dangerously ill.  The number of sick in the prison is very great.

 

Feb 23.  Mr GILES, the keeper of the prison, is nearly recovered.

 

Apr 5.  On Wednesday last Mr WILLEY was elected one of the Coroners of this county, in the room of Mr Bishop, deceased.

 

Jul 19.  On Friday evening died at the Bell Inn, in this city, JOSEPH LOSH, Esq. an officer in the 7th regiment of Light Dragoons.  This amiable young gentleman fell a sacrifice to his notion of the use of strong exercise; for in one of the late hot days, he quitted his horse, when upon a journey, and walked from Evesham to Burford, which heated his blood to so violent a degree, that when he arrived here he was seized with a fever, which, after a few days illness, carried him off.

 

Jul 26.  On Friday morning, a poor woman upwards of 80 years of age, who lived in a cottage in the parish of Painswick, was found burnt to death.  It is supposed in putting some sticks upon her fire she fell down upon the hearth, and not having strength to rise again, lay there till she was consumed.

  On Thursday morning last, a servant boy of Mr Dimmery’s, of Dursley, in this county, took his master’s horse out in the grounds to feed, and being sleepy, lay down, tied the halter round his neck that he might not sleep too long, and composed himself; the horse taking fright, ran near a quarter of a mile with the boy, and bruised him in so terrible a manner, that he expired soon afterwards.

   On Friday evening, one BURFORD, of Nympsfield, working with others in a quarry in the parish of Cam, a quantity of the stones fell upon him, and crushed him to death in an instant; providentially no other lives were lost.

 

Aug 30.  On Thursday last an inquest was taken at Coaley by William Phelps, Gent. Coroner, (now resident at Rodborough, near Stroud,) on the body of SARAH GABB, an infant, who was scalded to death by falling into a tub of water.

 

Oct 11.  On Saturday the 2d inst. an inquest was taken at Minety, in this county, by William Phelps, Gent. Coroner, now resident at Rodborough, on the body of a male bastard child, which was supposed to be destroyed by its unnatural mother, MARY WILLIS.  The jury brought in their verdict Wilful Murder.

 

Dec 13.  On Saturday se’nnight one SAMUEL BOWER, a sailor on board a trow coming up the Severn from Bistol, swore a horrid oath, that he would have some beef and potatoes before he got to Gloucester, for he knew he should then be discharged; and instantly stooping to take a bucket of water out of the river, he fell overboard, and was drowned, although one of his comrade’s jumped into the river, and made every effort to save him.

 

 

 

1785.

 

Jan 17.  On Saturday night one BROWNING, of Nailsworth, being very much in liquor, set out from a public house in this city, and at the end of the Bell lane, instead of turning to the left to Barton street, turned to the right for Constitution walk; where his horse fell with him into the Langet.  The horse by the fall broke its back and died; the man was not hurt, but the horse falling upon him, he lay for two hours under the beast, before he could, drunk as he was, extricate himself.

 

Mar 21. On Thursday last one GOODENOUGH, a bricklayer, getting into an oven at Littleworth to repair some defects, the oven fell in upon him, and crushed him to death.

  On Wednesday last an inquest was taken at Batesford, in this county, by Mr Daniel Willey, coroner, resident in this city, on the body of WILLIAM BEEZELY, who was working in a quarry belonging to Thomas Edwards Freeman, Esq; which fell in upon him, and killed him on the spot.

   On Wednesday, STEPHEN HOPE, a taylor, who lived near Newent, from which place he scarcely ever returned sober, fell into a brook near his house, and was drowned.

 

Mar 28.  Last week an inquest was taken by Mr Phelps, coroner, resident at Rodborough, on the body of a child burnt to death at Stonehouse; and another inquest on the body of WILLIAM GARDNER, who was killed by the falling in of a quarry at Salperton, where he was at work.

 

Apr 4.  One day last week a shoemaker [JOHN ETHERIDGE], at Newnham, was killed in a boxing match with a brother of the craft.

 

Aug 8.  On Monday last died at the Duke, in this city, Mr RICHARD SKIPP, of the Old Grange, in the parish of Dymock, who was unfortunately kicked a fortnight ago by a vicious horse as he was mounting to return home from market.

 

Sep 12.  Boat from sandhurst sunk at Longford (from Maisemore) and 7 drowned; inquest Daniel Willey.  Also boy at the bridge.

 

Oct 3. On Tuesday the 27th of September last, was committed to our castle, by Daniel Willey, Gent. Coroner, (and resident in this city,) SARAH ROBERTS on suspicion of the murder of a male child, that was found dead in the parish of Sevenhampton the 24th of that month.

 

Oct 10.  On Thursday last an inquest was taken by William Phelps, Gent. Coroner, resident at Rodborough, near Stroud, on the body of JAMES SARDIN, a chimney sweeper.  This unfortunate man was in the top of a chimney, which fell with him to the ground. Some of the stones fell upon his head and fractured his skull, and he died on the spot. 

 

 

1786

 

Jan 2.  On Monday evening last, Mr RICHARD DALLAWAY, a capital farmer of Poulton, in the county of Wiltshire, was thrown from his horse on his return from Cirencester market, and killed on the spot.

   On Friday an Inquest was taken by Mr Phelps, Coroner, of  Rodborough, on the body of JOHN COOPER, of Miserdine, who was found dead, and is siupposed to have died in a fit.

 

Jan 16.  Death of JAMES RUDGE, of Wickwar, Coroner,

 

Feb 13.  On Sunday last a new born female child was found dead in a ditch adjoining to the Kingsholm close.  The Coroner’s inquest brought in a verdict of Wilful Murder against a person unknown.

 

Mar 27.  On Wednesday last, Daniel Willey, Gent. (one of the Coroners for this county, and resident in this city,) took an inquisition in the parish of Rodmarton, on the body of Mr JAMES GEORGE.  This young gentleman was hunting a bag fox with Major Selfe’s hounds, and in attempting to leap over a stile, his horse threw him to the ground, and unfortunately fell upon his head and breast, and killed him on the spot.

 

Apr 3.  On Monday last an inquest was taken by Mr Phelps, coroner, resident at Wickwar, on the body of a man found dead, supposed to have perished thro’ the excessive cold.

  On Monday last an inquest was taken by Mr John Barnes, of Wotton Underedge, one of the Coroners of this county, on the body of a man, who was found drowned in the Stroudwater Canal.  He had been missing for a month past.  The jury brought in their verdict Accidental Death.

 

Apr 24.  On Thursday the 13th inst. a woman was found dead in Whitley Park, belonging to Lord Berkeley, and on the Saturday following an inquest was taken by J Barnes, of Wotton Underedge, when the verdict was, that she died a natural death.

 

Jun 5.  WILLIAM BARNARD of Frampton, Butcher; found drowned, suspicion of murder.

 

Jun 12.  On Saturday last a servant man, belonging to Thos. Baylis, Esq. of New Mills, near Stroud, bathing in his master’s fish pond, was unfortunately drowned; and on Monday, an inquest was taken on the body before John Barnes, Gent. of Wotton Underedge, one of the coroners for this county, when a jury found a verdict of accidental death.  And on Sunday a girl, about 16 years of age, fell into the Stroudwater canal, at the Golden Valley, in Chalford Bottom, and was drowned. - One of her companions, a girl about the same age, that was near her at the time, had the resolution to jump in after her, and it was with difficulty she was prevented from sharing the same fate. - Mr Barnes took an inquest on the body on Monday, when a jury found a verdict of accidental death.

 

Jun 26.  On Friday the 16th inst. a boy, servant to Mr Hayward, of Beverstone farm, near Tetbury, was driving his master’s waggon; he tripped and fell under the fore wheel, which instantly went over his back and killed him; and on Saturday an inquest was taken on the body before Mr Barnes, when the jury found a verdict accidental death.  On Sunday the 18th inst. as JOSEPH LAWRENCE, commonly called Dr Lawrence, was going from his house at Nailsworth to Horsley Church, he suddenly fell down dead, in an apoplectic fit.  On Tuesday Mr Barnes took an inquest on the body, when the jury found a verdict natural death.  On Wednesday the 19th as a man was mowing for Farmer Davis of the parish of Henbury, he fell down dead, so suddenly that when his companion, who was mowing with him, ran to his assistance, he was quite dead.  On Wednesday Mr Barnes took an inquest on the body, when the jury found a verdict, natural death.

 

Jul 10.  Wednesday an inquest was taken at Siston, by W Phelps, Gent. one of the coroners for this county, resident at Yate, near Chipping Sodbury, on the body of JOHN NOBLE, who was loading a cart with hay, by the sudden motion of which he was accidentally thrown to the ground, and died in a few days.

 

Jul 31.  On Monday last an inquest was taken at Tockington, by William Phelps, Gent. of Yate, coroner for this county, on the body of ROBERT ALPAS; whose death was occasioned by the overturning of  a cart, as he was riding in it.  Verdict, accidental death.

 

Aug 28.  Saturday an inquest was taken in the parish of Stapleton, by William Phelps, Gent. of Yate, coroner for this county, on the body of THOMAS COWLEY, who bathing with another boy in the river Froom, was accidentally drowned.

 

Sep 4. Last week two inquests were taken by Mr Barnes, of Wotton Underedge, one of the coroners for this county: the first on the body of ANN CAREY, who, in returning home last Sunday from Rodborough Meeting, fell into the Stroudwater Canal, and was drowned; the other on the body of an old man, who threw himself into the river Avon, near Bristol.

 

Sep 11.  Boat accident at Berkeley; 9 drowned. 

Last week an inquest was taken by J Barnes, Gent. of Wotto Underedge, at Chalford Bottom, on WM POWELL, who, on his return from Cirencester market the evening before, fell from his horse, and was so violently bruised, that he died the Thursday following.

 

Sep 18.  On Sunday evening, JOHN STEW, one of the drivers at the King’s Head, coming from Highnam with a return chaise, met with the following melancholy accident: Having alighted to shut the gate (it is supposed) the horses took fright, and that he, in attempting to stop them, was knocked down, ran over, and killed on the spot.  On Monday an inquest was taken on the body, by Daniel Willey, Gent. one of the coroners for this county, and resident in this city, when the jury brought in their verdict accidental death.

 

Oct 2.  The number of country people, who have lost their lives within the last six months by going home from markets and fairs in a state of intoxication, has been very considerable in this county; yet the frequency of such accidents makes no impression. - A farmer of Hartpury, returning on Thursday evening from Barton Fair, was so excessivley drunk, that he fell from his horse over the parapet of the Westgate Bridge, into the Severn, and was drowned.  The body could not be found till Friday night.

 

Oct 9.  On Wednesday morning last, three men were drinking at a public house at Uley, in this county; one of them, RICHARD SMITH, a shearman, toasted some bread and put it into his beer, and began to eat it, declaring it was the best he ever ate in his life.  The words were scarcely out of his mouth, before he fell from his chair and died instantly. - An inquest was taken on the body by William Phelps, of Yate, Gentleman, one of the Coroners for this county; when the jury brought in their verdict - Died by the visitation of God.

 

Nov 27.  On Tuesday morning WILLIAM HOLDER, butcher, of Painswick, was found dead. - It is supposed he fell from his horse in his way from Longney, and perished thro’ the coldness of the night.

   Mr Barnes, of  Wotton, held an inquest lately on the body of RICHARD JONES, [of Rudgway] who was found dead on the Bristol road near Almondsbury hill, (as mentioned in our last [20 nov]) when a very respectable jury gave a verdict accidental death, no marks of violence appearing on the body, but what he was supposed to have received by a fall from his cart.  The man had near 20 s. about him, of which some thief had picked his pocket.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1786.  Dec 18.  On Thursday last an inquest was taken by Mr Barnes, of Wotton Underedge, on the body of SAMUEL TWINING, who was drowned in the Stroud Canal. - This man was returning from Stroud to his house at Rodborough on Sunday evening about eight; his two little boys were with him.  The youngest about nine years old was in his hand, and when he staggered into the canal he drew the child in with him. - The boy was under water half an hour, and was taken up to all appearances dead; however, by the perseverance and skill exerted by Mr Hughes, surgeon in Stroud, in apllying the means prescribed by the Severn Humane Society, the child was restored to life.  The father was past recovery.  This is the fourth life preserved since the establishment of the society in August.

 

 

 

1787

 

Jan 8.  A few days ago a poor woman of Uley, near Dursley, locked her two children (one about four, the other about six years old,) into her house, whilst she went a little way to carry in her work.  - In a short time one of the neighbours heard the screams of a child, and bursting the door found the youngest with its cloaths all in a blaze, and the poor little creature burning to death; the other child running from it to avoid the same disaster. - In his fright the man caught up the child and ran with it to the neighbouring brook, into which he plunged it to extinguish the flames; but the miserable little creature expired soon after in great agonies.

 

Jan 15.  At Uley, last week, a person [THOMAS MATTHEWS] who had invited some neighbours to partake of an excellent tap of ale, allowed himself so large a share, that having occasion to go up stairs, in his return he fell down, and broke his neck, and was taken up dead.

 

Feb 19.  Within the last 10 days no less than 11 prisoners have been committed to our Castle for felonies, viz.  JOHN MANNS, of Norton, near this city, and ANN WHITCOMBE, his servant, on suspicion of the murder of a bastard child, of which the latter was delivered on Monday morning, on her examination she acknowledged it to be hers but alleged that it was stillborn.  The body which had been buried in the garden, was taken up, and the coroner’s inquest brought in their verdict wilful murder, against the mother.

 

Mar 26.  On Monday last Mr DANGERFIELD, who kept the Blue Boys public house at Hampton, returning home from Cirencester market, very much in liquor, was thrown from his horse and killed on the spot.

 

Jun 4.  On Wednesday last, a son of Mr GREEN, baker, in the Eastgate Street, in attempting to avoid a waggon that was passing in the narrow part of the Bolt lane, unfortunately slipped down, and the wheels passing over him, broke both his thighs, and otherwise much bruised him.  He was taken to the Infirmary, and died on Saturday.

 

Jun 18.  Last week, EDWARD WHITE, a butcher, of Chipping Sodbury, in this county, having had a violent quarrel with his wife, whom he threatened,  with many oaths and imprecations, singularly horrid, to murder before the next morning, - went into the fields, and was soon after found speechless, and seemingly in great agonies, in which condition he remained until he expired.  - Such judicial proceedings of Providence should be regarded as warnings to the profane and impious, who, upon every trivial occasion, daringly and presumptuously defy Almighty power, and are often made, even in this world, sad examples of the Divine displeasure. - An inquest was taken on the body, by Mr Phelps, of Yate, one of the Coroners for this county, when no symptoms of poisoning appearing as was at first apprehended, nor any marks of violence, it was conjectured that his death proceeded from the violence of anger and excess of passion, with which he had been almost unceasingly agitated for the two preceding days.

 

Jun 25.  On Monday last, Mr TAYLOR, a horse doctor of [Auston?], near Tewkesbury, in his way from Cirencester market, passed thro’ Ampney turnpike, where the gatekeeper observing that he was very much in liquor, bid him ride cautiously, at which he took offence, and began uttering the most blasphemous imprecations, d --------- g his body and soul, to the deepest pit of Hell.  He had scarcely rode twenty yards however before he fell from his horse, and never spoke afterwards.

 

Jul 2.  3 farmers at Tetbury; Jun 26 and 16th.

 

 Oct 22.  On Thursday about two in the afternoon, Mr CARSBROOK, of Tetbury, woolstapler, riding over Painswick Hill, fell from his horse and dislocated his neck, and died on the spot.  An inquest was taken by Mr Willey, one of the Coroners of this county, when the jury brought in a verdict Accidental Death. - There was a considerable sum in cash and bills found in his pocket.

 

Nov 5.  On Tuesday evening last, a man going home from an alehouse, in the parish of Stroud, about nine in the evening, reeled into the Canal, and was drowned.

 

Nov 19.  On Tuesday night last, THOMAS BIRCHLEY, of Wellon, near Upton upon Severn, returning home very much intoxicated, fell into a ditch, and there perished.

 

 

 

 

 

1788.

 

Mar 10.  On Sunday the 2d instant, seven young men of this city, on a party of pleasure, attempting to pass thro’ Maisemore Bridge, the mast not being sufficiently lowered, the boat was upset, by which accident two of the party, Mr PULLEY, one of Mr Watson’s company of comedians, and Mr BOWER, a taylor, were unfortunately drowned.

 

Apr 14.  On Monday last, the body of Mr BOWER, the taylor, who was drowned at Maisemore bridge, on Mid lent Sunday, was taken up near the bridge at Over.  Yesterday  the body of Mr PULLEY, the comedian, was taken up near Minsterworth.

 

Jun 2.  On Wednesday last, an unfortunate stranger, supposed to be a little deranged in the intellects, who, from some papers found in his pockets, appears to have been a clergyman of the name of WILLIAM BAILEY, was murdered near to an ale house at the Flat, in the parish of Westbury, in this county.  The stranger came in the evening to the ale house, and called for a pint of beer.  JOHN GLOVER and WILLIAM ETHERIDGE, two fishermen, were drinking in the kitchen: Mr BAILEY sat down between them, and, from some improper behaviour, gave GLOVER reason to suspect that he would pick his pocket.  This occasioned some altercation; when the stranger went out and GLOVER  followed, asking whether he was not going to pick his pocket; the stranger denied such intention, and said, “Are you going to kill me?”  The other then struck him several blows, and at last knocked him down. The cry of murder brought MARY GODWIN, who ran into the ale house and called the people; when they came out they found the stranger on his knees begging for mercy; GLOVER then left him, and the people helped him up; he then told them he would go an acquaint Mr Colchester of the treatment he had received.

   He set off towards Mr Colchester’s house, and was got into a field about 100 yards from the public house, when GLOVER, followed and gave him a desperate blow in the throat, which brought him to the ground, and he never spoke after.

   GLOVER has absconded, but many are gone in pursuit of him.  He is thus described: about 21 years of age, five feet ten inches high, well made, rather round in his shoulders, small eyes with large eyebrows, palish complexion, and brown hair; had on when he went away, a pair of corduroy breeches, and a waterman’s frock.  He has been in the 20th regiment.

  GLOVER was much influenced with liquor at the time.  Is not drunknesness the cause of most of the murders of this kingdom?  Mr Willey, one of his Majesty’s Coroners for this county, has taken an inquest on the body, and a jury brought in a verdict Wilful Murder.

   A few days ago, RICHARD HOBBS, of the parish of St George, was committed to our county gaol, for killing SAMUEL MILLSOME at an ale house, being both very much in liquor, they fought, and MILLSOME was killed.

 

Jul 7.  A lad, named GEORGE HARRIS, fell into the river Severn, on Wednesday last, and after floating some time, sunk twice or thrice, but upon his rising within a foot of the top of the water, WILLIAM LEIGH, employed as a Clerk to the building of the New Gaol, with a humanity singularly great, instantly plunged into the stream, and took him up, and with the assistance of his brother, brought him on shore in a state of total insensibility, after some time he was recovered.

 

Aug 11.  On Saturday evening after 10 o’clock, Farmer HEALING, of Staunton Court, went through the turnpike at Over, which leads to Maisemore, but he never passed the bridge, and on Sunday, his horse was found grazing in the meadows. - Search has been made, but Mr HEALING cannot be found: It is apprehended, that he has been robbed, and thrown into the river. - How many valuable lives might be saved, among the yeomanry of this country, if self preservation could teach sobriety?

 

Aug 18.  Conjectures respecting the murder of Farmer HEALING appear to have been ill founded; his body having been taken up out of the river without marks of violence, or the pockets rifled.  It is likely, therefore, that he fell asleep, and his horse going to drink, fatally tumbled him into the river.

 

Sep 15.  On Monday last JOHN GLOVER, who murdered a clergyman in May last, in a drunken frolick, near a public house at the Flat, in the parish of Westbury, was taken up at Birmingham.  He appears very much affected for the crime he has committed, and says, he never since enjoyed a moment’s peace.

 

Oct 6.  On Monday last, Mr NAISH, auctioneer, of Bristol, going home very intoxicated, was thrown from his horse between Melksham and Axford, and killed on the spot. - This death makes up the number forty, who have lately been killed in this manner.

 

 

 

1789

 

Jan 5.  On Friday last a shocking accident happened at Pull court, the seat of Thomas Dowdeswell, Esq. in the county of Worcestershire.  SARAH BURGES, a very old servant in that family, who was upwards of 100 years of age, sitting by the fire in her bed chamber, it is supposed a spark fled out upon her apron, which took fire, and communicated to a large handkerchief, that was round her neck; and although discovered before the handkerchief was entirely burnt, yet her neck and throat were scorched in such a manner, that she expired immediately.

 

Feb 3.  On Wednesday the body of a man was discovered floating near Mr Wakefield’s yard at the Quay.  It is supposed he had been some time in the water.  In his pocket was found a letter, signed ROBERT FERRIS, sealed up, and addressed to Oliver Toulmin, navy agent, Lisle street, London.

 

Feb 23.  Lately, died suddenly, in a field near Alderly, in this county, on his way home to Kingswood, Wiltshire, MOSES HAINES, aged 73, formerly a day labourer, but of late years a pauper of that parish.  He had 2 s. per week allowed him, by the parish, for his support, besides what he obtained from the bounty of the benevolent and charitable in the neighbourhood, by importunate begging, to whom he usually delivered a tale of pretended distress, to excite their compassion, and at the same time, bitterly complained of the rigid economy of the parish, in granting him only, the small trifle above mentioned.  Having been suspected, in his lifetime, of being possessed of some money, notwithstanding his constant and solemn protestations to the contrary, a few days after his decease, his house was searched, when to the astonishment of all present, concealed in a large bag of wool, in several parcels, were discovered the following sums, viz.

                          Guineas      42 l.

             248 Half crowns      31 l.

                      361 Shillings         18 l.  1 s.

                                                    91 l.  1 s.

 

Mar 16.  At our Assizes, which closed on Saturday, ... JOHN GLOVER, who was the cause of the death of an unhappy clergyman, at the Flat, near Westbury, was found guilty of manslaughter only, and fined one shilling; ........

 

Jun 29.  On Saturday, as WILLIAM GABB, smith, was measuring a trow for some iron work, near the Westgate bridge, he fell into the river, and was unfortunately drowned.

 

Jul 20.  A few days ago, as Mr THOMAS COLLINS and THOMAS RUSSELL DOBBINS, of the parish of Littleton upon Severn, in this county, were drinking together, some words arose between them, and they proceeded to blows; when the latter, finding himself too weak for the other, took up a stone, and threw it with such violence at Mr COLLINS, that striking him on the side of the head, it fractured his skull, and he is since dead.  The coroner’s inquest sat on the body, and brought in the verdict wilful murder.  The deceased has left a wife and five small children.

 

Jul 27.  On Wednesday next the assizes for this county will begin, at which few prisoners are to take their trials; amongst whom are, CHARLES BRASSINGTON for murder ....

 

Aug 3.  At our Assizes, CHARLES BRASSINGTON, for the murder of  MARTHA HUNTLEY,  was found guilty, and received sentence to be executed this day, and his body dissected.  BRASSINGTON, being in liquor, went to the house of MARTHA HUNTLEY, and asked for some cyder; but she refusing to give him any, he threw a stone and struck her on the temple, which caused her death.

  WILLIAM WEAVIN, for killing JOHN PRIDDIE, was found guilty of manslaughter, and ordered to be imprisoned three months.

 

Aug 10.  On Monday last was executed, pursuant to his sentence, CHARLES BRASSINGTON, for the murder of Mrs HUNTLEY.  His behaviour, when at the awful place of execution, was truly penitent; and after hanging the usual time, his body was delivered up to the Surgeons for dissection.

 

Aug 24.  On Thursday evening, as the son of Mr D SPENCER, of this city, was bathing in the river near the Westgate, he suddenly got out of his depth, and not being able to swim, he would have been drowned, had not THOMAS WEBB instantly jumped into the river, without waiting to take off his cloaths, and as the lad was sinking, caught him by the arm, and brought him safe to shore.

 

Sep 14.  Advice has been received, that the Cornwall brig, belonging to Mr William Joiner, of Berkeley, caught fire, and was totally consumed, on the coast of Africa, where she was discharging her cargo.

 

Dec 7.  OBITUARY.  On Saturday morning died here, in a fit of apoplexy, Mr JOHN FIELD, music master, in the College Court.  A few days ago died also, no less unexpectedly, Mr COTHER, a respectable farmer, at the Sheep house, near this city.

 

 

 

1791

 

Jan 18.  We have received from the clergyman of North Nibley, in this county, the following circumstance:  On the last day of the old year, DANIEL MUNDY, of the parish of North Nibley, attempted to descend into a well, near 100 feet deep.  He had proceeded but a little way, when his companion begged him to come up, as part of the wall had fallen in but the day before.   His reply was, G-d d--n my Soul to H-ll, if I don’t venture, let what will be the consequence.  These words were hardly uttered, when ten feet of the top of the well fell in on the unhappy wretch, and carried him to the bottom. 

   This DANIEL MUNDY, about two years ago, when confined in the prison, one night uttering some vile execrations, was in an instant struck dumb, and could not speak for several hours.  A locked jaw had deprived him of utterance.  For several months afterwards his behaviour was exemplary; but on his release from prison, losing all recollection of his late warning, he returned without remorse to his old companion, and former habits of vice.

 

Feb 1.  On Monday last died at Wotton Underedge, Mr JOHN BARNES, one of the Coroners for this county.

 

Feb 15.  On Wednesday last was held, the election of a Coroner for this county, in the room of the late Mr Barnes.  The candidates were Mr WILLIAM JOYNER, and Mr GERRISH; but Mr Gerrish observing the great number of gentlemen, who were come to support his opponent, declined giving farther trouble.  The election was then declared in favour of Mr Joyner.  [Adverts for Joyner 8 & 15 Feb; for Gerrish on 8 & 15 Feb - “a full apology for the trouble I have given ...” and refers to a “promise of support ... whenever a vacancy may happen.”]

   On Thursday last an inquest was taken at Stroud, by Mr Joyner, one of the coroners for this county, on the body of ELIZABETH BEACHEY, Servant to the Rev. Mr HARRIES, who hanged herself in the garrett of her master’s house, where she was not found till Tuesday evening.  The jury brought in a verdict, Lunacy.

 

Mar 15.  On Monday last an Inquest was taken at Wotton Underedge, by Mr William Joyner, of Berkeley, one of his Majesty’s Coroners for this county, on the body of JERONOMY CONFINS, a child of three years old, who was burnt to death.  It appeared on evidence that the deceased, with three other children, the eldest not seven years of age, was left on Sunday morning to the care of an aunt, whilst the parents attended divine service.  As soon as the parents were gone, the aunt very imprudently left the children to themselvs for near quarters of an hour, during which time the deceased wetted her pinbefore, and in holding it to dry caught fire, which communicated to her other cloaths, and, before it could be extinguished, she was burnt to that degree, that she survived only a few hours.  How careful parents should be, to whom they leave the care of helpless children!

 

Mar 22.  On Monday last, an inquest was taken at Wotton Underedge, by Mr William Joyner, of Berkeley, one of the coroners for this county, on the body of Mrs MARY COUSENS, widow, aged eighty nine; who, by a fall from the third step of the staircase, fractured her scull, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 29.  On Thursday last, an inquest was taken at Kington, in the parish of Thornbury,  by Mr William Joyner, of Berkeley, one of his Majesty’s Coroners for this county, on the body of ANN POPE, Servant to Farmer HOPKINS, who poisoned herself, by taking a quantity of arsenic mixed with warm milk.  Verdict, Lunacy.

 

Apr 12. Advertisement.   MURDER.   WHEREAS A MALE INFANT, aged about 18 months, was picked up in the river Wye,  on Monday the 1st of March last, and an inquest was taken on the 2d of the same month, when the Jury, from the marks of violence that appeared on the said infant, brought in their verdict, Wilful Murder, by some person or persons unknown, and a necessary enquiry being afterwards made to find out the perpetrator of so horrid a deed, ELIZABETH, the wife of WILLIAM EDMUNDS, of the parish of Tidenham, in the county of Gloucester, (who was the woman that nursed a child of BENJAMIN HOSKINS’S, late of the said parish of Tidenham, labourer) made oath, that the gown and apron the child of the said Benjamin Hoskins was dressed in, when he (the said Hoskins) took it from her, on the 13th of February 1790, were the same that this infant had on when picked up; and that the infant appeared to her, though disfigured from lying in the water some time, to be about the age of the child the said Hoskins took from her; therefore, from the above circumstances, and the said Hoskins having absconded since the day the said inquest was taken, suspicion falls on the said Benjamin Hoskins, that he may have been the perpetrator of the said horrid deed.  Now in order that the said BENJAMIN HOSKINS may acquit himself by making his innocence appear, or oherwise be convicted of the crime of which he is suspected, we, the churchwardens, and overseers, of the poor of the parish of Chepstow, in the county of Monmouth, do hereby offer a reward of five Guineas, over and above such reasonable expences as we shall think fit to allow, to any person or persons who will apprehend the said Benjamin Hoskins, and bring him before Warren Jane, Esq. one of his Majesty’s Justices of the Peace, at Chepstow, in the county of Monmouth, to be examined by him, he having the said ELIZABETH EDMUNDS’S examination in his possession.

   The said Benjamin Hoskins, when he left his work, took with him a blue coat and waistcoat, with white buttons, and leather breeches, a smock frock, and  striped waistcoat, is a fresh coloured man, about five feet, six or seven inches high, strong made, about 30 years old, and is supposed to be still lurking about the parishes of Lanishen, Wolvesnewton, or Grosmont, in the county of Monmouth.

 

The humanity of the people of Chepstow was greatly shocked a few days ago, by the body of a very fine child, about 13 months old, which was taken out of the river, with its throat cut.  The father is supposed to be the perpetrator of this act of unnatural barbarity, as he absconded on the declaration of the Coroner’s inquest.  A reward is offered for apprehending this villain. [See the advertisement in the preceding page.]

    On Sunday, the 4th inst. a new born female infant was found dead in the highway, leading from Chedworth to Northleach; and an inquest was taken on Tuesday, by Mr Willey, one of the coroners for this county, (and resident in this city) when the Jury returned their verdict, Still Born.

 

May 10.  On Wednesday morning, a waterman belonging to Tewkesbury, named SAMUEL HUNTLEY, who was subject to fits, was suddenly seized and fell into the river Severn near this city, and was drowned.

 

May 31.  Last week Mr THOMAS HARVEY, one of the Keepers of Dean Forest, riding furiously along the Forest, in pursuit of some timber stealers whom he had in view, unfortunately passing under  tree, and not stooping sufficiently, struck his head with such violence against a spreading limb, as to dislocate his neck and fracture his skull, and instantly died on the spot.

 

Jun 28.   On Tuesday last as Captain SMALL, of Cirencester, was encouraging his hay makers to finish some wind cocks, foreseeing the great thunderstorm that fell on many parts of the country that afternoon, he saw a ball of electric fire descend from a cloud, and perceiving its direction tending towards him he fell down, and the ball passed within a foot of his head; at the distance of about twenty yards a hay maker was resting upon his pick, the prongs of which attracted the electric matter, which struck the man instantly dead.  His hair was singed close to his head.

 

Jul 5.  On Monday morning last, as Farmer GILES COWLEY, of Sanigar, in the parish of Berkeley, was bathing in the Tide; at a branch of the River Severn, called Pant House Pill, he was unfortunately drowned, by venturing too far in the water.  He was a man remarkably sober and honest, and much esteemed and respected by all who knew him.  By this accident, seven children are left without a parent, as the farmer’s wife died in child bed a short time since.  The Coroner’s inquest was taken on Wednesday, by Mr William Joyner, at Berkeley.

 

Jul 19.  On the 10th inst. the hounds of Thomas Bathurst, Esq. of Lidney Park, ran a deer into a piece of water, called the Head Dam, near the Upper Forge, in the parish of Lidney, when HENRY THOMAS, in attempting to save its life, was unfortunately drowned.

   And on the same day, a servant boy belonging to Mr WM TUGWELL, of Weston-Birt, driving plough, was killed by the kick of a horse.  The Coroner’s inquests were taken by Mr William Joyner, at Berkeley.

 

Jul 26.  On Wednesday last, an inquest was taken at Iron Acton, in this county by Mr Phelps, Coroner, resident at Chipping Sodbury, on a boy, who endeavouring to get over the Church yard stile, fell backwards, and fractured his skull.  The poor boy languished about three days, and then died.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Aug 9.  Assizes.  Acquitted:  SARAH WILLIAMS.

 

Aug 16.  Last week CHARLES BREADY, alias BASSETT, a noted fighter and pupil of Mr Ward’s, was committed to our county gaol by Mr W Joyner, of Berkeley, Coroner, for killng one JOHN COLEMAN, labourer, on the 5th instnt, at the Lebeck Inn, near Bristol. 

 

Sep 6.  A few days since, CHARLES DENT ROACH, son of Mr TIMOTHY ROACH, of Buckleover, in the parish of Thornbury, was unfortunately killed by a fall from a horse, in his father’s fields.

   And the same day, PHILIP PHILLIPS, of the parish of Tidenham, near Chepstow, Bailiff to Mr James, was killed by a fall from a waggon loaded with pease.  The coroner’s inquests were taken by Mr William Joyner, of Berkeley.

 

Oct 11.  About six o’clock on Friday morning, the Rev. Mr GOLIGHTLY, of Cam, in this county, was found dead in the road at Cam’s Green.  In returning late home from Uley, it is supposed a fall from his horse occasioned his death.  Mr Joyner, coroner, of Berkeley, having taken an inquest on the body, the jury found a verdict - Accidental Death.

 

Oct 18.  Monday last was found floating on the water in Hanham’s Mill pond, a new born female child brought up by the tide.  It appeared to have been strangled, as a small cord was tied very hard twice round its neck, and a cloth wrapped around the head.  It is imagined, tht the child must have lain near three weeks in the water, as it was in a very putrid state.  An inquest was taken by Mr Phelps, coroner, at Chipping Sodbury, and the nearest coroner in that part of the county.  The jurors verdict - Wilful urder against some person or persons unknown.

 

Nov 22.  ?? Pauper

 

Ends 

 

 

 

1791

 

Jan 10.  And on Wednesday last, the trow John, of Bewdley, (belonging to the widow EDWARDS,) laden with iron, kelp, deal balks, and other goods, sailing up the Severn, about a mile above this city, by a sudden shift of the wind, in an instant, overset, and one man was drowned.

 

Jan 31.  Monday last Mr PRICE RICHARDS, of Chepstow, endeavouring to cross a road near Newnham, with his horse, the land flood being very strong, he and his horse were carried down the stream, and drowned.

 

Feb 14.  It was Mr PARRY RICHARDS [RICKARDS?], of Chepstow, (not Mr PRICE RICHARDS) who lost his life, (as lately mentioned in this paper) in attempting to ford the Severn at Purton.  He was earnestly dissuaded, and told that the fresh in the river was too strong to be passed with any degree of safety; but he could not be prevailed upon to wait till the next morning.

 

Feb 28.  At Redbrook forge, lately purchased by DAVID TANNER, Esq. of Monmouth, a workmn, a few days ago, accidentally striking his foot against a stone, stumbled, and fell among the wheels of the engine, where he was mangled, and crushed to that degree, that he survived the accident only half an hour.  The poor man has left a wife, and four children, but his worthy master, it is said, continues to them the wages of the deceased. 

 

Mar 7.  On Tuesday the 21st inst. an unfortunate boxing match was decided at Kempsford, in this county, between ROBERT WILSON,  a keeper of a public house there, and JOHN TOMBS, a farmer of the same parish, in which the landlord received a blow under the throat, which ruptured an artery, and soon after occasioned his death.  An inquest was tken by Mr Wiley, of this city, when the verdict of manslaughter was brought against the farmer.

   On Monday last JOSEPH BENCE, of Charlton, near Cheltenham, destroyed himself by taking a quantity of corrosive sublimate, which he thrust in its dry state into his throat, in Cheltenham churchyard.  The poison operated very speedily to put an end to his existence.  He fell down and died in the most excruciating tortures in about half an hour after.  The Coroner, Mr Wiley, took an inquest on the body, and the Jury found a verdict, Felo de se.  The wretch was buried in the highway.  Remorse for a past wicked life is supposed to have been the cause of this act of revenge on himself.

   On Thursday the 14th ult. a poor woman left a child in a cottage at Little Barrington.  Some straw was in the cottage, and by some accident the child, it is supposed, set fire to the straw, which destroyed the cottage, and burnt the child in such a manner that it died.

 

Mar 28.  At Monmouth Assizes last week BENJAMIN HOSKINS was capitally convicted of the murder of his own child.  The wretch was hanged on Thursday, and his body delivered to the surgeons for dissection.

 

Apr 11.  On Tuesday the 29th ult. a man was found floating down the Severn in the parish of Deerhurst, so much disfigured by being in the water so long, that his person could not be identified.  A verdict was taken by Mr Wiley, Coroner.

   Friday the 25th ult. THOMAS BELCHER, from intoxication, fell from a coach, in Cheltenham, languished till the Sunday following, and then died.  Verdict, accidental death.  And, on the 31st ult. WM. WAITE was killed by a ladder falling upon him, in the parish of Sandhurst.  Verdict, accidental death.

 

Apr 18.  On Sunday the 10th inst. at nine o’clock in the morning, an infant, about 23 months old, fell into a resevoir, made for holding whey, at Woodchester Park Farm, and was unfortunately drowned before any assistance could be given.

   The same day a man, unknown, was found in the river Severn, near Kingroad.  He appeared to be about 25 years old, five feet seven inches high, thick made, had on a pair of canvas trowsers, a silk and cotton handkerchief round his neck, one worsted stocking, shoe, and plated buckle, and was much disfigured.

   And on Monday the 11th inst. Mr WILLIAM SHEPHERED, plumber, foreman to Mr Hill, of Bristol, fell from the roof of the Blaise Castle Inn, at Henbury, and was killed on the spot.  He has left a wife and four children.  The inquests were taken by Mr Joyner, of Berkeley, coroner.

 

May 9.  The following inquests have lately been taken by Mr Joyner of Berkeley, one of the coroners for this county:

   Friday, April 29, JOHN CAMPLIN, aged 55 years, was found dead, supposed by suffocation, in a glass house, at Saint Philip and Jacob, belonging to Messrs Wilcox, and Co.

   The same day an infant, aged near five years, son of Mr JOSEPH PEARCE, at Charfield, was scalded to death, by falling into a pail of boiling water.

   Tuesday the 3d instant, MARY HEMMING, wife of JOHN HEMMING, labourer, was drowned in a pool on Charlton Common.  She has left four children.

   Thursday the 5th instant, JOHN PACKER of Cam, labourer, aged near seventy years, going to his work, fell down and instantly expired.

 

May 16.  On Monday last died at Wotton Underedge, where he was on a visit to his brother, the Rev. J. TATTERSALL, Vicar of Tewkesbury, in this county, by a fall from his horse; ...

 

May 30.  On Saturday morning last, the body of a man was found drowned in the Mud dock, Cannon’s marsh, Bristol.  He proves to be a Mr WILLIAM TUFFLEY, a man of considerable property, late of Whitcomb, in this neighbourhood.

 

Jun 20.  The following inquests were taken by Mr Willey in the course of last week.  On Monday, an inquisition on the body of Mr JOSEPH CANTER, who suddenly fell from his horse on the road leading from Gloucester to Wheatenhurst; he never spoke afterwards.  Upon a proper investigation, (with the advice of a surgeon) the jury returned a verdict, That he died of a fit of apoplexy.

   And, on Thursday another in the parish of Stonehouse, on one WILLIAM VAISEY.  As he was cutting some elm trees, the ladder, on which he was standing by some means turned on one side, whereby he fell on a post, and after lingering some time died in the greatest agonies.  -  Verdict accidental death.

    Thursday an inquest was taken at Stroud on a female infant, found dead in bed, by the side of her mother.  The jury returned a verdict, that she died by suffocation.

    The same day a melancholy accident  happened at the parish of Corse; one RICHARD BATT was working in a stone quarry, with his father and another man; he saw one side of the quarry falling in, and had the presence of mind to call out to his father and the other person in time to save them, but could not escape the danger himself.  On Friday the inquest brought in a verdict, accidental death.

    On Friday JOHN ARKELL was found hanging to an ash tree, in the parish of Cirencester.  He had been missing from Tuesday last.  On Saturday the inquest was taken; verdict, Lunacy.  This man was in our gaol last assizes, for stealing fowls, and since that time has been much deranged in his senses.  He has left four small children, and a wife near lying in with the fifth.

 

Jul 11.  Missing from film.

 

Aug 1.  Monday last a man, unknown, was found floating in the River Severn, near Kingroad, much disfigured.  He appeared between forty and fifty years of age, five feet six inches, short black hair, - had on a brown jacket, striped flannel waistcoat, dowlas shirt, thickset breeches, plated knee buckles, blue yarn stockings, one shoe and a copper buckle.  ... Two knives and a large gold ring were found in his breeches pocket.

   On Wednesday evening an infant, aged near five years, son of Mr JONAS ORGAN, of North Nibley, was unfortunately killed by falling into a stock mill.  The inquests were taken by Mr Joyner, of Berkeley, coroner.

 

Aug 15. ASSIZES.

At our assizes on Friday morning came on the trial of WILLIAM BIRT, a journeyman carpenter, of Tewkesbury, who was indicted for the murder of SARAH POWELL, a servant in a respectable family in that town.  The prisoner had deluded the deceased under a promise of marriage, and upon making known to him that she was with child, he gave her a small quantity of powder, telling her to take it, and that it would do her no harm.  “It will do you good,” said he, “I have taken twice as much.”  The girl, on her return home from this interview, swallowed the powder in some sugar, and in a few minutes was seized with violent vomitings, which, after the most severe sufferings for eleven days, caused her death.  The Judge clearly stated, that although the prisoner had no intention to destroy the girl, yet having recommended to her a medicine to procure abortion, and death ensuing, he was considered as guilty of her murder.  According to a well known principle of the English law, where death ensues in consequence of an illegal act, Malice is implied, and the offence, with its consequences, is deemed Murder. - His Lordship also admitted, that the declarations of the girl, made under the impression of her expected death, notwithstanding she might be an accomplice with him in the guilty design, were sufficient to fix the crime upon the man.  The prosecutors were not able to discover from whence the poison was procured; yet, as the effect was clearly proved by the Surgeon who attended the deceased, no doubt was entertained of its pernicious quality.

   The prisoner went through the trial with a great degree of insensibility, which continued even during the awful period of receiving sentence.  But when he was taken from the Bar, his confidence forsook him, and he fainted away in the pen, and as he was conducting from Court he dropped down again in a fit.

   On Friday evening, when the prisoner was conducted to the cell for persons in his unhappy situation, he wrung his hands as in the utmost misery and despair.  The next morning, when the Governor unlocked the door of the cell, he was struck with the spectacle of the prisoner hanging, and dead ...  He had twisted the sheet of his bed, and made it fast to the bars of the window; the other end he tied round his neck in a running knot; it is supposed he threw himself from his bedstead, and held up his feet that they might not touch the ground, as the height was not sufficient by eight or nine inches to have otherwise effected his purpose.  The body was quite cold when the cell was opened.  The Coroner took an inquest upon the body, when a verdict was brought in felo de se.  On Saturday his body was butried in a cross road, near Tewkesbury.

 

Aug 29.  Thursday last JOHN JONES, a lad aged 12 years, servant to Mr WILLIAM LEWIS, of the Meads Farm, in the parish of Tiddenham, gathering corn after reapers, in a state of intoxication, fell down, and instantly expired.

   On Friday RICHARD WESTLEY, labourer, aged about 27 years, was found dead in the parish of Saint Philip and Jacob.  It appeared on evidence, that the deceased was a native of the Forest of Dean, and had for some time past been seen wandering about Bristol, and its environs, in a disturbed state of mind.

The above inquests were taken by Mr Joyner, of Berkeley, coroner.

 

Sep 5.  On Monday last as WILLIAM LARNER, servant to Mr THOMAS ASHWIN, of Cowhoneybourne, in this county, was driving a horse to a field to grass, he wantonly struck him with his hat; the horse immediately kicked him on the belly with both his feet.  He languished until the next morning and then died.  The inquisition was taken by Mr Willey, one of the coroners for this county, and resident in this city.  Verdict accidental death.

 

Sep 19.  Saturday the 3d instant, about five o’clock in the afternoon, WILLIAM DYER, servant to Mr WILLIAM JONES, of Northwick, on his return home from Bristol, fell from his horse and was killed on the spot.

   Tuesday the 6th instant, ELIZABETH HILL, an infant, aged 15 months, daughter of Mr WILLIAM HILL, of Uley, taylor, was scalded to death by a fountain of boiling water falling on her as she was at play near the kitchen fire.  The above inquests were taken by Mr William Joyner, of Berkeley, Coroner.

   Monday last an inquest was taken at Old Sodbury, by Mr Phelps, coroner, resident at Chipping Sodbury, on ELIAS ISAAC, an infant of the age of a year and a half.  Its mother having placed a pan of scalding lye upon the ground in the washhouse, and covered it with an apron to prevent any accident; the child went into the washhouse and fell into it, and although immediately taken out, it was so scalded, that convulsion fits ensued, and it died the next day,

 

Ends Dec 26.   

 

 

 

1792

 

Jan 23.  [Last week?]?  Mr Willey, one of the coroners of this county, took an inquest on the body of One EVANS of Avening who fell from a tree which he was lopping, and received so much injury that he died the next day.

 

Jan 30.  Last week the following persons were committed to the gaol of this county:  WILLIAM DAVIS, for killing RICHARD LONG, of Doynton, near Sodbury.

 

Apr 9.  ASSIZES.  In the charge given by Sir Nash Grose, to the Grand Jury at our late assize, his Lordship dwelt with peculiar force on three commitments for manslaughter, which appeared in the calendar.  The frequency of this crime, he said, was to be ascribed in great measure, to the encouragement of late years given to Boxing.  It was sometimes productive of the deeper guilt of murder; and always the source of gambling, idleness, and profligacy; but the greatest mischief was its tendency to render the minds of the common people barbarous and revengeful: it imparted to them a degree of hardness and insensibility, that unfits them for those duties which ought to reign in the character of a people professing Christianity.  His Lordship therefore recommended to the Magistrates a due exertion of their authority, to remove an evil pregnant with consequences so inconvenient and so fatal.

 

Apr 16.  On Thursday night the house of SAMUEL COLLIER, of Harescombe, about four miles from this city, was burnt down. - Collier, and his son, a little boy, about six years old, were all that were in the house.  - The crackling of the fire roused the father from his sleep about twelve o’clock at night, and when he got out of bed he found the stairs in a blaze, upon which he leaped out of the window, and bid the child get out after him and he would catch him in his arms, however, the little boy, in his confusion, ran to the stairs, where he fell into the flames and was burnt to death. - The house, with all it contained, was entirely destroyed.  -  Collier’s wife, and another of his children were fortunately at Stroud.  As there had been very little fire in the house that day, the accident is supposed to have been occasioned by lightening, which they say was very strong that night, and perhaps set fire to the thatch, which was very dry.  As the whole was uninsured, the poor man is by this accident so greatly reduced, that any assistance from the well disposed will be thankfully received by Mr Smith, of Baccus, in the same parish, or by the sufferer.

 

May 21.  ELIZABETH MAYO, an infant, aged six months, daughter of J. MAYO, of Wanswell, carpenter, being left asleep in a cradle, under the care of her sister, aged five years, in the absence of the mother, who was gone about a mile for necessaries, was found at her return, suffocated by the cloaths being innocently turned up over her face by the other sister in order to keep it quiet.

   EDWARD FOX, servant to Mr SAMUEL FORD, near the Cherry Orchard, in a state of intoxication, fell from a hay loft and received a violent concussion upon the brain, which caused his death.

 

May 28.  On Thursday evening, a robbery, attended with great cruelty, was perpetrated near the village of Horfield, in the road between this city and Bristol. - ISAAC SHEPSTONE, servant to Mr DERRICK, of Churchill, in the county of Somerset, was driving his master’s cart, and observed two men leap over the hedge into the road, who followed the cart about a hundred yards, when, without speaking, they suddenly rushed upon him, and with blows (that it is feared have fractured his skull) they brought the lad to the ground.  In their ferocious temper they kicked him on the belly and sides with extreme violence, and then took his whip and rifled his pockets of about 8s. 6d.  The coach at this moment coming up, the villains made off towards Bristol, for a description of their persons see the advertisement in this paper.  [page 3a] - The poor lad, who is about eighteen years of age, lies at the Anchor, at Filton, without hopes of recovery.

 

Jun 11.  ISAAC SHEPSTONE, servant to Mr DERRICK, who was so cruelly beaten, (as mentioned in this paper of the 28th ult.) is since dead, in consequence of a fracture of the skull.

 

Jul 9.  Thursday last an inquest was taken by Mr Joyner, coroner at Berkeley, on the view of the body of SOLOMON CHANDLER, servant to Mr PARTRIDGE, dyer, of Bowbridge, near Stroud, who was on Wednesday evening killed by a cart loaded with cloth going over his body.  Verdict Accidental Death.

 

Aug 20.  On Tuesday last MATTHEW CROSSMAN, of Saint Philip and Jacob, in this county, was committed to our county gaol by Mr Joyner of Berkeley, coroner, for the wilful murder of MARY GROVES, singlewoman.  Crossman had been drinking all the Sunday morning, and coming home much intoxicated, when he gave the deceased a stab with a case knife, of which wound she died in a few hours.

 

Aug 27.  On Wednesday morning last, LEVI CROFT, aged 27 years, being employed in raising stone in Mr CHARLES JACKSON’s quarry, at Horsley, in this county, a stone near a ton weight fell upon him and crushed him to death.  He has left a pregnant wife and two small children to bewail the unhappy catastrophe.  The inquest was taken by Mr Joyner, of Berkeley, coroner.

 

Oct 8.  On Tuesday last, a country man returning from this city with some new cloaths he had just bought, was attacked on Over Causeway by two fellows who had been lately enlisted; they knocked the man down with a stone hammer, and took from him his bundle. - However, he recovered the blow in time to catch one of the thieves, whom he threw across his shoulder and carried in spite of all his struggling to the Dog at Over, from whence he was committed to prison.   [THOMAS TERRY - sentenced April Assizes, see Apr 8 1793]

 

Oct 15.  On Wednesday night last, a carter belonging to WILLIAM LAWRENCE, Esq: of Shurdington, was thrown from the shafts on which he was sitting and the waggon passing over his body, killed him on the spot.  The death of this poor man is the more to be regretted, as he was remarkably sober and industrious.

 

Nov 19.  Last week the following inquests were taken by Mr Joyner, of Berkeley:- On Wednesday morning a young man was found dead upon a lime kiln in Brick Street, Bristol; and the next night a lad found dead upon a lime kiln at Durdham Down.  On Thursday Mr W. WILLES, a carpenter, at Arlingham, found drowned in Arlingham Pill; and the same morning ANTHONY HARRISON, a seaman on board a ship in Kingroad, who in a state of intoxication attempting to get his chest on board the ship fell into the sea, and was drowned.

 

Dec 24 & 31??? 

 

 

 

1793

 

Jan 14.  An inquest was taken on Thursday last, by Mr Joyner, of Berkeley, coroner, on view of the body of a man unknown, found drowned in the river Severn, opposite Nass Clift.  He appeared to be 40 years of age.

 

Jan 21.  Tuesday last died Mr WILLIAM PHELPS, one of the coroners for this county.

 

Jan 28.  Candidates begin advertising and canvassing:  S. GERRISH, Surgeon, of Downend; JOHN WHITHORNE, Jun. of Leckhampton; D. WHATLEY of Cirencester declines “many of my Friends had engaged themselves”; WILLIAM TRIGG, Surgeon, of Mitcheldean.

 

Feb 4.  More adverts.

 

Feb 11.  More adverts, and letter from WILLIAM JOYNER.

 

Feb 18.  More adverts and replies to Joyner’s letter.  WILLIAM TRIGG alludes to S. Gerrish’s “attempts to in snare the honor of a generous public.”

 

Feb 25.  As before; S. GERRISH states no intention of resigning.

 

Mar 4.  As before; another letter from William Joyner & Notice by Sheriff.

 

Mar 11.  On Thursday last at the election of a Coroner, a very spirited contest took place, which continued till Saturday evening, when the majority in favor of Mr Trigg appearing to be 114, Mr Whithorne declined giving any further trouble to his opponent.  Mr Daniel Cox, Surgeon, has declared himself a Candidate for the place of Coroner, at a future vacancy.  To which he is induced, by being credibly informed, that some gentlemen have already been privately solliciting (sic).

Also letters of thanks from the two candidates; no trace of S Gerrish.

 

Apr 1.  The number of prisoners to take their trial at our assizes this week, are about 20, amongst whom is THOMAS CROSSMAN, a labourer in a glass house at Bristol, who in a fit of intoxication, murdered a woman with whom he lived.  No man can express greater contrition, or behave with more resignation than this unhappy creature.

 

Apr 8.  At our assizes last week:  MATTHEW CROSSMAN, for manslaughter, was sentenced one year’s imprisonment.

THOMAS TERRY, for stealing sundry articles from Mr LONG, of Over, was sentenced to seven year’s transportation.  [see Oct 8 1792]

 

May 27.  On Tuesday last, an inquest was held by Daniel Willey, Esq. Coroner, on the body of a man unknown, found in a pool in the Hamlet of Hucclecote, near Gloucester.  The Jury brought in their verdict - Accidental Death.  In his pocket was found a watch, with the name J. MALINS, 1773, on the outside case.

 

Jul 15.  Accounts from different parts of the country state, that several labourers in the field, overcome by the intense heat, have dropt down and expired.

   On Wednesday next the commission will be opened for holding the Assizes for this county.  It is with concern we observe in the calendar, two woman committed on the charge of murdering their bastard children.  [not yet traced.]

 

Jul 22.  At our Assizes, ... JOHN RIDLER, for manslaughter, was fined one shilling, and dismissed from the bar.

 

Sep 9.  Tuesday last, as a labourer was at work in a quarry between Tetbury and Cirencester,  a quantity of rubbish and stones fell in upon him.  A person going by at the time, saw the earth fall, and immediately procured assistance; but, before the people could remove the mass that had fallen, the man was quite dead.

 

Ends.    

 

 

 

1794.

 

Feb 24.  On Tuesday last was committed to our county prison, by T Blunt, Esq. one of his Majesty’s Coroners for this county, HANNAH LIMBRICK, of Westbury, charged with the wilful murder of DEBORAH LIMBRICK, her daughter in law, a child about four years old.

  On Friday night the 14th inst. an unhappy dispute happened between BENJAMIN HEAGUE, and WILLIAM GRIFFITHS, servants to Mrs Hall, of Arlingham, in which some blows passed; in the fray, HEAGUE struck GRIFFITHS a blow on the temple, which killed him upon the spot.  HEAGUE has absconded.  The Coroners inquest have brought in a verdict of Manslaughter.

 

Mar 10.  On Wednesday last as WILLIAM VINER, of Cirencester, was passing over the bridge at one of the locks on the Thames and Severn Canal, in the parish of Bisley, he fell into the canal, and was drowned.  Every possible means of recalling him to life was employed, but wihout effect.  Mr Trigge, of Cainscross, the coroner, held an inquest upon the body, and gave a verdict Accidental Death.

   BENJAMIN HEAGUE, advertised in our last paper, for killing WILLIAM GRIFFETTS, of Arlingham, has surrendered himself.

 

Mar 17.  BENJAMIN HEAGUE, found guilty of manslaughter, was also ordered to be imprisoned for one year.

 

Mar 31.  On Sunday last JOHN CARTER DOCTOR, endeavouring to catch a salmon fish, nearly opposite Arlingham Worth, in the river Severn, the sands being quick and giving way, forced him into the Channel, where he was drowned, in the sight of many spectators on shore.  He has left a wife and three small children.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   Friday, ELIZABETH BOY, aged 19 years, being subject to fits, fell into a pool in the parish of Sodbury, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  Thursday, GEORGE MORGAN, of Woodmancote, in the parish of Dursley, broadweaver, fell down from his loom and immediately expired.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the visitation of God.  The above inquests were taken by Mr Joyner, of Berkeley, the only Coroner now residing in the lower part of this county.

 

Apr 7.  On Monday afternoon, in a violent storm of wind, attended with thunder and lightning, a barn was blown down, in the parish of Whaddon, near this city, and a lad was crushed to death.

 

Apr 21.  The two following inquests were lately taken by Mr Joiner, of Berkeley.  Friday the 11th, on WILLIAM HOPKINS, a travelling glass seller, found dead in his lodgings at Wickwar.  And Monday the 14th, on Mr HENRY RICE, of Old Sodbury, miller, whose horse taking fright upon the road in the parish of Iron Acton, he was thrown and killed on the spot.

   Three inquests have also been taken by Mr Trigg, of Cainscross:  On Saturday the 12th, on a still born child, found in the parish of Randwick.  On Monday, on the body of JAMES WATHEN, thrown from a horse in the parish of Painswick.  And on Tuesday, on the body of JOHN PEGLER, who was scalded to death, by the sudden boiling over of a dying furnace, at Mr Partridge’s, at Bowbridge.

 

Apr 28.  BENJAMIN HEAGUE, convicted of manslaughter at our last assizes, for which he was sentenced to one year’s imprisonment, having expressed a desire to enter into the army, a pardon was obtained for him on that condition.  He was apprised of this circumstance on Thursday morning, and was told, that the next day he would be delivered to the care of a serjeant of dragoons.  The same afternoon, while employed in the inclosure on the outside of the prison, he suddenly took the opportunity of leaping over the poles, and the governor of the prison with others closely pursuing him, he threw himself into the river, hoping to reach the other side, but perished in the attempt.

 

May 12.  On Sunday last a lad named THOMAS WARREN, of Upleadon, whipping a cart horse, was kicked by him so violently, that he languished but a few hours before he died.  On Friday last,  JOHN CLEMENS, a boy 15 years of age, coming from Stroud, his horse fell with him in Barton street, and taking fright, the boy was thrown, and not being able to disengage his foot from the stirrups, was dragged for a considerable distance, and so shockingly bruised about the head, that he expired.  On Saturday woman was found dead in a field at Maugersbury, in this county.

 

May 19.  [Tetbury, May 14] On Wednesday last a melancholy accident happened in the parish of Cowley, in this county.  A baker’s horse being tied to a gate, near where two children were playing, by some means got the gate off the hinges and immediately taking fright, ran down the street with the gate tied to the halter, and killed a boy [WILLIAM WITTS] on the spot; a girl was very near suffering the same fate, the gate wounding her in the leg.  The inquest was taken before Daniel Willey, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county, and resident in Gloucester.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Monday evening died suddenly, as she was talking to a neighbour, Mrs BARNES, aged 64, sister to Mr NICHOLAS BARNES, of this city.  She has left a mother aged 92.

 

Jun 9.  A few days ago, as DANIEL WEBB, was returning on horse back to his residence in the parish of Rodborough, he being much indisposed, fell from his horse, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.  On Thursday last, as MARY KIRBY, an infant three years old, was playing near a millstream, in the parish of Minchinhampton, she fell in, and was instantly taken down the brook by the velocity of the stream, and was drowned.  The above inquests were taken by Mr Trigg, of Cainscross, near Stroud.

  On Wednesday last HANNAH WEBLEY, of the parish of Berkeley, single woman, was committed by Mr Joyner, Coroner, for the murder of her male bastard child.

 

Jun 30.  On Monday evening, a soldier [ELIAS EVANS] in the regiment of Ancient British Fencibles quartered here, attempting to swim in the Severn, was drowned.

   Last week two inquests were taken by Mr Trigg, coroner, at Cainscross, near Stroud:  On the body of ESTHER NORRIS, who fell out of a window in the parish of Randwick; the other on WILLIAM CLARK.  This lad was driving a waggon loaded with coal to Cirencester, and received a kick from one of the horses in his team which killed him.

 

Aug 25.  Assizes.  Sentence of Death: HANNAH LIMBRICK, of Westbury on Severn; HANNAH WEBLEY, of Berkeley.

 

Sep 1.  On Monday last as Mr JOHN FRYER of Pegthorne Farm, near Whitminster, in this county, was spending the evening, at the house of Mr FIELDER, of Putley, he fell down in a fit and expired in a few minutes.  The loss of this worthy man has excited great regret in his neighbourhood.

 

Sep 29.  ANN BARTLETT, of the parish of Codrington, in this county, single woman, was committed to prison, on Wednesday last, on suspicion of murdering her child.

 

Oct 13.  On the 24th of last month there was found on the banks of the Severn, in the parish of  Awre, the body of a sailor, supposed to have been in the water about six weeks.  He seemed to be between 30 and 40 years of age; upon his right arm the following marks were impressed:  R.P.A.P. with a heart under it, and an anchor reversed.

 

Oct 20.  On Saturday a little boy, between six and seven years of age, son to the person who oils the chimes in the tower of the Cathedral, accompanying his father in to the tower, opened a door at the pine end of the building, next the Churchyard, to look at the soldiers, exercising below, and leaning too far, fell through the balustrade to the ground, which we suppose to be not much less than [100?] feet.  he was taken up senseless, was not dead yesterday afternoon, but there are no hopes of his recovery.

 

Oct 27.  On Friday morning died JOSHUA BAILEY, the child who fell from the top of the Cathedral as mentioned in our last.

 

Nov 17.  Last week the following inquests were taken before Mr Joyner, coroner, of Berkeley:  On Monday at the York Hotel, Clifton, on the body of Mrs WATERMAN, who fractured her skull by a fall from her horse.  Tuesday, on the body of EDWARD TYLER, cordwainer, who was found dead on the turnpike road in the parish of Bitton.  It is supposed he died in a fit.  Thursday, on the body of Mr THOMAS BETHELL, pump maker.  He was repairing a pump in a well at Tetbury, and fell from the stay, which lay across the well, to the bottom, a distance of about 45 feet, and was instantly killed.  Saturday, on the body of JOHN BRADFORD, late of Newnham, waterman, who was drowned in the river Severn.  He was a very sober man, bore a good character, and has left a wife and four small children.

   On Thursday lasy an inquest was taken by Mr Trigg, Coroner, at Cainscross, near Stroud, on the body of JAMES FRANKLIN, of the Thrup, in the parish of Stroud, who fell into the Thames and Severn Canal, on Wednesday, returning home from Bowbridge.  Verdict, Accidental death.  The means of restoration proved fruitless though immediately tried.

 

Nov 24.  An inquest was held on Saturday the 15th, by Mr Trigg, Coroner, of Cainscross, near Stroud, on the body of WILLIAM MARSH, weaver, of Chalford, in the parish of Bisley, who was found dead at a place called the Golden Valley.  It appeared evident he slipped from a wall, he was getting over, and a large stone fell on his arm, which bruised him considerably.  Verdict, Accidental death.

  On Thursday night last ALEXANDER MURPHY, late of Bristol, carpenter, and a soldier belonging to the Carlow Buffs, were both found dead; the former at Stinchcombe, near Dursley; the latter at Peddington, near Berkeley.  Verdicts, died by the inclemency of the weather.  The above inquests were taken by Mr Joyner, coroner.

 

Dec 22.  Unreadable.  Col 1e ????geby @ Rice of Minchinhampton.

 

 

 

1795

 

On Wednesday last an inquest was taken, by Mr Trigg, Coroner, of Cainscross, on the body of CHARLES BURFORD, an infant about three years and a quarter old, at Ruscomb.  The infant, being left under the care of a child, who went a few yards from home to fetch a loaf of bread, was locked indoors with another, who was incapable of assisting, when the infant’s cloaths caught fire, and it was burnt to death.  Verdict, Accidental death.

   On Thursday, at Ampney St Peter, an inquest was taken by Mr Trigg, of Cainscross, Coroner, on the body of a male base child, belonging to ELIZABETH EDGEWORTH.  Verdict, natural death.

 

Jan 19.  On Monday last about four o’clock, a house at Upper Hyde, near Minchinhampton, inhabited by Mr AARON LORD and his sister, both uopwards of 80 years of age, was discovered to be in flames, and the fire was so far advanced, that before any assistance could be given, the roof of the house fell in, and the inhabitants both of them perished.  Part of the body of Mrs LORD was discovered in the ashes, but no traces of her brother could be found.  There was a considerable sum of money dug out of the ruins.  Mr LORD was a person of remarkable character. [continues>]

 

Feb 2.  On Monday last a very melancholy accident happened near Warmley, in this county.  As twelve men were at work in a coal pit, a body of water from an adjoining pit suddenly burst into their works, which instantly rose to the height of ten fathoms, and five of the number were unfortunately drowned, three of whom have left wives and families to lament the fatal catastrophe: the others were taken out alive without receiving much injury, to the astonishment of all present.

   The same morning an infant child, named MARY MORETON, was unfortunately killed in the parish of Mangotsfield, by a 16 inch waggon wheel falling on her head.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  The above inquests were taken by Mr Joyner, of Berkeley.

 

Feb 9.  A few days ago, as EDMUND TOWNSEND, servant to Mr CUTTS, of Salmon’s Mill, in the parish of Painswick, was employed in breaking the ice on the mill pond, it suddenly gave way, and let him in; he was carried by the velocity of the stream through the flood gates, and taken up so much exhausted, that he died soon after.

 

Feb 16.  The Bristol mail coach, on its approach to this city on Wednesday, would have been lost, had not the guard, JOHN HOPKINS, and the coachman, JOSEPH DAFFORNE, shewn a remarkable instance of courage and judgement.  The water was so high at Holborn Green, about two miles from hence, that the horses were taken off their legs, and the leaders were turning round, which would have inevitably upset the coach, but the guard ummediately jumped into the torrrent up to his breast, and led the five horses through the flood.  The proprietors of the coach have rewarded the coachman and guard for their exertions on this occasion.

 

Feb 23.  On Sunday last the body of Mr HEARTSHORN GREEN, brother to Mr R GREEN, of Sneed Park Farm, in this county, was discovered near the bottom of the Rocks on Durdham Down.  Mr GREEN had been missing for six days.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 2.  A person of the name of Musty, a day labourer, having fallen into the water near Painswick on Friday last, for want (as it has been represented to us) of immediate attention, languished for some time and expired.  Verdict of Mr Trigge, who took the inquest, Died for the want of timely assistance, and proper necessaries.

 

Mar 30.  On Tuesday and Wednesday last, two men, unknown, were found drowned in the river Severn, near Oldbury, in this county: they appeared to be watermen, 30 or 40 years of age, stout and well made, five feet ten and eleven inches high, one having brown hair, smock frock, blue jacket and trousers, corduroy breeches, and worsted stockings; the other, black hair, brown cloth jacket, white cloth waistcoat with horn buttons, flannel shirt, blue trowsers, and cross-barred handkerchief.

 

Jul 6.  On Saturday last CHARLES ROWDEN, a shear grinder, returning home from Minchin-Hampton, fell into a brook, and was found drowned.  An inquest was taken by Mr Trigg, of Cainscross, near Stroud - verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Wednesday last a heavy storm of rain, attended with thunder and lightning, fell here about two o’clock.  The cloud passed towards Painswick hill, and near Matson four men, who were mowing, ran under some trees for shelter; one of whom, named RODWAY, happening to hang his scythe on a branch of the tree, a flash of lightning, attracted by the scythe, struck the owner of it dead upon the spot.   His companion, who stood under the same tree, was brought to the ground, and, for some time, remained senseless.  The other two men, who took shelter under a tree at some distance, were not hurt.

 

Jul 13.  An inquest was taken last week by Mr Trigg, of Cainscross, on the body of WM PRIN, late gardener to Major KINGSCOTE, who in crossing the Canal near the tunnel at Salperton, fell in and was drowned.

 

Aug 3.  On Friday evening last as THOMAS ESTOP, of Wheatenhurst was laying some night hooks to catch fish in a brook, he fell in, and was drowned.  The inquest having been taken, by Mr Trigg, Coroner, of Cainscross, the Jury returned their verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Aug 31.  On Wednesday last a lad, who lived with Mr MILLINGTON, of Coln Rogers, running incautiously to open a gate to let a waggon through loaded with straw, a hay pike projecting at the tail of the waggon pierced his left eye, and penetrating to the brain, killed him on the spot..  A verdict was taken by Mr Trigg, of Cainscross - Accidental Death.

 

Sep 7.  On Tuesday last an inquest was taken by Mr Trigg, Coroner, of Cainscross, on the body of RICHARD FLETCHER, of Cirencester, who, having injured the spinal marrow by a fall, occasioned by a rope breaking, as he was fastening some hay to a waggon, was killed on the spot.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Thursday last a melancholy accident happened to Mr WILLIAM MATTHEWS, of Greet, in the parish of Winchcomb, in this county.  As he was driving a waggon, loaded with barley, into a yard belonging to Mr WELLS, by some means he fell to the ground, and the forewheel went over his body, and crushed him to that degree, that he died in a few hours afterwards.  The inquest was taken before Mr D WILLEY, Coroner, resident in this city.

 

Sep 14.  On Thursday the body of Mr Campbell, known by the title of Lord Lion, a gentleman of great respectability, who resided in Clarence place, Bristol, was found at the bottom of the rocks on the Leigh side of the river Avon, mangled and bruised in so deadful a manner, as to render it a most shocking spectacle.  This unfortunate gentleman excelled in an eminent degree, in the art of drawing, and had left his house about ten o’clock on Monday morning last, with a design, it is believed of sketching some of the beautiful views of the river towards St Vincent’s rocks near the Hotwells: in attempting this from some dangerous parts of the roks, it is supposed, either that the ground gave way, or his feet slipped, when falling down the tremendous precipice, the violent contusions he received proved fatal to him.

 

Aug 14.   On Monday se’nnight as THOMAS MORLEY, son of Mrs MORLEY, of the Kings Arms, at Wickwar, in this county, was gathering plumbs, he fell off the tree on his head, which caused his death the next day.

   On Wednesday last as ISAAC MAGGS, servant to Farmer ESMOND, of Woodland Farm, in the parish of Almondsbury, in this county, was giving his master’s horse water, in a pool near the house, he fell off and was drowned.  Verdicts, Accidental death.  The above inquests were taken before Mr Joyner, of Berkeley.

 

On Wednesday last an inquest was taken by Mr Trigg, Coroner, of Cainscross, on the body of HANNAH SYMORE, of the Vatch Mill, in the parish of Painswick, who, as she was throwing away the tops and strings of some kidney beans, dropped down and instantly expired.  Verdict, Sudden death by the visitation of God.

 

Oct 5.  On Monday last HARRIET CRITCHLEY, a child about two years old, whose parents had tied it on an ass, was thrown down by the ass taking fright, and dragged near 150 yards on a very rough road, in the parish of Eastington, in consequence of which the child was killed upon the spot.

 

Oct 19.  On Thursday last an inquest was taken before Mr Joyner, of Berkeley, on the body of a new born female child, found murdered in a reen in the Marsh Common, in the parish of Almondsbury, in this county.  The child when found was quite naked, and appeared to be about four or five weeks old.  A strong suspicion falls upon a tall woman, about 25 years of age, much pitted with the small pox, and dressed in a light cotton gown, black hat and handkerchief.  She came over at the New Passage the day before the child was found, having a young child in her arms, and a bandbox; and was seen about two hours after she left the Passage House, going for Bristol, without any child.

 

Nov 16.  A few days ago, as WILLIAM HAMBLETT, a lad, of Minety, in this county, was catching a horse, he fell into a ditch, and the horse falling upon him, instantly killed him.

   On the 3rd instant, as WILLIAM SMITH, labourer, of Stroud, was wheeling coal, at Lodgemore, he fell into the brook, and expired soon after being taken out.

   On the 12th instant, Mr JOSEPH CLARK, of Sheepscomb, in this county, returning from Bisley fair, was thrown from his horse, which caused his death the next day.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.  The above inquests were taken by Mr Trigg, one of the Coroners for this county.

 

Dec 14.  DANIEL DAVIES, of Lidney, has been committed to our county gaol for the murder of his son.  A quarrel arose respecting the lending a few shillings, in which the father challenged the son to fight him.  No father, says the young man, I will not bring the wrath of heaven upon me by striking my parent; and holding the old man down in his chair begged him to moderate his anger.  Instead of which he broke loose, and taking a fire shovel struck his son a blow that cut thro’ the skull to the brain, of which the young man died in a very short time.

 

Dec 21.  Mr NATHANIEL OVERBURY, a respectable wool stapler in Tetbury, was suddenly taken ill at the Phoenix Inn, at Exeter, on Sunday the 13th, and died immediately.

 

 

 

1796

 

Jan 4.  On Monday last two inquests were taken before Mr Joyner of Berkeley, on the bodies of WM JOHNSON, aged 37, and THOMAS PREWETT, aged 17, both of the parish of St George in this county, coal miners; who, in attempting to go down a coal pit, belonging to his Grace the Duke of Beaufort, in a single cart, the rope unfortunately broke, and they fell near 70 fathom and were killed on the spot.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 7.  Three inquests were taken last week by Mr Trigg, of Cainscross.   The first on the body of a child, at Rodborough, which was burnt to death by going too near the fire: the mother had left it but a few minutes.  The second, on a child, of which a poor woman, at Bisley, was delivered in the public road.  And on Wednesday last HANNAH MARTIN, of Stonehouse, a child about two years and a quarter old, drank boiling water out of the spout of a tea kettle, whilst hanging over the fire.  The child died in great agony.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 28.   DAVID DAVIS  convicted of Manslaughter, 6 months.  For the Grand Jury: MARY REED, for the murder of her husband; MARY KEMMIS, for the murder of a bastard child.

 

Apr 4.  Trial of Mrs MARY REED, Swanley; acquitted.

    Mr Trigg, of Cainscross, has taken two inquests, within a few days past.  The first on a child, which fell down in Gloucester street, Cirencester, and a waggon passing by went over it, and killed it on the spot.   The other, on one JOSEPH DUCK, of Stonehouse, who, mistaking his road home, from Bond’s Mill, fell into a brook and was drowned.

 

Apr 18.  A few days ago an inquest was taken by Mr Trigg, Coroner, of Cainscross, on the body of ANN ALDRIDGE, an infant, who was scalded to death.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Apr 25.  Mr Trigg, of Cainscross, took an inquest a few days ago, on the body of a young female child, who was terribly burnt, by her clothes taking fire, in the parish of Bisley.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jun 27.  On Sunday se’nnight, JOHN POPE, of Stanley St Leonards, sitting in his garden, was seized with an apoplectic fit, and falling back into a pool of water, was found dead.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   On Friday last, at Tetbury, an inquest was held on the body of a male base child.  Verdict, Stillborn.  And on Saturday last, on THOMAS MALLARD, found dead in the high road, in the parish of Minchinhampton.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.  The above inquests were taken by Mr Trigg, Coroner, of Cainscross, in this county.

 

Jul 3.  We hear that eleven inquests were taken in the course of last month before Mr Joyner of Berkeley, one of the Coroners of this county, viz. one person shot accidentally, one drowned, two killed by carts, two by falls from horses, one by timber and four sudden deaths.

  The following inquests have lately been taken by Mr Trigg, Coroner, of Cainscross, iin this county: On the ody of JOHN MILLARD, Carpenter, of Cirencester, who dropped down as he was at work and instantly expired (Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God) - Also on ELIZABETH RODWAY, of Ampney Crucis, an infant of two years and a half old, who fell into a brook and was drowned, (Verdict, Accidental Death) - And also on JANE ASLOW, a child about five years of age, who fractured her scull by falling from a wall, in the parish of Bisley, (Verdict, Accidental Death).

 

Jul 10.  Obituary: ISAAC AUSTIN  aged 52 of Wotton Underedge; Apoplexy.

 

Jul 18.  On Friday last Mr Joiner, of Berkeley, took an inquest on the body of ANN GAGE, at Wotton Underedge, who, in a fit of Lunacy, had put an end to her life.

 

Aug 1.  It is astonishing that the numberless disasters that daily befal waggoners from riding on the shafts, is not sufficient to deter them from this idle practice.  A servant of DODDINGTON HUNT, Esq. going from this city on Saturday with a load of coals, in jumping from the shafts, fell down and the wheels went over him; he was taken up insensible, and it was feared he could not live to be conveyed home.

 

Oct 10.  On Friday last an inquest was taken in this city, by John Cook, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of THOMAS TAYLOR, a child of three years of age, who died in consequence of having eaten some berries, called Deadly Nightshade.  In cases similar to this, immediate application to powerful Emetics is strongly recommended by the Faculty.

 

 

 

1797

 

Jan 16.  Yesterday was committed to our county prison, ANN BARRINGTON charged with the wilful murder of a female bastard child, at South Cerney, in this county.

 

Jan 23.  On Monday se’nnight RICHARD HARVER, blacksmith, was found dead in the public highway, at Bitton, in this county.  Verdict, Died through the inclemency of the weather.  Tuesday, RICHARD TRILLER, quarryman, being at work in Tutshill rock, fell from near the top, and instantly expired.  The same day, WILLIAM NICHOLLS, a child aged three years, of Nibley, in the parish of Westerleigh, in this county, was burnt to death by his clothes taking fire.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.  The above inquests were taken before Mr Joyner, of Berkeley.

 

Jan 30.   A few days ago JAMES PARSONS, of the Sladd, in the parish of Stroud, a child about three years old, was burnt to death by his cloaths taking fire.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  On Wednesday last HANNAH TEAKLE, who had been disordered in her mind for some months past, put an end to her existence by cutting her throat with a razor.  Verdict, Insanity.  And on Friday, MARTHA FLUCK was found dead by her fireside: being alone, it is supposed she died in a fit.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.  The above inquests were taken before Mr Trigg, Coroner, of Cainscross.

 

Mar 27.  On Wednesday night Mr SAMUEL NEWMAN, a respectable farmer of Sandhurst, was found dead in the road not far from Cambridge Inn.  He is supposed to have died suddenly in a fit, as 11 guineas were found in his pocket.

 

Apr 24.  On Monday se’nnight the Betsey Trow, belonging to Framiload, in this county, bound from Berekeley Pill to Gloucester, laden with Tenby Coal, foundered and sunk in tne river Severn, near Shapney Point in a gale of wind, by which unforeseen accident, the Master GEORGE MOORE, his son and nephew, and one ISAAC BALL, unfortunately lost their lives.  Their bodies were found near the same place two days after, when inquests were held before Mr Joyner of Berkeley.

   We hear during the same week five other inquests were held before the same Coroner, viz. one killed by a waggon, one by a cart, one by falling into a quarry, one drowned, and one sudden death by drinking to excess.

 

Jun 12.  JAMES BERRY, on Sunday last, returning from Cirencester to Tetbury, sitting on the shafts of a waggon, fell down, and the wheels going over him crushed him to death. 

   On Friday last THOMAS GREEN, of Hampton, cut his throat.  These inquests were taken by Mr Trigg.

 

Jul 17.  On Monday evening last a melancholy accident happened at the New Passage in this county.  WILLIAM SELWAY, under hostler at the inn, in attempting to wash a horse in the Severn at high water, fell from the back of the horse into the tide.  Mr FITZGERALD, butler to Vaptaon O’TOOLE, near Chepstow, standing on the beach, and seeing the imminent danger of SELWAY, immediately plunged into the water, and getting entangled together they were both unfortunately drowned, although Mr FITZGERALD was an excellent swimmer.  A medical gentleman was procured by Mr MORGAN, the landlord, but whose endeavours to restore life proved unsuccessful, as the bodies had lain too long under water.  The above inquests were taken before Mr Joyner, of Berkeley.

 

Aug 14.   On Monday last Mr SAMUEL JAMES, of Halmore, near Berkeley, a respectable farmer, whilst he was washing his face, fell backwards into a cistern, and instantly expired.  On Tuesday a child belonging to Mr ROACH, of Hope Farm, near Thorbury, fell into a tub of boiling wort, and was scalded to death.  The above inquests were taken before Mr Joiner.

 

Oct 2.  On Tuesday last an inquest was taken before Mr Joyner, at Stapleton Prison, near Bristol, on the body of Louis le Brison, a Frenchman, who was shot the preceding day by one of the sentinels belonging to the Royal Buckingham  Militia.  The Jury, after a full investigation, found a verdict of justifiable homicide.

 

Oct 16.  Death of unnamed day labourer at Maisemore “Sunday last”.

 

Oct 23.  On Saturday evening the 14th inst. as THOMAS ARCH was driving a waggon at Brockthrop, in this county, he made a false step and fell before the wheel, which went over his body and killed him on the spot.

 

Nov 20.  On Tuesday last an inquest was taken before Mr Joyner, at the French prison, at Stapleton, in this county, on the body of FRANCIS CORDRY, a private in the Berkshire Militia, who was shot through the body, whilst on duty, about eleven o’clock last night, by another centinel named RICHARD NEWTON, owing to a mistake and the darkness of the night.  The Jury, after a full investigation, found a verdict of Chance Medley.

 

Dec 4.  Last week Mr Joyner, of Berkeley, took inquests on the bodies of AMEY PORTER, of Mangotsfield, who was drowned in a well; of WILLIAM PHILPOTT, one of the Overseers of Cromhall supposed to have died from ill treatment by one LINES, a pauper; and of KETURAH YOUNG, a child about three years old, who was burnt to death by her cloaths taking fire, in the absence of her mother.

 

Dec 25.  Saturday morning last a melancholy accident happened on the river Severn.  As one of the New Passage boats was returning from the Monmouthshire side,  a sudden and most uncommonly violent squall of wind carried away her tackle, which rendered the vessel unmanageable, and caused her immediately to fill with water, whereby she sunk.  There were six persons in her, five of whom perished, viz. three men and a boy belonging to the boat, and a genteel young man, a passenger, who had a small bundle with him.  The three boatman that perished left behind them three wives and near 20 children, who were solely supported by their industry.

 

 

 

1798

 

Feb 12.  Long report and letter; JAMES INGRAM and son, labourers, of Cheltenham; THOMAS BUCKLE, farmer, of White House Farm, Barrow, and THOMAS CLAPTON, aged 10.

 

Mar 5.  On Monday last died, Mr ABRAHAM DAVIS, jun. Woolstapler, in this city; his death was occasioned by a fall from his horse, as he was returning from the country.  The corpse was interred on Thursday, attended by the Volunteer Cavalry, of which the deceased was a member.

 

Apr 23.  On Thursday last an inquest was taken before Mr Joyner, on the body of a new born female child found, the morning of the 16th inst. tied up in a striped cotton handkerchief, and floating down the river Froome, near Stapleton, in this county.  On opening the body of the child, it appeared to have been strangled by a small cord previous to its being cast into the river.  Two strange woman were observed to pass through Stapleton towards the French prison on Monday evening with a child, and to return the same afternoon without one to Bristol.  The Jury found a verdict of Wilful Murder against some person or persons unknown.

 

May 28.  On Wednesdfay last RICHARD ROBERTS, a boy about eight years of age, was drowned as he was bathing in a pool at Caotes.  The inquest was taken by Mr Trigg, of Cainscross.

 

Jun 25.  A few days ago, as CHARLES HUNT, a youth of Cherrington, was riding a horse from water, he fell, and was killed on the spot.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  On Wednesday last, CHARLOTTE COOK, a child about two years and a half old, was shot by a young man incautiously playing with a loaded gun.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  The above inquests were taken by Mr Trigg, Coroner, of Cainscross.

 

Jul 2.  We hear that no less than 20 inquests have been taken before Mr Joyner, Coroner at Berkeley, since the first of May last, namely:- One scalded and burnt to death, two killed in coal pits, five sudden deaths, one killed by a waggon, two by carts, one crushed to death in a Bark mill, and eight suffocated and drowned.

 

 

 

1799

 

Jan 14.   Friday the 4th instant, sa melancholy accident happened to Mr JOHN PROCTOR,  of the Park, near Tewkesbury; - he called in his way home, at his brother’s mill, at Strensham, on leaving which, in company with several other persons, he took a wrong road, and in crossing a bridge fell into the water, when notwithstanding every exertion to save him, the wheel of the mill drew him under, and he unfortunately perished.  He has left a wife and twelve children to deplore the loss of a valuable husband and affectionate father.

 

Apr 2.  Mr Joyner of Berkeley held two inquests last week, one on the body of a new born child found ina field near the Leadworks, at Upper Easton, near Bristol, wrapped in a handkerchief, marked H.J. -  the verdict found was, wilful murder.  Another, on the body of Mr JAMES WHITE, who was found dead in his bedchamber, at the Carpenter’s Arms, at Wick & Abson.  By papers it appears, that the deceased was the author of Letters, which appeared in the Courier last summer, addressed to the King, Earl Camden, and others.

 

Apr 14.  Full inquest for SAMUEL NIBLETT, 14 Apr 39 Geo III, of Hardwick, by Daniel Willey, and the verdict Found Drowned.

 

Jun 24.  Monday last JOHN LODGE, fisherman, fell out of a boat into the river Severn, near this city, and was unfortunately drowned.  He has left a wife and large family.  On the same day, a private of the Tarberth Fencibles, quartered in this city, was bathing in the river, and being seized with the cramp, was drowned.

 

Aug 12.  Long report about female infant at Old Hotwells, Verdict Wilful Murder by some person or persons unknown.

 

Nov 4.  Murder of THOMAS GOODE of Redmarley d’Abitot, Wor; Saturday 26th.  Wilful Murder against RICHARD and JOHN LANE; JAMES LANE had an alibi, WILLIAM PUGH, their grand father, arrested as an accessory.

 

Dec 9.  Saturday evening last a son of Mr NICHOLS, of castle ditch, Bristol, fell out of a boat into the river, near the Horsepool, where he remained a quarter of an hour, when, without any signs of life, he was conveyed to an adjacent public house, and by perseverance in the means recommended by the Humane Society, suspended animation was restored. 

 

 

 

1800

 

Jan 20.  Obituary.  On Sunday evening, the 5th inst. Died suddenly, at Stroud, of a paralytic stroke, WILLIAM ALDRIDGE, Esq.

 

Mar 3.  Saturday last was committed to Worcester Gaol, FRANCIS HAGUE, charged by the Coroner’s warrant with the wilful murder of JOSHUA PHILPOT.

 

Mar 10.  On Tuesday afternoon a number of children having made a fire in a pig’s cot that was thatched, and adjoined two dwelling houses at Elbrook, in the parish of Standish, the thatch caught fire, and communicated to the tenements, which were burnt to the ground.  We lament that a child, about three years old, perished in the flames.  As the sufferers were poor people, it is hoped the opulent in the neighbouring parishes will extend to them their benevolent aid.

 

Mar 17.  Worcester Assizes.  JOHN RICHARD LANE of Redmarley d’Abitot, murder of GOODE.

 

Mar 31.  The body of SARAH YOUNG, for whose supposed murder, by forcing her into the Severn, her husband was committed to Worcester County Gaol, on the 16th of last month, has been taken out of the river near the Lower Load, in the neighbourhood of Tewkesbury, in this county.  The hands of the unfortunate woman were tied to her side, and a bag drawn over her head and part of her body.   She was far advanced in pregnancy.

 

Apr 14.  An inquest was taken on Saturday last before William Trigg, one of the Coroners for this county, on the body of THOMAS LUDLOW, late apprentice to JOHN NEALE, weaver, of Horsley, who is strongly suspected of having murdered this poor lad by ill treatment and starvation. The Parish Officers of Horsley have taken this business up on grounds of mere humanity.

 

May 19.  Lately died, in our Infirmary, SARAH HAWKES, a girl about fifteen years of age, from an injury in the spine, occasioned by her falling with a load of pins into a cellar, the window of which stood open.  When the public way is allowed to be occasionally incroached upon for the convenience of individuals, no precautions should be omitted which may contribute to secure the safety of the passenger.  That this care is not at all times sufficiently regarded, the misfortune above mentioned affords a melancholy evidence.

 

Jul 21.  A young  man, of the name of AVERY, who was bathing in the Severn, on Sunday se’nnight, got into a whirlpool, a little below Sandhurst, exactly where Longford’s Ham joins Little Whallom, and was unfortunately drowned.  Two hours elapsed before he was found, when every effort to restore him to life proved unavailing.  This is the seventeenth person who has perished in the same hole; and will, we trust, serve as a caution to others, not to bathe in that part of the river, which is at all times exceedingly deep and dangerous.

 

Jul 28.  On Wednesday was committed to our county gaol, by Mr Joyner, Coroner, EDWARD WILMOT, late of the parish of Siston, in this county, yeoman, for the wilful murder of Mr SAMUEL FUSSELL, of Warmley.  On Tuesday morning last, Mr FUSSELL, Collector of the taxes for Siston, attended by the constable and other persons, went to take a distress at the house of EDWARD WILMOT.  As FUSSELL passed the house, WILMOT fired a gun at him, the ball of which entered at the eye and went through the back part of the head, and he instantly expired.

 

Aug 4.  EDWARD WILMOT, for the murder of SAMUEL FUSSELL, was condemned, and  ordered to be hanged this morning.

   JOHN YOUNG was to have taken his trial on Saturday for the murder of his wife, by throwing her into the Severn, but on entering his cell, he was found dead, having hanged himself by his handkerchief up to the staple of his window.

 

Aug 4.   An indictment which was preferred against JOHN NEALE the younger, of Horsley, who was committed under the Coroner’s Inquest for occasioning the death of his apprentice through ill treatment, was thrown out by the Grand Jury, as not being a true Bill.  The prisoner was afterwards tried upon the Coroner’s Inquisition for the same charge, and acquitted without being put to his defence, it appearing by the evidence, that the deceased died either from disease or in an epileptic fit, to which he had been subject from his infancy.

 

Aug 11.  Friday, Mr COOKE, clothier, of Wotton Underedge, in this county, accidentally shot his wife through the head.  The Coroner’s Jury, after a long examination, brought in their verdict Manslaughter, it appearing, that when he pointed the pistol, he thought it was not charged.  He was committed on Monday last to our prison.

 

   Monday last EDWARD WILMOT, of Siston hill, was executed here pusuant to his sentence for the wilful murder of SAMUEL FUSSELL.   WILMOT, from the time he was apprehended appeared to be insensible of the heinousness of his crime, and at the place of execution shewed no sign of remorse.  He was an old man of considerable property, but generally very litigious in his disposition, and gave much trouble to the persons appointed to receive his taxes; and it was in this situation that FUSSELL stood, who had several times made application to him for payment, previous to the fatal morning of his death, when he was about levying an execution on some of his property.  It is hoped the example of WILMOTT, will be a lesson to all persons who resist officers in the discharge of their duty, and who give way to those unbridled passions which generally terminate in their own distruction.

 

Nov 17.  Last week an inquest was taken at the Bell inn, Stapleton, in this county, before Mr Joyner, Coroner, on view of the body of HANNAH BRYANT, single woman, aged 19 years, who was killed the preceding evening by a gun shot.  After a very long and minute investigation, the jury found a verdict of manslaughter against CHARLES LONG, of the same place, stone mason, and who stands committed for trial at our next assizes.

 

Dec 22.  On Thursday last, a poor woman, who had been missing three weeks, was found drowned in a pond, belonging to Mr JOSEPH LOCK, at Nailsworth.

 

Dec 29.  No less than three chhildren, have, by accident, been burnt to death within three weeks in the parish of Stonehouse.

 

 

 

1801

 

Jan 12.  Commitments to our County Gaol: MARGARET BISHOP, for the murder of an infant; CHARLES LONG, for killing HANNAH BRYANT.

 

Feb 2.  On Wednesday last an inquest was taken before Thomas Blunt, Esq. one of his Majesty’s Coroners for this county, on the body of JOHN WHITE, of the parish of Kempley, when the Jury returned a Verdict that he died by the visitation of God.  An unfavourable impression had gone abroad, injurious to the characters of the Parish Officers, and it was therefore thought advisable by the Minister of the parish, that the above inquest should be held, the result of which proved highly satisfactory, by placing the humanity and good conduct of the officers in the clearest light.

 

Mar 2.  On Monday last was committed to our county prison, CHARLES  SMITH, a lad about eleven years of age, charged by the Coroner’s inquest with the wilful murder of JOHN DAUNCEY, of the parish of Uley, in this county.

 

Mar 30.  On the trial of Mr COOKE, clothier,  of Wotton Underedge, for the murder of his wife, the witnesses who were called in support of the prosecution, most incontestably proved that the melancholy occurrence must have been an accident, and Mr COOKE, was, very much to the satisfaction of the Court, acquitted.

 

Apr 6.  CHARLES SMITH, aged 11, was found guilty of manslaughter; as was JOHN RAVENHILL, who was also fined 10 l.

 

May 4.  We hope the following accident will be a caution to waggoners.  As WILLIAM HOWELL, servant to Mr ROGERS, a farmer, of Newland, in this county, was returning home from Chepstow with a load of hides, it is supposed that from his being asleep on top of the cart it was overturned, and falling under it, he was smothered by the skins.

 

May 11.  On Monday evening last, a boy about six years old, son of a workman to THOMAS PIDCOCK, Esq. master of the Iron Works at Lidney, in this county, was accidentally drowned in the canal belonging to the works.

   Wednesday as JAMES PARKER, a boy about eight years old, was riding on the shafts of a roller, in a field at Westwood, through the carelessness of the driver of the horses, he fell from it, when the roller pressing on him, bruised him in so shocking a manner, that he soon after expired.

 

May 18.  Lately, as two young men of Berkeley, in this county, were fighting, one of them received a severe blow on the head, which for a moment stunned him, and the parties were prevented from renewing the combat.  The man complained of the headache, but next day went to his work; in the evening however he grew worse, became delirious, and died the next morning.

 

May 25.  Long article/letter about an accident at Over.

 

Jul 27.  During the violent storm of thunder and lightning, on Thursday se’nnight, ....    The same day W SAGE, mowing in a field near Almondsbury, went under a tree for shelter, (taking his scythe with him) when he was instantly struck dead by the lightning.

 

Aug 3.  Odd incident re son of BENJAMIN GILLMAN, weaver, of Horsley, aged 5.

 

Aug 24.  On Saturday se’nnight the body of a male infant, with its throat cut in a most inhuman manner, was found in the millpond belonging to Mr JOHN COOPER, of New Mills, Minchinhampton, in this county.  The body was wrapped up in a paper parcel, to which a large stone was fastened, for the purpose of preventing it from rising.  An inquest having been taken before W Trigg, gent. one of the Coroners for this county, the Jury returned a verdict of wilful murder, by some person or persons at present unknown.

 

Sep 14.  On Thursday last an Inquest was held at Olveston, in this county, before Mr Joyner, Coroner, on the body of ROBERT COLE, alias PARKER, aged nine years, who was killed the preceding day by a gun shot.  After several hours’ minute investigation, the Jury found a Verdict of Manslaughter against one WM PIMBLE, Brickmaker, aged about 19; and who stands committed for trial at our next Assizes, for the offence.

 

Dec 7.  As Mr POPE, of Wotton Underdge, on Thursday last was returning home from Uley, he was thrown from his horse, and by the fall so dreadfully fractured his scull, that he lingered till Sunday in the greatest agonies, and then expired; leaving a wife and four children to lament their irreparable loss.

 

Dec 14.  On Monday last an Inquisition was held by Mr Joyner, at the Old Bell Inn, at Dursley, in this county, on view of the body of SAMUEL HALL, of the same place, Shearman, who died the preceding Saturday night in consequence of fighting.  After an investigation of five hours, the Jury found a Verdict of Manslaughter against JOHN FLATCHER, late of the same place, cloth worker, and who stands committed for trial at our next Assizes for the offence.  

 

 

 

1802

 

Jan 4.  DIED.  Sunday se’nnight, of a fit of apoplexy, with which he was seized while attending divine service at the Rev. Rowland Hill’s Chapel, Mr JOHN RUGG, aged 68, an eminent dyer, of Wotton Underedge.  He was a good Christian, and will be lamented by the poor, to whom he was very charitable.

   We are also concerned to state the very shocking catastrophe which happened on the 19th ult. to Mrs MOREAU, widow of SIMEON MOREAU, Esq. M.C. of Cheltenham (whose death we mentioned the week before last).  By some accident her clothes caught fire, and before assistance was procured to extinguish the flames, she was most dreadfully burnt, and lingered till Wednesday last in the greatest agonies, when she died, sincerely and deservedly lamented.

   On Thursday se’nnight an inquest was taken before Mr Joyner, Coroner, at Storwick, in the parish of Henbury, on the body of a man unknown, found drowned in the river Severn, near a place called Chitning Worth.  He appeared to be about forty years of age, five feet six inches high, stout made, dark brown hair, had on a blue jacket and trowsers, with yellow buttons, cotton shirt, small ribbed stockings, and shoes tied with ribbon..  In his jacket pocket was found a cotton spotted handkerchief, and a knife, with the initials cut on the handle T.P.D.

 

Jan 11.  On Thursday last, Mr Trigg held a coroner’s inquest on the body of MOSES DEAN, who was unfortunately killed on the Tuesday preceding by the overturning of a loaded waggon in which he was riding, near the Bear, on Rodborough Common.  Verdict, accidental death.

 

Jan 18.  On Thursday last was also committed to our county gaol, by Mr Joyner, Coroner, THOMAS BAKER, of Chipping Sodbury, in this county, currier, for killing and slaying JOHN JONES, currier, by a gun shot, the preceding day.  JONES has left a wife and four small children to lament the fatal catastrophe. 

   The following melancholy accident happened at Kingswood on Monday se’nnight.  As a man and boy were descending a coal pit, the spring crook, to which the rope was suspended, gave way, and they were precipitated to the bottom; the man was dashed to pieces, and died immediately, and the boy was so dreadfully lacerated as to expire on Wednesday morning.  Two men were also very much hurt by the above unhappy persons falling upon them.

 

Jan 25.  A Coroner’s inquest was held on Monday, on the body of a soldier, found dead in the road, near Cirencester, the preceding Friday.  The Jury returned their verdict, Died through intoxication and the inclemency of the weather.

   A very awful event took place on Tuesday evening the 12th inst. at the ball at Gloucester House, Hotwells.   Major HENRY VAUGHAN LANE, a gentleman in the prime of his life, and late of Cork, in Ireland, after dancing some time, complained to his partner that he felt fatigued, and sat down; but immediately after he was seized with a paralytic stroke.  He was conveyed to his lodgings, where every medical assistance was rendered, but unhappily without effect, as he died on Friday morning.

 

Feb 1.  On Wednesday last, an inquest was held at Rodborough, before Wm Trigg, Gent. coroner, and a very respectable Jury of four parishes, on the body of JEREMIAH WATTS, a boy about 11 years of age, and who was said to have died in consequence of beating, &c. from the hands of WM CHAPMAN; when, after the most serious and attentive hearing of the evidence on both sides (particularly that of the medical gentlemen) the Jury returned their verdict, - Died of disease, by the visitation of God.

   An inquest has also been held by the same coroner, on the body of Mr JOHN PRATT, a respectable farmer, who in returning home from Stroud, fell, owing to the darkness of the night, into a fishpond, at Steyne bridge, and was drowned: verdict, Accidental death.

   And likewise on the body of JAMES MILLS, a person deranged in his mind, who was found dead in a hay loft, at Chalford  Lynch: verdict, Died from the visitation of God.

 

Feb 1.  On Wednesday last an Inquest was taken before Mr Joyner, Coroner, on view of the body of a new born male child, found the preceding Monday, in a field in the parish of St James’s, near Bristol. - After a minute investigation, the Jury returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against some person or persons unknown.

   Last week at Cam, near Dursley, a child [MARY ELLIOTTS], about five years old, having, in the absence of its parents, approached too near the fire, a coal fell upon its clothes, which set them in a blaze, and so dreadfully burnt the poor little sufferer, that the next day she expired.

 

Feb 8.  On Monday last, as W DAVIS and another were working in a stone quarry at Brownshill, Bisley, the earth and a quantity of stone gave way, and fell upon them with such force, as unhappily to kill WM DAVIS, and much injure the other, who is sent to the General Infirmary.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   A few evenings ago, Mr WALTER BUCKLE, a very respectable farmer, of Southwick Farm, near Tewkesbury, was unfortunately thrown from his horse, and so much bruised that his life is despaired of.

 

Feb 15.   An inquest was taken, on Tuesday last, before Mr Wiley, Coroner, on the body of a male child, found in a vault, at Upton St Leonards, in this county.  Suspicions were entertained of a young woman of the place; but as evidence was wanting to prove the child to be her’s, she was discharged.   Verdict, stillborn.

 

Mar 1.  On Tuesday last, a Coroner’s inquest was held by Daniel Willey, Esq. on the body of THOMAS HARRIS, a pauper, who had been brought by a pass, from Warwick, on Saturday, the 20th of February, in avery weak state, to Temple Guiting, in this county.  The churchwarden being told he was so full of vermin, that he was unfit to be put in a bed, laid him in his barn upon some straw, and in the morning the poor wretched creature was found dead.  The Jury, on hearing the evidence, returned a verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Mar 22.  On Thursday last an Inquest was taken before Mr Joyner, Coroner, on the body of WM GORDON, Esq. Late of Loweston, in the county of Dorset, and formerly of Bristol, Merchant, who was found drowned in the river Avon, near Billmarsh, in the parish of St George, in this county; when the Jury, which was very respectable, after a full investigatin, and no marks of violence appearing on the body, found a verdict of Accidental Death.

 

Mar 29.   Last week an inquest was taken at Tirley, in this county, before D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on the body of THOMAS POYTRESS, a farmer of that parish, who hanged himself - verdict, Lunacy.  He had been in a state of mental derangement for some years.

   On Wednesday the 17th inst. a child of Mr HASKINS, of Taynton, in this county, who was sent to a day school, in that parish, having gone too near the fire, in the absence of his schoolmistress, the flames seized his clothes, and notwithstanding the exertions of some of the neighbours to extinguish the fire, he died the following morning.

 

Apr 19.  The General Gaol Delivery for Bristol ended on Saturday se’nnight, when MARIA DAVIS, for the murder of her infant child, by leaving it to perish on Brandon Hill, and CHARLOTTE BOBBETT, for being accessary thereto, received sentence of Death.

     MARIA DAVIS and CHARLOTTE BOBBETT were executed at St Michael’s Hill, on Monday, pursuant to their sentences.  On their way to the gallows, they were with difficulty prevented from frequently fainting.  At the place of execution, M DAVIS, the mother of the child, with the utmost contrition, acknowledged her guilt; at the same time manifesting the greatest distress of mind in having been the means of inducing her unhappy fellow sufferer to become the accomplice of her diabolical purpose,  and earnestly entreating her forgiveness.  Both attributed their present deplorable condition to disobedience to their parents, idleness and dissolute company, and requested the Rev. the Ordinary to impress on the minds of the surrounding multitude these lamentable truths, and warn them against the dangers with which such conduct was inevitably followed.  After some time spent in exercises of penitential devotion, the wretched victims kissed each other, and then, clasping their hands together, were so launched into eternity.  M DAVIS was about 20 years of age, and C BOBBETT not more than 23.

 

Apr 26.  On Monday last a very unfortunate accident happened in Kings road, by which the eight following persons lost their Lives: viz. Mr JAMES, sadler, of St Michael’s hill, Bristol; his brother Mr JAMES, truss maker, of Redcliffe street; and two others of their brothers; also Mr PRICE, sworn measurer; and Mr HENRY STOCKHAM, baker, Redcliffe street; together with two children, one belonging to Mr JAMES, and the other to Mr STOCKHAM.   They had set off in a boat in the morning (it being a holiday), to amuse themselves on the water, and having got into the King road, were seen about a mile and a half from Portishead Fort, steering towards the Welsh Coast.  About tide of flood, the sergeant on guard at Portishead fort, and some women who were planting potatoes on the adjoining hill, witnessed a strange motion of the sails of the boat, then near the tail of the Spit, (a long bank of sand so named) in the mouth of the Severn, but judged the occasion to be only the sport of those onboard.  In about half an hour afterwards, two of the ill fated company (by description, the eldest and youngest of the JAMES’s, and known to be excellent swimmers) were seen making towards Portishead point - the boat not in sight.  They had so far gained the shore, as to exhibit themselves to the spectators, holding each orther’s arm; but the surf, occasioned by the wind setting in with the tide, repeatedly drove them back, and they sunk beneath the task, before any one could get near enough to afford them assistance.

   The boat was found drifted near the New Passage, with Mr N JAMES’s son (about ten years of age) in the cuddy, whose remains were interred on Friday.  None of the other bodies have yet been found.

    It is truly melancholy to consider, that this awful circumstance has deprived three widows of their husbands, and fourteen children of their fathers; six of whom belonging to Mr STOCKHAM, who buried his wife within these four months, become orphans.

 

May 17.  On Tuesday last Mr HILL, a respectable maltster, of Monmouth, put an end to his existence, by drowning himself in the river Trothy, near Mitchel Troy, where his body was soon after discovered.  No previous symptoms of derangement had appeared, and his circumstances were such as to place him far above necessity, although he had recently expressed the dread of a reverse of fortune.. He had always maintained the character of a truly honest and industrious man.

 

May 24.   On Monday morning, Mr M’DOWALL, of Dursley, in this county, was found dead in his bedchamber; and the coroner’s jury have since returned a verdict - Died by the visitation of God.   He was a very respectable dealer in Irish linens, &c. and had acquired considerable property by this traffic.

   The body of Mr NATH JAMES, of St Michael’s hill, Bristol (one of the eight unfortunate persons who went from Bristol in a boat on Easter Monday, and were drowned, as mentioned in a former paper) was yesterday se’nnight discovered floating on the water near a place called the Cherry Stones, in the river Severn, in a very putrid state, as might be supposed. - A considerable property in bills and cash was found in his pockets.

   On Tuesday last, a labourer who was employed in the repairs of the roof of St Michael’s church, in this city, unfortunatel;y fell from the same, and lighting upon a grave stone, was severely hurt.  He was instantly conveyed to the Infiirmary; and we are happy to add, that his life is thought to be out of danger.

 

May 31.  Re JAMES PEARCE, grazier, Tortworth.

               Caution to Waggoners.

 

Jun 7.  We are authorised to contradict the paragraph which appeared in our last (copied from a respectable neighbouring paper), stating, that the death of Mr JAMES PEARCE, of Tortworth, was occasioned by a fall - that gentleman having died by a natural, slow, and progressive disease.

 

Jun 28.  On Monday last, a boy about ten years of age, named JOHN LEWIS, (a drummer belonging to the Glocester Volunteers;) whilst bathing in the river Severn, at this city, unfortunately got beyond his depth, and was drowned.

 

Jul 26.  On Monday last, during a violent storm, a labourer employed in digging stone at Leckhampton , in this county, took shelter under an excavated part of the hill; where he had not long retired, when a mass of stone fell on him, and crushed him to death.  The unhappy man has left a wife and two children.

   A Coroner’s Inquest was on Thursday held at Cirencester, on the body of JAMES GRIFFIN who was found dead in a stable of the Boothall Inn, into which he had been put a few hours before in a state of intoxication.  verdict - Died by Suffocation.

   On Thursday last, as a man on horseback was riding down Broad street, Bristol, a foot passenger struck the horse with a stick, which occasioned him to startle, very unexpectedly, and the saddle turning round, the rider fell and was dragged some distance, receiving such violent blows from the horse’s feet, as have since occasioned his death.

   Same day, in the same street, a man fell under the wheels of a waggon, and was so much hurt, that doubts are entertained of his recovery.

 

Aug 2.  Rev A SANDERSON & HASKINS

 

Aug 9.  Assizes ... and ELIZABETH BARRETT, tried for the murder of her new born bastard child, ... acquitted.

 

Aug 16.  TO BE CHECKED.

 

Aug 23.  On Monday last an inquest was taken by Mr Joyner, Coroner, on the body of JOHN SARNEY, of the parish of Yate, in this county, potatoe merchant and farmer, who hanged himself, in a field the Saturday preceding; after a full investigation, the jury found a verdict - felo de se.

 

Sep 27.   On Friday morning, the body of a young man, of the name of LEARNER, by trade a stone mason, was taken out of the Stroud Canal, near Brimscomb.  He had been missing about a week; and is supposed to habve lost his way in the evening, and slipped from the bank of the Canal.

   On Monday evening last, the following melancholy circumstance happened at Bristol.  A lad named PHILIP MASON, aged about 15, who had been lately discharged froma marine corps, was walking the streets, carrying a musket, which he imprudently pointed towards several persons, near the Back, observing to them, that the piece was loaded, and, to intimidate them, threatened to fire; this, however, he desisted doing; but on Bristol bridge, without giving any previous notice to the passengers near him, he wantonly drew the trigger, and the whole charge entered the legs of a young man named RICHARD LOVETT, about 19 years of age, who was in the service of Mr COOKE, iron monger, on the Back, and wounded him so dreadfully, that a mortification almost immediately followed, and his life has fallen a sacrifice to this unpardonable instance of wanton wickedness.  MASON has absconded.

 

Oct 4.  A few days since an inquest was taken, at Bagendon, before W Trigg, Gent. one of the coroners for this county, on view of the body of ELIZABETH SAUNDERS, who was found dead in her dwelling house, where she lived alone.. Verdict, Died suddenly by the visitation of God.

   On Saturday se’nnight an inquest was taken, before the same Coroner, on view of the body of a man unknown, found drowned in the Stroud Canal, near Bond’s Mill.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Oct 4.  On Wednesday last another inquest was taken before Mr Trigg, at Fairford, on view of the body of GEORGE ROSE, a child, who was running after a chaise, when his cloaths became entangled in the spikes, and being exhausted by his exertions to extricate himself, he fell on the ground with such violence as to occasion his death almost immediately.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Oct 11.   On Saturday se’nnight an inquest was taken, on view of the body of GEORGE PEGLAR, of Nympsfield, in this county, who was found dead in a field adjoining his house a few days preceding, when the Jury returned a verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

 

Oct 25.  On Thursday evening last, as Mr INNELL, wire worker, of Stroud, was going to Petty France on horseback, in passing a post chaise he met on the road, his leg unfortunately came into contact with the hind wheels, by which it was shattered in a most dreadful manner.  Surgical assistance being immediately procured, some splinters were taken out, and we are happy to find, that hopes are entertained of his recovery, without the necessity of recurring to amputation.

 

Nov 22.  ?? Obit ROBERT HUTCHINGS of Kingsdown.

 

Nov 29.  On Monday last died, in the 22nd year of her age, Mrs WILSON, wife of Mr WILSON, printer and bookseller, Stroud.  her death was occasioned by the bursting of a blood vessel during a fit of coughing.  Her piety and amiable manners, render her family and numerous friends inconsolable for the early loss os so excellent a woman.

   Inquests have lately been held by Mr Trigg, one of the Coroners for this county, at the following places:

       At Minchinhampton, on Friday se’nnight, on view of the body of SAMUEL CLIFT, sen. who fell down dead on the high road.  verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

        At Bisley, on Monday last, on the body of MARY IRELAND, a young woman about 22 years of age, who, being pregnant, either took, or had administered to her, a portion of yellow arsenic, which occasioned her death.  After a most minute investigation by a very respectable jury, a verdict was returned - Died from poison; by her own hands, or administered by some person or persons unknown.  Her body had been interred several days, without the knowledge of any of the parish officers.

        At Winstone, on Tuesday, on the body of MARY WINSTONE, amn illegitimate infant, who died on the road, and was brought home a corpse by her mother.  Verdict, Died suddenly of a fit.

       And, at Rodborough, on Wednesday, on the body of JAMES CHAPMAN,  who, from the darkness of the night, fell into the Thames and Severn Canal, and was drowned.  verdict, Accidental Death.

          About five o’clock on Sunday morning, a new born female infant was found in a market basket left at the door of a gentleman’s house in Somerset street, Bristol, in a very wet condition, owing to the rain that had fallen on the poor little innocent, to which, it has since been discovered, the infant had been unmercifully exposed about seven hours; for, through the vigilance of the overseer of the parish, the mother has been apprehended, and after an examination of considerable length before a magistrate, was on Thursday evening committed to Lawford’s Gate Bridewell.  It appears that the mother herself did not place the child where she was found, but had given her to two other woman so to do.

 

Dec 6.  An Inquisition was, on Friday se’nnight, taken at St Peter’s Hospital, Bristol, on view of the body of THOMAS GREED, who died on Thursday, in consequence of an injury received in fighting with JOHN WILLIAMS, at a public house, in Saint Thomas street, on Monday.  The Jury returned a verdict of Manslaughter; and WILLIAMS is committed to Newgate.

 

Wednesday, another Inquisition was taken on the body of THOS BAKER, who, being intoxicated, fell into a well at Norton, near Kempsey, Worcestershire, on the preceding Sunday, and in falling received a violent blow on the back part of his head from the stone coyning of the well, which instantly killed him.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Dec 20.   Inquests have recently been held by Mr Trigg, one of the Coroners for this county, at the following places:

   At South Cerney, on Saturday se’nnight, on view of the body of RICHARD MILLARD, whose death was supposed to have been occasioned by a blow received on the head whilst playing at back sword; but it appearing in evidence that he had been previously affected by a complaint in the brain, the Jury brought in their verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Rodborough, on Monday last, on the body of WILLIAM FOWLES, who fell into the Thames and Severn Canal, at that place, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

    And at Minchinhampton, on Tuesday last, on view of the body of MARY WHITHORNE, who, during the parxysm of mental derangement, jumped into a draw well, nearly 25 yards in depth, by which she fractured her leg, and died in a short time after from the general shock she sustained.  Verdict, Lunacy.  Great praise is due to Mr HILL, brazier, of Minchinhampton, who, hearing of the circumstance, went down at the imminent hazard of his life, and prevented the poor unfortunate woman from drowning, whilst he fastened a rope round her body, by which she was drawn up from the bottom of the well alive, but soon after expired!

             

 

1803

 

Jan 3.  On Saturday se’nnight a melancholy accident happened at Cam, in this county.  A man of the name of TUDOR, whilst coming to Dursley, in a state of intoxication, missed his road, and, falling into a ditch, was suffocated.  He was not found till the Monday following.

   Monday night last, about ten o’clock, Captain WM WINTLE, of the sloop Galley, was unfortunately drowned, in attempting to go on board at the wharf in St Philip’s, Bristol, where she had that day discharged her cargo of Newport coal.  It is thought his feet must have slid from under him on the slip, and that he fell between the vessel and the Quay wall.  He was heard to cry for help, but it being dark no person could render him assistance in time.

 

Jan 31.  On Tuesday an Inquest was held at Wilton, near Ross, by T Cotes, esq. Coroner, on view of the body of WILLIAM CROOSE, who died in consequence of a violent bruise on the head, occasioned by a fall.   And on Thursday, another Inquest was held by Mr Cotes, at the same place, on view of the body of WILLIAM GUNDY, a lad about ten years of age, who, being subject to fits, fell into the fire in the absence of his friends, and was burnt to death.  Verdict in both cases, Accidental Death.

 

Feb 7.  On Tuesday an Inquest was held at Ross, by Mr Cotes, Coroner, on view of the body of WALTER WILLIAMS, a day labourer, who, on returning home, at night, from his work, dropped down dead in a field near his dwelling house.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Feb 14.  One evening last week, Mr SHEARS, an Irish Gentleman, with his wife, arrived at the Bell Inn, Burford, from Cheltenham.  About ten o’clock the Lady retired to her bedroom, when Mr SHEARS immediately locked  the door, and shot himself with a large postol, lodging the contents, a quantity of grapeshot, in his brain.  He languished till the following afternoon, and then expired in great agony.  Mr SHEARS had considerable property in Ireland, but owing to an irregularity in his remittances from thence, was reduced to some temporary pecuniary embarrassments, which produced a desponding state of mind, and drove him to the fatal act.

 

Feb 28..  A few days since died, at Coaley, near Dursley, Mr JOHN GRIFFITH; having a family of children ill of the smallpox, he unhappily caught the infection, sickened, and died in twelve days, at the age of 35. 

   The following melancholy event occurred on Friday last.  About five o’clock in the afternoon, as RICHARD HAWKES, fisherman, and a woman of the name of JANE TRIGG, both of Minsterworth, were returning from Tewkesbury in a fishing boat, in attempting to pass through the principal arch of Over Bridge, near this city, they were forced against the pier by the violence of the current, by which the boat was upset, and they were precipitated into the flood.   They both clung to the bottom of the boat, however, and floated down the Severn for some distance, calling out for help.  Their perilous situation was observed by some men in a trow which lay a short way below the bridge, by whom, in all probability, their lives would have been saved; but unfortunately they had no small boat; and before they could reach one belonging to a vessel which lay near, the poor sufferers lost their hold, and disappeared!  The boat has since been taken up uninjured; but the violence of the wind, and height of the river, at present renders any search for the bodies ineffectual.  The woman has left an aged father and mother, who were principally dependent upon her for support.

   On Wednesday evening, after it had become dark, a man of the name of POPE, not aware of any danger, although cautioned by a gentleman who saw him, stepped over the quay wall, near the head of the quay, Bristol, and fell into the river.  The gentleman who had spoken to him, hearing the plunge, instantly gave the alarm, and after about half an hour’s search, the poor man’s body was found; but the immediate exertions of two medical gentlemen to restore animation, unfortunately proved ineffectual.

 

Mar 7.  On Wednesday morning died, suddenly, Mr JOHN JELF, cork cutter, of Bolt lane, in this city.  He was taken ill whilst at work, and died immediately after being carried home.

 

Mar 7.  On Thursday last, an inquest was taken at Elkstone, in this county, by Mr Trigg, coroner, on view of the body of WILLIAM THRUSH, who was unfortunately thrown from a horse, and dragged in the stirrup, so as to occasion his death.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   The bodies of RICHARD HAWKES and JANE TRIGG, mentioned in our last Paper to have been drowned in the river Severn, by the oversetting of a fishing boat, were yesterday morning picked up at the Parting, in this city.

 

Apr 4.  Long report re shooting at Hotwells, JOHN POVEY.

 

Apr 18.  On Monday died, by the breaking of a blood vessel, at Pyrton, near Berkeley, Mr MERRITT, an eminent farmer of that place.

   On Monday last an Inquest was held by Mr Trigg, on view of the body of DANIEL YOUNG, found dead on the Bath road.  It appearing that he had been drinking gin to excess, the Jury returned a verdict - Sudden death by intoxication.

   The following inquests have been taken by Mr Joyner: On Wednesday, on the body of  ELIZABETH BARTON, of Brinkworth, in the parish of Thornbury, who poisoned herself by taking arsenic mixed in beer.  Verdict, Lunacy.   On Saturday, on the body of Mr SAMUEL SILMAN, of Charfield, near Wotton Underedge, who was scalded to death by falling into a tub of boiling wort.  Verdict, Accidental Death.   And on Monday, on the body of Mr JOSEPH STINCHCOMBE, of Upton, in the parish of Hawkesbury, who hanged himself.  Verdict, Felo de se.

 

May 2.  On Tuesday se’nnight died, THOMAS PETERSON, Esq. of Mangotsfield (late of Weston, near Bath) in consequence of a fall from his horse a few days before.

 

May 9.  An Inquest was held on Monday last, by Mr Joyner, Coroner, on view of the body of a boy who was unfortunately killed, in consequence of getting entangled in the machinery at Monk’s Mill, near Wotton Underedge, in this county.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

May 23.  The following inquests have been held by Mr Trigg, one of the Coroners for this county, viz. on view of the body of WILLIAM BUCK, of the Thrupp, who, as he was returning home from Stroud, fell into the Thames and Severn Canal, and was drowned; and on view of the body of ANN CLUTTERBUCK, a child about two years old, who fell into a millstream, and was drowned.  Verdict in both cases, Accidental Death.

 

May 30.  On Monday last THOMAS HUNT was committed to Oxford Gaol, charged on the Coroner’s Inquest with the murder of RICHARD BAYLIS, at Little Rissington, in that county.

 

Jun 6.  On Wednesday last an Inquest was held by Mr Joyner, one of the Coroner’s for this county, on view of the body of ROBT FORD, late of Wickwar, mason; who, in endeavouring to take down an old decayed farm house, at Cromhall Abbotts, the ruins gave way, and falling upon him, was killed on the spot.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   A melancholy accident happened on Wednesday last, at Purton Pill, in the parish of Lidney, in this county.  DANIEL WILES,  late of Coleford, carpenter, a lunatic, going to wash himself in the river Severn, at the entrance or mouth of the Pill, the shore being very steep, soon got out of his depth.  A person of the name of BARRETT, standing on the shore, and seeing his eminent danger, instantly leaped into the river with intent to save him; when WILES, by catching hold of BARRETT’s clothes, so entangled him as not to be able to extricate himself therefrom, and after many violent struggles they both sunk and were unfortunately drowned.  It is remarkable, that BARRETT has had two brothers and a cousin drowned within a few years past.

 

Jun 20.  The following melancholy accident happened  on Sunday last.  Four young men, from Tewkesbury, (three of them brothers;) went out to spend the day at a short distance from thence, when a person brought a gun into the room where they had assembled, for the purpose of shooting at a hawk out of the window, which by some accident went off, and shot three of the four young men, one of them dangerously in the arm; and, notwithstanding surgical assistance was peocured instantly, we are sorry to add, that a mortification soon after took place, which proved fatal; the others were not so materially injured, and are recovering from their wounds.

 

Jun 27.  And, on Saturday, WILLIAM BAXTER was committed, By Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, charged with killing and slaying ELIZABETH GIBBONS, of the parish of Eastleach Turville.

 

Jul 4.  On Saturday last a detainer was lodged against MARY HOOPER, some time since committed to our county gaol for burglary.  The second charge exhibited against her, is for the wilful murder of ELIZABETH MANSELL, (a child) under circumstances of peculiar atrocity.

Yesterday se’nnight a poor woman of the parish of Maisemore, in this county, unfortunately fell with a child in her arms; when the Infant received so much injury on the head as to survive the accident but a short period.

   On Saturday se’nnight the following melancholy accident happened at Monmouth.  As Mr SHELLUM, master of a vessel in the service of Mr Alderman HUGHES, of that town, was pushing off, with his foot, a barge which lay alongside his own, he slipped and fell into the river; when the vessels again coming in contact with some violence, he was instantly crushed to death.  By this unfortunate circumstance, a wife and five children are deprived of a husband and father, from whose labour they derived their sole support.

 

Jul 18.  On Monday last a chimney-sweeper, of the name of MASTERS, was drowned whilst bathing in the river Severn, near this city.  He was an expert swimmer; but in attempting to gain the shore with his son on his back! (a youth about eight years of age,) he sunk to the bottom, and remained so long under water, that every effort to restore animation proved ineffectual.  The child was happily saved.

 

Jul 25.  Oxford Assizes.  THOS HUNT, charged with the murder of RICHARD BAYLIS, of Little Bourton, was found guilty of manslaughter, and was fined 6 s. 8 d. and discharged; ...

   On Monday last the following inquests were taken by Mr Joyner, at Uley, near Dursley, in this county: on the body of Mrs PATIENCE SHURING, who died in consequence of a fall from a flight of steps; and on the body of CHARLES FORD, drowned whilst bathing in a pond belonging to Mr JACKSON.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

 

Aug 1.  Gloucester Assizes:  MARY HOOPER, for stealing money at Hasfield ... sentenced to transportation for seven years.  The latter prisoner was previously tried for the murder of ELIZABETH MANSELL, and acquitted.

 

Aug 8.  On Friday last, THOMAS POWELL, a poor labourer, whilst mowing barley in a field in the parish of Bridstow, near Ross, had his leg nearly cut off by the accidental stroke of his follower’s scythe, and died shortly afterwards from the loss of blood - unfortunately leaving a widow and large family destitute of support.

 

Aug 29.  DIED.  In the 20th year of his age, BENJAMIN ANDREWS, son of Mr ANDREWS, blacksmith, of Ross.  His death was occasioned by going into the river to bathe, when in a state of perspiration.   

 

Sep 5.  Yesterday se’nnight died, Mrs SPILMAN, wife of Mr SPILMAN, of Barton Street, in this city.  Her death was occasioned by a fall from her horse a few days before, when she was dragged a considerable way, and received so much injury as to baffle every effort for her recovery.

 

 

 

Sep 12.  On Friday last, an inquest was held, by Mr Trigg, Coroner, on view of the body of Mr`JOHN ALLAWAY, a respectable farmer, of South Cerney, whose death was occasioned by a fall from his horse, at Waltimore, near Cirencester.  He was taken up senseless, and lived but a few hours.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Sep 19.  A soldier in the Army of Reserve, of the name of HIGGINS, was on Wednesday last drowned in the river Severn, near this city.  He had been washing his feet, and slipped from the bank into such deep water, that he could not extricate himself.

 

Sep 16.  Freiday se’nnight Mr Trigg, one of the coroners for this county, held an inquest at Minchinhampton , on the body of SAMUEL GRAINGE, who was killed by the kick of a horse; verdict accordingly.  And also on Monday, at the same place, upon the body of MARY HARDING, an infant, about four months old.  It appeared, that the child being disordered, her mother had sent a person to buy some Tincture Of Rhubarb; but the messenger mistaking the name, asked for Godfrey’s Cordial, under which title a deleterious preparation from Laudanum was sold, and administered by the unsuspecting mother.  The consequence was that the child died in a few hours.  After minute investigation the Jury returned a Verdict, Died by the injudicious preparation of a medicine administered for the benefit of the child.

 

Oct 10.  On Friday last, the body of Mr TAYLOR, formerly of the Crown public house, on Corse Lawn, was found in the River Severn, near the Westgate bridge, at this city.  He had been missing since the preceding Monday.

 

Oct 24.  Inquests have lately been taken by Mr Joyner, coroner, of Berkeley, on view of the bodies of the following persons, viz. Mr GEORGE KEAR, who was killed in consequence of falling into a coalpit at Bream, in the parish of Newland; THOMAS NOWELL, an infant, whose death was occasioned by his cloaths taking fire, at Halling Common, near Henbury; and CHARLES TRUCK, chaisedriver, belonging to the New Passage House, who, from intoxication, fell into the river Severn, and was drowned.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Nov 21.  DIED.  At his father’s house, North street, Bristol, at the age of 6 years, RICHARD HINGSTON, whose death was occasioned by swallowing a brass nail, which, by entering his windpipe, brought on suffocation.

 

Dec 26.  The following inquests have lately been taken by D Willey, Esq. Coroner, of this city: On view of the body of Mr JOHN DAVIS, of Leckhampton, who, as he was returning home from Cheltenham market, missed his way, and falling into a pool at the roadside, was drowned; on the body of R HUTCHINGS, coachman to the Rev F TRACEY TAVEL, who, when driving his master’s chariot from Broadway to Stanway, fell from the box, and the chariot wheel passing over him, he was killed on the spot; and on the body of Mr ROBERT CROOK, a respectable farmer, of Taynton, who, returning home from Gloucester market, on Saturday se’nnight, fell into a pool at Over, and was drowned.  Verdict in each instance - Accidental Death.

 

 

1804

 

Jan 2.  The low grounds in the vicinity of the Severn, have been completely inundated by the late heavy rains.  During the height of the flood, yesterday se’nnight, as two boys, named JOSEPH WILLIAMS and WILLIAM COOK; were directing two persons on horseback along Maisemore causeway, near this city, which was at that time under water, the horse which they rode was forced into a ditch by the violence of the wind, and the two boys unfortunately perished.  An inquest was on Monday held on view of the bodies, by D Willey, Esq, Coroner; when the Jury returned a verdict - Accidental Death.

  A very melancholy accidenta occurred in this city on Tuesday last.  An amiable child, about five years of age, daughter of Mrs JONES, cork cutter, of this city, was burnt to death, in consequence of her clothes taking fire.  She was at a neighbour’s house, and, during the momentary absence of the mistress from the room, took up a pair of bellows to blow the fire - when a spark in an instant set her clothes in a blaze, and every effort to dave her life proved ineffectual.  She lingered a few hours, and expired in great agony.

 

Jan 9.  On Friday last an inquest was held by James Sadler, Esq. Coroner for this city, on view of the body of JOHN DYER, who was killed by the upsetting of a waggon load of hay upon him, as he was passing along the Quay.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jan 16.  The following inquests have lately been held by Mr Trigg, one of the Coroners for this county, viz. On view of the body of EDWARD HALFORD, of Coln Rogers, who had been some time deranged in his intellects, and hanged himself.  Verdict, Lunacy.  And on the body of JOHN HOBBES, of Rodmarton, who was found drowned in the Thames and Severn Canal, in the parish of South Cerney, after having been missing nearly a month.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Saturday se’nnight, a young gentleman of Cirencester, while skaiting, unfortunately fell into a hole above his depth, and was drowned.

 

Feb 6.  The following inquests have lately been held before Mr Joyner, one of the Coroners for this county, viz.  On view of the body of THOMAS RODNEY, servant to Mr BLANCH, of Lattridge, who, on his return home from Bristol, fell off the shafts of a waggon, at Hambrook, and was killed in the spot.  On the body of PITMAN PRICE, aged 10 years, killed by falling down a coalpit, 30 fathoms, belonging to Messrs Leonards  and Co. at the hamlet of Oldland.  And on the body of WILLIAM ALLEN, carpenter, found suffocated in a water course, leading down the Long street, in the town of Thornbury.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Feb 13.  On Wednesday an Inquest was held by Mr Trigg, Coroner, on view of the body of JOSEPH WILDEY, who, by the breaking of the rope whilst towing a barge, was precipitated into the Thames and Severn Canal, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On the evening of Saturday se’nnight, as a boy about ten years of age was passing over a narrow bridge across a brook which runs through Stanley Meadow, near Cainscross, in this county, with a pad of yarn on his head, he fell into the water, and his body has not yet been discovered.  Several bundles of the yarn were found in the brook.

 

Mar 5.  The following inquests have been held by Mr Trigg, one of the Coroners for this county: a few days since, at Stroud, on view of the body of THOMAS HEMMINGS, who, whilst winding up the lasher of one of the locks on the Thames and Severn Navigation, was, by the handle coming off, forced into the Canal, and drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  On Monday last, at Rodmarton, on the body of RICHARD JONES, who was found dead, under a wall in a field near that place, where, it is supposed, he had crept for shelter during the severity of the weather on Saturday night - and, being weak and infirm, unfortunately perished in that situation.  verdict, Died from the inclemency of the weather.   And, on Tuesday, at Stonehose, on the body of GEORGE NEALE, the youth mentioned in a former paper to have been drowned in a stream near the Ryeford: his body had passed through the gates at various places on the brook, and was  not found till Tuesday last.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 12.  On Wednesday last an inquest was held, at Kent’s Green, in the parish of Newent, by D Willey, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county, on view of the body of JOSEPH LYES, servant to Mr CLARK, who, in attempting to put a burthen of straw in a hay loft, fell off the ladder, and dislocated his neck.  Ond on Thursday another inquest was taken before the same gentleman, on the body of EMANUEL WRIGHT, a child between four and five years of age, whose cloaths burst into a flame whilst drying himself before the fire; whereby he was so terribly burnt (although every effort was instantly used by the woman of the house to extinguish the same), that he survived only a few hours.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   A few days since an inquest was held by Mr Trigg, Coroner, on view of the body of ROBERT LAWRENCE, of Stonehose, who, in endeavouring to pass over a swing bridge across the  Stroud Navigation, the bridge being incautiously left off the sill, he walked into the Canal, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 19.  On Wednesday last, an inquest was taken before Mr Joyner, Coroner, at the sign of the Foundry, in the parish of St Paul, in this county, on the body of a new born female child, found dead in a pool, in a field at the bottom of Wilder street, near St Paul’s church.  It was quite naked when found, and as several marks of violence appeared on the body, the jurors were fully of opinion, the child was murdered previous to its being cast into the pool.  After a full investigation, the jurors returned a Verdict of Wilful Murder by some person or persons unknown.  The officers of the parish instantly offered a reward of Twenty Guineas to any person giving information that will lead to the discovery of the inhuman perpetrator.  Same day another inquest was taken at Hanham, by the same Gentleman, on the body of JAMES HOSKINS, coal miner, who was killed on Moday last, by falling down a coal pit belonging to SAMUEL WHITTUCK, Esq.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   Last week an inquest was held at Walford, in Herefordshire, on the body of JOHN BRIGHT, a pauper of that parish, and a common beggar, who was found dead near his own house.  He was supposed to be very poor; but on examining his house, after his death, it appeared that he had contrived to amass a considerable sum, the greatest part of which was in cash, and sufficient to have enabled him to live comfortably and independent.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

 Mar 26.  On Saturday se’nnight considerable agitation was occasioned at the French prison in Stapleton, near Bristol, by the following occurrence:- JEAN BAPTISTE MERRY, one of the prisoners, attempted to pass a sentinel belonging to a detachment of the 2d battalion of the Army of Reserve, doing duty there; and, on being reprimanded for his insolence, suddenly turned upon him, wrenched the bayonet off his musket, and attempted to stab him.  In self defence, the soldier fired his piece, the ball took effect, the prisoner fell, and expired almost immediately.  On further investigation, however, it did not appear that the circumstance  was connected with any other attempt on the part of the other prisoners to make their escape; and all alarm subsided.  On Monday an inquest was taken by Mr Joyner, coroner, on view of the body of the Frenchman; when, after an investigation of five hours, the jury returned a verdict of Justifiable Homicide; and the sentinel was immediately liberated.

   On Thursday morning, about two o’clock, a fire broke out in a cottage at Kempsford, in this county, inhabited by an industrious labourer, named POOLE, his wife, and five small children.  The house was completely enveloped in flames before the family were alarmed.  The mother, after escaping with difficulty, returned, and penetrated three times successively through the fire to save her children, in which she fortunately  succeeded; but was herself so terribly scorched, as to survive only a short time.  The cottager and two of his children are also so much burnt, that their lives are despaired of; the other children suffered in a less degree.  Two adjoining cottages were destroyed; the inhabitants escaping with their lives.  The benevolent and humane are by this melancholy accident afforded an opportunity of extending their charitable assistance to objects justly entitled to their commiseration.

 

Apr 2.  On Saturday, ELIZABETH ROSSER was committed to our county gaol, by THOMAS BIRT, Clerk, charged with the murder of her bastard child.

 

Apr 9.  On Thursday, MARY MARSH was committed to our County Gaol, charged by the Coroner’s Inquest, held before Mr Joyner, with the wilful murder of her bastard child.  The prisoner lived as servant at Hanham, where she privately delivered herself, and, to prevent discovery, threw the infant down the common sewer.  The cries of the little innocent were distinctly heard, and, fearful it would create suspicion, the inhuman mother poured down a pail of water in hopes of suffocating it sooner.  The exertion was so great that her own life was despaired of.

 

Apr 16.  On Wednesday night, as Mr SPIERS, Clerk to the Canal Company at Cricklade, was returning from Highworth,  he fell into the Canal, near his own house, and was drowned.  He has left a wife and two children to lament his loss.

  On Thursday evening, a person named JOHN BARTON, who formerly lived as ostler at Frog Mill Inn, fell into the River Severn, at Over, near this city, and was drowned.  His body was taken up next morning.

 

May 7.  A few days since an inquest was held by Mr Trigg, Coroner, on view of the body of MARY HOLDER, of Randwick, a child of about four years of age; whose cloaths, whilst left in the charge of her sister and brother, caught fire, and she was so dreadfully burnt about the breast and arms, that she survived but a few hours.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

  On Friday last, the body of a woman belonging to a gang of gypsies, who had lately been encamped in that neighbourhood, was found hear the fishpond in Standish Park, in this county.  The cause of her death has not been ascertained.

 

May 14.  On Monday last an inquest was held by Mr Trigg, Coroner, on view of the bodies of JAMES WORSTALL and JOHN HALLIDAY, two boys about eight or nine years of age, who had been spectators, amongst a number of other people, of the erection of a new Maypole at Paganhill, near Stroud; when the stay rope breaking, the pole fell with such violence on these unfortunate youths, that they were both killed on the spot.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  The pole being found a deodand by the Jury, we hope will prove the means of discontinuing the practice of erecting such useless monuments of public amusement in future.

 

May 28.  On Friday evening as JOHN ROSSITER, of Lewin’s Mead, Bristol, was crossing Baldwin street, he was run over by a timber carriage, and killed on the spot.

 

Jun 4.  On Monday se’nnight, the body of a man, unknown, was found floating in a pool near the Pill, at Oldbury upon Severn, in this county.  He appeared to be about 40 years of age, and a labourer, as a spade shovel was found in the same pool the next day, supposed to have been his property.  And on the Thursday following, the infant son of Mr JOHN SCREEN, of the parish of Frampton Cotterell, fell into a tub of boiling wort, and was scalded to death.  The Coroner’s verdict, in both instances, was Accidental Death.

 

Jun 11.  DIED.  On Saturday se’nnight died, Mr THOMAS JENNER, a respectable farmer, of Colthrop, in the parish of Standish, in this county.  He went to bed the preceding evening in apparent good health.

 

Jun 18.  On Saturday, an inquest was taken on the body of MARY KING, found drowned in a pool at the bottom of her garden, near Dursley.  Verdict, Lunacy.

 

Jul 2.  A singular and awful circumstance took place at Wooton Underedge, in this county, on Sunday the 10th ultimo.  A woman of the name of LANE, who had been in the habit, for 20 years past, of instructing poor children who attended the Sunday School at the Rev. ROWLAND HILL’s chapel, particularly wished, that when it should please God to take her, she might die in some part of the premises belonging to this indefatigable man.  She attended the chapel as usual in good health on  Sunday morning, and appeared perfectly well, till Mr HILL had concluded his sermon; when she was discovered by some of the congregation to change colour, and before they had time to take her from the place, she expired without a groan.

 

Jul 9.  The following inquests have lately been held by Mr Trigg, one of the Coroners for this county, viz.  At Cirencester, on view of the body of  T POOLE, who was killed by a waggon wheel passing over his body; and at Frocester, on the body of Mr SAMUEL LONG, a respectable farmer, who was seized with a fit of apoplexy whilst walking near a brook, into which he unfortunately fell, and was drowned.  Verdict in both cases, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 23.  On Monday last, an inquest was taken at Stonehouse, before William Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of EBENEZER BURFORD.   This youth had imprudently gone into the Stroud Canal to bathe; when, being incapable of swimming, he got out of his depth, and was unfortunately drowned before any assistance could be rendered him.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  On Friday, an inquest was held by the same Coroner, in the parish of Bisley, on view of the body of MARY SMITH, who, whilst in apparent health, dropped down in a field, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   ASSIZES :  MARY MARSH, and ELIZABETH ROSSER, tried for the murder of their bastard children, were acquitted of the capital part of the indictment, but were each ordered to be imprisoned twelve months, for concealing the birth, agreeably to the provisions of the Act passed last Session of Parliament.

 

Aug 6.  Yesterday se’nnight, as four boys were bathing in the River Severn, near Deerhurst Lock Stake, three of them got out of their depth, and two were unfortunately drowned.  The cries of the unfortunate boys awoke a bargeman, who was asleep in a vessel lying near the spot: he immediately threw out his boat hook, which saved the third, who must otherwise have inevitably shared the same fate.  One of the lads was found in about twenty minutes; but though every assistance was given, all endeavours to restore life were ineffectual.  The other was found next morning.

 

Aug 13.  A dreadful thunderstorm took place at Chipping Sodbury, on Friday se’nnight, ... and a young man, in the act of throwing a wheel barrow full of stones into a lime kiln, near Wotton Underedge, was in a moment struck dead on the edge of the kiln, and precipitated to the bottom.  It is a remarkable circumstance, that though his clothes were not singed, his body was burnt in a dreadful  manner.

 

Aug 20.   On Monday an inquest was held before William Joyner, Gent. Coroner, on the body of JOHN HAYWARD, aged 13, who fell out of a trow, belonging to Owner HUNT,  of Newnham, into the Severn, opposite Lidney new grounds, and was drowned.  It appeared on evidence, that the lad was standing on the gunwhale of the vessel, mopping his shoes, when he fell overboard.  By means of the mop, he buoyed himself up in the tide nearly half an hour, and although every exertion was made to save him by the hands on board, it unhappily proved ineffectual, owing to the flood tide and a head wind.  Verdict, Accidental Death.   Also, On Wednesday, upon the body of WILLIAM SMART, aged 54, a pauper in Alkington workhouse, near Newport, who had hanged himself to a span beam in his lodging room.  After a full investigation, The Jurors returned a verdict, Lunacy.

 

Aug 13.  Last week a Coroner’s inquest was held on the body of Miss FRANCES JAMES, of Castle Green, Bristol, who had died suddenly some days before.  Dr BEDDOES, and Messrs LOWE and KING, Surgeons, were present at the examination, and discovered poison in some parts of the stomach.  The Jury, after mature deliberation, returned a verdict, That her death was occasioned by poison, administered by some person or person unknown.  The deceased was the youngest daughter of the late Mr JAMES, formerly a distiller of that city.

Aug 20.  We are happy in being able to contradict a paragraph inserted in our last, concerning the Coroner’s verdict on the death of Miss F JAMES, of Bristol; (which was copied from a neighbouring paper).  It was mentioned that the medical gentlemen, on opening the body, had discovered poison; but we now feel pleasure in stating, that they have all signed a report, declaring, That nothing of a poisonouus nature could be distinguished in the stomach or bowels of the deceased.

 

Aug 27.  Obituary:  Mr KIDD, baker, Westgate street, Bath.  A coolness had long subsisted between him and his brother, who came to visit him on Sunday, when a happy reconciliation took place; but on the latter returning that evening to Marshfield, he fell from his horse, and was found quite dead on the road.

 

Sep 3.  Last week an inquest was taken by Mr Joyner, one of the Coroners for this county, on the bodies of GEO BRYANT and SAMUEL PEACOCK, who were unfortunately killed, by being, in consequence of a rope breaking, precipitated 15 fathoms into one of the coalpits belonging to Messrs WHITTICK at Soundwall, near Bristol.  Verdict, accidental Death.

 

Oct 1.  A melancholy accident took place on Tuesday near Hereford.  A labouring man from Gloucestershire, engaged in raising gravell in a pit situated on the road to Hoarwithy, incautiously undermined the adjacent field, when a large quantity of earth fell, and buried him in an instant.  The body could not be extricated in less than half an hour, when every symptom of life had completely vanished.

 

Oct 15.  On Monday last, an inquest was held by W Joyner, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county, on view of the bodies of the two infant daughters of THOMAS WATKINS, of the parish of Newland,  coalminer, who were burnt to death by their clothes taking fire, in the absence of their parents: and on Tuesday an inquest was held by the same gentleman, on the body of BENJAMIN FISHER, yeoman, found drowned in a pool, near Allen Common, in the parish of Henbury.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

    MARGERY WOOD, the woman mentioned in a former paper to have confessed, (before a Magistrate at Minchinhampton, in this county,) the murder of her bastard child, at Bath, nine years ago, has been committed to Shepton Mallet Bridewell, for trial at the next Assizes.  She is a most deplorable looking object, about 45 years of age .....  [long report follows.]

 

Nov 5.  The following inquests have recently been held by Mr Trigg, one of the Coroners for this county, viz.  On view of the body of ELIZABETH BRAMPTON, aged 63, who was found dead in the park of Benjamin Hyett, Esq. of Painswick; and on the body of GEORGE HALL, about eight years of age, who, whilst running near a laoded waggon at Cherrington, fell under the wheel, which passing over his head, fractured his scull, and occasioned instant death.  Verdict, in the former case, Died by the Visitation of God; and in the latter, Accidental Death.

   A melancholy accident happened on Saturday se’nnight, at Berkeley, in this county.  As a lad, aged about seven years, was swinging on a chain fastened to a cart loaded with potatoes, and which had been left very improperly standing on a prop for several hours in the public streets, his weight upset the cart, by which means he was killed on the spot.  The cart and potatoes were seized, as a deodand, for the use of the Lord of the Manor.

 

Nov 12.  Sunsay night, Mr TRATT, father of Mr TRATT, ironmonger, on the Quay, Bristol, accidentally fell into the river, near the Drawbridge; and although immediately taken out, and every medical assistance afforded him, he survived only three hours.

 

Nov 19.  The following inquests have lately been held by Mr Trigg, one of the Coroners for this county: At Kempsford, on view of the body of Mr STEPHEN CHEEZELEY, a respectable farmer, of Highworth, who, in returning home in the evening, fell from his horse, which set off, as soon as he found himself at liberty; and, owing to the darkness of the night, whilst wandering in search of the animal, the unfortunate man fell into the Thames and Severn Canal, and was drowned.  His hat being seen next day floating on the water, led to a discovery of the body.  He has left a wife and family to deplore their loss, and his melancholy fate.

 

Nov 19.  And, at Elkstone, on the body of JOHN HARDING, a child about six years of age, who, being left in the house alone, his cloaths took fire, when he was so dreadfully scorched, that he survived only fifteen minutes.  Verdict, in both instances, Accidental Death.

 

Nov 26.  On Wednesday last, the following inquests were taken before Mr Trigg, one of the Coroners for this county, viz. At Eastington, on view of the body of ROBERT CLARK, who had for some time laboured under great anxiety of mind, and hanged himself in a hay loft at that place; and, at Kempsford, on the body of CATHERINE COWLING, widow, who had, a few days before, come with her family to that place, from Siddington, and drowned herself in the Thames and Severn Canal, deliberately leaving her cloak on the bank.  Verdict, in both cases, Lunacy.

 

Nov 26.  Last Monday the child of a labouring man at Marshfield, (between two and three years of age) was accidentally burnt to death - the unfortunate mother had scarcely left the house a minute before she was alarmed by the cries of the child, and on her return found that the little sufferer had approached the fire, which immediately caught his shirt; he was burnt in a most shocking manner, and languished till the next morning, when he expired.

 

Dec 3.  Last week the following inquests were taken, before Mr Trigg, Coroner, viz. At Wheatenhurst, on view of the body of JOHN COLWELL, of Frampton Cotterell, who was found dead in the high road, near that place.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.  At Stroud, on the body of LEAH EDWARDS, who fell into the Canal, and was drowned; and on the body of ANN SMITH, an old woman, travelling as a pedlar, who was found drowned in the same Canal.  Verdict, in both cases, Accidental Death.

 

Dec 24.  On Tuesday last, an inquest was taken before Mr Trigg, at Ampney Crucis, in this county, on view of the body of JOHN VINCENT, a youth, who was killed in consequence of a waggon loaded with corn passing over his body.  It appeared in evidence, that he was asleep on top of the waggon,  when, being suddenly aroused by the approach of some carriages, the horses having at the same instant turned into a rugged part of the road, he was thrown off, and the wheels passing over his bowels, he was almost instantly killed.  On Wednesday an inquest was held by the same Coroner, at Bowbridge, near Stroud, on view of the body of PRISCILLA ADAMS, a child about ten years of age, who was found dead in bed, after having retired to rest in perfect health.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.

   On Thursday last, an inquest was held at Ross, on view of the body of ANN BUTLER, a child about three years of age, who, in the absence of her mother, had drank a quantity of oil of vitriol out of a phial left within her reach, and died in great agony a few hours afterwards.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Dec 31.  On Monday an inquest was held at Bisley, in this county, by Mr Trigg, on view of the bodies of ELIZA and HESTER RALPH, two infants, who both died soon after their return home, having been placed at some distance, in consequence of indisposition.  Suspicion having arisen, that their death had been occasioned by neglect, and want of proper attention, the parish officers, from motives of humanity, caused an inquest to be held; but the verdict of the jury is as yet suspended.

   On Friday an inquest was taken before the same Coroner, on view of the body of JOHN MOWER, who, in going from Stroud to Frampton, fell into a brook near Froombridge Mills, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   OBITUARY.   Mr RICHARD HOBBS, calenderer, of Bristol: he went to bed in apparent good health, and was a corpse by three o’clock in the morning.

    A melancholy accident occurred on Saturday se’nnight, in the parish of Winterbourne, near Bristol.  A respectable woman, travelling in a tilted cart from Stone, stopped on the roadside to give the horse some refreshment, when the animal, on the bridle being taken off, took fright, and drove the shaft with such violence against the head of the unfortunate woman, as to cause her instant death.

 

 

1805 [Jan 7 at end]

 

Jan 14.  A few days ago, an inquest was taken by Mr Trigg, at Siddington, in this county, on view of the body of MARY WOOD, servant to Mr BRAMBLE, of that place, who, whilst washing a mop, fell into the millpond, and was drowned.  Mr BRAMBLE’s son instantly jumped into the water, at the risk of his life, and succeeded in bringing the body on shore; and the means of recovery were vigorously pursued for some time, but unfortunately without success.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   An inquest was taken on Tuesday last, on DANIEL RICE, a carpenter, who, having found means, during the sale of the stock of a liquor merchant in that town, to get at some common brandy, drank to such an execess as to occasion his death in a few hours.  Two or three others had nearly shared a similar fate, had not proper medical assistance been promptly administered to them.  It seems, that they drank the  liquor from a quart cup, just as if it had been beer.

 

Jan 21.  On the 9th inst. died Mr MAYOW, of Burcot Farm, near Faringdon; he was walking a short distance from his own house, when he fell down, and, in a few minutes, expired.

   Wednesday night last, about 8 o’clock, a porter of the name of MASON, was carrying some goods on board a vessel on the Quay, Bristol, when, unfortunately, he fell into the river and was drowned.  He was a sober and industrious man, and has left a wife in great distress.

 

Jan 28.  The following Inquests have lately been taken before Daniel Willey, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county, viz. On view of the body of JACOB BARNARD, of Dowdeswell.  He had been left with the care of one of the horses taken from the team, a short distance from Cold Comfort; and it being a tempestuous night, and the cold very severe, it is supposed the poor boy had benumbed, and lay down under a wall near the road, where he was found insensible.  He was taken to the house of Mr GILLETT, at Cold Comfort; and there appearing some symptoms of life, Mrs GILLETT humanely stripped off his clothes, put him into warm blankets, and rubbed his body with flannels, &c. but all without avail, as he expired soon after.  Verdict, Perished throught the inclemency of the weather.  On the body of Mr JOHN CLARK, a respectable farmer of Tirley; who, in returning from a visit to his daughter, in company with his nephew, Mr WM CLARK, fell from his horse, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the visitation of God.  On the body of a new born male infant, found by the servants of Mr HARVARD, of Cheltenham, on their going to dry clothes in the orchard: it was wrapped up in a handkerchief, and lay under the hedge of the walk leading up to the wells.  After a minute investigation, the Jury returned their verdict, Stillborn.  And, on the body of CHARLES COLLETT, found dead in Mill lane, in the hamlet of Allstone, near Cheltenham.  He was deranged in his intellects, and subject to fits; and by some means having escaped from the workhouse in the evening, he was next morning found frozen to death in the above situation.  Verdict, Perished through the inclemency of the weather.

   Inquests taken before W Joyner, Gent, Coroner: At Wotton Underedge, on the 25th ult. on view of the body of GEORGE HICOCKS, wheelwright, who, on his return from Kingswood, the Monday preceding, owing to the darkness of the night, missed his way, and unfortunately fell into a pool and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  At the Crown Inn, parish of St Philip and Jacob, on the 26th ult. on the body of ANN TRUSLER, aged about 29 years, found dead on the morning of the 22nd, in West street, supposed from ill treatment.  After an investigation of five hours, the Jury returned a verdict, Died by the inclemency of the night, and intoxication.  And, at the Bell, in the parish of Cam, on Monday last, on the body of MARIA HOWELL, aged 10 years, daughter of a labouring man, burnt to death by her clothes taking fire in the absence of her mother.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   An alarming accident happened on Monday, to Mrs ALEXANDER, an infirm, old lady, of this city.  The fire near which she was sitting, by some means caughter her dress, which was instantly in a blaze, and before it could be extinguished had burnt her arms, face, &c. to such a degree, that, we are sorry to add, her recovery is extremely doubtful.

 

Feb 11.  On Monday evening died, aged 82, Mrs ALEXANDER, of this city - who had lingered in excruciating pain for several days, in consequence of the accident of her clothes taking foire, as mentioned in last week’s paper.

  

On Wednesday se’nnight an inquest was taken by W Trigg, Gent. on view of the body of JOHN TEAKEE a youth, supposed to have died from some blows he received at Horseley,  Verdict, Manslaughter against CALEB EVANS.   And, on Thursday last, the same Coroner held an inquest on the body of RUTH GAZZARD, an infant, about three years old, who being left with other children, her clothes caught fire, and she was so dreadfully burnt that she died soon after.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Feb 25.  On Sunday last, as a son of Mr BARRETT, of Minsterworth; near this city, was out a shooting in a meadow near that place, in endeavouring to remove the briars in a hedge to pass through, he placed the butt end of the gun to make way, when the thorns catched the trigger, and the whole contents of the gun entered his body; which caused his immediate death.  He was 17 years of age.  On Wednesday an inquest was taken on view of the body; before D Willey, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Thursday last, an inquest was taken before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on the bodies of JOHN FOWLER, and  HANNAH his daughter, of the Thrupp, in the parish of Stroud, who were drowned, the preceding evening, in the Thames and Severn Navigation Canal.  The girl being fatigued, her father took her on his back, and from the darkness of the night, it is supposed, walked into the said Canal, and both were drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  Great praise is due to Mr ROSE, who resides near that place, for his indefatigable endeavours to rescue the bodies from the perilous state into which they were so unfortunately involved, although they proved fruitless.

 

Mar 4.  Case of MARY RIDER, bastardy, Littledean.

   On Monday last an inquest was taken in the parish of St George, Bristol, by W Joyner, one of the Coroners for this county, on view of the body of WM BRITTON, coal miner, who was killed, whilst at work in a pit, belonging to Mr BAYLIS, by a quantity of coal and rubbish falling on him, and which caused his instant death.  He has left a pregnant wife and five small children to lament his fate.  And, on Thursday, an Inquest was held by the same gentleman, at Walford, in the parish of Berkeley, on the body of an infant child, aged three years, burnt to death by his clothes taking fire, in the absence of his mother.  Verdict in both cases, Accidental Death.

  Last week an inquest was taken at Kempsford, in this county, by W Trigg, gent. coroner, on view of the body of JOSIAH PIKE, of Cricklade, Wilts; who, as passing on the tow path of the Thames and Severn Navigation Canal, on Wednesday last, the evening being dark, fell into the said canal, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Staurday last, an inquest was held at Cheltenham, before D Willey, Esq. on view of the body of THOMAS HOOPER, plumber and glazier, a young man in his 25th year, who, while walking on the pavement of the High street, in perfect health, the preceding evening, between five and six o’clock, suddenly fell down dead.  Two gentlemen of the faculty in an instant came to his assistance, but all their efforts were in vain.  Verdict, Died suddenly by the visitation of God.

   

Mar 11.  Commitments; Thursday, CALEB EVANS was committed to our County Gaol, by W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, charged with killing and slaying JOHN TEAKEE.

   The following Inquests have been taken by W Trigg, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county, viz.  On Saturday se’nnight, at Minchinhampton, on the body of the wife of JOSEPH HILLIER.  On the husband’s returning home from the house of his brother, who then lay dead, he found the unfortunate woman a lifeless corpse, with her infant child lying at her breast.  Verdict, Died suddenly by the visitation of God.  On Saturday se’nnight, on view of the body of RICHARD PINKNEY, who fell down stairs as he was going to bed at the Three Cups Inn, Tetbury, which occasioned a concussion of the brain, and he died instantly.  Verdict, Accidental Death.   Also, at Tetbury, on the 6th inst. on the body of JOHN BOULTON, who was found dead at a lodging hose, (supposed, though without foundation, to have been starved) - After a very minute investigation before a respectable Jury, a Verdict was returned - Sudden Death, by the Visitation of God.

 

Mar 18.  CALEB EVANS, not guilty.

 

Obituary.  On Momday last, Colonel DELAMOTTE, an officer of great respectability, and, in private life, a gentleman of most pleasing manners, was unfortunately thrown from his horse in the neighbourhood of Bourton on the Hill, in this county, and died soon after the accident, in consequence of a severe fracture in his skull.

 

Mar 25.  Obituary.  On the 11 th inst. died, at Batsford, in this county, PHILIP DELAMOTTE, Esq. Lietenant-Colonel of the 21st rehgiment of Light Dragoons.  His death was occasioned by an apoplectic fit, which he survived but a few hours; and not by a fracture of the skull, in consequence of a fall from his horse, as stated in our last.

INQUESTS.   On Tuesday last, an inquest was taken before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of MARTHA AYLAND, a child about three years old, who fell into a pond of water whilst playing in the garden, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.   And on Wednesday, an inquest was held at Bibury, by the same Coroner, on view of the body of a male infant, about eight days old, who was accidentally poisoned by a deleterious drug being administered in mistake for magnesia.  The circumstances  of this melancholy case were as follow: A woman was sent to a shop in the neighbourhood, to purchase a pennyworth of magnesia, with which she was regularly served; but a packet of rat powder having been placed on the counter, directed to a gentleman who had ordered it, it was not at the moment observed that the woman had taken the packet by mistake; and being a stranger, unfortunately she could not be recognised.  At night, the mother desired a boy, who could not read, to open the parcel, when she took a small quantity of the powder, and blended it with the infant’s pap, which occasioned its death in a very short time.  No blame whatever could attach to the person who sold the magnesia; and the accident was solely to be attributed to the gross ignorance of the poor woman, the packet having contained plain printed directions.  Verdict, Died by poison incorrectly administered.

   The following Inquests have lately been held before D Willey, Gent. viz.  Upon view of the body of JOSEPH WILLIAMS, a private, discharged from the Herefordshire Militia.  As he was returning home, he came to the George Inn, on Birdlip Hill, in the parish of Cowley, where he procured lodgings for the night, and was next morning found quite dead, and cold, in bed.  No marks of violenece appearing on his body, the Jury returned a verdict, Sudden death by the visitation of God. And upon the body of FRANCIS BARNARD, a farmer, of Hasfield, in this county, who had drowned himself in a well in his garden, while his servant girl was at Gloucester market.  He had been in a melancholy state of mind for some time.  Verdict, Lunacy. 

 

Apr 1.  On Sunday last, an inquest was taken at Oddington, before D Willey, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county, on view of the body of HANNAH COOK, who drowned herself at that place, on Wednesday morning.  From the most satisfactory evidence, the Jury returned a verdict, Lunacy.

   On Wednesday last an inquest was taken,  at  Smalls Mill, in the parish of Painswick, before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of BRITANNIA SAVOREY, a child about three years old, who fell from a bridge ( in consequence of the ruinous state of the parapet wall), into the stream below, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Apr 8.  The following inquests were last week taken before W Trigg, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county; On Monday, at Bisley, on view of the body of THOMAS HUNT, wheelwright, of Trougham, who, in returning home from Stroud market, on Friday, owing to the darkness of the night, missed his way, and fell into an old tile quarry; his skull being dreadfully fractured by the fall, which was a considerable depth from the surface, he must have been instantly killed; but his body was not discovered till Sunday.  On Tuesday, at Stroud, on the body of Freame Franklin, a respectable young man of that place.  It appeared, that in returning home from Bisley, on Sunday evening, he slipped down with velocity, and having a walking stick in his hand, the pointed end of it struck the orbit of one of his eyes with great force, and occasioned so much injury to the brain, that he lingered till Tuesday morning, when he died in excruciating agony.  Verdict in both cases, Accidental Death.  On Thursday, at Horsley, on the body of the new born female bastard child of MARY SMITH, who had been privately delivered nearly a month ago, and had concealed the body of the infant under the stairs.  Verdict, Stillborn.

   On Monday last, an inquest was taken in the parish of Yate, before W Joyner, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of GEORGE ROGERS,  coal miner, who fell down a coal pit, on Yate Common, and was killed on the spot.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  And, on Wednesday, an inquest was taken in the parish of North Nibley, before the same Gentleman, on the body of a new born female child, who was found dead, and quite naked, in a field called Pilwell, supposed to have been murdered.  Verdict, Stillborn.

   JAMES BROOKES, charged with the murder of his son, discharged by proclamation.

 

Apr 29.  INQUESTS.  On Monday last, an inquest was taken at Ampney Crucis, in this county, before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of ANN TOWNSEND, who was drowned in a brook.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

  The following inquests have been taken before W Joyner, Gent.   On Saturday, in the parish of Arlingham, on the body of a man, unknown, aged about 50 years, found dead in a field near the Passage House.  It appeared that he was insane, had been seen wandering about the adjoining parishes, in a very dejected state, for some days, and when found was almost naked.  Verdict, Died through the inclemency of the wetaher, and want of common necessaries of life.  On Monday, on the body of STEPHEN SHEPPARD, coal miner, killed by falling down a coal pit, at Staple Hill, in the parish of Mangotsfield.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  On Tuesday, on the body of ABRAHAM NASH, mason, of Woodmancote, in the parish of Dursley, who unfortunately fell off a scaffold, and was so much injured that in a few days he expired.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  On Wednesday, in the parish of St George, near Bristol, on the body of CHARLOTTE SIDNEY, aged two years, supposed to have been starved to death by her mother in law, ANN SIDNEY.  Verdict, Natural Death, and not from starvation, or any injury received whatever.  On Friday, at Caolpit Heath, in the parish of Westerleigh, on the body of JAMES GARLICK, coal miner, killed whilst at work in a pit, by a large quantity of rubbish and coal falling on his body.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

May 6.  Om Nonday last, an inquest was taken at Bisley, in this county, before W Trigg, Gent, Coroner, on view of the body of JAMES DAVIS, a boy about ten years of age, who fell intoo a mill pond, and was drowned.  It appeared that he had been climbing a yew tree, on the banks, in search of a bird’s nest, from which he fell into the pond; and no person being near, he lay for a considerable time in the water, and was at last only discovered by his hat being seen floating on the surface.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  And, on Thursday, an inquest was taken at Eastington, by the same Coroner, on the body of an infant about one year old, belonging to a pauper in the workhouse.  The child had been left for a few minutes by its mother, sitting secured in a chair, and, although in apparent good health, suddenly expired without a struggle or a groan.  Verdict, Sudden Death.

 

Jun 10.  INQUESTS.  On Thursday last, the following inquests were taken before William Joyner, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county, viz.  At the Three Crowns Inn, in the parish of St George, near Bristol, on the bodies of Mr JAMES THOMPSON, a foreman in the yard at Pill Marsh Works; Elizabeth, his wife; and William, their son, aged 7 years, - who were all three unfortunately drowned in a large brick pit, the preceding Tuesday evening.  It appeared in evidence, that the son was playing with a hoop, near the brink of the pit, and in endeavouring to stop it from rolling into the  water, he himself fell in.  The mother, seeing the accident, immediately ran to his assistance, and, over reaching herself, to lay hold of his cloaths, she also got out of her depth.  The father, hearing their cries, next ran to the spot, and seeing the dreadful situation of his wife and child - in the very act of sinking - he, in a state of distraction, plunged into the water, (about 11 feet deep), in the hope of rescuing them; but, missing his aim, they all perished together!  When the bodies were found, about an hour after the accident, the mother had her son closely clasped in her arms.  Mr THOMPSON was a native of Sunderland, in the county of Durham, and had made arrangements to return home with his family the following week.  They have left three children, the eldest only six years of age.

 

Jun 10.  On Friday, in the parish of Dursley, on the body of EDMUND MORGAN, aged two years, who was killed on the Wednesday preceding, by a cart going over his body.   Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Jun 24.  A few days since an inquest was held, by D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of Mr THOMAS EDWARDS, a respectable farmer, of Yanworth, in this county, who, whilst riding full speed down the hill near Fossbridge, on his return from Cirencester,  fell from his horse and received so violent a concussion on the brain, as to occasion his death almost immediately.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  And on Wednesday last, an inquest was held by the same Coroner, on the body of SUSANNAH HAMLETT, who hanged herself in Farncote Wood, in the parish of Guiting Power; she had been in a low, dejected state of mind for some time, which induced the Jury to return a verdict of Lunacy.

   Onn Saturday se’nnight, MARK BROOKMAN, a mason, being employed to pull down a house at Pucklechurch, in this county, in order to save trouble, he undermined the wall, which falling down, killed him on the spor, and broke both the thighs of his labourer.

 

Jul 1.Obituary.  On Thursday evening died, suddenly, at his lodgings at Clifton, aged 43, Major General MAGAN, lately in command of the Garrison of Bristol.  As the General was in the act of wiping the powder from his face, after having dressed for dinner, he was seized with a fit, staggered back into a chair, and in the space of an hour and a half he expired.

   The following melancholy accident occurred on Thursday se’nnight: As Mr PHELPS, of Awre, in this county, accompanied by a young man named JONES, was going down the Severn to Chepstow, in a boat, she was upset by a sudden squall of wind, off Horse Pill, when they were both unfortunately drowned.  Mr PHELPS had about him  considerable property at the time of the fatal accident; but neither of the bodies has yet been found.

 

Jul 8.  It was a seaman of the name of JOHN THOMAS, a native of Lancashire, and not a Mr PHELPS, who was drowned, in company with Mr JONES, of Awre, in going down the Severn in a small boat to Chepstow, as mentioned in our last.  The body of the latter has not yet been found (see advertisement), but the former has been taken up, stripped of two watches, and the money THOMAS  was seen to be possessed of at the time he set off with his unfortunate companion on their ill fated expedition!  The conjecture is, that the body had previously been discovered by some abandoned wretches, who, tempted by the above booty, purloined the property, and again committed the corpse to the flood!!

   On Tuesday last, as a man of the name of NATHANIEL HIGGS, belonging to Yate, in this county, was employed in repairing a well at North Nibley, of very considerable depth, an immense large stone falling on his head, killed him on the spot.  A wife and several small children suffer an irreparable loss by his death.

   Advert: DROWNED IN THE RIVER SEVERN.  On Thursday, June 20, 1805, near Shire-road, Mr JOHN JONES, 22 years of age, about 4 feet 10 inches, lusty, and well made; had on a blue jacket, corduroy breeches, and a white shirt.  Whoever shall find the body, and will bring it (or give intelligence where it may be found,) to Mr MATTHEWS, at Gatcombe, or Mr KEDDICK, at Hamstalls, will receive a Reward of FIVE GUINEAS for their trouble.

 

Jul 15.  The following inquests have lately been held before D Willey, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county: At Ebrington, on view of the body of SAMUEL PARNELL, who was killed by a stroke with a scythe by his cousin, WILLIAM PARNELL.  It appeared in evidence, that the latter, a lad about 12 or 13 years of age, whilst the workmen were resting themselves, took up one of the scyhthes, and was attempting to mow, when his foot slipped, and the dreadful weapon coming round with violence, mortally wounded his cousin, by cutting his veins and sinews of his left ham so shockingly, that, before medical assistance could be procured, or he could be removed from the spot, he died from the loss of blood.    At Childs Wickham, on view of the body of JOHN FOX, glazier, who, whilst measuring the lead work at the Church, ventured among the joists in pursuit of some  bats; when he fell to the ground, a height of nearly 30 feet, by which his neck was dislocated, and  

 his head mortally wounded.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 29.  On Wednesday an inquest was held by W Trigg, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county, on view of the body of THOMAS BAKER, who, whilst working in a stone quarry on Rodborough Common, was instantly crushed to death by a large quantity of earth giving way, and falling upon him.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Aug 12.  On Saturday se’nnight an inquest was held at Cirencester before W Trigg, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county, on view of the body of THOMAS COCKERELL, who had hanged himself.  It appearing from respectable evidence, that he had for some time been deranged in his intellects, the Jury returned a verdict, Lunacy. And, On Thursday last, an inquest was held at Bisley, before the same Coroner, on the body of T HARMAR, who, in a state of inebriety, fell backwards from a stile upon a heap of stones, and received so much injury that he died soon after.  Verdict, Accidental Death. 

   On Wednesday an inquest was taken before W Joyner, Gent. Coroner, on the body of a lad unknown, found drowned in the river Severn, nearly opposite Aust Passage House.  He appeared to be about 15 years of age, was five feet high, slenderly made, with sandy hair, and had a striped brown woollen jacket, and canvass trowsers, but was without shoes or stockings, or any property.

 

Aug 19.  On Saturday se’nnight, an inquest was taken at Painswick, before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of RICHARD HARRIS, a youth about eleven years of age, who hanged himself with a small cord, in a garrett at that place.  No cause could be attributed for the rash act; and the Jury returned a verdict - Felo de se.

 

Aug 26.  Yesterday se’nnight, at Ross, universally regretted, Mr COOK, Master of the Blue Coat School, at that place; he had conducted his scholars to church, and had taken his seat but a few minutes, when he was discovered to be a corpse!  His pupils were instantly in tears; and the congregation immediately dispersed, deeply affected with so awful an example of the uncertainty of human life!

   On Thursday last, WM EVANS, a private belonging to the 96th regiment of foot, stationed in this city, dropped down in Bull lane, and instantly expired.  Coroner’s verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

   On Wednesday se’nnight, a serjeant belonging to the 50th regiment of foot, in attempting to get upon a waggon in the turnpike road at Beverstone, near Tetbury, fell, and the wheels, passing over his head, killed him on the spot.  He was a man much respected in the regiment, and had been fifty years in his Majesty’s service.  Coroner’s verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Sep 19.  On Thursday, an inquest was taken by W Joyner, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county, on view of the body of RICHARD POVEY, fell monger, of Avening, near Wotton Underedge, who was killed by a fall from his horse, on returning from Bristol,  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Sep 23.  On Thursday last an inquest was held by W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of WM HANKS, of Ablington, in the parish of Bibury, who, whilst attending a barley roll, drawn by three horses, accidentally fell down, when, this immense weight passing over a part of his head, he was killed on the spot.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  [page 3, col.c - notice to POVEY creditors, claims to his wife at Tortworth.]

 

Sep 30.  On Friday morning, a boy about 11 years of age, precipitated himself from his bedroom window into the street, in Leather Bottle lane, in this city, and survivived the shock but a few hours.  Verdict, Lunacy.

   Items re PERKINS, farmer, Eldersfield and HALSEY, Eldersfield or Upton.

 

Sep 30.  We relate the following extraordinary circumstances with infinite regret, as they lead to the melancholy supposition of some unhappy catastrophe having befallen the unfortunate gentleman who is the subject of the narration.  On Friday afternoon last, Mr COLWELL, Brandy merchant, of Newnham, in this county, left this city, on horse back, with a considerable sum of money in his possession, intending to return home, but has not since been seen.  Yesterday morning his horse was found in the meadow on the south side of Over Causeway, adjoinging this city, with the stirrups and reins cut off, a deep cut, as if with a sharp instrument, on the nearside of the saddle, and the off side ripped, probably by the spur, on Mr COLWELL being dragged from his horse.  The stirrups and one spur were found, at a short distance from each other, just beyond the bridge over the Severn, at this city; and Mr COLWELL’s pocketbook was found in the river, several miles below this place, stripped of all its contents, except a draft for 100 l.  All the pools, and the river for a considerable distance, have been dragged in search of the body, but hitherto without effect.

 

Oct 7.  MR JOHN COLWILL.  The fate of this gentleman, which has been deeply involved in mystery and conjecture during the past week, it will [be] seen by an advertisement in this page, may ultimately prove less calculated to excite sympathy than was at first supposed; but we forbear making any remarks on this extraordinary occurrence, in the present state of the matter. [Advert. on page 3 col c states he has absconded with 100 guineas, is a native of Launceston, CON, and gives a very detailed description.]

   On Thursday last, an inquest was held before Wm Joyner, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of a male child, found secreted the preceding morning in one of the offices belonging to a house at the Hotwells, in the parish of Clifton.  After a full investigation of nine hours, the jury returned a verdict of Wilful Murder, against the mother, ANN EVANS, who stands committed for trial at the next Assizes for this county.

 

Oct 14.  MR JOHN COLWILL; long article; may be at Edinburgh.

   On Monday an inquest was taken at Bath, on the body of W ORCHARD, who was taken out of the river near Kingsmead, the preceding day.  It appeared, that the deceased had recently left his service at Thornbury, in this county, and went there to seek another situation.  There were several guineas found about his person, and at his lodging he had left a box, with notes and cash, to the amount of upwards of 20 l.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Oct 21.  On Saturday last, a man of the name of CLARKE, a turner, of Cirencester, who was taken ill the day before, being on his road to our Infirmary, accompanied by another person, suddenly expired in the post chaise which was conveying them, just at the entrance of this city.  He had been in the employ of Mr BREWER, of Cirencester, for 25 years, and has left a wife and five children to lament his premature death.  Coroner’s verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   The following Inquests have been held, within the last week, by W Trigg, Gent. Coroner.  At Minchinhampton, on view of the body of SARAH SHURMUR, who was found dead in a privy; she had received a violent contusion on her temple and lip, by falling against the door, which no doubt accelerated her death.  Verdict, Sudden Death.  At Lypiatt, near Bisley, on view of the body of Mr EDWARD HORWOOD, who, as he was returning at night from Bisley to Lypiatt, through the park of P WATHEN, Esq. (his usual road) was attacked by a stag, which he had been recently desired to avoid; the stag, however, wounded him with his antlers, in various parts of his body, particularly on the chest, where a puncture reached the pericardium through the ribs and pectoral muscle, which terminated fatally, he surviving only about 36 hours.  His death, from his integrity and good conduct during his life, will long be remembered by his acquaintance with sincere regret.  Verdict, Accidental Death.     At Painswick, on view  of the body of ROWLAND WHITE, barber, who fell down whilst in the act of reading an advertisment.  This man was much respected, and, highly to his credit, though considerably advanced in life, procured a maintenance for his son’s wife and three children, who were totally dependent on him; by whose death they are deprived of an invaluable friend.  Some time ago, the father of the children volunteered himself into the army of reserve, and

is now serving in Ireland.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.  We sincerely hope that an application for his discharge will be attended with success, for the future benefit of his family.

   No further news of JOHN COLWILL.

 

Oct 28.  MELANCHOLY CATASTROPHE.  A few days since, the following awful instance of the impropriety of leaving loaded firearms within the reach of persons, ignorant of the danger of handling them, occurred at Tewkesbury:  A loaded gun being incautiously put down, a little boy, about eight years of age, took it up, when by some means it immediately exploded, and the charge completely perforated the neck of his mother, who instantly expired!  An inquest was held on view of the body; verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Nov 4.  On Friday morning died, in this city, in the 31st yeart of his age, Mr MINET HOPKINS, an opulent farmer, of Tirley, in this county.  It being supposed that his death was occasioned by some blows he had received in a scuffle, at an Inn in this city, on the Saturday preceding, a Coroner’s Jury sat on the body, when, after mature deliberation, they brought in a verdict of - Manslaughter.

   Last week died, at the White Hart, Bristol, Mr EVANS, of Pucklechurch, in this county, in consequence of a violent blow received in the head, occasioned by the rearing up of his horse, as he was endeavouring to ride through a doorway.

   A few days ago as WILLIAM BULL, a trusty servant of EDWARD SHEPPARD, Esq. of Stonehouse, was returning from Stow fair, he fell from his horse on the new road near Stroud, which injured his brain so much, that he died in a few hours after.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   JOHN COLWILL reported to be returning from Scotland.

 

Nov 18.  And, on Saturday, ANN EVANS was committed, by W Joyner, Esq. one of the Coroners of this county, on suspicion of having murdered a new born male child.

 

Nov 25.  On Thursday last, an Inquest was taken, before D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of RICHARD LAWRENCE, servant to Mrs NIBLETT, of this city, who was, on Wednesday, found drowned under the bridge over the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal, near Llanthony, after having been missing several weeks.  It is supposed that he met his untimely fate, by falling into the canal, whilst walking in the bank in a state of intoxication.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Monday last, an inquest was taken at Coates, before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of JOHN SMITH, servant of PETER LEVERSAGE, Esq. of Stroud, who was unfortunately killed whilst hunting, by a blow he received, occasioned by his coming in contact with the limb of a tree when leaping over a hedge; by which the spinal marrow was so much injured, that he became paralytic, and died soon after.  He was a valuable servant; and his loss is much regretted by his master, to whom the greatest praise is due, for his kind attention and humanity towards this unfortunate man, during the short period he survived the sad catastrophe.  Verdict, Accidental Death.   And, on Wednesday, another Inquest was held, before the same Coroner, on the body of THOMAS PRICE, shepherd to Mr HAMBAGE, of Southrup, who was found dead in a turnip field, soon after he had been foddering the sheep.  verdict, Sudden Death from an unknown cause.

   A melancholy circumstance occurred at Chepstow, during the rejoicings at that place on Friday se’nnight, in celebration of the late naval victories: a boy about seven years of age, who had been to witness the firing of the Volunteers, on his return home, crept under the table, where his mother, after calling him and receiving no answer, found him dead.   It is supposed that the boy was frightened to death by the firing, as he often fell into fits at the firing of a gun.

  On Monday last, between the hours of nine and ten, a neighbour, being  alarmed by the cries of an infant, proceeding from the privy of a house in Maiden Tavern lane, Baldwin street, Bristol, instantly, with the assistance of some humane persons, who procured lights, searched for the cause, when they discovered a new born infant! which, providentially was thus miraculously preserved and rescued from its perilous situation.  Every care and attention was paid by the persons who found it, and the infant, alive and healthy, was ccarried to St Peter’s Hospital.  We understand, its unnatural mother has since been discovered.

 

Dec 2.  On Monday an inquest was held on the body of a man, who died in consequence of a fall from Mr HOUGH’s Lime kiln, near this city.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Monday se’nnight, an Inquest was taken at Horsley, by W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of JOHN HAINS, son of Mr HAINS, saddle tree maker, who, in endeavouring to put a loaded gun into a shop, through a pane of glass which was broke, the butt end foremost, the gun being cocked, it struck against an iron anvil, and discharged the contents into his body, when he fell, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   COMMITMENTS.  On Tuesday, MARY SCUDAMORE was committed to our County Gaol, by Thomas Blunt, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county, on suspicion of murdering a new born female child.

 

Dec 23.  On Wednesday an inquest was held at Mickleton, in this county, by Mr Trigg, on view of the body of WILLIAM WARD, a youth who was killed by a waggon wheel passing over his body.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jan 7.  On Thursday last, an inquesyt was taken at Ampney Peter, in this county, before Mr Trigg, on view of the body of HARRY HODGES, who was killed whilst sitting near the butt of a tree which the workman were employed in cutting down.  It appeared, that the tree fell unexpectedly, and rebounded with such force against his chest as to burst a blood vessel; which occasioned his death immediately.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

  The verdict of the inquest which was taken at Bisley, on view of the bodies of two children, as mentioned in our last paper, was delivered on Saturday last, and was follows: Died from the neglect and inattention of their mother, and some person unknown.

   The following inquests were last week taken by Mr Joyner, one of the Coroners for this county: On Monday, on view of the body of JOHN WEEKS, son of Mr WEEKS, a respectable farmer near the New Passage, who was drowned by the ice giving way, whilst sliding on a pool near his father’s house.  verdict, Accidental Death.   On Tuesday, on the body of  W CHAIR, labourer, of Hinton, in the parish of Berkeley, who was found frozen to death the preceding day in a field, near Purton Passage.  He has left a wife and eight children to lament this sad catastrophe.  Verdict, Died through the inclemency of the weather, and Intoxication.  And, on Tuesday, on the body of a man unknown, found suffocated, and burnt to death, on a lime kiln, at Lay Hill, in the parish of Cromhall.  Verdict, Accidental Death. 

 

  

 

1806

 

Jan 6.  On Monday an inquest was taken before Wm Joyner, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of GEORGE ALSOP, late of Westerleigh, in this county, coal miner, who fell from the mouth of a coal pit to the bottom (14 or 15 fathoms,) and was killed on the spot.  He has left a pregnant wife and six children to lament the fatal catastrophe.

 

Jan 20.  On Wednesday last died, of an apoplectic fit, Mr JUSTINIAN LOVESEY, of King’s Holm, near this city.

 

Jan 27.  INQUESTS.  The following Inquests were last week taken before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On view of the body of GEORGE KING, of Butterow,  Rodborough, who fell into the Thames and Severn Canal, in the night of the 16th inst. and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  On Wednesday, at Charlton Kings, on the body of a new born female infant, found in the vault of a necessary, with a silk ligature tied tight about the neck, which appeared to have occasioned instant death.  Verdict, Wilful Murder against MARY CHERRY.  And, on Friday, at Stonehouse, on view of the body of Mr RICHARD PITT, (formerly a dyer in this city,) who was found drowned in the Stroud Canal, into which he had fallen several days before.  Verdict, Accidental Death

 

Feb 3.  MARY CHERRY, charged by the verdict of the Coroner’s Inquest, held before Wm Trigg, Gent. (as mentioned in our last,) with the wilful murder of her new born bastard child, has been committed to our County Gaol, for trial at the approaching Assizes.

   On Monday, WILLIAM COLLINGS, was committed to the same Gaol, by William Joyner, Gent. Coroner, charged with the wilful murder of HARRIET HURCOMB, of Tidenham, and her bastard child, by administering to her some deleterious drug, for the purpose of procuring abortion.

   On Friday last, an inquest was taken on view of the body of GEORGE BAKER, a carpenter, of Wickwar, in this county, who, after taking a farewell of his family, went and cut his throat in a most shocking manner, and afterwards threw himself into a pond; however, as he appeared to have been very low and dejected for the last fortnight, and exhibited some symptoms of insanity, the jury returned a verdict of Lunacy.  Same day, another inquest was held on the body of Mr J RUDLEY, of Yate, who, whilst working in his fields, fell down and immediately expired.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

 

Feb 10.  DREADFUL ACCIDENT.  On Sunday, the 26th ult. the infant son of Mr BUBB, of Martley Court, in this county, a remarkably fine boy, about three years of age, fell a sacrifice to the negligence of a servant maid, who placed him in a window of an upper room, through the casement of which he fell into the court below, and was so dreadfully bruised, that he almost instantly expired!  This awful catastrophe  will, we trust, operate as a caution to servants in general, and induce more attention to the helpless infants entrusted to their charge, who too often fall victims to their carelessness.

   At Bristol Quarter Sessions, on Wednesday, MARY DAVIS, for concealing the birth of her natural child, was sentenced to be confined one year in Newgate; .....

 

Feb 17.  INQUESTS.  The following inquests have lately been taken, before W Trigg, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county:  A few days since, at Sheepscombe, in the parish of Painswick, on view of the body of JOHN WIGGALL, who hanged himself in the cellar stairs of his own house; he had for some time been in a low, desponding way; and the Jury returned a verdict of Lunacy.  On Wednesday last, at Tetbury, on the body of JOHN CARE, farrier, who had been in the habit of drinking spirituous liquors to excess, and was found dead in a stable.  Verdict, Sudden Death.  And, on Friday, at Stroud, on the body of a child about three years old, who, whilst playing in the street, on Tuesday, was knocked down by a cart loaded with vegetables, when one of the wheels passing over his head, he was so much injured, that he died on Thursday.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 3.  On Wednesday se’nnight, as Mr HIATT, of the George Inn, Minchinhampton, was going into a house at Tetbury, he was attacked with an apoplectic seizure, which instantly deprived him of his speech, and in the space of a few hours of his life.

   A few days since died, after an illness of only two hours, Mr GEORGE HOPKINS, of the Talbot Inn, Dursley - a man universally respected and lamented.

 

Mar 10.  Inquests were last week taken before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of DANIEL FIELD, blacksmith, of Woodchester, who, in returning  home from Horsley, fell into a brook at Nailsworth, and was drowned.. And, at Minchinhampton, on the body of ANN GUNN, about twelve years of age, who fell into the Thames and Severn Canal, and was drowned.  Verdict, in both cases, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 17.  Lately died, at Hawkesbury Upton, in this county, a man of the name of COOPER.  He had long endured the horrors of a guilty conscience, which he disburthened about an hour before his death, by declaring, that he had been assisted by a man of the name of HORTON (who died about two years since) in murdering Mr PRICE, a surveyor of the roads, as long as 40 years ago.  His body was thrown into a well, and there found.

ASSIZES:  ANN EVANS, MARY SCUDIMORE, and MARY CHERRY, charged with child murder, were acquitted of the capital offence; but the latter was found guilty of concealing the birth, and sentenced to six months imprisonment.  WILLIAM COLLINGS, accused of the murder of HARRIER HURCOMBE, and her new born bastard child, was acquitted, ....

 

Mar 31.  Infant skeletons found at Avening House.

 

Apr 7.  The account given in the pages of a man at Horton, in this county, named HOOPER, having confessed, just before his death, that he was accessary to the murder of a Surveyor about forty years since, is contradicted - no such confession having been made.

 

Apr 14.  A labouring man [WILLIAM CECIL], employed by Mr JAMES, of ther Dayhouse, Tidenham, in this county, was on Good Friday found dead in his master’s barn, where he had been threshing.

 

Apr 21.  On Saturday se’nnight died, WILLIAM LEWIS, of Ruscombe, near Stroud, in this county.  He had attended Gloucester market, as a carrier, upwards of forty years, and died about an hour after his return home, on the above day.

INQUESTS.   On Wednesday se’nnight an inquest was held by W Trigg, Gent. at Preston, near Cirencester, on view of the body of WILLIAM RYLEY, who was found dead on the high road leading to Fairofrd.  He had travelled the country with musical bells for 45 years; and it is supposed, being 71, he sunk under the pressure of poverty and infirmity.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.  And, on Monday last, an inquest was held by the same Coroner, at Tetbury, on the body of MARY PETERS, found drowned in a well, into which it is imagined she must have precipitated herself, the aperture at the top being only seventeen inches in its extreme width.  It was some hours before the body was discovered; and having been previously in a dejected state of mind, the Jury returned a verdict of Lunacy.

   During the night of Friday se’nnight, as Mr CHAPMAN, a respectable farmer, of Wick, in this county, was returning home on foot, from Didmarton, he unfortunately fell into a pool near his own house, where he was found drowned next day.

   At Oldbury, in consequence of a fall from his horse, Mr [WILLIAM] HULL, of Shirehampton, son of the late Mr HULL, sugar baker, of Bristol.

May 19.  On Monday as -----HOWSE, Esq. of Cirencester, formerly Surgeon in the Army, was conversing with a person in the market, at that place, he dropped down, and instantly expired! He has left a wife and twelve children.

 

Jun 23.   About eleven o’clock, on Monday night last, a male infant, apparently three weeks old, wrapped in a man’s great coat, was found exposed at the door of Mrs CHARTER’s house, in Lower Northgate street, in this city.  A reward of five guineas has been offered for the discovery of the unnatural mother.

   On Monday evening, JAMES POWELL, a young man, about 22 years of age, servant in this city, was drowned in the Severn, near the Westgate bridge.  He had gone into the river for the purpose of bathing; when getting into deep water, he was carried through one of the arches by the rapidity of the current, and sunk in the presence of several people, who were incapable of rendering him any assistance.  Although an hour had elapsed before the body was found, it exhibited some faint symptoms that the vital spark was not totally extinct; but the unwearied exertions of the most eminent medical assistants, during several hours, proved unavailing.  The Coroner’s Jury returned a verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jun 30.  On Wednesday an inquest was held at Brimscomb, by W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of JAMES CLUTTERBUCK,  a child about three years old, who fell into a mill pond, whilst at play, and was drowned.  And, on Thursday, an inquest was held at Rodborough, by the same gentleman, on the body of WILLIAM TURNER, bargeman, who, whilst winding up a sluice gate upon the Thames and Severn navigation at Bowbridge, by the slipping of the handle, was forced into the Canal, and drowned.  Verdict, in both cases, Accidental Death.

   On Friday last a melancholy accident happened at Westbury upon Severn, in this county: Mr WILLIAM WINTLE, son of Mr WINTLE, of Moss hill, whilst observing some workmen employed in pulling down a building at that place, was so dreadfully crushed by the sudden falling of a wall, that he expired in about an hour, bearing his fate to the last moment with great fortitude.  He was a young man of most excellent character, and is much lamented by his family and numerous friends.

   On Tuesday, a private in the West Middlesex Militia, named BRYANT, deliberately walked into the river, near Cannon’s Marsh, Bristol, and was drowned.  The sight of a man being flogged the day before, Is supposed to have affected his mind so strongly as to urge him to the commission of this rash act.

   MURDER: long article; RICHARD HEMING, wheelwright and carpenter, Norton.

 

Jul 7.   On Wednesday, an inquest was taken at Wotton Underedge, before W Joyner, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of JOSEPH PINNELL, a child about 16 months old, who was suffocated in attempting to swallow a raison, which stuck in his throat, and occasioned almost instant death.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 14.  INQUESTS.  The  following inquests were taken last week, before William Joyner, Gent. Coroner: In the parish of St Philip and Jacob, in this county, on view of the body of JOHN COLE, aged 7 years, who fell from a waggon load of hay, and was killed on the spot.. Verdict, Accidental Death.  In the parish of Berkeley, on the body of SARAH BROWNING, widow, aged 70 years, found dead on the Chase, near her own home.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.  At Mangotsfield, on the body of FRANCIS PUNTER, coal miner, killed by falling down a coal pit, at Pucklechurch, in consequence of a rope breaking as he was ascending the pit; and at Bristol, on the body of JAMES THOMAS, a young  man  who was drowned in the river Frome, near Baptist Mills, whilst bathing.  Verdict in the last two cases, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 21.  On Tuesday a female child, about three years old, daughter of Mr CLARKE, of Falfield, in this county, was killed at that place, by a cart going over her.  Coroner’s Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Friday se’nnight, a man named BLEATHAM BROWN,  servant to Mr NIMPANY, of Arlingham, in this county, was drowned whilst bathing in the River Severn, near that place.  He was a native of Abbey Tintern, Monmouthshire.

 

Aug 4.  On Tuesday se’nnight, as Mr YOUNG, a very respectable farmer of Little Sodbury, was returning home from Tetbury fair, in company with some of his neighbours, his horse ran away near Petty France, and threw him; by which fall his skull was so dreadfully fractured that he remained  insensible till the Friday following, when he expired.  Mr YOUNG was universally respected, and is regretted by all who knew him.

  A person has been apprehended, and is now in Norwich Gaol, who, from the description givenn, there is a strong reason to believe is RICHARD HEMING, the murderer of the Rev. Mr PARKER.

 

Aug 11.  Tuesday afternoon, as Mr J HATHAWAY, a respectable farmer of Lower Swell, near Stow, was returning from the above fair [Cheltenham], he was thrown from his horse, which took fright, and so dreadfully hurt, that he expired in a short time after; he has left a widow and twelve children, besides a numerous acquaintance, to lament his death.

  On Friday last an Inquest was taken before William Joyner, Esq. Coroner, at the New Passage House, in the parish of Redwick and Northwick, in this county, on view of the body of a Man Unknown, found drowned the preceding day, in a certain Pill, called Chissell Pill, which leads from the Marsh Common into the River Severn.  It is supposed he went to bathe himself, and getting out of his depth was drowned, as his clothes were found on the bank, nearly opposite the spot where his body was discovered; and consisted of a brown cloth coat with white plated buttons, brown velveret striped waistcoat, velveteen breeches, linen shirt marked I.G. silk handkerchief, flannel under waistcoat, new shoes with oval plated buckles, and a round hat; two 7 s. pieces, 4 s. 6 d. in silver, two knives, a comb, and two small keys: he appeared about five feet six inches high, stoutly made, and about 46 years of age, with short brown hair.

   DIED.  In consequence of a fall from his horse, by which he fractured his skull, Mr YOUNG, farmer, of Little Sodbury; a man respected and regretted by all who knew him.

 

Aug 18.  On Wednesday evening last the body of Master COOPER, son of Mr T COOPER, clothier, of Kings Stanley, was found drowned in a mill stream.  It is supposed that this young gentleman was standing near the mill pond, and slipt in accidentally; unfortunately, he was not discovered for a considerable time after, when the means employed for his recovery proved abortive, to the great disappointment of his disconsolate parents.  He was about 7 years of age, and of an amiable and affectionate disposition, which renders his loss the more to be regretted.

   Thursday last a very melancholy accident happened at the Marsh coal pit near Bristol.  As men and three boys were being drawn up from the pit, the rope attached to the box in which they were, broke and precipitated them to the bottom..  The men and two of the boys were killed, and the other boy materially injured.  What renders the accident still more distressing, two of the unfortunate sufferers were the husband and son of a poor woman now left destitute of support, with a family of seven children.

 

Aug 25.  THUNDER STORM.  A poor man was killed near Stapleton; he had a scythe on his shoulder, which no doubt served to attract the electric fluid.

   Sunday afternoon, a boy sbout twelve years of age, of the name of HEWLET, was drowned while bathing in the river Wye, a little below the Pound, at Monmouth.  He was first noticed  by a young man, named MORGAN, then accidentally standing on the bridge, who, as soon as he discovered the unhappy youth’s situation, ran to the edge of the water, from whence he took a truckle, with a view of rendering better assistance; but not finding it of sufficient dispatch, he got across the Gut, as it is called, instantly threw off his clothes, and dashed under the water, by which exertion he brought the lad to shore; but unhappily too late to preserve his life, though every means were afterwards used by a surgeon to restore suspended animation.

 

Sep 1.  Last week, an inquest was taken before W Joyner,  Esq. Coroner, at the York Hotel, Clifton, near Bristol, on view of the body of a new born male child, found dead, and secreted by the mother.  After a very full investigation of six hours, the Jury returned a verdict of Stillborn.  The mother was in consequence thereof discharged out of custody.

   A few days since, an inquest was taken before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on the body of EDWARD CLAYFIELD, Shoemaker, of Horsley, who hanged himself with his linen apron.  Having been observed to be in a dejected state of mind for some time before he committed the rash act, the Jury returned a verdict of Lunacy.

   On Thursday last, a lad about 15 years of age, named WORKMAN, whilst at work at Berkeley Oil Mill, accidentally fell down a flight of steps, through a trap door which leads to the water works, and was killed on the spot.

   ACCOUNT  re ELIZABETH OCKFORD, aged 9, abducted by gypsies from Box Hill, in Minchinhampton, from her widowed mother.

 

Sep 8.  A few days since died, Mrs HIATT, widow of Mr JOSEPH HIATT, of the George Inn, Minchinhampton.

   On Tuesday last an inquest was taken at Longborough, near Stowe, before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of WILLIAM DAY, a pauper of that parish, who was found dead in the house where he lodged.  It appeared, that he had long been subject to fits; in one of which, (no assistance being near,) he was suffocated in a two-fold degree - by the rupture of a blood vessel, and the position he was found in, with his face on the pillow.  Verdict, Sudden Death from Suffocation.

 

Sep 15.  INQUESTS - taken last week, before Wm Joyner, Esq. Coroner:  Monday, at the Old Bell inn, at Dursley, in this county, on view of the body of JOHN VENN, aged 84 years, (a pauper in the workhouse belonging to that parish,) who hanged himself the Saturday preceding, to the span beam in his bedchamber.  It appeared in evidence, that this unfortunate man was one of ther six marines selected to shoot the late Admiral Byng, and had often been heard to say, he was sure his ball killed him.  In consequence of his late deranged state of mind, the Jurors found a verdict of Lunacy.  Thursday, at the Yew Tree public house, at Blakeney, in the parish of Awre, on the body of a new born male child, found dead and secreted in a pocket of hops, in a garret, or lumber room.  Verdict Stillborn.  Same day and place, on the body of ANN TALBOT, single woman, (mother of the child above mentioned,) supposed to have died in consequence of taking poison, to procure an abortion.  After a very full investigation, (the body having been previously opened,) the Jurors returned a verdict, Died from premature labour, and not by poison.

 

Sep 29.  On Tuesday died, very suddenly, at Twissell’s Farm, in the parish of Bisley, Mr PETER GARDNER, many years a constable, at Stroud - in which capacity he was much respected for the integrity of his conduct; and to his perseverance in the discharge of his duty, he sacrificed his life, having left his home in a state of indisposition, to go to the above place on special business.

   On Wednesday an Inquest was taken before William Joyner, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of WILLIAM KINGSCOTE, of Tockington, who fell from a walnut tree in his orchard, and was killed on the spot.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Oct 13.  On Saturdy last, as JOHN GUNN, a lad about 14 years of age, was descending a well at Birches, near Stroud, in which some foul air had collected, he was suffocated, and fell to the bottom.  His father, who had left him down, descended to rescue him whilst yet aloive; but before he gained the top with his son, he was also overcome by the noxious vapour; and the unfortunate lad was precipitated again into the well, from which he was taken out dead.

   A melancholy occurrence took place near Bristol, on Sunday evening.  A poor unfortunate girl of the town, being pursued on Brandon Hill, by a number of unfeeling boys and young men, ran till she lost her breath, when, being compelled to stop, she was assaulted and thrown down.  By the violence of the fall her neck was broke, - she was immediately conveyed to a public house in College street, and medical assistance was procured, but every effort to save her was in vain.  Coroner’s inquest, Manslaughter.  JOHN CLARKE  is committed to Bridewell for the offence.

 

Oct 20.  On Monday last, an inquest was taken at Ruscomb, in this county, before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of SARAH BURFORD, aged 50, who fell down in a wood, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Sudden death.  And on Thursday, an inquest was taken before the same Coroner, on the body of a man unknown, found dead in the Thames and Severn Canal, at Deanway, in  the parish of Bisley.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   The following extraordinary accident happened last week, in the neighbourhood of Wotton Underedge.  Four men, who had assembled in the night, with an intention, it is supposed, of stealing timber, went into a field adjoining that town, where several pieces had recently been placed, for the purpose of building.   Three of these fellows, in this nefarious pursuit, had got a small tree upon their shoulders, and were carrying it off, when the man who supported the butt end slipped down, and the whole weight of the piece falling on him, he was killed on the spot!

 

Nov 3.  On Monday last, an inquest was taken, before W Joyner, Esq. Coroner, at the Lamb Inn, without Lawford’s Gate, Bristol, (by adjournment from Clifton, in this county,) on view of the body of JAMES YOUNG, aged 11 years, supposed to have died in consequence of ill treatment received from his father, WILLIAM YOUNG, mason.  After a full investigation, which lasted the whole day, (the body being first taken up, after eight days interment, and the assistance of two medical gentlemen being procured on the occasion,) the Jurors returned a verdict of Natural Death - and not from any hurt or injury received whatever; upon which the father was discharged out of custody.

   On Wednesday, an inquest was taken at Painswick, before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, and a very respectable Jury, on view of the body of a male child, about ten days old, the mother of which is only 17.  It appeared much emaciated; and, in other respects, seemed not to have had due attention paid to it, by a dry nurse, to whose care it was committed almost as soon as it was born, by the positive injunctions of the young woman’s unfeeling mother.  After a minute investigation, which was persevered in with more than usual zeal, for not less than four hours, the death of the infant was attributed to want of parental and natural succour.  The Jury, taking the circumstances into consideration, collectively returned a verdict, Died from indiscreet treatment, and  a want of humanity.

 

Nov 17.  On Thursday evening, the 6th inst. as Mr WILLIAM WENT, of Uley, was returning home from Gloucester, with his father and some other friends, his horse fell with him, at Frocester; by which accident he received so severe a contusion on the head, that, notwithstanding immediate medical assistance was obtained, he lingered senseless till Friday evening, when he expired.  He was a young man of unassuming manners and obliging demeanour, and is deservedly lamented, not only by his disconsolate parents and relations, but by his acquaintance in general.

   On Friday an inquest was taken, before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of JOHN JACQUES, a youth about 16 years of age, who, whilst at work in a mill at Eastington, on Wednesday last, fell from a considerable height, among the mill work, and sustained so much injury, that he died on the spot.  Verdiuct, Accidental Death.

 

Dec 1.  On Monday an inquest was taken before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of JOHN HERBERT, who was killed by the falling of a quantity of rubbish, whilst at work in a stone quarry at Aston Blank, in this county.  And, on Friday, an inquest was taken before the same coroner, on trhe body of JOSEPH SARGEANT, who fell into a mill brook at Bridgend, in the parish of Stonehouse, and was drowned.  Verdict in both cases, Accidental Death.

 

Dec 8.  A few days since, an inquest was taken at Cam, near Dursley, before W Joyner, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of Mr JONATHAN BARNFIELD,  who dropped down near Clingre, on the road leading to Berkeley, and expired immediately.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

Also two inquests at Tewkesbury.

 

Dec 22.  MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT.  On Monday evening last, as the Bristol and Birmingham mail coach was coming down the hill between Alvestone and Thornbury, in this county, the coachman, JOHN FISHLOCK, being much intoxicated, and the night very dark, fell from the box, and one of the wheels passing over his neck, he was killed on the spot.  The guard, WILLIAM GILLER, observing the accident, instantly got down, and endeavoured to stop the horses; but, finding themselves at liberty, they got into full speed, and he was unable to effect his purpose.  With great activity and presence of mind, howvere, he regained his place behind, whence he got to the box, and drove the coach in safety to Thornbury.  GILLER immediately returned on horseback, in search of the unfortunate man, whom he found totally lifeless; and the Coroner’s Inquest have since returned  a verdict, Accidental Death.  He has left a wife and two children.

 

Dec 29.  INQUESTS.   On Friday se’nnight an inquest was taken at Minchinhampton, before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of DAVID KIRBY, who fell from a stile, in returning home from his labour, after dark; when the spinal marrow was so much injured, that he survived but a short time.  And, same day, an inquest was held at Rodborough, on the body of THOMAS BIRD, who fell into the Thames and Severn Canal, and was drowned.  Verdict in both cases, Accidental Death.

   A few days since MATTHEW STOCKWELL[MC1] , of Stonehouse, in this county, an aged and infirm man, fell down stairs, and sustained such severe injury, that he expired in a few hours.

 

 

1807

 

Jan 5.  On Friday night, as Mr RICHARD BISHOP, of Birdlip, Gloucester and Cirencester carrier, was returning home from the latter place, his horse fell with him, and he was killed on the spot.  The animal coming home about midnight, without his master, the family were alarmed, and immediately went out in search of him, when they found the unfortunate man lifeless in the road, about a hundred yaerds from his own house, with a dreadful wound on the right side of his head, which must have occasioned instant death.  Yesterday an inquest was held before D Wiley, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body; when the Jury returned a verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jan 12.  INQUESTS.   On Wednesday an inquest was taken before John Jefferis, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of Mr JOHN JAQUES, a master carpenter, and bell hanger of great celebrity, of this city, who, whilst superintending some repairs of the roof of the New Inn, was passing along the yard, when a piece of timber falling on his head, he sustained such mortal injury as to survive the accident but a very short time.  He was much respected, and an industrious, honest man.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Wednesday an inquest was held at Norton, before Daniel Willey, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of a poor man, who was killed by the overturning of the Birmingham and Bristol Waggon, (in which he was a passenger, ) on Tuesday night last.  The accident, occasioned by the horses taking fright, happened at Norton bridge, about five miles from this city, on the Tewkesbury road; the poor sufferer was thrown out, when a cask falling upon him, he was killed on the spot.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Thursday an inquest was taken at Cain’s Cross, in this county, before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of a female infant, about two months old, who died in the arms of her father, at a late period of the night, being taken from the house of industry at Stroud, by  the mother, who had abandoned the child whilst in a state of intoxication.  The Jury, after a minute investigation, returned a Verdict, Sudden Death, by the visitation of God.   On Friday an inquest was taken at Stroud, by the same Coroner, on the body of Mrs HESTER McKENZIE, who fell from a window seat, and was so severely bruised on the head and face, that she expired before medical assistance could be procured.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Monday an inquest was taken at Huntingford Mill, near Wotton Underedge, before W Joyner, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of the infant son of Mr T COX, paper maker, who was burnt to death, by his clothes taking fire in the absence of the serving maid.   And on Wednesday, (before the same Coroner,)  an inquest was taken at Crookmarsh, in the parish of Henbury ... on the body of RICHARD HANDS, an apprtentice in husbandry to Mr JOHN HEWETT, found drowned in a reen leading from the Marsh Common to the River Severn.  Verdict in both cases, Accidental Death.

   The following melancholy accident happened on Saturday se’nnight, at Moreton Valence, near this city.  As SAMUEL PALMER, a promising youth, was standing in his mother’s garden, a person with a gun in his hand, passing hastily through the gate, with the intention of shooting at a small bird, struck the trigger of the gun, which unfortunately went off, and the whole charge was lodged in the body of PALMER, who only survived the accident till the next morning.

   [+++Announcement of a stillbirth at Cheltenham, in Births Announcements+++]

 

Jan 19.  INQUESTS.  On Monday last an inquest was taken at Bitton, before W Joyner, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of HANNAH HUGHES, aged 27, found drowned in a dipping well in the North Common, near Warmley.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  And, same day, on view of the body of SARAH DAVIES,  a beautiful female, only 21 years of age, who poisoned herself by swallowing a quantity of laudanum on the preceding Thursday.  After a minute investigation of the circumstances, and an examination of the body upon dissection by three eminent surgeons, the Jury returned a verdict, Felo de se.  On Wednesday last, a child about three years of age, daughter of THOMAS HOLLAND, bricklayer, of Focles Green, near Ross, being left in the house by herself, her cloaths caught fire, and she was burnt in so shocking a manner that she expired in a few hours.

 

Jan 26.  Mention of several deaths, in neighbouring areas, of deaths by clothes catching fire: CAUTION.   AT THIS SEASON OF THE YEAR, OUR FAIR READERS WILL EXCUSE US FOR INTRUDING ON THEIR NOTICE, A FEW HINTS, WHICH MAY AVERT THE DANGER TO WHICH THEIR MOST ELEGANT ATTIRE PARTICULARLY EXPOSES THEM FROM FIRE AND CANDLE.  IT IS GENERALLY THE LOWER PART OF THE DRESS WHICH CATCHES FIRE.  IN SUCH A CASE, IF THE PERSON REMAINS IN AN UPRIGHT POSITION, THE FLAME, NATURALLY RIDING UPWARDS, WILL QUICKLY REACH THE HEAD OR STOMACH, AND BE LIKELY TO HAVE A FATAL EFFECT.  BUT IF SHE IMMEDIATELY LIE DOWN UPON THE FLOOR, SHE MIGHT IN GENERAL VERY EASILY EXTINGUISH THE FLAME BY ROLLING HERSELF: OR, IF A MAN BE PRESENT, HE MAY PULL OFF HIS COAT, AND WITH THAT VERY SOON EXTINGUISH THE BLAZE.  IF THERE BE A HEARTH  RUG, IT WOULD ANSWER THE PURPOSE BETTER THAN ALMOST ANY OTHER SUBSTANCE.

 

Feb 2.  On Saturday se’nnight, as two men and a boy were taking a survey of an old decayed house, at Woodford, in the parish of Berkeley, it suddenly gave way, and fell in: when one of them, named WILLIAM APPERLEY, shop keeper, was killed on the spot; the other two escaped unhurt.

 

Feb 9.  On Tuesday, a young man, named BENJAMIN MOORE, of Tewkesbury, fell down dead, on the road near Ashchurch!  He was going to pay a visit to his friends.

 

Feb 16.  On Tuesday last, an inquest was taken at Minchinhampton, before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of ELIZABETH HAYES,  who was killed by the vane of thee windmill, on the Common adjoinging the above town  striking her on the temple, and fracturing her skull, of which she languished about five hours.  It is supposed that she must have missed her road from the extreme darkness of the night; and the wind being very high, it is known that the mill vanes were at the time going round with uncommon velocity!  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Feb 23.  On Friday last, an inquest was taken before W Joyner, Esq. Coroner, at the Old English Taven, in the parish of St James, Bristol, on view of the body of a new born female child, found dead, and floating on the surface of the water, in a pond near Rennison’s Bath.  The infant was quite naked when discovered, appeared to be about a week old, and had received much injury upon the head and face.  The Jury, after a full investigation, returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against some person or persons unknown, previous to the body being thrown into the pond.

 

Mar 9.  On Friday evening died suddenly, at Mitcheldean, at an advanced age, whilst sitting in her chair in apparent good health, Mrs ANN STEPHENS, widow of the late Capt. JOHN STEPHENS, of Longhope, in this county.

 

Mar 23.  Last week an inquest was taken, before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of CHARLES HARRIS, who was killed by a large stone falling upon him,  in a quarry on Minchinhampton Common.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   The following melancholy accident happened a few days since: A farmer at Eldersfield, in this county, having removed a rick, a quantity of rats were discovered in the staddle, many of which were shot; and one of the men having laid down his loaded gun, a young man took it up, and levelling it at his brother, said, “I’ll shoot you.”  The gun missed fire once or twice; but at length went off, and killed the unfortunate youth on the spot.

 

Apr 6.  Bristol.  ... when JAMES CLARK, tried on an indictment as an accessary, in killing a poor unfortunate girl of the town, on Brandon hill, some time in October last, ... was acquitted.

 

Apr 27.  On Monday last died, in the prime of life, Mr WATKINS, sadler, of Cheltenham.  His death was occasioned by a fall from his horse the preceding day, on his return home from Tewkesbury.  He was much respected by a numerous acquaintance.

 

May 18.   A few days since an inquest was taken, before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of Mr JOHN HEMMINGS, who was found dead in a path leading from Kings Stanley to Leonard Stanlet.  It was supposed that he had fallen down and died in a fit, to frequent attacks of which he was subject.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.

 

May 25.  Wednesday an inquest was held on the body of a child about six years of age, son of JOSEPH GARDNER,  whitesmith, of this city, who was drowned by falling from the Westgate bridge, into our river the Saturday preceding.

 

Jun 1.  On Friday an inquest was held on the body of JOSEPH BOOKER, a corporal in the 96th regiment, stationed in this city, who was found drowned in the bason of the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal, where it is supposed he went to bathe, as his clothes were lying near the edge of the water.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   An inquest was held on Monday last, on the body of a child, about three years of age, son of Mr HOPKINS, of the Haw Passage, near Tewkesbury, who was drowned in the river Severn, near his father’s house, the Monday preceding, and taken out at Minsterworth, near this city.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Saturday se’nnight, an inquest was taken before W Trigg, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county, on view of the body of WM LOOKER, a young man, who was watering a horse on the banks of the river Ises, when his horse getting out of his depth, he floated off his back, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jun 22.  On Wednesday evening last, the body of a young woman, of a respectable family in this city, was found drowned in the Berkeley Canal; and on Thursday morning, a Coroner’s inquest was held upon it, and a verdict of Lunacy was given.  We are extremely sorry to have occasion to caution the public against giving credit to reports and reflections of the most injurious nature, respecting some of the parties with whom this unfortunate young woman was connected; which are wholly without foundation and fully contradcicted by the uniform testimony of her family; who have constantly declared, and are ready and willing, whenever they may be called upon, to repeat, their entire satisfaction with the treatment she received from those under whose care they had placed her.

   On Tuesday last, Master CRISPIN, a pupil at Walmore hill School, near this city, was unfortunately drowned whilst bathing in the River Severn.  He had been permitted to go to a short distance on business, in company with five others, under the strictest injunctions, however, upon no account to go into the water: but, disobeying these orders, they no sooner reached the river than they agreed to bathe; when this ill fated youth, getting beyond his depth, perished within sight of his distressed companions.  He was the only son of a widow lady at Bristol..

  On Monday last an inquest was taken before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of PRISCILLA DANGERFIELD, who was found drowned in Froomhall brook, in the parish of Rodborough.  She had been missing ten days; and the body, when found, was in a highly putrid state.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jun 29.  The following inquests were last week taken before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner:   On Tuesday at Eastington, on view of the body of Mr JONATHAN JONES, of Fretherne, who was killed by a waggon load of timber falling upon his body.  The accident was occasioned by the near wheel behind giving way at the part where the drag chain was fixed, on coming down a declivity in the road: he was on top of the load when the waggon overset, by the wheel breaking to pieces.  On Wednesday, at Driffield, near Cirencester, on the body of THOMAS HEMMINGS, who fell from a waggon load of hay, whilst at play with a youth on the top: they were both hurt, but HEMMING unfortunately injured the spinal marrow, became paralytic, and died in a few hours.  Verdict in both cases, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 6.  On Monday an inquest was taken at Dursley, before William Joyner, Esq. Coroner, on the body of a child, about eight years old, daughter of JOSEPH DAUNCEY, who was at play in the road near her father’s house, on Saturday evening, when a horse, which had broken loose, galloped over her; she lingered till Sunday morning.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 13.  On Friday an inquest was taken at Wick, in the parish of South Cerney, before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of ELIZABETH MEEK, who fell off a ladder she was descending from a hay rick, which produced so violent a concussion of the brain, that she died almost immediately after.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   Saturday evening an inquest was held before W Joyner, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county, at Ringhurst farm, in the parish of Almondsbury, on the body of JAMES HAYLE (servant to Mr WETHERELL); who was killed on the spot by falling off the shafts of a waggon, loaded with coal.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Saturday se’nnight, as THOMAS INNS, labourer, in the employment of  Mr BONNER, of Eccleswall Court, in the parish of Linton, Herefordshire, was descending from the top of a hayrick, the ladder turned with him, and he fell with such violence that several of his bones were broken, and he died next morning.   On Monday last, as JOHN JAMES, a boy about twelve years of age, servant to Mr DEW, of Brampton, near Ross, was attending a team in a hayfield, the horses suddenly took fright, when he was thrown down, and the wheels of the waggon passing over his body, he was so materially injured, that he died almost immediately.

 

Jul 27.  A few days since, a very fine boy, about ten years of age, only son of Mrs T BLIZARD, of Tewkesbury, was found drowned in a pool of water, in a meadow adjoining that town.  It is supposed that, in taking a horse to the field, he had fallen off whilst the horse was drinking at the pool, and was unable to extricate himself, or to give any alarm.  The body was not discovered until every human effort for the restoration of life was vain.

 

Aug 17.  Account of duel between Lt JOSEPH FRANCIS DELMONT, aged 21, of the 82d regiment (Buffs) and Lt BENJAMIN HEAZLE, aged 28, of Brandon, Cork, and the same regiment; also Lt JOHN SARGEANT, aged 26, of Newnham, 61st regiment.

 

Aug 24.  THE LATE DUEL.  Lieut. DELMONT, who was shot in a duel by Lieut. HEAZLE, in the neighbourhood of Stroud, as mentioned in our last paper, expired  on Tuesday morning.  On Wednesday an inquest was taken on view of the body, before William Trigg,  Gent. Coroner, and a highly respectable Jury, who, after a minute investigation, which occupied eight hours, returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against Lieut. HEAZLE, the challenger, and Lieut. SERGEANT,  of the 61st regiment of foot, who was the only Second in this unfortunate affair.  [Advert, same column, with a description.]

 

Aug 31.  The following inquests have been taken before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner: On Saturday se’nnight, at Minchinhampton, on view of the body of GILES CRIFT, tyler, who fell from the roof of the Meeting house at that place, which he was repairing, and died instantly.  On Tuesday last, at Horsley, on the body of THOMAS COOK, about twelve years of age, who was found dead; it appeared, upon dissection, his death was occasioned by the pericardium being ruptured.  And on Thursday, at Bibury, on the body of WILLIAM NEWPORT, aged about thirteen years, who was killed by falling from a waggon he was driving, and the wheels passing over his body.  Verdict, in the first and last cases, Accidental Death, And, in the second, Sudden Death.

 

Sep 7.  A Coroner’s Inquest was lately holden at Redmarley d’Abitot, before George Best, Esq. (of whose patience and legal knowledge the public has experienced such abundant proof,) on view of the body of JOHN COOK, labourer; when the Jury brought in a Verdict, Death by Misadventure - the evidence having proved, that he was run over by a harvest waggon at Aubrey’s Farm, in Bromsberrow, whereby the wheels were forfeited to WHY YATE, Esq. Lord of the Manor, as a deodand.

   DUEL: two adverts about duel, page 3 col c.

 

Oct 12.  DUEL.  Memorial Inscription; sermon preached by Rev J WILLIAMS, Curate of Stroud, and also letter to the Editor (Oct 19) re the Deerhurst Memorial Inscription.

 

Oct 26.  INQUESTS.  On Thursday last an inquest was taken at Longford Mill, Minchinhampton, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of WILLIAM HINTON, labourer, who was killed by a quantity of earth and rubbish falling upon him, whilst digging for gravel.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  He has left a wife and several children.

  On Monday an inquest was taken at Ross, before T Cotes, Esq. Coroner, on the body of MARY TREHERNE, whose clothes, in consequence of her sitting too near the fireplace, were caught in the flames, and she was burnt in so terrible a manner, that she soon after expired.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Nov 2.  An inquest was held a few  days since, before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of JOHN HATHAWAY, of Froombridge Mills, who fell into the Stroud Canal, on Saturday night last, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Nov 9.  Notwithstanding the precautions taken by Magistrates, to prevent the firing of guns and pistols, and the letting off fireworks in the public streets of Bristol, a very dreadful occurrence took place there on Thursday evening (the anniversary of the Gunpowder Plot.)  A girl of fourteen, of the name of SARAH OSBORNE,  (neice of Mr WEBB, cooper, of Sims’s Alley), was purchasing some article at a shop in the Horse Fair, when a musket or pistol, heavily laden with bullet, was fired, and penetrated the doors both of the front and back of the warehouse opposite to where the young woman was standing, passed through her head, and a pane of glass, and lodged in the wall of the house.  The young creature immediately fell, and received from the bystanders the most prompt and humane assistance they could afford.  She was speedily conveyed to the Infirmary, where all medical and surgical assistance proving unavailing, she expired in great agony at about six o’clock on Friday morning.  We are sorry to hear that no clue has yet been found by which to discovered the perpetrator of this crime, neither is it ascertained whether the shot was fired from a horse pistol or a gun: but two men having been seen with the latter in the Churchyard, renders this supposition the most probable.  The ball was not adapted to the bore of a musket, being smaller than those used in cartridges.  The person who fired the shot must have been in the Churchyard, and probably aimed at the door of the house used as a watch box, at the corner near Silver street.

 

Nov 16.  On Tuesday last, ... Same day, ROBERT GARDNER, of Chalford Lynch, fell into the Thames and Severn Canal, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   A very melancholy event occurred at Wick, in the parish of Berkeley, on Sunday, the 8th inst.  About four o’clock in the afternoon, Mr BENNETT, a respectable farmer, of the above place, and his two sons, were walking over the grounds; when, being overtaken by a thunderstorm, they imprudently took shelter under a tree.  An extremely vivid flash of lightning killed a cow near the fatal place where they were standing, and, being attracted by the tree, struck the whole of them to the ground.  The father and youngest son, although considerably injured, soon recovered, but the eldest, a fine youth about 18, was killed on the spot

   On Tuesday last, JAMES HANCOCK, waggoner to Mr THOMAS TROTMAN, of Dursley, was found dead in the road between Cambridge and Dursley.  As the wheels had gone over his body, it is supposed he fell from the shafts of the waggon, (loaded with wheat,) with which he was returning from this city.

 

Nov 23.  Yesterday se’nnight died, at three o’clock, A.M. at Down Ampney, in this county, in the 45th year of his age, Mr ALLSOP, a respectable miller, of that place.  And, at ten o’clock, same morning, died, Mrs ALLSOP, widow of the above, also aged 45.  Grief for the loss of her husband is ascertained to have been the cause of her premature dissolution.  They have left a family of five children to bewail their loss.

 

Nov 23.   On Saturday se’nnight as some boys wrere throwing stones down a well, behind the unfinished houses in Great George’s street, near Brandon hill, Bristol, their attention was arrested by the appearance of something resembling a human form; which, on further search, turned out to be the body of a female child, apparently about six weeks old.  On being taken out of the well, it was conveyed to St Peter’s Hospital, where an Inquest was afterwards held; and a verdict returned of Wilful Murder against some person or persons unknown.

 

Nov 30.  A few days since, an inquest was taken at Horsley, in this county, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, and a respectable jury, on view of the body of DANIEL NEALE, who was found dead in a small hovel at Horsley wood, where he had lived as a recluse for several years, in a parsimonious miserable state, notwithstanding he was possessed of some property.  The Jury returned a verdict, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.

 

Dec 14.  MELANCHOLY EVENT.  JAMES LEWIS, hosier, of Tewkesbury,  fell through ice.

INQUESTS.  The following inquests have recently been held before William Trigg, Gent. Coroner: At Leonard Stanley, on view of the body of ANSELM COLLIER, an old man, who was found dead in a well.  It appeared in evidence, that the poor sufferer had been employed to deliver a letter at a gentleman’s house in the above place; and, from the extreme darkness of the night, he walked into an open well of considerable depth, and was killed:  his body was not discovered till next day, when it was found with a walking stick in the right hand, and the packet he had in charge in the left, which was placed in the coat pocket.  He has left a wife and family to lament his loss.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  And, on Friday, in the parish of Minchinhampton, on the body of ANN MILDWATERS, who was found dead.  No marks  of violence appearing on the body, the Jury returned a verdict, Sudden Death from some unknown cause.

 

Dec 28.On Tuesday an inquest was taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of JASPER ROBERTS, of Kingstanley, who was found that morning lying on the high road, with but faint signs of life.  It appeared that the poor man, about eight o’clock on Monday evening, had been employed to carry a parcel, to be left at a house near the Stroud Canal; into which, or an adjoining brook, he had fallen, but extricated himself from drowning.  The night being extremely cold, however, he must have been unable to walk far, and was found about five o’clock the next morning, in the situation described.  He was immediately conveyed to the manufactory of Messrs COOPER and WATHEN, where diligent means were humanely used for his recovery, but every effort proved fruitless, as he was incapable of speaking, and expired in a short time.   He has left a wife and several children to lament his loss.  Verdict, Died from the inclemency of the weather.  

 

    

 

 

1808

 

Feb 1.  On Tuesday an inquest was held at Stroud, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of EMMA HAYWARD, an infant about three years old, whose clothes caught fire in consequence of being left alone, and she was burnt to death.  And,  on Thursday, at Stone, an inquest  was taken before the same Coroner, on the body of ROBERT BOTTERIDGE, who was killed by a piece of timber falling upon him.  Verdict, in both cases, Accidental Death.

   A few days since, two men and a boy were drowned in the River Severn, opposite Awre, whilst employed in a boat towing a raft of timber.  The breakers made a fair breach over them, and no assistance could be rendered from the shore. - The men have both left families - one of them seven children.

 

Feb 8.  DIED.  on Tuesday, ... Same day, suddenly, Mr THOS HARRISON, stone mason, of Hampton Common, in this county: as he was sitting at his desk, looking over some papers, he fell down, and expired in an instant, without a groan or sigh.

INQUESTS.  On Tuesday an inquest was taken, before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of JOHN COMPTON, who, whilst winding up the lasher of a lock, at Salperton, fell into the River, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

  The following inquests have lately been taken before W Joyner, Esq. Coroner:  At Nibley, in the parish of Westerleigh, on the body of JOHN HEWETT, servant to Mr ANSTY, who, owing to the darkness of the night, fell into a stone quarry on Yate Common, and was killed on the spot.  At Elberton, near Thornbury, on the body of BETTY FREAME, widow, aged 82 years, burnt to death by her clothes taking fire in the absence of her family.  At St Briavell’s, on the body of T PERKINS, bargeman, found drowned in the River Wye, near Biggswear.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.  At Gatcombe, on the body of JAMES JONES, bargeman, found dead in a privy.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the visitation of God.

 

Feb 22.  INQUESTS.   A few days since, an inquest was taken at Bibury, before Wm Trigg, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county, on view of the body of JOHN TURNER, a child about five years of age, who was killed by the falling of the bed of a large cart which had been placed to lean against a wall, whilst at play with several other children, none of whom, however, received any injury.  Verdict, Accidental Death.   And, on Monday last, an inquest was taken at the same place, on the body of JOSEPH  BROWNETT, a poor man,  who fell down dead in the road, whilst returning home with a burden of fuel on his back.  Verdict, Sudden Death.

 

Feb 29.  On Monday last an inquest was taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. one of theCoroners for this county, on view of the body of THOMAS FAULK, sawyer, who fell from the towing path into the Thames and Severn Canal, whilst on his road home late on Saturday night, and was drowned.  He has left a wife and family of children.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   A few days since, as Mr STEPHEN KIDWELL, a respectable farmer of Wick & Abson, in this county, was returning from Bristol in a taxed cart, he fell out whilst endeavouring to pass a waggon on the road, and sustained so violent an injury that he only survived till Monday.  He has left a wife and seven children to lament the fatal accident.

   On Saturday se’nnight, as JOSEPH WINSTONE,  aged 16, was at work at some new buildings at Moorend, near Bristol, he unfortunately fell off a plank, a distance of 21 feet, and was killed on the spot.

 

Mar 7.  On Friday an inquest was taken at Chapel Honeybourne, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of a youth who was killed by the kick of a horse.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 14.  On Tuesday morning, a milk woman, of the name of COOKE, whilst serving a customer in Bolt lane, in this city, fell down in an apoplectic fit, and expired immediately.

   Last week, the following inquests were taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county: On Tuesday, at Culkerton, in the parish of Rodmarton, on view of the body of JAMES HORSEMAN, labourer, who hanged himself in a barn at that place.  Verdict, Lunacy. And, on Friday, at Painswick, on the body of GEORGE EDWARDS, a boy, who was killed by a waggon going over his body.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Tuesday two French prisoners were committed to our County Gaol, for trial at the approaching Assizes, charged, on the Coroner’s Inquest, with killing and slaying two of their fellow prisoners, in a ferocious affray at Stapleton.

 

Mar 21.  On Friday, JANE MANDER was committed to our County Gaol, charged on suspicion of murdering her bastard child, at Moreton in Marsh.   ... [DUEL] And a true bill for wilful murder was found against Lieuts. HEAZLE and SARGEANT, the principal and Second in the unfortunate duel at Stroud, in which the much lamented Lieut. DELMONT was killed; but neither of them have yet been apprehended.

   Yesterday se’nnight an inquest was taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of THOMAS SMITH TAYLOR, of Kempsford, who, coming home late at night, in going upstairs he fell down, and was found dead in the morning, his skull being fractured by the fall.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 28.  On Monday last, a melancholy affray happened at Ross.  JAMES BUTLER and JAMES ANDREWS, two pattern ring makers, (the former about 40, and the latter 18 years of age,) who had been drinking together in a public house, quarrelled, when they agreed to fight, and for this purpose retired to an adjoining field.  They had not exchanged many blows, however, before ANDREWS  struck his antagonist with such violence under the ear, that he fell, and almost instantly expired!  The Coroner’s inquest returned a verdict of Manslaughter against ANDREWS, upon which he surrendered himself for trial at Hereford Assizes, and was acquitted.

 

Apr 4.  On Friday died, in consequence of a fall from his horse, WALTER WELSH, Esq. of Arle, in this county.

 

Apr 11.  We are much concerned to state, that yesterday se’nnight died, at Newnham, in this county, aged 58, greatly lamented by her numerous friends and acquaintances, Mrs MATTHEWS, wife of Mr JOHN MATTHEWS, attorney, of that place.  Her death was occasioned by her cloaths taking fire, whilst alone in a room above stairs on the preceding day; and, although every assistance was immediately given, by several of the family, who heard her screams, she was so dreadfully burnt, as to survive the melancholy accident only about twenty four hours.  Mr MATTHEWS, and one of his clerks, who ran to the spot on the first alarm, were much burnt in their endeavours to extinguish the flames; but, we are happy to announce, they are both in a fair way of recovery; and Mr MATTHEWS, in other respects, sustains this awful trial with exemplary resignation.

   On Wednesday, as Mr JAMES MERRETT, of Purton, in this county, was returning from Wickwar fair, on passing Dimery bridge, he unfortunately fell into the current, and was drowned.

 

Apr 18.  The following melancholy accidents occurred near Chepstow, on Saturday se’nnight.  EDWARD DAVIS, paper maker, working at the mill belonging to Mrs SARAH HOLLIS, of Mounton, was unfortunately caught by the water wheel, and crushed to death before any person discovered him; his head was almost torn off, asnd the body mangled in a most dreadful manner: he has left a wife and four children.  Late on the same evening, as JAS BEVAN, butcher, of Redwick, and his wife, were returning home from Chepstow market, with a horse and cart, in going over Undy bridge, but a short distance from their house, they fell into the water, and were both drowned: it is supposed they had fallen asleep in the cart through fatigue, and the horse being left to himself overturned the cart, under which the bodies were found the next morning.  The woman was nearly ready to lie-in; they have left four infants, two of which are twins of fourteen months old.

 

Apr 25.  On Wednesday an Inquest was held at Thornbury, before Wm Joyner, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county, on view of the body of JAMES LAMBURN [or LAMBERT], a boy about fifteen years of age, servant to Mr THOMAS PEARCE, of Buckover, who was killed the preceding day by the wheels of a cart going over his head and body, occasioned by the horses taking fright; by which he was so much bruised, that he expired almost immediately.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Apr 25.  Wednesday evening last, a child about two years of age, of the name of RICHARDS, in Orange street, Bristol, during the absence of its mother, was burnt to death.  The little infant had been some time unwell, and was left sitting in a chair by the fire, from which some sticks fell out, and communicated to its clothes.  It was quite dead on the mother’s return.

 

May 2.  JOSEPH LOCKYER??

 

May 16.  On Thursday last died, aged 60, JOHN MATTHEWS, Esq. an eminent solicitor, of Newnham, in this county -  after a most lamentable and painful illness, occasioned by the injury he sustained in endeavouring to extinguish the flames which caused the death of Mrs MATTHEWS, as mentioned in our paper of the 11th ult.

 

Jun 6.  On Wednesday last, THOMAS SPICER, sawyer, of the parish of Westerleigh, in this county, died by suffocation, in consequence of drinking a large quantity of spirituous liquors.  The Coroner’s Jury found a verdict of felo de se; and the body was in consequence buried in the public highway.

   On Thursday, the body of a man unknown was found dead and floating in the river Severn, near Littleton; he appeared to be about 30 years of age, was five feet six or seven inches high, stout made; and wore a blue jacket and trowsers.

 

Jun 13.  On Saturday se’nnight a dreadful accident happened at St Vincent’s Rock, near Bristol: an overhanging cliff fell upon one of the workmen, and literally dashed him to pieces!

 

Jun 20.  A shocking accident happened at Cirencester, on Monday; as a fine child of Mr HOWES’ , surgeon, was standing, with a servant maid, near the Butter market, a waggon passed along, which she could not avoid, owing to a heap of stones lying in the way; when the wheel went over the head of the child, and killed her on the spot!  The servant was severely hurt.

 

Jun 27.  On Tuesday, an inquest was taken before W Joyner, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of JOHN PRICKETT, servant in husbandry to Mr LEWIS, of the parish of Tidenham, in this county, killed by the accidental discharge of a gun loaded with shot, which he had taken up, the charge entering the left side of the mouth, and passing through the head.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 4.  The following inquests have lately been taken, before W Trigg, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county: At Willersley, on view of the body of JOHN WILLIS, an infant, killed by a gate falling upon him.  At Minchinhampton, on the body of a young gentleman found drowned in the Thames and Severn Canal.  And, at Cirencester, on the body of THOMAS HAINES, a child about four years of age, killed by a chaise wheel passing over his body whilst at play.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 11.  The following inquests were last week taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, viz.  On Monday, at Great Rissington, on view of the body of ESTHER HICKS, drowned by falling into a well whilst at play.  On Tuesday, at Welford, near Stratford upon Avon, on the body of ISAAC POTTER, who was drowned in the Avon, whilst attempting to swim with a bundle fastened to his body.  And, on Wednesday, at Sevenhampton, on the body of JOHN MILLS, a child, who was killed by a gate falling upon him.  The verdict in each case was Accidental Death.

 

Jul 25.  INQUESTS.   The following Inquests have been taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county, viz.  A few days since, at Greete, near Winchcombe, on view of the body of Mr WM ARKELL, only son of Mr ARKELL, of Brockhampton, who was thrown from a poney he was riding, when, his foot becoming entangled in the stirrup, he was dragged a considerable distance, and so dreadfully bruised, that he died on the spot.  On Tuesday, at Minchinhampton, on the body of JOSHUA HANCOCK, a youth, who was drowned by getting beyond his depth, whilst bathing in a pool of water: his brother would have shared the same fate, had not a young man who could swim rescued him from drowning.  Verdict in both cases, Accidental Death.   On Wednesday, at Horsley, on the body of JAMES ELLIOTT, who was found dead in a barn, where he had been threshing, and, it is supposed, expired in a fit.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the visitation of God.

 

Aug 8.  DIED.  On the 27th ult. aged 71, Mr WM OKEY, of Badgeworth, in this county; a respectable and truly honest man, whose death is sincerely regretted by a numerous train of relations and friends.

INQUESTS.  The following  inquests were last week taken before Wm Joyner, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county, viz.  At Alvestone, on view of the body of WILLIAM REESE , (servant to Mr JOHN ADAMS, ) who, whilst at work grinding malt, dropped down and instantly expired.  Verdict, Sudden death by the visitation of God.   And, at Dursley, on the body of  a lad, named REUBEN BIRD, who received so violent a kick on the lower part of his belly, from one of the horses belonging to the manufactory of Messrs WALLINGTON, at that place, as to occasion his death the following day.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   ??? Boat Accident.

   On Saturday se’nnight an inquest was taken at Painswick, before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, and a respectable jury, on view of the body of Mr WEBB, nurseryman, who, previous to his dissolution, had stated before witnesses, that his then melancholy situation had been occasioned by the ill usage of some person unknown.  He had been attending in this city, a few days before, as a juror at the Sessions; and, during his stay, had lived so fully, and exerted himself so much in walking home, as to excite violent action in the system, which settled on his lungs, and ultimately occasioned his death.  The jury, after a minute investigation, returned a verdict, Died of disease accelerated by intemperance and violent exertion; which removes every suspicion of certain aspersions, tending to injure the character of a person of respectability, who had been with Mr WEBB at Gloucester.

 

Aug 15.  On Saturday se’nnight, a party of young men, consisting of Messrs PENNY, WALTER, and MILLER, clerks in the Customs house, with Mr GRANGER, and ROBERT GEORGE,  took a boat from Bristol, and sailed on a voyage of pleasure, down Kingroad into the Channel.  When off Walton Bay, a sudden gust of wind upset the boat, which sunk, and left them to the mercy of the waves.  Mr WALTER,  after a desperate struggle, succeeded in extricating a punt, that was attached to the boat, and therebyy saved himself, MILLER, and GRANGER; but his efforts in favour of PENNY and the boatman, were unfortunately of no effect.  They sunk and were drowned.  PENNY, who was a dutiful and affectionate son, has left behind him a fond and disconsolate mother, and the boatman a wife and two children dependent on him for support.

 

Aug 22.  Tuesday evening, as Mr JOHNSON  and Mr EVANS, coach makers, Hotwells road, Bristol, were returning in a chaise from the New Passage, where they had dined, the latter fell from his seat, and expired before any medical assistance could be procured.  An inquest was held on the body on Friday, when a verdict was given of Suffocation.

INQUESTS.  The following inquests have been taken before W Trigg, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county: On Saturday se’nnight, at Coln St Aldwyyn’s, on view of the body of WM TUFFLEY, a child, who died in a wheat field.  Verdict, Sudden Death.  On Monday last, at Standish, on the body of THOMAS HAYNES, who, whilst thatching a rick, fell to the ground, and sustained so much injury, that he died in a few hours; and, on Wednesday, at Rodborough, on the body of SAMUEL SMITH, who was drowned  in the Thames and Severn Canal.  Verdict, in the last two cases, Accidental Death.

   A few days since an inquest was taken, at Slimbridge, before Wm Joyner, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of KEZIAH WORKMAN, whose death was occasioned by taking a large quantity of sublimate of mercury.  This poor unfortunate creature was pregnant, and, with the intention of procuring abortion, had been induced to swallow the fatal dose.  Verdict, felo de se; and the body was accordingly buried near the crossroad, in Slimbridge field.

 

Sep 19.  INQUESTS.  The following inquests were taken a few days since, before Wm Trigg, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county, viz.  At Woodchester, on view of the body of ROBERT LUSTY, a youth, who, whilst walking on some rails, fell upon a post, and struck the region of his stomach with such violence, that he could only exclaim, “O Lord! I shall die!” and instantly expired.  At Miserdine, on the body of a child named JOHN BALL, who, whilst attempting to climb a gate, for the purpose of getting upon a waggon to ride, fell to the ground, when the wheel passing over his body, he was killed on the spot.  Verdict in both cases, Accidental Death.  At Stroud, on the body of REBECCA PAYTON, who was found dead; and, at Westcott, on the body of the Rev. MILES TOMB  [or LOMB?] , Curate of that parish; who, being for some time deranged in his intellects, got up in the night, and went to the churchyard, where he was found dead in the morning, suspended on the gate by one arm.  It is supposed he had slipped down the bank, and caught by the gate in the agonies of death.  Verdict in both cases, Sudden Death.

 

Sep 26.  INQUESTS.  An inquest was held at Dursley, on Tuesday last, before W Joyner, Esq. Coroner, on the body of J FLETCHER, cloth worker, who was literally cut asunder, and killed on the spot, by falling between the cogs of the wheels of the machinery belonging to the manufactory of Messrs S and G ADEY: Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Oct 17.   On Wednesday was committed to our County Gaol, by Thomas Blunt, Gent. Coroner, ANN CRAIG, charged with the wilful murder of a new born female bastard child.  And on Friday was committed, by Chas. Sandiford and Rd Wetherell, Clerks, JANE CRAIG, charged on suspicion of having been concerned with ANN CRAIG in the aforesaid murder.

INQUESTS.  An inquest was lately held at Stow on the Wold, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of HERODIAS PERROTT, a travelling woman, who was killed by  the falling of a tree under which she had taken shelter; another inquest was also lately held, by the same coroner, at the Golden Valley, on the body of  JONATHAN FRANKLIN, an old man of nearly 90 years of age, who being almost blind, fell into a mill pond and was drowned.  Verdict, in both cases, Accidental Death.

 

Nov 14.  On Friday JAMES CLUTTERBUCK, a waggoner in the employ of Mr HERBERT, in this city, unfortunately fell from the shafts of a waggon, at Staunton, on the road leading to Ledbury; when the wheels passing over his body, he was killed on the spot.

 

Nov 21.  INQUESTS.   The following inquests have been taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county, viz.  On Monday last, on view of the body of Mr WM  BYRON, a travelling linen draper, who was returning from Chalford to Tetbury on horseback, the preceding evening, at eleven o’clock; when his horse, which was blind of one eye, ran so violently against the tail of a waggon, which had been very imprudently left on the side of the road, near Avening, that the animal received a blow which divided the scalp, and threw Mr BYRON against the waggon with great force, cut his forehead, and he was otherwise so dreadfully bruised and injured, that he died instantly.  On Wednesday, at Painswick, on the body of SAMUEL STEEL, an infant about two years of age, whose clothes caught fire, when left with another child; and he was so much burnt about the arm, chest, and back, that he languished and died in consequence thereof.   And, same day, at Stroud, on the body of JOHN FLETCHER, a youth about 14, who was thrown from a horse a short time since, and received a violent concussion of the brain, which occasioned his death. Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Nov 28.  On Tuesday last an inquest was held before D Willey, Esq. on view of the body of Mrs ANN RANDALL, a widow, who, on the Saturday preceding, fell down and expired in her own house, in the Southgate street, in this city.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   ??? Braydon; Mrs SMITH, aged 45, burnt?

 

Dec 5.  On Friday an inquest was taken at Painswick, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of JOHN WOOD, a child about 4 years old, who died from being burnt about the back and arms, occasioned by his clothes having caught fire.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   Monday evening a man of the name of HUNT, dropped down dead in Cherry alley, Bristol .

    On Saturday se’nnight a melancholy accident happened on the River Severn.  WM NEALE, butcher, of Berkeley, WM WEBB, of Framilode, and JOHN HILL,  of Hill, took a boat at Berkeley Pill, to go down the river; onn hoisting the sail, at Shrapnell’s Point, a sudden squall of wind came on, which upset the boat, and NEALE and WEBB were unfortunately drowned.

 

Dec 12.  On Friday last, an inquest was taken at Fairford, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of R OLDACRE, who, being subject to fits, fell into a ditch nearly full of water, whilst on his return home with a bundle of faggots on his head, and, unable to extricate himself, was suffocated.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

DIED.   Mr J CLARK, sadler, of Ross: whilst at work he was suddenly taken ill, and expired immediately without uttering a word.

 

Dec 19.  On Saturday se’nnight a woman was found at Woodmancote, near Cheltenham, by one of Mr DELABERE’s servants, with her throat cut from ear to ear!  Near the body a razor was discovered, with which it is supposed she had perpetrated the horrid act.

INQUESTS.  On Monday, at Oldland, in this county, before Wm Joyner, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of S SELMAN, servant to Mr LEWTON, killed by falling from the shafts of a waggon.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  And, on Wednesday, at Wick and Abson, on the body of JAS FEW, gardener to RICH IVYLEAFE, Esq. found dead in a field on Monday.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.

 

Dec 26.  The following inquests were last week taken,  before W Trigg, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county, viz.  On Tuesday last, at Cirencester, on view of the body of JOHN WITHAM, a boy about 12 years of age, who fell into the bason of the collateral branch of theThames and Severn Canal, and was drowned.  On Thursday, at the Golden Valley, Chalford, on the body of CHAS SYSAM, a child about four years of age, whose cloaths caught fire, and he was in consequence burnt to death.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   On Wednesday, at Woodmancote, Bishops Cleeve, on the body of JANE LAWRENCE, aged 23, found dead on the preceding Sunday, in a field near her own dwelling, with her throat cut in a shocking manner, and a razor lying near the spot.  It appeared, that she was pregnant, by a person of the same village, with whom she had lived in habits of intimacy, and to whom she was some time since to have been married, a ring and a licence having been discovered  in her pocket.  It could only be conjectured, that the disappointment of her expectations, and her being abandoned by her mother on account of her imprudent conduct, had impelled her to the desperate act of self-destruction, and the Jury, after a patient investigation, returned a verdict of Lunacy.

 

 

 

1809.

Jan 2.  On Tuesday an Inquest was taken at Chalford Lynch, in this county, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of CHAS WITTS, an infant, between two and three years old, whose clothes caught fire, when the poor innocent was burnt to death, his remains exhibiting a most dreadful spectacle!  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jan 9.  INQUESTS.  At Painswick before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of ELIZ CREED, found dead.  Verdict, Sudden Death by Suffocation.

   On Friady, before W Joyner, Gent. Coroner, on the body of SAMUEL SHEWELL, butcher, late of the parish of Nympsfield, who was found frozen to death in Coaley Wood.  Verdict, Died by the inclemency of the Weather.

 

Jan 16.  On Wednesday an Inquest was taken at Leachlade before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of Mr JOHN PRESTON, baker, of that place, who was drowned (in consequence of the road being suddenly inundated by the late floods), on his return from Fairford, where he had been attending divine worship at a Dissenting Meeting-house.  He  has left a widow, and six children, to lament his loss.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   The following inquests have been taken before Wm Joyner, Gent. Coroner: On Monday, at Bitton, on view of the body of W[ILLIAM] JAY, miner, who was killed in a coal pit; and on Tuesday, at Mangotsfield, on the body of W[ILLIAM] LOVELL, also killed in a coal pit.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.  On Thursday, at Appleridge Farm, near  Berkeley, on the body of MARY WORKMAN, single woman, supposed to have died from poison, in order to cause abortion; but the Coroner being of opinion, after dissection, that she did not die from that cause, the Jury returned a Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Jan 23.  On Tuesday last, an inquest was taken at Oakridge Lynch, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of PRUDENCE WHITING, a girl about twelve years of age, who fell into a mill stream, and drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jan 30.  On Friday an inquest was held on the seven bodies which were taken from under the ruins of the houses in Bedford street; they are all working people.  JAMES and JOSEPH ESTCOURT were at breakfast with their families when the house gave way, in which the wife of the former was killed.  JAMES was drawn up by the hair of his head, but had received, etc.

   On Saturday se’nnighty a melancholy accident happened at Wresdown School, near Dursley, in this county; a fine boy [WILLIAM MERRETT], son of Mr MERRETT, of Slimbridge, died in consequence of a fall he received whilst sliding on the ice.  The Coroner’s inquest returned a verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Feb 6.  Yesterday se’nnight, during the height of the flood, as five men (RICH LEA, JOHN HOLDER, JOHN BRIDGMAN, WM BARNARD, and JOHN BAYLIS) were returning from Norton, in this county, to Wainlode hill, in a boat they had borrowed at the latter place, they were overset by the violence of the waves, and all unfortunately drowned!  Two little boys were the only spectators of the accident.  On Tuesday the bodies were found; and, on Wednesday, inquests were taken before D Willey, Esq. Coroner, when the verdict, in each case, was Accidental Death.  BRIDGMAN  has left a wife and six children.

 

Feb 13.  On Tuesday an inquest was taken before Wm Joyner, one of the Coroners for this county, on view of the body of FRANCIS LORD, butcher, aged 56 years, found drowned in Cambridge brook, near the George Inn.  It appeared in evidence, that he was much intoxicated with liquor the preceding evening, and fell into the brook on his return home.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 6.  FATAL DUEL AT BRISTOL.  On Wednesday morning an unfortunate affair of honour, between Mr S.  an attorney, and Mr  PRIEST, a man’s mercer, of Bristol, was decided at Durdham Down.  The parties were attended by their seconds, and by agreement fired together; at the first discharge, Mr PRIEST was wounded in the thigh.  After being taken from the ground he suffered amputation and is since dead.  The meeting took place in consequence of a misunderstanding at the Theatre the previous evening.  Both parties were highly respectable characters; and the most honourable conduct was manifested on the ground.  We learn that the verdict of the Coroner’s Jury was Wilful Murder against the Principal and Seconds.  The deceased has left an amiable wife and child to lament his loss, and execrate this destructive system of honourably destroying each other upon too often the most frivolous occasion.

 

Mar 20.  On Friday an inquest was taken at Cheltenham, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of J P HAMPTON, plumber and glazier, who died on Monday last.  The Jury returned the following verdict, - “That the said J P HAMPTON died by the Visitation of God, and not from any hurt or injury received from any person or persons, to the knowledge of the said jurors.”

 

Apr 3.  Yesterday se’nnight an inquest was taken at Little Barrington, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of JOHN STEPHENS, carpenter, who was killed by the sudden falling of a tree he was assisting to cut down.  And, on Wednesday, an inquest was taken at Upton St Leonards, before the same Coroner, on the body of an old man, named HENRY SMITH, who was riding in a waggon, when the horses took fright, and ran off, and, in attempting to get out, in order to stop them, he fell from the shafts, and was killed by the wheels passing over his body.  Verdict in each case - Accidental Death.

 

Apr 17.  Last week an inquest was taken, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of W PAVEY, lock keeper at Framilode, who was drowned in the Canal.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Apr 24.. On Saturday se’nnight an inquest was taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of an Italian named JOSEPH, an itinerant musician, who, being in  a weak state, fell down in the street in Cirencester, and died, before the parish officers were apprised of his situation.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.  And, on Monday, an inquest was taken at Quarr house, Stroud, before the same Coroner, on the body of ROXANA MINT, a child about six years old, who was burnt to death, in consequence of her cloaths taking fire.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

May 1.  On Thursday an inquest was taken at Leachlade, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of JOHN PARKER, a child of about two years of age, who, being left alone, drank water from the spout of a tea kettle on the fire, nearly boiling hot, and died in consequence, a short time after, in excruciating agony.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

May 8.  An inquest was held on Tuesday, at Longdon, near Stourport on Severn, on the bodies of Mr CLARKE, of the Moat, near that place, and his servant.  It appeared, that in endeavouring to escape from a cart laden with manure, they were precipitated into a pond, and were immediately followed by the horses (that being the usual watering place) and cart, which being overturned on them, caused their instant death.  Mr CLARKE and the man were in a very short time taken out, but every endeavour to restore animation proved ineffectual.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

May 15.  On Monday last,  as eleven men were going down the river Severn in a boat, below Pixham Ferry, a barge ran foul of the boat and sank her, when three of them were unfortunately drowned, viz. WM GRIFFIN, JOHN PARTRIDGE, and RICHARD HOLTON, leaving families to the amount of fifteen children; one having six, another five, and the other four.  The bodies have been picked up, and a Coroner’s inquest was held on Wednesday.

   On Tuesday last, an inquest was held by Wm Trigg, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county, on the body of WILLIAM WORKMAN, who was suffocated whilst endeavouring to clean a large stale beer cask, at the Old Red Lion, Chalford, into which he descended, without making use of the necessary precautions to evacuate the noxious vapour.

May 29.  An inquest was lately held at Chalford Lynch, before Wm Trigg, Gent. on the body of THOS RANDALL, aged 80, who was killed by the falling of an oak tree, which he and his son were cutting down.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jun 12.  A Corner’s inquest was held on Monday last, at Tewkesbury, on the body of EDWARD BRYAN, a waterman; in the employ of Messrs HUTTON and HODGKINS, who died in consequence of a blow he received in a quarrel with a man of the name of PEACOCK, on the Wednesday preceding.  Verdict, Manslaughter.

 

Jun 19.  The following inquests have lately been held before W Trigg, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county: At Aldsworth, on the body of WILLIAM NASH, who was crushed to death by a cart wheel passing over his body, occasioned by his endeavouring to stop the horses in their fright.  On view of the body of DAVID PEARCE, aged about eight years, who was killed by getting entangled in a scribbling machine, at the manufactory of S CLISSOLD, Esq., at Ebley; he was wound round the shaft of the machine with such velocity, that his head, legs, and right arm, were literally torn from his body.  Verdict, in both cases - Accidental Death.

 

Jun 26.  On Tuesday last, an accident of a most lamentable nature happened in this city.  As the waggon team of ROBERT MORRIS, Esq. MP, of Barnwood Court, was coming into town, the unloading of a cart of bricks on the London road suddenly put the horses to fright, through which WM MITCHELL, a servant boy, who was riding the leader, was thrown off, when JOHN DUDFIELD, an old and trusty servant, but who was very improperly riding in the waggon, instantly jumped out to relieve him from danger; but his efforts were ineffectual, and, we lament to say, that they both were passed over by the wheels, and crushed in so shocking a manner, that though they were immediately taken to the Infirmary, where they experienced every possible attention, they both expired in less than an hour, in the most dreadful agony.  An inquest was held on the bodies on the following day, before D Willey, Esq. when a verdict was given - Accidental Death.

  A melancholy accident happened at a boat race on the Severn, a short distance above the Old Passage, on Friday se’nnight.  One of the boats, from the great press of sail, together with the very necessary proportion of ballast to trim her (being also very old), absolutely parted through, from which circumstance three men, all of Berkeley, were plunged into the most rapid part of the river; two of them were picked up immediately, but the other, JOHN [ may be JOSEPH] JAMES, was unfortunately drowned.  The body has since been found in the sand opposite Brookend; a Coroner’s inquest was held on it, and a verdict returned of - Accidental Death.

 

Jul 3.  The following inquests have been taken before W Trigg, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county: On Saturday sen’nnight, at Cow Honeybourne, on view of the body of SARAH HARRIS, a young woman who was found dead in a pond of water, with several marks on her head.  It appeared from the evidence, that the wounds were inflicted by a dung fork; and marks of blood were traced the whole way from her father’s house, to the horse pool, wherein the body was discovered.  A young man [LUKE HEATH], who had been in habits of intimacy with the unfortunate woman, and by whom she was six months advanced in a state of pregnancy, was suspected of being the murderer; but no proof of guilt being adduced, the jury returned a verdict, Wilful Murder against some person or persons unknown.  During the examination of the suspected person, one of the jury requested that he would approach the mangled remains then exposed before them, which he readily complied with, and both viewed and touched the body without the smallest apparent objection or emotion!  On Monday, at Epney, in the parish of Moreton Valence, on the body of THOS BROOKES, carter to Mr HAWKINS, of Park End Farm Lodge, who was drowned whilst bathing in the river Severn.   Verdict, Accidental Death.  Same day, at Horsley, on the body of a new born female child, found suffocated in a privy.  Verdict, Wilful Murder against HANNAH GASKIN.

 

Jul 24.   The following inquests have recently been taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county: On Wednesday se’nnight, on view of the body of JAS WYNNE, who was drowned in the Thames and Severn Canal the preceding night.  On Friday, at Bisley, on the body of WM PACKER, an old man, who fell from a load of hay at South Cerney, and was killed on the spot.  Verdict in both cases, Accidental Death.  And, on Saturday, at Customs Scrubs, Bisley, on the body of Miss MARY GOADBY, who cut her throat with a razor.  She was a lady genteely educated; but had for some time been in a state of despondency and mental derangement. Verdict, Lunacy.

 

Aug 7.  An inquest has been taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of HANNAH RUSHDALE, who was killed by the Worcester Mailcoach going over her, near Moreton in Marsh, as mentioned in a former paper [31 July].  Verdict, Homicide by Misadventure.

 

Aug 21.  On Monday last, GEORGE WINBOW, of the parish of Hawkesbury, in this county, yeoman, was found hanging to the side piece in his chamber.  It appeared in evidence, that he had been some time deranged, the Coroner’s jury gave a verdict of Lunacy.

 

Aug 28.  The following inquests have been taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county: On view of the body of ELIZ. PARKER, a washerwoman, who returned home from her work at Minchinhampton, in apparent good health, and was found a corpse the next morning.  Verdict, Died from some Cause Unknown.   On the body of Mr GILES BLACKWELL, a young man about 20, who had for some time shewn symptoms of mental derangement, and hanged himself; in which state he was found by his disconsolate parent.  Verdict, Lunacy.  On the  body of WILLIAM HORWOOD, a youth about 10 years of age, who, getting entangled in the machinery, was wound up by the straps of a cylinder, in the clothing manufactory of THOS COOPER, Esq. of Stonehouse, and instantly killed, his head being literally crushed to atoms.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  It is remarkable, that this boy had been discharged but a short time previous to the accident, for carelessly exposing himself to danger, by playing amongst the machinery, but, upon a promise of future attention, in guarding against accidents, he was returned to his former station.  At Rodborough, on the body of ELIZ. HORTON, who  was found dead on the bedstead in a room which she occupied.  Verdict, Sudden Death from an Unknown Cause.  At Horsley, on the body of JOS. WEBB, who was killed by a large stone falling upon him, in a quarry where he was at work.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Sep 4.  On Wednesday last, an inquest was taken, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of HENRY BAYLIS, a child about four years of age, who was murdered by his mother, HANNAH BAYLIS, of Bishops Cleeve, in a violent fit of insanity.  It appeared in evidence, that this truly unfortunate woman killed the child by beating out his brains with such violence as entirely to remove the upper part of the scull; and afterwards treated the mangled remains in a way too shocking to relate!  She had previously attempted to destroy two others of her children; one by cutting its throat, which only failed from the bluntness of the knife; and the other was happily rescued from her grasp, at the moment when she was going to break his back across a window frame!  It was during the confusion occasioned by this awful scene, and before she could be secured, that she murdered the poor innocent first mentioned.  The Jury, after a minute investigation, returned a verdict - Homicide in consequence of Lunacy.  She will be indicted for the commission of the fact, at the next Assizes, in order that she may be securely confined in future.

 

Sep 18.  An inquest was last week held before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of THOS. HODGES, of Woodchester, Shearman, who hung himself to a side piece of timber in the garrett of his house.  It appeared on evidence, that he had for some time past been in a state of mental derangement, the jury returned a verdict of - Lunacy.

 

Sep 25.  An inquest was lately held at Shennington, in this county, before Wm Trigg, Gent. on view of the body of Mr WM ROSE, an eminent farrier, who in going to bed fell backwards downstairs, and instantly expired from the injury he thereby sustained.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   An inquest was on Wednesday held in this city, before D Willkey, Esq. on the body of Mr JAMES STOCK (whose death we announced in our last) in consequence of suspicions that his demise was accelerated by the administering of poison; but from the decided opinion of an eminent surgeon, that he died from a gradual and natural decay of the constitution, and there being no evidence to the contrary, the jury returned a verdict - Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Oct 9.  A few days since an inquest was taken at Cirencester, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of WM HORTON, a child about five years of age, who, whilst amusing himself on a chair, rolled into a skeel in which his mother had just poured a quantity of hot elderberry wine, and was so dreadfully scalded, that he died soon after in excuciating pain.  Verdict, Accidental Death.   On Wednesday last, another inquest was taken before the same Coroner, at Leachlade, on the body of Mr WM TOMBS, a respectable farmer, who was accidentally shot on Monday last.  The deceased had been shooting, in company with his friend, Mr THOMAS BARR, and, whilst in pursuit of a pheasant, the latter, whose gun was on the cock, struck his foot against the stump of a tree, and fell, with the muzzle of the piece resting on his left arm.  At this moment, the gun unfortunately exploded by the shock, and the charge, entering the body of Mr TOMBS, obliquely through the loins on the right side, passed out just below the left collar bone, perforating the heart, &c. and deprived him of life instantly.  He has left a widow in the last month of pregnancy, and four small children.  Mr BARR  has been confined  to bed ever since, in a state bordering on delirium, as they were on the most intimate terms.  The Jury, which was very respectable, after a melancholy investigation, returned a verdict, Homicide by chance medley.

 

Oct 16.  The following  inquests were taken last week, before William Joyner, Esq. Coroner: On Monday last, at the Black Boy, near Durdham Down, Bristol, on the body of a new born male child, found dead in a field, etc. ....   On Thursday, at the parish of Marshfield, on the body of REBECCA GIGG, aged 80 years, who was burnt to death by her clothes taking fire.  And on Wednesday, at the parish of  Slimbridge, on the body of H[ANNAH] LONG, (daughter of Mr  JOHN LONG, of Cambridge) who was killed in consequence of a fall received from a milk carriage the preceding afternoon.  Verdict iin both cases, Accidental Death.

 

Oct 23.  Taken before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On Saturday se’nnight, at Pitchcombe, on view of the body of CHARLES TEAKLE, who fell from his chair, and, striking his head very violently against the stone floor, he instantly expired.  Verdict, Sudden Death from that Cause.  Same day, at Frampton, on the body of ANN DAW, a child whose clothes caught fire, from which cause she burnt to death.  And, on Tuesday last, at Long Marston, near Stratford on Avon, on the body of ALICE TUFFLEY,  a child about 4 years old, whose clothes catching fire, she was so shockingly burnt, that she died soon after.  Verdict in both cases, Accidental Death.

 

Oct 30.  On Wednesday night, as a poor man, of the name of WILLIAM WALWYN, was returning home from seeing the illuminations at Ross, he unfortunately fell into a quarry, about a mile from that town, where he was found dead the following morning.

 

Nov 6.  The following inquests were lately taken before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On Wednesday, the 25th ult. at Northleach, on view of the body of ANN WIBLIN, who was found dead by her mistress. She went to bed in perfect health, on the preceding evening.  Verdict, Sudden Death.  On Friday, the 27th ult. at Todenham, near Warwick, on the body of WILLIAM HARRIS, while thrashing in a barn, it is supposed he fell in a fit, to which he was subject, with his face on the heap of corn, which filled his nose and mouth, so as to occasion death by suffocation, no one being present to extricate him from the situation he was in.  Verdict, Sudden Death from Suffocation.

   On Monday  evening last, as ANTHONY PAGE, one of the distributors of this paper, was returning home from Cirencester to Bentham, and riding alongside of a waggon, he unfortunately fell from his horse and the wheels of the waggon going over his body, he died in great agony after lingering  only a few hours.  An inquest was held before D Willey, Esq. when the jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

  On Saturday se’nnight, a man drowned in the river, opposite Redcliffe backs, Bristol.

   And on Sunday, a fine boy, of nine years of age, the son of Mr WILCOX, cooper, Guinea street, was drowned in Bathurst Bason.

 

Nov 13.  On Saturday morning, the youngest son of Mr WILLIAM URCH, of St Augustine’s Back, Bristol, whilst taking his usual exercise with his hoop, fell into the River Froome, and was unfortunately drowned.

 

Nov 20.   A child named DANIEL JACKSON, was, on Thursday se’nnight, burnt to death at Framiload, in the parish of Saul, in this county; he was sent to a day school, and whilst the mistress was out of the school-room, the child got to the fire, and was burnt so dreadfully, that he lingered only till the following day.  A Coroner’s inquest was held on the body, and the jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

 

Nov 27.  On Monday morning, Mr BAKER, a respectable farmer, of Penpark, near Bristol, was found dead in a lane adjoining his own farm; he was a stout man, and supposed to have died in a fit.

 

Dec 4.  On Friday, an inquest was taken, at the Star Inn, on the Quay, in this city, before DA Saunders, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of RICHARD IMMS, labourer, who was taken ill, and died suddenly, in the kitchen of the above house, on the preceding day.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

    On Thursday morning, Mr YOUNG, farmer and grazier, of Denton, Oxfordshire, was found hanging in a barn at some distance from his house; he had shewn signs of derangement for some time.

 

Dec 18.  On Friday se’nnight, as some workmen were taking down an old house in the neighbourhood of Portland place, Cheltenham, the end wall suddenly fell, and crushed to death one of the men, and broke the leg of another. 

   Same day, a young girl, of ten years of age, (a daughter of Mr BENFIELD, tailor, of Cheltenham) went into a neighbour’s house, and the tea kettle happening to boil over, she attempted to take it off the fire, when her clothes were immediately in a blaze, and she was burnt in so dreadful a manner, that she died on Tuesday. 

 

 

1810

 

Jan 1.  On Monday an inquest was taken at Eastington, in this county, before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of THOMAS BENNETT, road surveyor, who was drowned in the Stroud Canal on the 1st ult.  His body, after remaining three weeks in the water, was discovered by a bargeman employed on the navigation.  It is conjectured that he must have slipped, and fallen into the canal, where he was seen on the evening of the accident.  He was a sober, honest and industrious man; and has left a wife and family to bewail his loss.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jan 8.  On Monday last an inquest was held on the body of a farmer’s servant at Apperley, in this county, who was crushed to death by a thrashing machine.

 

Jan 15.  On Thursday was committed to our County Gaol, by W Joyner, Esq. Coroner, GABRIEL DOAN, a prisoner of war, at Stapleton, for the wilful murder of JEAN DAMASTOL, his fellow prisoner.  Also, SILVAIN OUDARD, another prisoner of war, charged with aiding and abetting in  the said murder.

  Inquests were last week taken, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the bodies of Mr JEREMIAH PRICE, butcher, of Minchinhampton, who, owing to the darkness of the night, fell into the Thames and Severn Canal, and was drowned, and ANN GARDNER, of North Cerney, found dead in a ditch.  Verdict in both cases, Accidental Death.

 

Jan 29.  On Monday an inquest was taken at Tetbury, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of RICHARD HITCHING, carrier, of Cirencester, who, on his return from Bristol, was killed by the waggon wheel going over his head.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Feb 19.  On Monday last, an inquest was taken at Salperton, in this county, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of a new born male infant, found, in consequence of the information of its mother, JANE JONES, in the Thames and Severn Canal, where she had placed it, with a cord around its neck, and a large stone tied thereto.  It appeared, that she had delivered herself privately, in a field in the parish of Avening, not far distant from her master’s house, where she had lived servant only a few weeks, and that she had carried the infant nearly four miles, in her apron, for the purpose of secreting it.  After a patient and minute investigation, the Jury returned a verdict - Wilful Murder.  [Mar 19: Acquitted, but 6 months for concealment.]

   On the 4th inst. an inquest was taken at Bradford, Wilts., on the body of WILLIAM SMITH, a lad 11 years of age, son of SARAH SMITH, who died on Wednesday in consequence of a wound received by means of a sharp instrument used as a poker, which was thrown by the mother, and stuck in the head of the lad.  The Jury returned a Verdict of Wilful Murder against the mother, who is committed for trial at the next assizes.

 

Mar 12.  On Thursday last, at Wheatenhurst, THOMAS STAPLETON, a child about seven years of age, fell into the Stroud Navigation Canal, and was instantly drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Apr 2.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On Wednesday, at Eastington, on view of the body of a child about three years of age, named JAMES SHILLY, who was burnt to death, in consequence of his cloaths being caught in the flames, whilst attempting to imitate some boys, in jumping over a bonfire made in the road.   And, on Friday, at Shipton Moyne, on the body of a child about two and a half years old, named DANIEL BICKNALL, who was also burnt to death from his cloaths taking fire.  Verdict in both cases - Accidental Death.

 

Apr 16.  Inquests have recently been held before Wm Trigg, Gent. on view of the bodies of the following persons: At Stonehouse, on PHILIP ASTON, an old man, who fell into the Stroud Navigable Canal, and was drowned.  At Frampton, on BENJAMIN ADLUM, who died suddenly from suffocation, occasioned by the immoderate drinking of spirituous liquors.  And, at Tetbury, on SARAH BENNETT, who dropped down dead whilst at work at a spinning wheel.

 

Apr 23.  DUEL.  Mr HENRY SMITH, of Brstol, the gentleman who fought the fatal duel with the late Mr PRIEST, and left this country to join the British armies in Spain, surrendered himself for trial, and was acquitted.  Few events have, we believe, excited more attention, or given more general satisfaction.

 

May 21.  INQUESTS.  The following inquests have been taken before W Joyner, Esq. one of ther Coroners for this county:  On Saturday se’nnight at Littleton on Severn, on view of the body of Mrs TAYLOR, wife of Mr W TAYLOR, of that place, who fell from her chair in a fit, and expired immediately.  Same day, at Olvestone, on the body of ROBERT JONES, a pauper, who was found dead in a privy.  Verdict in each case, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.  On Monday last, in the parish of St Philip’s, Bristol,  on the body of ANN WOORE, aged 22, who died from poison.  It appeared in evidence that she had been driven, by the rigour of poverty and want, to commit the horrid act of suicide.  On Thursday, at Newington Bagpath, on the body of ANN, wife of ROBERT TROTMAN, who hung herself to a side piece in the roof of their dwelling, in the absence of  her husband.  Verdict, in the last two cases, Lunacy.

 

Jun 4.  The following inquests were lately taken before D Willey, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:  At Woodmancote, in the parish of Bishops Cleeve, on view of the body of GEORGE GUY, who was assisting in taking down part of an old house, when the beam and partition falling on him, he was killed on the spot.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  At Yanworth, on the body of JOHN SMITH, shepherd to Mrs EDWARDS, who was found hanging in a hole which he had cut in a rick in an adjoining field to secure himself from the inclemency of the weather.  Verdict, Lunacy.

     On Wednesday evening, as some children were playing in a boat on the river, at our quay, one of them, a son of a bargeman named WILKES, unfortunately fell overboard, and was drowned.  Coroner’s Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 2.  On Friday an inquisition was taken at Cheltenham, before D Willey, Esq. on view of the body of ROBERT WAGSTAFF, who hanged himself the preceding day.  Verdict, Lunacy.

   On Friday se’nnight an inquest was taken at Shennington, in this county, before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of WILLIAM ASKEW, a corporal of the 35th regiment of foot, who died of the injury he received in a piitched battle with one NATHANIEL FRENCH, a recruit, belonging to the same corps.  The quarrel arose at a wake.  The corporal was thrown during the third round; when a blood vessel of the brain was ruptured by the fall, as well as the spinal marrow injured; in consequence of which he soon afterwards became delirious at intervals, and died within the space of forty eight hours.  Verdict, Manslaughter.

 

Jul 16.  On Thursday an inquest was taken at Elmore, near this city, before D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of THOMAS RAVENHILL, a fine, promising boy, about eight years ofg age, son of Mr WILLIAM RAVENHILL, of the Back, who, whilst at play in  a boat on the Severn, fell overboard, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death. 

   A few days since, Mr ISAAC BENDALL, a respectable farmer, of Wapley, near Sodbury, in this county, in the prime of life, was thrown from his horse, and so injured in his head, that he died the next day.

 

Jul 23.  On Thursday, a bargeman, of the name of BATES, who resided in this city, was unfortunately drowned in the river Severn, near Framiload.  He was employed with others, in rowing a canal boat coming up with the flood tide, when, his oar breaking, he was precipitated overboard, and his companions were unable to render him the smallest assistance.  We have not heard that the body has yet been found.  He has left a wife and three children.

 

Jul 30.  On Wednesday the body of JOHN BATES, mentioned in our last to have been drowned in the Severn, near Framiload, was picked up; and on Thursday an inquest was taken, before D Willey, Esq. when the jury returned a Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 30.  On Wednesday, an inquest was taken at Cirencester, before D Willey, Esq. on view of the body of WILLIAM JONES, a serjeant in the 36th regiment of foot, who was supposed to have poisoned himself; but no circumstances appearing to justify the suspicion, a verdict was given - Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Aug 6.  On Tuesday, an inquest was taken at Hatherup, before Wm Trigg, Gent. coroner, on view of the body of SARAH SOLLIS, found immersed in a spring of water, in a remote part of a coppice in that parish, where she had drowned herself on the 1st of July, and had lain unperceived until Monday last. Verdict, Lunacy.

 

Sep 17.  MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT.  On Friday se’nnight, about eight in the evening, the coach which runs between Thornbury and Bristol, in descending Alverstone hill (near the former place) was, by the breaking of the pole, overturned and the whole of the passengers, six inside and four out, in some degree hurt.  Mr DANIEL WHITE, a respectable inhabitant of Blakeney, who was outside, was taken up nearly lifeless, and expired in a few hours!  Mrs WHITE was inside, and a truly sorrowful spectator of the awful scene, but was not herself materially injured.  Mr SHILL, of Thornbury, had his leg broken, and ankle put out of joint, but the others have nearly recovered their bruises.  The coach was not going at a violent rate, but unluckily had no wheel locked.

 

Oct 1.  On Tuesday last, an inquest was taken at Bisley, before Wm Trigg, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county, on view of the body of ELIZABETH HAYWARD, an infant, who had gathered, and eaten, some berries of the deadly night-shade, and died in consequence, after suffering a short time under severe convulsions.  Verdict, Death from a deleterious substance taken independently.

   The following were taken before Wm Joyner, Esq. Coroner:  At Almondsbury hill, on view of the body of Mrs ANN SHILL, aged 65, found dead in a shed in her garden, supposed to have been killed by lightning during the thunderstorm on Saturday se’nnight.  At Mangotsfield, on the body of ELIZABETH WEBSTER, aged near three years, burnt to death by her clothes taking fire in the absence of her parents.  At Coaley, on the body of JOHN HIGGINS, rug maker, killed on the spot by falling from a gate, on his return home intoxicated the preceding night.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Oct 8.  On Monday last, an inquest was taken at Kings Stanley, in this county, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of MARY BRINKWORTH, who was found dead in her apartments, supposed to have been occasioned by falling upon the stone floor, in a hysteric fit.  Verdict, Sudden Death.

 

Oct 29.  INQUESTS.   Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner: On Saturday se’nnight, at Turkdean, near Northleach, on view of the body of WILLIAM TAYLOR, who hanged himself on a beam in his bedroom, on the preceding Thursday.  Verdict, Lunacy.  And on Tuesday last, at Stonehouse, on the body of THOMAS BIRT, who fell into a brook, in a state of intoxication, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Nov 5.  Taken before Wm Joyner, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:  On Monday last, at the parish of Horton, on view of the body of JAMES BUTLER, (aged seven) who was burnt to death by his clothes taking fire in the absence of his parents. Verdict, Accidental Death.  On Tuesday, at Dowry square, Clifton, near Bristol, on the body of a new born male child, found secreted in a coal hole the preceding Sunday.  After an investigation of eight hours, the Jury returned a verdict of Wilful Murder, against SARAH LEECH, single woman, the mother of the said child; and she stands committed for trial, at the next assizes for this county.  On Thursday, at Brockweir, on the River Wye, on the body of Mr JOHN PAGE, a respectable farmer, who was killed on the spot, by falling in one of his fields, the preceding Monday.  Verdict, Accidental Death. 

   On Thursday, an inquest was taken at Corse, near this city, before D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of CHARLOTTE CHAMBERLAIN, a child about three years of age, who was burnt to death, on Tuesday, in consequence of being left alone in the house.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

     A few days ago, as JOHN FRYER, a poor man of the parish of Westbury, was returning home, apparently  in perfect health, he dropped suddenly to the ground, and instantly expired.

 

Nov 19.  On Tuesday last, an inquest was taken at the New Lodge Inn, in the parish of Minchinhampton, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of JOSEPH PEGLAR, a fine youth, about 18 years of age, whose death was occasioned by a rather singular accident.  He was attempting to fire a pistol, which, as it would not remain upon the cock, he discharged by the application of a fire stick to the priming; when, the charge being rammed down with great force, the piece rebounded with such violence, as to cut his eye out, separate his jawbone, and fracture his skull, in consequence of which he died in a few minutes, a horrid spectacle.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   Inquests taken before Wm Joyner, Esq. Coroner:  On Monday, at Mangotsfield, on view of the body of WILLIAM MARMON, labourer, who was killed on the spot on the Saturday preceding, by a loaded cart going over his head; he has left a wife and six small children to lament his loss.  On Tuesday, at Sandford, near Lydney, on the body of RICHARD PHILLIPS, aged 14 years, found drowned on Lydney New Grounds, on the morning of Sunday last.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.  And, on Wednesday, at Beverstone, near Tetbury on the body of RICHARD GABB, aged 11 years, found dead on Sunday morning, at the door of a cottage, supposed to have died by mis treatment from his fellow servant, on their return home from Cirencester, with a waggon loaded with wheat.  After a very full investigation, (the body being first opened,) the jury returned a Verdict, Died through the Inclemency of the Weather, and not from any injury received whatsoever.

 

Dec 24.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On Wednesday, at Barnsley, on view of the body of THOMAS SYROD, aged 60, who had lived 29 years as gardener, in the family of JAMES MUSGRAVE, Esq. of Barnsley Park, and was killed by a tree falling on him.  And, on Friday, at Cheltenham, on the body of MARIA MOODY, a child about 5 years of age, daughter of Mr MOODY, builder, who was burnt to death by her clothes taking fire, whilst left alone in the house, with another child of about the same age, by a woman under whose care they were placed.  The other child was also much burnt.   Verdicts, Accidental Death.

 

Dec 31.  On Saturday se’nnight, at Frampton on Severn, on view of the body of CHARLES WYLES, who was killed by  falling from the top of a high ladder, whilst nailing a piece of timber in a barn; his skull was fractured, and he was otherwise so much injured, that he survived the accident but a very short time.   And, on Thursday, at Piffs Elm, in the parish of Elmstone Hardwicke, on the body of THOMAS DOWERS, carter, who was killed by a loaded waggon going over his head, he being intoxicated, and falling under the wheel.  Verdict in both cases, Accidental Death.

     

 

 

1811

Jan 14.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  At the Thrup, in the parish of Stroud, on view of the body of JOHN  KEENE, aged 68, who had fallen from a flight of stone steps, and so injured his brain, that he died soon after.  At Pitchcombe, on the body of KEZIAH LAWRENCE, a child about four years of age, whose clothes caught fire, and she was burnt to death.  Verdict in both cases, Accidental Death.

 

Jan 21.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county:  On the 4th inst. at Stroud, on view of the body of THOMAS HOLDER, four years old, burnt to death.  On the 7th, at Cheltenham, on the body of MARY ANN  HOWARD, aged six, also burnt to death.  On the 10th, at Kempsford, on the body of JOHN CONSTABLE, found drowned in an aqueduct near the river.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.  On the 12th, at Arle, in the parish of Cheltenham, on the body of MARY REEVES, an infirm old woman, found dead in her house.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.  Same day, at Alstone, near Cheltenham, on the body of JOHN SAUNDERS, another child, about four, burnt to death by his clothes catching fire.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  Same day, at Cheltenham, on the body of MARY COOKE, who poisoned herself by swallowing a large quantity of arsenic, mixed in tea.  So determined was this unfortunate female on self destruction, that she first procured a quantity of laudanum, which failing in its operation, she made a second application, and effected her fatal purpose.  The cause assigned for this act, is supposed pregnancy, which on surgical examination proved otherwise.  The Jury, after a very minute investigation, returned a Verdict of Lunacy.

 

Feb 4.  The following inquests have been taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On Saturday se’nnight, on view of the body of JOHN BROWN, who was found drowned in the Thames and Severn Canal.  On Friday last,at Stroud, on the body of MARK HOLDER, a child six years of age, who  was burnt to death by his clothes taking fire.  Verdict in both cases, Accidental Death.  Same day, on the body of WILLIAM HORWOOD, who was found dead in a ditch, in the parish of Eastington, into which he had fallen, on his return from Gloucestershire election.   Verdict, Died from the Inclemency of the Weather.  Also, same day, at Stinchcombe, on the body of WILLIAM WIGMORE, a respectable free holder, who was coming in a chaise to this city, to vote for the Hon. JOHN DUTTON; when he was taken ill on the road, became paralysed, and died soon after.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.

 

Mar 4.  IMPORTANT CAUTION. On Tuesday last, two servants, (the huntsman and whipper-in, ) were found dead in their beds, at the hunting seat of Sir JOHN DASHWOOD, Bart. at Bourton on the Hill, in this county.  It appeared that on retiring to bed the preceding evening conceiving the room where they slept (over one of the out buildings) rather damp, they had taken up with them, from under a furnace, some live coals in an open coal scuttle, which they left in the middle of the room; but the place having no chimney, or vent of any kind, and being closely shut up during the night, they must have been suffocated from the effect of the sulphuric gas.  One of them was found in a sitting posture in bed, as if he had been awoke by the oppression of his breath; but doubtless at a moment when he was too much overcome, either to effect his escape, or create an alarm.  The pernicious influence of charcoal has often been experienced; and we trust, that the above melancholy catastrophe will operate equally as a warning, against the use even if commended in similar enclosed situations, where there is no draft or current of air.

   On Wednesday an inquest was taken at Bourton on the Hill before Wm Trigg, Gent. on view of the bodies of WILLIAM BOYCE and RICHARD SMITH, (the above two unfortunate men, ) when a verdict was returned, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 11.  MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT.  On Monday last, while Mr DOWELL, jun. son of Mr DOWLE, of Oxenhall, in this county, was out shooting, in passing through a hedge, with the butt end of his gun advanced before him, something caught the trigger, when the gun exploded, and the whole of the charge entered his breast, some of it passing through the back part of his shoulder.  Although so dreadfully injured, he contrived to walk home, where surgical assistance was procured, and he underwent a very painful operation for the extraction of the shot.  He lingered, however, in excruciating pain till Friday evening, when he expired.  He was an officer in the local Militia, and a young man highly respected.

   About ten o’clock on the evening of Saturday se’nnight, as Mr JAMES WHITE, a respectable farmer of Corse, and his brother in law, were on their return from our market on horse back, when passing over Maisemore bridge, from some unknown cause, Mr WHITE’s horse ran against the parapet wall on the upper side, and precipitated him into the river, where he unfortunately perished; leaving a widow far advanced in pregnancy, and twin infant children.  He had considerable property about him, and was perfectly sober when he left his inn.  The body has not yet been found.

 

Mar 18.  The article in our last, respecting the melancholy accident which befell Mr DOWLE, jun. of Oxenhall, was incorrect in a very material point.  The gentleman happily survives; and we feel infinite pleasure in stating, that hopes are now entertained of his recovery.

 

Apr 1.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county, viz.  On the 16th ult. at Kingstanley, on view of the body of PHILIP PEARCE, an infant, found dead in bed.  Verdict, Sudden Death.  On the 18th, at Bisley, on the body of RICHARD DANIEL, who fell from a mow in a barn, and fractured his skull.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  And on the 27th, at Lyppiat, near Stroud, on the body of JONAS FOLKES, a private in the 1st Guards, who fell from the Stroud Union Coach, some time since, and injured his brain so much that it occasioned his death.  The night on which the accident happened was so extremely cold, that he had nearly perished, when he was taken up by another coach travelling the same road.  We are sorry to add, that a publican, not far from the Kingstone’s Inn, Berks. refused to receive the unhappy sufferer, desiring them to take him on to the house the coach drove to which had left him behind!  Verdict, Died by the injury he received from the fall. - This poor soldier was one of the brave fellows who returned from the Walcheren expedition.

   On Wednesday last, the body of Mr JAMES WHITE, (who was unfortunately drowned in the Severn on his return home from our market, on the 2d ult. as mentioned in a former paper,) was picked up at Stone beach, a short distance from this city, with his property all safe.  An inquest was held next day at the Ship, in Maisemore, and a verdict given of Accidental Death.  On cutting off his boots, one of his legs was found much bruised, supposed from the injury he received by his horse striking against the parapet wall of the bridge, which he was thrown over.

     

Apr 8.  Last week MARY FOWLER, of Nibley, in this county, having had some trifling dispute with her daughter about planting her garden, went out to alter it, and immediately dropped down dead between the plants.

ACCIDENTS.   On Saturday se’nnight, as DANIEL TRULL, a boy of 13, deaf and dumb, was at work in a mill belonging to Messrs LLOYD, Clothiers, of Cam, in this county, his clothes became entangled in the gig wheel, and, before it could be stopped, although immediate assistance was at hand, his head was forced against the roller with such violence as to cause his instant death.  And on Monday, MARY PERKINS, wife of GEORGE PERKINS, of Berkeley, thatcher, when going to get water from a pool in her garden, was seized with a giddiness, and falling therein, was drowned.  Verdict, in both cases, Accidental Death.

 

Apr 15.  On Wednesday morning, as Mrs GYLES, wife of SAMUEL GYLES, Esq. at Henwick, near Worcester, was endeavouring to remove a cloth which had caught the flames of the kitchen fire, it communicated to her clothes, and, before assistance could be rendered, she was so miserably burnt, that she expired, after languishing in extreme torture for four hours.  She was in her 72nd year.

 

Apr 29.  On the 13th inst. an inquest was taken at Dudbridge, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of WILLIAM GARDNER, a boy, who, whilst winding up the lash of one of the locks, fell into the Stroud Canal, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Tuesday an inquest was taken at Redmarley d’Abitot, Worcestershire, on the body of JOHN HANDS, a boy about 11 years of age, who was found strangled the preceding Sunday by an ox chain, fastened round his neck, and fixed to a beam in an ox house belonging to his master.  The deceased was of a very lively temper, and happy in his situation, and as no motive could be ascertained for his committing the horrid crime of self murder, the jury concluded that the cause of his death was more the effect of accident than otherwise, and returned a verdict accordingly.

 

May 6.  Another melancholy accident lately attended the common practise of servants riding on the shafts of waggons and other carriages:- As a young man, in the employ of Mr MATTHEWS, of Winchcombe, was returning from Tewkesbury, with a cart and horse, and incautiously sitting on the shafts, the animal suddenly took fright, and ran off at great speed, notwithstanding the cart was loaded with nearly a ton weight.  In jumping off, to stop the horse, the unfortunate man fell with his head against a stone, which caused an immediate discharge of blood from his ears, &c. and terminated his existence, in about four hours, after suffering excruciating torture.

 

May 13.  On Friday an inquest was taken before D Willey, Esq. Coroner on view of the body of JOHN LIDDIATT, servant to Mr JOB SMITH, of Brockthrup, who, in jumping out of a waggon, unfortunately fell, when the wheel going over him, killed him on the spot.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

May 20.  Died, on Monday last, aged 38, SUSANNAH RICHENS, a pauper in the House of Industry, Tewkesbury; having existed ten weeks without eating any kind of food, the only nourishment she received during that period being a few spoonfuls of beer each day.  Her disease was of an apoplectic nature, and although it so long deprived her of the power of eating, and the use of speech, she was perfectly sensible till the day previous to her dissolution.

 

May 27.  The body of Mr DENT, Senior, (formerly of Sidbury, but late of St John’s, Worcester, ) was on Thursday last discovered floating in the River Severn, near the Rhydde, in the parish of Severn Stoke.  The unfortunate gentleman had been missing ever since the night of the 21st of February.  It had been imagined that the deceased had become a prey to violence; but the property which he had with him, when last seen, being found in his clothes, it now appears probable that his death was occasioned by having fallen into the water while passing near the bridge, owing to the extreme darkness of the night; or to a sudden fit of illness, to which he was frequently subject.

 

Jun 17.  The following inquests were last week taken before D Willey, Esq. Coroner:  On Thursday, at Foxcote, in the parish of Withington, on view of the body of MARGARET POWELL, who was killed by the wheels of a waggon going over her.  And, on Saturday, on the body of ANN WHITE, found drowned in the parish of Quedgeley.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   An inquest was held on Monday last, on the body of SAMUEL SAUNDERS, a poor man, nearly 70 years of age, who was found dead on the Saturday preceding in Kinsham Field, near Tewkesbury, where he had been employed in hoeing beans.  It is supposed he fell down in a fit whilst at work the preceding day, and immediately expired, as the hoe was lying by him, and there was no appearance of his having moved after he fell across the row of beans he was earthing up.  The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

 

Jul 8.  Wednesday GEORGE GIDDINS, servant to Mr WOODWARD, at Ashwick, near Marshfield, in this county, was killed by a hay waggon being overturned, which striking him in the temple, caused his immediate death.

 

Jul 29.  EXCESSIVE DRINKING. On Tuesday last, JOHN SADLER, labourer, of Wotton Underedge, after drinking three pints of gin at one public house, went to another, where, boasting of his prowess whilst a soldier, he made a bet with a person in the house, that he would drink a quart of gin in an hour!  The liquor being brought in, he took off the half of it at one draught, and soon after finished the remainder with as little ceremony!  He then boasted of the feat, and the instant afterwards fell down, and expired almost immediately!  To the surviving party in this transaction, we leave those reflections which cannot fail to pervade the mind of every rational being.

 

Jul 29  Early on Thursday morning last, a bargehand named WALSH, on going aboard the vessel to which he belonged, at Tewkesbury, after being out all night, and it is supposed somewhat intoxicated, fell overboard and was drowned.  A coroner’s jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

   On Wednesday  last, at Tewkesbury, a melancholy accident attended the very reprehensible practise of leaving guns loaded in insecure situations.  A little boy and girl, children of one DRINKWATER, going into the house of a neighbour, named XXXXXXXXXXXXX, residing in the church yard, in that town, the boy found a gun, which he took hold of, not knowing that it was loaded, and pointing it at his sister, playsomely said, he would shoot her.  Unconscious of the consequences, he pulled the trigger, the piece exploded, and, being aimed close to the girl’s head, the whole contents entered a little above the ear, shattering the skull in a most dreadful manner, and of course killed her on the spot!  A coroner’s inquest was held on the body the next day, and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.  It is much to be deplored, after the distressing events that so repeatedly occur, through the heedlessness of people using firearms, that more care is not evinced by placing loaded guns out of the reach of children and others who know not that they are charged.

 

Aug 5.  On Saturday se’nnight, two lads were drowned whilst bathing in the Severn, about three miles above Tewkesbury, and, same day, a youth named JOB TIPPING, was drowned in the same river, whilst bathing near Newnham!

 

Aug 19.  And on Tuesday, in this city, on the body of a young woman named ANN ALDRIDGE, who, on the preceding Sunday, put a period to her existence by taking an ounce and a half of laudanum.  Verdict, Lunacy.

 

Aug 26.  On Friday an inquest was taken at Bisley before Wm Trigg, Gent. on view of the body of MARTIN CROOKE, who, in consequence of falling downstairs, injured the spinal marrow. Verdict, Accidental Death.

   An inquest was taken, on Monday, before D Willey, Esq. on view of the body of  XXXXX  JONES, a tailor, of Cheltenham, who on the preceding morning put a period to his existence by cutting his throat in a most shocking manner.  The cause assigned for this rash act is his being involved in two law suits, the last of which, relative to the occupation of the house in which he lived, was to be decided on the morrow after he committed the fatal deed.  Verdict, Lunacy.

 

Sep 2.  On Thursday last, Mr SMITH, Excise Officer, of Frampton, was unfortunately drowned in the Severn, at Newnham.  He had come up to that place, with two other gentlemen, in a small pleasure boat; and, upon their return from thence, in pushing off from the shore, they were upset by running foul of the large passage boat; when the lives of the other two were saved by the extra-ordinary exertions of the ferryman.

 INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On the 24th ult. on view of the body of Mr JOHN BARNARD, a respectable farmer, of Warley farm, in the parish of Withington, who, mistaking his road from Northleach, was thrown from his horse at midnight, and so much injured, that he survived only a few hours.  He has left a wife pregnant, and three children, to lament his loss.

On the 25th, at Kempsford, on the body of WILLIAM GILES, who died in consequence of a fall from a waggon he was unloading.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.  On the 29th, at Bibury, on the body of JOS. COOK, a youth, who was killed by his playfellow inadvertently striking him a violent blow on the temple with a stone.  Verdict, Homicide.  On the 31st, at Tetbury, on the body of THOMAS CAVE, whose death was occasioned by a blow given him by JAS. RADFORD, of Tetbury, which brought him to the ground, and produced a fissure in the back part of his skull.  He languished fourteen days.  The jury, which was very respectable, after a minute investigation, returned a verdict of Manslaughter against the said JAS. RADFORD, who has disappeared.

 

Sep 30.  INQUESTS.  Taken last week before D Willey, Esq.   On Monday, on view of the body of Mr JOS. HOLFORD, a respectable farmer, of Hartpury, who, on the preceding Saturday, as he was returning from Gloucester market, fell from his horse, and was unfortunately dragged in the stirrup nearly a mile: he languished till Sunday morning, when death put a period to his sufferings.  Verdict, Accidental Death.   On Wednesday, on the body of Le ABBE CAESAR, of Cheltenham, a respectable emigrant French clergyman, and Chaplain to the late unfortunate LOUIS XVI, who was found a corpse in his bed.  Verdict, Visitation of God.

   On Thursday, at our Infirmary, on the body of THOMAS THEY, who, whilst driving the Hibernia Coach from Cheltenham to Shrewsbury, on the 16th inst. one of the fore wheels coming off, the coach was dragged over him, and injured him so severely that he expired on Tuesday last.  And, same day, and at the same place, on the body of THOMAS SAUNDERS, who, on the preceding Sunday, fell from a pear tree, in the parish of Prestbury, which caused so violent a concussion of the brain, as to occasion his death.  Verdict in both cases, Accidental Death.

   An inquest was taken a few days since, at Hampton Parva, on the body of Mr WILLIAM KEYTE, a respectable farmer, of Ebrington, in this county, who drowned himself in the river Avon there.  It appeared that the deceased laboured under a bodily complaint which the faculty pronounced incurable, and would sooner or later terminate his existence.  The dread of leaving his family, (a wife and 12 children,) in distressed circumstances, strongly affecting his mind, the jury returned a verdict, Lunacy.

 

Oct 14.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent.  On the 3rd ult. at Arnold’s Mill, near Stroud, on view of the body of SAMUEL BEARD, a youth, who was killed by a gig mill.  On the 13th, at Cirencester, on the body of THOMAS MINCHIN, who was killed by a large piece of timber falling on his head, whilst unloading it.  Verdict in both cases, Accidental Death.  On the 28th, at Kempsford, on the body of MARY TRINDER, who was found dead on the floor, being alone.  Verdict, Sudden Death.  On the 4th inst. at Culley Muxen Farm ,near Tetbury, on the body of JOSIAH LEE, a gypsy boy, about nine years of age, who was killed by the explosion of a gun loaded with shot, which entered his left shoulder, and, passing through his chest, caused his death instantly.  The gun was fired by WALTER PONTIN, not knowing it to be loaded.  The jury, after a minute investigation, returned a verdict, Accidental Homicide.

 

Oct 21.  On Thursday se’nnight, four young men, of Bristol, sailed on a cruise, in an open boat, in and about Kingroad, and remained at Clevedon and the adjacent places till Sunday, when they prepared to return home; but on passing the wreck of the Rebecca, they agreed to go on board, and to fasten their boat to the wreck, by the painter.  The sea at this time was very high.  They had not been long on the wreck, when the violence of the waves swamped their boat, and she went to pieces; and in an instant a wave precipitated them into the ocean.  Two of them sank to rise no more! the other two, being excellent swimmers, buffetted the waves for nearly an hour, when they were taken up by a boat passing that way.

  The body of a woman was taken out of the float, near the Lime Kiln Glass house, on Friday morning.  Her legs were tied together, and it is supposed she must have been in the water some days.

 

Oct 28.  On Tuesday last, an inquest was taken at Redbrook, in the parish of Newland, before D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of WILLIAM PRITCHARD, who, as he was sailing in a cobb in the river Wye, fell over, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Wednesday, an inquest was taken at Lloyd’s Mug house, near Worcester, on the body of STEPHEN PRICE, a waterman, who early in the morning of the 11th inst. while at work on a canal boat, fell into the Severn and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Nov 4.  On Monday se’nnight, a fatal accident happened at Clifton; ISAAC GODFREY, who has long been accustomed to work the steam engine there, having incautiously removed the cover of the furnace, he was in an instant overwhelmed with boiling water, and expired in a few hours.  He has left a wife and four children without support.  An inquest was taken before W Joyner, Esq. Coroner; verdict, Accidental Death.   A similar verdict was given before the same gentleman, on view of the body of THOMAS COLE, hatter, of Bitton, who, on his return home on Saturday evening, intoxicated, fell over a railing into a quarry, and was killed on the spot.

 

Nov 4.  On Saturday last, the body of an aged man was picked up in the river at Cruy’s Hole, Bristol.  He was returning home on the Saturday preceding, having taken his weekly wages, at the Iron Foundry, St Philip’s; when, it is conjectured, he mistook his way, that evening being obscured by a fog.

 

 

 

 

1812

 

6 Jan.   On Friday last, an inquest was taken, in the parish of Quinton, in this county, before Thos. Commeline, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of WILLIAM LANE, who died suddenly.  After a minute investigation by a respectable jury, and the body being opened by a surgeon, a verdict was returned, Died in a Fit of Apoplexy.  And, a few days ago, an inquest was taken by the same Coroner, in this city, on view of the body of JOHN BOWER, an infant, who died from drinking boiling water out of a tea pot.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   The following inquests were taken last week, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner: At Cirencester, on the body of ELIZABETH BARTON, a child about two years of age, who was burnt to death.  At Edgeworth, on the body of a boy, named Z. DAVIES, who was killed in consequence of being thrown from a horse, and dragged by the halter, which he had imprudently tied round his forearm.  Verdict, in both cases, Accidental Death.  At Tetbury, on the body of THOMAS CHAPMAN, found dead in the street.  Verdict, Died from the Inclemency of the Weather.

 

Jan 13.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner: On Saturday se’nnight, at Fairford, on the body of JOHN SCRIVENS, a boy about eight years of age, who was killed by the lever of a threshing machine, which he was driving.   At Kingstanley, on the body of STEPHEN PREEN, a child about four years old, who was burnt to death.  At Stonehouse, on the body of HARRIET PAYNE, who died in conequence of being dreadfully burnt.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Jan 20.  On Tuesday last, an inquisition was taken before Thos. Commeline, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of a man, found drowned in a well at Mitcheldean.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   Taken before D Willey, Esq. Coroner:  On Monday, at Tuffley, near this city, on view of the body of O TURNER, a girl about three years old, who was so dreadfully burnt as to survive only half an hour, in consequence of her clothes being caught by the flames, whilst at play near the fire in her grandmother’s kitchen.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jan 27.  Early on Saturday morning last, as the waggon team of Mr Kendrick, of Toddington, was passing between Ashchurch and Tewkesbury, while the driver was riding in the waggon, the horses took fright and, though a boy was attending the leading horse, set off at a fast speed: the waggoner, in endeavouring to stop them, got his clothes entangled, fell under the wheels, and was killed on the spot.

 

Feb 3.  On Saturday an inquest was taken at Guiting Power, in this county, before Thomas Commeline, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of WILLIAM COOKE, who was killed by the machinery belonging to the Stove Pipe Company, at Foxhill.  It appeared that, about eight o’clock in the morning, he fell into the steam engine, through a trap door which had been carelessly left open, and coming into contact with some part of the ponderous machinery, then at work, his head was literally torn from his body, and he was otherwise lacerated in a way too shocking for description.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   The following inquests were last week taken before D Willey, Esq. Coroner:  On Monday, at Ashchurch, on the body of THOMAS HUNT, carter to Mr Kendrick, of Toddington, who was killed by the wheels of a waggon passing over his neck, as mentioned in our last.  Verdict, Accidental Death.   And on Saturday, at Alstone, in the parish of Cheltenham, on the body of THOMAS PARRY, who was killed by a wall falling on him, at the New Assembly Room.  Verdict, Accidental Death. 

   On Monday an inquest was taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on the body of SAMUEL HEAVEN, labourer, of Minchinhampton, found drowned in the Thames and Severn Canal, on the preceding day.  From the appearance of the body, it must have lain in the water several days.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Feb 17.  Taken last week, before W Joyner, Esq. Coroner:  On Sunday, at Kington, near Thornbury, on view of the body of Mr ROBERT COMBY, of Cowhill, a respectable farmer, who was killed on the spot, by a fall from his horse, on the night of the preceding Friday.   Same day and place, on the body of Mr CALEB LEE, butcher, who, on his return home from Oldbury on Severn, on the night of the preceding Wednesday, fell into a pool, and was drowned.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.   On Tuesday, at Westbury on Trim, near Bristol, on the body of ANN HURNE, a pauper in the workhouse, who fell out of her chair, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.   On Wednesday, at the hamlet of Oldland, near Warmly, on the body of S BRITTON, aged 12 years, who fell down a coal pit, near 50 fathoms, and was killed on the spot.  And, on Thursday, at Newark Park, near Wotton Underedge, on the body of JACOB HEDGES. gardener to the Rev. Mr Clutterbuck, who was killed by a concussion of the brain, received by a fall from a horse on the morning of the Monday preceding.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   On Tuesday an inquest was taken at Stroud, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of REBECCA WEBB, aged about seven, who was scalded to death, by falling over a pot of boiling water standing on the floor.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 9.  On Monday, an inquest was taken at Chalford Lynch, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of  THOMAS BARTLETT, who fell into the Thames and Severn Canal, and was drowned.  And, same day, at Horton, in this county, on the body of J HOBBS, a boy about 13 years of age, who died in consequence of the kick of a horse, on the preceding Friday.   Verdict, in both cases, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 16.  On Saturday se’nnight, an inquest was taken at Rodborough, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view  of the body of ROBERT MORSE, servant to Mr Tanner, London carrier, found dead in the hay stack, of one of the stables, into which he had fallen headlong unobserved, and thereby sustained a mortal injury in the spinal marrow.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 23.  A chimney sweeper was yesterday committed to our City Gaol, for re-examination, being suspected of occasioning the death of his apprentice boy by ill usage.  An inquest is this day to be taken before the Coroner, on view of the body; and it would be premature to state any of the particulars of this melancholy case, until the verdict of the jury be known.

 

Mar 30.  On Monday an inquest was taken before Thos Commeline, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of JAMES BRYANT, about ten years of age, apprentice to THOMAS MAXEMAN BRONEVILLE, chimneysweep, whose death, as mentioned in our last, was supposed to have been occasioned by the inhumane treatment of his master.  The body, by order of the Coroner, had previously been carefully dissected by a surgeon who, being unable to discover the smallest symptom of violence, the jury returned a verdict, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.  Some time after the jury were dismissed, however, three gentlemen from Newent, (in consequence of the paragraph in our paper,) came forward, and detailed such ill treatment on the part of the master, that BONNEVILLE was again taken into custody; and, after a long examination before the Magistrates, on Saturday last, he was committed to our County Gaol, on a charge of Wilful Murder.

   The following inquests were taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On the 19th inst. at Eastington, on view of the body of SARAH BIRD, an infant, who was scalded to death by boiling water from a tea kettle.  Verdict, Accidental Death. On the 21st, at Longford Mill, Minchinhampton, on the body of WILLIAM LATHAM, millman, who had been many years in the employ of Messrs Playne, clothiers, and was found dead in his room.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.

 

Apr 20.  AFFECTING INSTANCE OF SELF-DESTRUCTION.    Early on Thursday the wife of Mr MAYNARD, sadler, of Redcliffe Hill, Bristol, was found drowned in the Bathurst Bason.  She left her husband and infant child in bed early in the morning, and precipitated herself into the Bason, where her lifeless body was found by her affected relatives in a few hours after.  The child, which had previously been ill, owing, it is supposed, to the distracted state of its parent’s mind, expired almost the same moment that the corpse of its mother was brought into the house.  She lived on the most affectionate terms with her husband and family.

 

May 11.  MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT.  On Tuesday last, as the ferry boat was crossing the river Severn, at Framilode Passage, deeply laden with cattle, coming from Ross fair, she unfortunately shipped some water, and sank about half way over, at the depth of ten feet.  The cattle swam for different parts of the shore.  The drover who had them in charge, and two boatmen, were the only persons on board; one of the latter supported himself upon a plank; the other mounted one of the horses, but being a stout, powerful man, the animal sunk under him, when he sustained himself by swimming till the boats from the shore picked him and his companion up.  But their unhappy passenger perished, in the presence of many spectators, on whom he called most piteously for assistance, for several minutes, without their being able to avert his melancholy fate.  We do not know the poor sufferer’s name; but have heard he came from the neighbourhood of Badminton, in this county.  His body had not been found on Saturday.

 

May 25.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent., one of the Coroners for this county:  At Stroud, on the body of Mrs SIMS, wife of a respectable butcher, of that place, who was stated to have died in consequence of a blow she received from one of her sons, in an affray which happened between him and his brother; the jury, after a very minute investigation, returned a verdict of Sudden Death, and not from any hurt or injury received from any persons, to the knowledge of the jurors.

 

Jun 1.  On Monday, an inquest was taken by Wm Trigg, Gent., one of the Coroners for this county, on the body of B BURFORD, sheerman, of Rodborough, a lunatic, who, after being frustrated in an attempt to drown himself. hung himself with his neck handkerchief in a wood at Woodchester.  Verdict, Lunacy.   And on Tuesday, at Rodborough, before the same Coroner, on the body of BENJAMIN BUCKINGHAM, a child about six years old, who was burnt to death by his clothes catching fire.   Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jun 8.  On Saturday se’nnight, an inquest was taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of HANNAH BLAKE, aged about 19, who had been at Stroud fair, and was returning home late at night, under an idea that she was in the company of a man who had shewn her some civilities in the course of the day, but who took an opportunity, in their way through a private field, to attempt the violation of her person:  not effecting his purpose, however, he treated her with great cruelty, knocking her down and throwing her over some railings.  In consequence of this barbarous usage, she lingered under the most acute suffering, and expired on the seventeenth day.   The body was opened by

 

to be finished       

  

 

1813

 

Jan 4.  INQUESTS.  At Tockington, in this county, before Wm Joyner, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of EDWARD PACKER, (servant to Captain Robinson,) who was killed by the explosion of a gun, as he was endeavouring to get through a hedge, with the muzzle pointed towards his body; he lingered a few hours in great agony. - And, on Wednesday, as Charlton King’s,  before D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on the body of T MOULDER, who was killed whilst felling timber.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Jan 18.  INQUEST.  - On Thursday an inquest was taken at Coates, in this county, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of ELIZ. CRESWELL, an infant between two and three years of age, who, whilst on a visit with her mother, from Sherston, being at play in a bake house, some straw near the fire place caught fire, and communicating with a shawl which the child wore, her garments were instantly in a blaze, and the little sufferer was so dreadfully burnt, that she expired in a few hours.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Feb 1.  A Coroner’s inquest was held on Friday last, at Bushley, near Tewkesbury, on the body of a young woman, servant to a respectable farmer there, who died on the Wednesday preceding, in strong convulsions, brought on in consequence of taking a large quantity of mercury, in order to cause abortion. - The unfortunate woman having, previous to her unhappy death, confessed that the poison was procured for her by the father of her unborn child, JAS FOSTER, formerly a fellow servant, in order to cause the death of his illegitimate offspring; the jury returned a verdict of Manslaughter! against the offender; and he has been taken into custody and committed to Worcester Gaol, to await his trial at the ensuing assizes.

 

Feb 15.  On Monday an inquest was taken at Wheatenhurst, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of a new born male child, found floating in the Stroud Canal, wrapped up in a handkerchief.   Being  in a putrid state, it was supposed to have been thrown into the  water several days before it was discovered.  Verdict, Wilful Murder against some person or persons unknown.

 

Feb 22.  A most shocking catastrophe occurred at Twining, near Tewkesbury, on Monday last.  As Mr JOHN TURNER, a respectable dealer in horses, was passing the heels of a horse standing in his stable, the animal suddenly kicked him in the breast with both feet so violently, as to cause his death in a few hours afterwards.  The unfortunate young man was in the prime of life, and had been married only a few months.

   On Wednesday, an inquisition was taken at Framilode before D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of a new born male bastard child, found dead in a privy.  Verdict, Still born.  The mother of the child came to her place of service only two days before.

 

Mar 1.  Inquest by Wm Trigg, Quarr House, re JANE WITTS, JAS DODGE, and ELIZ. DICKS.

 

Mar 8.  Last week a child was burnt to death, in this city, in consequence of the too prevalent and very reprehensible custom of being left in the house alone.

 

Mar 18 @ Worcester Assizes: .... thirteen were acquitted, among whom were, JAS FOSTER, charged with the murder of JUDITH BEALE, of Bushley; ......

 

Apr 12.  Yesterday (Sunday) as three recruits belonging to the South Gloucestershire Militia (neither of whom could swim) were bathing in the Canal, near this city, one of them getting beyond his depth was drowned; the other two were near sharing the same fate.  The body was picked up in half an hour after, but every effort to restore animation was tried in vain.

   A melancholy accident happened on Wednesday morning at an early hour, at the head of the Quay, Bristol.  As JAMES CRAGG, Esq. late Surgeon in the Westmoreland Militia, was going to his lodgings in Queens square, from Broad street, he fell into the water, and was drowned, although the best assistance was immediately given.

 

1813.  Apr 12.

COMMITMENTS TO OUR COUNTY GAOL.   And, on Tuesday, LUKE HEATH, suspected of having, on the 22nd of June 1809,  murdered SARAH HARRIS, of Cowhoneybourne, in this county.  The circumstances of this murder, and the apprehension of HEATH at so remote a period, are as follows:  The body of SARAH HARRIS (who was six months advanced in pregnancy by HEATH, ) was found dead in a pond of water, with several wounds on the head, which, it appeared from the evidence on the Coroner’s Inquest, had been inflicted with a dung fork; and marks of blood were traced the whole way from her father’s house to the horse pool.  No positive prooof of HEATH’s guilt, however, having been adduced at that time, the jury returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against some person or persons unknown; and he was consequently set at liberty.   But his sudden flight from that part of the country, and other strong circumstances, rekindling suspicion against him, a reward was offered for his apprehension; and it is not a little remarkable that the constable by whom HEATH has now been recognized, and who was the person employed to go in pursuit of him at the period of his absconding, met and  secured him on the turnpike road, whilst conveying two prisoners from Kidderminster to Worcester Gaol.

 

Apr 30.  INQUESTS.   A few days since, an inquest was taken  at South Cerney, before Wm Trigg, Gent., one of the Coroners for this county, on view of the body of JAS BRAZINGTON, blacksmith, who drank a quart of gin, after he had been in a state of intoxication for some hours, and died almost immediately afterwards.  It being alleged that he had taken the liquor with an intent to produce death, the jury entered into a minute investigation of the case, and returned a verdict, Died by excessive drinking, but not for the wilful purpose of destroying himself.

   An inquest was last wek taken at the Talbot Inn, Kempsey, on the body of WM DODWELL, waterman, aged 26, who, in steering a barge down the river Severn, over balanced himself, and falling overboard, was drowned before any assistance could be given, the owner being asleep below.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

May 17.  An inquest was taken on Thursday, at Allstone, near Cheltenham, by D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of JAMES COCKS, an infant, found dead in bed by the side of its mother.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

May 24.  INQUESTS.   On Thursday an inquest was taken at White’s Hill, Stroud, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of THOS HOOPER, who fell from a lofty tree he had ascended, in search of a rook’s nest, and was so much injured, that he survived the accident but a short period.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Wednesday an inquest was taken at Shipton on Stower, Worcestershire, on the body of Mr J S FINDON, of that place, attorney, who on Monday rode out in apparent good health, and was soon afterwards found dead in a field.  It appeared in evidence, that Mr FINDON had fastened his horse to a hurdle, where he soon after died; and, from the opinion of the medical gentlemen, his death was occasioned by the rupture of a blood vessel.  Verdict, Natural Death.  He was in his 23rd year, and highly  respected by all who knew him.  The affliction of this respectable family cannot be described, from the melancholy vicissitudes that have attended it; it was a brother of Mrs FINDON’s, a fine promising youth, that met his death from the unfortunate circumstance of the explosion of some fireworks in his pocket, at the celebration of the late Jubilee; and on Saturday Mrs FINDON’s brother expired while eating his dinner!

 

Jun 7.  INQUESTS.   Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner: On the 26th ult. at Eastington, on view of the body of ANN MERRETT, (about 12 years of age,) who, whilst at play on the grass, rolled into a mill brook, and was drowned before assistance could be procured.  Verdict, Accidental Death.   And, on Friday last, at Horsley, on the body of JOHN WAITE, a young man, who burst a blood vessel whilst bathing in the pond at Longford’s Mill, Minchinhampton, and was suffocated by the blood.  Verdict, Sudden Death from Suffocation.

   An inquisition was held on Tuesday at Upton upon Severn, on the bodies of H WEED, a corporal in the 2d foot, JOS TAYLOR, GEO GEORGE, and WM HEMING, recruits in the same regiment, and WM PUMPHREY, a waterman, son of Owner PUMPHREY, of Upton.  By the evidence, it appeared, that eight young men, of which the five already named formed a part, took a fisherman’s boat, on Sunday evening, for the purpose of going to Henley Quay and back by water.  They were returning from this excursion, when PUMPHREY, who had the management of the boat, in a heedless and reprehensible manner, rocked it, in order, as he observed, to frighten the recruits.  In consequence of this folly, the boat filled with water and sunk.  Two of the party swam to the shore, procured another boat, and rowed with their hats in search of their companions, who had been carried a considerable distance by the force of the current.  Of those struggling in the water, one only was preserved by this assistance - the rest unhappily perished.  Four of the bodies have been picked up, but the fifth (WM HEMING) has not yet been found.  -  It seems to be clearly ascertained that PUMPHREY  was alone to blame:- he was a good swimmer and would have saved himself, had not the corporal held him fast by the collar in the convulsions of death, and thereby prevented him from using the necessary exertion.  The jury returned their verdict - Accidental Death occasioned by PUMPHREY rocking the boat.  The three men saved, are - OAKLEY, a waterman, CALLOW HILL, and another soldier of the 2d regiment of foot.

 

Jun 21.  On Friday se’nnight the infant son of Mr SAMUEL PEARCE, of Berkeley, being left for a few minutes at a chamber window, fell out, and received so much injury that he died the same evening.

 

Jun 28.  An inqusition was held on Tuesday last, by D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of THOMAS RUSSELL, a poor old man, who was found dead in a lane in the parish of Staverton in this county, the day preceding.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the visitation of God.

 

Jul 5.  On Tuesday last, the body of a man unknown was found at Tewkesbury, in the river Avon, between the Long Bridge and the Quay, which appeared to have lain some time in the water.  He was a stout man, about forty years of age, five feet six inches in height, and was dressed in a jean frock, corduroy breeches, white cotton stockings, and high shoes with small buclkles.  In his pocket was found a pawnbroker’s duplicate, dated May 13, 1813; the name and articles are illegible, but on the back of it is written “J EDWARDS, 28, Walcot street.”  An inquest was held on the body, and the jury brought in their verdict - Accidental Death.

   On Friday last, the bailiff of Mr PRICE, of Staunton Court, Worcestershire, was found, quite dead, suspended to a beam in a barn; but no cause can be assigned for his having committed the rash act.

 

Jul 12.  On Wednesday last, an inquest was taken before Thos Commeline, Esq. Coroner, at Dymock, in this county, on view of the body of LUKE JONES, who, in endeavouring to stop the horses of a team which had taken fright, was thrown down, and the wheels passing over his head, killed him instantly.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 19.   On Thursday last, an inquest was taken at Gretton,  in this county, by T Commeline, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of HANNAH STEVENS, who cut her throat in a fit of Insanity.  Verdict, Lunacy.  And, on the following day, at Hazleton, near Northleach, on the body of ANN SESSIONS, who expired in a post chaise, in which she was returning to her friends.  Verdict, Sudden Death.

   Monday an inquest was taken by Mr Hill, Coroner, at the Red Lion, Holt, Worcestershire, on the body of THOMAS EVANS, aged 75, late Surveyor of the Whitley and Martley roads, who hung himself in his own barn.  Verdict, Lunacy.

DISTRESSING ACCIDENT.   Monday evening, a cart, in which were a person named SPOONER, and his wife, accompanied by his brother in law and wife, stopping at a public house in Arle, in this county, SPOONER proceeded immediately to take off the horse’s bridle, previous to any person alighting, when the animal darting forward in a furious manner, began kicking violently and overturned the cart by which three persons were severely bruised and Mrs SPOONER killed on the spot.  What rendered the accident still more distressing was, that a few minutes after Mrs SPOONER was killed, her son, who had been absent at sea thirteen years, returned, and coming to meet his mother, found her a corpse! 

 

Jul 26.  On Wednesday last, an inquest was taken at Stonehouse, in this county, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of Master NATHANIEL COOPER, youngest son of the late THOS COOPER, Esq. of Ebley.  His death was occasioned by his inadvertently putting a bitch besom between the cogs of the gig mill whilst it was in rapid motion, at the manufactory of Messrs R COOPER  and Co., which drew his body in so far as to stop the machinery, and he was instantly crushed to death, his left arm and several of his ribs being broken.  And, on the following day, at Stroud, before the same Coroner, on the body of SHADRACH FLETCHER, who fell off a hay rick which he was thatching.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Aug 2.  Tuesday evening a male child, about two years old, was killed in Broadmead, Brsitol, by the wheels of a waggon passing over him.

   An inquest was last week taken at Bowbridge, near Stroud, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of SARAH BROWNE, who fell down as she was dressing, on Monday morning last, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.

 

Aug 9.   INQUESTS.   Taken this week before Wm Joyner, Esq. Coroner: On Monday, at Shirehampton, on view of the bodies of THOMAS JONES, aged 14 years, and MATTHEW HOLLIS, aged 11 years, two boys on the charity of the Free Grammar School at Henbury, who went to bathe on the Saturday preceding, in one of the stanks on Shirehampton Common, opposite Broad Pill.  They fell into a deep hole, and not being able to swim, were drowned.  The feoffees of the Charity gave them a neat funeral, and the whole of the boys, amounting to nearly one hundred, followed in the procession.  Same day, at the Fishponds, in the parish of Stapleton, on the body of ELIZABETH TYLEY, a child of the age of two years, who in the absence of her mother, fell into a pan of boiling water and was scalded to death.  And on Friday, at Woodmancote, on the body of THOMAS TALBOYS, aged 17, who was at work, the preceding day, at the manufactory of Messrs Vizard, of Dursley, Clothiers, when the sleeve of his jacket was caught in the wheel of the machinery, and before any assistance could be rendered, he was drawn between the roller and cylinder, and thereby bruised so mortally about the head, arms, and body, as to cause instant death.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   A desperate battle took place on Wednesday last, at the village of Ford, near Marshfield, between two blacksmiths of the names of WHALE and MOON: after fighting upwards of an hour, the former received a violent blow in the neck, which terminated the affray and his mortal career!  He died in a short time after being taken from the ground.

 

Aug 16.  On Wednesday an inquest was taken at Leachlade, in this county, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of WM MANSFIELD, a child about three years of age, who was killed by some planks falling upon his head, whilst at play in a public gateway.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  Another child who had the care of the deceased, was also in great danger, having sustained several contusions, and a compound fracture of the right leg; but hopes are entertained of her recovery.

 

Aug 23.  INQUESTS.   Taken this week before T Commeline, Esq. Coroner:  On Monday, at Ruardean, on view of the body of T MATTHEWS, who was scalded to death by falling into a skeel of wort.  On Tuesday, at Whelford, on the body of MARIA PERRIS, who fell into a feeder to the Thames and Severn Canal, and was drowned.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.   And on Wednesday, at Newent, on the body of JOSEPH BILLINGHAM, who met his death in a pitched battle with WM STEVENS, of that place.  Verdict, Manslaughter.

   On Monday an inquest was taken at Chalford,  before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of JAS COX, an infant about six months old, found lying dead on the pillow near his mother, with various discolorations on the skin, usually remarked in cases of poison from deadly night shade.  It appeared in evidence, that a few of these pernicious berries had been gathered by a boy on the preceding Saturday, and left with some children at play, amongst whom was a girl who had care of this infant; and although the fact could not be ascertained, strong suspicions were induced that the death of the child had been occasioned by the effects of this deleterious vegetable, and the jury returned a verdict, Sudden Death ex vistatione Dei.

 

1813.  Aug 23.  And, on Tuesday, another inquest was taken before the same Coroner, at Shipton Moyne, near Tetbury, on the body of JAS SALMON, a young man found drowned in a pond of water, situate in a field through which he usually returned home from his work.  No proof being adduced of his having drowned himself, the Jury, after a minute investigation, returned a verdict, Accidental Death, and not otherwise, to the knowledge of the said Jurors.

 

Aug 30.  Trial of LUKE HEATH for the murder of SARAH HARRIS in 1809; found Guilty, and later confessed.

   An inquest was taken on Thursday last, before DA Saunders, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of WM HOLFORD, a chaise driver, who was drowned whilst washing his horses in the river Severn, late on the preceding evening.  It appeared that the deceased very imprudently ventured into the river at flood time, and the water getting over the backs of the horses, he was unable to keep his seat.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

    An actual and remarkable circumstance.  On Tuesday last a coroner’s inquest was taken on the body of DANIEL POOLE, of Pill.  It appeared that the deceased was found dead, on Sunday morning last, in a field on the north side of the parish of Wraxall; and that when he died, he was in the act of killing a sheep which he had just stolen.  In his right hand was a bloody knife, and his clothes and body were everywhere soiled with gore and dirt.  Near him lay his gun, discharged; and at a short distance a wounded sheep, which had evidently been shot at, and had a slight wound under the ear.  POOLE was perfectly lifeless, very black in the face and altogether a horrible spectacle.  In a ditch was concealed a sack, which being searched, was found to contain the carcase of another sheep, paunched, skinned, cleansed, and cut up; whilst a patch of newly turned earth marked the spot where the skin and offals were buried.  Verdict, “Died by the Visitation of God in the act of Felony!”

 

Sep 6.  Execution of LUKE HEATH.  Confession and details of the crime.

 

Sep 20.   INQUESTS.  On Tuesday an inquest was taken at Chalford, Bisley, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of ESTHER WILKINS, a child about six years old, who, in picking blackberries growing near the side of a brook, fell into the stream, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  It is singular, that a younger child of the same parents, fell into a pan of water on the preceding Sunday, and was taken out so much exhausted that life was with difficulty restored.

   On Monday, an inquest was held on the body of T GARDINER, labourer, of the parish of Charlton King’s, who died suddenly on Saturday night; suspicion being entertained of poison, the body was opened by Mr Minster, who gave his dissent to the opinion.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

   An inquest was taken at Chepstow, on the 8th inst. before Jas Evans, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of a new born female child, found floating in the river Wye, a little above Chepstow bridge, wrapped in a coarse flannel bed gown, with a stone in the bundle.  The jury, under the direction of the Coroner, having every reason to believe the child was born alive, returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against some person or persons unknown.  The body was in a putrid state when picked up, and must have been in the water at least ten or twelve days.  It is to be hoped the unnatural mother will be discovered, and brought to the fate she so richly deserves.

 

Oct 11.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  At Bisley, on view of the body of ELEANOR HART, a child about four years of age, who died in consequence of drinking boiling water from the spout of a tea kettle placed by the side of the fire.  The poor sufferer survived but a few hours, and expired in the greatest agony.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  On Monday, at Woodchester, on the body of ELIZ PETERS, single woman, who being in a state of pregnancy, and in labour for several days, died through the alledged ignorance of a female accoucheur; but the Jury, being of opinion that no malignant motive could be imputed in this case, humanely returned a verdict, Died by the visitation of God.   Tuesday the body of ISAAC WILTSHIRE was found hanging in a bake house belonging to the White Lion Inn, Yate, in this county.  Excessive drinking is assigned as the case of this rash act.

 

Oct 25.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On the 16th inst. at Hasbrook, on view of the body of JAS ALLSOP, about five years of age, who, being left alone in the house for a few minutes, was, on the return of his father, found dead on the floor, having been burnt in a shocking manner from his clothes taking fire; but the more immediate cause of his speedy death, was a rupture of the blood vessels of the lungs, occasioned by the exertions of the helpless sufferer whilst enveloped in flames.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  Same day, at South Cerney, on the body of Mr RD DOWDESWELL, who dropped down dead in a meadow where he was at work.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the visitation of God.

   On Monday, an inquest was taken at Framilode Mills, before D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of CORNELIUS BAKER, who was drowned in the Mill Pond, the preceding Saturday.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Nov 1.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner: On Monday last, at Puck’s Mill, in the parish of Salperton in this county, on view of the body of Mr JOSEPH DADGE, millwright, of Edgeworth, who was returning home from Chalford, when he accidentally walked into one of the locks of the Thames and Severn Canal, and was drowned; his hat was found floating on the surface, which led to the discovery of his body.  He was a man universally respected for his steady conduct, and his loss will be severely felt by his numerous employers; but no one will have so much cause for regret as an aged mother, whom he entirely supported.  And on Friday, at Bisley, on the body of a child, named DAVIS, who was burnt to death by his clothes catching fire.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   On Saturday se’nnight, an inquest was taken at Bradley, in the Forest of Dean, in this county, before Wm Joyner, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of RICHARD SAUNDERS, a child of nine years of age, who was supposed to have died in consequence of eating some berries, called the deadly night shade.  After a very patient investigation, (the body being first opened,) the jury returned a Verdict Died through the inclemency of the weather and want of sufficient clothing, and not from poison.

   On Wednesday an inquest was taken at Tredington, in this county, before D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of WM KEMISS, who was found dead in his house.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the visitation of God.

 

Nov 8. On Thursday last, an inquest was taken at Brimscomb, in this county, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of PETER GOLDEN, who fell into the Thames and Severn Canal, and was unfortunately drowned.  Verdict - Accidental Death.

   Boxing Match, between THOMAS CLARKE, farmer, of Aston Mill, and THOMAS BOLTER, pig killer, of Tewkesbury.

 

Nov 15.  A melancholy accident happened a few days since, at Wotton Underedge, in this county:  as a boy, about five years old, named [CHARLES] DANIELS, was crossing the road, a horse belonging to a waggon then passing knocked him down, and the wheel going over his head, literally crushed it to atoms!

 

Nov 22.  Wednesday last, an inquest was taken by Mr Hill, Coroner, at New Pool Farm, near the Old Hills, Worcestershire, on the body of Mr JAMES BROUGH, of Upton, who on his way home, on Monday evening, fell into a pit of water, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Nov 29.  On Friday se’nnight. an inquest was taken by Mr Hill, Coroner, at Westmancote, in the parish of Bredon, Worcestershire, on the body of JAMES HOLDSHIP, aged 10 years, who on the Wednesday preceding was employed by his master, Mr S Dobbs, to exercise a mare, which took fright, and the boy having tied the halter round his wrist, was dragged by the animal through a pool to the distance of about 50 yards, when his arms, legs, and head being fractured, he was taken up dead.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   WM REES, aged 10, Bristol Quay, saved from drowning.

 

Dec 6.  On Thursday an inquest was taken before T Commeline, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of an infant, found dead in Broadwell churchyard, near Stow, in this county.  Suspicions had arisen as to the occasion of its death, but nothing satisfactory appearing from the evidence, the jury returned a verdict, Found Dead, but  from what cause is unknown.

 

Dec 13.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  At Quar house, near Brimscomb, in this county, on view of the body of THOS SPENDER, a child about five years of age, who was burnt to death by his clothes taking fire, during the absence of his mother; the accident was occasioned by the little sufferer setting fire to some straw on the floor.   At Bowhill, in the parish of Rodborough, on the body of ANN DICK, an infant about nine months old, who had been laid on the floor, at a distance from the fire, during a short absence of its mother; when a spark from the grate, communicated to a shawl with which the child was covered, and burnt her so much about the lower extremities, that she expired the next day.  On Monday, at Hasbrook, near Stroud, on the body of MARY EASONELL, a child about five years and a half, who was also burnt to death, in consequence of her clothes taking fire.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   On Thursday an inquest was taken at Withington, in this county, before D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on the body of WM WILKES, who, whilst at work in a quarry at Dowdeswell, the preceding day, was killed by a quantity of stones and rubbish falling upon him. - Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Dec 20.  INQUESTS.  On Monday an inquest was taken at Hailes, near Winchcomb, in this county, on the body of the infant daughter of JOHN SEWARD, who was burnt to death in consequence of a piece of coal falling from the fire on her clothes, during the momentary absence of her mother.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Tuesday last the body of a newly born female child, quite naked, was found floating in a stream of water, at Bleddington, in this county.  The inhuman mother remains at present unknown.

 

 

1814

 

Jan 3.  On Friday last an inquest was taken, before John Jefferies, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of a young man named THOMAS BINGLE, in the employment of a tradesman in this city, who died in great agony the preceding evening.  It appeared on investigation that the deceased had, during a temporary fit of mental derangement, swallowed a quantity of arsenic, the fatal effects of which could not be counteracted, and the jury returned  a verdict, Lunacy.

 

Jan 10.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On the 31st ult. at Bond’s Mills, in the parish of Stonehouse, on view of the body of SAMUEL WILKINS, who, being sent by his master for a horse, on the 26th, was suddenly taken ill on the road, and died before assistance could be procured.  The Coroner held an inquest at the time, when the jury returned their verdict, Sudden Death, no marks of violence being perceptible on the body, except a bruise on the left cheek, supposed to have been received by his falling down.  In a few days, however, rumours were prevalent that WILKINS had been poisoned, in consequence of eating an apple dumpling prepared by his wife; and, in consideration of her feelings, and distressed situation, as well as from the public clamour excited, the Coroner very properly ordered the body to be taken up, after interment, in order that it might be opened, and more minutely examined.  A jury was again assembled, and the most patient investigation took place.  Their decision was suspended from Saturday till Monday, the contents of the stomach of the deceased having in the interim been given to a dog, without producing any deleterious effects on the animal; when the Coroner (who had himself performed the operation of opening the body,) after the most rigid inspection, communicated the results of his observations: - that without further evidence, the charge of poisoning could not be preferred against any person whatsoever.  The jury accordingly returned a verdict, Sudden Death, but not from any injury done to the deceased, to the knowledge of the said jurors.

   On this Thursday last, an inquest was taken at the Red Lion, Bisley, on the body of a male child, the offspring (as appears by her own confession,) of ESTHER GARDINER, single woman, found on Tuesday, wrapped up in part of a stuff petticoat, and secreted in a heap of dung and other soil, where it had lain ever since the month of August last.  It appeared that this was the sixth illegitimate child to which she had given birth, only one of whom remains alive.  The infant appeared to have been full grown and entire; but the body was in too putrid a state to admit the fact being ascertained whether it was born alive.  The jury, after a patient investigation, returned a verdict, That ESTHER GARDINER had privately and secretly brought forth the said child, afterwards secreting it, and denying, at the time, the fact of her pregnancy. - She has in consequence been committed for trial at our next Assizes.      

 

Jan 17.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On Thursday, at Stonehouse, on view of the body of EDWARD ROBERTS, a child about six years old, who was burnt to death in consequence of his clothes taking fire; and on Friday, at Ruscomb, near Stroud, on the body of HENRY FITZHARDING SMITH, about four years old, who perished from a similar cause.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death. 

   On Friday an inquest was held at the Broad Oak, before Thos Commeline, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of MARY FERRIS, who died after a short indisposition.  Suspicions having arisen that something improper had been administered to the deceased, it was judged necessary to have an inquest; but it appearing, upon a patient investigation, that there existed no ground for the opinions entertained, the Jury returned a verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

   On Sunday se’nnight, a new born male child was found in Charlotte street, near Berkeley square, Bristol, and on Monday, the Coroner’s inquest brought in a verdict of wilful murder.  The mother has been discovered, and committed to Bridewell.  Her name is MARY GEORGE; she delivered herself in the street, immediately left her child, and returned to her master’s house, who caused her to be apprehended.

 

Jan 24.   INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  At Bisley, on view of the body of ARABELLA NICHOLLS, a child about five years of age, who was burnt to death in consequence of her clothes taking fire.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  On Friday last, at Tiltup’s Inn, Horsley, on the body of THOMAS KEYNTON, found dead in the snow on the public road, on Thursday morning.  It appeared that on returning from Tetbury the preceding evening, with several other persons, he was left behind, unobserved by his companions, and perished from the severity of the night.  He has left a wife and a large family of children.  Verdict, Died from the inclemency of the weather.

   On Monday an inquest was taken before D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on the body of Mr THOS PITTMAN, of Didbrook, in this county, a prisoner for debt in our County Gaol, where he had been confined only a few days.  The jury returned a verdict, Died of Dropsy.  Every attention that humanity could suggest, had been paid to this unfortunate man by the Governor, as well as the Medical Gentlemen who were called in to his assistance.

   A few days ago, a child of the name of LAKE, at Chipping Campden, in this county, was left by her mother at play with some other infant children in the kitchen, when her clothes caught fire by which she was so dreadfully burnt, that she survived only a few hours.

 

Jan 31.  On Wednesday last, an inquest was taken at South Cerney, in this county, on view of the body of ANN WESTALL, an insane pauper of that parish, found dead on the morning of the 21st inst.  She had laboured under symptoms of mental derangement for several years; and, in consequence of her helpless state, the parish officers allowed her 3 s. per week, and 2 s. to a female for attending and looking after her.  She had a separate apartment in the poor house, with a couch and straw, occasionally changed, as she made a practice of not only tearing, but disposing of her wearing apparel, etc. , and she was likewise provided with several yards of flannel for under garments.  The jury, after a minute investigation, returned a verdict, Died suddenly by the visitation of God.

   Last week, Mr EDWD JAKEMAN, aged 65, was found dead on the turnpike road at Corse Lawn, Worcestershire, supposed to have died in a fit of apoplexy.

 

Feb 7.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On Monday last, at Minchinhampton, on view of the bodies of JOHN  and MARTHA BARNETT, the former aged 81, and the latter 79 years.  They had occupied part of a dwelling, for which they were to pay a small weekly rent; but falling into arrears, their goods were distrained, and they were compelled to seek parochial relief.  They obstinately, however, refused going into the workhouse, where they would have enjoyed more comfort, and were, in consequence, indulged with the use of a little furniture, and were allowed a weekly stipend.   On the Friday preceding, they died within an hour of each other; and some illiberal reports prevailing as to the cause of their death, a neighbouring Magistrate ordered the present inquisition; when the Jury, after a patient investigation, returned a verdict, Died by the visitation of God, and not from want of the necessaries of life.  On Wednesday, at Cirencester, on the body of WM PAYSH, aged about 60, who dropped down in the street, and expired in apparent good health.  Verdict, Sudden Death.

 

Feb 14.  On Wednesday an inquest was taken at Cirencester, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of ANN HUGHES, an infant, about three years of age, whose clothes took fire in consequence of a brand of wood falling from the fire, opposite to where she was seated; when the innocent sufferer was so dreadfully burnt before assistance could be rendered her, that she suvived only about four hours.  Verdict, Accidental Death.   On Monday a child named JOHN CARTER, only eighteen months old, was so dreadfully burnt, at Ross, in the absence of his mother, that he expired in great agonies in the course of the day.

 

Feb 21.   A melancholy accident happened at Thornbury, in this county, on Thursday last.  As Mr JOSEPH FORD and his two men, ADAM HOPKINS, and JOHN TAYLOR, were felling trees on an estate belonging to Dr Newman, a tree accidentally fell on the latter and killed him on the spot.  He has left a widow and four children to lament his loss.

 

Feb 28.  On Tuesday se’nnight, ROBERT COX, who for nearly twenty years had been horse keeper for the mail and other coaches, at Ross, whilst employed in cleaning knives at a gentleman’s house in that town, was suddenly seized with a pain in his stomach, fell to the ground, and expired immediately.  His wife died two days before, and both were buried in the same grave.

 INQUESTS.    Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  At Pitchcombe, on view of the body of a male infant, only seven days old, found suffocated in bed under the body of its mother, who has been subject to epileptic fits for several years, and had previously requested that the child might be taken from her, on account of this infirmity.  After a deliberate investigation, the jury returned a verdict - Sudden Death by suffocation unintentionally effected by the mother.   On Friday, at Stonehouse, on the body of SUSANNA WALKLEY, who, after being hard at work washing the whole day, was cleaning the house, when she fell down, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the visitation of God.

   On Friday, an inquest was held by T Commeline, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of a man found in the river Severn at Haresfield; when the jury, in the absence of all evidence as to the cause of his death, brought in their verdict, Found Drowned.  It is supposed to be the body of a person who has been missing some time from Twining.

 

Mar 7.  INQUESTS.  An inquest was taken at Stonebench, on Wednesday last, by Thos Commeline, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of WM WARRETER, who fell into the river Severn, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 21.  INQUESTS.  Two young men, of the names of JOHN STEPHENS and WM CLARKE, the former servant to Mr White, of Longdon, and the other a farmer in the same neighbourhood, on their way home from Tewkesbury fair, on Monday last, had a trifling dispute at the Upper Load public house; and went into the Tewkesbury Severn Ham to decide the affair.  It being nearly nine o’clock, and quite dark, they fought by light of candles; and, after twelve or fourteen very severe rounds, in which STEPHENS appeared to have somewhat the advantage, he, immediately on jumping up from his second’s knee, and advancing towards his adversary, exclaiming “here I am!” fell flat on his back, and instantaneously expired!  An exulting cry was raised by his antagonist’s party, that he had fallen without a blow; but they soon discovered, to their confusion and alarm, that he fell not without a cause.  It was in vain that medical assistance was directly resorted to - he bled freely, but pulsation had for ever ceased.  An inquest was held on view of the deceased, on Wednesday, before Henry Fowke, Esq. Coroner for the borough, when the body was opened; and, it appearing that he died in consequence of a rupture of the heart, evidently occasioned by his falling upon some hard substance, and clearly not from any blow received from his antagonist, the jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.  The deceased was a very athletic man, in his 24th year, and it is remarkable that, on being advised to give over the contest, he vehemently exclaimed, “I’ll be d--d if I don’t fight as long as I have a drop of blood left in my body.”

   The following inquests were taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On the 5th inst. on view of the body of MARY MILLARD, who appeared to have died from mortification, occasioned by extreme cold, her husband, herself, and four children, having no other bed to lie on than a little bean straw, with a covering of two sack bags cut open at the sides, which constituted the whole of their shelter during the late inclement weather.  Their distress, owing to the extreme dissipation of the husband, (who is a stone mason, and can earn good wages,) was not known to the parish officers, by whom the infant family are now provided for.  The verdict was, Died of mortification from cold, accelerated by the inattention of her husband.   On the 9th inst. at Kingstanley, on the body of JOHN SHURMAR, about 10 years of age, who, whilst at play near a steam engine, was caught by the wheel, and so much injured that he expired soon after.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  And, on Thursday, on the body of MARY BOWLEY, of Avening, aged 62, who fell down, whilst carrying a burthen of wood on her head, and soon after expired.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

 

Mar 28.  ANOTHER INSTANCE OF THE FATAL EFFECTS OF PUGILISM.   On the evening of the 8th inst. as Mr WM HATHWAY, a respectable farmer and grazier, of Wapley, was spending the evening with a party at an inn at Westerleigh, in this county, a misunderstanding occurred between him and a young farmer (T GIBBS, jun. a relative of the landlord,) and they prepared to fight; but Mr HATHWAY, who was overcome by the effects of liquor, in the  act of defending himself, fell, and thereby received so severe a concussion of the brain, that notwithstanding most able medical assistance was immediately had recourse to, it terminated his existence a few days after the accident.  Mr HATHWAY was a man most highly esteemed in that neighbourhood, and has left a wife and 13 children to lament his loss.

 

Apr 4.  INQUESTS.   On Friday, an inquest was taken at Chalford Lynch, Bisley, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of THOS RANDALL, who, whilst felling a beech tree, was thrown down on his back across a stone wall, by one of the branches coming into contact with him, by which the spinal marrow was so much injured as to occasion his death.  He has left a wife and nine young children.  The jury returned a verdict of  Accidental Death. 

   Last week, an inquest was taken, before Thos Commeline, Esq. Coroner, on the body of a man unknown, found near the Flat, in the river Severn.  Verdict, Found drowned.

   The following inquests were taken before Hugh Parnell, Gent. one of the Coroners for the county of Monmouth:  On the21st ult. in the parish of Newchurch East, on the body of WM MAYBERRY, an infant three years old, who, in the absence of his mother, set fire to his clothes, and was so much burnt as to occasion his death a few days afterwards.   On the 24th, at Tintern Parva, on the body of MARY WHITTINGTON, (a poor woman who was lost during the snow, on the night of the 15th January last, at Redbrook,) found drowned in the river Wye.  Verdict, Accidental Death from suffocation and drowning.

 

Apr 25.  On the night of Saturday se’nnight, Capt. M’KENZIE, of the 9th R.V.B.  was discovered suspended, quite dead, in his lodgings at Cheltenham, where he had resided some months; and the Coroner’s inquest returned a verdict of Lunacy.  Capt. M’KENZIE was in his 38th year and had served his country upwards of 20 years.  He fought under Marquis Wellington, and is supposed to have committed the rash act from the relapse of a brain fever, contracted by incessant duty whilst in the Lines near Lisbon.  He united the qualities of a brave and experienced officer with the urbanity of a gentleman.  His remains were interred at Cheltenham churchyard on Tuesday.

   Late in the evening of Easter Monday, two young men, THOS JENKINS, aged 20, and WARING SHEEN, aged 21, had some words at the Oak, at Chammett’s Green, in the parish of Berrow, Worcestershire, when they agreed to fight, and did so by candlelight.  JENKINS appeared to have the advantage of his antagonist, and previous to the commencement of the fourth round said he was not hurt; but on approaching his adversary he fell backwards and instantly expired!  An inquest was taken by Mr Hill, Coroner, when, on opening the body, the heart was found floating in blood, from the rupture of a vessel occasioned, in the opinion of the surgical evidence, by the exertions of the deceased.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

May 9.  INQUESTS.    Taken before W Joyner, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:- On view of the body of WM JENKINS, Master of a sloop bound from Bristol to Berry Island, who, in going down the river, near Kingroad, whilst hoisting the main peak, the haulyards giving way, fell overboard, and was drowned.  And, on the body of the infant child of Mr RALPH BAKER, of Stowick Farm, in the parish of Henbury, who, whilst at play with other children, fell into a piece of water, and, before assistance could be given, was drowned.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

May 16.  On Monday, an inquisition was held at Hinton on the Green, in this county, before D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of G BARNARD, an infant, drowned in the Hinton brook.  Verdict - Accidental Death.

 

May 30.  On the 18th inst. the sloop Industry, of Minsterworth, near this city, J WATHEN master, with stone, from Bristol, was lost on the Noose Sand, in the river Severn.  She was in company with several other vessels, lying-to for the tide, when she was struck on the beam by a very heavy ground swell, which carried away the fore scuttle, and filling with water, she immediately went down by the head.  The sea running high no assistance could be rendered her; and a young man of the name of PHELPS, (who, with the master, were the only persons on board,) was unfortunately drowned.  The latter saved himself with difficulty by leaping into the boat, and cutting the painter, but not before his hand was severely bruised.

   On Thursday an inquest was taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of EDWIN STONE, a child about three years of age, whose death was occasioned by a horse going over him.  The animal was frightened in the street, by am empty sugar cask rolling near him, when, in turning quickly, he struck the child down with his forefoot, and, passing over his body, pressed upon his chest so severely as to cause his death in two hours.  A very respectable jury found a verdict of Accidental Death; and set up a right to value the deodand at 10 s. (the horse being always known to be docile,) which the Lord of the Franchise refuses to accept, claiming the animal.

 

Jun 6.  INQUESTS.  Taken before W Joyner, Esq. Coroner:  On Tuesday, at the Lamb Inn, Lawford’s Gate, Bristol, on view of the body of Mr JOHN REDMAN, aged 64, who, whilst walking along West street, in apparent good health, dropt down, and instantly expired!  Verdict, Sudden Death by the visitation of God.   And, on Thursday, at Clifton, on the body of a lad named JOHN TRIGG, who fell into a rain water cistern, whilst at play, near the Upper Crescent, and was unfortunately drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Friday an inquest was held at Dymock, before D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of RD PETERMAP, who died at the George Inn, on Wednesday.  The Jury, after a minute investigation, returned their verdict, Died suddenly by the visitation of God.

   A most melancholy and  distressing accident occurred at Tewkesbury on Monday last.  As JOHN GREGORY, Esq. a highly  respectable character, of  that town, was fishing in a boat in the Stanchard Pitt, in the river Avon, he was unfortunately upset, from getting imperceptibly (whilst engaged in the act of anchoring) too near the rapid fall of water which incessantly washes over the wear into that part of the river; and notwithstanding, from the most vigorous exertions, he at one time had attained a footing within a few yards of the edge of the water, and nearly within the reach of persons who had ventured as far as prudence would permit those who were able to swim, he fell backwards, and was drowned in the presence of several spectators, incapable of rendering him any assistance.  He was picked up in a little more than half an hour, and every means promptly adopted by the medical gentlemen present to effect resuscitation, but without avail.  Thus prematurely sunk to the tomb, universally beloved and lamented, the tenderest of husbands and most affectionate of fathers, the invaluable friend, and the useful and active member of society.  His remains were on Saturday interred at Cheltenham, his native place; and the amiableness of his character, coupled with the remembrance of his melancholy end, solicited many a sigh, and drew forth many a tear.

 

Jun 13.  There was a splendid illumination at Upton on Severn on Monday night; when a boy was unfortunately killed by a pistol shot.

 

Jun 20.   INQUESTS.  On Thursday se’nnight, an inquest was taken at Horsley, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of FRAS COOK, of St George’s, Bristol, who was killed in returning from Minchinhampton fair, by falling from his horse, which became restless.  Verdict, Accidental Death, and the horse was valued at 7 s. on a deodand.

   On Monday an inquest was taken before D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of the infant daughter of a labouring man named TIPPING, of St Briavels, who being left alone in the house but a few minutes, was so dreadfully burnt that she survived only four hours.  And, on Wednesday, on the body of a BOY UNKNOWN, found in the Severn at Hempstead, near this city, in a very putrid state.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   The verdict of the jury in the case of the boy who was killed by the discharge of a pistol, at Upton upon Severn, as mentioned in our last, was Manslaughter.   The offender was a THOS BRICK, for whose apprehension the coroner has issued his warrant.

 

Jun 27.  On Thursday last, an inquest was taken at Lodgmoor Mill, near Stroud, by W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of THOMAS TOWNSHEND, aged 14 years, who was incautiously washing some teazles near one of the water wheels, when he was suddenly drawn in, and instantly crushed to death.

 

Jul 4.   The following inquests were last week taken before W Joyner, Esq. Coroner:  On Monday, at Blakeney, on view of the body of THOMAS BURGESS, aged 16 years, gamekeeper to Wm Ambrose, Esq. of Hagloe, who dislocated his neck by a fall, on his return home, in the evening of the preceding Saturday.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  On Tuesday, at the parish of Hawkesbury, on the body of Mr NICHOLAS SMITH, who was found dead  in his bed chamber.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God, in a fit of apopolexy.  And, on Wednesday, at Horton, on the body of Mr EPHRAIM PROUT, farmer; who being in a deranged state of mind, put an end to his existence by hanging himself on the preceding Sunday.  Verdict, Lunacy.

 

Jul 18.  On Thursday, an inquest was held on view of the body of a boy, four years of age, who was unfortunately killed by a barrel of pitch falling on his head from a truck, in the Cross Keys lane, in this city.  Verdict - Accidental Death.

 

Jul 25.  Last week an inquest was taken at Eastington, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of a man who had been shooting fish with a gun loaded with gravel stones, which unfortunately burst, and the breech striking him on the fore head fractured his skull, and he died in a day or two after.  Verdict - Accidental Death. 

       A woman of the town of the name of HUNTER, who has for some years occupied a house in Lower Maudlin lane, Bristol, put a period to her existence last week, in the following manner.  About one o’clock, a few  minutes after she had retired to bed, she jumped up, and seizing a large knife, attempted to cut her throat, but was prevented from accomplishing her purpose by a young female who slept with her and who, having wrested the knife out of her hand, ran downstairs and out of the house, in order to procure the assistance of the watch.  During her absence, however, the unfortunate woman threw herself out of a two pairs of stairs window into the area, and was killed - instantaneously, it is supposed, as her skull was fractured in a shocking manner.  Verdict of the Coroner’s Jury, (after an investigation of more than eight hours) Lunacy.  The deceased was upwards of 50 years.

 

Aug 1.  Sunday afternoon as JAMES CLOUD, of Bedminster, Bristol, a youth about 17 years of age, was in the act of gathering a bunch of wild thyme on St Vincent’s Rock, near the Windmill, Clifton, his foot slipped, and he was precipitated over the rock near 100 feet.  Some time elapsed before assistance could be given, from the difficulty of the descent; he was placed in a chair, and by the means of ropes drawn to the top; his skull was fractured in a dreadful manner, besides otherwise bruised.  He was conveyed to the Infirmary, where he lingered till Monday night, and then expired.

 

Aug 8. INQUESTS.  Taken before William Joyner, Esq. Coroner:  On Wednesday se’nnight, at Wotton Underedge, on view of the body of RICHARD BROWNING, about eight years of age, who, on his way to a farm house, fell into a brook at Huntingford, and was drowned.  On Friday, at the parish of Mangotsfield, on the body of CHARLES HENDY, coal miner, who fell from the landing way of the engine pit at Pucklechurch (being 35 fathom,) and was killed on the spot.  On Saturday, at Clearwell, in the parish of Newland, on the body of WM EVANS, servant to James Garsed, Esq. who, whilst bathing in a mill pond near Redbrook, got beyond his depth, and was drowned.  And, on Thursday, at Hambrook, near Bristol, on the body of WM SHARPE, aged 14 years, who, in the act of throwing a dog into a stone quarry 30 feet deep, fell in, and was drowned before assistance could be rendered him.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   On the 29th ult. an inquest was taken at Cirencester, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of ELIZ. MACE, found drowned in shallow water, in the back brook of Barton Mill, at that place.  It appeared that she had fallen whilst crossing the bridge; and being stunned by her head coming into contact with a large stone, she was unable to extricate herself.  The bridge being much out of repair, the Jury adverted to it.  And, on Saturday last, an inquest was taken before the same Coroner, at Brimscomb Port, on the body of Mr JOHN BUTLER,  plumber and glazier, who was killed by the pressure from a water wheel, occasioned by his falling whilst employed in repairing a pump belonging to the mill.  Verdict in both cases, Accidental Death.

 

1814.  Aug 8.     On Saturday morning last, as Mr EUSEBIUS BEESTON, second son of the late Rev JOHN HOWTON BEESTON, MA, Vicar of Walford, near Ross, was returning from bathing in the Wye, at Ross, with four other gentlemen, he was seized with a fit, fell over the side of the boat, and was drowned.  Every exertion was made by his friends, who were experienced swimmers; but as he never rose again, it was near half an hour before the body could be taken out.  Dr Lewis, and Mr Rootes, surgeon, attended with the greatest alacrity, and employed every possible means to restore animation, but without effect.  Mr Beeston was in the 22d year of his age, much esteemed by all who knew him, and has left a disconsolate mother, who has not only to lament the loss of this son by a watery grave, but that of her eldest son also, who perished in the Lord Nelson Indiaman, about three years ago, at the same period of life!

 

Aug 15.  INQUESTS.  On Monday an inquest was taken, at Wick and Abson, in this county, before Wm Joyner, Esq. on view of the body of Mr GEO BUSH, who killed himself by a pistol shot on the morning of the preceding Saturday.  It appearing in evidence, that he had been in a deranged state of mind for a month past, occasioned by the loss of a beloved wife who died in child bed, the jury returned a verdict of Lunacy.

   The following inquests have been taken before H Parnell, Esq. one of the Coroners for the county of Monmouth:  On the 26th ult. in the parish of Llanishen, on view of the body of WM DAVIES, found dead in bed.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.  And, on the 1st inst. at Chepstow, on the body of JAS WATERS, a youth of 15, who, whilst bathing in the river Wye, was unfortunately drowned by getting beyond his depth.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Sep 12.  In the evening of Saturday se’nnight, as JAS HUNT, coal carrier, was returning home from Bath on the Upper Bristol road, he was met, whilst riding in his cart, and on the wrong side of the road, by a young gentleman on horse back, who demanded his name; which the other, with violent abuse, refused giving.  The gentleman endeavouring to read it on the front of the cart, was prevented by HUNT, who leaped out of the cart, and, as he was striking the other with a whip or a staff, he received a pistol shot, and instantly expired.  A Coroner’s Inquest, after a long investigation, (in which a man who was riding in the cart with HUNT was the principal evidence,) brought in a verdict of Manslaughter against Mr J WILTSHIRE, of Bristol, who rode into Bath immediately after the fatal encounter, dispatched medical gentlemen to the spot where it took place, and then called a Magistrate to acknowledge what he feared had been the consequence of the act, which, on being assaulted, he had committed.

 

Sep 26.   On Thursday evening, a boy, about seven years old, fell from a plank into the river Severn, near the Westgate Bridge, and was unfortunately drowned.

   INQUESTS.  Taken last week before Wm Joyner, Esq. Coroner:  On Monday, at Chipping Sodbury, on view of the body of WM SHEARWOOD, who, on his return home the preceding Saturday evening with a cart, the horse took fright, when, in endeavouring to stop the animal, he was precipitated to the ground, and the wheel going over his head caused instant death.  On Wednesday, at the parish of Cam, on the body of an infant child of Mr W ELLIOT, who was deprived of life by having a quantity of oil of vitriol administered to it by a servant, in mistake for Godfrey’s cordial.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

  On Wednesday evening, as Mr GILES HYATT, a respectable man, was returning home on foot, from Kingscote Races, to his residence at Kingstanley. he was rode against, and thrown down, by a person on horseback; and, before he could recover himself, a second person rode against him, when the horse of the latter fell, and threw his rider.  Poor Mr HYATT expired next evening, of the injuries he received, remaining the whole time in a state of insensibility.  An inquest was taken on the body, at Kingscote, and a verdict returned of Accidental Death.

 

Oct 3.  A few days since, the putrid body of a MAN UNKNOWN, was found drowned in the river near Leachlade.  It is supposed to be that of a person named WOOD, a shoemaker, who has been several weeks missing from Benson, Oxon.

 

Oct 3.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On Monday, at Cirencester, on view of the body of Mr WM BROWN, (book keeper to Messrs Tanner and Baylis, London Carriers,) who was found dead in the street, early in the morning of the preceding Saturday, with his skull fractured, and his body severely bruised in sundry parts.  It is conjectured that he must have fallen down in the middle of the street, in a state of inebriety, and, going to sleep in that situation, was passed over by a heavy stage waggon, undiscovered by the driver, who, from the darkness of the night, could not discern the body, although the horses were startled to such a degree as some of them to get disengaged from the gears.  The jury, after a patient investigation, (from the want of evidence to prove whether the catastrophe was occasioned by the waggon wheels or horses,) returned a verdict, Accidental Death.

   And yesterday, BENJAMIN BLACK, by Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, charged with the wilful murder of an illegitimate male infant, in the parish of Horsley.

 

Oct 10.  INQUESTS.  On Saturday se’nnight, an inquest was taken at the Boot Inn, Horsley, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of BENJ BLACK WILLIAMS, an illegitimate child, about two and a half years old, of whom a man named BENJAMIN BLACK was the reputed father.  It appeared in evidence, that BLACK, and the child were the only persons in the house at the time when the injury was sustained which was supposed to have occasioned the death of the latter, on the evening of the 29th ult. having been seen at play, in apparent health, on the morning of that day.  It was also proved that BLACK  had cruelly treated the child previous to the day of his death; and that he had repaired to a neighbouring inn, not an hour prior to his dissolution, where he exulted that he was in a likely way to get rid of an expence of 1s 6d  a week, which he contributed towards the infant.  Before he left this house, intelligence was brought of the poor boy’s death, when he exclaimed, “Is he by God!”and subsequently made use of some very scandalous and inhuman expressions respecting bastards and their mothers.  The chief cause of the death of the helpless sufferer, was injury on the brain, occasioned by external violence on or about the forehead; and the head would readily admit of such motion as to turn the face quite round to the back, without any resistance of the muscles of the neck.  Notwithstanding the child lived for several hours in great agony, no medical aid was applied for; and the parish officers were ignorant of the circumstances till after his death.  One of the witnesses observing BLACK wiping blood from the child’s mouth with a handkerchief, prior to his death, enquired how he had been injured? to which BLACK  replied, that he had fallen down two steps of the stairs backwards; but no injury whatever was discernible on the back part of the head, altho’ several old bruises were discovered, which were known to have been inflicted by the father.  After a patient investigation of twelve hours, the jury returned a verdict of Wilful Miurder against BENJAMIN BLACK, who had fled, but was apprehended about midnight by the vigilance of the police officers, and committed to our County gaol, as mentioned in our last.

 

Oct 17.  On Wednesday, an inquest was taken before D Willey, Esq. Coroner, at Uckington, in this county, on view of the body of W FRANCIS, who, whilst standing on a ladder gathering apples, it fell with him to the ground, whereby he received so much injury that he expired in half an hour.  This unfortunate man has left a wife and four infant children to lament his loss.  Verdict - Accidental Death.

   About seven o’clock on Thursday morning, TIMOTHY KITE, stone mason, and THOS BRASSINGTON, labourer, whilst employed in repairing Over Bridge, near this city, were, by the falling of the scaffold on which they were at work, precipitated into the Severn, where the water was of considerable depth.  A fisherman who fortunately happened to be on the spot, instantly put off with his boat to their assistance, and happily succeeded in rescuing them both, but not before KITE was completely exhausted, and apparently lifeless, although they had been only a short time in the water.  The body was carried to the turnpike house, where the toll keeper rendered every assistance in his power, and in a short time animation was restored, when he talked to those around him with coolness and precision; but having sustained some serious internal injury in the fall, he vomited a quantity of blood, and expired, after lingering five hours in considerable pain.  BRASSINGTON was able to walk as soon as he came out of the boat, and quickly recovered, except from the effects of some trifling bruises.

 

Oct 24.  Last week, Capt BEVAN, of the Unity, of Carmarthen, fell into the float near the Back, Bristol, and was drowned.  And, on Saturday se’nnight, a poor woman mistook her way, and walked into the float, at the Ferry at the bottom of Queen street, Bristol, and was drowned.  Tuesday, two boys on a scaffold cleaning the side of a vessel, near Guinea street Slip, Bristol, were precipitated into the float; one of them was taken out immediately, but the other was unfortunately drowned.

 

Oct 31.  On Tuesday night, as Mr RICHARD WHITE, and Mr JAMES IRELAND, both of Forthampton, were returning home from Tewkesbury, they were drowned in the river Severn, near Lower Lode.  They left Tewkesbury together, between ten and eleven o’clock, and it is supposed they were imprudent enough to attempt to ride through the river, as their horses were found on the opposite side in the morning.  After a long search, the bodies were discovered, in different parts of the river, a little below the ferrying place, on Friday.  They were both single young men, and have left parents to lament the fatal consequences of juvenile rashness and folly.  This awful example, it is hoped, will teach the daring and inconsiderate in future, rather to prefer the more safe conveyance of the ferry boat, than trust too far in the strength of their horses and their own dexterity - for though the horse will swim to an immense distance when unencumbered, yet it is unsafe in the highest degree to ride him across a rapid stream, as the most trifling check to the left or right will often throw him so much on his side as to dislodge even a very careful rider.

INQUESTS.  On Thursday, at Staverton, before D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of HARRIETT MILLS, an infant, who was riding on a cart, which being met by a waggon belonging to Mr Jeynes, of Arle Mill, (on the rathes of which the driver was riding, instead of properly directing the horses,) they came into contact with such violence, that the poor child was thrown under the wheels of the waggon, and killed on the spot.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  The carter, to avoid a prosecution, has agreed to pay five guineas to the parents of the child for funeral expences.

  On Tuesday, before John Jefferies, Coroner for this city, on the body of a newborn infant, found in the privy of Mr King, pastry cook, of Westgate street.  It appeared that PHOEBE HOLDER, the servant of Mr King, had privately delivered herself; but the medical gentleman who was called in, satisfactorily proving that the child was still born, the charge of murder was done away; she was, however, ordered to be committed for trial for concealing the birth, and will, when sufficiently recovered, be removed to prison.

   On Monday, an inquest was taken at Shire newton, Monmouthshire, before H  Parnell, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of Mrs MARY HOWELL, who was found dead in the King’s highway the preceding evening.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Nov 7.  An inquest has been taken at Cheltenham, before D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of HENRY HERBERT, a common beggar from the Camp,  near Bisley, who suddenly fell down dead in the street, whilst asking relief.  He had plenty of victuals and money in his pocket.  Verdict, Died Suddenly in a fit.

 

Nov 14.  INQUESTS.  The following inquests have lately been taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county: on the 4th inst. at Chalford, on view of the body of JOHN WEBB, aged 62, who was killed by a large clothing stock falling on his head.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  On the 8th inst. at Stroud, on the body of HENRY PEGLAR, aged 7 years, who died of an inflammation of the stomach and bowels.  Having complained of great coldness and shivering, his brother gave him some spirituous liquors with an intention to warm him, but these accelerating the disorder, he died in about thirty six hours after.  Verdict, Died of disease, hastened by the liquor.   And on the 12th, at Woodchester, on the body of ABRAHAM HARRIS, a child about six years old, who was burnt to death by his clothes taking fire, occasioned, as is supposed, by an attempt to take some potatoes out of a pot which was on the fire.  None but children being present, he was so dreadfully burnt before assistance could be procured, that he died shortly after.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

  On Monday, an inquest was taken at Upton upon Severn, Worcestershire, on view of the body of JOSEPH SMITH, chaise driver, of Pershore, who, on his return from Blackmore Park, last Saturday evening, stopped at the door of the Lion Inn, to refresh the horses, when the report of a pistol, fired in the street, caused the animals to take fright, and they set off at full speed; the deceased vainly strove to check the rapidity of their course, and in the attempt he was thrown down, the wheels passed over his body, and he met instantaneous death.  The horses pursued their way to Upton Ham, where the chaise was at length overturned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Nov 21.  Thursday night, about ten o’clock, a person of the name of JAMES HARRIS, fell into the float near the Stone Bridge, Bristol, and was drowned.  He had just before left the house of a relative in St Stephen’s street, and is supposed to have been deceived by the lamps on the bridge and opposite side.  He was soon afterwards got up and conveyed to the Greyhound public house, and the usual means for restoration persevered in for nearly three hours, but without effect.

   Yesterday se’nnight, a poor infirm man, named THOMAS KEY, put a period to his existence by suspending himself from a cord fastened to a beam in the bedroom of a tenement he occupied at the back part of the High street, Tewkesbury.  It appeared that the unfortunate man had for a considerable time laboured under extreme depression of spirits as well as bodily infirmity; and a coroner’s inquest which was held on the body on Tuesday,  before H Fowke, Esq. returned a verdict of - Lunacy.

   Monday morning a woman, in a fit of insanity, threw herself from the window of a house on St John’s bridge, into the float, Bristol, and was drowned.  Same morning, the body of a man was taken out of the float in the Back, ascertained to have belonged to a coal vessel, and had been missing about three weeks.  And, on Thursday night, about ten o’clock, a person of the name of JAMES HARRIS fell into the float, near the Stone Bridge, Bristol, and was drowned.

   On Monday last the body of W BURCOMBE, son of Mr Burcombe, of the Barge Tavern, Bardford, Wiltshire, was found in the lock of the canal, near his father’s house.  He had been missing since the preceding Thursday, and his unfortunate death is attributed to the darkness of the night, and there being no fence to the road.

 

Dec 5.  On Monday evening last, the following melancholy event took place at the Ferry house at Goodrich, in the county of Hereford:  About the close of the day, some persons returning from Ross, requested to be passed over from the opposite shore; when, owing to the darkness of the night, and the rapid current of the river, Mr WELLING, the renter, being with the boat himself, the rope by which she is hauled across slipped above the roller, and he was dragged overboard; yet, by clinging to the rope with his hands, he warped himself on shore; but, unhappily, just as he had recovered his footing,  and was looking after the fate of the boat from the quay, a stone on which he stood gave way, and he was again precipitated into the river, where, from the extreme darkness, and no person being near, he perished in a deep part of the stream, close to the shore.  His body was not found till three hours after the accident.  He has left a wife and large family, to lament his premature fate.  The boat was carried down by the current as far as the Kern, where the passengers, by laying hold of some sally boughs, stopt her further progress, and got safe on shore.

   On Friday last, some workmen employed in building the new mills, belonging to Messrs Haskins and Co. of Nailsworth, in this county, having imprudently overloaded one of the scaffolds, the joists gave way, when three men, of the names of JOHN RODWAY, WM DEE, and JAS DREW, were precipitated from the top, through four unfinished floors, a height of 37 feet!  They were nearly buried  among the stones and tiles that accompanied them in their fall, (there being, it was supposed, about three waggon loads of the latter that fell with them;) yet, through a merciful Providence, neither of them were killed, or had a bone broken.  They were taken up dreadfully lacerated and bruised, and two of them were immediately conveyed to our Infirmary.

INQUESTS.  On Monday, an inquest was taken before Wm Joyner, Esq. Coroner, at Bream’s Lodge, on view of the body of MARY ATKINSON, who, on the preceding Saturday morning, threw herself into a fish pool, and was drowned.  It appeared in evidence, that she had become distracted, in consequence of a fellow servant, by whom she was pregnant, deserting her and leaving the country; which preyed so much on her mind as to drive her to the desperate act of suicide.  After a patient investigation of six hours, by a most respectable jury, a verdict was returned of Lunacy.

   The following inquests were taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:- On the 20th ult. at Chalford Lynch, on the body of Mrs JONES, wife of Mr Jones, watchmaker, who dropped down, and almost instantly expired.  She was supposed to be in a state of pregnancy, and has left several young children.  And, same day, at Brimscombe Port, on the body of MARY HILLIER, single woman, aged 40, who fell down, and expired in a similar manner.  Verdict in each case, Sudden Death.

 

Dec 12.  A few days since, a child about three years of age,  named FANNY HART, being left by herself in her mother’s house at Ross, her clothes caught fire, and the poor innocent was burnt to such a degree that she only survived till next day.

MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT.   On Tuesday, two lads about 13 years of age, twin sons of Mr RD LLOYD, a respectable barge owner of Stourport, were drowned in the river Avon, at Evesham.  They had solicited their father’s permission to go on the water in his own boat, which he peremptorily refused; but they rashly got into another, and were carried by the rapidity of the stream towards the bridge, where, the river being too high to admit their going through the arch with the mast standing, the boat was upset, and they both perished within sight of their distracted parents!  - A third boy (apprentice to their father) who was with them, was fortunately saved.  What contributes to render this melancholy circumstance still more distressing is, that the two unhappy youths were the only children of their parents, unusually attached to each other, and boys of more than ordinary capacity.  They had formed a predilection for their father’s employment, and had designed the vessel, of which he was the owner, with the title of  “THE WILLIAM AND JOSEPH,”  names corresponding with their own.

 

Dec 26.  INQUESTS.  Taken beforer Wm Joyner, Esq. Coroner:  On Thursday last, at Cambridge, in this county,  on view of the body of Mr JOHN BRINKWORTH, timber merchant, of Kingstanley, found drowned in a piece of water at Gossington, near the entrance of Slimbridge field.  It transpired in evidence, that the deceased had passed thro’ the turnpike gate at Nubbis Ash, about six o’clock the preceding evening, on his return home from Bristol, and was then observed to be in a state of intoxication; it was therefore supposed, that he must have fallen from his horse whilst the animal was drinking at the above pool, and was drowned.  On searching his pockets, 160 l. in cash and notes was found therein.  And, on Friday, at Thornbury, on the body of JOHN NOTT, thatcher, aged 70, who, whilst repairing a wheat rick, fell from the ladder, and was killed on the spot.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   An inquest was lately taken at Rodborough, on view of the bodies of THOS GOLDING and EDWD HERBERT, found drowned in the Thames and Severn Canal.  It appeared that they had been walking together (supposed to be arm in arm) on the towing path, and carrying a bundle, when, from the darkness of the night, they unfortunately fell into the canal lock opposite the Ham Mill, and were drowned.  They have each left a wife, the former with ten, the latter with six children!   Verdict, Accidental Death.

WARNING TO SABBATH BREAKERS.  The following melancholy occurrence took place on Sunday se’nnight.  Two youths, of this city, of the names of LODGE and HOSKINS, went into the fields for the purpose of killing birds; when, in making their way thro’ a hedge, the muzzle of the gun in the hands of the latter struck upon the butt of his companion’s piece and went off, discharging the whole of its contents into the side of the unfortunate LODGE, who was immediately taken to our Infirmary, where he expired on Tuesday.  An inquest, held before John Jefferies, Esq. Coroner, brought in a verdict of Accidental Death.

 

 

 

1815

 

Jan 2.  On Thursday last an inquest was taken before T Commeline, Esq. Coroner, on view of the bodies of JOHN RANDALL and his son, who were unfortunately drowned on Wednesday night, by the surface water rushing in on them whilst at work in a well in the neighbourhood of this city.  The land floods having risen very suddenly, an adjoining brook which became momentarily choaked up, overflowed its banks to a considerable height, and the place being remote from any habitation the deplorable situation of the unhappy sufferers was not discovered till all assistance was rendered vain.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  We hear that subscriptions are left at the different banks in this city, for the widow and her five children.

 

Jan 9.  A melancholy accident ocurred at Evesham, on Monday last.  One of the workmen, in the employ of Messrs Roberts, Reynolds, and Co. Oilmen, of that place, while engaged in oiling the machinery upon their premises, his clothes got entangled round one of the wheels, by which he was drawn in, and, shocking to relate, was instantly crushed to death.  The unfortunate man has left a disconsolate wife and three young children to lament his loss.

INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county:-  On the 29th ult. at Kinstanley, on the body of a new born male child, the offspring of ANN BEARD, single woman.  This investigation took place at the request of a very respectable Magistrate, in consequence of some circumstances, which tended to throw suspicion on the conduct of the mother; but, after a patient inquiry, the jury returned a verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.  And, on Friday last, on the body of DANIEL CLIFFORD, carter to Mr Hillman, of Light Pill, whose death was occasioned by a waggon loaded with wheat passing over his neck and chest the preceding evening, on his return home from Gloucester.  It was supposed that he had been riding on the shafts, his body being discovered in the morning, in a ditch, to which he must have crawled after the accident, as his whip was found near the body, and his money and other property all safe. - He was a sober, steady man; and has left a wife and family to lament his loss.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jan 16.  INQUESTS.  Taken before William Trigg, Gent:-  On Monday, at Cirencester, on view of the body of BETTY URSELL, found dead in a brook, near her own house, (supposed to be drowned, no marks of violence being visible.)  Verdict, Found Drowned.   And, on Wednesday, at Moreton in Marsh, on the body of JOHN ELLIS, about twelve years of age, who was killed whilst loading dung, by the cart falling on him, from one of the props giving way.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Feb 6.  INQUESTS.  On the 27th ult. at Minchinhampton, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of NATHANIEL KING, who, whilst at work in a stone quarry on the Common, having incautiously undermined the ground too far, a quantity of stone and rubbish fell upon him, and injured him to such a degree that he expired soon after.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Monday, an inquest was taken at Swindon, near Cheltenham, before D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of EDITH HAMLET, an infant about four years old, who, on the preceding Thursday, was left alone in the house, while her parents were at their labour, when by some means her clothes caught fire, and before the neighbours could come to her assistance, she was so dreadfully burnt that she languished only till the Saturday following.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Feb 13.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On Wednesday last, at Sapperton, on view of the body of WM BARGE, who fell from a steep bank into the Thames and Severn Canal, and was drowned.  On Thursday, at Eastington, on the body of PAUL UNDERWOOD, about four years old, who was so dreadfully burnt by his clothes taking fire, whilst left alone for a short time, that he expired the next day.  And, on Friday, at Stonehouse, on the body of EDW ROBERTS, barge master, who, whilst walking under Dudbridge, struck his head with such violence against a projection, that he was precipitated into the river, and drowned, before any effectual assistance could be rendered him.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.  

 

Feb 20.  INQUESTS.  Taken before D Willey, Esq. Coroner.  - On Monday, at Rodley, in the parish of Westbury, on view of the body of JOHN MORGAN, who died suddenly the preceding Friday; and, same day, at the same place, on the body of WM HAWKES, who died suddenly the preceding Saturday.  Verdict in each case, Died in a fit.  -  On Tuesday, at Cheltenham, on the body of  JOHN HARE, who was found the preceding Sunday suspended from the landing-place on the top flight of stairs, in the dwelling house of Mrs Hayden.  Verdict, Lunacy.

 

Feb 27.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner. - On Tuesday last, at Kingstanley, on view of the body of GEO FOWLER, a child about four years of age, burnt to death in consequence of his clothes taking fire.  Verdict, Accidental Death.   And, on Wednesday, at the Hare and Hounds public house, on the Cheltenham road, in the parish of Churchdown, on the body of a young man of the name of HUGHES, apparently about 20 years of age, found early the preceding evening, suspended from a pear tree near the above place.  This unfortunate man, who was in a diseased state, and had on a uniform Jacket of the Gloucester Militia, had taken extraordinary pains to prevent the possibility of struggling or resistance, by deliberately pinioning his arms behind him with a cord, which he had then passed round his body, and tied in front; and, after fixing the rope round his neck, it was ascertained that he had ascended the tree and thrown himself off, to insure almost instant death.  He had been employed as a labourer at the New Shire Hall building in this city, whence he had been discharged but two days prior to his taking the fatal resolution of destroying himself.  It is said, he was a native of Painswick.  The jury returned a verdict, Lunacy.

 

Mar 13. INQUEST. Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner. - At Charlton King’s, near Cheltenham, on view of the body of THOMAS STAITE, about two years of age, who fell backwards into a large pan of scalding water, which was standing on the floor.  The little innocent languished till the next day, when he died convulsed.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 20.  INQUESTS.   Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On the 6th inst. at Ampney St Mary, on view of the body of ALEX HEGNALL, aged 64, who dropt down and died whilst coming down stairs.  It appeared, that, about a week previous to his death, whilst passing on the turnpike road, carrying a yoke and buckets, being deaf, he did not hear the Oxford mail coming behind him, and one of the leaders unfortunately threw him down; by which he was considerably injured, but was supposed to have been nearly recovered.  The jury, on viewing the road, was of opinion there was some want of caution in the driver not quartering more, altho’ his general character was unimpeachable.  Verdict, Sudden Death.   On the 10th inst. at Stow on the Wold, on the body of Mr GEO HAMBAGE, of Westcote, who fell from his horse into a quarry, where he lay all night in a state of insensibility, from a concussion of the brain.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  On the 11th inst. at Minchinhampton, on the body of THOS PEARCE, aged 44, who was discovered apparently asleep in his chair; but his family, who had retired to bed, obtaining no reply upon calling to him, came down stairs, and found him lifeless.  Verdict, Sudden Death.

   Inquests taken before Wm Joyner, Esq. Coroner:  On the 6th inst. at Brockweir, in the parish of St Briavels, on view of the body of JOHN WORGAN, aged 23, who, on the evening of the Saturday preceding, fell from off the bowsprit of a trow in the river Wye, at Brockweir, and was unfortunately drowned.  He bore an excellent character, and was much respected.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  And, on the 7th inst. at Compton Greenfield, in the parish of Henbury, on the body of JOHN SHEPSTONE, yeoman, aged 39, who, having been in a deranged state of mind for some time past, threw himself into a pool of water, and was drowned.  Verdict, Lunacy.

 

Mar 27.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On the 18th inst. at Painswick, on view of the body of HANNAH HAZELDINE, widow, who died on the preceding Wednesday.  Rumours having been propagated, that she had been denied medical assistance and proper nutriment by her parents, (who had for some time been in the house with her,) notwithstanding the benevolent attention of her neighbours, in supplying her with money and other necessaries, a rigid investigation took place as to the cause of her death; but nothing appearing to substantiate the charge, altho’ a surgeon was examined, the Jury returned a verdict, Died of Disease, and not from privation.

 

Mar 27.  At Bisley, on the body of a new born male child, who appeared to have died suddenly, the third day after its birth, of internal inflammation.  The external appearances of the body gave rise to some conjectures among the neighbours, in consequence of which an investigation took place in the presence of a respectable Magistrate and several other persons.  A surgeon from Stroud attended, and opened the body, at the suggestion of the mother of the child, in consciousness of her innocence; but, after the most minute inquiry into the circumstances of the case, the Jury, perfectly satisfied, returned a verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

 

Apr 10.  On Monday an inquest was taken at Minchinhampton, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of a new born female child, who died suddenly during the absence of the attendant on the mother.  The jury, after a minute investigation, returned a verdict, Died Suddenly from some cause at present unknown.

   At Somerset Assizes, Mr JOHN WILTSHIRE  surrendered himself on a charge of shooting one HUNT, a collier, on the Upper Bristol road to Bath, in September last.   The Grand Jury, after examining all the witnesses for the prosecution, threw out the bill for wilful murder; - he was afterwards put to his trial for manslaughter, of which, after a close investigation of the circumstances, he was acquitted.

 

Apr 17.  On Wednesday an inquest was taken at Minsterworth, before T Commeline, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of ANN PURTON, found drowned in the River Severn.  Verdict, Lunacy.

 

May 1.  INQUESTS.  Taken before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On the 18th ult. at Stroud, on view of the body of a new born child.  Verdict, Died from diarrhoea.   On the 20th, at Kingstanley, on the body of an infant, about five months old, found dead in bed.  Verdict, Died from Suffocation.  On the 23rd, at Stonehouse, on the body of GEORGE COSHAM, who, in a fit of insanity, drowned himself the preceding evening, in the Stroud Canal.  Verdict, Lunacy.  On the 20th, at Kingstanley, on the body of a child, about two years old, found dead in bed.  Verdict, Sudden death by the visitation of God.

   On Thursday night a man of the name of HARWOOD, belonging to Lidbrook, fell from a barge coming down the river Wye, two miles above Chepstow, and was unfortunately drowned.  On Saturday se’nnight a boy fell into Berkeley Pill, and was drowned.  On Wednesday, a boy, seven years of age, was drowned in the river Monnow, near Monmouth, whilst angling.

 

May 8.  Tuesday morning, about one o’clock, the cries of a person in distress were heard issuing from the float, opposite St Augustine’s Church, Bristol.  Some time elapsed before assistance could be procured, and the body was not found till near four o’clock.  The Coroner’s Inquest have since returned their verdict, Accidental Death.  He proved to be a Mr MACMAHONE, a Lieutenant in the army on half pay.

 INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On Tuesday last, on view of the body of Mr WM LOCKSTONE, carrier, who, late on Saturday night, fell from his cart, whilst in the act of getting out to pick up a basket that had dropped from the same, and was killed on the spot.  Verdict, Accidental Death.   And, on Friday, at Avening, on the body of SUSANNAH FARLEY, aged about 43, who died under circumstances which led to a suspicion of violence; but, after a minute investigation, the Jury returned a verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

  The following inquests have recently been taken before D Willey, Esq. Coroner:  At Bishop’s Cleeve, on view of the body of MARY PHILLIPS, an old woman, who was found burnt to death, supposed to be occasioned by her clothes taking fire from a candle as she was attempting to warm her bed.  At Dowdeswell, on the body of ROBERT SMITH,  who was killed by a drag passing over his body.  And, at Hardwick, on the body of W CARSE, an infant, burnt to death by his clothes taking fire in his father’s kitchen.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

 

May 15.  INQUESTS.  Taken last week before W Joyner, Esq. Coroner:  On Monday, at Yorkley, near Lidney, on view of the body of JAMES SMART, aged 10 years, who fell into a large tub of boiling wort the Thursday preceding, and was scalded to death.   Wednesday, at the parish of Newland, on the bodies of STEPHEN BLANCH, aged 22, and JOS BLANCH, aged 20, sons of Mr Blanch, coal miner, who, whilst at work in a coalpit, in the Forest of Dean, about three tons weight of stone and rubbish fell upon them, which caused almost instant death.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.  And on Friday, at the parish of Cromhall, on the body of SARAH ADLAM, asged 13, who, being overtaken by a thunderstorm, on her return home from a field where she had been planting potatoes, was struck by lightning, which caused her death.  She was a young woman of good character and very much respected by her neighbours.  Verdict, Visitation of God by Lightning.

 

May 29.  INQUESTS.    Lately taken before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  At Cirencester, on view of the body of JOHN STRATFORD, a carter in the employ of Earl Bathurst, who fell from the front of a waggon on which he was riding, when the wheels passing over his head occasioned instant death.  He has left a wife and seven children to lament his loss.  At the same place, on the body of JOHN WINSTONE, aged [11] years, who was taking a horse to water, and leading another, when he was thrown off and kicked with such violence as to fracture his skull.  And, on Thursday, at Chalford, on the body of a man aged 83 years, who fell backwards off some steps, and so injured his head, that he died  instantly.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   Inquests taken before W Joyner, Esq. Coroner:  At Purton Passage, on the body of JAMES TAYLOR, who being on board a trow going up the river Severn to Gloucester, was struck overboard by the tiller of the helm, and unfortunately drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  At Chipping Sodbury, on the body of Mr RICHARD JONES, shopkeeper, who hanged himself on a beam in his cellar.  Verdict, Insanity.  At Wick and Abson, on the body of Mr JOSEPH PERRY, a respectable farmer of that place, aged 36 years, who died of a pistol shot on the Sunday preceding.  It appeared in evidence that he went early on that morning in one of his own fields to frighten the rooks from the new sown barley, and after loading the pistol he put it into his side pocket with the muzzle upwards; soon after, it went off, and the contents entering his body caused almost instant death.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jun 5.  On Sunday morning last the body of Mr ALLEN, a respectable brewer, of Berkeley, was found in the road near Nubbin’s Ash Turnpike.  The unfortunate gentleman had attended our market the preceding day, and is supposed to have fallen from his horse in consequence of one of his stirrup leathers breaking.  His death must have been instantaneous, as the neck was completely dislocated.  An inquest was taken at Oxenton, on Thursday last, before D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of THOMAS GUDDER, who was killed whilst working in a stone quarry, by a quantity of rubbish, &c. falling in upon him.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  The unfortunate man has left a widow and a large family to lament his untimely end.  Several other workman in the quarry narrowly escaped.

 

Jun 12.  INQUESTS.  Taken before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On the 20th ult. at Woodchester, on view of the body of SAMUEL WALKLEY, who was found dead in a wood where he had gone to his usual work alone.  And on Wednesday last, at Painswick Sladd, on the body of Mrs ESTHER COX, aged about 60, who was found dead in her house.  Verdict in each case, Sudden Death by the visitation of God.

 

Jun 19.  On Friday afternoon, a private of the Berks. Militia, on the march through Tewkesbury, was drowned whilst bathing in the River Avon, at that place.  On Tuesday evening a youth of great promise, apprentice to Mr HICKS, builder, of this city, was unfortunately drowned whilst bathing in the Severn, near Maisemore.  The body was found next morning.

  On Thursday, the body of SAMUEL EDEN, labourer, was taken out of the Severn at Westgate bridge, adjoining this city; but no discovery having been made as to the cause of his unhappy fate, the Coroner’s Jury returned a verdict, Found drowned.

 

Jun 26.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On Thursday, at Avening, on view of the body of THOS GILMAN, a child about three years of age, who, whilst at play near a mill  pond at Inchbrook, fell in and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  Same day, at Horsley, on the body of an infant about six days old, whose mother, from the illness of the child, having incautiously administered a deleterious composition, in imitation of Godfrey’s Cordial, convulsions ensued, and death put an end to the sufferings of the innocent in a few hours.  Verdict, Died from the effects of the nostrum, (given with good intention,) but connected with disease.

 

Jul 3.  Monday afternoon, as SAMUEL STEPHENS, a native of Cirencester, about the age of 13, was bathing in the Thames, near Oxford, he was seized with the cramp, and, before any assistance could be rendered him, was unfortunately drowned.

 

Jul 10.  INQUESTS.  Taken before D Willey, Esq. Coroner:  At Upton St Leonards, in this county, on view of the body of JOHN BISHOP, found dead the preceding day.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.  On Tuesday, at Winchcomb, on the body of CHARLES PET[????], an infant, who, whilst playing near the Wier Brook, in that parish, fell in and was drowned.  On Thursday, at Fairford, on the body of ANN NASH, an infirm old woman, living in Lodge House, who fell into the fire, and was so dreadfully burnt that she expired.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.  And, same day, at Fairford, on the body of ELIZ. WAKEFIELD, an infant, who, in crossing the road, was thrown down by a carriage, the fore and hind wheel of which passing over her body, caused instant death.  No blame attached to the driver.  Verdict, Died in consequence of the carriage going over her body.

 

Jul 17.  INQUESTS.  Taken before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  At Kingstanley, on view of the body of JOHN JENKINS, aged 70, who was found dead; and,  at Bisley, on the body of THOMAS RUDWAY, who dropped down dead on the highway, on his return from work.  Verdict in each case, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.  On Monday, at Stonehouse, on the body of JOHN BIRD, aged 11, who fell into a pond whilst fishing, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 24.  INQUESTS.  Taken before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On Monday last, at Woodchester, on view of the body of JAS HOLDER, cordwainer, aged 24, who was drowned whilst bathing in a fishpond on Sunday.   On Thursday, at Stonehouse, on the body of DANIEL COBB, who was killed by falling from a tree he was lopping.  And, on Friday, at Chalford, on the body of WM HAYES, a youth about eight years of age, who, imprudently attempting to ride on the iron shaft of the drum turning the machinery at a clothing manufactory, some part of his clothes became entangled, and he was instantly killed, his head being severed from his body, his left arm broken, and otherwise dreadfully mangled.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 31.  INQUEST.  Taken before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On Friday, on view of the body of Mr JOHN RATCLIFFE, yeoman, of Bowshill, in the parish of Woodchester, who was found dead in his rick [bart]on] the preceding day.  The deceased had for several days laboured under symptoms of mental derangement, and his death had occasioned a variety of reports as to the cause, which were totally unfounded; for, after a minute investigation before a respectable jury, no marks of violence appearing on the body, and there being no evidence to the contrary, a verdict was returned, Sudden Death from Apoplexy.

 

Aug 7.  Assizes.  HANNAH HANDCOCK, aged 23, tried for the wilful  murder of GEO SMITH, a child two years and five months old, by throwing him from a window in the workhouse at Uley, 20 feet from the ground, was acquitted; but being found by the jury to be of unsound mind at the time, she was ordered to be kept in custody, to be dealt with as an insane person, pursuant to the later Act.  In the course of the evidence, it was satisfactorily proved by three or four witnesses, that the prisoner was incapable of distinguishing right from wrong, and had attempted to drown herself and cut her throat.  The child, notwithstanding its skull was dreadfully fractured, lingered an hour and a half, when it expired.  The prisoner took little or no notice of this melancholy event, and, on being charged with the offence, appeared totally unmoved.

 

Sep 11.  INQUESTS.   On Monday, at Bulley, near this city, before D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of an infant child of JOHN DAVIS, who fell into a well on the preceding day, and was drowned.

  And, on Thursday, before John Jefferies, Esq. Coroner for the city, on the body of a boy, named THOMAS GARDINER, who, on the preceding day, fell into the basin of the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal, and was unfortunately drowned.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Sep 18.  AWFUL INSTANCE OF SUDDEN DEATH.  On Friday morning, as WM DYMOCK, Esq. banker, of Bristol, was riding through Stoke’s Croft, he suddenly fell from his horse, owing to an apoplectic seizure; and, within a very few minutes after he was taken into a neighbouring house, he expired.

INQUESTS.  On Saturday, at Stroud, on view of the body of a man named KING, who formerly lived servant with the late Rev. Mr COBURN, of that place and fell down in a fit in the road, and expired soon afterwards.  Verdict, Sudden Death.

   An inquisition was held on Tuesday at Bredon, Worcestershire, on view of the body of a man unknown, aged about [50], picked out of the river Avon, without any marks of violence upon it.  By the evidence of a shepherd, who saw and spoke to the deceased on Friday, it clearly appeared that the unfortunate man was insane, whereupon the jury returned the verdict accordingly.  On Thursday the widow of the poor man, who was in search of her husband, applied to the Coroner, and stated that the deceased left his residence at Wotton Underedge, on Thursday se’nnight, in a state of derangement, to which he was subject, and which was produced by the climate of the Brazils.

 

Sep 25.  INQUEST.  Taken before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On Tuesday, at the Oil Mills, Ebley, on the body of ESTHER CLOSE, aged 13, whose clothes in attempting to draw water, to set the milling-stock in motion, becoming entangled in the wheel she was drawn into the trough and instantly killed.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Oct 9.  Saturday as Mr NORRIS was returning to Mangotsfield from Bristol market, he fell from his horse and was found dead on the road the next morning.

 

Oct 16.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent:  On the 7th inst. at Avening, on view of the body of THOMAS FARLEY, who put a period to his existence, by blowing his brains out with a pistol in his bedroom, the preceding afternoon.  Verdict, Lunacy.

   On Tuesday an inquest was taken at Corse, near this city, before D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on the body of a female bastard child, found dead, and covered with stones, in a hovel belonging to HANNAH GLOVER, single woman, the mother of the said child.  Verdict, Stillborn.

 

Oct 23.  INQUEST.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On Monday, at Siddington St Mary, on view of the body of EDMUND SUTTON, a respectable farmer, found drowned after a search of three days.  He had betrayed symptoms of insanity for some days prior.  Verdict, Lunacy.

   On Tuesday last, a fine boy, aged about six years, son of Mr DEW, grocer, Ross, being momentarily left in a room by himself, approached too near the fire, when a spark communicating with his clothes, his garments were instantly in a blaze, and the poor sufferer was so dreadfully burnt that he suvived but a few hours.

 

Nov 30.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Joyner, Esq. Coroner:  On Tuesday last, at Chipping Sodbury, on view of the body of SARAH ISLES, aged 10 years, who died, as supposed, from poison; but after a full investigation, the Jury returned a verdict, Natural Death.   Same day, at Dunkirk, near Badminton, on the body of SARAH ANDREWS, aged 45, the mother of nine children, who cut her throat the preceding morning with a butcher’s knife.  It appearing that she had been in a desponding state of mind for some days, owing to a religious frenzy, the Jury returned a verdict, Lunacy.   On Tuesday, at Dursley, on the body of an infant child [WHITE] found dead the Tuesday preceding, and as supposed from violence.  After a strict investigation, and an examination of the body by an eminent surgeon, the Jury returned a verdict, Suffocation by being overlaid during the night.

 

Nov 30.  On Friday last, an inquest was taken at Minchinhampton, in this county, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, and a very respectable jury, on view of the body of Mrs SARAH MOODY, who died in the space of three hours from the loss of blood, having been wounded on the back part of the head, in falling against the corner of a washing bench, the occipital artery being divided by the violence of the fall.  It having been alledged, that her death was occasioned by her husband striking her with a poker, the most minute attention was paid to the case.  The gentlemen of the parish had called in superior surgical aid, and several of the faculty assisted in examining the head of the deceased on dissection; all of whom concurred in the opinion, that the poor woman died from loss of blood, and not from violence by a blow, the skull and the brain having undergone no injury whatever.  It is proper to state, however, that MOODY being out, his wife had gone to bed; and upon his return she went downstairs, with a candle, to admit him, when a quarrel commenced between them, which alarmed the neighbours, some of whom went into the house and saw Mrs MOODY bleeding.  Addressing herself to one of them, she said “See how I am served!  he has struck me!”  Some person having washed her head in a basin, she threw the contents with violence in her husband’s face, at the same time using many opprobious epithets; and had not the person been alarmed at the state she was in, she would have died without surgical assistance being procured, to which she had strongly objected.  MOODY, in his defence, evinced great contrition; he said that immediately on his entering the house, a scuffle ensued, between them, when his wife fell against the bench, in consequence of his having pushed her from him, but without the smallest intention of doing her any injury.  The jury after retiring for a short period, returned a verdict, Homicide by chance medley.

 

Dec 7.  A few days ago, as a boy named JONES, about nine years old, was pushing off an empty cart at the mouth of a coal pit belonging to Messrs Waters and Co. at Park End, near Coleford, his foot slipped, and he was precipitated to the bottom (a depth of 26 yards,) falling on a loaded cart, by which he had both thighs, one arm, and his jawbone dreadfully fractured, besides being otherwise severely bruised.  Notwithstanding his melancholy state, hopes are entertained of his recovery.

   On Thursday, as a poor man of the name of JONES was walking along the turnpike road near Mitcheldean, with a few potatoes on his back, the produce of his own industry, he dropt down and expired immediately.

INQUESTS.  Taken last week before W Joyner, Esq. Coroner:  On the [20]th, at the Royal Oak Inn, in the parish of Cromhall, on view of the body of THOMAS TILL, late of the parish of Thornbury, labourer, aged [28], who was killed by the discharge of  a spring gun, laid in a  [                           ], called Preadwood, on the preceding morning.  It appeared in evidence, that the keepers were on the lookout for poachers, that five guns were discharged in the wood between the hours of four and seven on that morning; and that upon the[unreadable]........................................................................

 

Dec 14.  INQUESTS.  Taken before William Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On the 25th ult. at Heavens, near Stroud, on view of the body of a new born infant discovered dead by the father of the child.  It appeared that its death was occasioned by being placed too near the bosom of its mother, while asleep, which occasioned strangulation.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  On the 2d inst. at Littleworth, near Minchinhampton, on the body of THOMAS HUGHES, an infant, who was suffocated while in the act of suddenly vomiting, in the night.  Verdict, Sudden Death.  On Tuesday last, at Ham Mill, near Rodborough, on the body of JOHN BARTER, an aged man, who fell into the Thames and Severn Canal on the Sunday preceding, and was drowned.  His hat and stick were seen floating on the surface of the water on Monday, which led to the discovery of the body.  He has left a wife and several children to lament his loss.  And, on Wednesday, at Standish, on the body of ANN PRICE, aged about two years, whose clothes caught fire during the short absence of her parents, by which she was burnt in so shocking a manner, as to survive it only three hours.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Dec 14.    On Monday, an inquest was taken before Wm Joyner, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of GEORGE THOMAS, waggoner to Mr Wm Williams, of Colford, who, whilst driving an empty cart with a blind horse, thro’ the gate leading from Folly Farm into the turnpike road was, from inattention, forced by one of the shafts against the gate post so violently as to cause his death.  The poor man has left a wife and three children to lament the melancholy event.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   Last week, as ISAAC KEAR, of Bream, was working in Mr Ives’s Coalpit, near Coleford, upwards of two tons of the work gave way suddenly, and fell upon him, which fractured his arm at the elbow in so dreadful a manner and otherwise much bruised him, but he is in a fair way of recovery.

   During the week, a man of the name of HENRY BISHOP, who lives in Redcliffe street, Bristol, had a quarrel with a Farmer PHELPS, of Knowle, when a scuffle and battle ensued, during which the former bit off the thumb of the latter; mortification and death followed: A Coroner’s Inquest has been held, and a verdict found of Manslaughter against BISHOP.

 

 

 

1816

 

Jan 1.  Last week a poor man of the name of PRICE,  in the employ of Messrs Bowsher and Co., timber merchants, of Chepstow, was killed while in the act of stowing a piece of timber on one of the ships, in consequence of the gudgeon of the winch being suddenly disengaged from its place.  He has left a wife and family to lament his death.

   An inquest was last week taken before W Joyner, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of a poor man called NOAH, who was killed while employed in a coalmine belonging to Messrs Harford and Co., of Coleford.  He was in the act of being raised to the mouth of the pit, when he fell suddenly from the cart, and being precipitated to the botton, a depth of fifty yards, was dashed to pieces, having scarcely a whole bone left in his body.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Tuesday last, as JOHN HANDY, and his son, a youth of 16, were in a boat on the Avon, near Pershore, towing a piece of timber thrown down by the flood, the boat on passing Pershore Weir, struck against the  pier and turned over upon them; the son, after getting from under the boat, swam to, and clung by the piece of timber, from which he was taken, after floating a considerable distance; but the father sunk to rise no more.  An inquest was held on Thursday, when it appeared by the testimony of the boy and others, that his father had hold of his hand, but from the impulse of the natural affection, finding one must be drowned, he quitted his grasp; and when the unfortunate man was found, his legs were entangled with a line that was in the boat, which must have prevented his swimming.  Verdict, Accidental Death; deodand, the line.  The poor man was in his 41st year; bore an excellent character, and has left a wife and nine children.

 

Jan 8.  Commitments to our County Gaol.  The farm bailiff of WILLIAM CURRE, Esq. of Itton Court, near Chepstow, is committed to prison on suspicion of setting fire to two buildings, which contained threshing machines belonging to his master, in the month of October last.  In one of these buildings JOHN JONES, a poor labourer, who slept there, unhappily perished in the conflagration.  A reward of 150 l. and the Prince Regent’s pardon is offered to anyone, except the actual incendiary, who will discover the offender.

 

Jan 15.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On Monday, at Bibury, on view of the body of HENRY HAMLIN, aged 63, who imprudently driving a chaise and four into the river Colne, at that place, being mounted on one of the hinder pair, owing to the plunging of the horses, was thrown off, and deprived of life, although taken up in a very few minutes.  He was a faithful servant, and had lived in the situation of driver for [25] years.   And, on Friday, at Harescomb, on the body of Mrs MARY HARRIS, aged 42, who was getting a pail of water out of a pond near her house, when she fell in and was drowned.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   On Friday morning Mr PHIPPS, driver of the Stroud-water coach, through Abingdon, in coming down Horsley hill was, by a sudden jerk, thrown off the box, and killed on the spot.

 

Jan 22.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Joyner, Esq. Coroner:  On the 11th inst. at Compton Greenfield, near the New Passage, on view of the body of Mr JOHN PARKER, farmer, aged 36, who was found dead in a privy on the preceding evening.  Verdict, Sudden Death by a fit of apoplexy.  On the 12th, at Dursley, on the body of MARY COOK, aged 15, who was killed, the preceding morning, in consequence of her clothes getting entangled in the machinery belonging to the clothing manufactory of Messrs Vizard, by which she was literally torn to pieces, having one leg, one arm, and her jawbone broken, and her bowels forced out.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  And on the 15th, at the Bath Hotel, Clifton, on the body of THOMAS IVORY, Esq. who dropped down, whilst walking opposite the Royal York Crescent, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the visitation of God.

   On Tuesday an inquest was taken at Woodchester, in this county, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on the body of ANN HARRIS, aged 72, who was found a corpse lying across the fire place, and burnt in a dreadful manner.  It is supposed, that her death was occasioned by being stunned by falling against the wall, as some blood was discovered on the floor, and she was wounded on her left temple.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jan 22.  MOST ATROCIOUS MURDER.   On Saturday last, an inquest was held, before William Joyner, Esq. Coroner, at New Park Fram, Berkeley, on the body of WILLIAM INGRAM, who was killed by some poachers, in a wood belonging to Col. Berkeley, on the morning of the 19th inst.  From the evidence of MARK CULLIMORE, gamekeeper, and THOMAS CLARK, park-keeper, it appeared that the manors of the Rt Hon Lord Ducie, Miss Langley, and Colonel Berkeley, having of late been very much infested by poachers, the respective proprietors had employed a number of persons to perambulate the estates, in order to preserve the game, but always without firearms.  On Thursday night last, these persons met to the number of thirty, and afterwards divided themselves into three parties; the first consisting of eleven men were those employed by Miss Langley; the second part consisting of ten, and the third containing nine men, were in the service of Lord Ducie and Colonel Berkeley.  Some time after they had separated, the attention of the last mentioned body was attracted by the report of two guns, when they immediately made for the spot whence the sound seemed to proceed.  As they approached it, a shot was fired at them, without any warning or previous notice, but did not do any injury; but on coming nearer, another discharge took place, which unfortunately killed the deceased on the instant, a portion of the charge having penetrated the heart.  Immediately afterwards a succession of shots were fired, which severely wounded the following persons:- --- BARGE, and ---- DAVIES, in the head and eyes; RAYMOND HENSBERGH, JOHN KING and ----BERRY, in the legs; and another, whose name we believe, is PINNELL, in the thigh.  The noise of the firing sooon brought up the second party, or perhaps more murder might have been committed; and, in a little time, Miss Langley’s men likewise arrived, when they commenced a pursuit, but although they got a sight of the villains, who were sixteen or eighteen in number, they could not get sufficiently near to secure any one of them.  The deceased has been in the service of Colonel Berkeley upwards of five years.  The Jury returned a verdict of - Wilful Murder against some persons unknown. 

   At a late hour last night we understood that there were three persons in custody on suspicion of being concerned, who are now kept for further examination; and from the indefatigable exertions of Col. Berkeley and his friends, we confidently hope that the whole of the murderers will meet with that punishment which they have so daringly and atrociously braved.  VICKERY, from Bow street, arrived at Berkeley Castle last night to assist in discovering the villains and bringing them to justice.  We are happy to be enabled to add, that the wounded men are all considered out of danger.

 

Feb 5.  INQUESTS.  On Thursday last, an inquest was taken at Kingstanley, before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of an infant named ELIZ. GAY, about fifteen months old, who, being left alone a few minutes on the preceding day, her clothes caught fire, and she was so dreadfully burnt that she languished in convulsions till next morning, when she expired.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

INCIDENT: a 3 day old daughter of REUBEN BOND, journeyman cooper, of St Michael’s street, was stolen or abducted by a Rt Hon Lady Gwynne; Feb 12 she was found and returned to her parents.

 

Feb 19.  On Monday last an inquest was held at the Norfolk Arms, in this city, before John Jefferies, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of JOHN READ, a child about three years old, who was burnt to death in consequence of his clothes taking fire.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 11.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before W Joyner, Esq. Coroner.  At the parish of Tidenham, near Chepstow, on view of the body of MARY ROWLAND, (aged 4 years,) who was burnt to death by her clothes taking fire, in the absence of her mother, who had gone into the garden for potatoes.  At the parish of Westerleigh, on the body of SAMUEL BRYANT, coalminer, who fell down a coalpit (26 yards), and was killed on the spot.  At Dursley, on the body of RICHARD SHELTON, yeoman, who, being intoxicated with liquor, and riding upon the shafts of a loaded waggon, fell off, and the wheels passing over his body caused instant death.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.  At Westbury on Trim, on the body of Mr GEORGE SAMPSON, late of Clifton, near Bristol, accomptant, who, in a deranged state of mind, threw himself into a reen or piece of water, near Sea Mill dock, and was drowned.  Verdict, Lunacy.

 

Mar 11.  On Tuesday last, an inquest was taken at Kingstanley, before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of a child, named RICHARD DANGERFIELD, found dead, supposed from suffocation.  Verdict, sudden Death.

 

Mar 18.  INQUESTS.   Taken before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On Wednesday, at Stonehouse, on the body of JOHN KIRBY, miller, who fell from a step-ladder at Stanley Mill, and was so much injured as to occasion his death.  And, same day, at Leonard Stanley, on the body of EDWIN FRENCH, aged four years, whose clothes caught fire, and burnt him to death.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death. 

    On the 9th  inst. an inquest was taken at Leckhampton, before T Commeline, Esq. Coroner, on the body of MARIA EDWARDS, an infant, drowned in a stone cistern on her father’s premises.  Verdict, Accidental Death.   Same day, on the body of SAMUEL JONES, a waterman, was taken out of the Severn at Over, near this city; and the verdict of the Jury was, Found drowned.

 

Mar 25.  INQUESTS.   On Tuesday last, an inquest was taken at Avening, before W Trigg, Gent.Coroner, on view of the body of WM BARNFIELD, aged 62, who, owing to his being nearly blind, came into contact with the fore wheel of a waggon loaded with stone, whilst passing  along the turnpike road, and was knocked down in consequence, when the waggon going over his body, he was so much hurt, that he died within two hours.  As the poor man was on the opposite side to the waggoner, and there was plenty of room on the road, no blame whatever can attach to the driver.  After a patient and minte investigation, the jury returned a verdict, Accidental Death, and a deodand on the waggon wheel.

   On Wednesday last, an inquest was taken before James Evans, Gent. Coroner of his Grace the Duke of Beaufort’s manor and liberty of Chepstow, alias Striguil, in the county of Monmouth, on view of the body of SAMUEL SELWYN, of the sloop Industry, trading between Chepstow and Newport, who died in consequence of drinking a quantity of raw spirits which he had purloined from the master’s cabin.  Verdict, Died from excessive drinking.

 

Apr 8.  INQUESTS.  On Wednesday last, an inquest was taken at Bourton on the Hill, before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of JOHN WEBB, aged 65, who, whilst labouring under a temporary paroxysm of derangement, occasioned by violent pains and inflammation of the bowels, hanged himself with his garters from the hook of his bed stead, on the Monday preceding.  He had, previously, at intervals, shewn symptoms of insanity.  Verdict, Lunacy.   Same day, an inquest was taken at Aston upon Carrant, on view of the bodies of two infants discovered between the joists of the floor in an attic which had long been unoccupied, in the dwelling house of Mr JOHN CHANDLER, at that place.  A most patient and particular investigation took place, under the direction of the Rev. J Timbrell, one of the Magistrates of this county; but suspicion could not attach to any individual.  The appearance of the bodies was such as to warrant the conclusion of their having lain there several years, although no evidence could be procured to establish the fact.  Both bodies were in a dry and shrivelled state; one, which was that of a full grown infant, had a handkerchief so tightlky compressed about the neck as to have evidently caused strangulation; the other was so very small as to justify an opinion of its having been prematurely born.  The verdict of the jury upon the first, was Wilful Murder by some persons unknown; on the second, a verdict of Still born  was given. 

 

Apr 15.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On Tuesday, at Leachlade, on view of the body of HENRY TINSON, formerly landlord of the Red Lion, in that place, who was struck with such violence on the temple by the splinter-bar of the Stroudwater day coach, that he instantly fell, and soon afterwards expired.   On Wednesday, at Chalford, on the body of BENJ. SMITH, who, whilst working in a quarry by the side of the road, was so much injured by the fall of a body of stone and rubbish, that he died soon after.  On Thursday, at Kingstanley, on the body of SARAH TOCKNELL, who, being subject to fits, is supposed to have fallen in one on her face in a small stream  of water which suffocated her.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Apr 29.  INQUESTS. Taken before D Willey, Esq. Coroner:  On Monday, at Witcomb, on view of the body of SARAH HICKS, an infant, mortally burnt by her clothes taking fire.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  On Wednesday, at Beckford, on the body of WM WILKS, found dead in the highway. Verdict, Died from intoxication and Suffocation.   And, on Friday, at Little Shurdington, in the parish of Badgeworth, on the body of HENRY YATES,  whose death was occasioned by fighting with JOSEPH ROBERTS.  Verdict, Manslaughter.

   On Saturday evening, about six o’clock, as Mr ECKLEY, who lived near Tewkesbury, was returning home from hence on horseback, in company with a friend, and riding at a smart rate, he was thrown from his horse at Longford, near this city, and, falling on his head, was so dreadfully injured, that he survived the accident only half an hour.  Immediate surgical aid was procured; but all human assistance was vain, for he never spoke, and appeared totally insensible.

   Tuesday night Mr TIPPETT, belonging to the Excise at Bristol, fell into the float, nearly opposite the Artichoke Tavern, St Augustine’s Back; he was taken out within ten minutes, but every means to restore life proved in vain.  He has left a wife and three children.

 

May 6.  An Inquest was taken on Monday last, at Hentland,  Herefordshire, on view of the body of MARY BENBOW, whose death was occasioned by having taken a quantity of white arsenic, through the persuasion of ROBERT BONNOR, by whom she was pregnant.  The Jury, after two days’ patient investigation, returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against the said ROBERT BONNOR, for whose apprehension the Coroner immediately issued his warrant.

 

May 20.  Reprieves in Berkeley case.

 

May 27.  The following melancholy accident occurred on Thursday last, at Clifton.  As two young ladies of the name of PLUNKETT, whose mother residing in the York crescent, were taking an outing with a female friend, in one of the little low vehicles drawn by jackasses, which are now so much used by invalids in that fashionable village, in turning the corner near York place, the vehicle upset, and the youngest Miss PLUNKETT, (aged six years,) was thrown under the wheels of a dung cart, passing by at the moment, which passed over her and caused her instantaneous death.

 

Jun 10.  INQUESTS.  On Wednesday last an inquest was taken, at Mangeon’s Hotel, Clifton, before Wm Joyner, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of JOHN RYAN, a coachman, who was killed by a blow given by RD LAMBERT, a chaise driver; it appeared, on the evidence, that a quarrel had arisen in consequence of RYAN’s ill-usage of a soldier the preceding evening; that RYAN insisted upon LAMBERT’s fighting him, which he refused to do until compelled: in the sixth round, RYAN received a blow under his right ear, which instantly deprived him of life.  The jury returned a verdict of Manslaughter, and LAMBERT has been committed to our County Gaol for trial at the next Assizes.

   The following inquests were lately taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On the 20th ult. at Minchinhampton, in this county, on view of the body of JAS BAKER, who dropped down on the high road, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Sudden Death.  On the 24th ult. at Horsley, on the body of Mrs SARAH HARVEY, who hung herself in a garrett the preceding day.  It appearing, on evidence, that she had previously exhibited symptoms of derangement, the jury, after mature deliberation, returned a verdict of Lunacy.  And on the 30th ult. at Painswick, on the body of MARY WILLEY, who lived alone, and on her not rising at her usual hour, was found by her neighbours dead in her bed.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the visitation of God.

 

Jun 17.  [First line scored] in this county, before Thos Commeline, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of THEOPHILUS CAMPION, who was found dead in his bed.  Verdict, Died Suddenly, by the visitation of God.  And, on Saturday, at Broadwell, near Stow on the Wold, before the same Coroner, on the body of ELIZABETH HOLLOWAY, an infant, who fell into a tan pit.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jun 24.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On the 15th inst. at Tetbury, on the body of JANE HILL, aged about 6 years, who was killed by a quoit falling on her head, by which her skull was so dreadfully fractured, that she lived but a short time after.  Upon a very minute investigation the Jury returned a verdict of - Homicide by Misadventure; wholly disapproving of the practice of playing such games in or near a public highway.   On the 8th inst. at Eastington, on the body of SARAH HAYWARD, 13 years old, whose death was occasioned by her clothes taking fire.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

FINAL SENTENCE and report on Berkeley Murders.

 

Jul 8.  INQUESTS.  Taken before D Willey, Esq. Coroner:  On Thursday, at Deerhurst Walton, on view of the body of SUSANNAH HILL, who, from the rupture of a blood vessel, died instantaneously in a field adjoining her father’s house.  And, same day, at Quedgeley, on the body of SAMPSON JAMES, carter to Mr John Biddle, of Stroud, who, in attempting to get down from the waggon, where he had been asleep, fell to the ground, and the fore and hind wheels passing over his body and head, killed him on the spot.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   On Tuesday last an inquest was taken at Eastington ?[Nantend]? , in this county, before William Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of HANNAH WATKINS, aged 13, who, being a cripple, fell into a pond at a distance from the house, having gone there to fetch a pitcher of water, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death. 

   On the 20th ult. an inquest was taken at Leintwardine, Herefordshire, on the body of C HALL,  who was killed by a blow on the neck, given by W ARCHER.  These young men, servants in husbandry, met by appointment, to fight, on Sunday, and the deceased lived but a short time after he received the blow which caused his death.  Verdict, Manslaughter against ARCHER, who was immediately committed to gaol.

   As GILES LANGLEY  was last week engaged in brewing at the Cross Hands Inn, Old Sodbury, he unfortunately slipped into a tub full of boiling liquor, and died a few hours afterwards.

 

Jul 15.  A few days since, a poor man of the name of YOUNG, preparing his boat to fish with a stopping net for salmon in the river Wye, below Chepstow, while in the act of thrusting into the mud one of the long poles used on such occasions, fell overboard and was drowned.  Several other fishermen were in sight; but in consequence of the wind and rapidity of the tide, they could not render him the least assistance.  

    Another inquest has been held in Herefordshire, (at Leominster,) on the body of a husbandry-man named NASH, whose death was occasioned by blows received in a pugilistic contest with another man.  The jury having, as in the case mentioned last week, returned a verdict of Manslaughter, the offending party, of the name of GRIFFITHS, was committed to Hereford Gaol.

 

Jul 29.  A dreadful accident happened on Tuesday last to THOS GREENAWAY, ostler, at the Saracen’s Head, in this city.  Being employed in the process of brewing, he by some means fell backwards into a furnace of boiling wort, and was so shockingly scalded that no hopes are entertained of his recovery.

 

Aug 5.  INQUESTS.  taken lately before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  Last week, at Horsley, on the body of ALICE YOUNG, who, in a paroxysm of derangement, got out of bed and hung herself with her apron, which she had twisted up for that purpose.  Verdict, Insanity.  On Wednesday, at Theeves-comb, on the body of WM BURROUGHS, an old and faithful servant of Alex Townshend, Esq. of that place, who was found dead in a cowshed.  The body had lain there all night, and from the appearance of several apoplectic symptoms upon it, the jury returned a verdict of Sudden Death.  On Thursday, at Kempsford, on the body of Mr JOHN TURNER, tailor, of Quennington, who when walking near the Thames and Severn Canal, going to Wheelford on business, it is supposed was seized with a fit, being subject to attacks of that nature, and falling into the canal, was drowned.  The body lay nearly three days in the water before it was discovered.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Aug 12.  On Tuesday, THOS GREENAWAY, the poor fellow who fell into a furnace of boiling wort at the Saracen’s Head Inn, in this city, as formerly mentioned, died at the Infirmary.  The Coroner’s Inquest, held before D Willey, Esq. on Wednesday returned a verdict, Accidental Death.

SUDDEN DEATH.  On Monday evening last an industrious man, employed chiefly in the service of Mr Evans, surgeon, of Chepstow, whilst sitting with his wife, who was in the act of feeding one of their children, after expressing “how hearty the child eats,” reclined backwards in his chair, and instantly expired.  Such awful visitations should bring to the recollection of every one, the words of our Lord, “Be ye also ready.”

 

Aug 19.  INQUESTS.  On Friday last an inquest was taken before D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of EDW PILL, servant to Mr T Mason, farmer, of the parish of Dowdeswell, killed by a bull.  It appeared in evidence, that, whilst the poor fellow was attempting to put a mullen on the head of the bull, the enraged animal ran at him ferociously, drove him against a post of the stall, and gored him so dreadfully with its horns in the thigh and body, that medical aid proved of no avail, and he lingered in the greatest torment from Monday till Thursday, when he expired.  Verdict, Died in consequence of being gored by a bull.  The animal was forfeited as a deodand, and is to be killed.

   The following inquests have been taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On the 6th inst. at Rock Mill, Painswick, on view of the body of EDWIN HORLICK STANLEY, a fine boy about three years of age, who was left under the care of an elder sister, whilst the parents were at Stroud.  It is supposed, that during the absence of the sister, a spark from the wood fire communicated with the child’s dress, which was entirely burnt off before any relief was afforded the little sufferer, who languished in great agony till the next morning.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  On the 10th inst. at Hitcoat, in Ebrington, on the body of Mrs MARY CROSSLEY, who hanged herself to a bacon rack; during the absence of her husband.  Having previously exhibited evident symptoms of mental derangement, the jury returned a verdict of Lunacy.

 

Sep 2.   INQUESTS.  Taken last week before Wm Joyner, Esq. Coroner:  In the parish of Clifton, on view of the bodies of two children, namely JOS DEER, aged five, and MARY DEER, aged three years, supposed to have died by poison.  After a minute investigation, and the bodies being examined by two surgeons, the jury returned a verdict, that both children Died by the visitation of God, by the absorption of cantharides, injudiciously applied by blisters to cure their scald heads, and not by poison.  At St Philip and Jacob, on the body of JAMES FRY, labourer, found drowned in a brick pit belonging to Mr Hewlet;  and, at Wortley, parish of Wotton Underedge, on the body of WM ROWLES, aged two years, who was scalded to death by drinking boiling water out of the spout of a tea kettle, in the absence of his mother.  Verdict in both cases, Accidental Death

   On the 23rd ult. an inquest was taken in the parish of Painswick, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on the body of SARAH DARBY, a child about six years of age, who, being weakly and infirm, and her faculties impaired, fell into a deep pond of water, and was drowned before any assistance could be rendered her.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Wednesday, an inquest was taken at the Leigh, before D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on the body of W WILLIAMS, servant to Mr JA Hartland, tanner, of Tewkesbury, who while driving his master’s cart on the highway, in attempting to adjust the harness, slipped down, when the horse ran away, and the wheels of the cart passing over the poor fellow, he was so dreadfully crushed, that he languished but a few hours.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Monday, an inquest was taken at Tewkesbury, before Benj. Holland, Esq. on the body of JAS ARMSTRONG, a journeyman saddler, who was killed early on Sunday morning, at the foot of the Mythe Hill, supposed from the Bristol mail coach passing over one of his arms, at the same time breaking his ribs; but no blame appeared to attach to the coachman or guard, as they were not sensible of the accident, the morning (nearly two o’clock,) being very dark.  Verdict, Met his Death casually and accidentally, by some heavy carriage passing over him.  The deceased, who had worked in Tewkesbury a few weeks, was observed to be in liquor at nearly twelve o’clock of the preceding night.

 

Sep 9.  INQUEST.  On Wednesday, an inquest was taken before D Willey, Esq. on view of the body of Mr STEPHEN MARGARETT, Landlord of Piff’s Elm public house, on the Cheltenham road, who fell from his horse in the parish of Staverton, on the preceding evening, and was killed.  His foot being entangled in the stirrup, he was dragged nearly twenty yards, and his head so dreadfully fractured in consequence, that he died instantly.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  We fear, that this is another proof of the fatal effects of inebriation.   The unfortunate man was intoxicated at the time, and, it is stated, met his premature fate in consequence of racing with a person in company with him!  A widow and four small children are left to deplore the melancholy catastrophe!

DISTRESSING ACCIDENTS.  On Thursday se’nnight, as the team of Mrs Jane Powell, of Wye Bridge, Monmouth, was proceeding with a load of wheat from that town to Abergavenny, in going down Wonastow Pitch, owing to the neglect of the waggoner in not chaining the wheels, the weight overpowered the horses, and the three foremost, finding themselves pushed on by the hinder one, turned short round, which occasioned the waggon to be overset.  The great force with which the waggon fell, drove the leaders, who had reached its side, into the hollow way below, which caused their instant death.  So great was the shock, that it literally forced the entrails of one of the animals out of its body.  The driver, JAMES GLADDEN, (whose carelessness had, the preceding week, been the death of another horse belonging to the team,) was so much fightened that he ran away, and has not since been heard of.

 

Sep 16.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On the 1st inst. at Painswick, on view of the body of SAMUEL NIBLETT, a child about two and a half years old, who, standing on the side of the mill stream at Mr Mason’s manufactory, whilst the gates were drawn, was swept away by the sudden rise of the water, and carried down the stream a considerable distance, where he was taken up dead.  On Thursday last, at Horsley, on the body of MARTHA ROBINS, about three years old, who was burnt to death in consequence of her clothes catching fire.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death. 

ACCIDENT.  On Wednesday last, as SAMUEL KING, of Stonehouse, was driving one of several waggons loaded with stone through rather a narrow road, owing to the imprudent endeavour of some of the other drivers to pass his team, he was thrown down by one of the waggons, which passing over his thigh fractured it violently; his left arm was likewise broken in two places, near the wrist and shoulder.  The recovery of this poor fellow is very doubtful.  He was sent to our Infirmary, whence he was not long since discharged from a broken leg.

 

Oct 7.  INQUESTS.  Taken before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On the 21st ult. at Kingstanley, on view of the body of ANN [DENVER?], aged 70, who died in consequence of injury sustained in falling down on the public road.  It was alleged that the fall was occasioned by two wanton boys running against her, whilst she was going to a well for water, but it appearing that she afterwards got out of her bed in a state of delirium, and received further injury by again falling against some pointed body, the jury, considering the latter to have hastened her death, returned a verdict, Accidental Death. And, on the 23rd ult. at Eastcombe, Bisley, on the body of JOHN GARDINER, aged 43, found dead.  It appearing that he died in a fit, the verdict of the jury was, Sudden Death.

 

Oct 14.  INQUESTS.  Taken before D Willey, Esq. Coroner:  On Monday, at the Infirmary, on the body of a child burnt to death by his clothes taking fire; and, on Friday, on the body of T SHELLAM, who was drowned in the lock of the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

Oct 28.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On the 7th inst. at Avening, on view of the body of Mr JOHN COOKE, stay maker, of Forest Green, who was found dead on the preceding Saturday morning.  Verdict, Sudden Death from Suffocation.  And, on the 17th inst. at Brimpsfield, on the body of Mr WM BRIDGES, a respectable farmer of that parish, who, from a paralytic affection, fell down in the high road, during the night of the preceding Saturday, where he lay for some time before he was discovered, and remained in a state of insensibility till he wsa taken home, where he died soon after.  Verdict, Sudden Death from a deranged state of the brain, from some cause unknown.

 

Nov 4.  INQUEST.  On Saturday, an inquest was held at the House of Industry, Tewkesbury, before Henry Fowke, Esq. Coroner of the Borough, on the body of RICHARD [GEDALL?], a labourer, belonging to the parish of Powick, in the county of Worcester ...... {scored unreadable......]

 

Nov 11.  Long report on the death of  a poacher, ROBERT SIMMONS, at Sherborne; native of Bowle, Oxon, aged 23/25, wife but no children.  Inquest Monday before Wm Trigg, Gent.Coroner, verdict, Manslaughter against some person or person sunknown.

   On the 24th ult. an inquest was taken at Bisley, before the same Coroner, on the body of MARY MATTHEWS, who fell down on the road in a fit, and expired soon after.  Verdict, Sudden Death.

 

Nov 25.  Scored and unreadable.

 

Dec 2.  INQUESTS.  On Thursday, at Eastington, before Will Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of DAVID MAYO, a youth employed in the manufactory of Messrs Hicks, where, having by some means become entangled in one of the large water wheels, he was drawn into its rotary course, and literally crushed to atoms.

    And, on Tuesday, before John Jefferies, Esq. Coroner for this city, on the body of JOHN MATTHEWS, a boy about seven years of age, who, whilst at play with some other children upon some woodpacks lying on the Quay, fell down, and a waggon laden with coal passing over his head instantaneously killed him.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Dec 9.  INQUESTS.  Taken last week before Wm Joyner, Esq. Coroner:  On Tuesday, at Arlingham, on view of the body of RICHARD GOLDING, aged 16, who fell into the Severn from a trow on Sunday afternoon, and was drowned.  It appeared in evidence, that the vessel was going at a smart rate up the river under sail, when she unfortunately struck upon a  sand bank opposite Broad Oak, and the poor lad was forced overboard by the shock and perished before any assistance could be rendered him.  And, on Friday, in the parish of Bitton, on the body of SAMUEL LANE, about three years of age, who was burnt to death by his clothes taking fire in the absence of his parents, on Wednesday afternoon.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   On Monday, an inquest was taken at Stroud, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of RICHARD GARDINER, a respectable wheelwright, who, whilst apparently in good health, fell down in the porch of the church of that parish, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the visitation of God.

 

Dec 16.  INQUEST.  On Saturday, an inquest was taken at Swindon, near Cheltenham, before Thomas Commeline, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of THOMAS TRINDER, a fine boy [scored] clothes taking fire in the absence of his parents.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Dec 23.  INQUESTS. On Monday an inquest was taken, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of THOS NORRIS, turnpike keeper at Minchinhampton, who was unfortunately drowned in a mill stream in the parish of Horsley, while endeavouring to pass over a bridge that was both unfenced and out of repair.  Verdict, Accidental Death; and the Jury at the same time stated that the said bridge, upon a view taken, was found to be in a condition dangerous to the lives of his Majesty’s subjects.

 

Dec 30.  INQUESTS.  On Saturday se’nnight, at Minchinhampton, on view of the body of WM HICKS, who, whilst correcting his horse, in a fit of passion, fell down in his stable, and instantly expired!  It was at first supposed that the horse had killed him, but no marks of violence being perceptible, the jury returned a verdict, Died in a fit suddenly.  On Monday last, at Kingstanley, on the body of  SAMUEL WOOD, who dropped down dead whilst walking across a place called the Greenscroft.  Verdict, Sudden Death.  And, same day, at Frocester, on the body of MARY FRYER, a child about four years of age, who was burnt to death, from her clothes taking fire, in the absence of her parents.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  

 

 

  

 

 

1817

Jan 6.  INQUESTS.   Taken before Wm Joyner, Esq. Coroner:  On Saturday se’nnight, at the Angel Inn, Coleford, on view of the body of an infant named JAMES BROWN, aged about four years, burnt to death by his clothes taking fire in the absence of his parents.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  And,  on Monday last, at the White Hart, Iron Acton, on the body of FRANCIS LEAR, labourer, late of  the parish of Frampton Cotterell, near Bristol, who was killed in the evening of the preceding Saturday, by a gun shot discharged from the hands of WM BOYD, labourer.  It appeared that BOYD, whilst watching his potatoe pit, which had been frequently robbed, perceiving LEAR approach and begin to plunder, went up to him, when a scuffle ensuing, the depredator was shot dead in the affray.  After a full investigation which occupied the attention of a respectable jury nearly the whole of the day, (the body having been previously examined by an eminent surgeon,) a verdict of Manslaughter was returned in consequence of which BOYD was committed to our county gaol for trial at the next Assizes.

   The following inquests have lately been taken before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On the 27th ult. at Stanley St Leonards, on view of the body of CHARLES JAMES, aged four years, who was burnt to death, in consequence of his shirt taking fire, whilst lifting a tea kettle of boiling water from off the fire.  On the 31st, on the body of MARY TIPPER, found dead at Hasbrook.  Same day, on the body of RICHARD RYLAND, aged 68, who fell into a brook between Cirencester and Preston, and was drowned.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.  On Wednesday last, on the body of THOMAS TOWNSEND, found drowned in the Thames and Severn Canal, the preceding evening; his hat being seen on the towing path, led to the discovery of his body.  Verdict, Found Drowned.  And, on Friday, at Blakeney, on the body of an illegitimate infant, named JOHN PRITCHARD, aged about twenty months, placed out to nurse at the house of WM WIGGLES, of that place.  The child having died suddenly, suspicions were entertained that something improper had been adminstered in its food; but, upon a patient investigation, and after repeated tests, no proofs were obtained calculated in any degree to justify an opinion of injurious treatment; and the body, on dissection, exhibiting indications of visceral disease sufficient to account for a natural death, the jury returned a verdict, Died of Disease.

 

Jan 20.  MELANCHOLY OCCURRENCE.  On Saturday se’nnight, the sentry who was on guard at the hospital of the 28th regiment, near the Foreign Bridge, in this city, was attacked by a cow, which was being driven out of town, and gored in a most dreadful manner.  The poor fellow’s body was ripped open from the groin upwards, and the intestines so much injured, that he was conveyed to our Infirmary in a hopeless state.  Such, however, has been the eminent professional skill and attention exercised in this deplorable case, that a cure is yet expected.

INQUEST.    On Saturday se’nnight, an inquest was taken at Sandhurst, before Thos Commeline, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of CHARLES DANIEL, aged four years, who was burnt to death in consequence of his clothes taking fire.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jan 27.  On Thursday last a child was burnt to death in this city, in consequence of its clothes taking fire during the absence of its mother.  The little sufferer was left alone in the kitchen of its parents, and by playing with the fire, it is supposed, the melancholy accident was occasioned.  It was immediately conveyed to our Infirmary, where it lingered till next day, and then expired.

INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On the 8th inst. at Bibury, in this county, on view of the body of THOMAS PHIPPS, a youth aged eight years, who was killed by coming into contact with a threshing machine.  On the 11th, at Eastington, on the body of Mr THOMAS DOWDESWELL, butcher, late of that place, who was killed by the overturning of his cart, on Friday evening, in returning from Stroud market.  And on the 13th, at Cirencester, on the body of WILLIAM WILLIAMS, aged eleven months, who was drowned in a brook at Watermoor.  His mother, having the infant in her arms, on the preceding Saturday evening, from the darkness of the night fell in, and lost her child, which was not discovered for an hour after.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death. 

   Friday morning, about three o’clock, two men were found at the top of Broad street, Bristol, in a state of insensibility, proceeding from intoxication; they were removed to a public house, when suspended animation was restored to one; the other, a Mr STATEM, formerly a Captain in the Army, could not be recovered.  Coroner’s Verdict, Died by excessive drinking. 

   On the 14th inst. an inquest was held at the parish of Woolhope, Herefordshire, on the body of RICHARD WYNNIATT, a fine boy aged seven years.  On investigation, it appeared that the father, a respectable farmer of that parish, on the 9th inst. evinced symptoms of derangement.  On the following morning he became so extremely violent as to alarm his family and servants to such a degree, that some of them left the house, whilst others secured themselves therein, leaving the deceased with his father.  After having put the unfortunate infant to repeat prayers, the maniac seized his helpless child by the throat and strangled him.  Verdict, That the father, when he was insane, killed the said RICHARD WYNNIATT.  The unhappy man still continues in a violent state.

 

Feb 3.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Joyner, Esq. Coroner:  On the 25th inst. at the Angel Inn, Coleford, on view of the body of GEORGE HARRIS, (aged 22 years,) who was descending a coalpit in the Forest of Dean, in company with another person, when the pole fastened to the pulley wheel flew out, and fell upon him, just as he reached the bottom (26 fathoms) chich caused his death.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  On Tuesday last, at Dursley, on the body of Mrs SUSANNAH TIDMAN, aged 65 years, who, being in a deranged state of mind for some time past, set herself  on fire, and was in consequence thereof, before any assistance could be rendered, so dreadfully burnt as to cause her death.  Verdict, Lunacy.

 

Feb 10.  Wm HARRIS, Hostler at the New Inn, Ledbury, Herefordshire, murdered on Thursday; one person arrested Friday at Worcester; Feb 17, RD UNDERWOOD arrested.

 

Mar 3.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Joyner, Esq. Coroner:  On the 17th ult. at the parish of St Philip and Jacob, near Bristol, on view of the body of a man unknown, found drowned in the river Avon on the preceding Saturday; he appeared to be about 40 years of age, 5 feet 4 inches high, stout and well made, dark hair; had on a blue coat, striped waistcoat with yellow buttons, duck small clothes, ribbed stockings and strings in his shoes.   And on the 21st. at Wotton Underedge, on the body of WM HUNT, aged 11 years, who, whilst employed in the clothing manufactory of Messrs Palser, of Hockmill, his clothes became entangled in the machinery and, before assistance could be rendered, was so much injured as to cause his death in about five minutes  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   The following inquests were taken before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On the 28th Jan. at Cirencester, on view of the body of ANN COOPER, who hanged herself in her bedroom.  Verdict, Lunacy.  On the 29th, at Bisley, on the body of JAMES MASON, who dropped down dead in his house.  Verdict, Sudden Death.  On the 1st ult. at Cowhoneybourne, on the body of JAMES BAZELEY, who drowned himself in a pond.  Verdict, Lunacy.  On the 3d, at Rodborough, on the body of HARRIETT FURNELL, aged twenty months, whose death was occasioned by drinking scalding water from the spout of a tea kettle.  On the 4th, at Minchinhampton, on the body of RD CLARKE, four years old, who was burnt to death in consequence of his clothes taking fire.  And, same day, at Leachlade, on the body of ELIZ. STEVENS, aged 49, who fell into a draw well, and was killed.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.  On the 13th, at Stroud, on the body of a new born male child, found in a fish pond near that place; from evident marks it appeared that the infant had been still born, and thrown into the water for the purpose of concealment.  Verdict, Stillborn.  And, on the 14th, at Painswick, on the body of a youth, named CHAS GREVILLE, who, whilst riding sideways on a cart mare with geers on, fell backwards in consequence of the animal’s running away, when his legs becoming entangled in the traces, he was dragged nearly a mile, and so dreadfully mangled as to occasion his death in a short period.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 31.  SUDDEN DEATHS.  On Monday last, LYDIA CROOK, who had been a faithful servant to Mrs Edwards, of Tewkesbury, for upwards of eleven years, fell down in an apoplectic fit whilst eating her dinner, and instantly expired; and, on Thursday morning, Mr THOS DUDFIELD, a respectable farmer of Bredon’s Norton, who had gone home, from Tewkesbury market, the preceding evening, in perfect health, was found dead in his bed.

SHOCKING ACCIDENT.  On Thursday se’nnight, as Mr GEORGE  NEWMARCH, attorney, of Burford, (late of Cheltenham,) was fixing a blunderbuss in his garden, it unfortunately burst; the shock threw him down, and completely stunned him; and his left hand was entirely blown off, not a vestige being left.  Mr Newmarch was under the necessity of suffering amputation at the wrist on the same evening, but we rejoice to add, that he is doing very well.

INQUESTS.  Taken before William Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On the 22nd inst. at Kingstanley, on the body of the Rev. THOS BAYLEY, who, soon after returning from an airing on horseback, fell down dead from his chair.  Verdict, Sudden Death.  Same day, at Rodmarton, on the body of a new born male child, which was found floating in an unfrequented well, where it must have been several weeks, as it was in a very putrid state.  As no facts could be ascertained as to the cause of its death or concealment, the jury returned a verdict, Died from some cause at present unknown, and found floating in a well of water.

 

Apr 14.  Murder of ELIZ. HARRY at Monmouth; JAMES HARRY, husband, committed 21st Apr.

 

May 5.  INQUESTS. Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. one of the Coroners for this county:  On the 17th ult. at Randwick, on view of the body of HANNAH VINES, who dropped down dead while at tea.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the visitation of God.  On the 23rd, at South Cerney, on the body of WM PRIDEY, carrier, of Lydiard Purton, Wiltshire, who was riding in his cart, without reins, when the horse ran away, and, jumping out, he was struck down by the wheel, and the loaded cart passing over him, fractured his leg, and otherwise so dreadfully bruised him, that he died shortly after.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  On the 24th, at Minchinhampton, on the body of SARAH WILLIAMS, who, whilst fetching some water from a trough about  nine o’clock in the evening, fell down in a fit in the road, and was not discovered till the next morning.  On the 28th, at Stroud, on the body of REBECCA KENEY, who dropped down dead at the poor house.  Verdict, in each case, Sudden Death.  On the 29th, at Painswick, on the body of JAMES HUNT, aged about twelve years, who fell into the Thames and Severn Canal, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

REMOVAL OF PAUPER FATAL.

After the recent fatal consequences attendant upon the illegal removal of a pauper, named CODSALL, from Twigworth to Tewkesbury, (and for which offence a bill of indictment was found by the Grand Jury at the last Assizes,) we had hoped that we should not soon have had to notice another incident of a similar nature; but the following account has been handed to us:-  On the morning of Saturday se’nnight, a poor weather beaten mariner was discovered lying in  a ditch into which he had fallen, in almost a lifeless state, by a gentleman who accidentally saw him, and by whom he was placed under the care of some persons who undertook to send for the overseers of the poor.  Towards the close of day, however, the poor fellow had crawled as far as the Leigh, about midway between this city and Tewkesbury, the overseers of which place put him into a stable, where they suffered him to remain all night, with  only a little hay to be on, and a single blanket to cover him.  On the Sunday morning he was informed that he must proceed on his journey, notwithstanding he earnestly entreated to be suffered to remain there and die.  After proceeding a little way, he was unable to walk further, when the overseers procured a horse, and conveyed him to Tewkesbury, where he arrived in a most debilitated state.  The overseers of that borough, though he was brought in so illegal a manner, and during the time of Divine Service on Sunday, perceiving his helpless and miserable condition, ordered him to be immediately conveyed to the House of Industry, where proper medical aid, and every comfort which that well regulated establishment afforded, was administered with promptitude; and where he now lies with very little hope of recovery.  The unfortunate man’s name is ELLIS FRANCIS, a native of Clynnog, near Caernarvon, where his mother  now resides on a small farm, and for which place he was now proceeding, after many years absence at sea.  He was wrecked off the island of Madeira, on the 26th February last, in the Rebecca, Capt. Pricknipple, on his voyage from Jamaica to Liverpool, when the whole of the crew were drowned except himself, the captain, and mate, who remained together on a raft eight and forty hours, and were then picked up by a Falmouth packet, and conveyed to port, where his two fellow sufferers soon after died.

 

May 12.  INQUESTS.  Taken last week before Wm Joyner Ellis, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:  [## First use of his new name for official purposes##] On Tuesday, at Clifton, on view of the bodies of two new born children, (one male and one female,) found dead and wrapped up in a flannel petticoat, upon a heap of cinders, at the back of York Crescent, early the preceding morning.  It appearing from the evidence of two eminent surgeons that the children were twins and born alive, and that the male child died in consequence of his head being held under water till life was extinct, and the female child by strangulation, the jury returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against some person or persons unknown. The parish officers have since offered a large reward for the discovery of the perpetrators of this inhuman crime.   And, on Thursday, at Elberton, near Thornbury, on the body of Mr GEORGE HIGNELL, a respectable farmer, who was found dead in his bed chamber on Tuesday night.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the visitation of God, in a fit of apoplexy. 

   On Saturday se’nnight, an inquest was held at Cheltenham, before T Commeline, Esq. Coroner, on the body of JOHN BETHELL, an out pensioner of Chelsea Hospital, who was found hanging to a tree in Pan’s Lodge Wood, the preceding evening.  It appearing to the jury that he laboured under hereditary derangement, they returned a verdict of Lunacy.

 

May 19.  INQUESTS.  Taken last week, before Wm Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner:  On Monday, at Whitehall, near Bristol, on view of the body of JAS CORSLEY DAVIS, Esq. who, being in the act of loading his gun, it exploded, and the charge entering his body, killed him on the spot.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  

   On Thursday, at Lidbrook, (in the presence of the Magistrates of the Forest Division,) on the body of Mr HENRY THOMPSON, who, whilst in the execution of his office as constable of the parish of Ruardean, was, about the hour of seven on the preceding morning, shot dead by WILLIAM TURNER, labourer, of the parish of Walford, in the county of Hereford, in company with his brother RICHARD TURNER and JOHN WHITTINGHAM, labourers, both of the same place, and RICHARD SCUFFLER, labourer, of St Briavell’s, all armed with guns and bludgeons.  After a full investigation, the jury found a verdict of Wilful Murder against WILLIAM TURNER,  and also against the above named three persons, for aiding and abetting the said WILLIAM TURNER to commit the murder.

Reports of the incident “ATROCIOUS MURDER” and “FROM A CORRESPONDENT”, and a ‘WANTED’ advert. for WILLIAM TURNER  with description and details.

 

May 26.  Murder of Mr H Thompson!  LATEST NEWS OF THE SEARCH; and advert again.  

    The poor Welshman who was so illegally and inhumanly removed from the parish of Leigh to Tewkesbury, as mentioned in our paper of the 5th instant, died at the House of Industry, at the latter place, on Tuesday last.  The poor fellow bore his sufferings throughout with great patience, and was ever grateful for the care and attention with which he was treated; but repeatedly observed, that the conduct of the parish officers towards him had often made him almost doubt whether he had been wrecked in a Christian country.

 

Jun 2.  Vickery [the Bow Street Runner] at Milford; no success.

 

Jun 9.  Vickery now at Swansea.

Monday last, a respectable farmer, named JOHN THAYERS, was killed at Crippett’s, near Leckhampton, in this county:  As his waggon, heavily laden, was proceeding up a pitch, the horses from the extreme weight suddenly backed; when he put his shoulder to the wheel, to aid them; but the pressure being still too much for the animals, he was forced against a tree, and from the injury he sustained expired on the spot.

 

Jun 30.  On Saturday se’nnight, Mr THACKER, builder, of Upton upon Severn, took shelter from the violence of the storm, at a toll house, near that town; he had not been in the house many minutes, when, after making an observation on the awfulness of the storm, he suddenly expired.  It is supposed that the extreme agitation he suffered on beholding the conflict of the elements, occasioned his death.   Woman dead Bristol; man dead Brockley.

 

Jul 7.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On the 19th ult. at Wick Rissington, near Stow, on view of the body of WM BENNETT, who was killed on the spot, by a quantity of rubbish falling upon him in a quarry.   On the 23rd, at Lechlade, on the body of Mr JOS BUTTON FOOT, sadler of that town, who, whilst bathing in the Isis, was suddenly seized with the cramp in a deep part of the river, when he immediately sunk, and, though a friend who accompanied him there was within a few yards of the spot, and heard him imploring succour, yet he was unable to render him any assistance!  This unfortunate young man has left a wife and four small children to bewail his untimely death.  On the 24th, at Shennington, near Banbury, on the body of a youth named NATHANIEL PEDLAR, who was drowned whilst bathing in a fish pond.  On the 29th, at the Moat, Newent, on the body of DIANE DEVEREUX, who accidentally fell over the moat dyke, and was found drowned.  On the 30th, at Tibberton Mill, on the body of ANN SMITH, a child only four years of age, who fell into the mill pond, and was drowned.  And, on the 1st inst. at Cherrington, on the body of JOS CLAPTON, who fell from a waggon he was unloading, and sustained so much injury in the head, that he survived the accident but a few hours.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 21.  INQUESTS. On Wednesday last, an inquest was held at Long Marston, before Thos Commeline, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of RICHARD COOPER; and on Friday, at Hinton on the Green, on the body of JOSEPH LACEY, both found drowned.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 28.  INQUESTS.  On Friday an inquest was held at Broadwell, near Stow, before Thos Commeline, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of THOMAS RUSSELL, who was riding on a load of hay, when the horse took fright, ran away and overturned the cart,whereby he was thrown against a barn, and his head so much injured, that he died very shortly after.  Verdict, Accidental Death. 

   On Wednesday, an inquest was held before D Willey, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of NOAH POWELL, a ship carpenter, of Wotton, near this city, who was picked up in the river Severn, near Minsterworth.  No marks of violence being discovered on the body, the jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

 

Aug 11.  INQUESTS.  The following inquests were last week taken before Wm Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner:  On Monday, at Brockwear, in the parish of St Briavels, on view of the body of WM BROOKES, a waterman, aged 36 years, who fell overboard from a trow into the river Wye, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  On Tuesday, at Marshfield, on the body of WM SMITH TALBOT, labourer, who hung himself by a small piece of cord fastened to a joist in the ceiling of the prison room, where he was confined on a suspicion of felony.  The jury returning a verdict of Felo de se, he was buried the same afternoon in a cross road, in the presence of a large concourse of spectators.  And, on Friday,  at Comb, in the parish of Wotton Underedge, on the body of ANTOINETTE  BIGGERS, aged 12 years, who was thrown from her horse on Wednesday afternoon, in consequence of the animal taking fright; and her foot hanging in the stirrup, she was dragged nearly a mile before any assistance could be rendered her; her skull was fractured and she was otherwise so much bruised, that she died almost instantly.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Friday, an inquest was taken at Mitcheldean, before T Commeline, Esq. on view of the body of WM BARNES, a child about three years of age, who was burnt to death by his clothes taking fire.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Monday, an inquest was taken at the Island, in this city, before John Jefferies, Coroner, on the body of a boy about eight years of age, named WILKES, who, whilst at play on board a barge, fell into the bason of the Canal, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Aug 18.  A waterman named THOMAS WITHY was unfortunately drowned on Tuesday night in the river Severn, near Pitchcroft ham, Worcester.

INQUEST.  On Monday last, an inquest was taken at Bisley, before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner, and a respectable jury, on view of the body of FRANCES WOOD, single woman, of that place; when, after a full investigation, in which four medical gentlemen coincided in their evidence, a verdict was unanimously given, Died of a malignant typhus fever, and want of attention on the part of her parents.  A report which had been industriously circulated against an individual in Stroud, on the subject of the illness of the deceased, was proved to be a gross and unfounded calumny.

 

Aug 25.  JOSEPH HARRY  executed at Monmouth.  Also Trial for the murder of H THOMPSON, and Sep 1, executions.

 

Sep 15.  INQUESTS.  On Saturday last, an inquest was taken at Upton St Leonards, in this county, before T Commeline, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of WM HOPTON, (son of Mr R HOPTON, of Wotton, near this city,) who was killed the preceding evening by the oversetting of a waggon loaded with hay, when the whole weight falling on him, he was so dreafully injured, that he survived the accident but a very short time.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  A few days since, an inquest was taken at Minchinhampton, in this county, on the body of Mrs M DUTTON, of the Bourne, near that place, who, having an altercation with a man renting part of her house, he pushed her down five or six steps at the door; she was taken up senseless, and continued so for three weeks, when she died.  Verdict, Homicide by accident.   At Upton upon Severn, on the body of WM PARSONS, a waterman, aged 22, who was drowned in the Severn on Sunday afternoon, whilst bathing.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

 

 

1818

 

Jan 5.  INQUEST.  Taken before Thomas Commeline, Esq. Coroner.  On Wednesday last, at Miserdine, on view of the body of JOHN ARHILL, a labourer, who, whilst employed on the preceding day, in digging stone in a quarry, was so much injured by a quantity of stone and rubbish falling upon him, as to occasion his instantaneous death.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jan 19.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  On the 12th inst. at Cirencester, on view of the body of JAMES HURCOMB, a labouring man, who died suddenly at Gratton; and, on the 14th, at Tetbury, on the body of ELIZABETH CURTIS, who dropped down and instantaneously expired;  Verdict in each case, Sudden Death.  And, on Thursday last, on view of the body of Mrs DINAH WATKINS, who fell into a pond at New Mills, early the preceding morning, it being dark, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Feb 16.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner:  On the 6th inst. at Charfield, near Wotton Underedge, on view of the body of DAVID KETERALL, late of Kingswood, Wiltshire, shearman, aged 60 years, who was found, the preceding evening, frozen to death in the snow.  Verdict, Died through the inclemency of the weather.  And, on the 16th at New England, near Newington Bagpath, on the body of DORCAS, wife of THOS BODY, labourer, and mother of six children, who put an end to her existence by hanging herself with a cord to the beam of the house.  Verdict, Insanity.

 

Feb 23.  DIED.  On the 13th inst. in consequence of a fall from his horse, near Cheltenham, the preceding day, ERNEST PARSONS, fourth son of the Rev. J W PARSONS, Vicar of Wellington, Herefordshire.

 

Mar 2.   INQUEST.  On Tuesday an inquest was taken before Thos Commeline, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of JOHN GILBERT, who, whilst attempting, on the preceding evening, to go on board the trow Defiance, to which he belonged, walked into the entrance Lock of the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal, adjoining this city, and was drowned.  Altho’ he was heard to cry out several times for assistance, no aid could be rendered in time to save the poor fellow’s life; and indeed his body was not found till next morning.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

LAMENTABLE CATASTROPHE.  It is with no common felings of sorrow that we record the following most distressing and awful accident, which happened at Tewkesbury on Saturday afternoon.  As Lieut. RICHARD BRYDGES, RN, with his brother THOMAS,  a Midshipman, and his youngest brother, CHARLES (all sons of Mr BRYDGES, of that Borough,) accompanied by Lieut. BUTCHER, RN, were sailing in a pleasure boat in the River Severn, about midway between the Upper and Lower Lode, a sudden gust of wind upset the boat; and, melancholy to relate, the whole of them were drowned, with the exception of Mr THOMAS BRYDGES, who, with very great difficulty, (owing to the strength of the current occasioned by the flood,) got to the shore in a most exhausted state.  Mr BRYDGES had sailed down the river from Tewkesbury with the party, but got on shore at the Upper Lode, to await their return, and get refreshments provided for them; and thus probably he escaped the dreadful fate which, in a few  minutes, overtook his unfortunate children and their friend!   Lieut. BRYDGES was in his 26th year, was a most enterprising and excellent officer, and gave fair promise of proving an ornament to that service in which he had been actively and constantly employed for fifteen years.  He and his brother had just returned from long voyages, and neither of them had arrived from Plymouth many days.  This distressing event has suddenly plunged the fond and worthy parents from the height of domestic happiness to the depth of human affliction, and cast a gloom over the whole neighbourhood.  Seldom have we had the painful task of narrating a calamity in all its circumstances most melancholy; and we lament to add, that every effort to find the bodies of Lieut. BRYDGES  and his brother has proved unavailing; but that of Lieutenant BUTCHER was picked up yesterday morning.

 

Mar 9.   INQUEST.  On Monday last, an inquest was held at Upper Lode, on view of the body of Lieut. JAS BUTCHER, who was drowned in the Severn of the Saturday preceding, (as mentioned in our last,) when a verdict was returned of Accidental Death.  We lament to say, that every effort to discover the bodies of Lieut. BRYDGES, and his brother CHARLES, has proved unavailing.

 

Mar 23.  INQUESTS.  On Wednesday, at Nailsworth, on view of the body of EDW PENLEY, an aged man, who, in consequence of the horse he was riding taking fright at the approach of the Stroud and London coach, and attempting to surmount a steep bank, fell off backwards, and rolling under the wheels, the hind wheel passed over his head, and killed him on the spot.  Not the smallest blame was imputable to the coachman, GLOSSOP; and the jury returned a verdict, Accidental Death.  And, on Thursday, at the Sladd, near Stroud, on the body of a new born male child, found smothered in a privy.  Verdict, Wilful Murder against SOPHIA WOODWARD.

Commitments to our County Gaol:  On Friday, SOPHIA WOODWARD, by W Trigg, Esq. Coroner, charged with the wilful  murder of her new born child, in the parish of Stroud.

 

Mar 30.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Esq. Coroner:  On the 20th inst. at Stroud, on view of the body of an infant about six months old, named JOHN HOPKINS, who was found dead on the bed.  On minute investigation, it appeared that the child had sustained a severe injury on the head occasioned by the female who was nursing it accidentally falling down.  And, on the 21st. at Siddington St Mary, on the body of JOB GLASTONBURY, who was driving a cart drawn by an ox and a horse, when the leader ran off, and, in endeavouring to stop it, he was struck so violently under the right ear by the shaft, that he died very soon after. Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Apr 13.  On Monday evening the body of Master CHARLES BRYDGES, and early on Wednesday morning that of Lieut. RICHARD BRYDGES, two of the unfortunate young men who were drowned at Tewkesbury on the 28th of February last, by the upsetting of a pleasure boat, were picked up in the river Severn.  Inquests were taken upon view of the bodies, before Henry Fowkes, coroner of the borough, and verdicts returned of Accidental Death.

   On Thursday last, a lad of the name of WHEELER, who was employed in keeping crows off a field of corn at Twyning, near Tewkesbury, placed a gun loaded with peas upright against a tree; and, sitting down a short distance from it, the piece fell down, went off, and shot the poor boy in the upper part of the thigh, wounding him so dreadfully that his recovery was for a long time doubtful.

   On Tuesday night, Mr WIGMORE, aged 80, of Grittleton, returning from Badminton, fell into a pool of water, and remained till the morning, when he was carried home just alive, but expired soon after.

   Report of the trial of ANN TYE, widow, of Dowdeswell, for the murder of her infant bastard child; sentence respited to May 4th.

 

May 11.  EXECUTION.  On Monday last, ANN TYE, who was convicted at our late Assizes of the wilful murder of her bastard child, at Dowdeswell, suffered the dreadful sentence of the law on the drop, in front of our County Gaol.  The conduct of this unhappy culprit, subsequent to her condemnation, was totally devoid of anything like firmness; indeed, the recollection of her awful situation seemed to have deprived her of all energy of mind, and her bodily health was at the same time much reduced.   Though she did not absolutely deny her guilt, yet she could not be brought to acknowledge the justice of her sentence.  On the morning of her execution, after performing the usual religious exercises with great difficulty, she was so weak as to require the support of one or two persons till the last minute of her existence, and she was then launched into eternity in view of an immense crowd of spectators.

FATAL ACCIDENT.  On Friday evening last, as a little girl of about two years old, named MARY BONNIWELL, was playing with a  number of other children in Hare lane, in this city, she ran into the middle of the road, and unfortunately fell beneath the wheels of a cart loaded with rubbish, which was passing at the time; by which means she was so dreafully injured that she suvived only two hours.  On Saturday an inquest was taken on the body, before John Jefferies, Esq. Coroner, when, after a minute examination of several persons who saw the transaction, it appearing that not

the slightest degree of blame could be imputed to the driver of the cart, the jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

 

May 18.  On Tuesday last, a young man, son of Mr BAYLIS, of Kemerton, near Tewkesbury, was killed by a cart accidentally running over him. 

   At Blakeney fair, on Tuesday, a man named COOPEY, a pig dealer, drank three pints of gin with little or no intermission, and almost instantly expired.

 

Jun 8.  INQUESTS.  Taken before W Trigge, Esq. Coroner:  On Monday last, at Toadmore Hall, on view of the body of WILLIAM GWINNETT, a boy about eleven years of age, who was killed by the tappett of a stock falling upon him, whilst endeavouring to remove a prop which was under it.  On Wednesday, at South Cerney, on the body of WILLIAM STEPHENS, a child four years old, who was drowned by falling into a gravel pit.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.  And on Friday, at Leonard Stanley, on the body of a child, named SARAH CLARK, who died from the deleterious effects of opium inadvertently and unknowingly administered by her mother.  Verdict accordingly.

 

Jun 15.  Yesterday se’nnight, as a youngmman named WILLIAM GREENWOOD WALKER, was bathing in the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal, it is supposed he got out of his depth, and being unable to swim, was drowned.  The body was not discovered till nearly three hours afterwards, and a Coroner’s inquest, held before Thos Commeline, Esq. returned a verdict of Accidental Death.  The unfortunate young man was assistant to Mr GUNN, hairdresser, of this city, and was a native of London, where he served his apprentice ship; but no discovery has yet been made of his family.

 

Jun 22.  INQUESTS.  Taken before W Trigg, Esq. Coroner:  On the 9th inst. at Chalford, on view of the body of SAMUEL GARDINER, four years old, who fell into a mill pond and was drowned. Verdict, Accidental Death.  And on the 11th, at Horsley Shortwood, on the body of a young woman, named SARAH WINDOW, who died after a short indisposition, in a very rabid state.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

 

Jul 6.  INQUEST.  Taken before Thos Commeline, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:  On Saturday last an inquest was held at the India house, Barton street, near this city, before a respectable jury, on view of the body of FRANCIS BICK, a young man about twenty one years of age, and son of the landlady of the above house, who met his untimely death under the following melancholy circumstances.   On the evening preceding, the deceased was in company with two other young men, named JAMES RAVENHILL and WILLIAM TOWNSEND, conversing together in the kitchen of the India house; WM TOWNSEND had in his hand a gun, which he was carrying home for another person, and which had been used for the purose of shooting rooks; but he swore positively on the inquest that he did not know the gun was loaded, and, in fact, that the deceased himself had taken the gun and opened the pan for the purpose of seeing whether it was loaded or not, and observing no priming concluded that it was not loaded.  Whilst they were conversing together, TOWNSEND standing between the two, RAVENHILL took the gun out of his hand, and, after playing with it for a little time, said, “mind I don’t shoot ye,” when, shocking to relate, the piece instantly went off, .......

 

Jul 27. INQUESTS. Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner: on Saturday se’nnight, at Cheltenham, on view of the body of SARAH STRINGER, cook to Sir Loftus Otway, who dropt down dead in the road, whilst returning to Suffolk House, from the town.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.  On Tuesday last, at Bourn’s Green, Bisley, on the body of WM HUMPHRIES, a youth about seven years of age, killed by the kick of a horse on the region of the stomach.  And, on Friday, at Stonehouse, on the body of THOMAS MINTY, aged 20, who was drowned whilst bathing in a pond.  He was a good swimmer, but became so completely entangled among the weeds, that it was with difficulty his body could be extricated.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

 

Aug 17.  INQUESTS.  Taken before W Trigg, Esq. Coroner:  At Minchinhampton, on view of the body of JOSEPH SHELTON, who drowned by getting out of his depth, whilst bathing in the lake at Longford Mills.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  On Friday, near Pin Farthings, near Minchinhampton, on the body of THOMAS MORGAN, aged nine years, who worked at the house of DANIEL PEGLER, weaver.  The boy died on Wednesday; and his master having corrected him for some offence a few days before, an alarm was excited against the poor man, who was charged with exercising such violence and inhumanity towards the lad, as to occasion his death.  A very minute investigation therefore took place; and it was clearly ascertained, that the deceased, in consequence of disease, wore a mercurial girdle, and had drank cold water to excess, after taking a violent medicine.  Verdict, “Died from the improper use of a mercurial girdle, and other remedies inadvertently applied, and not otherwise to the knowledge of the jurors.”

  Commitments to our County Gaol: Tuesday ... Same day, JOSEPH HARTSHORNE, by Wm Joyner Ellis, Esq. charged with killing and slaying R WARD, at Whitecroft, in the parish of Coleford.

 

Sep 7.  IMPRISONMENT:   JAS HARTSHORNE,  for Manslaughter on R WARD, of Whitecroft, three months.

 

Sep 21.  MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT. On Tuesday last, Mrs SARAH BAYLEY, widow, of Hempstead, near this city, was unfortunately drowned in a pool near her own house, in consequence of her foot slipping whilst she was endeavouring with a rake to remove some weeds from its surface.  Her death must ever be deeply lamented by her family, and by every friend who knew her.  As a mother, she was eminently deserving of every prize - as a friend to the poor, her loss will be severely felt - and as an acquaintance, her memory will ever be fondly cherished.  At the inquest, held upon the body on Friday, before T Commeline, Esq. Coroner, the jury returned a Verdict of Accidental Death.

   Thursday afternoon, a boy, about eight years of age, son of a poor man, named ELLIOT, of  Kingstanley, in this county, who had been with his father to fetch fuller’s earth from Old Down, in endeavouring to get into the waggon, fell, and one of the wheels passing over his head, killed him on the spot.

 

Sep 28.  INQUESTS.  Taken before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner.  On Monday, at Oldbury upon Severn, on view of the body of THOMAS LEE, labourer, found dead in a reen adjoining the common.  It appeared that he was subject to fits, in one of which he fell into the water, and was drowned.   Same day, at Rangeworthy, on the body of an infant named THOS BEDGOOD, aged ten months, found drowned in a stream of water adjoining the turnpike road, near the Rose and Crown Inn.   Tuesday, at Coaley, on the body of BENJAMIN WEBB, labourer, who, being at work in a quarry, a large quantity of stone and rubbish, (about ten tons,) fell upon him, and caused his immediate death.  And, on Thursday, at North Nibley, on  the body of an infant named EPHRAIM ORGAN, aged three years, found drowned in a mill pond.  It appeared that the child went to reach an apple swimming on the surface of the water, when he fell in and was drowned.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Oct 5.  On the 25th ult. an inquest was taken at Culkerton, before W Trigg, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of a fine child about seven months old, named AMELIA WEBBER, found dead in bed, occasioned, it is supposed, by an unnatural posture, which brought on a fit.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

 

Oct 12.  On Wednesday last, died, at Tewkesbury, in the 60th year of his age, HENRY FOWKE, Esq. many years Town Clerk and Deputy Recorder of that Borough.

 

Oct 19.  It is our painful duty, this week, to announce another melancholy accident from the improper use of Oxalic Acid, in the person of HESTER SCUDAMORE, aged 15 years, daughter of a hatter at Frampton Cotterell, in this county.  The mother of the deceased deposed, before the Coroner, (W Joyner Ellis, Esq.) that she purchased what she supposed was Epsom Salts, at a druggist’s shop, in Gloucester lane, Bristol, on Saturday last; and on her arrival at home, administered it to her child, who soon became excessively ill, and, in spite of every assistance, shortly expired!  We cannot too severely reprobate the unpardonable conduct of those druggists who neglect to label the bottles or boxes which contain poisonous ingredients; and sincerely hope that the ensuing Session of Parliament may enact some punishments for so doing, as these occurrences have latterly increased to a most alarming and dreadful extent.  The verdict of the Coroner’s Inquest was Accidental Death.

 

Oct 26.  Tewkesbury: election of EDMUND WARDEN JONES as Coroner for the Borough.

INQUESTS.  On Saturday last, an inquest was taken at Badgeworth, before Thos Commeline, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of JOHN SHIRLEY, who had poisoned himself the preceding day.  It appeared by the evidence, that on Friday the deceased, who had formerly been in the army, and was  now on the pension list, had gone into the Talbot public house, at the foot of Birdlip Hill, and called for a pint of beer, which was brought to him.  He then desired that it might be warmed, which was complied with; and when it was set before him, the female who waited observed him to take a paper from his pocket, which she supposed to be salts, the contents of which he emptied into the beer, and drank it off.  Very shortly after he left the public house, and went to a cottage close by, where, after sitting down a few minutes, he asked permission to go to bed, and in the course of about five hours, he was taken violently ill, and before assistance could be rendered he was a corpse.  The cup from which he drank, was observed to contain a quantity of sediment, which was washed out before the circumstance of his death was made known; but there appeared to be no doubt that he had made away with himself by means of arsenic.   He had resided some time in the parish; and as no evidence could be adduced by which any previous act of insanity could be imputed to him, the jury returned a verdict of Felo de se; and the body was consequently ordered to be buried in the highway.

   The following inquests have been taken before W Trigg, Esq. Coroner:  On Friday, on view of the body of DANIEL CLIFT, a carrier between this city and Stroud, who was killed on the preceding evening, when returning to the latter place, owing to his cart upsetting and falling upon him.  Two passengers who were in the cart providentially escaped unhurt.  On Saturday, at Ebley, on the body of THOMAS VICK, a fine boy; who on the day before fell backwards into a tub of boiling wort, by which he was so much scalded, that he died very shortly afterwards.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Nov 9.  INQUEST.  On Friday last, an inquest was taken at the Fleece Inn, in the ville of Wooton, before Thos Commeline, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county, on view of the body of a male bastard child, about a month old, found dead on the same day in a pool in the parish of Churchdown, near this city.  The circumstances of the case, as they came out in evidence, as as follow:  Some time in the month of September last, a woman, named MARY ANNE MEEK came to lodge at a house in the ville of Wooton, for the purpose of lying in, and on the 5th of October following she was delivered of a male child.  The mother and child remained at the house till the 23rd of the same month; for some days previous to which, the child was in a bad state of health and was much fallen away; but the mother declined having any medical advice, although it was offered to her, and likewise refused to have the infant baptised.  On the day last named she went away, taking the infant with her.  On Monday evening last, the same woman called at a house in Barton street, near this city, to ask for a night’s lodgings, still having the child with her, but in a very wretched and filthy condition.  The good woman of the house, horror struck at the miserable appearance of the poor infant, insisted on the mother’s coming in and cleaning it, and humanely supplied her with linen in which to clothe it.  The same night she left Barton street, promising to come back the next day, to say how the infant was.  She did not call again, however, till Wednesday, when she returned the baby linen, saying that she had left the child at the workhouse, and that it was not any better.  Suspicions being now excited, enquiries were made the same night at the Workhouse; and on its being found that no such woman or child had been seen there, search was immediately made for her, and she was taken into custody on Thursday evening.  On being asked where the child was she at first said that she had taken it to her mother, but afterwards confessed that she had left it by the side of a pool near the Cheltenham road.  She was taken to the place she had described, where she pointed out the pool, then saying that she had thrown it in, but affirming that it had died three hours before she did so. On search being made the next morning, the body was found in the pool, tied up together with a heavy stone in a piece of cloth.  On the body being opened by a surgeon, it appeared that there was no food in the stomach; but there was a fracture of the skull, though certainly not of recent date, and indeed it was afterwards proved to have been occasioned by a fall at the time of its birth.  There was no outward mark of violence on the body, nor was there any appearance which could induce the surgeon who examined it to suppose that the child was alive  at the time of its being cast into the water.  Under all the circumstances, the jury, after a most minute and patient investigation, returned a verdict, that the child died from the wilful neglect of the mother, and for want of proper nourishment.  The mother was on Saturday commited to our County Gaol, to take her trial at the next Assizes.

   On Saturday morning, MARY ANNE MEEK, by John Turner, Esq. and Samuel Commeline, Clerk, charged on suspicion of having feloniously murdered her male bastard child, on the 3d of November inst.

 

Nov 16.  On Tuesday last, an inquest was taken at Eastington, in this county, before Wm Trigg, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of JOHN RUDGE, who fell into the Stroud Canal, whilst winding up the lasher of the lock, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Nov 23.  Death of GEORGE  WALTER? at Coalpit Heath?

 

Nov 30.  INQUESTS.  Taken last week before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner:  At Coalpit Heath, in the parish of Westerleigh, in this county, on view of the bodies of WM COWLES, CHAS TOVEY, and GEO LLEWELLIN, three coal miners; who unfortunately lost their lives in one of the pits at the above place, as stated in our last Journal.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  At Elberton, near Thornbury, on the body of Mrs SUSANNAH SHEPPARD, of the Marsh Common, who, on the preceding day, fell from her horse in a fit of apoplexy, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.

   MURDER of WILLIAM SYMS of Woolaston, WILLIAM BURTON charged; inquest by John Cooke, Esq.

 

Dec 28.  INQUESTS.  The following inquests have lately been taken before W Trigg, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:  At South Cerney, on view of the body of EDMUND JONES, an infant about three years and a half old, found dead.  At Bisley, on the body of SAMUEL GARDNER, who dropped down dead.  Verdict, in each case, Sudden Death.  At Rodborough, on the body of STEPHEN POULTNEY, who fell into the Thames and Severn Canal whilst winding up the lasher, and was drowned.  And, at Chalford, on the body of ELIZ. PRICE, aged 70, who was sleeping in a chair near the fire, when her cap and clothes taking fire, she was so dreadfully burnt as to occasion instant death.  Verdict,  in each case, Accidental Death.

SUDDEN DEATH.

A poor Irishman, of the name of PAT MURPHY, came from Monmouth to Chepstow on Monday last, and applied to the overseer of the parish for relief.  A sufficient sum was given him for subsistence and lodging for the night, and also to pay his passage to Bristol by the market boat the following morning.  He went on board the vessel at the usual time, but appearing to be ill, he was put on shore.  In his attempt to return to the lodging house, assisted by another poor man, he dropt down in the street lifeless.  It appears, by a written certificate found in his pocket signed by Captain WORMELY, that he served in his Majesty’s sloop Minorca, as a seaman, from the year 1810 to 1814, when the ship was paid off at Portsmouth.  The Coroner’s inquest, on Tuesday, before Jas Evans, Esq. returned a verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

 

1819

Jan 4.  INQUESTS.  Taken before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner:  At the parishes of Newland and North Nibley, on view of the bodies of SOPHIA YOUNG, aged four years, and ELIZ. BLACK, aged five, both burnt to death by their clothes taking fire in the absence of their parents.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.   Surely the frequency with which the public eye is shocked by the record of accidents of the above description, ought to operate as a caution to parents against leaving children by themselves, within the reach of fire, when a few seconds may prove fatal to them.  At Wotton Underedge, on the body of JAMES TAYLOR, labourer, aged 32, found dead in his bedchamber, without previous illness.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the visitation of God, in a fit of apoplexy.  At Arlingham, on the body of SAM HOPTON, labourer, aged 74, found frozen to death in the road near Milton End, on the morning of Wednesday.  Verdict, Died by the inclemency of the weather.

   On Wednesday last, an inquest was taken at Ashelworth, near this city, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of EDWARD HARRIS, who, whilst rowing a barge down the river Severn, fell overboard, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jan 18.  INQUESTS.  Taken by W J Ellis, Esq. Coroner:  At the parish of St Philip and Jacob, on view of the body of WM POWELL, a pauper, aged 80 years, who, under the influence of mental derangement, hanged himself.  Verdict, Lunacy.  At Coleford, on the body of Mrs ELIZ. YOUNG, upwards of 80 years of age; at Dursley, on the body of H R LONG, aged seven; in the parish of Tytherington, on the body of SARAH LONG, aged five; and in the parish of Iron Acton, on the body of ELIZA COOK, an infant only seventeen months old, all burnt to death in consequence of their clothes taking fire in the absence of their friends.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   The following inquests have lately been taken before W Trigge, Esq. Coroner:  On the 2d instant, at Painswick, on view of the body of GEORGE HULBOROUGH, who was found dead in his lodgings; and, on the 4th, at Stanley St Leonards, on the body of MAURICE COLLIER, found dead; he was supposed to have died in one of those fits to which he was very subject.  Verdict, in each case, Sudden Death.   On the 6th, at France Lynch, Bisley, on the body of THOMAS SOUL, aged 75, who was found dead on the floor in a house where he lived alone.  From the bruises on various parts of the body, it is supposed, that, being taken ill, he had fallen, whilst coming down stairs to obtain assistance.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Wednesday an inquest was taken at Woodmancote, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of ELIZABETH DAVIDSON, a child about eight years old, whose death was occasioned by her clothes taking fire, whilst at play with a companion.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jan 25.  INQUESTS.  On the 15th inst. an Inquest was taken before W Trigg, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county, at Eastington, on view of the body of THOS BRAIN, who fell down on the road in a state of insensibility, and expired shortly afterwards.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the visitation of God.  And on Wednesday, at Minchinhampton, on the body of SARAH PINFOLD, who met her death at the Mills of Messrs Playne and Co. in consequence of her body coming in contact with the strap, which instantly drew her up to the drum, and so dreadfully injured her, that she died immediately.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Thursday, an inquest was taken before Wm Joyner Ellis, Esq. at the Bath Hotel, Clifton, on view of the body of a new born female child, found dead on the preceding Monday.  After a full investigation, the body being first examined by two respectable surgeons, the jury returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against SOPHIA DAY, single woman, who then resided at her lodgings at Clifton, and has since been committed for trial at the next assizes.

   At Minchinhampton, two young children were lately so dreadfully scalded and burnt, that each died shortly after the accident.

 

Feb 15.  INQUESTS.  On Monday last, an inquest was taken at Cheltenham, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of WM WILLS.  It appeared in evidence, that on the Saturday preceding, whilst the deceased was at work in a well, at a house in Gloucester place, Cheltenham, a quantity of earth and rubbish at the top of the well giving way, fell upon him, and before he could be extricated from his dreadful situation, he was suffocated. 

 

1819.  Feb 22.  On Saturday se’nnight, a trow called the Good Intent, of Upton, was lost in her passage from Chepstow to Gloucester.  A little below Newnham, she ran foul of another vessel, and received so much damage as to instantly sink her.  One man named OKEY, was drowned, leaving a wife to lament his loss.

Commitments to our County Gaol: On Monday, SOPHIA DAY, by W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner, charged with the wilful murder of a new born female child.

 

Mar 1.  INQUEST.  On Wednesday last, an inquest was held before D Walker, Esq. Coroner for this city, on view of the body of WM WARD, printer, who was found dead on the preceding evening in the yard of the Ram Inn.  The old man, who was 84 years of age, had for some time been in a declining state of health.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the visitation of God.

 

Mar 22.  We have to record a melancholy accident, which happened on the 10th instant, at Sharpness Point, near Berkeley, to a lad named LAWRENCE POWELL, aged 17.  It appeared in evidence before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner, that the Miners belonging to the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal Company, having occasion to blow up part of a rock, a piece thereof, about 10 lbs weight, flew up to a considerable height, and unfortunately fell on the head of the lad, which fractured his scull in so dreadful a manner, as to cause almost instant death.  The young man, who was on his return from Berkeley, was near eighty yards distant when the explosion took place, and was unperceived by the Miners.

INQUESTS.  Taken before W Trigg, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:  At Bisley, on view of the body of WM GRIMES, aged 2 and a half years, whose death was occasioned by drinking scalding water from a tea kettle.  At Minchinhampton, on the body of ANN YEGG, aged 14, who, from the darkness of the night, fell into a mill pond at Brimscomb Port, whilst going to fetch some wearing apparel she had left in a garden to dry.  And, at Cirencester, on the body of CHARLOTTE CHEW, who was burnt to death by her clothes taking fire in the absence of her parents.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.  At Bisley, on the body of REBECCA DOWELL, a child aged 9 months, who died from spasms in the act of excessive crying; and at Stanley St Leonards, on the body of ANN CLARKE, aged 70, found dead at her lodgings with her face on the pillow.  Verdict, in each case, Sudden Deaths.

 

Mar 29.  INQUESTS.  The following inquests were lately taken before W Trigg, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:  On the 8th inst. at Stroud, on view of the body of ELIZA CHAPMAN, aged 4 years, who died in consequence of drinking boiling water from the spout of a tea kettle.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  On the 12th, at Cirencester, on the body of a woman unknown who died in a place of refuge where she was put at a late hour of the night, no lodging house being open to receive her.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.   On the 16th, at Kingstanley, on the body of MARY ELIZ. WESLEY, aged 4 years, who fell backwards into a brook, and, being carried away by the stream, was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  On the 19th, at Eastington, on the body of a new born male child, offspring of MARY WORKMAN, spinster, aged 18, who delivered herself privately at her master’s house, and secreted the infant in a trunk.  Verdict, Wilful Murder against the mother.  On the 20th, at Bisley, on the body of Mr JOHN WALKER, who fell backward in his chair and instantly died, supposed to have been from a spasmodic affection of the heart.  Verdict, Sudden Death.   On the 22nd, at Woodchester, on the body of RICHARD QUARRINGTON, carrier, who, in one of those fits to which he was subject, hung himself in a garrett the preceding Saturday evening.  Verdict, Lunacy.  And, on the 25th, at Rodborough, on the body of THOMAS WALL, aged about 4 years, who was playing with several other children near a fire, when the flames communicated to his clothes and he was burnt to death.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Apr 12.  MURDER BY POISON.  On Wednesday last, an inquest was taken at Cheltenham, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of a poor man named RICHARD MESSENGER, who died under the following circumstances.  On the Saturday preceding, the deceased, accompanied by a woman who passed as his wife, but whose real name is MARY SOOPER, came to lodge at the house of a person named ENOCH JONES, who resides in Cheltenham.  Their not rising on Monday  morning at the hour they had signified, induced the woman of the house to go up into their room to call them, when they were discovered in bed, both apparently in a dying state. Medical assistance was immediately sent for, but before the professional gentleman arrived, the man had expired.  The woman in the course of the day recovered; but on being questioned gave accounts of the transaction strangely differing from each other.  At one time, she said she had merely given him common salts; then again that she had given him laudanum; and lastly, which seems to be nearer the truth, she said she had put a quantity of arsenic into the tea, the greatest part of which she had given to the deceased about nine o’clock on Sunday night, and had afterwards taken the remainder herself.  The evidence of the medical man who attended, proved beyong a doubt that the deceased had died by poison; and her prevarication and other circumstances of strong suspicion against the woman, induced the jury, without hesitation, to return a verdict of Wilful Murder against her.  She has accordingly been committed to our County Gaol, under the Coroner’s Warrant, to take her trial at the next Assizes.  Her motives for committing the horrible dead cannot be divined.

DREADFUL ACCIDENT.   On Thursday last, an inquest was taken at Littledean, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on view of the bodies of JAMES MEREDITH, aged 12 years, THOMAS MORGAN, 13, ROBERT TINGLE, 18, and WILLIAM TINGLE, 20, killed the preceding day in a coal pit at Bilson Colliery.  It appears, that these unfortunate young men were descending the pit in the pit cart, when, owing to a sudden jerk, one of the links of the chain by which the cart was suspended gave way, the melancholy consequence of which was, that they were instantly precipitated to the bottom, a distance of upwards of 60 yards, and all killed upon the spot.  Their bodies were terribly mangled, and presented a most shocking spectacle.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

   On Friday, an inquest was taken before the same gentleman, at the Haw, on the body of THOMAS SALCOMBE, who fell into the lock of the Coombe Hill Canal, on the preceding day, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

INQUESTS.   Taken before W Trigg, Esq. Coroner:  On Monday, at Hearnhill, on view of the body of WILLIAM JOHNSTON, an aged man, who, in a violent fit of coughing, ruptured a blood vessel, which occasioned suffocation.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.  On Wednesday, at Woodchester Park, on JOHN ALLSOP, aged about ten years, who, owing to the darkness of the preceding night, fell into a fish pond, and was drowned.  On Friday, at Tetbury, on the body of ELIZ. GOLDING,  who was found suffocated in a pond of water into which she had fallen in a fit.  Verdict, in both cases, Accidental Death.  On the 4th, at Stroud, on the body of Mr THOMAS DAVIES, baker, who was found  dead.  Verdict, Sudden Death.  At Minchinhampton, on the body of WM  BENNETT, carter, who, whilst driving a waggon laden with grain, fell down and was crushed by  the wheel lodging on his body.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  And, at Frocester, on Mr THOMAS OSBORNE, who died in a fit.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.

TRIAL AND EXECUTION: WILLIAM BURTON.

Assizes:  Four Months Imprisonment: And MARY WORKMAN, acquitted of the murder, but found guilty of concealing the birth of her male bastard child.  Three Months Imprisonment: SOPHIA DAY, acquitted of the murder, but found guilty of concealing the birth of her female bastard child.

 

Apr 19.  Thursday evening, the 8th inst. as Mr JOHN PHIPPS,  timber merchant, on the Back, Bristol, was returning from Bath, he fell from his horse near Keynsham, (it is supposed in a fit,) and was so much injured, that he expired on Monday night.

SHOCKING OUTRAGE.

Wednesday se’nnight, CHARLES CRYER,  of Wick, in this county, was at the public house of that village in a state of intoxication, abusing every person he saw there; hearing that one WM ASHLEY, with whom he had previously had some words, was in the house, he declared he would cut his throat from ear to ear; and immediately went to the room where ASHLEY  was sitting; deliberately put out the lights, and drawing a knife from his pocket, began to exercise his bloody intention!  which he would have actually effected, but for the interposition of a person who had watched his designs.  He however succeeded in inflicting a very severe wound across the left side of ASHLEY’s head, dividing one of the arteries, which bled profusely in the struggle that ensued; in which he also severely bit one of ASHLEY’s fingers.  ASHLEY’s recovery is very doubtful.  CRYER was immediately put into a constable’s hands, but contrived to escape.

 

Apr 19. Commitments to our County Gaol.  On the 8th inst. MARY MESSENGER alias SOOPER, by J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, charged with the wilful murder, by poison, of R MESSENGER, at Cheltenham.

  On Tuesday, SARAH and SUSANNAH ROUSE, and JOHN and MARY DAUBENY, by JR Hall, Clerk, the first charged with having been delivered of issue, in the parish of Longborough, and secretly burying and concealing the same; and the three others with aiding, and assisting therein.

 

Apr 26.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Esq. Coroner:  On the 8th inst. at Tetbury, on view of the body of WM SIMPKINS, who was found lying on the ground after drinking to excess, and soon after died.  Verdict, Sudden Death.  On the 16th, at Eastington, on JOHN MINETT, an infant, found drowned in a pool of water in his father’s garden.  And, on the 17th, at Cirencester, on JAS MORGAN, servant to Mr Birch, cheesefactor, who was driving his master’s cart from Cricklade to Cirencester, when, the horse taking fright, ran away, and the deceased being thrown down, the cart went over his body, and caused his death soon after.  Verdict in both cases, Accidental Death.

 

May 10.  On Monday, whilst Mr BUBB, miller, of Upton St Leonards, near this city, was examining the water wheel, his left hand was caught by the machinery.  Sensible of his perilous situation, he called to a boy in attendance to stop the mill; but the latter, affrighted at the fate of his master, instead of obeying his commands, ran out of the mill, to alarm the family.  In this awful crisis, Mr BUBB, with presence of mind truly miraculous, extended his right arm, and stopped the works; but not before his left hand and arm had been so terribly mangled as to render immediate amputation necessary below the elbow.  We add with pleasure, that he is in a fair way of doing well.

INQUEST.  Taken before W Trigg, Esq. Coroner:  At Avening, on the body of JOHN RISBY, a youth about 11 years of age, who was climbing a tree, when a limb giving way, he was precipitated to the ground, and killed on the spot.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

May 17.  DIED.  At Sydenham, near London, RICHARD SHUTE, Esq. whose wife and two daughters, it may be painfully recollected, were of the family party, who, a few years since, were overturned in a boat near Chepstow Bridge, when six of them, including the above ladies, were drowned.

INQUEST.  On Monday last, an inquest was taken at Redmarley, Worcestershire, on view of the body of Mr WM SOUTHAM, of that place. who unfortunately lost his life on Saturday evening, by his horse falling with him near his own house, whilst on his return from this city.  The jury returned a verdict, Accidental Death, and the horse was found a deodand.  Mr SOUTHAM was a gentleman in the prime of life - of unblemished reputation - a most affectionate husband and father; and an extensive circle of relatives and acquaintances, will long and deeply lament the irreparable loss themselves and society have sustained, by this awful visitation of Providence,

 

Jun 7.  We regret to learn, that another instance of the horrid crime of destroying new born infants has just occurred at Bristol; the body of a female child, wrapped in a coarse towel, was picked up in the Floating Harbour, on Sunday morning last, and conveyed to St Peter Hospital.  The unprecedent discovery of three similar cases in the short space of three weeks, is very appalling.

INQUESTS.   Taken before William Joyner Ellis, Esq:  On the 29th ult. at Brown’s Mill, in the parish of Berkeley, on view of the body of JAMES CHEDGEY, alias CHITTY, labourer, aged about 40, found drowned in Matford Brook the  preceding day.  It appeared, that he came from his residence at Henbury, to Berkeley, to partake of an annual dinner given to the earth stoppers of the Berkeley Hunt, and left it on his return home about eight o’clock in the evening, much intoxicated; when, falling into the brook between Berkeley and Stone, he unfortunately lost his life.  He was a man of good character, and has left a wife and five children to lament his untimely end.   On Wednesday last, at the New Passage House, on the body of Mr THOMAS BROOKS, toy man, at Bristol, aged about 24, who, on his return home from the above inn, (where he had been spending the day with a party,) fell from his horse on the Marsh Common, and received a violent concussion of the brain, which caused his immediate death.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Jun 21.  INQUESTS.   Taken last wek before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner:  Monday, at the parish of Filton and Hay, near Bristol, on view of the body of MATTHEW MEREDITH, aged 10 years, who fell from the head of a cart to the ground, when one of the wheels passing over his head caused his immediate death.  Tuesday, at Whitfield, parish of Thornbury, on the body of NATHANIEL THORNE, Quarryman, aged near 70, who, being at work raising stone in his quarry the preceding afternoon, a large quantity of stone and rubbish fell upon him, which caused his death.  Thursday, at Northwick, near the Marsh Common, on the body of an infant child named JANE MABBETT, aged three years, who died the preceding Monday, in consequence of drinking a quantity of boiling water from the spout of a tea kettle.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 5.  A labouring man, in the employ of Mr Jukes, of Wotton Underedge, was killed a few days since by falling from a plank in passing from the brickyard to the brick kiln. 

   On Monday morning, during a severe thunderstorm, accompanied with hail and rain, at Kingswood, near Wotton Underedge, in this county, J THOMAS, an apprentice of Messrs Partridge and Hancock, clothiers, (and son of Mr  CHARLES THOMAS, of London,) was struck by a ball of fire, and instantly expired.  The ball also struck Mr HANCOCK, and slightly injured his arm.

 

Jul 26.  On Thursday evening last, a lad about twelve years of age, son of Mr EATON, tailor, of Tewkesbury, was drowned whilst bathing in the River Severn, near the Upper Lode.  The body was picked up on the following day, when an inquest was held thereon, before E W Jones, Esq. Coroner to the Borough, and a verdict returned of Accidental Death.

INQUESTS.  Taken last week before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner:  At the parish of St Philip and Jacob, on view of the body of ANN COOMBS, aged six years, who fell into a brick pit on the Marsh, near St Philip’s Glasshouse, and was drowned.  At the parish of St George, on the body of SAMUEL GOSS, aged 13, who fell out of a barge going up the river Avon, near Crewshole, and was drowned.  At the parish of St Philip and Jacob, on the body of RICHARD RANDALL, aged 19, who, on the morning of Sunday, whilst bathing in the River Avon, and endeavouring to swim across, failed in the attempt, and was drowned.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Aug 2.  On Wednesday, a Coroner’s Inquest was taken in this city, on view of the body of HENRY PITT, chaise driver, aged 20, who fell down in the stable, whilst harnessing his horses, and died in a short time afterwards.  On examination by a professional gentleman, it was discovered that he laboured under a dangerous disease on the brain, and the jury returned a verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

  On the evening of Thursday last, several of the men belonging to the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal Company going to bathe in a certain part of the River Severn, between Shapney Point and the Passage House at Purton, one of them, of the name of JOHN SHERGALL, aged 36 years, got out of his depth, and was unfortunately drowned.  It appeared in evidence, before Wm Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner, the following day, that he was a native of Coates, near Devizes, of good character, and much respected by all his fellow workmen.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before Wm Trigg, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county: At Saul, on view of the body of a child found in a coffin, lightly interred on the river bank.  Verdict, Stillborn.  At Sapperton, on the body of WILLIAM CLARK, who, whilst engaged in winding up the lasher of a lock on the Thames and Severn Canal, fell into the water and was drowned.  At Epney, on the body of WM GOODMAN, who was found drowned in the River Severn.  At Bisley, and the body of WILLIAM CHEAR, who was killed while at work in a quarry, by a quantity of stones and rubbish falling upon him.  At Avening, on the body of THOMAS CAVE, aged 21, who was drowned whilst bathing in a mill pond; and, at Stonehouse, on the body of Mrs WHITE, who accidentally fell into the Stroud Canal, and was drowned.  She was a very industrious person, was far advanced in pregnancy, and has left a husband and several children to lament the loss of a good wife and mother.  Verdict, in the last five cases, Accidental Death.

 

Aug 9.  INQUESTS. Taken before Mr Trigg, Coroner:  On Wednesday last, at Cherrington, on view of the body of JOHN WHITING, a youth, who was drowned on Sunday, in a horse pool wherein he was bathing.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  And, at Bagendon, same day, on the body of JANE HATCHETT, who was struck dead near her own dwelling, on the preceding Saturday eve, from agitation of mind during a violent thunderstorm, which excited apoplectic affection.  Verdict, Sudden Death, by the visitation of God.

 

Sep 13.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Gent. Coroner:  At the Box, Minchinhampton, on view of the body of ROBT GILLMAN, who was killed by a winding machine in a stone quarry, which came in contact with his neck, and precipitated him to the bottom.  On the body of GEO BARNETT, who fell into the Thames and Severn Canal, in the Parish of Painswick, and was drowned.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.  At Painswick, on the body of JOHN WOOD, an illegitimate child, aged 4 years, said to have died of poison administered by the husband of his mother.  After a minute investigation before a respectable jury, it appeared that the mother of the child had circulated a report, that her husband had given him poison, and propagated a cry of   murder in the neighbourhood.  But the jury were satisfied of the man’s innocence, and returned a verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.   At Cranham, on the body of Mr WM VERINDER, of the Pottery, who died from the effects of poison, taken by mistake.  He had been in the frequent habit of taking cream of tartar, blended with magnesia; and unhappily keeping powdered  arsenic in the same cupboard, he took a portion of the latter, instead of the former, was soon after taken ill in bed, and died before medical assistance could be rendered him.  Verdict, Died from the deleterious effect of a poison taken by mistake.

 

Sep 20.  On Wednesday, as Mr MORHALL, town surveyor of Cheltenham, was mounting his horse, the animal took fright, and, wheeling suddenly round, the unfortunate gentleman was thrown; when his head striking the ground, he was carried home in a state of insensibility, and expired in about four hours, notwithstanding every effort of medical and surgical skill was exerted.  About a month since he was thrown from the same horse, and had a rib broken.  No man could be more indefatigable, or act with more fidelity to the public, and it will be difficult to supply his place.  At the Coroner’s Inquest, taken before John Cooke, Esq. on Thursday, the Jury returned a verdict, Died from a concussion of the brain, received by falling from his horse.

 

Oct 4.  INQUEST.  On Monday, an inquest was taken at Horsley before Wm Trigg, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of Mr JOHN DAY, of a respectable family, who, whilst returning home from the Races on Wednesday evening, was suddenly overtaken by two persons on horseback, thrown down, and so much injured as to occasion his death on the following Saturday.  After a minute investigation, which occupied the attention of the jury seven hours, a verdict of Manslaughter was returned against some person or persons unknown, and both the horses declared deodand.

   WM OKEY drowned at Tewkesbury.

 

Oct 11.  INQUESTS.  Taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  On Tuesday last, in the parish of Flaxley, on view of the body of a female bastard child, found buried in a rick yard; when, after a long investigation, the jury returned a verdict, “that the child was stillborn, and that SARAH LIMBRICK, (who acknowledged herself to be the mother,) was guilty of concealing its birth.  She was committed accordingly.  On Saturday, on the body of SAMUEL MAPLE, waterman, who was found dead in a field at Westbury upon Severn.  The deceased was assisting in rowing a barge on the River Severn, on Thursday night, about ten o’clock, when he left his companions, saying he would get an apple to moisten his mouth, and bring some for them.  The body was not discovered till Saturday morning, when it was found in a field, nearly under an apple tree.  The deceased had a quantity of apples between his shirt and skin, but not the least marks of violence appeared on his body; and it is supposed he died in a fit.  The jury returned a verdict, Found dead.

 

Oct 25.  MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT. On Saturday se’nnight, as Mr THOS LYNE, eldest son of the late Mr R LYNE, of Shaswell, in the parish of Rendcomb, in this county, was walking in the fields with a young companion, he unfortunately pushed the butt end of a gun he had in his hand thro’ a hedge, holding the muzzle, when the piece went off, and the whole contents lodged in his groin, which caused immediate death!  The deceased was a youth of most amiable disposition, in his 18th year; and a numerous circle of friends synmpathize with his afflicted mother in lamenting the untimely end of a promising young man.    

 

Nov 8.  SUDDEN DEATH.  On Monday last, as a respectable man of the name of HIGNELL, who resided at Prestbury, near Cheltenham, was returning home, he suddenly fell down on the road in a fit, which terminated his existence in a very short period after he was carried to his house.  We have the additional regret of learning that his loss will be mourned and lamented by a wife and eleven children.

 

Nov 22.  INQUESTS.  Taken by John Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At Cheltenham, on the body of THOS HENDCOTT [or HEADCOTT] who was found dead in a hay loft at the George Inn, in that town.  Verdict, Found Dead.  The deceased had been for a long time previous to his death labouring under an asthmatical complaint.  At Apperley, on the body of SARAH SURMAN, who was drowned in a pond in the garden adjoining the house where she resided; she was an old woman, and almost blind.  Verdict, Found Drowned.  At Norton, on Wednesday last, on the body of a man unknown, found drowned, in the mill pond at Norton, adjoining the turnpike road from Gloucester to Tewkesbury.  Verdict, Found Drowned.  On examining the clothes of the deceased, a small blue and white cross barred pocket handkerchief was found in his pocket, marked with the letters G.M., nothing more was found about him that could lead to any discovery, as to who he was.

MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT.

We are sorry again to have occasion to record one of those shocking accidents, arising from the imprudence of persons leaving loaded fire arms within the reach of children.  On Saturday last, at Bisley, a boy, named WM FRANKLYN, about 13 years of age, incautiously took a gun into his hands, which had been left in the care of his mother; and whilst playing with it, not knowing it to be loaded, the piece went off, and the whole contents lodged in the head and shoulders of his sister, a little girl about six years old, and killed her on the spot.  On Tuesday an inquest was held upon the body, before William Trigge, Esq. Coroner, when a verdict was returned of Homicide by Chance Medley.  The gun was declared a deodand.

 

Nov 29.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before Wm trigg, Esq. Coroner:  At Horsley, on view of the body of RHODA LOCKIER, who was killed at Nailsworth, by a carriage wheel accidentally passing over her.  And at Stonehouse, on the body of JACOB CRADDOCK, who fell out of a tree and was killed on the spot.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.  At Duntisbourne Abbotts, on the body of Mr JOHN SANSOM, who was taken ill and died on the road;  and at Winstone, on the body of JOHN ABELL          , who dropped down dead in a field.  Verdict in each case, Sudden Death.  At Kingstanley, on the body of JOSEPH WOODWARD, who met his death by falling down stairs backwards.  At Rodborough, on the body of ELIZABETH STEVENS, who was burnt to death by her clothes catching fire; and at Minchinhampton, on the body of MARTHA KIRBY, whose death was occasioned by a similar cause.  Verdict in the last three cases, Accidental Death.  And at Tetbury, on the body of LAMBERT CHAPMAN, a pauper, who, whilst being conveyed under a pass from Bristol to that place, was taken suddenly ill upon the road and died soon after.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Dec 13.  On Wednesday last a labouring man named JOSEPH WOOLVEN [WOOLVER?] was found dead, dreadfully bruised about the head, on the causeway near this city.  He had left here a short time previously, on his return to Newnham, with a cart, and it is supposed that the horse took fright, and that in his endeavours to stop him, the unfortunate man was thrown down, and the wheel of the cart going over him caused his immediate death.  An inquest was held upon the body before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when the jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

   Mention of THOMPSON murdered by the two TURNER brothers about two years ago.

 

 

 

1820.

Feb 28.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county: At the parish of Charfield, on view of the body of THOMAS SPILL, labourer, aged 46 years, who dropped down dead, whilst eating his breakfast, at a lime kiln near Cromhall.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the visitation of God.  At Wotton Underedge, on the body of REBECCA BAILEY, single woman, aged 20, who died in consequence of taking a quantity of arsenic. After a long investigation, (the body having been opened and examined by a medical gentleman,) the jury returned a verdict of Lunacy.   At the same place, on the body of WM ELLIOTTS, labourer, aged 60, found dead in Cockshutt Wood, near Symondshall and Comb.  Verdict, Died through the inclemency of the weather. 

 

Mar 6. INQUESTS.  Taken lately before Wm Trigg, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:  At Stroud, on view of the body of SARAH CHEW, found dead at her lodgings.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the visi tation of God.  At Minchinhampton, on the body of CHAS KING, who was killed by a quantity of stone and rubbish falling on him whilst in a quarry.  At Stonehouse, on the body of JOHN VIZARD, who fell on the fire in a helpless state, and was so much burnt as to occasion his death.  At Woodchester, on the body of JOHN JENNER, who having fallen into a pond, was drawn under a water wheel, and crushed to death.  At Morton, on the body of JOHN ALLEN, who fell from the shafts of a waggon heavily laden with corn, and was killed by the wheels passing over his body.  At Bisley, on the body of JAS WHITING, who was killed by a quantity of stone and rubbish falling on him whilst at work in a stone quarry.  And at Coates, on the body of WM WILLIAMS, aged 4 years, who was burnt to death by his clothes taking fire, in the absence of his parents.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 13. INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner:  At Hortsworth, near the Battery, at Kingroad, on view of the bodies of two of the unfortunate men (names unknown,) who, with five others belonging to the sloop Charlotte, were drowned on the Welsh Hook, on their passage from Newport to Bristol, during a gale of wind on the 21st January last.  And at Beachley Passage House, on the body of JAS DAVIS, aged 67, who, with some others, was drowned by the upsetting of the Custom House boat, in a sudden gust of wind on the 2nd inst. in the River Severn, near the Old Chapel.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 27.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Esq. Coroner:  On the 7th inst. at Eastington, on view of the body of W H APPERLEY, an infant about eighteen months old, whose death was occasioned by drinking boiling water from the spout of a tea pot, during the momentary absence of his mother.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  On the 11th ult. at Minchinhampton, on the body of a new born illegitimate infant, found dead.  It appeared that the unhappy mother had been prematurely taken in labour, at a distance from her home, and delivered of a dead child; of which she gave instant information.  She had also provided some clothes for the occasion.  Verdict, Stillborn.

 

Apr 10.  On Monday last, whilst two boys were at play in Lower Northgate Street, in this city, one of them about eight years old, named JOS LANE, fell under the wheels of two waggons attached to each other, passing at the moment, and his head was so much injured as to occasion his death in a few minutes.  No blame whatever attached to the waggoner.

 

May 1.  [See advert page 3 col c] At a County Court, held in our New Shire Hall, on Saturday last, Mr JOSEPH MOUNTAIN, of Cirencester, was unanimously elecvted one of the Coroners of this County, in the room of THOMAS COMMELINE, Esq. resigned.  Mr MOUNTAIN was proposed by Captain Goodrich, and seconded by John Phillpotts, Esq.

A HORRID INSTANCE OF A WOMAN POISONING HER HUSBAND -  occurred last week at Old Land’s Common, Bitton, in this county.  The parties, WORLOCK, a carcase butcher, and REBECCA, his wife, lived very unhappily together, owing to the wife having formed an illicit connection with another man, and in a dispute on the subject a short time since, she told her husband, “she would soon put him out of the world!”  On Monday se’nnight, on his return from a    journey, WORLOCK directed his daughter, a girl about twelve years of age, to bring him a jug of beer; and whilst the child was in the act of fulfilling her father’s order, REBECCA WORLOCK infused into the beverage, from a paper which she took from her pocket, a quantity of sugar of lead, which she had purchased three weeks previously!  Upon taking the beer, the man complained of its flavour; when the wife told him it was only some flour which had been mixed with the liquor by accident, and she urged him to drink the remainder: he declined doing so, and she threw it away.  The effect of the deleterious ingredient was soon felt; WORLOCK  charged his wife with having poisoned him; she denied the charge; medical aid was procured, and an inquiry instituted, when the child said her mother had thrown the paper which contained the powder into the fire.  The poor fellow lingered, in the most excruciating agony till the Thursdya night, when he expired.  A verdict of Wilful Murder being returned against REBECCA WORLOCK, she was committed to our County Gaol, on Monday morning last.  The unnatural wretch had purchased the poison at an apothecary’s at Kingswood hill, under the pretence of destroying rats.  The deceased has left three children, the eldest of whom will become evidence against her mother. [date of committal, 24th]

 

May 8.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before W Trigg, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:  On the 30th ult. at Tarlton, on view of the body of MARY HACKER, who was found dead near a gate against which it is supposed she had fallen in a fit.  Verdict, Sudden Death from an unknown cause. On the 1st inst. at Painswick, on the body of JAMES ELLIS, who dropped down dead from suffocation, occasioned by his attempting to swallow too large a portion of meat, which forced its way into the windpipe.  Verdict, Sudden Death occasioned by strangling and suffocation.  On the 2d. inst. at Kingstanley, on the body of EDWARD GUNTER, who dropped down dead at his lodgings.  Verdict, Sudden Death.  And on the 5th inst. at Stonehouse, on the body of CHARLES BUTCHER, who fell into the Stroud Canal, about seven o’clock the preceding evening, and was drowned.  He was picked up out of the water shortly afterwards by a person, who passed on without mentioning the circumstance to anyone, otherwise timely assistance might probably have been afforded to the unfortunate young man.  Verdict, Accidental Death

 

May 15.  On Friday, an inquest was taken before R Fletcher, Esq. Coroner for this city, on view of the body of ELIZ. GRIFFITH, who fell into the basin of the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal, about eleven o’clock the preceding evening, and was drowned before any assistance could be rendered her.  Verdict, Found Drowned.

 

May 29.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before Wm Joyner Ellis, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:  At Hillsley, in the parish of Hawkesbury, on view of the body of EDWARD COX, labourer, aged 47 years, who was killed by a cow; at the parish of Mangotsfield, on the body of DANIEL BRITTON, aged 7 years, who fell into a pit, 14 yards deep, and was killed on the spot.  At Yate Common, on the body of ELIZA BEAMS, aged 6 years, who was burnt to death by her clothes taking fire in the absence of her parents; and at Huntingford, in the parish of Wotton Underedge, on the body of Mr GEORGE HOOPER, farmer, aged 50, who fell out of a tree, by which he dislocated his neck and died instantaneously.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.  And, at Lamplighter’s Hall, in the parish of Kingsweston, on the body of SAMUEL SPIER, Esq. of the county of Cork, in Ireland, aged 44, who dropped down dead near Lord De Clifford’s plantations.  It appeared that he had landed in the morning in good health from one of the Irish packet boats, and after dinner went with some companions to Pen Pole Hill to view the surrounding country, but on returning to the inn, he fell backwards and instantly expired.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the visitation of God, in a fit of apoplexy.

   An inquest was taken on Wednesday, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of THOS HENRY PACKER, aged 13 years, who was killed, the preceding evening, whilst at play, in Blenheim Gardens, near this city, by the top of a sundial falling on his head and neck, which caused instant death.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jun 5.  INQUESTS.   Lately taken before Wm Trigg, Esq. one of the Coroners for the county:  At Stonehouse, on view of the body of CHARLES BUTCHER, who was drowned in the Stroud Canal;  at Eastington, on the body of JOSEPH HUNTLEY, a youth,  who was drowned in a mill pond at the manufactory of Henry Hicks, Esq.  At Stonehouse, on the body of EDWIN POWELL, drowned in the Stroud Canal; and at Painswick, on the body of THOS ARUNDEL BIRT, burnt to death by his clothes taking fire.  Verdict,  in each case, Accidental Death.   At Eastington, on the body of a new born female child, found concealed in a woman’s pocket wrapped up in an old table cloth, with a quantity of stones in it, evidently for the purpose of making it sink; the child was of full maturity, and from every appearance had been recently born.  Verdict, Wilful Murder against some person unknown.  A small snuff box was also found in the pocket, which, it is hoped, will lead to a discovery.  And, at Minchinhampton, on the body of Mr CHAS WELLS, who dropped down dead whilst in the act of dressing himself.  Suspicion being entertained that he met with his death by unnatural means, the body was opened, when the heart was found to be diseased, and the jury returned a verdict of Sudden Death from disease of the heart.

 

Jun 12. On Thursday, an inquest was taken on view of the body of Mr PENDUCK, of Raysfield, near Chipping Sodbury, in this county, whose death was caused by a fall from his horse, when returning from Bistol a few days previous.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jun 19.  On Friday, an inquest was taken at Kempsford, in this county, before Joseph Mountain, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of JESSE GARDNER, who was found drowned in the Thames and Severn Canal.  Verdict, Found Drowned.

 

Jun 26.  INQUESTS.  Taken last week, before William Joyner Ellis, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:  At the parish of Arlingham, on view of the body of JOB AYLAND, aged 12 years, who was drowned in the river Severn, whilst on a party of pleasure, on Sunday last; and at the Upper Forge, near Lidney, on the body of WILLIAM SMITH, aged about 7 years, killed by a fall from a horse upon the tram road.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.  At Pucklechurch, on the body of a new born male bastard child, found in a wood called Shortwood, on the afternoon of Sunday last; it appeared in evidence that one JANE GREEN, a young woman about 20 years of age, was the mother of the said child, which was discovered alive, lying on the ground by the side of the mother, but died soon after.  The jury, after a minute investigation, and an examination by an eminent surgeon, found a verdict, That the Child died from the visitation of God, and not from violence.

 

Jul 3.  INQUESTS. Taken last been before John Cooke, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:  At St Briavells, on view of the body of JAMES WHITTINGTON, and at Prestbury, on the body of ROBERT EAST,  each of whom dropped down whilst employed in mowing, and instantly expired.  Also at Hayes, in the parish of  Pauntley, on the body of Mr JOHN PERKINS, who was found dead in a field near his house.  Verdict, in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.  And, at Cheltenham, on the bodies of JOHN ALLEN and JOHN BROMFIELD, who were drowned in a pool at Swindon; it appeared that they were bathing after their day’s labour, when ALLEN, who could not swim, got into deep water and sunk, and his companion, in attempting to save him, also sunk.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  BROMFIELD has left a wife and three children.

MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT.  On Thursday evening last, THOMAS HALLING, a young man who resided in St Mary’s square, in this city, whilst bathing with some companions in the Severn, unthinkingly jumped from the Westgate bridge, when, shocking to relate, owing to the small depth of water, and the great height from which he leaped, his head struck against the bottom with so much violence as to occasion his death almost instantly!  He came up twice to the surface, and then sunk to rise no more.  The body was picked up near the spot on the following morning, when it appeared that a severe contusion on the head was the cause of his death.  What renders the circumstance still more distressing is, that he was a young man of most industrious habits, and in his vocation as a maltster was almost the sole means of supporting a sick father and a numerous family.  On Saturday, an inquest was taken on view of the body, before Ralph Fletcher, Esq. Coroner, and a verdict returned of Accidental Death.

 

 

Jul 17.  INQUESTS.  Taken last week before Wm Joyner Ellis, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:  At Filton, near Bristol, on view of the body of WM BISP and JONATHAN BASLING; at Tytherington, on the body of WM HODGSON; and at Alvestone, on the body of SAMUEL HUGHES, all of whom died through the excessive heat of the weather, whilst at work in the hay fields.  Verdict in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.  Also, at Westerleigh, on the body of JOHN ALSOP, who was killed in a coal pit; and at Uley, on the body of a child aged three years, named JOSEPH STEPHENS, who was drowned by falling into a mill pond.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

  The following inquests were lately taken before Jos Mountain, Esq. Coroner:  On the 30th ult. at Minchinhampton, on the body of JOSEPH NEWMAN, who died in consequence of a fall from a building.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  Same day, at Chalford, on the body of THOMAS ROGERS, who died suddenly whilst mowing in a field, in the said parish.  And on the 13th inst. at Bibury, on the body of MARY HAYDEN, who also died suddenly in a field.  Verdict, in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Jul 31.  On the 17th inst. an inquest was taken at Purton Passage, near Berkeley, before Wm Joyner Ellis, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county, on view of the body of THOMAS BROWN, aged 39, a miner in the employ of the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal Company, who was forced to a height of 20 yards in the air by the explosion of a large quantity of gunpowder used to blow up part of the rock at Sharpness Point, and was literally shattered to pieces.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  He was a native of the Forest of Dean, of a good character, and has left a wife and two children to deplore his untimely end.

 

Aug 21.  TRIAL OF REBECCA WORLOCK.  The following were mentioned as witnesses: MARY ANN WORLOCK, aged 10; GEORGE HOOK and daughter MARY, both of Bitton; SARAH BUTLER, WILLIAM SHORT, RICHARD JENKINS; ROGER EDWARDS, Surgeon of Keynsham; SAMUEL WATTS, Surgeon of Bitton; ELIZABETH AMEY and Mrs STEPHENS, druggist, both of Kingswood.   REBECCA WORLOCK confessed her guilt, was found guilty, and executed.

 

Sep 11.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:  At Longford, on view of the body of ROBERT NASH, who was killed by the bed of a cart falling upon him whilst at play; and at Charlton Kings, on the body of JOHN HEMMING, who was killed by a waggon wheel going over him.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.  At Bishop’s Cleeve, on the body of EDWARD BILLINGTON, aged about 78 years, who was found dead in a pool of mud and water.  Verdict, Found Dead.  At Hardwicke, on the body of JOSEPH HILL, who was killed by a fall from a rick of barley.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  At Upton St Leoanrds, on the body of ANN VERINDER, an infant, who was found dead in bed.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.   At Minsterworth, on the body of BENJAMIN GREENING, who was found drowned in the River Severn.  Verdict, Found Drowned.  At Wotton, on the body of SAMUEL JORDAN, who was found dead in a barn; and at Charlton Kings, on the body of ELIZABETH WILSON, who was found dead in a field.  Verdict, in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Sep 18.  Inquest Wednesday before R Fletcher, Coroner for this city, Man unknown, aged 50, found drowned.  Verdict, Found Drowned.

 

Sep 25.  INQUESTS.  Taken before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:  At the parish of Lidney, on view of the body of MARY LANE, aged 44 years, who was burnt to death by her clothes taking fire in the absence of her family.  At the parish of Nibley, on the body of Mr GILES ORGAN, aged 48, who dislocated his neck by a fall whilst returning from a benefit club.  At the Woodside, Forest of Dean, on the body of JOHN BAILEY, who fell from a waggon, and dislocated his neck; and at the parish of Yate, on the body of Mr JAMES TRATMAN, card maker, late of Frome, Somerset, aged 50, found dead in the Dingle Wood; no marks of violence being found on his person, the jury returned a verdict of Sudden Death by the visitation of God.

 

Oct 2.  MOST MELANCHOLY OCCURRENCE.  On Saturday last, as Mr JOHN HOARE, wool stapler, of Cirencester, was driving to this city, in a gig, about four miles from hence, his horse took fright at a covered waggon, and ran away, in consequence of which Mr HOARE was thrown out and so dreadfully injured as to cause his death in a few minutes.

 

Nov 6.  SUDDEN DEATH.  On Wednesday evening, as Mr GEORGE, gardener, of Marshfield, in this county, was returning to that place from Bath, he was suddenly taken ill, and died almost instantly.

 

Nov 13.  On Saturday last, a most ferocious and murderous robbery was committed upon Mr HIRONS, of Alvestone, when returning from Warwick, about eight o’clock of the evening.  It appears that he was attacked near his own house, by three men who rifled his pockets and beat him on the head in a most violent manner.  In this condition Mr HIRONS crawled into a ditch, where he lay in a state of insensibility until morning, when he was discovered by a female passing by.  He was immediately taken home and every assistance afforded, but in vain, and he died on Tuesday night.  We are happy to add, that the four villains were apprehended on Thursday last, and lodged in the gaol at Stratford, to take their trial for the offence.  The murder was discovered by two of the gang impeaching their accomplices.

 

Nov 27.  About nine o’clock on the evening of Saturday se’nnight, as JAMES and ELIZABETH CHURCHES, husband and wife, were walking on the towing path of the Thames and Severn Canal, at Chalford, owing to the darkness of the night, they fell in, and were both drowned.  As soon as their bodies were found, the means of resuscitation were used, but without effect.

 

Dec 11.  FATAL BOXING.  Wednesday last, a Coroner’s Inquest was held at the Ship and Castle, Marsh Street, Bristol, on the body of MICHAEL WHITE, labourer, who came by his death under the following circumstances:  It appeared, that the deceased was at the Ship and Castle on Sunday night, when a quarrel happening between some young men and an Irishman of the name of DOGHERTY, the deceased attempted to part them, on which DOGHERTY challenged the deceased to fight, and a battle accordingly took place on Tuesday.  After fighting for one hour and ten minutes, in which they contested forty five rounds, the deceased was so dreadfully bruised that he could not stand on his legs, and was obliged to be carried on the backs of two men, to his house, where he died about six o’clock the same evening.  The body was in a most dreadful state, one side of his face being quite black, and his side dreadfully bruised; andf the Jury returned a Verdict of Manslaughter against DOGHERTY.

    Advertisment:  ONE HUNDRED GUINEAS REWARD.

FORGERY.

Whereas JOHN OLIVE, of Longford, near the city of Gloucester, Farmer, stands charged with various FELONIES AND FORGERIES to a very considerable amount; and it is supposed that he is endeavouring to effect his Escape out of the Kingdom, and thereby elude Justice: Notice is hereby given, that a reward of ONE HUNDRED GUINEAS will be paid on Conviction of the said John Olive, to any Person or Persons who may apprehend, or cause to be apprehended, the said John Olive, and to lodge him in any of His Majesty’s Gaols, or applying to Mr James Peach, of Gloucester, Broker, or to Mr W C Ward, Solicitor.

   The said JOHN OLIVE is at present in a very weak and disabled state of health, and it is supposed, quite incapable of supporting himself without assistance, having, about a fortnight since, thrown himself from the top of a very high house, in Gloucester, for the purpose of putting an end to his existence, as appears by letters sent by him to his friends.  He is about 37 years of age, 5 feet 10 or 11 inches high, stoutly made, florid complexion, light eyes, and natural hair also light; but in consequence of the great injury he received in the fall, he now wears a dark brown full made scratch wig, the hair of which is straight, and nearly covers his ears, and he has the general appearance of a respectable farmer.

Gloucester, Dec 6 1820.

 

Dec 25.  Mr JOHN OLIVE, for whose apprehension, under charges of felony and forgery to a very considerable amount, a reward of 100 guineas was advertised in a recent paper, was taken, on board a Pill skiff, near Penarth Point, in the Bristol Channel, on the 12th inst.  He had been cruising about in this vessel for a week, waiting the arrival of a ship from Bristol, in which a passage was engaged for him to the West Indies.  This plan, however, did not escape the vigilance of TUCKER, one of our police officers, who pursued him in another skiff, and came up with his object, without exciting the smallest alarm.  When taken into custody, Olive was in so weak a state, that it was deemed advisable to remain a day with him at Lamplighter’s Hall, where he was landed, as the boatmen could not being him further up the River, for want of water; and here, having artfully contrived to secrete a razor under the bed clothes, he made a second attempt upon his life, in the night, by cutting his throat.  In this effort he was too successful; for tho’ it was instantly discovered by an attendant who slept with him, and surgical assistance was immediately procured, he lingered for a week, and died on Thursday last.  The Coroner’s Inquest on view of the body, was held on Saturday.  Verdict, Lunacy.

 

 

1821.

 

Jan 1.  On Wednesday last, inquests were taken before John Phillpotts, Esq. Coroner for this City, at Bridewell, on view of the body of SAMUEL HUGHES, a pauper, who died of dropsy; and at the Green Dragon Inn, on the body of a child named GEORGE MANNERS, who died in the Infirmary, where he had been taken, in consequence of dreadful injury sustained from his clothes taking fire.  Verdict, in the former case, Died by the Visitation of God; and in the latter, Accidental Death.

 

Jan 29.  A most distressing accident occurred on Tuesday last, in the neighbourhood of Berkeley.  Mr JOHN MARKLOVE, of the 56th regt. was out with his friend Mr JOYNER ELLIS, shooting rabbits at Wickselme, when, as the former was getting thro’ a hedge, with his gun cocked, one of the barrels unfortunately exploded, and lodged the contents in his right side.  He now lies dangerously ill; but we feel great pleasure in stating, that his medical attendants give hopes of his ultimate recovery.

   On Monday, an inquest was taken before J Phillpotts, Esq. Coroner for this city, on view of the body of a post chaise driver, named COLE, found dead in a meadow, close to the Westgate bridge.  He was in the service of Mr Smith, of Newnham, and was returning home from thence on Saturday night, with a pair of horses; when, being much intoxicated, it was supposed that he either fell or was thrown, both horses being found grazing near the body.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Feb 5.  MELANCHOLY CATASTROPHE.  On Monday evening last, as Mr & Mrs NORRIS, late fish mongers in Broadmead, Bristol, were returning home from the other side of Cumberland Basin, they unfortunately fell into one of the locks, by not knowing the exact way to the bridge from the darkness of the night.  Mr NORRIS was found next morning; but Mrs NORRIS is not yet found.  They have left four young children to bewail their loss.

 

Feb 19.  Long report re JOHN HORWOOD, 23, of Hanham, and ELIZA BALSUM, 19, of the same.

 

Feb 26.  MURDER AT HANHAM.  ELIZA BALSUM, the unfortunate girl mentioned in our last, expired on Saturday se’nnight, at Bristol Infirmary.  An inquest was held on the body on Monday, before Jos. Langley, Esq. one of the Coroners for that city.  The proceedings occupied three hours; and the Jury, after duly considering the evidence adduced, returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against JOHN HORWOOD, who has, in consequence, been fully committed to Bristol new Gaol, for trial at the ensuing Assizes.

 

Mar 5.  FATAL MISTAKE.  Another melancholy instance of the results of carelessness or ignorance in shopmen, occurred in this county, on Monday week.  Mrs GEORGE, wife of Mr JOHN GEORGE, of the Unicorn Inn, Stow on the Wold, feeling herself slightly indisposed, sent for an ounce of salts to a neighbouring druggist, who, by mistake, sent her oxalic acid which occasioned her death in a few hours.  We will not pretend to describe the agonized feelings of her husband when, on his return from Gloucester, where he had been on business, he beheld her whom he had left in apparent health, a breathless corpse.  She has left four young children to lament so deplorable a calamity.

 

Mar 26.  SUICIDE.  The lifeless body of a young gentleman of Bristol, of the name of GOLLOP, was found in a sequestered spot, near Stapleton, about eight o’clock on Thursday evening.  A pistol, which appeared to have been recently discharged, lay near him, and another pistol, loaded, was found in the pocket of his coat, on the left side, and his left hand was in the pocket.  The ball had passed through his heart.  He had been in a very desponding way for some time, owing, it is supposed, to his having lost the bulk of his property, by lending it, on interest, to a person who subsequently became insolvent.

 

Apr 2. INQUESTS.  Lately taken before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner:  At the parish of  St James, Bristol, on view of the body of a new born male child found dead, and quite naked, in a ditch in a field leading to Asley Barn.  After a full investigation, the jury returned a verdict, Stillborn.

 

Apr 2.   At the Bell inn, at Stapleton, near Bristol, on the body of THOS GOLLOP, aged 27 years, late of Berkeley place, Clifton, who shot himself in a field near Stoke Park.  It appeared in evidence, that he had been in a very desponding way for some time, owing to his having lost near 5000 l. by lending it to a person who subsequently became insolvent.  The ball entered on the left side, passed thro’ the heart, and lodged in the spine.  Verdict, Insanity.  At the White Lion, Westbury on Trym, on the body of Mr W HARRIS, late of Monmouth, dealer in cattle, who, on his return home from Bristol market, fell out of his chair in the tap room of the inn, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.  And, at the Forest of Dean, near Burchill’s coal works, on the body of MARIA JENKINS, aged three years, burnt to death by her clothes taking fire in the absence of her parents.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Apr 9.  On Staurday night, the Bristol Mail coming to this city was overturned at an elbow of the road, a short distance on this side of Nubbis Ash Turnpike, when the coach falling on the head of the driver, SAMUEL WRIGHT, he was killed on the spot.  The poor coachman was a steady, sober man, and much respected.

 

Apr 16.  INQUESTS.   Taken last week before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner:  At Wotton Underedge, on view of the body of JOHN DANIELS, weaver, aged 73, who hanged himself to a rail across his bed chamber.  Verdict, Felo de se, in consequence of which he was buried in the public highway.  At Purton Passage House, on the body of MARY POWELL, aged 7 years, burnt to death by her clothes taking fire in the absence of her parents.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  At Drybrook, Forest of Dean, on the body of JOHN JENKINS, yeoman, aged 55, who put an end to his existence by cutting his throat with a razor, in a deranged state of mind.  Verdict, Insanity.   At the Bell Inn, at Berkeley Heath, on the body of SAMUEL WRIGHT, coachman to the Bristol and Birmingham Mail, aged 48, who was killed on the spot about ten o’clock on Saturday night, by the upsetting of the coach near Hornshill, in the parish of Cam.  Verdict, Accidental Death.   At the Cross Hands Inn, parish of Old Sodbury, on the body of JOHN WHEATLEY, horse keeper, aged 25, who hanged himself in a hay loft over one of the stables.  Having been for some time in a desponding state of mind, the jury returned a verdict of Lunacy.  

EXECUTION

On Friday, JOHN HORWOOD, (whose trial is noticed in our 4th page,) was executed on a drop in front of the new gaol, Bristol.  After his condemnation, two Clergymen were constantly with the prisoner, and a great alteration was perceptible in his behaviour.  He joined with these gentlemen in prayer, and appeared truly penitent.  On Thursday he said, “I hope to be in Heaven by this time tomorrow, with the dear girl.”  When asked how he could expect to go there, he said “Jesus died for a sinner - I an a great one; I rest entirely on him.”  About twelve, the culprit was released from his shackles, and ascended the awful platform a quarter before one.  The signal for the falling of the platform was to be given by the prisoner, by the dropping of a handkerchief, but he kept the spectators in an awful state of suspence for nearly twenty five minutes before he appeared to have courage to let it fall.  His struggles were speedily at and end.  After hanging the usual time, the body was taken down, and delivered over the the Surgeons for dissection, in pursuance of his sentence.  Notwithstanding the unfavourable state of the weather, it is supposed that not less than 20, 000 persons were assembled.  [Page 4 missing from film.]

 

Apr  23.  SHOCKING ACCIDENT.  Inquest on Groom from Staunton Court, Accidental Death.

On Wednesday evening, as some children were playing with a cart on the Quay, opposite the end of Stephen street, Bristol, an accident occurred which had nearly proved fatal in its consequences.  Two boys, aged twelve and nine years, named PAGE and NORRIS, were in the cart, while a third, lifting the shafts, inadvertently put it in motion.  Finding himself unable to control its course, he dropped the shafts; the cart, thus left to itself, rolled into the Float.  On an alarm being given, a rope was thrown in, which PAGE caught, and thereby kept himself above water.  NORRIS rose once, but sinking again, remained under water; which being observed by  ROBERT DAVIS (who was advancing in the Stroudwater galley boat, with two other men, to render assistance,) he very intrepidly threw himself into the water, with his clothes on, and swimming to the spot where the boy had disappeared, felt about with his feet until he found him; then diving, he succeeded in bringing him in safety to the boat, whence he was conveyed to the Star Public house opposite (where he resides), and with proper attention, was soon brought to life, and is likely to do well.  It is remarkable,  that, not more than three months since, the above named ROBERT DAVIS saved the life of an elderly man, who fell into the Cumberland Basin.  Altho’ thus successful with strangers, he had a child drowned about four years ago, whom he saw fall into the water, but ineffectually endeavoured to save, owing to a fresh in the river; and his own mother was found drowned in the Stroudwater Canal, near Whitminster Mill, about a fortnight ago.

   WARWICK ASSIZES; Executed, QUNICEY, ADAMS, HELRY and SIDNEY, for the murder of Mr WILLIAM HIRONS.

 

Apr 30.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Jos Mountain, Esq. Coroner:  In the parish of Bisley, and at Tarlton, on view of the bodies of LEVANAH ACHSAH COOK and MARY ANN KILMISTER, two female infants, who died in consequence of their clothes taking fire in the absence of their parents.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.  At Bisley, on the body of NATHANIEL STOCKHAM; in the same parish, on the body of BETTY LEWIS; and at Cirencester, on the body of AMY DIX, who all died suddenly, the first on the highway, on his return from Bristol.  Verdicts, Died by the Visitation of God. And, at Cherrington, on the body of WM BROWN, who died at Trouble House, whilst in the care of an officer on his removal from the parish of St Nicholas, Abingdon, to Walcot, Bath, under a suspended order.  Verdict, Died in a natural way from previous illness.

FATAL ACCIDENT.  On Tuesday afternoon Mr BOURNE, his wife, and Mrs GRIFFITHS, all of Guinea street, Bristol, proceeded down the river, in a small boat.  The tide was low, and the floodgates to the Dam being open, the rush of water through them was so great as to cause a complete whirlpool.  The boatman having made an ineffectual effort to pass, threw out his grappling hook and endeavoured to bring the boat up; but unhappily the grappling iron dragged, and the boat was again involved in the whirlpool.  A gentleman who was passing very promptly sent men to shut the flood gates, but it was impossible to perform this in time to avert the danger; and the boat, after being tossed to and fro for some minutes, upset.  Mr BOURNE reached the shore, with comparatively little difficulty.  The two females being carried away by the violence of the current, were taken up, one by Dowager Lady Smyth’s servant, under her Ladyship’s garden, the other at Rownham Ferry.  Mrs GRIFFITHS, who has received every humane attention at Lady Smyth’s, is likely to recover; but Mrs BOURNE expired soon after she was taken out of the water.  She had received a violent blow on the head, from the boat, when in the act of upsetting; and to this it is thought her death was to be chiefly attributed.  The body of the boatman has not yet been found

 

May 7.  INQUESTS.  Taken last week before Wm Joyner Ellis, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:  At the Tennis Court Inn, parish of Bitton, on view of the body of JOHN PEACOCK, spelter man , aged 34, who, in a deranged state of mind, cut his throat with a razor.  He had left a wife and four children to deplore his loss.   At Huntingford, parish of Wotton Underedge on the body of Mrs SARAH TREASDALE, aged 50, who threw herself into a bucket well and was drowned.  It appeared that she had been confined in a house for insane persons at Box, near Bath, and had left it only nine days previous to committing the fatal act.  Verdict in each case, Insanity.

  Mention of a servant of Tanner & Baylis, at Stonehouse; a waggoner.

 

May 14.  CRANIOLOGY.   A writer in the Bristol Mirror says, that on examining the brains of JOHN HORWOOD, lately executed for murder, the absence of the organ of Murder was observed, and the presence of that of Benevolence.  Did not the skull of Luscombe, the barbarous wretch hung at Exeter, about seven years ago, present similar phenomena!

 

May 28.  T AGER, Letter carrier from Bitton to Bristol Post Office, was found on Friday se’nnight, hanging in his bedroom, quite dead.

INQUESTS.  The following inquests have been taken before John Cooke, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county: On Monday, at Alderton, on view of the body of RD SHIPWAY, who was found dead in his bedroom.  The deceased had long been subject to fits, in one of which, it is supposed, he expired.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God. On Saturday, on the body of FRANCES COOKSEY, about two years and a half old, who was found drowned in a ditch in Barton lane, near this city.  The child was gathering flowers on the bank of the ditch, and it is conjectured, in reaching for one, overbalanced herself, and falling in head foremost, was suffocated before assistance could be rendered.  Verdict, Found drowned.  And, same day, on the body of an unfortunate man, named WM HUGHES, which was discovered Thursday last, floating in the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal, a little on this side of Hempstead Bridge; it appeared to have been not more than an hour in the water.  Near to his person a bottle was found, corked, which contained his name, an acknowledgement of his distressed circumstances, and a reference to some respectable persons at Lane End, Staffordshire, (with whom he professed to be related).  He was pretty generally known in this city as an itinerant dealer in earthenware, and had long been observed to be in a very low and desponding state of mind.  He was 65 years of age, and, it is said, has been in a respectable line of business.  Verdict, Found drowned.

 

Jul 2.  INQUESTS.  On Friday an inquest was taken before John Phillpotts, Esq. Coroner for this city, on view of the body of JOSEPH BAILEY, a poor old man, who fell down in Southgate street, and expired.  he resided at Barnwood, and had come to Gloucester in order to be bled.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   Inquests taken last week before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner, viz. At Stapleton, near Bristol, on view of the body of WILLIAM MONKS, stone cutter, aged 19, found drowned in the river Froome, near Stapleton Bridge.  Verdict, Lunacy.  At Mangotsfield, on the body of SAMUEL BENNETT, coal miner, aged 45, who dropt down dead as he was going to his work, without any previous illness.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.  At Newland, on the body of THOMAS FROWEN, aged 14, who was killed on the tram road near ???????? Bottom, in the Forest of Dean, by a tram cart going over his neck, by which means the head of the lad was completely severed from the body, and was found at six yards distance therefrom.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  Last week, an inquest was taken at Whitminster, on the body of HANNAH CROSS, an aged woman, of Berkeley, whose death was occasioned by falling from the top of a loaded waggon.  It appeared, that whilst a waggon belonging to Mr Trotman, of Dursley, loaded with wheat, (on which several market people had been permitted to ride,) was returning from this city on Saturday se’nnight, the linch pin came out, and one of the fore wheels coming off, the waggon upset, by which the poor woman was thrown into the ditch, and, great part of the wheat falling on her, she was suffocated.  Another of the party had both legs broken, and was sent to the Infirmary, and a third was much injured.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 9.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Jos Mountain, Esq. Coroner:  At Chedworth, on view of the body of CATHERINE BROAD, found dead in her bed.  At Cirencester, on the body of ANN SCOTT, who died suddenly whilst at her work, spinning twine in a rope walk.  At Eastleach Turville, on JOHN WILLIAMS, found dead in his bed.  At South Cerney, on SARAH TAYLOR, spinster, found dead in her bed.  And, at Eyford, on THOS WILLIAMS, who died suddenly in a barn, where he was working.  Verdict, in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.   On Wednesday an inquest was taken at Stroud, on the body of WM DERRETT,  Shoemaker, of Brockworth, who had left his house in search of work.  Having become ill, and spent 36 s. he had taken with him, he attempted to leave the town but, unable to proceed far, fell down in the street, and was taken to a public house, where he had the assistance of a medical gentleman, but died during the night.  Verdict, Died of disease.  Same day, on the body of S BASSETT, aged 78, who, in returning from his employment alone, fell into a ditch and was suffocated.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 16. On Thursday evening last, W HILL, aged 16, an apprentice to Mr RD BARRETT, painter, of this city, unfortunately drowned, whilst bathing in the Severn, nearly opposite the Canal basin.  His loss is the more regretted, as we understand that he evinced in his business superior ingenuity and uniform attention to duty; and that an exemplary filial affection endeared him to a now disconsolate mother.

 

1821. Jul 30.  Two young persons named THOS POSTLEWAITE and MARIA GOLDING have lately been killed by machinery, the fomer at the manufactory of Messrs Staunton and Co., clothiers, at Stafford’s Mill, Chalford road, and the latter at Mr Miles’s, clothier, at Bridge end, Stonehouse, in this county.

   An inquisition was taken on the 20th inst. by adjournment, at Chipping Norton, on view of the body of JOHN COOPER, who was killed by the overthrow of the Cambrian Worcester Coach, in the town of Chipping Norton, owing chiefly to the shameful state of the roads, not only on the spot where the accident happened, but generally in that division, which calls for the immediate attention of the Commissioners of the Moreton Trust. 

 

Aug 6.  A Coroner’s Inquest was held a few days since at Berkeley, on the body of a sailor, found in the Severn; and the proceedings were scarcely concluded, before an express arrived to summon the Coroner, W Joyner Ellis, Esq. to Chepstow, where a boy had been drowned in a brick field.  Verdict, in both cases, Accidental Death.

   Thursday last, as Mr WARLEY, a respectable farmer, of Brize Norton, was returning from Witney market, he was thrown from his horse and killed on the spot.

 

Aug 27.  Friday, in consequence of taking a quantity of oxalic acid, given him at a druggist’s shop, in mistake for Epsom Salts, in June last, Mr JOHN DUNCAN GERARD, late of the house of Surrage and Co., Bristol.

   Mention of a child, REEKES, aged 3 and a half, drowned at Tewkesbury in 1820.  [and Sep 3]

 

Sep 3.  INQUESTS.  At Framilode, on view of the body of a youth drowned in the River Severn, by falling out of a barge; at Bisley, on JOS LEWIS, who was killed by the wheel of a waggon passing over his body and head; and at Saul, on the body of Mr  THOS HAYWARD, blacksmith, who was killed in consequence of a fall from his horse.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

 

Sep 10.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county: At Newland, on view of the body of THOMAS HAWKINS, aged 27 years, who was killed by a large stone falling on his head, whilst at work in a coalpit in the Forest of Dean; at Charfield Mill, near Wotton Underedge, on the body of WM BENNETT, aged 17, drowned whilst bathing in a mill pond, and at Saint Philip and Jacob, on the body of GEORGE POWELL, aged 7, who fell out of a barge into the River Avon, and was drowned.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.  At Westerleigh, on the body of DANL ENGLAND, aged 22, who, whilst at Pucklechurch revel the Sunday preceding, received a violent blow on the forehead from a stone thrown by some person unknown, which penetrated the brain, and caused almost instant death.  Verdict, Manslaughter against some person or perons unknown.  And, at Great George street, Saint Philip and Jacob, on the body of a new born male child, found floating in the river Froome, tied up in a piece of cloth, with a string round the neck.  Verdict, Wilful Murder against some person or persons unknown.

   Inquests taken before John Cooke, Esq, Coroner: At Upton St Leonards, on view of the body of ELIZ. HANNIS, aged about 60, who was found dead in a field.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.  At Apperley, on the body of a man unknown, found drowned in the River Severn.  The deceased was dressed, etc.  Verdict, Found drowned.  On Monday, a young woman, named MATILDA BARRETT, whilst walking in the Lower Street, Stroud, dropped down and expired.  Verdict,

 

Sep 17.  Melancholy Accident; WM KING, aged 22, of Gloucester.

 

Sep 24.  On Sunday se’nnight, a barge belonging to Stourport, in coming up the River Severn, on an early tide, struck on the Noose Sands, opposite to Awre Church, when two of her crew were unfortunately drowned.  The body of one of them, named JOHN FILKINS, aged 28, has since been found, and an inquest taken before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner.  It appeared that a third person on board was miraculously saved, by a boat from the shore, after clinging to a part of the vessel for nearly twenty minutes.

 

1821.  Sep 24.  Notice re estate of JOHN OLIVE.

 

Oct 8.  AWFUL OCCURRENCE.  On Sunday morning, during Divine Service, the congregation in the parish church of Berkeley, were thrown into the greatest consternation by Mrs SARAH IRISH, of that place, suddenly dropping down in her pew.  Dr Henry Jenner, who immediately went to her aid, discovered that she had been seized by an apoplectic fit, and she expired before she could be taken home.

 

Oct 15. INQUESTS.  Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At Cheltenham, on view of the body of SARAH PHILLIPS, found dead in a bedroom in the house of her father.  At Ashchurch, on the body of RD DRINKWATER, found dead in his house.  Verdict in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.  At the Hundred of St Briavell’s, on the body of ELIJAH CHIVERS, who fell into a coal pit, a depth of 70 yards, and was instantly killed.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  And, yesterday se’nnight, at the South Hamlet, on the body of THOMAS JONES alias BOODEN, a bargeman, belonging to Bridgnorth, found floating in the Canal at Lanthony bridge, adjoining this city.  He had been missing ever since the night of Barton Fair, when he was much intoxicated; and in wandering about in that state, it is supposed he had fallen into the canal, and perished.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

INQUESTS.   Before J Mountain, Esq. Coroner:  At Deanway, on view of the body of J KING, who fell into a lock of the Thames and Severn Canal.  At Notgrove, on the body of an infant, smothered in a drain, into which he had crept during the absence of his mother.  At Horsley, on the body of SARAH LOVETT, who fell from a landing place at Ball’s Green.  At Lechlade, on the body of WM GILES, who in the act of getting up behind a carriage, became entangled.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.  At Frampton, on the body of  R BUTLER, and at Siddington, on the body of MARY STEVENS, Verdicts, Found drowned.  At North Cerney, on the body of T FORT, found hanged in his dwelling house.  Verdict, Hanged himself under mental derangement.  And, at Horsley, on the body of T COX, found dead in a field.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Nov 12.  ACCIDENT.   On Sunday, as a child about 3 years of age, son of Mr G WILLIAMS, who resides on the Severn bank, near this city, was at play, it unfortunately fell into the river and was drowned.  The accident was witnessed by some persons on board a barge, and although prompt efforts were used to rescue the infant, such was the rapidity of the current that it was almost instantaneously swept away beyond the reach of succour.

 

Dec 17.  INQUESTS.  Taken before S Jones, Esq. Coroner for this city:  On Wednesday, on view of the body of JOSEPH ALDRIDGE, who dropped down and instantly expired, whilst cleaning a carriage in the yard of the Booth Hall Inn.  And, on Saturday, on the body of JOSHUA SMITH, who was found dead in bed at the King’s Head Tap, the preceding night: he had been complaining in some trifling degree, but was not known to have been materially ill.  Verdict, in each case, Died by the Visitation of God. On Tuesday,  a poor boy named JOHN BOWERS, about five years old, was so dreadfully burnt, in the absence of the person in whose charge he had been left, in a house near the Foreign bridge, in this city, that he died in a few hours after being conveyed to the Infirmary.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Dec 24.  Yesterday morning, as the Prosper barge was dropping down the river at this city, and had passed the Westgate Brige, a bargeman named JOHN OAKES was knocked overboard by the tiller, and drowned.  And, on Tuesday night, a man named JOHN RANDALL, accidentally fell into the Severn from the barge Sally lying at our Quay, and was drowned.  From the darkness of the night, no effectual assistance could be rendered him.  From the height of the flood, neither of the bodies have yet been found.

  PEARCE, Stationer, Bath street, Bristol; 3 daughters; chimney fall.

   On Saturday se’nnight, the body of Mrs SOPHIA HARWOOD, was found drowned in a pond near Arlingham, adjoining her usual place of abode.  She had some time previously been in a dejected state of mind; and it may be recollected that her husband was killed a few years ago by a large stag, in Lyppiatt Park , the seat of St Paul Baghott.

 

Dec 24.  Long account of Steam ship explosion.

 

Dec 31.  On Monday evening, JOSEPH JONES,  who was so dreadfully scalded by the bursting of the boiler of the Sovereign steam packet, as mentioned in our last, died in our Infirmary, after suffering most excruciating pain.

   A few days since, a poor man of the name of WALL, a tailor, belonging to Tewkesbury, whilst in the act of calling for the boatman to ferry him over the Severn at the Lower Lode, fell down and instantly expired.

INQUESTS. Taken before Samuel Jones, Esq. Coroner for this city: On Wednesday, at the Infirmary, on view of the body  of JOS JONES, so dreadfully scalded by the explosion  of the boiler on board the Sovereign steam packet, that he died on Monday evening.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  On Friday, on the body of JOHN LLOYD, a workman in the employ of Mr Buchanan, edge tool maker, of this city, who, while engaged at his usual occupation, fell down and instantly expired.  The deceased had been in the service of the same master for a period of fourteen years, and uniformly bore the character of an industrious and honest man.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.  And, on Saturday last, on the body of THOMAS JELF, bargeman, who received such severe injuries on board a barge in the river, by the falling of her mast, that he survived the accident only two days.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

 

 

1822.

 

Jan 7.  On Friday afternoon a boy named HIGGS, who lived at Parke’s Farm, Old Sodbury, in this county, while driving some sheep, was thrown from the horse on which he was riding, into the flood, and was drowned.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county: At Uley, on view of the body of a child named EDW RICKARDS, aged two years, whose death was occasioned  by drinking boiling water out of the spout of a tea kettle; and at Stoke Gifford, on the body of RD DENT, aged 16, who was killed on the spot by a cart going over his body.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.  At the White Bear, Kingsdown, Bristol, on the body of ANN HARDING, who hanged herself in her bedroom.  Verdict, Insanity.  At Coleford, on the body of HANNAH CAUDLE, aged 40, wife of JOHN CAUDLE, labourer, who was found dead at a place called the Scowles, in the Forest of Dean; it had been generally supposed that her death was occasioned by violence, but after a long and very minute investigation, the jury returned a Verdict, Died from intoxication and the inclemency of the weather, and not by violence.  And at Coaley, on the body of a new born female child, found dead.  Verdict, Wilful Murder against HANNAH PEGLER, the mother, who has since been committed for trial at the next Assizes.

 

Jan 14.  Committal of HANNAH PEGLER.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At Lassington, on view of the body of WM SIMMONDS, who, in attempting to get across the river Leadon, fell into the water and was drowned.  At St Briavels, on the body of HENRY ROBBINS, who was killed in a stone quarry, by a quantity of stone falling upon him.  And, in the Infirmary, on the body of ANN FOWLES, who was burnt to death in consequence of her clothes taking fire.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.  At Churcham, on the body of ANN BALLINGER, who, whilst peeling some potatoes, fell backwards, and instantly expired.  And at Longney, on the body of ELIZABETH BARROW, found dead in her bed.  Verdicts, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Jan 21.  On the evening of the 7th inst. GEORGE ILES, butcher, of Chipping Sodbury, in this county, aged 70, retired to bed about six o’clock apparently in good health, and about seven was found dead.

   Body at Tewkesbury, Male, Waterman.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before Joseph Mountain, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:  At Tunley,  on view of the body of THOS WHITING, an infant, whose death was occasioned by falling from the arms of his nurse.  At Siddington, on the body of ELIZA BRAMBLE, an infant, who fell into the fire, in the absence of her mother.  At Chalford, on the body of RD ALLEN, who was suffocated by falling into a tub of water.  At Cirencester, on the body of ELIZABETH LARNER, an infirm woman, who was burnt to death by her clothes taking fire.  And at Lechlade, on the body of WM BOWLES, who was killed by a waggon going over him.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.  At Minchinhampton, on the body of PHILIP DICKMAN, found dead in his chamber.  At Ampney Crucis, on the bosy of JOSEPH SHILL, found dead in his room.  At Northleach House of Correction, on the body of LAWRENCE HENRY LEWIS, found dead in his bed.  At Baunton, on the body of SARAH BIDDLE, found dead.  And, at Aston Blank, on the body of THOS HOOPER, who died in a fit.  Verdict, in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Jan 28.  A young man of the name of LANE fell from the roof of one of the Cheltenham coaches, a few nights since, just as it reached the house of his uncle, the Golden Pheasant, on the road to this city, and died instantly.  He was subject to fits.

 

Feb 4.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At St Briavels, on view of the body of GEORGE COOPER, who was killed by falling into a coal pit, in consequence of the breaking of the rope attached to the pit cart by which he was descending.  And at Staunton, on the body of RD LANE, killed by falling from a coach; it appeared that the deceased was riding on the back seat of the roof of a coach going from this city to Cheltenham, and, when about a mile from the house of his brother in law JOSEPH LANE, called the Golden Pheasant, he accidentally fell off, by which his ribs on the left side were broken, and he was otherwise so much injured, that he died in a few hours after being taken into the house.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.  At Windrush, on the body of WM FARMER, who was found drowned in the river Windrush.  At the South Hamlet, on the bodies of JOHN RANDALL, and JOHN OAKES, found drowned in the river Severn; the two men lost their lives by falling into the river at the Quay in this city, a few weeks since.  Verdict, in each case, Found drowned.  And at Cheltenham, on the body of THOMAS INGRAM, found dead in his room; he had been a patient at the Dispensary in that town, and a report had been invidiously circulated, that his death was occasioned by improper medicine having been administered to him; but after the most minute investigation, and examination of medical gentlemen of great eminence, it was clearly proved to be without the least foundation, and the jury returned a verdict, of Sudden Death.

 

Feb 18.  On Saturday se’nnight, Mrs CHITTS, of Thornbury, in this county, a very corpulent woman, who had been in the habit of attending the Bristol market, feeling herself suddenly indisposed, went to the waggon warehouse, in Broadmead, and ordered her horse and cart to be got ready to return home; but before this could be effected, she became a corpse!  An inquest has been held on the body, and the jury returned a verdict, Died in an apoplectic fit.

 

Feb 25.  INQUEST.  Monday, an inquest was taken before Samuel Jones, Esq. Coroner, on the body of SARAH WEATHERSTONE, residing in the Lower Northgate street, who, while in the act of walking uppstairs, fell down in a fit of apoplexy, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Mar 18.  Mr Baron Garrow, on the lungs test, “a matter of exultation to him.”

 

Mar 25.  A poor woman, of the name of BISHOP, was last week committed to the borough gaol, for the wilful murder of her new born illegitimate child.

 

Apr 1.  OBITUARY.  At Old Sodbury, in this county, THOS TANNER, aged 84; he led a most penurious life, living principally on potatoes, and sleeping always in a tallet; a few days previous to his death he went to see his brother, at Tormarton, and at parting he drank about a pint and a half of beer, which had such an effect on him, that in going home he lost his way and fell into a ditch, where he was found next morning; he has left 1200 l. between his wife and daughter, and a weekly allowance to his brother.

 

Apr 8.  OBITUARY.  Thursday, at Littleworth, near Minchinhampton, in consequence of injuries sustained by falling into a quarry, on his return from Minchinhampton market, in his 60th year, Mr OBADIAH BURGESS.  (It is scarcely credible, that notwithstanding many accidents have recently occurred, several quarries, varying in depth from 10 to 50 feet, are suffered to remain open, without any fence whatever; and in many cases, within a few feet of public roads.)

Assizes; HANNAH PEGLER, No Bill.

 

Apr 15.  OBITUARY.  Mr JAS ALPASS, saddler, who death was occasioned by a fall from his horse.

Assizes: One Year: HANNAH BISHOP, for endeavouring to conceal the birth of her bastard child.

 

Apr 22.  OBITUARY.  On the 11th inst. aged 67, R DODD, Esq. leaving a widow and three children to lament his loss.  A stupendous specimen of his talent is presented in the design of Waterloo Bridge.  Since the accident which occurred to Mr DODD, by the bursting of the boiler of the engine on board the Sovereign steam packet, in the basin of the Canal, at this city, his health had been in a very indifferent state; and being advised to visit Cheltenham, he died soon after his arrival there.

 

Apr 29.  INQUESTS.   On Wednesday, an inquest was held before Samuel Jones, Esq. Coroner for this city, on view of the body of a poor elderly man, named ROBERT DEAN, who, on the preceding day, whilst being led down the Westgate street, was taken suddenly ill, and died almost instantly.  He was a native of the sister country, and had for some time past obtained a precarious livelihood by travelling from place to place as an itinerant musician.  He had for some weeks been suffering under an attack of ague, and on the morning of his death had expressed his conviction that he should die before night.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   The following inquests have been taken before Wm Trigg, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county: At Cainscross, on view of the body of ARABELLA NEALE, aged 15, who was seized with a vomiting and slight affection of the head, whilst in her bed, on Sunday last, and on attempting to dress herself, sank down in a state of insensibility, and almost immediately expired.  And, at Bisley, on the body of MARY JACOBS, who dropt down dead in a neighbour’s house.  Verdict, in each case, Sudden Death.  At Wheelford, on the body of a child aged seven years, burnt to death by its clothes taking fire; and, at Oakridge Lynch, on a child drowned in a well.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

 

May 6.  On Wednesday, a labourer, named COOKE, while in the act of ascending a ladder with a bucket of water on his head, at the new buildings near the Foreign Bridge, lost his balance, and was precipitated to the bottom, by which he was very much injured.  He was immediately conveyed to our Infirmary, and is likely to survive the accident.

   On the same day, WM BRADLEY, a pinner, was drowned in the presence of several of his shopmates, at Stonebench, near this city, in an endeavour to walk across the Severn for a trifling wager!

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county: At Milkwall, in the Forest of Dean, on view of the body of JANE YOUNG, aged three years, burnt to death by her clothes taking fire in the absence of her parents.  At Clearwell, on the body of JAMES JONES, chaise driver, aged 29, who fell off the bar of a chaise, on his return home to Monmouth, from the Beachley Passage House, and thereby received a violent concussion of the brain, of which he died.  At Coleford, on the body of WM JENKINS, coal miner, aged 40, who died in consequence of a large quantity of coal and rubbish falling on him whilst at work in a pit.  At Hanham, on the body of GEO POLLENGER, aged five years, found drowned in the River Avon, near Hanham Mills.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.  And, at the Black Boy Tavern, near Bristol, on the body of a new born male child, found dead and naked, in a stone quarry at Durdham Down.  After a minute investigation, and the body being first examined by a Medical Gentleman, the jury returned a verdict of Stillborn.

 

May 13.  EXTRAORDINARY ACCIDENT.  Involving WM LUDLOW  and JAMES COOPER, of Cirencester, carters.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

May 20.  INQUESTS.  Taken before John Cooke, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county: On Thursday last, at Elmore, on view of the body of GABRIEL SPIER, who died from taking arsenic in mistake for rhubarb.  It appeared in evidence, that the deceased having been unwell, requested his brother, on Saturday the 18th inst. to procure some rhubarb for him, and at the same time to purchase some arsenic for the purpose of destroying rats, which he obtained at a druggist’s in this city.  The brother not intending to return immediately, met his sister in law, and gave her the arsenic for deceased, instead of the rhubarb, and altho’ every precaution had been used by the person at whose shop the arsenic was purchased, by putting it in two papers, and labelling each paper with the word “poison” largely written thereon, yet unfortunately, neither the deceased, his brother, or sister in law, being able to read, the latter mixed part of the arsenic in water, first tasting it herself, and then delivered it to the deceased, who also tasted, and afterwards drank it.  The deceased becoming very sick, accompanied with a burning in the throat, his sister in law took the paper in which the arsenic was wrapped to a neighbour, in order to ascertain what the writing meant, when the dreadful mistake was discovered.  A professional Gentleman was instantly sent for, who administered medicine to counteract the effects of the poison, but without success, and the deceased expired in great agony on Tuesday.  As a further melancholy proof of the ignorance of the parties, a portion of the rhubarb was used for the purpose for which they had intended the poison.  After a patient investigation, the Jury returned a verdict, Died from taking Arsenic instead of Rhubarb, by mistake.  Same day, at South Hamlet, near this city, on view of the body of JAMES MASTERS, a fine young man, and a Corporal in the Guards, who was drowned while bathing in the River Severn.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  At Newent, on the body of JOSEPH MILLARD, who fell down while at work in a field, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Jun 3.  On Thursday last, one of the men employed in the erection of a new bridge across the Avon at Tewkesbury, whilst bathing in the Severn, was unfortunately drowned, in consequence of venturing out of his depth and being unable to swim.  The body was picked up the same evening.  An inquest has been since held thereon, before George Hill, Esq. one of the Coroners for Worcestershire, and a verdict returned of Accidental Death.

DREADFUL ACCIDENT.  On Thursday last, RICHD HISGROVE fell into the boiler of the brewhouse at the Trout Tavern, Bristol.  He is supposed to have remained there nearly an hour before he was discovered, when he was taken out lifeless, and a most shocking spectacle.  He was subject to fits, and is supposed in one of them to have fallen in.

 

Jun 10.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At Broadoak, on the body of JOHN HALLIER, jun. who was drowned in a pool of water near his father’s house.  At St Briavell’s, on the body of ELIZABETH COWMEADOW, who was burnt, in consequence of her clothes having taken fire, in so dreaful a manner that her intestines were found from the body.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.  At Quedgeley, on the body of a male infant child, named MOSES GREENAWAY.  It had been reported in the parish, that the deceased came to his death by violent means, but after the most minute investigation, and examination of the body by a surgeon of respectability, not the slightest mark appeared to criminate any person, or to show that the deceased came to a violent end, and the jury returned a verdict of Died by the Visitation of God.

   Yesterday an Inquest was taken before the same Coroner, on view of the body of CHARLOTTE BUNDY, only fourteen years of age, found drowned in the Severn, a short distance below Gloucester.  It seems that the deceased, although so young, had frequently expressed a determination to destroy herself.  For the last three weeks she had been in the service of a very respectable family in this city, where she was engaged to look after an infant, and on Thursday last, having been, in the mildest manner, reproved for improper treatment of the child, she abruptly left her master’s house; and although immediately followed by her brother, she contrived to elude him, and proceeded to the river side.  In her way she spoke to a man who was mowing, and asked if there was water enough in the river to drown her.  The man said there was, but hoped she had no such intention, to which she replied in the negative, and said she was only looking for something she had lost.

  At the desire of the parents she was to have been confirmed tomorrow, to which she had expressed a strong dislike, and as she was known to be impressed with the vulgar notion that whatever sin she had committed before a confirmation she would not be answerable for, it is supposed the influence of this mistaken idea matured her previously avowed intention of destroying herself!  On being missed, every search was made for her by dragging the river near the spot where she was last seen, but without success, nor was it till yesterday morning that her fate was ascertained, when the body was accidentally discovered by some young men who were fishing.  In the absence of all evidence to prove the absolute circumstances by which she met her death, the Jury returned a verdict of Found Drowned.

 

Jun 17.  On Sunday evening, a youth, the son of Mr MORGAN, cooper, of King street, Bristol, fell into the Float, near the grove.  Mr LLOYD, of the mercantile establishment of Messrs Daniels and Co. who happened to be passing by at the time, offered some sailors among the bystanders a guinea to fetch the body out, and five guineas if they should succeed in saving the poor lad’s life: finding, however, that these persons were not to be induced to second his humane purpose, the benevolent gentleman himself plunged into the almost stagnant and polluted stream, and recovered the body after it had been in the water about twelve minutes, but we lament to say that it was too late - the vital spark had fled, and though no efforts were spared to restore it, they were entirely unavailing.

Jun 17.    The lifeless body of another boy, which had been three weeks under water, was brought on shore the same day.

 

Jun 24.  INQUESTS.  On Thursday, an inquest was taken at the Nag’s Head, in this city, before S Jones, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of THOMAS JONES, a waterman; it appeared that, about half past nine the evening preceding, in attempting to shove off the vessel of which he was on board, he over reached himself, and falling into the Severn was instantly drowned.  Several persons witnessed the accident, but as he never rose to the surface of the water, it was impossible to render any assistance, and the body was not found till the following morning.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   The following inquests have lately been taken before W Trigg, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:  At Wheelford, on the body of ANN COTTERELL, who was burnt to death by her clothes catching fire in the absence of her parents.  At Acton, on the body of WM FIELDING, aged four years, who was killed by a barley roller going over his head in the road.  At Stroud, on the body of JAMES NURBURRY, who was drowned in the lock of the Thames and Severn Canal, near Wallbridge; and at Stanley St Leonards, on the body of ANN POWELL, two years old, who fell into a well and was drowned.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.   At Stroud, on the body of GEORGE CHEW, a person subject to fits, who was found dead in bed, lying on his face.  Verdict, Sudden Death from Suffocation.  And, at the same place, on the body of THOMAS STEEL, aged 55, who hung himself in a tree, growing in a garden, where he had been at work.  Verdict, Lunacy.

 

Jul 1.  OBITUARY.  On the 21st inst. beloved and respected, JOHN BOWSHER, Esq. of Chepstow; his death was occasioned by the injury he received in consequence of a fall from his horse in a hay field a few days before.

INQUESTS.  On Monday last, an inquest was held at the Infirmary, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of JOSEPH STERRY, a carrier, of Longhope, who, on the preceding Saturday, unfortunately fell from the shafts of his waggon, whilst descending a declivity at Churcham, and the wheels passing over his body, he was so dreadfully injured that he expired shortly after.  Verdict, Accidental Death,

   The following inquests were taken last week before W Trigg, Esq. Coroner:  At Minchinhampton, on the body of Mrs MARY WATT, who fell down in the road, and instantly expired.  At the same place, on the body of Mr THOMAS JONES, carpenter, who was found dead upon Hampton Common, where he was following his occupation.  At Stroud, on the body of Mrs SARAH RESTALL, found dead in the poor house.  Verdict, in each case, Sudden Death, by the Visitation of God.  At the Hare and Hounds, near Tetbury, on the body of a carter in the employ of Mr Mitchell, maltster, who, whilst driving his master’s team, fell down, and the waggon passing over his body, he was shortly after discovered helpless in a ditch, and died next day.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 7.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At Hays, on the body of THOMAS DAVIS, aged about 18 years, who was drowned while bathing in a pool, at Hays Farm; the deceased had swam across the pool, and on returning was seized with the cramp, and sunk before any assistance could be rendered.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  At Tuffley, on the body of JOHN PITT, aged about 4 years, who was found drowned in a pool, where he had gone with a can for the purpose of reaching water.  Verdict, Found drowned.   At Newent, on the body of JAMES PRICE, aged about 16 years, who whilst driving a waggon accidentally fell down, when the wheel passing over his body killed him on the spot.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  At Cheltenham, on the body of REUBEN TANNER, aged about three years, who in the momentary absence of his parents, drank boiling water from out of a tea kettle, which caused death in a sort time afterwards.  Verdict, Died in consequence of drinking boiling water out of a kettle.   At the Infirmary, on the body of WILLIAM GUBBINS, who, on Saturday last, accidentally fell from a waggon loaded with hay at Hucclecote, by which the spine was so much injured, that he died on Thursday.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  

   Om Monday last, an inquest was held, at Cheltenham, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on the body of a female child, named ANNA ROACH, only nine months old, whose death, it was reported, was occasioned by ill treatment from its mother.  That the poor (illegitimate) infant had been greatly neglected was evident, but little else could be expected from a woman who had become a slave to the vice of drunkenness; but still it appeared from the depositions, that the unfortunate being, whose almost every other desire was lost in that of procuring liquor, exhibited some proof that she still retained a portion of maternal solicitude for her offspring.  The surgeon deposed that the appearance of the child gave not the least reason to suppose it had died from ill usage; on opening the body he found that the liver was considerably enlarged, (which was itself sufficient to occasion death,) and the stomach also exhibited other inflammatory symptoms.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   The following inquests have lately been taken before Joseph Mountain, Esq. Coroner:  At Cirencester, on the body of HENRY CHARLES HIGGINS, found drowned in the Churns.  At Leachlade, on WILLIAM SESSIONS, found drowned in a ditch.  Verdicts, Found drowned.  At Chalford, on DANIEL DAMSELL, an infant, who died from suffocation.  At Cirencester, on THOMAS HAMBLETT, who died suddenly.  Verdicts, Died by the Visitation of God.  At Kempsford, on the body of WM TOMBS, whose death was occasioned by the bursting of a horse pistol.  At the same place, on the bodies of WILLIAM LUDLOW and RICHARD COOPER, killed by the wheels of a waggon or cart.  At Oakridge Lynch, on the body of REUBEN TWIZZLE, who fell into a well.  And at the Hare and Hounds, near Tetbury, on the body of ROBERT WATTS, who fell from the shafts of a waggon, the wheels of which went over his head.  Verdict, in the last six cases, Accidental Death.

 

Aug 5.  JOHN BOWSHER’s will, bequests.

CORONER’s INQUEST.  On Monday evening an inquisition was taken at the Bell on the Quay, Bristol, before J B Grindon, Esq. and a respectable Jury, touching the death of FANNY HUNT, an interesting young woman, who, on the morning of the same day, had thrown herself from the deck of a vessel into the Frome.  It was understood, that the unfortunate subject of this melancholy inquiry had been devotedly attached to a sailor, who had recently returned from a voyage to the West Indies, and to whom she was engaged to be married.  During the absence of her betrothed lover, however, another young man had paid his addresses to her, but so far from receiving his attentions with any sort of encouragement, she had peremptorily refused to listen to him.  This highly irritated the rejected suitor, and, as it is conjectured, instigated him to wreak his revenge by writing an insidious letter to the former and true lover, which induced him to break with the unhappy girl, and to decline performing his promise to marry her.  Upon which in the agony of her mind at this sudden, cruel, and to her unaccountable breach of faith on the part of her intended husband, she formed a false resolution to destroy herself.  The testimony was so clear and satisfactory, that the Jury, without hesitation, returned a verdict of - Insanity.

 

Aug 12.  INQUEST.  On Wednesday an Inquest was taken at the Boar’s Head, Severn Stoke, by Mr Hill, Coroner, on the body of ANN PAINE, widow, aged 84, the poor woman who we mentioned in a former paper, as having been rode down by a person unknown, who had ordered medical aid to her, but had disappeared, and who died of the fracture and contusions she received on Tuesday morning last.  It was proved that the poor woman was very deaf, and that the person was riding rapidly down the road on this side Col. Martin’s, where there is a turn; he called out to her to get out of the road, and it was supposed he was ignorant of her deafness, and she might have moved towards the horse; on her being thrown down he stopped and called for assistance, and appeared greatly frightened, and by advice, rode for the doctor.  The Jury found a verdict of Accidental Death, but to mark his conduct for not returning, found the mare or gelding a deodand of twenty five pounds value.

 

Aug 19.  Change in penalty for Manslaughter to Transportation for Life or 14 years Hard Labour, NOT  1 year.

Assizes.  GEORGE BROWN aged 12, charged with the murder of ELIZABETH BOON alias GOULD, about April.

ADDRESS BY SIR WILLIAM GARROW:  My Lord and Gentlemen of the Grand Jury, - It is a satisfaction to me to be able to congratulate you, that with some few exceptions the calendar which contains the enumeration of the cases which will probably occupy your attention, is neither more numerous than might be expected in so populous a county as this, nor, with some few exceptions, presenting offences of a very aggravated nature.  There are some one or two cases upon which I shall trouble you with a very few observations.  The first is that of GEORGE BROWN.  The Coroner has taken an Inquisition upon the body of a child named GOULD, and the prisoner, who is of the age of twelve years, I see is committed on a charge of murder.  I was very much surprised to find a child of such tender years charged with the commission of that grievous and aggravated offence, but upon looking into the depositions I think it not improbable that when you come to enquire into it, you may not find yourselves called upon to bring in a charge of murder.  In speaking to Gentlmen of your distinction, it is impossible not to be stating that which is well known to the greatest number of you, you have so often and so ably discharged the duties you are here called upon to perform; it is impossible that there is anything new that I can say to you or that can carry instruction to you on any subject on which you are not apprized.  Murder has for its ingredients necessarily malice express or implied; if there be no malice aforethought the killing does not amount in the eye of the law to murder.  Now the case that will be presented to you is of this nature - a boy of the age of twelve being employed by a farmer to keep crows from the corn, was intrusted with a gun and a small quantity of powder for that purpose , and being with another boy, he put some pebbles into his gun, as it should seem from some of the depositions, not with an intention to do any mischief to any body or any thing, but from a dangerous frolic which persons so engaged are too apt to indulge in; he went to a garden where the deceased was, together with some other children, and desired to have some water, one of the children said we have no water in the house and therefore excused themselves from giving it; upon which he put the gun through the hedge and discharged it, or it might go off through accident.  The consequence was the girl was shot in the head and the brains shortly afterwards protruded from the skull; and if it should appear from any previous declarations of resentment, malice, or ill will, towards the child, it might in such case be murder, because it is fit I should conclude this part of my remarks by observing that there is no tenderness of age that excuses from the commission of murder.  Malice supplies, as the law says, the maturity of years, and if the fact committed shews a knowledge of right or wrong, and a determination to commit malicious mischief, a person not of adult years may commit that crime.  There is a case lately come in, I believe yesterday, of manslaughter; it is a case of killing in a boxing match, and wherever life is lost under such circumstances, that is the offence of manslaughter.

GEORGE BROWN, for Manslaughter, .... severally fined 1 s. and discharged.

 

Sep 2.  On Monday, HENRY KILMINSTER, a poor man residing in St John’s lane, in this city, in descending from a first floor apartment, at the Spa, where he was employed at work, unfortunately slipped down stairs, and, losing his balance in endeavouring to recover himself at the bottom, was precipitated down another flight of steps into the cellar; on being taken up, he was found to be dreadfully injured, and was therefore immediately conveyed to the Infirmary, where, after lingering in great agony, he expired on Thursday.  An inquisition was taken on the body before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

 

Sep 10.  INQUEST.  An inquest was taken a few days since before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of an infant male child, found dead in a pool of water, near the Grange Court, Westbury on Severn.  Every enquiry was made to obtain information upon the subject, but without effect, and after a minute investigation of the body by a surgeon of respectability, who deposed that from its general appearance he had no doubt that the child was born alive, the jury returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against some perrson or persons unknown.  Not the least clue transpired during the investigation, that could lead to the discovery of the unnatural parent.

 

Oct 7.  INQUEST before WJ Ellis, Esq. Corkner on EDWARD EVANS, 29, and WM KNIGHT, 35, fishing from the Trow Endeavour; verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Oct 14.  On Saturday last, an Inquest was taken before DA Saunders, Esq. Coroner for this city, on view of the body of WILLIAM THOMAS, aged three years, whose clothes, in the momentary absence of his parents on Thursday last, caught fire, by which means he was so dreadfiully burnt as to occasion his death on the following day.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Oct 14.  A shocking accident happened on Friday, at a manufactory, in George street, Lawford’s Gate, Bristol.  A young man, named GEORGE JONES, was in the act of tying a rope to the dinner bell, when his foot slipped, and he fell on the fly wheel of the steam engine, which was at work at the time, and which actually severed his head from his body.

 

Nov 11.  THOMAS, post boy from Petty France, at Cross Hands, fell off horse under the wheels of the chaise he was driving.

 

Incomplete.     

 

 

 

1823

 

Jan 6.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. one of the Coroners for this County: At North Nibley, on view of the body of Mr JOHN RUDGE, aged 73 years, who fell down dead without previous illness, in a druggist’s shop at Dursley, whilst waiting for medicine to be made up for his family.  At the same place, on the body of JOHN alias DANIEL FORD, broad weaver, aged 61, also found dead, without previous illness.  Verdict in each case, Sudden Death by the visitation of God.  At Wick and Abson, on the body of ROBT SMITH, a child about three years of age, burnt to death by his clothes taking fire in the absence of his parents.  At Hillsley, on the body of JOHN [or DANIEL] FORDS, aged 52, killed by a waggon loaded with coals going over him on his return from Coalpit Heath.  At Pucklechurch, on the body of ROBERT BOLWELL, cordwainer, aged 43, found drowned in a brook near Wick and Abson.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death. 

    The following inquests were lately taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At Littledean, on the body of GEORGE WOODMAN, aged three years; at Hardwicke, on the body of JEREMIAH REA, aged six; and at St Briavell’s, on the body of MARY ANN JORDAN, aged ten, all of whom were burnt to death, in consequence of their clothes taking fire, in the absence of their respective parents. Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.  At St Briavell’s, on the body of PHILIP NICHOLLS, who burst a blood vessel in a violent fit of coughing, which occasioned his almost instantaneous death.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.  At Cheltenham, on the body of SAMUEL FOWLES, driver of a coach between  Bath and Cheltenham; who, on Tuesday last, whilst on the road from this city to the latter town, being much intoxicated, fell from the box upon the near forewheel, and was so much injured, that, although instantly placed in the coach, he expired before it reached Cheltenham.  Verdict, Accidental Death, occasioned by intoxication.

 

Jan 13.  INQUESTS.  Taken since our last, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner: At Barton St Michael, on view of the body of PHILLIS BROWNING, for many years the faithful servant of the late Mrs Middleton, of this city, who was found dead in her bed; at Abinghall, on the body of MARY KNIGHT, who was found dead in the kitchen of her house; at Oxendon, on the body of GEORGE TROUGHTON, who was found dead in his bed. Verdict, in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

At Cheltenham, on the body of JOHN WEBB, who was burnt to death in consequence of his clothes taking fire.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  At New Wear, on the body of a man unknown, who was found drowned in the river Wye.  Verdict, Found Drowned.  The deceased appeared to be a waterman, and wore a jacket, part of which was calf skin.

   Tuesday morning, the hat of a man was seen floating in the Cumberland Basin, Bristol, which induced the dockmen to drag; when, melancholy to relate, they brought up the body of Capt. JONES, of the ship Asia, who, it is supposed, owing to the darkness, walked in on the preceding night.  His nails were very much broken from his having grappled against the sides of the Dock.  He has left a wife and six children to lament his loss.

 

Jan 20.  INQUESTS.  Taken since our last, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At Cheltenham, on the bodies of CHAS JONES  and THOS LITTLE; at Ham, Charlton King’s, on the body of ANN SYMONDS; and at the Infirmary, Gloucester, on the body of ANN WRIGLE, who were all burnt to death by their clothes taking fire.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.  At Ashchurch, on the body of ANN KNIGHT, found dead in her house.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.  And at Over, on the body of a man unknown, found drowned in the River Severn.  Verdict, Found drowned. 

 

Jan 27. OBITUARY.  On Friday last, at Berkeley, in his 77th year, WM JOYNER ELLIS, Esq.

In our obituary this week, we have announced the death of WILLIAM JOYNER ELLIS, Esq. the senior Coroner of this county, which office he had filled thirty three years.  The death of this respectable gentleman was occasioned by the inclemency of the weather whilst on a journey to Bitton, on his official duty, on Wednesday last.  We understand, that his son, Mr W J ELLIS, intends to offer himself as a candidate for the vacant situation.

 

Feb 3.  OBITUARY.  Mr SAMUEL BRAIN, of Bitton, in this county, in consequence of a fall from his horse.

   On Wednesday, an Inquest was taken at Tetbury, before J Mountain, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of JONATHAN DIX, of that town, who, on the preceding evening was drowned on the side of the road  leading from Bath to Tetbury, on his return from Didmarton, in consequence of the flood occasioned by the rapid thaw having inundated the road.  Verdict, Accidental Death

 ~~  The various candidates for the vacancy of Coroner began their campaigns through the press.

 

Feb 24.  INQUESTS.  At Painswick, on view of the body of EDW PARSLOW, aged about four years, who was burnt to death by his clothes taking fire in the absence of his parents; at Stapleton, on the body of T JEFFERIES, who fell into a coal pit, 114 yards in depth, which occasioned his instant death; at Bristol, on a person killed by a cart wheel passing over his body; and, at Hambrook, on WM WEBB, aged four, who, by a fall, while engaged in play, was so injured, that he died instantly.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.  At North Nibley, on the body of a woman, found dead; and, at Westbury, on a man, who dropped down and instantly expired.  Verdicts, Sudden Death.

 

Mar 3.  FATAL ACCIDENT.  On Saturday last, as one of the Birmingham Coaches was proceeding from hence towards Cheltenham, on going up the London Road, near this city, a child, eight years of age, named ARTHUR BISHOP,  heedlessly ran from the pavement to drive away a pig which was in front of the horses, when the leaders unfortunately knocked him down, and the coach passing over his body, before it was possible to pull up, the poor child was killed on the spot.  Not the slightest blame attaches to the coachman.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Cooke, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:  At Charlton King’s, on view of the body of THOS WOODWARD, who was killed by a kick from a horse; at St Philip and Jacob, on the body of GEORGE CORDY, killed by a cart wheel passing over him; at Bilston Colliery, St Briavell’s, on the body of WM HANNISS, who was crushed to death by part of the machinery; at Starkey Colliery, St Briavell’s, on the body of SILVIA WELLINGTON, who fell into a coal pit; at Swindon, on the body of ELIZ BOWLES; at the Infirmary, on the body of HENRY FINCH, and at Cheltenham, on the body of WILLIAM JONES, all burnt to death in consequence of their clothes taking fire.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.  At Littleton upon Severn, on the body of JOHN WHITE, who cut his throat in a fit of mental derangement.  Verdict, Insanity.  At Westbury on Trym, on the body of MORGAN THOMAS, found dead in his garden; at the County Gaol, on the body of JOHN MILLER, at Littleton upon Severn, on the body of HENRY GARSTON, who fell down and instantly expired; and at Hartpury, on the body of RD ALLAN, jun.  Verdict, in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Mar 17.  WILLIAM JOYNER ELLIS, Esq. elected as one of the Coroners for the county; address of thanks by advertisement.

 

Mar 24.  On the night of the 13th inst. as the trow Speedwell, belonging to Owner Pugh, of Stroud, in this county, was proceeding up the River Severn on the flood tide, loaded with stone, she was suddenly engulphed in a ground race or swell, opposite Purton, and entirely lost, with the cargo and every article belonging to her.  The crew consisted of five men, four of whom were happily in the tow boat, and thereby escaped escaped; but the poor man left to steer the vessel, (PETER KNIGHT, a resident of Fretherne, ) was drowned, and his body was next morning found on the Nouze Sand.  

 

Apr 7.  OBITUARY.  On good Friday, at Cheltenham, in the 23rd year of her age, in consequence of her clothes taking fire, whilst at her devotions in her chamber, ELIZ. GRANT HART, eldest daughter of Lieut. General G V Hart, of Kilderry, MP for the county of Donegal.

SUICIDE.

  On Wednesday last, HARRIET GOUGH, housekeeper to Mr Roberts, of Kemerton, near Tewkesbury, put a period to her existence, duing the absence from home of her master, by hanging herself to the bedpost with a shawl.  An inquest was held on the body of Friday, before John Cooke, Esq. one of our County Coroners, and a verdict given of - Insanity. This poor unfortunate girl was a native of Newport, Monmouthshire, and had lived as a servant a great number of years in a family of the highest respectability in the neighbourhood where she committed this dreadful act.  She had always conducted herself with the strictest propriety, until she became acquainted, during the last winter, with an Irishman, who had for a long period hawked linen around the country, and who, under a promise of marriage, induced her clandestinely to quit a comfortable position, in which she was much esteemed.  The unsuspecting creature, it appears, confided in a villain, who, as soon as he could obtain from her all her money and the best of her clothes, abandoned her, and left her destitute even of that good character which she had justly possessed before she became acquainted with him.  Her former conduct, however, was a sufficient recommendation to obtain for her the situation she filled at the time of her death; but her mind was not strong enough to enable her to contend with the bitter reflections caused by the error into which she had wickedly been enticed.  The conscience of her seducer, unfortunately, is the only punishment which awaits him in this world, though it is to be regretted, that the weighty arm of the law cannot visit him with a punishment adequate to the enormity of his guilt.

   Report of a male child, new born, found on the Turnpike Uley to Stroud on Wednesday, not dead.

General Quarter Sessions, City.  MARIA WORKMAN, charged with exposing her new born male child, in the road, at Uley, as mentioned in our last, was acquitted.

 

May 12.  Yesterday se’nnight, as two young men of Cheltenham, of the names of DANGERFIELD and GWINNELL, were leaving Tewkesbury in a gig, on their way home, a little girl of the name of DIXON, about five years of age, running across the road near the Bowling Green, was knocked down by the horse; and, before the driver could pull up, one of the wheels passed over her neck, and she expired almost immediately.  An inquest was held on view of the body the following day, before EW Jones, Esq. and a verdict returned of Accidental Death.  The sum of 10 l. was adjudged as a deodand, being the estimated value of the horse and gig.

  INQUESTS.  Taken before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner:  At Chipping Sodbury, on view of the body of a child named W NELSON, who was smothered by falling into a sewer.  At St Philip and Jacob, on the body of ANN NASH, a fine child of about a year old, thrown out of the arms of her nurse by a horse running against her, which caused a violent concussion, of which she died in a few hours.  At Lidney Bason, on the body of a bargeman named  ROBERT BROWN, who was killed by part of the tackle employed in loading a vessel at the wharf, giving way, and falling on him, which caused instant death.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.  And at Tidenham, on the body of a man unknown, found in the River Severn.  He was a stout made man, about 5 feet 8 inches, and appeared to have been in the water a considerable time.  There being no means of identifying him, the Jury returned a verdict of Found Drowned.

 

May 26.  Report of a rescue from drowning of a JONES, aged 14, at Nait, city.

 

Jun 2.  On Tuesday last, an old man, named GRIFFIN, who had long been an inmate of Tewkesbury Poor House, whilst washing his feet in a pool in the garden attached to that establishment, fell into the water, and was drowned before the accident was discovered.

 

Jun 9.  Mention of GWINNELL, plasterer, of Cheltenham, pugilist.

MELANCHOLY OCCURRENCE.  Late on the night of Saturday se’nnight, Mr EDWARD TOGHILL, and Mr CHAS BROOM, a respectable farmer, of Bathford, left the Oak Inn, Chipping Sodbury, in this county, both much intoxicated.  On their way home thro’ Doddington, with their horses at full speed, they were thrown, and both found on the ground about four o’clock next morning, at Mr Down’s farm, near Doddington Park.  Mr TOGHILL was not hurt; but his companion was so much injured from a concussion of the brain, that altho’ surgical assistance was promptly rendered, Mr BROOM never spoke afterwards, but died in a few hours, apparently in excruciating agony.  Mrs BROOM arrived to witness the last moments of her unfortunate husband: she is left with four small children, and is now pregnant.  An inquest was held on view of the body, before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner, and a verdict returned of Accidental Death.

   A dreadful accident occurred at Hanham, in this county, on Monday last.  A boy named JAMES WEYMOUTH, about six years old, whilst running by the side of his father, who was driving a waggon, loaded with coals, fell down in consequence of his foot striking against a stone; and before his father could stop the horses, both wheels of the waggon had gone over him, and instantly deprived him of life.

INQUESTS.  Taken before Jos Mountain, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:  At Sherborne, on view of the body of T MATTHEWS, a poor man, found dead in a field; and at Cirencester, on the body of WM PAUL, an infant, found dead in bed.  Verdict in each case, Found Dead.  At Fairford, on the body of T WOOD, who fell from the fore part of the waggon whereon he was riding, and the wheels passed over his body; and at the same place, on an infant child, who fell into a pool of water and was drowned.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.  At Cirencester, on the body of Mr WM HILL, who died suddenly; and at Kempsford, on the body of JOHN GLADWIN, who also dropped down dead.  Verdicts, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Jul 7.   INQUESTS.   Lately taken before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner:  At Pucklechurch, on view of the body of a new born female bastard child, found dead in an old coal pit, and wrapped up in a woman’s pocket.  After a long investigation, the jury returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against the mother, JANE GREEN, who stands committed to our County Gaol for trial at the next Assizes.  At St George’s, on the body of THOS FOX, a child about two years old, who was killed by a loaded cart going over him whilst at play in the road, opposite his father’s home.  At Lidney Bason, on the body of CHARLES BURTON, who was drowned, by a boat which he was navigating running foul of a buoy, and instantly sinking.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.  At Hempton, near Filton, on the body of SARAH  BOULTON,  aged six  years, who was killed on Tuesday last, during a thunderstorm, by a flash of lightning, whilst looking at the storm from the kitchen window of the father’s house.  Verdict accordingly.

 

Jul 28.  Fatal Accident.  About half past eight o’clock on Saturday evening last, as Mr JOHN SHIPTON, of Dobshill, Worcestershire, was on his return home from our Market, in passing thro’ the village of Maisemore he had occasion to dismount to alter the saddle; and in the act of mounting again, before he could secure his seat the animal started off at full speed, and threw Mr SHIPTON upon the road with such violence as to cause his death within an hour.  Mr SHIPTON was about 36 years of age, and highly respected.

 

Aug 18.  Assizes.  ADDRESS OF  MR BARON HULLOCK:  Gentlemen, there is another crime, unfortunately, which is too often to be found in an extensive calendar.  I mean a charge against a female for the murder of her child.  There the enquiry will be, whether the infant was born alive; because, if there is no evidence to the contrary of its being born dead, you would hardly return a verdict stating that crime.  By the law as it now stands, you know that a mother concealing the birth of her bastard child, is liable to two years imprisonment.  That is not a substantive offence; the way to get at it is, that the party must be indicted for the murder, and the Jury may acquit her of that, and find that she concealed the birth.  For that crime, the Court can sentence to imprisonment; but if the child was born dead, you would hardly (however you might condemn or reprobate the concealment) feel yourselves warranted in returning a true bill for murder: but that you will decide according to the evidence before you ...

IMPRISONMENT.  .... and JANE GREEN, acquitted of the murder, but found guilty of concealing the birth, of her female bastard child, ... to be imprisoned and kept to hard labour for the space of eighteen months.

 

Aug 25.  Assizes.  JANE GREEN was indicted for the wilful murder of her female bastard child.  She appeared at the bar without manifesting any emotion.  After the evidence had been gone through, Mr Baron Hullock stated, that as there was no proof that the child was born alive, there was not evidence to go to the Jury respecting the murder, but he recapitulated the testimony from which they might infer that the prisoner was guilty of concealing the birth.  The Jury acquitted the prisoner of the murder, but found her guilty of concealing the birth of her child.  The Learned Judge ordered her to be imprisoned for 18 calendar months.  The prisoner curtseyed, and said, “Thank you, my Lord.”

 

Oct 13.  INQUESTS.  Taken last week, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At Stow, on the body of JOHN LOCKSTONE, of Kingstanley, found drowned in Donniston brook.  There were no marks on the body, and the Jury returned a verdict, Found Drowned.  At Didbrook, on the body of JOHN READ, found dead in a privy; at the Lunatic Asylum, on the body of ESTHER TAYLOR; and at the Hamlet of Kingsholm, on the body of JAS HOWARD, found dead in the tap room of the Welsh Harp public house.  Verdict in each case, Died by the visitation of God.  At Cheltenham, on the body of the infant child of Major HOBKIRK, whose clothes caught fire in the temporary absence of the servant, and before assistance could arrive, he was so dreadfully burnt, that in a few hours he expired; and at Twyning, on the body of JOHN HARRISON, who, whilst riding a young horse. had incautiously taken a basket from a fellow servant; when the rattling of its contents alarmed the animal, and caused him to plunge, by which the poor man was thrown, and so much injured as to occasion his death in a few hours.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Oct 20.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Jos Mountain, Esq. Coroner:  At Cirencester, on view of the body of JOHN PANTER, who fell dead, with a scythe in his hand, in a field belonging to Edw Cripps, Esq.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

 

1823.  Oct 20.  At Aldsworth, on the body of a newly born infant, found in a well by the road side.  Verdict, Drowned by some person unknown.  At Lea Farm, in the parish of Fairford, on the body of JOS SANDFORD, who, in descending from a waggon load of barley, with a fork in his hand, fell upon the prong, which entered his head behind the ear,  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Oct 27.  SUDDEN DEATH.  On the evening of the 13th inst. Mrs SARAH EVANS, of Tewkesbury, (eldest daughter of the late Mr JOHN HANCOCK,) who had attended the Statute fair at Upton upon Severn with crockery ware, got into her cart on the return home, apparently in good health, and was found by the carter on his arival at the Mythe gate sitting in an erect posture a corpse.  An Inquest was subsequently held on view of the body, before EW Jones, Esq. Coroner, and a verdict returned of Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Nov 3.  Tuesday, as ELIJAH CARTER, of Hawkesbury Upton, in this county, was driving a timber waggon from Badminton to Chippenham, when  near Castle Combe he fell, and the wheel passing over his left arm close to the body, crushed it so dreadfully that he expired the following day.  The house of the deceased was destroyed by fire on 8th May; he was very sober and industrious, and has left a wife, who has just been confined, with four young children.

INQUESTS.  Taken last week before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner:  At Filton, on view of the body of WM ROWLEY, a deserter from the Herefordshire Militia, who dropt dead in the road near Filton, whilst a Serjeant and party were conveying him to the depot of the regiment.  At Sodbury, on the bosy of an old man named JAMES BOY, who was found dead in his dwelling house.  Verdicts, Sudden Death by the visitation of God.  At Tockington, on the body of THOS PYM, Cordwainer, who hung himself to a beam in the garrett of his house.  Verdict, Lunacy.  At St Philip’s, on the body of ESTHER HARFORD, an old woman of 84, who was burnt to death by her clothes taking fire whilst standing too close to the fireplace.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Nov 10.  FATAL ACCIDENT.  On Monday last, a poor boy betwen five and six years of age, went into the Saracen’s Head Inn, in this city, to offer matches for sale, and as he was turning round the end of the settle, in the kitchen, he came violently in contact with the servant girl who was coming from the fire with a large saucepan of boiling water, by which means the contents were thrown over him, and he was scalded so dreadfully as to occasion his death on Wednesday morning.  At an inquest held on the body, at our Infirmary, the same evening, before W Price, Esq. Coroner, the jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

INQUESTS.   Taken before Jos Mountain, Esq. Coroner: At Great Barrington, on view of the body of A JAMES, an infant, who fell into a rivulet of water, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  At Barnsley, on the body of THOS DEIGHTON, who was found dead in bed.  Verdict, Died in a fit. 

   Taken before W Joyner Ellis, Esq:  At  Cambridge, on view of the body of a poor man named WILLIAM LEWIS, from near Wolverhampton, who travelled with sand, and who, owing to the darkness of the night, walked into a brook, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  At Thornbury, on the body of B TRAYHURN, who lost his way on returning from Aust to Thornbury, and was found dead in the fields.  At Siston, on the body of H WYATT, servant to J Ivyleafe, Esq. found dead in a field.  At Frampton Cotterell, on the body of  S ROBBINS, hatter, found dead in a field leading to his house from Winterbourne, where he had been the preceding evening.  Verdict in each case, Died from the effects of cold, and the inclemency of the weather.

 

Nov 24.  Loss of trow Violet, of Gloucester; Thomas Bower.  John Preedy drowned 8th.

 

Dec 1.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At the South Hamlet, near this city, on view of the body of GEORGE HOLDER, who was found dead in his bed.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.  At Epney, on the body of LUKE PROBERT, who was killed by a load of hay falling on him; at the Infirmary, on the body of CAROLINE WREN, an infant who was burnt to death in consequence of her clothes taking fire in the absence of her parents.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.  At St Briavell’s, on the body of MARGARET HALE, who, whilst working in her garden, fell down and instantly expired.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.  At Woodside, St.   Briavell’s, on the body of ISAIAH RICH, who was killed by a very large stone falling upon him, whilst at work in a quarry.  Verdict, Accidental Death.   At Dumbleton, on the body of BENJAMIN TOWNSEND, who was found drowned in a brook.  The deceased was subject to fits, and it is supposed met his death whilst labouring under one.  Verdict, Found drowned. 

 

Dec 8.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before Jos Mountain, Esq. Coroner:  At Northleach, on the body of WM MASSEY, found drowned in the river Leech.  Verdict, Found Drowned.  At Barrington, on the body of a young woman, who, in a fit of insanity, strangled herself.  Verdict, Lunacy.

 

 

 

 

1824

 

Jan 12.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before Jos Mountain, Esq. Coroner:  At Chalford, on view of the body of JOSIAH TRANTER, found in the Thames and Severn Canal, after having been missing a fortnight.  Verdict, Found Drowned.  At the same place, on the body of CHAS MILLARD, who fell into the Canal thro’ the darkness of the night; At Stanwell Mill, on the body of JAS FRANCIS, who became entangled in the wheels of the mill; and, at Chalford Lynch, on the body of WM BENFIELD, a boy of four years old, who was burnt to death in the absence of his parents.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Jan 19.  Distressing Affair: Missing: Mr CHAS PIERCE, Solicitor of Bristol, aged 28.

INQUEST.  On Friday last, an inquest was taken before W Price, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of Mr JAS TAYLOR, auctioneer, and for many years one of the Mayor’s Officers of this city, who was on the morning of that day discovered suspended by a cord to a beam in his own summer house.  It was satisfactorily proved, on the testimony of several very respctable witnesses, that the deceased, who had always been remarkable for a high flow of spirits and jocularity of disposition, had recently exhibited a very different turn of mind, and, without any apparent cause, had at once become gloomy, fitful and desponding.  He left his family directly after breakfast on Thursday and was not seen by them till ten o’clock the next morning, when he was discovered by his neice in a garden which he rented at a distance from his own house.  The jury, without a moment’s hesitation, returned a verdict of Lunacy.  As a faithful and confidential servant, he was much respected by the Magistrates of this city; whilst as a Police Officer, he was efficient, active, and intelligent, and on many occasions, during his engagement in the more unpleasant duties of his situation, evinced a kindness of heart which did honour to human nature.  He was generally beloved by his brother Officers, by whom his loss will be long felt and lamented; and he has left a widow  .......his melancholy end.

 

Jan 26.  Another notice re PIERCE of Bristol.

Commitments:  WM WALKER, by W J Ellis, Esq. Coroner, charged with killing and slaying T CRATES, in the parish of St George’s.

 

Feb 2.  Another notice re PIERCE of Bristol.

INQUESTS.   On Monday last, an inquest was taken before Wm Price, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of HENRY JAMES, found drowned in the Basin of the Canal, at this city.  He came from Frampton, on the Thursday, was a stranger here, and put up at the Talbot.  In the evening he went to see some friends in the Island; and on his return went down by the river side, enquiring of several persons at the Quay the nearest was to Southgate street.  By all of them he was directed to turn to the left at the farthest corner of the Prison wall; but being somewhat intoxicated, and rather deaf, he went straight forward, and walked into the Basin! - The very unguarded state of the Basin at this spot, urgently suggests the necessity of a fence of some description, to prevent the recurrence of a similar accident.

 

Feb 9.  Commitments:  Wednesday, JOHN SCULLY, by W J Ellis, Esq. Coroner, charged with killing and slaying a man unknown, in the parish of St George’s.

 

Mar 1.  OBITUARY.  GEORGE WEBB HALL, of Sneed Park, Bristol.  Aged 59; horse accident, long para.

 

Mar 15.  HIGHWAY ROBBERIES. About ten o’clock on Saturday se’nnight, as Mr WM HOLDER, butcher, of Painswick, was returning home from our market, he was stopped on ths hill, near that town, by two ruffians, who, with dreadful imprecations, and considerable violence and ill usage, rifled his pockets of about 30 s. with which they got clear off.  Mr HOLDER had at the time a large sum of money in notes about him; but, very luckily, shortly after leaving this city, he had taken the precaution to secrete it within the lining of his waistcoat.

 

Mar 29.  INQUESTS.  Taken before W Price, Esq. Coroner of this city:  On Thursday, on view of the body of a waterman named ADAM LLOYD, who fell off the deck of a barge into the Severn, at the Quay, and was drowned.  And, on Friday, at the Infirmary, on the body of ANN BRIDGEWATER, a child only four years of age, whose clothes caught fire during the absence of her parents, by which means she was so dreadfully burnt as to survive only two days, in great agony.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Apr 5. Assizes; Imprisonment: 3 months: WM WALKER, for Manslaughter upon W CRATES.

 

Apr 19.  SUICIDE.  On Monday, an inquest was held at the Regent Hotel, Cheltenham, on view of the body of J VINTUVIUS, an Italian, who having been dismissed from the service of a most respectable family, was in a desponding state of mind, and retired to his bed room, where he cut his throat with a razor.  It was immediately discovered, surgical aid procured, and the wound, desperate and frightful as it was, sewed up.  So determined, however, did he appear on accomplishing the dreadful act of self destruction, that, notwithstanding the greatest vigilance of his attendants, he succeeded in tearing out the stitches, by which his wound was sewn up, and breaking the last ligature, he boastingly exclaimed, “They are all broken!”  The haemorrhage recommenced, and he soon after expired.  The Jury returned a verdict of Insanity.  The unfortunate man was by no means in a state of want, for the sum of 22 l. was found in his pocket.

 

Apr 26.  INQUESTS.  Taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At Cinderford, St Briavell’s, on view of the body of GEORGE TRIGG; and at Norton, on the body of ELIZA REA, both aged 5 years, burnt to death in consequence of their clothes taking fire.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.  At Aston Subedge, on the body of MARY FLETCHER, who hung herself with a shawl in the bedroom, in the temporary absence of her daughter, having been deranged for some time.  Verdict, Insanity.  At Hasfield, on the body of COMFORT GOUGH, who had been unwell, and was placed on a waggon to be conveyed home, where she was found dead.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.  At Winchcombe, on the body of ELIZ. SHIRLEY,  killed by the discharge of a pistol.  The brother of the deceased, for the purpose of keeping off crows, had been entrusted with a pistol, which he loaded with powder, and small gravel stones, and placed on a table in the house of his mother; the pistol being an old one, went off at half cock, and the charge lodged in the belly of the deceased, who immediately expired.  The jury, after a patient investigation, returned a verdict of Accidental Death.  At the County Gaol, on the body of THOMAS GARDNER, aged 75.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.  At the South Hamlet, on the body of CHARLES TARRAND, found drowned in the River Severn.  Verdict, Found Drowned.  And, at St Briavell’s, on the body of JOHN WHITTINGTON, killed by a piece of rock falling upon him, while at work in a coal pit.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

May 3.  OBITUARY.  On the 17th instant, at Northleach, in this county, aged 43, Mr JOHN CRADDOCK, celebrated for the encouragement of the best breed of Cotswold sheep: he was much and deservedly respected; his death was the consequence of an injury of the spine, occasioned by a fall.

   On the night of the 18th ult. a fatal event occurred at Woodford, near Berkeley, in this county, which caused the death of a young man named THOMAS BROWNING.  It appears, that he had been drinking with other young men, at different public houses, the greater part of the day (Sunday,) and had made an exchange of coats with one of his companions, named WORKMAN, who afterwards wished to have his coat again, which BROWNING refused; and, after some dispute,  WORKMAN forcibly took the coat from him.  Another of the lads interfered, and a scuffle ensued, in which WORKMAN was thrown down; when, on his getting up,  he drew his knife, and plunged it into the body of BROWNING, who died next evening.  An inquest was held next day, before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. and a very respectable Jury, when a verdict of manslaughter was returned against EDWARD WORKMAN, who has absconded, and a reward is offered for his apprehension.

   A few days since as CHARLES SWEET, a labourer employed on the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal at Sharpness Point, was with four others, navigating a boat on the Severn, owing to the rapidity of the tide and their unskilfulness, the boat was swamped and they were all precipitated into the water.  The four men clung to a large float, but Sweet, an old sailor, sunk, and was seen no more.

 

May 10.  On Tuesday last, a poor man, named JOHN SHIELD, who has for a considerable time past laboured under periodical fits of insanity, was proceeding with a cart load of potatoes to Bristol from the neighbourhood of Thornbury, in this county, accompanied by his wife, when he manifested strong symptoms of a return of his complaint, and was, in consequence, detained at Stoke, at the house of a relative, until the next morning, when, as he appeared to be perfectly recovered, he was allowed to leave the house, and was soon afterwards discovered drowned in a brook in Stoke lane.  An inquest was held on the body, and a verdict of Insanity returned.  We daily see cause to approve of the legislative adoption of Lunatic Asylums, and wish the powers given by the Act of Parliament were universally acted upon, on account of the public at large, as well as of the unfortunate sufferers.

 

May 17.  A poor old woman, of the name of COLLINS, on Saturday threw herself into the river Swilgate, at Tewkesbury, and was drowned.  She had been in a melancholy desponding way for a considerable time past.

 

Jul 26.  On Friday evening, as a young man, named JAS CROSS, a wheelwright, from Slimbridge, was bathing in the Berkeley Canal, near this city, he got out of his depth and was drowned.  The body was picked up in about half an hour; but although means were subsequently taken to restore animation, the effort was in vain.  A Coroner’s inquest sat on the body of Saturday, when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

   JORDAN, jun. butcher of Cheltenham, riding/race accident.

 

Aug 2. INQUESTS. Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At Cowhoneybourne, on view of the body of JOHN CORBET, who was found drowned in a pool of water near his father’s house; at Coldwalls, on the body of LUKE MORGAN, who was found drowned in the river Wye; and at Stanway, on the body of ELIZABETH KENDRICK, who was found drowned in a pool of water near her house.  Verdict, in each case, found drowned.  At the County Gaol, on the body of JAS WIGGINS; and at Shurdington, on the body of HANNAH YEATES, who fell down in her house and instantly expired.  Verdicts, Died by the Visitation of God.  And at the South Hamlet, on the body of JAMES CROSS, who was drowned while bathing in the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

Commitments: Thursday, ELIZABETH LANE, by W Trigg, Esq. Coroner, charged with the wilful murder of her female child.

   Report of attempted suicide at City, JAMES BARNETT, labourer.

 

Aug 16.   A  recruit, who was passing thro’ the town of Tewkesbury, was drowned whilst bathing in the Avon a few days ago; and on Monday, a child was crushed to death by a waggon passing over it in the Oldbury Field.

 

Aug 30.  Assizes.  His Lordship then made a few remarks upon the case of ELIZABETH LANE*, charged with child murder.  * This prisoner was discharged on Saturday, the Grand Jury having ignored the bill for murder, and Mr Russell having taken an objection to the Coroner’s Inquest under which she was to have been tried, which was held to be fatal by the learned Judge.

 

Oct 4.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At Minsterworth, on view of the body of WILLIAM BULLOCK, who was drowned in the River Severn by the upsetting of a boat.  At the Infirmary, on the body of ELIZABETH ALLEN, who was so much injured by the machinery of a clothing manufactory, at Ebley, as to occasion her death on the following day.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.  At Cheltenham, on the body of ANN MORRIS, who was found dead in her bed chamber.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God. At Lydbrook, on the body of HENRY PARRY, who was found drowned in the river Wye.  Verdict, Found drowned.  At Brimpsfield, on the body of HENRY JOHNSEY, who was suffocated by a wheat rick falling on him.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Oct 4.  At Staverton, on the body of a newly born female child, who was found dead in a ditch by the road.  After a long investigation and examination of the body by a Surgeon, the jury returned a verdict of Still Born.  At Cheltenham, on the body of THOMAS HERRICK, who died suddenly in the street.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Oct 11.  Gloucester: Public Officers of the City; John Pleydell Wilton, Coroner.

 

Oct 25.  Tewkesbury Inquests, EW Jones:  WM JEYNES, pauper, Found Dead, at Park Farm; DANL WOODINGTON, apprentice, fell from barge; GEORGE GREENAWAY, aged 5, drowned; JAS PITCHER, Mythe, earth fall.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

 

Nov 1.  On the 21st ult. as THOS WALL, a mason, was riding on a waggon laden with stone, in the parish of Kingstanley, in this county, he unfortunately fell to the ground, and the wheels passing over his head, he was killed on the spot.  He has left a wife and five children.

 

Nov 8.  OBITUARY.  Saturday, in his 27th year, in consequence of a fall from his horse, Mr WM COTTERILL, of Forthampton, in this county.

 

Nov 15.  The body of Mr THOS WARD, a respectable factor of Bristol, was, on Friday morning, found in Newport river.  Mr WARD left the Parrot Inn, where he usually lodged when at Newport, about a fortnight ago, one morning, after breakfast, for the purpose of transacting business in town; but did not return, and nothing was heard of him until the body was found as above stated: the corpse had evidently been a considerable time in the water.  It was ascertained that the unfortunate gentleman had not been robbed, cash and bills having been found in his pockets.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:  On Monday, on view of the body of a travelling pedlar named WM FORD, who was on the preceding Saturday found dead, and quite naked, in a field between Wotton Underedge and Kingswood.  It appeared, from the evidence, that he had been in a very destitute state the night previous, having no goods in his box or any money; and had been treated in a public house with food and liquor, which had caused intoxication, and when in that state, he was quite outrageous, beating himself, and tearing off his clothes: he had formerly been in a respectable way of business at Hounslow.  Verdict, Died from exposure to wet and cold, whilst in a state of intoxication.  On Tuesday, on the body of JOHN MORTON, who was precipitated to the bottom of a coal pit (near 89 fathoms), at Siston Hill, in consequence of the untwisting of the rope attached to the cart in which he was descending.  And, same day, at Durdham Down, on the body of WM HARDING, who, whilst making a resevoir from a sewer in a garden in Paul street, Bristol, became insensible from a sudden rush of foul air, and died before assistance could be rendered.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death. 

  An inquest was lately held on the body of RD PARSONS, belonging to the Charlotte, of Framilode, found floating on the surface of the canal, in the parish of St Woollos, near Newport, Monmouthshire.

 

Dec 6.  Amongst the numerous melancholy accidents occasioned by the late floods, we are sorry to record the following fatal catastrophe.  About five o’clock in the evening of Tuesday last, Mr JOSEPH HOOPER, aged 23, and his brother ROBERT, aged 18, sons of Mr YOUNGER HOOPER, a very old and respectable farmer, residing at Dymock, in this county, accompanied by a boy, were on their return with a team and a load of coal from the Forest of Dean.  On reaching a part of the road at Leddington, called Windscross, they found the water very much out, and JOSEPH  mounted the fore horse, his brother standing on the shafts, and the boy being on top of the load, and endeavoured in this way to pass through the current.  They had not proceeded far when one of the wheels of the waggon got in contact with a post on the road side, and it became necessary to dismount in order to extricate it.  While about to do this, the leading horse lost his footing owing to the depth of the water and the strength of the current, and JOSEPH HOOPER seeing their perilous situation, exclaimed, “Good God! We are all lost!” and at the same time called to his brother to unhook the other horses from the thiller.  Almost at the same moment he fell from the back of the horse on which he was riding, and was seen no more.  The youngest brother ROBERT succeeded in disengaging the horses, but whilst so occupied, melancholy to relate, he was likewise carried away by the velocity of the current, and, together with the four valuable animals he had been trying to save, was swept thro’ a culvert or tunnel, which at that part of the road passes under the bed of the canal.  Both the brothers were drowned without the possibility of assistance!  The horses after being forced through the tunnel regained their feet, and passed over a meadow, but again getting into the brook, they also perished.  The body of ROBERT was picked up the following morning, about a quarter of a mile from the spot, and that of the other unfortunate sufferer the same evening.  Both were conveyed to the house of their brother, Mr YOUNGER HOOPER, jun. of Pounds Farm, where an inquest was held, on Friday, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.  It is needless to say, that the family are in a state of the most distressing affliction.  One horse was saved by a Mr ELLIOTT, who ventured his life in its rescue, by wading in the water up to his chin. 

   An inquest was held last week, before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner, at the Swan Inn, Stoke’s Croft, Bristol, on the body of a child, named MARTHA RUSSELL, who lost her life by drinking hot water from the mouth of a tea kettle.  We cannot too severely reprobate the conduct of mothers in allowing children at any time to drink from kettles or teapots, as they are incapable of judging when the water is in a fit state for drinking.  We understand this is the third case of a similar nature which has come before the same Coroner within a very short time.

   MURDER at Bitton @ Tennis Court, Warmley; ISAAC GARDEN or GORDON; mentions a CAINES and a BENJAMIN BRITTAIN.  Inquest before W J Ellis, Coroner; verdict Wilful Murder by a person or persons unknown.  Further report of CAINES and 6 others in custody.

 

Dec 13.  Mentions the following: MARK WHITING, JAMES CAINES @ BUSH, ISAAC BRITTON (committed), ROBERT ENGLAND, SAMUEL PEACOCK, FRAS. BRITTON and THOS WILMOT.

 

Dec 20.  FATAL ACCIDENT.  At two o’clock in the afternoon of Friday se’’night, a poor woman named BALLINGER, residing at Upton St Leonards, near this city, being employed in making bread for her family, had just stepped out to get some clay for the purpose of stopping up the oven, when her infant daughter about three years old, began trampling on the burning embers which the mother had the moment before thrown under the grate.  The consequence was that the child’s clothes took fire, and the same calamity extended itself to an elder sister, eleven years of age, who had instantly run to her assistance.  Both children, completely enveloped in flames, then rushed out into the road, where the distracted mother in her efforts to relieve them was herself dreadfully burnt.  Surgical assistance was promptly procured, but, melancholy to relate, the two juvenile sufferers, after enduring great torment, died, the one at two, and the other at seven o’clock the following morning.  Mrs BALLINGER was in a dangerous state for some time, but we have since heard that she is materially better.  An inquest was held upon the bodies of the two children, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, where a verdict was returned of Accidental Death.

 

Dec 27.  A poor man named MERCHANT, who was proceeding from this city to Stanley with a cart load of cider, on Wednesday, was on that afternoon found lying on the road a little below Hempstead, dreadfully hurt, as it is supposed by the cart going over him.  He was instantly conveyed to our Infirmary, but so great was the extent of the injury he had sustained, several of his ribs being broken, that he expired before he could be carried into the Establishment.  It appears that the poor fellow  was perfectly sober when he departed from hence: he has left a wife and family.

 

 

 

1825

 

Jan 10.  On Tuesday last se’nnight, as some workmen were employed in craning some Bath stone from a barge lying at Twining Flat, near Tewkesbury, the man who was at the handle of the crane, let it go, when it immediately went round with great velocity, and striking the head of a man who stood near, killed him on the spot; the upper portion of his skull was found several yards from the place where the accident happened.

  A young woman, named SARAH BROWN, who formerly lived at Chipping Sodbury, and who was in a place of servitude in Bath, but had been in a desponding state for some time past, was taken out of the river Avon at Tiverton, on Tuesday last.  Verdict, Found drowned.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Mountain, Esq.  At Daglingworth, on view of the body of JOHN YOUNG, an infant, who fell into the fire in the momentary absence of the nurse; at Bourton on the Hill, on the body of ANN PAPPS, an aged woman, who fell from a waggon, and was killed on the spot; at Chedworth, on the body of JANE PEACHEY, a child, whose clothes caught fire, and caused her death; and, at Leachlade, on the body of JOHN HAWKINS, who fell down stairs, and died immediately.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.  At Aldsworth, on the body of MATTHEW SMITH, found dead in the River Leach; at Frampton, on the body of GILES CLEMENTS, found dead in the Thames and Severn Canal; and, at Coln St Aldwyn’s, on the body of MARGARET KING, found in the River Colne.  Verdicts, Found drowned.  Ar Moreton in Marsh, on the body of JOHN LOCK, who was killed by the discharge of a gun in the hands of himself and other boys.  Verdict, Chance Medley.  At Winstone, on the body of MARY HAYWARD, who died suddenly on the high road; at Eastleach Turville, on the body of THOS HALL, who died whilst in the act of dressing; and, at Baunton, on the body of ANN ROOKE, who died suddenly.  Verdicts, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Jan 24.  At day break, on Tuesday morning last, during a tremendous gale of wind, some fishermen observed a trow, apparently in distress, and drifting at the mercy of the wind, between Kingroad and the New Passage.  She appeared to be laden, but they could see no person on board.  They observed her for nearly two hours, till she went out of sight.  On the receding of the tide the body of a man was found washed on shore at Lawrence Weston; and soon afterwards the bodies of three others were picked up, near the same place, and not far distant from the situation where the vessel was first seen.  She proved to be the Hornet trow, Abbey Tintern, laden with wood &c. for Bristol, and the men picked up, were the Captain (Harwood) and three of her ill fated crew, six in number.  It is supposed that, finding the vessel unmanageable, and seeing their danger, they had endeavoured to reach the shore, which was very near, in the small boat, in which attempt she had swamped, and they all perished, as the boat was found sunk, and full of water, near the spot where the bodies were discovered.  A man and a boy, the remainder of the unfortunate crew, have not yet been found.  The trow was afterwards fallen in with by a steam packet, and towed into Newport.  The names of the men found are, JOHN HARWOOD, AARON DARBY, WM HOPKINS, and ISAAC HOWELL, all from Brockwear, on the Wye.  Inquests have been taken on them by W Joyner Ellis, Esq. and verdicts returned accordingly.

 

Feb 7.  In a recent Obituary, we announced the death of Mr T HAWKINS, of Lechlade, in this county, on the 11th ult.  He was a gentleman of very eccentric habits, in his 82nd year, was formerly steward to Lord Eliott, and met with his death in a very singular manner.  As he was going up stairs to rest, his toe slipped from the third stair, when the second broke, and threw him forward on his head, which was cut so severely, as to cause his death in less than half an hour after the accident.  He has left no will, altho’ he had considerable landed property, and cash to the amount of nearly 4000 l. besides notes of about 2000 l. value, which were found in the house.  Among the latter, was one of the Bank of England, for 100 l. dated more than forty years back, while 1401 guineas were found concealed in a candle box!

   The following inquests have lately been taken before J Mountain, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county: At Cirencester, on view of the body of JOHN HOLLAND; and at Chalford, on the body of BENJ YEATES, who died suddenly.  Verdict, in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.  At Withington, on the body of MARY ANN ELLIS, aged 11 years, whose death was occasioned by the explosion of some gunpowder in a canister, which she had just opened.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   An inquest was held, on Monday last, at Leckhampton, near Cheltenham, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of HENRY HIGGINS, a child of three years old.  It appeared that the infant had been left alone seated before the kitchen grate, from which a spark flew out and set his clothes on fire.  The poor creature ran screaming to the door; but before relief could be afforded, he had sustained so much injury as to cause his death, after lingering for a week in dreadful suffering.  The Coroner severely reprehended the great carelessness of parents, to which so many accidents of a like nature must be ascribed; and declared, that the present was the THIRD Inquest over which he had presided, under similar circumstances, within a very short period.

 

Feb 14.  INQUESTS.  lately taken before J Cooke, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county: At Gretton, on the body of JOHN GREENING; at Gorsley, on the body of MARY KEYSE, and at Leckhampton, on the body of HENRY HITCHINGS[see Feb 7], who were each burnt to death in consequence of their clothes taking fire:  and at Saul, on the body of MARY ANN KNIGHT, who died from inhaling the steam arising from boiling water out of a kettle; verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.  At the County Gaol, on the body of THOS WILLIAMS; and at Cheltenham, on the body of ANN DONE, who died suddenly in her bedroom. Verdicts, Died by the visitation of God.

 

Feb 21.  FATAL ACCIDENTS.  On Monday, as a lad, named SAYSOME, was riding a spirited horse, near the Quay, in this city, he struck the animal repeatedly on the head, which caused it to plunge violently, and throw its rider.  His head was  fractured in a dreadful manner by the fall; and he was conveyed to our Infirmary, where prompt assistance was rendered, but we regret to say it was ineffectual, and he expired on Wednesday.  An inquest was held on view of the body, before JP Wilton, Esq. Coroner:  verdict, Accidental Death. 

   On Tuesday evening, as two young children were passing from Winchcombe street, into Albion street, Cheltenham, by the crossing in front of Mr Banbury’s shop, a hackney coach, which turned the corner rapidly, knocked down the foremost, and the wheel passed over her.  She was carried to the house of Mr Fosbroke, but survived only a few minutes.  The escape of the second child was wonderful, as she was closely following her companion when the accident occurred.

 

Feb 28.  MELANCHOLY OCCURRENCE.  On the arrival of the Stroud coach, on Tuesday, from Bristol, it was discovered that the only inside passenger (THOMAS STOCK, Esq. of Wickwar, in this county,) was dead!  It appeared, on the inquest, that Mr STOCK had been taken up at his own house in the morning, in apparent health, tho’ he had complained of a pain in his chest and stomach for several days.  The deceased was spoken to within four miles of Bristol, when he appeared as well as ever; after the coach reached the inn, he was found sitting upright, with his head on his hand, and most probably expired without a struggle.  The unanimous verdict of the jury was, Died by the visitation of God.  The deceased, who was a bachelor, and in his 49th year, was brother to Dr STOCK, of Bristol.

 

Mar 28.  OBITUARY.  In his 26th year, Mr MARK ALLY, a respectable farmer, of Didbrooke, in this county; returning home from Tewkesbury fair, in company with two of his neighbours, he fell from his horse at Ashchurch in a fit of apoplexy and died the same evening.  And on Monday, aged 70, WM  DANSON [DAUSON] Esq. merchant of Bristol; as he was walking thro’ Marsh street, in apparently good health, he dropped down and instantly expired.

 

Apr 4.  Acquitted, SARAH LEDIARD.

 

Apr 11.  Condemned:  MARK WHITING and JAS CAINES alias BUSH, for the wilful murder of  ISAAC GORDON, at Bitton, on the 27th of November last.

Imprisonment: Six months: ANNE BRINKWORTH, for concealing the birth of her female bastard child.  One Month: EDW MANSELL, for the manslaughter of ISRAEL COSIER, in a pugilistic contest at Leckhampton in which the prisoner officiated as second to the victor.

 

1825.  Apr 18.  INQUESTS.  Held last week, before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner:  At Wotton Underedge, on view of the body of JAMES PROVIS, who was returning from Wotton to Wickwar, with a cart and two horses, and imprudently riding in the cart, when the horses took fright; and in endeavouring to jump down to stop them, he fell, and the wheel passed over him and killed him on the spot.  At Kingsholm Hill, on the body of a child, about four years old, whose clothes took fire, whilst at play with a lighted stick, in the absence of his parents, and burnt him so badly that he lived but a few hours.  At Woodhouse Down, on the body of EMMA HIBBERT, a girl, of nine years of age, who was watching birds in a field, when the wind blowing some sparks, from a fire she had lit for warmth, on the clothes, set them in a blaze, and she was burnt so badly that she expired in a few hours.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.  At Stapleton, on the body of a respectably dressed man, unknown, who was found floating in the river, near Stapleton Bridge; he appeared 40 years of age, about five feet three inches high, and had a light complexion.  There being no evidence how he came into the water, returned a verdict, Found Drowned.

 

Apr 25.  On Saturday last, a child, about seven years old, of the name of SUSANNAH BATCHFORD, fell into the River Swillgate, at Tewkesbury, and was drowned.  A Coroner’s inquest was held before EW Jones, Esq. and a verdict returned of Accidental Death.

  Last Wednesday morning, a barber of the name of PARKER, of Chipping Sodbury, whilst in a state of insanity, cut his throat from ear to ear with a razor; medical aid was immediately procured, and he lingered till Friday, when he died.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before Jos Mountain, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county: At Windrush, on view of the body of JOHN FARMER, who died suddenly whilst loading a waggon.  At Stow, on the body of WM TUCKWELL, who died suddenly during his transacting business there.At Chedworth, on the body of MARY MILLS, who fell down and expired whilst cleaning her house.  At Chalford Hill, on the body of SARAH HUNT, who died without any previous illness.  Verdict in each case, Died by the visitation of God.  At Avening, on the body of JOS ARNOLD, who was found nearly dead on the highway, and expired in a few hours.  Verdict, Died from the inclemency of the weather and inebriety.  At Leamington, on the body of SAMUEL PHIPPS, who is supposed to have fallen from his horse in a violent fit of coughing.  Verdict, Found Dead.  And, at South Cerney, on the body of HUNGERFORD WHITFIELD, who was found dead in a  mill pond.  Verdict, Found Drowned.

 

May 16.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Mountain, Esq. Coroner:  At Minchinhampton, on view of the body of WM TURNER, who died suddenly.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.  At Broadwell, on the body of JOS HORT, who, whilst digging stones in a quarry, was killed by a quantity of earth falling on him.  At Colesborne, on the body of CHAS TOWNSEND, a child of three years old, who fell into a well and was drowned.  And, at Bussage, on the body of ANN MARCH, also aged three, whose clothes caught fire, whereby she was so burnt as to cause her death in two days.  At Cirencester, on the body of JOB CLAPHAM, who fell off the mail coach, the wheel of which passed over his body, and killed him.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.  And at Chedworth, on the body of an infant, who had fallen into, and was drowned in the river Colne.  Verdict, Found Drowned.

 

May 30. DISTRESSING CATASTROPHE.   A melancholy accident, from the incautious use of firearms, occurred at the Portcullis Inn, at Badminton, in this county, on Monday last.  The son of Mr DAW, the landlord, had been using a gun for the purpose of shooting a rat, and had put it in the manger in the stable loaded, where he suffered it to remain a few days.  A younger brother, not knowing the gun to be charged, took it up, and presented it at some people about the stable, and at length pulled the trigger; just at the instant of the entrance of another brother, about nine years old; when the whole of the charge lodged in his head!  An inquest was held before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner, and a verdict returned of Homicide by Misadventure; and the gun was deemed to be forfeited.

INQUESTS.  Recently held before the same Coroner:  At Westerleigh, on view of the body of a well dressed woman, found drowned in a pool.  There being no road near the pool, or any evidence how she came into the water, the Jury returned a verdict, Found Drowned.  At the Nag’s Head, in the Forest of Dean, on the body of a lad named GEO MOULTON, who was burnt to death by his clothes taking fire from the candle used to light him at work, and he was burnt to death before any assistance could be rendered to him.  Verdict, Accidental Death. And, at St Philip and Jacob, on the body of a man named MOSES MILLARD, labourer, found floating in the feeder belonging to the Bristol Dock.  He had been missing many days.

 

Jun 6.  A few days since, a boat, laden with coal, belonging to Mr JOHN BRIMMELL, of Tewkesbury, sunk in the River Severn, near the Lode Ferry, when one man was unfortunately drowned.

 

Jun 13.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Mountain, Esq. Coroner:  At Bisley, on view of the body of RD EDWARDS, who died suddenly, whilst giving directions to his servants.  At Cirencester, on the body of THOS HULBERT, who died suddenly when about to rise in the morning. Verdict in each case,  Died by the visitation of God.  At Chedworth, on the body of ROBERT GREENWOOD, an infant, whose clothes took fire in a field where turf was burning, when he was burnt to death.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  At Cirencester, on the body of MARY ANN EBSWORTH, an infant, who died at the breast.  Verdict, Died in a fit.  And at Ampney Crucis, on the body of JOHN RODWAY, who cut his throat in a fit of despondency.  Verdict, Killed himself, being insane at the time.

 

Jun 20.  On Friday, as a person was going from Monmouth to Coleford, he discovered a woman hanging on a tree, at Staunton, near the former town.  She was immediately cut down, but life had departed.  She was the mother of a family.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At Cheltenham, on view of the body of JONATHAN CLARKE, who fell down in the street and instantly expired.  At the same place, on the body of MARY WEEKLAND, who died suddenly in her home.  Verdict in each case, Died by the visitation of God. At Maisemore, on the body of ANN TANDY, who, whilst playing in a boat in the River Severn, fell overboard and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  At Minsterworth, on the body of a new born male bastard child, found dead in the mother’s room; but no evidence appearing to show how it came to its death, or whether it had been born alive, the jury returned a verdict, Found Dead.  At Cheltenham, on the body of FRAS PROTHEROE, who hung himself in a hovel with his handkerchief.  At Stanway, on the body of CHAS PHILLIPS, an aged man, who cut his throat with a razor in his dwelling house; and, at Stanton, on the body of ELIZ. YEATES, who put a period to her existence by hanging herself.  Verdict in each case, Insanity. 

Commitments:   ??????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????? J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, charged with killing and slaying ISRAEL COZIER.

 

Jul 4.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At Cheltenham, on view of the body of JOHN LEWIS, who was found dead on a brick kiln.  Verdict, Found Dead.  It was supposed that the deceased went upon the kiln, which had been lately lighted, for the purpose of sleeping, and was found dead in the morning.  At Childs Wickham, on the body of JANE SORREL, found drowned in a brook.  The deceased, it was supposed, was going over a bridge across the brook, near where she was found, when she fell in and was drowned.  Verdict, Found Drowned.  At Hasfield, on the body of a man, name unknown, who was found drowned in the River Severn.  No marks of violence appearing on the deceased, and there being no evidence to shew how he became drowned, the jury returned a verdict of Found Drowned.  The deceased was a man of short stature, appeared between 50 and 60 years of age, and had the letters, “J. D.” marked on the back of his left hand.  A prayer book, with 6 d. in silver, and about 8 d. in half pence, were found in his pockets.  At the County Gaol, on the body of JOHN WOODMAN. Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Jul 18.  INQUESTS.  Taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  On Monday, at Longford, on view of the body of WILLIAM HEWLETT, who was drowned whilst bathing in the Severn, at an early hour that morning.  The deceased, after being in the water for a considerable time, said to one of the friends who accompanied him, that he would have one more dip, and try to cross the river. His companion dissuaded him from the attempt; but he persisted, and, not being an expert swimmer, he got beyond his depth, and was drowned.  Every effort was made by his companions to save him, but without success.  One of them, (a young man named THOS WATTS, ) seeing the imminent peril of the situation, plunged in to his assistance, and repeatedly caught his hair; but it being unfortunately very short, he could not maintain his hold, and, becoming entangled with the unhappy youth, after making every effort for his rescue, he was reluctantly compelled to desist from further perseverance in an attempt which must inevitably have proved fatal to his own life.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  The deceased, who was 24 years of age, was the only son of WM HEWLETT, builder, of Southgate street, in this city.  He was a young man of considerable attainment, whose humility, piety, and charity were illustrative, in a remarkable degree, of the power and efficacy of that religious feeling which adorned his mind, and produced, throughout the limited term of his earthly career, the fruits of genuine philanthropy and practical holiness.   At Twyning, on the body of SAMUEL SUMMERS, who was drowned whilst bathing in the River Avon; and, at Highnam, on the body of GEO WILKES (servant to Thos Wallis, Esq. of Tibberton Court:) the deceased, whilst driving his master’s waggon from Gloucester, being a little intoxicated, it is supposed, fell across the road, and the wheels passing over him, caused his death immediately.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death. 

   On Monday se’nnight, as the two brothers named WILCOX, were at work making a hayrick for Mrs Cook, at Pucklechurch, in this county, they had a very violent quarrel; during which, one pushed or struck the other off the hay, when he pitched on his head, and died in a few minutes afterwards.  An inquest was held before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner, and a very respectable jury, by whom a verdict of Manslaughter was returned against WM WILCOX, who has been committed to our County Gaol.

   INQUESTS.  Taken last week, before W J Ellis, Esq.:  At Wisloe Turnpike gate, on view of the body of WM JENKINS, gate keeper.  He lived by himself, and was found in a dying state by a gentleman going thro’ the gate, and expired before assistance could be obtained.  At Uley, on THOS FISHER, a young man about 20 years of age, found dead in a part of the manufactory of Edw Sheppard, Esq: he had been seen to enter the building a few minutes before in perfect health.  Verdict, in each case, Sudden death by the visitation of God.  At Stapleton, on the body of THOMAS WINSTONE, who fell from a hay mow he was assisting to thatch, and was killed.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

Commitments: Thursday, JOHN TYLER, by Wm Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner, charged with killing and slaying JOHN LAWRENCE, at Westerleigh.  This was a battle fought by two labourers, to decide a quarrel.  In the fifth round, LAWRENCE received a blow in the stomach, which proved instantaneously fatal.

 

Aug 15.  OBITUARY.  Tuesday, at the Marsh, near Shirehampton, Mr EDW PAINTER, aged 77: his death was occasioned by the stinging of a wasp, which was unobserved in a cup of beer of which he was drinking, and although after very considerable efforts he succeeded in throwing the insect out of his mouth, he died of suffocating in consequence of the swelling of the throat within half an hour.

DREADFUL ACCIDENT.  As three men were descending a coal pit, called the Independent Pit near Bream, in the Forest of Dean, on Thursday last, the rope by which they were descending unfortunately slipped, and they were precipitated to the bottom of the pit, a depth of more than 100 yards, and which of course caused their instant death.  An inquest was held on the bodies before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner, when a verdict was returned of Accidental Death.

 

Aug 22.  JOHN ADLAM, at a boxing match; death of JAS MILLER.

SHOCKING OCCURRENCE.  On Friday the 12th inst. as a labouring man was walking in Tawney Wood, about 20 yards from the footpath leading from Uley to Nympsfield, he observed a person lying on his back, and, when he came up to him, found he was dead.  From the state of the body, he must have been in that situation some weeks!  His height was about 5 fet 5 inches, dark brown hair, and had a wound on his right leg; he had on a brown coat, blue waistcoat, drab fustian trowsers, black silk handkerchief, a while apron round his waist, and a black chip hat, with crepe round it.  A bundle lay very near the body, containing one dowlas and two flannel shirts, marked with the initials W.L. and sundry other articles.  His tobacco box contained a pawnbroker’s duplicate, dated Wotton Underedge, July 4th; the name, WM LAKE.  His working tools consisted of a small shuttle, pickers, shears, &c. and from part of a letter found near him, it is supposed he had been working in Wiltshire.  An Inquest was taken before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. on view of the body, and a verdict returned - Found Dead.  The remains were afterwards decently interred in the church at Uley, with the usual rites.

 

Sep 12.  INQUESTS.   Lately taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At Aston upon Carrant, on view of the body of JAS WELDON, who was killed by the bed of a cart falling upon him.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  At Churchdown, on the body of JOHN HUMPHRIES, and at Boddington, on the body of WM BAYLIS, who, whilst following their labour in the fields, fell down and instantly expired.  Verdict, in each case, Died by the Visitation of God. At Longford, on the body of HENRY FLOWER, aged about nine years, who was drowned whilst bathing in the River Severn.  At the South Hamlet, on the body of WM HOPKINS, and at Over on the body of HENRY SWAYNE, who were drowned by each falling out of a boat into the River Severn.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

INQUESTS.  The following inquests were last week taken before JP Wilton, Esq. Coroner ............Thursday, on view of the body of ELIZ MARGARET, an inmate of the Kimbrose Hospital, who, it is supposed, was taken with an apoplectic seizure, and falling down a whole flight of stairs, sustained so serious a concussion of the brain that she survived only ten minutes.  Verdict, Accidental Death.   And, on Friday, on the body of MICHAEL DAVIS, a Jew pedlar, who, in a temporary fit of derangement, cut his throat with a razor.  Verdict, Insanity.

 

Oct 10.  Election of City Officers: John Cooke, Coroner.

 

Oct 17.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Cooke, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county: At Cheltenham, on view of the body of VALENTINE MAIL, who died suddenly in his bed, without any previous illness.  And at Cubberley, on the body of a man unknown, found in the turnpike road nearly dead, and who expired shortly after being removed to a neighbouring house.  Verdict, in each case, Died by the visitation of God.  At St Briavell’s, on the body of GEO NEWELL, found dead in a pool of water.  Verdict, Found Drowned.  At Mitcheldean, on the body of WM GARDNER, an infirm old man, killed by falling from a horse he had been riding to water; at Badgeworth, on the body of JOS CLARKE, who fell down whilst leading a horse, when the animal treading on his head, caused his death shortly afterwards.  And, at Maisemore, on the body of WM CLEMENTS, who was navigating a boat in the River Severn, at Ashelworth, when the shaft which he was using caught in his frock, and threw him overboard.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death

 

Oct 24.  ACCIDENTS. A dreadful accident occurred at Mr Roach’s Mill, near Wotton Underedge, last week, to two labourers, who were employed in striking the centre of an arch of a large resevoir of water, when the whole of the arch gave way and buried the unfortunate men in the ruins.  They were immediately extricated, but were quite dead.

   As a man, employed at Park Mill, near Kingswood, was adjusting a strap belonging to a part of the machinery, his arm by some means became entangled and was drawn in, and immediately torn from the socket; the poor man lived some time afterwards, but eventually expired.

   As a poor man named THOMPSON, residing at Swinford, near Bitton, was with his wife preparing for the funeral of his mother, they left the house for a few minutes, and on returning found their daughter, about 5 years old, had been dreadfully burnt in their absence: the poor child lingered about eight hours after the accident.

  Another addition to the numerous casualties we have lately recorded from persons riding on the shafts of waggons, occurred on Wednesday se’nnight, at Leighterton, to a boy in the employ of Mr Collins, of Boxwell, who fell from the shafts of a waggon loaded with coals, and both the wheels passing over him, killed him on the spot.  In all the above instances Inquests were taken before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. when a Verdict of Accidental Death was returned in each case.

 

Nov 7.  OBITUARY.  At Wotton Underedge, aged 65, Mr DAVID PLOMER, brazier; he had gone upstairs to bed in perfect health, and on his wife’s following him in a few minutes, she found him a corpse.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:  On Saturday se’nnight, at the Fish ponds, near Bristol, on view of the body of GEO PEARCE, a lad about 16, who was stabbed by a fellow labourer in the coal pits at that place: having quarrelled about a candle which PEARCE had broke in attempting to snatch from his companion WM WILLIAMS, the latter made a desperate thrust at him with the pointed part of the candlestick, which entered his back, passed through the lungs, and penetrating the heart, he died instantly.  Verdict, Wilful Murder against WM WILLIAMS.  [Committed]   Last week, at the Forest of Dean, on the body of GEO HOOK, a coal miner, who was struck out of a coal cart in which he was ascending, by the returning empty cart.  Verdict, Accidental Death; with a deodand of 20 l. on the engine, the Jury considering that the boy who had charge of it, had not taken the usual precaution of noticing, by the marks on the rope, the near approach of the carts to each other.

 

Nov 14.  This day se’nnight, at nine at night, as the boatman of the Lower Lode was ferrying over THOS MANNING, an apprentice to a carpenter at Tewkesbury, who was going to see  his father, a butcher, at Chaceley, (and formerly of this city,) the night being dark, a barge ran foul of the ferry boat, upset it, and literally sailed over it!  Poor MANNING was drowned; and the boatman would have shared the same fate, had he not caught hold of a rope belonging to the barge; for the trowman would not stop, but proceeded laughing, one of them observing, “that they were all gone to the bottom!”  The body was dragged for a long time, but has not yet been found.

 

Dec 12.  GEO WOOLDRIDGE, at Lye on the Waste/5 Ways.  Accidental Death, horse.

 

 

1826  Gloucester Journal.

 

Jan 2.  MURDER.  BENJAMIN BRINT, gardener of Gloucester & Cheltenham; JOSEPH his son.  Inquest by JC, Fde.

 

Jan 9.

 

Jan 16.  Obituary.  On Christmas Day, At Woolaston, in this county, Mr JOHN WILLIAMS, while in the act of singing a carol, at the Duke’s Head, in that parish.

INQUESTS.  Taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner: On Monday, on view of the body of RICHARD DAVIES, an old man formerly resident in the priory, in this city, whose body was discovered in Meanham Ditch the preceding day.  Verdict, Found Drowned.  And on Thursday, on the body of MARY ANN PHILLIPS, a child ten years of age, whose parents reside in Norman’s buildings, near the Quay, and who was so dreadfully burnt by her clothes taking fire, that she expired the same evening.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jan 23.  On the night of the 12th inst. as the sloop Cardigan, of Carmarthen, loaded with grain, consigned to Worcester, was coming up the River Severn, when off Lidney Grounds, from being too early on the tide, she struck, and soon became a perfect wreck, her stern post being driven out, and of course the whole cargo lost.  The crew, consisting of the Master, JOHN ANTHONY, and two others, were obliged to seek safety by clinging to parts of the wreck, as the small boat was stove by getting foul of the bowsprit.  The Master and one of the crew fortunately clung to a part of the mast, and were carried by the tide nearly six miles up the river; when their cries were providentially heard by two men at Berkeley Pill, who put off in a boat to their assistance, and happily rescued them from a fate which seemed inevitable, as their limbs were so frozen and benumbed, from their having continued nearly four hours in the water, in  a very inclement night, that they could not have much longer retained their hold.  The other man, THOS. THOMAS, was unfortunately lost, and his body was found on the sands at Purton on Saturday, and buried at Berkeley.

   The body of an old man, named JOHN NEALE, was found on a lime-kiln, near Sodbury, on Monday morning last.  He was a pauper in the Poor House at Sodbury, but preferred leading a vagrant life to the comfortable provision made for him in the parish asylum.  An inquest was held on view of the body, by W Joyner Ellis, Coroner, and a verdict returned, Died from the inclemency of the weather.

   Another inquest was held on Tuesday, at Mangotsfield, by the same Coroner, on MARY DASH, who was burnt to death by her clothes taking fire in the absence of her mother.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  This is the fifth case, before the same Coroner, of children burnt to death within a fortnight.

INQUESTS.  Taken last week by J Cooke, Esq. Coroner for the County:  At Upper Slaughter, on view of the body of SARAH PRICE, found dead in her bed.  At the County Gaol, on the body of AMOS NEWMAN.  At Fretherne, on the body of JOHN MABBETT, found dead in bed.  Verdict in each case, Died by the visitation of God.  At Pamington, on the body of THOS. LEIGHTON, who cut his throat  in the most dreadful manner with a razor and knife, holding both instruments in his hands at the same time.  Verdict, Insanity.  At Parkend, on the body of JAS. PARLOUR, who was killed in a pit where he was working, by a stone falling upon his head.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   And, for the City, on the body of WM HOLDER, of Bolt lane, found dead in his lodgings.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT. 

A few nights since, as the two female servants of the Revd. WM PROSSER, of Tewkesbury, were sitting up for some one of the the family who was spending the evening from home, the clothes of one of them caught fire, and, before it was discovered by the other, she was so shockingly burnt, that she died in a few days.  The poor girl, it appears, was sewing, with a candle in her lap, and is supposed to have fallen asleep.  An inquest was held upon the body, and a verdict returned of Accidental Death.

 

Jan 30.  On Saturday morning, the body of a man, who had apparently lain in the water a considerable time, was discovered floating down the River Severn, just below the Mythe Bridge, at Tewkesbury.  He was dressed in a smock-frock, with corduroy breeches, worsted stockings, and gaiters; his head rather bald, and he appeared about fifty years of age.  In his pockets were found two 1L notes of the Worcester Old Bank, 6d in silver and 10d in copper; and also a probate of the will of JOHN BLAINEY, of Baytun, Worcestershire, granted to his son in law and sole executor, GEO. PALMER, by the Consistory Court of Hereford, on the 1st of August 1797.  An inquest was held on view of the body, before EW Jones, Esq. Coroner, which was adjourned till tomorrow, in order to give time to any friends of the deceased to appear.

 

Feb 6.

Feb 13.

 

Feb 20.  The man whom we stated, in our Journal of the 30th ult. to have been picked up in the river Severn at Tewkesbury, proves to have been JOHN BLAINEY, of Abberley, Worcestershire, who had been missing by his friends ever since the 11th Dec last, on which day he attended Bewdley fair.  It is conjectured that he fell into the river in a state of intoxication; and the Coroner’s Jury returned a verdict of Found Drowned.

   On Sunday morning, the body of JOHN DRINKWATER, of Kemerton, (whose mysterious disappearance [see below] we before noticed,) was picked up in the river Avon, at the back of the Swan Inn, Tewkesbury.  The last time the unfortunate deceased was seen, was on the evening of  the 7th of January, when he returned from Cheltenham market, in the cart of a neighbour, as far as Tewkesbury, where he remained drinking; it is conjectured that in a state of intoxication he missed the road and walked into the river.  Some unfounded rumours having gone abroad, tending to attach criminality to the individual in whose company he was last seen, it is but an act of justice to state, that the coroner, and a highly respectable jury, after examining a great number of witnesses, were unanimously of opinion, that Drinkwater was accidentally drowned, and that the individual alluded to, instead of being culpable, evinced a great desire to prevent his unfortunate companion from falling into danger.  The deceased was a market higgler, and has left a wife and a large family to deplore his melancholy fate.

[Mysterious Circumstance:  About a fortnight since, two market higglers, who reside a few miles from Tewkesbury, left that town together at rather a late hour in the evening, somewhat inebriated.  They had a horse and cart, and the men were seen in company on the Bredon road, after they quitted the public house where they had been drinking.  The horse and cart passed the Mitton turnpike gate without a driver - one of the men followed a short time afterwards; but the other, whose name is DRINKWATER, and who lived at Kemerton, has never since been heard of, though the strictest search and enquiry ...]

 

Feb 27.  A poor fellow of the name of JOHN COLE, met his death at the Bristol Infirmary, on Tuesday last, under singular but awful circumstances.  The deceased, who, it appears, was afflicted with the disease called St Vitus’ dance, had a shower bath ordered to be administered to him.  In consequence, the nurse a blacksmith, named REDWOOD, placed him in the bath, which is supplied with hot and cold water by two parallel pipes.  Redwood, knowing little of the process, turned the cock of one of the pipes to let in the water: the patient immediately screamed out, but Redwood, thinking this was only in consequence of the shock of the cold water, took no notice; in a few moments, however, he opened the door of the bath, when he found that he had unfortunately turned the wrong cock, and  let in boiling water!  The deceased was taken out and put to bed, but his whole body was so dreadfully scalded, that, after lingering for 24 hours, he expired in great agony.  Verdict, Accidental Death; but the Jury, by way of precaution, ordered that the two pipes should be placed as far apart as possible, and marked distinctly, hot and cold.

 

Mar 6.  On Wednesday, an Inquest was taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner for this City, on view of the body of ANN ELSMORE, an abandoned female, who had been enticed on board a barge lying in the basinof the Canal the preceding night, by some of the crew; and, being in a state of intoxication, in attempting to come ashore in the dark, fell between the vessel and the wharf, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Friday an Inquest was held at Tewkesbury, on view of the body of ANN HAMPTON, who, on the Sunday preceding, cut her throat in so shocking a manner, with a shoe maker’s knife belonging to her husband, that she survived but a very short period.  A number of witnesses clearly proved the insane state of her mind, and a verdict was given accordingly.

 

Mar 13.  On Tuesday last, as a small barge, laden with limestone, was coming up the Severn, under charge of JOHN BARNES, his son and daughter, (the only crew,) whilst passing the Rea-fishery, about two miles below this city, the wind blowing fresh, occasioned considerable ripple on the tide, by which the vessel shipped some water, and, being deeply laden, almost immediately sunk.  The old man, who was on shore with the tow-line, perceiving the danger, leaped on board; and, taking his daughter on his back, with the hope of saving her life, (being himself an expert swimmer,) he was about to spring overboard, when the frail bark went down under them, and they were both drowned!  The son, being warned by the father, caught hold of a loose plank, on which he sustained himself some time, and was taken up by a boat, and his life preserved, at a moment when he was in the last stage of exhaustion.  Poor Barnes was a very industrious man, and has left a wife and large family to lament the loss of their protector.  Neither of the bodies is yet found.

 

Mar 20.

Mar 27.

 

Apr 3.  WM WILLIAMS was found guilty of manslaughter, in killing and slaying GEORGE PEARCE, at St George’s, Bristol, but was not sentenced.  [later 1 week, long para.]

   On Tuesday last, Mr JOHN BRIMMALL, of the Farrier’s Arms, Tewkesbury, late of the Welsh Harp, in this city, whilst on his road home, being a little fatigued, attempted to get up in a waggon which was passing near Coomb Hill, when he fell, and the wheels going over him, he was killed on the spot.

MANSLAUGHTER.

WM WILLIAMS, a lad aged only 17, was indicted for killing and slaying GEORGE PIERCE, at the parish of St George, in this county.

   Mr Carrington conducted the prosecution; and from the testimony of the witnesses, it appeared that the prisoner and the deceased, both youths of about the same age, were in the service of Messrs Castle and Co., owners of a colliery near Bristol.  They proceeded together to their work, but the Steam Engine at the time being out of order, they were about to return home.  The prisoner had a candle in his hand, and such a candle-stick as is usually employed in the mines, with a projecting piece of steel from it, capable of being inserted in the wall of a mine.  The deceased wished to get possession of the candle, and a scuffle ensued in consequence.  The deceased then stooped to pick up a stone, to throw at the prisoner; and the prisoner, after exclaiming, “are you going to throw stones at me?’ inflicted such wounds upon the deceased with the candle-stick as caused his death.

   The Jury, after a short deliberation, returned a Verdict of “Guilty through accident.”  Mr Baron Garrow observed, that if the Jury were of opinion that the prisoner killed the deceased only by accident, they ought to acquit him.  The Jury reconsidered the case twice, but persisted in the same special verdict, notwithstanding the elaborate explanations of the Learned Judge.  Judgement postponed.

 

Apr 10.

Apr 17.

 

Apr 24.  The body of THOMAS MANNING, the lad who was unfortunately drowned in consequence of a barge upsetting the passage boat at the Lower Lode Ferry, at Tewkesbury, on the night of 7th Nov. last, was picked up on Friday, at a short distance from the spot where the melancholy accident happened.

INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Esq. Coroner:  On Wednesday last, at Rodborough, on view of the bodies of PAUL BEARD and THOMAS HODGES, who were accompanying a party out on a general perambulation of the parish, when Hodges went into a pond of water on the estate of the late Sir Geo. Paul, Bart. with his clothes on, for the purpose of following Beard who had previously swam over in a state of nudity.  Notwithstanding every persuasion was made to Hodges to induce him not to do so, yet he persisted in the attempt, and had not gone far before he cried for assistance, when poor Beard swam back to save him but in vain; they both sunk to rise no more alive.  Beard’s body was not found till next morning.  A subscription has been set on foot to bury him, and he has left a young widow to lament his loss.  Verdicts Accidental Death.

 

May 1.  Early on Monday morning last, when the cells of the felons in our County Gaol were unlocked for the day, it was discovered that one of the prisoners, named JOHN HALL, had hanged himself by means of a portion of his bed clothes, one end of which he had contrived to fasten to the chain of the window shutter.  When found, he was quite cold and stiff, and had evidently been dead some hours.  The wretched man had only been brought into the Prison on the preceding Friday, on a charge of stealing a fat calf.  He was sixty-seven years of age, and was an old offender, having three times before been committed to the same gaol, on charges of felony, on two of which he was convicted, and suffered the several punishments of seven years’ transportation and six months’ imprisonment.  On the day after his last commitment, a communication was made to him, that a girl with whom he had for some time cohabited, had made a confession, by which he was implicated, in company with three other persons, in breaking into a nail shop, and, though he strongly denied the charge, it is supposed that the dread of being convicted of this additional offence, led him to the determination to destroy himself.  The prisoners of his class observed, that, during Saturday evening and the whole of Sunday, he was in a very low and desponding way, continually wringing his hands, and muttering to himself in an agitated manner.  An inquest was held on view of the body, by John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when a verdict was returned, that he had “destroyed himself in a temporary fit of insanity.”   [See Aug 12, Trial of HESTER MEREDITH.]

   On Tuesday last, an Inquest was taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner for this city, on view of the body of an infant pauper, a girl about two years of age, whose death appears at least to have been accelerated by its removal, under a pass from Bristol to the place of its mother’s settlement, whilst labouring under a very severe illness.  The child, it seems, had long been in a very emaciated state, and almost entirely incapable of taking any nourishment, and died soon after its arrival in this city.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

FATAL PUGILISTIC EVENT.

Committal of JOSEPH PUGH and WILLIAM DAVIS for killing and slaying JOSIAH DEE at Oxenhall.

 

May 8.  An inquest was held on Monday last, at Mickleton, in this county, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of JOHN RAY, aged 16, who was killed by the upsetting of a cart, which, falling on his head, crushed him in so dreadful a manner, that he died almost instantly.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

May 15.  INQUESTS.  The body of a man unknown [ROBERTS] was picked up in the River Severn, near Berkeley Pill, on Thursday last.  He appears to have been in the water a considerable time: he was very respectably dressed in a flannel jacket, blue cloth trowsers, and red plush waitcoat, with pearl buttons; he had a watch and 10s. in silver, with a clasp knife and some half pence, in his pockets.  He appeared about 5 feet 8 inches high, and it is conjectured, from some accounts of bills for beer &c., paid at some public houses in Bristol, that he was master of a trow, and named ROBERTS.  An inquest was held on the body, at Berkeley, by WJ Ellis, Esq. and a verdict returned of Found drowned.  He was subsequently buried in Berkeley churchyard.

  On Wednesday last, a labouring man, named DANIEL HISCOCKS, cut his throat with a knife, in Hawkesbury Upton Wood, and afterwards walked home!  Surgical assistance was procured, but it proved of no avail, as he lingered only a few days.  Verdict, Lunacy.

   An inquest was held on Saturday last, by the same Coroner, on view of the body of a lad in the employ of a JOHN GODWIN, of Yate, who, in endeavouring to get down from a cart in which he was riding, slipped and the wheel going over him caused his instant death.

  An inquest was also held, about a week before, on a carter in the Service of Mr PLOMER, of North Nibley, who fell from the shafts of a waggon loaded with coals, and the wheels crushed him to death.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death, with a deodand on the horses, &c.

  On Monday, an inquest was taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on the body of a man named WALTON, found dead close to a lime-kiln in the vicinity of Cheltenham.  Verdict, Died from Suffocation.

 

May 22.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken by John Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At the Leigh, on view of the body of JAS. TAYLOR, a fine boy about five years old, who fell into the basin of the Combe-hill Canal, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Ashchurch, near Tewkesbury, on the body of JOHN BARNES alias ROBERTS, who, in attempting to get into a cart returning from Tewkesbury fair, fell into the road, and the near wheel going over his head killed him on the spot.  Verdict, Accidental Death, with a deodand of 5s.on the wheel.

    [PRICE, chimney sweep, shot by WM BUCKMAN, app boy of Cheltenham.]

 

May 29.  [Further report, PRICE and BUCKMAN.]

 

Jun 5.

 

Jun 12.  MELANCHOLY OCCURRENCE.  On the evening of yesterday se’nnight, about twenty persons were assembled at a cyder house, on the banks of the Wye, near Coleford, when several of them became intoxicated, and at length two of the party began fighting.  The wife of one of the pugilists, with an infant in her arms, attempted to withdraw her husband from the fray, when she was knocked down by GEORGE GOODE, the father of the other combatant, and the child unfortunately received a blow which ultimately caused his death.  An inquest was subsequently held on the body before Wm Joyner Ellis, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county, when a verdict of Manslaughter was returned.

 

Jun 19.  ACCIDENT.  On Wednesday last, a gentleman riding near Rodborough, asked a boy named HENRY HODGES, about eleven years of age, to lead a horse to the Bear Inn, while he went to make a call in the neighbourhood.  The boy, however, instead of leading, mounted the animal, and when on his back gave him a slap on the neck with his hand, upon which the horse set out on the trot, and the poor child being unable to keep his seat, fell to the ground upon his head with such violence as to cause a concussion of the brain.  He was picked up in an insensible condition and conveyed to our Infirmary, where he expired in the course of the following morning.  A Coroner’s Inquest before J Cooke, Esq.on Saturday, found a verdict of Accidental Death.

JUVENILE SUICIDE.  One day last week, at Bisley, in this county, a boy, named BARNARD, only nine years of age, having been reproved by one of his parents, put a period to his existence by hanging himself.  An inquest was held on the body.  Verdict, Temporary Derangement.

ANOTHER FATAL PUGILISTIC CONTEST.   Only a few weeks have passed since we related the circumstances of a fatal pugilistic affray, at Newent.  We regret to state that an event equally melancholy occurred here last week.  On Friday evening several young men were assembled at the New Inn, in this city, when a dispute arose between two of them, named ROBERT LOWE and JAMES THORNE, about some such trifling circumstance as the opening and shutting of a door.  From words the parties were about to proceed to blows, and went out into the yard for that purpose, when Thorne objected to fighting on the stones.  At this moment, a young man named WM. BURLEY, a native of this city, and an intimate friend of Thorne’s, came in, and hearing that Lowe wanted to fight Thorne, became the champion of his friend, and challenged the former.  A scuffle ensued, which was speedily terminated by the interference of a city constable, when they agreed to fight it out in a neighbouring field.  They accordingly adjourned to a meadow near the city boundary, and, a ring being formed, stripped for action.  After fighting seven or eight rounds, Burley received a blow on the throat, which knocked him down and rendered him insensible.  Having remained some time in this state, surgical assistance was sent for, and he was conveyed home. Profuse bleeding was had recourse to, but with no beneficial effect, as he breathed his last in about an hour.  An inquest was held upon the body, on Saturday, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, which continued sitting till twelve o’clock at night, when its further proceedings were adjourned till this morning.  The result will appear in our next. [see below]

   On Monday, an inquest on the body of WM. BURLEY, the unfortunate man whose death by fighting we narrated in our last, concluded its sitting, when the jury brought in a verdict of Manslaughter against the principal, ROBERT LOWE, and also against RICHARD BIRD, JOSEPH WILTSHIRE, and another person unknown, who acted as seconds in this melancholy affair.  Lowe and Bird have been committed to our County Gaol, under the warrent of John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, to take their trial at the next Assizes.  Wiltshire and the other party have absconded.

 

Jun 26.  FATAL ACCIDENT.  On Friday last, in a cottage situated in the Golden Valey, between Cheltenham and Gloucester, a poor child named THOMAS COOPER, about four years of age, was left for a few moments alone, while his mother was occupied in the garden, and in endeavouring to remove the lid of a kettle which was boiling, his clothes caught fire, and he was so dreadfully burned, that he lingered in agony till Tuesday evening, when he expired.

   On Sunday evening last, SAMUEL BROOKMAN, son of Mr Brookman, rope maker of Chepstow, a promising youth, about fifteen years of age, whilst bathing in the river Wye, with several others, lost his footing and was drowned.  The body was found on Wednesday by some fisherman.

INQUEST.  On Wednesday an inquest was held by Mr John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, at Elton, in the parish of Westbury, on view of the body of Mrs SARAH THOMAS, who, the Monday before, while walking from the brewhouse to the kitchen, fell down and instantly expired.  A verdict was returned of “Died by the visitation of God.”

 

Jul 1.  SINGULAR SUICIDE.  On Wednesday last, a poor fellow named WILLIAM HYDE, of Hasfield, who had for some time been subject to fits of insanity, climbed up into a pear tree, and making his way along a limb extending in a lateral direction, fixed his neck firmly in a forked branch, and then threw his body over, in which position he was discovered quite dead.  An inquest was held upon the body on Thursday before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when a verdict of Insanity, was returned.

   On Wednesday se’nnight, a labouring man, named JOHN THOMAS, went into the Duke public house, in this city, and complained of being unwell, upon which the landlady kindly gave him a small glass of brandy.  The poor fellow drank it and sat down in a chair, but in the space of five minutes fell back and expired.  An inquest was held upon the body before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when a verdict was returned, Died by the visitation of God.

 

Jul 8.  [Worcestershire Inquest.] MOST APPALLING AND AFFLICTING CALAMITY.  Mentions JOSH. HILL of Lintridge, Dymock, with 2 sons and 4 daughters; and HELEN WOODYATT, daughter of Mrs Woodyatt, Confectioner of Hereford.  All on trip/outing to Malvern Hills, struck by lightning.  JOHN HILL first to recover, then JAMES TYLER, servant.  MARGARET (ill); ELIZABETH aged 29, dying; JOHANNAH, able to stand; MARY, hardly speak; Miss Helen Woodyatt, aged 17, dead; Mr JOSH. HILL, very bad.  Inquest at Malvern by Mr Hill, Coroner.  Died from the effects of Lightning.

   On Tuesday last, an Inquest was held at Mickleton, in this county, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on view of the bodies of WM. BROMLEY and WM. SPIER, who were unfortunately drowned in a pond in that parish on the preceding Saturday.  It seems that Bromley, who could not swim, got into the pool for the purpose of bathing, and was jumping about in the water, holding with one hand by a tuft of grass on the bank; the grass, however, gave way, when he sank, but rose again to the surface several times.  Spier, who was close at hand, rushed into the pond to his assistance, and, being a good swimmer, might have succeeded in extricating him, but unfortunately Bromley clung to him so closely as to deprive him of the power of exerting himself, and both in consequence shared the same fate.  It is singular, that the pool, having been recently cleaned out, was entirely void of water the day before, but had been filled by a thunder-storm that morning to a depth of seven or eight feet.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 15.  INQUESTS.  Recently taken before W Trigge, Esq. one of the Coroners of this county:  At Winchcombe, on the body of a boy named JOHN SHOTTON, who, whilst driving a waggon laden with tiles, was endeavouring to climb up the shafts, when he unfortunately missed his hold, and falling to the ground the wheels passed over both his legs, and so shockingly lacerated them as to occasion his death shortly afterwards.

   At Eastington, on the body of SAMUEL GWINNELL, who was drowned whilst bathing in a mill pond, into which he had ventured on the assurance of some companions that they would take care of him, as he could not swim.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   Monday, as four youths were bathing in a pond at Shipton, near Tetbury, one of them that could not swim got out of his depth, and calling loudly for assistance two of the party swam to his relief, and in the attempt to save him all three were drowned; the other probably might have shared the same fate, but as he could not swim he could render no assistance.

   In the parish of Stapleton, in this county, a poor woman named SARAH SPARKS, was struck by lightning whilst engaged inside her house, and killed on the spot.  She has left an infirm husband and eight children, who chiefly depended upon her for support.  The destructive element afterwards passed through a wall into a bedroom, and set fire to the roof, by which it escaped.

   Early on Sunday morning last, as a youth named THOMAS MEALING, about 14 years of age, was bathing in the Severn, a little way above this city, he unfortunately got out of his depth and was drowned.  A period of two or three hours elapsed before the body was found, when of course the vital spark was quite extinct.  An inquest was held upon the body on the following day before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

 

Jul 22.  OBITUARY.  On Thursday morning last, died, the Rev. EDWARD MANSFIELD, Vicar of Bisley, in this county.  On the 11th inst. whilst going on an errand of mercy, to consult with a friend, for the relief of the numerous suffering poor in his parish, he was thrown from his gig, his leg was broken by compound fracture, and his head much bruised; he lingered in great pain, till the 20th, when he joined the assembly of “just men made perfect.”  His worth cannot be duly appreciated - his parishioners have lost a truly faithful pastor, many a laudable institution a judicious advocate and supporter, his somestic circle an exemplary guide, and his intimate acquaintance, an invaluable friend - He was in the true sense, a man of God.

 

Jul 29.  COMMITMENTS.  Wednesday, JOHN COSBURN, SAML WOTHAN, and RD. KIRBY, by W Trigg, Croner, charged with killing JOHN RICHINGS.

INQUEST.  Taken before W Trigg, Esq. Coroner - On Monday and Tuesday last, an inquest was held at the Blue Boys Inn, Minchinhampton, on view of the body of JOHN HITCHINGS, labourer, of the same place, who was killed in a fight, by JOHN COSBURN, stone mason, chiefly by the violent fall he had on a heap of stones.  The deceased appeared, from the evidence, to have been the aggressor; and after a patient and minute investigation, the Jury returned a verdict of Manslaughter against John Cosburn, as principal, and RICHARD KIRBY  and SAMUEL WOTHAN, clothworkers, as accessaries.  We are sorry to add, that the deceased was very drunk at the time; and some culpability attaches to an individual, whose timely interference, we are informed, might have prevented the combat.

 

Aug 5.  COMMITMENTS.  On Monday last, by W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner, GEO. GOODE, charged with killing and slaying THOS. HAWKINS, at St Briavels.

 

Aug 12.  [Part missing.]  Trial of JOS PUGH and WM DAVIS for killing and slaying JOSIAH DEE; acquitted.  Witnesses SAMUEL LLEWELLYN, JOHN CONSTABLE AND ?? CROCKWELL.

TRIAL OF HESTER MEREDITH.

“Sir Baron Garrow.  “I would strongly recommend you, to quit the fellow that you have for some time been living with, for by the accounts I learn of him, you will do no good as long as you take up your abode with him. [Here a communication was made to the Judge, who resumed.] I find, the last part of my admonition is unnecessary, for your friend has left you.  I understand he has hanged himself lately in the Gaol.”  The fate of this fellow, who was a notorious offender, occasioned some laughter in the Court, in which the prisoner joined, as she departed from the dock.”  [See May 1 re JOHN HALL.]

 

Aug 19.  INQUESTS.  Taken before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner:  Last week, at the parish of St James, on view of the body of ALEX HAWKINS, an old man, who lived very secluded, waiting on himself, and suffering no one to visit him: he possessed a little freehold property, but always entertained the dread of coming to want.  Not having been seen for two days, a neighbour got into his room, and found him hanging behind the door.

   On the body of HENRY BAGG, a labouring man, residing near Durdham Down, in the parish of Westbury, who cut his throat with a large knife incautiously left in his room, and nearly severed his head from his body.  He had been for some years subject to a very violent and painful disease, and at times his suffering was so great as to deprive him of reason.  During one of these dreadful attacks, he took the opportunity of his wife having left the room to procure medical attention, and committed the fatal act.  Verdict in both cases, Insanity.

   On the body of SAMUEL BURFORD, who, whilst felling a tree in Bowcott Wood, near Uley, on Tuesday last, the tree fell upon him, and injured him so dreadfully, that he expired instantly.  He has left a widow and eight young children.

 And, on the body of WM. WATKINS, coalminer, who, being employed in a coal pit at Shortwood, near Mangotsfield, complained of a difficulty of breathing from the effects of the smoke of gunpowder used in blasting, and came to the pit mouth, where he lay down; and a companion going to him in a few minutes afterwards, found him quite dead.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Saturday, an inquest was held before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on the body of Mr BROOKES, butcher, of Cheltenham.  It appeared, in evidence, that on the evening of the 7th inst. the deceased, while in a state of intoxication, was encountered in the street, by some of the police officer, who, in the performance of their duty, endeavoured to conduct him home; but failing in that attempt from his opposition, as he imagined they meant to lodge him in the prison, they carried him to the Greyhound public house, where they succeeded in having him put to bed, and then left him, as they supposed, asleep.  Still labouring under the stupor caused by liquor, and, as it is conjectured, with an impression on his mind that he was in the prison, he raised up the window to escape from confinement, and falling head foremost into the street, was so dreadfully injured, that after lingering in a state of utter insensibility several days, he expired.  The Jury returned a verdict, Accidental Death, by falling from a window.  The unfortunate man has left behind him seven orphan children, who have had within a few months to mourn over the loss of both their parents.

 

Aug 26.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner; At Norton, on view of the body of WILLIAM YEEND, aged 26 years, who, while bathing in a pool, was accidentally drowned.  The deceased, who was a very respectable young man, had gone into the pool to wash himself.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At the Leigh, on the body of THOMAS BROWN, who died in consequence of an inflammation of the bowels.  It was reported that the deceased was killed by fighting, but after a patient examination of several witnesses, and Mr JW WILTON, surgeon, who examined the body, the Jury returned a verdict, Died in consequence of an inflammation of the bowels brought on by excessive drinking.

   At Cheltenham, on the body of SOPHIA GREEN, an infant three months old, who was found dead in bed.  Verdict, Found dead.

   At Tirley, on the body of WM. BROTHERIDGE, about ten years old, who was drowned while bathing in the River Severn.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Bishops Cleeve, on the body of JOS. SPENCER, who, while walking in the street, suddenly fell down and instantly expired.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

   An Inquest was held on Tuesday night, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on the body of a woman named SMITH, who hung herself during the night of Monday, in the Gloucester Lunatic Asylum, where she was confined as a lunatic.  Verdict accordingly. 

 

Sep 2.  OBITUARY.  Occasioned by a fall from his horse, JOHN RUSSELL, Esq. solicitor, of Bristol.

 

Sep 9.  On Thursday last, as an industrious man of this city, named THOS. DOBLES, who gained his livelihood as a sedan-chairman and auction-porter, was returning from Hempstead, where he had been assisting to convey a pianoforte, on reaching Lanthony he requested his companions to stop a little to rest, and seated himself upon the end of the barrow, from whence in a few minutes he fell backwards and instantly expired.

 

Sep 16. [missing]

 

Sep 23.  INQUESTS.  Recently taken before Wm Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner.  On View of the body of Mr JOSEPH YATES, who was discovered by a person returning from work, about nine o’clock on Saturday night, the 2d inst. near Breadstone Lane.  He was quite dead, tho’ warm, and had seemingly breathed his last but a very short time; his head was badly fractured.  No suspicion whatever was entertained of his being murdered or assaulted, as reported.  His horse was found in the morning, about half a mile from the spot, with his knees much cut, and there were evident marks of his falling, by the hair being subbed off on the stones.  He had all his property, &c. about him, and had left his brother in law about an hour before he was discovered, at Falfield, intending to return home to Putloe, near this city, to apprize his wife of the intended visit of her sister and husband on the following day.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On the body of Mr CHAS. HATHERLEY, a carpenter, residing at Hillgrove street, Bristol, who was discovered hanging to a staple in the cellar of a house which was undergoing repairs.  Distress of mind, caused by a want of` employment, drove the unfortunate man to commit the rash act. Verdict, Lunacy.

   On the body of a son of Mr SELMAN, who keeps the Ferry over the Avon, at Hanham Mills, a fine boy about ten years of age.  He was desired by his father to take the boat over the river for passengers; and, as he was doing so, the oar slipped from the rest, and, striking him on the chest, he fell backwards into the river, and was drowned in the presence of his distracted father and the passengers, who could afford him no assistance, as the boat had drifted, and they had no oar.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Sep 30.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Esq. Coroner: On the 18th inst. at Wheatenhurst, on view of the body of JOSHUA WATKINS, whose death occurred in the following manner.  He was riding on the foot board of a carriage, in company with another boy, each carrying some iron chain on his shoulder; when, in hastily getting off, n consequence of being discovered by the coachman, they both fell to the ground, and the deceased becoming entangled, the wheels passed over his body, by which he was so much injured as to occasion his death.

   On the 20th, at Woodchester, on the body of THOS.  WALKLEY, who was killed by an elm tree falling on his chest.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   On the 21st, on the body of Mrs MARY HARDWICKE, found dead in her bed.  Verdict, Sudden Death.

 

Oct 7.  COMMITMENTS.  Friday, THOS. JEWITT, JAS. GIBBS, and JOS. BENNETT, by J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, charged with the manslaughter of THOS. COOKE, at the parish of Bleddington.

 

Oct 14.  MELANCHOLY SUICIDE.  Early on Monday morning, a poor woman named TANDY, who resided with a family of nine young children in a cottage near the Pheasant public house, on the road from this city to Cheltenham, put an end to her existence by hanging herself, after her husband had gone out to his labour.  The children were awakened by the violent shaking of the floor of the room in which they lay; when a son (about twelve years of age,) going down stairs to ascertain the cause, beheld his unfortunate parent suspended by a rope which she had fastened to a large hook in the ceiling!  He endeavoured instantly to cut her down, but fainted in the attempt, and long before it could be accomplished, the vital spark was extinct.  Of the nine children, the eldest is but 16 years old, and the youngest had not been weaned.  Tandy was formerly a barge master, and afterwards adventured in a brick making concern, near this city, in which he was unsuccessful;  and the dread of seeing her children brought to want, produced an aberration of mind in the hapless mother, which led to the deplorable event.  An inquest was held on view of the body, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, and a verdict returned Insanity.

INQUESTS lately taken by J Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At Weston under Penyard, on the body of MARIA WINTLE, who, whilst walking in her kitchen with a candle in her hand, was seized with a fit and fell down, when the candle set fire to her clothes, and caused her death shortly afterwards.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Westbury upon Severn, on the body of SAMUEL PEAR, found drowned in the River Severn.  He was a native of Ashelworth, and had not been seen since he left Gloucester Racecourse, much intoxicated, about three o’clock in the morning.  His friends had offered a reward to find him.  Verdict, Found drowned.  [See the advert. Sep 30 with description; aged 28, father John.]

   At Chipping Campden, on the body of THOS. BROWN, killed by a cart wheel going over him.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Cheltenham, on the body of MARY SMITH, an infant two years old, who was found dead in her bed.  Verdict, Visitation of God.

   At Bleddington, on the body of THOS. COOKE, killed by fighting with T. JEWITT.  The parties had quarrelled, and agreed to decide their differences by a pugilistic combat, which ended in the death of Cooke.  After a patient investigation, the Jury returned a Verdict of Manslaughter against Jewitt and the Seconds, Jas. Gibbs and Jos. Bennett, who have all been committed to our County Prison for trial.

   At St Briavels, on the body of RD.MAILSON, who was killed by a quantity of stone and marl falling upon his head, whilst at work in a coalpit.  And at Frampton, on the body of FRED. BALLINGER, a child two years old, who died in consequence of drinking boiling water out of a teapot.

 

Oct 21.  OBITUARY.  [On the 29th ult.] Same day, in consequence of a fall from his horse, on his return home from Wotton Underedge market, aged 56, much respected, Mr JAMES NICKOLLS, of North Nibley, leaving a wife and 12 children to lament his loss.

   Thursday, at Colford, in this county, Mrs HOLDER, of the Angel Inn, in that town; universally esteemed throughout the surrounding district, not only for her kind and courteous manners, but also in all other relative duties that interest the christian feelings of society.

 

Oct 28.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Longhope, on the body of ANTHONY JONES, a lad, who being employed with another person in backing a waggon down a declivity, for the purpose of being unloaded, was unfortunately caught between the waggon and the wall, by which means he was so dreadfully crushed that he died instantly.

   At St Briavels, on the body of JAMES ROBERTS, who was engaged in his work as a collier, at Luck’s All Pit, when a immense body of marle, supposed to be nearly a ton weight, fell upon him, and literally forced the mattock he was using quite through his neck.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Westbury on Severn, on the body of JOHN PEARSON, who was found drowned in the river at that place.  It appears that this unfortunate man, who had for some time been in very ill health, was brought to this city about a fortnight ago, under an order of removal from Bristol to Manchester.  On his arrival in Gloucester he was conveyed to the Berkeley Arms Inn, by the constable, where he wrote his name on a piece of paper and left it in the room in the absence of the Officer.  He then quitted the house and was not seen again till his body was found at Westbury.  His hat, however, with his name written in it, was found on the river bank, close adjoining this city, and there can be little doubt but he was driven by distress to throw himself in the water.  When the body was discovered there was a large stone in one of the pockets, and a paper with his name.  Verdict, Found Drowned.

 

Nov 4.  AWFUL INSTANCE OF SUDDEN DEATH.  On Monday last, as Mr COLLINS, corn dealer, of Nibley, in this county, was purchasing corn at Dursley, whilst in the act of tying up one of the sacks, he fell down and instantly expired.

 

Nov 11.  OBITUARY.  Sunday, aged 46, at his residence in Worcester, in consequence of the rupture of a blood vessel, GEORGE HILL, Esq. Solicitor, Deputy Clerk of the Peace, and one of his Majesty’s Coroners for the county; he was a gentleman of distinguished abilities and strict integrity in his profession, and has left a wife and eight children to deplore his irreparable loss.

   [Long para re EDWARD POYKE, Tallow Porter and others; JOHN RUSSELL, arrested.  Inquest JC, Verdict Fdr.]

FATAL ACCIDENTS.  Two young women, from Uley, were drowned in the River Severn, opposite Gatcomb, on Monday last, at low water, under the following circumstances.  They were ignorant of the river, and, it is supposed, misunderstood the directions given them, as they were seen to walk off the sands into the Channel, opposite Gatcomb, which is a mile from the Passage.  Every exertion was made to save them, but the current was too strong to render the efforts of any avail.  The body of one of them, HESTER HANCOCK, was picked up immediately, the other, HANNAH PINNOCK, has not yet been found.  An inquest was held before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.     

   Inquests were held before the same Coroner, at Colford, on WILLIAM BYBEE, coalminer, who was killed by a quantity of coals falling on him, whilst at work in a coalpit; and on JANE MORRIS, a child about two years old, who was burnt to death at Redbrook, by her clothes taking fire in the temporary absence of her parents.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At Cheltenham, on the body of ELIZABETH GRIFFIN, who was found suffocated in a pit into which night soil had been emptied.  Verdict, Found Suffocated.

   At Saint Briavels, on the body of GEORGE JENKINS, aged about three years, who was burnt to death.  The deceased was left in the kitchen by his mother, while she went into her garden for potatoes, where he took a stick burning from the fire, which fell on his clothes, and burnt him so dreadfully as to occasion his death in a few hours.

   At Cheltenham, on the body of THOS. TURNER, who being at work in a well, assisted by his brothers, a great quantity of sand, earth, and some bricks fell upon him, and before he could be extricated he was suffocated.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

   At Saul, on the body of EDWARD LIPPATT, aged 70, found dead in bed.  Verdict, Found Dead.

 

Nov 25.

 

Dec 2.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Mountain, Esq. Coroner:  At Coates, on the body of ALICE [@ MARY] TYE, found dead in bed.  Verdict, Found Dead.

   At Bussage, on the body of FRANCIS FREEMAN, an infant, who died suddenly.  At Stow, on the body of a man unknown [SILAS PAGE], who fell down and suddenly expired in a lodging house.  At Eastleach Turville,  on the body of JAMES WEAVER, who died suddenly; and at Tetbury,  on the body of Mr WM. HOWES, who fell down and suddenly expired.  Verdicts, Died by the Visitation of God.

SHOCKING ACCIDENT:  child, Littleworth, ADB.  ? Infirmary.

 

Dec 9.  Worcester Coroner’s Election; “struggle.”

 

Dec 16.  Poll.

Bristol, JB Grindon, WM TAMPLIN, Shipwright of Chepstow, DVG.

 

Dec 23.  Worcestershire Poll.

 

Bristol inquest to be included.

 

1827, Gloucester Journal.

 

Jan 6.  An inquisition was held at Tewkesbury, on Tuesday last, before EW JONES, Esq. Coroner for the Borough, on the body of ELEANOR WILKINS, a poor old woman, who expired on the Saturday night preceding, under circumstances which gave rise to a report, that her death was occasioned by deleterious ingredients having been mischievously mixed with liquor given to her at a public house, a few days before.  The body was opened by an eminent Surgeon, and a long and most minute investigation was made into every circumstance connected with the affair.  The appearance of the stomach, as described by the medical gentleman who had viewed it, completely removed the suspicion that any poisonous substance had been administered; and as there was not an atom of evidence except the declaration of the woman herself previous to her death, to criminate the individuals suspected, the jury were clearly of`opinion, that the poor creature had died from excessive drinking, and returned a verdict accordingly.  The deceased was proverbially addicted to drunkenness; and, it is hoped, her melancholy end will be a warning to those who are prone to this sad propensity.

 

Jan 13.  OBITUARY.  On Monday se’nnight, at Church Stanway, in this county, Mr THOS. COURT, of the Paper Mill Farm.  He had left his house after breakfast for the purpose of pulling turnips for the cows, and in about an hour afterwards was found dead in the field, with some turnips clenched in both his hands.  He has left a widow and four children to deplore his death.

AWFUL INSTANCE OF SUDDEN DEATH.  On Monday se’nnight, as Mr HARMAN, sen. of Shurdington, farmer, was following Col. Berkeley’s hounds, and running to point out the place where he had frequently seen a fox, by the excess of his exertion he ruptured a blood vessel.  He was raised from the ground by his two sons, who witnessed the melancholy event, but before they had carried him to his house the vital spark was extinct.  Mr Harman was well known, and much respected for the strict integrity of his character.

DREADFUL ACCIDENT.  We have seldom had to record a more melancholy fatal occurrence than the following.  In a small house in Berkeley Street, in this city, resided an old man, named WM. POWELL, a plumber, (of respectable connexions,) and his wife.  The latter was so infirm in health as to be almost bedridden, and required assistance to be moved from her bed to a chair by the fire side, the situation which she usually occupied.  Yesterday morning, she was left by her husband in her customary seat; and on his return, between ten and eleven o’clock in the forenoon, after no very long absence, the neighbours were alarmed by hearing him exclaim from the window that his wife was dead!  They immediately went into the house, where a most shocking sight presented itself - the body of the poor old woman was before the fire, reduced almost to a cinder, her clothes still blazing, and the room so filled with smoke as to be almost suffocating.  Proper means were immediately taken to extinguish the fire, but the vital spark of the poor sufferer had fled.  It is supposed her clothes must have caught fire, without her being able, from her helpless state, either to assist herself or to call for the aid of others.  We understand, that the chair upon which she was sitting was considerably burnt.

INQUESTS.  Taken before Mr Mountain, Coroner.  At Coates, on the body of MARY TYE, who was found dead in bed.  At South Cerney, on the body of SUSAN LITTLE, found dead in a field, where it is supposed she must have died from the inclemency of the weather.  Verdict in each case, Found Dead.

   At Siddington, on the body of MARY ROBINSON, found in the Thames and Severn Canal.  At Bussage, on the body of FRAS. FREEMAN, who died suddenly.  At Stow on the Wold, on the body of a stranger, supposed to be SILAS PAGE, of Birmingham, a travelling tinman, who died suddenly.  At Eastleach, on the body of JANE WEAVER, found dead in bed.  At Bourton on the Hill, on the body of MARY SAUNDERS, who died suddenly, without any apparent cause.  Verdict in each case, Died by the visitation of God.

   And, at Siddington, on the body of JOS. WILLIAMS, who died suddenly.  Verdict, Apoplexy.

 

Jan 20.  INQUESTS.  Held lately before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner.  At Winterbourn, on the body of Mr WILLIAM RICKARDS, a very respectable farmer, who was found dead in his stable.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

   At Westerleigh, on ISAAC FLOCK, coalminer, who was killed while working in a coal pit, by a quantity of coals and stones falling on him.

   At Downend, on SAMUEL BRYANT, the Bailiff of the Colliery at Soundwell, who was killed while ascending that pit, by a stone falling from the side on his head.  He has left a widow and six young children.

   At St George’s, on JOHN LOVELACE, a boy about 17, who was found in company with two other boys on a lime kiln, at Easton, by the workman going to work in the morning.  It appeared they had been roaming the country with a donkey and sand, and on the approach of night, had crept to the lime kiln for warmth.  Lovelace was dead and dreadfully burnt, the others were recovered.

   At Coleford, on Mrs MARY WARD, an elderly maiden lady, who was very infirm and incapable of assisting herself.  She had, in the temporary absence of her family, attempted to stir the fire and fallen over the fender, where she was so dreadfully scorched before their return, that she survived but a few hours.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Jan 27.  MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT.  On Sunday last, as a youth named E GREENWOOD, apprentice to Messrs PETER and EDWARD BUTT, grocers, of Cheltenham, was amusing himself with shooting small birds at Shurdington, he imprudently discharged his gun whilst in a very foul state, when it unfortunately burst, and a piece of the barrel entered his forehead and passed through his head.  He was conveyed home in a state of insensibility, and expired the following morning.

AWFUL INSTANCE OF SUDDEN DEATH.  On Monday, a man named RICHARDSON, a journeyman tinman, went into the Royal Oak Inn, Cheltenham, and ordered a pint of beer, shortly after drinking which, he fell down, and immediately expired.  On Tuesday, a verdict was returned, Died by the Visitation of God.

   Last week, a poor woman at Gretton, near Winchcombe, in the act of making a purse for her son, fell back in her chair, and instantly expired.

FATAL ACCIDENT.  On Wednesday se’nnight, as JOHN BARNARD was crossing the Cleeve Hills, he fell into a stone quarry, and the injury he sustained occasioned his death.  Verdict, Found Dead.  Barnard has left a wife and four children, to lament the loss of an excellent husband and father, utterly destitute.

 

Feb 3.

 

Feb 10.  On Monday last, as a boy named WM. PRIDE, about twelve years of age, was sliding at Uley, in this county, the ice gave way and he was unfortunately drowned.  A man of the name of WILLIAM BAGLIN made great efforts to save him, and was with some difficulty preserved from sharing the same unhappy fate.

 

Feb 17.  CAUTION TO NURSES.  A fatal accident occurred at Tewkesbury last week, by a nurse placing an infant, about five weeks old, on the carpet before a fire, on which a pot of boiling coffee was placed; by some means this upset, and fell on the face of the child, who was so severely scalded, that it died in the course of the following day.

 

Feb 24.  In the article in our last, copied from a contemporary print, headed “CAUTION TO NURSES,” we were lead into an error.  The child stated to have been scalded by the boiling coffee, survived a week after the accident, from which it would probably have recovered, had not the constitution been previously materially debilitated by a disease to which fatal determination had been anticipated.

 

Mar 3.

 

Mar 17.  SHOCKING ACCIDENT.  On Tuesday last, JOHN EGERTON, a corporal in the 64th regt., quartered at the New Inn, in this city, was assisting the brewer at that house, when, as he was going up some steps for the purpose of shooting a bag of malt into the mash tub, his foot slipped, and the weight upon his shoulders causing him to lose his balance, the unfortunate man was precipitated head foremost into the boiling water!  He was instantly extricated from this horrid situation, and promptly conveyed to the Infirmary, where all that human aid could do was essayed for his relief, but in vain; the poor fellow lingered in dreadful agony till Thursday evening, when death put a period to his sufferings. An inquest was held before John Cooke, Esq. yesterday afternoon, when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

 

Mar 24.

Mar 31.

 

Apr 7.  On Monday last, an inquest was held at the Carpenters Arms Inn, Painswick, on view of the body of Mr R PORTLOCK, of this city, gardener, who, whilst in the act of eating his dinner on the previous day, was suddenly taken ill and survived but a few minutes.  Verdict, Apoplexy.

 

Apr 14.

 

Apr 21. OBITUARY.  Mr GREGORY COWLES, youngest son of Mrs Cowles, of Mathern, near Chepstow; this young man was drowned in the Bathurst Basin, Bristol.

ASSIZES:  Fined 1s. and discharged.  THOS. JEWITT, JAS. GIBBS, and JOS. BENNETT, for manslaughter.

   Thos. Jewitt, Jas. Gibbs, and Jos. Bennett, were indicted for having inflicted on     Thomas Cook, of Blessington, a blow, which caused his death.  The prisoner Jewett and the deceased had a slight quarrel in a public house, which they agreed to decide by a combat; and after four rounds of fair fighting, Cook received a blow on the chest, which occasioned his death in less than an hour.  The other prisoners were the seconds.  Mr IRE, a surgeon, proved that the deceased died of the blow on his chest, which caused the rupture of a blood vessel near the heart.  The prisoners were found Guilty; but in consideration of their penitence and long imprisonment, they were fined 1s each and discharged. 

 

Apr 28.  On Thursday last, as three men in a boat were endeavouring to convey a towing line under the arch of the Westgate bridge, the boat hook unfortunately hitched in a stone, and gave the man who held it, named EDWARD REA, so sudden a jerk, that he was thrown overboard; and though it was supposed he was picked up before life was extinct, yet for want of proper means to restore him, the vital spark soon after fled.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before Mr Mountain, Cirencester, one of the Coroners for the County.

   At Bussage, on view of the body of ADELINE DAVIS, an infant, who died from drinking scalding water from a tea kettle: At North Cerney, on the body of CAROLINE GRIFFITH, who fell into a piece of water and was drowned: At Bussage, on the body of CAROLINE DAVIS, an infant, who was burnt to death in the absence of her parents.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   At South Cerney, on the body of ALFRED MESSENGER, who died suddenly: At Howcomb, on the body of SARAH GREEN, found dead in bed: At Eastleach Martin, on the body of MATTHEW NORTON, also found dead in bed.  Verdict in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Bussage, on the body of RD MAISEY, who died suddenly from a rupture: At Chedworth, on the body of JAS. LANE, said to have been injured by a snow ball, but of which there was no proof.  Verdict in each case, Died of previous disease.

   At Cirencester, on the body of FRANCIS PAIN, who hanged himself in a fit of insanity.  Verdict, Hanged himself, being of unsound mind. 

   And at Quennington, on the body of LUCY WEST, who, in a fit of despondency, drowned herself in a well.  Verdict, Lunacy.

FATAL ACCIDENT. 

On Tuesday, a young man, going from this city to Cheltenham, with a waggon load of coal, was riding on the wheel horse, when he fell, and dislocated his neck; after which the wheel passed over his body, and he died on the spot.  The body was immediately taken into the Pheasant public house, near which the accident occurred, where an inquest was held, and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.  The deceased, [RI. COLE?] who was unknown, appeared to be about 19 years of age.

 

May 5.  OBITUARY.  On Monday, at her lodgings in Eastgate street, in this city, at an      advanced age, Miss WORRALL: she had retired to bed on the previous evening in her usual state of health, and was found a corpse the following morning.

 

May 12.

May 19.

 

May 26. INQUESTS - held last week before William Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner: At Awre, on the body of GEORGE HARRIS, a child about four years of age, who was drowned by falling into the river whilst at play on the bank.  At Coaley, on EDWARD SCUSE, a young child, who was burnt to death by his clothes taking fire in the temporary absence of the parents.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

   At Dursley, on BETTY HOLLOWAY, who dropt down and instantly expired, whilst in the act of cutting some bread.  At Kingsdown Parade, Bristol, on BERKELEY CONKLIN, Esq. who died suddenly on leaving the drawing room, where a party of friends were assembled at a dance.  Verdicts, Sudden Death by the visitation of God.

 

Jun 2.  On Saturday last, at Norton, near this city, a boy named BENJ. SAUNDERS, of Eckington, only six years of age, having been instructed by his father to drive a waggon, was unfortunately pushed down by one of the horses, and both wheels of the vehicle passing over him, he was killed on the spot.  An inquest was held before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

 

Jun 9.  On Sunday last, as a boy named MATTHEW BURFORD, was amusing himself in a boat, at the Quay, in this city, he unfortunately fell into the river, and was drowned.  The body was not picked up till Thursday, when an inquest was taken before John Cooke, Esq. Corner, and a verdict returned of Accidental Death.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Staverton, on view of the body of RICHARD COLE, who was killed by falling backwards from a horse he was riding, while drawing in the teams, whereby he was so much injured in his head as to cause his death almost instantaneously.

   At Blaisdon, on the body of THOS. COLEMAN, who was crushed to death between the shafts of a cart and a gate post. [It is a singular fact that his son of the same name was killed, by a similar accident, about three years ago.]

   At Norton, on the body of BENJ. SAUNDERS, jun. only six years old, who was killed in consequence of falling on the ground while he was driving a team, when the near fore and hind wheels of the waggon went over his head and body, and killed him on the spot.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Cheltenham, on the body of JAMES EVERLEY, who was found dead in bed.  At Hasfield, on the body of MARY CROOK, wife of Mr WM. CROOK, found dead in bed by the side of her husband.

   At Deerhurst, on the body of HANNAH COX, who was found dead in the garden belonging to the house where she resided.  The deceased was gathering gooseberrys, some of which were found in her hands when she was discovered.  Verdict in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Jun 16.  The body of A MAN UNKNOWN  was found floating in the River Severn, yesterday se’nnight, near to Purton Passage House.  He was stout made, about five feet 5 inches in height, with black hair, and had on a blue jacket, drab rough trowsers, over velveteen breeches, blue stockings, and shoes.  He appears to have been in the water a considerable time.

INQUESTS were holden this week before the same [?] Coroner, on MARY TILLEY, a girl of 15, who dropped down at Huntingford, whilst walking and talking to her sister, and instantly expired.  At Clifton, on CHARLES PALMER, a man of colour, who was found dead in his bed by his wife, who had left him in perfect health a few minutes before.  Verdict in each case, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.

   At the Forest of Dean, on ISAAC PRICE, a coal miner, who was killed by a quantity of rubbish falling on him whilst at work in a coal pit.  And on RD. JONES, a child four years old, whose death was occasioned by his clothes taking fire whilst playing with some shavings.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

 

Jun 23.  OBITUARY.  Monday - Mr WM. GARDNER, a most respectable farmer, of Saintbury, who was suddenly seized with a giddiness in his head, and expired almost immediately.

   Monday, the youngest son of Mr TAYLOR, brush maker, St James Arcade, Bristol, aged about 11, riding homeward in Stokes’ Croft, was thrown by the horse, dragged in the stirrup, and killed.

 

Jun 30.

Jul 7.

 

Jul 14.  MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT.  A young man, named THOMAS PAIN, an apprentice to Mrs TROTMAN, linen draper, of Dursley, whilst bathing on Sunday morning last, imprudently ventured out of his depth and was drowned, notwithstanding every endeavour was made to save him by those who were bathing with him.  A medical gentleman used all possible means to restore animation, and persevered for a very considerable time, but without success, as the vital spark had flown.  An inquest was held before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

INQUESTS.  Taken before J Mountain, Esq. of Cirencester, Coroner:  At Southrop, on the body of JOHN KNIGHT, who died suddenly at the Post Office, whilst paying for a letter;  At Bourton on the Water, on the body of JAS. SMITH, who died suddenly in a field, on his return home from a fishing excursion; At Leachlade, on the body of R. HUGHES, and at Cirencester, on the body of GEO. STACEY, each found dead in his bed.  Verdicts, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Leachlade, on the body of WM. PARKER, an infant, who fell into the Canal; At Colesbourne, on the body of PHOEBE WILLIAMS, who was killed by falling under the fore wheel of a waggon loaded with hay.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

   At Northleach, on the body of PHILIP SLAYTER, who in a fit of despondency cut his throat; And at Sherborne, on the body of WM. SMITH, who in a state of mental derangement hanged himself.  Verdicts, Lunacy.

   At Cirencester, on the body of CHARLES WITTS, an infant, found dead in bed.  Verdict, Found Dead.

 

Jul  21.  On Tuesday last the body of a boy named THOS. CLARKE, about thirteen years of age, was picked up in the river Severn, near the Westgate bridge.  The deceased had been employed in a brickyard, a little way up the river, and it is supposed he fell into the water whilst fishing, on the Sunday preceding.  An inquest was held before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when a verdict was returned of Found Drowned.

   An inquest was held this week before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on view of the bodies of JOHN and GEORGE YEARN, brothers, aged eleven and thirteen years, who were drowned in the river Severn, at Newnham, on Sunday last.  The lads were bathing together, and one getting out of his depth, it is supposed that the fatal catastrophe happened in consequence of the futile attempts of the other to render assistance.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 28.  MELANCHOLY CATASTROPHE.  It is with the most poignant regret that we mention the following fatal event, which involves the fate of a Gentleman highly respected in this county:  On Wednesday last, as JOHN RAYMOND BARKER, Esq. of Fairford, in this county, was taking an airing on horseback, near Kemspford, accompanied by his eldest son and daughter, the horse took fright at a tilted[?] cart, plunged, and threw his master into a ditch with such violence, that he scarcely moved, and never spoke afterwards.  He was immediately removed to the inn at Fairford, where medical assistance was instantly procured, but all human aid was utterly vain, and his family and acquaintance are left to bewail the loss of an affectionate and indulgent parent, and most hospitable and sincere friend.

 

Aug 4.

Aug 11.

 

Aug 18.  On Saturday lat about noon, a little girl, named FRY, not more than three years of age, while playing near the Coach and Horses, by the Tewkesbury road, unfortunately fell under one of the wheels of a cart, loaded with coals, which was passing at the time, and received so much injured, that having been conveyed for assistance to the Infirmary, She expired there within a few hours after the accident happened.

   A most determined case of suicide occurred last week at Hanham, near Bristol, in a young man named GARDNER, who had been for some years a clerk in one of the banks at Bristol, but had lost the situation.  He had lodged some months at Hanham, and received a quarterly allowance of about 60 L p annum, but had lost the sum he received by having his pocket picked in Bristol, since when he had been pennyless.  He was observed to be more low spirited than usual on Saturday last, but went to bed as usual that night, and the next morning was found hanging to one of the rafters of a brew house.  He had used a bench to stand upon, to fasten the fatal cord to the rafter, and then round his neck, and had afterwards pinioned back his arms.  An iron weight was found in each pocket, and he had taken every means to effectually complete his purpose of self-destruction.  A letter, correctly expressed, and directed to his father, (who is a very respectable gentleman in Wales,) which had been written for more than a week, was found in his portmanteau, declaring his situation, and describing his life as a burden to him through his misfortunes.  A Coroner’s inquest was held on the body before WJ Ellis, Esq. and a respectable Jury, who returned a verdict of Felo de se.

INQUESTS.  Taken last week before WJ Ellis, Esq.   At Woolaston, on JAMES BALE, carter to A HAMMOND, Esq. who was killed by falling from a cart in which he was riding, and the wheel passing over his body.  At Leighterton, on JOHN PACKER, killed by the upsetting of a cart loaded with tiles, which falling on him, caused his instant death.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

   At Winterbourne, on WM. MAGGS, who dropt down in a field when returning from church, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Died from apoplexy.

   And, at Rangeworthy, on CHARLES OVENS, who threw himself into a well and was drowned.  Verdict, Temporary derangement caused by an attack of typhus fever.

 

Aug 25.  SUDDEN AND REMARKABLE DEATH.  Long report on death of JAMES BUTT, Police Officer, Cheltenham.  JAMES GALAVIN apprehended but inquest by J Cooke, Esq. returned a verdict of Died by the Visitation of God.  However, Galavin was committed by the Magistrates for Manslaughter.  [See Sep 1, Mr Baron Vaughan, re above; and Sep 8 for sentence; transported for life.]

 

Sep 1.  Yesterday evening, an Inquest was held before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner of this city, on view of the body of Mrs KING, wife of  -  KING, working upholsterer, of Red Lion Court.  It appeared that the poor woman had long been in a very desponding state, and yesterday morning, in the absence of her husband, who has been some weeks at work from home, she suspended herself from the bed stead, by a handkerchief, and was not discovered till life was quite extinct.  The jury, after a patient investigation, returned a verdict of Insanity.

 

Sep 8.  DREADFUL ACCIDENT.   Tuesday evening, a child about  eighteen months old, was killed at Barnwood, near this city, in consequence of being run over by a tram cart, on the railway.

   On Monday last, an inquest was held before EW Jones, Esq. Coroner of Tewkesbury, on the body of WM. IVONS, a butcher, who was found drowned in the river Avon on the preceding day.  The deceased had left his home, in the Barton street, early on Sunday morning; and as there was no evidence to prove how he came by his death, the jury returned a verdict of Found Drowned.

ASSIZES:  Transportation for Life, JAS. GALAVIN, for the manslaughter of JAS. BUTT, constable, at Cheltenham.

 

Sep 15.

 

Sep 22.  SUDDEN DEATH.  An aged man, the shepherd of Mr HINTON, of Cooper’s Mill, near Painswick, whilst walking in apparent health on the high road, dropped dwn and instantly expired.

 

Sep 29.  Not filmed.

 

Oct 6.  City of Gloucester; new Municipal Officers; SHADRACH CHARLETON, Esq. Coroner.

 

   On Thursday se’nnight, Mr MULLARD, of St Michael’s hill, Bristol, spent the day with some friends, but not returning home as was expected, great alarm was felt for his safety; which proved to be too well grounded, as on Saturday his body was found in the Float.  A Coroner’s Inquest returned a verdict of Accidental Death.  It is supposed that he must have walked in, as the chains have not for some time been regularly put up at night.

 

Oct 13.

Oct 20.

 

Oct 27.  On Friday, an inquest was held at Winchcomb, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on the body of MATILDA JAMES, a girl about eleven years old, who was killed in consequence of becoming entangled with the machinery of a cider mill.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Nov 3.  FATAL ACCIDENT.  On Wednesday morning last, as JAMES ADDINGTON, one of the masons employed at the New Bridge, at Over, near this city, was occupied in shifting the position of a stone he was dressing, another large block which was standing on end behind him, from some unknown cause fell down, and the poor fellow was so dreadfully crushed between the two, that, altho’ instantly conveyed to the Infirmary, where every possible assistance was administered, he expired in great agony the same evening.  It is singular that, before commencing work in the morning, some of the workmen thought the stone was in a dangerous position, and tried to push it down with their hands, but as it resisted their efforts, they believed their fears were groundless, and left it as they found it.  An inquest was held yesterday, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

DETERMINED SUICIDE.  Name unknown, shoemaker in lodgings.  Inquest by Shadrach Charleton, Coroner; Found hanging.

 

Nov 10.  An inquest was held, on Friday last, at Leckhampton, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on view of the bodies of two boys, named CHAS. LLOYD and GEO. HARDING, the former aged 10, the latter 6 years; whose lives were prematurely terminated on the preceding Wednesday, under the following melancholy circumstances: They were, with other children, playing with some empty tram carts, which were placed at the bottom of the inclined plane down one of the steepest parts of Leckhampton Hill.  The men working at the top of the railway were engaged in letting down a loaded cart, by means of a windlass and rope, and when it reached some distance the rope unfortunately broke.  The boys looking up, saw the cart rushing down; but having no idea that the rope was broken, got behind one of the empty carts, for the purpose of stopping its progress.  So irresistable, however, was the force it had acquired, that it dashed the opposing vehicle to fragments, and, crushing the boys beneath it, killed them on the spot!  The head of one of the lads was shockingly bruised, and almost severed from the trunk, whilst the body of the other was also dreadfully mutilated.  Verdict, Accidental Death, with a deodand of 2s. 6d. on the rope, and a like sum on the tram.

 

Nov 17.  SUDDEN DEATH.  On Tuesday, a man named WM. STEEL, residing at Prestbury, whilst in the act of carrying a sack of corn, suddenly fell down and immediately expired.  An inquest [John Cooke] held on his body, returned a verdict Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Nov 24. OBITUARY.  Saturday, ... HENRY, eldest son of Mr RICHARD BIGGERSTAFF, of Chipping Norton; he had been out for a ride on horseback, and was a corpse in less than an hour after his return; he was within one day of completing his 30th year.

   On the morning of Tuesday last, a man walking along the shore of the River Severn, between the Hamstalls and the Noose, in the parish of Awre, in this county, discovered a small bundle apparently left by the tide at highwater mark; which on examination proved to be the dead body of a new born female child wrapped up in a sleeve of a linen shirt, and tied at the wrist and shoulder.  It appeared to have been in the water some days.  On Thursday, an inquest was held on the body, before Wm Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner, when the Jury returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against some person or persons unknown.  The parish officers have very properly offered a reward for the discovery of the perpetrators of this inhuman act, and we trust they will be brought to condign justice.

   A very distressing case of infanticide occurred last week, at Kings Weston, near Bristol, at the house of Mr HENRY JONES.  The servant girl had been suspected to be in a state of pregnancy, but to the repeated interrogatories of her mistress, strongly and positively denied it.  On Thursday evening last, in consequence of her being missed from the house, a search was made for her but without effect; at last, however, she returned home, and her mistress’s suspicions being strongly excited, she taxed her with having been recently delivered, which she most positively denied with the strongest protestations.  She said she was ill and went to bed, and a medical gentleman was sent for, who confirmed the opinion of Mrs Jones, but the infatuated girl denied there were any grounds for their suspicions till the next morning, when she confessed she had been delivered and told where the child was.  On search being made, the body of the unfortunate child was found in the garden, slightly concealed by some mustard plants.  An inquest was held by Wm Joyner Ellis, Esq. and a verdict of Wilful Murder returned against the unnatural mother, ELIZA YOUNG, and the Coroner issued his warrant of committal to our county gaol.

   On the night of the 5th November, as some young men were amusing themselves with a bonfire at Pebworth, in this county, they began throwing fire sticks at each other, and one of them, named HENRY WILKINS, was so severely injured by a portion of a hurdle, the end of which struck him with great violence upon the temple, that the skull was fractured, and the bone depressing the brain, caused his death on the following Thursday.  An inquest was held upon the body by J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when after a long investigation a verdict was returned of Manslaughter against some person unknown.

INQUESTS.  Taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner. - On the 15th inst. at Noverton, on view of the body of WM STEELE, a labouring man, who whilst engaged in lifting a sack of wheat, turned suddenly round, and falling to the ground, expired on the spot; and on the 20th, at Dowdeswell, on the body of an infant named ELIZ. CHERRINGTON, who was found dead in bed.  Verdict in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Dec 1.

 

Dec 8.  FATAL ACCIDENTS.  A lad about twelve, the son of a labourer at Westbury, near Bristol, in the employ of Farmer KNIGHT, had frequently amused himself with the dangerous experiment of placing his head and feet on the opposite points of the felloes of the wheel of a cart, at the same time holding by the spokes, and thus allowing himself to revolve with the wheel.  Thursday last, being in a field, with several persons, collecting mangel wurzel, he, unperceived but by another boy, hazarded a turn upon the wheel, when his head coming into contact with the bed of a cart, it was instantly crushed to atoms.

    Wednsday evening last, as PHILIP, son of Mr ENOCH WILLIAMS, of Lawrence Weston Farm, was returning home with the servant, in his father’s empty waggon, on seeing a carriage approaching, he attempted to get down to draw the team aside; in doing so his foot slipped, and the wheels of the waggon went over his head and chest, and killed him on the spot.  He was a very amiable young man; and has left a large family and numerous friends to deplore his loss.

   Inquests were held on the bodies, by WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner, when verdicts of Accidental Death were recorded.

 

Dec 15.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Dorsington, on view of the body of Mr JAS. HODGES, a very respectable farmer, aged 72, who on entering his house, on Monday se’nnight, leant forward on his hands against a fire place, and instantly expired.  At Dowdeswell, on the body of LAURENCE DYER, who whilst sitting with a friend, fell down, and died immediately.  Verdicts, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.

   At Newent, on the body of JOSEPH BURROWS, who fell into a lock of the Gloucester and Hereford Canal, and was drowned. 

    At our Infirmary, on the body of WM. JONES, a child about six years of age, who in the momentary absence of his mother, at Eastington, approached too near the fire, by which means his garments were set in a blaze, and he was so dreadfully burnt, as to occasion his death next day.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

ACCIDENTS.  On Saturday last, as the son of WILLIAM HIGGS, of Chipping Sodbury, who had been at plough all the morning on Farmer MALE’s land at Doddington, was hitching off the horses and leading them out of the furrow, the body horse, while his back was turned, kicked him in the head with such force as to cause instantaneous death: and on Monday, while JOHN BELCHER, one of the journeymen summoned to sit upon the body of Higgs, and who lives directly opposite to the parents of the deceased, was employed on the melancholy duty of the inquest, he was hastily called home to witness the dreadful situation of one of his own children, whose clothes caught fire, as it was in the act of burning an old handkerchief, by which it sustained such severe injury, that, notwithstanding medical aid was immediately called in, after lingering in excruciating agony till Tuesday evening, death happily put a period to its sufferings.

 

Dec 29.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Newent, on the body of WM. REEVES, an aged man, who whilst carrying a bag of grit upon his shoulders to the mill, fell into the canal, and was drowned.  At Northwoods Green, on the body of JOS. HART, a lad, who, whilst crossing a stile, slipped down, and was so severely hurt internally as to occasion his death. 

   At Cheltenham, on the body of THOMAS MANSELL, who was engaged in driving a team, when the horses took fright, and in attempting to stop them he was knocked down, and the wheels of the waggon going over him, inflicted such dreadful injuries that he died soon after.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   The following have been lately taken before J Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Avening, on the body of SAMUEL THOMAS, who was killed by the falling in of a quarry; at the Bourne, on the body of THOS. TAYLOR, who was killed by the wheel of a waggon passing over him; at Kempsford, on the body of WM. EVANS, who died from suffocation produced by the sting of a wasp, which he swallowed in a plum; at Brimscomb Fort, on the body of ANN JONES, whose head was severed from her body by the gearing of the machinery in a clothing manufactory; at Broadwell, on the body of WM. SMITH, killed by the falling in of a quarry; at Minchinhampton, on the body of THOS. PIMBURY, who died from the bruises he received from a horse which carelessly rode over him at the Fair, and on which the Jury very properly declared a deodand; at Chalford Hill, on the body of THOMAS GARDNER, killed by the falling in of a quarry; Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Hatherop, on the body of MARTHA JONES, found dead in bed; at Maysey Hampton, on the body of JAMES FRY, a farming bailiff, found dead in a field; at Leachlade, on the body of THOMAS HAZLE, an old man who died suddenly in his chair;  Verdict in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Cirencester, on the body of JOHN JONES, an infant, who died from the powerful effect of hartshorn injudiciously applied to the nose; verdict, accordingly.

   At Bourton on the Water, on the body of SAMUEL WILLS, who poisoned himself.  Verdict, LUNACY.

   At Chalford, on the body of MARY FRANKLIN, who died from taking a pint of mixture at once, instead of two spoonfuls three times a day.  Verdict, accidental death.

   At Minchinhampton, on the body of MARY PHILPOT, who died suddenly; verdict, apoplexy.

   And, at Northleach, on the body of ROBERT ROUNCE, who died in consequence of the blows he received from some poachers, at present unknown, on the night of the 28th of November, at Turks Dean; Verdict, Wilful Murder by some person or persons unknown.  [see also 22 Dec.]  Column 2: four men in custody: JOHN WESTON, JACOB PERRY, RD. WILLIAMS, JAS. GIBSON.

   THOMAS JENKINS, mason at Over Bridge; Inquest by S Charleton; adjourned.

 

1828, Gloucester Journal.

 

Jan 5.  On Saturday evening, the Coroner’s inquest upo the body of THOS. JENKINS, whose unfortunate fate we mentioned in our last, was resumed before S Charleton, Esq.when the evidence of additional witnesses completely confrimed the opinion we had formed, and after a very patient and minute investigation, the jury returned a verdict of Found Drowned.

   Yesterday an Inquest was held, in the parish of St Nicholas, in this city, on view of the body of SAMUEL POYKE, a child five years of age, whose clothes took fire in the momentary absence of his mother on Tuesday last, whereby he was so severely burnt, as to occasion his death in two days after.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

THE LATE FATAL AFFRAY WITH POACHERS.

Three men, named RD. WHITHORNE, JACOB PERRY, and WM. SMITH, have, after several examinations, been fully committed to our County Gaol for trial at the next Assizes, charged with the murder of RD. ROUNCE, gamekeeper to HARRY WALTER, Esq. at Turkdean, on the 26th Nov. last, under the circumstances narrated in a former paper.

CHARGE OF MANSLAUGHTER.

On Friday night, SAMUEL POWER was apprehended in this city, by JOHN MARSH, our very vigilant chief constable, and on Monday was conveyed to Evesham, on a charge of manslaughter.  Some months ago, Power and his wife were travelling through Evesham, and during a quarrel at a lodging house, he is charged with having inflicted a wound on her head with a pair of scissors, which caused her death.  An inquest was held on the body, when a verdict of manslaughter was given against the husband, who remained at large until taken in this city.

 

Jan 12.  The three poachers, plus JOB PERRY and JAS. GIBSON.

FATAL ACCIDENT.

On Thursday last, a lad, named WM. TURNER, had been shooting, at Fiddington, near Tewkesbury, and had returned home, when, in the act of entering the house, by some accident or other the gun went off, and the whole contents were lodged in the side of THOS. GUEST, an acquaintance, whereby he was  so dreadfully injured as to occasion his immediate death.

INQUESTS.  Taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  On Monday, on view of the body of BENJAMIN BEYNON, who was found drowned in the canal by Lanthony Bridge, near this city.  The deceased, who was in charge of a barge on the canal, had received his wages on the Saturday preceding, part of which he had deposited for safety in the hands of the landlady of the Spa public house, and it is supposed he slipped into the water, in the act of going on board the vessel.  There was no mark of violence upon his body, and in the absence of any evidence upon the subject, the jury returned a verdict of Found drowned.

   Yesterday, at our Infirmary, on the body of DANIEL FORD, an old man 71 years of age, who whilst occupied in attending some machinery, at a clothing mill, in Minchinhampton, on Saturday last, became entangled in a strap connected with the works, and was drawn up with such force against the barrel of the engine as to occasion a compound fracture of the leg, just above the ancle.  The poor old man was promptly brought to out Infirmary, where, though he received all possible attention and assistance, mortification supervened, and he expired on Thursday.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jan 19.  On Sunday afternoon, as a number of idle boys were at play amonst the framework of the centering at the New Bridge, at Over, one of them slipped into the river, and was swept away by the current, the violence and depth of which rendered useless all efforts to save him.  The deceased, whose name was [J] GATFIELD, was about sixteen years old, and was apprenticed to Mr MAYO, shoemaker, of this city.  The body has not yet been picked up.

   The body of Mr JOS. THACKWAY, who was drowned in the Wye, at Wilton, on the 9th ult. has been discovered about 12 miles below Wilton bridge, by a bargeman, whose oar striking the corpse, which was entangled in the roots or branches of some bushes, caused it to float.  In the pocket of the deceased eight sovereigns were found.

 

Jan 26.  MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT.   On Monday last, two men, named COLLINS and DAVIES, of Over, near this city, having been out in a boat, were on their return, and had succeeded in getting through Over Bridge, when the strength of the current forced their frail vessel back against one of the piers, the consequence of which was that the boat instantly upset, and the two unfortunate men were drowned.  The extreme height of the flood rendered every effort to recover the bodies perfectly unavailing.  One of the poor fellows has left a wife and children.

 

Feb 2.  INFANTICIDE.  A great excitement has been occasioned at Chalford by the discovery, on the 25th inst. on the body of a NEW BORN FEMALE CHILD, in a privy.  Suspicion attached to a young woman named ELIZA GREGORY, who having been at work as usual, was consequently ordered to attend the inquest; when, and not before, she complained of being unable to attend.  The opinion of a medical gentleman having been taken, she was carefully conveyed to the house where the Jury sat, who, after a patient investigation, returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against the said Eliza Gregory.  The execution of the Coroner’s Warrant has been suspended until she shall be in a fit state to be removed to Gloucester.

INQUESTS.   Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At St Briavels, on view of the body of WM. MILES, a collier, aged 38, who was working in a pit, when an immense mass of coal fell upon him, whereby he was so much crushed as to occasion his death.  At Beckford, on the body of ANN HEMING, a child about eight years of age, who was burnt to death in consequence of her clothes taking fire, whilst in the act of removing a tea kettle.  At Child’s Wickham, on the body of ELIZABETH STANLEY, a poor old woman, aged 85, whose clothes were set in a blaze by coming in contact with a burning coal, when sitting by the fire, by which the unfortunate creature was so dreadfully burnt before assistance could be rendered her, as to cause her death shortly afterwards.  At Cornham, on the body of JAMES GATFIELD, aged 16, the circumstances of whose death, by falling into the river whilst at play with some companions, at the New Bridge at Over, on Sunday, the 13th ult. were narrated in a former paper.  And at Dumbleton, on the body of a child aged four years, named JAMES HALLING, who was drying his shoes, which had got wet in the snow, when his pinafore took fire, and he was so much injured, that he lingered a fortnight in great agony, when death put a period to his sufferings.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Feb 9.  At the late Quarter Sessions for the Borough of Eveham, SAMUEL POWER, whose apprehension in this city upon a charge of killing his wife, by stabbing her with a pair of scissors, we mentioned in a former paper, was found guilty of mansalughter, and sentenced to be transported for life.

INQUEST.  On Wednesday last, an inquest was taken at Dymock, in this county, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of an old man, named THOMAS PENDALL, whose death was occasioned in the following manner.  Whilst employed, on the Thursday preceding, in lopping a withy tree, a branch, which he had just severed from the trunk, fell upon him with such violence as to force him with it to the ground, whereby he sustained so much injury in the spine as to occasion paralysis of the lower extremities for five days, when death terminated his sufferings.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

INQUESTS. Lately taken before Joseph Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Down Ampney, on the body of THOMAS PINNEGAR, who fell from his horse into the water, and was drowned.  At Sapperton, on the body of NATHANIEL DAVIS, who fell from a boat in the tunnel, and was drowned.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

   At Elkstone, on the body of BETTY ROGERS, who was found dead in her chamber.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

   And, at Chalford Hill, on the body of A NEW BORN INFANT found in a privy.  Verdict, Wilful Murder against the mother.

 

Feb 16.  On Thursday, an inquest was held in this city, before S Charleton, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of Mr H.H. BYERS.  The deceased, who was a very respectable man, was clerk to Messrs Johnson, wine merchants, and had gone to bed on the preceding evening in  perfect health, but was discovered lifeless in his chamber on the following morning.  The body was submitted to surgical examination, when the cause of his death was ascertained to be the rupture of a principal blood vessel on the lungs.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

 

Feb 23.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At St Briavels, on the body of ELIZABETH PARSONS, aged 33, who was burnt to death in consequence of her clothes taking fire.  At Elmore, on the body of WILLIAM DAVIS, who was drowned in the River Severn, at Over, during the late flood.  This man was one of the two, whose melancholy fate, in consequence of their boat being upset by striking against one of the piers of the bridge, we narrated in a former paper. [Jan 26.] The father of the deceased was the only person who attended to give evidence; but he was in such a state of beastly intoxication as to call forth a very severe reprimand from the Coroner and jury.   At Winchcomb, on the body of JAS. KERMOORE, aged six years, whose death was occasioned by his clothes taking fire in the momentary absence of his mother.  And at St Briavell’s, on the body of WM. RUCK, a boy about four years of age, who was playing with an iron ring at the fire place, when his pinafore caught fire, by which he was so much injured, as to occasion his death on the following day.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   INQUESTS lately taken before J Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Withington, on the body of JOHN SAVORY, found dead in a field; At Minchinhampton, on the body of HESTER STAFFORD, found dead in bed.  Verdicts, Died by the visitation of God.

  And at Winson, on the body of THOS. TURFERY, whose death was occasioned by the fractures and bruises he received from the overturning of his cart a few days before, on his return from Cirencester market.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 1.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At St Briavell’s, on the body of ANN MORGAN, six years of age, whose clothes caught fire whilst playing at blind man’s buff with her brothers and sisters on Sunday last, whereby she was so much injured as to occasion her death in a few hours.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Maisemore, on the body of WM. TURNER, aged 50, who was found dead in bed in the house of his mistress, Mrs VALLENDER.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

 

Mar 8.  AWFUL SUDDEN DEATH.  On Sunday evening, whilst drinking tea, and, to the appearance of those around her, in good health, Mrs PHILLIPS, of the Compass Inn, Tetbury; she fell suddenly from her chair a corpse.

DISTRESSING AND FATAL ACCIDENT.

We lament to state, that an accident occurred on Tuesday night in the neighbourhood of Pershore, which proved fatal to Mr STOKES, of Pauntley Court, in this county.  Mr Stokes was on his way from his own house to Pershore; he was within a mile and a half of the latter place, (near Tiddesley Wood,) when his gig came into violent contact with another, coming from Pershore, in which was Mr FLETCHER, of Hill Croome.  Both gentlemen were immediately thrown out, and Mr Stokes pitching upon his head, death immediately ensued!  Mr Fletcher was severely bruised, but managed to get to a neighbouring turnpike house, from which a person was dispatched to Pershore.  Medical aid was procured with all possible dispatch, but in Mr Stokes’s case it was unavailing; Mr Fletcher was conveyed to Pershore, where, we are sorry to say, he now lies in a doubtful state;  it is feared he has several ribs broken.  At the Inquest, it appeared that Mr Stokes was on his return from Bredon’s Norton, to Worcester, when shortly after leaving the former place, the horse became refractory, and backing into a ditch, broke the bar of the gig.  This circumstance and the lateness of the hour had determined Mr Stokes to remain during the night at Elkington; but unfortunately, on reaching that village, the want of accommodation at the only public house in the place compelled him to proceed, having first tied the bar together with a strong cord.  The horse, at starting, again shewed viciousness, and there is little doubt that he soon became uncontrollable, and ran away, the dreadful result of which is above stated.  Mr Stokes was deprived of his life by an extensive fracture as the base of the skull.  A verdict of Accidental Death was, of course, returned.  Mr Stokes was in his 52nd year, and a wife and eight children, together with a wide circle of highly respectable relatives and connexions, are left to deplore his untimely end.  Amongst other business transacted by Mr Stokes, at Bredon’s Norton, was the sale of a small cottage to one of his tenants; and it is somewhat remarkable, that, on the latter observing that there was no need of the transaction between them being committed to writing, Mr Stokes answered that he should draw up an instrument for their mutual signature, as who could tell but that they might each be a corpse before morning!

SERIOUS ACCIDENT.

On Sunday kast, as R. EDGEL, Esq. surgeon of Bristol, was returning from Frenchay in his four wheel carriage, accompanied by a servant, one of the horses became restive, broke the splash board, and kicked his foot over the traces.  The servant got out to hold the horses’ heads, when they plunged and set off.  Mr. Edgel became alarmed, and threw himself out, when unfortunately he fell upon his head, and was taken up senseless.  He was conveyed into the house of T. CAMPLIN, Esq. at Stapleton, where every assistance was rendered; and by the advice of some medical friends, he was conveyed home on a sofa the same evening, where he now lies with little prospect of recovery.

INQUESTS.  Taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Hardwick, on the body of EMANUEL ENGLEY, ten years of age, who, whilst walking over one of the Canal bridges, fell into the water, owing to the bridge not having been swung sufficiently over, a neglect which called forth severe reprehension from the Coroner and jury.  Altho’ instant search was made, some time occurred before the body was picked up.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Kent’s Green, on the body of THOS. CLARKE, who fell down suddenly and expired.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

   Taken before J Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Bisley, on the body of RD. GARDNER, aged three years, who was so dreadfully burnt during the momentary absence of his mother, as to occasion his death shortly afterwards.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Lower Swell, on the body of HANNAH STEVENS, an aged woman, found dead; and at Maisey Hampton, on the body of WM. TRUEMAN, and at North Cerney, on the body of THOMAS HALL, both of whom died suddenly.  Verdict in each case, Died by the visitation of God.

COMMITMENTS.  ELIZ. GREGORY.

 

Mar 15.  INQUESTS.  Taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Cheltenham, on the body of HANNAH FOWLER, aged 35, who was found dead in bed.  At Westbury on Severn, on the body of JOS. BELCHER, aged 66, who was found dead in his bed by his wife.  At Cheltenham, on the body of THOMAS FLYNN, who was found dead in a stable at the Crown Inn.  Verdict in each case, Died by the visitation of God.

   At St Briavell’s, on the body of GUY SINDREY, aged 45, who was in the act of cutting down a beech tree, when it suddenly fell upon him, and killed him upon the spot.  At Newland, on the body of GEO. VOICE, aged 23, who was at work in a mine called the Scar Pit, when a stone of two tons weight fell upon him and crushed him to death.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 22.  On Saturday night last, in an obscure lodging in Barton Street, aged 62, Mrs MARY CLUTTERBUCK, the wife of the late Mr LOT CLUTTERBUCK, of the Roebuck, in the Northgate street, in this city.

   On Monday night, as the Gloucester Mail was turning into Regent street, BENJAMIN STRANGE, the coachman fell from the box in a fit of apoplexy, and was killed on the spot.

INQUESTS.  Taken before J Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Tetbury, on the body of BETTY PHILLIPS, who fell down and instantly expired.  At Cirencester, on the body of HANNAH PAUL, who was found dead in her bed.  Verdicts, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Bussage, on the body of SAMUEL LEWIS, who on the night of the 5th inst. was frozen on Bisley Common.  Verdict, Died from the inclemency of the weather.

 

Mar 29.  FATAL OCCURRENCE.  An act of a shocking and fatal nature was perpetrated on our Quay, on Tuesday last, the particulars of which appear to be these.  Four young men, from nineteen to twenty three years of age, named JOHN YOUNG [19], WILLIAM BOUCHER, CHAS. VALE and CHAS. ORGAN, had been at play together in the most friendly manner during the greater part of the morning, and Young being known to have some marbles in his possession, it was suggested by the three others to take them from him, and divide them, in order to renew their sport.  To accomplish this object they proposed to tie his legs together, (as one of the others had been treated in the morning,) and for this purpose a piece of cord was procured from a neighbouring barge.  The three then went up to Young, and throwing him upon his back, attempted to tie his legs, when the latter drew a clasp knife from his pocket, and in making a cut at the cord slightly scratched the finger of Vale, who observed, that if he played with such weapons as that he would have nothing more to do with it; and Young being thereupon left at liberty, got up and walked away, with the knife still open in his hand, saying that he would stick it into the first man that touched him.  The others, however, not conceiving that he would be so desperate, determined to follow him up, and, after the lapse of a few minutes, Boucher caught hold of both his arms behind, when a short struggle ensued, and Young having extricated himself from the grasp of Boucher, turned round and stabbed him with the knife in the right side of the abdomen.  Irritated at this, but seemingly not aware of the extent of the injury he had received, Boucher struck Young once or twice and knocked him down, but almost immediately afterwards exclaimed that “he was ruined,” and upon examining his person the bowels were found to be protruding from the wound to a fearful extent.  The unfortunate man was instabtly conveyed to the Infirmary, where, altho’ the best surgical aid was promptly and unremittingly administered, death put an end to his sufferings on Thursday afternoon.  Yesterday, an inquest was held upon the body, before S Charleton, Esq. Coroner, when after a patient investigation, in which the foregoing facts were elucidated, the jury returned a verdict of Manslaughter against John Young, who was thereupon committed for trail at our next Assizes, upon the Coroner’s warrant.

INQUESTS.  Taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At White Clift, Newland, on the body of ANN POWELL, a child about one month old, who was found dead in bed, by the side of her mother.  Some little suspicion had arisen as to the cause of the child’s death, but after a most minute investigation by the Coroner and jury, who were perfectly satisfied that the infant had not received any bodily injury, the jury returned a verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Leckhampton, on the body of ROBT. WILLIAMS, aged about two years, who was drowned in a pool of water.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Greenway, Dymock, on the body of ELIZ. LUCY, a girl about ten years of age, who was burnt to death in consequence of her clothes taking fire.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Cheltenham, on the body of ELIZ. COOK, aged about three months, who was found dead in bed with her father and mother.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Apr 5.  Yesterday se’nnight, the body of a man, quite dead, was discovered under the arch of the first bridge on the road from hence to Cheltenham.  The deceased, who was lying on his face in very shallow water, was named WM. CODRELL, and had lived several years as waiter at the Bellevue Hotel, Cheltenham.  An inquest was held the same evening, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when a verdict of Found Drowned was returned.

   An Inquest was held, on Saturday last, at St Philip and Jacob, in this county, on the body of GEO. COOLE, foreman to a soap manufactory, who died from the effects of a blow or fall received in a scuffle in a public house, from a man named ROBERT WARREN.  The jury returned a verdict of Manslaughter, against Warren, who was thereupon committed, by WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner, to our County Gaol, to take his trial at the present Assizes.

   On Tuesday last, a little girl, about three years old, daughter of Mr JOHN JEFFERIES, of the Star Inn, at Marshfield, in this county, was standing near the fire, when her clothes accidentally caught fire, and before it could be extinguished she was so dreadfully burnt as to survive but a few hours.

 

Apr 12.  MELANCHOLY SUICIDE.  ANNE HAMMERTON, Dressmaker of Cheltenham; long para p.4; John Cooke, Coroner; Temporary Insanity.

ASSIZES.

One Year:  ELIZA YOUNG, acquitted of the murder, but found guilty of concealing the birth of her female bastard child.

Three Months: ELIZ. GREGORY, for concealing the birth of her female bastard child.

Acquitted: RD. WHITHORNE, JACOB PERRY and WM. SMITH; long account of their trial, and, according to Judge, “a most extraordinary escape.”

CITY CALENDAR.  Acquitted:  JOHN YOUNG, for manslaughter.

 

Apr 19.  SUICIDE.  On Saturday, a servant of Mr LACY, of Cockbury, went to the shop of a respectable chymist in Winchcomb, and purchsed an ounce of corrosive sublimate, saying it was for her master, who had been frequently in the habit of sending her for that article, for the purpose of anointing sheep.  She took nearly the whole of the poison the same evening, and expired the following morning in great agony.  This rash act is said to have been caused by jealousy. [SUSANNAH SLATTER]

   On Monday se’nnight, a poor fellow, named JOSEPH HIGGINS, fell down on the wharf of our Canal Basin, and instantly expired.  An inquest was held before S Charleton, Esq. Coroner, when a verdict was returned, Died by the Visitation of God.  The deceased, who was an industrious man, was employed on the river as a waterman, and has left a widow, now in a state of pregnancy, and four children, who were solely dependent on his exertions for support.

MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT.

On Wednesday se’nnight, as Mr JAMES BERROW, of Mawfield, was returning from Hereford fair, his horse became restive in passing down King street, and threw the unfortunate rider, who, falling on the back of his head, his spine was so severely injured, that notwithstanding the most skilful medical attendance, he expired the following morning.

Apr 19.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:  At Charlton Kings, on the body of JOS. WILSON, a child about four years old, whose pinafore became ignited whilst standing before the fire, by which he was so dreadfully burnt as to occasion his death.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Snowshill, on the body of WM. WILKINS, a beggar, who was found dead in a hay loft.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Brockhampton Park, on view of the body of Mr JOHN STEVENS, who was exercising a horse, when the bridle broke, and the horse running between a wall and a hawthorn tree, he was knocked off, and received so severe a contusion of the brain as to occasion his death on the following day.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Winchcomb, on the body of SUSANNAH SLATTER, who poisoned herelf: it appeared that in consequence of having left her place from a misunderstanding with her master, she purchased an ounce of corrosive sublimate, which she mixed with some warm water, at her father’s, and having swallowed the whole, died in a few hours after.  After a strict investigation, the Jury returned a verdict of Felo de se, and she was buried in the churchyard without funeral rites.

   And at Forthampton, on the body of Mr JOHN IRELAND, of Eldersfield, who, in consequence of his horse falling, was thrown with such violence on a heap of stones, and was so seriously injured that he died the next day.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

ASSIZES.

ELIZA GREGORY was charged with the murder of her female bastard child.  Mr Carrington (who appeared for Mr C Phillips) opened the case in a very able and impressive manner.  It was proved in evidence, that on 25th Jan. traces of blood were discovered in the garden walk, leading from Mr LONG’s house, at Chalford, to the privy.  Mr Long, in whose service the prisoner was, sent for Mr Ross, who attended the investigation, and desired a witness named RANDALL, to examine the privy.  As Randall was going up the steps, the prisoner came out of the brew house, and told him he must cut a block of wood.  He refused, and said he must do as Mr Ross had told him; when the prisoner replied, “If you should meet with anything there, I will give you 5s. to hide it.”  On examining the privy, he found the body of a child.  As he was returning to inform Mr Ross of the fact, the prisoner said to him, “Well, Thomas, have you done it?”  Mr Ross, Solicitor, afterwards had a conversation with the prisoner, and asked her if she had been delivered of a child in the night?  She said she had in the privy, at about seven o’clock in the morning; and that she had heard the child cry.

   Mr Horton, surgeon, proved that, on examining the body, he found that a venous circulation had been established: that there was a livid appearance about the size of a shilling, which, in his opinion, was proof of the child being born alive.  Many witnesses were in court to have proved other facts, but it was not thought necessary to call them.

   The Learned Judge, in addressing the jury, told them, that the prosecution had been conducted in the most fair and honourable manner, and the parts of the evidence which were favourable to the prisoner had been brought forward with the utmost candour, as well as those which bore against her.  Altho’ the child might have been born alive, yet if the jury were of opinion that the death was occasioned by an accident, they would acquit the prisoner of the capital part of the charge; if not, they would have to consider whether she had been guilty of concealing the birth, and would find accordingly.

   Verdict, Guilty of the concealment.  The Judge, in a very feeling address, recommended the prisoner to endeavour for the future to lead a virtuous life, and sentenced her to three months’ imprisonment.  His Lordship observed, that the prosecution had been conducted in the most humane manner, and had done great credit to the gentlemen concerned in it.

 

LETTER.

Sir,

In consequence of the malicious and unkind reports that have been put in circulation, before and since the trial of the prisoner, to the prejudice of the prosecutor, his family, and the witnesses for the prosecution, which caused so unusual an interest to be excited, I deem it right thus publicly to state, that no evidence was adduced in support of the capital offence, but only to prove the concealment.   And as a report of the trial did not appear in your last publication, I trust I can (without the charge of egotism being laid against me, and those for whom I appeared,) state that the encomiums passed by the Learned Judge, Mr Baron Vaughan, and Mr Justice, Counsel for the prisoner, convince us most plainly, that the accusations were as safe as they were uncalled for.

                                      I am, Sir,

Chalford Hill,                           your most obedient Servant,

April 15, 1828.                          JP Ross, Attorney for the Prosecution.

The King, on the prosecution of W. Long, against Elizabeth Gregory, for the Murder of her Female Bastard Child, at Chalford, on the 25th of January last.

 

Apr 26.  At Ashelworth, near this city, on Monday last, a lad, named MARMAN, was unfortunately drowned, in the river Severn, by the upsetting of a boat which he and another person were engaged in navigating.  We have not heard that the body has as yet been picked up.

INQUESTS.  Taken before Jos. Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Cirencester, on the body of HANNAH PAUL, found dead in bed; and on the body of CHARLES COOK, who died of spasms.  Verdicts, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Minety, on the body of BETTY BOULTON, a child, burnt in the absence of her mother.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

May 3.  The body of A MAN UNKNOWN was discovered floating in the River Severn, near Gatcomb, in the afternoon of Friday last, by a trow going down the river, and taken on shore at Gatcomb.  It appeared to have been in the water a very considerable time, and was in a rapid state of decomposition.  The following is a description of the body, viz. five feet three inches high, dark hair, and stout made; had on a waggoner’s smock frock, with worked collar, dark brown jacket, breeches, shoes, and striped worsted stockings.  An inquest was held before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner, and a verdict of Found Drowned returned.  The body was afterwards interred in Awre churchyard.

   An inquest was held on Wednesday, before the same Coroner, at Stoke’s Croft, Bristol, on WILLIAM HALL, servant to Mr BATTLESHAW, coal merchant, of that city, who was killed by being jammed between two carts, near Stoke’s Croft turnpike gate, on the evening preceding.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   As the Patent Safety two-horse coach was approaching Bristol of Tuesday from Bath, it came rapidly down the hill opposite Kensington-place, and in turning the sharp corner round Arno’s Vale, upset, when most of the passengers were thrown out and seriously injured; amongst whom was Mr THORNLEY, hatter, of Clare street, who received such contusions that he died next morning.

 

May 10.  On Monday last as a respectable farmer, Mr THOMAS KAYNES, of Cole Park, near Malmesbury, Wilts. was returning home from Cirencester market, he fell from his horse before he had travelled a mile.  He was taken into a turnpike house, near the spot, and put to bed, but expired on the following morning, about seven o’clock.  An Inquest was taken before J Mountain, Esq. Coroner, and a very respectable Jury, when, after a minute investigation, a verdict that the deceased Died from Apoplexy was returned.

 

May 17.  FATAL ACCIDENT.  Yesterday se’nnight, a cottager named LANE, residing near the Pheasant Inn, on the Cheltenham road, ascended an apple tree in his garden, for the purpose of lopping the dead branches, and while in the act of sawing off a limb of the tree his foot slipped, and he fell with such force on his head, that his neck was dislocated, and he expired in a few minutes.  An inquest was held on the body on Saturday and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.  The deceased was an honest and industrious man, and much respected in the neighbourhood.

 

May 24.  On Friday last, an inquest was held before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, at Forthampton, in this county, on view of the body of Mr W. JONES,  of that place, whose death was occasioned by a small piece of gristle sticking in his throat while eating his dinner.  Verdict, Died from Suffocation.

 

May 31.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before John Cook, Esq. one of the Cooners for this county.  At Charlton Kings, on the body of JACOB DENLY, who was killed by his horse falling and rolling on him; and at Staverton, on the body of RICHARD LANE, who fell from a tree and died almost instantly.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

   At Cheltenham, on the body of A CHILD UNKNOWN, found in the river Chelt.  Verdict, Found Drowned.

 

Jun 7.  MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT.  As Mr JOHN FOSTER, a respectable builder, of Brunswick square, Bristol, was driving in his gig in Denmark street, on Tuesday afternoon, he was met by a hackney coach coming from Unity street towards the Drawbridge, when the pole of the coach striking Mr Foster’s horse, it immediately became restive, plunged, and broke the traces.  Mr Foster unfortunately jumped out, and struck his head against a stone so violently as to fracture his skull.  Surgical assistance was immediately procured, but without effect; he died in three hours - Verdict, Accidental Death.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner: At Joyford, St Briavels, on the body of ANN TAYLOR, an infant, who was found in a dying state in a field, and expired shortly after being removed to the poor house.  At St Briavels, on the body of JOHN HAZLEBEE, aged 76, who was found in a dying state in a field, and expired shortly after being removed to the poor house.   Verdicts, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Marston Sicca, on the body of CAROLINE ROBERTS, aged about four years, who was burnt to death in consequence of her clothes taking fire, in the absence of her mother, who was putting the other child to bed.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Swindon, on the body of WM. SPERRY, who hung himself in a shed with a silk handkerchief.  The deceased, who was a hair dresser, at Cheltenham, had been for some time in a very low and desponding state, which being satisfactorily proved, the jury returned a verdict of Lunacy.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Mountain, Esq. Coroner:  At Avening, on the body of ANN FOWLES, who fell down stairs and received severe fractures on the head, of which she died.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Compton Parva, near Chipping Norton, on the body of WM. RUSSELL, found dead, having apparently been killed by the waggon which he had been driving passing over his head. Verdict, Found Dead.

   At Adlestrop, on the body of WILLIAM BANNING, an industrious tailor, of Stow, who was found dead between Stow and Chipping Norton.  The deceased had been subject to fits.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Jun 14.  JOHN and MARGARET SHIPP have been committed to Bristol gaol, on a charge of manslaughter, under the following singular circumstances.  The deceased, WM. BALL, was in very necessitous circumstances, and with his wife rented an underground apartment in the house of J. Shipp.  For several months he had been in very ill health arising from poverty and starvation, and the landlord and landlady (J & M Shipp) were very desirous of getting rid of him and his wife as tenants; for this end they had repeatedly warned them off; but the unfortunate creatures knew not where to go.  Mrs Shipp, however, thought of an expedient which was effectual though fatal; she sent for a chimney sweeper, and requested him to fill up the top of the chimney with wadding, in order, she said, to render the room occupied by the deceased uncomfortable and untenantable; but she omitted to tell the occupiers of the room what she had done; the consequence was, that the wife of the deceased having made a fire in the grate, went out, leaving her husband who was ill, in bed; on her return, which was in about five minutes, she found the room full of smoke, and the poor man in the agonies of death; he died in less than ten minutes from the time the chimney was stopped.

 

Jun 21.  ACCIDENTS.  On Wednesday se’nnight, about one o’clock in the morning, the body of a man was discovered lying in the road, near Falfield, in this county.  On examination, it proved to be that of JOHN THOMAS, the driver of Messrs Ashmore’s Birmingham waggon, which was found stopped in the road, at a short distance from the body.  It is probable that the man was sleeping on the shafts (having been on the road two nights previously,) and falling off, the wheels passed over him.  An inquest was held before WJ Ellis, Esq. and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

   An inquest was held the same day, before the same Coroner, at Siston hill, near Bristol, on a boy named LYNES, about seven years of age, who was taken by his father, a miner, down the coalpit, when he fell down the shaft, and was instantly killed.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jun 28.  On Wednesday evening, as a labouring man, named THOMAS PRICE, of Tirley, in the employ of J HAWKINS, Esq. of the Haw, was occupied in loading hay, he suddenly paused, fell off the waggon, and instantly expired.  He was an industrious man, and has left a wife and eight children unprovided for.

 

Jul 5.  FATAL OCCURRENCE: THREE MEN SUFFOCATED. 

We have seldom had to record, in this neighbourhood, a more melancholy occurrence than he following:  On Satuday night last, several men were employed in clearing a soil pit, in Norman’s Buildings, on the Quay, in this city, and had removed the contents, to within a foot of the bottom, when one of the workman, named JOHN STEELE, descending into the vaults to complete the undertaking, was rendered senseless, by the foul air.  Upon this, DAVID WATKINS, a fellow-labourer, went to his assistance, and immediately shared the same fate.  A third, named SAMUEL POWICK, promptly and courageously went down, with a view of assisting his companions, and was busily engaged in this humane endeavour when the noxious vapour attacked him also, and a fourth, EDW. CORNWALL, who by this time had let down a ladder, with great difficulty brought up Powick before life was quite extinct.  To the latter, however, it was only a prolongation of suffering, as though instantly conveyed home, and assisted as far as surgical aid could go, the poor fellow expired within two hours.  Steele and Watkins were quite dead before they were extricated from the vault, which was not more than eight feet deep.  Upon the alarm being given, the scene of  distress that ensued may be better conceived than described, each of the sufferers leaving a wife and family behind him, who being speedily drawn to the spot, experienced all the misery of sudden bereavement, and anxiously watched the progress of prompt, though ineffectual surgical assistance.  On Monday, an inquest was held, before S Charleton, Esq. Coroner, when a verdict was returned of Accidental Death, occasioned by suffocation.  Steel has left a pregnant wife and four children.  Watkins, a wife and two children, and Powick, a wife and three children; presenting an ample field for the exercise of the benevolence of the charitable and humane, whose contributions we will gladly receive and faithfully apply.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At Newent, on the body of JOHN PACKER, aged 76, who whilst occupied in loading bark, fell from the waggon, and sustained such an injury of the spine as to occasion his death on the following day.  At Tirley, on THOMAS PRICE, who fell from a load of hay and dislocated his neck.  At St Briavels, on the body of JANE GOODE, aged about six years, whose clothes took fire, whilst at play with other children, whereby she was so much burnt as to cause her death in a few hours.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   The following inquests were taken last week, before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner:  At St George’s, on HENRY STONE, drowned while bathing in a pond belonging to Messrs Brain’s colliery.  At Mangotsfield, on WM. HENDY, killed by falling down a coal pit, into which he was descending by sliding down a rope.  At Lydney, on BENJ. MORGAN  and STEPHEN JAMES, two hands on board the Union sloop, who were drowned by the upsetting of a small boat in Wollas Bay, in the River Severn, whilst endeavouring to raise the anchor; two other men, who were with them, nearly shared the same fate, but were providentially picked up by the crew of a vessel passing at the time.  At Berkeley, on RD. SMITH, drowned by falling into a resevoir of water, by the earth giving way.  At Wotton Underedge, on MARIA EASTMEAD, drowned by slipping into a stream of water called Dyer’s Brook.  At Awre, on JAMES BALL, killed by being struck against a wall by a horse.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 12.  BRUTALITY.  On Monday last, a man named ISAAC WOOD, residing in Milsom street, Cheltenham, had a violent quarrel with his wife, and when under the influence of passion, he beat and kicked her so dreadfully, that nearly a gallon of blood flowed from her wounds, and notwithstanding medical assistance was immediately called in, she now lies with little hope of recovery.   Wood has been committed to Northleach prison for further examination; when it is probable the result of his violence will be known.

 

Jul 19.

 

Jul 26.  On Sunday evening last, as Mr WM. FRYER, of Saul, was returning from divine service, at Frampton on Severn, he fell down, and expired immediately.  The deceased was only 28 years of age, and was highly respected by a numerous circle of friends.

   On Monday evening, a poor man, named JOHN DOANE, in the employ of Mr BOUGHTON, currier, of this city, in returning from his labour, fell down near St Nicholas’s Church, and instantly expired.  He has left a pregnant wife and four children.  An inquest  was held, the following day, before S Charleton, Esq. Coroner, and a verdict returned - Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Aug 2.

 

Aug 9.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At Elmore, on view of the body of JOSEPH MARMONT, aged 16, who was drowned by the upsetting of a boat at the Westgate bridge, in the month of April last, but whose body was not picked up till the 28th of July.   At St Briavels, on the body of THOS. MORGAN, who, whilst descending a colliery, quitted hold of the rope, and was precipitated to the bottom, a depth of forty yards, whereby he was instantly killed.  At Birdwood, on the body of JOHN BROOKES, who fell from the shafts of a waggon, on which he was riding, and the wheels passing over his body, caused his death in half an hour.  At Ledington, in the parish of Dymock, on the body of CHARLOTTE TOMPKINS, a child two years of age, whose clothes took fire in the momentary absence of her mother, and she was so shockingly burnt as to occasion her death in a few hours.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Aug 16.

Aug 23.

 

Aug 30.  On Tuesday night, as the trow Wellington, belonging to Mr AMES, was proceeding up the river, with the tide, near the Westgate Bridge, the master, WM. RANDALL, in the act of jumping forward to clear a line, seized hold of a rope which was not made fast, by which means he fell backwards over the side of the vessel, and was drowned.  Every effort was used, by means of nets, drags, &c. to  pick up the body, but without success till nearly three hours had elapsed, when it was brought to the surface with a boat hook, not ten yards from where the accident happened.  The deceased, who was from Stourport, and a very industrious and deserving man, has left a wife and two children to deplore their loss.  An inquest was held on the following day, before S Charleton, Esq. Coroner, when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

   Yesterday an inquest was taken, by John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, at Cheltenham, on the body of JOHN STEVENTON, who was killed at the Gas Works in that town, in consequence of a brick falling from the top of the chimney on his head.  The poor man survived the accident only three hours.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Sep 6.  SHOCKING ACCIDENT.  On Wednesday last, a man named ISAIAH THOMAS, a plasterer, was employed in repairing the roof of a house in St Mary’s square, when, in the act of raising a short ladder, his foot slipped and he fell on the pavement with such tremendous violence that his head was literally dashed to pieces.  At the inquest, which was held before S Charleton, Esq. Corner, on the following morning, a verdict of Accidental Death was of course returned.  The poor fellow was a remarkably steady industrious man, and has left a wife and six children in a situation eminently deserving the consideration of the benevolent.  We are glad to hear that a Subscription is about to be set on foot for their relief.

   On Thursday night, about nine o’clock, a tide-waiter, named WM. MORGAN, was endeavouring to let himself down from the cat head of the brig Eagle, upon the wharf wall of our Basin, when he fell and rolled over into the water, and was drowned before assistance could be afforded.  The body was recovered in about a quarter of an hour, but every effort to restore animation was ineffectual.  An inquest was held yesterday, before S Charleton, Esq. Coroner, when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.  The deceased has left a wife, now pregnant, and seven children totally unprovided for.

INQUESTS.

Taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At Rudhall, near Newnham, on the body of ANN POWELL, widow, aged about 60 years, who hung herself in her bedroom with a piece of cord tied to the handle of the window.  About two years ago her husband was killed by a cart going over him, since which she has been in a low desponding way, so much so as at times to be entirely bereft of her reason.  The jury being perfectly satisfied, under all the circumstances, returned a verdict of Lunacy.

   At Clifford Chambers, on the body of HENRY SMITH, who fell from a tram waggon, on which he was riding on the Stratford railway; when the iron tongue of the rail-way perforated his body and killed him on the spot.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Sep 13.

 

Sep 20.  INQUESTS.  Lately held before Wm Joyner Ellis, Esq.  At Mangotsfield, on WM. BAKER, coalminer, killed in a coalpit by a stone falling on him.  At Woolaston, on DONFORD, son of Lieut. Donford, RN, who was drowned in a small cistern of water, near which he was at play.  At Newland, on JOHN WORGAN, killed by a waggon load of clover upsetting on him.  At Wickwar, on MARY DAVIS, a child of three years old, killed by a cart, the fore horse knocking her down and the wheel passing over her head.  At Kingswood Hill, on JOHN WILMOT, killed in a colliery by being drawn against a bar placed across the pit.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Lasborough, on Mr JOHN POWELL, who dropped down and instantly expired, whilst talking to the labourers in a barn.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Wotton Underedge, on WALTER PRIOR, horsekeeper, who died from the effects of drinking a large quantity of purloined spirits.  Verdict accordingly.

 

Sep 27.  A dreadful accident occurred, on Friday last, at Cam Mills, near Dursley, the clothing manufactory of JT Cam, Esq.  A boy employed in the mills fell thro’ a small trap door, left for the purpose of oiling an iron wheel, which worked close to the floor; when one of his legs was instantly torn off, and the other was so dreadfully injured, before the machinery could be stopped, as to render amputation necessary.  The operation was immediately performed; but the poor boy died on the following Sunday.

   An inquest was held on Thursday, before WJ Ellis, Esq. at the Kings Arms Hotel, at Durdham Down, on view of the body of a poor man, named SAMUEL STEPHENS, who was employed in blasting, near St Vincent’s Rocks; when, by some loose stones slipping from under his feet, he was precipitated to the bottom, and, it is needless to say, instantly killed.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Wednesday last, an Inquest was taken, at our Infirmary, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of CHAS. TOWNLEY, ten years of age, who died in consequence of an accident he sustained about ten days before.  He was endeavouring to mount a waggon upon the Cheltenham rail road, when he slipped down, and the wheel scalped a portion of his head, besides inflicting other injuries upon his person.  What is commonly termed a locked jaw was the result, which terminated fatally.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Oct 4.  Coach accident in issue 27 Sep; Emily Reap, of Tiverton, Devon.  Inquest at Winchcomb, deodand L10. coach and horses; verdict accidental overturning.

 

Oct 11.  JOHN PLEYDELL WILTON appointed Coroner.

 

Oct 18.  DREADFUL SUICIDE.  An inquest was held at Cheltenham, on Saturday last, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on the body of WILLIAM LODER, who had destroyed himself by cutting his throat, at his residence in St George’s Place, on the preceding day.   The deceased had formerly held the situation of  footman in the family of Lord Somers, at Eastnor Castle, and had recently married a young woman who was employed in the same establishment.  A few months ago, they came to Cheltenham, and opened an eating place in St George’s Place, where he was taken ill, and for a week before this tragic event, the wife had been informed that his recovery was hopeless - and  it was during her absence of a few minutes only, that he availed himself of an opportunity ot terminating his sufferings.  A verdict of Insanity was returned.  We lament to add, that his widow is in an advanced state of pregnancy.

INQUESTS.  The following inquests have lately been held before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Rodley, on view of the body of JOHN BENNETT, who was found drowned in the Severn.  Verdict accordingly.  At Tirley, on the body of THOS. COX, who was coming down the Severn with a load of bricks, when the violence of the wind washed some water into the over-laden boat, and the frail bark and its unfortunate owner sank to rise no more.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Sunday morning, the body of a man, which had apparently been in the water for several days, was picked up in that portion of the river called Old Avon, at Tewkesbury.  An inquest was held on the following day, and a verdict returned of “found drowned.”  From some pawnbroker’s tickets which were found in his pockets, it has been since discovered, that the unfortunate man was by trade a tailor, named WILLIAM THOMAS, and had been residing for some time past in the Tything, Worcester, but that he left the city on the 2d. instant, and had not been heard of by his friends till they were informed of his death.

 

Oct 25.  CAUTION TO WAGGONERS.

On Friday last, as a man was driving a waggon at Lower Guiting, in this county, and imprudently sitting on the shafts, the horses, not being under sufficient control, knocked down a poor boy, who was instantly killed by one of the wheels passing over him.  An inquest was held on Monday last, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, and a verdict of Accidental Death returned, with a fine as a deodand on the waggon.

FATAL ACCIDENTS.  On Saturday evening last, a child of three years of age, named ELIZA JOHNSON, strayed from her home in Cheltenham, into a field in the neighbourhood, atracted by the appearance of a bonfire kindled by other children.  The poor innocent unfortunately went too near the flame, when her clothes took fire, and were burnt to ashes on her back; her cries were heard by a gentleman who hastened to the spot, extinguished the flames, and conveyed the child to its parents.  Several medical gentlemen from the Dispensary immediately attended; but notwithstanding the most skilful treatment, the poor little sufferer expired next morning.  An inquest was held on the body before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on Monday.  Verdict, Accidental Death.     

 

Nov 4.  FATAL ACCIDENT.  On Saturday last, as a plough boy, named THOS. LILLY, was driving a team, in a field at the Old Grange, in the parish of Dymock, in this county, while in the act of turning at the headland, the horses took fright, and in his endeavour to stop them, the poor boy was thrown down, and the plough share was driven with such violence into his body, just below the ribs, as to occasion almost instantaneous death.  An inquest was held upon the body, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before Jos Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Kempsford, on the body of JONATHAN BARNES, who was drowned in the Thames and Severn Canal, in endeavouring to recover his fishing rod; At Chalford, on the body of HENRY HUNT, who fell into a lock in the same Canal, and was drowned; and at Ampney Crucis, on the body of THOMAS MILLS, who in leaping from a waggon, fell under the wheels.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Duntisborne Abbotts, on the body of  ANN ABEL, found dead in her bed; at Bisley, on the body of SOLOMON [SALOMON?] SIMPSON, who fell down and expired without a groan; at Tarlton, on the body of JOHN WALL, who died suddenly in the harvest field; at Bisley, on the body of SARAH YOUNG, who was found dead in bed; at Bibury, on the body of HENRY RADWAY, who died suddenly; at Coates, on the body of MARY HERBERT, who was found dead in her bed; and at Tetbury, on the body of JOSEPH SAUNDERS, who suddenly expired on the Market house steps.  Verdicts, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Nov 8.

 

Nov 15.  It is our duty to record another list of the fatal consequences arising from the reprehensible practice of waggoners riding on the shafts, or in the vehicles they are employed to drive, and which it seems impossible to prevent, notwithstanding the heavy punishments inflicted by law, as well as the constant danger and the number of shocking accidents daily occurring.  Inquests have been held this week before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. at Pucklechurch, on CHARLES FUSSEL, who was found dead in the high road leading to the Collieries, and his cart upset upon him; from the marks of a wheel up a bank at the side of the road it is conjectured that he must have been sleeping in his cart, and that the horses in a sharp angle in the road had drawn the cart up the bank, and upset it upon him.

   At Wotton Underedge, on JOHN KNIGHT, driver of Messrs Budd’s stage waggon to Bristol, who had got on the shafts to ride, and going to sleep, he fell to the ground, and both the near wheels of the waggon, which was heavily loaded with goods, passed over him; he was immediately conveyed to the Bristol Infirmary, but died soon after he was taken there.  At Blakeney, on THOMAS GRIFFITHS, who had got on the top of a tram waggon loaded with coals, and was afterwards found dead by the road side in the Forest of Dean; it is supposed he had fallen from the waggon, being in liquor, and being stunned by the blow, and no assistance having been rendered him, he died from the effects of the accident.

   Inquests have also been held lately before the same Coroner, at Coaley, on JOSEPH JELLYMAN, who fell into a draw well; and at Westerleigh, on JOHN SMALLCOMB, a coalminer, killed by a large quantity of rubbish falling on him whilst at work in a coalpit.  Verdicts in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Nov 22.  INQUESTS.  Taken within the last fortnight before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Evington, on the body of WM. BISHOP, who was found dead in bed; the deceased had been for a long time in a state of mental derangement.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At the Infirmary, on the body of ADAM COLDRICK, who was riding on the shafts of a waggon, at Corse, when he fell down and the wheels going over him, fractured his leg and thigh, and caused such other serious injuries that he died the same evening.   At Colford, on the body of RICHARD KERSEY, aged about three years, who was burnt to death in consequence of his clothes taking fire.  At Alderton, on the body of HAPPY CRUMP, who lost her life from a similar cause.  At the Waterhatch farm, Winchcomb, on the body of CHRISTOPHER SHOTTER, who was drowned by falling into a pool of water, while washing a bucket; the deceased was in the employ of Mr RICHARD IRELAND, and was a very valuable servant.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Kemerton, on the body of Mr RICHARD THORNBURY, aged 85 years, who shot himself in a stable at that place.  Deceased about twelve months since had a violent fit, which so much affected his head, as to induce mental derangement, and altho’ every care and attention was paid him by his relations and freinds, he contrived to take a gun from a neighbour’s room, with which he effected his fatal purpose.  Verdict, Insanity.

   At the Infirmary, on the body of SAMUEL JONES, who was shot on the evening of 5th November, at Stroud.  There was a bonfire at that place, and several young men were shooting off guns, &c; one of them named HALE went into a shop, followed by a boy named VINES, who bought a half penny worth of powder, with part of which Hale loaded the gun, and rammed it down with a quantity of paper, with the view of increasing the report; Vines took the gun for the purpose of firing it, and when about to raise it, the gun suddenly went off, and shot deceased, (who was standing near,) in the lower part of the right shoulder.  The deceased was taken to the Infirmary next day, where, although every attention was paid to him, he died on the Tuesday following.  After a most patient investigation, the Jury returned a Verdict of Accidental Death from  a gunshot wound.

   AWFUL INSTANCES OF SUDDEN DEATH.  At Cheltenham, on view of the body of MARY MILES, who while at work in the kitchen, at a house called German Cottage, suddenly fell down and instantly expired.   And at Littledean, on the body of MARGARET ROBERTS, who while at chapel on Littledean hill, on Sunday evening last, immediately after singing a hymn, with the rest of the congregation, having put her hymn book down by her side, suddenly fell forward and instantly expired.  Verdict, in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Nov 29.  SUDDEN DEATHS.  On Monday morning, at Tewkesbury, a poor woman, named HANNAH FISHER, dropped down in the street whilst carrying water, and instantly expired.  And a few days before, ELIZABETH STEPHENS, a milk woman, also died suddenly in the Oldbury: inquests were held upon view of the bodies, before EW Jones, Esq. coroner for the borough, and a verdict of Died by the visitation of God, in each case returned.

CHARGE OF MURDER.

The neighbourhood of Oldland Common, in the parish of Bitton, near Bristol, has been in a state of great excitement for some days, from a report of a woman having been killed by her husband, a hatter there.  JOSEPH PARKER, Esq. the Magistrate for the neighbourhood, having with his usual promptitude investigated the grounds of suspicion against the accused, committed him to the House of Correction at Lawford’s Gate, to await the decision of a Coroner’s Inquest, which was summoned by W Joyner Ellis, Esq. and met on Saturday last.  It appeared on evidence that the deceased, MARGARET ROBERTS, had for a considerable time past been subject to the violence of her husband, from a suspicion, (tho’ it is believed a groundless one,) of her unfaithfulness.  About six weeks since they went together to Bath, and on their return, his jealousy having been excited by her having been separated from him, and accidentally returning home by a different road, he beat her very dreadfully about the head and body.  Her cries having alarmed the neighbours, they succeeded in breaking open the door and prevented further violence.  From that time she gradually fell away and daily became worse, but no medical aid was afforded her until Tuesday week, when the neighbours expressing a belief to the husband that she was dying, he applied to a medical gentleman in the neighbourhood for his assistance, but it was then of no avail, and the poor woman died the next morning.  After a patient investigation, the Jury returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against the husband, ARTHUR ROBERTS, who was thereupon committed to our County Prison, by the Coroner, for trial at our next Assizes.

 

Dec 6.  INQUESTS.  Taken by John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Frogmill, on the body of ANN READ, aged about 24 years, who died in the arms of her husband, while travelling in a gig near that place.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

   At Joyford, St Briavels, on the body of JAMES AMBURY, aged 27 years, who was at work at the top of a coalpit, when the wheel of the engine used for drawing up the coal, suddenly broke, and the rope attached thereto entwining round him, threw him between the wheels, which crushed his head and body so violently as to cause his death instantly.  

   At Weston Subedge, on the body of JOHN TINSON, aged 26 years, who was at work in a quarry called Campden hill, when part of the earth and stone suddenly gave way and fell upon his head and body, fracturing his scull and causing instant death.  Verdict in the last two cases, Accidental Death.

 

Dec 13.  INQUESTS.  Taken last week before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner.  At Henbury, on Mr JOHN ADAMS, who when returning from Bristol in a market cart, complained of being unwell, and put his head in his mother’s lap, and in a few minutes afterwards she discovered that he had ceased to breathe.  At Wotton Underedge, on ELIZABETH SINDERBY, who died suddenly.  Verdict, in each case, Sudden Death by the visitation of God.

   At Slimbridge, on ELIZA NELMES, aged four years, whose clothes caught fire during the temporary absence of her mother, and she was so dreadfully burnt that she died in a few hours.  At Mangotsfield, on OBADIAH POWELL, killed by a stone falling on his head as he was descending a coalpit at Pucklechurch.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

   At Stapleton, on WILLIAM ARTHUR, who was found hanging to a tree in the Park, at Stoke.  Verdict, felo de se.

   On Monday last, an inquest was taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, at Mitcheldean, on view of the body of JOSEPH COOKE, 62 years of age, who whilst occupied in working a small hand waggon to carry coals, ruptured a blood vessel in consequence of over exertion, and died almost instantly.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   The following Inquests have lately been taken before J Mountain, Esq. Coroner:  At Minchinhampton, on the body of ELIZ. WILLIAMS, an infant, whose clothes caught fire in the momentary absence of her mother, whereby she was so dreadfully burnt that she expired the same evening.  At Fairford, on the body of ELIZA HARVEY, a child three years old, whose death was occasioned by the wheels of a chariot passing over her body in the street; as it was in the afternoon after the child had dined, and such was the pressure that it forced back the food out of the child’s mouth, yet strange to state not a bone was fractured.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death; with a deodand in the latter, 20s.  on the chariot wheels, which, it is understood, has by the Lord of the Manor been sent to the afflicted mother.

   At Bisley, on the body of MARY SHORT, found dead in bed.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Stow, on the body of RICHARD CHARLES, who was found dead in the yard of the White Hart Inn.  Verdict, Apoplexy.

 

Dec 20.  MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT.   On Thursday forenoon, the family of Mr WM SMITH, of Hardings, at Wetsbury upon Severn, near this city, were thrown into the greatest distress, occasioned by the loss of their little girl, about two years old, under the following painful circumstances:  the cellar is subject of high springs and heavy rains to be inundated; and it is supposed that on the child’s going to play it must have run against the door, which opening at the same time, she must have fallen in.   On being missed immediate search was made in the garden and orchards adjoining, and after half an hour’s fruitless anxiety, Mr Smith himself, on going down into the cellar, saw the body of his dear child floating on the water.  Surgical aid was procured, but all in vain, the vital spark was extinct.  It appears from a bruise on the left side, that death must have been caused instantaneously.  The feelings of the truly distressed family may be better conceived than described.

 

Dec 27.  INQUESTS.  Taken this week before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Bullo, on the body of SAMUEL GRIFFIN, aged 33, who whilst at work loading a vessel with coal, at the Pill, slipped off the side of the vessel into the Severn, and before assistance could be rendered him was drowned.  At Westbury, on the body of LOUISA SMITH, aged two years, daughter of Mr WILLIAM SMITH, who was drowned under the circumstances detailed in our last week’s Journal.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Noverton, in the parish of Prestbury, on the body of THOS. TAYLOR, aged 60, who was collecting fodder for some horses, from a mow, in a barn, belonging to Mr DUDFIELD, when he fell down and instantly expired.  The deceased was an industrious hard working man, and a good servant.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.   

 

1829, Gloucester Journal

 

Jan 3.  Female, 11, John Street, St Philips Bristol.

 

Jan 10.  DREADFUL ACCIDENTS.  Last week, as Mrs HEWITT, a poor woman residing near Pittville, Cheltenham, was pouring some boiling water into a tea pot, it broke, and the contents falling upon her daughter, a girl about two years and a half old, she was so dreadfully scalded, that her death took place on Monday. 

 

Jan 17.  INQUESTS.  The following inquests have been lately held before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner.  At Wick and Abson, on MARY HEMMINGS, aged two years, burnt to death by playing with some lighted shavings in her mother’s temporary absence.  At Newington Bagpath, on SARAH SPARKS, burnt to death by her clothes taking fire.  At Hambrook, on ABRAHAM JAMES, drowned by falling over the wall of a bridge into the river, whilst in a state of intoxication.  At Olvestone, on MARGARET OKLE, aged four years, burnt to death by her clothes taking fire.  At Stapleton, on STEPHEN MONKS, who fell into a stone quarry when intoxicated, and died in consequence of the injuries he received.  At St George’s, on ANN PEARCE, aged three years, killed by drinking scalding tea from the spout of a tea pot.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Didmarton, on JAMES HAYNES, one of the singers at the church, who fell and instantly expired just before the service commenced, on Sunday last.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.

   Yesterday se’nnight, a girl named ELEANOR DIXON, about eleven years of age, was washing dishes in a gipsey tent, pitched in the turnpike road, about a quarter of a mile from the George Inn, Wheatenhurst, when her clothes caught fire, and she was so dreadfully burnt that she died very shortly after, no one being in the tent but an infant child.  An inquest was held on the body, before W Trigg, Esq. Coroner, when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

 

Jan 24.  MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT.  On Tuesday, as a man named SHILL, was shooting in the neighbourhood of Charlton Kings, in this county, the trigger of his gun became entangled in some thorns as he was getting through a hedge, which caused the piece to go off, and the entire charge passed through the heart of a fine youth standing near him, who instantly fell a corpse!  The deceased [CHARLES] was about 14 years of age, and the son of a stone mason named STEELE. [see below]

INQUESTS.   Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Ruardean, on the body of Mr JOHN PORTER, aged 51, who, whilst in his shop, suddenly complained of a pain in his head, went to his house, and died almost immediately.  Verdict, died by the Visitation of God.   At Buckland, on the body of CHARLES FORTY, aged about five years, who being in the house of Mrs RICHARDSON, a neighbour, while she turned her back for a moment, put his mouth to the spout of a tea kettle which so affected him that he died on the next day.  At Colford, on the body of A MAN UNKNOWN, who had taken up his night’s lodgings on the side of a lime kiln, and was found dead from suffocation in the morning, when the limeburner men went to work.  At Cheltenham, on the body of JAMES JONES, aged about six years, who was so much burnt in consequence of his clothes taking fire that he died the next day.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

   At the County Gaol, on the body of THOMAS WILKINS, aged 57, a prisoner confined for debt.   At Cheltenham, on the body of CAROLINE HEWIT, aged two years and a half.  Verdicts, died by the Visitation of God.

   At Newent, on the body of JOHN COLDRICK, aged about twelve years, who was sliding n the ice on a pool, when he fell down, and the ice breaking, he was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Charlton Kings, on the body of CHARLES STEEL, aged about twelve years, who in company with a boy, named WM KEAR, and a young man named ROBERT SHILL, were hunting a squirrel, when a gun which Shill had in his hand, suddenly went off and lodged the contents in the chest of the deceased, who was killed on the spot.  Verdict, Accidental Death, with a small deodand on the gun.

 

Jan 31.

 

Feb 7.  CAUTION TO PARENTS.  A poor woman of the name of JONES, the wife of a brazier who lodges in Henrietta Street, Cheltenham, went out one morning last week, to the Parish Church, for the purpose of being churched, after her recent confinement.  Leaving her children in the charge of some neighbour, one of them, a little boy six years old, went too close to the flames, when his clothes took fire, and he was so severely injured, that notwithstanding prompt medical attention, he expired the same night.

 

Feb 14.  DISASTROUS CATASTROPHE.  Long report re trow George and deaths of JOHN HARRIS, STEPHEN WILLIAMS, (Capt)., CHAS. SLATER & AARON BATEMAN.   Inquest by WJE.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner.  At Stapleton, on the body of HESTER STRANGE, burnt to death by her clothes taking fire in the absence of her parents.  At Kingswood, near Bitton, on ANN BROWN, wife of a labouring man in the collieries, who whilst sitting near the fire nursing her infant, of which she had recently been delivered, a spark set her gown on fire, and in her fright she put down the child and ran out for assistance, when the current of air so much increased the flame that before any aid could be rendered her she was so dreadfully burnt as to survive but a few hours.  At Sodbury, on Mr GILES THOMPSON, baker, who was killed by falling from a horse on his return home from Yate.  At Yate, on JAMES AYLIFF, killed by falling from a waggon in which he had been humanely placed by the driver, who found him in the road in a state of intoxication.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Alvestone, on ANN BOYE, found dead in her bed; at Wotton, on MARGARET GODFREY, who died whilst sitting in her bed sewing.  Verdicts, Sudden Deaths by the Visitation of God.

   The following have lately been taken before W Trigg, Esq. Coroner.  At Painswick, on the body of ELIZABETH SHEWELL, single woman, who died after lying three days in a state of insensibility.  The deceased was far advanced in pregnancy, and a report having prevailed that she had died in consequence of taking some deleterious matter to procure abortion, a strict investigation took place before a very respectable jury, aided by satisfactory medical testimony, when it clearly appeared that her death was occasioned by mental distress, incident upon the desertion of the person by whom she was pregnant.  The jury therefore returned a verdict of Natural Death, accelerated by grief, and excessive anxiety of mind.  

   At Avening, on the body of Mrs RODWAY, an aged lady, who was lighting herself to bed, when the candle set fire to her shawl, and she was so much burnt as to expire before assistance could be rendered.  At Eastington, on the bodies of DANIEL and JOSEPH HORSHAM, brothers, and JOSEPH BIRD, the eldest not twelve years, who were drowned whilst endeavouring to walk over the ice on the river at that place, on their return from work.  Their bodies lay in the water all night, a boy who was with them, and who escaped the same fate, not having communicated the circumstances till the following morning.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Feb 21.

 

Feb 28.  Trow picked up with CHARLES SLATER, AARON BATEMAN, HARRIS, and STEPHEN WILLIAMS, Master of the Trusty.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

INQUESTS.  Held during the last week before WJ Ellis, Esq.  At Alvington, on WILLIAM WILLIAMS, killed by getting entangled in the wheels of a waggon to which he was stooping to faster a roller.  At Almondsbury, on GEORGE THOMAS, aged three years, burnt to death by his clothes taking fire in his mother’s momentary absence.  At Frampton Cotterell, on MOSES WHITE, an infant only 18 months of age, who died in consequence of drinking hot water from a tea kettle.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before Jos Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Bourton on the Water, on the body of SAMUEL COLEN, found dead in bed; at Coln Rogers, on the body of WM. JULIA HINKS; and at Bussage, on the body of MARY DAVIS, an old woman, who died suddenly.  Verdict, in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Eascombe, on the body of ELIZA FOWKES, an infant, who was burnt during the temporary absence of her mother.  At Duntisbourne Abbotts, on the body of ELIZ. OSBORN, whose clothes took fire and caused her death.  And at Little Rissington, on the body of HANNAH WOOD, a respectable elderly lady, who was so dreadfully burnt during the short absence of her servant on an errand, that she survived only about half an hour.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 7.

 

Mar 14.  On the 2d instant, EMMA JOHNSON, aged seven years, being alone in a cottage near the rick yard of Mr MASTERS, about three miles from Cirencester, her clothes caught fire, upon which she ran, enveloped in flames, thro’ the rickyard to her mother, who was in the barn, and who, rolling her apron round the child, extinguished the flames, but the poor creature was so much burnt as to survive only nine hours.  As the little sufferer ran by a rick of straw, it caught fire, and was soon in flames; luckily, however, the wind was due north and blew very fresh, or before the engines could have arrived, the wheat ricks, barley ricks, barn, corn, hay, &c. would have been on fire; but it so happened that the rick of straw was all the property that was consumed.  An inquest was held on the body before J Mountain, Esq.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

SUICIDE.

On Friday last, an inquest was held at Minchinhampton, on the body of Mr S STRATTON, clock and watchmaker, an old and highly respectable inhabitant of that town.  On Thursday morning, the deceased (who was between 60 and 70 years of age), rose at three o’clock, but being informed of the earliness of the hour he retired to bed again, and at six he went out to take his usual morning’s walk.  His continued absence considerably alarmed his friends, who sought for him ineffectually till the evening, when a labouring man found him lying dead in a quarry in Minchinhampton Park, with a pistol firmly grasped in his hand, having discharged the contents through his mouth into his head.  It appearing that he had received a hurt on his head about 30 years before, which had caused occasional derangement, the jury returned a verdict, Destroyed himself in a fit of Insanity.

COMMITMENTS.  WM. LOVERIDGE, by J Mountain, Esq. Coroner, charged with killing and slaying ABIGAIL BIDDLE, at Bourton on the Water.

 

Mar 21.

Mar 28.

Apr 4.

 

Apr 11.  Assizes: Sentences: 1 week, WM. LOVERIDGE for killing and slaying ABIGAIL BIDDLE.     Judgement respited: ARTHUR ROBERTS, found guilty of the manslaughter of his wife, MARGARET ROBERTS.  [INCOMPLETE].

 

Apr 18.

Apr 25.

 

May 2.  CHARGE OF MURDER.  City Magistrates:  THOS. BROWN, Master of the Schooner Fanny, for ill-treatment of WALTER BOWEN, boy.  Committed to the Court of Admiralty for Manslaughter.

 

May 9.  A dreadful accident occurred on Friday last, at Lydney Iron Works, to a young man named JAMES EDWARDS, employed in the manufactory.  He had been engaged in drawing out sheet iron from between two immense iron rollers, and was in the act of drinking some water near the machinery, when a part of it caught his sleeve, and he was instantly drawn over and between the rollers.  When we state that the space through which he was drawn was less than four inches wide, it is needless to add that his death was almost instantaneous.  His mangled remains presented a most appalling spectacle.  An inquest was held before WJ Ellis, Esq. and a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

   An inquest was held at Ashcroft, before the same Coroner, on STEPHEN LONGFORD, a boy eight years old, who was burned by his clothes taking fire, and a similar verdict found.

FATAL ACCIDENTS.  On Thursday se’nnight an Inquest was held in the parish of Minchinhampton, before William Trigg, Esq. Coroner, on the body of BENJAMIN WATTS, who was killed on the preceding evening by falling through the tappet pit, among the machinery, while in the act of greasing the wheels connected with the stocks, at Messrs Barnard’s manufactory, Nailsworth.  The poor man was attending to his work, leaning on a bar of wood which lay across the pit, when he suddenly lost his hold and fell through, calling upon his son, who was near him, to stop the wheel, which the lad had not strength enough to do.  The unfortunate man’s head coming in contact with the iron pins in the tappetts, was completely crushed, and life was immediately extinct.  He has left a widow and four children.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   A short time ago, a young girl named ANN JONES, employed in a manufactory at Brimscomb, unfortunately got her clothes entangled in the straps attached to some upright shafts of the machinery, by which her heard was nearly torn from her body.

FATAL EFFECTS OF DRINKING.

On the 25th ult. a young man of the name of WHEELER, a carpenter, residing at Wormington, near Winchcomb, having procured a quantity of gin, swallowed no less than seven half pints of the liquid poison in a very short time, after which brutal exploit, he lay for a while in a state of insensibility; but having subsequently recovered sufficiently to walk home, he was put to bed, and lingered until the following Friday, when he expired, a melancholy victim to the fatal passion for ardent spirits.

 

May 16.  INQUEST.  On Monday, an Inquest was held at Nailsworth, on the body of NANCY SHIPWAY, who died under the following singular circumstances.  The deceased had separated from her husband, about a month since, and lived by herself in a cottage near Horsley, having no other companions than two cats, of which she was particularly fond.   She endeavoured to procure a livelihood by mending shoes; but having little work, it was suspected that she was half starved.  Friday was the last time she was seen by the neighbours; and upon observing that her door continued closed, they effected an entrance into her chamber thro’ the window on Sunday, when the unfortunate woman was found  lying dead.  Upon removing an old petticoat which covered the face of the deceased, they were shocked to find that the cats had partially devoured her!  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

 

May 23.  SUICIDE.  On Monday last, Mr DUDGEON, who had filled the situation of Assitant Deputy Surveyor of the Forest of Dean, in this county, was found hanging at the top of the staircase, in his own house at Coleford, to which he had, within these few years, retired from the above office.  He was 80 years of age, was always remarkable for piety and honesty, and had attended divine worship three times in the course of the preceding Sabbath.  The means taken for his destruction were by tying a cord round his neck, then afterwards kneeling down, the weight of his body effected his purpose.  As no apparent cause could be attributed for this act, the Coroner’s jury, who sat on the body, brought in a verdict of Lunacy.  His premature death has occasioned the greatest regret throughout the neighbourhood, his conduct having uniformly entitled him to the highest regard.

INQUESTS.   Taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  On Monday, at the Worcester Arms, adjoining Cheltenham, on view of the body of JAS. COOK, about16, apprentice to Mr WALKER, shoemaker.  The deceased had gone out, in the Sunday afternoon, for the purpose of bathing in a deep clay pit in the parish of Swindon, and, whilst in the act of diving, his head struck in the miry soil at the bottom, from which he was unable to extricate himself.  A young man named KING, in the most praiseworthy manner, dived repeatedly, and having ascertained the spot where the body lay, it was brought to land by means of a ladder and some hooks; but life was totally extinct, the unfortunate youth’s head being covered with clay and mud.  Verdict, Found Drowned.

   At Cheltenham, at the Red Lion Inn, on the body of WM. IRELAND, who hung himself on Saturday last, whilst in the confinement of the watch house.  Verdict, Destroyed himself in a fit of temporary derangement.

 

May 30.  MURDER OF A WIFE BY HER HUSBAND.   On Tuesday last an inquest was taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, at St Briavell’s, in the Forest of Dean, on the body of SARAH SULLY, a poor woman about forty years of age, who, according to the evidence adduced, met with her death under the following circumstances:- The deceased, together with her husband WM. SULLY, resided about two months in a wretched cabin, at Ruspedge, where the husband obtained occasional employment as a labourer.  Yesterday fortnight, a neighbour heard them quarrelling, and soon afterwards saw Sully beating the deceased!  and on Saturday night last an alarm was given by a girl that a man was murdering his wife by the railroad, upon which a person named LLEWLLYN REECE, went to see what was going on, and as he approached the spot heard the sound of heavy blows, and a female voice crying out murder!  On coming up, he saw the deceased on the ground and her husband beating her violently with his fist.  Reece dragged him from the deceased, who with much difficulty got up and walked home.  On Sunday the deceased sent for two female neighbours, who found her lying upon a bed of straw, in a terribly bruised state, which she said was occasioned by the ill treatment of her husband.  They gave her some tea, but were afraid to go to see her again in consequence of the violent threats of Sully.  About nine o’clock, on Monday morning, the poor woman died.  The body was examined by two very respectable surgeons, who found several extensive bruises on different parts, the lungs loaded with blood, and one of the ribs fractured, and who coincided in attributing her death to the injuries she had received.  Under the circumstances the jury without hesitation returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against WM. SULLY  alias SALEWELL, who was forthwith committed to our County Gaol, under the Coroner’s Warrant, for trial at the next Assizes.

INQUEST.  Taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  On Thursday se’nnight, at Hyde, near Newnham, on view of the body of Mr SAMUEL SMITH, who two days previously, whilst riding from Huntley towards his own house, was thrown with such violence upon the turnpike road, owing to his horse falling, as to occasion a concussion of the brain, of which he died the following morning, leaving a wife and three children to lament his fate.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 INQUESTS.  Lately taken before Jos Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Minety, on the body of LUKE COLE, about three years of age, who rambled from the cottage into an adjoining field, and was found drowned in a pool of water.  Verdict, Found Drowned.

   At Wheelford, on the body of JOHN EGGLETON, who died suddenly in his garden; at Bisley, on the body of MARGARET DAVIS, who died suddenly while at breakfast; and at Cirencester, on the body of MARY TURNER, of Ashton Keynes, who died suddenly at Cirencester Market.  Verdicts, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Chalford, on the body of ANN CROOK, and at Great Barrington, on THOS. BAKER, both children burnt in the absence of their parents; at Stratton, on the body of WM. ARNOLD, an old man, who was rode over at night on the Gloucester road; at  Ampney Crucis, on the body of JAS. BRAWNESS, killed by the overturning of a cart; and, at Northleach, on the body of G. BEE, a lad, who, running against the door with a knife in his hand, the handle struck against the door, and the blade entered his heart.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

COMMITMENTS.  WM. SULLY @ SALEWELL for the murder of his wife.

 

Jun 6.  On Monday last, an inquest was taken in this city, before JP Wilton, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of JOSIAH MARCH, an old man, who was found dead in bed at the New Bear Inn, when a verdict was returned, Died by the Visitation of God.

INQUESTS.  Taken this week before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  On  Monday, at Deerhurst, on view of the body of CHAS. PAGE, aged 16, who on the preceding day, though totally unable to swim, was rashly attempting to bathe in a very deep pool, when he slipped his hold from a boat by which he was supporting himself, and was instantly drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Tuesday, at Littleworth, adjoining this city, on the body of WM. SADLER, aged 24, who died in a fit, on the Sunday preceding.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   Two boys, sons of a labouring man named SMITH, were drowned in the river Avon, near the mills, at Tewkesbury, on Tuesday evening; the youngest, about 8 years of age, who was playing upon the bank whilst the other was fishing, fell in, and his elder brother, a lad of about 16, jumped in with the view of saving him.  The eldest was a good swimmer, but the little one getting upon his back prevented his using his arms, and they both perished almost within view of their parents’ dwelling.

 

Jun 13.  SHOCKING ACCIDENT.  On Friday, Mr NORTON, a very respectable individual of Milk Street, Bristol, in attempting to pass over the Swivel Bridge while it was being opened - at the juncture when a moment later would have rendered passing over it impossible - was caught by the railing of the bridge, and forced against the railing on the shore at is passed.  The progress of the bridge was immediately stopped, but not till it had inflicted injuries of which Mr Norton died in the course of the evening.  No blame attaches to the people working the bridge.

 

Jun 20.  INQUESTS LATELY HELD BY WM. J ELLIS, ESQ.    At Doughton, near Lansdowne, on WM. THOMAS, lime carrier, who was reported to have died from blows given him in a public house in the neighbourhood.  After a very long investigation of evidence and an examination of the body by a surgeon, the jury returned a verdict of Natural Death.

   At the Fishponds, near Bristol, on CHARLES ADAMS, a young man, about twenty years of age, who was drowned from a sudden seizure of the cramp whilst bathing.  At Westerleigh Hill, on Mr JAMES CROOME, who having ascended a tree for the purpose of cutting some of the branches, accidentally fell to the ground and died immediately.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   And at Gloucester Lane, in the parish of St Philip and Jacob, on a woman of abandoned character, named MARTHA WALL, alias COWBURNE, who also caused her own death by taking the same deleterious drug.  The jury after a long investigation, returned a verdict of Felo De Se.

   At Blakeney, on SAMUEL HORNBURY, an itinerant pedlar from Leominster, who was found dead in a garden belonging to a lodging house; and at Iron Acton, on SAMUEL COVENTRY, found dead in his bed.  Verdict in each case, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.

 

Jun 20.

 

Jun 27.  On Monday last, an inquest was held at Withington, in this county, by Joseph Mountain, Gent. Coroner, on the body of Mr HENRY GRISDALE, who, in a fit of temporary insanity, destroyed himself with a razor.  It was clearly proved in evidence that the deceased had for some weeks past laboured under an unusual despondency and great depression of spirits, but nothing whatever transpired to account for this change in his disposition, as he was a young man of uniform regular habits and sound principles, which gained him the respect and esteem of the parish in which he lived, as well as of a numerous and respectable circle of friends.

 

Jul 4.

 

Jul 11.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner.   At Tirley, on view of the body of THOMAS MANN, killed in consequence of a cart falling on him; at Cheltenham, on the body of CHARLES HOPKINS, aged 14 months, whose sister, while nursing him, fell asleep, and tumbling against a kettle of water boiling on the fire, he was so dreadfully scalded as to occasion his death in a few hours;  at Cook hill, Forthampton, on the body of  SARAH WHITEHOUSE, aged 19, who fell from a vessel into the river Severn, and was drowned; at the Infirmary, on the body of EMMA PRICE, aged 7; in attempting to light the fire during the absence of her friends, the flame caught her clothes, and she was so much burnt that she died next day; and at Joyford, St Briavels, on the body of THOMAS BROWN; whilst at work in a coalpit, a large piece of coal fell on his body, and instantly killed him.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Charlton Kings, on the body of WALTER FRANKLIN, aged 3 years, who was drowned in a pool of water.  Verdict, Found drowned.

    At Coldharbour, St Briavels, on the body of GODFREY WILLIAMS, an infant, found dead in bed by his mother.  Verdict, Found dead.

   At Bridge Farm, Kempley, on the body of THOMAS POOL, aged 19, who, whilst leaning against a calves cot, suddenly fell down and expired; at the County Prison, on the body of a prisoner named JAMES NORTON, aged 21; and at the same place, on the body of another prisoner named JOSEPH BALL, aged 62 years.  Verdict, in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT.

On Saturday an inquest was held at Downend, before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of GEO. BENNETT, a coal miner, employed at Soundwell Colliery, who came to his death on Wednesday week, while descending the pit to take his station at the tip, in consequence of the breaking of the rope by which he had attached himself; he fell a distance of 24 yards, and lived only half an hour after the dreadful accident.  The attention of the hauler, at the mouth of the pit, had been called, some days before the accident occurred, to the apparent unsafe condition of the rope, without effect; and on his pleading ignorance of that fact, the Coroner intimated to him, that if any positive proof of neglect had appeared against him, he, (the Coroner) would have felt it his bounden duty to have committed him to the gaol of Gloucester.  The Jury, after a patient investigation, returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

 

Jul 18.  An inquest was held, last week, before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner, at Hotwell road, Clifton, on a Mrs HOWELL, who had formerly been a laundress at Bath, and worth considerable property, but afterwards married an unprincipled villain who gradually spent every shilling of her property, abandoned her and married another wife or two, and then left this country for the Indies.  Her distressed circumstances deprived her of reason, and having given up a respectable position as housekeeper at Tunbridge Wells, she returned to Bath, which she left for Bristol, and attended the service on board the Seamens’ Chapel at Hotwells road, when her strange conduct attracted the attention of the Rev. W. SMITH, who kindly interested himself in her behalf.  She was very humanely invited to stay and dine with the superintendent of the vessel, and seemed much gratified by the kind affection of himself and his wife, but taking an opportunity of a moment’s relaxation of watchfulness, she jumped overboard, and tho’ prompt assistance was rendered her, she expired shortly afterwards.  The jury returned a verdict of Insanity.  

   A pilot boat belonging to Berkeley, in which was a young man named HENRY CLARKE, who had been piloting a vessel down the River from Sharpness Point, and was returning home during the dreadful gust of wind on Friday night last, was upset near Berkeley Pill, and poor Clarke was drowned.  His body has not yet been found.  The boat drifted as far as the Swash in King road.

   Three of the seven individuals who were mentioned in our last, as having been drowned in their excursion from Bristol to the Holmes were picked up last week, viz. On Thursday, the body of G. HOUSE, was found on Clevedon sands, by a person who very honestly brought his watch, &c. which were identified by his mother; On Friday, the body of C.COLES was found under the Gold clift, at the entrance of the Newport river; and on Saturday lasy, the body of G. THORNE, jun. butcher, Temple street, was brought up by some boatmen to Shirehampton.  On the latter an Inqiest was held before WJ Ellis, Esq. when a verdict was returned of Found Drowned.

 

Jul 25.  INQUESTS.  Taken this week before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner.  At Coaley, on view of the bosy of JAMES LONGSTREETH, a child about four years old, who was drowned in a small well of water, near which he was playing and gathering flowers. At Uley, on Mrs NICHOLLS, found dead in her bed; at York place, Clifton, on JAMES CHANT, a poor man working on the roads, who, whilst wheeling a barrow, was observed to stagger and fall down, and on a Gentleman running up to him, he was discovered to be quite dead.  Verdicts, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.

  A shocking accident, attended with serious loss of`life, occurred at a colliery on the Bailey, in the Forest of Dean, on Monday night last.  A young man named MORGAN, and two lads, STEPHENS and CHARLES, went down the pit to work, about eight o’clock in the evening, and on the manager going down about five the following morning, they were discovered lying in the bottom, the two lads quite dead, and Morgan apparently lifeless, and he only survived a few hours.  It is supposed they were suffocated from the smoke and sulphur from a fire made at the bottom of the pit for purifying the air, which had escaped up a channel or way in which they were working; and they appeared to have made an ineffectual attempt to escape, as they had succeeded in crawling a long distance towards the shaft.  The manager nearly fell a sacrifice to his humane endeavours to get out the bodies of the unfortunate sufferers, being brought up in a state of insensibility; and he did not recover for many hours afterwards.  Inquests were held before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner, and verdicts of Accidental Death returned.

 

Aug 1.  SERIOUS ACCIDENT.  On Monday, as T. MARCHANT was working at the top of the interior of a new house in Lansdown place, Cheltenham, his foot slipped, and he fell thro’ a well staircase (upwards of 40 feet) on the pavement beneath.  When taken up, he was senseless, and the blood gushed from his mouth, nose, and ears; he was instantly conveyed to the Casualty Hospital, where he lies without hope of recovery.

INQUESTS.  Taken this week, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Norton, on the body of JAMES DAW, aged four years, who whilst at play in a field, near a pool of water, fell off the bank and was drowned before assistance could be obtained.  At Hartpury, on the body of HANNAH DAVIS, aged about 70, who being on a waggon laden with coal, returning from Gloucester to Redmarley, fell off, and the wheels passing over her body, killed her on the spot.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

   At Newent Mill, on the body of JEMIMA PHELPS, aged about 27, servant of Mr BULLOCK, who poisoned herself by taking arsenic.  The deceased prevailed on a woman named MARY ANN DAVIS, residing in Newent, with whom she was acquainted, to procure her something to destroy rats and mice, stating they were thick in her room, and destroyed her clothes.  Davies went to Mr Cromwell’s, a druggist, in Newent, for something for that purpose, and he recommended arsenic, and sold her a penny worth, but wrote the word “poison” in large letters on the packet, and cautioned the woman to be very careful, and after it was used to burn the paper.  Davis delivered the arsenic to the deceased on Friday afternoon last, who it appeared took the poison infused in either water or tea, and died on Tuesday.  On examination of the body, by Mr Hollister, surgeon, of Newent, she was found to be in a state of pregnancy.  After a strict investigation of all the circumstances, the jury returned a verdict of Felo de se.  The deceased was buried in the manner prescribed by the Act of Parliament of 4th Geo. 4, chapter 32.  

 

Aug 8.  SHOCKING ACCIDENT.  On Tuesday afternoon, as one of the two-horse Cheltenham Coaches was driving down the Westgate street, exactly oposite the Office of this Paper, a poor child named BENJAMIN BARNES, about five years old, ran under the feet of the horses, and was so much injured by the hoofs of one of the animals, and by the wheels of the coach, which we believe passed over it, that it was killed on the spot.  The accident may certainly be attributed to the circumstances of the coachman, WM. LETT, not having his eye upon the horses, having turned round at the time to answer a question put to him by an outside passenger.  He was not driving beyond the usual pace, and evidently did not see the child until after the accident had happened.  The danger of the child was witnessed by several persons, who called loudly to the driver, but the cry came from so many quarters at once that in the confusion he could not pull up his horses until it was too late.  LETT was taken into custody to await the decision of a Coroner’s Inquest, which was held upon the body, on the following day, before JP Wilton, Esq. when after a very patient investigation, a verdict was returned of Accidental Death, with a deodand of 10s. upon the horse.  On the delivery of the verdict, Lett was called in and very properly admonished by the Coroner upon the danger of suffering his attention to be called from his team whilst driving through the streets of a populous town, a caution which ought to be impressed upon the mind of every man following a similar occupation.

SUDDEN DEATH. 

On Monday last, a poor old woman named SARAH TRAVIS, whilst walking along the Westgate street, fell down on the pavement and instantly expired.  An inquest was held, on the following day, before JP Wilson, Esq. when a verdict was returned, Died by the Visitation of God.

DISTRESSING ACCIDENT.  Bristol, long para re Captain WINDOWE, Guards; coach overturned.  Coroner’s Inquest, Accidental Death and deodand 1s.

SERIOUS ACCIDENT FROM FIREARMS.  On Sunday morning, as a poor man named JAS. QUANTICK, aged 22, residing in Crown Court, Temple Street, Bristol, was incautiously handing a blunderbuss, it went off and wounded him in the lower jaw, carrying away a part of the pharynx and larynx, and wounding the tongue.  The poor fellow was removed to St Peter’s Hospital, where he now lies in a hopeless state.  The blunderbuss belonged to a watchman, who had indulged himself, after his duties were over, with drink, and it had been taken from him by a person for security, but who was not aware of its being loaded.

 

Aug 15.

 

Aug 22.  DISTRESSING AND FATAL ACCIDENT.  On Saturday last, as Mr JOHN WALKER, son of Mrs Walker, of Compton Abdale, in this county, was feeding a threshing machine which is impelled by water, the cape of his great coat was caught by the wheel, and before he could be extricated from the machinery, his clothes were twisted round him with such force that he died of strangulation.  The deceased was about 26 years of age, and much esteemed by an extensive circle of acquaintance.

MELANCHOLY CATASTROPHE.  On Saturday last, at the gamekeeper of PHILIP JOHN MILES, Esq. of Ashton, was wiping the lock of his gun with the flap of his coat, as the weapon lay across his knees, it unfortunately went off, lodging the whole of its contents in the side of his wife.  The poor woman lingered in great agony for ten minutes, when she expired.  She had not been dead above an hour, before her husband, who had appeared like a distracted man, threw himself into a shallow pond and was drowned, having taken the percaution of tying his hands together for fear he should struggle.  They have left a family of seven small children to lament their parents’ untimely end.

 

Aug 29.  Mr THOMAS WILLIAMS, a very respectable farmer at Nass, near Lydney, swallowed a wasp in some beer on Monday last, and within three hours was a corpse, in consequence of the inflammation.

 

Sep 5.  OBITUARY.  On Tuesday last, died, at New Hall, Chaceley, in the 52d year of his age, FRANCIS WALKER, Esq. of the Hill, in the parish of Staunton, Worcestershire.  He was engaged in the sports of the field, with his friend Mr JOHN WALKER, of the former place, when he was seized with an apoplectic attack, and falling to the ground instantly expired.  He was immediately conveyed to the New Hall, where surgical aid was promptly called in, but all in vain, as the vital spark was irremediably extinguished.  His kind, warm hearted and generous disposition had rivetted the sincere regard of a numerous circle of friends, all of whom deeply deplore the awful termination of his life; whilst the distress experienced by an affectionate wife, upon so sudden a bereavement, may be better conceived than described.  An inquest was held upon the body on Thursday; verdict, died from apoplexy, by the visitation of God.

MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT.  SAMUEL PHILPOT BROOKES, surgeon of Ross on Wye, drowned at Goodrich.

ASSIZES.  IMPRISONMENT, TWO YEARS.  ROBERT HOUSSE [HOUSE]  for killing and slaying T. LOWE, in a pitched battle.

TRIAL.

Trial account of WM. SULLY @ SALEWELL.  “The prisoner, it appeared, was a foundling: his birthplace and parents were alike unknown, as he had been left, while an infant, at the door of a farm house called Sollywell, from which he derived the name he was known by.  List of witnesses.

 

Sep 12.  WM. SULLY @ SALEWELL executed.

   On Thursday, an inquest was taken in this city, before JP Wilton, Esq. Coroner, upon the body of GEORGE VAUGHAN, an industrious man, who died suddenly at the Norfolk Arms Inn.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   A young man, named JOHN STARR, fell down dead in Long Ashton Church, on Sunday morning, towards the conclusion of the service.  He had walked there from Bristol in good health.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Leamington, on the body of JAS. BAYLIS, found dead in a rivulet.  Verdict, Found Dead.

   At Eastleach Turville, on the body of JAS. PITT, who drowned himself in a temporary fit of derangement; at Bourton on the Hill, on the body of JANE MARSHALL, a young woman of good character, whose spirits having been depressed for several days, hung herself.  Verdict in each case, Lunacy.

   At Cirencester, on the body of ALFRED TURNER, an infant, found dead in bed.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Compton Abdale, on the body of JOHN WALKER, a most respectable young man, who was killed by a thrashing machine; and, at Leachlade, on the body of HANNAH SMITH, a young woman subject to fits, who fell into a sink and was suffocated.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Sep 19.

 

Sep 26.  INQUESTS.  Taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  On Monday, at the Norwood Arms, on the body of JOS. LAMBORN, who lived on the Leckhampton road, near Cheltenham, and was found lying in his bed a corpse, on Saturday evening.  It appeared that he had been subject to low spirits, in consequence of heavy losses and other domestic calamities, and, early in the morning, had taken a quantity of arsenic, which terminated his life in a few hours.  Verdict, Lunacy.

   Same day, at the Red Lion, Cheltenham, on the body of MARY SOLLIS, aged 50, who lived in New street, and, whilst sitting at breakfast on Friday morning, suddenly complained of a slight headache, and almost instantly fell lifeless on the floor.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.  Her mother, a very aged woman, living in a cottage in the same street, died on Monday, in consequence of the shock she received on hearing of her daughter’s death.

 

Oct 3.

 

Oct 10.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner.  On the 25th ult. as some boys were gathering blackberries on Clifton Down, they discovered a reticulate basket under one of the bushes, which contained the dead body of a newborn infant.  The body was removed to a public house, where an inquest was held.  Evidence was adduced of the confession of a widow woman in the neighbourhood, (who had been strongly suspected of pregnancy,) that she had been suddenly delivered of a child, which died before she had recovered herself; and not knowing what to do with it, she, to hide her shame, had it put into a basket, and left it as before stated.  The jury after hearing the opinion of Mr Kitt, surgeon, gave credit to the woman’s statement, and returned a verdict to that effect. 

   As a lad, named WM. GAGE, and five others, were being drawn up in a coal pit, near Kingswood Hill, the rope attached to the cart suddenly broke.  They were but a short distance from the bottom, but Gage fell into a quantity of water in the pit, and before assistance could be rendered he was a corpse.

   A lamentable accident occurred, last week, at Patchway.  A fine lad, about nine years of age, son of Mr WM. GLOVER, of Stroud, was riding in a waggon, in which Mr Glover’s furniture was being removed to Bristol, when, by some means unknown, the lad fell to the ground, and one of the front wheels passed over him before the waggon could be stopped.  Verdict in both cases, Accidental Death.

   The following are Inquests taken before J Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Ampney St Peter, on the body of HENRY ANDREWS, supposed to have been seized with apoplexy which caused him to fall from his horse on the road from Fairford, after which he never spoke, and died next day; and, at Winstone, on the body of A MAN UNKNOWN, found on the Birdlip road in a dying state, on the Saturday evening, and died the next day.  Verdict in both cases, Died of Apolplexy.

   And, at Ampney Crucis, on the body of MARY COOK, who died in a fit.  Verdict accordingly.

 

Oct 17.

 

Oct 24.  INQUESTS.  Held last week before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner.  At Oldland Common, on ROBERT HALE, who was killed in a coalpit by a stone, supposed to have been seven tons weight, falling from the side of the pit on him whilst at work.  At Yate, on DAVID DEAN, killed by falling from a cart loaded with coals, on which he was riding, and the wheel passing over his chest instantly killed him.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

   At Hanham, on THOMAS FRY, who complained of not being very well, and went upstairs to lie down on the bed, where he was directly afterwards found dead.  At Olvestone, on Mrs MARY WILLIAMS, who had sat up to read, after the family had retired to rest; and her husband being alarmed at her not coming to bed, went down and found her near the fire place on her knees and quite dead.  Verdicts, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.

 

Oct 31.

 

Nov 7.  INQUEST.  Last week, an inquest was held on the bodies of a woman named MILLARD and her newly born infant, who came by their deaths under the following circumstances:  The poor woman resided at Forest Green, near Nailsworth; her husband being a cripple depended on her for support, and as she had been long without employment, they were in a very destitute circumstances.  Most of their clothing; furniture, &c. had been disposed of, and the interior of their dwelling presented a picture of extreme wretchedness.  To add to their affliction, the poor woman was pregnant.  This circumstance for some reasons she had kept secret; and, on the night of her delivery, for which she had made no provision, she lay in agony till the morning, her husband being unable to call assistance, when a neighbour came in accidentally; but before she could return with refreshments, the poor woman was dead.  Verdict, Died for want of suitable nourishment and attendance.

 

Nov 14.

 

Nov 21.  INQUESTS.  At Hambrook, before WJ Ellis, Esq. on ISAAC REED, a carter, in the employ of Mr WYATT CATER, who was returning home to Stapleton from Winterbourne, with a waggon loaded with stone, and went near Sir H Brydges entrance gate, in consequence of a cart being in the way, and the road there not being of sufficient width, the wheel struck against the curb-stone, and a part of the waggon striking Reed on the head, he was instantly killed.  The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death, and expressed their opinion of the extreme danger of the road; it being not of sufficient width, specially when it is considered what a very populous neighbourhood surrounds it.  We trust such a representation from a respectable Jury will be attended to by the Trustees of the Roads.

   Inquests have also been held before the same Coroner, at Bitton, on MARTHA GREEN, a child about three years old, who was accidentally burnt to death by her clothes taking fire; and at Lancaut, near Chepstow, on T. JEFFERIES, who was found dead in his bed.   Verdict, in the former case, Accidental Death, and in the latter, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Coates, before J Mountain, Esq. on the body of RUTH HAWKER, an infant, whose clothes caught fire in the temporary absence of her mother, whereby she became so burnt as to cause her death; and, at Elkstone, on the body of ELIZA WILKINS, whose clothes took fire, which so alarmed the person in whose care she  was left, during the absence of her mother, that being infirm, she fell, and before assistance could be rendered the little sufferer was so burnt that she died next day.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   A fatal accident occurred at Bridge yate, on Thursday to a labourer, named THOS. ALEXANDER, employed on the railway from Caolpit Heath to Bristol.  While endeavouring to remove a plank, his foot slipped, and he fell on his head on a large stone, from a height of about eleven feet.  He was taken to the Infirmary, but died on the following day.

 

Nov 28.  An inquest was held in this city, on Thursday, before R Fletcher, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of BENJAMIN BRIMMALL, an insane pauper, who had for some months been an inmate in the Work house, where he died on Friday last.  A rumour having been spread that his death was occasioned by ill-treatment, a full and patient investigation took place, when satisfactory testimony was adduced of the groundlessness of the charge, and a verdict was returned, Died by the visitation of God.

INQUESTS.

Taken last week before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner.  At Mangotsfield, on ANN HEWETT, aged six years, burnt to death by her clothes taking fire; At Almondsbury, on EMMA ROBINSON, a child about two years old, and at St George’s, on ISAAC HEMMINGS, a boy about six years old, burnt to death in a similar manner.  At Purton Passage House, on WILLIAM LAW, who was knocked overboard from the William, a barge belonging to Lidney, by a part of the mainsail striking him violently on the head, on Tuesday night, near Sharpness Point.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

  At Pucklechurch, on WILLIAM WINDOWS, found dead in his bed; and at Rudgway, on MARGARET OKLE, who died suddenly.  Verdict in each case, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.

COMMITMENT.  MARY KENELY, ... , charged with concealing the birth of her female bastard child at Clifton on the 25th September last.

 

Dec 5.  MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT.  As Mr GEO. COOPER, a respectable farmer of Prestbury, was returning in a gig from Gloucester fair, at a late hour on Saturday night, accompanied by a friend, the horse started at some object in the road, and ran the gig against a bank; which, owing to the extreme darkness of the night, it was impossible to avoid.  The violence of the shock was such that both were thrown out, and Mr Cooper received so serious an injury in the spine, that he died in less than half an hour.  His friend, tho’ severely wounded by falling on his head, paid him every possible attention, and led the horse carefully with his dying companion in the gig towards the Pheasant Inn; but before they arrived there, Mr Cooper was a corpse. An inquest was held on the body, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.  The deceased was in his 64th year, and was much respected by a numerous circle of acquaintance.

FATAL ACCIDENT.   Last week, at Ebley, as a little girl named LUSTY, about 10 years of age, whose mother was confined to her bed, the candle which she had placed on the ground, ignited her clothes, and before assistance could arrive burnt her so dreadfully as to cause her death the same day.

 

Dec 12.

Dec 19.

 

Dec 26. 

 

1830, Gloucester Journal.

 

Jan 2.  INQUESTS.  Taken this week by John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Pool Hill, on the body of ANN BOURN, aged about 56, who fell on the fire in a fit, to which she was subject, when she was so much burnt as to occasion her death the next day.  At Apperley, on the body of GEO. SPARKE, aged about 4 years, whose clothes took fire in the absence of his parents, from which he was so much burnt, as to cause his death the next day.  At Bishops Cleeve, on the body of ELIZTH. TURBERVILLE, aged 4 years, who was burnt to death in consequence of her clothes catching fire.  At Gretton, on the body of WILLIAM GREENING, aged about 4 years, who, while in the house of his grandfather, an aged and infirm old man, was burnt to death from a similar cause.  At Highleadon, on the body of ELIZTH. GREENING, aged 84[?] years, who being near he fire, her clothes took fire whereby she was so much burnt that she died the next day.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death,

   At Weston Subedge, on the body of WM. BRAIN, aged about 66 years, who was found dead in his bedroom; the deceased was a most respectable character and much lamented by his friends and neighbours.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At the Infirmary, Gloucester, on the body of ELIZ. PARKER, aged about 70; the deceased was sitting in her bedroom, near the grate, when her clothes took fire and she was so severely burnt, that altho’ immediately taken to the Infirmary, she died the next day.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   An extraordinary case of suicide has just occurred in Bristol.  On Saturday night a young man, named LANDER, residing at the corner of Callender lane, on the Quay, after spending the afternoon with his mother, to all appearances very happily, went upstairs and hung himself to a staple driven in the window; and it would seem that he was so determined on effecting this purpose, that, because there was not sufficient height to admit of his suspension at full length, he accomplished his object in a sitting position.  No cause can be assigned for the rash act; he was a dutiful son, and bore a good character

 

Jan 9.  FATAL CASE OF STABBING.  A melancholy instance of the effect of violent passion occurred at Kings Stanley, in this county, on Monday night last.  THOMAS WILKINS, a weaver, had been requested by his mother, who is bedridden from age and disease, to come to her house that night to protect her from the violence she apprehended from a grandson, named JOHN DANGERFIELD, who with his wife lodged in her house.  It appears that the old woman having received no rent from her grandson, had desired him to get lodgings elsewhere, but he had refused, and expressed his determination to keep possession of his room by force.  About half past nine, DANGERFIELD, accompanied by a sister, entered the house.  Wilkins, a sister, and Dangerfield’s wife were in the kitchen, where a quarrel immediately ensued between the women.  Wilkins rose to part the contestants, when Dangerfield instantly seized his uncle by the throat with one hand, and with the other stabbed him deeply in the abdomen, with one of those long Spanish knives which are constructed with a spring to hold back the blade when open.  Wilkins fell to the ground, while the nephew wiping his bloody weapon with his fingers, rushed from the house and effected his escape.  Surgical assistance was immediately procured for poor Wilkins, and the bowels, which were cut and protruding through the wound, were promptly returned by the surgeon, Mr MILES.  The poor fellow was conveyed next morning to our Infirmary, where he received all the attention which skill and humanity could suggest.  He lingered till the night, when, after much suffering, he died.  The deceased was a stout healthy man, about 40 years of age, but fortunately unmarried.  The nephew was of the same trade as the uncle, and they had worked together and been on the best terms for many years.  Dangerfield, who is not yet apprehended, is about 26 years of age, and recently married.  An inquest was held upon the body yesterday, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when after a patient investigation a verdict of Wilful Murder was returned against Dangerfield.  

INQUESTS.  Taken this week before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Ruardean, on the body of HANNAH KNIGHT, aged two years, who was burnt to death in consequence of her clothes catching fire.  At Lane End, St Briavels, on the body of MOSES HALL, aged about two years and a half, who was killed in consequence of drinking boiling water out of a tea pot.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT.

Colesborne; female servant fell in well and drowned.

  

Jan 16.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:  At Hasfield, on view of the body of ELIZABETH BARNFIELD, aged 19, who hung herself with a piece of tape in the kitchen of her father’s dwelling place.  It appeared in evidence that the deceased had lately laboured under aberration of mind.  Verdict, Insanity.

   At Churcham, on the body of RD. ELLBOROUGH, aged 83, found dead in a ground near his house.  No marks of violence appearing, and not having been absent from home more than half an hour, the Jury returned a verdict of Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Ruardean, on the body of JAS. BEARD, aged 73, found dead in his chair in a room in the Poor house at Mitcheldean.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

INQUESTS.  Taken before W Trigg, Esq. Coroner.  On the 1st instant, at Painswick, on the body of JOHN CLISSOLD, who had formerly been a respectable clothier, but then a pauper and destitute of clothing and bed clothes; he fell into a coal hole, when he was found almost dead and taken up stairs, where he expired in the course of a short period.  After a minute investigation, the Jury returned a verdict, Perished from the inclemency of the weather and for want of medical aid.

   On the 8th, on the body of HANNAH BLICK, an infant, burnt to death in the absence of her parents; and on the 9th, at Bisley, on JAMES KIMBER, many years a faithful servant to Mrs Bennett, of Frampton Mansel, who was drowned in the Thames and Severn Canal, he having walked in from the darkness of the night.  Verdict in both cases, Accidental Death.

   On the 10th, at Miserden, on JOSEPH AYLIFFE, who took arsenic in an orange which occasioned his death in a few days.  Verdict, Felo de se, and he was buried at midnight according to the present law.

 

Jan 23.

 

Jan 30.  INQUESTS.   Lately held before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner:  At North Nibley, on view of the body of EDW. MORTON, who falling from a hayrick whilst cutting hay, unfortunately fell on the knife, and dividing the femoral artery, died in less than three minutes from loss of blood.   At Rudgway, on the body of ANN WHITE, who was found dead in the high road to Bristol, and a market cart, which she had been driving, upon her; she is supposed to have fallen asleep, and the horses going up a bank, threw the cart over.  At Nympsfield, on the body of WILLIAM WHITEHEAD, aged twelve years, burnt to death by his clothes taking fire, as he was sitting asleep near the grate.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.   

 

Feb 6.  BARBAROUS MURDER!   With regret we state that this county has been the scene of a most diabolical murder.  On the morning of Sunday last, an industrious labouring man, named WILLIAM SMITH, who resided alone at Bismore, in the parish of Bisley, was discovered to have been most inhumanely butchered in his own dwelling.  A woman who washes for him, on entering the house found the body most horribly disfigured about the head and face by several mortal blows from a hatchet, and the murderous instrument lying near him.  His supper remained untouched on the table, and the house was completely ransacked for plunder.  The poor fellow was reputed to have some money in his possession, which is of course supposed to have been the inducement for the commission of this horrible crime.  There is reason to believe that the murder was committed on the Friday night preceding.  We are glad to hear that hopes are entertained that the cruel perpetrators will be brought to justice.  Four persons are in custody on suspicion, awaiting the result of the Coroner’s inquest, which commenced sitting on Monday, and was adjourned till Thursday, but we have not as yet heard that they have come to any decision.  Several facts connected with the case have been communicated to us, but as their publication at this moment might possibly impede the course of justice, we abstain from entering into particulars.

   It will be recollected that in our Paper of 9th January last, we mentioned an outrage that had occurred at Kingstanley, in this county, where an uncle had been mortally stabbed by his nephew, and that a Coroner’s jury had returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against the assassin.  Our readers will be surprised to hear that the criminal has not yet been apprehended, though we are informed that he was seen in the neighbourhood for several days after the transaction.  We have not yet heard that any vigilant measures for his apprehension have been resorted to; but one would suppose that if they had, an escape in so populous a district could not be very easily effected.  We also do not know whether a blame be attributable to any or to what parties; but surely the interests of justice are compromised by any negligence in the investigation of offences of this description; and the peace and safety of society are endangered when the perpetrators are suffered to be at large, to repeat perhaps acts of similar violence. [Re JOHN DANGERFIELD]

INQUESTS.  Taken last week before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Mickleton, on the body of SARAH BRAIN, about seven years old, who was burnt to death in consequece of her clothes taking fire; and at Clapton, upon the body of CHARLES COX, about five years old, who met his death in a similar manner.  At the Infirmary, upon the body of JAMES WHITE, who was in the act of oiling the wheels of a tram waggon near Cinderford, when his foot slipped, and the loaded waggon passing over him inflicted such dreadful injury as to occasion his death the following day.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Norton, on the body of ELIZABETH TROUGHTON, aged 79, who was found dead in her bed.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

    At Beckford, on the body of JOSEPH CULLIMORE, who in company with two other persons had got a bottle nearly full of rum and a bottle of metheglin, which they mixed together and drank; but in consequence of the excess Cullimore became insensible, and died in a few hours.  Verdict, Died from excessive Drinking.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before W Trigg, Esq. Coroner.  At Frampton on Severn, on view of the body of THOS. SUMMERS, an itinerant pauper, said to belong to the parish of Wotton Underedge, who had been seen for several days previous to his death seeking shelter in sheds, barns, or any outhouse, where he could obtain admission.  He was found in a cow house belonging to Mr Clarke, who treated him with great humanity, and perceiving his wretched and forlorn state had him conveyed to the poor house, where he died soon after.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

   At Stonehouse, on the body of CHARLES FIELD, who was found drowned in the Stroud Canal, into which he is supposed to have fallen from a barge.  Verdict, Found drowned.

 

Feb 13.  Very early on Sunday morning last, an accident which had nearly been attended with fatal consequences, occurred to our London mail on its way to this city.  On reaching the New Inn, at Barrington, a recent fall of snow having covered the track which had been cut through the heavy drift that choked up the road in that neighbourhood, the coachman, ANDREWS, was unable, in the dark which prevailed, to distinguish the proper line, and driving partly on the frozen bank of snow, the mail was upset with fearful violence.  MANTELL, the guard, was precipitated to the ground, upon his head, with such force that several hours elapsed before he recovered the faculty of speech, and we are very sorry to find that but faint hopes are entertained of his recovery.  The coachman was also so much hurt as to be rendered incapable of proceeding.  Fortunately, there were no passengers.  Great delay necessarily occurred, as it was requisite to send to Northleach for a coachman to drive the vehicle down, which did not arrive in this city till three hours after its usual time.

   [3c] full page colum re WILKS, atrocious murder and robbery, etc.  Coroner’s Inquest Wilful Murder against THOMAS COX aged 45, and, guilty as an accessary, WM. COX aged 21.

   We are glad to find that active measures are now being taken for the apprehension of JOHN DANGERFIELD, charged under the Coroner’s inquest with the wilful murder of his uncle THOMAS WILKINS, at Kingstanley, on the 4th ult. as stated in a former paper.  A clue has been discovered which gives some hopes that the criminal may yet be brought to justice.

   An inquest was held at Tewkesbury, on Thursday, before EW Jones, Esq. on view of the body of A NEW BORN ILLEGITIMATE MALE CHILD, which had been privately interred in the churchyard on the Tuesday preceding.  After a long investigation, the jury returned a verdict of Manslaughter against SARAH HOLYHOUSE, the mother, who was thereupon committed to the borough gaol, prepatory to her trial at the next Assizes for this county.

   An inquest was held a few days since, at Horsley, in this county, before W Trigg, Esq. Coroner, on the body of MARY RICKETTS, a pauper, who died of the typhus fever.  After a patient investigation before a very respectable jury and in the presence of a truly benevolent and respectable Magistrate, whose humane assistance had in vain been rendered the woman a short time before her decease, a verdict was returned, Died from typhus fever, despite timely and sufficient medical assistance.

 

Feb 20.  SUICIDE.  On Monday afternoon last, this city was the scene of a melancholy act, the fatal result of intoxication and passion.  Mr WM. WATERS, who for some time past has occupied a shop as a flour-dealer, &c. at the top of Worcester street, coming home in a state of inebriety, quarrelled violently with his wife, after which he went upstairs much excited by passion.  A considerable interval having elapsed without his appearing, his wife sent her daughter to call him, but the child had not proceeded far when she saw her wretched parent suspended by the neck from the bannisters, to which he had tied himself by a piece of cord.  An alarm was instantly given; and on assistance being procured, he was promptly cut down, but too late, as the vital spark was entirely extinct.  On the following day an inquest was taken before R Fletcher, Esq. Coroner of this city, when after a minute investigation the jury returned a verdict, Hanged himself in a temporary fit of insanity.

INQUESTS.  Lately held before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner.  At Frampton Cotterell, on view of the body of BENJAMIN DAVIES, a pauper in the poor house, found dead in his bed.  At Blakeney, on BENJAMIN WILLIAMS, an itinerant dealer in pamphlets, from Knighton, in Radnorshire, found dead in a lodging house.  At Hagloe House, on SAMUEL HOSKINS, a servant to W AMBROSE, Esq. who died very suddenly.  Verdict, in each case, Sudden Death, by the visitation of God.

    The following inquests have been this week taken before W Trigg, Esq. Coroner.  At Bisley, on view of the body of MARY GARDINER, who was subject to fits, in one of which she fell on the fire, and was burnt to death.  Verdict, Accidental Death. 

   And at Leonard Stanley, on the body of WM. LUSTY, an aged man, who fell down dead in his garden.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.

   Last week, an inquest was held at Monmouth County Gaol, touching the death of HESTER BRAINE, aged 70.  Our readers may recollect, that this old woman was committed on 15th Nov. upon the capital charge of setting fire to a barn and stable, at Tregare, the property of Mr PERRIN.  She was very infirm and in bad health at the time she entered the prison, and had been under the care of the surgeon of the Gaol, up to the time of her death, which was occasioned by a disease of the heart and water on the chest.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   COMMITTED.  THOMAS COX.

 

Feb 27.  APPREHENSION OF THOMAS COX.  Our readers will recollect that this young man, who stands charged with being accessory, before and after the fact, to the wilful murder of WM. WICKS, at Bisley, though taken into custody on the discovery of that dreadful deed, succeeded subsequently in making his escape.  Diligent search was immediately set of foot, and it was soon found that he had been seen at Sheepscombe, and soon after on the road from this city to Tewkesbury.  As he had a brother employed in a paper manufactory in Lancashire, it was at once conjectured that he would seek an asylum with him, and PICKARD, a constable, was forthwith dispatched in pursuit; who, after several day’s anxious inquiry, at length apprehended him at Bury, nine miles beyond Manchester.  On Wednesday he was conveyed through this city to Stroud, where examinations were taken before H Burgh, Esq. and the Rev. P Hawker, by whom he was fully committed to our County Gaol.

    On Friday last, as a person was ploughing in a field at Saintbridge, belonging to Mr THOMAS IND, the plough turned up a part of a human scull, and on further examination a perfect skeleton was discovered about 18 inches below the surface of the earth.  A Coroner’s Inquest was summoned, but from the absence of any evidence of identity and a belief that the bones had been in their present situation many years, the Juy returned a verdict to that effect.

  A melancholy accident from the incautious use of firearms occurred at Redweir, near the New Passage, on Tuesday last.  A young man, named ROBT. HOPKINS, a blacksmith, and ROBERT WATKINS, after cleaning a gun in Hopkins’s shop, put it down and went to their dinner.  Hopkins afterwards loaded the gun for the purpose of shooting sparrows, and went out leaving it in the shop.  Watkins soon after going in, took it up and pointed it at a younger brother of Hopkins, about eleven years of age, when it went off and the whole contents entered his head, and killed him on the spot.  An inquest was held before WJ Ellis, Esq. and a verdict returned of Homicide by Misadventure.

MELANCHOLY SUICIDE.  On Friday last, Mrs MERRETT, wife of Mr MERRETT, of Freig’s Mill, in the parish of Rodborough, drowned herself in the milldam.  She left the breakfast table, saying “she must go out for a short time;” but remaining longer than was expected, her husband sent a girl after her, who not being able to make her hear, called Mr Merrett.  On arriving at the pond he saw part of his wife’s gown floating on the water, and instantly dragged her to the bank; but altho’ every remedy was used to restore animation, it was too late, as the vital spark had fled.

   COMMITMENTS.  THOMAS COX.

 

Mar 6.  Coroner’s Inquest.  A report having been circulated that a child, aged a few months, had died from neglect or starvation in Grove street, Cheltenham, Mr G RUSSELL, Chief of the Police of that town, sent a communication to John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, who summoned a Jury to enquire into the particulars of the affair.  After a patient examination of RACHAEL COLLY, the mother, and several other witnesses, on Saturday last, the jury returned the following verdict, - Died from Inflammation of the Lungs, but we are of opinion that great blame is attributable to the mother for general inattention towards the child. [see also Gloucester Herald, 1802-1806; Glos Ref Lib 40963(1) as date.]

 

Mar 13.  DREADFUL OCCURRENCE.  On Tuesday, a woman named CARTER, residing at Upper Alstone, near Cheltenham, left home for a short time, and locked three of her children in the house.  Two of them took the youngest, under two years of age, and laid it on some shavings in one corner of the room; they then set the shavings on fire, and the poor innocent was so dreadfully burnt before it was rescued from the flames, that it died on the following morning.

 

Mar 20.

 

Mar 27.  INQUESTS,  Taken before W Trigg, Esq. Coroner.  At Stroud, on the body of RICHARD HITCHINS, a youth who was said to have died from blows received from another boy while at play.  After a minute investigation and medical evidence being given a verdict was returned, Died by the visitation of God.

   At Painswick, on the body of JOHN CARTER, about five years of age, burnt to death by his clothes catching fire, in the absence of his mother.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Apr 3.  INQUEST.  On Monday last, an inquest was held in this city, before R Fletcher, Esq. Coroner, upon view of the body of WM. ROSS, a native of Cumberland, who met his death under the following singular circumstances.  On Saturday, the deceased, who was a sea-faring man, was employed on board the brig Ovington, lying in our basin.  In order to fumigate the vessel, a quantity of straw had been set on fire in the hold, after which the hatchways were fastened down, and in the evening the people left the brig, not one remaining even as a ship keeper.  On the following morning a boy belonging to the brig, on going on board, found the companion unfastened,  and on proceeding below found the deceased in the hold stiff and cold.  It was ascertained that after leaving the vessel on Saturday, the deceased visited one or two public houses, and the last time he was seen alive was between eleven and twelve o’clock at night, when he was in a state of intoxication; and there is little doubt that he sought a refuge for the night on board the vessel, where his death was occasioned by the vapour he inhaled.  The jury returned a verdict, Accidental Death from Suffocation.

INQUESTS.  Taken before W Trigg, Esq. Coroner.  At Tetbury, on the body of SAMUEL BLAKE, who died suddenly.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Eastington, on GEORGE GWINNELL, who was drawing a cart in company with two men and a boy, when his foot slipping he fell down, and the wheel passing over his head, killed him on the spot.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Sunday, a Coroner’s [WJ Ellis] inquest was held at Chipping Sodbury, on the body of WM. PHILIPS, school master; when the jury returned a verdict of manslaughter against JAS. COLE, who was accordingly committed on the coroner’s warrant (he having voluntarily surrendered himself.)  The decease of Philips was supposed by the Jury to have been occasioned by a dispute and scuffle which occurred at the Portcullis Inn, in the above town, on the previous Tuesday.

COMMITMENTS.  JAS. COLE.

 

Apr 10.  On the evening of the 29th ult. Mr WM. HATHERELL, of Oldbury on the Hill, in this county, in returning home from Malmesbury fair, was thrown from his horse at about a mile distance from the latter place.  He was conveyed back to the King’s Arms Inn, where he expired early on Sunday morning.  An inquest was held on the body, when it appeared that the deceased had sustained a concussion of the brain, and a verdict of Accidental Death was accordingly returned.

INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner.  At Blakeney, on Saturday, on the body of WM. HAMMONDS, who died in consequence of blows received from JOHN COOK, in a fight a few days preceding.  The jury returned a verdict of Manslaughter against JOHN COOK, and against GEO. WHITE and JOSEPH VIRGO, for aiding and abetting.

   At Almondsbury, on the body of ROBERT BUTSON [BULSON] , footman to the Rev Mr Gray, who fell into a bath near the Vicarage House; and at Old Sodbury, on the body of STEPHEN ANDREWS, carter to Mr EW RICH, of Didmarton, killed by falling from a waggon loaded with coals, on which he was riding.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Clifton, on the body of A NEW BORN MALE CHILD, found in Clifton churchyard, wrapped up in a piece of black stuff gown.  Verdict, Found Dead.

   An inquest was taken at Horsley, before W Trigg, Esq. Coroner, on the body of ELIZ. LEONARD, a girl about nine years of age, who was burnt to death in consequence of her clothes taking fire in the absence of her mother.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Apr 17.  THOMAS COX, condemned; SARAH HOLYHOUSE, acquitted.

Account of the trial for murder of WICKS/WILKS; THOMAS COX (50) and WM. COX (21), long list of witnesses; Thomas guilty, William acquitted.  Also, on p 4; all Not Guilty: JAS COLE & WM. PHILIPS; JOHN COOK & JOSEPH VIRGO & GEO. WHITE.

 

Apr 24.   On Tuesday, the skeleton of a man, in an advanced stage of decay, was discovered by some men who were engaged in widening the road at a place called the Seven Springs, near the Cross Hands, in this county.  From the fractures on the skull, it would appear that the individual was murdered.  The remains were but at an inconsiderable depth from the surface of the ground.

SINGULAR CIRCUMSTANCES. 

About a fortnight ago, as some workmen were employed in taking down part of the roof of a house occupied by Mr TOMBS, at Aston upon Carrant, in this county, the skeleton of an infant was discovered behind some boards and plastering.  The bones appeared to be nearly in a perfect state, with portions of the pelvis attached in some places, but they had evidently been there for a great number of years, and a very extensive fracture appeared on the back part of the skull.  It is a remarkable fact, that about sixteen years ago two other skeletons of infants were found on the same premises.  Every possible inquiry has taken place but without eliciting any satisfactory result, and an inquest was held yesterday se’nnight before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when a  verdict was returned of Wilful Murder against some person or persons unknown.  The present occupier of the house is a very respectable farmer, and has not lived there more than a few years, and the affair is likely to remain in impenetrable mystery.

INQUESTS.  Taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  On Monday, at Charlton Kings, on view of the body of JOHN DRAPER, a waggoner in the employ of Mr MASTERS, of Cirencester, who was taken suddenly ill, at the former place, and, notwithstanding medical aid was promptly obtained, died in a few hours.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   On Wednesday, at Badgeworth, on the body of JOHN PARSONS, a child about three years old, who, in the absence of the parents, was so dreadfully burnt by his clothes taking fire, that he died next day.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Tuesday, at Westbury upon Severn, on the body of JOHN BURRISH, a boy of about eight years of age, who whilst amusing himself in a boat, in company with an elder brother, accidentally slipped into the water and was drowned.  Verdict accordingly.

 

At these Assizes, also, a true Bill was found by the Grand Jury against JOHN DANGERFIELD, for the Wilful Murder of his uncle THOMAS WILKINS, at Kingstanley, in this county, on the 4th of January last, under the circumstances detailed in our Paper at the time.  DANGERFIELD is still at large, and we do not observe that any reward has been offered for his apprehension.

   THOMAS COX executed.  Imprisonment, Six Months:  MARY KENELY, for concealing the birth of her bastard child.

 

May 1.  FATAL ACCIDENT.   On Thursday morning, a poor fellow named WILLIAM PARKER, who was employed at the new warehouses building at our Basin, unfortunately slipped from some scaffolding, and falling from a considerable height to the ground, sustained several tremendous frcatures of the skull, and was otherwise so dreadfully injured, that surgical assistance was in vain offered on the spot; he was immediately afterwards conveyed to the Infirmary, but only survived a few hours.  Inquest taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner. 

   On Wednesday, at Newent, on the body of WM. ADDIS, servant to Mr Hollister, surgeon, who dropped down and died instantaneously.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

INQUESTS.   Lately taken before J Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Coln St Aldwins, on the body of ELIZ. HAWES, who was so dreadfully burnt as to occasion her death; and at Chalford, on the body of SARAH HART, who fell into the fire in a fit, and was there found dead.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Moreton in the Marsh, on the body of THOS. WEBB, who died whilst in the act of dressing himself.  Verdict, Died in a fit of Apoplexy.

   At Northleach Prison, on the body of BENJ. PAINTER, whose death was accelerated by a tumour on the head, with which he had long been afflicted; at Cirencester, on the body of ELIZ. URSEL, who died suddenly; and at Nailsworth, in the parish of Avening, on the body of JANE CLARK, who was suddenly seized with spasms at the heart, and died instantly.  Verdict in the last three cases, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

May 8.  A distressing accident happened on Saturday last, at Newport, in this county.  As the Phoenix Coach from Bristol to this city was proceeding through that village, a little girl named LANE, daughter of one of Mr GILES’S  post boys, ran suddenly from the side of the road under the leaders, and was knocked down; and before the driver could pull up, the wheel had passed over her, and killed her on the spot.  No blame whatever was imputable to the coachman, Mr JOHN WATKINS, who is remarkable for his carefulness and steady driving, and who did all in his power to avoid the accident.  An inquest was held before Wm Joyner Ellis, Esq. and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

INQUESTS.  Held this week before Wm J Ellis, Esq.  At St Briavels, on view of the body of THOMAS CLAY, who was at work in a stone quarry, with his father and brother, when a large quantity of stones and rubbish fell upon him, and killed him on the spot.  At Mangotsfield, on the body of JAMES BEACEY, a child about two years old, killed by being run over by a cart.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   And at St. Philip & Jacob, on the body of ELIZA LASHBROOK, who had been missing from her home for a week, and was dragged out of a brick pit by a poodle dog.  Verdict, Found drowned.

   The following inquests have been taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  On Sunday last, at the Infirmary, on the body of WM. PARKER, whose death was occasioned by a fall from a building erecting near the basin of the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal, as mentioned in our last.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   And, on Monday, at Sandhurst, on the body of EDWIN WILLIAMS, aged 9 years, who is supposed to have fallen into the River Severn, whilst fishing for elvers on the Thursday preceding.  The body was not found till Sunday; and there being no evidence to show how or by what means he fell into the water, the Jury returned a verdict of Found drowned.

   An inquest was lately taken at Painswick, before Wm Trigg, Esq. on view of the body of ANN SHEWELL, a pauper, who was seized, a few days before, with a malignant fever, of which she died  in a state of great debility.  The Jury, after a minute investigation, delivered a verdict - Died from disease, occasioned by want of proper food suitable to her case, as well as a great deficiency of bedding, to protect her properly from cold.

 

May 15.  An Inquest was taken at Clifford Chambers, in this county, on Monday last, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on view of a NEW BORN ILLEGITIMATE CHILD, son of MARIA MINCHIN.  The child had received a most violent fracture of the scull, from which its brains had escaped, and it survived only an hour after its birth.  After a patient  examination of the witnesses, and particularly of the surgeon who examined the body, the Jury returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against the mother, MARIA MINCHIN; when the Coroner made out his warrant for her commitment, and she will be sent to the County Gaol as soon as she can be removed with safety.

 

May 22.  INQUESTS. Taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  On Wednesday, at Cheltenham, on view of the body of HESTER FABERY COSIER, aged about 30, who hung herself in the upper room of an uninhabited and unfinished house, near Montpellier Baths; the deceased had been in the service of a tradesman in Cheltenham for several years past; about three months since she made an attempt to destroy herself by cutting her throat, and from that time had been in a very low and desponding way, so much so as at times to be entirely lost: she had been missing from her situation from Tuesday the 11th inst. and was not found till the 18th: the evidence being perfectly satisfactory, the Jury without hesitation returned a verdict of Lunacy.

   On Friday, at Hasfield, on the body of ISAAC FERRIS, aged near three years, who was killed in consequence of a large gate falling on him, which fractured his scull so violently as to cause his death instantaneously: the deceased, with other children, was at play in the road and passing by a gate which was loose, the post on which it hung having been broken down, and taking hold of the gate, it fell upon him and killed him on the spot.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

May 29.  FATAL OCCURRENCE.  A very melancholy event took place at the parish of St Philip & Jacob, in this county.  A widow woman, named HANNAH NUTT, residing in that parish, was in the house alone, when her son, JAS. NUTT, came in very much intoxicated, and began abusing his mother, and breaking the crockery ware.  She expostulated with him, and urged him to be quiet, but without effect; and at length sent for another son, named PHILIP, who came, and, finding all his efforts to pacify his brother were useless, at length put him out of the house.  James struck his brother, and tore his shirt and clothes, and they had a scuffle together, and James fell twice, the last time very heavily on his head on the floor.  He did not get up; and on their raising him, he was discovered to be quite dead.  An inquest was held before Wm Joyner Ellis, Esq. and a respectable Jury, and a verdict of Manslaughter against PHILIP NUTT returned.  He stands committed to our County Gaol for trial at the next Assizes.

   The following Inquests have been taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  On Wednesday, at the County Prison, on view of the body of GEORGE HARRIS, aged about 29 years, a prisoner, convicted at the last Assizes for stealing a watch from the house of GEO. HOWELL at Ashelworth: the prisoner went to bed on the evening before apparently in good health, and on the turnkey going to his cell the next morning found him dead in bed.  Verdict, Found Dead by the Visitation of God.

   Thursday, at Cheltenham, on the body of ANN TAYLOR, aged about 43 years, found drowned in the water of a lime pit al Allstone, near Cheltenham; the deceased had been for some time previous deranged in her mind, but no evidence could be produced to shew how or by what means she became drowned; and as no marks of violence appeared on her body, the Jury returned a verdict of Found Drowned.  The deceased was a very industrious woman, and has left a husband and four young children.

   COMMITMENTS: PHILIP NUTT.

 

Jun 5.  OBITUARY.  Yesterday se’nnight, after a few days’ illness, occasioned by a fall from his horse, Mr FRANCIS HOLBORROW, of Hillsley, in this county.

 

Jun 12.  On Friday, a labourer in a fit of insanity, threw himself into a coal pit at Camerton, and was killed on the spot.

DISTRESSING OCCURRENCE.   Two young men, brothers, of the age of 17 and 20, sons of Mr J. GRANT, cabinet maker, Culver street, Bristol, were drowned early on Sunday morning last, while bathing in the Float, near the Glass house, on the sea banks.

FATAL ACCIDENT. 

On Monday evening, as Mr AVERILL, surgeon, Cheltenham, was mounting a spirited horse opposite his residence in Rodney terrace, the animal suddenly began to rear and plunge, and before Mr Averill could disengage his foot from the stirrup, he fell, and struck his head with great force against the curb stone, while the horse, in endeavouring to escape, trod or kicked the unfortunate gentleman on the temple.  He was immediately carried home by several bystanders, the blood streaming in torrents from the wounds in his head, and in a few minutes he was attended by the most eminent professional men in the town.  All surgical assistance, however, was in vain, as he had received so violent an injury of the brain, that after lingering for about an hour in a state of insensibility, he expired.  An inquest was held on the following day, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, and the jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.  By this fatal and distressing event, society has been deprived of a gentleman at the early age of thirty four, whose success and skill as a surgeon had placed him at the head of his profession; while, in addition to his honourable and useful qualification, he united goodness of heart, an amiable disposition, and extensive literary acquirements.

DREADFUL SUICIDE.

On Monday last, an inquest was held at Bishops Cleeve, on the body of Mrs CATHERINE DA COSTA, aged about 56 years, who shot herself with a blunderbuss, loaded with powder and bullets, in the house of her tenant and neighbour, JOHN WILKES.  The deceased had been for a great length of time much distracted in her mind, and continually kept firearms loaded, which she frequently carried with her.  On Friday night, while in Wilkes’s house, she sent for her blunderbuss, declaring it was her only protection, and having loaded it with powder and bullets, which she carried about her person in a tin case, about twelve o’clock, notwithstanding several persons were in the room, she suddenly discharged the piece against her left breast, and shot herself thro’ the heart, from which she instantly died.  Altho’ her connections were very respectable, yet no person was appointed by them to attend her, tho’ her situation was well known to them.  The Jury, which was very respectable, being perfectly satisfied with the evidence, without hesitation returned a verdict of Insanity.

   Yesterday afternoon, as the team belonging to Mr Brown, of Cheltenham, was returning home from Newent with a load of cider, about three miles on this side of the town, the waggoner, who was very much intoxicated, fell from the shafts on which he was riding, and the wheels passing over him, broke both his thighs.

INQUESTS.  Taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Taddington Hill, Stanway, on the body of CHARLES CAREY, aged about 30, who was killed by a gun shot.  The deceased was in the habit of carrying a gun with him about his farm, and while resting on it, in a ground near to the house, it suddenly went off, and lodging the contents in his head, killed him on the spot.  The deceased was greatly respected by his friends and family.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Keynton, Temple Guiting, on the body of  Mr JOHN MARTIN, farmer, aged about 76.  On Tuesday afternoon, he had returned home with his team, and had put the horses in the stable, but not going to dinner as usual, his housekeeper went to see after him, and found him dead near the manger.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.    

 

Jun 19.

 

Jun 26.  The Rev. THOS. COOKE, Rector of Wickwar, in this county, whilst conversing with one of his parishioners on Tuesday last, suddenly fell from his chair and instantly expired.  He was much beloved and is greatly lamented by all classes in the neighbourhood.

INQUESTS.  Taken last week before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner.  At Brockwear, on ELIZABETH PUGH, aged 59, who was found early on Wednesday morning in a field between Woollaston and Brockwear in a dying state, and was a corpse before she could be removed home.  It appeared she was in the practice of travelling that neighbourhood on errands, and had been at Woollaston the evening preceding, where she had drunk too much cider and it is supposed she lay down, and it being a very wet cold night, fell a victim to the inclemency of the weather.   At Wotton Underedge, on SAMUEL BALLIN, a hawker, who fell from his chair in a fit of passion, and expired instantly.  Verdicts, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.

   At Lidney on a lad named JOHN JAY, drowned in a brook whilst dipping water for the purpose of making mortar.  At Oldbury upon Severn, on ELIZABETH LIMBRICK, a child about two years old, who had strayed from her parents’ house to an adjoining brook, where she fell in and was drowned.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 3.  AWFULLY SUDDEN DEATH.  An instance of sudden death has unexpectedly plunged the family of THOS. MINSTER, Esq. an old and respectable inhabitant of Cheltenham, into the deepest affliction.  Mrs Minster had been spending the evening with a few friends, and was returning home in company with two ladies and a servant, when within a few yards of her own house she suddenly fell on the pavement and instantly expired.  Medical assistance was promptly procured; but every means failed to restore animation - the vital spark had fled forever!

MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT.

A very distressing event occurred in Bristol river on Tuesday evening.  A party of individuals proceeded in a boat to visit their friends on board the ship Ann, lately arrived from Jamaica, and now lying at King road.  On their return, in consequence of having been too liberally treated with grog, a quarrel arose between two of the party, just as they entered the river, and the boat was upset, by which event two men, three women, and a child, were drowned!  The boat men and two of the ship’s crew, who were coming up as passengers, swam on shore.

INQUESTS.

Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.   At the County Prison, on view of the body of CHARLES FEREBEE, aged 44, a prisoner in the Penitentiary, who died of a dysentery.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Chipping Campden, on the body of  GEO. NEALE, aged 78, who hung himself on a hawthorn tree in a field near Campden: it appeared that he had been in a desponding way for some days, and the Jury returned a verdict, Insanity.

   At Clifford Chambers, on the body of JOSIAH PRENTICE, aged 67, who, whilst digging in a field, fell down and instantly expired.  And at the County Prison, on the body of JAMES JOHNS, aged 21, a prisoner in the Penitentiary, who died of a consumption.  Verdicts, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Jul 10.  On Monday, an inquest was taken before W Trigg, Esq. on view of the body of A NEWBORN MALE CHILD, which was found floating in the River Severn, on the Eastington shore.  A ligature was three times bound tightly round the throat, which suffocated the infant.  After a patient investigation, the Jury returned a Verdict, Wilful Murder against some person or persons unknown.

 

Jul 17.  On Monday last, an inquest was held at Clifton, before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner, on THOMAS BLAKE, who was found in a dying state on Clifton Down on the Friday preceding, and died on being removed to a house at Clifton.  It appeared that he had been attending on a party of gentlemen playing cricket, and took the opportunity of the temporary absence of the person having charge of the Booth, to drink nearly a quart of whiskey.  He then ran out of the tent, and was immediately afterwards found in an insensible state, in which he continued till he died.  Verdict, Died from the effects of drinking a large quantity of spirituous liquor.

   On Saturday last, an Inquest was held before the same Coroner, at Hanham, near Keynsham, on the body of AN UNKNOWN FEMALE found floating in the river Avon.  No evidence appearing how she came by her death a verdict was returned of Found dead.

 

Jul 24.

Jul 31.

 

Aug 7.  SINGULAR CIRCUMSTANCE.  On Saturday last, two men named WM. JONES and JOS. SNEED, were taken into custody at the Dog Inn, at Over, near this city, on suspicion of horse-stealing.  They were immediately conveyed before a neighbouring Magistrate, Captain HOWARD, of Maisemore, who remanded them to gaol for further examination.  On their way to prison, however, whilst crossing the Maisemore bridge, in a desperate attempt to make his escape, Jones threw himself over the bridge into the Severn and was drowned.  The body was not discovered till some days after.  An inquest was taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when the Jury being satisfied that he had no intention to destroy himself but that his object was to effect his escape, a verdict was returned of Accidental Death.

INQUESTS.

Taken by John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Saint Briavels, on the body of THOMAS POWELL, who fell from a bridge on his return to Ellwood, whereby he was so much injured in the spine as to cause his death the next day.  At Gretton, on the body of CHARLES MINCHIN, aged four years, who was killed in consequence of a wall falling on him while at play.  At the South Hamlet, on the body of AMELIA DREW, aged two years, who fell into a large pan of water, and was drowned before assistance could be given.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Ashchurch, on the body of EDWARD WILSON, who fell from a cart loaded with hay, and was so much injured in the spine as to cause his death the next day.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Churcham, on the body of THOMAS HARTLAND, aged about 78 years, who while on the road at work, suddenly fell down and expired.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

 

Aug 14.  OBITUARY.  Tuesday, suddenly, in consequence of a fall from his horse, aged 53, Mr THOMAS ELLIOTT, of Huntley, in this county.

CHARGE OF MURDER.

On Monday, an inquest was held at Upton upon Severn, on the body of JANE, wife of WILLIAM WHITE, labourer, who died on the preceding Saturday.  After a long investigation, White, the husband, and T.CROCKETT, were committed to gaol, (the former as principal, the latter as accessory,) on a charge of having administered to the deceased, on the Sunday preceding her death, a quantity of corrosive sublimate, with a view to procure abortion.

   On Saturday last, a youth about fourteen years of age, named ALFRED CHARLES JONES, having been on board the brig Royalist, moored in the middle of our Basin, was sculling himself on shore, when by some accident he lost his balance, and falling into the water was drowned.  When the body was picked up, great pains were taken to restore animation, but they were of no avail, the vital spark being totally extinct.  An inquest was held upon the body, and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

 

Aug 21.  FATAL ACCIDENT.  On Tuesday evening, as THOMAS NIBLETT, carter to Mr Hawkins, of the Hawthorns, was returning from Cheltenham with a waggon load of manure, in going down Apperley pitch, he neglected to lock the wheel, and the waggon consequently was propelled with fearful velocity, and the unfortunate man was so dreadfully crushed between the wheels and the bank, as to cause almost instant death.  There is no doubt that his want of caution was occasioned by intoxication.  An inquest was held on the body before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

 

Aug 28.  ASSIZES:  One Year’s Imprisonment.  .... And DAVID GREGORY, for the manslaughter of JEREMIAH BOSWELL. [The last named prisoner, David Gregory, was indicted for the murder of Jeremiah Boswell, by stabbing him with a knife under circumstances which were fully detailed in our Journal of the 24th of April last; but after a very patient investigation, it was not considered by the Jury that the facts of the case were sufficiently strong to bear out the capital part of the charge.]

Acquitted: PHILIP NUTT.  Not True Bill: MARIA MINCHIN.

 

Sep 4.  On Friday afternoon, a girl named HANKS, working at the manufactory of Messrs Barnard, Bliss, and Barnard, at Nailsworth, was feeding the devil or trilley, when she got entangled with a strap belonging to the machinery, and, dreadful to relate, her hand was torn off, her arm broken in two places, and her person otherwise so severely injured as to render her case hopeless.  She was immediately conveyed to our Infirmary.

AWFUL INSTANCES OF SUDDEN DEATH.   The following inquests have been this week taken by John Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  On Monday last, at Cheltenham, on the body of WM. WOOD, who, on Sunday evening, went into a public house, with his child, and called for a pint of ale.  After taking a small glass, he suddenly fell from his seat and instantly expired.  On Thursday at Cheltenham, on the body of JAS. HOOPER, who, on the preceding evening, went into the Fleece tap room, for the purpose of reading the papers, and while so engaged fell on the settle where he was sitting, and, exclaiming “Oh!God!” almost immediately expired.  Verdict in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Sep 11.  SUDDEN DEATH.  On Thursday evening, Mr HENRY FRY, Sen. a farmer residing at Hay lane, near Horsley, in this county, after eating a hearty supper, retired to bed in apparent good health, and died a few minutes afterwards.

 

Sep 18.

 

Sep 25.  INQUESTS.  Taken this week before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Cheltenham, on the body of JOHN HANCOCK, who had been taken to the poor house, and had ascended the stairs to go to a bed room, when he suddenly fell on his knees, and almost instantly expired.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

   At Littleworth, on the body of DAVID ROBERTS, Captain of the brig Speedwell.  The deceased had been at a public house in Gloucester, with several friends, where he remained till between one and two o’clock, on Tuesday morning, and then left for the purpose of going on board his vessel, lying in the basin of our canal.  The night was very dark; and it is supposed that he missed his footing going on board, and fell into the canal and was drowned.  No marks of violence appearing on his body, and no evidence to shew how or by what means he was drowned, the Jury returned a verdict of Found drowned.

   At the same place, on the body of JAMES M’GEARY, found drowned.  The deceased was mate of the brig Unity, lying in the basin of the canal, and left a public house in this city about eleven o’clock, on Monday night, by direction of his Captain, to go on board his vessel.  His hat was found next morning floating on the water; when immediate search was made for the body; which was found about seven o’clock.  No evidence appeared to shew the maner of his falling into the canal, and no marks of violence appearing on the body, the Jury, as in the former case, returned a verdict, Found drowned.  The unfortunate man has left a wife and three small children totally destitute; but, we understand, a subscription was entered into by the captains and crews of the different vessels in the basin, from which, after defraying the funeral expenses, nearly 8l. have been transmitted through the bank of Messrs Russell and Skey, for their present support.

 

Oct 2.  INQUESTS.  MELANCHOLY CASE.  See notes.

   Inquests have been held by the same Coroner [WJE] , at St Philip & Jacob, on the body of JOHN WARD, killed by being rode over in the Coronation road, by a person much intoxicated, riding furiously along, on his return from Backwell fair.  The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death, with a deodand of 10 l. on the horse.

   At North Nibley, on the body of a labouring  man named WM. CLARK, who was found dead in the field, where he had been digging potatoes.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the visitation of God.

 

Oct 9.  SAMUEL JONES appointed Coroner.

INQUESTS.  Taken before Wm Trigg, Esq. Coroner.  At Stroud, on the body of BEN. ROBERTSON, who hanged himself in a bedroom, at the Rising Sun Inn, Stroud; Verdict, Felo de se.  He was buried without ceremony, in the churchyard, between the hours of nine and twelve o’clock at night.

   At Horsley, on the body of MARY TERRETT, aged 80, who dropt down dead in the road, near her own door.  At Kingstanley, on the body of DAN. TOWNNSHEND, who was found dead in his bed, at the work house.  Verdict in each case, Sudden Death.

   At Stonehouse, on the body of JAMES HOLDER, who fell into the Stroud Canal when winching up the lasher of the lock at Dudbridge, from the handle slipping off; he was instantly drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Oct 16.  On Sunday last, a very awful instance of sudden death occurred, at Nibley, near Blakeney, in this county.  Mr JOHN WILLIAMS, a respectable farmer, was observed by a neighbour going along the high road towards a farm he occupied at Lidney; and in about ten minutes afterwards, he was found on his back in the road, quite dead.

 

Oct 23.  FATAL ACCIDENT.   On Monday afternoon, JAS. BREWER, a mason, was precipitated from the upper part of one of the new houses in Lansdown Crescent, Cheltenham, in consequence of the stone work which he was setting having given way.  He was immediately carried to the Casualty Hospital, and although every attention was paid to him, the injuries he received were so serious that he died on the following morning.  He was an industrious, sober, steady man, and has left a widow to lament his death.  [See Nov 6.]

 

Oct 30.  AWFUL INSTANCE OF SUDDEN DEATH.  On Saturday night last, Mrs RICHARDSON, of Fir Cottage, Cheltenham, retired to bed in the apparent enjoyment of good health, and on the following morning she was found a corpse.  An inquest was held on the body, on Monday, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, and a respectable Jury.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.  [see also Obituary, below.]

OBITUARY.  Sunday morning, at her residence, Fir Cottage, Cheltenham, SARAH, wife of JOHN RICHARDSON, Esq. late of Cirencester; she retired to bed in full enjoyment of her usual health, and in the morning was found a corpse.

 

Nov 6.  INQUESTS.  Taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner. At Cheltenham, on view of the body of JAMES BREWER; whilst at work at a building at Lansdown terrace, a large stone fell and knocked down on the scaffold on which he was standing, by which he was so much injured as to cause his death the next morning.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Whaddon, on the body of A MAN UNKNOWN; the deceased, who appeared to be about 60 years of age, was seen walking on the turnpike road by a woman named COLLIER, and in a few minutes after was found a corpse.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.  The deceased was dressed in a dark brown short coat, dark waistcoat, breeches, and worsted stockings; in his pockets was found a memorandum, “Mr Williams, Newent-road,”  he had a hoe and walking stick with him, and a small bag or wallet with some apples.

   At Cheltenham, on the body of SARAH SALMON, who went to bed apparently in good health in the evening, and on the next morning, was found dead by her daughter and servant girl, who slept in the same room; no marks of violence appearing on the body, the Jury returned a verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Gretton, on the body of SUSANNAH PORTER, a child about six months old, who fell on the fire in the temporary absence of her mother, and was so dreadfully burnt as to cause her death the next day.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Winchcomb, on the body of ROBT. FISHER, who fell from a hay loft on the ground, and was so much injured in the head and body, as to cause his death in a few hours.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Newent, on the body of THOMAS STONE, mason, aged about 65 years, who, while at work at the house of  Mr Hollister, surgeon, of that place, suddenly fell on his back in the presence of those with whom he was at work, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

 

Nov 13.  MELANCHOLY CATASTROPHE.  On Wednesday se’nnight, as Mr J STEPHENS, of Aylburton, was in the act of going into his stables, one of the cart horses suddenly kicked the door, which sprung back and struck him such a violent blow on the temple, that he fell with the back part of his head upon some rough stones, which caused a concussion of the brain; and altho’ medical aid was immediately at hand, and every means used, he expired about three o’clock the same evening.  He was much beloved and respected by all who knew him.  An inquest was held before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner, and a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

   On Monday last, a fatal accident, arising from incautious use of firearms, took place at Beckford, in this county.  Two brothers named WILLIAM COLLEY, aged 15, and JOHN, aged 11, were out for the purpose of shooting small birds, when as the latter was handing the gun to his brother, the piece went off and the entire contents were lodged in the breast of William, who was killed upon the spot.  An inquest was held on the body the following day before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

 

Nov 20.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before Wm Trigg, Esq. Coroner.  At Chalford Hill, on the body of CHARLES MASON, who was found dead on the floor of his house.  Circumstances transpired which induced the jury to believe that his wife had suffered the body to remain there some time, to afford her an opportunity of removing some goods.  A minute investigation took place.  At Rodborough, on the body of THOMAS BUSHELL, a pensioner, who died suddenly from mortification of the legs, which had long been diseased in consequence of the bite of a centipede, when serving abroad.  At Painswick, on the body of JAMES WOOD, a pauper, who was found dead in his lodgings.  Verdict, in each of the above cases, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Painswick, on the body of JAMES GOLDING, a chaise driver, who fell from his horse, when in a state of intoxication, and was run over by the wheel of a van.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Dec 4.  INQUESTS.  Taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.   At Cheltenham, on view of the body of ALFRED WILLIAMS, aged about three years, and at Westbury, on the body of GEO. BRABANT, about five years old; it appeared, their clothes caught fire, during the temporary absence of their parents, and they were both so much burnt, as to occasion their deaths in a very short time.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   At the County Prison, on the body of ROBERT HOWES, aged 21, who died from an affection of the chest.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At the South Hamlet, on the body of WM. BURION, aged 55, who was found dead in a lime kiln, near Lanthony, in the South Hamlet; the deceased had been in the habit of lying on the likn at night for many weeks past; on Saturday morning last, on the return of the workmen from breakfast, they found the deceased lying on the kiln dead; the right side of deceased was a little burnt, as it is supposed from the heat of the kiln.  No evidence appearing as to the real cause of his death, the Jury returned a verdict, Found Dead.

   At Cheltenham, on the body of Mr THOS. BISHOP, tailor, who shot himself with a loaded gun: the deceased on Momnday had spent the evening at an Inn, and on his return home, he went down to the kitchen when he loaded his gun, leaving the shot belt and powder horn on the dresser, came uptairs, went into his garden, and discharged the contents of his gun into his stomach and bowels, from which he almost instantly expired.  Circumstances appeared in evidence which satisfied the minds of the Jury, who, without hesitation, returned a verdict of Lunacy.  The deceased was much respected by those with whom he was acquainted.

   A melancholy instance of the fatal effects resulting from the incautious use of firearms occurred at Breadstone, in this county, on Wednesday last.  Some young men in the neighbourhood had been amusing themselves by firing at pigeons, and had afterwards gone into a beer shop, at Breadstone, for refreshment, and the guns were placed in a corner of the room.  During the evening a discussion arose as to the possibility of a percussion cap blowing out a candle, and a young man, named BENDALL, took up one of the guns, which he considered not to be loaded, and, placing the muzzle near the candle, fired it off, when the whole of the charge entered the groin of a young man, named DAVID KING, a carpenter of Berkeley, who lingered in a sad state till Sunday morning, when he died.   An inquest has since been held before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner, and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

INQUESTS.

Held last week before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner.  At Aylburton, on EDWARD HADDOCK, found in dying state in his house, which he had entered but a few minutes before in perfect health.  Verdict, Died by the sudden visitation of God.

   At Acton Turville, on MARY ANN NEWMAN, aged six years, burnt to death in the temporary absence of her mother.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Dec 11.  On Wednesday night, Mr WM. RUMLEY, Jun. pilot of Pill, having taken the Ebenezer, West Indiaman, down Channel, when off Lundy was about to quit her, and, in attempting to get on board his own skiff, unfortunately fell between her and the ship, and was drowned.

 

Dec 18.

Dec 25.   

 

1831, Gloucester Journal.

 

Jan 1.  INQUESTS.  Lately held before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner.   At Clifton, on EMMA SIBLEY, aged four years, burnt to death by her clothes taking fire during the temporary absence of her mother.  At Aylburton, on HENRY PARRY, aged six years, and at North Nibley, on WILLIAM BURNETT, aged four years, whose deaths were occasioned by a like accident.  At Kingswood, on SAMUEL MONKS, killed by falling down a coal pit.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Stapleton, on  ROBERT HARDING, found in a cellar in a dying state; and at Alvestone, on JOHN INGRAM, who died suddenly immediately after sliding on a pool of ice.  Verdicts, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Huntley Hill, on the body of ELIZA GREEN, aged about four and a half years, who in consequence of her clothes catching fire in the absence of her parents, was so much burnt as to cause her death in a few hours.  At the Infirmary, on the body of COMFORT BALDWIN, late of Tibberton, aged about five years, who met her death under similar circumstances.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

   At Cheltenham, on the body of ELIZABETH  BRUNSDON, aged about forty years, who was found drowned in a brook near Pittville Spa.  The body when found was immediately taken to the Dispensary, where every effort was used to restore animation, but without effect.  No evidence appearing to show how she became drowned, and no marks of violence appearing on her body, the Jury returned a verdict Found Drowned.  The deceased had been an out-patient at the Dispensary for nearly twelve months.

   At Barton, Temple Guiting, on the body of Mr WILLIAM WOOD, aged about 75 years; the deceased, on the evening before his death, went to bed cheerful and in apparent good health, and, the next morning, was found dead in his bed.  The deceased was much respected by all who knew him.  At Cheltenham, on the body of EZRA WELLES, aged about 75 years, who suddenly fell down on the floor in his room at the alm’s-house, and instantly expired.  At the County Prison, on the body of WILLIAM KELLY, aged about 50 years, a prisoner for debt.  At Cheltenham, on the body of RICHARD NIGHTINGALE, aged 65, who died suddenly.  Verdict in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Jan 8.  INQUESTS,  Lately taken before W Trigg, Esq. Coroner.  On the 31st ult. at Frampton upon Severn, on the body of PATIENCE KNIPE, who was found hanging to the tester of her bed.  Verdict, Insanity.

   On Monday, at Stroud Vatch Mill, on the body of GEO. ALEXANDER, who was sliding upon a mill pond, when the ice gave way, and five persons were immersed in the water, of whom four were saved, but the deceased was unfortunately drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Stonehouse, on the body of WM. STEPHEN SMITH, who dropped down and in a fit whilst ringing hand bells, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Jan 15.

 

Jan 22.  DREADFUL OCCURRENCE.  Early on Wednesday morning, as Mr BENNETT, son of Mrs BENNETT, of the New House, Tormarton, in this county, was returning from Chipping Sodbury, he rode against a waggon, when the horse was thrown down, and Mr Bennett received so much injury that he died in a few hours after the accident.

   On Tuesday last, an inquest was held, before S Charleton, Esq. coroner for this city, on the body of CHARLES PAUL, a poor itinerant black, who fell down in a lodging house, in Leather-bottle lane, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

INQUESTS.  Taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Hinton on the Green, on the body of THOS. HARRIS, aged about 34 years, who shot himself with a gun in the mill house of his father; the deceased had been for a considerable time in a very low and desponding state.  Verdict, Lunacy.

   At the County Prison, on the body of CHARLES BROWNING, aged about 30 years, who died of a dropsy; and also on the body of BENJAMIN BAYLIS, aged 31, who died of the small pox.  [both buried St Nicholas, 22 Jan.]  Verdict in each case, Died by the visitation of God.

   At English Bicknor, on the body of TIMOTHY LERIGO, aged about 18 years, who was killed in consequence of a gun bursting while in the act of firing it off; the breeching entered his forehead and lodged in the very back part of his brain, a large quantity of the cerebral mass protruding, from which dreadful injury he died in a few hours.  At Staunton, on the body of JOHN BROWN, aged about four years, whose clothes caught fire while in the act of taking water from a tea kettle, from which he was so much burnt as to cause his death the next day  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

   At Hartpury, on the body of JOHN PHELPS, aged abiut six years, who fell on the floor in the house of his father, Mr JAS. PHELPS, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

   The following have lately been taken before W Trigg, Esq. Coroner:  At Horsley Prison, on the body of THOS. WEBB, aged 73, who died suddenly.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God. 

   At Stonehouse, on the body of ENOCH CRITCHLEY, who hanged himself in his own apartment in the Poor House.  Verdict, Felo de se.

   At Rodborough, on SUSAN MORGAN, five years old, who was burnt to death by her clothes catching fire in the absence of her parents.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Woodchester, on  RICHARD WOODWARD, an aged man, who died instantaneously from a spasmodic affection of the heart.  Verdict, Sudden Death.

   At Rodborough, on JOHN COX, a weaver, who died in consequence of injuries sustained by falling down stairs, at the manufactory of Messrs Lewis and Co. of Brimscombe.  At Horsley, on SAMUEL BARNES, aged three years, who unfortunately swallowed a portion of pigs’ fry from a pan over the fire, whereby such injury was done to the throat and stomach, that he died soon after in great agony.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

 

Jan 29.  Early on Wednesday morning last, the body of Mr JOHN LINTON, many years resident, and well known here, was found dead in a small brook or ditch, in the out hamlet of Barton St Mary, near this city.  At the place where the body was found lying on its face, the water was very few inches deep, hardly enough to occasion suffocation.  The deceased was known to have gone to Whaddon and Tuffley the preceding evening, where he had partaken, but it would seem not immoderately, of cider and beer.  An inquest was held on the body before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when, as no marks of violence appeared, nor any evidence of the circumstances under which he met with his death, the jury returned a verdict of Found drowned.  The deceased was about 84 years of age, of very singular and eccentric habits, and died in possession of considerable property.

   An inquest was this week held before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, in the Forest of Dean, on the body of WILLIAM GRINDALL, aged 63, who was at work close to the edge of a stone quarry, whereby he was so much injured as to cause his death in a few days.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   Last week, as some workmen were employed in getting stone near the road leading from Coleford to Lydney, and nearly opposite the farm house of Mr CONSTANT, they discovered, about two feet below the surface of the ground, the skeleton of a human being, in length five feet two inches, lying upon its back.  The mysterious circumstance excites much interest in the neighbourhood, and strong suspicion is entertained that it was the body of some person who had been murdered and buried there.

 

Feb 26.

Mar 5.

 

Mar 12.  CHILD LOST.  On Wednesday last, a little boy named WILLIAM SAWE, about nine years of age, strayed from the National School in this city, and has not since been heard of.  His parents reside at Over, near this city, and they are in great distress on account of the loss of their child; any person therefore who can give any information upon the subject, will afford great relief by communicating the same to JOSEPH DAWE, bricklayer, Over, near Gloucester.  He had on a blue gingham pinafore, and is rather intelligent for his age.  He can write his name, and reads tolerably well.

 

Mar 26.  Amongst various inquests which have lately been taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, we find the following:  At Cheltenham, on the body of JOHN MILES, who hanged himself to the tester of his bed.  The deceased formerly kept the Kings Arms public house, in this city, and had lately been much depressed owing to pecuniary and domestic misfortunes.  At Hasfield, on the body of ANN BIRD, aged about 63, who in a fit of temporary insanity drowned herself in a ditch, adjoining the house where she resided.  At Prestbury Park, on the body of JAMES NORGROVE, aged 22, who hanged himself in a tallet.  The deceased had long shown symptoms of decided insanity.  A verdict of Lunacy was given in each case.

   WILLIAM CREED, Verdict of Wilful Murder [WJE] against BENJAMIN ROBBINS, and others; committed.

 

Apr 2.  DREADFUL ACCIDENT.  On Monday last, as a coach loaded inside and out with persons, who had been attending at Hereford Assizes as witnesses in the Leachlade-bridge cause, was on its return from this city to Cirencester, whilst descending a hill, about three miles from the latter place, the pole broke and the vehicle was completely turned over.  There were seventeen or eighteen passengers, and the consequences were truly dreadful.  One man was so shockingly hurt that he expired shortly afterwards, and two others were so much injured that they now lie a Cirencester in a hopeless state.  Only two of the passengers escaped unhurt, one of whom was an old man upwards of ninety years of age.

   As Mr I. NEWTON, of Bristol, was driving in a four wheel chaise from Stapleton, on Monday week, about two o’clock, the breeching of the harness broke, when the horse ran away; Mr Newton, we regret to say, was thrown out, and his skull fractured; he lingered till Tuesday, when he expired.

 

Apr 9.  Trial of BENJAMIN ROBBINS for the murder of WILLIAM CREED, Assistant gamekeep; witness his brother THOMAS CREED.

 

Apr 16.

Apr 23.

 

Apr 30.  A very shocking accident occurred at a colliery at Soundwell, near Downend, on Thursday last, to a man named JOSEPH CAMBRIDGE, who whilst drawing a cart of coals to the landing at the pit’s mouth, lost his balance and fell headlong down the pit, a depth of 270 yards.  WE need not say he was instantaneously killed.  His body was divided in two, and presented a dreadfully mangled appearance.  An inquest was held before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

SHOCKING SUICIDE.

An inquest was this week held at Guiting, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of SARAH BELCHER, aged about 36 years, who destroyed herself by taking arsenic mixed in beer.  The deceased was wife of GEO. BELCHER, carter, of that parish, and had four children.  On Friday the 19th instant, she sent her second son, about nine years of age, to a druggist’s shop in the parish, for an ounce of arsenic, in the name of a farmer’s wife, for the alleged purpose of destroying rats and mice.  The shopkeeper, not suspecting the deceit, gave the boy the arsenic, and desired him to be careful for it was poison, and watched him going towards the house in which the person resided in whose name it was obtained; but instead of going there, he was met by his mother, who took it from him.  She afterwards sent the same boy to a neighbour to beg some beer, which he obtained and took to his mother, who mixed the arsenic in it, and gave three of her children to drink, and sent for the other, her eldest, who was at play, to partake of the same, but the boy not going home as requested escaped the portion allotted for him.  She and her three children in a short time became ill, when a neighbour calling in and seeing their dreadful situation, medical assistance was obtained as soon as possible.  Every effort was made to restore her but without effect and she died on the 24th instant.  The second boy is still in a very dangerous state from the effects of the poison; the two younger children are recovering fast.  A very patient investigation took place, and the jury, from the evidence given , found a verdict of Felo de se.  It is but justice to the clergyman of the parish, the Rev. Mr BOWEN, to observe, that every attention was paid by him to the situation of the miserable woman.

 

May 7.

 

May 14.  On Tuesday, as a poor man of the name of BAILLIE, residing in the Hotwell road, in the employ of Mr SPENCER, hallier, was returning with his master’s team from the country to Bristol, he unfortunately fell down in the road, and the wheel of the waggon passing over his head crushed it to atoms.  He was a sober industrious man, and has left a wife and four small children totally unprovided for, who were entirely dependent upon him for support.

   On Monday last, being Tockington Fair, a number of persons, to the amount of forty, were assembled in the evening at a retail beer shop, in the village, where they were drinking and dancing till eleven o’clock, when the landlord refused to draw more beer, and turned them out into the street.  A quarrel then arose between two of the party, and having agreed to fight, they went into a neighbouring field for that purpose, where they fought for more than an hour.  One of them, named JAMES BRYANT, struck the other, WILLIAM DIBBEN, a violent blow of the head, which knocked him down, and he became speechless and insensible, and died almost immediately after.  An inquest was held before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. and a verdict of Manslaughter against James Bryant was returned.

COMMITMENTS;  JAMES BRYANT.

SUSPECTED CHILD MURDER.  A servant girl residing in Mr Holborow’s Farm, at Tresham, in this county, had been suspected for some time past to be pregnant, but which she positively denied.  On Sunday and Monday last, she was very ill, and confined to her bedroom; and circumstances having arisen to increase the suspicion that she had delivered herself, a search was made, and the body of a fine child found in a dark closet under the stairs.  An investigation took place before WJ Ellis, Esq. one of the coroners of this county, and a respectable jury, when a verdict of Wilful Murder was returned against the mother, who stands committed to our County Gaol for trial at the next Assizes.  [see May 21.]

 

May 21.  The election of a Coroner for this county, in the room of Wm Trigg, Esq. deceased, takes place on Monday next.  There are four candidates in the field, whose addresses will be found in another part of the paper, and as each appears confident of success, a sharp struggle may be anticipated.

COMMITMENTS; MARY MARSH.

 

May 28.  We regret to state, that a melancholy and fatal accident occurred yesterday morning, at Gatcombe Park, in this county.  As the only son of DAVID RICARDO, Esq. a youth between five and six years of age, was taking his usual exercise in the park, with a servant attending him, the pony on which he was riding suddenly turned round in the direction of the stable, and threw the unfortunate young gentleman with such violence on his head, as to occasion his death in two hours afterwards.  Mr & Mrs Ricardo, who were on a visit to Bath, returned home in the course of the night, and their feelings on their arrival may be more readily imagined than described.

 

Jun 4.  FATAL OUTRAGE.  On Tuesday last, an inquest was taken at the Dog, at Over, near this city, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of JAMES TERRETT, who met with his death under the following circumstances.  It appeared, in evidence, that a party of freeholders were starting by coach, on their return home from the election of a Coroner; and that several persons, who were not voters and did not belong to the company, invited themselves on the coach.  On their arrival at the Dog at Over, Mr M BENNETT, insisted on the strangers leaving the coach.  One of them, named THOMAS WINTLE, objected, when Mr Bennett took hold of him by the coat and he was removed, but without any great violence.  Wintle then wanted to pull Bennett off and attempted to take hold of his leg, and the latter, in endeavouring to prevent Wintle laying hold of him, kicked him on the head.  Wintle then went to a heap of stones by the roadside, picked up a quantity and threw them at the passengers on the coach; he followed the coach a considerable distance, and continued throwing, tho’ repratedly cautioned not to do so.  One passenger was struck on the head and seriously hurt; another, the deceased, received a blow on the neck and immediately fell back senseless.  A passenger then got off and pursued Wintle for some distace, who pulled out his knife, and swore he would kill him; he was however knocked down with a stick and secured.  A surgeon who examined the head of the deceased, was of opinion, his death was occasioned by the blow under the ear which ruptured the left internal jugular vein.  After a very patient investigation, the jury returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against Thomas Wintle: the offender, however, has for the present evaded the power of the law, having contrived to effect his escape from the constable of English Bicknor, in whose custody he had bee placed to await the result of the inquest.

   On Saturday, an inquest was taken, in the parish of Newland, on view of the body of MARY HART, a servant in the family of WM SIMMONDS, farmer, of Wyeseal, whose death was occasioned by taking poison.  After a minute investigation of all the circumstances, the Jury being satisfied that she took the poison herself, without the interference of any other person, returned a verdict of Felo de se.

 

Jun 11.  INQUEST.  Taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.   On Thursday, at Rodborough, on KERRENHAPPUCH SMITH, a child about four years of age, who was killed by a sledge or dray, used in conveying stone, falling on her head.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  Deodand, one shilling.

   An inquest was held at Old Sodbury, on Sunday last, before WJ Ellis, Esq. and a very respectable jury, on a young woman named SARAH LIGHT, aged about 21, who died in consequence of having taken a deleterious mixture for the purpose of procuring abortion.  After a long and painful investigation, (the father, who is quite blind, being a principal evidence,) the jury returned a verdict of Felo de se, and the Coroner thereupon issued his warrant for her private interment, without any of the rites of christian burial.

 

Jun 18.  At Tewekesbury market, on Wednesday last, a quarrel took place between Mr WILLIAM HUMPIDGE, son of a most respectable farmer, at Chaceley, and Mr THOMAS WHITE, a butcher, of the same village; they adjourned into a neighbouring meadow to fight, when the former received so much injury, that he was carried into the town, where he expired in the afternoon of yesterday.

MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT.

A fatal accident occurred in this city on Saturday afternon, attended with rather peculiar circumstances.  A boy, about eleven years of age, son of Mr CRADDOCK, fish monger, with a companion of nearly the same age, went down to our canal basin, where they were amusing themselves by getting in and out of a boat, which was moored close to the wharf wall.  They had been thus occupied for some little time, when Craddock made an unfortunate attempt again to get into the boat, but the vessel veering off from under his feet, the poor little fellow slipped into the water and sank to the bottom.  His companion, who was on the wharf and witnessed the accident, had not presence of mind enough to call for assistance, although there were numbers of persons close at hand, but, frightened out of his wits, ran home, and did not communicate even to his own family what had happened.  Craddock’s parents were naturally much alarmed at the absence of their son, and caused search to be made for him in various directions during the whole of Saturday night; it was not, however, till nearly eight o’clock on the following morning that they heard in whose company he had last been seen; and on his playmate being questioned, he at once said he had fallen into the basin, and on being taken down pointed at the fatal spot.  A drag was instantly procured, and in a few minutes the body was brought up.  An inquest was held on Monday, before S JONES, Esq. Coroner for the city, when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

 

Jun 25.  INQUESTS.  Taken lately before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At the County Prison, on the body of HENRY CRATCHLEY, a prisoner, who died of  congestion of the brain.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God. [Bur. St Nicholas 4 Jun.]

   At the Infirmary, on the body of MARY ANN LANE, aged about ten years, who, on Tuesday last, was so much burnt in consequence of her clothes catching fire while in the act of taking a small pot from off the fire, as to cause her death in a few hours.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Cheltenham, on the body of Mrs ANN KELLY, aged about sixty years, who was found dead in bed at her lodgings in High street, on Wednesday morning last.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Jul 2.  Late on Satuday night last, a waterman, named WM. MATTHEWS, was apprehended in this city on a charge of felony, but contrived to escape from the officer who had him in custody.  As his haunts, however, were well known, a lookout was kept for him, and between one and two o’clock on Sunday morning he was seen approaching the Basin. On finding he was watched, Matthews turned round and fled; and being closely pursued took the desperate step of jumping into the Severn, and in the darkness of the night his pursuers lost sight of him.  On examining the bank at daybreak, it was supposed, from some marks, that he had scrambled out and effected his escape.  Such, however, did not turn out to be the case, as his body was found floating yesterday morning some distance below where he had plunged into the river.  An inquest was held on the body before John Cooke, Esq. when a verdict was returned that he was drowned in attempting to escape from justice.

DEATH BY DROWNING.

At the early hour of three o’clock on Sunday morning, a young man named ROBERT WIGGINS, aged 20, went to bathe in the lake at Pittville, Cheltenham, with several of his companions.  Having got out of his depth, and entangled in some weeds, he was drowned.  After his associates had exerted themselves for more than an hour, the body was taken out of the water, and immediately removed to the Casualty Hospital, where every effort was made to restore animation, but in vain.

 

Jul 9.  Tewkesbury Quarter Sessions.  At the Tewkesbury  Quarter Sessions, on the 1st instant ... a bill of indictment was preferred against THOMAS WHITE, ISAAC NIND,  and EDWARD STAITE, for manslaughter, but it was not found by the grand jury. They were then arraigned on the Coroner’s inquest, but no evidence being offered, a verdict of Not Guilty followed of course. 

INQUESTS.  Taken by John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Hidcoat, on the body of THOMAS WAKEFIELD, who was killed under the following circumstances.  The deceased had just come into the kitchen of his master, - FREEMAN, Esq. to breakfast, and observed to his fellow servat, JOHN GARDNER, that a number of rooks were in the cherry orchard, and told him to take his gun and have a shot.  Gardner took the gun, and on examining it, said there was no cap (being a percussion lock) on it, and was about to put it into the gunrack, when it went off and lodged the contents in the breast of the deceased.  Every attention was paid deceased by Mr Smith, surgeon of Mickleton, but without effect: he died the next day.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At the County Prison, on the body of WM. DEACOCK, aged 27 years, who died of a dropsy.  At Gorsley, on the body of MARY HART, aged 71 years, who was found dead in bed; her husband had not left her more than two hours, as he thought asleep.  Verdicts, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Norton, on the body of HENRY STEEL, aged about five weeks, natural son of HESTER STEEL.  It was thought by many persons in the parish that the child had not been properly attended to, and the  Clergyman refused to bury the body until an inquest had been taken.  After a patient investigation, and the body being examined by Mr JP Heane, surgeon, who deposed that the child died a natural death, the jury returned a verdict accordingly.

   At Swindon, on the body of ELIZ. INGRAM, aged about 38 years.  The deceased had been at Cheltenham on the evening of Monday, and was returning home between seven and eight o’clock, apparently in good health, and walking fast.  She passed two young men on the road, and at a distance of not more than four or five yards, fell backwards, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

INQUESTS.  Taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.   Lately at Cheltenham, (in the absence of Mr Cooke,) on ELEANOR WELLS, who was found dead in her bed.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   On Wednesday last, at Ebley, on HENRY GRIMES, aged 24, who was unfortunately drowned whilst bathing in the Stroudwater Canal.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  This valuable life appears to have been lost through the want of presence of mind in persons around, not less than ten or twelve having been very near at the time of the accident: they were however so paralysed by fear as to be unable to offer any assistance.  It is much to be regretted that persons should be suffered to bathe in the Canal, and it is said that means will be taken to prevent it.

   An inquest has been held at Chipping Sodbury on the body of JOHN RUSSELL, carrier, of that place, whose death was occasioned by a fall which fractured his skull.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 16.  INQUESTS.  Taken this week before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At the South Hamlet, on view of the body of SAMUEL BLAMEY, a currier, who was found drowned in the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal; no evidence appeared to show how or by what means he met with his death, and no marks of violence appearing on the body, the jury returned a verdict Found Drowned.

   At the hamlet of Littleworth, on the body of RICHARD EDWARDS, aged nearly 80 years, who died suddenly at a lodging house; the overseers of the hamlet, previous to his death, sent to Mr Wm Wilton, surgeon, who attended him, but he died in a few hours afterwards;  at Longborough, near Stow, on the body of MARY HALL, a girl aged about nine years: the deceased was at play near the road in the parish, and seeing a gentleman coming, ran with her playmate to open a gate, and when within two or three feet of it, fell and instantly expired.  Verdict in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Jul 23.

 

Jul 30.   On Monday last A MAN UNKNOWN was found dead, in a sitting posture, in a field in the parish of Dryffield, near the road leading from Cirencester to Cricklade; he was about 5 ft. 7 in. high, selnder made, apparently between 30 and 40 years of age.  From his general appearance, and having drawing pencils about him, he is supposed to be CHARLES JOHNSON, a strolling player and scene painter.  An inquest was held on Tuesday, before Jos Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  Verdict, Found Dead.  No marks of violence appeared on his person.

INQUESTS.  Taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At the County Prison, on the body of ABRAHAM TYLER [bur. St Nicholas 25 Jul.], aged about 73 years, whose death was occasioned by a pulmonary complaint.  At Cheltenham, on the body of ANN HENLEY, aged about 74, who died in the bedroom of her dwelling house.  Also at Cheltenham, on the body of AMELIA HEALING, an infant, aged about seven months.  A report had been circulated that her death was brought on by starvation, but after a patient investigation of several hours, the surgeon, Mr Eves, who attended, and opened and minutely examined the body, was firmly of opinion that the deceased died from inflammation on the lungs.  Verdict, in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Aug 6.  A very melancholy and fatal accident occurred at Berkeley, on Saturday last, to Mr JOHN SMITH, solicitor.  He had been to the Severn, at Purton Passage, for a drive, with a young gentleman named PATON, in a one horse phaeton, and was on his return when the horse became unmanageable, and ran away, and when nearly opposite Mr Smith’s house, he was violently thrown out of the carriage on his head and received a violent concussion.  It is supposed he was standing up in the carriage endeavouring to pull up the horse, and that the white leather rein breaking, the shock threw him out, as the rein was picked up separated on each side of the buckle hole.  He was a gentleman much respected and beloved for his kind and obliging manners and disposition, and his death is universally regertted.  He was about thirty years of age.  Master Paton, the young gentleman who was with him, had the presence of mind to get out at the back of the carriage, and tho’ he received considerable injury, is, we are happy to say, now out of danger.

   A fatal accident, arising from the incautious use of poison, occurred at Tidenham last week, to a child named ELIZA HOPKINS, aged about nine years, which was out in the fields with a little sister, when they found a glass bottle containing a small quantity of liquid, which the eldest drank.  She was immediately taken very ill, and lingered for some days when she died.  The bottle contained a preparation of mercury for anointing sheep, and had been left there by the shepherd after using it.

INQUESTS.  Have been taken during the last week before  WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner.  At Stoke, on ELIZA LANGWORTHY, whose death was occasioned by falling into a tub of boiling wort; she survived but a few hours.  At Purton, on CHARLOTTE KINGSCOTE, a child about three years of age, who wandered from the house and fell into the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal and was drowned; at Frampton Cotterell, on SHADRACH NICHOLLS, a young man of twenty, who was drowned whilst bathing in a millpond; and, at Stapleton, on JOHN SOLES, drowned in the river Froom whilst bathing.  Verdicts, in each case, Accidental Death.

INQUESTS.  Taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  On the 27th ult. at Forest Green, on the body of WILLIAM WEBB.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   And on Friday, at Saul, on the body of A WOMAN UNKNOWN, who was found in a ditch between Frampton upon Severn and Framilode.  In her pockets, two small tin boxes, a few pense in copper, a steel and a short pipe, were found.  On one arm about the elbow the letters WP were marked, and on the other, two flowers, in a manner similar to the marks often seen on sailors; and there was a mark of an old scar on her forehead.  No marks of violence appeared, nor was any evidence offered to prove who she was.  Verdict, Found Drowned.

 

Aug 13.  OBITUARY.  1st.  ... Same day, at Old Sodbury, in this county, Mr JOHN CARTLEDGE, officer of Excise, aged 65; his death was awfully sudden; he dropped down while driving his cattle, and expired immediately.

ASSIZES.  [Re MARY MARSH]   There is one case of murder also, and that is a case of child murder.  You will have to enquire more particularly, whether or no the child was born alive.  I have not any means of judging how far the evidence will go on that subject, for on looking into the depositions, I find that the medical gentleman merely says, that, in his opinion, the child was born alive, without giving his reason for arriving at that conclusion; and therefore I cannot judge whether he may be justified in his impression or not.  If, upon the evidence, you are not satisfied that the child was born alive, you will quash the bill for murder, and have another bill prepared.

 

Aug 20.  ASSIZES.  Eighteen Months: MARY MARSH, for concealing the birth of her male bastard child, at Hawkesbury.  [see below]

CITY CALENDAR.   JAMES BRYANT, aged 19, was indicted for the manslaughter of WILLIAM DIBBEN, at Olveston.  The prisoner and the deceased, on the 9th of May last, had been in company together at a public house, where, in the evening, there was a dance, &c. on the occasion of Tytherington fair.  They quarrelled, and were turned out of the house by the landlord.  The deceased challenged the prisoner to fight, and having went into a field nearby, they stripped and set to, though the prisoner was reluctant to begin.  After several rounds the prisoner proposed to give in, but the deceased objected, and they continued the fight till about the 20th round, when the deceased received a blow from the prisoner which pushed him against the wall.  His head was hurt by the concussion, and he shortly afterwards died.  Verdict, Guilty.  The indictment having described the death as being caused by a blow, which pushed the deceased on the ground, the Learned Judge had some doubt whether the charge was sustained by the proof that the death was caused by a pushing against a wall.  His Lordship did not, however, think it worth while to reserve the point.  The case not being one of an aggravated nature, the prisoner, who had been confined already for about three months, was sentenced to only a week’s imprisonment.

   MARY MARSH was indicted for concealing the birth of a male child of which she had been delivered in May last.  The prisoner had been in service in the parish of Hawkesbury, and had been taxed by several persons with being in the family way.  She denied the fact, but all surmises on the subject were, after some time, put an end to, by the discovery of the dead body of an infant wrapped in an apron, and placed in a closet close to the prisoner’s room.  There was some reason to think that the child had been born alive, and a bill was preferred charging the prisoner with the murder of the infant.  The Grand Jury, however, threw out the bill, and the present indictment was then preferred.  The jury having, without hesitation, found a verdict of guilty, the Learned Judge addressed the prisoner on the serious nature of her offence, and observed upon the criminality of young women in her situation attempting to conceal matters of this kind.  To deter others from the commission of similar offences, it was necessary to inflict severe punishment, and the sentence of the court therefore was, that she be imprisoned and kept to hard labour for eighteen months.

INQUESTS.  Taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Saul, on the body of ELIZABETH SUMMERHILL, aged seven, and SELINA SUMMERHILL, aged two years, who were drowned in the Stroud Canal.   At Brockthrup, on the body of THOS. WHITE, aged about 55 years, who was found drowned in a pool of water; no marks of violence appearing in either case, and no evidence to show how or by what means they became drowned, a verdict was returned in each instance of Found Drowned.

   At Charlton Kings, on the body of JONAS FROSS, who killed himself by cutting his throat with a razor; the deceased had been a considerable time unwell, and confined to his room, and his illness had brought on a great debility of mind.  At Charlton Kings, on the body of ISAAC BANYARD, aged about 40 years, who hung himself in his bedroom; the deceased had been lately discharged from his service in Cheltenham, and went to Charlton Kings, to the Prince’s Arms public house, and requested a bed, which he obtained, but having remained in his bedroom till very late the next day, the landlady requested a person to go into his room when the deceased was found hanging from the tester of his bed.  It was proved to the satisfaction of the jury, that the deceased had for some time past laboured under derangement of mind.  Verdict in each case, Lunacy.

   At Littleworth, on the body of JOHN PREEDY, aged about 14 years, who was drowned in the river Severn on Sunday last; the deceased (with other boys) was bathing in the river, and attempting to swim across, when about the middle, he called for help, and a young man, named JAS. HOOPER, who was bathing at the same time, swam to his assistance, but the deceased clung round him so closely that he prevented his swimming, and they both sunk; having again separated, Hooper made a second attempt to save him at the risk of his own life, but without effect.   The jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

INQUESTS.  Recently taken by JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Kingstanley, on the body of RICHARD CLARKE, an old man whose wife was in the habit of going out as a nurse.  She had been absent from home for some weeks, and he was occupying a large house alone.  Not having been seen for two or three days, a gentleman residing near entered the house on Saturday, the 6th inst. by a bedroom window, and found him lying dead in the doorway leading from his chamber.  He was supposed to have been dead two days.  No marks of violence appeared on his body.  At Cainscross, on ROBERT COLE, who complained of sudden illness in the morning, and whilst his wife was down stairs preparing something for him, fell from his bed a corpse.   At Kingstanley, on JOHN FRANKLIN, who, while walking on the turnpike near to Stanley Mill, fell and died instantly.  At Nailsworth, on CHARLES HALL, who was found on Friday last lying by the side of the turnpike road, in the parish of Newington Bagpath, and near to the dwelling of the overseer, in a state of extreme debility.  He was sent towards his house in a cart, and having reached the village of Nailsworth, surgical assistance was called to him, but in vain; he was suffered to remain in the cart in the public street half an hour, speechless and insensible, and died there.  Verdict, in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.  And in the last case the Jury unanimously expressed their opinion, that the removal of the deceased in a cart, for the distance of four miles, was improper in the situation in which he was, and likely to hasten his death.  It appeared in evidence that he had but recently left the Infirmary at Gloucester, where he had been for some time; that he had been engaged to drive cattle from Lansdown fair, and was taken ill on the road; food was offered him immediately on his being discovered, but he expressed his inability to take it; he drank a little beer with great eagerness; a few pence were found in his pocket.

   In allusion to the last inquest, the Gloucester Chronicle publishes the following communication from a correspondent: “On Sunday morning, a coffin was sent down to Nailsworth by the parish officers, (that part of Nailsworth being in the parish of Horsley,) attended by four paupers, whose orders were to strip the corpse, put it in the coffin, carry it to, and leave it in the churchyard, and take the clothes to the assistant overseer.  The inhabitants of Nailsworth, seeing the shameful way the arrangements for the poor man’s funeral were conducted, felt highly indignant at this outrage upon decency, and immediately interfered.  They employed persons to attend to the usual preparations for the interment, who found the corpse in a room over the stables at the Clothier’s Arms, the clothes had been suffered to remain till it was necessary to cut them from the swollen body.  The coffin provided by the parish, was too short by nearly six inches, made of rotten beech board, the knots in the wood falling out, the apertures had been filled up with clay.  The paupers were about to strip the corpse, and place it in the coffon; shocked at such unfeeling contempt for the poor, and disregard of common decency, a subscription was speedily raised, a good new coffin made, shroud, pall, &c. provided, and about 130 respectable tradesmen and mechanics carried and attended the mortal remains to the grave.  Early on Monday morning, the parish coffin was nailed to the pole erected to commemmorate the peace, the lid placed across the top, with the words ”FOR SALE” inscribed thereon; to the amazement, no doubt, of the numerous passengers on the Bath, Bristol, Cheltenham, and  Birmingham coaches, which pass that way.  In the evening, the population assembled, and after amusing themselves for some time by shouting and throwing stones, they consigned it to the flames.”

 

Aug 27.  FATAL ACCIDENT.  A shocking accident occurred on Saturday last to the Traveller Bristol and Birmingham coach, on its way from this city from the former place.  As it was approaching Whitminster, the back seat or dickey suddenly gave way, by which three passengers, two men and a lady, who were sitting on it, were precipitated to the ground with fearful violence.  One of the men, named SMITH, of Berkeley, was so dreadfully injured as to survive only a short time.  The other was also much hurt, but was able to pursue his journey.  The lady had one of her ribs broken, and was otherwise bruised; she now lies at the Whitminster Inn.  An inquest was held upon the body of Smith, when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

 

Sep 3.  An inquest was this week held before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of WILLIAM HARE, lock keeper on the Stroud Canal, who was drowned in the Canal near Stonehouse; he is supposed to have fallen in during the night.  Verdict, Found drowned.

 

Sep 10.  Yesterday, an inquest was held at Littleworth, before John Cooke, Eq. Coroner, on the body of JOHN HARRIS, aged about 36 years, who was found drowned in the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal.  The deceased, who had been missing from Saturday night, and was well known in this city, was met by a professional man late on Saturday night last, in company with a man named SPRING, when he asked him to give him half a pint of beer - the gentleman went with deceased and Spring to one of two public houses, to procure some beer for them, but was refused on account of it being so late; he then gave Spring sixpence, and desired him to give the deceased three pence, which Spring did, and they then parted; three pence in halfpence was found in deceased’s pocket.  No marks of violence appearing on his body, and no evidence to shew how or by what means he became drowned, the Jurt returned a verdict of Found drowned.

   GARRAT WOLSH, master and owner of the schooner Dispatch, of Dungarvon, was found drowned on the sea shore, at Redwick, on the 27th ult.  He left his vessel at Newport on the 19th, about four o’clock in the morning, in a state of derangement, and was seen at Goldclift, six miles from Newport, about eight or nine o’clock at night, by two boys, walking down the clay at low water to the tide.  The boys, it appears, went after him for half a mile, and asked him where he was going, and if he was not coming back; he gave no answer - the boys watching him for some time, when it became so dark he was lost sight of.  An inquest has been held on the body.  Verdict - “Drowned himself in a fit of derangement.”

 

Sep 17.  INQUESTS.  Taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Bishops Cleeve, on view of the body of WILLIAM TURBERVILLE, aged about 70 years, who was found dead in a field called Windmill Fields; he had gone into the field for the purpose of reaping, and as no marks of violence appeared on his body, and no evidence to show how or by what means he came by his death, the Jury returned a verdict of Found Dead.

   At Willersey, on the body of JULIA ANN WESTMACOTE, aged about 65 years, who hung herself with her garters to the tester of her bed; she had for several years past been in a low desponding mind, and at times distracted: the Jury, without hesitation, returned a verdict of Lunacy.

   At Cheltenham, on the body of EMMA LEVERSUCH, aged about 13 years; the deceased was blowing a fire with a bellows in the house of her master, Mr HARFLETT, when her clothes caught fire; she was immediately taken to the Dispensary, and every assistance tendered her, but she was so deeadfully burnt as to cause her death in a few hours.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Newland, on the body of Mr BENJ. NICHOLSON, aged about 55 years, who hung herself with a halter to the bedpost in his bedroom; the deceased had been for some time much distracted in his mind, and was, for change of air and scene, on a visit to his brother, where every kindness was shown him.  The Jury being perfectly satisfied, from the evidence, of his insanity, returned a verdict accordingly.

   At Tuffley, on the body of THOMAS BEAMS, aged 53 years, carter to Mr JOHN LONG, of Whaddon; the deceased was on his return from Gloucester with a waggon and horses, in company with another team, and in attempting to get on the shafts of the waggon he slipped and fell to the ground, when the wheels, went over his head and killed him instantly.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Sep 24.  On Saturday last, the body of A NEW BORN FEMALE CHILD was found in a gentleman’s garden at Clifton, wrapt in an old petticoat.  A long  investigation took place before WJ Ellis, Esq. and a verdict returned of Wilful Murder against some person or persons unknown.

   An Inquest was lately taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner, at Stonehouse, on the body of A MAN UNKNOWN who was found drowned in a brook near the Stroud Canal.  He appeared to be about 60 years of age, was about 5 feet 9 inches high, and was dressed in a black coat, waistcoat and small clothes.  A walking stick, supposed to have belonged to him, was found near the spot; it was of yew tree turned with small grooves or rings round it, and is in the possession of the constable of Stonehouse.  The jury were unanimously of opinion, that very gross inattention was shown by persons accompanying a barge called the Fanny Kemble, who having seen the man in the water, proceeded past the place and onward down the canal at a very rapid rate, without stopping to render that assistance which they had such abundant means of doing.

 

Oct 1.

 

Oct 8.  Mr RICHARD MATTHEWS, a very respectable farmer of Tytherington, in this county, fell from a walnut tree as he was gathering the fruit on Friday last, and died in about two hours afterwards.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At the hamlet of Hucclecote, on the body of SAMUEL CLIPPER MOGG, who was found in a ditch in that hamlet.  The deceased had called at a cottage in the vicinity, about eight o’clock in the morning, and asked the woman of the house for a chair to sit down: the poor woman not having a chair to accommodate him, told him so, when he asked her to show him the way to the turnpike road, to whcih she readily consented, and proceeded with him a short distance, when it began to rain, and she returned back for her bonnet.  On her return, she had lost him, when on looking about, she discovered that he was fallen into a ditch, and that there were persons with him.  He was then insensible.  He was afterwards conveyed to the house of one of th overseers, and medical assistance procured, but he died in a few hours afterwards.  From the evidence produced and particularly  Mr Wm Wilton, the surgeon, who attended him, the jury without hesitation returned a verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

   At Cheltenham, on the body of JOHN SAUNDERS, who hung himself with a small cord in the staircase of his dwelling house.  The deceased, as it appeared in evidence, had been very much addicted to drinking, and had not been sober for several days before he committed the rash act; and it being satisfactorily proved that his mind had become deranged, the jury returned a verdict of Lunacy.

   At Childswickham, on the body of THOMAS HOLLOWAY, who was driving a stage waggon on the turnpike road, when he accidentally fell on the ground, when the near fore wheel came against his head and crushed it so violently as to fracture his skull.  He was taken to a house near, but died almost instantly.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Cheltenham, on the body of HANNAH KING, who was burnt to death.  The deceased washing at the house of ELIZ. DODWELL, and was stooping down to put some shavings which she had in her apron on the fire under the furnace, when her clothes caught fire and she was so much burnt as to cause her death in a few days.  The deceased was immediately taken to the Dispensary, where every care and attention were administered but without effect.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Cheltenham, on the body of A NEW BORN FEMALE CHILD found dead in the privy belonging to the house No. 3 Montpellier parade.  A female servant, named SARAH BURFORD, who resided on the premises, had long been suspected of being pregnant, and the evident illness of the young woman, combined with other appearances, led to the search which terminated in the discovery of the body.  A minute investigation, the particulars of which it is unnecessary to detail, took place, and the testimony of two very respectable medical men tending strongly to prove that the infant had never breathed, the jury returned a verdict of Stillborn.

   The following inquests were taken last week before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  On Monday, at Nailsworth, on ISAAC TEAKLE, who was gathering nuts in his own garden when the short ladder on which he was standing fell with him and he died in a few hours.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Stroud, on JAMES PRICE,  a waggoner in the employ of Mr WIDNEY, of that place, who was killed on the turnpike road between Painswick and Stroud by his master’s waggon passing over his body.  Verdict, Accidental Death; deodand 1s.

   At Minchinhampton, on WM. BIRT, who was thrown from his gig on Minchinhampton Common, and died on the morrow.  Verdict, Accidental Death; deodand 1s.

 

Oct 15.

 

Oct 22.          MELANCHOLY AND FATAL ACCIDENT.  As Major NEWENHAM, of Cheltenham, (formerly of this city,) was crossing the Bath road on Thursday evening, he was knocked down by a man on horseback, who came into contact with him while riding very fast in company with several others, who were returning from the fair.  The unfortunate gentleman was immediately carried home, and attended by our most eminent surgeons, but the injuries he received were of so serious a nature that he lingered till Sunday afternoon, when he expired.  An inquest was held on the body at the Exmouth Arms, on Tuesday, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, and a respectable Jury.  Verdict, Manslaughter against some person or persons unknown.  Great blame must be attached to any individual riding furiously in the vicinity of a populous town, and we much regret the party who caused the accident did not stay to render assistance to the deceased; his riding on taking no further notice, certainly displayed great want of feeling.  Mahor Newenham was connected with some of the first families in Ireland, and was not only well known, as the author of a celebrated book on the state of that country, but of several works on theology.  His profound erudition, sincere piety, active benevolence, and the practice of every social and domestic virtue, will justly endear his memory to his family, and to all who had enjoyed the happiness of his friendship or acquaintance.  

   A fatal accident occurred on Over Causeway, on Saturday last, whilst the Cavalry Races were going on in Portham.  A man named JAMES WILIAMS was exercising a horse from the city, when the animal took fright at a passing carriage and dashed forward at full speed, in spite of the utmost efforts of his rider to restrain him.  A poor fellow named EDWARD ROOKSBY, a groom in the emply of E. MADDY, Esq. of this city, was riding a horse of his master’s in the opposite direction, and the animal becoming a little restive at the sounds of the other’s rapid approach, could not be got out of the way in time to avoid a collision.  The consequence was, that Williams’s horse rushed with a tremendous surge against the side of Rooksby’s, and in an instant both horses and men were precipitated to the road with awful violence.  Both horses unfortunately fell on Rooksby, the back part of whose skull was dreadfully fractured, and who sustained such injury that he died almost immediately.  Williams’s horse was also so much hurt that he died in an hour or two afterwards.  On Monday an inquest was held before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on the body of Rooksby, when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.  He was a very industrious, civil, honest man, and has left a wife and one child in a state of utter destitution.  The misfortune of the widow is also greatly enhanced by the circumstance of her being so far davanced in pregnancy as to be in daily expectation of being confined.  Such a case could not fail to attract the attention of the benevolent, and we hear with pleasure that a subscription to alleviate this load of human suffering has already been commenced.  Should any contributions for this praiseworthy purpose be left at the Office of this Paper they shall be faithfully applied.  A subscription list is opened at the bank of Messrs Russell and Skey.

INQUESTS.  Taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.

At Minchinhampton, on the illegitimate male child of ELIZABETH COOPER, who was found dead in bed; at Stroud, on WM. GRIFFITHS, who died after a very short illness, and without medical assistance; at Bisley, on CAROLINE ANSLOE, otherwise TAYLOR, an illegitimate child a few weeks old, who died under circumstances which induced the parish authorities to direct an inquest.  Verdict in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.  In the last case, the Jury expressed their unanimous opinion, that the treatment of the child had been imporper, and that the mother’s conduct in leaving her the whole day, when dangerously ill, was most unfeeling and reprehensible.

 

Oct 29.  INQUEST.  On Thursday last, an inquest was taken before DM WALKER, Esq. Coroner for this city, on view of the body of HONET WOOTTON, wife of CHARLES WOOTTON, baker, who was found lying dead on her bed the day preceding.  After a minute investigation, the jury returned a verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

 

Nov 5.

 

Nov 12.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken by John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Winchcomb, on the body of ELIZABETH INNELL, aged about 66 years, who died suddenly in bed.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

   At Cheltenham, on the body of FRANCES WAITE, aged about 61 years, whose death was occasioned by her drinking a quantity of pot-ash, dissolved in water prepatory to its being used for washing.  After a minute investigation, the jury returned a verdict, that the deceased destroyed herself in a fit of temporary derangement.

  At Evington, on the body of JOSEPH WARD, a child,  aged a year and a half, who was killed in consequence of drinking boiling water from the spout of a tea kettle, in the momentary absence of his mother.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Oxenton, on the body of JAMES PEART, aged about 46.  The deceased was propping up the floor of  corn chamber, at Gotherington, when the prop he used, from being wet, slipped, and the floor fell upon him, which so injured the spine as to cause his death in a few days.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   In the Forest of Dean, on the body of MARY ANN DAVIS, aged about five years; she was attempting to remove a link on the sway, over the fire, in the absence of her parents, when her clothes caught fire, and she was so dreadfully burnt as to cause her death in a few hours.  Verdict Accidental Death.

   The following Inquests have lately been taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Weston Birt, on ROBERT WREN, who died suddenly in bed.  In the parish of Minchinhampton, on JANE NIBLETT, who died from the rupture of a blood vessel.  And on EDWARD LEDIARD, who was found lying dead before the fire in his own house, where he lived alone.  He appeared to have slipped from his chair while smoking, a short pipe was in his mouth when found.  Verdict, in each case, Died by the visitation of God.

BRISTOL RIOTS INQUESTS.

????? Nov 19.

 

Nov 26.

 

Dec 3.  INQUESTS.  Yesterday se’nnight an inquest was held at Cheltenham before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of HARRIET COX, aged 22, who was burnt to death the preceding day, in consequence of her clothes taking fire.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   Also, on the same day, by the same Coroner, on view of a child named ELIZA CLEWER, found under suspicious circumstances.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

   The following inquests have been taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Nailsworth, on CHAS. JOHN ROSSER, aged about four years; and at Bussage, in the parish of Bisley, on M.H. BIRD, about five years, who were burnt to death by their clothes taking fire.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

 

Dec 10.  INQUESTS.  Taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner:  at Ruscomb, on MARY WOOD, who was found lying dead by her husband, who had left her alone at home, a few hours before.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Stroud, on MATTHEW WEBB, aged about five years, who fell into a tub of wort, nearly boiling, and was so dreadfully scalded that he died the next morning.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

AWFUL INSTANCE OF SUDDEN DEATH.  On Friday last, a middle aged woman, named CHESTER GREENWELL, while walking down the High street, Cheltenham, fell suddenly on the pavement, near the gates of the New Burial Ground; and although she was immediately conveyed into a neighbouring shop, and medical assistance sent for, she expired in a few minutes.  An inquest was held on the following day, at the White Hart, before J Cooke, Esq. and a respectable jury.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Dec 17.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Alderton, on the body of MARY HARRISON, aged about ten years; having wetted her pinbefore, she stood so close to the fire to dry it, that it caught fire, and she was so much burnt as to cause her death in a few days.  At Twyning, on the body of SAMUEL BENNETT, aged about three years and a half, who, in the absence of his parents, took some fire from the kitchen for the purpose of making a bonfire, which communicated to his clothes, whereby he was so much burnt as to cause his death very shortly afterwards.  At Painswick, on the body of MARY ANN MUSTY, aged about seven years, who was washing her brother, a child about two years old, near the fire, when her clothes caught fire, and she was so dreadfully burnt that she died in about two hours,  And at Winchcomb, on the body of CHARLES SMITH, aged about four years and a half; the boy’s mother had put the tea kettle in the corner of the fire place, and turned to another part of the room, when the deceased drank from the kettle, which caused his death in a few days.  At Alderton, on the body of ANN GRIZZLE, aged about seventy-eight years; and, at Hartpury, on the body of STEPHEN MORGAN, aged about seventy years; both found dead in bed.  Verdicts, Died by the Visitation of God.

INQUESTS.  Taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Painswick, on MARY ANN MUSTY, a child under seven years of age, whose clothes took fire, (and having been locked in the house with a younger child by the mother, who was absent, she could not get out of the house,) and was burnt to death.  At Tetbury, on  THOS. NEALE, a brewer in the employ of Mr Cooke, who fell through a trap door in the brewery, fractured his skull, and died instantly.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death. 

 

Dec 24.  Thornbury, assault gamekeepers.  GEO. WEBB, assistant keeper - WJE Coroner; also mentions assault on WM. JONES, Asst. keeper.  Pearce? esc.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner.  At Owlpen, on A NEW BORN MALE CHILD found dead.  After a full investigation, the jury returned a verdict of Natural Death.

   At the New Passage, on GEORGE DYER, an old man who lived in a house by himself, and his neighbours becoming alarmed at his windows being closed, broke in and found him dead on his bed.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God. 

   And, at Frampton on Severn, on THOMAS GODSELL, who was killed by the branches of an elm tree, which was being felled, striking him with such violence as to cause instant death.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   An inquest was held at Tewkesbury, on Saturday last, before B HOLLAND, Esq. coroner for this borough, on view of the body of ROBERT FLETCHER, a smith, who was found early the same morning, upon the receding of the flood, in a meadow near the town.  The poor man had not been seen since the preceding Thursday, and as there was no evidence to show how he came by his death, a verdict was returned of Found drowned.

   An inquest was held on Tuesday, at Ruardean, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of CHRISTOPHER BRAIN, an inmate of the poor house, in that parish, whose death was reported by some of his family to have been occasioned by starvation and neglect of the Superintendent of the house.  It appeared in evidence that the deceased had been so subject to fits of epilepsy, for the last 12 or 14 years, as to cause a derangement of his intellects, and he was in consequence become so weak, both in body and mind, as to be completely insensible of what he was about.  Several witnesses stated that every attention the nature of his situation allowed was paid him, and he was also attended by Mr Abell, surgeon, of Mitcheldean, who adminstered every thing in his power, but without effect.  After a patient investigation of several hours, the Jury, without hesitation, returned a verdict of Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Dec 31.  An inquest was lately taken at Rodborough, before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of MARY ANN POPE, a child under four years of age, whose clothes took fire and she was so much injured that she died in consequence.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT.  On Friday, the 16th instant, about five o’clock in the evening, as one of the boatmen at the New Passage, of the name of PHILIP DAVIS, who had been in the service of the Passage for nearly thirty years, was running off the small boat from the Monmouthshire shore, in order to return and fetch the quay, and take in a passenger, it blowing very fresh, while in the act of wearing the boat, the sail suddenly gibbed and knocked him overboard, when he immediately sunk without uttering a word, and without his companion being able to render him any assistance.  The unfortunate man has left a wife and two children to deplore his loss.

COMMITMENTS.

THOMAS JENKINS, ALFRED JENKINS, WILLIAM CLUTTERBUCK,and JOSEPH THOMAS, by SP Peach, Esq. and RJ Charleton, DD, charged with the wilful murder of G. WEBB, of Thornbury, and with assauting W. JONES, of Thornbury, with intent to murder him.

 

1832, Gloucester Journal.

 

Jan 7.  OBITUARY.  Dec 18, drowned, near Lundy Island, in attempting to board the ship Ariadne, Mr JOHN CARY, pilot, of Pill.

   An old pensioner, named JOHN DENNIS, who has for many years carried a basket of small wares about the neighbourhood of Newport, in this county, (which was his head quarters,) and attracted a good deal of attention, and pity, from his having lost a hand at the Battle of the Nile, was taken suddenly ill in the village of Newport one day last week, and died soon after he was removed to his lodgings; when, to the astonishment of all, and particularly of those who had known him for thirty years past, his precious members were all perfect, and the pitiful stump was a good fleshy hand, fastened back round the wrist with a tight ligature.

   A man, named William Brain, whilst working in a coalpit at Parkend, in the Forest of Dean, on Saturday last, was cautioned of the danger of a quantity of projecting coals, but he disregarded the advice and continued his work, till suddenly the whole mass fell on him: he was dreadfully crushed, and died in about three hours afterwards.

INQUESTS.  Held last week before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner.  At Brockwear Common, on view of the body if a child about three years old, who was burnt to death by his clothes taking fire in his mother’s absence; and at Mangotsfield, on the body of another child, who lost his life from the same cause.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

   At Coaley, on the body of ESTHER GOSCOMB, who was found dead in her house, in which she lived alone; and, at Frampton Cotterell, on the body of JOHN CURTIS, a hatter, who died suddenly whilst at his work.  Verdicts, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.

INQUESTS.  Taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Whitminster, on the body of SAMUEL SHORT, aged about 53 years, found dead; the deceased had complained after he went to bed of a pain in his bowels and got up and went to the privy; remaining there longer than usual, his wife went to him and found him a corpse.  At Cheltenham, on the body of JOHN SMITH, aged about 65, who, while attending during dinner on the family with whom he resided, fell on the floor in the dining room, and instantly expired.  Verdict in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Sheepscombe, on the body of JOHN GILL, who was killed by the discharge of a gun:  THOMAS DAVIS, about about 15 years of age, a kinsman, was at a barn belonging to the deceased’s father, where a gun had been left loaded, which he took in his hands and was playing with it, when it suddenly went off, and lodged the contents in the neck immediately under right ear of the deceased, who was about six yards from the barn; the deceased went a few yards, when he fell and instantly expired.  After a minute investigation, the Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

   At Swindon, on the body of EDWARD SMITH HASELTON, aged about 26 years, found drowned in a pool of water, called the Marl Pit, in that parish; the deceased had been missing from his friends for upwards of a week.  No marks of violence appearing, and as no evidence appeared before the jury, showing by what means he became drowned, they returned a Verdict, Found Drowned.

   At Winchcombe, on the body of MARY ANN HOWBOROUGH, aged 7 years, burnt to death; the deceased was sitting in the corner, near the fire, when her pinbefore caught fire, and before assistance could be rendered, she was so much burnt as to cause her death in a short period after.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

GENERAL QUARTER SESSIONS.

One Month: SARAH CLARKE, for endeavouring to conceal the birth of her bastard child, (this prisoner in the House of Correction at Littledean;)...

 

Jan 14.  An inquest was held on Monday last, in this city, on view of the body of THOMAS MOSTYN CARWARDINE, who was found, the Staurday preceding, suspended by a small piece of cord to the bannister, of the stairs of the house he occupied in Lower Northgate street.  It appearing in evidence that the deceased had for a long time laboured under aberration of mind, the Jury, after a patient investigation, returned a verdict of Lunacy. 

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Bourton on the Water, on the body of JEREMIAH CROSSER, who died suddenly.  At Donnington, on the body of MARY JONES, who, whilst in conversation with two other women, fell down and suddenly expired.  At Eastleach Turville, on the body of JOHN BAKER, who died suddenly.  At Meyseyhampton, on the body of CAROLINE TAYLOR, who expired in her chair.  And at Northleach Prison, on the body of JOHN CARTER, therein confined for stealing at Cheltenham; verdict in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Cirencester, on the body of WM. WALKER; and at North Cerney, on the body of ANDREW KENDALL, found dead in a field; verdict in both cases, Found dead.

   At Okeridge, on the body of JOHN COX; and at Fairford, on the body of WILLIAM ANDREWS, who both died sudenly; verdict in each case, Apoplexy.

   At Bisley, on the body of JOSEPH CLIFT, who was killed by the shaft of a waggon; and at Cirencester, on the body of ELIZA JERVIS, whose clothes caught fire and caused her death; Verdicts, Accidental Death.

   At Turksdean, on the body of WILLIAM PETERS, an aged man, found hanging in his dwelling house, no person being therein, and the door not fastened; Verdict, Found Hanged.

   At Cirencester, on the body of A NEW BORN MALE CHILD, found drowned in a carry near Barton Mill; Verdict, Wilful Murder against some person or persons unknown.  Handbills offering a reward for the apprehension of the murderer, were distributed, and a strict search was made, but as yet no clue has been obtained to effect the discovery.

 

Jan 21.  INQUESTS.  Taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At the Golden Valley, Chalford, on JOHN WEBB, who was drowned in the Thames and Severn Canal.  Verdict, Found Drowned.

   At Nymphsfield, on JOSEPH BURFORD, who was found in a state of insensibility by the side of the turnpike road, and died soon afterwards.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Jan 28.

 

Feb 4.  INQUESTS.  The following have been taken before JG Ball, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county:   At the Anchor Inn, near Stroud, on JOHN PHILIPS, found dead in the turnpike road near that place; it appeared in evidence that he had left the Anchor on the preceding night, at a late hour, in company with a friend, neither of them being sober: no marks of violence appeared on the body, nor was there any reason to suppose that he had received any injury whatever.  Verdict, Found dead.

   At Longridge, near Painswick, on JOHN MITCHEL, and old man, who was found in Longridge wood in a dying state, and expired in a few minutes: he had left his home the preceding morning, and not having returned, his sons and others had been engaged some hours in searching for him.  The Jury were of opinion that he was suddenly taken ill, and unable to proceed, and that exposure to the weather for many hours, and through the night, hastened his death, and returned a verdict accordingly.

   At Eastington, on ELIJAH WILLIS, a youth who was accidentally drowned in the Stroud Canal.  Verdict, Found drowned.

   At Chalford Hill, on ELIZA CROOK, a child about seven years old, whose clothes took fire, and she was so severely burnt that she died in consequence.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Feb 11.

 

Feb 18.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At the County Prison, on the body of JAMES HUNT, aged 68 years; Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Mitcheldean, on the body of MARIA EVANS, aged 8 years, whose clothes ignited as she was hanging a small pot over the fire, and she was so much burnt as to cause her death in a few hours; at the Slad, on the body of JAMES ELLIS, at Littledean, on the body of WM. MARTIN, and at the Infirmary, on the body of MARY CLEMENTS, three children, who all met their death in consequence of their clothes taking fire.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   At the County Prison, on the body of CHAS. HOLBROOK [aged 19, bur. St Nicholas Jan 13.], and at the same place, on the body of JAS. SIMMONDS [Aged 19, bur. St Nicholas Jan 24.]: Verdicts, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At the hundred of St Briavels, on the body of THOMAS AMBERY, who was killed by falling into a coalpit, whilst moving a coal cart: and at Oldfield Top, Corse, on the body of JOHN GOATMAN, killed by falling out of a cart.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

   At the White Clift, Newland, on the body of JANE TAYLOR, aged 63, found dead in her bed; at the County Prison, on the body of JOHN JONES [aged 30, bur. St Nicholas Jan 26.] and at the same place, on the bodies of GEO. COLLINS [aged 27, bur. St Nicholas Feb 1.] and HENRY SLADE [aged 20, bur. St Nicholas Feb 7.].  Verdicts, Died by the visitation of God.

   At Bilston Colliery, St Briavels, on the body of JAMES JAMES; he was being let down into a coalpit, when some part of the engine giving way, he fell to the bottom, and was instantly killed.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Elmore Back, on the body of CHARLES ADAMS, aged 71, who was cutting wood in his garden, when he fell, and immediately expired; and at the County Prison, on the body of ALFRED JENKINS.  Verdicts, Died by the visitation of God.

 

Feb 25.   EDITORIAL.  We are sorry to learn, that from the circumstances of several inquests having lately been held in our County Prison, an erroneous impression has gone abroad that an infectious complaint has recently and fatally prevailed in that establishment.  It is right, therefore, that the public should be apprised, that the deaths referred to have taken place in a period extending from the 6th of January to the 14th instant, and that of those prisoners who have died, one was carried off by consumption, two by haemorrhage, three by fever, and the remaining one, ALFRED JENKINS, (one of the four persons committed on a charge of murdering the gamekeep of WH NEWMAN, Esq. at Thornbury Park,) by an affection of the brain produced by violent excitement of mind.

ACCIDENT.   Friday afternoon, as a cart was coming down Stokes Croft, Bristol, containing the property of a Mr BROWN, who was proceeding as an emigrant to America, from Uley, Gloucestershire, the driver, JACOB SMITH, accidentally fell from the shaft whereon he was sitting, under the wheel, which passed over his body.  Mr B. RALPH was passing at the time, and immediately rendered every assistance, having the poor man removed, in an apparently lifeless state, to the Infirmary.

ACCIDENT, ATTENDED WITH LOSS OF LIFE.  On Thursday morning last, between five and six, as RICHARD EVANS, a poor man living in the neighbourhood of Ashton, near Bristol, was driving his cart along the high road near the Coach and Horses public house, the horse took fright at the flapping of a gate, and Evans endeavouring to stop him, the shaft of the cart struck him in the breast, and knocking him down, he was literally crushed to death between the cart wheels and the bank.  He has left a wife and eight children, who wholly depended upon him for a subsistence.

 

Mar 3.  On Wednesday an inquest was held in this city, before DM Walker, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of THOS. BARKER, master of a trow on the Severn, who was that morning found dead in his cabin, on board of the vessel.  It appeared in evidence that the deceased had been in bad health for some time past, and was so very ill when he commenced his voyage from Bridgenorth on Sunday morning that several persons tried to dissuade him from undertaking it.  He would not listen to their remonstrances, however, and was equally pertinacious in refusing medical assistance which his crew repeatedly urged him to call in during the passage.  His complaint was inflammation of the lungs.  After a patient investigation, the jury returned a verdict of Died by the Visitation of God.

   Tewkesbury Inquest; Benjamin Holland, Coroner; accident uk.

 

Mar 10.  On Saturday last, an inquest was held at Wotton Underedge, before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner, on the body of GEORGE GRIMES, aged about eleven years, when the folowing verdict was returned: “That the deceased died from natural causes, to wit, from a dropsical affection, and not from any hurt, injury, or neglect of Mr ISAAC JAMES, or any other person or persons whatever.”

INQUESTS.   Taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Chalford Hill, on CHARLES WORKMAN, who died suddenly in a fit.  At Eastcomb, on JANE RIDLER.  Verdict in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

   Also, (in the absence of Mr Mountain,) at Withington, on CHARLES ILES, who was so seriously injured by the fall of a horse on which he was riding, as to occasion his death on the second day after the accident.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  We understand that a subsciption has been commenced by some of the gentlemen who attend Lord Segrave’s Hunt, for the benefit of the family of CHARLES ILES, whose death is mentioned above.  The poor fellow, mounted on a horse belonging to his master, WM. HOMES, Esq. of Coln St Denis, whilst riding at speed across a ploughed field near Withington Wood, the horse unfortunately fell with and rolled over him; the injury he received was of a most dreadful nature, and he suffered greatly till Saturday, when he expired, leaving a wife and three children in a state of utter destitution.  His character was excellent, and his master speaks f him as one of the most sober and trustworthy servants he ever knew.

   At Cirencester, on MARGARET WINSTONE, who, whilst in the act of cleaning a cupboard, fell and died instantly.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

COMMITMENTS:  THOMAS COMLEY, by WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner, charged with killing and slaying W. CROOME.

 

Mar 17.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  On the 1st inst. at Elmore, on the body of WM. ARUNDEL, aged about three years, burnt to death by his clothes catching fire in the absence of his parents, who were at work; verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   JOHN JACOBS, one of the Bristol rioters, has died in gaol of consumption.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  .... on the 2d inst. at Teddington, on the body of WILLIAM LEWIS, aged about four years, burnt to death by his clothes catching fire in the absence of his parents; and on the 3d. inst. at Tibberton, on the body of CHARLES NASH, aged about six years, burnt to death by his clothes catching fire while his parents were at work.  The deceased, Charles Nash, with two others, was left to the care of their grandfather, a feeble old man, when the misfortune happened.  The old man’s hands were very much burnt in extinguishing the fire.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   On the 10th inst. at St Briavels, on the body of JOHN WYNN, aged about 25 years, whose death was occasioned by a large stone falling on his head, which killed him in an instant, while at work in a pit called Lucksall Pit.

   On the 14th inst. at the County Prison, on the body of THOMAS JENKINS, aged about 32 years, who died of a nervous fever, produced by mental excitement.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.  Thomas Jenkins was brother to Alfred Jenkins, whose death was announced in our Paper of the 18th ult. and was committed on a charge of murdering the keeper of H.W. NEWMAN, Esq. in December last, at Thornbury.  Such was the dreadful agitation of the minds of these men, that it brought on fever of the brain to such a violent degree as to cause death, notwithstanding every care and attention paid them as well as by the medical gentlemen as by the attendants at the County Prison.

 

Mar 24.  INQUESTS TAKEN BEFORE JG BALL, ESQ. CORONER.  At France Lynch, on the illegitimate male child of ANN TYLER; and at Painswick, on WM. HARRIS, who died on his way home from Gloucester.  Verdict in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

   Also, at Stroud, on EDWIN STEELE, who was employed in the factory of Messrs. Stanton, where his clothes became entangled with some part of the machinery, and he sustained most serious injury in almost every part of his body, and shortly afterwards died.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 31.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before William Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner: At Cold Ashton, on ANTHONY DUFFIELD, killed by the wheel of a cart loaded with potatoes, which he was driving into Bath, passing over him.  At Oldland Common, on GEORGE RUE, killed in a coalpit by a coal cart running down an inclined plane upon him.  At Bream, on ENOCH WHETSTONE, burnt to death by his clothes taking fire in the absence of his parents.  At Dursley, on HANNAH TROTMAN, drowned in a pond of water, near the New Mills.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Huntingford, on ELIZABETH YOUNG, who dropt down whilst in the act of lighting a candle, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Died by the sudden Visitation of God.

   At Didmarton, on WILLIAM BIGGS, who drowned himself in a pool of water near his master’s house. Verdict, Lunacy.

 

Apr 7.

 

Apr 14.  ASSIZES: Transportation for Life; JOSEPH THOMAS, for the manslaughter of GEO. WEBB, gamekeeper, at Thornbury.

 

Apr 21.  As the Endymion, of Scarborough, which left port on Tuesday week for Quebec, was entering the basin at Sharpness Point, on Thursday night, one of the crew, named JAMES JONES, imprudently got on the gunwhale to reach a plank on the outside, when he unfortunately lost his balance, and fell into the water.  Every assistance was afforded by the crew and also by Mr WRAITH, the harbour master, but from the want of proper apparatus and the darkness of the evening, the boy was not raised for twenty minutes, when life was extinct.  The poor fellow had recently joined the ship, and was from Fishguard, in Pembrokeshire.  An inquest has been held and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

 

Apr 28.  INQUESTS have been held this week before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner, on the body of WILLIAM NEWMAN, who was sent by his master for a colt, which he imprudently mounted; when, near Woodford Bridge, the animal took fright and threw Newman, who received such severe injuries on his head as to cause his death in two days afterwards.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   Also, on a young woman, at Wotton Underedge, named WATHEN, who put a period to her existence on Tuesday last, by cutting her throat with a razor.  She bore a most excellent character, but had lately been subject to fits of despondency.  A verdict was returned of Temporary Derangement.

INQUESTS.  Taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Tiltups End, on JOSEPH VICK, whose clothes having taken fire in the absence of his parents, he was burnt to death.  At Painswick, on SARAH VOYCE, aged about 80 years, who, being in her house alone, her clothes accidentally took fire, and she, being infirm, was unable to extinguish it, and was so severely burnt, that she died soon afterwards.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Clifford Chambers, on the body of JOHN RAWBONE, who was in the act of getting out of a waggon, when his foot slipped and he fell to the ground, in which situation the wheels of the vehicle passed over him, and he was so much crushed as to cause his death in a few hours.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Clifton, on the body of A FEMALE CHILD, supposed to be about three months old, which was found naked in a pool at Durdham Down.  The opinion of a meducal man went decidedly to prove that the child’s death was occasioned by drowning, and in the absence of evidence by which the parents of the child could be traced, the jury returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against some person or persons unknown.

   At the Infirmary, on the body of a boy named THOMAS LUSTY, who was so much injured by the limb of a tree falling on him, at Kingstanley, that he survived only three days.  At Alvestone, on CHARLES CROOME, a young man who was thrown with such violence from a colt he was riding, that he sustained injuries which killed him in three days.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Winchcomb, on JOHN SPENCER, a respectable man, who was found dead in his bed.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Wheatenhurst, on JOHN FRITH, who was found drowned in the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal.  Verdict, Found Drowned.

FATAL ACCIDENT.

On Thursday evening last, as Mr HENRY JACOBS, livery stable keeper, of Cheltenham, was returning from Rencomb with a phaeton, the horse he was driving took fright, and ran furiously down Windlass Hill.  Mr Jacobs jumped out, and it is supposed that in doing so his foot struck the wheel, which threw him with great force to the ground upon the back part of his head; he was conveyed home as quickly as possible in a fly, but he expired immediately on his arival.  An inquest was held on the body, on Saturday, at the Mitre Inn, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, and a respectable jury.  Verdict - Accidental Death.  The deceased, who was a man much respected for the honour and integrity of his dealings, has left a large young family.

 

May 5.  INQUESTS.  Have been held this week, before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner, at Rangeworthy, on an infant, about two years old, named PETER GAZARD, who was scalded to death by falling into a pot of boiling water, just taken from the fire, and incautiously set down in the room by his mother, who was washing in the same apartment.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Dursley, on SAMUEL MORGAN, who hung himself from the fear of having offended a relative who maintained him.  Verdict, Temporary Derangement.

   At Siston, on ANN WOODINGTON, found dead in her bed.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Stow, on the body of DANIEL YEARP, who was found dead in the court; at Colesbourne, on the body of SARAH NORTON, who died soon after her arrival from Cheltenham:  Verdict, in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Cirencester, on the body of ELIZABETH BOYES, found dead in bed.  Verdict, Apoplexy.

   At Northleach Prison, on the body of ELIZA SMITH, an infant about nine months old, removed from Cheltenham with her mother.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God, and that her death was accelerated by being improperly removed.

  At Upton, near Tetbury, on the body of THOMAS SMITH, a lad about nine years old, who received the kick of a horse on his belly.  Verdict, Accidental Death, deodand 2s.

 

May 12.

 

May 19.  On Wednesday last, an inquest was held in this city, before DM Walker, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of JOB PURSER, a boy about four and a half years old, who, whilst at play with other children on the preceding evening, fell from the deck of a trow into the river Severn and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

INQUESTS.  Have been held this week before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner.  At Old Sodbury, on PHOEBE CARTER, who destroyed herself by cutting her throat with a scissors.  Verdict, Insanity.

   At Coleford, on PAMELA BIRD, a young woman about 30 years of age, who, complaining of a violent sickness, sunk on the floor, and was instantly a corpse.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.

   At the New Passage House, on PHILIP DAVIS, one of the boat men at the ferry, who was knocked over board and drowned whilst crossing the Severn, on the 16th of December last, and was found washed on shore on the beach, close to the New Passage House, on Wednesday morning last.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

May 26.  SUICIDE.  On Saturday night last, a young man named COLLETON, aged 20, employed as footman by a lady residing in Park place, Cheltenham, destroyed himself by cutting his throat with a penknife.  The deceased, who was an excellent servant, and in other respects an exemplary character, had laboured for some weeks under great depression of mind.  An inquest was held on the body at the Suffolk Arms Inn, on Monday, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, and a respectable jury.  Verdict, Temporary Derangement.

FATAL ACCIDENT.

On Monday last, at Cheltenham, a man named THOMAS STAUNTON, was accidentally struck with a wooden bowl in the stomach, while watching some men playing skittles.  He was immediately conveyed to the Casualty Hospital, and notwithstanding every attention was paid to him, the injury he received was of so serious a nature, that he expired on Wednesday.

 

Jun 2.  On Wednesday evening last, the Reverend EDWARD O. HOLWELL arrived at the Red Lion Inn, at Newport, from this city, and made arrangements for sleeping there and proceeding the next morning to Exeter.  He appeared very cheerful and well, and desired to be called at half-past seven o’clock, at which time the chambermaid went to his door, and knocked for some time, but could not obtain any answer, and, on opening the door, found the reverend gentleman lying in bed, but quite dead, and appearing to have been so for some time.  He had complained, when at Gloucester, of a pain and oppression on his chest, and had taken some simple preparation, which had much relieved him.  He was Rector of Plympton, Devonshire, and formerly Major of the North Gloucestershire Regiment of Militia.  An inquest was held before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner, and a verdict of Sudden Death by Visitation of God returned.

   Mr WILLIAM PENSHAM, a respectable and extensive farmer, at Eldersfield, Worcestershire, put a period to his existence on Thursday morning last.  The deceased was about 48 years of age.  It appears that at periods he has been subject to aberrations of mind, but lately, he had been unusually free from attacks of the sort, and the evening preceding the melancholy act he passed at a neighbour’s, where he was exceedingly cheerful and apparently happy.  However, the next morning very early, he suddenly quitted his bedroom, partly dressed only, and after a short time was discovered suspended by his silk handkerchief to a post in his cowhouse, quite dead.  On Saturday, Mr SMITH held an inquest on the body.  Verdict, Temporary Insanity.  By this fatal event, a widow is deprived of a fond husband, and five small children of a kind and indulgent father.

ACCIDENTAL DEATH.

On the afternoon of Saturday se’nnight, as a little boy, about five years old, was running a small carriage, containing two children, backwards and forwards near the Feeder at St Philips, the carriage went down the bank, when the three children were precipitated into the water.  The nursemaid, who was a short distance, immediately ran to their assistance, and in endeavouring to save them, she was unfortunately drowned.  A person of the name of PUNCHARD, hearing the cries of the little ones, immediately jumped into the water, and succceeded at the risk of his own life, in rescuing all of them.  The children belonged to Mr SMITH, of Bread street.  An inquest was held on Tuesday, by W Joyner Ellis, Esq. on the body of the nurse, and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

 

Jun 9.  SUICIDE.  A Coroner’s Inquest was held on Tuesday, by JB Grindon, Esq. on the body of Major Thompson, of the 48th Regiment, who was found dead in his bedroom, at the Rummer Tavern, Bristol.  After a very respectable jury of tradesmen were sworn, of whom Mr EDWARDS, of High street, was foreman, they proceeded to the room where the deceased slept: here a most shocking spectacle presented itself - the room was deluged with blood, and the body of the deceased was lying on the floor, naked except the shirt, the throat cut from ear to ear quite through the windpipe, a razor on the bed, the clothes in great disorder, and covered with blood.  A portmanteau near the door was open, and blood on the floor beneath; by which it would appear that the first attempt at self destruction had been made there; the deceased, it is supposed, then staggered towards the bed, as there were finger marks on the curtains; he then probably completed the fatal act on the bed, from which he must have rolled on the floor: a number of cards of address were scattered round the room, and his clothes appeared in great disorder.  The jury having heard the evidence, after a short consultation, delivered a verdict, that the deceased died by his own hand whilst labouring under Temporary Derangement.

 

Jun 16.

 

Jun 23.  FATAL ACCIDENT.  We lament to announce the death of Mr GEORGE DANGERFIELD, surgeon, of Bromyard, formerly of Tewkesbury, who was returning home on horseback from Tenbury, on Thursday evening, by which the unfortunate gentleman was thrown, and, pitching on his head, he was killed on the spot.

 

Jun 30.  An unfortunate accident arising from the imprudent use of fire arms occurred at Uley, in this county, during the rejoicing to celebrate the passing of the Reform Bill, to a young man, named JAMES SPARKES, who, with others, were discharging small cannons, one of which did not explode with the others, and Sparkes passing at the front of it just at the instant of its unexpectedly going off, received the whole of the wadding in his hand, which caused his death in a few days afterwards.  An inquest was held before WJ Ellis, Esq. and a verdict of Accidental death returned.

   An inquest was yesterday held before DM Walker, Esq. Coroner for this city, on view of the body of Mr JOHN INCH, oil and colourman, of Westgate street, who died the preceding day.  The wife of the deceased having refused permission to some of his relatives to see him when he was on his death bed, gave rise to a report that he had not been properly treated, and his brother in law accordingly took the requisite steps for instituting an inquiry into the circumstances of the case.  On the inquest, however, the evidence of Mr Heane, the medical man who was called in to the deceased, completely removed the suspicions which had been entertained.  It was proved that the deceased had long laboured under symptoms which had a strong tendency to produce apoplexy, and there was no reason to doubt that the death was occasioned by an attack of that nature.  Several witnesses were examined, and after a patient and minute investigation, the jury returned a verdict of died by the visitation of God, but at the same time they expressed an opinion that, under the circumstances of the case, and especially because the wife had not allowed his friends to see the deceased before he died, when applied to for that purpose, the relatives were perfectly justified in demanding an inquest.

   An inquest was held last week, at St Philip and Jacob, in this county, before WJ Ellis, Esq. on the body of A NEW BORN MALE CHILD, found in a pool of water in Brick Field, fastened up in two napkins.  After a long investigation, a verdict was returned of Wilful Murder against some person or persons unknown.

   And at Brockweir, near Tintern, on GEORGE DAVIS, one of a crew of a barge from Fownhope, near Hereford, who fell off the quay into the dock in attempting to go on board his vessel.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

COMMITMENTS:  Yesterday, MARIA FRY, by J Mountain, Esq. Coroner, charged with killing and slaying MARY ANN FRY.

 

Jul 7.  n Wednesday morning last, the body of A NEW BORN INFANT was found dead in a brook, near Rodney Terrace road, Cheltenham.  At the inquest, which was held on the following day before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, it appeared that there was a serious fracture upon the scull of the child, which, coupled with the other evidence of the medical man who was examined, induced the jury to return a verdict of Wilful Murder against some person or person sunknown.  No dsicovery of the mother has yet been made.

   A labourer named KINGSCOTT, in the emply of W. TASWELL, Esq. at Tockington, dropped down from the heat of the weather, and died in a few minutes.

   SOME IRISH LABOURERS ... account of Male unknown drowned at Arlingham Wharth; Inquest by WJE, Accidental Death by drowning.

FATAL ACCIDENT AT ULEY.

On Saturday last, about two o’clock, an old man of the name of JOHN BIRT, in the employ of Messrs Sheppard and Sons, had just finished his weekly labour, and was in the act of putting on his coat, when it became entangled around the shaft which drives the machinery.  Some men working in a room over hearing an unusual noise, went immediately to the room where the old man had been working; when a spectacle presented itself which struck them with horror, as the shaft was going round and round at the rate of 60 times per minute.  The steam engine was stopped instantly the alarm was given, but too late to preserve life, as the blood was flying from one end of the room to the other and nearly every bone was broken, altogether presenting a most shocking spectacle.  He had been left but a few minutes by a person that worked with him, so that it is supposed he was on the shaft about five minutes.  An inquest was held before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. on Monday when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned. He had served his late employers nearly forty years, and had been a leader in the Church Sunday Schools for more than that period.  His death has caused a great deal of sympathy and regret in the parish.

 

Jul 14.

 

Jul 21.  On Monday, an inquest was taken before DM Walker, Esq. Coroner for this city, on the body of HENRY ANDREWS, a boy about ten years old, who fell out of a boat in which he was amusing himself in the Bason the day before, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 28.

 

Aug 4.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Shipton, on view of the body of MARY WILKES, aged about 62 years, found dead in her chair; and at Huntley, on the body of JAMES DOBBS, aged about 85, found dead on the floor in his bedroom.  Verdict in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Tirley, on the body of WILLIAM PRICE, aged about 45, who drowned himself in a pool of water: it appearing in evidence that he had for some time been in a distracted state of mind, the jury immediately returned a Verdict of Lunacy.

   At Huntley, one the body of JAMES COTTEREL, aged about 30; the deceased was on his road to Allensmore, near Hereford, with one of his master’s horses, and gallopping across the common, the horse fell with him and rolled on his body, which caused his death the next day.  Verdict, Accident Death.

   At Cheltenham, on the body of A MAN UNKNOWN, found hanging to the limb of an oak tree, with a cotton handkerchief in Benhall wood: the deceased appeared to have been dead several days; he had drank tea a few days before he was found at the house of a poor woman at Alstone, and complained of being unwell, and seemed much distressed.  Verdict, Found dead, hanging to an oak tree.

   At Over, on the body of JOHN DARKE, aged about 52, who died suddenly in a barge called the George, lying in the river Severn.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Aug 11.

 

Aug 18.  ASSIZES:  Six Months ... MARIA FRY, for killing and slaying MARY ANN FRY; ...

INQUEST.

On Wednesday last, an inquest was taken at the Star Inn, in this city, before DM Walker, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of ROBERT IROD, an aged man, who had come here, from Evesham, as a witness upon a trial at our Assizes.  He had retired the night before apparently in perfect health, and was found dead in his bed the next morning.  The Jury, without hesitation, returned a verdict, Died by the Visitation of God. 

   A most melancholy accident occurred at Dursley, on Saturday week, which has cast a great gloom over that town.  Two brothers, Mr RICHARD WILLIAMS, maltster, and Mr HENRY WILLIAMS, went early in the morning to a pond to bathe, and only one of whom could swim.  The one who could not swim, finding himself sinking, called out for assistance to his brother, and on his coming to him he held him so firmly that he lost all power and they both sank, never again to rise.  The bodies were got out as speedily as possible, and every medical assistance rendered, but in vain, the vital spark had fled for ever.

 

Aug 25.  Two men were killed by lightning on Wednesday last, in a field belonging to Mr CYPRIAN TAYLOR, of Little Buckland, in this county.  Four labourers had sought the shelter of a large elm tree, and were sitting in a row at the time the awful event occurred.  The electric fluid passed down the tree, and dividing, struck and instantly killed the outside men of the row, leaving those in the middle but little injured. A large hole was torn in the back of each hat; it then continued its course down each body, and was untimately lost in the ditch over which they were sitting.  The bodies were very much disfigured, and the clothes but slightly burnt.  An inquest was held the following day, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, and a suitable verdict returned.

   A poor unfortunate and afflicted girl, named ELEANOR FREETH, about 18 years of age, fell from an upper window in a beggar’s lodging house in St Mary’s Lane, Tewkesbury, about four o’clock yesterday morning, and died in a few hours afterwards, from the injury she sustained thereby.  She had resided in Tewkesbury only a few days, having arrived there with some show-men, and described herself as belonging to this city.

   An inquest was taken at Stroud, on Thursday, on CHAS. WHATLEY, a man who had been in the habit of attending fairs and other places selling hardware and lace, and who died after a very short illness on the preceding day.  The medical gentlemen who attended him stated, that he died from perfectly natural and by no mean uncommon causes, and a respectable Jury having viewed the body and heard further evidence, returned a verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

  An inquest was held last week, before WJ Ellis, Esq. at St George’s, on SAMUEL OSBORNE, a little child who was killed by a horse treading on him when at play on the road.  Verdict, Accidental Death: and at Redbrook, on CHARLOTTE LEWIS, who died suddenly, just as she had returned from Chapel in perfect health and spirits.  Verdict, Sudden Death caused by an affection of the heart.

   A fatal accident occurred at Bowcott, near Dursley, on the 7th inst. to a waggoner named JOHN SANSUM, in the employ of Mr JOHN FEWSTER, of Haycock’s Mill, Woodchester.  He was driving a tilted waggon down a steep hill, when the weight of the load overpowered the horses, and in his persevering endeavours to check the animals, he was unfortunately thrown down, and both wheels of the waggon passing over him, he was killed on the spot.  An inquest was held before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner, when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

 

Sep 1.  The following inquests were held last week, in the neighbourhood of Bristol, before William Joyner Ellis, Esq:  At the Lord Rodney, at Kingswood, on SAMUEL OSBORNE, a child of about three years of age, who was playing in the road near his father’s cottage, when a stray horse trod on him, which caused his death in a few hours.  At St Philip’s, on CAROLINE ASHLEY, about eight years old, who, in endeavouring to reach a stick which was floating in the water in the Feeder, lost her balance, and was drowned, notwithstanding every exertion was used by some persons who witnessed the accident.  At Lower Easton, on a fine boy, named THOS. SMITH, whose death was occasioned by drinking some oil of vitriol, which had been used, under the direction of the Board of Health, for the purpose of fumigation; and afterwards carefully placed in a tea caddy by the mother, but which the child discovered and unfortunately drank.  The poor little fellow lingered in great pain for some hours.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Sep 8.

Sep 15.

Sep 22.

Sep 29.

Oct 6.

Oct 13.

 

Oct 20. INQUESTS.  Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Newent Wood, on the body of JEREMIAH PHELPS, aged about 60, who was found dead in the wood.  It appeared in evidence, that the deceased had left his residence near a fortnight, and every search was made after him without effect, when he was at length found dead by some woman nutting.  The deceased was subject to fits.  The body was examined by a surgeon, and no marks of violence appearing, the jurors returned a verdict Found dead.

   At Swindon, on the body of SAMUEL GREENWOOD, aged about 6 years, who was killed in consequece of falling from a cart laden with coals, on which he was riding, when the off wheel went over his body, and caused his death in a few minutes.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Knotwood, Blaisdon, on the body of HENRY HODGES, an infant, aged about eight months.  The deceased was  put out to nurse, and a report was circulated that its death was occasioned by neglect and not being sufficiently fed.  It was proved by two woman, neighbours, who were in the habit of seeing the deceased almost daily, that it was a very weakly child, and appeared to be labouring under a complaint of the stomach and bowels, which had reduced it to a mere skeleton, and which statement was confirmed by the certificate of the surgeon, who saw the child and administered medicine; and it was further proved that the woman who had care of the child paid every possible care and attention to it in diet and otherwise.  The jury, without hesitation, returned a verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

   At the Infirmary, on the body of Mr RICHARD MILES, aged about 58, a respectable farmer, who, in company with another person, was riding in a gig, when the horse startled and turned out of the road over a heap of stones, and they were both thrown out.  Mr Miles was killed on the spot, and his companion much injured.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Newent, on the body of A MAN UNKNOWN.  The deceased applied the evening before his death to the guardian and constable of the parish for relief and a bed, with which he was accommodated, and the next morning was found dead.  The body was examined by a surgeon.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

   At Cheltenham, on the body of HANNAH OSBORNE, aged about 68.  The deceased was at the Dispensary waiting for some medical application for a child, when she was suddenly taken in a fit, and almost immediately expired.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Wotton, on the body of MATILDA BICK, aged about one year and a half.  The deceased, during the temporary absence of her mother, had gone out of the house to the rail road, which is close to her garden gate, where she fell down, and some tram waggons passing at the moment, the wheels of one of them went over her and killed her on the spot.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Kempley, on the body of GEORGE BRAIN, aged about 38.  The deceased was gathering pears, when the limb of the tree on which he was standing suddenly broke off, and he fell to the ground and was so much injured as to cause his death in a few hours.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Littleworth, on the body of JAMES WARD, aged about 34, who was found drowned in the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal.  The deceased was a night watchman at the Canal.  No marks of violence appearing on his body, and no evidence to show how or by what means he fell in the water, the Jury returned a verdict, Found drowned.

   At the hundred of St Briavels, on the body of JAMES WARD, aged about 21, who was killed while at work in a coalpit, by a large quantity of earth and stone falling from the roof on his head and body.  Verdict Accidental Death.

   At the Infirmary, on the body of JOHN MAY, aged about 47.  The deceased was holding the reins while sitting driving a waggon on the road near Dursley, when, by a sudden jerk, he was thrown out of the waggon, when one of the wheels passed over his right arm.  He was immediately taken to the Infirmary, but was so much injured as to cause his death in a few days.  Verdict, Accidental death.

   At Cheltenham, on the body of JOHN REECE, aged about 61.  The deceased was ascending a ladder, carrying a bucket of water up to a scaffold at a house in High street, and just as he arrived at the top, in attempting to place the bucket on the scaffold he missed his hold, and fell to the ground, a ditsnace of about 40 feet.  He was immediately conveyed to the Dispensary, where it was found that several of his ribs were broken, and he was otherwise so much injured as caused his death in a short period.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Oct 27.

 

Nov 3. On Wednesday an inquest was taken in our City Gaol before A. WALKER, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of BENJAMIN PRICE, a prisoner convicted at the last Trinity Sessions of stealing poultry: the deceased had been infirm since his commitment, and, it being proved that every attention had been paid him which his unfortunate situation required, the Jury returned a verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

   And on Thursday, an inquest was held by the same Coroner on the body of MARY ANN PALMER, found dead in her bed: it appeared in evidence the deceased was a woman of very intemperate habits, and had gone to bed in a great state of intoxication, when she was seized with an attack of paralysis, in which she must almost immediately have died: the body was examined by a surgeon, and no marks of violence appearing, the Jury returned a verdict, Died from a paralytic seizure, brought on by excessive drinking.

 

Nov 10.  The following inquests have lately been held before WJ Ellis, Esq.  At Clifton, on  ROBT. FORD, found dead in a stone quarry: at Oldbury upon Severn, on ALFRED WEEKES, who was drowned whilst attending a fishery, in the night, at Oldbury Rocks; at Alvington, on AMY KITE, found dead in a dipping well; at St George’s, on SAMUEL THATCHER, killed by the breaking of a rope as he and three others were descending a coal pit.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Winterbourne, on GEORGE KNAPP, found dead in his bed.  Verdict, Died suddenly by the visitation of God.

   A young man, named DENNIS, belonging to the 17th Lancers, at present quartered in Wotton Underedge, in this county, having been placed in confinement, on Saturday last, for some trivial offence, deliberately shot himself in the side with a horse pistol.  He was removed to the hospital, where he lingered till Wednesday night, when he died.

   On Monday last, a poor man named JOSEPH TARRANT, descended into a large beer cask which was foul, at a Retail Brewery in Cheltenham, where he died in a few minutes by suffocation.

 

Nov 17.  SUICIDE.  A young girl, servant to Mr LANE, maltster, of Cirencester, was found dead in her bed on the 6th inst.  She had the evening before gone to a druggist’s shop and procured a large quantity of laudanum, which was swallowed on retiring to bed.  A verdict of felo de se was returned, and she was buried at night without the ritual of the church.

 

Nov 24.  INQUESTS.  A child, named BATTEN, about four years old, whose parents live in a cottage at Caolpit Heath, was so dreadfully burnt on Tuesday se’nnight, by his clothes taking fire during the temporary absence of his mother, as to cause his death in a few hours.

   A dreadful accident happened on Saturday se’nnight, at Mr EDWARDS’s Mill, at Hambrook, to a young man named THOMAS JONES, about twenty years of age, who had gone into the mill from curiosity, to see some repairs that were being made in the waterwheel, one of the arms of which caught him, and, crushing his head against the wall, he died in five minutes afterwards.  In each of the above cases, inquests were held before WJ Ellis, Esq. and verdicts of Accidental Death returned.

 

Dec 1.

 

Dec 8. A WORD TO THE WISE.  An instance of gross credulity occurred last week at North Nibley, which can scarcely be credited in this advancing age.  A poor child about a year old, sitting by the fire in her parent’s cottage, by some unfortunate accident fell forwards into the fire and was much burnt.  The mother was persuaded to take the poor infant to a “cunning woman” at Wotton Underdege, who, repeating some incantations, told her she need not seek any further assistance as she had “charmed it.”  The little sufferer gradually became worse, and notwithstanding medical assistance shortly afterwards died.  A Coroner’s inquest was held, and the Coroner very severely reprobated the cruel conduct of the mother and the witch, and expressed great regret he could not punish the latter.

   Inquests were held last week before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. at Coleford, on JOHN SMITH, killed in a coal pit by a quantity of rubbish falling on him.  At Westerleigh, on SETH DANDO, killed in a coal pit  by a large stone falling on his head as he was endeavouring to prop it.  At St George’s, on THOMAS HAYNES, drowned in the river near the Crew’s Hole.  Verdict in each case,  Accidental Death.

DREADFUL SUICIDE.

About ten o’clock on Monday night, a man named BERTHELIN, sixty two years of age, residing in Sydney street, Cheltenham, destroyed himself by putting the muzzle of a gun in his mouth, and discharging it.  We understand there is little doubt but he committed the dreadful act while under the influence of temporary derangement.

Dec 15.

 

Dec 22.  FATAL ACCIDENT.  We regret to state, that Mr RICHARD PINCOTT, of Little Sodbury House, on his return home from Wotton Underedge, on Thursday evening, was thrown from his horse, near Petty France, and killed on the spot.

 

Dec 29.  

1833, Gloucester Journal.

 

Jan 5.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Bussage, on SAMUEL ROGERS, who was found insensible in his garden, and died instantly; at the Bourne, on MARTHA GURNER, who fell suddenly dead in the road; at Chalford Hill, on J. GOOLEY, an infant, who died very suddenly.  Verdict in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Kingstanley, on EDWIN SHIPTON; at Brimscomb, on RICHARD TOMLIN; and at Eastington, on EDWIN BURNETT, three youths who were killed at clothing manufactories at those places.  Verdict, Accidental Death, with a nominal deodand in each case.

   At Walls Quarry, on SAMUEL SMITH, a child about two years old, who was killed by a stone falling upon him; and at the same place, on JOHN MANNING, aged upwards of 60 years, who fell from his garden into a court below, and fractured his scull; at Rodborough, on PHOEBE LAWRENCE, killed by the overturning of a cart; and at Horsley, on GEORGE PLUMMER, an infant of three years of age, who died in consequence of a severe burn, wholly neglected by his parents.  In each of these cases a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.  In the last, the Coroner very severely animadverted on the culpable negligence and crulety of the parents, whose ignorance and superstition led them wholly to neglect their suffering child, and trust his recovery to a charm, consisting of some unintelligible words uttered by an ignorant woman in the neighbourhood.  This woman was some time in the charge of the constable, and was cautioned to be more careful for the future, the Coroner expressing his regret that it was not in his power to commit her to prison, and his astonishment that such ignorance and infatuation should exist.  [see Dec. 22, 1832.]

   At Pagan Hill, on an infant child of HENRY ROBINS, and at Rodborough, on JOHN WATHEN.  Verdict in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Jan 12.

 

Jan 19.  On Thursday, an inquest was taken at the Royal Oak Inn, in this city, before A Walker, Esq. on view of the body of RICHARD TANDY, found drowned in the river Severn.  It appearing in evidence, that the deceased was unloading bricks from a barge, and that he fell overboard in one of those fits to which he was periodically subject, and was suffocated before assistance could be rendered him, the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

 

Jan 26.  INQUESTS.  Held last week before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner.  At Clifton, on PHILIP LEWIS, a tiler, who fell from the roof of a house in Clifton place, which he was repairing, and was so much injured that he died shortly afterwards.  At Doynton, on a boy named ALBERT SPENCER, who was burnt to death by his clothes taking fire in the absence of his mother, who had locked the children into the house while she went to a neighbouring shop.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Yate, on WM. ALLEN, a sawyer, who was a little deranged, and had wandered about the country a day or two, and at last was found by the road side, near to Sodbury, by a person passing along; he was put into a place of shelter, but in the morning was found a corpse.  Verdict, Died from natural causes, accelerated by exposure to the inclemency of the weather.

INQUESTS.  Taken before J Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Cirencester, on the body of BETTY DAY, who died in child bed;  at Leachlade, on the body of VALENTINE DAVIS, who died suddenly in a camp by the road side;  at Ampney, on the body of ELIZABETH BOYCE, found dead in her bed; at Cirencester, on the body of WM. THOMPSON, at Tarlton, on the body of BETTY DAY, at Coln St Dennis, on the body of THOS. GOLDING, and at Laechlade, on the body of MARY ANN PHIPP, who died suddenly; at Rodborough, on the body of MARGARET ROWLAND, who died in a fit; at Elkstone, on the body of WM. LANE, found dead; at Down Ampney, on the body of PHILIP GOODMAN, who died suddenly on his way to church on Christmas Day.  Verdict, in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Fairford, on the body of JOHN ROWLAND, found dead in a wod; at Ampney St Mary, on JACOB HILLIER, found dead in his bed.  Verdict in the last two cases, Found Dead.

   At Bisley, on the body of JOHN GARDNER, who was killed by a fall from a tree; at Kemspford, on MARTHA HEWER, who was burnt in the absence of her parents; at Down Ampney, on the body of GEORGE MARTIN, who was drowned in a mill pond; at Eastleach Martin, on the body of JOHN LARGE, killed by the falling in of a stone quarry; at Jackaments, on the body of WM. TUGWELL, who was killed by a coach going against the gig in which he was riding; at Great Rissington, on the body of RICHARD HICKS, who falling from a rick with a hay knife in his hand, the knife went quite through his body.  Verdict, in the last mentioned cases, Accidental Death.

  At Siddington, on the body of ROBERT BROOKS, found drowned in the Thames and Severn Caal.  Verdict, Found Drowned.

   At Cirencester, on the body of MARY ANN WHITE [see Nov 17, 1832], who poisoned herself by taking a quantity of laudanum.  Verdict, Felo de se; buried accordingly.

 

Feb 2.  INQUESTS.  Taken within the last month, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Cheltenham, on view of the body of WILLIAM WEATER, who suddenly fell in the street, returning from church, and almost instantly expired; and on the body of ANN SMART, who while in the act of sweeping her room, fell down and instantly expired; at Ruardean’s Hill, on the body of SARAH WILLIAMS, who, while at breakfast, fell and died instantly; at Newnham, on the body of MARY JENKINS, who fell on the floor in her kitchen and instantly expired; and at the County Prison, on the body of RICHARD SAVAGE, who died of con[sumption.?] [Verdict in each case, ?] Died by the visitation of God.

   At Upper Dowdeswell, on the body of EDWARD ALLINGTON, aged about 4 years, whose clothes, while standing near the fire at the house of a neighbour, suddenly caught the flame, and he was so much burnt as to cause his death in a few hours; at the Infirmary, on the body of ANN SUMMERS, burnt by her clothes catching fire while asleep in the kitchen of her master, Mr BROWIN, at Woodchester; she was immediately conveyed to the Infirmary, but was so much injured as to cause her death the next day; at Newland, on the body of THOS. WILLIAMS, aged about 3 years, who being in the house of his aunt, having some straw in his hand which he attempted to set on fire, his clothes suddenly became ignited, and he was so much burnt as to cause his death in a short time; at Limbury, Hartpury, on the body of Mrs MARY BARRETT, aged about 61 years, who had been in a deranged state of mind for a very considerable period, and was burnt to death in consequence of her clothes catching fire in the momentary absence of her servant; at Tirley, on the body of ELIZABETH JAYNES, aged about 4 years, burnt to death by her clothes catching fire in the absence of her mother; and in the Infirmary, on the body of WILLIAM DART, who, while at work on board a vessel in the basin of the Canal, fell backwards into the hold; he was immediately taken to the Infirmary, but had received so much injury on the head as to cause his death the next day.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Minsterworth, on the body of JOHN REA, found drowned in the river Severn; deceased had been missing from the time of the election for this city; and at Elmore, on the body of ISAAC POLLARD, also found drowned in the river Severn; deceased was captain of a vessel lying in the canal basin, and had been missing for more than six weeks; 4s. 6 1/2d was found in his pockets.  No marks of violence on either body being discovered, and no evidence to show how or by what means they were drowned, the Jury returned a verdict, Found Drowned.

ATTEMPT AT SUICIDE.

On Saturday morning last, a young woman named BLEBY, about 30 years of age, residing in Bloomsbury place, Cheltenham, attempted self-destruction.  She had concealed a razor, and went to an outbuilding in the garden, where she inflicted a severe wound on her throat, completely dividing the windpipe; the main arteries, however, were not touched.  Having been discovered the instant the act was committed, she was conveyed to the Casualty Hospital, where she now lies in a very dangerous state; she had repeatedly taken light nourishment, and has at times slept comparatively well.  No cause is assigned for her rashness, except her having been a long time in a very desponding state of mind.

 

Feb 9.  INQUESTS.  Taken this week befre J Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Cheltenham on view of the body of ALICE BAYLIS BLEBY, aged about 35 years, who destroyed herself by cutting her throat with a rzor: it appearing in evidence that the deceased had, for upwards of two years past, been in a very low and desponding state of mind, and continually complained of a pain in her head, and had been an outpatient at the Dispensary for months, the Jury, without hesitation, returned a verdict of Lunacy.

   At Longney, on the body of A BOY UNKNOWN, apparently about four years old, found drowned and floating in the river Severn: no marks of violence could be discovered on his body, and no evidence appearing to show how, or by what means he was drowned, the Jury returned a verdict of Found Drowned.  He was dressed in a blue pin-before and blue frock and trousers. 

   At the Infirmary, on the body of JAMES KEYLOCK, aged about 60 years, who died in consequence of being kicked by a horse.  Verdict accordingly.

   At Dymock, on the body of MARTHA JONES, who suddenly fell on the floor in her room, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Feb 16.  SERIOUS ACCIDENTS.  On Saturday last, a poor man, named THOMAS TURNER, a plasterer, while working at a building near the Albion Hotel, Cheltenham, fell from scaffolding upwards of forty feet in height, and was so seriously injured that his life is despaired of.  He was immediately taken to the Casualty Hospital, and still continues in a very dangerous state.  On the same day, a young man named LEGG, fell from a scaffold in Lansdown Crescent, and was much injured.

FATAL ACCIDENT.

As a young farmer, named HEZEKIAH JAMES, was returning from Winchcombe, after hunting, on Thursday last, he was thrown from his horse, and his body was found on the road some hours after, but life was quite extinct.  A Coroner’s Inquest was held on Saturday.  Verdict Accidental Death.

 

Feb 23.  On Wednesday se’nnight, a canal boat, in consequence of the great fresh in the river, drifted against one of the piers of Maisemore Bridge, and was, with her cargo, valued at 100 l. totally lost.  By this accident, the owner, a poor man, named JAMES JEYNES, with a wife and three children dependent on him for support, is reduced to the greatest distress.  One of the crew  was drowned. 

As a lad named COOKE, about seven years old, was playing with another boy on the bank of the Severn, near to Framilode Passage, on Thursday se’nnight, he unfortunately fell into the river, and,  the tide running remarkably strong at the time, he was instantly swept into the current and drowned.  His body was afterwards picked up ar Arlingham.

 

Mar 2.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Ebley, on CHARLES VICK, and at Chalford, on HANNAH ANDREWS, who were both burnt to death in consequence of their clothes taking fire.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Chalford, on an infant child of NOAH WHITING; at Tiltup’s Inn, on MOSES MILLER, who was found in a dying state in a field near Tetbury, which place he had left the preceding evening on his return home; and at Bisley, on THOS. HYDE, a pauper, who died in the poor house.  Verdict in each case, Died by the visitation of God.

 

Mar 9.  An awful instance of sudden death occurred last week at Patchway, near Almondsbury, in this county.  A man and his wife named GRANT, lived in the same cottage with the wife’s mother, an old woman named HENDY.  Grant had gone from the kitchen into an adjoining room to draw some beer, and in two or three minutes afterwards was discovered lying on his face near the cask, and quite dead.  In the evening of the same day, old Mrs Hendy, (who had not been well for some time,) and her daughter were sitting by the fire, when Mrs Grant was taken very suddenly ill, and before she could be got into bed had become a corpse.  An investigation was held before WJ Ellis, Esq. and a very respectable jury, and a verdict returned of Sudden Death by the Visitation of God, in each case.

COMMITMENTS.  HESTER POWELL, by WJ Ellis, Esq. coroner, charged with the wilful murder of ELIZABETH HAWKINS, of Oldland.

MYSTERIOUS CASE OF MURDER.

An old woman named ELIZABETH HAWKINS, nearly 80 years of age, and who resided in her own cottage between Hanham and Kingswood, near Bristol, having died after a few day’s illness, and reports of an unpleasant nature having been spread of the cause of her death, the Parish Officers applied to WJ Ellis, Esq. and an inquisition was held before that gentleman on Wednesday last, which continued the whole day and until a late hour at night.  It appeared on evidence, that great quarrels and ill will had arisen amongst the family of the old woman, about the little cottage and garden, and she had forbidden a daughter in law, named HESTER POWELL, to come into her house.  On Wednesday night, however, Hester Powell came in, and hearing the old woman was going to make some broth, offered to make it for her as soon as she came back from Bristol; on her return she made the broth and gave a bason of it to her mother in law, who was immediately afterwards taken very ill with sickness and violent pains in her bowels, and which continued with little iintermission for some days, when she died.  A young girl living with the old woman, who partook of the same broth, a few days after it was made, suddenly became exceedingly ill, and still continues so; and a cat, to which the remainder was given, experienced the same effects.  Upon an examination of the body by two eminent surgeons, they were decidedly of opinion that she died from the effects of poison; and the jury returned a verdict of “wilful  murder against Hester Powell’” who has been committed by WJ Ellis, Esq. for trial at the ensuing assizes.

CHILD MURDER.

On Thursday se’nnight, about seven in the evening, as a young man, named WATKINS, was proceeding home from the house of his sister, in Park place, Clifton, his foot struck against a bundle, lying near the pathway, and which, on examination, was found to be the body of an infant.  He was much alarmed, and information having been given to the parish constable, he immediately went to the spot; and on further investigation, the body proved to be that of a fine newly born female child, wrapped up in a piece of hempen cloth, and tied round with tape.  The body could have been placed where it was found but a very short time, as a public and much frequented road passes close to it, and it could not have failed to have been discovered.  A long investigation took place on Saturday last, before WJ Ellis, Esq. when, from certain circumstances which came out on evidence, and from the opinion of Mr Halse, the surgeon, the Jury returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against some person or persons unknown.  A reward has been offered by the parochial authorities for the discovery of the unnatural mother, but without effect.  We are given to understand the horrible crime of infanticide is on the increase, and that is it very rarely that the inhuman murderers are discovered.

HORRIBLE ACCIDENT.

On Saturday last, as WILLIAM HATHAWAY was employed at the Coal Works, Pucklechurch, he was engaged with the engineer in making some required alterations in part of the machinery, without having used the proper precaution of first securing the wheels, when suddenly the wheels turned, and the machinery being put into action, he was drawn into it, and was most dreadfully mutilated and mangled; every limb was broken and torn from his body, and his remains presented a spectacle more readily conceived than described.  This is another of these frightening accidents which we have been latterly called upon so frequently to record, as occurring in the collieries near this city, and like most of them, arising from the most gross neglect and carelessness of human life. [Bristol Mirror.]

 

Mar 16.

 

Mar 23.  FATAL ACCIDENT.  On Friday night last, Mr SMITH, Surgeon, of Cheltenham, had the misfortune to fall down a flight of stairs at his own house, and was so dreadfully injured that he died on the following day.  An inquest was held on Monday, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, and a respectable Jury.

MELANCHOLY CATASTROPHE.

It has seldom fallen to our lot to record a more distressing event than the following.  A party of relatives and friends had dined and spent the day on Monday last, at Mr PETER KING’s, of Dudbridge, near Stroud, and about ten o’clock at night his brother, Mr JOSEPH KING, of Kingstanley, accompanied by Mrs PEARSE, wife of Mr PEARSE, Solicitor of Minchinhampton, and her daughter’s child about twelve years of age, left the house to proceed to the residence of Mr Joseph King.  Their road was over a swing bridge, crossing the Stroud Canal, at the end of which bridge is a stile.  It is supposed they passed round the end instead of going over the stile; as on nearing the place, the child, (who was a short distance behind,) heard one of them cry out, “Oh, dear!” instantly followed by a splashing in the water.  She immediately gave the alarm, and several persons were soon on the spot.  The bodies of both were taken from the river in a short time, and every means used, under the direction of several medical gentlemen, to restore animation, but without successs.  Mr King, who was about 37 years of age, has left a widow and six children, and Mrs Pearse, who was about the same age, a husband and eight children to lament their loss.  The only consolation of surviving relatives under the cirumstances so afflictive is, the well grounded hope that they are removed to a better world.  Mr King was a man of integrity and sterling worth; and of Mrs Pearse it may with propriety be said, that in all her relative and social duties, her conduct was most exemplary: they were both devout Christians. - Inquests were held on Tuesday, before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner, and a respectable jury, and verdicts of Accidental Death returned.

 

Mar 30.  We deeply lament to have to notice a melancholy event which occurred at Dumbleton, on the 15th inst.  The villagers had assembled to testify their joy at the celebration of a marriage at the parish church that morning, and a small cannon had been provided by them wherewith to announce the conclusion of the nuptials to the country around.  Accordingly, at the moment of the bride and bridegroom quitting the sacred edifice, an old sailor, who had undertaken to officiate as gunner on the occasion, applied the match to the touch hole, when, sad to say, the piece immediately burst, killing the poor fellow on the spot, and wounding several others, one to such an extent as to cause fears for his recovery.  It appears that the unfortunate man who lost his life, had been admonished to be careful with the cannon, and the quantity of powder explained to him that it would carry in safety; this caution he appears, however, to have fatall disregarded, as it was afterwards ascertained that he had used three times as much powder in the charge as he ought to have done.

INQUESTS.  Lately held before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner.  At Siston, on WILLIAM CHAMBERS, killed by a fall from his horse at Church Easton, in Wiltshire; at Bridge Yeat, on JAMES HUGHES, killed by an ash tree falling on him; at Wormley, on JOHN STONE, killed in a coal pit by a quantity of rubbish falling on him; at St George’s, on MARTHA SMITH, killed by her clothes accidentally taking fire in the absence of her Mother; and, at Tytherington, on GEORGE MEREDITH, killed in consequence of injuries received by falling from a cart.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

SUICIDE.

A deplorable instance of self-destruction occurred here on Saturday last.  A young fellow, named BENJAMIN BROADEY, a well known character in this city, formerly employed as a collector of market tolls, but more recently filling the situation of a runner or bailiff’s fag, and not being distinguished in either occupation by any remarkable degree of civility or forbearance, had latterly got into disgrace with the overseers of the parish in which he resided by suffering his wife and their two children to become chargeable.  He was, in consequence, brought before the Magistrates, and the usual steps were taken to compel him to work, and to contribute a portion of his earnings to the support of his family, all of which he promised to perform.  When put to the proof, however, it turned out that he was too high minded to submit to the degrading employment of breaking stones, and he flatly refused the work that was apportioned to him, in consequence of which he was threatened with imprisonment.  On Staurday evening last, he was in the kitchen of the New Bear, in this city, where he drank two or three pints of beer, and although a little fresh, was by no means so much intoxicated as not to know perfectly well what he was about.  Whilst drinking his beer, he said he should walk to Bristol that night, and go from there to Newport, in Monmouthshire, with the avowed intention of giving trouble to the parish officers.  Subsequently, however, he gave his pocket book, containing some memorandums and notices, to a young man in the kitchen, and said he would go and drown himself, but the bystanders, not thinking him in earnest, took no heed of what he said.  About ten o’clock he left the New Bear, and  it appears he went direct to the lock of the canal basin, where he was heard to exclaim, “Lord have mercy upon my poor wife and children! Here goes!” and immediately plunged into the lock.  On an alarm being given the body was dragged for, but it was not picked up till after six o’clock on Sunday morning.  An inquest was held on the body on Monday, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, and a most respectable jury, when after a very patient investigation, the body was interred after nine o’clock, on the same night, without the rites of Christian burial.

Apr 6.  Arrest and suicide of a swindler from Kentchurch, Hef; formerly operating in Gls as A.M. MANTELL @ J.M. FORTESCUE (Reverend) but also [see Apr 13] known as DILLON at Dursley.  Cut throat, verdict Insanity.

 

Apr 13.  TRIAL OF HESTER POWELL.  Mentions: ANN LACY, daughter of the deceased; HESTER LACY, husband’s sister; SAMUEL POWELL, husband of Hester; JOSEPH HAWKINS, 2nd husband of the deceased; JOSEPH & JAMES POWELL, brothers of HESTER LACY; JOHN STONE, brother in law, and SARAH LAC(E)Y. 

Not Guilty.

 

Apr 20.  INQUESTS.  Taken this last week before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Quinton, on the body of JOHN EDWARDS, an aged man, who hanged himself by cutting his throat, in his bedroom, with a razor.  The deceased had, for a length of time, been in a deranged state of mind, which was proved satisfactorily to the Jury, who, without hesitation,  returned a verdict of Lunacy.

   At Newland, on the body of RICHARD THOMAS, aged about 13 years, who was killed in consequence of the wheels of a waggon going over him.  The deceased was driving a waggon on the road to Scowpe, in the Forest; when, in attempting to reach some hay out of it, his jacker caught in a hook in getting down, and he was thrown on the ground, when the near fore and hind wheels of the waggon went over his right thigh, and the lower part of his bowels, from which he was so much injured as to cause his death in a few days.  Verdict Accidental Death.

   At the County Prison, on the body of JOHN DAVIS, aged about 52 years, a prisoner under sentence, who died of inflammation of the lungs.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Apr 27.  Reports of an unpleasant nature having circulated relative to the circumstances attending the death of MARY MANNING, wife of THOMAS MANNING, of the parish of Bisley, in this county, some of the principal persons in the parish applied to Mr Ball, after the interment, requesting that an investigation might take place.  The body was disinterred, and an inquest held on Monday and Tuesday last, when Mr Driver, the parish surgeon, and many other witnesses, were examined, and the jury returned a verdict, “that the deceased died by the visitation of God;” but added, “that the conduct of her husband towards her during severe illness had not been such as was creditable to him either as a husband or a man.” 

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Littleworth, on SAMUEL KING; and at Bisley, on JOHN LEWIS.  Verdicts, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Frampton, on JOHN PHILLIPS, who was killed by a waggon passing over his head.  At the same place, on JAMES MacNEIL, who fell from a boat, and was drowned.  And at Newmarket, on CHARLES PRIDE, who was killed by a cart falling on him.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death, with a nominal deodand.

   At Stroud, on MIRANDA STEEL, who was burnt to death in consequence of her clothes taking fire; and at Avening, on ELIZABETH STAFFORD, who fell down stairs, and was so seriously injured that she died in consequence.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Donnington, on the body of DANIEL WOOD, killed by the upsetting of a cart.  At Cirencester, on the body of JANE MALPAS, whose clothes caught fire, whereby she was so much burnt as to cause her death.  At Chedworth, on the body of PETER GLOVER, who was killed by a fall from a ladder.  At Aston Blank, on the body of MARY PULHAM, a child, whose clothes took fire, whereby she was so much burnt as to cause her death.  At Nutgrove, on the body of MARY ANN BOWLEY, and at Eastington, on the body of DANIEL MILLARD, two children, who also suffered in a similar manner.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Badginton, on the body of WM. PINCHIN, and at Cirencester, on the body of WM. CLEAVELY, both of whom died suddenly.  Verdicts, Died by the Visitation of God. 

   At Baunton, on the body of R. WILLIAMS, who was found dead in his dwelling house; and at Minty, on the body of CAROLINE TELLING, found dead in bed. Verdicts, Found Dead.

 

May 4.  A very distressing instance of the instability of human life and enjoyments, occurred at Chipping Sodbury, on Wednesday last, at the Bell Inn, where a party of gentlemen had dined together on the occasion of a new landlord having opened the house.  After dinner, and the wine having circulated freely, one of the party, Mr JOHN WOODMAN, a young man about twenty five, who had been in extraordinary high spirits, left the room, and not returning, a search was made, and he was discovered in the garden, quite dead.  A surgeon was instantly sent for, and every means tried to restore animation, but unsuccessfully, as the vital spark had flown.  His death was occasioned by apoplexy.

   An Inquest was held on Thursday last, at Charfield, before WJ Ellis, Esq. on a hallier, named GEORGE BAILEY, who was on his return home with a load of wheat, and being very intoxicated, fell under the wheel of the waggon, and died immediately.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  He has left a widow and eight children.

 

May 11.

 

May 18.  Notice from London Gazette: May 8, 1833; Lieutenant Francis Joyner Ellis to Captain, by purchase, 68th.

 

May 25.  On Tuesday last, an inquest was taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, and a respectable jury, on view of the body of a NEW BORN FULL GROWN MALE CHILD, which was discovered in a privy, in the hamlet of Barton St Michael, adjoining this city.  A woman named GARDINER, accidentally observed the body on the preceding afternoon, at which time it was nearly covered with soil.  An investigation was immediately set on fot, from which it appeared that a young woman, named ANN FREEMAN, who had for some time been out of service, had unexpectedly returned home to her friends in Barton street, on Wednesday se’nnight, at which time several of the neighbours suspected, from her appearance, that she was in a state of pregnancy.  On Sunday evening she complained of being unwell, and on the same night was absent from her bed several hours, but none of the family got up to render her any assistance.  Evidence was given of her having made suitable preparations for her situation by a supply of baby linen, and in a very merciful consideration of the circumstances of the case, which it would be improper for us to detail, the jury returned a verdict of “Died by suffocation, in consequence of falling into the privy from its mother at the time of her delivery.”

INQUESTS.  Lately held before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At the County Gaol, on the body of WILLIAM TIMBRILL, aged 78, who died of apoplexy.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Hinton on the Green, on the body of FRANCIS GREGG, aged about ten years, who was drowned by falling into a brook.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Broad Marston, on the body of ANN SOLLIS, aged 68, who hanged herself in her bedroom.  The deceased had for many years been in a deranged state of mind, and the jury, without hesitation, returned a verdict of Lunacy.

 

Jun 1.  SUICIDE; long account of WM. SHAW, hairdresser; WJE; derangement.

   The body of a man was discovered by the Custom house boat, floating in the river Severn, near Beachley, on the 17th May, and on being brought ashore, was identified by the peculiarity of the formation of a tooth to be that of FRANCIS LEWIS, a young man who was missed from a vessel lying in King road on the 14th February last, and was supposed to have fallen overboard.  An inquest was held before WJ Ellis, Esq. and there being no evidence how he came by his death, the Jury returned a verdict of “Found Dead, and floating in the river Severn.”  The body was in a sad state of decomposition.

 

Jun 8.  Yesterday an inquest was held at the Talbot Inn, in this city, before A Walker, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of DANIEL MANNING, a sailor belonging to the smack Dolphin, of Kinsale, who was drowned in the basin of the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal.  It appeared that the deceased had gone in company with the captain to a public house in the city, in the course of Thursday evening, and, on returning to his vessel about eleven o’clock, accidentally fell into the Basin and was drowned before assistance could be rendered.  Verdict, Accidentally Drowned. 

INQUESTS.    Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Elmore, on the body of JOSEPH ARNOLD, who, on attempting to place a bucket of water on his head which he had taken from the Severn, fell backwards into the river and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Woolstrup, on the body of THOS. FRYER JENNINGS, who threw himself into the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal, and was drowned.  The deceased was at skittles at a public house in the neighbourhood, and was called on by his wife, who requested him to go home; he made no answer, but walked away towards the canal.  On the bank he sat down, when she attempted to reason with him on what he was about, and requested him to think of the poor children, but deceased answered, “I won’t stand it,” and imediately jumped into the canal and drowned himself.  The jury, which was respectable, after mature deliberation, returned a verdict of Felo de se.  The deceased has left a widow and seven chidren. [Under the provisions of the Act of Parliament, the body was interred between the hours of nine and twelve at night, in the churchyard, but without any funeral rites or ceremony.]

  At Cheltenham, on the body of WILLIAM CROSS,  who in attempting to pick up his stick which had dropped under a waggon in which he had rode from Slaughter to Charlton Kings, accidentally fell on the ground, and the off fore wheel went over his thigh and body. He was taken to the Casualty Hospital, at Cheltenham, but was so much injured as to cause his death in a few days.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   As the Barge Friends, of Lydney, was passing up the Canal on Saturday last, near Purton, one of the hands, named GREENAWAY, fell asleep while sitting on the deck, and, falling forwards into the water, was drowned before assistance could be rendered to him.

   An inquest was held this week at Stapleton, before WJ Ellis, Esq. on a young man, named FREDERICK STRICKLAND, aged 19, assistant to a druggisr, who was drowned by a seizure of the cramp, whilst bathing in the river; and at Crew’s Hole, on a little boy, named LEGG, drowned by falling into the river Avon, when fishing.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Jun 15.  Pugilism at Cheltenham; death of SAMUEL OAKEY; Inquest by JC; mentions ‘Welsh Ned’ and a man unknown; accessories SAMUEL DAVISON, JAS. TROUGHTON, THOMAS LIDIARD.

FATAL ACCIDENTS.

A shocking accident occurred at Falfield, on Monday last, to a young man named GEORGE MORGAN, about 20, who was driving Messrs Morrish’s stage waggon from Bristol to this city and Cheltenham.  It appears he attempted to go down a small hill near Falfield without dragging the wheel, and it is supposed, in attempting to keep back the horses, fell to the ground, and the wheel passing over his body and head, of course instantly killed him.

   A very melancholy accident happened to a lad named JOHN DAWES, who was under carter to a waggon belonging to Messrs Vallance, of Chippenham Mills, and was going with a load of flour to Bristol on Sunday night last.  When on the top of Tog hill, the driver put Dawes into the waggon to sleep, and, as they were descending the hill, he heard him kick with his feet against the head of the waggon; he called to him, but as he made no answer, he got on the shafts and felt his legs, and as he made no noise he concluded he was dreaming, and went on.  On their arrival at Moorfields, near Bristol, where they breakfast, as the boy did not stir when called to repeatedly, the driver got into the waggon, and found the unfortunate lad quite dead, one of the sacks of corn having slipped on descending the hill, and, falling over his faceand chest, must instantly have deprived him of life.  Inquests were held before WJ Ellis, Esq. on each of these cases, and verdicts returned of Accidental Death.

   The same Coroner has held inquests this week at Kingswood, on a young child burnt to death by his clothes taking fire during the temporary absence of the parents; and at St Philip’s, on a lad about twelve years of age drowned whilst bathing.

 

Jun 22.  On the same day, [Tuesday, the 11th] in consequence of the very rough state of the weather, the steam packets between Newport and Bristol, were compelled, after two ineffectual attempts to proceed, to return to port.  The same day, between twelve and two o’clock, the sloop Edward, of Bristol, bound to that place from Newport, with 50 tons of coal, during a violent gale of wind, ran on shore on the eastern point of Newport river, and became a total wreck.  Three men named WEEKS (brothers) and  a passenger were drowned.  The body of one of the unfrotunate men, HENRY WEEKS, was picked up on the following day, near Goldcliff, a short distance from the wreck.  Upon the Coroner’s inquest, nothing was elicited, as to the immediate cause of the melancholy catastrophe.  The steam packet on Wednesday experienced a very boisterous passage.

 

Jun 29.  A melancholy accident occurred, on the 25th inst. at the Mills of Messrs Sheppard at Uley, in this county, by the bursting of the boiler of a steam engine, by which two men were killed on the spot.

INQUESTS.  Taken rhis week before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Cheltenham, on the body of a child named ELIZABETH INGLIS, about two years of age, who fell into a well, near Sandford, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

  At the County Prison, on the body of J. ISLES, who died from a gradual decay of nature.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At St Briavels, on the body of THOMAS JENKINS, who was killed in consequence of the handle of the wheel attached to a frame at which he was at work drawing up a heavy stone from a quarry breaking in his hand, and the elbow striking his head, fractured his skull and instantly deprived him of life.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Cheltenham, on the body of JAMES CARTER, who suddenly fell down in the road leading to Alstone Mill, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Hucclecote, on the body of SARAH GABB, who destroyed herself by taking sulphate of copper.  It appeared in evidence, that the deceased had for a long time been in a deranged state of mind, and had obtained by some means unknown a quantity of the above poison, which she is supposed to have taken mixed in water, and which caused her death in a short time.  The contents of the stomach having been analysed, were found to contain a quantity of the mineral poison above mentioned.  The jury, who were highly respectable, without hesitation returned a verdict of Lunacy.

   At the South Hamlet, on the body of JOHN COX, who was found drowned in the canal yesterday morning.  The deceased had been missing since Sunday last.  As there was no evidence to prove how he came by his death, the jury returned a verdict, Found Drowned.

 

Jul 6.  A very disgraceful as well as fatal occurrence took place at Old Sodbury on the night of Sunday last, when a drunken revel was held there.  A considerable number of people had collected, drinking at a bush housr, and about eleven o’clock, one of the party, named RUMMINS, challenged another, GRIBBLE, to fight; the challenge was accepted, and after stripping they went into a neighbouring field, accompanied by their companions, two of them being seconds, and began fighting.  They fought for about an hour and three quarters, when Rummins fell very heavily, and being raised by his friends was discovered to be quite dead, (a part of the vertebrae of his neck having subsequently been discovered to have been displaced.)  An Inquest was heldbefore WJ Ellis, Esq. and a very respectable jury, and a verdict of Manslaughter returned against GIBBINS, as the principal, and two brothers, named WHITE, as aiding and assisting.  They have been since committed by that Gentleman to our County Gaol for trial at the ensuing Assizes.

   A very shocking and unaccountable case of self destruction occurred at Lidney on Sunday last.  The servant girl at a very respectable family there, was discovered by her mistress to be very ill, and in great pain, attended with vomiting; she made enquiries, but could not learn from her what was the cause of her illness; as she became worse more urgent enquriries were made, and after some time the girl confessed she had purchased some arsenic at a druggist’s shop in the village, as if for her mistress, for the purpose of destroying rats, and had taken three separate doses.  Two medical gentelmen were summoned, and although they used the stomach pump and every other means which could be devised, all their efforts were unavailing, as she died in a few hours.  An inquest was held before WJ Ellis, Esq. and a verdict of Felo de se having been returned, she was buried in the churchyard on the same night, without any service being read, or any other rite of Christian burial.

   A lad, named NOAH TANDY, aged about 18, met with a frightful death on Saturday se’nnight, at the Block House Lock, on the Worcester and Birmingham Canal.  The deceased was a boatman, in the employ of Messrs Brown and Son, of Gloucester, and whilst working the boat through the lock he slipped off the bow between the vessel and the wall, by which he was so dreadfully crushed that he survived but a few moments.  An inquest was held upon the body before Mr Gwinnell, and a verdict of accidental death returned.

 

Jul 13.  Case of Harding.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Randwick, on WILLIAM CRITCHLEY, who was killed  by the falling in of a quarry; at the Thrupp, on JOHN CLIFF, who was killed by falling from the road into the garden below; at Chalford, on JOHN RICE, upon whom a quantity of earth and stones fell whilst he was digging a foundation for a house; at Painswick, upon JOSEPH MERRITT, who was killed by falling down stairs in his own house; at Littleworth, on GIDEON BURROUGHS, who fell from a building and was so seriously injured as to cause his death.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Stonehouse, on SAMUEL FORD, a child about two years old, who was drowned in the Stroud Canal; Verdict, Found Drowned.  And at Painswick, on RUTH VERRINDER, who fell in her garden, and died immediately.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

COMMITMENTS.  WILLIAM GRIBBLE and EDWIN and THOMAS WHITE, by WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner, charged with killing and slaying J. RUMMIN, at Old Sodbury.

   Tuesday, SUSANNAH PURNELL and FREDERICK FRENCH, by WJ Ellis, Esq, Coroner; the said Susannah Purnell with the Wilful Murder of MARY HARDING, at the parish of St Paul, and the said Frederick French with aiding and assisting the said Susannah Purnell to commit the said murder.

   A very gross outrage was committed on a poor woman named MARY HARDING, wife of a blacksmith, living in Pearce’s Court, Houlton street, Bristol, on Saturday week last, by some persons living in the court, between whom and the poor woman there seems to have been an old grudge.  A young duck having been stolen by a little boy living in the court, Mary Harding interfered to procure the restoration of the stolen property, and to prevail on the boy to ask pardon for the offence.  This was resented by some woman named PURNELL and FRENCH, and one of them, named SUSANNAH PURNELL, attached the woman, and beat her much about the neck and head.  A scuffle ensued, and a man, named FREDERICK FRENCH, then ran up and struck her down two or three times.  The woman of the house where the affray happened at length succeeded in turning them all out, keeping the poor woman in her house.  She complained much and went to bed, but was much better the next day and went out, but gradually became worse, and on the next Friday morning she died.  An inquest was held before WJ Ellis, Esq. and after an investigation which lasted the whole day, a verdict was returned of Wilful Murder against Susannah Purnell and Frederick French, who were thereupon committed to our prison for trial at the next assizes.

 

Jul 20.

 

Jul 27.  WM. SMITH, retired surgeon, at Bristol Hotwells, died in bed.  Coroner WJE; verdict Died by the Visitation of God.

FATAL ACCIDENT.   On Thursday se’nnight, one of the booths at the Race Course, at Cheltenham, which had been fitted up for the accommodation of spectators to view the races, gave way, and fell with a tremendous crash.  It is supposed that nearly 100 persons fell with it; several were slightly injured, and an infant child was killed.

INQUEST.  At Bathampton, on JOHN TUCKER, who committed suicide by hanging himself in a walnut tree, on the banks of the canal.  He had lately come from Cheltenham, where he had left his wife and family; he remained at the George Inn during the whole of Monday, but appeared, at intervals, to be melancholy.  On the inquiry it came out that a letter had been received by his sister on the day he was found hung, and stated that, if he did not return in a day or two, his wife would sell off what effects she had and come to Bath.  Verdict, Temporary Derangement.

 

Not completed. 

 

 

 

1834, Gloucestershire Chronicle.

 

Jan 4.  FATAL ACCIDENT.  (Cheltenham.)  On Saturday last, in cosequence of a waggoner having thrown a very heavy load of paving stones against the side of an arch over some cellaring in front of No 5 Priory street, it gave way, and an industrious youth named GARN, who happened to be crossing the arch at the time, fell with it into a large dry well, and was completely buried beneath the stones and rubbish.  He expired in a few minutes after being extricated from his dreadful situation.  An inquest was held on the body at the King’s Head, on Monday, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, and a respectable Jury.  Verdict, Accidental Death - deodand on the materials, five shillings.  - Cheltenham Chronicle.

   An inquest was held on Saturday last, by EDWARD BOWEN, the Coroner for this city, upon CHARLOTTE MATILDA RUSSELL, the unfortunate woman, whose sudden death in Bolt lane we mentioned last week. The Jury returned a Verdict of Died from excessive drinking.

ACCIDENT.  An accident, which was likely to have been attended with a fatal result, happened at the brewery of Messrs Franklin, Simpson & Co. Bridge-end, Westgate street.  About seven o’clock on Tesday evening last, one of the masons, named CHAS. REED, had occasion to fetch some of his tools from one of the highest range of coolers; on his return he missed the steps leading from them, and, before he discovered his mistake, he was precipitated from a height of nearly forty feet!  Fortunately, his fall was broken by his coming in contact with one of the lower range of cooler, or, perhaps, he would have been killed on the spot.  His fellow workmen conveyed him home in a state of insensibility, when every medical and other assistance which humanity could suggest, was afforded by the proprietors of the brwery.  No limbs were broken or dislocated, but his head was most frightfully cut and bruised.  We are happy to state that the poor fellow is likely to recover.

 

Jan 11.  ACCIDENT.  On Saturday, a child named SCRIVENS, about two years of age, was dreadfully burnt, at a house in Rutland street, in consequence of its clothes accidentally taking fire.  It was immediately taken to the Dispensary and Casualty Hospital, and is still living. - Cheltenham Chronicle.

FATAL ACCIDENT.  On Saturday last, a man named THOMAS TRAFFORD, in the employ of WM. AMBROSE, Esq. of Awre, was endeavouring to catch a ram, the animal turned round and butted him so severely in the groin, that the poor fellow was killed on the spot.

INQUESTS taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Chipping Campden, on the body of ELIZA COOPER, aged about three years, who was burnt to death, in consequence of her clothes catching fire whilst sitting by it.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

At Lower Redbrook, on the body of NOAH HUDSON, aged about four years.  The deceased had lighted a chip at the fire, and was carrying it, burning, across the kitchen, when the fire communicated to his clothes, from which he was so much burnt as to cause his death in a few hours.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Sommerville Acton, on the body of HENRY TOMBLINS, aged about 61 years, who was found in a field in that parish; deceased had left home the evening before with the intention of going to a neighbouring parish, but not returning, his friends became alarmed.  Search was made early the next morning, when he was found dead.  No marks of violence appearing on his body, and no evidence to show the cause of his death, the Jury returned a Verdict, Found dead.

INQUESTS lately taken before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner.  At Westerleigh, on Mr WILLIAM ENGLAND, an infirm old man, who was forced by a sudden gust of wind violently against a wall, and received such injuries on the head that he died directly. Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Iron Acton, on GEORGE ALWAY, who was found dead in the road near the Lamb Inn.  Verdict, Died from Apoplexy.

   Another inquest was take before WJ Ellis, Esq. on Thrsday last, at Lower Eastwood, near Brockhampton, on ELIZA BABER, about seventeen years of age, who was found dead in a pool, in a field near the house of her master, Mr THOMAS GROVE.  It appeared she had a trifling dispute with her mistress about some household work and had suddenly left the house, and no tidings having been heard of her for some days, the pool in question was searched, and the body was found.  The Jury returned a Verdict of Temporary Derangement.

MURDER of JASPER EDWARDS, child at North Nibley, 26th ult.  WJE; Wilful Murder against HESTER EDWARDS.

 

Jan 18.  JAS. BROWN, a waterman, was drowned on Thursday last, in the river Severn, near this city.  He had been unloading a barge, and was returning on a plank with a shovel in his hand, when he missed his footing and fell in, being tipsy at the time.  He has not yet been picked up.  He has left a wife and four children to deplore his loss.

 

Jan 25.  ACCIDENT.  On Monday morning, as a labouring man, named WILLIAM LOVESEY, was proceeding along the street, with a wheel hub, he was knocked down by a carriage, which happened at the instant to be turning the corner of Pitville street at a rapid pace; one of the poor man’s arms was broken by the wheel passing over it, and he was otherwise injured.  He was promptly conveyed to the Casualty Ward, where he received every assistance his case required, and is in a fair way of recovery.

FATAL ACCIDENT.  A man and his wife, by the name of HIGGS, were drowned in the Severn at Maisemore Bridge, on Tuesday last.  It appeared that the boat from the impetuosity of the stream struck one of the piers of the bridge and upset; the bodies have not yet been found.  We understand that Higgs was formerly the finisher of the law in this city.

SUDDEN DEATH.  A man, by the name of THOMAS PORTER, suddenly dropped down  at the corner of Mr HALLING’s yard, at the Quay, on Tuesday last, and immediately expired.  He had been ill with the Typhus fever for some time.  A Coroner’s inquest returned a verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

INQUEST.  An inquest was held on Thursday last, before Edward Bower, Esq. Coroner for this city, and a respectable Jury, concerning the death of ANN RIDDEFORD, who was found drowned in Dockham ditch.  It appeared from the evidence adduced, that the unfortunate woman, occasionally, for a long period, laboured under a depression of spirits, at which times, she was addicted to drinking.  Verdict, Found dead.

INQUESTS lately taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Rodborough, on FREDERICK DAVIS PENDRY, otherwise JONES, who was found drowned in a water coarse by the road side, shortly after having left the house of his master.  It appeared in evidence that he had been subject to fits, and a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

   At the Anchor, near Stroud, on the body of WM. DAVIS, a lad about 13 years of age, who fell from a barge into the Stroud canal, and was drowned: and at Nailsworth, on MARY BLACKWELL, a child about 12 years of age, who fell into a resevoir and was drowned, notwithstanding the praiseworthy exertions of Mr HUNT, clothier, of that place, who, though unable to swim and ignorant of the depth of the water, leapt into it in the dark to save her, and narrowly escaped with his own life.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Ryeford, on SARAH MARIA PROSSER, whose clothes took fire, and she was so severely burnt that she died in a few days.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Bisley, on ANN HARE, who, on her daughter opening the door of her residence to admit her into her house, fell into a state of insensibility, and died soon afterwards.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   And at Rodborough, on JAMES SUMMERS, who having been missed for several days, was found drowned in a millpond.  There was reason to suppose that he had fallen into a brook, a short distance above the pond, while in a state of intoxication, but as no evidence was adduced to prove this a verdict to that effect was returned.

   At Caudle Green, on the body of EDMUND HUMPHRIES.  Deceased was cleaning a horse with a curry comb, the horse not standing still, deceased struck, when the horse violently kicked, and struck deceased on the lower part of the belly, which caused his death in two days.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At the Infirmary, on the body of HARRIOT MUNDON, who, while at work in Chalford, in a clothiers manufactory, and attempting to throw the apron she had on over her shoulder, the drum bar of the engine which she was then at work, suddenly catched it and threw her with such violence against it as to completely scalp her head, and tore off the left ear, she was immediately brought to the Infirmary, but was so much injured as to cause her death the next day.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Newnham, on the body of ELIZABETH VERRY.  Deceased had been at Chapel in the evening and returned home about Nine o’clock, she afterwards went to a public house for half a pint of beer for her supper, on her return, which was in a few minutes, apparently in good health, put the beer on the table, fell on the floor and instantly expired.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Feb 1.  MURDER NEAR LITTLE DEAN.  On Tuesday morning last, between eight and nine, a labouring man, named RICHARD GARDINER, found in a public path, in Brain’s Grove, near the Turnpike road, in Dean lane, half a mile from Littledean, a Scotchman, named M’COOMBIE, aged 75, known as an itinerant pedlar in the neighbourhood, in a dying state, from various wounds apparently inflicted by bludgeons from which he died on the Thursday morning following, without having given any account of the cause of his death.  Gardiner found afterwards a bloody bludgeon, and a knife, which he stated, had a drop of blood on it, near the spot, both which he threw in a wood nearby, but the bludgeon only was found.  Gardiner has been placed in confinement by the Justices.  The pedlar had a wallet, of which he had always been very careful, and which was broken open, the contents of this are not known; he also had a bag, (found unopened,) containing twenty shillings.  He had been seen only a few minutes before, on his way to the spot where he was found, and had stated that he was going to Newent.  Mr Fletcher, the senior consulting surgeon of our Infirmary, was sent for, and gave his prompt attention to the poor fellow, but his skill and exertions were of no avail.

Feb 8.  ACCIDENT AT CAM.  On Monday last as RICHARD BICK, a youth about 16 years of age, was driving a cart loaded with corn down Cam Pitch, the horse suddenly took fright, and the boy in endeavouring to stop him jumped from the cart and fell under the wheel, which so crushed him as to cause almost immediate death.  An inquest was held on Thursday before WJ Ellis, Esq. coroner, and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

INQUESTS lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Hucclecote, on the body of WILLIAM PARROTT, a stranger, who was found lying partly in a ditch, totally insensible,  by a man going to work in the morning.  Notice was given to the officers of the parish, where he was removed to a house near, and medical and other assistance rendered to him but without effect; he continued in a state of insensibility until his death, which happened on the third day after he was found.  By an Indenture of apprenticeship found in his pocket, he appears to have been by trade a skinner.  No marks of violence appeared on his body.  The Jury returned a verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Longney, on the body of A WOMAN UNKNOWN, found drowned in the river Severn.  No evidence to shew how or by what means she became drowned, the Jury returned a verdict, Found drowned.  Deceased was dressed in a black gown, a blue and white neckerchief round her shoulders, and wore leather boots.  A purse was found in her bosom, containing a crooked sixpence and some small red beads.

   At Ryton, on the body of JOSEPH VAUGHAN, who being at work winnowing barley in a barn, left it for a minute and went a few yards from the barn, when he suddenly fell on his face and instantly expired.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Pammington, on the body of WM. ATTWOOD, aged about 5 years, who whilst sitting by the fire in the house of his father, some loose straw which was on the hearth under him took fire from a coal falling, and communicated to his clothes, from which he was so much burnt as to cause his death the next day.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   We noticed in our paper last week, that a poor man, named  WM. MacCOMBIE, was murdered in a wood, called Bryant’s Grove, in the Forest of Dean.  An inquest was taken on view of the body on Saturday last at Littledean, and after many hours taken up in the examination of witnesses, and every effort made to discover the offender or offenders who committed this diabolical murder; and although a man, named RICHARD GARDINER, had been committed on suspicion, yet no evidence could be found to lead to his detention, or to the commitment of any other person.  Several Magistrates  attended, and the Jury, who were most respectable, after a patient investigation, returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against some person or persons unknown.

ADVERTISEMENT.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE GLOUCESTERSHIRE  CHRONICLE.

SIR,

In consequence of the numerous false reports in circulation relative to the death of ELIZA BABER, late servant to Mr & Mrs GROVE, of Eastwood, near Thornbury, tending to injure their characters, by imputing to them the serious charge of occasioning the death of the young woman by violence, and afterwards causing her body to be thrown into a pool, where it was discovered.  I, the undersigned, as Foreman of the Jury assembled on the Coroner’s Inquest, have been called on, by Mr & Mrs Grove, to state thus publicly, which I do most readily and unequivocally, and with the entire concurrence of all my respectable Fellow-Jurors, that the evidence adduced before the Coroner left not the least doubt whatever on our minds that the unfortunate young woman put an end to her existence under the influence of temporary insanity.   Morton, near Thornbury                              I am, Sir, your obedient servant,

February 6 1834                                                                                 WILLIAM TILL.

 

Feb 15.  CORONER’s INQUESTS. On Friday, (Feb. 7), an inquest was held at the Swan Inn, Stoke’s Croft, before WJ Ellis, Esq. one of the Coroners for the county of Gloucester, and a respecatble jury, on view of the body of Mr THOMAS DE LA HAY, surgeon, residing in Picton Street.  It appears that, on account of his irregular habits, the wife of the deceased and his two children had separated from him, and retired to lodgings in the same street; here he called on Tuesday evening, and partook heartily of a supper provided for him, at his own request, by Mr HOOPER, the landlord, who, on seeing two empty phials in his possession, and observing a certain agitation and restlessness about him, became somewhat alarmed.  Some observations on the subject were made in the proper quarter, but on being subsequently informed that this was no unusual circumstance, the landlord’s apprehensions were allayed, until deceased asked for a light, and proceeded towards a pump-trough, near the premises, where he was observed to stoop, and then return into the house.  On inspection the trough was found to contain an empty phial, labelled “laudanum-poison”, and this induced Mr Hopper to ask deceased some questions, to which he replied, “I am surprised that you should think I have taken anything: I know better than that;” and as to the label, he said “it was all a sham, and merely to fighten his wife.”  Deceased then smoked a pipe, vomited once or twice, without exciting further alarm, and about 11 o’clock repaired to his own house, accompanied by Mr Hooper, whom he requested, on taking leave, to call him up at 9 o’clock the following morning.  At that hour, however, as deceased did not answer to the summons at the door, it was presumed that he did not wish to be disturbed, as it was known for it to be no uncommon thing for him not to rise until near the middle of the day.  A second attempt to rouse him, between 11 and 12 o’clock, being equally fruitless, an entrance was at length effected by one of the windows.  Deceased was then found lying on the floor of his sleeping apartment, partially undressed, not having been able, to all appearance, to get into bed on the night preceding.  Medical assistance was immediately called in, and the unhappy man then acknowledged that he had taken opium, which was confirmed by the fact given in evidence, that he had obtained from a druggist, on his representing himself to be a medical man, an ounce and a half of the tincture opii, made according to the London Dispensary.  All attempts to save his life proved fruitless, and about seven o’clock on Wednesday evening, death put an end to his sufferings.  The Jury, after a patient investigation of several hours, returned a verdict of - Died by taking poison while in a fit of insanity.  The deceased was about 31 years of age, a native of Herefordshire, and lately resided at Wrington, Somerset.

   An inquest was held at the same place, on the 31st ult., on view of the body of a man, NAME UNKNOWN, but who was found in a dying state, near Stoke’s Croft Turnpike, about nine o’clock in the evening of the preceding Tuesday.  The deceased was about 60 years of age, and in the class of an agricultural labourer.  Verdict accordingly.  Felix Farley.

 

Feb 22.  Two skeletons found at Painswick.

 

Mar 1.  INQUESTS taken by JG Ball, Esq.  At Tetbury, on FRANCIS BAILEY who died suddenly in a field near that town.  Verdict, Apoplexy.

   At Stonehouse, on ELIZABETH FISHER, who left her house during the night and was supposed to have drowned herself in a brook there, but as there was no evidence of the fact, the usual verdict in such cases was returned.

   At Shortwood, on SARAH WALKLEY, an infant who died suddenly.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

AWFUL SUDDEN DEATH.  On the morning of Thursday the 13th ult. Mr THOMAS PARRY, of the Cross Farm, Longhope, in this county, a young man much respected, after eating his breakfast in perfect health went out into the yard to kill a pig, and while leaning over the dying animal he suddenly fell down, and was taken up a corpse.

 

Mar 8.  INQUESTS lately taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Camden, on the body of HENRY HOWES, aged about 20 years, who hung himself with a small cord to the tester of his bed.  From the evidence it appeared, deceased had for some time past laboured under great nervous excitement, and was at times very much distracted in his mind.  The Jury being perfectly satisfeied, without hesitation returned a verdict of Insanity.

   At Churcham, on the body of WILLIAM RAVENHILL, aged about 21 years.  The deceased was riding in a waggon, late at night, when the horses startled, he jumped out of the waggon and endeavouring to stop them, fell down, and the wheels going over his body, caused his death in about two hours.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

    At Woodmancote, on the body of WILLIAM WILKINS, aged about 30 years, who died suddenly in his bedroom.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Elmore, on the body of JAMES BROWN, aged about 40 years, who was drowned in the river Severn, by falling off a plank going on board a barge, where he had been at work.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Campden, on the body of GEORGE OSBORNE, who in a state of intoxication, hung himself to the bar of a gate with his handkerchief.  Verdict, Destroyed himself in a fit of temporary Insanity, brought on by excessive drinking.

   At Scowles Hill, Newland, on the body of MARY ANN FROWEN, aged about five years.  The deceased about five weeks ago, had been much burnt by her clothes catching fire, and a report had been circulated that she had died from improper treatment of her step mother, but after a patient investigation, the Jury, who were satisfied that the report was false, returned a verdict, - That the deceased’s death was occasioned by the injury she had received from being accidentally burnt.

INQUESTS taken before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner.  At Baptist Mills near Bristol, on the body of A NEW BORN MALE CHILD, found drowned in the river Froome, near the Mills.  After a long investigation the jury returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against SARAH COATES, single woman.

   At Woolaston, on the body of ELIZA PRICE, aged about three years, who was so dreadfully burnt, whilst playing with the fire, that she survived but a few hours.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   The body of THOMAS HIGGS, who was stated in a former paper to have been drowned at Maisemore Bridge in consequence of his boat striking against one of the piers, was picked up last week on the sands near Arlingham.  Verdict, Found Drowned.

 

Mar 15.  MURDER INQUEST re JAMES RENS, of Stow on the Wold, a native of France, and Rotterdam; evidence by SAMUEL HARRIS of Swell, carrier; THOMAS CLIFFORD, of Stow, stonemason; WILLIAM RICHINS, of Stow; CHARLES SHEPPARD of Eyford, Gamekeeper; MARTHA ROGERS, of Stow, daughter of WM. ROGERS, tailor; RICHARD PITTS 2 MARTIN, of Stow, carpenter; STEPHEN BROOKS; ROBERT RYDER WELSH, of Stow, surgeon; GEORGE PAIN; and GEO. HAYWARD, of Stow, surgeon.

 

Mar 22.   A SEXTON NEARLY BURIED BY HIMSELF.  A few days since, the sexton of the parish of Stroud had just finished digging a deep grave in the churchyard, when one side of it fell in, and buried him up to his lips in mould.  He cried aloud for help, but it was nearly half an hour before he was heard, and extricated from his unpleasant situation.  Had the earth reached a little higher he must have perished.

EXHUMATION OF AN INFANT AT TETBURY.   On Tuesday last, a female infant, wrapped in a flannel petticoat marked C.H.2, was found by BEARD, the gardener, who was putting in laurel trees in a plantation adjoining the lawn of Mrs SAVAGE, of Tetbury.  An inquest was held on Wednesday, and after the examination of several witnesses, the jury came to the conclusion, that the child had been buried three or four months, and that CHARLOTTE HUDSON, cook to Mrs Savage, was the mother of the said child, and had concealed its birth.

   An inquest was held on Wednesday morning by JB Grindon, Esq. Coroner, at the Bathurst Hotel, Bristol, on the body of a man taken out of the water at Wapping, which had evidently been several days in the river.  About a fortnight ago a hat was seen floating near that place, which was found to contain a handkerchief and three letters, two of them directed to a Mr KING, Gloucester, all of which were put in the post office.  In the waistcoat pocket of the deceased a paper was found, inscibed “W.RAWLE, 4, Castle green, Bristol;”  this was all the evidence produced at the inquest.  On application to Mr Rawle, it appears that the deceased was a Mr R. SMART; that he kept a public house at Coleford, in this county, and came to Bristol a short time since to make some purchases.  Mr Rawle supposes he must have fallen into the river by accident, whilst proceeding towards the Chepstow boat.  Verdict, Found drowned.

   On Thursday afternoon an Inquest was held at the gaol at Ilchester, by Mr Caines, on Mr THOS. ADY, aged 72, who died on Sunday morning last.  The deceased was a native of, and formerly resided in this city, and was in the annual receipt of an income which enabled him to live in what he considered a comfortable way in the gaol, where he had been a prisoner for about thirteen years, for a debt of about 120 l.  Until within a few months he had enjoyed good health; he was a most liberal-minded and charitable man towards his fellow-debtors.

 

Mar 29.  On Tuesday morning last, as some workmen were excavating the earth for laying the foundation of warehouses, etc. near the docks, a large quantity of the soil gave way and nearly buried a poor fellow of the name of HALLOWAY.  He was immediately conveyed to the Infirmary, and we are sorry to state, that fears are entertained of his recovery.

   An aged and infirm woman of the name of BARTON, at Stow on the Wold, was so dreadfully burnt on Thursday evening, by a coal from the fire igniting her dress, that great doubts are entertaibed of her recovery.

   A very serious accident happened this week to Mr WILLIFER, a respectable farmer, at Adlestrop, near Stow on the Wold, by which his scull and collar bone were dreadfully fractured.  It appears that a rope was attached to a large tree in his orchard by some labourers, who were felling it, to prevent its damaging some apple trees nearby; Mr Willifer was assisting, and by some means the rope got entangled round his arm at the time it was falling, and jerked him with great violence against a gate post.  We are sorry that but faint hopes are entertained of his recovery.

 

Apr 5.  We have pleasure in stating, that Mr WILLIFER, of Adlestrop, who met with a very severe accident by the falling of a tree, mentioned in our last week’s Chronicle, is in a fair way of recovery, although several portions of bone have been extracted from the fractured part of the scull.

FATAL ACCIDENT.  On Friday se’nnight, as the waggon of Mr THURSTON, of Dymock, in this county, loaded with flagstones, was coming down the hill at Castlemorton, JAMES WATKINS, a boy of 14, who had the care of the horses while THOMAS LOCK, the waggoner, roade on the waggon, tried to stop the horses, to put the lock on; but the hill was so steep that he could not succeed, and the waggon was run up a bank and upset.  Lock was thrown off, and the stones falling on him, he was dreadfully injured, the bones of the hips being fractured; the boy’s left leg was much lacerated.  They were conveyed to Worcester Infirmary, where it was found necessary to amputate the boy’s leg.  Every possible attention was paid to Lock, but mortification came on, and he died on Thursday.  On Saturday Mr Gwinnell held an inquest on the body, and the Jury retured a verdict of Accidental Death.  The boy is doing well.

SHOCKING ACCIDENT.  On Monday last, as a child about eleven years of age, daughter of GEORGE WILTSHIRE, a sawyer, living in Sweet Briar street, in this city, was reading by the fire, a younger sister who was playing with a lighted match, let, it is supposed, the ignited brimstone fall on her sister’s clothes, which unfortunately caught fire, and, before assistance could be procured, her parents being both absent, she was so dreadfully burnt, that she died the same evening in the Infirmary.

 

Apr 12.  On Saturday last a poor woman of the name of MARGARET BIRD, was found dead in the Upper Veddow, near Chepstow.  On Monday an inquest was held, on view of the body, before BM Bradford, Esq. Coroner.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

OBITUARY.  On the 6th inst. in consequence of a severe accident from the falling of a tree, as mentioned in our last, Mr WILLIFER, of Adlestrop, in this county.  He was a good husband, an affectionate father, and a kind friend, and has left an affectionate wife and seven children to deplore their loss.

SHOCKING ACCIDENTS.  On Tuesday last, as Mr CHANDLER, farmer, of the parish of Brockworth, in this county, was returning home from Cheltenham, riding in an empty waggon, with a cart attached that had been repaired; his boy, riding on the fore horse, on a sudden the horses took fright and ran away.  Mr Chandler immediately jumped out of the waggon, for the purpose of trying to stop the horses, when one of the spreaders struck him violently on the chest, knocked him down, and the wheels of both vehicles passing over his body, killed him on the spot.

   On the same day, as JEREMIAH EMERY, in the employ of Mr RICHARD BUTT, of this city, soap manufacturer, was unloading a cask oil from a dray, one of the hoo

ps caught his apron, and before he could get out of the way, the cask rolled over him, broke his leg, and very much bruised his body.  We are happy to find the poor man is going on well.

INQUEST.  A NEW BORN INFANT, supposed to be a few days old, was found under a wall by the road side in the parish of Eyford, in this county; an inquest has been held upon the body, and a verdict returned of - Found dead.

 

Apr 19.  SUICIDE of Rev. WILLIAM GODDARD, MA Jesus Oxford; Curate of Charlton Kings.  Inquest before Edward Bower, Esq. Coroner for this city.  Witnesses included: ELIZABETH FLETCHER, wife of THOMAS; THOMAS FLETCHER, Gun smith of Westgate street; WILLIAM HALL, waiter; MARIA CLEMENTS, chambermaid; HARRIOT DARK, Barmaid; HENRY RAWLINGS, Porter; JW WiLTON, SURGEON; the Rev. Mr W LATTING, clergyman of  Hucclecote.

 

Apr 26.  INQUEST.  At Cheltenham, on the body of WILLIAM HISCOX, aged 9 years, who was killed by the wheels of a waggon going over his body.  The deceased was in the road near Bedford Buildings, standing between the handles of a wheelbarrow, when a team of horses (drawing a waggon) going along the road and which appeared to have startled at something; the body horse ran against the deceased and knocked him down and the near fore and hind wheels of the waggon passed over his chest and body.  His father, who saw the misfortune happen from Bedford Buildings, where he was at work, ran immediately to his assistance and picked him up and took him to the Casualty Dispensary Hospital where he almost instantly died.  No blame is attached to the driver. Verdict, accidental death.

 

May 3.  BARBAROUS MURDER. (From our Monmouth Correspondent.)  A woman about 40 years of age, named BRIDGET JONES, (a native of the sister Isle,) the wife of a pensioner, living at Chepstow, was committed to the County Gaol, at Monmouth, on Monday last, by Benjamin Meredith Bradford, Esq. by virtue of his office, as Coroner of Chepstow, charged with the wilful murder of FANNY MORGAN, a neighbour’s child, about eight years of age.  The atrocious deed was of a fiendlike character, the child’s head having been cut off and thrown into the street.

 

May 10.  We are sorry that a serious accident befell Mr WELLS, of Hampnett, near Northleach, on his return from Cheltenham market, on Thursday week; it appears that he was driving a spirited horse, and by some means as he was passing the Bath Mail, at the turnpike gates, on the Charlton road, he thought he had room to get through the gate first, he unfortunately came in contact with the hind wheel of the Mail and was thrown with great violence upon the back part of his head.  He was taken to the residence of his brother-in-law, Mr SKELTON, Surgeon, and although he remained many hours insensible, we rejoice to hear that hopes are entertained of his ultimate recovery.

 

May 17.  FATAL CIRCUMSTANCES.  On the evening of Tuesday, as a little boy named HENRY WHITE, whose parents reside in Tewkesbury road, was playing with other children in the kitchen, he drank some boiling water from the spout of a tea kettle; from the effects of which he soon expired in great agony.

INQUESTS held lately by JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Peg-house, on EDWIN NICHOLLS.  at Brownshill on SARAH BAMFIELD, who fell dead while in the act of dressing; and at Thuscomb on MARY LUSTY - Verdict, in each case, Died by the Vistation of God.

   At Nailsworth on JOSEPH DANCEY, an aged man, who was knocked down by a horse and died in consequence of th injury received.  At Painswick on DINAH LANE, who was burnt to death; and at Charlton, near Tetbury, on JOSEPH BARRETT, a child about two years old, who was drowned in a well there.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

INQUESTS lately taken before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner.  At Marshfield, on HANNAH HINTON, aged seven years, burnt to death by her clothes taking fire in the absence of her mother.  At Winterbourne, on MARY ANN HAYWARD, aged 18 months, scalded by drinking hot water from a tea kettle on the fire.  At Durdham Down, on J. KNOWLSON, drowned by falling into a pool of water (as is supposed) when in a fit.  At Bream, on G. BARROW, burnt to death by his clothes taking fire; and at St Briavell’s, on HENRY LEE, who died from the same cause.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

  At Newport, on GEO. ATKINSON, ostler to Mr GILES, who died very suddenly.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.

 

Apr 19.  FATAL ACCIDENT.  As Mr GEORGE BRYAN, a respectable farmer of Cld Aston, was returning home, on Friday last, from Bibury Races, after having drunk tea with a few friends at the house of his brother-in-law, Mr D. SMITH, of Sherborne, he was thrown from his horse and killed on the spot, and, from the appearance of he body, it is supposed his horse must have fallen upon him.  Mr Bryan was well known and much respected in the sporting circles in this neighbourhood, and rode one of the horses in the late Steeple Chase, at Andoversford.  We regret to hear that Mr Bryan has left a widow and three children to deplore the untimely end of a most excellent husband and father.  A coroner’s inquest returned a verdict of accidental death.

   On Sunday last, between the hours of ten and twelve o’clock, while his wife was at her accustomed place of worship in the village, Mr SMITH, Cooper, of Frampton upon Severn, committed suicude by hanging himself in his own back kitchen, by a cord fastened to a hook in the ceiling.  The deceased was upwards of 70 years of age.

INQUESTS taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Frampton upon Severn, on the body of CHARLES SMITH, aged about 72 years, who was found hanging to a rafter, in the brewhouse of his own house, by a cord, on Sunday last, on the return home of his family from chapel; the deceased had for a long time been in a low and desponding state of mind, which being satisfactory proved, the Jury without hesitation, returned a verdict, that the deceased hung himself being at the time in a state of insanity.

   At Winchcombe, on the body of EDWARD BROOKES, aged about 16 years, an apprentice to JOHN MORETON, shoemaker, of that town, who died on the 14th inst.; a report had been circulated that the deceased had died from the ill-treatment of his master, which caused great excitement in the parish, and determined the overseers to resquest an inquiry, when after a patient investigation by a respectable Jury, who being fully satisfied that the report was without foundation, returned a verdict, that the deceased died by the visitation of God in a natural way, from water on the brain, a disease which he had laboured under for a long time since.

BRISTOL.  Mrs RACHEL TYLEY, of the White Hart, Maudlin lane, committed suicide, on Monday se’nnight, by hanging herself in her bedroom.  Verdict at the inquest, Lunacy.

 

Apr 26.  ACCIDENT.  On Wednesday last a distressing accident happened to WILLIAM MOSS, of Barton street, near this city, who, in returning from fetching a load of stone in a waggon from Birdlip Hill, (imprudently riding on the shaft,) unfortunately fell off whilst asleep, and the waggon passed over him.  When he was discovered, his jaw bone and thigh were found to have been broken, and his scull fractured.  Though he was taken up alive and immediately conveyed to out Infirmary, we are sorry to say there are not tthe slightest hopes entertained of his recovery.

INQUESTS taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Naunton, on the body of  NEW BORN MALE CHILD, found dead in a brook, called the windrush; no marks of violence could be discovered on the body, which was carefully examined by Mr Wells, and no evidence to prove how or by what means the child came to his death, or who were his parents, the Jury returned a verdict, found dead.

   At Littleworth Hamlet, on the body of JOSEPH HOPKINS, aged about 23 years, who was found dead in his bed in the cabin of a vessel called the Enterprize, lying in the basin of the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal; the deceased had gone to bed the night before in apparently good health.  Verdict, died by the visitation of God.

 

May 17.  INQUESTS taken before J Mountain, Esq, Coroner.  At Coates, on the body of CATHERINE HERBERT, who was seized with a violent fit of coughing, and died from suffocation; at Salperton, on the body of SARAH HOWARD, who died before assistance could be procured.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Eyford, on the body of A NEW BORN INFANT found in a field near the roadside under some broadstones; at Dunsborn, on the body of EDWIN SAVORY, an infant, found dead in bed.  Verdicts, Found dead.

   At Stowell Park, on the body of WILLIAM HARRIS, who had left his home, as appeared by an advertisement in the Gloucester Journal, and was found drowned in the river Colne.  Verdict, Found drowned.

   And at Sherborne, on the body of GEORGE BRYAN, who was killed by a fall from his horse.  Verdict, Accident.

 

May 24.  CIRENCESTER.  A man was found dead in a field near this town, on Wednesday morning last, at an early hour; he was in good health the day preceding, and we understand eat a hearty dinner at the club.  An inquest was held the same day, the result of which we have not yet received.

   WILLIAM YOUNG, sailor, aged 30, native of Cardigan; drowned at Gloucester; an inquest by EB; verdict, Accidentally Drowned.

 

May 31.  A melancholy circumstance occurred last week, at Staunton, in the Forest of Dean.  Three children, of GEORGE BRAMMER, went out to play, in an orchard near the house, in which was some meadow saffron (a strong poison), they picked and eat of it, not knowing what it was; one of them, MARY ANN, between two and three years of age, was soon after seiz’d with violent vomitting, and such was the effect of the poison, although medical assistance was obtained, that it caused her death the next day.  An inquest was taken on the body, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, and a verdict returned accordingly.  The other children were very seriously injured, but providentially recovered.

INQUESTS lately taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Foston’s Ash, on DAVID COOK, a lad of fourteen, who was killed by a horse on which he was riding, falling with him.  Verdict, Accidental Death, with a deodand of one shilling.

  At Chalford, on an infant child of EDWIN and SARAH KING; and at Rodborough, on SAMUEL LEWIS, who was found dead in bed at an inn where he had slept the preceding night.  Verdicts, Died by the Visitation of God.

   And at Avening, on JOSHUA MAY, who was killed in the manufactory there.  Verdict, Accidental Death, with a deodand of 5s. on the stock shaft, and the jurors declared their unanimous opinion that great blame was attributable to the parties leaving the stock shaft exposed in an improper and dangerous manner on the removal of the stocks a few days since, when a trifling outlay would have made it much more secure.

 

Jun 7.  INQUESTS taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Cheltenham, on the body of A MALE INFANT CHILD, son of SARAH SMITH, who was found dead in bed by the side of its mother.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Andoversford, on the body of JOSEPH JORDAN, who fell from the shafts of a cart on which he was riding, and the near wheel going over his body, so injured him as to cause his death in a few minutes.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jun 14.  CHEPSTOW.  An inquest was held on Tuesday, the 3d inst., before BM Bradford, Esq. Coroner, on the body of WILLIAM FISHER, who was drowned in the river Wye, by falling out of his fishing boat on the 29th of May last.  The jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

DEATHS.  On the 10th inst. at Shirenewton, near Chepstow, aged 75, Mrs WILCOX.  The deceased was in the act of drawing water from a well in her garden, when she accidentally fell in and drowned.

INQUESTS taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At the Infirmary, on the body of JOHN ANDREWS, who was returning from Cheltenham to Gloucester in a waggon, when the horses having startled at a carriage that passed, deceased, on getting out of the waggon to stop them, fell on the ground, when the wheels of the waggon went over his body; he was almost immediately conveyed to the Infirmary, but was so much injured as to cause his death in about half an hour.

GLOUCESTER INFIRMARY RECORDS. (Glos. Ref. Library  17544; June 5 (291) JOHN ANDREWS, aged 18, of St Nicholas; fractured ribs, &c. (12 1/4 Dead.)  

At Boddington, on the body of HENRY WILLIS, who was riding in a cart, returning from Cheltenham, and on attempting to get out, fell on the ground, when the wheel going over his body and loins caused his death, before he could be taken into the house of GEORGE BURROUGHS, which was close to the part of the road where the accident happened.  The deceased has left a wife and five children to deplore their loss.

   At Charlton Kings, on the body of THOMAS STALLARD, aged about 2 years, who was drowned by falling into a pan of water.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Deayj.

   At the Morse, in Ruardean, on the body of ANN ROBERTS, aged about 60 years.  The deceased left her residence between five and six o’clock on Saturday morning, and not returning, search was made in different parts of the neighbourhood, when she was discovered on the next morning hanging to a limb of a chestnut tree, in a wood called Heywood, in the Forest of Dean.  It appeared in evidence that the deceased had for a long time been subject to fits of derangement, and the Jury being perfectly satisfied with the evidence, returned a verdict of Lunacy.

 

Jun 21.  STOW ON THE WOLD.  An inquest was taken at Doddington, near Stow, before the same Coronor, on the body of a FEMALE ILLEGITIMATE CHILD, of whom the mother secretly delivered herself in a field, and after using violent means to destroy the child, she covered it up in a furrow with couch grass and dirt, where it was discovered before life was extinct, but it only survived a few hours; the Jury, after a patient investigation, returned a verdict of Wilful Murder.  The Coroner issued his warrant accordingly, and when she can with safety be removed, will be sent to Gloucester to take her trial.  [KEZIAH JAMES, see Jun 28.]

INQUESTS lately taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At the Box, on WM. BRUTON, a young man who, in a state of intoxication, went into a fishpond near Holcomb, to fetch his cap, which by some accident had fallen therein; he swam to the spot, and when within reach of the cap, suddenly turned on his back, and sunk to rise no more.  Verdict, Accidentally Drowned.

   At Cranham, on A NEWLY BORN MALE  CHILD, which was found iin a fish pond.  It appeared to have been there nine or ten days, and to be the child of a married woman in the village, but the body was in such a state that the surgeons who attended the inquiry could not say it had been born alive.  In the course of a lengthy inquiry, facts of a most revolting nature were elicited; and we understand that the case has been represented by the Coroner to the magistrates in the neighbourhood, by whom the proper proceedings will be taken.

INQUESTS taken before J Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Northleach Prison, on the body of JAMES COLEMAN, who had been robbed and beaten at Bath Spring races, the effects of ill treatment being evident from seven wounds on his head.  Verdict, Died from the effects of blows inflicted on him by persons unknown.     At Cirencester, on the body of AENEAS COLE, a child four years old, who fell on a broken potsherd and was so much lacerated that the bowels protruded.  Verdict, in both cases, Accidental Death.

   At Southrop, on the body of MARY HALL, who was leading a horse drawing a cart, when she fell into the ruts, and the cart went over her.  At Cirencester, on  ROBERT HERBERT, who was found dead in a field the day after having been at his club feast.  Verdict, Died from apoplexy produced by excessive drinking.

   At Cowley, on BETTY HAWKES, who was picking up chips in the wood, and fell down and expired in a few minutes.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Ampney Crucis, on WM. BLACKWELL, who was found dead in a field.  Verdict, Found dead.

 

 

CORONER’s INQUEST.  On Monday last, an Inquest was held at the Saracen’s Head, in this city, before Edward Bower, Esq. on the body of WM. JOHNSON, who died after a short illness; reports having got abroad that the deceased had taken pills which had hastened his death, a very minute investigation was made, and after the examination of some medical gentlemen who had opened the body, and other witnesses, it appeared that the treatment of his medical attendant had been most judicious, and that his death was caused by a determination of blood to the head and congestion of the brain.  Verdict, Natural death.

 

Jun 28.  COMMITTED  to our County Gaol: KEZIAH JAMES, June 21, by Joseph Mountain, Coroner, charged with the wilful murder of a new born female child, at Donnington.

DEATHS.  Same day [24th] in the 72nd year of his age, BRYDGES of Tewkesbury; long obit.  Natural Death.

 

Jul 5.  On Monday last, as a loaded timber carriage, the property of Mr THOMAS BAYLIS, of Tewkesbury, was descending the Mythe Hill, the chain which served as a drag to the wheel suddenly broke; the waggoner, in endeavouring to hold back the horses, was thrown down, and the wheels passing over his head, he was crushed to death in an instant. On the following day an inquest was held on view of the body, before Benj. Holland, Esq. Coroner for the borough of Teweksbury, and a verdict returned of Accidental Death.  The deceased was quite a young man, and named JOSEPH TOVEY.

   On Monday evening, a man was observed, suspended by the neck, in a coal yard, near the Nailor’s Square, Tewkesbury, nearly dead; surgical aid being obtained, animation was perfectly restored.  He stated his name to be WILLIAM FLANNIGAN, late of the 8th Hussars; said that he had been punished, while with the regiment in this city, for shooting his horse; and that he had since been discharged, at Coventry, for repeated misconduct.  He was conveyed to the House of Industry, where proper care was taken of him, and he has since, at his own request, been suffered to depart.

INQUESTS by WJ Ellis,Esq. Coroner.  At Cambridge, on the body of URSULA UNDERWOOD, a young woman, aged 21, of very respectable parents, found drowned in the canal.  Verdict, Temporary Derangement.

   At Mangotsfield, on GEORGE BURCHELL, a boy about 6 years of age, who was getting over the mouth of a well into the garden of a neighbour after gooseberries, when he fell in and was drowned before assistance could be rendered him.  At Hanham, on SAMUEL POWELL, a lad about 11 years old, who was crushed between the wheel and body of a timber carriage on which he had got up to ride unknown to the waggoner.  At Siston, on JOHN WHITCHURCH, killed in a colliery by a large stone of many tons weight suddenly and unexpectedly falling on him, and depriving him of life in an instant.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 26.  On Tuesday last, JOHN JONES and ISAAC LATHAM, two labouring men, residing at Sapperton, in this county, were fighting on the turnpike road between Stroud and Minchinhampton, when the former was so severely injured by a fall that he died immediately.  An inquest was held on Wednesday before JG Ball, Esq. and a respectable Jury, when it appeared in evidence that the parties, with a companion, had been drinking, and in a state of intoxication, together, in Stroud and its immediate neighbourhood for some hours, and that the deceased had repeatedly urged and almost compelled Latham to fight.  After a patient and protracted investigation, the Jury returned a verdict, that the deceased was killed by Isaac Latham in his own defence.

INQUESTS.  The following inquests have lately been taken at Tewkesbury, before B Holland, Esq. coroner for the borough:  On the 19th inst., on view of the body of S. LINTRIDGE, an old pensioner, who hung himself, at his lodgings in Barton street, on the previous day; Verdict, Insanity.  On the 21st inst., on view of the body of EDWIN MAMMOTT, a boy eleven years of age, who was found dead in a barge, in which he had been sent to sleep by his parents, early the same morning; verdict, died from suffocation, occasioned by the bursting of a blood vessel.  On the 23rd inst., on view of the body of JOHN JONES, aged 8 years, the son of an exciseman, who is supposed to have been accidentally drowned, whilst bathing in the river Severn, on the preceding evening; verdict, found drowned.

    Yesterday se’nnight, a trowman, named RUTTER, fell from a barge into the river Severn, at Tewkesbury, and was drowned.  The body has not yet been picked up.

   On Tuesday last, a young man named WILLIAM TWINE, who went from Tewkesbury to Cheltenham to see the races, received so severe a kick in the abdomen from a horse on the racecourse that he died on Thursday.

 

Aug 2.  FOREST OF DEAN - FATAL ACCIDENT.  On Friday, the 18th ult. RICHARD HEATH, was found dead in Bilson Colliery, supposed to have been caused by the roof falling in upon him; he was found several yards from where the roof fell, but his clothes and tools were underneath.  An inquest was taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body, on the Monday following, and there being no visible marks of injury so as to cause his death, the Jury returned a verdict - Died by the Visitation of God.

DREADFULL ACCIDENT.  On Wedsnesday last, JOHN DREW, whilst endeavouring to sprag the wheel of one of the trams, on the Bullo Pill railway, his foot slipped and threw him under the tram wheels, which, going over him, nearly severed his head from his body.

   On Saturday last, PETER JONES, a child about 9 years old, was found drowned in a pond, at Cinderford Iron Works, where he had gone for the purpose of bathing.

STROUD - CAUTION TO CARTERS.

A most lamentable occurrence took place at Stroud on Saturday last, from furious driving.  An interesting little girl, about eight years of age, in crossing over the road near the brewery, was knocked down by a cart, and killed on the spot, by one of the wheels passing over her body.  This dreadful  calamity was occasioned by the careless and furious driving of the carter, who was, at the time, proceeding at such a rapid rate, as to be totally unable to pull up in time to prevent the accident.  A coroner’s inquest has been held, and a verdict of Manslaughter returned against the carter, who has been committed to take his trial at the ensuing Assizes.  It is high time that the shameful practice of rapid driving, in such a populous neighbourhood, should receive a severe check, and the lives of individuals no longer put in jeopardy, by the scandalous misconduct of drivers.  They ought to bear in mind, that for the offence of manslaughter, they are liable to be transported for life.

COMMITTED TO OUR COUNTY GAOL: JOHN HOLDER, July 27, by JG Ball, Coroner, charged with killing and slaying HANNAH VICK, at the parish of Stroud.

 

Aug 16.  MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT.  We regret to announce that the Rev. HENRY WEST, Curate of Frampton on Severn, was unfortunately killed in this city on Tuesday night or early Wednesday morning last, by falling from a window, in his bedroom, into the street.  An inquest was held, in the course of the morning, on the body, before Edward Bower, Esq. Coroner, when it appeared that the Rev. Gentleman came to Gloucester on Tuesday, and went to the Ram Inn.   The beds in that house being all full, Mr MOUSELL, the landlord, engaged a lodging for him at Mr CREED’s, a few doors distant.  Mr West left the Ram in the evening, and retired to his lodgings to bed.  Early on the following morning, he was found lying on the pavement - a corpse!  The unfortunate gentleman’s death was occasioned by his falling, during the night, from his bedroom window, the sill of which is so low, that if the hands of a person leaning upon it slipped, he must be precipitated head foremost into the street.  It is supposed that Mr West, induced by the extreme heat of the night, opened his window, and attempted to lean out of it; but, being ignorant of the situation and the danger, he overbalanced himself.  Mr Carden, surgeon, was of opinion that his death was instantaneous, and caused by a concussion of the brain.  The jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.  Mr West was, we are informed, in his 33rd year, and highly respected by all who knew him.

INQUESTS.  On Saturday se’nnight, as a barge from Bradford to Bristol, belonging to Mrs SPENCER, was coming down the river near Crew’s Hole, the boy struck the horse which was towing her, and it started so suddenly as to cause a considerable jerk to the barge, by which means one of the crew, called “Hinckley Bill”, was precipitated into the river and drowned.  An inquest was held before WJ Ellis, Esq. and a verdict returned of Accidental Death.

   A labourer, named EVANS, who had come from Sherston to Acton Turville, for the purpose of reaping, having spent a wet day at the public house, went at night to sleep in an out house, and on the following morning was discovered with his face in the hay and quite dead.  An inquest was held on the boy, and a verdict returned of Died from suffocation produced by excessive drinking.

INQUESTS lately taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Churcham, on the body of MARY ANN BAILEY, who died suddenly in her bedroom from the bursting of a blood vessel occasioned by coughing.  Various invidious reports had been circulated respecting deceased, who was in the family way, all which were without foundation; when after a patient investigation, the Jury returned a verdict, Died by the Visitation of God, from the bursting of a blood vessel.

   At Allstone, on the body of WILLIAM GOULD.  Deceased had been let down to the bottom of a well, about 28 feet deep, with another man, named JOHN THALBY, to work; when in a moment after the brickwork, mould, and rubbish at the top of the well, gave way and fell in upon them.  It was near two hours before the bodies could be extricated, although before then, twenty persons were employed removing the rubbish; when taken out, Gould was quite dead, and Thalby very much injured; but is now recovering.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  Deceased has left a widow and several children to deplore their loss.

 

Aug 23.  On Wednesday last about ten o’clock, as JOS. KING, in the employ of Messrs King, of Rodborough, was returning from this city with a waggon load of wheat, he was found lying on the road about six miles from hence, with his left leg fractured, and his right thigh also much injured.   The van, belonging to Messrs Tanner and Baylis, coming up in a few minutes after, he was put into it and conveyed to our Infirmary; but was so much injured as to cause his death about two o’clock the next morning; deceased’s son, a boy about 10 years old, was asleep in the waggon, when the accident happened, who, on being alarmed, got out, and on going to his father, asked him what was the matter? and was answered that the wheels of the waggon had gone over him.  An inquest was held before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned by the Jury, and a deodand of five shillings on the wheels.  The deceased has left  a widow and several children.

INFIRMARY RECORDS. (Gloucester Ref. Library 17544).  Aug 20,  Josh. King, Dudbridge; admitted between 11 and 12 o’clock pm; Died about 2 o’clock; Compound fracture of left tibia.

   In our last number, we noticed the accidental death of a person at Nailsworth, occasioned, as we were informed, by his throwing himself out of a gig in coming into Stroud.  We have since been favoured by Mr Ball with the inquest, by which it will be perceived that several of the particulars atteding this incident were incorrectly given by us [see below] :-   INQUESTS held lately by JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Minchinhampton, on CHARLES MAYO, who was found dead in Burley lane; his neck was dislocated, and his horse and cart lying by his side; it appeared in evidence that he had been in a state of intoxication several times in the preceding afternoon, and unable to drive or guide his horse.

   At Sheepscombe, on WILLIAM DAVIS, who having been drinking, was assisted upon  a horse behind another person, was soon thrown, and died shortly afterwards from injuries received.

   At Nailsworth, on JAMES MONGER [see above], who died from concussion of the brain: he was on his way to Stroud, on business wholly unconnected with the election, and when near the Anchor gate at Rodborough, the horse began to kick, in consequence, it is supposed, of the harness not fitting; the deceased had previously held behind his carriage, to impede its progress down a hill, and Mr NEWMAN who was driving, believes that he stepped out for the purpose of doing so here; he alighted on his feet, and immediately fell backward, and, after lingering through the day and night, died the following morning.  Verdict, Accidental Death, with nominal deodands.    Mr MEWMAN had a providential escape, for, although at the time of the accident above mentioned, the horse was going at a slow pace, and perfectly under command, he was immediately afterwards frightened by a cart coming at a furious rate down the hill from Rodborough Butts, and after galloping upwards of a hundred yards, the carriage was upset, and Mr Newma thrown out; he was seriously shaken and bruised, but not otherwise injured.

BRISTOL - FATAL ACCIDENT.  On Tuesday morning, as Mr SINCLAIR, merchant, was returning to his house on Durdham Down, his horse threw him, and he was dragged by the stirrup a considerable distance, by which he was so much cut and bruised, that death ensued on Wednesday morning.

 

Aug 30.  INQUESTS held lately by JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Sheepscomb, on ESTHER PRATT, a child about two years old, who fell into a pot of boiling water, and was so severely scalded that she died soon afterwards.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Rodborough, on GEORGE GYDE, a porter in the employ of Messrs Tanner and Baylis, who fell suddenly dead in the road just as he had assisted in getting a waggon out of their yard; and at Randwick, on ELIZABETH COOK, who having been gathering wood in Standish Park, died in the wood on her return home.  Verdicts Died by the Visitation of God.

INQUESTS taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Bulley, on the body of CORNELIUS HAVILAND, aged about two years and a half, son of Mr WM. HAVILAND, who was found drowned in a saw pit full of water, near the house of his father.  No marks of violence appearing on the body, or evidence to show how or by what means he fell into the water, the Jury returned a verdict, Found Drowned.

   At the Hospital of the Infirmary, on the body of RICHARD GLADING/GLADDEN, aged about 15 years.  The deceased was returning to this city from Dymock, on Tuesday morning, with a team of horses drawing a waggon, and had hold of the bridle of one of the horses, when on Over’s causeway, a coach passing, the horses suddenly startled and gallopped off, he losed his hold and fell on the ground and the wheels of the waggon passed over his body.  He was immediately taken to the Infirmary, but was so much injured as to cause his death in about four hours.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

GLOUCESTER INFIRMARY RECORDS (Glos. Ref. Lib. 17544)  Aug 27; OP; RI GLADDEN, aged 13, of Woolhope; comminuted fracture pf pelvis; Died 4 hours afterds.

INQUESTS.  A melancholy and fatal accident happened at Oldbury on Severn, on Wednesday morning, to MR G.F. LEAKER, late of Castle street, Bristol, who kept an academy for young gentlemen at Moreton, near Thornbury.  He had gone to the Severn, in company with some of his pupils, to bathe, and the current of the tide being very strong, he was unfortunately carried away, and drowned before any assistance could be given him.  An inquest was held on the next day, before WJ Ellis, Esq., and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.  The jury discovering, in the course of their investigation, that a fisherman named JOHN TROTMAN, who with his boat was within 300 yards of the spot where Mr Leaker sunk, had refused to render any assistance, notwithstanding the earnest entreaties of two young gentlemen who had accompanied Mr Leaker, appended to their verdict:- That the conduct of JOHN TROTMAN, of Oldbury, was highly censurable for not having rendered assistance when urgently required to do so.  The Coroner also stated that he wanted words to express his indignation at such inhuman conduct, and only wished that he had power to punish.

   At Westerleigh, on WILLIAM TAYLOR, a coal miner, who, on descending a coalpit, became partially blind, from the sudden deprivation of the bright sunshine, and walking backwards into the shaft of the pit, was of course instantly killed.  He has left a wife and nine children.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Tockington, on a poor woman named JANE HUGHES, who during the absence of her daughter, with whom she lived, near Tockington, hung herself with a small line to the handle of a scythe, which was placed under the rafters of the cottage, and when discovered was quite dead.  Verdict, Derangement of Mind.

 

Sep 13.  INQUESTS lately taken before J Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Northleach, on the body of CATHERINE MARIA GRIFFITHS, removed from Cheltenham; at Sapperton, on the body of ANN KING, who died whilst in the act of making her bed; at Longborough, on the body of CHARLES SMITH, who fell down and died suddenly on the highway; at Foss Bridge, on the body of THOS. TAVERNOR, who died suddenly in a field where he was hoeing turnips.  Verdict, in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Chalford, on the body of NATHANIEL WITTS, who was found hanged by his neck cloth to the head of his bed.  Verdict, Found hanged.

    At Culkerton, on the body of DAVID FLUX, who fell under a roll for breaking clods of earth, and was killed on the spot; at Duntisborne, on the body of JAMES LATHAM, who on stopping his horses became entangled in the traces, and was so much injured as to cause his death; at Minety, on the body of CHARLES BROWN, who was drowned whilst bathing.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   At North Cerney, on the body of EDW.  PAINTER, who drowned himself in a fit of insanity.  Verdict, Lunacy.

   At Moreton in Marsh, on the body of JANE SENDELL, an aged woman of weak intellect, who by mistake eat the roots of meadow saffron, which were lying in a lane; and at Chedworth, on the body of HANNAH MARIA SMITH, an infant, who drank part of an embrocation for a sore leg, which was put into a teacup for immediate use.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Poisoning.

SUDDEN DEATH.  We are sorry to record the sudden death of Mr JAMES BUTT, Musician, of this town, which took place Tuesday morning last.  It appears that the deceased had been engaged as a musician, to play at the Ball given by Lord Ellenborough to his tenantry on Monday, but was too ill to continue through the night.  After partaking of some tea, (the only refreshment he had at Southam,) he went to a friend’s house in Prestbury at an early in the morning (sic), where he immediately retired to bed - and was sometime afterwards discovered a corpse.  Cheltenham Chronicle.

 

Sep 20.  INQUESTS taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At the Lunatic Asylum, on the body of HANNAH JAMES, who fell suddenly on the floor in the ward, whilst taking exercise, and almost instantly expired.  At Prestbury, on the body of JAMES BUTT; deceased had been at Lord Ellenborough’s late fete as one of the musicians, and left the house between six and seven o’clock in the morning, and went to Mr THOMAS FREEMAN’s, called the Grotto, and retired to bed, about two hours afterwards he was found dead.  At the County Prison, on the body of WM. WOODINGTON, a prisoner, who died of fever.  At Cheltenham, on the body of ELIZABETH KEEN, who was found dead in bed at a lodging house in Stanhope street; deceased had gone to bed the night before her death in apparently good health,, and was found dead the next morning about six o’clock by her daughter, who slept with her.  Verdict in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At the Infirmary, on the body of WILLIAM HOPKINS, whose death was occasioned  by the kick of his horse, while he was driving on the Bristol road.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Sep 27.  COACH ACCIDENT at Aust Old Passage.

   Considerable excitement having been caused in Cirencester by the discovery of the body of A NEW BORN FEMALE INFANT in a privy, in that town, on Sunday last, an Inquest was taken on view of the body, on Monday, before Joseph Mountain, Esq. one of his Majesty’s Coroners for the county and a very respectable Jury, when after a most patient investigation, a verdict of Wilful Murder was returned against HANNAH JENNINGS, and the Coroner issued his warrant for her apprehension; but, we hear, that she absconded on the Saturday evening previous to the investigation.

FATAL ACCIDENT.  On Saturday last, as Mrs HARVEY, of Highleadon was returning home from this city, in her cart, the horse took fright at a donkey in the road, and started off: the servant man, who was driving, imprudently jumped out, and was killed on the spot.  The Horse, after galloping some distance, upset the cart, and threw Mrs Harvey into a ditch by the roadside; we are happy to hear she has not sustained any material injury.

 

Oct 4.  COMMITTED TO OUR COUNTY GAOL.  HANNAH JENNINGS, Spt. 29, by Joseph Mountain, Esq. charged with the wilful murder of a new born female child.

   On Tuesday last an Inquest was held at the Mitre Inn, in this city, before Edward Bower, Esq. and a respectable Jury, on the body of JOHN JONES, who expired the preceding evening, at the Odd Fellows Arms, a beer shop, in Mitre street.  Reports having got abroad that the deceased came by his death by unfair means, considerable excitement was manifested in the neighbourhood, but after a very patient investigation, the Jury were unanimous in returning a verdict of Died by the visitation of God.

 

Oct 11.  SUDDEN DEATH.  On Wednesday afternoon, about Three o’clock, Mr ARKELL, of Winchcomb, went to a grocer’s shop for some tobacco, and on going to the door turned round to speak, and fell down the steps, which so fractured his head as to render him quite insensible.  Medical assistance was immediately procured, but without avail.  The deceased was 69 years of age.

   Accident at Mitcheldean; horses.

 

Oct 25.  INQUESTS lately taken before J Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Fyfield, on the body of MARY SMITH, found dead in her bed; at Battsford House, on the body of WM. NEWMAN, who died suddenly in the servants’ hall. Verdicts, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Fairford, on the body of JOHN TRUBURY, who fell from a horse in the street; at Edgeworth, on the body of JOSIAH GARDNER, who was killed by the overturning of a gig.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Moreton in the Marsh, on the body of CATHERINE BAYLIS, who hung herself in a fit of temporary insanity.  Verdict accordingly.

INQUEST.  A dreadful accident occurred near Shirehampton,on Tuesday se’nnight.  A man named RICHARDS, who works in the stone quarries in the neighbourhood, having procured a canister containing two or three pounds of gunpowder for blasting, it by some means became damp, and was spread on a sack in the garden to dry in the sun.  His wife, going to turn it, was followed by her little girl, about three years old, and, on the mother turning round her head, she perceived the child had a lighted stick in her hand, and, before she could move to prevent her, she applied the fire to the powder, which of course instantly exploded.  The poor child was instantaneously killed, the body being forced into an adjacent shed, and the mother so dreadfully injured, that she expired on Monday.

   On Sunday last Mr GEORGE COX, Jun., of the firm of Harding and Cox, soap manufacturers, Bristol, met his death in the following dreadful manner:-  He had been engaged in letting off the boiling oil from the furnace into the receiver, when the boiler exploded (occasioned, it is supposed, by foul air being introduced into the receiver,) and his clothes were set on fire.  Mr Cox, however, had sufficient presence of mind to throw himself into a large pan of cold water, and this extinguished the flames, but he was so dreadfully burnt that he expired on Tuesday morning.  An inquest had been held on the body; verdict, Accidental Death.

ACCIDENT.  On Wednesday afternoon, between two and three o’clock, as a workman of the name of WHITING, employed in removing the rubbish and materials of the old bridge at Over, was passing with a heavily laden wheelbarrow, over the planks which form a temporary footbridge from arch to arch, he unfortunately overbalanced himself and fell into the water, and we regret to add, was drowned before assistance could be provided him.

INQUESTS (At Cheltenham) taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  On the body of MARY ANN HARDING, aged about nine years; deceased was standing by the fire under a furnace, out of which she was attempting to reach a potatoe, when her clothes took fire, and she was so much burnt as to cause her death the next day; also on the body of MARY TUHILL, aged about eight years, who was so dreadfully burnt by her clothes catching fire, that she died in about three hours afterwards.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

ALARMING ACCIDENT.  Last Saturday night, an accident happened, which was nearly being attended with serious consequences to C.W. CODRINGTON, Esq. MP, and Captain PETTAT, who were returning in a fly carriage to Cheltenham, from thr house of Col. GILBERT, of Rosehill, near that town.  In coming down Pittville street, the horse, a fine spirited animal, became unmanageable, and breaking into full speed, galloped down High street, and dashed with great force against the windows of Messrs Lea, Perrins, and Armond, chemists, which with the handsome jars and other articles in the window, were broken and destroyed by the shock.  We are happy to state that the Hon. Member and his friend escaped unhurt, but the horse was so much injured, that he was obliged to be destroyed.

 

Nov 1.  INQUESTS taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Nympsfield, on GEORGE WILLIAMS; at Stroud, of ELIZABETH HOLDER; and at the same place, on SOPHIA TAYNTON.  Verdict in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Chalford hill, on LUKE BERRIMAN, who was employed in a building, when the scaffolding gave way, and he fell and was so severely injured as to occasion his death.  At Stonehouse, on JOHN WHITE, who fell from a rock and was killed.  At Bowbridge, on WILLIAM CLIFT, who fell into the Thames and Severn Canal and was drowned.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   And at Tetbury, on SARAH HART, a girl about 15 years of age, who drowned herself in a pond near that place.  Verdict, Lunacy.

OXFORD.  On Tuesday, an Inquest was taken at Leafield, near Shipston under Wychwood, before G Cecil, Coroner, on view of the remains of FANNY DOOR, aged three years and five months, who had been incautiously left with another child of five years of age, and was so much burnt as to occasion her death on the following day.  Verdict - Accidental Death.

SUDDEN DEATH.  Mr JOHN HAMMOND, butcher, of Wotton under Edge, went up stairs, on Sunday morning last, to dress himself for church, and on his wife going up in a few minutes afterwards, she found him lying on the floor quite speechless and insensible from an apoplectic seizure, in which state he continued for two or three hours, when he ceased to breathe.

 

Nov 8.  INQUESTS taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Woodmancote, on the body of ANN BOOTH, aged about five years, who was burnt to death, by her clothes taking fire, in the absence of her parents.  At Hucclecote, on the body of WILLIAM SAYERS, aged about four years, who was also burnt to death, by his clothes taking fire, in the absence of his mother.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Westbury on Severn, on the body of JOHN RYDER, aged about 62 years, who was found dead in his bed; deceased resided by himself, and not going to work as usual, search was made by his nephew, and the door of his house being forced open, being fastened inside, when he was found as described.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Newent, on the body of AARON WEBLEY, aged about 88 years; deceased was sitting in the kitchen late in the evening of Sunday last, and having asked his daughter for something to drink, she gave him some tea, which he  was accustomed to take; immediately after which he dropped his head and instantly expired.  A report had been circulated that his death was occasioned by some improper treatment, in consequence of the deceased’s son returning home somewhat in liquor; when, after a patient investigation, the Jury, being fully satisfied that no violence whatever had been used, returned a verdict, Died  by the Visitation of God.

 

Nov 15.  INQUESTS before Mr Hughes, Coroner.  [mostly Worcestershire.]  On Friday, at the Swan Inn, Staunton, on the body of GEORGE CHANDLER.  On Tuesday evening, the deceased went to the Swan, where a person said to him that if he would

 

drink, in five minutes, two quarts of some old beer (10 bushels to the hogshead), he would pay for it!  The deceased agreed to this (although advised by two persons not to attempt it) and drank off the beer in less than five minutes; another quart was then introduced on the same terms, but Chandler could not finish it, and in a few minutes after, he was seized with vomiting, the landlord and one of the servants took him to the hay loft, and there left him; and went to look at him several times after; he saw him for the last time at 10 o’clock, when he was asleep, on his back; he went again on the following morning, and found him dead.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Nov 22.  ACCIDENTS.  2 at Bristol; LUCE, a seaman of the Augusta; and an Irishman.

DREADFUL ACCIDENT.On Friday morningm, as a fine girl, about ten years of age, the daughter of Mr GEE, tailor, Pittville street, was lifting a kettle off the fire, the flames communicated to her clothes, and she was so severely burned that she expired in great agony at three o’clock on Saturday morning.  Her father, in endeavouring to extinguish the flames, was seriously injured.  An inquest was held on the body on Tuesday, at the Sydney Arms, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, and a respectable Jury.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

SUDDEN DEATH.

On Sunday last, Mr WILLIAM PAGE, gerdener, of Prestbury, retired to bed in better health than he had been for a considerable time.  About eleven o’clock he was taken ill, and in less that quarter of an hour expired.  He was 70 years of age, and has left a numerous family, consisting of eleven children, thirty eight grandchikdren, and eight grand grand children.

SUDDEN DEATH.

An inquest was taken yesterday, at the Infirmary, before JW Wilton, Esq. Coroner for this city, touching the death of an old man, whose named is supposed to be JOHN SMITH.  It appeared from the evidence, that the deceased was seen about 8 o’clock on Wednesday morning, crossing the Southgate street, nearly opposite the Berkeley Arms, and in doing so he staggered and fell, and was immediately taken to the Infirmary, but before he arrived there had ceased to breathe.  On searching him, there was found 4 l. 14 s. in silver, a very good watch, and hald a dozen silver tea spoons; also a card or certificate of a benevolent society in Bristol, stating that the bearer John Smith, was a member, and had paid up all arrears.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

DEATHS; UNKNOWN MAN from Pontypool, at Falfield, Natural Death; LEONARD BENNETT of Falfield named.

 

Nov 29.  INQUESTS taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Dymock, on the body of CHARLES JONES, aged about five years, burnt to death by his clothes catching fire.  At English Bicknor, on the body of THOMAS KEAR, aged about three years, also burnt to death by his clothes taking fire.  At the Infirmary, on the body of MARY HICKERTON, aged about ten years; the deceased was taking a pot from off the fire, at her father’s, at Whaddon, when her clothes caught fire; she was immediately taken to the Infirmary, but was so much burnt as to cause her death in a short time.  At Hartpury, on the body of JAMES FREEMAN, aged about four years, who was burnt to death by his clothes catching fire.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

GLOS. INFIRMARY RECORDS. (Glos Ref Lib 17544) (567) 14 November 1834; Mary Hickerton, Burn of thighs, arms and body.

   At the County Prison, on the body of EDWIN SADLER, a prisoner, who died of consumption.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

    At the Infirmary, on the body of GEORGE COLE, aged about 16; deceased was at work, by himself, in a gravel pit, at Painswick, when a quantity of earth and gravel suddenly fell on him; he was taken to the Infirmary, but was so mich injured as to cause his death.  Verdict, Accident Death.

GLOS. INFIRMARY RECORDS.  (Glos. Ref  Lib. 17544; Nov 14 1834, (570): Geo. COLE, aged 16, of Painswick; compound fracture of pelvis, Injury of spine and bladder.  

INQUESTS, by WJ Ellis, Esq.  On the body of a woman named HANNAH LAWRENCE, wife of a shoemaker of Iron Acton; who was found dead on Monday se’nnight, in the privy, with her throat dreadfully cut with a razor, which was lying near her.  Verdict, Felo de se. 

   On the body of a man named DANIEL DAVIS; while towing a barge along the river Avon, near to Keynsham Bridge, the tow line became entangled in one of the irons of the railway, and he was jerked suddenly forwards, and falling into the river, was drowned before assistance could be rendered him.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Dec 5.

 

Dec 13.  ELIZABETH EVANS, at Bristol, Accidental Death, drowned.

 

INQUESTS taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Longhope, on the body of WILLIAM HOWES BEARCROFT, aged about 66, who was found dead, partly covered with straw, in an outhouse belonging to Mr WATKINS; a purse, one shilling, and a knife was found in his pockets; no marks of violence appeared on the body.  The Jury returned a verdict of Found dead.

   At the Hundred of St Briavels, near Ruardean, on the body of ROBERT TURNER, aged about 2 years and a half old, who was burnt to death by his clothes catching fire.  At Cliffords Meend, on the body of ROBERT SAYSALL, aged about four years and a half old, who was burnt to death by his clothes taking fire.  Verdict in the last two cases, Accidental Death.

 

Dec 20.  DREADFUL ACCIDENT.  An Inquest was held on Monday, before JB Grindon, Esq. Coroner, on the body of CATHERINE HURBAN, servant to Mr W. HARDING, 43 Thomas street.  Mr Harding stated that on Saturday morning about half past eight, he heard the deceased cry out to him from the kitchen, and on running in found her with her clothes on fire and a child in her arms; he took the child from her and tore off some of her clothes, and his wife threw a rug over her by which means the fire was put out.  The deceased was then taken to the General Hospital, and after lingering in much pain till half past six in the evening she expired.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

COLLECTION for JOHN TAYLOR of Ashelworth; boat lost Oct 16.

   We regret to state, that HARRIET GIBBS, a niece of Mr BEVAN, confectioner, of this city, and who had during the last few days shewn symptoms of derangement, was missed from her house on Thursday evening.   After a diligent search the body of the unfortunate young woman was found drowned yesterday in the river Twyver, near to the mill pond.  An inquest will be held this morning.

 

Dec 27.  We regret to state that Mr COOKE, of the Woolpack Inn, Tewkesbury, was drowned in the Severn on Monday.

INQUEST.  By WJ Ellis, at Kingswood; 6 miners dead.

INQUESTS taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Ruardean Woodside, on the body of EDMUND KNIGHT, aged about 25 years, who was suffocated by the foul air in a coal pit, into which he had descended.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Barton St Mary’s, on the body of HARRIET GIBBS, aged about 23 years, who drowned herself in the mill stream, called Poplar, otherwise the Ewer Twyver - deceased had been for some time in a low and desponding state of mind, and, although every care and attention was paid her, she contrived to slip from her attendants, late at night, and plunged into the water.  Verdict, Lunacy.

   At Cheltenham, on the body of DANIEL JONES, aged about 3 months, who was found dead in bed.  Verdict, died by the vivitation of God.

    At the Hospital of the Infirmary, on the body of HENRY COX, aged about three years, burnt to death by his clothes catching fire.  Verdict, accidental Death.

GLOS INFIRMARY RECORDS (Glos Ref Lib 17544; 627; Dec 18; Burn on arm & chest - Died.

INQUESTS lately taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Avening, on ELLEN SANSOM, aged eight years; and at Horsley, on WILLIAM COTTLE, aged five years, who were burnt to death in consequence of their clothes taking fire.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

   At Cainscross, on ALFRED PERKINS, who having been missed at night, was found the following morning in the Canal.  Verdict, Found Drowned.

DEATHS BY FIRE.

On Monday, the 15th instant, WILLIAM DEE, a mason, and JAMES WILLIAMS, a lad in his employ, were engaged in walling in a well belonging to Mr HILLIER, in the parish of Horsley, when the lad, by way of amusement or accidentally, set fire to some loose straw, a considerable quantity of which had been used to keep the earth from falling into the well.  Unfortunately the fire communicated to the bulk; in consequence of its dampness, it at first burnt very slowly, but the smoke soon became suffocating.  Dee was wound up to the surface and carried home in a very precarious state.  He died a few days afterwards, having suffered intensely; every effort was made to save the boy, but the smoke increased so much that no person could approach the mouth of the well, and it was thought prudent to close it with a view to extinguish the fire.  In was opened several times at intervals, but a week elapsed before the body was recovered; it was found in the water with a quantity of burnt straw and rubbish upon it, and several severe cuts on the head and face.  Inquests have been held before JG Ball, Esq. and two respectable juries, and verdicts of Accidental Death returned.

 

 

1835, Gloucester Journal.

 

Jan 3.  In our report of the dreadful accident which occurred in a coal pit near Bitton, last week, when six lives were lost, we omitted to record a fact showing a most wonderful instance of presence of mind and generous feeling, which ought not to be forgotten.  At the moment of time when the iron handle of the cart, in which the unfortunate men were, snapt asunder, a man and a boy, who were hanging on the rope above, made a sudden spring, and most providentially laid hold of a chain which is always hanging at the side of the pit as a guide.  As soon as possible after the horrible accident was known at the top of the pit, and it was ascertained that someone was hanging to the side, a man was sent down with a rope and noose to render assistace.  The person came first to a boy named DAVID HARDING, and on reaching him, the noble minded lad instantly cried out, “Don’t mind me, I can still hold on a little longer, but JOSEPH BAWN, who is a little lower down, is nearly exhuasted, save him first.”  The person went on and found Joseph Bawn as described by his companion, and after bringing him safely up, again descended, and succeeded in restoring the gallant boy to light and life.  When we state that the time which elapsed from the moment of the accident, till the boy was brought up, was from fifteen to twenty minutes, his fortitude and heroism will be duly appreciated.  The bodies of the six unfortunate sufferers were interred, we understand, at the same time in Bitton churchyard, on Sunday last.

REMARKABLE CASE OF MURDER.

JB Grindon, Coroner.  CLARA ANN SMITH, 26 Oct 1833, @ lodging house.  WADE now BURDOCK; MARY EVANS, servant.  No notice of death; suspected poisoning; exhumed, arsenic found.  Others, MARY ALLEN, 16, and THOMAS MANLEY, of Wales, Nephew.  Inquest, Arsenic administered by Mrs BURDOCK.

 

Jan 24.  A young woman, named ANN THOMAS, being a servant to Mrs OSBORNE, at Shirehampton, near Bristol, was taken very ill on Monday morning last, and complained of violent pains in her face and neck.  She was persuaded to go to bed, but got up in the afternoon, and came downstairs; shortly afterwards she went to bed again, and in about an hour, on one of the servants going up to see her, her suspicions were aroused, and after some consultation with her mistress, Mr LOVELL, a surgeon, was sent for, who soon became satisfied that the girl had been very recently delivered.  He stated his opinion to her, and urged her to tell him what had happened, and what had become of the child, but she strongly persisted that nothing of the kind had taken place.  After some time, Mr Lovell made a search in the bedroom, and at length discovered the dead body of a fine female child, under the chest of drawers.  An Inquest was held on Wednesday, befre WJ Ellis, Esq.  and a verdict returned of Wilful Murder against Ann Thomas, and she will be committed to our County Gaol, as soon as she is sufficiently recovered to bear removal.

   An Inquest was held at Upper Easton, on Saturday last, before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner, on ELIZA BARNES, servant to Mr JOHN HUNT, who was supposed to have died from the effects of poison.  After a very lengthened investigation, and a post mortem examination of the body, The Jury returned a verdict:- That she died from the bursting of a blood vessel.

INQUESTS were held last week before Wm Joyner Ellis, Esq. Coroner.  At Woollaston, on ANN REYNOLDS, aged five years, burnt to death by her clothes taking fire in the absence of her parents; at Mangotsfield, on JAS. REEVES, aged four years, and at Kingswood, on GEORGE BRYANT, who each died from the same cause.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Jan 31.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  AWFUL INSTANCES OF SUDDEN DEATH.  At Shipton Oliffe, on the body of JOHN WEBB, aged about 65 years, who, while atempting to dress himself in the morning, suddenly fell back on his bed, and instantly expired;  At Newent, on the body of SARAH WALDUCK [WALLBED?], aged about 60 years, who had retired to bed the night before her death in her usual state of health, and in the morning, on being called to breakfast, was found dead in her bed;  At Cheltenham, on the body of SARAH POWELL, aged about 60 years, who had gone to bed the previous night in apparent good health, but not rising in the morning at her usual time, the inmates of the house where she resided became alarmed, and on entering her room she was found dead in her bed.  Verdict, in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Bulley, on the body of WILLIAM SIMMONDS, aged about 18 years: deceased, being out of place, had gone to see a brother who lived servant with Mr PRIDAY, of Bulley, and, going into the hayloft in the morning to feed the horses, and attempting to rouse him, thinking him asleep, he found him dead.  No marks of violence appearing on the body, or evidence to show how or by what means he came to his death, the Jury returned a verdict of Found Dead.

   At Joyford, near Coleford, on the body of TIMOTHY KNIGHT, aged about 5 years, who was burnt to death by his clothes taking fire; at Hidcote, near Campden, on the body of ELIZABETH BARNES, aged about 2 1/4 years, who was also burnt to death by her clothes taking fire.  Verdicts in the last two cases, Accidental Death.

COMMITMENTS.  Wednesday, JAMES GAY, by WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner, charged with the manslaughter of S. LEWIS.

FATAL OCCURRENCE.

A large party of young men had been spending old Christmas Eve at a public house at Wick, and had drank pretty freely.  They broke up about twelve o’clock, and on their way home called at one or two farm houses asking for cider and singing.  At length they went into the barton of a farm beloning to JAMES GAY, and began singing and hallooing: the farmer came to the bedroom window and desired them to go home, and put a gun out of his window threatening to shoot them; they laughed and jeered him, saying, “Jemmy’s gun won’t go off,” and the farmer at length came downstairs, and one of the party, named SAMUEL LEWIS, held the porch door so that he might not come out.  He then went to the kitchen window and put the gun through the window, and it is supposed that Lewis laid hold of the gun; however, it was discharged, and the contents (slugs) entered his groin.  The unfortunate youth was carried home by his companions, and lingered till Monday last, when he died.  An inquest was held before WJ Ellis, Esq. and after a very long and patient investigation, the Jury returned a verdict of Manslaughter against James Gay, who was committed by the Coroner to take his trial at the next Assizes.  The deceased has left a young wife and five children.

 

Feb 7.  INQUEST lately taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Kings Stanley, on SARAH PAGE, a girl between six and seven years of age, whose clothes took fire, and she was so dreadfully burnt that she survived but a few hours.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

INQUESTS before J Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Sherborne, on the body of ANN AXFORD, found dead in bed; at Quennington, on the body of ELIZABETH BENNETT, who died suddenly; at Down Ampney, on the body of JOHN PARKE, found dead in bed; at Colesbourne, on the body of REGINALD ROGERS, an infant found dead by the side of his mother.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Cirencester, on the body of HENRY COBB, who died from a concussion of the brain produced by a fall from a horse; at Kempsford, on the body of PHILADELPHIA BOND, an aged woman, whose clothes caught fire, and was burnt to death before assistance could be procured; at Down Ampney, on the body of HANNAH RITCHINGS; at Eastington, on the body of ELIZ. HICKS; at Sapperton, on the body of  JOHN CARRINGTON, all of whom were burnt under similar circumstances.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Sezincote, on the body of DESIRI JANZOUT, who, in a temporary fit of insanity, cut his throat with a razor.  Verdict accordingly.

   At Northleach, on the body of A NEW BORN CHILD, found in a privy.  Verdict, that ELIZABETH DAY, of Northleach, was the mother of the child, and that she secreted the birth of the same; for which she was, by the Magistrates, committed to Gloucester Gaol to take her trial at the next Assizes. 

   At Leachlade, on the body of SARAH ROSE, who fell down at her own door and expired immediately.  Verdict, Apoplexy.

   As some young men were going along the avenue at Cotham, near Bristol, on Friday last, one of them happening to look over a low wall, saw a bundle, and on getting over the wall and examining it, it proved to be the dead body of A NEW BORN CHILD, wrapped up in a coarse apron.  It was removed to the Black Boy Tavern on Durdham Down, an Inquest was subsequently held before WJ Ellis, Esq. and a verdict returned of Wilful Murder against some person or persons unknown.  A reward has been offered by the parish officers for their discovery.  The poor infant was a remarkably fine female child, and appeared to have been strangled by a piece of ribbon tied tighly round the throat.

INQUESTS were held last week before WJ Ellis, Esq.  At Westerleigh, on JOHN WATTS, found dead by the road side, at Nibley.  Virdict, Died from Apoplexy.

   At Wollastone, on HANNAH BEVAN, aged five years, burnt to death by her clothes taking fire in the unavoidable absence of her parents.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Avening, on JOHN FLETCHER, a child under three years of age, who was burnt to death in consequence of his clothes taking fire in the absence of his parents; at Rodborough, on JANE NASH, a woman upwards of 90 years of age, who lived alone, and was found in her house by a neighbour completely enveloped in flames; he saw smoke issuing from the window of her apartment and heard her cries, and on entering the house wrapped her in a rug, which immediately extinguished the flames, but she had sustained so serious an injury as to occasion her death in a few hours.

 

Feb 14.  On Tuesday morning last, owing to the flood and boisterous weather, a boat laden with pig iron, HODGES, master, was swamped in the Severn, a little above this city, and we are sorry to add that three lives were lost, viz. the Captain’s wife and two daughters.  Owing to the assistance given by men on board the steamer which had her in tow, the lives of two men and a child were saved.  It is but justice to state that no negligence can be attributed to the steerer.

    An inquest was held on Thursday last before WJ Ellis, Esq. at Purton, in the parish of Lidney, on HANNAH LEWIS, wife of JAMES LEWIS.  It appeared from the evidence given at the inquest, that the deceased and her husband lived very uncomfortable together, often quarrelling and fighting, that on the evening of the previous Tuesday fortnight, they had quarrelled violently about some trifle, and he had struck her, and at length turned her out of doors, and locked her out.  A boy who was witness to the quarrel ran into the stable, and whilst there, he heard the cry of “murder!”   Lewis came into the stable room soon afterwards, and when the horses were finished he and the boy were going into the house, when they found the woman lying on her back near the house door; she was quite insensible, and could not speak.  Lewis carried her into the house, and up to bed; she continued in a sad state for some days, when she died, having been attended during her illness by an eminent surgeon, in the neighbourhod.  At a post mortem examination of the body, a considerable quantity of extravasated blood was found on the brain, caused by an injury between the temple and the ear.  After a very long investigation, the Jury returned a verdict of Manslaughter against Lewis, who was thereupon committed to our County Gaol for trial at the ensuing Assizes.

INQUESTS have been held, during the past week, before WJ Ellis, Esq  At Pucklechurch, on ISAAC CANNONS, a poor idiot, who was so dreadfully burnt by his clothes taking fire, that he died shortly afterwards; at Warmley, on A MAN UNKNOWN, found dead in the bottom of a coal pit; he had gone to the fire at the mouth of the pit for warmth, on the preceding night; and had fallen headlong down the pit, a depth of about 90 yards; at Lidney, on WM. ROOKE, who was forced oberboard from a trow, in the River Severn, by becoming entangled with a rope; at Hillsley, on JOHN PULLEN, killed by his clothes being entangled in a part of the machinery, by which he was so much injured as to cause his death in a few hours; at Uley, on WILLIAM FEREBEE, who was killed by falling down a very dangerous stone quarry, owing to the darkness of the night, when on his return home from Stanley.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death. [see below.]

FATAL ACCIDENT.

On Friday last, as WILLIAM FEREBEE, a shopkeeper, of Uley, was returning home from Stroud, accompanied by a little boy, it geting very dark, he borrowed a lanthorn.  His road leading through Long Wood, he had to pass near a very dangerous stone quarry, near Buckholt Gate.  After he had, as he supposed, passed the quarry, he turned round to the boy who was just behind, and said, “I think we are past the quarry now,” when all of a sudden he disappeared, carrying the lanthorn with him.  A shepherd of Mr HAYWOOD’s, of Frocester, hearing the boy cry out went to his assistance, and found the unfortunate man at the bottom of the quarry, but not quite dead.  A cart was procured as quickly as possible, but before he could be conveyed home, he had ceased to exist.  An inquest has since been held before Wm Joyner Ellis, Esq.and a verdict of Accidental Death returned, with a strong recommendation from the jury to have the quarry fenced to prevent accidents in future.  Mr. F. was a strictly honest man, a good Christian, and very much lamented by those who knew him.

SUICIDE.

A few days since, THOMAS FREEMAN, collector of tolls at the turnpike gate, Lidbrook, hung himself with a cord, fastened to a nail in a kitchen wall of the toll house.  An inquest was taken on the body, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when it appeared in evidence that deceased had for some time previous been much dejected in spirits, and had formerly been confined at the Lunatic Aslylum.  The Jury, being satisfied of his insanity, returned a verdict accordingly.

INQUESTS.  The following inquests have also been taken before the same Coroner; at Newland, on the body of MARY WILLIAMS, aged 95, who was burnt to death from her clothes taking fire by a lighted candle falling on her apron.  At Cheltenham, on the body of ELLEN TROUGHTON, aged seven years; deceased was in the granary of P. THOMPSON, Esq. where a boy was splitting beans, when she took a handful, and in  attempting to swallow them, was almost instantly choked, and died in a few minutes.  At Coleford, on the body of JOHN BARNETT, wh was killed in a stone quarry, by a large quantity of stone and earth falling upon him, whilst at work.  At the Infirmary, on the body of GEO. HARRIS, who was so dreadfully burnt by his clothes catching fire, while asleep in his chair, in the kitchen of his house, in Barton street, as to cause his death.  At Cheltenham, on the body of JANE DAVIS, aged about three and a half years, burnt to death by her clothes catching fire.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   At the County Prison, on the body of DANIEL GREENING, a prisoner, who died of consumption, verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

COMMITMENTS.  ANN THOMAS, by WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner, charged with the wilful murder of a new born female child.

 

Mar 7.  OBITUARY.  Wednesday, suddenly, aged 45, Mr THOMAS HERBERT, of the Sherborne Arms Inn, Cheltenham.

   The bodies of the unfortunate persons, MARY HODGES and her two daughters, MARIA and SARAH, who were drowned by the sinking of a boat which was being towed up the River Severn, by a steamer, as mentioned in our last, on the boat being raised, were found in the cabin.  Inquests were taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, and it fully appearing from the evidence that it was clearly accidental, the Jury returned a verdict in each case, Accidental Death.  From the exertions and praiseworthy conduct of the men on board a barge going down the river at the time, the lives of MORRISON HODGES, the husband and father of the above, and a child about three years old, were providentially saved.

INQUESTS taken before the same Coroner:  At Tirley, on the body of A NEW BORN MALE CHILD, found dead, tied up in a cloth and handkerchief, floating in the Severn.  There being no evidence to shew who the parents were, and no marks of violence on the body, after a minute examination by Mr BEACH, surgeon, of Chaceley, who was of opinion that the child was still born, the Jury returned a verdict of  Found dead.  At Allstone, parish of Cheltenham, on the body of GEORGE KEARSEY, a child about three months old, found dead in bed by the side of his mother.  At the County Gaol, on the body of JAMES MULLIS, a prisoner, who died of dropsy.  Verdict in the last two cases, Died by the visitation of God.

   At Norton, on the body of A NEWLY BORN FEMALE CHILD, found dead, buried in a bank in a field near the turnpike road.  The body  having been carefully examined by Mr J.P. HEANE, surgeon, who stated that the child was not at maternity, and that it was Still born, the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

MELANCHOLY INSTANCE OF SELF-DESTRUCTION.  On Tuesday evening, the inhabitants of Tetbury were thrown into a state of excitement by a report of ROBERT BUTLER, assistant to a respectable butcher in the town, having taken a quantity of laudanum.  The most expert medical skill was used to thwart the fatal effects of the malignant dose, but all efforts unfortunately proved useless.  An inquest was held upon the body on Thursday; and after a very lengthened examination of witnesses and due consideration, the Jury returned a verdict of Felo de se.  It is most painful to relate that no cause can be assigned for committing the fatal act, and he has left a wife and four infant children to bewail his untimely loss.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Bisley, on MARTHA DICKS, an aged woman, who was found in a state of insensibility by the roadside, and died almost immediately.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At the same place, on PRISCILLA CHEW, an old and infirm pauper, who was burnt to death in the poor house there.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Stroud, on MARY FRANKLIN, who, after having been some time missing, was found in the Thames and Severn Canal.  It appeared she was frequently intoxicated, but no evidence how she came into the canal.  Verdict, Found Drowned.

 

Mar 14.  INQUESTS.  Taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner. - At Minchinhampton, on the body of A NEWLY BORN MALE INFANT CHILD, found in a drain in Halcombe Wood.  Mr SMITH, surgeon, of Minchinhampton, having stated that the child was not born alive, the Coroner’s enquiry terminated, and although every effort has been used by the parish officers, under the directions of the Justices of the Peace, to discover the mother, they have not been able to do so. 

   At Oakridge, on FRANCIS WHITING, who, having left a beer house late at night, in a state of intoxication, was found dead on the Common, near his own house, the following morning.  No marks of violence appeared; money and other things were found in his pockets, when the Jury returned a verdict, Found Dead.

    At Stroud, on SARAH WHITE, who having been out in the town, on her return home, fell suddenly dead, without a moment’s illness.  Verdict, Apoplexy.

 

Mar 21.  MELANCHOLY AND FATAL OCCURRENCE.  On Sunday morning last, about ten o’clock, as two labourers were walking in a lane, at Swindon, one of them observed some clothes lying under a hedge, near to which was a pool of water.  Their suspicions being awakened, they procured assistance, and the pool was searched, and the body of a man discovered naked.  On examining the clothes a card was found in the side pocket of the jacket, on one side of which the name Mr JAMES GORE, plumber, &c was printed, and on the other side was written with a pencil, “May God bless my dear wife, as they now have their wish - I am no more.”  It appeared from the evidence of a medical gentleman, that deceased (whom he had professionally attended for some time past) had long laboured under great dejection of mind.  Verdict, Insanity.

   An inquest was taken at Didbrook, before the same Coroner, on the body of JOHN ANDREWS, aged about five years, who was burnt to death by his clothes catching fire, in the absence of his parents.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

    Mr RICHARD JAMES, of Bream, left his house early on Thursday morning last week, for the purpose of fishing in the River Wye, and not returning at night, his family were much alarmed, and search was made for him without effect.  Some girls were on Friday picking water cresses in a very retired brook near St Briavels, and saw a man’s legs at the edge of the water; assistance was procured, and it was discovered to be the body of Richard James.  The ford, where he usually crossed, was impassable from the late rains, and he is supposed to have gone to a narrow part of the brook, and had fallen in: his basket was as usual fastened round his neck, which must of course have much impeded any efforts to recover himself.  An inquest was subsequently held, and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

 

Mar 28.  FATAL ACCIDENTS.  On Monday last, an inquest was held, at the Bays Hill Inn, in this town, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on the body of a child, named EMMA HODGES, who was drowned, on the preceding Friday, in the river Chelt, near Mr FAGG’s coach manufactory.  It appears that a poor woman washing, observing the child floating down the stream; she uttered a loud scream, which attracted the attention of a lad named JOHN JOHNSON, who was at work in a cooper’s shop, near the spot; upon seeing the child in so perilous a situation, he immediately in the most intrepid and praiseworthy manner, jumped into the water, then considerably above his head; and after struggling some time, he succeeded in bringing the child to the bank still alive, but, on being placed on the ground, she ceased to breathe.  Verdict, Accidental Death.  On Tuesday, Mr GEORGE RUSSELL, superintendent of police, introduced the lad JOHNSON to the notice of the sitting Magistrates at the Public Office, who, after eulogising him for his conduct, immediately commenced a small subscription, with which they have rewarded him.

   On Tuesday, an inquest was held before the same Coroner, at the Boar’s Head, in this town, on the body of a child named EMMA MAISEY, who died in consequence of upsetting a pot of boiling coffee, in the absence of her mother, the contents of which scalded the poor little sufferer so severely about the body, that she lingered for a few days in great agony, when death terminated her sufferings.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   The following inquests [Cheltenham Chronicle?] have also been taken before the same Coroner.  At Littleworth, on the body of ALEXANDER WAULOF, a Russian seaman, belonging to the ship Archangel, now lying in our Canal, who was found dead in his berth.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Barnwood, on the body of MARY JORDAN, aged upwards of 70, who was found drowned in a brook.  Verdict, Found Drowned.

ANOTHER MELANCHOLY INSTANCE OF SELF-DESTRUCTION.  In our last we had the painful duty of recording the death of Mr JAMES GORE, and we are now sorry to notice a second event of a similar distressing character, partly induced, we should fear, by the melancholy example of the first.  It appears that on Friday morning last, as a workman was passing along a lane near Swindon, he observed a man’s hat on the bank of the deep pond, (an old marl pit) where the last tragical occurrence took place.  Seeing another man at a distance, he called to him, and as they both observed a dark shadow in the water, with the assistance of a hooked pole they succeeded in dragging a corpse out of the pond, which proved to be that of Mr ROBERT LEE, many years a ladies’ shoemaker in this town, having kept a shop in the High street, facing Cambray.  It is a singular fact, that on the previous evening, when in conversation with an acquaintance, who said, “he was tired of his life, and thought he should end it,” he expostulated with him on the enormity of such an act, and the awful consequences that would attend it hereafter - yet before the morrow’s sun rose, he had himself become victim to a kind of mania, we fear, for suicide - we say “mania” because we have been infromed that an acquaintance of the deceased, has been weak enough to declare, “that he would soon follow him.”  An inquest was held on the body on Saturday, at the Cross Hands Inn, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, and a respectable Jury, and in the absence of any precise evidence, the Jury returned a verdict of Found drowned.

MELANCHOLY SUICIDE.

On Wednesday morning last, an aged labouring man, of the name of ROBERT SPENCER, of Maugersbury, was found suspended by the neck, in the stairs of his dwelling, quite dead.  He had been in a low desponding state for the last six months, which, no doubt, induced the dreadful act.

 

Apr 4.  On Saturday the 21st ult. a labouring man named HOPKINS, aged about 23 years, shot himself, at Hawkesbury Upton.  He had been at Chipping Sodbury Mart on the preceding day, where he sold a sow and young pigs; but before leaving the town, he was robbed of the proceeds of the sale of his pigs, and also of his watch; to this loss, it is supposed, may be ascribed his committal of the rash act.  It is said that many other persons had their pockets picked at the Mart.

 

Apr 11.  ASSIZES.  You will perceive, Gentleman, there are three cases of child murder; you are aware that, till a late alteration in the Law, there was but one mode of bringing before you the crime of concealing the birth.  The petty jury were informed they were to acquit the party charged with the crime of murder unless the child was proved to have been born alive, and the mother was found guilty of concealing the birth, which subjected the party to a minor punishment, that crime is now a distinct crime, and which may be made a substantive charge.  The crime of murder is so grave a charge that it ought never to be lightly made, if the evidence would warrant reducing it to a lesser degree; if, in either of these cases, it should appear that there was not sufficient evidence of the child being born alive, or of the mother having made away with it, I should advise you that you should throw out the bill for murder, and direct the preparing one for concealing the birth; at the same time I should not ask you to come to any other conclusion than the depositions of witnesses would warrant.  In the first case, No. 17, that of HANNAH JENNINGS, there does not appear on the depositions to be disclosed either at what time or where the birth took place.  You will ascertain, not only the fact of the child having breathed, on the evidence of the surgeon, and that on satisfactory grounds; but also it will be your duty to ascertain, as well as you can, that the means of destruction used were as stated in the indictment; not as, in some way or other, the injury was the cause of death, but that the allegation of means should be satisfactorily made out.

   With respect to the case of ELIZABETH DAY, (no. 34,) that is more important - not only the form, but the essence of the crime of wilful murder depends on the sufficient evidence of the child having breathed - the place is pretty well made out where the child was born; but the manner of death and the consideration of the evidence is a very grave question, and you will pay particular attention to the manner in which the charge may be made out.

   With regard to ANN THOMAS, you will, of course, perceive that there is a material difference; you will hear, from the evidence, that there was, in that case, a great degree of force used, and such as not to be expected to have been used, at such a time, by a woman, under such distressing circumstances; such injuries could not have happened in delivery, but after the birth and when the mother could have used some exertion; some considerable degree of violence must have been used; still, the question for your consideration, from the evidence, will be, whether the child was born alive.  You will hear from the surgeon his opinion on these subjects; he will explain to you whether the circumstance of extravasation was the cause of death; and he will state whether, in his opinion, the child had respired, and what was the cause of death.

Other cases:

EDWIN JEFFREY.

JAMES GAY and JAMES LEWIS.

Sentences:  JAMES LEWIS, transported for Life.  9 Months, HANNAH JENNINGS, for concealing the birth of a female child; ANN THOMAS, for a similar offence at Westbury; ...

TRIAL AND EXECUTION, MARY ANN BURDOCK 

SHOCKING SUICIDE.

A shocking occurrence tok place in this city on Wednesday last, by which a very  respectable family is plunged into a state of the greatest distress.  About half past five o’clock on that afternoon, Mr JAMES JEW, Silversmith, of the Cross, destroyed himself by blowing out his brains with a pistol.  A very few minutes after having taken tea with his wife and an intimate friend, he went upstairs to his bedroom, from whence a loud report spread alarm in the family, and on rushing to his room a dreadful sight presented itself in the lifeless corpse of the unhappy man, who had discharged a loaded pistol at his right temple, by which all the upper part of his skull was blown to atoms, and one fragment was driven through the window to a considerable dstance, falling into the street below.  On the same evening an inquest was held upon the body, before JW Wilton, Esq. Coroner, and a most respectable and intelligent jury, to whom it was satisfactorily proved that the deceased had some time ago exhibited symptoms of mental alienation, but from which he had recovered.  A recent bodily infirmity, however, appeared to have renewed his lowness and depression of spirits, and the jury, after a very patient investigation, returned a verdict that he had destroyed himself in a fit of Insanity.  The deceased was much respected as a tradesman, and has left a widow in a state of unspeakable distress.

FATAL ACCIDENT.   On Monday afternoon, as Mr THOMAS BENNETT, a cooper, of Stroud, was riding his horse at a smart trot through the street below the Golden Heart and the George, the near stirrup leather broke; the animal wished to go forward beyond the George instead of turning up George street, and the unfortunate man, who had not fully recovered his seat, was thrown from the horse with considerable violence; his skull was dreadfully fractured, and he was carried home in a state of insensibility, when he died in a few minutes.  An inquest was taken on the morrow before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner, and a respectable jury, and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

 

Apr 18.  MANSLAUGHTER.  JAMES GAY was indicted for the manslaughter of SAMUEL LEWIS, of the parish of Wick and Abson, on the 5th of January last.

   THOMAS MARCH.  I was at the Rose and Crwn on the 5th Jan.last.  Samuel Lewis was there.  It was a club night.  Between twelve and one that night, Lewis and myself and some other persons left together.  The prisoner lives about half a mile from the Rose and Crown.  Samuel Lewis tried to get something to drink at two houses before we came to the prisoner’s.  There were five of us altogether.  It was not two o’clock when we got to the prisoner’s.  We began singing and Jas. Gay looked out of the window and put a gun out, saying “be off, Thomas.”  We had made a great noise.  The prisoner snapped the gun directly, but it missed fire.  We laughed at him and said, “Jemmy’s gun won’t go off.”  He left the window then and came down stairs and opened a window upon the ground floor.  He put the gun out.  Lewis was at the door about two feet from the window.  He struck Lewis with the gun two or three times.  Lewis turned round and went by the window away from the house.  I saw no tussle between them.  I saw the gun move about and then it was fired and Lewis fell backwards.  Before that I thought that Lewis was holding the door to prevent the prisoner coming out.  I assisted in carrying Lewis home.

   Cross examined.  I was not sober.  Lewis had more liquor than any of the rest.  We were all making a great noise shouting and singing.  We went beyond the gate where we ought to have turned off, in order to go to the prisoner’s.  I said before the Magistrates I believed Lewis had hold of the gun.  I heard the window broken,  I heard his wife say, “it is Tom Marsh,” and the prisoner said, “if it is Tom Marsh or the devil, I’ll be sure to send a bullet through his body.”

WILLIAM BAKER.  I was in the party.  I heard the party making a noise in front of Gay’s house.  I heard Gay tell Thomas Marsh he had better go off home than stay that time of night disturbing people.  I heard them calling “Jemmy.”  I heard the snap of a gun go off and then there was a shouting and a clapping, and a cry “Jemmy’s gun won’t go off.”  I heard Gay say, “I suppose you won’t let me come out.”  I also heard him say, “What, you’ll get it from me if you can,” and immediately heard the window break and the gun go off.

Mr BOLTON, surgeon.  I was called to see Lewis.  He had a gun shot wound in his groin.  He lingered some days and then died of locked jaw.  I took a deposition from him after I had told him he would die. [the deposition was not read in court.]

   The prisoner, in his defence, said the deceased caught hold of the gun and was trying to wrest it out of his hands when it went off accidentally.

   Several gentlemen gave the prisoner a most excellent character, and the jury, after a short consultation, returned a verdict of Not Guilty.

OBITUARY.

On the 5th inst. at Chipping Sodbury, awfully sudden, Mr JOHN HIGGS, aged 64 years; on the 7th, a Coroner’s inquest was held upon the body, when a verdict was returned of Died by the Visitation of God.

EXECEUTION of EDWIN JEFFREY, aged 20.

DEATH BY FIGHTING.

We are sorry to have to record another instance of the fatal effects which sometimes result from pugilistic encounters, and by which a young erson, just verging upon manhood, has met with an untimely end.  The parties engaged in this melancholy affair were THOMAS RICKETTS, aged 19, and EDWARD HARMAN, aged 17.  It seems that a difference had arisen between these young men about three weks ago, which had occasioned some ill blood between them, and on their casually meeting in the street, on Tuesday night last, Ricketts challenged Harman to fight in ten minutes, which the latter at first declined, but it was ultimately agreed that they should meet in ten minutes.  The evidence of several witnesses, and amongst them there was a brother of Ricketts, proved that the parties went to a field, at the back of the Bell, in Barton street, adjoining this city, where the encounter took place, and was described by all who were present as being a “fair fight.”  Shortly after its commencement, however, it became apparent that Ricketts was the weaker of the two, and his second and other persons tried to persuade him to leave off, but he persisted in continuing the contest, saying that he would rather die on the place than give in.  After a few more rounds his strength entirely failed him, and he could not speak or get up from the ground after the last knock-down blow.  He was then carried to a house in New Inn Lane, in this city, in a state of insensibility, and surgical assistance was called in, but it was of no avail, and in a few minutes he expired.  Upon the examination of the body by Mr CLUTTERBUCK, surgeon, there was scarcely any external appearance of violence beyond a trifling bruise on the left side of the head, but there was an extensive effusion of blood upon the brain.  The fullness of the vessels in the head was no doubt occasioned by the excitement and exertion of fighting, and their rupture produced by some of the concussions which had occurred during the fight from falls or blows.  On Wednesday, a very minute investigation took place at the Mitre Inn, before John William Wilton, Esq. Coroner, when the whole of the foregoing circumstances were detailed in evidence, and after an inquiry of several hours’ duration, the jury returned a verdict of  Manslaughter against Edward Harman, who was thereupon committed for trial.

ACQUITTED.  ELIZABETH DAY.

TRIAL; EDWIN JEFFERY.

TRIAL.

JAMES LEWIS was charged with the manslaughter of his wife, HANNAH LEWIS.  Mr ALEXANDER conducted the prosecution and Mr WATSON the defence.

   WILLIAM JONES, a boy, said - I am employed by Mr BETHEL, and so was the prisoner, who is a carter.  I lived in the same house with the prisoner and his wife.  I was at supper with them in February last when they had a dispute.  He caught her by the hair and told her to hold her tongue.  He drew the chair from under her and she fell on the paved floor.  He struck her on the head and kicked her.  They continued quarrelling.  He turned her out of the house and locked the door.  I was frightened and went to the stable.  While I was there I heard the deceased cry “Murder,” two or three times.  The prisoner came to the stable, and as I went from the stable with him I saw the deceased lying on the pavement in front of the house on her back.  She did not speak or move.  The prisoner passed her without noticing her.  He afterwards dragged her into the house, and supported her in a chair; her eyes were shut and she appeared insensible.  I saw the prisoner take hold of her under her arms and pull her upstairs.  I went out to work with the prisoner next morning at half past five.  We returned at two.  He went upstairs and said, “The old woman is lying on her back just as I left her this morning.”  On the Sunday week the deceased died.  The prisoner himself went for the Coroner two days after her death.  The prisoner told me not to say to the Coroner that he struck her on the head, or he should be hanged. 

Cross examied by Mr Watson.  The deceased had aggravated her husband very much.  It was nearly a fortnight after the quarrel that she died. 

GEORGE PARKER.  I lived with the prisoner on the night in question.  I saw Hannah Lewis, the deceased, lying on the pavement.  I lifted her head and spoke to her but she made no answer.  I found the prisoner in the stable.  I asked him what was the matter with the old woman, and he said, “There she may lie; I did not put her there, and I shall not take her away.”

Mr HARRISON.  I am a surgeon.  I saw the deceased on 5th February.  The prisoner is about 30 years younger than his late wife.  When I attended the deceased she did not answer my questions, she looked vacant and wild.  The prisoner said she would soon find her tongue.  I saw her on the Sunday on which she died.  She was labouring under compression of the brain, and she was evidently dying.  The prisoner, when I asked him, denied having struck her.  The prisoner asked if the Coroner must be sent for.  I made a post mortem examination of the body, which I found in a healthy state.  The head was slightly bruised, and under the bruise the skull was indented.  It was such an appearance as would be produced by a stone or the point of a shoe.  I found extravasated blood on the left side of her head, which was the cause of her death.  The deceased was between 60 and 70.

Cross examined.  The deceased was a hale woman.  She must have received great violence. 

By the Learned Judge.  No hand or first could have caused that appearance of the skull.

WILLIAM JONES, recalled - The deceased was not intoxicated.

Verdict, Guilty.  Transportation for Life.

 

Apr 25.  A melancholy accident occurred at Wotton Underedge, on Thursday last, to Mr FREDERICK GODWIN, maltster, of Chipping Sodbury, who was on his return home from Dursley, and when coming down the hill into the town of Wotton Underedge, his horse by some unaccountable means set off in a gallop, and Mr Godwin was thrown forwards with great violence and pitched on his head; he was taken up insensible and conveyed to the King’s Arms Inn, where he lingered till the following Sunday morning, when he died.  He was about 27 years of age and has left a young widow and child to lament his loss.An inquest was held before WJ Ellis, Esq. and a verdict returned of Accidental Death.

   Mrs MARY WIGMORE, of Codrington, near Sodbury, aged 92, was found dead in her bed on Friday se’nnight; she had been in perfect health and spirits the previous day.

   An inquest was held at Wickwar, last week, on GEORGE DAVIS, who had been drinking nearly the whole of the day, and had gone into a public house there, when some persons proposed to him to dance and he stood up for that purpose, but very soon fell backwards on the floor, and received such an injury on his head that he died immediately afterwards.  A verdict of Accidental Death.

   More on MARY ANN BURDOCK (nee WILLIAMS) of Orcop, Hef; and CLARA ANN SMITH (nee LUMLEY) WIFE OF JOHN, ironmonger.

 

May 2.  A very distressing accident occurred on Saturday last, on the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal, near Purton.  A young man, named WILLIAM BROWNING, about 19 years of age, was going up the towing path, with three horses, belonging to DANIEL JONES, of Purton, on one of which he was riding, for the purpose of towing a brig down to Sharpness Point, when one of the horses began kicking, and the three becoming entangled in the harness, they slipped down the bank into the water, and, with the young man, were all drowned.  An inquest was held on the body of William Browning, before WJ Ellis, Esq. and a verdict returned of Accidental Death.  We understand a subscription is in progress to enable the owner of the horses to repair the loss he has sustained of his whole team, by which a wife and six young children were wholly supported.

INQUESTS have been held this week before WJ Ellis, Esq. - At Clearwell, on JAMES JENKINS, found drowned in a resevoir of water, at Lower Redbrook Iron Works.  He had left Monmouth late on the previous night, which was very dark, and is supposed to have walked into the resevoir, which is in a very dangerous state from want of a fence.  When found he had his watch and 16 l. in money in his pockets.  A verdict was returned of Accidental Death.

   At Tortworth, on MARY SHEARMAN, who, whilst preparing her dinner, suddenly turned round, and, without a word or groan, sunk on the ground, a corpse.  Verdict, Died suddenly by the Visitation of God.

   At Ham, on HENRY THOMAS, fisherman, who was accidentally drowned in the river Severn.

   On Sunday last, the body of A NEWLY BORN FEMALE CHILD was found in a brook in the town of Stroud.  Information having been given to John G Ball, Esq. Coroner, an enquiry was commenced before him and a highly respectable jury on the following morning.  In the course of the investigation it appeared that another child had recently been born in Stroud and conveyed to Painswick.  At a late hour in the evening the inquest was adjourned to Wednesday, and Mr Ball proceeded on Tuesday morning to take an inquisition on the body which had now been found at Painswick, where it had been buried upwards of a fortnight, in a garden, from whence it was removed to a coal hole, on the parties being informed that an enquiry was about to take place.  In this case the evidence of the surgeon who examined the body satisfactorily proved that the child had not been born alive.   On the following day the enquiry at Stroud was resumed, and a full admission was made by a young woman, resident in the parish, that she had been delivered of a child about a month since which had been sewn in a wrapper and conveyed away by her mother, who admitted having thrown it into a brook near the spot where the first child was found.  Both mother and daughter stated that the child was dead, and after three surgeons had been examined, the jury could come to no other conclusion.  The Coroner expressed a hope that the Justices of the Peace would find sufficient grounds for proceeding against the mother and daughter and another female, who appeared to have had some knowledge of the circumstances, and whose statement was most contradictory.  Mr NEWMAN, Clerk to the Magistrates, was present and took full notes of the proceedings, in the course of which the most flagrant and revolting scenes were disclosed, and we understand that every means will be used to bring the guilty parties to that punishment which they so justly deserve.

 

May 9.  FATAL ACCIDENT.  On Sunday se’nnight, the body of a young man named JAMES JENKINS, late of Clearwell, in this county, was found in an erect position, his hands crossed on his head, about five feet under water in the mill pond above the works of Mr WHITEHOUSE, at Lower Redbrook..  It appears that the unfortunate man left Monmouth on the previous night at a late hour, having drunk freely at several public houses in the town, and the night being very dark, he fell into the pond a few yards above the spot where he was discovered.  On his person were found a watch, (which stopped at two o’clock,) three five pound notes of  Bromage and Snead’s bank, about seventeen shillings in silver, and some plum cakes.  A respectable coroner’s jury was assembled, and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

HULKS.  SAMUEL LEWIS. removed to the Hulks.

 

May 16.  INQUESTS.  Taken this week before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Barnwood, on the body of EDMUND TOWNSEND, aged seven years, who was drowned in a mill pond.  The deceased had been at play with ther children, and left them to go home in the evening, but not returning, search was made for him by his parents and others until near twelve o’clock at night, but without effect; the next morning, on dragging the mill pond, the body was found.  The Jury returned a verdict, found drowned.

   At Lower Redbrook, on the body of MARY DAVIS, aged five years, who was burnt to death by her clothes catching fire in the absence of her parents.  Verdict, accidental death.

   At Flaxley, on the body of ANN MOORE, aged 43, who was found dead in a barn.  The deceased was the wife of JOHN MOORE, a travelling tinker and brazier - they had taken up their residence in the barn, in consequence of deceased being unwell.  The husband finding deceased worse, went to a nearby house to procure assistance, and was accompanied by the woman of the house, Mrs HALE, when on going into the barn, the deceased was found lying on her side dead.  Verdict, died by the visitation of God.

 

May 23.  On Sunday last, six young men of Bredon went down the river Avon in a boat, to spend the afternoon at Twyning Fleet Inn, and on their return home, about six o’clock in the evening, the boat upset, and three of them were drowned.  Two escaped by swimming to the shore, and one held by the boat side till he was rescued by the ferryman from the Fleet passage.  The accident was occasioned by the extreme folly of this volatile party; the current in the river was very strong, and the water so high as to overflow the banks, yet these silly young men, in a crazy boat, which was little larger than a cockleshell, and just at a sudden turn in the river, were so imprudent as to lean all at once, over its side, to seize a hat which had been knocked overboard in sport; a considerable quantity of water, in consequence, rushed in, and the poor fellows becoming alarmed, all of them simultaneously hurried to the other side of the boat, which completely turned it over, and in a few minutes it was carried, by the rapidity of the stream, down to Tewkesbury Quay.  The names of the unfortunate men were WAGSTAFF, STEPHENS, AND TRAPP; the former two were blacksmiths, the other a labourer, and all were unmarried.  The body of Wagstaff was picked up on Tuesday, but the others have not yet been found.

 

May 30.  SUDDEN DEATH.  On Monday last, Mr SMART, gunsmith, of Cheltenham, proceeded to this city, inside one of the morning coaches, which he came up with at Lansdown place, after exerting himself very greatly to overtake it.  It is supposed that this unusual effort caused some fatal internal rupture, for, melancholy to relate, when the coach arrived here, Mr Smart, who had travelled inside, alone, was discovered to be a corpse!  An inquest was subsequently held before JW Wilton, Esq. when evidence to the above effect having been given, the jury returned a verdict accordingly.

FATAL ACCIDENT.

On Thursday last about two o’clock, a most melancholy and fatal accident took place at Toddington Park, near Winchcomb, by which a young man from Cheltenham, named FROST, lost his life, under the following dreadful circumstances:-  It appeared from the evidence given at the inquest by Mr E. FISHER, and JAMES, the Cheltenham and Winchcomb postman, who were in the park when the accident occurred, that the deceased was invited to Toddington Park for a day’s rook shooting; the deceased had shot several rooks, and was very imprudently leaning on his gun (which was cocked) with the muzzle against his left arm, looking up at the trees waiting for a bird to fly out, when the piece exploded, and the charge passing through his arm, entered his side near the heart, and was lodged in his chest.  Medical aid was immediately sent for, and Mr BANCKS, with his assistant, Mr NEWMAN, very promptly attended, but the vital spark had fled before they arrived at the place.  The jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.  Deceased, who was about 22 years of age, was a glazier and painter, and was greatly respected by all who knew him.

   On Saturday last, an inquest was taken at Cliffords Meend, near Newent, before J Cooke, Esq. on view of the body of COMFORT MATTHEWS, a child about three years old, whose death was occasioned by her clothes taking fire in the absence of her parents.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Avening, on GEORGE ESSEX, who fell from a cart, and was so severely injured that he died in consequence; at Painswick, on ADELINE RIDLER, who was burnt to death.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

   At Minchinhampton, on RICHARD DANIELS.  Died by the Visitation of God.

    At Stanley, on DANIEL HARRISON, the younger, who drowned himself in a pond in Stanley Park.  Verdict, Lunacy.

   On Tesday the 26th instant, a fatal accident occurred at the Lea Line, in this county.  About four o’clock in the afternoon, a waggon belonging to Mr RUSSELL, of Ross, loaded with oats, was returning from Gloucester, and had arrived at the top of a steep and dangerous hill at the Lea Line, commonly known by the appellation of the Devil’s Bowling Green, when the waggoner attempted to put the shoe on the wheel, but the horses moved on, and having passed over the point of the hill, the declivity was so steep that the horses were unable to hold back the load.  At this moment the deceased, THOMAS STEELE, who was walking behind the waggon, ran forward, and in endeavouring to stop the horsese, was knocked down either by one of the horses or the shaft of the waggon, and was crushed to death between the wheel and the bank.  A Coroner’s Inquest was held on the body on Thursday, the 28th inst., before J Cooke, Esq. and a highly respectable and intelligent jury, GEORGE LANE, Esq. of the Lea Line, being the foreman; when, after a patient investigation of all the facts, and it appearing that no blame was imputable to the waggoner, and that both he and the deceased were perfectly sober, they brought in a verdict of accidental death, and a deodand of 2s. on the wheel.  The Jury gave it as their decided opinion that the accident occurred from the extremely dangerous steepness of the hill at that particular point.

 

Jun 6.  ACCIDENTS.  Mr JOHN ISAAC BEECHWELL, one of the under stewards of the Duke of Beaufort, went out on Saturday last to examine some timber in the woods.  About ten o’clock in the evening, his horse returned home without his master, and an alarm being given, a search was made, and Mr Beechwell was found in a road in the park, lying on his side, and quite dead.  A considerable quantity of blood had flowed from his nose and ears.  His horse had a trick of stopping short, and it is supposed, from marks in the road, he had done so, and pitched Mr Beechwell forwards over his head, who was a very tall muscular man, nearly 20 stone.  Mr Beechwell was about 40 years of age, and has left a widow and young family to lament his loss.  An inquest was held before WJ Ellis, Esq. and a verdict returned of Accidental Death.

   A most melancholy accident occurred on Wednesday last, at Arlingham, in this county.  Captain CAMPBELL, whose residence is in that parish, had, in the course of a walk, fallen in with two bargemen, who very grossly insulted and abused him; he obtained the assistance of the constable to endeavour to apprehend them, and a young man named WILLIAM BROWNING, who lived in the neighbourhood, was required by the constable to assist him.  The bargemen finding they were pursued took to the River Severn, and were followed by Browning, and after going some distance in the water he unfortunately fell from a bank of sand into deep water, and was drowned, notwithstanding every possible assistance was rendered him.  His body was soon afterwards picked up, and an inquest was held on Thursday, before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner, and a verdict returned of Accidental Death.

DEATH FROM SOMNAMBULISM.  A lad about nine years of age, son of a labouring man, named RICHARD MORGAN, living near Bream, went to bed on Friday night, and in the course of the night a great noise and cry being heard in the kitchen, the family came down and found the poor boy lying on the floor dreadfully bruised about the head.  He had been walking in his sleep, and had fallen down the stairs, which was a steep and dangerous one.  He lingered for some hours, when death put a period to his sufferings.

   An inquest was held at Coalpit Heath, on Saturday last, before WJ Ellis, Esq. on the body of JOHN WILLIAMS, who was killed by a quantity of coals falling upon him from the side of the coalpit in which he was working.  A verdict was returned of Accidental Death.

 

Jun 13.  On Sunday afternoon last, the body of a man was seen floating in the River Severn, near to Sharpness Point, by a pilot boat coming up the river; it was brought on shore, and an inquest subsequently held before WJ Ellis, Esq. and there being no evidence of who the person was, or how he came by his death, a verdict was returned of Found Drowned. [Description given.]

   Mr JOHN WORLOCK, formerly a farmer at Wapley, was found drowned in a millpond, near Iron Acton, on Thursday morning last.

 

Jun 20.  On Monday last, an inquest was taken, at the Lower George Inn, in this city, on view of the body of BENJ. HUNTLEY, sail maker, who died on Saturday evening under circumstances which gave rise to a report that his death was occasioned by the violence of his own son, who was, in consequence detained in custody until the result of the Coroner’s inquest was known, but the investigation satisfactorily evinced that there was no real ground for such a charge.  Upon the testimony of several witnesses it appeared that a quarrel had taken place between the boy and his mother, and that the deceased, (who had long been in a very bad state of health, labouring under water on the chest and a disease of the heart,) had interfered on behalf of the latter, and becoming very much excited had struck his son several severe blows with a stick, but it was positively sworn that the boy never gave him a single blow in return.  Immediately after this violent excitement and exertion the deceased appeared very weak and exhausted, and in a few minutes fell down and died instantly.  The foregoing facts being perfectly established, upon the testimony of eye witnesses, and the surgeon who was in attendance upon the deceased, the jury returned a verdict, Died by the Visitation of God, and the son was of course set at liberty.

INQUESTS.  Latelt taken before Joseph Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Stow, on the body of JOHN COSIER, found dead in his arm chair; at Dunsborne Abbotts, on the body of HANNAH GODWIN, found dead in bed.  Verdict in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Lower Swell, on the body of WILLIAM ANDREWS, a child found drowned in a pan of water; at Moreton in Marsh, on the body of MARY HOOPER, a child who was burnt to death by her clothes taking fire in the schoolroom, in the momentary absence of the governess; at Coates, on the body of JAMES HAREWELL, who whilst in the act of hanging up the slipper of the waggon wheel at the bottom of a hill, without stopping the waggon, fell under the wheel and was crushed to death on the spot; at the same parish on the body of WILLIAM TOWNSEND, who, about three weeks before, had fallen from a horse and injured the spine, and died from the consequence; at Salperton, on the body of JOSEPH HISCOCKS, aged seven years, who fell into the Thames and Severn Canal, and was drowned.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Cirencester, on the body of HENRY ROLFE, found dead by the roadside.  Verdict, Apoplexy, produced by excessive drinking.

   At Stow, on the body of ROBERT SPENCER, and at Oddington, on the body of ROBERT DURHAM, both of whom were found hanged.  Verdict in each case, Insanity.

   An inquest was held last Monday se’nnight, on the body of Mr JOSEPH TOMES, a respectable farmer of Great Barrington, which was discovered that moring in a deep part of the river Windrush.  It was mentioned that he had been dining with a brother in law, at Aldsworth, the day before, whose house he left about nine o’clock in the evening.  From whatever cause it might have arisen, the first witness deposed that he found him lying about two miles off that place, on the ground, by the side of his horse, but holding him by the bridle - that he seemed somewhat stupified - witness put him on horse back again, and accompanied him part of the way home - that Mr Tomes then began to recover himself, and dismissed him, and he saw no more of him that night.  No other witnesses appeared except the persons who dragged the body out of the river, into which it is probable he fell by mistaking his road from the extreme wetness and darkness of the evening.  The jury immediately brought in a verdict of - Found drowned - Oxford Journal.

 

Jun 27.  Pages 3 and 4 missing.

 

Jul 4.  A melancholy case of self destruction occurred at Staplehill, near Bristol, on Wednesday night.   A respectable young man, named JOSEPH KEEFE, who had been for some time in the confidential employ of the engineers conducting the tunnel of the Gloucestershire Railway, as superintendent, had lately shewn great excitement, and had become very reserved: his symptoms had so much increased on Monday and Tuesday that Mr URQUHART, with whom he lodged, had thought it prudent to have a person with him constantly and every dangerous instrument had been removed out of his way.  On the Wednesday morning he seemed better and more cheerful, and discoursed with the person who was with him, walking backwards and forwards into another room, when suddenly the man heard a sort of scream, and turning round into the other room he saw Mr Keefe had cut his throat with a large carving knife.  Every possible assistance was rendered him, but he died almost immediately.  The knife had been hidden behind a cask in the room, which he had unfortunately gone into.  A slight deviation in the line of the tunnel is the only cause which can be assigned for his abberration of mind.  An inquest was subsequently held before Wm J Ellis, Esq. and the jury having perused a note written to J.K. (sic) BRUNEL, Esq. strongly indicating a deranged mind, and after hearing corroborative evidence, returned a verdict to that effect.

   A young man, about thirty years of age, named WILLIAM KERSLAKE, who was in the habit of assisting the coachman in a gentleman’s family, at Rodney place, Clifton, left his home in perfect health, and went into the knife house as usual on Friday morning last.  One of the servants hearing a noise immediately afterwards, went into the room and found him on the floor, and quite dead.  He did not appear to have struggled or even moved, as the knives which he had been cleaning were near his hands where he fell.  An inquest was held before WJ Ellis, Esq. and a verdict returned of, Died by the Visitation of God.

[no page 4.]

 

Jul 11.  A sad accident occurred last week at Kingsdown, near Bristol, to a fine boy aged about six years, son of Mr TRITE, surgeon, who was at play near a pool in a field adjoining his father’s house, when he unfortunately overbalanced himself and fell into the water, and, before assistance could be rendered him, he was drowned.

   Mr JOSEPH ADLUM, of Chipping Sodbury, was riding on the shafts of his waggon in the road near to Cross Hands, on the evening of Monday last, when the shafts by some accident became detached from the waggon, and Mr Adlum falling to the ground, the wheel passed over him, and caused such injuries that he died in a short time afterwards.  An inquest was held before WJ Ellis, Esq. and a verdict returned of  - Accidental Death.

   A labouring man, named REUBEN MERCY, almost in a state of intoxication, fell from a waggon load of hay in a field on a farm at Hallen, near Henbury, on Wednesday last, and his spine was so much injured, that he died in a day or two afterwards.

MELANCHOLY OCCURRENCE.

On Wednesday morning last, MARIA DANGERFIELD, accompanied by her mother in law, was attempting to cross the Severn at Westbury in a boat, when about the middle of the river the scull with which she was sculling the boat, suddenly slipped from her hands, when she fell out of the boat into the river and was drowned; the body was picked up about three o’clock the same day.  The deceased was much respected by her neighbours; four children, the youngest about ten months old are left to bemoan their loss.  An inquest was taken the next day, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when the Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

FATAL ACCIDENT.

On Thursday morning last, as the Mazeppa coach was travelling at the usual rate in the High street, Cheltenham, a child named MARY SMITH, two years and a half old, ran suddenly from behind a cart across the road, and before it was possible for the coachman to pull up, one of the fore wheels passed over her chest, and she was killed on the spot.  An inquest was held on the body on the following day, at the Golden Heart Inn, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, and a respectable Jury.  Verdict, Accidental Death, with a deodand of 1s. upon the horse, and 1s. upon each of the near wheels of the coach.

EXTRAORDINARY CASE OF SELF DESTRUCTION.

A person having the manners and appearance of a gentleman, came by coach from Bristol to the Swan Inn, Thornbury, about a month since.  He said he had come to Thornbury for the purpose of examining the parish register, his grandfather having been originally from thence.  After staying about week at the inn, he went into private lodgings at a house in the town: he drank a good deal of wine and spirits, and having become feverish and ill was attended by a medical gentleman, under whose care, and by abstaining from spirits, he soon became better, though weak and debilitated; he seemed at times to be greatly depressed in spirits, and on last Saturday evening particularly so; he took the opportunity of the person in whose house he lodged, going to his surgeon’s on a message, to go down stairs and possess himself of some sherry wine, a very small quantity only fortunately being in the bottle: he drank this, and it seemed to put him in a great state of excitement, and the persons who were in the room with him having momentarily left it, on their return found the unfortunate gentleman had cut his throat with a penknife, and with such dreadful effect that notwithstanding every assistance was rendered him, he died in a few hours.  On searching his portmanteau to discover who and what he was, a very large sum of money, consisting of bank of England notes and sovereigns, was found, and the heading of a bill of parcels for goods, giving a slight reason to suppose he had come from the neighbourhood of Manchester.  A letter was instantly despatched there, and on Wednesday his friends arrived from thence.  He proved to be a Mr JOS. WRIGLEY, a very respectable clothier and merchant, at Knowle, near Saddleworth, Yorkshire, and he had left home a very short time before his arrival at Thornbury; and from a letter written by him from Liverpool to his wife, his friends believed him to have gone to America.  No cause whatever can satisfactorily be assigned for the extraordinary step he took in coming to this neighbourhood, and which led to such a fatal and lamentable result.  He has left a young widow and four small children, one having been born since his departure from home.  We understand an inquest was held on Monday before W Joyner Ellis, Esq. and a verdict returned of Derangement of Mind.

 

Jul 18.

 

Jul 25.  INQUESTS have been held during the week, by WJ Ellis, Esq. at Thornbury, on a child named HARRIET CLARK, who had followed her father into a spare bedroom, where some arsenic had been placed on the floor to destroy mice, and eating some of it, died shortly afterwards.  At Iron Acton, on WILLIAM LEWTON, killed by the kick of a horse whilst driving a load of hay.  At Wickwar, on WILLIAM WHITE, killed by falling from the shafts of a waggon on which he was riding, and the wheels passed over and killed him on the spot.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   At St Philip’s, on EDWARD WHALE, who drank such a quantity of rum through a reed, from a cask lying on the Quay, as to occasion his death almost immediately.  Verdict, died from excessive drinking.

INQUESTS.  Taken this week before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Cheltenham, on the body of SARAH PACKER, found dead in her bed in Rutland street.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   Also at Cheltenham, on the body of ELIZABETH WILLIAMS.  Deceased resided alone in a house in Portland square, which not having been opened for two or three days, the neighbours fearing all was not right, on Friday evening forced an entrance, through one of the windows, when the body was found lying dead by the side of her bed.  The doors were all fastened inside.  An Inquest was subsequently held and a verdict returned by the jury, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Tibberton, on the body of ROBERT BROWN, who fell from off a waggon load of hay, on which he was riding, and received so much injury as to cause his death almost instantly.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Aug 1.  FATAL ACCIDENT.  On Saturday last as a carriage, in which were two ladies, was passing down Church street, Tewkesbury, a little girl of about four years, who was playing in the street, suddenly ran before the horses, which knocked her down, and the wheels passing over her body, she died in about half an hour afterwards.  A Coroner’s Inquest was held on view of the body, on Monday, when a verdict of accidental death was returned, with a deodand of ten shillings, - the jury considering the post boy was blameable for driving so fast along the streets.  At the inquest, strong animadversions were made upon the conduct of the two ladies who were riding in the carriage at the time the accident occurred, - neither of whom appeared to interest themselves in the smallest degree about the fate of the poor child, or the feelings of its afflicted parents.

   On Saturday last, as Mr WILLIAM HILL, of Twigworth, was returning home from this city, he fell from a waggon loaded with manure, on the top of which he was riding, and the wheels going over his body caused his instant death.  An inquest was subsequently held before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, and a verdict returned of Accidental Death.

   On Tuesday last, GEORGE YARNOLD, a lad of about fourteen years of age, whilst bathing in the river Avon, at Tewkesbury, was drowned near the Stanchard Pit.  A coroner’s inquest was held on view of the body, on Monday, and a verdict returned of Accidental Death.

 

Aug 15.   INQUESTS - Lately taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner. - At Cheltenham, on the body of GEORGE BANASTER, about 60 years of age, who was taken suddenly ill, and almost instantly expired. Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

At Bishops Cleeve, on the body of ELIAS TURBEFIELD, aged about two years, who was killed by the wheel of a loaded waggon going over his neck and head.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

INQUESTS - have been taken during the last week before WJ Ellis, Esq.  At Winterbourne, on CHARLES CLARK, aged 7 years, drowned in a pool of water in a stone quarry, - At St Philip and Jacob, on  ROSINA JONES, aged 8 years, drowned in the Avon whilst playing with other children.  At Mangotsfield, on WILLIAM JONES, found dead in the bottom of a coal pit.  At the Nag’s Head Inn, at St Briavels, on WILLIAM HOPKINS, a lad, killed by falling on the carriage way of some loaded tram waggons, which passed over and killed him on the spot.  At Combe, on LLEWELLYN FOWLER, drowned in a pool whilst bathing on Sunday last.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

INQUESTS.  Taken before J Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Stowell, on the body of ROBERT NEWMAN, who was killed by a fall from a donkey; at Siddington, on the body of MARY TAYLOR, who got upon the roof of the house (as she stated) to cause an alarm, from which she accidentally fell to the ground; at Southrop, on the body of JAMES HUNT, who was killed by the falling in of a quarry in which he was working.  At Sapperton, on the body of MARY BLACKWELL, who died in a fit; at Bourton on the Water, on the body of JOHN COURTENEY CAMPBELL, who died from the consequence of a fit.  Verdict in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

   And at Lower Swell, on the body of JAMES BROWN, who hanged himself in an out house.  Verdict, Lunacy.

FATAL PUGILISM.

We have to add another instance to the alreday extensive catalogue of occurrences of this nature, in which a petty quarrel has led to the termination of life.  The unfortunate sufferer in this case was a labourer in the employ of Mr JAMES SURMAN, farmer, of Maisemore, near this city, and his antagonist, RD. ETHERIDGE, was carter also in the same service.  It appeared in evidence that on the morning of Thursday se’nnight, whilst MORGAN was milking the cows, some words arose between him and Etheridge, shortly after which the former swore that he ‘would have it out’, and in point of fact waited for him the same night, and wanted him to fight, which Etheridge refused, saying he would rather make it up.  At last, however, it was understood that they should fight the next morning at five o’clock, though Etheridge still manifested great reluctance.  The next morning, Morgan was on the ground first, and sent a messenger, and afterwards went himself to bring Etheridge.  On the arrival of the latter they stripped and set to, and fought together for nearly three quarters of an hour.  Each had a second, and in the language of the ring, it was a fair fight.  In the course of the fight Morgan’s second repeatedly advised him to give in, but he refused.  In the last round they closed together, when Etheridge threw Morgan upon his head and fell upon him.  On Morgan’s attempting to stand up again, he staggered and fell backwards in a state of insensibility, in which condition he was carried to his master’s house.  Mr BUCHANAN, surgeon, of this city, was immediately sent for, but his efforts were of no avail, and in the course of three or four hours the unfortunate man breathed his last.  A subsequent examination of the body exhibited considerable extravasation of blood upon the brain, which had produced death, and, in the opinion of the surgeon, was occasioned by a fall.  An inquest was held before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when, after a long investigation, in which great stress was laid by the jury on the reluctance of Etheridge to enter the contest, the jury returned a verdict of Justifiable Homicide!  Although great allowance is to be made for the conduct of Etheridge upon this occasion, we cannot approve of the verdict of the jury, particularly as we find that the Coroner distinctly pointed out the law applicable to the case, and directed their attention to the propriety of their giving in a verdict of manslaughter.

 

Aug 22.  ASSIZES.  Mr Justice Williams, Address to the Grand Jury of the county of Gloucester:  I think there are one or two cases where the depositions have been returned to me; but as far as I am able to judge there is not a single case that admits of any observation calculated to be of the slightest use to you, except it be the first in your calendar, and that is, as you are aware, a commitment on a charge of manslaughter - a commitment on the Coroner’s Inquisition, charging a person named EDWARD HARMAN, with killing and slaying another of the name of THOMAS RICKETTS.  This took place you will find, at least it is so stated upon the depositions, on a fight of an ordinary and, so far as appears, of a regular description; a fight indeed brought on by the unfortunate deceased himself, for he appears to have been the person with whom it originated.  That, however, you are well aware will make no difference in the nature of your enquiry, for whether a man be challenged to fight or not, if he does go out to fight and death ensues in that encounter, there can be no question that in point of law the death so ensuing is manslaughter.  You are well aware that the crime of manslaughter varies from an extremely venial case indeed up to the very line and verge of murder itself, so that it is almost impossible in fact, though not difficult in law, to draw the distinction between the one and the other.  This, however, is fortunately not at all a case of that description, but rather one, as you will find, of a venial character.  However, Gentlemen, the main question, as I presume, that will be submitted for your consideration (and that indeed is the only reason why I noticed the case to you at all) will be, whether or not the prisoner’s act was the cause of the death of the deceased.  I have already said, and you are quite aware, that the question as to which party began the quarrel is wholly immaterial; and I take leave further to say, that it is by no means necessary, in order that the crime of manslaughter should be committed, that death should instantly follow from a stroke or blow given by one of the contestants, because if from a fall, or if at some distance of time the effect of a blow be able to produce death, provided death be referable to that blow, it is certainly quite as immaterial, with a view to the crime, whether it be instantaneous or whether it be followed at a certain distance of time afterwards, provided you are satisfied, upon the evidence, that the death was occasioned by an act, either a blow or a fall, or any act, direct or indirect, of the party accused, one of the combatants upon the present occasion.  Therefore, Gentlemen, that appears to be the point for you more particularly to consider, namely, whether or not the death was occasioned by the act of the prisoner.  Upon these occasions, undoubtedly it is always very material to consider what was the state of the party before the conflict took place, and what was his state afterwards.   One sometimes is enabled to come to a tolerably strong conclusion with the assistance only of common sense, without any aid that may be derived from the higher sources of medicine and surgery.  Gentlemen, etc.

ASSIZES; City Calendar.  EDWARD HARMAN, convicted of killing and slaying THOMAS RICKETTS, was ordered to be imprisoned one day.

Aug 29.  CITY PRISONERS.  EDWARD HARMAN, aged 17, was indicted for the manslaughter of THOS. RICKETTS, on the 14th of April.  The case against the prisoner was of a very mitigated nature.  He had been forced to fight by the challenges and importunity of the deceased.  The battle took place in a field at the back of the Bell Inn, in Barton street, adjoining this city, and at the close of the last of about twenty rounds, the deceased fell, and remained speechless and motionless till he died.  He was removed to a house in New Inn lane.  All the witnesses described it as a perfectly fair stand-up fight, but one, a lad named JOHN WOOD, stated that he heard the prisoner at the close of the last round, make use of the expression, “D--n his heart, if Ricketts should not kill him, or he would kill Ricketts, unless he gave him best.”  Mr CHARLES CLUTTERBUCK, surgeon, was called in to attend upon the deceased in New Inn lane; he died soon after his (witness’s) arrival; death was occasiobed by apoplexy, brought on, no doubt, by blows and concussions from falling during the fight; the external marks of injury were remarkably trifling.  Seven or eight respectable persons gave the prioner a good character.  A legal objection was taken by Mr GREAVES, that the venue was improperly laid, after hearing Mr ALEXANDER, the Judge overwhelmed the objection, and the case went to the jury, who returned a verdict of guilty, with a recommendation on account of his good character, and the imprisonment he had already suffered.  He was sentenced to one day’s imprisonment, which having expired, he was at once discharged.

HYDROPHOBIA.

One of the distressing cases of hydrophobia has just occurred in the neighbourhood of Newent.  A boy, eight years old, the son of JOHN CARPENTER, of Gorsley, was bitten by a cat two months since.  On Sunday morning, he became unwell; on Monday he was seen by Mr HOLLISTER, surgeon, of Newent, when every symptom of that most dreaded disease had made its appearance, and continued rapidly to increase till Tuesday evening, when death terminated his sufferings.  No other precaution as a preventative was taken at the time he was bitten but that of dipping, which is of no avail.

   On Thursday night, as a man named JOHN HOOPER was attempting to get to a vessel to which he belonged, lying in the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal, he fell into the water and was drowned.  His body was recovered and taken to the Infirmary, where every means were used to restore animation but without effect.  An inquest was taken on the body before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

 

Sep 5.  SUICIDE.  Very considerable excitement prevailed in the village of Nailsworth, on Tuesday, the 25th ult. in consequence of EMMA CHISWELL, a young woman of about 20 years of age, having taken poison; every attention was paid to her by Mr STOKES, surgeon of that place, but she died on the following night.  An inquest was held on Wednesday, by JG Ball, Esq. when it appeared that a quarrel had taken place on Monday evening, between her and a tradesman of the village, who for nearly two years past had paid particular attention to her; he, however, considered that the disagreement was in some measure at least reconciled, but she (after two ineffectual attempts) obtained arsenic at a druggist’s on the Tuesday morning - she appears to have taken it immediately, and after causing severe suffering it proved fatal.  After a lengthened investigation and subsequent deliberation, the jury returned a verdict, Temporary Insanity.

INQUESTS.  Taken  by the same Coroner.  At Woodchester and Kingstanley, on GEORGE WOOD, who fell suddenly dead whilst engaged at his work.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Brimscomb, on JOHN PRATT, a child about five years old, who was burnt to death in consequence of his clothes taking fire; and at Painswick, on RICHARD CLEVELY, who was killed by a quantity of rubbish falling on him.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Sep 12.  As a waggon laden with deals was returning from Bristol to Badminton on Thursday last, one of the persons who had charge of it, THOMAS PENDUCK, got on top to adjust some of the timber which had  slipped, when he unfortunately lost hs balance, and falling backwards on his head received such an injury that he died shortly after being removed home.

   A shocking circumstance happened at St George, near Bristol, last week; a poor woman went out of her cottage for a short time, leaving an infant about six months old in a cradle asleep, and on her return, she, to her great horror, found a pig in the cradle; it was with some difficulty the voracious creature could be driven away, when she discovered that the poor child was dreadfully torn and mangled about the face and throat.  It lived only a short time afterwards.

SHOCKING ACCIDENT.

On the 29th ult. JAMES POWELL was walking upon the bank near Cumberland basin, at the moment that a steam packet had unmoored and was upon the start.  Not observing the rope, he stepped unhappily into a coil, when he was immediately pulled over into the dock.  Every assistance was immediately afforded, he was disentangled, and brought to the shore.  The poor fellow had, however, received a very severe injury of the head, and his foot was nearly torn off.  He was taken to the Infirmary, where the foot was amputated by the surgeon of the week, and every attention paid to him.  We are happy to learn that he is likely to recover.  Bristol Gazette.

DREADFUL ACCIDENT.

We have again the dreadful duty of recording a very serious accident arising from the incautious use of firearms  On Sunday morning, a young man named BULLOCK, of Badgeworth, who had placed his loaded gun over the mantelpiece, recollected that he had put it up unlocked, and on taking it down to set it right, he handled the deadly instrument with so much carelessness that the piece exploded, and the contents lodged in the arm of his poor mother, who was unfortunately near at the time.  She was conveyed with all speed to our Casualty Hospital, where it was found necessary to amputate the limb, but we are happy to say that she is now fast recovering.  Surely it is time that these oft repeated accidents should teach some common prudence in the management of loaded firearms.  Cheltenham Chronicle.

 

Sep 19.  DEATH BY DRUNKENNESS.  A most lamentable instance of the effect of intoxication occurred in the parish of St Philip and Jacob, Bristol, on Sunday se’nnight.  A butcher, named JOHN RITCHINGS, living in Little Ann street, had been with his wife and some friends drinking at a public house in the neighbourhood, and when turned out of the house they bought beer to take to the rooms of one of the party, where they stayed till past twelve o’clock, and then went home in a state of intoxication, carrying an infant of about three months between them.  On arriving home Ritchings went up stairs for a light, and his wife, in attempting to follow him, fell backwards down the stairs, and falling on the back of her head, received such a dreadful fracture, that she died instantly.  An inquest was held on the body, before WJ Ellis, Esq, and a verdict returned of Accidental Death.

DETERMINED SUICIDE.

A female servant named SARAH LORTON, residing in Oxford Passage, Cheltenham, committed suicide in the most determined manner, on Sunday morning last, by cutting her throat with a large knife.  The cause of this rash act is unknown, but the mode of its committal appears to have evinced a resolute intention of self destruction the more dreadful from the apparent calmness with which it was carried into effect.  She had long been in a low desponding state arising from ill health.  The unfortunate woman lived until the evening, when she expired.  Tuesday, a coroner’s inquest was held on the body, when the jury returned a verdict of Temporary Insanity.

FATAL AFFRAY.

Between nine and ten o’clock on Monday night last, a quarrel took place in a beer house, at Woodchester, in this county, between ANTHONY HALLIDAY and DAVID BISHOP, two labouring men of the neighbourhood.  Some reference was made by them to a former dispute, and, after several blows had been given, Halliday exclaimed that he was stabbed, and almost instantly fell; he never spoke or moved afterwards; and in a few minutes breathed his last.  Upon a  post mortem examination, it appeared that a wound had been inflicted in the lower part of the abdomen by some sharp instrument, which had passed through the intestines and the right iliac artery and vein.  JG Ball, Esq. the coroner, attended on the following morning, and the subject underwent the fullest investigation before him and a highly respectable jury, who were engaged in it during the whole of Tuesday and Wednesday.  At a late hour on Wednesday evening, a verdict of Wilful Murder was returned against David Bishop, who was committed by the coroner to our county gaol to take his trial at the next Assizes, and upwards of 20 persons were bound to appear and give evidence.  From the statements of the constable and others, it appeared that scenes of the most disgraceful kind had been witnessed in the village during the Sunday and Monday, at the celebration of what is called Woodchester feast or wake, and the attention of the jurors and other persons present was particularly directed to the consideration of means for preventing the occurrence of such violations of peace and good order, in which we understand other influential inhabitants of Woodchester have expressed their readiness to join.

COMMITMENTS.  On the 15th, JOHN WORKMAN, by W. Leman and LS Austin, Esqrs. charged with stabbing THOMAS BROWNING, of Wotton Underedge.

 

Sep 26. 

Oct 3.  DEATH BY STABBING.  The unfortunate young man, LUKE MARTIN, Junr. whose distressing case was briefly noticed in our last, [not copied.] after lingering in great suffering, died in the Infirmary on Sunday last.  On the following day an inquest was taken, the particulars of which will be found on our fourth page.  It will be seen that the jury returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against ELIJAH CARTWRIGHT, who was thereupon committed for trial at the next Assizes upon the Coroner’s [JW Wilton] warrant.

MELANCHOLY CATASTROPHE.

The following dreadful occurrence took place at Down Ampney, on Tuesday last.  Mr PINNIGER, of that place, had purchased some oxalic acid at Cirencester on Monday, for the purpose of cleaning boot tops, which he placed in a cupboard near some Epsom salts.  On Tuesday morning his brother complained of slight illness.  Mrs Pinniger, his mother, intended to give him the salts, but by mistake substituted half an ounce of oxalic acid.  As soon as he drank it, he exclaimed, “I have taken poison!”  His brother on being informed of the circumstance, immediately mounted a very powerful horse, and gallopped to Cricklade for medical assistance.  On his road, near Latton, he met an old man who was travelling with a donkey, and endeavoured to pull up to avoid him; but the old man being rather confused moved first to one side of the road and then to the other, and the animal being fresh Mr Pinniger could not pull up in time to clear him; when, as if to render the former event more appalling, the horse went over the old man and killed him on the spot!  Mr Pinniger was also much hurt, but he recovered sufficiently to proceed for medical assistance, which arrived too late, as his unfortunate brother died within a quarter of an hour after taking the poison.  Through the effects of the shock, and the injuries he received, Mr Pinniger is at present extremely ill.  As Down Ampney is in this county, and Latton in Wiltshire, though adjoining parishes, it will be necessary to have two coroners.

DEATH BY STABBING.  Page 4, long account re LUKE MARTIN.

SUICIDE.

SARAH HOWELL, servant, suicide by hanging, Boughspring, near Chepstow??

 

Oct 10.  DREADFUL ACCIDENT.  An inquest was held at the Gloucester Infirmary on Thursday last, before JW Wilton, Esq. Coroner, on view of the body of JAMES BISCOE, whose death was occasioned by falling into a mash tub of boiling water, in the brew house of the Bell Tap, in this city, on the previous Tuesday morning.  The deceased, (an unmarried man, about 40 years of age) was a brewer, and on the morning of the fatal occurrence was following his occupation at the Bell Tap; some steps upon which he was standing were nearly upon a level with the mashing tub, and the poor fellow, from some accident, slipped and fell into the water, which had just been drawn from the furnace.  No one was present at the moment, but a little boy, hearing a noise, ran to his assistance, made an alarm, and held up his head.  He was taken out, and when stripped presented a most appalling spectacle: after lingering in a most pitiable condition till the following day, he expired.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   The body of a young man was discovered on Friday last, on the mud at high water mark, in the River Severn, near to Alvington.  From the examination of his clothes, he was recognised at JAMES HYETT, who was drowned by the upsetting of a pilot boat in a gale of wind, near to Beachley Passage, on the 22d ult.: his body was in a sad state of decomposition.  An inquest was subsequently held before WJ Ellis, Esq. and a verdict returned of Accidental Death.  Some unfeeling wretch had stolen a new pair of boots from his feet, and had turned his pockets inside out, taking a few shillings he was known to have had about him when the unfortunate accident happened.

   A distressing accident happened near Iron Acton, on Saturday evening last.  HENRY GARDINER, a most industrious quiet man, had been at his work as a mason, at the Lamb Inn, and as he was about to return to his house, about a mile distant, a charcoal burner named ELLIOTS, who was returning from Bristol with his charcoal cart, prevailed on Gardiner to ride.  ELLIOTT set off at a great pace, and the wheel coming into contact with a curb stone at the side of the road, the concussion forced Gardiner out of the cart, and he pitched on his head.  He received such injuries that he died the next day.  He has left a young widow and eight children, one having been born on the week before.  An inquest was held, and a verdict of Accidental Death, with a deodand of twenty shillings on the cart, returned.

   As a lad named JAMES SMALL was returning home to Awre Mill from Newnham, in his father’s cart, on Wednesday last, the horse took fright at some post horses in the road and ran away; the poor lad fell from the shafts on which he was riding and the wheel passed over his body, causing such injuries that he died on the following day.

 

Oct 24.  INQUESTS have been held during the past week before WJ Ellis, Esq.  At Winterbourne, on MARTHA THOMAS, found dead in her bedroom.  - Verdict, sudden death by the visitation of God.

   At Oldbury on Severn, on LAURA HURN, aged four years, burnt to death by her clothes taking fire during the absence of her mother.  At Purton, on WILLIAM WOOD, of Whitehaven, drowned by falling from the schooner Carlisle, of Liverpool, into the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   An inquest was held last week at the Hotwells, Bristol, on an infant child named CATHARINE CLARK, aged about seven weeks, who died in consequence of her mother having administered to her a spoon of laudanum in mistake for rhubarb.  After a long investigation before a most respectable jury, a verdict was returned, that the child died in consequence of having laudanum administered to her in mistake, and the jury very strongly censured the druggist, Mr THOS. HODDER, for selling the same without a label on the bottle, and for employing an incompetent person to dispense drugs.

 

Oct 31.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Joseph Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Siddington, on the body of A MAN UNKNOWN, found when nearly dead on the road side; at Sainford, on the body of CHARLES SMITH, who died suddenly of the cramp, as is supposed; at Kingstanley, on the body of ANN ORGAN, who died in a fit.  Verdict, in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Daneway, on the body of THOMAS WITTS, who was drowned in the canal; at Bleddington, on the body of RICHARD HANDELL, who fell from the roof of a barn; at Lechlade, on the body of MARGARET WHEELER, who was burnt before assistance could be afforded, so as to cause instant death; at Rendcombe, on the body of CHARLES SPENCER, who was killed by the branch of a tree falling upon him; at Tetbury, on the body of EPHRAIM DAVIES, on whom two packs of wool had fallen, and by which he was smothered before he could be released; and at Cirencester, on the body of WILLIAM BUTLER, who was burnt by his clothes taking fire, in the momentary absence of his mother.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   And at Down Ampney, on the body of THOMAS PINNEGAR, a young farmer, who finding himself unwell, took, by mistake, half an ounce of oxalic acid, instead of salts, and died in twenty minutes.  Verdict accordingly.

 

Nov 7.  COMMITMENTS.  EDWARD MORGAN, by J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, charged with the wilful murder of T. GRINDELL, at Littledean.

MELANCHOLY SUICIDE.

An inquest was held on Monday afternoon last at the Golden Cock Inn, Hare lane, in this city, before JW Wilton, Esq. Coroner, on the body of ANN FRYER, wife of Mr THOMAS FRYER, of Worcester Street.  It appeared from the evidence adduced, that the deceased had been at several periods subject to violent fits of insanity, and about three and a half years since, she was released from the Gloucester Asylum.  From that time she had remained in a comparatively sound state of mind till the latter end of last week, when she again unfortunately suffered from a recurrence of this most unfortunate malady, and in one of its paroxysms she attempted to throw herself out of the window, but was prevented.  Her general disposition, however, at such times, it was stated, did not lead her to inflict violence on herself, but upon those around her.  On Saturday evening she had temporarily recovered, and went to bed about eight o’clock, but awoke extremely excited about two o’clock next morning.  About seven o’clock she desired her husband to get her some tea; he told his daughters to make the tea, and he went down stairs after it.  He was absent only three or four minutes, and when he returned the awful spectacle presented itself of his wife lying with her head over the side of the bedstead, her throat cut nearly across, and the room deluged in blood.  He informed his daughters of the tragical occurrence, and hastened to procure assistance  Mr CLUTTERBUCK, surgeon, shortly attended, but death had taken place before his arrival, and in all probability almost immediately after her infliction of the fatal wound.  A search was made for the weapon which had been used.  The body was lying with her head resting on her arm, which hung over the side of the bed, her hand having fallen into the chamber basin, in which was a considerable quantity of blood, and in which at length a pocket knife was found.  But the most singular circumstance arose as to the possibility of the deceased having been able to shut it herself, or whether in falling it had struck against something, and thus become closed.  The knife belonged to Mr Fryer, who usually kept it in his waistcoat pocket, from which, it is supposed, the deceased extracted it during the night, while he was sleeping on the bed with his clothes on.  Verdict, Insanity.

 

Nov 14.  MURDER.  We regret to announce another instance of a fatal nature, arising from the combined effects of liquor and unbridled passion.  On the evening of Sunday se’nnight, a party of men were drinking at a public house, in Littledean, in this county, amongst whom were THOMAS GRINDLE , and two brothers named EDWARD and THOMAS MORGAN.  In the course of the evening some quarrelling and blows took place, in which these three parties were concerned, and it was proposed that Grindle and one of the Morgans should fight it out at a future day which was named.  Afterwards, on their way home, the dispute was renewed and some blows passed between Grindle and Thomas Morgan, during which Edward Morgan came up and putting an open clasp knife into his brother’s hands told him to use it against Grindle if he struck him again.  In consequence of this Grindle then attacked Edward Morgan, to whom the knife was passed back by his brother, and whilst Grindle was striking him plunged the knife with desperate force into the side of Grindle, who instantly fell and never spoke afterwards.  Surgical aid was promptly procured, but in vain, as the unfortunate man breathed his last about six o’clock the following morning.  Upon a  post mortem examination it was found that the weapon had penetrated the left ventricle of the heart, so that death was inevitable.  An inquest was aftrwards held upon the body before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when after a very minute investigation a verdict of Wilful Murder was recorded against Edward Morgan, who was thereupon immediately committed for trial at our next Assizes, upon the Coroner’s warrant.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At Mickleton, on the body of WM. FARLEY, whose death was occasioned by an inflammation arising from a fractured leg, which injury he sustained in jumping out of a window in a drunken freak.  At Hardwick, on the body of BENJAMIN BULLOCK, who sustained such an injury in a fall from a bank as to occasion his death.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Cheltenham, on the body of ELIZABETH GRIFFIN, who fell down suddenly and instantly expired; also on the body of HENRIETTA DWYER, who died in a fit of apoplexy.  Verdicts, Died by the Visitation of God.

   On the morning of Thursday week last, some young men, farmers’ servants, in the parish of Almondsbury, had been to farm houses begging cider, it being the 5th of November.  They at length adjourned to a public house, called the White Horse, and after staying there a short time the landlord refused to draw them any more liquor, and they left the house.  They had not gone far when they started quarrelling, and two of them had a fight in the road; a lad of the party had got into a quarrel and scuffle some yards off, and called to one of the men, named BIGWOOD, who had been fighting, to come to his assistance.  Bigwood was walking towads him, when the man whom he had been fighting with struck him a blow under the left ear, and he fell instantaneously, and on raising him he was discovered to be quite dead.  Every means was used, but with no effect.  An inquest was held before WJ Ellis, Esq. and a verdict returned of Manslaughter against JOSEPH SMITH, who was thereupon committed by the Coroner to our County Gaol for trial at the next Assizes.

   An old man, named JOHN PULLIN, who had been employed as a carter at a colliery near Bitton, was found by the men coming up from their work dead, in the bottom of the pit, on Tuesday morning last.  He is supposed to have gone on the preceding evening to the fire at the mouth of the pit for warmth, and accidentally fallen down the shaft, a depth of 216 yards.  We need not describe the state of his bdy when found.  An inquest was held, and a verdict returned of Accidental Death.

   As the Restitution of Plymouth was proceeding on Wednesday morning last up the Canal, when near Slimbridge, one of the men attempted to get on board the small boat, and accidentally fell into the water, and before any assistance could be rendered him he was drowned.

 

Nov 21.  COMMITMENTS.  On the 9th inst. JOSEPH SMITH, by WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner, charged with killing and slaying W. BIGWOOD.

INQUESTS.  Taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Forest Green, on JOHN ALMOND, who fell dead in the public road.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Tetbury, on ISAAC SMITH, a child about three years old, who was burnt to death; and at Saul, on THOS. MORGAN, aged two years, who was drowned in the Stroud Canal.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

     At Stroud, on PAUL FREEMAN, and at the Bourne, on JOYCE CHANDLER, who were found drowned in the Thames and Severn Canal.  No evidence how either of these unfortunate persons came into the water could be found, but it was too evident that the former had left a public house at Stroud, and the latter one at Chalford, in a state of intoxication; in the case of Freeman, cries were heard, and some men on board the boats near the place were aroused about two o’clock in the morning, but, with one exception, most unfeelingly withheld any assistance, alleging that they could be of no service.  After an enquiry which lasted great part of two days, as no satisfactory evidence could be obtained, the usual verdict in such cases was returned.

 

Nov 28.  INQUESTS - taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At the Infirmary, on the body of HANNAH BEARD, aged about five years, who was burnt by her clothes taking fire at Standish; she was almost immediately conveyed to the Infirmary, but was so much injured as to cause her death the same day; at Cheltenham, on the body of SARAH MILES, aged about 50 years, whose clothes took fire while attending cooking at the Poor house, and she was so much burnt as to cause her death in a few days; at Upton St Leonards, on the body of EMMA BROWN, aged about 2 1/2 years, who was so much burnt by her clothes taking fire in the momentary absence of her mother, as to cause her death the next day.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Littledean, on the body of JOSEPH KERR, aged about 74, who suddenly fell on the floor of the Poor house, and instantly expired.  Verdict, Died by the visitation of God.

   At Littleworth, on the body of JOHN BORIN, who fell from off the brig Amanda into the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal, and was drowned.  Verdict, Accidental Death. 

   At the County Prison, on the body of JOHN WHITEMAN, who died from an affection of the brain.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Dec 26.  CHARGE OF MURDER.  An inquest has recently been taken at Chipping Campden, in this county, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, which has terminated in the committal of a party upon the charge of murder.  We abstain from entering into a minute detail of the case, but the circumstances may be briefly stated as follows:  On the 11th inst., a man named THOMAS TARVER, an inhabitant of Chipping Campden, died after a very brief illness, and rumours of foul play having been circulated, an inquest was summoned, and the jury met on the 15th instant, when nothing of a decisive nature was brought forward, but in order to obtain a more satisfcatory analysis of the contents of the deceased’s stomach, who was supposed to have died from poison, the inquest was adjourned, at the special request of the jury, till the 21st instant.  On the latter occasion satisfactory professional evidence was adduced of the presence of arsenic in the stomach of the deceased, and it was proved on the evidence of several witnesses that HARRIET TARVER, wife of the deceased, had recently purchased two separate parcels of that deadly poison, although no adequate reason could be assigned for her entertaining the diabolical purpose of destroying her husband, yet as some suspicious circumstances were adduced, the jury after a long deliberation returned a verdict of wilful murder against the wife, who has thereupon been fully committed for trial.

DISGRACEFUL AND FATAL AFFRAY.  An inquest was taken before J Mountain, Esq. and a jury comprising fifteen of the most respectable inhabitants of Bibury, on Monday and Tuesday last, on the body of a young man named WM. FRY, who was killed in a pugilistic contest on Sunday night, between nine and ten o’clock.  The deceased was under twenty years of age, a native of Stanton, in Wiltshire, and was under carter to Mr HILLIER, of Kilkenny Farm, in the parish of Bibury, who gave him a good character as a servant, and as being of a mild and inoffensive disposition.  It appeared in evidence that the deceased and others had been drinking at the Balloon, at Arlington, and afterwards at the Swan Inn, in Bibury, at which place a quarrel originated between the deceased and HENRY JAMES alias STOCKWELL, and they came to blows.  They then went out into the turnpike road to fight, and one WM. PACKER took out a candle to light them; JAMES KEYLOCK saw Wm. Packer strike the deceased while he was engaged with James, and, on his saying it was unfair, some person struck him a violent blow in the face and gave him a black eye.  They then went into a meadow and some of the witnesses stated that the deceased had another foul blow, upon which his second declined having anything more to do with it, when one BEAMES took him and encouraged the deceased to fight, until (as he rose from his knee,) he fell dead on the ground without speaking.  On the person who complained of the foul blow in the meadow, speaking of it, JOHN KEYLOCK, (who handled James,) struck him.  It was also proved that the mother of James went into the meadow, put her fist into the face of the deceased, and directed her son to strike him.  After two days patient investigation the jury found a verdict of Manslaughter against James alias Stockwell; and that William Packer, John Keylock, George Beames and Margaret Stockwell, were aiding and assisting him.  They were accordingly taken into custody and committed.  It is painful to state, that as the prisoners were changing their conveyance at Cirencester, and the corpse of Fry was passing them, some of the prisoners jestingly called out, “Goodbye, Fry!”

INQUESTS.  Taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner: At Botloe’s Green, on the body of JOHN RIDER, aged about six years, burnt to death by his clothes catching fire; at the Forest of Dean, on the body of RICHARD YEMM, aged about 47 years, who, while ascending a coal pit, called Church-way pit, in a skip, was knocked out of it by a large plank falling from the side of the pit, when he fell to the bottom of the pit, and was instantly killed; also on the body of THOMAS YEMM, aged about 17 years, who was killed at the same time and in the same manner, (making the seventh of the same family who have been killed by accident.)  At Winchcomb, on the body of HENRY MANN, aged four years, burnt to death by his clothes catching fire.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

    At Barnwood, on the body of EDWIN TAYLOR, aged about six months, found dead in bed in the arms of his mother; deceased was subject to convulsion fits; at Westbury, on the body of WILLIAM TAYLOR, aged about 77 years, found dead in bed in the workhouse, at Westbury on Severn.  Verdict in the last two cases, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Ends

 

1836, Gloucester Journal.

 

Jan 2.

Jan 9.  Mentions 10 children killed by fire in one week.

INQUESTS.  Taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Tiltup’s Inn, on JOHN PARSLOE, a lad about eleven years of age, who was killed by one of the Bath and Cheltenham coaches passing over him.  At Longfords, on JAMES HISCOCKS, an infant who was scalded to death by a cup of water.  At Whitminster, on ANN HOWARD, a child about four years old.  At Frampton Mansel, on JOHN COATES, about four years old.  And at Frampton on Severn, on THOMAS BAILEY, a very aged man, who were brnt to death; also on THOMAS MACE, who was drowned in the Canal.  Verdicts of Accidental Death were returned in each of these cases.  At Culkerton, on  WILLIAM WEBBER, who fell dead in the public road; and at Stroud, on JOHN WILLIAMS, who was found dead in his house.  Verdicts, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Jan 16.  Yesterday an inquest was held before John Cooke, Esq. at the Sailor’s Return, in the South Hamlet, near this city, on the body of A FEMALE INFANT.  It appeared from the evidence, that while two men were on Thursday employed cutting twiggs in a withy bed near the lower parting of the Severn, they found a bundle, which, on being opened, proved to contain the dead body of a child, which had apparently been in the water for more than a month, and had probably been deposited on the spot by the stream or tide.  The body was examined by W WILTON, Esq. surgeon, but decomposition had proceeded too far to enable him to form an opinion as to the cause of death, or whether it had been born alive.  It was tied in a diaper napkin, but which was not marked.  The jury returned a verdict - found dead.

   A lamentable accident occurred last week, at St George’s, near Bristol.  A labouring man, named SHEPHERD, went to bed, leaving his wife, a young woman, about 26 years of age, sitting by the fire, mending some of his clothes.  He was shortly awakened by the cries of his wife, who had rushed into the bedroom in a blaze of fire; in their endeavours to put it out, the bed clothes and curtains took fire, and but for the fortunate assistance of some neighbours, who saw the great light, and ran in, the whole premises would have been destroyed.  The poor woman was so dreadfully burnt that she died in about two hours.  She had fallen asleep, and a coal from the fire had fallen on her dress.  An inquest was held and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

INQUESTS have been held during the past week before WJ Ellis, Esq.  At Alvestone, on ELIZABETH MARKS; at Uley, on GEORGE GWINNELL; at Kingswood, on ROBERT BRITTAN; children burnt to death by their clothes taking fire during the absence of their parents:  at Shirehampton, on WILLIAM YEELS, drowned in a ditch, near his father’s garden; at Wotton Underedge, on JOHN JELLINGS, killed by falling under the wheel of a waggon belonging to Mr ADAM PERRETT.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Bitton, on the body of an old man, aged 83, named ROBERT HUSSEY, an inmate of the Poor house, who was found dead in a small plantation near the church.  After a patient investigation, a verdict was returned, that he Died from the affect of cold, and exposure to the inclemency of the weather.

 

Jan 23.  FEMALE MISSING.  On Monday night, the 11th instant, about half past ten, a young female, named MARIA HAYWARD, who filled the situation of a nurse in the family of THOMAS TAYLOR, Esq. of the Mythe, near Tewkesbury, left the house and has not since been seen or heard of.   The night was very cold, and a fall of snow took place on the same evening; her footmarks were traced on the following morning along the garden walks belonging to the house, into the turnpike road leading to Worcester, and a short distance towards that city; but from her sudden disappearance, and having been wholly unprovided for a journey on so severe a night, it is feared that she has destroyed herself.  She is the sister of Mr GEORGE HAYWARD, cutler, of Tewkesbury, and has, till within a short period, resided with him.  She is between the age of 16 and 17, is rather tall, has light coloured hair, and had on when she left the house a black silk bonnet, a green striped cotton gown, and a brown shawl.

INQUEST; long account of inquest by WJE at Simondshall Down, on a Male UK “BAYNES’; from ship at Poole via Bristol to Liverpool; buried Owlpen.

 

Jan 30.  Boiler explosion Upper Easton, 3 killed on spot, 4 later.  J Langley, Esq. C.

INQUEST at Fleece, Cheltenham,  by John Cooke, Esq.  Male 3 weeks; verdict Wilful Murder against ANN SHERRINGTON, and THOMAS SMITH as an accessary after the fact.  Mentions: SARAH BIGGS, wife of a carpenter; MARY POWELL, midwife; JOHN HOBBS, constable.

 

Feb 6.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken beforeJohn Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Lidbrook, on SARAH CULLIS, aged six years, burnt to death by her clothes catching fire from a lighted candle, in a lantern, which she carried under her arm.  At Hallwood Green, on RICHARD TOMBS, aged five years, burnt to death.  At Alderton, on ELIZABETH GRIMMETT, aged 15 years, burnt to death.  At Barton St Mary, on GEORGE HOOK GRIMES, aged one year and a half, burnt to death.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death. 

   At Eadonshill, on JOHN LEACH, aged 52 years, found dead in bed.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Mitcheldean, on JOHN JONES, aged 80 years, found dead in his house.  Verdict, Found Dead.

   At Marston Sicca, on THOS. MATTHEWS, aged 73 years, killed by an elm tree falling on him.  At Beckford, on PHILIP LANE, aged eight years, killed by a waggon wheel going over his head.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Charlton Kings, on WILLIAM HARDING, aged 13 years, found dead in a waggon.  The particulars, as they transpired on the inquest, were of a melancholy nature.  It appeared from the evidence of JOHN BLACKWELL, carpenter, of Charlton Kings, that about eleven o’clock on Tuesday night last, at the above place, witness met a waggon with four horses, driven by a man named JOHN ELLIOTT, who asked witness to drive the horses home, as he wanted to ride in the waggon.  It was a very inclement night; it snowed at the time, and was very cold.  Witness at first thought Elliott was drunk, but he denied it; he appeared very weak.  Elliott called to the deceased, but receiving no answer,  witness got up into the waggon, and found him lying on his back, groaning and insensible; his arms were stiff and cold.  Elliott got into the waggon, and soon became nearly as bad as the boy.  Witness drove to the Beaufort Arms, where the deceased was taken out; he groaned once, and rattled in his throat.  Witness then took Elliott to his house, where he has remained in a bad state ever since.  From the testimony of another witness, it appeared that the deceased received every attention which humanity could suggest from Mr MANN, the landlord of the Beaufort Arms: he was stripped, well rubbed with flannel, and put into a warm bath; but every effort to restore animation was of no avail.  Verdict, Died from the inclemency of the weather.

INQUESTS.  Taken before John G Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Littleworth, on AN INFANT CHILD about 14 days old, who having been taken some distance from home, and much exposed during the recent severe weather, died suddenly.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Chalford, on  ELIZABETH WYATT; and at Horsley, on ELIZABETH MILLS, two infant children, whose clothes, in the absence of their parents, caught fire, and they were so severely burnt as to occasion their deaths.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

   On Thursday the 24th ult. a young woman applied to a beer house in Stroud for lodging for a night or two, and during that night, having retired early to bed, delivered herself of a male child.  The suspicions of the mistress of the house and another lodger were excited, but not communicated to her until the Monday following, when, on being questioned, she confessed the fact, and the child was found concealed in a basket in the room, under the bed where she had slept.  An inquest was held before JG Ball, Esq. and a jury, consisting of respectable residents in the town.  The wretched woman made a statement confessing the birth, but declaring her ignorance whether the child had been born alive or not, and her own utter inability to call for assistance.  A particular examination of the body was made by E.A. UTHWATT, surgeon, whose evidence left no doubt that the child had been born alive.  The jury, after a lengthened investigation and consideration of the case, returned a verdict, that the child was born alive, but died by the Visitation of God.  We presume the mother, whose name is ELIZABETH WATKINS, will be committed by the Justices of the Peace, and tried for concealment, as we understand thrice as many cases of this kind have occurred in the manufacturing district, within the last twelve months, as had taken place during three previous years.

 

Feb 13.  On Saturday evening last, an inquest was held before JW Wilton, Esq. Corner, at the residence of a very respectable gentleman in this city, on the body of  A NEW BORN MALE INFANT.  From the enquiry, it appeared that the mother of the child was SARAH PRICE, a servant in the house, who had been for some time unwell.  On the afternoon of Saturday week, she was observed to be in great pain, and went to bed.  After she had been some time gone to bed, her fellow servant went up to her, and she then stated that she was much better, although she looked very ill.  Next day she continued better.  Monday she was not so well, and her master directed his surgeon should be sent for.  On visiting her, he was inclined to suspect that a miscarriage or birth had taken place, and he ordered a search to be made for the child; but it was not found till the following Saturday, when the mother confessed that she had delivered herself on the evening of that day week, when (during the absence of the family at church,) it was taken away by JOSEPH TAYLOR, the coachman, who was the father of it.  The coachman, when asked for the body, at first stated, that he knew nothing about it, but afterwards fetched it from the stable loft, where it had been kept since the previous Sunday.  At the inquest the body was examined by Mr HICKES, surgeon, who considered it to be a premature labour; probably a seven months child.  There were no marks of violence on the body indicative of death having been caused by violence, nor had he any reason to say the child was born alive.  The jury returned a verdict of Still born.

   A young man, aged about 17, named JOSEPH VAUGHAN, died this week at Thornbury, under peculiar circumstances.  He had been for some time much troubled with worms of the species teres, and was recommended by some one to try the effects of tobacco water; he accordingly, with the assistance of his mother and an old woman of the town, procured an ounce of tobacco, which was infused in about half a pint of water, and the dose administered by injection; the poor lad instantly became very sick and convulsed; his mother was much alarmed and ran for a surgeon, but before he arrived, the young man was a corpse.  An inquest was subsequently held before WJ Ellis, Esq. and a very respectable jury, when a verdict was returned - that he died by misadventure, from having a strong decoction of tobacco adminsitered to him by Martha King, she being ignorant of the effects.  The feelings of the poor widowed mother may more easily be conceived than described.

 

Feb 20.  A sad accident occurred at the Westerleigh Collieries on Tuesday last.  A lad had accompanied the train of waggons from Bristol up the rail road to the Collieries from motives of curiosity, and on the return, he got on the front waggon to ride; by some accident he slipped and fell off, and before the train could be stopped, the wheels of the whole of the waggons, twelve in number, had passed over him.  His mutilated body was taken to the church at Westerleigh, and an inquest held, when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

   During the snow storm, on Tuesday, the 2d inst. a poor man named WM. COWARD, was lost on Eastleach Downs, and though daily searches were made, he was not found until Thursday last, when he was discovered lying under a wall.  An inquest was held on the body, and the Jury returned a verdict, Died from the inclemency of the weather.  On the same evening, a shepherd and his boy met a similar melancholy fate on Burford Downs, not far distant from the above.

INQUESTS taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner:  At Haresfield, on the body of JOHN FORDS, who was found dead by the side of the public road; he had left a beer house on the preceding evening, between nine and ten o’clock, the worse for liquor, and was found the following morning about eight, within a few yards of the premises, part of his ody being in a ditch.  The night had been very inclement, and the Jury, being of opinion that his death was attributable to his exposure, under such circumstances, returned a verdict to that effect.

   At Woodchester, on RICHARD ABELL, a man in the employ of a butcher residing at Stroud, by whom he had been sent to Woodchester, with meat; he fell suddenly in the road insensible, and died before he could be conveyed to the nearest house.  Verdict, Apoplexy.

   We are sorry to have to record another instance of the concealment of an illegitimate child.  Upon investigation of the case before the Coroner, it appeared that the mother, ELIZA HILL, of Burley, near Minchinhampton, delivered herself of a female child on the morning of Wednesday, which she succeeded in concealing till the following Saturday, when the suspicion of her mother being excited, an enquiry took place; the fact was acknowledged by her, and such particulars given to a neighbour, as enabled her to find the child.  The testimony of two surgeons left no doubt that the sufferings of the wretched mother must have been very great, and they concurred in opinion that the child died either at the instant, or immediately after its birth.  A verdict was returned, exonerating the mother from suspicion of violence, and leaving her to be dealt with by the Magistrates of the neighbourhood.  [No further trace.]

 

Feb 27.  On Sunday an inquest was held before Mr UPHILL, coroner, at the King’s Head Inn, Weston, near Bath, n the body of Mrs BROCK, wife of the Rev. G. BROCK, Unitarian minister at Gloucester.  The corpse had been taken out of the river, midway between the Dolphin Inn and Newton bridge, at one o’clock in the afternoon of that day.  The lady had been missing since the preceding Wednesday evening.  She was much esteemed by a large circle of friends and acquaintances in this city.  The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that “the deceased drowned herself while in a state of temporary insanity.”  As many malicious reports have been in circulation, attributing crelty, on the part of one intimately allied to the deceased, as the cause of the rash act, we are authorised to state that the examination of the witnesses at the inquest completely disproved such statements.  Bath Gazette.

   On Saturday morning last, the body of a female was observed floating down the Severn, near the brickworks at Maisemore, and on being taken out, it proved to be that of MARIA HAYWARD, a respectable young female, who left her situation suddenly, at the Mythe, near Tewkesbury, on the 11th ult. (as stated in the Journal of the 23rd.)  She had on the dress as then described, and a thimble on the second finger of her right hand.  An inquest was held on the body on Monday, when a verdict of “Found drowned” was returned.

INQUESTS.  The following inquests have been taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At Shakefield Cottage, Dymock, on the body of ANN EVANS, aged about three years, burnt to death in consequence of a coal falling on her clothes while sitting by the fire.  At Charlton Kings, on the body of CHARLES MATTHEWS, aged about eight years, who while at play in the road, ran against a horse on whcih Mr BECKINSALE, of Cheltenham, was riding, and falling backwards on a stone, it produced concussion on the brain, and caused his death in a few minutes.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 5.  INQUESTS.  Taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At the Box, on HESTER ADAMS, a poor woman who was suffocated while hastily taking a little animal food.  At Ruscombe, on CAROLINE BLOSS, who fell and died in the public road; at Bisley, on MARY BAILEY, a child about four years old, who was burnt to death; and at Frocester, on JOSEPH PARSLOE, a man upwards of 77 years of age, who was found dead in his house, a great part of his apparel having been destroyed by fire and his body severely burnt.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

 

Mar 12.

 

Mar 19.  INQUESTS.  Taken this week before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At the Hundred of St Briavels, on the body of CHARLES GRIFFITHS, who fell from a cart in which he was riding in a coal pit, and was so mch injured as to cause his death almost immediately.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Hardwick, on the body of THOMAS GREENING, who was found drowned in the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal: deceased left the house of Mrs ELIZABETH HAWKINS, which is close to the Canal, about eight o’clock on Saturday night last, being at the time very dark, and it is supposed that in attempting to cross the bridge near, missed his road and fell in - deceased was perfectly sober: the body was not found till Sunday afternoon.  No evidence appearing to shew how or by what means he became drowned, the Jury returned a verdict - Found Drowned.  Great complaint was made by the Jury against the Canal Company, for not having a proper fence on either side of the bridge.

   At Lydbrook Hill, on he body of JAMES MOORE:  deceased had just entered the house of JAMES BENNETT, a neighbour, when he fell against the wall, and was prevented from falling on the floor by an inmate, and being put to sit down, instantly expired.  At Cheltenham, on the body of THOMAS DAVIS, who, while in the office of Mr BOWERMAN, carrier, fell down on his face and expired.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   Suspected murder at the Cross; JOHN EDNEY, suspected poisoning.

 

Apr 2.  ASSIZES: Mr Baron Alexander:  Gentlemen, there are two cases respecting two females, No. 27 and 35, (HARRIET TARVER and ANN SHERRINGTON, ) of which I have had the depositions sent to me, but upon which, I am sorry to say, I have no observations to make; the facts stated in the depositions being too plain to require any observations

MANSLAUGHTER.  JOSEPH SMITH, 19, for WORTHY BIGWOOD.

SENTENCE:  AMELIA WATKINS, aged 26, pleaded guilty to a charge of concealing the birth of a child, at Stroud, on the 20th of January.  In consequence of her long imprisonment, she was sentenced to one week’s hard labour.

 

Apr 9.  pages 3 and 4 missing.

 

Apr 16.  EXECUTION OF HARRIET TARVER.  This wretched woman, convicted at our recent Assizes of the wilful murder of her husband, THOMAS TARVER, by poison, at Chipping Campden, underwent the extreme penalty of the law in front of the County Gaol, a few minutes before twelve o’clock on Saturday last.  The concourse of spectators assemlbed to witness the execution was immense, and among them were a considerable majority of her own sex.  She ascended the steps to the fatal platform with considerable fortitude, and in a few minutes was launched into eternity.  From a movement of her head just previously to the bolt being withdrawn, the position of the rope was disarranged, and her sufferings were in consequence considerably prolonged.  After hanging the usual time the body was cut down and buried within the precincts of the gaol as directed by the sentence.  From the moment of receiving the sentence of death, she applied herself, under the advice of her spiritual attendant, to preparation for an eternal world, by an expression of deep repentance and contrition, and by unburthening her mind of the foul crime of which she had been guilty.  We understand she acknowledged that she purchased some rice pudding, a portion of which she ate herself and gave some to her child; with the remainder she mixed a quantity of arsenic which she had bought for the purpose, and then placed the poisoned food in the cupboard, from whence it was taken and eaten by her ill fated husband.  Her motive for this atrocious murder was, according to her admission, an attachment for another man; which criminal passion, operating upon a mind unregulated by moral principle, and unimproved by education, prompted her into the execution of a plot against her husband’s life.  Thus was Thomas Tarver, in the morning of his days, hurried into eternity through the medium of this cruel woman, without one friendly warning, without any idea that soon “his soul would be desired of him;” and thus has his murderess expiated her offence to society by an ignominious death, with nearly as little fitting opportunity of properly applying her thoughts to the subject of an everlasting future as her deceased husband.  Up to the period of her trial, she was upheld in impenitence by the hope of acquittal, and the dreadful perturbation of her feelings in the few hours from the time the jury returned a verdict of guilty to the sonsummation of the law, afforded but  very insufficient time for composing herself to the state of contriteness and humility so necessary for her dreadful situation.  It is a consolatory contemplation that the other female, ANN SHERRINGTON, who was rescued as by a miracle from the jaws of death, seems impressed with the most proper sentiments of gratitude for her deliverance and of penitence for her crime; and we are told that on the night previous to the execution of Harriet Tarver, she staid in the cell with her, joining in solemn and earnest prayer for mercy and forgiveness for their grievous offences.

ASSIZES:

ELIJAH CARTWRIGHT, 22, wilful murder of LUKE MARTIN, Junr.

DEATH; HARRIET TARVER, for the wilful murder of her husband, THOMAS TARVER, at Chipping Campden, on the 11th Dec.

DEATH RECORDED; THOMAS HEMS.

TRANSPORTED; DAVID BISHOP, for manslaughter of ANTHONY HALLIDAY at Woodchester.

IMPRISONMENT: One Year, EDWARD MORGAN, for the manslaughter of THOMAS GRINDELL.

         One Week; ELEANOR WATKINS, for concealing the birth of a child.

ACQUITTED:  ANN SHERRINGTON, charged with the wilful murder of her male infant, was also acquitted on the grounds of temporary insanity.

                           THOMAS MORGAN for manslaughter of THOMAS GRINDELL.

CITY PRISONER: TRANSPORTED FOR LIFE; ELIJAH CARTWRIGHT for the manslaughter of LUKE MARTIN.

End of Assizes; [recheck] JOSEPH SMITH manslaughter at Almondsbury.

                           HENRY JAMES, JOHN JAMES, MARGARET STOCKWELL, JOHN KEYLOCK, GEORGE BEAMES, and WILLIAM PACKER, for the manslaughter of WILLIAM FRY.

 

Apr 23.  SOPHIA EDNEY guilty and executed.

    On Saturday se’nnight, at about noon, the sheel of a house, recently erecting at the corner of Nelson place, Clifton, suddenly fell, burying beneath the ruins the mason who had the principal management of the building, and whose name was JOHN THORNE; and a carpenter, named JOSEPH BENNETT.  The bodies could not be come at in less than an hour from the fall of the building; when, as might have been expected, they were lifeless.  Verdict at the inquest accidental death.  The fall of the building is attributed to the operation of the wet and the frost.

INQUESTS.

Lately taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At Churchdown, on view of the body of HARRIET SMART, aged three years, who was accidentally driven over by a coach and killed upon the spot.  Not the slightest blame was attributable to the driver of the vehicle.  At St Briavells, on the body of HESTER KNIGHT, aged five years, who was burnt to death by falling against the fire.  And at Cheltenham, on the body of WILLIAM PRIVETT, who died in consequence of injuries received about a fortnight before by an accidental fall out of a hay loft.  At Highleadon, on the body of JOHN HALE, a young man near 25 years of age, in the employ of a farmer of that place, who, on Thursday last went into his master’s barn, and after tying a handkerchief over his face, very deliberately and determinedly hanged himself from a beam.  As no adequate cause could be assigned for this rash act, the jury returned a verdict of Felo de se.

INQUESTS.  Taken before Joseph Mountain, Esq.  At Northleach, on the body of ISABELLA JAMES, whose clothes tok fire; by which she was so much burnt as to cause her death.  At Windrush, on the body of THOMAS PITTIFORD, an old man, who was crushed by a large stone falling on him in a quarry.  At Hatherop, on the body of MARTHA HAWKINS, a child, whose clothes took fire in the temporary absence of her mother.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Winstone, on the body of ANN NEWMAN, who was found dead in bed.  At Todenham, on the body of THOS. WYATT, who was found dead in a lane.  Verdicts, Found Dead.

   At Tarleton, on the body of WILLIAM DIX, found dead in a field.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Eastleach Turville, on the body of WILLIAM COWARD, who was lost in the snow and found nine days afterwards.  Verdict, Died of the inclemency of the weather.

   At Cirencester, on the body of WILLIAM HINTON, who hanged himself.  Verdict, Lunacy.

   At the same place, on the body of WILLIAM SHORT, who was found insensible on the turnpike road, and died in a few hours.  Verdict, Died from intoxication.

   At Moreton in Marsh, on the body of A NEW BORN CHILD, found buried in a garden.  Verdict, that the child was still born and not injured by any person.

    And at Cirencester, on the body of DAVID TRUSCOTT, a travelling currier, found in the river C.  Verdict, Found Drowned.

 

Apr 30.  On Saturday last an inquest was held on board the Fame, in the Canal Basin, on view of the body of a young lad, named YEARD, nephew to the Captain, who fell from a boat into the water on the previous night, and was drowned before assistance could be afforded him.  Verdict, Accidentally drowned.

   A man named WARREN HATHAWAY, and a lad, were going down the Severn, near Beachley, on Thursday week, in a small sloop laden with salt from Lydney.  The wind was very high and boisterous at the time, and as they were attempting to enter the mouth of the Wye, the vessel took in a considerable amount of water and went down.  Hathaway jumped into the small boat, but unfortunately not having a knife or any means of separating the painter, the small boat was dragged down with the vessel, and Hathaway drowned; the lad climbed up the mast, and he was afterwards taken off by a boat.

 

May 7.  EXTRAORDINARY CIRCUMSTANCE.  On the 16th ult. a servant girl named BOWLY, residing with Mr BOURTON, of Preston Mill, near Cirencester, was seized with a violent sickness; her mistress gave her some family medicine, and afterwards some warm gin and water, but she could not retain it on her stomach; at length, she was sent to her grandmother’s at Cirencester, that she might have the benefit of medical advice. The gentleman who attended, suspected that she had drank poison, and enquired what she had been taking, and she replied, nothing.  Between six and seven the same evening she died, and on information being sent to Mr Bourton, he recollected that he had arsenic in the house for the purpose of destroying rats, which had been sent by the druggist properly labelled with the words “Arsenic, Poison.”  On loking for the packet he found that it had been opened, and more than half of it was gone.  A coroner’s jury was summoned by J Mountain, Esq. for Monday morning, and sworn.  A view of the body was taken, but as the medical gentlemen who opened it required time to analyse the contents of the stomach, the proceedings were adjourned till Tuesday; when two medical gentlemen gave it as their opinion that the deceased died from poison.  Mrs Bourton was examined, and stated, that the deceased had lived with her some time; that she lived with her once before; that she appeared to be quite happy, but that she had been rather dull for the last two or three weeks, but not particularly so; that she was not alarmed at the sickness, the deceased having been ill before; that she gave her a shilling to go to the doctor, and expected her back on the morrow; being informed that the deceased was on the road sitting down, she sent to inquire if she was worse, and learning that she complained of weakness, sent a cart to take her to Cirencester.  Mr Bourton stated, that he had purchased an ounce of arsenic for destroying rats, but had not opened it; the deceased could read and write, and the packet was properly labelled; on hearing of the death of the deceased, and that it was supposed she had taken poison, the circumstance of having poison in the house occurred to him, on which he examined the packet, found that it had been opened and part taken away.  The jury, asfter a long deliberation, returned a verdict - That the deceased died from poison administered by her own hand, but whether, at the time of taking it, she knew it to be poison, they could not determine.

DREADFUL ACCIDENT.

On Monday last an inquest was held at the Gloucester Infirmary, on the body of a man named JOHN BOLDING, [Glos. Infirmary Records, Glos Ref Lib. 17546; BOLING, aged 18, of Lassington.] who came to his death in the following horrible manner.  It appeared that the deceased obtained a livelihood by assisting in towing vessels on the Severn, in which way we believe he had been employed on Tuesday week; on the night of which day, having spent his money in drink, and being quite intoxicated, he resorted to the Lanthony lime kiln, near this city, to sleep till morning.  Between ten and eleven at night, a witness named SAMUEL MORGAN, who had also taken the same wretched lodging, was awoke and saw the deceased enveloped in flames, his clothing having caught fire from the kiln, while the miserable man was locked in the deep and helpless insensibility occasioned by drunkenness.  He was persuaded by Morgan to run into a pond of water to extinguish the flames, and he was afterwards taken to the Infirmary, where he lingered in mst excruciating agony till the following Saturday, when his sufferings were terminated by death.

 

May 21.  INQUEST.   On Thursday last, an inquest was held at the Boot, in the parish of St Nicholas, on the body of A FEMALE INFANT, found floating in the Severn, enveloped in a napkin.  It was in a state of rapid decomposition, and no evidence except as to its discovery being adduced, the jury returned a verdict, Found dead.

DEATH FROM FIGHTING.

On Saturday last a quarrel took place at Prestbury, between two men named THOMAS WILLIAMS and WILLIAM NEWMAN, when the former challenged the latter to a pitched battle.  After the third round had taken place, the combatants fell heavily.  Williams being undermost.  He was taken up in a state of insensibility and conveyed home, where he died almost immediately.  An inquest was held on Monday, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when the Jury, after a patient investigation, returned a verdict, Died from Apoplexy.

 

May 28. An inquest was held on Monday, before JB Grindon, Esq. Coroner, and a most resectable jury, at the house of R. SMITH, Esq. surgeon, Park street, Bristol, on the body of Miss JANE JOHNSON NOTT, aged 17, daughter of THOMAS NOTT, Esq. of Bere Regis, near Blandford, who met her death by a fall from the driving seat of a phaeton, by which she broke her neck.  The horse tok fright in consequence of three carriages driving by at a very rapid rate, and ran away.  The driver, a very steady man, n his attempt to stop the horse, was thrown from his seat, and on getting up, found that the young lady had also been thrown off.  The unfortunate young lady was on a visit to the family of Mr Smith, when the accident occurred.  Verdict, Accidental Death, with a deodand of 1s.  No blame whatever was attached to the driver.

   An outrage occurred in the neighbourhood of Coleford on Saturday last, by which we are sorry to find that a human life has been sacrificed, but the particulars have only imperfectly reached us.  We are told that a travelling Irish shoe dealer, named JOSEPH MURPHY, in cmpany with another man and woman, was going along the road when some words arise between them and a man named PHILIP COOKE, who was at work in a quarry by the road side.  Some violence ensued, in the course of which Murphy picked up a large stone and flung it with such force against Cooke as to fracture his skull in a most dreadful manner, and the injury to the brain was so extensive that the poor fellow never afterwards recovered his senses, but lingered till Thursday morning when he expired.  Murphy’s two companions are detained in custody, but he himself has for the present escaped.  An inquest will be held on the body this day.

 

Jun 4.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  At Fretherne, on the body of  ELIZABETH GABB, about 13 years of age, who was accidentally burnt to death; verdict accordingly.

   At Cheltenham, on the body of PHILIP JONES, who was found dead in a tallet at the Old Swan Inn.  Verdict, Found Dead.

   An inquest was held at Pucklechurch, on Thursday last, before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner, and a very respectable jury, on Mr THOMAS COOK, butcher and grazier, a young man about thirty years of age, who was found in his bedroom by his servant on Tuesday morning last, in a dying state, from a dreadful cut in his throat.  From the evidence it appeared that he had been lately suffering much from a pain in his head, and subsequent depression of spirits, and that having gone to Hampton Fair on Monday, he had there condcted himself quite differently from his usual habits of business, he returned home on Monday night and went to bed, and on his not getting up on the following morning, his servant went to his room, and found him in the state described.  A verdict of Temporary Derangement of Mind was returned.  He was a young man of considerable property, and much respected by all classes.

INQUESTS have been held during the last week, before WJ Ellis, Esq.  At Dursley, on JOHN WADGE, a travelling currier, who was found dead in the yard of the Lamb Inn.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.

   At St George, on an old man named HENRY MILSOM, who, from a fear of destitution in his old age, threw himself into a disused coalpit.  Verdict, Lunacy.

    At Keynsham Bridge, on JOSEPH PEARCE, a young man who had gone from Westerleigh, to see a procession of a Benefit Club, and as he did not return, a search was made and his body discovered in the river, near Keynsham: his watch and a considerable sum of money were found on him; he is supposed to have slipped from the path, which is dangerously close to the bank of the river.  A verdict was returned of Found Drowned.

   Another instance to be added to the lengthened catalogue of cases of self destruction, which we have been called upon lately to notice, occurred at Elberton, near Thornbury, on Tuesday last.  Mr EDWARD WOODWARD, having lately been labouring under great excitement, got up very early and went downstairs; his wife shortly afterwards missed him, and on hastening down found him quite dead, hanging from the back door of the house.  He has left eleven children.

FATAL ACCIDENT.

On Monday last, a boy, aged 14, in the mploy of Mr GARDNER, of the Edge, near Painswick, was conducting a team of spirited horses, when a gentleman in a gig, driving with great velocity, frightened them.  The boy, unable to manage the horses, was thrown down, and the waggon wheel passing over his head caused instant death.  The gentleman (it is to be hoped unconscious of the misfortune he had occasioned) pursued his journey at the same rapid pace.

MURDER IN THE FOREST OF DEAN.

The inquest upon the body of PHILIP COOKE, whose unfrotunate death by violence we mentioned in our last, was held on Saturday, at the King’s Head, Coleford, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, and a very respectable jury.  The substance of the depositions was as follows:  HENRY YORK, of Crossways, Newland, said that about twelve o’clock on Saturday night, the 21st ult. he was called up by the deceased, who said that two Irishmen had been beating him on the road coming from Monmouth.  When witness came down he found the deceased standing near the turnpike house, and in a few minues after, an old man came through the gate, with whom the deceased began fighting.  They fought one round, and almost immediately after another man and a woman came through the gate, when the woman asked if they were going to beat the old man, to which they replied, “no.”  The other man then came up with a large stone in his right hand, and said “stand aside, or I’ll divide your head.”  He then moved away about six or seven yards, and came back again, when he threw the stone against the head of Philip Cooke, who immediately fell upon the ground as though he had been shot.  The witness then attempted to secure the man who had thrown the stone, but the latter held up another stone in a threatening manner, and went away to the lodging house door, where the witness left him, and saw no more of him.

   JOHN GARDNER, the toll gate keeper, who was called out on the night in question, deposed to the same effect, and stated that when the second man came up after the fighting was over, he was holding two large stones, one in each hand, with which he threatened to divide their heads.  He afterwards flung the stone, and made his escape in the manner described by the last witness.

   On this Monday, when before PJ DUCAREL, Esq. the Magistrate, the wife of the man who flung the stone stated that his name was DANIEL FINNIGAN.  Mr BATT, surgeon, of Coleford, who was called to attend the deceased, deposed to the nature of the wound, which was a compound fracture of the skull, of which he lingered till the ensuing Thursday morning, when he died.  The jury returned a verdict of  Wilful Murder against Daniel Finnigan, who has not yet been taken into custody.

 

Jun 25.  His Majesty’s Government has offered a reward of 100 l. for the apprehension of DANIEL FINNIGAN alias DAN THE TINKER, who stands charged upon the Coroner’s warrant with “wilful murder,” committed upon the body of PHILIP COOKE, at the Cross Ways, near Coleford, on the night of the 21st of May last.

 

Jul 2.  FATAL FIGHT.  At Patchway, STEPHEN SHEPPARD against THOMAS SWEET, deceased.  Seconds: LUKE ROGERS (of Bath) gone to Portsmouth; and a JAMES BAILEY.  Verdict, Manslaughter against Sheppard.

 

Jul 16.  Mr JOSEPH SIMS, a respectable farmer at Pasture’s Hill, near Newland, was in his field on Wednesday superintending the loading of clover, when one of the horses becoming restive, he laid hold of the rein, and (being nearly 80 years of age,) was forced down by the horse, and the wheels of the waggon passing over him, caused such injuries, that he died on the following day.

   On Tuesday last, as a sloop called the Surprise, was discharging her cargo on the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal, near Slimbridge, a fine little boy, named HENRY BARNARD, about eight years old, son of the captain, was suddenly missed from the boat where he had been playing, and his hat being seen floating on the water confirmed the suspicion that he had fallen overboard; after a search his body was found close to the slop; he is supposed to have slipped in getting up the vessel’s side.

INQUESTS.

Lately take before Joseph Mountain, Esq. Coroner:  At Northleach, on the body of JOHN ARKELL, who fell down and instantly expired; at Woodmancote, on the body of ELIZABETH WORKMAN, who died suddenly whilst in the house of a neighbour; at Kempsford, on the body of JOHN SKINNER, who was found dead in bed.  Verdict, in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Kempsford, on the body of MARTHA BEAMES, who was found dead in her dwelling house.  Verdict, Found Dead, without any marks of violence.

   At Saint John’s Bridge, Lechlade, on the body of THOMAS LOCK, who was kiled by the accidental discharge of a gun.  Verdict, Accordingly.

   At Great Barrington, on the body of JOHN FIFIELD, who hanged himself in a granary.  Verdict, Lunacy.

    At Cirencester, on the body of JOHN CARPENTER, who expired suddenly in his chair without any previous illness.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

     And at Cirencester, on the bodies of JAMES and WILLIAM SLY, father and son, who died at the bottom of a drawing well, in consequence of the foul air therein contained.  Verdicts accordingly.   The circumstances attending the last two cases should be publicly known as a warning to persons employed in cleaning and repairing wells.  The above two men had been working in a well from morning till breakfast time without inconvenience.  It was their intention to sink the well deeper, and at the bottom was a hard rock, which required gunpowder to loosen it.  After breakfast, James (the father) descended the well, and took some straw with him, for the purpose of lighting, and although it did not blaze, it is supposed that the fire was sufficient to destroy the oxygen, as William (the son), who was looking into the well, saw his father faint, and requested to be let down to his assistance; which was immediately done, and they both lost their lives!  This is not the only instance where men have lost their lives in consequence of attempting to light fire at the bottom of a well.  A similar accident happened in the neighbourhood of Avening, in this county, a year or two ago.

 

Jul 23.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Mr Richd.Coley, coroner for this city.  On Saturday last, at the Crown and Anchor, on the body of PRISCILLA PRICE, a child who was left in the care of her brother on board a canal boat, in the Canal at Sharpness Point, when both of them fell against a kettle of water, which was on the fire in the cabin, and knocked it down, which falling on the deceased, scalded her so badly as to occasion her death in two days afterwards.  On the 2lst inst. at the Jolly Waterman, on the body of a boy named EDWIN MINAR, who was picking up small pieces of coal by the wheels of a waggon loading with coal on the Quay and which, being started before the deceased was out of the way, knocked him down, and the near hind wheel passed over his body, and caused his death in a few minutes.  Verdicts, Accidental Death, with, in the last case, a deodand on the wheel of one shilling.

 

Jul 30.  On Thursday last, an inquisition was taken at the Black Friars Inn, in this city, by Mr Richard Coley, on the body of A MAN UNKNOWN, who having gone on board a vessel in the harbour to look for employment, was seized with a violent coughing and burst a blood vessel in his inside, and died almost immediately.  Verdict accordingly. [Buried Hempstead 22 Jul.]

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Stroud, on an aged man WHOLLY UNKNOWN, who was found in the public road there in a very infirm state, and taken by a casual passer by in a barrow to a lodging house, where he was found dying and insensible on the following morning.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Rodborough, on RICHARD DANGERFIELD, who was found drowned in the Thames and Severn Canal, his clothes, &c. were on the bank, and it is supposed he was drowned whilst bathing; at Salperton, on THOMAS COX, who fell into the Canal when in the act of winding up one of the paddles, and was drowned; and at the parish of Bisley, on JOSEPH JONES, who was killed by the accidental discharge of a gun.  Verdicts of Accidental Death were returned in all these cases - that of JONES was a very singular one: he had gone out with a neighbour to shoot rabbits, and had in one pocket the stock, and in the other the barrels of a double barrelled gun with percussion locks, - the caps were fixed on the nipples, and it is supposed that one of them came sharply in contact with the butt of his companion’s gun, or with a stone stile near which the latter was standing, the contents of one barrel were lodged in the unfortunate man’s head, and he died instantly; when the gun was discharged the men were within two feet of each other, and the survivor was stunned and fell.  This melancholy event should operate as a caution to persons using such dangerous instruments.

 

Aug 6.   On Thursday evening, as a lad named WEGGLE, aged about fifteen years, and a carter in the service of RICHARD ORGAN, of Witcomb, were loading a waggon with some timber, at Witcomb turnpike gate, a pole, that had been used as a lever, fell with such force, that, striking the unfortunate boy on the temple, he was almost instantly deprived of life; and the carter’s legs were severely bruised.  Verdict at the inquest, Accidental Death.

   Yesterday JOHN PEEL, a turnkey at the county gaol, committed suicide by hanging himself from the railings of a staircase in one of the wards of the prison.  Pecuniary matters are said to have been the occasion of this rash act.  An inquest will be held this day. [Buried St Nicholas 8 Aug.]

   As a coal miner, named THOMAS JEFFERIS, was working in a coal pit at Siston hill, belonging to Messrs Toghill & Co. on Tuesday last, a considerable quantity of stones and rubbish fell from the roofing of the pit upon him, and which caused his instant death; he was so dreadfuly injured by the weight, that his mutilated remains were removed in a sack.  An inquest was held before WJ Ellis, Esq. and a verdict returned of Accidental Death.

   A similar fatal accident to the foregoing occurred at Yate colliery, on Thursday week, to a lad named DYER, who was crushed to death by rubbish falling on him.  An inquest was held, and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

 

Aug 13.  ASSIZES: STEPHEN SHEPPARD & THOS. SWEET.

 

Aug 27.  MELANCHOLY AND FATAL ACCIDENT.  On Wednesday se’nnight an accident, under the most melancholy circumstances, befel a respectable and fine young man, between 16 and 17 years of age, the eldest son of Mr GOOLD, in the employ of Messrs Prothero and Co. at Aylesford, near Cinderford, in the Forest of Dean.  It appears that on the above mentioned day, the foundation stone was laid of two blast furncaes to be erected in that neighbourhood, and as is usual on these occasions, the event was celebrated by festivity and rejoicings.  Young Mr GOOLD was particularly active in promoting the enjoyments of the workmen and spectators, and in the course of the proceedings  he several times fired off a cannon.  Having, with the assistance of a man named JAMES YORK, loaded it for about the sixth time, he applied a light to the touch hole, and the gun burst with tremendous force, and melancholy to relate, Mr GOOLD received a blow in the head from one of the shattered fragments of the cannon, and fell dead within but a few yards of an almost broken-hearted mother, who, with the rest of the family, was enjoying the gaiety of the day.  The sad event has created a sympathising sensation in the whole of the neighbourhood, as well as amongst the friends of the deceased, which may have been expected from the peculiar circumstances of the calamity, as well as from the general respect in which the deceased was held.  An inquest was held on the body before John Cooke, Esq. coroner, and a verdict of Accidental death returned.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner.  On the 11th instant, at Deerhurst, on view of the body of SAMUEL EDGE, whose body was discovered in the Severn on the previous day: there was no mark of violence upon it.  Verdict, Found Drowned.

   On the 13th, at Leckhampton, on the body of CHAS. TOWNSEND, who was engaged with two companions in shooting at a mark, when the gun by accident went off and wounded the deceased to such an extent that he died on the following day.  At Twyning, on the body of THOMAS ELLIS.  The deceased with two other persons was ferrying a boat, in which were three horses and a thrashing machine, across the river Avon, when one of the horses became unruly and jumped overboard, and a second in doing the same forced the deceased into the water, when he was carried away by the current and drowned.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   At Rodley, on the body of A MAN UNKNOWN, who was found in a state of insensibility on the road side, and died whilst being conveyed to an adjacent barn.  The deceased had been seen a short time before apparently in good health.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   On the 18th, at Saintbury, on the body of MARY GROVES, who destroyed herself by cutting her throat with a razor.  The deceased, who was the wife of THOMAS GROVES, weaver, had for two years past evinced symptoms of insanity, and had frequently threatened to destroy herself.  Verdict, Lunacy.

   On Thursday evening last, a most appalling accident happened at Cheltenham.  Some men were at work on a scaffold near the Clarence Hotel, when the temporary erection gave way, and they were precipitated to the ground with dreadful violence.  One of them, named GEO. BALLINGER, was killed on the spot, and another man was so severely injured that his recovery is despaired of.  At the awful moment when the scaffolding fell, a young female, carrying a milk pail, was passing beneath, and she was overwhelmed in the ruins and instantaneously deprived of life.  On the planks, &c. being removed, she presented a most harrowing spectacle; her legs were broken, and nearly separated from her body, and she was altogether so horribly mutilated and disfigured, that it was impossible from her features to recognise who the unfortunate creature was.  [see Sep 3.]

   A fatal accident occurred at Hanham on Tuesday.  There was a boat race on the river and numerus parties were in boats to witness it.  At the close of the day’s amusements, as the boats were about to return to Bristol, a barge came in contact with the one containing the band, which it upset, when GEO. TAYLOR and ABRAHAM TAYLOR, (late of the city of Bath,) and THOMAS PULLIN, were drowned.  An inquest was held on the bodies on Wednesday morning, when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned, with a deodand of 1s.each on the wherry boat and canal boat.  No blame appears to have attached to any one.

SUPPOSED MURDER.

Nine or ten days ago the body of a boatman, named SAMUEL EDGE, was found in the Severn, at Deerhurst Ford, bearing the appearance of having been in the water for several days.  An inquest was held on the body, and no evidence being offered thereon touching the causes of the deceased’s death, a verdict of “Found Drowned” was accordingly returned.  It appears that Edge belonged to this city, and was employed in company with two other men, named WILLIAM LESSIMORE and THOMAS DYSON, to bring up a coal boat from Gloucester, but for want of sufficient depth of water they were compelled to stop at Deerhurst Ford.  During the stoppage, the deceased was missed from the vessel, nd no tidings heard of him for five days after, when, as stated above, his body was found in the river.  The friends of the deceased residing in this city having heard that their unfortunate relative and the two men, Lessimore and Dyson, who were working the vessel with him, had quarrelled on the day he was last seen at the boat, and likewise that Lessimore had said, when speaking of Edge, that he would “break his b----y neck, or throw him overboard if ever he came on the vessel again,” they obtained warrants against the two men, which were executed upon them yesterday by Sergeant Onslow, and this morning they were brought up to our City Police Office, to be examined on the charge before the Rev. HA PYE, who is a Magistrate for the county of Gloucester.  The individual who is reported to have heard the conversation alluded to was not present, having left the city to proceed on a voyage up the canal; but after the fullest investigation of the case the men were liberated, nothing appearing against them sufficiently conclusive to warrant their detention on so serious a charge; at the same time the friends of the deceased were assured that if they should hereafter be enabled to produce evidence tending to implicate the prisoners as connected with the cause of death of Edge, they should again be taken into custody.  Worcester Herald.

DROWNED at Hotwells, (JAMES) SWAIN.

 

Sep 3. THE ACCIDENT AT CHELTENHAM.  An inquest was held at Cheltenham on Saturday last, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on the bodies of JOHN BALLINGER, a mason, and EMMA POCKET, who were killed by the falling of some scaffolding in front of a house erecting in Clarence street, the property of Mr BUBB, solicitor, on the preceding Thursday evening.  The catastrophe was occasioned by a large portion of the heavy stone cornice of the building giving way, and falling on the scaffold, broke it, and the whole was precipitated in ruins to the ground.  The deceased man, Ballinger, was working on th scaffold when it fell, and the unfortunate girl was walking beneath it along the street.  Ballinger uttered an exclamation of “O Lord!” and immediately expired; the poor girl continued to breathe for about two hours, but never spoke.  A mason named MILLS was employed in fixing a portion of the cornice when the accident happened, but he happily succceeded in clinging to one of the poles, and descended safely to the ground.  The investigation occupied several hours, after which the jury pronounced a verdict in each case of accidental death with a deodand of 5 l. on the stones and scaffold, and they expressed their regret that they could not inflict a heavier fine; they further expressed their surprise, that the necessary precaution of boarding in the front of the building had not been taken; as, had it been so done, the life of the girl, Emma Pocket, would not, in all human probability, have been sacrificed.  A subscription has been entered into on behalf of Ballinger’s widow, who has been left with four young children depending on her for support.

   An inquest was also taken before the same coroner, at Cheltenham, on Wednesday, on the body of  AMELIA HALE, aged about three years, who was run over by the wheel of a bread cart in Stanhope street, and killed on the spot.  Verdict, accidental death.

 

Sep 10.  YOUTHFUL INTREPIDITY.  On Monday evening last, a s a little girl was swinging on a cable by which the ship Industry was moored to the shore of the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal, near Lanthony bridge, she unfortunately lost her hold and fell into the water, and would in all probability have been drowned, but for the humanity and prompt courage of a lad about 14 years of age, son of Mr STRATFORD, cabinet maker,of this city.  Seeing the accident, he immediately jumped into the Canal, caught the child as she was sinking, and happily succeeded I bringing her safely to land.

 

Sep 17.HORRIBLE MURDER AT STAPLETON.  On Saturday afternoon the village of Stapleton and the neighbourhood were greatly alarmed by the body of a woman, apparently murdered, being found in a lane a short distance from the Mason’s Arms, a public house at the further end of the village.  During the remainder of that day and the next, a great number of persons went to the Mason’s Arms, whither the body had been removed, to view the corpse: it was at length discovered to be that of a person named MARY LEWIS, and who, it was supposed, had some connection with the strolling players visiting at the fair.  Amongst the other persons who went on the Sunday, was a young man of the name of BARTLETT, who said, “I hear you have got the body of my poor mother-in-law here, I am come to claim it;” or something to that effect.  This excited the attention of the landlady of the house, and she and the servant immediately recognised him as being the same person who was with the deceased on the Saturday at the Mason’s Arms, and who left the house with her only about half an hour before her murdered body was discovered.  Accordingly on Monday, Joyner Ellis, Esq. the Coroner, having arrived, as also Mr RICKETTS and Mr MIREHOUSE, a very respectable jury were sworn in, and who after viewing the body, which presented a dreadful spectacle, immediately proceeded to hold the following

INQUEST

MARY TICKLE proved the identity of the body.

ROBERT DAVIS, labourer, of Stapleton, deposed - On Saturday afternoon, about a quarter before three, my wife, who had been out, came to the casement of the window where I was, and said there was a woman either dead or drunk, lying in Lippett’s lane.  I immediately went there and saw a woman lying in the lane.  I returned and got assistance; two men of the names of BRIDGEMAN and LONG went with me.  We found the corpse lying on her back, her bonnet was off, and her gloves were pulled down over her hands.  About a quarter of an hour before the body was discovered, I heard a report of a gun or pistol.  I did not move the body; I left it as it lay.  There was a great quantity of blood near the body; it flowed from the head, which was lying over a stone, in two large streams; there was also blood on her cap.

ELIZABETH BEDFORD, landlady of the Mason’s Arms, deposed - On Saturday between one and two the deceased came into my house in company with a young man; she had on a light dress, dark shawl, with border, and straw bonnet.  The young man borrowed a knife, he also ordered two small glasses of gin and water.  I thought there was something peculiar about him, and I made a remark about the weather; he made no answer.  He had three rings on his fingers - cannot say what direction they took when they left the house.  They staid as long as a quarter of an hour or twenty minutes.  Did not hear any conversation take place between them; he did not seem cheerful, that was what struck me as being peculiar.  He did not say for what purpose he wanted the knife.  I believe he cut a stick with it.

SARAH LIGHT deposed - I am a married woman.  On Staurday afternoon, a quarter before two, I was in the parlour of the Mason’s Arms, when the deceased and a young man came in.  They had two glasses of gin and water.  After he ordered the gin and water, he went out and shut the door.  Some conversation took place between me and the woman; she asked how far it was to Oldbury Court.  She said she lived at Monmouth.  She then said she did not know if it was altogether proper for her to go out with the young man, as she had not known him long:  I said he was a very long time absent, she said yes, and asked me to see if he was in the tap room: I then saw him coming by the kitchen window.  He had then a small stick in his hand: she asked him where he got the stick, and he replied he had picked it up since he left the room.  They then left the house, and I saw them cross the road and go into the lane.  She said she was going to Winterbourne: the lane does not lead to Winterbourne.  No angry words passed between them, they appeared to be good friends:  I asked her if it was her son, and she said no.  Afterwards when I heard of the murder in the village, I came here and saw the body: I have no doubt it is the same woman, and that the prisoner is the young man.

--- HILLCOAT, sergeant of police, No. 3., deposed - Yesterday evening searched the prisoner’s apartments at a retail beer shop, No. 23 Barton street: in the bedroom were three trunks, one locked and two open, in one of the open boxes I found this pistol (a very large horse pistol,) it was not loaded.  He gave me the key of his trunk very readily.  I also found the pair of trowsers he has on, and various other articles of dress.

THOMAS WALTON, Sergeant No. 4, deposed - About nine o’clock on Saturday evening, I and another Sergeant (No. 3) went and searched the prisoner’s lodgings.  In his room were three boxes, two pair of trousers, coats, etc.  In one of the boxes which was locked we found the horse pistol, and under it the pocket pistol. [The pistol was a very neat double barrelled pocket percussion pistol, about six or seven inches long, with a spring bayonet.]  We left the horse pistol behind, as it did not appear to have been lately used, and took away the pocket pistol, both barels of which appeared to have been recently discharged.  In one of the pockets of the trousers, and also in a pocket of the brown coat, we found a small quantity of fine powder.  This piece of stik was in his waistcoat on the bed. [The stick was a piece which had been rounded, about six inches long, and on being applied, fitted the barrels of the pistol; it also appeared rather blackened, as if with powder.]

HENRY LOVELL, a boy, about fifteen, deposed - I am in the employ of Mr INGLETON, who kept a theatre at the fair.  I bought powder for Mr BARTLETT, on Friday evening last, about dusk; he was also in the employ of Mr Ingleton, he was one of the company.  He told me to go and ask Mrs Ingleton for the money, she gave me 2 1/2d.  He had then a small pocket pistol, like this, in his hand; he told me to bring some balls at the same time.  I asked should I take the pistol with me to have the balls fitted? He said he was afraid to trust me with it, and took a piece of bread from a Mrs SAMUEL, who was eating some bread and butter, and rolled it up into a ball to fit the pistol.  While he was doing this his wife came in and asked what he wanted; he made her some uncivil reply, and told her to go and see if Mr WARD was on the stage.  He then said to me, “if my wife asks you what you are going for say some caps.”  He then gave me a penny for the balls, and I went to a shop in Barton alley and bought the powder; they had no balls.  When I returned I gave BARTLETT the powder, and told him I could not get the balls; he said it was of no consequence.

THE PRISONER said he was leading man in Mr INGLETON’s company, and it was their object to make as much noise as possible, and pistols, when they had anything in them, made a louder report than if only charged with powder, and that was the reason he wanted the balls.  His motive for desiring the boy not to tell his wife was, that he had had some words with her.

THE CORONER again advised the prisoner not to go into any statements of that kind.

Mr HOLLOWAY, a medical gentleman, deposed - I saw the body of the deceased, who died in consequence of a gun or pistol shot wound in the head. 

THE PRISONER here expressed a wish that Mr MIDDLETON, Mr MELBOURNE, and Mrs STOCK might be called and examined.  The Coroner would advise him not to do so, at the same time if he wished it, they should be called.  The prisoner replied he wished it, because they could speak as to where he was on the Saturday, and also that if they were examined now, they could be bound over to appear at a future time, and if they were not called he might not know where to find them again.  They were then called, but only Mrs STOCK appeared.

Mr MIREHOUSE here asked the prisoner if he wished the statement he had made to him to be read.  The prisoner at first replied that he did, but on being advised by the Coroner, declined having it read.

ANN STOCK deposed - BARTLETT and his wife lodged in my house, No. 23, Barton street.  Saw Bartlett between twelve and one on the Saturday, when he left the house; he had on then a pair of dark blue plaid trowsers, but not the same as he has on today, and a blue coat, with shining buttons.  Did not see him again that day until ten o’clock in the evening.  He was not returned at four o’clock.  He left the house by himself.  I saw Mrs LEWIS about eleven o’clock the same day; saw her but twice before, when she came to visit Mrs Bartlett, who is her daughter.  Have seen the corpse; it is hers.  Had no conversation with Bartlett when he returned, he brought one of the showmen home to supper.

The room was now cleared of all except the Jury, who remained in deliberation half an hour; at the expiration of that time we were again admitted, and the prisoner was brought in, when the Coroner addressing him said, it was his painful duty to inform him that the jury felt they could come to no other conclusion than that of finding a verdict of Wilful Murder! against him.  He should strongly exhort him to use every means in his power to get all assistance by the time his trial came on.  The prisoner was then removed.  He was yesterday brought to our county gaol.

   The greatest interest was excited during the progress of the inquest; several hundred people were assembled about the house.  While the inquest was going on, the deceased’s shawl, ribbons from her bonnet, and gown, were found in a pond near, covered over by six stones, by inspector GERARD and policeman LEONARD.  The prisner, whose name is CHARLES SAMUEL BARTLETT, and who was the leading light in Ingleton’s Sans Pareil Theatre, is rather a good looking light complexioned young man, with something of the rakish appearance which attaches to persons of his profession, and was genteely dressed in a blue coat, with velvet collar, and figured metal buttons, green striped handkerchief, plaid waistcoat, and brown trowsers, with square black marks.  His wife was in the room the greater part of the time; she occasionally appeared to feel her painful situation considerably.  We understand that they have only been married about two months; and that the girl left her home at Monmouth to follow the prisoner.  Various other reports are also current, but it is evident that they could not, without greatest impropriety, be mentioned in the present stage of this tragical affair.

   On Sunday morning last, A FEMALE CHILD, NEWLY BORN, was discovered under a small quantity of earth, in a garden, in Sandford fields, Cheltenham, wrapt up in a piece of an old cotton apron.  It was taken to the Casualty Hospital, where an inquest was held upon it, before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when the Jury returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against some person or persons unknown.

 

Sep 24.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Leonard Stanley, of GEORGE LUSTY, a youth, who was killed by an accidental fall while jumping.  At Stonehouse, on CHARLES ROBERTS, an infant, drowned in a brook.  In the parish of Eastington, on JOHN GARDINER, who fell from a barge, and was drowned; and on GEORGE FIELD, who was also drowned.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

   At Nailsworth, on  WILLIAM BRADLEY, who, under temporary derangement, put a period to his own existence.  Verdict accordingly.

   At Leonard Stanley, on an aged woman, UNKNOWN, who was found lying dead on the roadside.  Verdict, Found Dead.

   At Painswick, on MARY IRELAND, a pauper, nearly 80 years of age, who died in consequence of falling down stairs.  It appearing in evidence that she had not prompt and efficient assistance, and that the instructions to the medical officer only required his attendance in cases where he had an order, the Jury, in returning a verdict of Accidental Death, expressed their unanimous opinion that “arrangements ought to be made to ensure instant surgical attendance and assistance, in cases of accidents to paupers, or sudden illness.”

COMMITMENTS.  On the 16th, Charles Samuel Bartlett, by WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner, charged with the wilful murder of MARY LEWIS.

THE LATE MURDER AT STAPLETON.

BARTLETT, the person who has been committed for trial for the murder of Mrs LEWIS, at Stapleton (the particulars of which appeared in our last,) is a young man about 23 years old, 5 feet 9 inches high, of light complexion, not of very prepossessing countenance, but yet not indicating any of that ferocity and sullenness which it as natural to expect.  He has also, singularly enough, a double row of front teeth, like what is represented as a characteristic of the 3d Richard.  At the inquest, his words were well chosen, and his observations apposite; indeed, he seems to have received a superior education.  He has a father living in London.  He bears, however, a bad character, and his conduct to his wife, who once resided in Bath as a lady’s maid, has been most unkind.  When he first met with her he represented himself as a carpenter just going into business.  The Bristol Journal states, on authority which can hardly be doubted, that Bartlett kept up a correspondence with a young lady of highly respectable connections at Bath, who had become enamoured of him at the last Bath fair, and that only on the Monday morning after his apprehension, a packet of letters was brought for him from the female in question!  Our contemporary also observes, “Although avarice, the master passion of the human mind, seems to have been Bartlett’s immediate inducement to perpetrate this act, yet it is not difficult to suppose that his pursuits in a great degree tended to produce that frame of mind in whcih he alone could have carried into effect the dark brooding of his brain.  It would, perhaps, be too fanciful, to use the mildest term, to say, that from being used to mock murder, he felt little compunction in committing a real one; yet it will be admitted that his mean occupation lowers and debases the standards of the feelings, and produces callousness and indifference, against which even education is not proof.”  This surmise is very accurate.  Bartlett was recently a member of MIDDLETON’s company of strolling players.  About a month since, during the time they exhibited in Bath, we are informed that Bartlett personated the character of RICHARD CORDER, the murderer of MARIA MARTON, in a piece entitled ‘The Murder of the Red Barn’, founded on the well remembered tragedy perpetrated there some years since.  The whole affair shows how beneficial it would be to suppress these travelling theatres, for they have always leave a bane behind them.

   We have been informed that his wife was in service in Bath; that they first met at the last Lansdown fair (10th August,) where the prisoner was performing; that on the 16th they were married at Monmouth; and that the mother learning that they were to be in Bristol during the fair, had come up to visit them.  The prisoner represented to his wife’s parents that he was by trade a cabinet maker; he received nearly 50 l. at the time of the marriage; and his wife was entitled to 50 l. more on her mother’s decease.  His christian name is Samuel, but he was married in the name of Charles.

   After the inquest, the prisoner was conveyed to the County Prison, at Lawford’s Gate, where he remained until Friday morning, when he was conveyed to Gloucester by the Phoenix Coach.  Although the period of his departure was not generally known, yet crowds assembled for the purpose of catching a glimpse of his person.  He was taken up by the coach at the two mile-stone on the Gloucester road, whither he was conveyed in a car.  On his getting up it was remarked by one of the bystanders, “He seems to bear it very well.”  To which he replied, with great composure, “It is the consciousness of innocence.”  The person then said, “If that’s the case, I wish you well;” when he added, “I have no doubt I shall soon be back again.”  The remains of the deceased were interred yesterday at the New Church at the Fishponds.  The funeral was attended by her husband, who had come up from Monmouth.

   The following is a copy of a letter addressed by the prisoner to his wife, on Thursday evening last:

 

 

 

 

Oct 15.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Mr R Coley, Coroner for the city of Gloucester.  On the 7th inst. on view of the body of WILLIAM BISHOP, who, whilst hauling a long boat up the Severn, fell down and almost immediately expired.  From a post mortem examination of the body, it appeared the deceased had ruptured a blood vessel in the neck, whih produced suffocation, and the jury returned a verdict to that effect.

   On the 13th inst. on the body of RICHD. HILL, a gardener at Hardwick, who was found in the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal, but no evidence appearing to show how the deceased got in, and no marks of violence appearing on the body, the jury returned a verdict of found drowned.  In this case, we are sorry to observe, we have another instance of the fatal effects of intoxication.  The deceased, on Monday last, came to Gloucester to attend the club, where, and at other places in this city, he drank to great excess.  In a helpless state of inebriation he attempted to return home about ten o’clock at night, and having to pass the Canal, he no doubt accidentally stumbled into the water and was drowned.

 

Oct 22.  INQUEST.  On Saturday evening last, and by adjournment on Monday morning, an inquest was held before Mr Richard Coley, coroner for this city, at the Globe Public house, Quay street, on the body of MARY WILLIAMS, who died on the previous Thursday night.  The case was one which imperatively called for inquiry; but we are happy to say that it terminated without implicating any individual as the cause of the death.  The circumstances are briefly as follows: the deceased, a woman of extremely violent passions, had for some years lived with THOS. PRICE in the Quay street, and from the infirmity of her temper, quarrels were of frequent occurrence between them.  About three of four years ago, she received a blow from Price’s son, which fractured one of her ribs; and about three months ago, having followed the elder Price to a beer shop in the neighbourhood, a quarrel ensued, and he struck her on the head, which caused her to fall on her side against the sill of the door.  She soon afterwards was compelled to take to her bed, complaining of extreme pain in her side, from which she continued to suffer till her death.  So excruciating was the pain that the surgeons who were called in were unable properly to examine her to discover whether or not her ribs had again been fractured, as she could not bear her side to be touched without screaming most violently, and a bandage having been applied, it was, from the agony it occasioned, obliged to be removed.  The conduct of Mr Price and his family during her illness was marked by extreme kindness; but from her own expressions, and the peculiar connection her illness and death seems to have had with the blow above mentioned, it was very properly considered necessary that a judicial investigation should take place.  The evidence, however, of Mr HICKES, surgeon, who had been requested to make a post mortem examination of the body, completely exonerated Price, as it appears that her death was to be entirely attributable to disease of the lungs, which must be considered in all probability have been in progress for several years, as her left lung was firmly attached by a strong membrane to one of the ribs, which was extremely brittle from disease, and the lung itself contained a number of abscesses; the right lung, also, was considerably decayed.  The disease, Mr Hickes considered, must have originated from natural causes, and not from violence.  The jury consequently returned a verdict of Died by the Visitation of God.

TEWKESBURY.  GEORGE TATE, Esq. surgeon, has been appointed by the Town Council Coroner for the borough.

 

Nov 5.  A Most distressing accident occurred at Blakeney, on Friday week last, to a poor woman, named HIATT, who had gone to her father’s cottage close adjoining her own, and had not been there many minutes when she heard a child scream, and returning back found that the clothes of one of her children had taken fire.  In her attempts to extinguish the flame, she became dreadfully burnt herself, and after lingering till the next evening she died, and the child died on the Sunday morning.

INQUESTS have been taken during the last week before WJ Ellis, Esq. at the Forest of Dean, on JOSEPH PARR, a lad who fell from the top of a coal pit to the bottom, and was, of course, instantaneously killed; at Mangotsfield, on a young woman, named HESTER SUTTON, aged about 22, who was drowned in a small spring of water, into whih he had fallen while in a fit; at Lansdown, on HENRY KNOTT, aged 3 years, scalded by drinking boiling hot water from a tea kettle on the side of a grate.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   At St Briavels, on ELIZABETH HAWKINS, found dead in her garden.  Verdict, Sudden Death by the Visitation of God.

 

Nov 12.  DREADFUL ACCIDENT.  On Saturday last, a dreadful accident happened at Nofold Pit, near Ruardean, in this county.  Six colliers were coming up from the pit in a skip, (the usual number being only four,) when the rope by which the skip was suspended gave way, and the whole being precipitated to the bottom of the shaft, we regret to say that four were killed on the spot.  Their names were THOMAS BLANCH, aged 18, ELIJAH BLANCH, 14, TIMOTHY AMBURY, 16, and EMANUEL AMBURY, 19, and inquests being held on the bodies before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner, a verdict of Accidental Death in each case was returned.  The other two men were dreadfully injured, but under the judicious care of Messrs ABELL and HEARNE, of Mitcheldean, hopes are entertained of their recovery.

 

Nov 19.  A very distressing case of self destruction occurred at Petty France on Sunday morning last.   EDWARD ALLWOD, the ostler at the Beaufort Arms, had been ill for some time past, and at times appeared very low spirited.  He was very depressed on Saturday, and slept by himself that night; in the morning, his wife, on going into his rom, discovered him hanging to the bedpost by a silk handkerchief: he was instantly cut down, but to no purpose, as he was quite dead.  He was much respected in his situation, and considered most trustworthy and faithful by his master.` He has left a widow and three young children.  An inquest was held the following day before WJ Ellis, Esq. and a respectable jury, who returned a verdict of Temporary Derangement.

 

Dec 10.  A distressing accident occurred on Monday last at the Cromhall Colliery.  A number of workmen had descended the pit in a cart, when, as two men and a lad (the son of one of them) were being put down, the bottom of the cart suddenly fell out, and the unfortunate lad was precipitated to the bottom, a depth of nearly seventy yards; he had struck against some transverse iron bars in his descent, and his mutilated remains presented a shocking spectacle.  Two two men clung to the sides of the cart, and were thus providentially saved.

   An afflicting instance of the mutability of human life occurred at Etloe, near Lidney, on Friday last, to a young man about 26 years of age, named JOHN SILORY.  He was employed on board a vessel trading up and down the Severn, and had spent the day and afternoon at the house of his employer, where he had eaten heartily, and seemed in the highest spirits and health; he left the house about nine o’clock to go on board the vessel, and in a few minutes afterwards was found lying down in the road.  He was lifted up, complained of great pain in his head and stomach, with dizziness, and expired shortly after being removed home.  We understand an inquest was subsequently held on the body, and a verdct of “Sudden Death by the Visitation of God” returned.

 

Dec 24.  INQUESTS.  Taken by Mr R Coley, Coroner for this city, at the Infirmary.  On the 20th inst. on MARY ANN WHEELER, about six years of age, who was burnt so badly on Sunday last, by her clothes taking fire in the absence of her mother who had gone upstairs, that she died on the following day.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   On Wedesday last an inquest was held by the same Coroner, at the Infirmary, on the body of JAMES DEBETT, an elderly man, formerly clerk, &c. at Messrs Kirby and Co.’s pin manufactory.  It appeared that between eight and nine o’clock on the previous night, as a policeman was going his rounds, he observed the deceased lying on the ground in Clarence street, and supposing that he was helpless from intoxication, he obtained assistance and conveyed him to the station house, where it was discovered that the unfortunate man was dead.  He was immediately taken to the Infirmary, but too late to receive any beenfit from medical assistance.  On a post mortem examination of the body, it was discovered that death was occasioned by the bursting of a blood vessel in the lungs, which had produced suffocation, and the jury returned a verdict to that effect.  At the spot where he was found, a quantity of blood was afterwards discovered on the ground; but there being no lamp near, the policeman did not observe this circumstance at the time of removing the unfortunate man.

 

Dec 31.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Mr R Coley, Coroner, for this city, on Monday, at the Infirmary, on the body of MARY GARDNER, aged about four years; and on Thursday, at the same place, on the body of MARY ANNE GREENING, aged 18 months, both burnt to death in consequence of their clothes taking fire.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

INQUEST.  An inquest was held last week at Windrush, before J Mountain, Esq. one of the coroners for this county, on the body of a lad named JONES, when it came out in evidence that he had been sent with another boy to take a pair of horses from the Bird in Hand Stables to help the van coming up from Northleach, and that, when the one Jones was upon got his leg entangled in a part of the traces, and threw himself down, the lad fell upon his head, and was instantaneously killed.  As the accident happened opposite Windrush, he was taken down to that parish church.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

INQUESTS.  The following inquests have lately been taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner: at Rodborough, on GEORGE GEORGE, found dead in his dwelling house, where he had for some time lived quite alone.  At Stroud, on MARTHA STEELE, who fell near a friend’s house, and died shortly afterwards.  Verdicts, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Chalford, on SARAH BAUGHAN; at Stroud, on DAVID WARNER; at Randwick, on LOUISA SMITH; at Wall’s Quarry, on ANN PHILLPOTTS; and at Pinfarthings, on ELIZABETH FOWLES.  These were six children who, in the short space [of] one month, were burnt to death.  In many instances the parents had only been a few minutes absent on necessary business.  Verdicts of Accidental Death were returned in all these cases.  It is much to be regretted that some means cannot be devised of affording additional security to the children of the poor, against such lamentable accidents; a pinafore of any kind of woollen, or one with a band round the middle, might, in many instances, be a preservative.

 

Ends

 

 

1837, Gloucester Journal.

 

Jan 7.  INQUESTS.  On Tuesday, a coroner’s inquest was held at the Gloucester Infirmary, on the body of PRISCILLA MAJOR, aged 7 years, who was so dreadfully burnt at Upton St Leonards, as to cause her death.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

  On Wednesday, an inquest was held at the same place, on the body of WILLIAM SMITH, aged 80 years, who came to his death under the following melancholy circumstances: On Saturday last, while endeavouring to stop two horses which had ran away with a cart, in Barton street, he received a very sever injury, by which his righteyebrow, eyelid, and left ear, were very seriously lacerated.  His head at its back part was also cut, and he suffered from concussion of the brain.  He lingered till Tuesday afternoon, when he died.  The manner the accident was received was very horrible.  The horses were running nearly abreast, (one being somewhat in advance of the other,) joined only by one trace.  By this trace the man was struck, doubled, and suspended; and while the horses were proceeding at a rapid rate his head was dashed against the ground several times before he was released.  The sufferer was a fine old man, and from his voluntarily receiving the charge of two such animals, must have possessed courage and a desire to do good even to his unfortunate end.

INQUESTS.

At Minchinhampton, on Mes ELEANOR ROWE, who during the late tempestuous weather was blown down in the street, and so severely injured that she died soon afterwards.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   At Randwick, on ANN THOMAS otherwise NEWCOMB.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Minchinhampton, on ANN TYNDALL, a young woman in her twenty first year, who was living with her widowed father, a carpenter, earning eleven or twelve shillings a week.  After an enquiry, which occupied great part of two days, the jury returned a verdict that she Died by the Visitation of God, and expressed their unanimous opinion that her disease was increased, if not originated, by exposure and want of necessaries and the gross and culpable neglect of her father; and also that the district officers of the Stroud Poow Law Union, since the application to them, have not paid proper or sufficient attention to the case.

 

Feb 4.  INQUESTS.  On Monday last an inquest was held at the Globe Inn, Wquay street, before Mr Richard Coley, Coroner, on the body of A MALE INFANT, who came to its death under the following circmstances:  The father, JOHN DEALEY, an Irish labourer, living at a lodging house in the neighbourhood kept by a person named GROSVENOR, stated that the deceased child was not quite a fortnight old; that on Saturday night about eleven o’clock, it was put to sleep in the bed between himself and his wife; about seven next morning he awoke and saw the child looking pale, but did not think anything was the matter with it; he went to sleep again, and soon afterwards his wife screamed out that the child was dead; he lifted it up and found it was quite cold.  He was not, he stated, at all tipsy when he went to bed.  The jury returned a verdict to the effect, that the deceased died from Accidental Suffocation.

   On the same day another inquest was held before the same coroner, at the Britannia public house, St Mary’s Square, on view of the body of SUSANNAH SYMONDS, lying at a house of a certain description in Clare street.  The jury having viewed the body, which was in a most loathsome state, proceeded to enquire most patiently into this wretched case, the particulars of which are too disgusting for lengthened detail.  They are shortly as follows.  The deceased, with a man named JAMES LANE, about eleven o’clock on Saturday night, came to the house above mentioned, kept by a man and his wife named WESTON.  They were both very tipsy when they arrived, and the man sent for half a gallon of beer and some rum, after drinking a small quantity of which they went to bed.  After deceased had gone upstairs, she coughed violently and groaned several times upon which Weston went up to enquite what was the matter with her; she was sitting on the bed, and did not answer him, but turned round and lay down on her side on the bed.  He returned downstairs, and heard her groaning violently for as much as ten minutes or quarter of an hour, after which the noise ceased, and he supposed she was gone to sleep.  Witness heard nothing more of them till about a quarter before five on Sunday morning, when his child, a boy about six years old, who was sleeping in the same room, cried out, and he went up to see what was the matter, and found that the man had taken the child’s bed clothes from him.  Witness supposed the man and girl were asleep, and on his taking away the clothes to put back on the boy’s bed, the man awoke; witness said something to him respecting the girl, upon which he got up and they both went down stairs.  The girl was lying on the bed with her clothes on; she did not move or speak.  About half past five, Mrs Weston who was then going to bed, spoke to the deceased, and receiving no answer, she went towards her to put some clothes over her, and in doing so discovered that she was dead.  The man who had been sleeping was then sitting down stairs.  She made an alarm, and two policemen fetched Mr Hickes, surgeon, while a third remained in the house, and the man was taken into custody.  None of the witnesses heard any noise of quarrelling or blows.  While the inquest was proceeding, Mr Hickes took a post mortem examination of the body, which both internally and externally presented a frightful mass of disease.  In his opinion, from the condition of the stomach and the gorged state of the blood vessels of the brain and lungs, death must have been caused from the effects of intoxication; there were no material marks of violence about her person.  The jury accordingly returned a verdict to that effect, and LANE was discharged.

 

Feb 11.  INQUESTS.  Have been held during the last fortnight before W Joyner Ellis, Coroner, on the following cases:  At Woolastone, on JANE JONES, aged 3 years; at St George’s, on SAMUEL PEARCE, aged 2 years; and at Pillowell, in the Forest of Dean, on ELINOR JONES, aged 4 years, all burnt to death, and verdicts returned of Accidental Death.

   At Downend, on ROBERT HALL, found dead in the grounds of General SEALEY.  Verdict, Accidental Death, from a fall whilst in a state of intoxication.

    At Winterbourne Down, on GEORGE JONES, aged 70, who drowned himself in a pool of water.  Verdict, Lunacy.

     At Hawkesbury, on MARY HAYWARD, and at Lindhouse, near Landogo, on JANE JONES, who died very suddenly; at Wotton Underedge, on MARY BUSHELL, and at Olvestone, on MARY BRYANT, found dead in their beds.  Verdict, in each case, Sudden Death, by the visitation of God.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before Joseph Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Brockhampton, on the body of THOS. PINCHIN, who died under suspicious circumstances.  The contents of the stomach were carefully analysed, and at an adjourned meeting the jury found that the deceased died from natural causes. 

   At Cirencester, on the body of THOMAS PHIPPS, an infant, found dead in bed; and at Leachlade, on the body of A NEW BORN INFANT, found in a lane.  Verdict in each case, Found Dead.

   At Sapperton, on the body of HENRY DAVIS, who was drowned in the canal; at Northleach, on the body of HENRY WILSON, who was burnt to death in the absence of his parents; at Windrush, on the body of MARK JONES, who was killed by a horse falling under him; at Caoates, on the body of GEORGE MILES, who was drowned in the canal; and at Bourton on the Water, on the body of JOHN CROSS, who fell under a cart wheel, which killed him on the spot.  Verdict in each case, Accordingly.

   At Fairford,  on the body of RICHARD HOPE, who was taken ill and died in a few hours.  The jury, after retiring for some time, found that the deceased died from bad, ordinary, and deficient living, being destitute of means to procure any.

  At Colesbourne, on the body of PETER WILLIAMSON, who died suddenly; and at Fairford, on the body of EDWARD POWERZY, who died whilst playing at cards.  Verdict in each case, Died in a fit.

   At Cirencester, on the body of CHARLES ATKINS, who fell down and suddenly expired.  Verdict, Died of a diseased heart.

    At Quennington, on the body of JOHN DEBANK, who was found drowned in the river Coln.  The deceased had been drinking at several beer houses late in the evening of the previous Saturday, after which he was never seen until found in the river on Tuesday morning.  The jury found that the deceased was drowned in the river Coln, and that, at the time he fell in, he was in a state of intoxication, having drank to excess at the beer houses in the same parish on Saturday evening.

   At Lechlade, on the body of HANNAH PRICE, an aged woman, who was found dead by the wayside.  Verdict, Died from exhaustion, produced by want of food.

 

Feb 18.  DESPERATE SUICIDE.  On Monday last an inquest was held at the Star, Alvin Street, in this city, before Mr Rd Coley, Coroner, on view of the body of MICHAEL LARRIMORE, who terminated his existence by hanging himself on the previous day in an building attached to the house of Mrs BROOKS, in the above street.  The inquiry, which left no doubt as to the wretched man having been the author of his own untimely end, presented one or two other circumstances of a distressing nature, and particularly as to the fearfully unprepared state of mind of the deceased for eternity.  It appeared from the evidence that he was servant to Mrs JOAN BROOKS, milk woman, of Alvin street, and employed by her to attend to three cows and some land, and to carry out the milk to her customers.  Being conscious of his inability to controul (sic) his propensity for drinking, as long as he possessed the means of indulging it, he agreed to serve his mistress without receiving wages in money, but stipulating instead that she should find him in board and lodging, washing, and every article of wearing apparel, and should give him a shilling or two upon extraordinary occasions.  He entered her service somewhat more than two years ago, but notwithstanding the terms of his engagement he very frequently came home in a state of intoxication, and as he was supposed to have no other means of purchasing drink than with the money he received from the customers for milk, this lead to repeated quarrels between him and his mistress, who charged him with robbing her, and in a quarrel of this kind, about two months since, he knocked Mrs Brooks down, for which assault he was convicted before the Magistrates, and, in default of paying a fine, was sentenced to a month’s imprisonment.  When this period had expired, it appeared that under promise of amendment in his conduct, he induced his mistress to take him back again, but failing to keep his word, renewed disagreements were the consequence; she charging him with robbery, and he demanding wages in money, in addition to clothes, &c.  In one of these disturbances recently he observed that “he would give ayone leave to blow his brains out for being such a fool as to make the agreement he had done.”  Last week he had a severe attack of influenza, and was very ill; and on Friday Mrs Brooks, after reproaching him for his impropriety of conduct, observed to him that “he must expect God would afflict him for it,” upon which he became very much excited, and exclained, “----- and ----- God: I have nothing to do with God and he has nothing to do with me!”  On Saturday night, notwithstanding his ill state of health, he came home quite tipsy about ten o’clock, and remained downstairs in the kitchen the greater part of the night.  On Sunday morning he went to milking, and was very morose and quarrelsome.  He went out again, and returned between twelve and one, particularly intoxicated.  He continued quarrelling while the rest of the family were taking dinner, and refused to have any himself.  About three o’clock in the afternoon, Mrs Brooks sent a little girl to tell him it was time to go milking, and upon the latter going to the coal house near the back door (in which a cow was kept) and where the deceased was meant to be, she found the door partly open, and the cow making an unusual noise.  She called for him, but he did not answer; she became alarmed, and ran back to tell Mrs Brooks that “she thought Michael had hung himself.”  A lodger, named HARRIS, was then requested to go and see if anything was the matter, and he found the wretched man suspended by a small rope attached to one of the rafters behind the coal house door.  The height of the roof was hardly more than six feet from the ground, and the deceased appeared to have used two buckets to stand upon while he adjusted the rope, and when found his feet were resting upon one of the buckets; there was also a kind of hayrack close to his hands, by means of which he might easily have saved himself had he been so disposed.  His body was quite warm; he was immediately cut down, and a surgeon instantly sent for, but upon his arival, it was found impossible to restore animation.  He could not have perpetrated the rash act but a very short time, as he was spoken to by a neighbour only about ten minutes before he was discovered dead.  The jury returned a verdict of Temporary Insanity.  The condition of demoralization and profanity said to have been exhibited by the deceased was not the only circumstance of a melancholy nature presented during the inquiry.  Another instance of a very unpleasant description we feel bound to allude to, as it may be useful to call the attention of some of our citizens who have been laudably zealous to provide a remedy for such things, to the state of ignorance in which some of our population are still content to exist.  A young girl, who stated herself to be about fourteen years of age, (the foster daughter of Mrs Brooks, who first gave the alarm which caused the deceased to be discovered,) was incompetent to be examined on the inquest; she acknowledged that she never went to a Sunday School, and seldom to any place of worship; she had been at church once or twice last summer, but not at all during the winter, and she had  not the slightest idea of the solemn nature and obligations of an oath, or of future responsibility.

 

Feb 25.  MELANCHOLY CIRCUMSTANCE.  Inquest at Twigworth, John Cooke; aged man, 65, of Bristol?  EDWARDS? OR CARPENTER?

 

Mar 11. INQUESTS. Lately taken by John G Ball, Esq. Coroner:  At Stroud, on GEORGE MORTIMER LAMBURN, a youth aged 18, who without any assignable cause hanged himeslf in a tree over the Canal.  Verdict, Temporary Derangement.

   At Ebley, on JAMES RUSSELL, a child, about four years old, who was burnt to death.  Verdict, Accidental Death; and, on WM. DUKE, found drowned in the Stroud Canal.  Verdict, Found Drowned.

   At Nailsworth, on ISAAC RICKARDS, an aged pauper, who having been left for a short time by the persons who had kindly afforded him a home was found dead in his bed.  And, at Horsley, on SARAH DIX, a woman upwards of 60 years of age, who had been for some time past in a deplorable condition - the room in which she died, about seven feet wide and very low, was scarcely fir for habitation, though another woman and two or three children occupied it.  She had not possessed a pair of stays, an under garment, or a change of any article of apparel for several weeks, and died literally upon the boards, not having even straw under her.  It appeared that she was a pauper of Owlpen parish, and having refused to go into the workhouse was allowed 1s. 6d. per week.  Verdicts of Died by the Visitation of God were returned in these cases.

INQUEST.  On Wednesday last, the body of a man was discovered floating in the Severn, near the Quay, in this city.  On being taken out of the water and examined, the deceased presented the appearance of a respectable country labourer or small farmer, and seemed as if he had been drowned some time, probably two or three weeks.  There were found in his pockets, 5s in silver, and 2 1/2d in copper, a knife, a new neckerchief, a key of a box, and a stick with notches, apparently as if it had been used for what is technically termed a “tally.”  There were no indications of his having come to his death by unfair means, and it is likely therefore, that he was accidentally drowned.  He appeared to be between 20 and 30 years of age, about 5 feet 5 inches high, stout made, and dark hair.  His clothes were a short smock frock, a green coat, corduroy breeches, fustian leggings, and high shoes, with large nails in them.  The shoes are in the possession of Mr Marsh, superintendent of police in this city, in the hope of affording means to identify their unfortunate owner.  On Thursday an inquest was held on the body, at the Star Inn, before Mr Richard Coley, Coroner, and the jury returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased was found drowned, but who he was and how he came by his death is unknown.

 

Mar 18. [see Mar 11] The paragraph which appeared in our paper of Saturday last, detailing the particulars of the discovery of the body of a man found floating in the river Severn, near this city, has been the means of conveyingto the sorrowing friends of the deceased a knowledge of his untimely fate.  At appears that his name was GEORGE HOLFORD, and that his parents reside at the Golden Valley, near Cheltenham.  The unfortunate man was missing about a month, and there is every reason to believe his death was accidental.

   The body of A NEW BORN CHILD, sewed up in a small work bag, was discovered some days ago in a wood near Dursley.  An Inquest which sat two days ago returned a verdict of Wilful Murder.  Every means have since been used to discover the unnatural mother but hitherto, we regret to say, without effect.

   A sad accident occurred at the basin of the Canal at Sharpness Point, on the 9th inst. to a fine lad, a RUSSIAN, about 14, nephew to the captain of the Ariadne, a Russian brig lying there.  He had left the cabin in the evening, and went on deck, and as he did not return his uncle fancied he was with the men; but in the morning, when he was missed, search was made; and after a considerable time his lifeless body was found in the basin.  He is supposed to have fallen overboard whilst dipping water.

   As the waggon of Mr DIMERY, of Stinchcombe, in this county, was returning home with a load of coals, on Thursday last, the waggoner (who had lately been very ill) sat on the front part of the waggon on the road to Cromhall.  Some new-laid stones caused the horses to turn a little off them, and one of the wheels striking against a very large stone most improperly placed in the road, the poor man was jerked off, and one of the wheels passing over him, he received such injuries as to cause his death in an hour afterwards.  He has left a large family.

MELANCHOLY CASE OF SUICIDE.

A most melancholy and painful instance of juvenile suicide was committed last Monday at Mr FALLON’s School, Bay House, Cheltenham.  Its unfortunate subject was a young gentleman of the highest respectability, (a son of the late Major Watson, of India,) who had been an inmate of the above establishment for the last seven years, during the whole of which time he had conducted himself in a manner most satisfactory, both to the Principal and his assistants, by all of whom he had been uniformly treated with marked kindness and attention.  Though only in the 16th year of his age, a time of life when the youthful spirit is generally most buoyant, Master THOMAS WATSON had, it appears, of late become low spirited, and, on the evening in question, put a period to his existence by taking a quantity of laudanum on retiring to bed.  An inquest was held on the body on Wednesday last, when Mr FALLON, and Mr BOOR, (the usher,) deposed as to the dejected state of mind of the deceased: a yong gentleman, Master ELLIS VINER, to finding him dead in bed, and the housekeeper to finding a two ounce bottle of laudanum nearly emptied, in the bed, which it appeared he had purchased of Mr WORKMAN, a chemist, about eleven o’clock the previous night, saying it was for his grandmother.  The jury, after a long and patient investigation, returned a verdict, - That the deceased came by his death from swallowing laudanum, being at the time in an unsound state of mind. - From all the evidence adduced before the Coroner, and all the information obtained from collateral sources, it does not appear that the slightest blame can attach to Mr FALLON, under whose care the unfortunate youth was placed.

INQUEST.  An inquest was held on Tuesday, at the Compasses Inn, Cheltenham, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on the body of A FEMALE ILLEGITIMATE CHILD, supposed to have been destroyed on the previous Friday morning by its mother, HESTER STEELE, living at No. 33 Lower Park street, in that town.  It appeared from the evidence of JANE KIRBY and ELIZABETH BALDWIN, who slept in the same rom with the woman the night before her confinement, that she had delivered herself and left the house, with the infant concealed under her cloak.  ROBERT JACKSON (landlord of the house where she lodged) immediately pursued and brought her back.  She then went up stairs to her room, and deposited the child in a box, and Jackson sent for a policeman.  Mr BURKITT, surgeon, who ecxamined the body carefully extrenally and internally, deposed that there were not the slightest marks of violence, and that, from the examination he had made and the tests he had applied, he did not believe the child had ever breathed, and that it appeared to be a premature birth.  The jury returned a verdict of Still born.

 

Apr 1.  ASSIZES.  Trial of CHARLES S. BARTLETT, page 2 def, page 3 ab.

 

Apr 8.  Three days ago the body of a child was found near Lidney, in this county, under circumstances which afford a strong presumption that the unfortunate infant had been murdered.  An inquest was to have been held yesterday, before William Joyner Ellis, Esq. coroner, but the result has not reached us.

 

Apr 15.  ASSIZES.  CHARLES S. BARTLETT, Appeal and refusal.

INQUEST.

The supposed case of child-murder, near Lidney, to which we alluded in our last, was the subject of investigation before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner, yesterday se’nnight, when, after a very patient enquiry, a verdict of still born was returned.

ASSIZES.

ESTHER STEEL, for concealing the birth of a child and disposing of the same, .... one month’s hard labour.

 

Apr 22.  LETTER re CHARLES S. BARTLETT by SAMUEL BOWLY, page 2; and more pages 3 and 4.

 

Apr 29.  INQUEST.  The attention of a boy in the employ of a farmer, at Old Sodbury, was attracted by observing some person lying down in a sheepfold in one of his master’s fields, on Tuesday last, and on going to the spot, he discovered a man lying on his side with his throat cut; a razor and a penknife, both covered with blood, were on the ground near him.  The man was unable to answer any questions, but he by signs intimated that he was sorry for having committed the act.  He was conveyed to the Union Poorhouse, at Hawkesbury, and the wound sewn up by Mr BLETCHLEY, surgeon: he lingered till Friday night, when he died.  His name was found to be WILLIAM CHAPMAN LAMB, a native of Tetbury, to which place he was going.  He had been travelling the country with a basket of laces, tapes, &c., and had, on the day before, applied for and obtained relief from the relieving officer, at Sodbury, to enable him to return home; his manner then appeared very strange.  An inquest was held before WJ Ellis, Esq. and a verdict returned of Temporary Derangement.

   A sad accident occurred at Lidney, a few days ago, to a son of Mr THOMAS JONES, a fine boy about four years old, who was playing in the brewhouse, where some hot wort was placed in a cooler on the floor, when he unfortunately fell into the liquor, and was so dreadfully scalded as to cause his death in a few hours.

  Mr THOMAS HILL, of Berkeley, one of the pilots on the river Severn, was with a lad in his yawl, below the Holmes, on Monday week last, when a sudden gust of wind took the boat, and she instantly filled and went down.  The accident was observed by some persons in a vessel at a little distance, and who went immediately to the spot, but could only see some spars floating on the water.  It is supposed that Mr Hill was prevented swimming by the lad grasping him.  A reward, we understand, has been offered for the recovery of the body of Mr Hill, who has been connected with the coasting trade for many years, and was much respected.

 

May 13.  CHARLES S. BARTLETT and Hangman.

MELANCHOLY SUICIDE.

On Tuesday last an inquest was held at the Merry Fellow public house, Barton street, in this city, before Mr Richard Coley, Coroner, on the body of ELIZABETH HILL, a widow, aged about 54, who committed suicide that morning at her lodgings in the Pound passage, by cutting her throat in a most determined manner.  The jury, on proceeding to view the body, found the deceased in the position in which she had first been discovered, lying on her side in bed, with her gown on, but without her stays and other articles of clothing.  Her head was leaning partly over the bed stead, and there was a most frightful gash in the throat, from the effects of which no doubt could be entertained that her violent death had proceeded.  The following is a summary of the evidence produced on the inquiry:-  The deceased had been a widow about five or six years, and from comparatively comfortable circumstances had been reduced to a state of the greatest destitution, and to enable her to support a precarious livelihood, she had lately been in the habit of making and vending widows’ caps.  She had lodged at the house of a person named BICK, in the above passage, about a week previous to her death, and on the morning on which the dreadful transaction took place, she came from her own room to that of Mrs Bick, about six in the morning, and asked what o’clock it was.  She was in her night clothes, had a jug in her hand, and said that she was very thirsty and was going to fetch some water.  She went down stairs apparently for that purpose, and Mrs Bick heard her open and close the door of the pantry, where the knives were kept.  She returned up stairs to her room, telling Mrs Bick not to call her till eight o’clock.  About a quarter past nine, Mrs Bick went up into her room, and as she entered she saw a quantity of blood upon the pillow, and being alarmed she ran down and informed some female neighbours, who went to see what was the matter, when they found the deceased in the siutaion above described, and apparently quite dead.  Mr WOOD, surgeon, happening to pass at the time, was requested to examine the unfortunate woman, and he pronounced her to be quite dead, and gave it as his opinion that the wound had been inflicted some time.  On looking on the floor, just beneath her right hand, he found the knife which the wretched creature had made use of as the instrument of her death.  It was a small white handled case knife, and was covered with blood.  What is remarkable is, that notwithstanding the very small distance between the bedroom and the kitchen, Mrs Bick did not hear the least noise to induce her to believe that anything was happening up stairs.  As there could not be the slightest doubt that the misguided and miserable woman was her own destroyet, the only question that remained was, as to her state of mind, and the motives which were likely to have impelled her to so rash and fearful an act; and on this subject it was given in evidence that her poverty was extreme, and, in addition to the depression thus occasioned, it also appeared that her spirits had been much affected at the unexpected discovery of the recent death of a daughter, without any communication having been made to her by her son in law or any of his friends on the subject.  On the day previous to her suicide, she observed to her landlady, that “she should like very much to die if she had no sins to answer for;” and she also made several low spirited wandering observations the same evening to her sister, a poor woman, named WOODWARD, living in the Island.  It also appeared from the evidence that the unfortunate creature was rather an exemplary character for her station in society, being, it was said, remarkable for the mildness and forbearance of her conversation, and an instance of the honesty of her disposition was given in the fact that the week before her death she obtained an advance of 10s. from a gentleman at Stroud, who it was stated had the management of some property formerly belonging to her deceased husband, and she appropriated the greater part of this sum in paying a debt she had contracted for lodgings.  The jury returned a verdict of Temporary Derangement.

 

May 27. FATAL ACCIDENT.  A melancholy accident occurred on Tuesday last to a young labouring man named WILLIAM SMITH, employed in the erection of some houses at Wotton, near this city.  He unfortunately fell from a scaffold at nearly the top of the building to the ground, and though the outward marks of injury were very trifling, yet the concussion he received was so severe as to cause his death, which took place at the Infirmary on the following day.

 

Jun 3.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At the Hare and Hounds, near Tetbury, on FREDERICK HEAVEN, a youth who was supposed to have died from injury received in a fight.  At Paganhill, on SAMUEL ALDRIDGE, who was found dead in his loom.  Verdicts, Died by the Visitation of God.

MELANCHOLY INSTANCES OF SUDDEN DEATH.

Inquests have been taken this week before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, under the following rather appalling circumstances:  At Newnham, on the body of WILLIAM HARRISON, of the Unicorn public house in that town, who, on Saturday last, went into a shop for the purpose of being shaved, and while in the act of preparing for that operation, he fell to the ground, and in a moment breathed his last.  He was 57 years of age, and it was ascertained that his death was occasioned by an attack of apoplexy.  At Cheltenham, on the body of JOHN HUNT, who, on Thursday last, while cleaning a horse, fell down in a state of insensibility.  He was promptly removed to the Dispensary, where every attention was of course paid to him, but he died in a very short time.  Several rumours were in circulation as to the cause of the poor man’s death, amongst others that he was kicked by the horse he was attending, but it was satisfactorily proved, as in the last case, that he died from apoplexy.  Verdicts in both cases were returned of Died by the Visitation of God.

   The child of a weaver, named SMITH, living at Coaley, being ill, the mother gave her, as she thought, a dose of Godfrey’s Cordial, but it unfortunately proved to be opium, and the poor infant died in a few hours.

   As the Stroud Packet Barge was leaving Sharpness Point for Bristol, on Friday last, one of the hands, named JOHN ROWLES, slipped and fell overboard, and although immediate assistance was rendered him, he was drowned

 

Jun 10.  The body of Captain THOMAS HILL, whose unfortunate death by drowning in the Bristol Channel we announced on the 24th of April last, was picked up near to Barry Island a few days ago, and buried at Cowbridge.

         As a man named THOMAS THATCHER was looking down a Quarry at St George’s a few days since, he fell to the bottom and was instantly killed.  It is a very remarkable circumstance that this is the sixth person of the same family who has died from accident.

CAUTION TO DRUNKARDS.   On Monday last an inquest was held before Mr Rd Coley, at the Crown Inn, Cross Keys lane, on the body of WILLIAM HAMMOND, a person well known in this city, whose death took place under the following circumstances:- On Sunday morning about five o’clock, the deceased and another person called at the Crown, and drank a pint of ale and a noggin of gin; they then went away and returned in a short time, and drank two noggins of gin.  The witness who served them with the liquor did not know whether or not it was drank equally, or whether the deceased had more than half; his companion ordered and paid for it, and went away, leaving the deceased alone in the kitchen.  Shortly afterwards Hammond was observed leaning on the table as if asleep, and about seven o’clock he was discovered lying along on the floor as if he had fallen down, and blood was on the ground under his face, having apparently flowed from his nose in consequence of the blow he received to the face.  He was breathing thickly, and was supposed to have fallen asleep from the effects of drinking, as it was not uncommon for him to be found lying even about the streets in a helpless state from the same cause.  He was removed into the yard, for the benefit of the air, and left for about quarter of an hour, when ftom his altered appearance it was feared that he was dead, and surgical assistance was sent for.  After three other surgeons had been called on without obtaining their attendance, Mr HICKES was informed of the state of the deceased, and immediately arrived, but too late to afford any assistance, the wretched man having apparently been dead about half an hour before Mr Hickes saw him.  This gentleman, on his examination before the Coroner, stated his belief that the death was caused by apoplexy produced by continual habits of intoxication, and the jury consequently returned a verdict to that effect.  The deceased was 52 years of age.

 

Jun 17.  On Thursday night a waterman named ROBT. MILES, while in a state of intoxication, it is supposed, fell into the river Severn, at Sandhurst, near this city.  The body of the unfortunate man was dragged up yesterday afternoon, and removed to a neighbouring public house to await the investigation of a coroner’s inquest.  From various bruises about the face and neck, suspicion has since arisen that the death was ot entirely accidental, but we hope the enquiry about to take place into the circumstances will not lead to the conclusion apprehended, namely that the wretched man was ill treated and wilfully thrown into the river.

MELANCHOLY DEATHS.

Inquests have been taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, uder the following distressing circumstances.  In the hundred of St Briavels, on the body of EDWARD JAMES, a collier, a young man about 20 years of age, who was killed in consequence of a portion of the roof of a coalpit suddenly falling upon him while at work.  The rubbish was removed as speedily as possible, and the unfortunate young man was discovered quite dead, his head having been dreadfully smashed.  A circumstance was mentioned connected with the catastrophe, which would in former times have given rise to superstitious ideas, viz. that till very recently he had worked with his father, but owing to some misunderstanding he left against his father’s will to work in the pit where he almost immediately encountered a violent and untimely death.   At Cirencester an inquest was held on the body of WM. WEBB HALL, a boy about 13 years of age, who while attending to a team of horses in a waggon, by some accident fell down, and one of the wheels passing over his legs and body, injured him so dreadfully that he died on the spot.  In both these cases verdicts were returned of Accidental Death.

   At Welford, on the body of RICHARD MARSHALL, aged 62, who was found dead.  He had been employed sheep shearing during the day, and about five o’clock in the afternoon he had finished his work, and left to go home.  In a short time afterwards his companions, from whom he had parted in apparent good health, discovered him lying in the road quite dead.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Jun 24.  INQUEST.  On Saturday last, an inquest was held before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on the body of ROBERT MILES, who was found drowned in the river Severn, at Sandhurst, near this city, as stated in our last.  Reports were in circulation that there were suspicious circumstances attending the death of the unfortunate man; we are happy, however, to say that there appears no reasonable ground whatever for entertaining so serious a supposition.  The evidence on the inquest was to this effect, that the deceased and his brother WILLIAM were in a boat on the river on Thursday evening week, and took a witness named BISCOE on board at Ashelworth, and conveyed him as far as Maisemore.  BISCOE, on his examination, stated that both brothers were exceedingly drunk; the deceased rather more so than William.  No quarrelling or unfriendly word took pace between them; but while witness was with them the deceased was very near tumbling overboard  by slipping the oar, owing to the state he was in. Witness left them at Maisemore, and saw no more of them.  WILLIAM MILES stated that he was very much intoxicated, and found himself next morning on board another boat, but how he got there he could not tell, nor had he the slightest recollection when or where Biscoe left them, nor of any of the circumstances which took place in the boat where his brother was.  In the absence of any more positive evidence, the reasonable supposition is, that the deceased accidentally fell out of the boat into the water, owing to the drunken state he was unfortunately in, and his brother from the same wretched cause, was incapable either of noticing what happened, or of rendering any assistance even if he had observed it.  The jury returned a verdict of Found Drowned.

 

Jul 1.  INQUEST.  An inquest was held before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner, at Rangeworthy, a few days since, on the body of MARK WHERRETT, aged about seven years, who was unfortunately drowned in a disused and dagerous stone quarry full of water close by the side of the high road.  The little fellow was playing with other children and fell into the water, a depth of thirteen or fourteen feet, and although the father who was very near the spot and others got him out as speedily as possible, and used every means to restore life, their endeavours were without success.  A verdict of “Accidental Death” was returned, with a strong recommendation from the jury, that the pit should be filled up.

   As some young men were going along the meadows at Bitton, near to the river, a few days since, they saw a man’s hat upon the bank, and on further search a razor was found near it - they procured assistance and dragged the river, and soon found the body of a labouring man named HIBBS, a large stone weighing upwards of eight pounds was fastened round his neck by a handkerchief, and his throat was slightly cut in two places.  An inquest was subsequently held at Bitton, before WJ Ellis, Esq. and evidence having been given to the effect that the poor man had been labouring under such great depression of spirits from family mifortunes, as not to be able to follow his usual occupation, the jury returned a verdict of “Insanity.”

INQUEST.

Scarcely a week elapses without our being called upon to relate successive instances of melancholy and fatal consequences attending the vice of drunknenness.  On Monday last an inquiry was instituted before Mr Richard Coley,coroner, into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM WIGGINS, an itinerating saw grinder, which took place on the previous Saturday night or Sunday morning, at the Odd Fellow’s Arms beer house, Oxbody lane, in this city.  The deceased, it appeared, who was about 50 years of age, and of extremely intemperate habits, had been in the practice of lodging occasionally for the last four years, a night or two at a time, at the above public house.  On Saturday afternoon last, he was seen in an accustomed state of drunkenness about the streets, and it was said that he was engaged in a fight, but did not receive any visible injury from the affray.  A little after ten at night he came to the Odd Fellow’s Arms, quite tipsy, and drank a part of a pint of cider, when, by the advice of the landlord, Mr WILLIAMS, he went up stairs for the purpose of going to bed in the garrett, where he had slept on former occasions.  Nothing more was heard of him till about half past twelve o’clock, when he was found lying naked on the landing place of the first floor, with a quantity of blood beneath his face, running from a wound in his head; and it would seem that he had fallen down the stairs from the garrett above.  The landlord lifted him on his feet, when he pushed Mr Williams from him, raised his hands, exclaining “oh!oh!” and then fell backwards to the ground, where he struggled as if in the agonies of death.  He was carried down stairs, his face washed with cold water, and a surgeon sent for, but before he could arrive he had expired without uttering an intelligible word.  In addition to the wound on his head, there was a terrible contusion on or around the left eye, and some other bruises on the left side of the body.  Mr AJ WOOD, who examined the deceased, was of opinion that all the bruises, &c. were probably occasioned by his falling dwn stairs, and that death had resulted from injuries received by the brain and nervous system from the fall, and from the state of intoxication he was in at the time of the accident; and the jury, after a very patient investigation, gave a verdict to that effect.  There does not seem any reason to believe any other than that the catastrophe was entirely accidental, but it is singular that though the deceased, being a large sized man, must have fallen heavily, yet the inmates of the house, who were mostly in the kitchen below, did not hear the noise; and a man named ABSOLOM WILLIAMS, who was sleeping in the garrett where the deceased had undressed himself, knew nothing at all of the occurrence till long after at was all over.  This man also had gone to bed drunk, and even at the time of holding the inquest he was too much intoxicated to give a collected account of the little he knew of the transaction.  To such a man, and to many more, the awful event, which drunken incapacity prevented him from witnessing and perhaps of averting, seems only as

                                                                                              “a  tale

                                           Told by an idiot full of sound and fury,

                                           Signifying nothing!”

 

Jul 8.  INQUESTS.  An inquest was taken at the County Gaol, before John Cooke, Esq. coroner, on the body of DAVID JAMES, committed for trial on a charge of bigamy, whose death was caused by an affection of the brain produced by nervous excitement on account of his imprisonment.  Verdict, died by the visitation of God.

[Jul 1.  David James, aged 29, who was committed for trial at these Sessions on a charge of bigamy, for marrying ANN MERCER, on 9th May, 1836, his former wife being still living. died last night.  An application had previously been made to the Court and granted for the postponement of his trial till the Assizes, and for releasing him from prison in the meantime, in consequence of the ill state of his health and the peculiar excitement which his committal had occasioned in his mind.]

   An inquest was also taken beforethe same coroner at Deerhurst, on the body of HENRY HARRIS, aged eleven years, who was drowned while bathing in the Severn.  The unfortunate youth and another lad slipped into a deep part of the river where the sand had been washed away; his companion was happily rescued, and the deceased was taken out in a very short time, but no medical gentleman being near at hand, the process of restoring animation, the success of which depends so entirely on prompt application, could not be resorted to in time to be of any avail.  Mr Cooke also took another inquest on Thursday at Newland, on the body of WILLIAM GOODALL, aged 13 years, whose death likewise took place under very melancholy circumstances.  He had come from Monmouth for the purpse of fetching coal, and though cautioned of the danger he was incurring, he perished in pushing his tram or cart close to the pit’s mouth for the purpose of being early served, and the vehicle over-balancing fell down the shaft, a distance of 55 yards, with the wretched boy clinging to it.  He was literally dashed to pieces, his arm being cut nearly off, and his head completely smashed.  Verdict in the last two cases, accidental death.

 

Jul 15.  INQUESTS.  A very melancholy accident took place on Sunday last near this city; JAMES PRICE, a deserving young man, about 16 years of age, was bathing in the Severn, at the Lower Parting, and, being but an indifferent swimmer, was carried by the stream beyond his depth, and unfortunately drowned.  The accident was witnessed by a lad on shore, but who was unable to render any assistance.  The body was picked up on the following day, and an inquest held upon it by John Cooke, Esq. when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

   An inquest was held before the same coroner, at Coleford, on Monday, respecting the death of Mr WILLIAM BARRETT, aged 66 years, a respectable farmer and dealer residing at Westbury on Severn.  The deceased it appeared left Coleford, where he had been transacting business on Saturday, for the purpose of proceeding to his house; and is supposed to have ridden his horse into a pond by the road side for the purpose of letting it drink, and to have accidentally fallen from the saddle into the water.  He was found drowned by some persons passing the spot, and as his property appeared unmolested, and no violent injuries were perceptible on his person, no doubt could be entertained that death was accidental.  The jury returned a verdict of Found Drowned.

   An inquest was likewise taken by Mr Cooke at Charlton Kings, on the body of JOHN COATES, who committed suicide by hanging himself on Thursday se’nnight.  The deceased had attended the Cheltenham Races on the two previous days, and on the day on which he committed the rash act he left some acquaintances on the race course, with whom he had been drinking, saying he should go home and put on his coat.  He was not intoxicated, but his manner exhibited much wildness; in less than an hour he was discovered suspended in his house, quite dead.  His previous demeanour and the fact of his having on two former occasions attempted self destruction, left no doubt that he was the author of his own untimely death, and that he was labouring under an aberration of intellect.  The jury accordingly returned a verdict of Lunacy.

   Inquests were also held before the same coroner, at Cheltenham, on the body of REBECCA DANIEL, aged 44 years, who died suddenly on Monday last.  She got up in the morning early and went down stairs, and not returning her husband got up to look after her and found her a corpse.  At Cheltenham, on the body of CATHERINE HANLEY, an infant aged three months.  Reports were in circulation prejudicial to the mother of the child; but on a patient investigation of all the circumstances, it was established on the evidence of a respectable surgeon that death was occasioned by water on the brain.  Verdict in the last two cases, Died by the Visitation of God.

   Yesterday, at St Briavels.on the body of PHILIP SYMMONDS, a miner, aged 21 years.  The deceased was at work in the Speedwell Pit, and unfortunately proceeded without sufficient precaution to a foul part of the mine, and was suffocated by the “damp.”  The gas was so powerful that eleven hours elapsed before the body could be extricated.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Jul 29.  MELANCHOLY SUICIDE.  On Sunday afternoon last, about half past six o’clock, the body of a young woman was observed by a little boy in the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal, in the lower part of the parish of Hempstead, near this city.  He immediately communicated the circumstances to a man named WATKINS, who ran to the spot and dragged the body to the shore with the aid of a rake.  In a reticule bag found with her were a prayer book and a handkerchief with the initials E.J. and it was discovered that the unfortunate deceased was a young girl of the name of ELIZABETH JORDAN, who had been in the service of a lady of this city, Mrs RUDHALL, whose house she had left the same afternoon, for the purpose of going to St Aldates Church, and where it also appeared she had gone and remained till the service concluded, about half past four.  Since that time nothing had been seen of her till she was discovered as above stated.  An inquest was subsequently held on the body, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, and in the absence of any direct evidence a verdict was returned of Found Drowned.  The circumstances, however, as far as they have reached us are of a very melancholy complexion.  The deceased was of a most exemplary character, was about thirty years of age; and as a proof of the steadiness and carefulness of her character, it appears that she had saved out of her earnings about 60 or 70 l.  It was lately noticed that she was occasionally in low spirits, and a few days before her death she told a fellow servant that she was very unhappy; and the cause of this despondency, it is said, was owing to something that occurred to interrupt a matrimonial engagement between her and a person at Taynton, who had paid his addresses to her.  Whether her affections were wantonly trifled with by this person or not we do not know, but his coolness or neglect was no doubt the cause of the permature and self inflicted death of this poor girl.

 

Aug 12.  MELANCHOLY OCCURRENCE.  On Thursday last, a lad named JAMES WEST, aged 16 years, an apprentice to Mr HAWKER, shoemaker, of Quedgley, attended in this city at the ceremony of confirmation by the Lord Bishop of the Diocese; on his return home in the evening he got into the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal to bathe, and was unfortunately drowned.  His body was not recovered till yesterday morning, and in the course of the day an inquest was held before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

SHOCKING ACCIDENT.

On Wednesday last a poor man named JOHN BULLOCK, fell from a tram on the Gloucester and Cheltenham tramroad, and the wheels passing over his legs smashed both of them in a most dreadful manner.  The wretched sufferer was removed in excruciating agonty to our Infirmary, where he received all the humane attention that excellent institution could afford.  It was found necessary to take off one leg, which operation was performed on Thursday morning; and it is feared that the other must also be amputated.  The unfortunate man is about 40 years of age, and we understand has a wife and six or seven young children.  He lies in a very precarious state. [See also the Glos. Infirmary Records; Glos. Ref Lib. 17546.]

   A shocking accident occurred on Wednesday last, at Siston, in this county, to a fine boy, aged about three years, son of Mr TENBODY, of that place, who had been sent out in charge of a servant.  She imprudently left the child for a short time, and he ran on the railroad just at the moment a train of loaded coal waggons was passing along the inclined plain from Coalpit Heath to Keynsham; the poor child was knocked down, and the carriages passed over him, cutting off one leg and thigh.  Death fortunately put a period to his sufferings in a very short time.  No blame, we understand, is attached to the conductor of the waggons, who only knew of the accident after it had occurred.

MELANCHOLY CIRCUMSTANCE.  On the evening of Monday week last, a lad named GEORGE SMITH, jun. aged about twelve years, son of Mr GEORGE SMITH, farmer, of Flaxley, left school at Newnham, and with some other boys of about his own age went to bathe in the river Severn, and was unfortunately drowned.  His companions were so much alarmed that they ran away without giving any information of the melancholy occurrence, which only became known from the poor boy’s clothes being accidentally discovered on the river bank.  The body was not recovered till the following Thursday, when it was found floating on the water.  An inquest was subsequently taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.   A still more melancholy aspect is given to this distressing event, from the circumstance as we understand, that when Mr Smith, the father, went with the intention of announcing the recovery of the body to the ill-fated lad’s grandfather, Mr R. SMITH, farmer, of Taynton, he found that the latter gentleman had just died suddenly, having been in apparent good health but a very short time previously.  Both cases too clearly proving to old and young that “in the midst of`life we are in death.” 

 

Aug 26.  A distressing accident happened at Dymock on Saturday last, by which a young man named PERKINS lost his life.  The unfortunate man fell from the shafts of a waggon laden with coals, and the wheels passing over his body caused his death in a few minutes, thus adding another to the many melancholy accidents which have resulted from the reprehensible practice in which waggoners so frequently indulge.

   A melancholy accident occurred on Sunday morning last, at Longney, by which a deserving young man, named THOS. OKEY, aged 25, (second son of Mr CHARLES OKEY, late brazier, of Southgate street, in this city,) was considgned to a premature grave.  He was bathing in the river Severn, and remained in the water an imprudent length of time, when being, it is supposed, seized with cramp, he was incapable of reaching the shore and was drowned.  Another young man was bathing at the time, and made an attempt to rescue him, but unhappily without effect.  The body was found on Wednesday evening at the Flat, near Westbury, and an inquest was held on the following day before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.  The deceased was a whitesmith well known in this city, where he had been employed for many years, and always bore a most excellent character from his masters and everyone who knew him.

   An investigation has been going on for some days, in the last week, before WJ Ellis, Esq. and a very respectable jury, at Mangotsfield, respecting the death of a young woman named SOPHIA BISSEX, about 17 years of age, who was reported to have died from the effects of gross injuries received from some young men, in a cow shed, on her return from a revel, on the night of the 31st July.  The evidence was of that nature as to be unfit for publication, but the purport of it may be presumed from the verdict, which, we understand, was to the effect that her death was accelerated by the treatment she received from the young men.  We hear they have absconded, but we most sincerely trust that they may not long escape that punishment which their crime so richly deserves.

   As a young man named WILLIAM BAUGH was on Wednesday last returning from his work, along the side of the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal, near Slimbridge, he was unfortunately seized with a fit to which  he was subject, and was drowned before assistance could be afforded him.

   An inquest was held on Tuesday last, before WJ Ellis, Esq. at the parish of Cam, on a labouring man named JOHN CORDY, who had died very suddenly.  After a lengthened investigation and the opinion had of Mr WARNER, surgeon, the jury returned a verdict of Died by the visitation of God.

 

Sep 2.  FATAL ACCIDENTS.  On Thursday last, SAMUEL RUST, a man about 40 years of age, was attending a waggon laden with articles for Messrs Stanton, of Stroud; on passing alongthe Bristol road, near this city, he it is supposed attempted to get upon the shafts, and being at the time, there is reason to fear, in a state of intoxication, he unfortunately fell, when one or two of the wheels passed over his head and neck.  The unfortunate man was removed to our Infirmary, but so dreadful were the injuries he had received that before he arrived there he ceased to exist.  An inquest was held on the body yesterday, before Mr Richard Coley, coroner, and a verdict returned of accidental death.

   The same coroner also held an inquest at the Infirmary on the previous Saturday, on the body of THOMAS HALL, a young man about 16 years of age.  The deceased was in a vessel navigating on the Severn, and was assisting in lowering the mast for the purpose of getting through the Haw bridge.  It was dark at the time, and the tackle by some means got foul of the windlass; and on the stay being cut the mast fell upon the poor fellow and severely injured him.  He was brought to the Infirmary, and received all the attention that surgical skill could supply, but without avail; he died on Thursday se’nnight.  After an inquiry, which was compelled to be adjourned for the purpose of obtaining witnesses of the distressing occurrence, the coroner’s jury on Saturday returned a verdict of accidental death, with a deodand on the mast of 1s.

   On Wednesday last, as several children were playing near the locks at the basin of the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal, one of them, a little boy, about three years of age, son of a person named HARRIS, unfortunately fell into the water.  An immediate alarm was raised, and the child was almost instantly recovered by means of a boat hook; it did not appear to have been at all totally immersed in the water, and on being taken into the house of Mr COX, the lock keeper, it soon became composed, and was put to sleep.  It was subsequently taken home to its parents, and the next morning it was a corpse.

 

Sep 9.  DREADFUL AND FATAL ACCIDENTS.  Yesterday se’nnight, as a poor man named WILLIAM KEYLOCK, who resided in Sweet briar street, in this city, was cutting hay from a rick at Maisemore, belonging to Mr LANE, he unfortunately slipped, and on making a spring to avoid being wounded by the hay knife which he had been using, he fell on a stake, which penetrated his thigh, and inflicted a dreadful gash.  He was brought in a state of great anguish to our Infirmary, where everything was done to alleviate his sufferings, but the injury he had received was so severe as to cause his death, which took place on Thursday last.  He was 39 years of age, and has left a wife and seven children, who have, by this dreadful occurrence, been deprived of their only means of support.  We understand they are in the deepest distress, and greatly need the charitable sympathies of the benevolent.  The deceased was brother in law to the unfortunate man JOHN BULLOCK, whose death took place in the same situation a few days previously, as stated in another paragraph, in consequence of falling under the wheels of a tram waggon.

  On Thursday evening last, a man named DANIEL ELLIS was found on the Cheltenham road, near this city, much injured.  He was attending a load of coals proceeding from the Forest to Cheltenham, and it is supposed that while under the influence of liquor, and sleeping on the waggon, he accidentally fell to the ground, by which he was severely bruised, but no bones were broken.  He was brought to the Gloucester Infirmary, and died early the following morning.

INQUEST.

In our Journal of the 19th ult. we mentioned a shocking accident whch befell a poor man named JOHN BULLOCK, who fell from a carriage on the Gloucester and Cheltenham tram road, and the wheels passing over him nearly severed one of his legs and broke the other.  When brought to the Gloucester Infirmary,`amputation of one of the injured limbs was found necessary, and subsequently the other limb was taken off.  The unfortunate man lingered till Saturday last, when death put an end to his sufferings.  An inquest was held on the body on Wednesday at the Infirmary, before Mr Richd. Coley, coroner, and a verdict returned of accidental death, with a deodand of 1s. on the wheel.  The deceased has left a wife and six children.

 

Sep 16.  On Thursday evening se’nnight, RICHARD BARRETT, a labourer, of Tetbury, having been attending the hay harvest home of Mr THOS. IND, of Charlton, and having partaken too freely of the liberality of the hospitable donor, some of his companions finding him unable to walk, amused themselves in carrying him to his house, where they left him, with the full expectation of meeting again in the morning, but sad to relate, he was found next morning quite dead.  He was considered a man of temperate habits, and had not enjoyed good health for some time.

 

Sep 23.  A sad accident occurred at Tidenham a few days since to a waggoner in the employ of Mr MORRIS, of Woolaston; in endeavoruing to stop the horses in descending a hill, he unfortunately fell, and the wheels of the waggon passed over him, by which he received such injuries as to cause his death in a few hours.

   On Friday evening last, as a post chaise belonging to Mr NIBLETT, of Bristol, was returning from Badminton to Bristol, the driver mistook his road, and on coming to the Iron Acton Toll Bar, refused to pay the toll, and turned round for the purpose of getting into the road which he had just left.  Just after passing through Acton he leant forwards to whip the horses, (which were then going very fast,) and missing his footing he fell forwards, pitched on his head, and was killed on the spot.  An inquiry was subsequently held and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

    An inquest was held at Mangotsfield on Friday last, before WJ Ellis, Esq. on EDWARD ENGLAND, killed in a coal pit by a quantity of rubbish falling on him.  And an inquest was held by the same coroner, on the following day, at Coleford, on JAMES CUTTER, who lost his life in one of Messrs Trotter and Thomas’s collieries, by the same kind of accident.  Verdicts of Accidental Death were returned in both cases.

 

Sep 30.  FATAL ACCIDENTS.  An inquest was held at the Infirmary, in this city, on Monday last, by Mr Rd. Coley, coroner, on the body of a poor man named LEWIS, who while eating his dinner in a gravel pit in which he had been working at Frocester, was overwhelmed by a large quantity of gravel, which fell upon him and broke his legs.  The accident occured on the 4th instant.  He was brought to the Infirmary, and every care taken of him, but he died on Saturday last.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   An inquest was also held at the same institution yesterday, on the body of MATTHEW MELLAU, a person connected with one of the exhibitions attracted to our Barton fair.  The poor fellow was holding back the horses of a caravan in descending the hill near Staunton Swan, about two o’clock on Wednesday morning, and stumbled over a heap of stones, which threw him down, and the wheels of the caravan passing over him smashed his legs and otherwise injured him in a most dreadful manner.  He was conveyed to the Infirmary, but died from loss of blood immediately after his arrival there.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

   The lifeless body of a poor aged woman was picked up in the river Severn, near Tewkesbury, on Wednesday morning, by some fishermen.  She appeared to have been in the water only a few hours - and it has not yet been ascertained how she was drowned, nor where she came from.

   On Tuesday week as Mr JOHN CULLIMORE, farmer, of Shepherdine, near Thornbury, was jumping across a ditch on his farm after a cow, his foot hung in a briar and he fell forwards with violence on the stump of  thorn in the hedge; he received such injuries as to cause his death on the following day.

   Some children at Charfield having gathered some leaves and dry sticks, made a fire on the green, and unfortunately the clothes of one of them named ANN BALL, about five years of age, caught fire, and she was so dreadfully burnt as to cause her death.

   The body of a fine NEWLY BORN FEMALE CHILD was discovered on Monday last, floating on the water at Mr JONES’s Mill, at Winterbourne; it was partly tied in an old hat, one side of the head was beaten in and the brains protruded.  An inquest was held, and after an investigation which was continued on the next day, the jury returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against some person or persons unknown.

 

Oct 7.  MELANCHOLY SUICIDE.  On Wednesday evening, the 27th ult. the body of Mr JAMES WOOD, formerly of this city, but who had for several years past resided at Cheltenham, was found ina secluded part of the garden belonging to Mr JESSOP, at Bayshill, with his throat cut in a shocking manner, and a razor lying by his side; he had been missing from the morning before, and every search was made after him without effect, when he was discovered by a workman of Mr Jessop’s.  An inquest was held before John Cooke, Esq. coroner, and a respectable jury, when it was clearly shown that the deceased had, for some time past, laboured under great derangement and distracted state of mind; the jury, without hesitation, returned a verdict that the deceased destroyed himself, not being of sound mind.

INQUESTS.  The following inquests have been taken before J Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  In the Forest of Dean, on the body of WM. LERIGO, aged about 14 years, who was drowned while bathing; at Joyford, English Bicknor, on the body of PHILIP WILLIAMS, aged about three years, who was burnt to death in consequence of a piece of fire falling on his clothes while sitting by it; at Cheltenham, on the body of JOHN SHILLUM, aged about 5 1/2 years, burnt to death by his clothes taking fire while catching flies over the fire place; and at Cheltenham, on the body of J. BRASSNELL, aged about 6 years, who was killed by a piece of timber falling on his head; verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

    At the Bailey Hill, on the body of ELIZABETH MEEK, aged about 40 years, found dead in bed; at Littledean, on the body of JOHN GOODMAN, aged about 45 years, who died suddenly while returning from work; at Cheltenham, on the body of HANNAH MARIA TROTMAN, aged about 48 years, found dead on the floor in her bedroom; and at Childswickham, on the body of RD. CARTER, aged about 80 years, found dead in a field in that parish; verdict in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

FATAL ACCIDENT.

On Wednesday last an inquest was held before Mr Richard Coley, coroner of this city, on the body of a young man named HENRY WOOD, aged 17, who, it is supposed, while endeavouring to climb round the boundary wall of the basin of the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal, for the purpose of getting to his vessel, after the gates were closed on Tuesday night, unfortunately fell into the locks and was drowned.  Verdict, Found Drowned.

 

Oct 14.  LETTER from WILLIAM HOLLIS, juror at the inquest on ANN HALL, re costs, etc.

 

Oct 28.  MELANCHOLY AND FATAL ACCIDENT.  We are sorry to have to record the following distressing circumstance.  Mr GEORGE LORD, a most respectable gentleman, chemist, of Wotton Underedge, was returning home from Kingscote on Monday evening, after dark, when it is supposed his horse ran away with him, and coming into contact with Rushmere turnpike gate, about two miles from Wotton, caused the unfortunate gentleman to be thrown to a great distance on his head.  The toll collector came out, but the gate had been forced open by the shock, and the horse continued its career: unfortunately no lamp or other light was burning, and Mr Lord, though lying within a few yards of the spot, remained unobserved.  The driver of the Dart coach subsequently saw the horse, and fearing an accident had occurred, very properly kept a sharp look out, and at last, after the lapse of about three quarters of an hour from the time of the accident, discovered Mr Lord lying in the road quite senseless.  He was conveyed to his residence in Wotton Underedge, but never spoke afterwards, and early the following morning he expired.  This tragical occurrence quite threw a gloom over the town, the unfortunate gentleman being most sincerely respected and beloved by everyone who knew him.

DISTRESSING CALAMITY. 

On the 13th inst. an inquest was held at South Cerney, before Joseph Mountain, Esq. one of the Coroners for this county, on the body of HORATIO JASPER, aged 22, who came to his death under the following melancholy circumstances:-  It appeared that Jasper, and a young man named PETERS, were on the Thursday evening visiting the servants of a gentleman named WEBB, who also resides at South Cerney and was absent from home.  In the course of the evening, something was said about gingerbread nuts, which the young woman said had been given to them on the Monday previous, but they playfully refsed to let them have any.  Upon their leaving the room shortly afterwards, the young men thought it would be a good joke if they could find the nuts and eat them before their return; they accordingly commenced a search, and finding in an open cupboard what they believed to be the nuts, they ate them.  These, however, were some gingerbread nuts that had been placed there by Mr WEBB, containing a quantity of deadly poison, and thus inconsiderately left open to anyone who might find them.  They were both shortly after taken ill, and though medical assistance was procured as soon as possible, poor Jasper died in less than six hours, and thus a widowed mother is left to mourn the untimely loss of her son, and another caution is afforded to those persons who so thoughtlessly endanger the lives of their fellow creatures.  Peters, we understand, is likely to do well.

INQUESTS.

Lately taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner:  At Eastington, on JAMES SAUNDERS, a child, under two years of age, who was scalded to death; at Chalford, on THOMAS FRANKLIN, and at the Bourne, on THOMAS SMITH, who were drowned in the Thames and Severn Canal; at Nympsfield, on DAVID BURFORD, who was killed by falling into a saw pit; and at Downend, on JOSEPH SCOTT, who was killed by the accidental discharge of his gun while rabbit shooting.  Verdicts of ACCIDENTAL DEATH were returned in all these cases.

   At Stroud, on THOMAS HOLMES, who was killed by a stick thrown at some snuff boxes, at Stonehouse fair.  Verdict, Homicide by misadventure, and the jury expressed their unanimous opinion that this sport is a dangerous one and ought to be checked.

   HANNAH SITLINGTON, Cook; burnt in fire; Accidental Death.

 

Nov 4.  INQUESTS.  Taken before Joseph Mountain, Esq. Coroner:  At Cirencester, on the body of GEORGE RAINBOW, who was killed by over exertion in loading a heavy cask, and died immediately.  At Stroud, on the body of WILLIAM SMITH, who was killed by coming into contact with a loaded truck.  At Frampton, on the body of JAMES HILL, who was drowned into the canal.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

   At South Cerney, on the body of THOMAS CAMBRAY, who was found dead in his dwelling house; at Lower Swell, on the body of SARAH WARING, who died suddenly; at Bourton on the Water, on the body of JOHN LEWIS, found in a barn when in a dying state.  Verdict in each case, Died by the Visitation of God.

   At Kempsford, on the body of JANE BRUCE, found dead in her chair; at Maugersbury, on the body of HERCULES HIDE, found dead in his dwelling house.  Verdict in each case, Found Dead.

   At Fairford Asylum, on the body of JOHN GAMMON, who died suddenly.  Verdict, Died of Apoplexy.

   At Bourton on the Water, on the body of WILLIAM COOK, who died from falls in going home from a harvest home.  Verdict accordingly.

 

Nov 11.  INQUESTS.  The following inquests have recently been taken before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner: - At Boddington, on the body of SARAH GREEN, aged 72.  The deceased had been out from home at her usual occupation all day, and not returning at the customary time, search was made for her and she was found dead in the road.  At Taynton, on the body of SARAH GIBBS, aged 22 years, who had retired to bed in very good health, and on the following morning was found dead in her bedroom.  Verdict in each case, Found Dead.

   At Hardwick, on the body of JOHN WOODYATT, aged 37, gamekeeper to TJL Baker, Esq. who was found drowned in the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal.  No evidence could be given as to how or by what means he got into the water, but no mark of violence appeared on his person, and no doubt was entertained that the unfortunate man accidentally fell into the canal, while proceeding on his rounds to look after the game.  Verdict, Found Drowned.

   At Little Whitcombe, on the body of GEORGE HOLBERT, aged 5 years; at Ruardean, on the body of MARY THOMPSON, aged 6 years; in the Forest of Dean, on the body of AMELIA MORGAN, aged 4 years; and at Kingsholm, on the body of ANN LAWRENCE, aged 4 1/2 years.  All these unfortunate little creatures met a premature and excruciating death by their clothes catching fire in the temporary absence of their parents.  Verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

Nov 18.  On Saturday morning last, the body of A MAN UNKNOWN, was found left by the tide at High water mark, in the River Severn, near to Aust Passage house, he was conveyed to the inn, and an inquisition on the case afterwards held before WJ Ellis, Esq.  The body was much decomposed and had apparently been in the water for a considerable time.  He was a stout man about five feet three inches, and had on a blue check suit, trowsers, blue worsted stockings, and a pair of nearly new laced boots.  In the absence of all knowledge or even suspicion of who he was, or how he came by his death, a verdict was returned of “Found Dead.”

INQUESTS have been held during the past week before Wm J Ellis, Esq.  at Bitton, on THOMAS HARVEY; and at Pucklechurch, on JAMES BRYANT, coal miners, who severally came to their deaths by imprudently neglecting to secure the roofing of the working in the coal pit where they were engaged at work, and which falling on them crushed them to death.  A verdict was returned in each case of Accidental Death.

   The infant child of THOMAS BEARD, the miller at Mr ORGAN’s grist mill, at Dursley, wandered from the sight of his mother a few days since, and falling into the mill pond was drowned before assistance could be rendered to it.

   The wife of a labouring man named AVERY, went on Tuesday last from her residence at Nibley, to purchase shop goods at Dursley, more than two miles, leaving two infant children the eldest four, and the youngest two, in the cottage by themselves.  On her return she discovered the house full of smoke, and that the little one had been playing with fire and was most dreadfully burnt; death put an end to its sufferings in a few hours afterwards.

MELANCHOLY CIRCUMSTANCE.  A very distressing event occurred at Hanham on Monday last.  Some hulking fellows, called “hobbeldehoys,” in the indulgence of their mischievous and cowardly pranks, hunted an interesting girl, about sixteen years of age, with squibs and crackers.  The poor girl, to escape from her persecutors, jumped over a hedge, and unfortunately fell into a deep well on the other side, from which, in a few minutes, she was taken out a corpse!

 

Nov 25.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner:  At Eastington, on the body of JOEL BALL, who had been for some time of weak mind, and having been missing and sought for, was found drowned in a pit, into which there was reason to suppose he had thrown himself; also, on OLIVER HOBBS, who was drowned in the Stroud Canal near the Junction.  Verdicts, Foud Drowned.

   At Forest Green, on JANE EVANS, a child about four years of age; and at Horsley, on EDWIN JENKINS, a child of seven years of age, who were both burnt to death in consequence of their clothes taking fire.  Verdicts of Accidental Death were returned; and in the former case the jury were unanimously of opinion that there was gross neglect on the part of the father.  Boards of Guardians would do well to make it generally known, that any guardian or parish officer must give an order for instant surgical attention in cases of accident; and that district surgeons must, or are expected, in such cases, to attend without an order, if no officer be at hand.

INQUESTS.

The following inquests have been taken during the present week, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  In the hundred of St Briavel’s, on the body of MARK HILEY, aged 28 years, who with others was descending Churchway coalpit, in the Forest of Dean, when a mass of earth fell from the side of the shaft on his head, and knocked him out of the skiff to the bottom of the pit, a distance of nearly 20 yards.  He was killed on the spot.  At Cheltenham, on the body of DANIEL HALEY, aged about six years, whose clothes caught fire in the absence of his friends, and he was burnt to death.  In the hundred of St Briavel’s, on the body of JOSEPH MOUNTJOY, aged five years: the unfortunate child was ascending the steps usual in miners’ cottages, leading from below to the bedroom, when he stepped and fell from the top upon its head on the stone floor near where his parents were sitting, and received such a severe fracture of the skull, and concussion of the brain, as to cause his death in a few days.  Verdict in each of the foregoing cases, Accidental Death.

   An inquest was also taken at Cheltenham, on the body of JOHN DEAN, a butcher, aged 36, who committed suicide under the following deplorable circmstances.  He was of very intemperate habits, and on Tuesday last he was fetched by his wife from a public house, where he was playing at cards.  He was very much excited, and threatened to destroy every one in the house, and himself afterwards; he took a knife from the mantel piece, but which his wife succeeded in getting from him, and he then went up stairs.  After a short time his wife and daughter went up to him and found him lying on the bed.  In the course of about half an hour, his daughter again went up, and discovered the wretched man suspended by the neck to a bed post.  She immediately gave an alarm, and he was cut down and surgical assistance promptly obtained.  Everything was done by Mr ADAMS and Dr DILLON to resucitate the body without avail.  A vein in the arm and neck was opened without procuring blood, and laryngotomy, at the suggestion of Dr Dillon, was performed, to supply the lungs with air, without effecting any good.  The unfortunate man has left a wife with several children in very embarrassed circumstances, although they commenced life with  considerable property.  The jury, after a careful examination of the evidence returned a verdict of Insanity.

 

Dec 16. INQUESTS.  The following inquests have been held during the present week before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner:  At Westbury, in the Union Workhouse, on the body of an illegitimate infant, named DINAH MURRALL.  The circumstances were somewhat singular, and at a time when the most absurd and false statements respecting paupers are circulated with so much mischievous industry, it mat be as well to detail the particulars of this inquiry with more minuteness than would otherwise be necessary.  The mother, also named DINAH MURRALL, was admitted into the workhouse some time ago, on the allegation of her parents that they were unable to support her, and from her being a complete idiot, she was totally unable to provide for her own subsistence; but nothing was said as to her being in a state of pregnancy, which was not suspected by the Matron or others till the time of her delivery, when she gave birth to a female child.  Such was the imbecility of her mind that she had not the smallest idea of the duties of a mother, and another female pauper was put to sleep in a bed alongside her’s, to teach her when to give the child suck and otherwise to attend to it.  A third female also slept in the same room, and things thus proceeded till the infant was five weeks old, when one of the females above alluded to observed the idiot make a motion as if of distress, and it was ascertained that the child was dead, but from what cause, unless the mother had accidentally lain upon it, could not be discovered.  There were no marks of violence upon the body.  The mother was brought before the coroner and jury, but nothing could be gathered from the unconscious creature, and a general impression of disgust was created against the person who could take advantage of such a wretched being.  The inquiry was very minute, both by the coroner and by the Board of Gaurdians, which had assembled the same day, and we are most happy in being enabled to state that nothing could exceed the humane attention which has been bestowed upon the poor woman ever since she has been an inmate of the workhouse, and more particularly since and at the time of her accouchement.  The father of the infant is not known.  The jury returned a verdict that the deceased was Found Dead

   An inquest was held by the same coroner at Kemerton, on the body of MARY PERRIN, aged 71.  It appeared that a female neighbour calling to visit the deceased, she found her sitting in her chair by the fire, with her head sunk on her bosom, and quite dead.  No grounds appeared for any other supposition than that the aged woman had been silently called to her final home by the decay of nature.  The jury returned a verdict of Found Dead.

   Another inquest was also held by Mr Cooke at Westbury, on the body of a little boy named JOHN VALLINDER, aged three years and a half, whose premature death was occasioned by his clothes taking fire in the temporary absence of the parents.  It is truly distressing to have so repeatedly to recount the fearful and fatal accidents to so many unfortunate children from this cause, and it is lamentable that their constant occurrence and the publicity given to them, do not produce a greater degree of carefulness to prevent such shocking results.  In this case the jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

 

Dec 23.  MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT.  On Thursday se’nnight as a poor man, named JOHN BIRT, was proceeding with a cart laden with coal from this city to Witcombe, he was, while riding on the vehicle, seized with a fit and fell down on the ground at Barnwood.  His wife, with the assistance of another person, was attempting to raise him up, when unfortunately the horse moved on, and one of the cart wheels passed over the wretched man’s leg, which was smashed in a dreadful manner.  He was removed to our Infirmary, but the injury he had received was too extensive to be remedied, and after receiving every care and attention that this unhappy situation required, he died on  Wednesday last.  An inquest was held on the body the same day before Mr Richard Coley, coroner, and a verdict returned of Accidental Death, with a deodand of 1s. on the wheel.

INQUESTS.  An inquest was held at Newent before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on the body of A WOMAN UNKNOWN, which was found in the canal on Monday last, under the following circumstances.  Some persons in a boat near the lock observed something arise in the water, and having obtained assistance dragged up the body of the deceased.  By direction of the Coroner, women were employed to wash and carefully examine the body, which appeared to be that of a woman about 20 years of age.  She seemed to have been a considerable time in the water, and to be a stranger to the neighbourhood.  She was dressed in a cotton gown and a black bonnet, and had a round snuff box in her bosom.  In the absence of any further information, the jury returned a verdict of Found Drowned.

   An inquest was also held before the same coroner, at Charlton Kings, on the body of ELIZABETH ANN BRADSHAW, a little girl between five and six years old; while putting a link on the crow, in the temporary absence of her mother, her clothes caught fire, and the unfortunate child was burnt so dreadfully as to cause her death on the following day.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

 

Dec 30.  INQUESTS.  Lately taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Painswick Slad, on the body of HESTER DAVIS, a woman of rather doubtful character, and well known in the neighbourhood by her maiden name of BUTCHER, who came by her death in the following singular and awful circumstances.  By the evidence it appeared that STEPHEN BATEMAN, a waggoner in the employ of Mr MATTHEWS, of Cotswold Farm, was directed by his master to take some sacks of corn, in a covered waggon with six horses, to Stroud, and on his return to being back a load of soot for the purpose of manure.  He was accompanied by a boy about twelve years of age.  While loading the soot in Silver street, he met with the deceased, who had been slightly known to him before, and invited her to partake of the beer with which himself and the sweeps who assisted him had been treated.  They afterwards drank some spirits together, and she agreed to accompany him part of the way home. He left Stroud between three and four o’clock in the afternoon, rather the worse for liquor, and the woman accompanied him.  When a little way on the road, she got into the waggon with Bateman, unobserved by the boy, who was left in charge of the horses, and they made seats for themselves by spreading the corn sacks over the surface of the soot.  About a mile from Stroud is a dangerous curve in the road, with no fencing to protect from a steep hollow of some depth to the right; in this hollow the waggon was seen, about four o’clock, by a person who happened to be passing by, completely upside down.  This person was called by Bateman, and he assisted him in releasing the horses, which were scarcely injured.  The son of Mr Matthews, on his way to Stroud, happening to come up just at the time, found the waggon and horses in the position described.  Bateman, on seeing him, appeared greatly agitated, and said he would destroy himself; and would have thrown himself into some water which is near the spot, but was forcibly withheld by the bystanders.  The horses were taken to Stroud, and Bateman was given in charge to the police for his negligence and misconduct in driving.  He said nothing whatever of any person being in the waggon.  On the following morning, Mr Matthews and several men attended for the purpose of righting the waggon, and, to their great horror and surprise, discovered the body of the unfortunate woman, lying against the covered part of the waggon, completely covered with soot, which must have suffocated her in a few moments.  The deceased had evidently been eating when the fatal accident occurred, as a piece of bread was found in her hand, and a small portion in her mouth.  After a very minute and patient investigation, which occupied the afternoon of Saturdat and the whole of Monday, the jury returned a verdict of Manslaughter against STEPHEN BATEMAN, who was thereupon committed for his trial at the next Assizes.

 

Ends   

 

1838, Gloucester Journal.

 

Jan 6.  OBITUARY.  On the 29th ult. at Clifton, aged 33 years, Lieut. THOMAS WALKER JONES, Madras European Regiment, sincerely and deeply regretted.  He was killed from the falling of his horse, in leaping over a chain placed across Clifton race course.

INQUESTS.  Taken before John G Ball, Esq. Coroner:  At Tetbury, on SARAH MORSE, who died from the effects of wounds inflicted by herself.  Verdict, Temporary Derangement.

   At Stroud, on ANN RUSS; at Forest Green, on HARRIET BOWN; and at Painswick, on GEORGE BLISS: three children, who were burnt to death in consequence of their clothes taking fire.  Verdicts, Accidental Death.

  At Woodchester, on JOSEPH EVANS, who, having been last seen alive in a state of intoxication on the public road, was, nearly a month afterwards, found drowned in a mill pond near.  Verdict, Found Drowned, &c.

   On Wednesday se’nnight, a fatal accident befel a labouring mn in the employ of Trotter, Thomas & Co., of Coleford and Monmouth.  The poor fellow, whose name was JEREMIAH SMITH, was at the time of the accident working at Vellet’s Land, in the neighbourhood of the Speech House, in the Forest of Dean, when a huge stone fell from a great height above him, and killed him on the spot.  The deceased was a sober and upright man, and he has left a wife and six children to bewail their loss.

INQUESTS.

An inquest was held at Winchcomb, before John Cooke, Esq. Coroner, on the body of CHARLES HENRY SMITH, a very respectable young man, about 26 years of age, and high constable for the hundred of Kiftsgate, in this county, whose premature death took place last Tuesday under the following circumstances.  He had been attending at the county sessions, and on his return home to Weston Subedege, he passed through Winchcomb turnpike gate apparently in good health; in ten minutes afterwards he was found lying in the road quite dead, his horse standing by him.  Mr BANKS, surgeon, was called and immediately attended, but life was totally extinct.  It appeared that Mr Smith sometime since ruptured a blood vessel in the chest, and was in consequence under the care of Dr  THOMPSON, of Stratford, and when found some blood issued from his mouth.  There was no mark of violence on his body, and the jury, which was very respectable, N. LLOYD, Esq. officiating as foreman, returned a verdict that the deceased was found dead, and that he died from the visitation of God.

   Another inquest was also held during the present week before the same Coroner, at Great Washbourne, on the body of an aged infirm woman named FRANCES LYES.  The unfortunate woman had been left alone in her house by her grand daughter, while the latter went to church on New Year’s day, and when the little girl returned she found her poor relative in a shallow well near her house, with the lowest part of her person in the water, and her head resting on top of the well.  She was quite dead.  A jug was found in the well, and there was every reason to believe that the deceased had gone to the place to fetch water and had fallen in, which was the more probable from her being subject to fainting fits.  It would seem she had recovered sufficiently to raise herself up by grasping the side of the bank, as in one of her hands was a quantity of grass.  The jury returned a verdict of Found dead.  

 

Jan 27.  SUICIDE.  On Thursday morning, Mr BROOKES, of Granby Place, Clifton, committed suicide, by cutting his throat with a penknife.  Medical assistance was immediately procured, and the wound sewed up.  As the deceased had previously exhibited symptoms of mental derangement, he was removed from his house the same day, with the intention of being conveyed to Dr BOMPASS’s Lunatic Asylum, but he expired on the road.

   EDWIN and SARAH SHACKELL, 32 and 34, Hatter, of Sherborne Street. Died of Suffocation; Richard Coley, Coroner; C CLUTTERBUCK, surgeon. 

    MARTHA BARFOOT, of Oxford Street.  Natural Death.  Jury & PM.  Mr CARDEN, surgeon.  Also R Coley.

 

Feb 3.  A sad accident occurred at the pin manufactory of Mr DOBSON, near Bristol, on Tuesday last, to a young female named SARAH TAYLOR, who was standing near to a part of the machinery, when the corner of her shawl was caught by it, and she was instantly drawn in, and before the engine could be stopped, she was dreadfully injured and fell dead on the floor.  A young woman standing near to Sarah Taylor was seized by her at the instant the machinery caught her, and was most providentially saved with some lacerations.

   A poor mendicant applied at a public house at Blakeney, on Tuesday week evening last, for some relief, and the landlord humanely gave him some warmed gin and beer, and a half pence to pay for a night’s lodgings; he was not seen again till the following Friday evening, when a servant to a farmer in the village, going into the hayloft, found him lying dead under the hay.  He is supposed to have been frozen to death.

    At poor man named WHITMORE met with his death in a most deplorable manner on Thursday last.  He was driving a waggon loaded with wood down a steep hill near Alderley, and having neglected to stop the horses at the top of the hill, he found it impossible to do so afterwards.  In attempting to hold back the horses he was thrown down, and one of the wheels passed over his head and killed him on the spot.  His son, a boy of ten years of age, was also knocked down, but most providentially fell in such a position that the waggon passed over without injuring him.

MELANCHOLY AND FATAL ACCIDENT.

On Saturday morning last a terrible catastrophe occurred at a coalpit in the Forest of Dean, called the Regulator Pit, by which four unfortunate men were instantaneously hurried into eternity.  The names of the sufferes are SAML. NIBLETT, aged 22, RICHD. SYMONDS, aged 16, GEORGE RODWAY, aged 21, and HEZEKIAH HARRIS, aged 11.  They were descending the above pit about six o’clock in the morning, and having gone down a few yards, the rope suddenly broke, (as it is supposedfrom a sudden jerk caused by its slipping, owing to the frost,) and they were precipitated with awful rapidity to the bottom of the pit, a perpendicular distance of about seventy yards.  Some persons went down to their assistance as soon as possible, when three of them were found to be quite dead, and the fourth in a state of insensibility, in which condition he remained about half an hour, when death put an end to his sufferings.  Inquests were taken upon the several bodies before John Cooke, Esq. and after a minute examination of the whole circumstances of the case, the jury returned verdicts of Accidental Death.

   The following inquests have also been taken before the same coroner:  At Woodmancote, on the body of ELIZABETH HOBBS, aged nine years, whose clothes caught fire while she was removing a tea kettle.  At Littledean, on the body of JOHN SAYSEL, an infant aged four months, who was most incautiously placed by his mother to lie down near the fire while she was absent for a few moments, during which time a coal fell on his clothes, and set them in a blaze.  And at Cheltenham, on the body of EDWARD JAMES PETERS, aged four years, whose clothes also caught fire in the temporary absence of his parents.  In each case a speedy and excruciating death was the result of the casualty, and the juries returned verdicts of Accidental Death.

   At Greet, on the body of SARAH CUMMINS, aged 45 years.  In this case her husband left the deceased in perfect health on his going to work in the morning, and on his return in a few hours he found her lying on the floor a lifeless corpse.  Verdict, Found dead.

   At Cheltenham, on the body of JOHN EVANS, aged 38 years.  The deceased was assisting to adjust a timber carriage, when his hand was accidentally wounded, which produced locked jaw and caused his death.  Verdict, Accidental Death.

INQUESTS.  Taken before J Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Fairford, on the body of WM. MAYRIS, a child, whose clothes took fire in the momentary absence of his parents.  At Down Ampney, on the body of DANIEL GARDNER, who was crushed to death by a threshing machine.  At Colesbourne, on the body of HUGH QUIN, who was killed by the kick of a horse.  At Leachlade, on the body of ELIZABETH GODDING, who was burnt to death in consequence of the boiling over of a composition, which she was preparing for cleaning furniture, and in which was a portion of turpentine.  At Kempsford, on the body of SARAH HEWER, a child, who was burnt to death by her clothes taking fire whilst she was attempting to take off the tea kettle.  At Quennington, on the body of JOHN MINCHIN, who was killed from falling down and a waggon going over him.  At Northleach, on the body of ARTHUR CLARRIDGE, who died in consequence of drinking boiling water from a tea kettle.  Verdict in each case, Accident.

   At Stow, on the body of JOHN BLIZZARD, for many years church warden of Stow, who fell down and expired in the street.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

    At Toddenham, on the body of WM. MANDER, who, in a fit of insanity, cut his throat with a razor.  Verdict accordingly.

   And, at Eastleach, on the body of ROBERT ANDREWS, who was found dead in bed, without any apparent cause.  Verdict, Found dead.

 

Feb 10.  MELANCHOLY AND FATAL ACCIDENT.  On Wednesday se’nnight, a little girl aged 9 years, named ELIZA ALLEN, daughter of a smith in Dockham, near this city, was so seriously burnt in consequence of her clothes taking fire as to occasion her death.  It appears that the poor child had no mother living, and her father had left her in the care of a servant girl named PREDDY, who, having occasion to go out, transferred the charge, as she states, to a woman (Mrs GWINNELL) residing in the neighbourhood.  The latter, however, denies that she received any instruction of the kind; but whether she did or not, she left her in the house by herself, while she (Gwinnell) went to a public house to look after her husband.  During the absence of these persons, the child put an iron on the fire, in which act her clothes ignited, and on the girl Preddy’s return she found her enveloped in flames.  These were extinguished as soon as possible, and the unfortunate suffered, dreadfully burned, was conveyed to the Infirmary, where she died on the following Sunday.  An inquest was held on the body at that institution on Tuesday last, before Mr Richard Coley, coroner, and a verdict returned of Accidental Death. [see Glos. Infirmary Records; Glos. Ref Lib 17547.]

INQUESTS.  Lately held by John G Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Bowbridge, on FREDERICK PURSER, a youth about 16 years of age, who having fallen into the canal, was drowned, notwithstanding most prompt and praiseworthy exertions were made to save him.  At Randwick, on HENRY PERKES, a fine boy, about three years of age, who was accidentally burnt to death.  At the same place, on ELIZABETH COOK, a child about five years old, who, owing to the gross and culpable neglect of her mother, was burnt to death.  At Stonehouse, on AUGUSTA POWELL, an interesting child about three years old, who died in consequence of drinking hot tea from a tea pot.  Verdict, in each case, Accidental Death.

At Walledge, on WILLIAM CHURCHES, who died in a state of great destitution, and without sufficient covering, and a verdict to that effect was returned. [No blame was attached to the parochial or other authority.]

   At Chalford, on THOMAS STICHELL, who hanged himself.  Verdict, Temporary Derangement.

 

Feb 17.  OBITUARY.  On the 2d inst. aged 12 years, HENRY JEFFERIES, eldest son of Mr HENRY WATTS, of Kingswood, in this county; this youth, on his return home from school at Mangotsfield, went sliding on the ice, when it broke, and he was drowned.

FATAL ACCIDENT.   An inquest was held at the Gloucester Infirmary on Thursday last, before Mr Rd. Coley, coroner, on the body of a labouring man named WILLIAM TURNER.  The deceased, on the 4th of January, was working a threshing machine for Mr ROBERT PASSEY, of Dymock, when the roller caught hold of his glove and dragged his arm into the drum of the machine, where it was smashed in the most horrible manner.  The unfortunate man was removed to the Infirmary, where amputation was performed, but the injury was too great for remedy by that means, and after lingering till Saturday last he died.  The jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death, with a deodand of one shilling on the machine.  [Glos. Infirmary Records, Glos. Ref Lib 17547; aged 30.]

CHARGE OF MURDER.  Of NICHOLAS TRILLEY AGED 60, by his wife. ELEANOR.  Inquest before JB Grindon at Bristol, verdict died of wounds, cause unknown.  Witnesses: REBECCA BRUNT; WM. BRUNT; BETSEY TRILLEY aged 9; THOMAS TRILLEY; ANN HELFORD, wife of Chair & Cabinet Maker; JOHN HAMLIN; PHOEBE NASH; ANNE PEDDER; ALFRED STEPHENS, surgical pupil at the Infirmary; JOHN THORN.

 

Feb 24.  On Saturday last an inquest was taken before Mr Richard Coley, on the body of CAROLINE JACKSON, neice of Mr KIRK, auctioneer, of this city, a young girl about 15 years of age, whose death had taken place in a rather sudden manner.  The deceased had complained of being unwell about two days previously to her death, and was given a little inoffensive medicine, which appeared to do her some good, but on the morning of Saturday, on Mrs Kirk going into her room, she found her kneeling by the side of the bed a corpse.  An examination of the body was made by Mr HEARNE, surgeon, who explained the appearance he observed, and stated his opinion that the death was the result of a natural cause, namely, cancer of the stomach, and that the medicine given to her had not affected her prejudicially in the least.  The jury returned a verdict of Died by the visitation of God.

INQUESTS have been taken during the last week, before WJ Ellis, Esq. Coroner, on children accidentally burnt to death, viz. at Marshfield, on ELIZABETH FLAY, aged nine years, whose clothes caught fire as she was attempting to take a tea kettle off the fire, and she was so dreadfully burnt as to cause her death in a few hours.  At Coleford, on JOHN BAYTON, aged three years, whose pinafore caught fire from a coal falling from the grate upon it, and which caused his death.  And at Bitton, on JAMES MORGAN, an infant who was also burnt to death by his clothes accidentally taking fire.  Verdict in each case Accidental Death.

   At Westerleigh, on FRANCIS BUCKLE, killed by falling from the side of a coalpit to the bottom.  And at Coleford, on MORGAN LEWIS, killed by logs of timber falling on him.  Verdicts, Accidental death.

   A Coroner’s inquest was held on Wednesday last before Joseph Mountain, Esq. and a respectable jury, on the body of THOMAS SHILL, a gardener, for many years in the emply of DEVEREUX BOWLY, Esq. of Chesterton House, Cirencester, who, while in the occupation of his duty suddenly fell and expired immediately.  Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

 

Mar 3.  MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT.  On Tuesday, the 20th ult. MARY PARSONS, a laundress, of Minchinhampton, in the 72d year of her age, was suddenly seized with a faintness in her own home where she was alone and fell upon the fire; her head came in contact with a piece of wood, and she continued there some time in a state of insensibility;`on recovering her consciousness, with extraordinary presence of mind, she poured water from a tea kettle over her burning clothes before she was able to rise; the fire however had made fatal progress, and the injury she received was so severe as to occasion her death on the third day.  An inquest was held by JG Ball and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.  She was a woman of exemplary piety, and remarkable for integrity of principle, humility and simplicity of manner, while she evinced a strength of mind and intelligence rarely to be found in persons in her station.  As a tribute to her character and memory, her remains were followed to the grave by several old and respectable inhabitants of the town, and many tears of genuine sorrow were shed by her neighbours as the mournful procession passed their doors.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before JG Ball, Esq. Coroner.  At Bisley, on GEORGE WILKINS; at Painswick, on MARTHA WEBB; and at Tunley, on GEO. GARDNER, children who were burnt to death, and at Longford, on JOHN CLOSE, a youth who was killed by machinery.  Verdicts of Accidental Death were returned, and a deodand of 2s. 6d. in the last case.

   At Rodborough, on LUKE HATTON, who died from cold and exposure during the recent inclement weather, and a verdict to that effect was returned.

 

Mar 10.  DREADFUL ACCIDENT. [see also Glos. Infirmary records; Glos. Ref Lib 17547/110] ANN ROBINSON, aged 6 or 7; ADB possible recovery.

   As a little boy was dipping some water from the Severn, at Priding, near Arlingham, on Wednesday last, he discovered the dead body of a child at the edge of the water; it was taken into a house adjoining and cleaned, when it was found to be the body of  a NEWLY BORN MALE CHILD, and appeared to have been in the water for some time.  There was a large fracture in the front of the head.  An inquest was subsequently held before WJ Ellis, Esq. and a verdict returned of Wilful Murder by some person or persons unknown.

   An inquest was held at Bream, in the parish of Newland, on Saturday last, before W. Joyner Ellis, Esq. on the body of Mr JAMES POWELL, who had gone to bed in perfect health at the house where he lodged, on the Wednesday preceding, and in the morning on his being called down to breakfast was discovered to be a corpse.  Verdict, Sudden death by the visitation of God.

   An inquest was also held a few days since before the same Coroner, at Frampton Cotterell, on JOHN RUSELL, hatter, who died from the effects of a cut on his throat, inflicted by himself.  Verdict, Derangement.

 

Mar 24.  FATAL ACCIDENT.  JOHN BUCK,  Irish seaman of Cork, of The Catherine.  City inquest RC.  ADD

   THOMAS HOBBS’s 2 eldest children, 13 and 11; of North Nibley, Lab., ADB

   

Mar 31.  A MAN UNKNOWN; City Workhouse, Richard Coley, coroner; verdict Exposure inclement weather.

 

Apr 7.  A poor man, apparently intoxicated with liquor, was found by the road side near Newland, on Friday evening last, by Mr HARPER, who resides near.  He had him conveyed to his barn, and humanely rendered him every assistance.  In the morning he had become very ill, and on an application, the parish officers sent a fly to convey him to a more comfortable house, and the surgeon to the Union, Mr MARSH, attended with praiseworthy promptness, but the poor man died before he could be removed.  He proved to be one GEORGE STERRY, from Longhope, and had been travelling about that part of the country as a maker of rakes.  On a post mortem examination, very considerable disease was discovered on his lungs, and the jury at an inquest subsequently held before WJ Ellis, Esq. returned a verdict that he had died from natural causes.

    A sad accident occurred on Tuesday morning last at the collieries at Coalpit Heath, belonging to Sir John Smyth, Bart.  Two men, named DANDO and HOLLISTER were descending one of the coalpits to their work, when the rope attached to the cart by which they were descending, suddenly broke and they were precipitated to the bottom.  DANDO was killed, and HOLLISTER received such dreadful injuries that there is little chance of his recovery.

INQUESTS.  On Saturday last an inquest was held at the Star Inn, in this city, before Mr Rd. Coley, coroner, on the body of a labouring man, aged 44, named EDWARD BATEMAN, found floating in the river opposite the Quay the same morning.  It was in a very decomposed state and had evidently been in the water a considerable period.  It was not known at the time who he was, but on enquiry it was ascertained that he belonged to South Cerney, which place he had left seven weeks ago in search of employment, and had not since been heard of, and no evidence could be procured as to the manner in which he fell into the water.  Verdict, Found Drowned.

    Another inquest was held the same day before the same coroner, at the Hit or Miss public house, Kimbrose lane, on the body of WILLIAM JAMES, aged 31, mate of the Grace, of Newport, lying in this port.  The deceased, it appeared, since his arrival in Gloucester, had led the intemperate sort of life too customary with sailors in port, and on Friday night he was in a state of intoxication.  On Saturday morning the captain requiring his services found him lying with his neck against the edge of a seat in the cabin, where he had evidently fallen, and supposing him to be asleep the captain went to arouse him and found him a corpse.  Verdict, Apoplexy.

INQUESTS.  Lately taken before Joseph Mountain, Esq. Coroner.  At Eastleach, on the body of SARAH HILL, found dead in bed; at Stow, on the body of A NEW BORN MALE CHILD, found in a privy.  Verdict in each case, Found dead.

   At Rendcombe, on the body of EDWARD BURROWS, who died in consequence of a fall from his horse; at Stratton, on the body of WILLIAM SMITH, who was killed  by a threshing machine; at Bibury, on the body of SUSAN COLLETT, who died from burning; at Coates, on the body of JOHN GARDNER, found drowned; at Leachlade, on the body of JOSEPH YATES, found drowned; at Leachlade, on the body of JOHN PINNOCK, killed by the kick of a horse; verdict in each case, Accidental Death.

 

to be completed