cornwall england newspaper
1840 NEWS ARTICLE
JULY
3 JULY 1840, Friday
TRIALS OF PRISONERS - CATHERINE CURNOW, 17 - was charged with stealing a watch, the property of James LUXTON of Truro. On the morning of the 15th of June, the prosecutor left his house about 10 o'clock, leaving his watch hanging up in his kitchen, near the mantel-piece, opposite the door. About 11 o'clock, the prisoner came in, and saw Mrs. Luxton; a short time after which Mrs. Luxton went to a Neighbour's house for a few minutes, and on her return the watch was gone. Henry BROOM, in the employ of Mr. UGLOW, watchmaker, stated that about twelve o'clock, the prisoner brought a watch to offer for sale, marked William UPJOHN, 796, saying her grandfather had sent it. Mr. Uglow directed her to ask what price her grandfather fixed for the watch; and she took it away for that purpose. The prosecutor, on hearing of his loss, first made inquiries at the several watchmakers' shops, and afterwards returned to Mr. Uglow's shop with the prisoner, when she denied having been in the shop during the day; she also denied subsequently, on her apprehension by the police, having seen Henry Broom for the day. The prosecutor's statement of the name and number of the watch corresponded with Broom's statement, but on cross examination he admitted that he had said the number was 1767. The watch was not produced in court. For the defence, Mr. BENNALLACK addressed the Jury, impressing on them the danger of relying on circumstantial evidence, in a case where the article lost could not be produced; and relating the fact of three men tried before Mr. Justice HYDE, 'having been found guilty on circumstantial evidence, and executed for the murder of a man whose body had not been found; the man being alive at the time, and actually making his appearance six months after the execution. Mr. Bennallack then called Mr. John SIM, Mr. James LANGMAID, Mr. James BLACKER, and Mr. Henry VENN, who gave evidence of the good character of the prisoner and her parents. Verdict � Not Guilty.
JOHN HOCKING, 27 - was charged with stealing two yards of woollen cloth, the property of Thomas JOHNS, of St. Ives, carrier. The cloth stolen was the curtain of a van which was standing in the coach-house at the Star Inn. The prisoner was apprehended at his lodgings. He at first denied any knowledge of the cloth, but afterwards took out a pair of trousers from under his bed, and with a sad presentiment of his destiny, exclaimed "Bodmin, Bodmin, I'll tell you the truth;" and then acknowledged that the trousers were made out of the cloth which he took from the van. Samuel PHILLIPS, a sailor, stated that the prisoner, whom he knew remarkably well, came to him on Easter-eve and said, "You are a good hand for making trousers, for you are an old man-of-war's man" (laughter). Witness said, "I can satisfy myself; but anybody else must take his chance with me." Witness made the trousers. They were produced in court, and sufficiently identified by the man-of-war tailor; though he seemed very willing to screen the prisoner. - Verdict, Guilty. A certificate of a former conviction for felony in 1831, at Truro, was put in, and the prisoner's identity proved.
JOSEPH DYER, 19 - was charged with stealing from his father's house at Truro, on the 27th April, a jacket, a pair of shoes, and a silk handkerchief, the property of Thomas Dyer, his younger brother. The prosecutor proved the loss of his clothes, from his box, and his subsequently finding his brother walking about in them, when he gave him into custody. Mr. Bennallack, for the prisoner, urged the improbability of a felonious intention, and the possibility of there being a mutual exchange occasionally of clothes between the brothers. The Jury returned a verdict of Not Guilty; on which the prisoner, with a strange combination of ignorance and impudence, asked his advocate, "Do these clothes belong to me now?"
JAMES HODGE, 29 - was charged with stealing, on the 24th of April, a cart whip, the property of Mr. John THOMAS, of Gulval. The prisoner was found Guilty; and also identified, as having been before convicted of felony.
WILLIAM HENRY TIPPET, 18 - was charged with stealing a watch from James HEWSTON, watchmaker, of Saint Columb. A second count laid the property in Frederick ROGERS, Esq. The prosecutor stated that the prisoner was in his employ. On the 15th of June, about one o'clock, the prosecutor took Capt. Rogers's watch out of his pocket, and told prisoner to hang it up in the window, which he did. Prosecutor then went out of town, and did not return till nearly 11 o'clock, when the watch was gone, and he had not seen it since. George STRIBLEY, a lad, was in Mr. Hewston's shop about one o'clock on the day in question and saw the watch. When witness went away, he left only Tippet in the shop. Maria Hewston stated that the front door of the shop being bolted inside, the prisoner came through the kitchen in the afternoon, locked the back door of the shop, and went away for some hours on horseback. She remained in the kitchen from two o'clock till four, when she went into the shop to see what o'clock it was, and found the watch missing. No person had come into the shop during the afternoon. For the defence, it was shown by two witnesses that Mrs Hewston had been seen both up stairs in her own house, and also in a neighbour's house between 2 and 4. The following witnesses gave the prisoner a good character for honesty and industry:- Mr. W.F. GEAKE, Mr. T. MAGOR, and Mr. J. NANKIVELL, (Grand Jurors) Mr. T. MARSHALL, Mr. W. GEACH, and Mr. T. BAZELY. Verdict, Not Guilty.
JANE RICH 34 - was charged with stealing a bundle of straw, from Robert THOMAS, of Mevagissey. Guilty.
WEDNESDAY JULY 1. - The Court opened at the usual hour. Besides the magistrates who were present yesterday, we notice Sir R.R. VYVYAN, Bart., the High Sheriff, on the Bench this morning.
WILLIAMS ELMS, 24 - pleaded Guilty of stealing potatoes from Wm. STEPHENS of Rame.
JOHN SCANTLEBURY 26 � was charged with stealing timber from Mr. Wm. COLENSO, builder, of St. Breock. The timber was alleged to have been taken from a patent tank, in which the prosecutor prepared timber for his customers; but there was an insufficiency of evidence to carry the case to the jury, and the Court directed a verdict of acquittal.
MARK WILLIAMS, 22, and THOMAS ROBERTS 25 � were charged with stealing a piece of waistcoating, from Harris SAMUEL, a hawker. On the 14th of May, the prosecutor went to Donithorn's public-house, at Madron where the prisoners were, and put his pack on the kitchen table. He went into the bar for about five minutes, and while there a movement made by the prisoners attracted his attention; he came out, opened his pack, and found a waistcoat-piece gone. Williams at this moment left the house. On the 20th, the prosecutor and a constable searched William's mother-in-law's house, and found the waistcoat-piece. Mrs. DONITHORNE proved against Roberts, that when Samuel found his pack untied and robbed, Roberts, who must have witnessed the theft, gave no information of it. Verdict � Both Guilty.
THOMAS SUTTON, 40 � was charged with stealing four fagots of furze from Samuel WONNACOTT, of Kilkhampton. This case rested principally upon the correspondence between the end of a stick found in prisoner's house, and a stump of furze on prosecutor's hedge. The prisoner earnestly protested his innocence; and there was in his favour, besides a good character, the fact of his having expressly forbidden the burning of this furze, while inquiries respecting the robbery were making. The jury, however, found him Guilty.
JOSEPH BEST, 40 � was charged with stealing a (?) pan from Thomas Cock, Luxulian. - Guilty.
ELIZABETH HOOPER 25, and MARY STACEY 26 � were charged with stealing potatoes from John ROWLAND, (?) of Poundstock. - Both Guilty.
JOSEPH WILLIAMS � was charged with stealing an earthenware jug from Joseph BURTON, of Bodmin. The prosecutor was a dealer in earthenware; and in November, he bought a crate of goods at Tunstall, in Staffordshire. In December, on the crate arriving at Bodmin, he found some articles missing. On the 14th of June, he went into Williams's house, and saw a jug hanging up, which he believed to be one he had lost. The prisoner received an excellent character from Mr. LYNE, Mr. C. COODE, of Bodmin, and several other respectable persons. � Not Guilty.
WM. PENROSE, 17 � was charged with stealing two watches, an eye-glass, a tea-spoon, and a fruit-knife, from Mr. John SIM, of Truro. The prosecutor stated, that on Sunday, the 12th of April, he went to chapel with his family, leaving all safe in his house. When he came back, his house was in a state of confusion, and he found the articles above-mentioned, and some money, had been taken away. Miss Thomasine CLEMO, the prosecutor's niece, confirmed his testimony. Caroline BURTON, saw the prisoner, between 11 and 12 o'clock, on the morning in question, climbing over Mr. Sim's wall, and bade him come down; but he did not do so. Samuel NORTHEY, on the day in question, was going from Chacewater to Bodmin, to see the execution of the Lightfoots. Prisoner overtook him at the Blue Anchor, and they walked on together. On witness's asking what o'clock it was, prisoner took out a watch, with a black ribbon to it. Wm. BRAY, constable, apprehended the prisoner at the Golden Lion, in Bodmin, on the morning of the 13th of April. Witness saw several articles, and two watches, an eye glass, a knife, and a spoon, under the settle, where he was sitting, which witness secured. Eliza DAWE also saw the articles under the settle, having previously swept the room, and saw nothing of the kind there. Wm. ROWE, constable of Truro, corroborated Bray's evidence. The articles were produced and identified by Mr. Sim, and Miss Clemo. Verdict � Guilty.
JANE ANDREW, 23 � was charged with stealing potatoes from Susan JOLLEE, of Tywardreath. Guilty.
JOSEPH MARTIN GILES, 22, was indicted for stealing a bag of almond confits, the property of John GIBSON, of St. Austell. It appeared that on the 9th of June the prosecutor attended Roche fair, where he saw the prisoner several times during the day. In the evening the prisoner came between 9 and 10 o'clock, and making a push at the stall seized hold of a bag of comfits, containing altogether about 5lbs, worth 2s. 6d. per lb., with which he made off. The prisoner was sworn at most positively by the prosecutor and his daughter. - Guilty.
RICHARD HONEY, 19 � was charged with having stolen 12 gallons of barley, the property of Samuel WARDEN, his master, of Endellion, and JOHN SKINNER, 50, of Port Isaac, was charged with having received the same, knowing it to have been stolen. It appeared from the statement of the advocate, which was borne out by evidence that in February last, Skinner had a gun which he offered for sale to the other prisoner, Honey; and on the latter telling him that he had no money to purchase it, Skinner said there is plenty of barley at home in your master's granary; I will take it up in barley as well as in anything else. On one Sunday evening, Honey, when his master's family were at chapel, and his master in the house, went into the granary and stole the barley in question. He then got his master's horse, and put the bag on it, taking with him a boy named STEER, a fellow servant, and proceeded to the premises of the other prisoner. When he reached there, he placed the barley in the garden, and then went round to Skinner's front door, and went into the house. Skinner afterwards went up stairs, and the witness heard a door that led into the garden creak; and on Skinner's return he brought with him a bag which he handed to Honey. There was other evidence which fully established the guilt of both parties; and the jury found them Guilty.
CORONER'S INQUEST - On Wednesday last, an inquest was held in St. Agnes parish, by J. CARLYON, Esq., coroner, on the body of Richard SARAH, a hard working industrious miner, who was working "out of corps"(?) in Polberou Consols mine, when a large body of earth supposed to be about 20 tons, fell from the side of a (?) and buried him under it. The body, when found, presented a shocking spectacle, and death must have been instantaneous. He was 37 years of age and left a widow and four children. Verdict � accidental death.
SCILLY, JUNE 30. - Last week, a young man an apprentice to Mr. MUMFORD, ship-builder, fell into the hold of a vessel now building at St. Mary's, and lacerated his head and face in a shocking manner. A boy was thrown from a horse, and had his arm broken, the bone being splintered. Under the able treatment of Mr. BLEWETT, surgeon, they are both doing well.
Fish of all kinds, are still very scarce at Scilly, and the weather has generally been against the boats going to the Poule Bank. The Seven Stones � where large fish abounded � seem now to be abandoned as a fishing station (?).
The appearance of the crops at Scilly is generally favourable.
TRURO - On Monday last, Mr. Josiah BERRY, clerk to Mr. BRAITHWAITE, solicitor of this town, was charged before the Mayor and Capt. WIGHTMAN, by Mr. BULLOCK, solicitor, with whom Mr. Berry was lately a clerk, with having stolen some papers from his office. Mr. CORNISH appeared for Mr. Bullock; and Mr. Braithwaite and Mr. GURNEY, for Mr. Berry. Mr. Berry admitted that the papers in question, which were produced in Court by the constable, had been found at his dwelling, but denied any right to them on the part of Mr. Bullock. Ultimately, on the oaths of Mr. Bullock, and ROWE, the constable, who had executed a search-warrant at Mr. Berry's lodgings on Saturday evening, Mr. Berry was held to bail for his appearance at the present Quarter Sessions, to answer the charge. There was a great deal of preliminary discussion, which, from various circumstances, and particularly from the respectable station in life of all the parties, appeared to excite considerable interest; but as the case will come more fully before the public at the Sessions, and will of course, be included in our report of the trials, we think it unnecessary to go further into it in this place.
10 JULY 1840, Friday
THE LATE ATTEMPT TO ASSASSINATE THE QUEEN AND PRINCE ALBERT - On Wednesday the lst inst, the addresses of congratulation voted to her Majesty and Prince Albert, by the Mayor and Town Council of Truro, and by the inhabitants in public meeting assembled, were presented by E. TURNER and J.E. VIVIAN, Esqrs., the members for the borough, the former at the Levee, and the latter at Buckingham Palace; and the following day, the addresses to the Duchess of Kent were presented to her Royal Highness at Ingestrie House.
STORING OF TURNIPS - It affords us considerable pleasure to inform our readers, that the prize of a piece of plate, value 10 guineas, given by the Royal Agricultural Society of England, for the best Essay on "Storing of Turnips," has been awarded to Mr. W.E. GEACH, of Tywardreath.
KENWYN PLOUGHING MATCH - took place on Thursday, the 2nd instant, in a field, at Boscolla, belonging to Mrs. CLARK. The competitors consisted of ten men and three boys. There were four prizes for the men, which were awarded as follows:- First, to John BOWDEN of Gwinear; second to Joseph BROKENSHAR of Boscolla; third, to a servant of Mr. ROSEWARNE of Croftwest, in Kenwyn; and fourth to Thomas CLARK, Tregavethan. A prize was awarded to each of the boys. The umpires were Mr. STEPHENS of Park, St. Clement; Mr. WILLIAMS of Peinmount; and Mr. VINCENT of St. Ewe.
CHILD DROPPING - We are happy to state that the unnatural mother who had left her infant exposed in a passage adjoining Mr. MARTIN's shop in Truro, on Monday night se'nnight, has since been apprehended. She turns out to be a person of the name of Catherine FEBE, a domestic servant, who about five or six months ago was in the employ of Mr. ROBERTS, of Trenance, in the parish of St. Clement, and left her place in consequence of suspicion being entertained that she was enceinte. She had been staying with her parents who reside at Ludgvan, and had been confined at the house of a neighbour, about a month ago. The woman was returning to her place in company with a female cousin, on Monday last, and was apprehended at Higher Town, near Truro, by our active constable, ROWE, who took her before the Mayor, by whom she was remanded till the following day, when she was brought up to the Council-hall where the case underwent an examination before his Worship and Capt. KEMPE. She at once admitted that she had had a child about two months ago, which child she said she never saw after it was born, but that she knew it was taken care of.
DESTRUCTIVE FIRE � On Friday night last, a fire took place, at the house of Mr. Francis HOSKING, at Trevin, in the parish of Ludgvan. It was discovered by the family about one o'clock a.m., and soon after, the whole house and premises adjoining were in flames, and the family with great difficulty escaped. Hosking remained in the house in hopes of saving some part of the furniture, and succeeded in throwing two beds out of the window; but there is no doubt that he would have been much injured (as there was no escape for him over the stairs, the whole being in a blaze,) had it not been for the timely assistance of two miners, who were returning from work, and succeeded in rescuing him through the window. The fire is supposed to have commenced in the thatched roof and to have been the work of an incendiary. The property is insured in the West of England Insurance Office, but not to an amount to cover the loss.
CORNWALL MIDSUMMER QUARTER SESSIONS - Thursday, July 2. WILLIAM SOUTHWELL, 45, was charged with stealing the wheel of an iron drag, from Michael DUNSTAN, of Kea. The drag was lost in December 1838, and at the following Assizes, a man called PIPER was charged with having stolen it, but was acquitted. On that occasion, Southwell attended before the Grand Jury as a witness; but finding there was some suspicion against himself, absconded, and did not appear in court to give evidence. In March, 1839, the wheel was found by LONGMAID, the constable, in the shop of Mr. RANDLE, blacksmith, of Truro, who took it in exchange from Southwell. The prisoner could not then be apprehended, but was afterwards found in Bodmin Gaol, whither he had been sent for leaving his wife and family chargeable on the parish. Verdict � Guilty. Three months'drydrd labour.
REBECCA FLOOD, 20, a married woman, with a child in her arms, was charged with stealing 8s. 6d. from Joseph JALIAN of Rose. The prosecutor was, at a late hour on Saturday, the 14th of June, accosted by the prisoner in the streets of St. Austell; and on her leaving him he found that he had lost 8s. 6d. from his waistcoat pocket. He then went with a constable to the prisoner's lodgings, and knew her by her 'two black eyes.' For the defence, it was urged that there was no proof of the money having been found on the prisoner; and strong animadversions were made on the conduct of the prosecutor, who it was said was not sober at the time. Verdict � Not Guilty.
JOHN BARBERY, 14, pleaded Guilty of stealing a coat and trousers from Thos. TREVARTHEN, of Redruth. - To Be Privately Whipped.
SARAH WILLIAMS, 46, was charged with stealing an apron from Catherine COLLINS, of Wendron. The prosecutrix was a servant of Mr. MOYLE's, and her apron was stolen while it was drying with her master's clothes. She went with a constable to prisoner's house, and seeing the string of her apron hanging out of her pocket, accused her of the theft; upon which prisoner threatened to strike her, and left the room. She was followed by the constable, and searched; and the apron was found in her pocket. Mr. BENNALLACK, for the prisoner, observed that it would now be dangerous for a professional man to have a bit of red tape � the lawyer's coat of arms � (laughter) � hanging out of his pocket; and after making some further observations, he said � "My duty calls me into the other Court; I shall leave the old lady in your hands; and I trust you'll take care of her, and give her a safe deliverance" (laughter). As the worthy advocate rose, much mirth was excited on its being observed that he had a piece of red tape hanging very suspiciously from his coat pocket. - Guilty. Two Months' Hard Labour.
ANN WILLIAMS, 18, an idiotic daughter of the last prisoner, was charged with stealing another article of female apparel, the property of Mr. MOYLE. Catherine COLLINS proved the detection of the prisoner, when she "pitched to cry," and acknowledged the theft. - Guilty. A Fortnight's Hard Labor.
HENRY JOHN FLYNN, NICHOLAS STEPHENS, and THOMAS TRURAN, were charged with stealing two oak staves from Henry Andrew VIVIAN, of Camborne. Richard ROGERS, Mr. Vivian's waggoner, stated that his master had some oak staves at Mr. REYNALDS's yard, in Truro, some of which witness found wanting. He then gave the remainder in charge to Samuel WILLIAMS. Samuel Williams, carpenter, at Truro, received some oak staves of the last witness, part of which he marked. A few days ago, he missed some, and afterwards found one of the marked ones in possession of William TEAGUE. William Teague, wheelwright, bought an oak stave of Thomas Truran, for a shilling. Witness delivered it to the constable. William COUCH, constable, apprehended Flynn on the 23rd of June, and told him with what he was charged. His reply was, "Have you taken Nicky?" (meaning Stephens). Witness produced the stave delivered up by Teague. It was identified by Williams and Teague. William WOOLCOCK, police officer, apprehended Stephens, and told him the others were taken. He said "It is a drunken job altogether;" and added that he had taken five staves from Mr. Reynalls yard, and put them into the barge where he had been working. Flynn and Stephens, on their examinations, stated that they found the staves floating on the river, near Newham. Verdict, Flynn and Truran, Not Guilty. Stephens, Guilty; Two Months' Hard Labor.
ROBERT BEER was charged with stealing a deal box from Mr. Wm. GILLARD, druggist, of Bodmin. A second count laid the property in Messrs. WINFRED and LUCAS, of Bristol. The prosecutor had been in the habit of receiving goods from Bristol, by water, to Wadebridge, and thence by prisoner's wagon to Bodmin. In March last, the prosecutor sent 13 empty packages by prisoner, and afterwards asked him for the captain's receipt. Prisoner said the captain refused to give a receipt, but that one would be sent from Bristol. On the 24th of April, a box was found on the prisoner's premises, by policeman INGLEDEN, directed by Mr. GILLARD to Messrs. J.S. W. and J. Lucas. In cross-examination, it appeared that Mr. Gillard had not sent the box to the same vessel which brought it from Bristol, and it was thence inferred that the captain had refused to take it. The prisoner had also willingly allowed a search on his premises; and it was admitted by Mr. Gillard that he still employed him. Verdict, Not Guilty.
JAMES HAWKE, 48, was charged with stealing two parcels of stockings, and one of tobacco, from Messrs. HICKS and NORMAN, of Wadebridge. Mr. HOCKIN stated the case, and called R. INGLEDEN, police officer, of Wadebridge, who stated that he apprehended the prisoner, at one o'clock in the morning of the 23rd of April. Witness stopped his wagon and said, "I understand you have smuggled goods here." Prisoner said, "No, I have not: jump up and see." Witness searched the wagon, and found some oats. A man called PENALIGAN(?) was in the wagon. Witness produced a parcel of stockings, and a parcel of tobacco, which he had received of prosecutor. Richard FRADD received two parcels from Mr. John NORMAN, on the morning in question. Cross-examined by Mr. JOHN. � Did not open the parcels. He knew the parcel of stockings, because the paper was torn and the stockings came through. Saw it opened before the magistrates. Mr. John Norman had lost a parcel of stockings, but could not positively say if it was the same as that now produced. Mr. Joseph HICKS, jun., saw Ingleden seize the prisoner about one o'clock, on the 23rd of April. The wagon was immediately put into the yard. Witness afterwards searched the wagon, and found the stockings and tobacco now produced. There was a private mark on the parcel of stockings, in witness's hand-writing. They never let private marks go out of the shop. Cross-examined by Mr. John. � Did not know what became of papers that had been wrapped round goods when they were of no further use. When stockings were sold, they put the papers away with other waste paper. There was no mark upon the tobacco. Witness had had words with the prisoner three weeks before. Prisoner said he would twist his neck; and witness replied that he should not get anything by saying so. Mr. Joseph Hicks, sen., would swear to the private marks. After prisoner was committed, witness read over a letter to him, which witness had received from his daughter at Truro, and said, "Jem, I am sorry you had not known better. I did not think you was so big a rogue. I have no doubt you have robbed me of hundreds of pounds." Prisoner replied, "no, 'tis the first time. I hope you will be merciful to me," Witness replied, "I will show you as much mercy as you have shown me," and told him he was a "deep chap" but was caught at last. Cross-examined. Witness had sold 24 or 25 dozens of these stockings out of 30 dozen. They were in parcels of dozens, like that produced. When the stockings were sold, the papers were used for sending out soap or other dirty things. Would swear the stockings produced were never taken out of the paper they came down in. Mr. Henry HUGHES heard the conversation between Mr. Hicks and the prisoner. When Mr. Hicks said he should not be merciful, Prisoner said "Then I'm done." Mr. LUXMOORE, clerk to the magistrates, proved the prisoner's examination. It stated that the oats and other things were in the waggon, before Penaligan got in, to go to Truro. Mr. G.D. JOHN, for the prisoner, addressed the jury at great length, and called the following witnesses to character:- Mr. James WYATT and Mr. J. JOHNS, of Wadebridge; and Mr. SOLOMON, of Bodmin. Verdict, Not Guilty.
JAMES HAWKE, the same prisoner, was charged, on a second indictment, with stealing 72 gallons of oats, from Messrs. HICKS and NORMAN. A second count charged the prisoner with being a servant at the time of committing the felony. R.A. INGLEDEN again stated the circumstances of the prisoner's apprehension, as he was leaving Wadebridge for Truro, on the morning of the 23rd of April. Witness found, in the waggon, three bags of oats; and prisoner said, "the oats are my perquisites; I make a shilling or two by it; don't tell my master; it will be the rain of me. He afterwards said he had bought the oats of a farmer, 12 miles the other side of Camelford. Witness took and secured the oats. On the road to the prison, prisoner said, "I am sorry for it, I had no occasion to do it. It is my own fault." Mr. FRADD, in whose cellar the oats had been secured, proved that they were in the same bag as those now produced. Mr. Joseph Hicks, sen. said that the oats produced, resembled those belonging to himself and partner. They were mixed, about one-sixth part white. On the evening before prisoner's apprehension, witness ordered him to go to Truro, at one o'clock the next morning. (Witness here repeated the evidence as to the letter and conversation given in the former case.) Mr. HUGHES and Mr. LUXMOORE gave evidence similar to that in the last case. With reference to the present charge, the prisoner's examination stated that he had sold three bushels of oats at Truro, the last time he was there, and promised to bring them down on his next journey. He afterwards bought some oats at Camelford, and brought them home. He carried part of them to his master's yard; and the next morning, wanting the bags to put some salt in, he emptied his oats into his master's core-hutch, and at one o'clock on the morning of the 23rd of April, measured them out again. Mr. JOHN, for the prisoner, addressed the jury in a most able and eloquent speech; and then called James COCK, who stated he lived at Advent, near Camelford; and on the 15th of April, he sold the prisoner four bushels and a peck of oats, for 10s. a bushel, for which prisoner paid him honestly, 'home to a farthing.' Mr. HOCKIN replied; and the Chairman very carefully summed up the evidence. Verdict, Guilty. Twelve Months Hard Labour; One Month Solitary Confinement.
WILLIAM and THOMAS POLLARD, two little boys, aged 11 and 9 years, were found Guilty of stealing some fagot wood, in a coppice in North-hill. They were sentenced to be once Privately Whipped and then Discharged.
JAMES DANIEL 45, and JAMES PARSONS 17, were indicted for stealing a stone hammer, the property of John DOWRICK. All the parties were persons employed on the road between Camelford and Wadebridge, and the hammer, which was left in a quarry, was subsequently found in the possession of Daniel, who said that it had been lent to him by Parsons. The latter prisoner accounted for his possession of it by saying that it had been left to him by his brother. He however absconded, but was afterwards taken into custody. The jury found Daniel, Not Guilty, and Parsons Guilty. One Week's Hard Labor.
HENRY STEVENS, 17, was found Guilty of Stealing a bar of gad steel, the property of the adventurers in Wheal Treverrian mine. Three Months' Hard Labor.
WILLIAM OLIVER, 19, was charged with stealing eleven sovereigns and some silver coins from the pocket of a chimney sweeper named William HUGO, and GILDEROY BROWN, 22, was indicted for receiving the same knowing it to be stolen. It appeared that on the 2nd day of May last, the prosecutor went to a public-house kept by Mr. ATKINS, at Liskeard, and there played at skittles. When he entered the yard, he had twelve sovereigns in his waistcoat pocket, one of which he changed having eleven sovereigns, and some silver in the pocket. In the course of his playing, he took off his waistcoat, and let it remain by the side of the pump. Afterwards, when he wished to put it on again, it had been removed, and he subsequently found it under the kitchen grate, but the money and the purse which contained it, had been abstracted. Evidence could have been given by Mr. Atkins, whose daughter stated that he was too ill to attend, that he saw the prisoner Oliver with the waistcoat and his hand in its pocket; but in the absence of such material evidence, the court directed the prisoner to be Acquitted. There were a number of low, dirty, scampish looking women in the court, awaiting the result of the verdict, who hailed with delight the unexpected acquittal of their companions.
JOHN HOSKING, for stealing woollen cloth belonging to Thomas JOHNS, of St. Ives, Nine Months' Hard Labor.
JAMES HODGE, for stealing three whips belonging to John Thomas of Galval, Nine Months' Hard Labor.
JANE RICH, for stealing a bundle of straw from Robert THOMAS, of Mevagissey, Six Months' Hard Labor.
WILLIAM ELMS, for stealing potatoes from William STEPHENS, of Rame, Six Months' Hard Labor.
MARK WILLIAMS and THOMAS ROBERTS, for stealing a piece of waistcoating from Harris SAMUEL, a hawker, Two Months' Hard Labor.
THOMAS SUTTON, for stealing furze from Samuel WONNACOTT, of Kilkhampton, One Week's Hard Labor.
JOSEPH BEST, for stealing a brass pan from Thomas COCK of Luxulian, One Month's Hard Labor.
ELIZABETH COOPER and MARY STACEY, for stealing potatoes from John ROWLAND of Poundstock, cooper, to a Fortnight's Imprisonment, and Stacey to be Imprisoned till the rising of the court.
WILLIAM PENROSE, for stealing two watches from Mr. John SIM, of Truro, Twelve Months' Hard Labor.
JOSEPH MARTIN GILES, for stealing a bag of almond comfits, from John GIBSON, at St. Austell, Three Months' Hard Labor.
RICHARD HONEY, for stealing barley from Samuel WARDEN(?) of Endellion, Six Months' Hard Labor, and John SKINNER for receiving it, Nine Months' Hard Labor.
JOHN DAWE, 25, was charged with having stolen some china and other ornaments, belonging to Joseph SKILLETT, his master. It appeared that the prisoner was a tailor residing at Truro, and that being out of work he was employed by his brother-in-law, Mr. Skillett, who resides at Wadebridge, to carry about hardware. In the beginning of April, the prosecutor gave him goods to the amount of �7. 15s. 1d. and ordered him to go to Padstow and return on the following evening. The prisoner did not return, and in a few days the prosecutor went to Truro, and found the prisoner there. He then asked him where his basket was. He said he had left it at Tregony. The prisoner then accompanied prosecutor to Tregony and returned with him to Wadebridge, where prosecutor found that �2 worth of his goods were gone, for which the prisoner gave him no money. Mr. STOKES addressed the court, and contended that at the time of receiving the goods there was no felonious intention. The jury agreed in that opinion, and returned a verdict of Not Guilty.
17 JULY 1840, Friday
TRINITY COLLEGE, DUBLIN - We understand that Mr. C.W. PENGELLEY, eldest son of Capt. Pengelley, and late pupil of Dr. RYALL, took his degree of Bachelor of Arts, at this College, on the 7th instant.
SOUTH AUSTRALIA - The "John," from London arrived at Port Adelaide on the 5th of February; the "Java" and the "Rajasthan" reached there on the (?). Both the last named vessels took out many Cornish emigrants.
JUVENILE PLOUGHMEN - We have much pleasure in recording the following feats in ploughing, performed by two servant boys of Mr. Richard ROSEWAREN, of Bospir..(?) in Gwinear, named Thomas CORNISH and Thomas HARVEY, the former 15, and the latter 12 years of age. At the Gwinear Ploughing Match, on the 22nd ult., at which eight ploughs started for men, Cornish won the third prize, and Harvey the second prize for boys. At the Kenwyn Ploughing Match, on the 2nd instant, at which eleven ploughs started for men, Cornish again won the third prize, and Harvey the first for boys. And, at the Camborne Ploughing Match, where five ploughs stared without drivers, both these youths were again successful. Cornish carrying off the first prize for men, and Harvey the first for boys � making in the whole six prizes in the short space of sixteen days, won by beating many old and experienced ploughmen.
TRURO POLICE - On Friday last, Joseph BUZZA, keeper of a beer shop in Fairmantle-street, was ordered to pay 6s. 6d. costs for allowing beer to be drunk on the premises, at half-past ten at night.
Samuel ARTHUR, town crier, was summoned by Mr. John ELLIS, a patent medicine vender, for having defaced some bills which the complainant had caused to be posted in different parts of the town. It appeared that the crier claimed a right of having all bills that are posted in the borough, and thus, in order to substantiate that claim, he had stuck pieces of blank paper over the complainant's bills and had rendered them wholly useless. Mr. HOCKIN, who appeared for the complainant, contended against the monopoly of the crier, and denied his authority to deface bills which Mr. Ellis had obtained permission from the owners of different houses to post. If such a thing were permitted, they might have the (public) going round and defacing bills put up by the owner of a house against his own premises; in addition to which, there were causes of complaint in the charges made by an individual who could have no competitors. Mr. G. N. SIMONS on the part of the crier, contended that the (?) had no authority to adjudicate in this case; and that (if) Mr. Ellis had any ground of complaint, it could only be maintained by an action. The bench concurred (to the) opinion of the Town-clerk, and dismissed the case, the Mayor at the same time remarking that henceforth the 'crier's charges for posting should be regulated by a (?) scale.
On Tuesday last, James JENKIN, of Truro was apprehended by policeman WOOLCOCK, and brought before W.P. KEMPE, Esq., charged by John SHIELDS, licensed hawker, with stealing five silk handkerchiefs, his property. The prisoner was committed for trial at the next sessions. A lad of the name of Stacey MINER, of Higher (?) near Truro, was brought up, charged with stealing a pasty from a workman on the farm of J. VIVIAN Esq. of Pencalenick, and was committed for trial.
Yesterday, Samuel PRYCE, tailor, of Falmouth, and late of Helston(?), was apprehended by policeman FITZSIMMONS, and brought before W.H. BULLMORE, Esq., mayor, charged by John(?) MELION, mason of St. Austell, with stealing a shirt which was found on the prisoner when apprehended. Committed for trial.
FALMOUTH POLICE - On Tuesday last, a butcher, named Richard WARREN, was brought before the Magistrates, for exposing in Falmouth market a part of a bullock which was diseased and unfit for food. It was decided to indict him for the offence at the borough sessions.
CORONERS INQUESTS - Before W. HICHENS, Esq. On the 8th instant, at St. Just in Penwith, on the body of James HOSKING, who was found dead in his bed on the morning of the 6th. This inquiry was deemed more particularly called for in consequence of the deceased having lived unhappily with his family for some time before. The jury were satisfied, however, that he died a natural death, and found a verdict accordingly.
On the following day, at Crowan, on the body of a child, named John OULD, aged about two years and nine months, who accidentally set fire to his clothes in the absence of his mother to fetch water for breakfast. The distance she had to go was very short, and she was wanting only a few minutes. The child was dreadfully burnt, and survived the accident only a short time. Verdict � "Accidental death."
On the same day at Laudewednack, on the body of the Rev. Henry Tonkin COULSON, rector of that parish, who was found drowned in Pencobben Cove there, on the 8th instant. It appeared in evidence that it was the deceased's habit to bathe daily, during the summer, whenever the weather would permit, and that he left his house between seven and eight in the morning of that day, taking with him a towel, having previously spoken to his housemaid about getting his breakfast, and told his man-servant to get his horse ready for him by the time he returned. The cause of the accident was wholly unaccounted for, but the body having been found in about eight feet of water, at a short distance only from his clothes, and it being known that he invariably undressed on the rocks � that he went from thence to the beach before he entered the water � that as he was unable to swim, he never went in beyond breast high, and remained at no time more than a minute in the water � it was supposed, from being very near sighted and without his spectacles, that in going from his clothes to the beach over the rocks, he went too near to the edge, and slipped over. Judging from the time the deceased left his house to that when he was picked up, he must have been in the water about two hours. Verdict � "Accidentally drowned."
The following inquests have been held during the week by John CARLYON, Esq., coroner. - On Monday last, at Pentuan, on the body of James Beal HOCKIN, a little boy five years of age, who in attempting to get into a boat, slipped his foot, fell into the water, and was drowned. The only person present was another little boy, about the same age, who got into the boat first and afterwards tried to save his little companion; but he did not succeed in his object, and unfortunately he did not mention what had occurred until some hours afterwards. The body was then taken out of the water, but life was, of course, extinct. Verdict accordingly.
On the same day, at Carharrack, in the parish of Gwennap, on the body of a miner called Thomas THOMAS, who was walking along the 176 fathom level in Tresavean mine, when the ground gave way, and he was precipitated into the level below, a distance of 12 fathoms, and killed on the spot. He was 29 years of age and has left a widow and two children. Verdict � Accidental death.West Briton, Friday July 17th 1840.
On the following day, at Truro, on the body of Susan BURN, a little child four years of age, who was driven over by a cart, No blame whatever was attached to the driver, and a Verdict of Accidental death was returned.
On Friday last, an inquest was held at Falmouth before W.J. GENN, Esq., coroner, on the body of Mrs. PARKER, who was found dead in her bed on that morning, when a verdict of died by the visitation of God was returned.
24 JULY 1840, Friday
This is to certify, that I, Joseph VIVIAN, of the Parish of St. Agnes, in the County of Cornwall, will not be answerable for any Debt or Debts which may be contracted by my wife, Eliza Vivian, after this date. July 15, 1840.
EMIGRATION TO AUSTRALIA - FREE PASSAGE! � Recent accounts from Sydney and Port Phillip represent the demand for labour there to be greater and more urgent than at any preceding period. Agricultural Servants were hired from on board the ships immediately on arrival, at wages from �30 to �40, and in some cases �50 per annum, besides food and lodging. Female Servants from �15 to �30; Mechanics readily obtained 12s. 6d. and upwards per day. Useful and well-conducted Agricultural Labourers and Mechanics, and Single Female Servants, desirous to proceed to either of the above places, may learn the conditions on which they will be conveyed out FREE, in ships sailing on fixed days every month, from London and Plymouth, on application (post paid) to Mr. John MARSHALL, Australian Emigration Agent, 26, Birchin Lane, Cornhill, London; or to Mr. Charles E. EDSALL, Truro. N.B. � These ships are fitted to a very superior manner for the accommodation of Chief and Intermediate Cabin Passengers, who are conveyed on the lowest terms consistent with comfort on the voyage.
SERIOUS ACCIDENT - On Thursday the 16th inst., a serious accident happened at Newport, near Launceston. As T.J. PHILLIPPS, Esq., of Landue, was descending Newport hill in a gig with his lady, the pony tripped and threw him out, and immediately set off at full speed. On arriving at St. Thomas's bridge, the wheel caught in the curb stone, and broke to pieces, throwing the lady to a great distance, by which her shoulder was dislocated, and she was otherwise much bruised. Mr. Phillipps providentially escaped all injury.
CORONER'S INQUESTS - A coroner's inquest was held at the Wellington Inn, Callington, on Saturday last, on the body of Mr. Immer BURT, who died after a few hours illness on Thursday forenoon. Verdict � "died by the visitation of God."
On Wednesday last, an inquest was held at Chacewater before J. CARLYON, Esq., coroner, on the body of James CLARK, a little boy four years of age, who fell into a pit at Chacewater Stamps, and was drowned. It appeared that there were several other children playing near the spot, but neither of them saw the deceased fall in, and his mother was the first person who discovered what had happened. Finding he did not return home at his usual hour, she went out to look for him, and eventually discovered him at the bottom of the pit in question, in which there was about three feet of water. She gave a screech which brought a person to the spot, who took the child out, but he was quite dead. Verdict � found drowned.
SCILLY, July 21. - Another melancholy accident happened here last Saturday evening. As a small boat, with three men in her, was proceeding from Bryher to the neighbouring island of Samson, she struck on a rock near the former place, and immediately sunk; when a man named Stephen JENKINS was unfortunately drowned. The others saved themselves by swimming to the land. The deceased was about 34 years of age, and had not been married above a twelve month. Thus three persons belonging to Bryher, have been drowned in the space of one week! The body of the coast-guard man, Sullivan, was picked up and buried last week.
On Saturday last, a boy named William THOMAS (residing at St. Mary's) threw a quantity of hot pitch on the head and face of another boy, named Walter ROWE, and scalded him in a dreadful manner.
The cutter "Rodney" has been at Scilly near a week, for the purpose of procuring men and boys for the navy, but not a single volunteer was found to offer! Employment of every kind is so plentiful here, (especially with regard to ship-building, house-building, &c.,) that there are not sufficient hands for the work, and considerable numbers have lately been engaged from Penzance and that neighbourhood.
ST. MAWES - On Monday evening last, a public tea was given, by the principal inhabitants of this town, at the Queen's Head Inn, to L. S. BOYNE, Esq., in return for the very handsome manner in which he came forward in their defence in the law suit lately instituted to try their right to obtain oysters from certain places within the Black Rock, and which, through his instrumentality, they have ensured. The room in which they assembled was tastefully decorated with evergreens and "the choicest flowers, culled from Flora's loveliest store," whilst over the heads of the worthy gentleman and his amiable lady were the words "The Fisherman's Friend" emblazoned in letters of green and gold. The tea and its etceteras were in the style for which the daughters of the well-known host have been so distinguished. The band from Falmouth was in attendance, and, during the repast enlivened the company by playing spirited and appropriate airs. After tea, the younger part of the company joined in a Flora-dance through the streets, to the immense gratification of its numerous inhabitants.
PENZANCE - The Queens of the Cawl, or Newlyn Fisherwomen, were regaled with a rich supply of cake and tea on Monday last, at the new corn chamber. Penzance, which became a resort for the fashionable; and many of the ladies and gentlemen after tea joined them in dancing.
TRURO POLICE - On Monday last, Wm. CROWL, miner of Feock, was brought before W.H. BULLMORE, Esq., mayor, and Capt. WIGHTMAN, charged by Policeman FITZSIMMONS with being disorderly, and assaulting him in the execution of his duty. He was fined 25s., with 8s. 6d. costs. Joseph GERRANS, of Bissow Bridge, was also brought up, charged with being disorderly in Lemon-street, with Crowl, and was discharged on payment of 5s. costs.
FIRE AT EXMOUTH � About a quarter before ten o'clock on the forenoon of Friday last, a fire broke out in the bakehouse of Mr. SELLERS, on the Strand, Exmouth, which raged with great fury for several hours, and destroyed the bakehouse, and four houses in front of it, besides seriously injuring several others. A great part of the furniture was fortunately saved. We understand the houses are insured in the Globe, and a portion of the furniture in the West of England Office.
RUNDLE STONE ROCK - Mr. Joseph BULLOCKE of Penzance, met with a very serious loss. His schooner, the "EMULOUS," Capt. STROUT, whilst on a voyage from Wales to Penzance, with a cargo of coal, struck the shoal, and passed over it almost immediately. The extent of the damage could not have been very serious as although, according to the report of the crew, the pumps were out of order, yet she continued afloat for nearly three hours, and eventually sunk in deep water off Whitesand-bay. The crew saved a hawser and two or three other articles of ship's stores, and also their clothes, in the boat, with which they got safe on board the schooner "Ocean," which was in company with them at the time of the accident, and landed them at St. Ives soon afterwards. We cannot help thinking, that if the crew had devoted the time occupied to getting out the stores, clothes, &c., to the more important work of baling, they might have succeeded in running her in somewhere on the beach, where the property might have been saved. Both vessel and cargo belonged entirely to Mr. Bullocke, who we regret to learn, is totally uninsured.
31 JULY 1840, Friday
NEWPORT CONVICTS - The "Mandarin" convict ship, which sailed from Falmouth on the 28th of February last for New South Wales, with FROST, JONES and WILLIAMS on board, arrived at Simon's Bay, Cape of Good Hope, on the 4th of May. On the 30th of April, information was given that it was the intention of the convicts to take forcible possession of the "Mandarin" and carry her to America; and a convict named John BLACK was to take the command of the ship. One of the guards was concerned in the plot.
SUICIDE - On Monday last, an inquest was held before J. HAMLEY, Esq., coroner, and a respectable jury, at Great Wheal Prosper mine, in the parish of Roche, on view of the body of Thomas COCK, a boy not yet 14 years of age, who had hung himself on the preceding Saturday, in the material house, on the mine. From enquiries we made on the spot, we gleaned the following. About 12 months since, deceased absconded from his parents, and was advertised in this paper; after which he returned, and has been very tractable ever since, as was particularly remarked at the Sunday-school which he attended. On Saturday evening, he was again absent from home, of which little notice was taken, as, being a shrewd little fellow, it was expected he would return again, as before. On Sunday, enquiry was made respecting him, but no clue obtained, and on Monday he was found as we before stated. He generally kept the key of the house where he was found, and it was in the outside of the lock, the door having been shut on the inside, where he had tied a rope to a beam very securely, and having fastened it around his neck had thrown himself off from a stool, which was found near him. What motive could have induced him to commit such an act we cannot imagine, and the family are at a loss to account for it. Not an angry word was given him, that they know of by any one; and after making every enquiry, both from members of the family, who are very respectable, and also from others, the affair is still enveloped in complete mystery. The jury returned a verdict of felo de se, and he was buried on the following night, conformably to the law in such cases.
REVIEW OF THE COAST GUARD - On Tuesday, the 21st instant, the whole of the coast guard belonging to the Fowey district, under the orders of Capt. WALCOTT, R.N., went through their exercise at Menabilly, in the presence of Capt BOWLES, R.N., Comptroller-General, who was much delighted with their proceedings, and highly gratified at the efficiency of the men. The whole of the boats of the district afterwards rowed a race from Pridmouth beach, round the Cannis and back. Several of the neighbouring gentry were present, who, together with the officers, were entertained by Capt. Walcott, R.N., with an elegant cold collation laid out near the grotto; after which an excellent repast was given by him to the whole of the men. The day passed off delightfully, and without the least accident.
TRURO POLICE - On Friday last, Richard LANYON, farmer, of St. Allen, was summoned before W.H. BULLMORE, Esq., mayor, and W.P. KEMPE, Esq., charged with assaulting Richard BARTLETT, prison keeper. The defendant was fined 40s. with 11s. costs.
Nicholas KENT, was also summoned by Francis GREEN, butcher, charged with maliciously pulling up and destroying potatoes on his farm. Fined 5s. with 11s. costs.
Thomas WILLIAMS, and John ENDEAN, were summoned for non-payment of paving and lighting rates. They objected to pay because the demand made on them was for three or four years back. The Magistrates thought they were not bound to pay for a longer period than the demand had been made, which was five months, but they freely offered to pay for the last 12 months.
James HUGO, a boy, was summoned by Policeman GILBERT, for furiously riding through the street. The policeman was not in court when the case was called on, and it was therefore dismissed, the policeman having to pay 7s. costs.
On Saturday Zaccheus ISAAC, a labourer, was brought before the mayor by policeman WOOLCOCK, charged with being found in a lock-up yard of Messrs. PADDON, and Co., merchants, at half-past twelve o'clock at night, unable to account for himself. The prisoner was committed to the House of Correction for two months.
On Monday last, Richard BENNEY, of Mawgan, was brought before W. P KEMPE, Esq., charged with stealing apples from the garden of Mr. WHITFORD, farmer of Lambessow, St. Clement. Committed for six weeks' hard labor. The same day Stephen HUDDY, and Robert OSBORNE, both of Truro, were apprehended by policeman GILBERT, and brought before the mayor and Capt. KEMPE, charged with stealing a great coat, the property of John Stephens TRUSCOTT, mine agent, of South Towan, St. Agnes. The prisoners were both admitted to bail.
John WILLIAMS, of Ruan, labourer, was brought up charged by Mrs. Elizabeth DIAPER, licensed victualler, of Malpas, with having entered her dwelling-house at a late hour on the previous night. It was the opinion of the Bench that it was not done with a felonious intent, and the prisoner was discharged after receiving a severe reprimand.
FALMOUTH POLICE - On Friday last, two seamen, belonging to the schooner "Collector," of Plymouth, PEARSE, master, were brought before S. BLIGHT, and J. ELLIS, Esqrs., on a charge of stealing a quantity of fish from a trawler in Falmouth harbour. One of the men was called Michael BURNE, of Mevagissey, and the other William GATENBY, of Plymouth. They were both committed to take their trial at the next quarter sessions of the borough.
On Wednesday, Thomas CUSTONS, chief mate of the brig "Stephen," was charged with an assault on David BELL, the second mate. The case was proved, and he was fined �1 and costs.
FALMOUTH - On Tuesday last, a fine ship, called the "Glory," of Lynn, arrived at Falmouth, on board of which the detachment of the 3rd regiment, billeted in that town, embarked for India. We hear there have been several cases of desertion.
PROMOTION - We understand the Mr. N. M. BUCKET, one of the Landing waiters at Falmouth, is appointed Collector of the Customs at Scilly.
LAUNCH - On Tuesday last, a fine smack, intended for the fruit trade, was launched from the yard of Mr. MAYNE, shipwright, Falmouth. She went off in fine style although she was launched broadside on, in the presence of a large number of spectators.
REDRUTH - The splendid house for the Redruth Union is now finished, and the paupers are taking their places as rapidly as possible. The arrangements are admirable. It is calculated to hold 450.
SPLENDED CARNATION - There is now in flower, at Prideaux-house, the seat of Sir J. C. RASHLEIGH, Bart., a fine specimen of carnation, (La-du-de) which measures upwards of 7 feet in height. It is about twelve months old, and grows in a pot within the house.
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