JUNE

JUNE 1838 NEWS OF THE DAY

JUNE 1

NOTICE

DEFIANCE COACH

In consequence of Mr. Stevens, of Truro, having withdrawn his Horses from the above Coach to join the Regulator party, the Proprietors of the DEFIANCE beg to inform their Friends and the Public in general, that they have made arrangements with Mr. Morris, of the WHITE HART INN, Truro, for the Coach to stop at his house. They now beg to state the DEFIANCE will commence calling at the White Hart, on Wednesday, June 6^th, where every attention will be paid to Passengers.

The DEFIANCE will not leave the GREEN BANK HOTEL, Falmouth, until Seven o’clock, instead of a Quarter before Six.

STEPHENS, SELLEY, FRADD, HUXHAM, and CO, Proprietors May 31^st, 1838

TIN BOUNDS

Notice is hereby given to all persons who may claim any Part or Share in the Dues of TIN, rose in BREEDWELL or FATWORK BOUNDS, in DOWGAS DOWNS, in the Parish of St. Stephens in Branwell, that unless they put in their claim for each Part or Share, to Mr. RICHARD GEACH, of St. Stephens aforesaid, before the 11^th day of June next ensuing, that the whole dues now in hand will be claimed by him, as well as any

which may be hereafter due. Dated May 24, 1838.

LOCAL NEWS

- Truro Petty Sessions

A petty sessions was held on Friday last at the town-hall, before the Mayor, Capt. Kempe, and Capt. Pengelley. A great number of persons were present, owing to its being generally believed that a charge arising out of the recent church-rate seizure would be preferred against several individuals, for the destruction of property on the day of sale. The Mayor commenced the business of the day by reading the names of twelve persons who had been summoned to answer the complaint of William J. Oke, the auctioneer, who was employed to effect the sale of the goods recently distrained in this town for Church-rates. Oke, the complainant, having been called, and not answering, the summonses were dismissed. [What followed was an explanation of actions by the Mayor and Magistrates, as well as the auctioneer.]

- Election of Auditor

On Saturday last, an election for an auditor, in the room of Mr. Jennings, lately deceased, took place at the Town Hall, Truro, when Mr. Hender was elected on the part of the Tories, it being understood that no opposition should be offered by the Liberals. It was found, however, when Mr. Hender proceeded to qualify, yesterday, that his qualification was deficient. There will, consequently, be a new election, and this, we understand, will take place on Tuesday next.

- The Red Indians

The grand commercial entertainments which have been lately undertaken with so much success, bid fair to make us as well acquainted with the wonders of the new world, as we have long been familiar with objects of interest or of speculation from the continent of the old. The steamer “Sirus”, the first that ever crossed the Atlantic, brought over five Indian warriors, as they are called, who were landed at Falmouth, for exhibition throughout England. These gentry paid a visit to this town on Friday last, and were shown at the Assembly-rooms; but, as an entertainment, or as a gratification of curiosity, we never before saw anything so meager. They dissipated all our romantic notions of the native Indian tribes. The “warriors” were three men and two boys, copper-coloured, but so highly painted as to render it almost impossible to distinguish the character of their features. On their first appearance they walked several times in a circle at the head of the room with a blanket over each, to show how they dressed in winter. They then appeared in their native costume, and danced the Indian war dance, keeping up a kind of howl which continually increased during the ceremony. One of the party next showed the way in which the Indians carried their burdens, which was similar to that in which Christian, in the Pilgrim’s Progress, is represented, with the load fastened to his back. Having walked around the room several times, the Indian put down his bundle and shot at a loop with his bow and arrow, to explain the manner in which his countrymen used these weapons. “These arrows”, said the gentleman who attended for the purpose of explaining what they were showing, “are what they do their hunting with.” If, however, the Indians were as unsuccessful in their native wilds, as this one was at a distance of only two or three paces, neither man nor beast would have much to fear from their superiority in the use of that weapon. He made three attempts to fix his arrow in the loop, and was unsuccessful in all. The Indian then sat on his bundle, and smoked a native pipe, till another came behind him and knocked him down, with a tomahawk, and showed how they scalped their enemies. The mode of carrying their children is similar to that adopted by the lower classes of Irish women, from some of whom, perhaps, they received a person while staying in New York.

- Salvage

A salvage case of some importance was decided at the town-hall, Falmouth, on Monday se’nnight, by the sitting magistrates. The case was as follows: - Early in the morning of the 26^th ult., the brig “Rose”, Capt. Rennick, ran on the Manacle rock, and the captain, being ignorant of the coast, fired signals of distress. These being heard by three men of the Coast Guard, named Searle, Deason, and Preston, they, at the risk of their lives, proceeded on board and immediately took active measures to get her off the rocks, but before they had executed any of their plans, a pilot boarded the vessel and took charge of her, and with their assistance relieved her from her perilous position, and brought her into Falmouth harbour. The questions now were, whether these men had taken the proper steps to get off the vessel, and whether Searle had taken charge of the vessel before the pilot came on board, both of which the captain endeavoured to deny; but it appeared on cross-examination of the captain’s witnesses, that the same means were about to be tried by these men as were eventually adopted by the pilot; and that Searle had charge of the vessel before the pilot boarded her, the captain in his cross-examination satisfactorily proved. The amount offered by the agents for the vessel, for the services rendered, was 10[xx], and the sum claimed by the salvors was 200/., being two per cent on the value of both cargo and vessel, and after three days’ hearing the magistrates decided an award of 78/ to Searle, Deason, and Preston, as a remuneration for their activity, resolution, and services, exclusive of the costs of the hearing and award.

- Tee-totalism

On Tuesday evening, the 22^nd ult., a public meeting of the total abstinence society was held in the Methodist Chapel, St. Ives, when Mr. Teare, the tee-total champion, and Mr. Blake, of Exeter, delivered addresses to a large and attentive audience. The extraordinary good effected by the operation of this society is very evident at this trying moment, for scarcely a drunken man, belonging to the town, is to be found, and the bands of musicians belonging to the two candidates having expressed a wish to attend the tee-total meeting, the worthy gentlemen kindly dispensed with their services for two hours and a half, in order to give them an opportunity of being gratified.

- Wesleyan District Meeting

The annual meeting of the Wesleyan preachers of the Cornwall District was held here during the week before last, when thirty three Ministers attended. The sittings commenced on Tuesday, the 15^th ultimo, and terminated on the Thursday following. A delightful spirit of unity and affection characterized all the proceedings, and a hallowed joy appeared to pervade every breast. The financial affairs of the circuits proved to be highly encouraging, there being an increase in all the collections as compared with those of last year, and the number of members on trial was reported to be upwards of eleven hundred. The religious services were excellently attended, and the morning congregations at five o’clock were larger than the preachers present recollected to have ever seen at that early hour. The great powers with which the word was preached, and the abundant spiritual influence which accompanied it, will, we confidently anticipate, be followed by the happiest results. Many of the members of the society and of the congregations, desiring to testify their strong attachment to the preachers, and to enjoy more of their company, invited them to tea in the school-room. Although the time allowed for preparation was but a few brief hours, the room was very tastefully fitted up under the direction of Mr. Smith, the circuit steward, and about 200 sat down to partake of the “cup which cheers but not inebriates.” After this social repast, prayer was offered up, and the meeting was addressed by the Rev. Messrs. Hobson, Wood, Gartside, and Baker, and by Mr. Smith, and the whole was concluded by singing and prayer. Whether we consider the deep interest excited by the addresses, or the powerful impression which their delivery produced, it was believed by those present that a more delightful and profitable opportunity has seldom, if ever, been enjoyed. It was a season never to be forgotten in Camborne. The preachers were highly gratified with the unbounded kindness and true Cornish hospitality of their friends, and they asserted that both for social and religious enjoyment it was the best district meeting they ever attended.

- An Abstract and Analysis of the Commissioner’s Report on the Endowed Charities of Cornwall – presented to the Statistical Society, London, by R. W. W. Pendarves, Esq., M.P.

Cornwall is one of the few counties of which the entire charities have been recently inquired into and reported upon; it was, therefore, selected from the General Report, for the purpose of exhibiting one complete account. The total number of endowed charities in Cornwall is 240, and their aggregate annual income L3,661.2s.9d. This revenue is distributed among 120, out of 205 parishes, of which the county consists; giving an average of 2 charities and about L30.10s. to each parish. The respective incomes of these charities, which vary in amount, from L243 the highest, to 2s.6d the lowest, are as follows:

9 from…L 100 and under…L 200

9………….. 50…………….…100

22………….20…………….…..50

24…………10…………………20

62…………..5…………………10

88…………..1…………………..5

26………….2s.6d……………….1

The income is thus applied: -

Schools, and other purposes connected with education L982 . 12 . 02
Poor not receiving parish relief…………………………..510 . 04 . 03
Poor generally…………………………………………….523 . 07 . 00
Alms-houses………………………………………………434 . 18 . 10
Horwell’s Charity, for keeping and teaching 6 boys……..147 . 17 . 04
Apprenticing ……………………………………………….52 00 . 00
Clergymen, for preaching sermons on particular days…….41 . 12 . 04
Repairs of Churches, and in aid of church-rates………….608 . 04 . 00
Poor-rates………………………………………………….352 . 02 . 06
Miscellaneous ………………………………………………..8 . 04 . 03

Total 3,661. 02. 09

A series of particular remarks were given in explanation. The following are the more important: -

1. The number of schools supported wholly or in part by the L982.12.2, and in which

the instruction is given free, either to all or a part of the scholars, is about 12;

including a free school at Madron, where 60 boys are taught reading, writing, and

arithmetic; a school at East Looe, where 50 boys receive the same kind of

instruction; and a grammar school at Penzance, of which the number of scholars is

not reported. The remaining portion of the sum is divided among the inferior male

and female teachers in 34 parishes of the county, who teach a little writing and

arithmetic, but often reading only.

By poor not receiving parish relief, is meant such indigent persons as do not

receive permanent aid from the poor-rates. This L510 is expended in 3 parishes in bread, in others in flour, beef, and clothing.

the number of poor who are wholly or in part maintained in alms-houses by the sum of L434.18s 10d, is 63.

A part of this L 608 was left for the poor, but the whole is applied to church expenses. [their emphasis, as shown]

By the payment of this L352 to the poor-rates, the poor not receiving parish relief are deprived of the money; it being an erroneous supposition prevalent in this, and every other county in England, that charities bequeathed in general terms for the relief of the poor, are applicable in aid of parish rates; and in several counties the amount of charity money thus misapplied is very considerable.

It was remarked, that the number and amount of charitable endowments in Cornwall is extremely small as compared with those of other counties; and that there does not exist a single bequest for the benefit of a hospital for the sick. With the exception of Cumberland, which has only a population of 169,681, Cornwall, of which the population is 302,440, possesses the smallest amount of charity property of any county in England.

JUNE 8

Truro Whitsun Fair

A beautiful summer’s morning ushered in the gaieties of this fair, which was held on Wednesday last, and a great number of the country people, including a vast supply of the “bal” girls from the neighbouring mining districts, dressed chiefly in white gowns, made their appearance here in the after part of the […tion]. There was a large number of shows, including Wombwell’s splendid menagerie, than has long been known for some years past, and the company was also more numerous. Wombwell’s excellent brass band played several airs to the great delight of the fair-going folks, and the day passed off without interruption of any kind. Fat cattle sold freely at from 52s.6d to 60s. There were 510 sheep penned, the greater part of which changed hands at about 7 1/2d. per lb. The horse fair was but thinly attended, and there was not much business done.

Narrow Escape

As a man named Scarboyer, was walking along the beach near Glasson’s warehouse, Falmouth, one of the corner stones, which had been loosened by some persons working on the roof, fell on his head; but although the height was great, and the weight of the stone about 50 lbs., it is believed he is not materially hurt. The stone, we presume, must have struck him obliquely.

Smuggling

The four men noticed in our last week’s paper, as having been taken by the “Dove” cutter, were tried on Monday last, and sentenced to six months imprisonment in Falmouth-town jail. One of them broke prison on the preceeding Wednesday, but was retaken on Sunday evening.

Extraordinary Escape

On Saturday last, a thunder storm burst in the neighbourhood of Probus, accompanied with the greatest quantity of rain in a given time that has fallen in the memory of the oldest inhabitants. The brooks were suddenly enlarged to torrents, which, for the time, threatened to carry everything before them. Mr. Goodfellow, of the New Inn, Truck Hill, in attempting to save his property in the rear of his house, lost his footing, and was immediately propelled by the stream into the tunnel which passes under the turnpike road, and emerged on the other side of the river, where he must have been drowned, but for timely assistance. The length of the tunnel is 110 feet, and if the slightest obstacle had existed in any part of it to his rapid transit, nothing could have saved him. He escaped, we are glad to hear, with only a few scratches and bruises, and is quite out of danger.

Fatal Accident

On Friday last, as Thomas Sibley, aged 28, a miner belonging to Wheal Mary Mine, St. Neot, was working in the engine shaft, his foot slipped, and he fell 28 fathoms. The poor man was killed on the spot, and has left a widow with four young children.

The Monthly Petty Sessions for the hundred of Pydar was held at the Town-hall yesterday, before H. P. Andrew, Esq., and Capt. Wightman, and Capt. Kempe. Elizabeth GOWEN, of St. Agnes, was summoned for selling beer without a license. Mr. Blenkinsop, supervisor of the excise, proved the case, and the defendant was fined GBP 5. Mr. SAMPSON, a farmer of St. Agnes, appeared against George COCK, Samuel COCK, and John TONKIN, for trespassing on his land. The defendants did not appear, and complaint consequently stands over to the next petty sessions. William TREMEWAN was summoned by Henry LODD, for wages. It appeared from the statement of the complainant that the defendant had a “take” in a mine, in which the complainant had joined him, and the magistrates, therefore, decided that they could not adjudicate upon the case, as it was in the nature of a partnership concern. Henry LODD was then summoned by the father of a boy, names James WHITE, for 8s.3d, being the balance stated to be due on seven month’s wages. It appeared that the boy had been employed at 5s a month, by Tremewan and Lodd, and that 17s.6d was due from each of his masters. Tremewan had paid his portion, and Lodd had paid a part, leaving the sum claimed to be due unpaid. The bench decided in favour of the claimant. Mr. William GILL, and Capt. John SAMPSON, were summoned for wages, due to William WASLEY. It appeared that a man, named Tonkin, had taken some tin to dress in Wheal Andrew and Roscawen Mine, at a certain tribute, and had employed a number of children. Mr. Gill, however, having some doubt whether Tonkin would pay the children, had stopped some of the money, which, as we understand, was paid as far as it went. The Magistrates dismissed the present complaint, and directed the complainant to summon Tonkin.

JUNE 15

Bankrupts

S. H. Cooke, of Southmolton, Devon, Shopkeeper

W. and H. Worth, of Totnes, Devon, linen-drapers

WHEAL VOR CONSOLIDATED MINES

Wanted, for these mines, an active and experienced MINE AGENT, one that is capable of superintending and conducting all the underground operations; he must be well recommended both for talents and character. Applications (post-paid) to be made to Mr. Silvester, Helston June 12, 1838

…………

CORONATION BEEF

Mr. SNELL will sell at AUCTION, on Friday the 22^nd day of June instant, at Trewodden, in the Parish of Menheniot 40 Very Superior Fat Oxen

The property of Richard Doidge, Esq.,

Refreshments at One o’clock, and the Sale will commence at Three precisely.

Dated 13th of June, 1838

……………

Sunday Schools

On Tuesday last, the children and teachers belonging to the different Sunday schools in St. Austell, were regaled with their annual treat of tea and cake at various places in the neighbourhood. Those of the Wesleyans, at Trevarrick, the seat of R. G. Lakes, Esq.; the Bryanites at Bojea; the Independants at Trethowel; and the Baptists in their school-room. The day was, in each case, spent in a very agreeable manner.

Negro Schools in the West Indies

Last Sunday evening, the Rev. Edward Frazer, from Antigua, late a slave, but now a Christian Missionary, preached a highly interesting sermon, in St. Mary’s Wesleyan Chapel, Truro, in pursuance of the object of his visit to this country, which is that of collecting a certain sum to meet a grant of the British Government for the erection of Negro School-houses. Mr. Frazer is a living refutation of the slanders which have been so freely circulated by interested individuals, in depreciation of Negro intellect, being evidently a man of considerable mental powers and extensive information. His demeanour in the pulpit is highly impressive and becoming, and his language remarkably pure and appropriate, while his manner of elucidating and applying scriptural truth, is such as cannot fail to convince the understanding and affect the heart – the collection amounted to GBP 12.

St. Austell Games

On Tuesday last, the annual wrestling commenced, in a field near the town, and finished on Wednesday. Forty standards were made, and at the end of some good play, the prizes were awarded as follows: First, GBP 5 to Richard Gundry, Sithney; second, GBP 4 to William Hodge, St. Blazey; third GBP 2, to Wm. Collins, St. Blazey; fourth, GBP 1 to John Real, St. Austell; fifth, 10s. to John Gillard, Gwennap.

Wesleyan Methodists

Mr. Richard Kittow, of Penheale, in the parish of Egloskerry, near Launceston, who is a tenant of the Rev. H. A. Simcoe’s in that parish, has just purchased a piece of ground, which is hard by the church village of Egloskerry, of Mr. Ralph Venning, of Laneast, which he has given to the Wesleyan Methodists, that they may build a chapel thereon immediately. We understand they will commence building in a few days.

Change of the Times

On Tuesday last, the foundation of the new British School, Truro, was laid by two masons, Nicholls and Blacker, the contractors, who conducted the ceremony on more tee-total principles. The men, about fifteen in number, sat down and partook of the cup that “cheers but not inebriates;” and were much better pleased at the quantum of cakes, cream, and coffee, allowed, than their former habit of resorting to the public-house; and it is a striking fact, that not one of them experienced an aching head, or the loss of a days’ work, as was usual on similar occasions.

Accident

On Saturday evening last, at the Defiance coach was going across the Strand at Falmouth, between a van on one side and an empty cart on the other, the wheel of the latter vehicle came in contact with the coach, jerked the horse on the pavement, and caused him to break ten panes of glass and four bars of the frame, in the shop window of Mrs. Trathan, boot seller. It was fortunate that the disaster was not more serious.

The New Poor Laws

In consequence of the number of children in the poor house at Falmouth, notices were given to several tradesmen, to take their turn in having a town apprentice; but, the guardians have since applied to the Commissioners of the Poor Law to have their views on the subject, and further proceedings are postponed until their answer is received.

The Coronation

We understand that a meeting is to be held at Falmouth, on the 15^th instant, by request of the Mayor, for the inhabitants to take into consideration the best means of showing their loyalty on the approaching coronation of Queen Victoria.

Rara Avis

Last week, a female Goosander was shot in the neighbourhood of Penzance, and is now in the possession of Mr. B. Mutton, watchmaker, Alverton-street, in that town, where, we have no doubt, the curious in ornithology may be gratified with a sight of it.

DEVON

Attack on the Highway

As Mr. George Green, a farmer residing in the parish of Marwood, was returning from Ilfracombe on Saturday night last, and going over Saindon Down, he saw two men a little distance before him. Just at the same moment, when he thought he heard one man speak to the other, his horse, a young and spirited animal, shied, and went off at full speed. Mr. G. was alarmed by the report of a pistol, and his hat was nearly off. The horse, however, did not stop until it reached Gainesford {?}, when Mr. Green discovered that a pistol shot had passed through his hat in an oblique direction, entering on the right side about half way from the top, and going out at the opposite side near the crown. He had nearly thirty pounds in his pocket, which he had received for two cows previously sold. He can give no description of the men, only that one of them had a white or light pair of trowsers on, and had the appearance of a vagabond. Two men, answering to that description, were begging in the neighbourhood that day. We understand that Mr. Green will handsomely reward any person who shall give such information as will lead to the conviction of the villains, on application to W. Chanter, policeman, at the station-house, Barnstaple.

JUNE 15, 1838 – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT

The Career of the Late Mr. Tom, or Sir Courtenay

…has, at length, come to a sudden and melancholy termination, as would be seen from our last week’s paper, in which we gave a long account of the fatal affray which took place between Courtenay and his deluded followers and the military in the neighbourhood of Canterbury. We shall here endeavour briefly to sketch an account of Courtenay’s career, from his first entrance into life, up to the period when he became known to the men of Kent, who by their gullibility for the last six years have shown that they have lost little of that gross ignorance which has ever distinguished their native county. The city of Canterbury rendered itself notorious for its support of this mad charlatan at the election of 1832, in which he was very nearly successful, and he has since supported some of his popularity by various means which will be more developed as we proceed.

John Nicholas Tom, alias Sir William Percey Honeywood Courtenay, was born in the neighbourhood of St. Columb, in this county, and was the son of a respectable person now residing on his own property in that town. The late Mr. Tom received a tolerably good education at Bellevue, near Penryn, under the late Mr. Barwis, and afterwards served as clerk to Messrs. Paynter, solicitors, of St. Columb, from whence he came to Truro about 18 years ago, where he conducted the extensive concerns of Messrs. Plummer and Co., wine and spirit merchants. We have it from undoubted authority, that during that connection, he gained the esteem of his employers, who in the course of a few years retired from that business and enabled Tom to carry on the concern, from which his predecessors had themselves withdrawn with much advantage. Mr. Tom fulfilled honourably every engagement, to the extent of many thousands pounds, with the gentlemen whom he succeeded in this town, and who never had the slightest reason to suspect the least mental incapacity.

While Mr. Tom was in the employ of Messrs. Plummer and Co., he is described as having been a singularly humane and kind-hearted man, possessing many personal friends and acquaintances, and enjoying the respect of a very large number of persons superior in life to himself; while to those below him in station he was always disposed to render assistance to the best of his power.

In addition to the wine and spirit trade, Mr. Tom also carried on an extensive malting business up to the time when he left Truro. At that period he went from this town with a cargo of malt for Liverpool, which he sold for about a thousand pounds. From that time he was never heard of by his friends, till nearly two years afterwards, when by chance (through someone having seen his handwriting) he was discovered to be the noted Sir William Courtenay, of Canterbury.

During his youth, he displayed considerable ability in almost every thing that he attempted, and frequently signalized himself in different plays, got up by himself and friends, when the hero of the piece was generally represented by him. He excelled in music – was one of the best wrestlers in his native county, and an excellent cricket player. In short, though from want of a first-rate education, he could not be considered to be an “admirable Crichton”, yet he possessed talents almost as versatile as that extraordinary personage, and carried some of his fancies and favorite amusements so far as to border on insanity. We might detail a number of anecdotes illustrative of his prowess in the different games of the county, which are now remembered by the inhabitants of Truro, and related with all the interest which recent events would be likely to inspire.

In the year 1828, nearly the whole of Tom’s malting premises were destroyed by fire. There was considerable talk about the affair at the time, and much suspicion was excited, as Mr. Tom had only ensured in the Atlas company in February, and the fire tool place in the last week of the month of June following. The fire was said to have broken out in a kiln in the middle of the malt-house, while that part alone was left uninjured, the principal destruction having taken place at both ends. It does not appear, however, from any proceedings on the part of the Fire Insurance Companies, that the suspicions could be justified, and Mr. Tom therefore received the amount for which he had insured – namely, L 1,200 from the Atlas, and L 2,500 from the Protector companies. He had not been insured in either of these companies, we believe, more than twelve months. It is said that from this period he showed occasional aberrations of intellect, and he was frequently subject to fits of melancholy abstraction, while in times of excitement he was known to commit many actions which are now attributed to insanity.

Shortly after he came to Truro, Mr. Tom married one of the daughters of a respectable person named [Fol..ct] with whom he had a considerable property, the remainder of which is now enjoyed by his widow, who still resides in Truro. Mr. Tom has fortunately left no children to lament his sad career.

In 1832, when Tom first arrived at Canterbury he kept himself for some days somewhat secluded from public view, walking out only in the morning. From his singular appearance and manner, however, he soon attracted to a considerable degree the notice of the public. He then represented himself as Baron Rothschild, but about this time Sir John Courtenay Honeywood, of Evington, near Canterbury, died at his seat. Tom then assumed the name by which he has since been known so conspicuously – viz, “Sir William Percey Honeywood Courtenay,” and stated that the death of his friend (meaning Sir John Honeywood) was the sole cause of his remaining in Canterbury. He declared that Sir John was the only friend who had not deserted him since his banishment from the country, which he said was caused by traitors in his family. Upon being asked what he meant by his “banishment”, he declared that he was no other than Lord Courtenay, who had fled from England some years ago, in consequence of the commission of a certain offence. The valet of the lamented and highly-respected Baronet (Sir J. Honeywood) was then in Canterbury, and out of a situation, and Tom, who we shall now call “Courtenay”, hearing that this man was in possession of the wardrobe of his late master, sent for him, saying that he wanted to purchase any and everything he wished to part with belonging to Sir John. The valet accordingly waited upon Courtenay at the Rose Inn, where he purchased of him a sword, a pair of epaulets, &c., which had been worn by Sir John Honeywood the last time he went to Court. He then asked the valet, whose name was Collard, in what circumstances he then was, and whether his late master had provided for him, and on being informed that he had only received his master’s wardrobe, Courtenay exclaimed “By the Lord Harry (his usual expression) you are employed by me from this moment; you are my valet; you shall have the keys of my wealth, and be a gentleman for ever.” The valet of course gladly accepted so enticing an offer, and became the confidential valet of the renowned “Sir William Percey Honeywood Courtenay.” He desired his new (and only) servant to hold himself in readiness to attend him that day at a public dinner in the market-room. This was the day on which the annual Kent and Canterbury cattle show was held, and the dinner took place after the show. There were present upwards of 230 gentlemen; amongst whom were the late Lord Sondes, George Knight, Esq., of Godmersham, Sir Edward Knatchbull, Bart., Sir William Conway, Bart., the Hon. R. Watson (now Lord Sondes), J. P Plumtre, Esq., and others. Courtenay had attended the cattle-show, assuming the appearance and dress of an old man, and there he played off many mad freaks, such as jumping upon the bare backs of some spirited colts, and trying their mettle, as well as showing his own. He went trough many other curious feats, and altogether made such a display as fully to convince every person that he was insane. About this time Courtenay published several handbills, which were scurrilously offensive and contained some gross personal libels against several highly respectable individuals. These proceedings called forth a letter, which was inserted in one of the Canterbury newspapers, and was said to have been written by one of the gentlemen who had been libeled by Courtenay. It should be stated that Courtenay at this time, and wherever he went, still adhered to the declaration that he was the identical Lord Courtenay who had fled from England as we have before mentioned. The letter gave great offence to Courtenay, and some of those who supported his pretensions, and the name of its author was immediately demanded by Courtenay. The author at once avowed himself. A challenge from the former was the consequence, but it was of course treated with contempt. His next step to gain notoriety was to get himself proposed as a candidate for the representation of the city of Canterbury, at the general election in 1832, when he obtained the votes of 373 electors, and it is supposed that if he had been in the field a week earlier he would have been one of the successful candidates. He was nominated by a Mr. Greenwood, a respectable watchmaker of that city, and an extraordinary source of excitement and confusion took place during the whole of that memorable election. This Mr. Greenwood did not abate one jot of his attachment to the miserable maniac up to the moment of his death, for he was seen standing over his body after he was shot in the wood. On the day of the election, Courtenay challenged Lord Fordwich, and the Hon. R. Watson, to fight duels with him, but of course those gentlemen took no notice of him. Courtenay appeared in the Guildhall on the day of nomination, in a rich suit of scarlet, embroidered with gold lace, and a velvet mantle after the Italian mode.

After the election, Sir William addressed his audience in a bombastic speech, in which he repeated most of his former assertions respecting his station, and courted applause by dealing abuse liberally on men of all parties. Such was the enthusiasm of his admirers, that very grimace he made, every action of his body, every rhodomontade sentence that fell from his lips, was received with shouts of approbation. Courtenay was afterwards chaired, and thanked the assembled populace at every corner of the street, being dressed in his scarlet robes, Turkey cap, and continually flourishing his scimitar to persons who had opposed him. During his stay Courtenay was initiated into the societies of No. 1 Lodge of Odd Fellows, held at the City Arms, Canterbury; 96 Lodge of Ancient Druids, held at the White Lion, Canterbury; and the ancient order of Prussian Hermits, held at the Crown and Sceptre, St. Peter’s-street, which societies he generally attended on lodge nights.

Courtenay was afterwards put in nomination for the eastern division of the county of Kent, but he obtained only two votes. This want of success is said to be in part attributable to his having doffed his superb eastern dress, and assumed the character of a decrepit old man, supporting himself with a cane, &c. This part he also performed to the life; but finding that it injured his reputation, he very since resumed his former dress and manners.

In a pamphlet published by Mr. Ward of Canterbury, in 1833 it is stated that …..”having been elected for one, this crafty adventurer appears to have studied, with much more ardour and vigilance than before, to captivate the affections of the lower orders in the city. He made it known that his condescension was as great as his rank and wealth, and that he should be willing to accept of invitations to visit the humblest families – to eat and drink at the peasant’s and labourer’s table – to make one of a larger or smaller party at the lowest public house – to carol his name to the meanest society – and to have it published abroad that Sir William Courtenay preferred being the companion of the cottager, and the friend of the poor. It is easy to conclude that such intelligence charmed a million hearts, and obtained entreaties for his company from every quarter. So numerous were his engagements that he was obliged to run or ride from house to house, taking a slight repast at each, and generally concluding the day at a banquet prepared by a number of his new friends, in some obscure club room.”

In this manner, Courtenay passed his time, till he again came before the world in the character of a culprit, being charged with perjury. The circumstances out of which this charge arose were as follows: - In the month of February, 1833, an action took place between H. M. sloop “Lively”, a revenue cutter, and a smuggling boat called the “Admiral Hood”, near the Goodwin Sands, which ended in the capture of the latter, which, with the crew was taken to Rochester, for adjudication. On board the smuggler no contraband goods were found; but during the chase she had been distinctly seen, by the “Lively”, throwing tubs overboard, and some of these were marked and picked up by the crew of the cruiser. On the examination of the smugglers, before the magistrates at Rochester, Sir William Courtenay made his appearance, attired in a grotesque costume, and having a small scimitar suspended from his neck by a massive gold chain. On one of the men being examined, Sir William became his advocate; but the man being convicted, a professional gentleman from London defended the next, and Sir William presented himself as a witness, when he swore that he saw the whole transaction between the “Lively” and the “Admiral Hood”, and was positive that the tubs stated to have come from the “Admiral Hood” had been floating about the sea all the morning, and were not thrown overboard from that vessel. The object of this statement was to prove that the “Admiral Hood” was not a smuggler, and to procure the liberation of the men. The solicitors from Customs having undoubted evidence that this testimony was false, determined to proceed against an individual who had been guilty of such a public and daring act of perjury. Sir William was accordingly indicted, and the trial took place on Thursday, the 25^th of July 1833, at Maidstone, before Mr. Justice James Parke.

On the day of trial there was an unusual presence in the court. Numerous ladies occupied the galleries, and there were some accommodated on the judicial bench. When Sir W. Courtenay appeared, with his favourite attendants, the excitement was at its height. He stood not at the bar, but in the part just before it. He was dressed in a plainer manner than was his wont; his hair had not been arranged to the same advantage as formerly, and in front it more of a puritanical aspect than usual. His beard retained its wonted beauty, of which he seemed perfectly conscious by the manner in which he handled it; while his fine eyes looked complacently on those around him.

On the trial it was proved that Sir William was actually at church at Houghton under Bl.. near Canterbury, at the very hour when he said he saw the transaction. He was consequently found guilty, but recommended to mercy, and the Court sentenced him to an imprisonment in gaol for three calendar months, and to transportation after the expiration of that period, for seven years.

This sentence was not, however, carried into effect, it being satisfactorily proved that Sir William was insane, in consequence of which he was confined to the lunatic asylum on B..ing Heath till the latter end of last year, when an order was obtained from the government for his release. The application originated with his family, it being understood by them that he was of sound mind and perfectly harmless; and it was also understood that Courtenay was himself desirous of being removed. The surgeon of the asylum also entertained the opinion that he might be liberated without any apprehension of bad consequences resulting from his being at large. His family, therefore, made an application to an influential gentleman of this town, who represented the circumstances to Sir Hussey Vivian; and the gallant General having applied in the proper quarter, a conditional release of Courtenay from the Asylum was granted. It was stated to the gentlemen that we have alluded to that the health of Courtenay was greatly impaired by his confinement, and that gentleman having a monied interest in his death to the amount of nearly L100 a year, was naturally desirous that no imputation should be cast upon him for the non-performance of any service which he could render to the family of the unfortunate man.

The remainder of the adventurous and romantic history of this extraordinary personage is told in our last week’s paper. Whether it would not have been possible to secure him, and disperse his infatuated followers, without the dreadful sacrifice of human life that has taken place, is a question which can be decided on the spot more correctly than elsewhere. We, therefore, pass over that and all other matters connected with the melancholy affair, and conclude by expressing our hope that the bloody catastrophe will be an instructive lesson to all parties for the future.

………….

FATAL RIOT NEAR CANTERBURY (Coroner’s jury hearing)

Eleven persons killed, including the soldisant Sir William Courtenay, Knight of Malta, alias Mr. John Tom, a Native of St. Columb, and Late of Truro.

Our townsman, Mr. John Tom, whose eccentricities, under the name of Sir William Courtenay, Knight of Malta, have obtained for him so much celebrity among the men of Kent, has at length finished his strange career in a most tragical manner. Mr. Tom’s history is too well known in Cornwall to render it necessary for us to enter into the particulars of his adventures for the information of our Cornish readers; but a few facts respecting him will be found in another part of our paper, which may be interesting to those persons who are strangers to the county. We will, therefore, merely observe here, passing over all former matters, that a confinement of four years in the lunatic asylum at Barming-heath, into which his sentence of transportation for perjury was commuted, he was liberated a short time ago upon an undertaking on the part of his friends to take charge of him. Instead, however, of fulfilling their engagement, the deluded man was allowed to take up his abode at the residence of a Mr. Francis, of Fairbrook, in the neighbourhood of Boughton, near Canterbury. Some recent misunderstanding between Sir William and Mr. Francis’s family occasioned him to remove to a cottage adjoining, occupied by one Wills. Subsequently, he was received at a farm-house, called Bossenden-farm, occupied by a person named Culver. From this house appears to have commenced the horrid affair we are about to narrate – an affair from which it could not be anticipated there would result such a melancholy loss of life. Previously to going into the detail, it may be necessary to state that it had been represented to the Rev. Dr. Poore, one of the Magistrates of the county, on Tuesday afternoon, the 29^th ult., that Sir Wm. Courtenay was exciting the lower classes of the community residing at the villages of Dunkirk, Boughton, and adjoining parishes, to breaches of the peace, by assembling them in large numbers, and using a violent and inflammatory language; Courtenay representing to them that they were oppressed by the laws in general, but more particularly by the New Poor Law; calling on them to place themselves under his command, and he would ensure them not only redress, but plenty and affluence. Nearly 100 of the most determined characters joined him, and marched about the various parishes, inviting others to join them.

We now proceed to give an account of the proceedings from Monday morning, the day on which several unfortunate men went in public in company with and at the command of Sir William. On that day they sallied forth from the village of Boughton, where they bought bread, and proceeded to Will’s cottage, near Fairbrook.

[They went from village to village, listening to Courtenay’s speeches, waving flags, and encouraging people to follow them. They seemed to be under control, as they bought and paid for their meals, etc., and did no damage. Sir William was arrayed in full military dress, with saber and pistol. Testimony was given that Courtenay shot a constable named Mears, who tried to prevent them from proceeding The military was then called out by the local constables. Eventually, the forces met in a wood, where Courtenay encouraged his people to charge, and the military leader told them they were being led by a man who was “deceiving and deluding” them, and no good would come from this. Sir William and Lieutenant Bennett (followed by their respective troops) walked toward each other; deceased raised his right arm and struck at Courtenay with his sword, and at the same time Courtenay shot Lieutenant Bennett , and the soldiers started firing. Another group of soldiers charged with bayonets. When things calmed, eleven persons were dead, some wounded, and others were taken prisoner. Exact testimony was given, covering 3 columns on the last page. ]

[Not to say the testimony was prejudiced, but a JUROR stated he was “confident that Courtenay’s party rushed upon the military before they fired on them. Two pistols were fired by them, and I firmly believe by Courtenay himself, one of which I have a strong impression, killed the man named Katt…”

The juror had not been present at the action – he was hearing the testimony of others, and stating his beliefs in the midst of the testimony!]

By the Coroner: Immediately after the affray I, upon the spot, took down the names of the following persons, who were either dead, wounded, or taken prisoners. The following rioters were killed on the spot: - William Courtenay, Edward Wright, Phineas Harvey, George Blanchard, William Burford, William Foster, George Griggs, and William Rye. The wounded were: Stephen Baker, Henry Hadlow, Alexander Ford, Thomas Griggs, John Spratt, and William Wills. The other prisoners were Edward Wright, jun., Edw. Carling and Sarah Culver.

During the hearing, information was communicated to the Coroner and Jury that one of the wounded prisoners, named Baker, had just expired.

The Coroner then briefly summoned[sic] up, and having addressed the Jury, explaining the operation of the law on the case, a verdict was returned of “Wilful Murder” against nineteen individuals, viz: Wm. Courtenay, Edward Wraight, sen., William Rye, George Blanchard, Edward Wraight, jun., John Mears, alias Tyler, James Goodwin, William Wills, William Forster, Henry Hadlow, Alexander Ford, Phineas Harvey, John Spratt, William Barford, Thomas Griggs, John Silk, George Griggs, and William Carling.

The first five are dead, but the remainder, with the exception of Hadlow and Thomas Griggs, who were dying, were committed to Maidstone gaol.

The inquiry lasted until seven o’clock, at which hour the neighbourhood was perfectly quiet. Nearly the whole of the deluded men who engaged in the mad enterprise have been arrested and committed to prison.

It was evident upon listening to the observations of the peasantry, especially the families, that the men who had been shot were regarded by them as martyrs, while their leader Courtenay was considered and venerated as a species of Divinity. The rumour amongst them was that “he was to rise again on Sunday”.

…………….

June 15

Bankrupts

S. H. Cooke, of Southmolton, Devon, Shopkeeper

W. and H. Worth, of Totnes, Devon, linen-drapers

WHEAL VOR CONSOLIDATED MINES

…………

CORONATION BEEF

Mr. SNELL will sell at AUCTION, on Friday the 22^nd day of June instant, at Trewodden, in the Parish of Menheniot 40 Very Superior Fat Oxen

The property of Richard Doidge, Esq.,

Refreshments at One o’clock, and the Sale will commence at Three precisely.

Dated 13th of June, 1838

……………

Sunday Schools

Negro Schools in the West Indies

St. Austell Games

Wesleyan Methodists

Change of the Times

Accident

The New Poor Laws

The Coronation

Rara Avis

DEVON

Attack on the Highway

June 22

LOCAL NEWS

THE CORONATION

Helston

Great preparations are making for the celebration of the Coronation of Queen Victoria, at this place. The labouring men will be provided with the good old English fare of roast beef, and plum pudding, and the women and children with tea and cake. The day will be commenced by laying the foundation stone of the new Guildhall and Corn market, after which the Mayor, accompanied by the Common Council, Freemasons, and inhabitants, will walk in procession, preceded by the band belonging to the Duke of Cornwall’s Yeomanry; and in the evening there will be a grand display of fire works.

Penzance

This town is expected to be unusually gay on the day of her Majesty’s coronation. About 600 inhabitants will be regaled with beef and pudding at a public dinner in the new corn-chamber, provided by the voluntary contributions of the inhabitants; after which the members of the total abstinence society of that town and other places will walk in procession with appropriate banners, &c. to the above room, to take tea at their own expense. About 2,000 are expected. The members of the Penzance cricket club, will also perambulate the streets in their uniform, several triumphal arches are to be erected, and should the weather be fine, a general holiday, and a day of much pleasure, is anticipated.

ST. AUSTELL UNION [with original emphasis on “happy home”, “penitentiary”, and “work house”]

On Wednesday last, the foundation stone of the St. Austell Union workhouse was laid by R. G. Lakes, Esq., of Trevarrick, in the absence of J. H. Tremayne, Esq., the chairman of the board of guardians, who was prevented by illness from attending. Mr. Lukes, in a brief but able and judicious speech, commented on the intentions of such an erection, and the probable good that may result from it. He hoped that it would prove a happy home to the aged and infirm, a penitentiary to those who had been drawn from the paths of rectitude and virtue, whilst, to the indolent, and vicious, it would be a work house. He also thought that much good might come from the visits of ladies, who might advise with the matron on the best method of rendering the house as comfortable as possible to the deserving poor; and a committee of gentlemen, in addition to the guardians, might also be of essential service, and render the sanction and blessing of Almighty God, without which every effort would be in vain.

NEWQUAY REGATTA

The lovers of aquatic sports had a rich treat at this place on Monday last at the annual regatta. The attendance was not as numerous as on former occasions, owing to the unavoidable absence of many respectable persons who had to attend the Archdeacon’s Court at Truro; but it is to be hoped that care will be taken next year to prevent the occurrence of such a circumstance. The prizes for the 1^st class of boats consisted of a silver goblet and a silver cup; and for the 2^nd class, two silver cups. [The course ran from the pier head to a boat stationed off Mawgan Cliffs, thence round a boat stationed at Towan head, and thence back to the boat anchored off the pier – about 9 miles in all.] We are happy to add that not a single accident happened to mar the pleasantries of the day.

PENZANCE NEW MARKET

On Wednesday, the 13^th instant, the new and splendid shambles and [meat] market, Penzance, was opened. The Mayor proceeded from his house in form, accompanied by the Council and Architect, and the butchers walking before. On opening the gates, and admitting nearly as many of the inhabitants as it would contain, the Mayor proceeded to address the butchers with a very appropriate speech, by impressing on their minds the constant observance of the bye laws, particularly those that referred to them, and expressed his earnest hope that they would at all times adhere to order, decorum, and cleanliness. Having stated that he would be glad to hear from any one who had something to say, one of the butchers, James Penrose, stepped forward, being delegated by his brother butchers to express their sentiments on the occasion. Mr. Penrose spoke with considerable correctness, even elegance, pointing out the unanimity of feeling that existed among them as tradesmen with respect to the handsome manner in which they had now been treated, more especially referring to the splendid market that had been prepared for their reception that day, and to the anxiety manifested by the Mayor and Council to satisfy all parties with their appointments to the stalls. There was, however, one thing they had to complain of, and as it was but one, he was almost ashamed to mention it, which was the price of the stalls. He hoped and believed they would take the matter into their most serious consideration, and make the necessary reduction. He could not refrain from congratulating his Worship, that as a magistrate he believed him to be what all magistrates ought to be, and what the Almighty intended they should be “A terror to evil doers and praise to them that do well.” Three hearty cheers were then given, after which the Mayor installed every butcher into his separate place. Wombwell’s splendid band, at the request of the Mayor, kindly attended, and played several beautiful airs, finishing with “God save the Queen”.

CORONER’s INQUESTS

An inquest was held on the .. nt. before John CARLYON, Esq., coroner, at Trencreek, in the parish of Lower St. Columb, on the body of Mary [Pelli]ard, aged 70 years. It appeared from the evi[dence] that the deceased lived in a house by herself, …… a girl named Muffett, aged about 14 years, to sleep in the same room, though not in the same bed., with her. Some particles of rubbish had been falling for a day or two from the old middle wall, but no notice had been taken of the circumstance, as the house had mostly been newly built within 20 years. The old wall was of cob, and had given way from being rotten, and in some degree undermined. As far as could be ascertained by the girl, she and the old woman went to bed at the usual time. About eleven o’clock on Wednesday night, the poor girl was awakened by a heavy piece of cob falling on and breaking one of her legs. She thinks she once heard the deceased groan. In this deplorable situation, with a broken leg, the poor creature had to seek her way through the broken fragments of the floor to a window, which she opened, and had had to crawl on her hands and knees towards her father’s house, at some distance, where she gave the alarm.. Some of the neighbours went immediately to the assistance of the deceased, but they found her quite dead and covered with rubbish. Verdict – Accidental Death.

On the same day, an inquest was held before the same coroner, at Lower St. Columb Church-town, on the body of Bennet Phillips, who was drowned near Wheal Holden Mine, Perranza[buloe] on Good Friday last, the 13^th of April. He was taken up on the beach near Water Gate, Lower St. Columbe. Verdict, Accidental Death.

JUNE 29