Newspaper Transcripts
Some Selected Reports from The Windsor and Eton Express
4th June 1842
Ascot Heath Races
A meeting of the trustees of the Grand Stand, consisting of the Earl of Rosslyn, Henry Seymour, Esq., Thomas Rawdon Ward, Esq., and Matthias Gilbertson, Esq., with the secretary, Mr.William Hibburd, assembled on Wednesday last at the Stand, on the heath, for the purpose of making the necessary preliminary arrangements for the ensuing week. The chair was taken by the Earl of Rosslyn. Some very considerable improvements have been effected in the vircinity of the Grand Stand, since last year, by Mr.Hibburd, also the clerk of the course. The rails which were in front of, and between, the Grand Stand and the course, have been removed, leaving an open space between the enclosed lawn in front of the stand and the course. This area will be kept entirely clear; the public not being permitted to remain at this spot, in order that there may be obstruction to the view of the spectators from the lawn, who have paid for admission to the stand. The following horses had arrived at Ascot up to yesterday evening:- The Marquis of Westminster's Satirist, William de Fortibus, and Auckland; the Duke of Bedford's Envoy; the Duke of Grafton's Eutopia; Mr.Phillimore's Finchley, Solomon, and Rochester; Col Peel's I'm-not-aware and Nicholas; Mr. Ord's Bee's Wing; Lord Exeter's Saros, Albica, Reversion, Revision, Bosphorous and Amina filly; Mr.Combes's The Nob and Rosslind; eight of the Duke of Richmond's and Lord G.Bentiack's; nine of John Scott's; nine of Brown's; and several others will arrive to-day, to-morrow, and Monday.
Besides these arrivals, there are fourteen horses at Scott's stables, on the heath, and ten at Death's. Every stable and box in the neighbourhood of Ascot has been engaged. Indeed a greater number of horses are expected than have been known to attend the meeting for many years past. The ground for the suttling booths, which was let by auction yesterday by order of the stewards, realised nearly fifty pounds more than it has ever yet done. The heath is nearly covered with buildings of all descriptions, and to describe the variety of architectural orders displayed, would be a difficult task. The Royal Stand has been fitted up in the usual manner for the reception of her Majesty, Prince Albert, and suite, who will attend the races with their distinguished visitors and suite. The Grand Stand is in its usual perfect order, and the old Betting Stand has been beautified for the occasion. The assemblage on the heath will no doubt be as large as usual, and for the convenience of the public who come from London, extra trains will run on the Great Western Railway. In closing our remarks relative to the races, we again caution the public with respect to the purchasing of their race cards and lists, and to remind them that "Oxley's Official Card" will be printed as usual, and no other printer has the authority of the stewards. We are requested to caution the inhabitants of Windsor, Eton, and the vicinity , against leaving their houses unoccupied for ever so short a period during the week of the races.
Theatre Royal, Windsor
It will be seen by our advertising columns that Mr.Dodd has announced his intention of opening the Theatre Royal during next week, it being the week of the Ascot Races. The bill of fare for Monday next is a very attractive one, and we hope the manager will be liberally supported by the residents of this neighbourhood and its visitors.
Yesterday morning her Royal Highness the Duchess of Kent arrived at Frogmore Lodge (from Clarence House), where her royal highness was received by Sir George Couper, Bart., the comptroller of her royal highness's household. The royal duchess, having inspected the improvements in progress there, returned to her residence, Clarence House, in the evening.
The installation of Major Wathen, one of the Military Knights of Windsor, upon his being raised from the lower to the upper foundation, in consequence of the recent decease of Captain Skelton, took place on Tuesday morning, in St.George's Chapel. The major (who was labouring under severe indisposition, and obliged to retire from the chapel, assisted by Lieut.Ragg, before the conclusion of the morning service) was introduced to the two junior knights present. Prayers were read by the Rev.Dr.Pack. The statutes of the order were afterwards read over to Major Wathen by the Rev.Mr.Markham, canon in residence.
Sudden Death
On Thursday night, about 10 o'clock, Mr.W.Dale, formerly in the employ of Mr.Blunt, saddler, &c., of this town, but latterly living upon his property, while returning home, fell down in a fit when near the New Rooms, nearly opposite the residence of his late master, who singularly enough saw him fall, and assisted him home, where in about a quarter of an hour he died. He had been unwell for some time past.
Singular Apprehension of a Deserter
A private named Henry Scond, in the 15th regiment of foot (now in garrison at Windsor) was permitted to leave, on furlough, before the regiment left Woolwich, to visit his friends at Reading. Having long exceeded his time of leave he was advertised in the usual way in the Hue and Cry, as a deserter. In the meantime, however, he gave himself up to a recruiting party at Reading, where he was then billeted, and the case reported to the commanding officer. Before a reply was received he again absconded, robbing the landlord of the house he was billeted upon of property to the value of between �5 and �6. From thence, it appeared, he went to Shrewsbury races, where he enlisted in the marines, receiving the usual bounty. He was from thence ordered to proceed to Portsmouth, there to join a division of that regiment; and while en route, his road leading through Windsor, he very unintentionally (never having been in this town before) passed by the infantry barracks in Sheet-street, when he was recognised by Serjeant Doyle, who happened to be standing at the barrack gate, and was immediately apprehended. It appears that the deserter was not aware that the 15th foot had left Woolwich for Windsor.
The New Hotel at Slough
The new hotel at Slough Station has been at length opened, and has even exceeded the anticipations of the public with regard to the magnificence of its appointments, which from general rumour, were so strongly entertained. The building itself is an extremely handsome and commodious one, and the establishment of servants is upon a scale unprecedented in this part of the country. This splendid building, prior to its being open to the public, was on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, allowed by the proprietor, Mr.Dotesio, to be inspected by vast numbers of the nobility, gentry, &c., who were admitted by tickets and shown over the various apartments. It is impossible to give a correct idea of the splendour and neatness combined of the place. Suffice it to say, that from Rome, Italy, and France, and even from China, contributions of the costliest furniture, especially in carpets, window and bed curtains, cabinets, &c., have been industriously sought for and procured. The fittings up are not only of the most costly description, but at the same time most convenient and affording every comfort that can be desired. The cuisine department is most ample, and every arrangement that the best caterer could make for the entertainment of guests has been made. The fittings up of the tap and tap-parlour are also of a very superior description, and the stable department has been equally well attended to. The flies, phaetons, and other carriages are uniform and neat, and in fact the whole establishment does infinite credit to the taste and skill of the proprietor.
Windsor Police - Monday
[Before W.Legh, Esq., and Robert Tebbott, Esq.]
Henry Hancock was charged with poaching in the Home Park.
John Orme, one of her Majesty's Park Keepers, stated that on the previous (Sunday) morning about 4 o'clock, he was on the watch in the Home Park, when he saw in the lower part of the Park, near a preserve just by the grotto, the prisoner and another man "beating the grass," not with sticks, but walking backwards and forwards. They had no dogs with them - Witness in a short time saw a hare jump about as if caught in a wire, when the prisoner got over the fence, stoop down and took up the hare, which he handed over the fence to his companion. They then walked away a short distance together, but presently separated, the man with the hare running off in one direction, and the prisoner running in the direction of the spot where the witness (who was unperceived by him) was watching. On his coming near enough, witness took him into custody. On searching the fence where the hare had been taken, witness found no less than six wires had been laid for hares. He produced them to the Magistrates, and they appeared amazingly strong.
Mr.Ingell who attended the examination, said the wires were strong enough to fasten a buck if it had got in one of them.
The witness to further questions, said he had never seen the prisoner before.
The prisoner said it was the first time he had ever had any thing to do with such things, and he should not have been in the Park then if he had not been asked to go.
The Magistrates enquired if the prisoner had ever been in custody before.
Mr.Gillman said he had not to his knowledge.
Magistrates said it was a very bad offence, and what made it worse was its commission on Sunday morning. They asked him if he could pay any fine.
The prisoner said he could not. He was now out of employ. He has worked as a labourer at Datchet, for Mr.Goodwin, Mr.Fowler, and Mr.Styles, and he had no hope of obtaining money from them to pay the fine.
The Magistrates said then he must be committed. They ordered him to pay a fine , including costs of 40s, and in default of payment to be committed to the House of Correction for a month.
Thursday
[Before John Clode, Esq.(Mayor), and Robert Blunt, Esq.]
The following licences were transferred this day (this being transfer day); that of the White Hart Inn, from Thos.Clarke to Joseph Johnson and that of the George the Fourth, from John Pickman to William Stone.
Jane Pearson and Mary Anne Lawrence, two girls of the town, neither of them apparently 18 years of age, were charged with being drunk and disorderly, and using the most disgusting language in the street, at half-past 8 o'clock in the morning.
The Magistrates remanded them, and on obtaining their promise to return to their own homes discharged them, telling the police to take them into custody if they should be found in Windsor again.
Mr.Hatch, corn chandler, of the water-side, attended to make a complaint against the continuance of the rope across the river upon which Signor Duvalla performs his aerial feats by crossing the river on it. Mr.Hatch said it was a great nuisance to him and others, as at every other performance a great number of the very scum of the town are brought close to their residences.
Mr.Blunt: Well, but has the man given notice that he is going to perform again ?
Mr.Hatch : Yes , on Saturday Evening.
Mr.Blunt : That is the 4th of June, when the rowing match and other things take place. Where does the rope go, for I suppose the performer has permission ?
Mr.Hatch: It extends from Mr.Mason's on one side the river, to Mr.Tighe's on the other side. But it is going to be removed to opposite my house.
Mr.Blunt : Does Mr.Mason complain of it too ?
Mr.Hatch : Yes he does; but be allows it as much to oblige Mr.Tighe as any thing else.
The Magistrates said they hoped that the performance on Saturday would be the last. However, if it were complained of by the inhabitants, they (as Magistrates) were bound to attend to the complaint, and they would consider what was best to be done.
Mr.Hatch thanked the Magistrates and retired.
George Thomas, a private in the 15th regt of foot, now stationed at Windsor, was charged by Mr.William Willer, landlord of the public house at the foot of Datchet-bridge, with assaulting him and breaking seven squares of glass in his tap-room window.
It appeared from the statement of Mr.Willer, corroborated by the testimony of a witness named Fred.Cox, that on Monday last the prisoner went into his house in a state of intoxication and grossly insulted the persons who were there, as well as the landlord himself. He was requested to leave the house but refused to do so, and Mr.Willer removed him out of the doors and shut him out. He kicked violently at the door for some time, and finding he could not obtain re-admission, he deliberately with his fists and feet smashed seven squares of glass in the tap-room window, to repair which it had cost 16s 9d, according to the bill which Mr.Willer handed in. After the damage had been done, Mr.Willer opened the door, when the prisoner struck him. They then had a scuffle, and the prisoner fell down, and was unable from drunkeness to rise. A policeman was sent for who went to the barracks, and a file of men were despatched to bring him home.
The prisoner denied breaking the window, which he asserted was done by two other men who saw him much ill-treated by some persons in the house.
The Magistrates assessed the damage at 14s 6d, which with 5s 6d costs, made one pound.
The prisoner said he was unable to pay it.
Mr.Blunt (to a Corporal who attended to watch the proceedings): Will not this man be put under stoppage to enable him to pay this money ?
Corporal : I believe not, Sir. I do not think the commanding officer will allow it.
Mr.Blunt : Well we will give him a fortnight to pay the money, which he may somehow raise by that time, and if it is not paid then he will be committed to prison for a fortnight to the House of Correction.
Vestry Minutes
On Thursday afternoon, a Vestry of the Parish of New Windsor, was held in the Vestry Room of the Church, for the purpose of making a Rate for the Relief of the Poor. The notice convening the meeting was signed by the Churchwardens and Overseers, but not one of the Churchwardens attended. The rate books (excepting the last one) were not forthcoming and Mr.Beenham, one of the Overseers, undertook to go for them, but he returned and said the book before the Vestry contained all the information that could be given.
Mr.Hill was proceeding to make some remark on the conduct of Mr.Towers, the Collector, in withholding the books; when
Mr.Sharman objected to any personal allusions being made. He said that Mr.Towers was not the Vestry Clerk, and was not responsible for the books. He (Mr.S) wished the business they had to do to be got through with as little personal acrimony as possible [Hear, hear]. It was for the Overseers who had called them together to state what it was they wanted.
Mr.Hollis, Senr. Proposed that Mr.Sharman take the Chair.
Mr.Sharman declined because he was not an official person.
Mr.Bate[?], one of the Overseers, was then called to the Chair.
Mr.Goodchild said they had met to make a rate. He wished to know what rate was to be asked for ?
The Chairman said a shilling one.
Mr.Hollis desired to know whether the last rate had been collected ?
Mr.Beenham, an Overseer, said that Mr.Towers had told him that many parties had been summoned for the rates, and not above �60 was now uncollected, most of which was owing by poor persons.
Mr.Hollis thought they ought to have the books before them.
Mr.Beenham: This shows the necessity of appointing a Vestry Clerk.
Here a confused sort of conversation ensued, some persons saying that the summonses for poor rates occupied the Magistrates a long time on Monday, and others complaining of partiality in summoning parties, which was on the other hand denied.
Mr.Hopkins said he could bear testimony to the greater number of the persons now owing rates to be poor, but others ought to have been summoned long ago. By the Act of Parliament they could not make a rate until the previous rate was collected, and while there were arrears, Mr.Towers had not done his duty. He alluded especially to the rating of the gas pipes and water pipes, which had been rated but not collected, nor had the parties been summoned for the rates.
Mr.Hollis : If Mr.Towers has not collected those rates he is no longer fit for his office.
Mr.Hill inquired what was wanted by the Board of Guardians.
The Overseers said that �500 had been demanded from them when they came into office, and �300 was wanted, making �800 which must be paid by the 8th of the present month. Now there was but �60 uncollected, and most of that was due from very poor persons.
Mr.Hollis said the main question was, whether the gas property was to be placed on the rate or not.
Mr.Sharman thought the Vestry ought to go on for the purpose for which they were assembled, which was to make a rate.
Mr.Hopkins said they ought to have the books in order to ascertain which persons had been summoned and who had not as well as who had been excused. The Gas Company had been excused, because they had been rated and they had not paid.
Considerable confusion here arose from many persons speaking at once. This occurred frequently in the course of the conversation (for discussion it could not be called) which rendered it difficult for any reporter to take notes of the proceedings. At length
The Chairman proposed a rate of one shilling in the pound, which was seconded by Mr.Newman.
Several persons declared that this was a very unusual course.
Mr.Sharman said as the rate was at the recommendation of the Overseers, and seeing the demand that was made by the Guardians, he thought it necessary that the rate should be made. He should therefore propose it; which was seconded
Some objections were here made, on which
Mr.Sharman said he did not wish to see the Overseers personally inconvenienced. The parishioners had ample opportunities for calling a Vestry to consider what they considered were grievances, but all they had now to do was to make a rate.
A Parishioner enquired what a shilling rate would come to ?
Mr.Beenham said about �800, but the Overseers would have demands upon them. He hoped, however, that afterwards they would be able to do with a sixpenny rate.
Mr.Hopkins moved an amendment, that no rate be made until the books were produced, in order that they might know the position they were in.
The amendment was seconded.
Mr.Sharman said that was not the time to consider what had been heretofore done, but what should be done in future. The book then before them contained all the information that was necessary for present purposes and it would be for the parishioners who felt aggrieved to adopt such measures as they pleased. The overseers said there was only about �60 uncollected, and therefore they had all the information they could get.
A lengthened and desultory conversation here took place in the course of which it was admitted that the gas company's pipes and the water pipes were not rated in the present book, although they had before been rated at the sum of �200 and �100; and a letter was read from the Lord Chamberlain stating in reference to the rating of Frogmore Lodge, that that property appertained to the Castle and involved a question of privilege. Several persons also complained loudly that the parish books were not forthcoming.
Mr.Sharman said the guardians required a certain amount and no sufficient cause had been shown why a rate should not be made. The parishioners should not place the overseers in the awkward predicament which a refusal of a rate would place them in.
A parishioner thought there was some partiality shown in regard to the gas company, who ought to give some explanation why they were to be exempted.
Mr.Hopkins said he could explain that, for the magistrates themselves were shareholders, but they had been the means of summoning other persons for non-payment of their rates.
A Parishioner - Has not the gas or water companies a friend here to plead for them (laughter and cries of "no")!
Mr.Hopkins - The orders of the commissioners are that no rate should be levied until the previous rate be collected.
Mr.Sharman - But here is an order of the board of guardians that the overseers pay �800, by the 8th instant, or they will in default make the overseers personally responsible.
Mr.Beenham - They tell us they will issue a warrant of distress if it is not paid.
After some further discussion the rate was agreed to with the understanding that the water and gas works should be placed on the rate. The rate book was then gone through which occupied a considerable time, and the rate was corrected where it was deemed necessary, after which the vestry broke up.
Public Meeting - Attempt to Assassinate the Queen
Yesterday in pursuance of a requisition addressed to the Mayor, a public meeting was held in the Town-hall of this town, for the purpose of agreeing to addresses of congratulations at the escape of her Majesty from the late traitorous attempt of an assassin upon her life.
The meeting was but thinly attended. Among those present we observed besides the Mayor, the Reverends Isaac Gosset, Stephen Hawtrey, John Stoughton, and Mr.Lillicrop, Messrs. Blunt, Legh, Banister, and Sir John Chapman, magistrates for the borough, Dr.Fergusson, Dr.Stanford, and several members of the town council.
The Mayor on taking the chair read the requisition which had been addressed to him to call the meeting, which he said was signed by upwards of fifty of the inhabitants of the town, and, in consequence of which, he had taken the earliest opportunity of calling them together.
The Rev.Isaac.Gosset said he was the first who signed the requisition , he begged leave to make a few observations previous to his proposing that a humble, dutiful, and loyal address be presented to her Majesty on her escape. He was sure there could be but one feeling in all their minds of abhorrence of the crime of an attempt on the Queen's life, and of joy and congratulation at her Majesty's escape [applause]. That any individual could be found who would dare to raise his hand against the person of our beloved Monarch was to be deeply deplored, and yet it was so, but all loyal subjects must feel grateful to Almighty God for having shielded her from the danger. Her Majesty's conduct on this occasion had endeared her more and more to her people, for as was stated by Lord Portman in the House of Lords, apprehending there might be danger she had forbidden the attendance of her ladies on the day of the attempt, thus showing a high courage and a bearing that entitled her to the greatest credit [applause]. Throughout the whole kingdom there was exhibited but on feeling of joy at her Majesty's escape, and the inhabitants of Windsor should not be the last to come forward with their congratulations. Living so near to the Castle and having so frequently the happiness of seeing her Majesty among them, it was not only a pleasure to them but it was their duty to tender her Majesty their congratulations on her escape. He therefore proposed that an address be presented to her Majesty.
Mr.Blunt seconded the motion , which was put to the meeting and carried unanimously.
Mr.Gosset then read the following Address, and moved that it be agreed to.
"To the Queen's Most Excellent Majesty
"May it please your Majesty,
"We, the Mayor, Vicar, and other Inhabitants of the Borough of New Windsor, beg leave to approach you Majesty with sentiments of the most loyal and devoted attachment, and with feelings of warmest congratulations on your Majesty's safety
"We would express our deep abhorrence of the late treasonable attempt on your Majesty's sacred person, and our sincere and heartfelt joy at your Majesty's happy escape from imminent danger.
"We acknowledge with humble gratitude the merciful interposition of Almighty God in preserving your Majesty in warding off the assassin's attack.
"Deeply sensible of the benign influence of your Majesty's sway and of the blessings we so freely enjoy, we would unite in fervent and devoted prayer that the same Divine Providence may continue to watch over your Majesty's life, and guard you from every evil.
"And that your Majesty will long dispense and enjoy every blessing in the earnest wish of your Majesty's most faithful and loyal subjects."
Dr.Stanford seconded the Address, which was unanimously adopted amidst considerable cheering.
Mr.Clarke said as they had agreed to the Address to the Queen, it naturally followed that they should also address Prince Albert, than whom there was no person in her Majesty's dominions who could not feel more powerfully the attack which they had met to deplore. The conduct of his Royal Highness to the Queen and towards the nation at large , had entitled him to the gratitude of the people of this country [Cheers]. He (Mr.C.) was certain there was scarcely one person in the Kingdom but deplored this recent - this second recent attempt on her Majesty's life [Cheers]. When they looked at the age and sex of their Sovereign it was impossible not to feel deeply indignant that such an attempt should have been made [Cheers]. It was much to be deplored that there was to be found a person in these dominions, under any circumstances, to attempt to commit so foul and malignant a crime [Cheers]. Mr.Clarke concluded by moving that an Address be present to his Royal Highness Prince Albert.
Mr.Jesse in seconding the motion , said he could not bear his testimony in the conduct of his Royal Highness, who, since he arrived in this country had given the greatest satisfaction to the people.
The motion was carried unanimously
Mr.Clarke proposed that the following Address to his Royal Highness be adopted.
"To His Royal Highness the Prince Albert,
"May it please your Royal Highness,
"We, her Majesty's dutiful and loyal subjects the Mayor, Vicar, and other inhabitants of the borough of New Windsor, beg to offer to your royal highness the expression of our sincere congratulation on the providential escape of her Majesty from the imminent peril in which she has been recently placed, by the atrocious attack of an assassin upon her sacred person.
"We are deeply grateful to an all kind Providence for this additional mercy vouchsafed to the nation, and we fervently hope that her Majesty may be long spared to reign over a loyal and devoted people."
Mr.Jesse seconded the Address, which was agreed to.
The Rev.S.Hawtrey said there was another personage whom it was usual to unite with her Majesty and Prince Albert on such occasions, when they were about offering their thanks to Almighty God for vouchsafing His mercy to her Majesty - he alluded to the Mother of the Queen [Cheers]. He begged to propose an Address to the Duchess of Kent, expressive of their gratitude to God that the atrocious attack on her Majesty, had, by the interposition of Divine Providence been abortive [Cheers].
Dr.Fergusson seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously.
The Rev.Mr.Hawtrey then proposed, and Dr.Fergusson seconded, the adoption of the following Address to the Duchess of Kent.
"To Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Kent.
"May it please your Royal Highness,
"We, her Majesty's dutiful and loyal subjects the Mayor, Vicar, and other inhabitants of the borough of New Windsor, beg to offer to your Royal Highness the expression of our sincere congratulations on the providential escape of her Majesty from the imminent peril in which she has been recently placed, by the atrocious attack of an assassin upon her sacred person.
"We are deeply grateful to an all kind Providence for this additional mercy vouchsafed to the nation, and we fervently hope that her Majesty may be long spared to reign over a loyal and devoted people."
Dr.Fergusson seconded the motion which was agreed to.
Mr.Blunt moved, and Dr.Stanford seconded a vote of thanks to the Mayor for his readiness in calling the meeting, which was also carried.
The Mayor returned thanks, and said he always considered it the duty of the Mayor to attend to the requisitions of the Inhabitants [Cheers].
The Rev.John Stoughton said before the meeting broke up he wished to offer a suggestion, which, although not immediately connected with the present proceedings, was in some measure connected with them. It was well known that her Royal Highness the Duchess of Kent was about to take up her residence at Frogmore, and he thought that on that occasion they should present an address to her royal highness. He thought, however, that it would be necessary to call another meeting for that purpose.
Several other gentlemen also were of opinion that it might be the subject of another meeting.
The meeting then broke up.
Staines, Saturday, June 4.
A lad aged 15, named George Gardiner, was charged before the bench at Feltham, consisting of Charles Devon, Esq., D.T.Carpenter, Esq., and R.Sulivan, Esq., with embezzling the sum of ten shillings and sixpence, received for, and on account of his employers, Messrs.Skedmue and John Ashby, wharfingers, of this town. It appeared in evidence that on the 24th of May the prisoner was sent with a stone sink, that had been purchased of his employers, to a Mr.Rivers, of Egham, a bill duly receipted was also given to him; he received the money and appropriated it to his own use. It also transpired that the prisoner although young in years was old in crime, he having been discharged from the services of Messrs.Ashby some time previous for robbing them; and also that there was another charge of embezzling money from another person, in the parish of Stanwell. He was committed to Newgate to take his trial.
On Wednesday Charles Goldhawk was charged before R.Sulivan, Esq., with being drunk and disorderly in this parish, and was fined 5s, which fine was paid.
Wm.Jones was charged with stealing one bottle of port wine, the property of Messrs.Ashby, wine merchants, of this town. It appeared in evidence that the prosecutors had missed a considerable quantity of wine from their celler, and it was discovered that the bin, from which the wine was stolen, was under a hay loft to which the prisoner had access; a hole had been made in the ceiling of the loft, immediately over the bin, sufficiently large to admit a man's arm. Information was given to the police, and in consequence the prisoner was detected on Tuesday in the act of stealing a bottle, and was in the act of drinking it. After the prisoners apprehension the loft was searched, and upwards of nine dozen of empty port wine bottles, of the same description and marks of the bottle stolen, were found by the police constable in different parts of the loft. The prisoner was fully committed to take his trial; but is strongly suspected that others are more deeply implicated, and upon whose conduct a strict watch will be kept. It being too late in the evening to send the prisoner to London then, he was detained in the station-house, where about one o'clock the same night he made a most desperate attempt at suicide, but fortunately was discovered before life was extinct. Between 12 and 1 o'clock the police constable, 48 T, James Thorn, on reserve duty at the station-house, heard a strange noise proceeding from the cell where the prisoner was confined, and upon looking in he discovered the prisoner struggling, apparently
in the agonies of death, having tied his neck-handkerchief round his neck with a running noose, and secured the other end to some pipes, which are attached to a warming apparatus for the purpose of warming the cells. The pipes are not more than four feet from the floor. The constable lost no time in giving the alarm and cutting him down. Serjeant Burton, who was near the spot, came and found the prisoner almost insensible , and bleeding at the nose. Mr.Simpson, surgeon of this town, was sent for by the Serjeant, and attended immediately, and after a while bled the prisoner, and administered medicine. The prisoner was exceedingly weak, but with attention was so recovered as to be removed to Newgate at twelve o'clock on Thursday. The impression is, that in the first instance the prisoner did not really intend to commit suicide, but had overstretched his intention; and the probability is that had not the constable (to whom credit is due for his promptness) have arrived at the moment, his life would have been sacrificed.
Henry Young was charged with breaking and entering the dwelling house of William Pullom, a labouring man, residing in Bedfont, and stealing therefrom some provisions and a silver watch. The prisoner, it appeared, was seen to enter, and leave the premises with a bundle supposed to contain the stolen property. He was apprehended shortly afterwards, but none of the property has yet been found. A knife found on the prisoners person has been compared with the marks made in the window where the entry was effected, and found to correspond, in addition to the prisoner being clearly identified as being the person seen to enter and leave the premises. He was remanded to the New Prison, Clerkenwell, until Monday next.
Uxbridge, Saturday June 4.
An inquest was held on Thursday at the Chequers, in this town, by T.Wakley, Esq., M.P., on the body of Mrs.Rebecca Stephens, of Windsor-street, who was found dead in her bed on Monday morning last. Deceased had been unwell some time past, but had retired the previous night in her usual health, and was found by her daughter in the morning dead. Verdict, "Found Dead."
Singing Classes
Arrangements have been entered into by the Committee of the Public Rooms of this town, with Mr.Sols, to deliver a Course of Sixteen Lectures on Singing, according to the Mainzerian System, the last of which took place on Tuesday Evening last, and it is most sanguinely expected will answer the intended purpose. The room was nearly filled, some hundreds being present, and the effect was most striking, though but a few notes were practised upon.
The Annual Meeting of the Uxbridge Volunteer Cavalry, commenced for duty on Saturday last, to continue eight days, under the command of Capt.H. De Burgh and C.N.Newdegate, Esq. The muster has been pretty full during the week. A Serjeant of the Royal Horse Guards, from Windsor, attends daily to put them through their evolutions. A horsed London Brass Band has been hired for the week, and creates a lively sensation.
A Collection, after a most impressive discourse by the Rev.C.P.Price, at the Uxbridge Church, on Sunday morning and evening last, in aid of the distressed in the manufacturing districts, according to the Queen's letter to the Clergy, was made, amounting to upwards of �13.
Marlow, Saturday, June 4.
The animosities and differences which the late election and its scrutiny have produced in this town at length have aroused the more reflecting and considerate electors to imitate those of Brighton, in preparing a petition to Parliament to disfranchise the borough. This seems to be the only effectual method of putting a stop to perjury, bribery, notices to quit, and the numerous other evils which particular privileges confer upon the ill-fated inhabitants of petty boroughs.
The late overseers of the poor of this parish were last week summoned before the bench of magistrates to shew cause why they neglected to pay a sum of money demanded of them by the Wycombe Board of Guardians, but as no magistrates were in attendance the case was postponed.
Over the shop of a dashing barber in an obscure part of this town may be seen "Ladies and Gentlemen's hair cut and dressed wholesale and retail." Is not this barbarism to perfection ?
Faringdon, Saturday June 4.
At a meeting of the Council of the Royal College of Physicians in London on the 27th ult., Sir Henry Halford, Bart., president, Mr.George Mantell of this town, member of the Royal College of Surgeons in London, was, after the usual examinations, presented with the diploma, and admitted a member of the Royal College of Physicians in London.
Odd Fellows Society
At a meeting held at the Dragon Inn on Wednesday the 1st instant, it was determined that a lodge of this valuable institution should be formed in this town; the names of many respectable inhabitants were enrolled as members, and several of the neighbouring gentlemen have intimated there desire to support it. It is expected that at the meeting of Monday next, arrangements will be agreed on for the reception of a delegate from the Oxford lodge, of which this is intended to be a branch.