cornwall england newspaper

1840 NEWS ARTICLE

MAY

1 MAY 1840, Friday

List of Fairs to be held in Cornwall in May

Fowey, Milbrook, and Trewen, 1st; Lanreath and Redruth, 2nd; Mullion and Tregony, 4th; West Looe, and Tregonatha, 6th; Callington and Falmouth, 7th; Lerrin, 11th; Bissick in Ladock, Penryn, St. Stephens by Launceston, Southpetherwin, and Wadebridge, 12th; Crowan and Wendron, 18th; Lane, Lower St. Columb, and Stratton, 19th; Hessenford and St. Tudy, 20th; Gweek and Poundstock, 25th; Camelford, St. Dennis, Penrose, and Trewithian, 26th; Roche, 27th; St. Germans, Kilkhampton, Liskeard, Penzance, Port Isaac, Summercourt, and Trew, 28th; Stokeclimsland, 29th. There will be a cattle market at Truro on the 6th. Letter to the Editor

The RECENT EXECUTIONS

SIR - The facts detailed by you in your paper of the 17th relative to the conduct of the large numbers of people who assembled to witness the recent executions, must have added much to the pain and sorrow which already pervaded the county at the atrocious occurrence we have had to deplore.

That some twenty thousand of the inhabitants of this county flocked to the scene of death "with boisterous mirth and noisy hilarity" and that, according to some accounts, "the usual scenes of drunkenness and debauchery consequent on an execution" followed, did, I confess, fill me with shame and regret for the total want of right feeling thus displayed by so large a portion of our countrymen.

There must be something very wrong in the moral and intellectual condition of a people which on such an occasion could rush to witness so solemn a scene as "if they were going to a fair," and could then indulge a depraved appetite, in crowding to the sight of a representation of the murder and of another scene of horror.

A craving for excitement which are abhorrent to a well-directed mind and heart, betokens a people in a low degree of cultivation both intellectually and morally. By its very nature also it tends to increase the evil of which it is the index. As avidity to contemplate scenes of crime must weaken the feelings of repulsion which the actions themselves should call forth. Did the fathers and mothers who demeaned themselves as they are said to have done at Bodmin on that day, reflect that by their own conduct, and by their example to their children, they were smoothing the way for the existence among us of other Lightfoots, and the increase of such unnatural recklessness and brute-like apathy as these two wretched brothers displayed.

Alas! To ask for much reflection, or much power of calculating consequences, from the great majority of the working classes in our county, superior as they are to most others, would be, I fear, but bootless. Let us endeavour to extract from these recent events subjects of consideration, which, if properly dealt with, may lead to measures which may prevent our working population falling from the grade which, as compared with other parts of the kingdom, they still occupy. Let us remember that our working population is increasing rapidly, and that our schools are increasing but slowly. Let us remember that in most of the thickly-peopled mining districts in the county, to say nothing of the agricultural, the number of children growing up without instruction is daily augmenting. Let us feel convinced, and let us promptly act upon the conviction, that to give the rising generations sound moral and and religious instruction, and to open their minds and direct their habits of thought, by imparting the rudiments of general knowledge, is one of the first duties and responsibilities cast upon the higher classes, whose superior wealth and acquirements are in the nature of a sacred trust, to be administered for the benefit of those below them in the scale of society.

Another hint I would throw out is, that executions, if they are to be continued, should take place within the prison, in presence of the proper public officers, the felons, and a few of the sufferer's friends and relatives. By this mode, the demoralizing excitement at present attending them would be avoided.

I am, Sir, your's, &c,
A CORNISHMAN

Per the talk given by S. Norway, this was the last public execution to take place in Cornwall, and it happened to take place on the day the new railroad opened. Many people throughout the County took advantage of the opening day excursion prices, and decided to 'make a day' out of it, which is why the crowds were so great.

Bankrupts -

Miles METCALFE, linen draper, Plymouth.

Domestic News - The Queen

It is whispered in circles likely to be acquainted with the fact, that her Majesty is in a way likely to prevent the succession to the throne from passing into any other than the direct line. The report derives strength from her Majesty's recent abstinence from her favourite exercise on horseback, and also from dancing, in which she is known to take much pleasure.

Bodmin Wesleyan Centenary Chapel - We understand that this building is now completed, and will be opened for Divine Worship on Thursday next by the Rev. R. YOUNG, of London, who will preach in the morning and evening, and the Rev. T. WOOD, who will occupy the pulpit in the afternoon. On the following Sunday, we understand, Mr. Wood will preach in the morning, and the Rev. J. GROSE, of Plymouth, in the afternoon and evening. We trust the contributions at these services, towards defraying the expenses of the building, will be in keeping with the well known liberality of Cornishmen.

Extraordinary Hog - We are informed there is now at Fraddom, in the parish of Gwinear, one of the largest hogs ever seen in the western part of England. It measures 9 feet 2 inches in length, and 3 feet 10 inches in depth. It is to be killed on the 13th of May, and it is said it will weigh 50 score. From the number of persons constantly applying to have permission to see it, the proprietor, Mr. Richard NOELL, is obliged to keep a person almost always engaged in admitting the public to gratify their curiosity.

Truro Police - On Thursday, the 23rd ult., Elizabeth DAVIS, a notorious prostitute, was brought before W. H. Bullmore, Esq., mayor, charged by policeman Fitzsimmons, No. 2, with being drunk, and behaving in a riotous and indecent manner. She was committed for three months' hard labour, this being a third conviction in a short time - twice to Bodmin, and once fined 20s., for assaulting a female in the street. On Monday last, Joseph DYER was brought before the Mayor and W.P. Kempe, Esq., charged by Thomas DYER, his brother, with stealing a hat, a silk handkerchief, a waistcoat, and a pair of shoes. The police found the articles on his person, as he was making his way to Plymouth. He was committed for trial. Yesterday, Mr. RUTTER, of the Coach and Horses Inn, was summoned before the Mayor and W.P. Kempe, and J. Hodge, Esqrs., for having refused to open the door of his house on Sunday, the 12th, to policemen Woolcock and Hare. He was fined 10s. and costs, amounting altogether to �1.2s.6d. John NORTH, butcher, was fined �2 and 10s. costs, for having had two calves in the market which were unfit for human food. James Oats, carpenter, was summoned by his apprentice for �6.9s.3d. due for wages. The bench ordered the defendant to pay the demand and costs. John ODGERS, a wooden legged man, was charged with having assaulted the son of Mr. John BARRETT, shoemaker, and thereby broken his arm. On the hearing of the case it was dismissed, the Bench thinking that the assault was not willfully committed. Two boys, named BRAMBELL and ARTHUR, were charged by Mr. Wm. THOMAS, of New Mills, with having thrown into the leat, which is a branch of the Kenwyn river, a quantity of lime for the purpose of destroying the fish. Some fish were destroyed; but as the complainant interfered too soon, before the boys had removed any of their spoil, the case was dismissed, the boys promising never to be guilty of a similar offense.

The Late Attempt at Murder - On Friday last, the prisoner, Samuel BAILEY, whose examination we reported last week, on a charge of attacking the captain, mate, and a seaman of the "Sprightly," to the westward of Scilly, on her voyage from St. Michael's, was again brought before S. Blight, Esq., mayor, and J. Ellis, Esq., one of the magistrates of Falmouth, when it having been ascertained, that the Captain was lying in a precarious state at Penzance, and unable to be removed or give his evidence against the prisoner, as he had his skull so much fractured as to render it necessary to remove some portion of the bone, the witnesses, James BOWLES, mate, and William COOMBS, seaman, gave evidence to that stated by us last week. The prisoner having refused to say anything, or to ask the witnesses any questions, they were bound over to give evidence on the prisoner's trial, at the Central Criminal Court, London, on the 11th of May, and the prisoner was taken back to the prison, to await an order for his removal to London. We are happy to hear that notwithstanding the severe injuries the Captain has received, there is some hope that under the care of Mr. PIDWELL, surgeon, of Penzance, he may yet recover.

Serious Accident - On Tuesday evening last, as Mr. TREWHELLA, clerk to Mr. KNIGHT, brewer, Truro, was returning from Point, his horse fell over a plank, projecting in the road, immediately in front of the smelting works, by which he received so severe an injury to his head as to cause his life to be despaired of; but we are glad to hear, that by the assistance promptly obtained, he is now so far improved as to justify hope of his recovery. The place where the accident happened is at any time sufficiently dangerous to require great caution in passing it on horseback, but the road having been recently repaired with slag from the furnaces, its boundaries are very indistinct, and, of course, at night the danger is increased by the darkness, and by the sudden flashes of light when the fires are stirred.

Fire - On the 19th instant, a fire broke out in the premises of Messrs. Parnell and Parkhouse, in the parish of North Tamerton, in this county. The house and premises were nearly burnt to the ground, and great part of the furniture destroyed. The origin of the fire was accidental, and we regret to add that Messrs P and P. were uninsured.

Caution - An impostor, a notorious rogue and vagabond, of the name of John CARNE, has been practicing for some time on the good nature of the inhabitants of St. Columb, St. Austell, and other places in the neighbourhood. He is a native of St. Columb Minor, from which parish he has absconded, having deserted the second time his wife and family, consisting of six young children. He endeavours to levy contributions by means of a brief, which he pretends to have obtained from the clergyman and guardians of St. Columb Minor, and which sets forth a series of losses and misfortunes. We need scarcely say that his story is false, and that his brief is a forgery. The constables of St. Columb Minor are on the alert to apprehend him.

8 MAY 1840, Friday

APPREHENSION OF AN IMPOSTER - We understand that John CARNE, of St. Columb Minor, who was represented in last week's paper as an imposter, traveling with a brief, was apprehended on Wednesday last, by the constable of St. Columb Minor, and on Thursday committed by F. Rogers, Esq., to the tread-mill for three months, for leaving his family chargeable on the parish. He is now reaping the reward of his doings.

DESTRUCTIVE FIRES - On Sunday morning last, about half-past ten o'clock, a fire broke out in the dwelling of Mr. Thomas MICHELL, Trevarrack, in the parish of Lelant, which, assisted by a brisk gale of wind, continued to rage so violently as to reduce three dwelling and two outhouses to ashes, with several bushels of potatoes and corn, and a quantity of farming implements. Two fat pigs in their styes were also consumed by the flames.

The same day about noon, a fire broke out on a small farm, occupied by John NICHOLLS, in the parish of Advent, about a mile from Camelford, which burnt an outhouse, two carts, husbandry implements, &c, and the dwelling narrowly escaped, after being ignited. It is supposed the fire was occasioned by a spark, the wind being high, and every thing dry.

FATAL ACCIDENT - On Monday afternoon, as several boys, from four to six years of age, were lighting up a fire with some dry sticks, for the purpose of play, at St. Ives, a lad aged five years, son of Abraham CRASE, shoemaker, caught his clothes on fire, and was so dreadfully burnt that he died in a few hours.

INSOLVENT DEBTOR'S COURT, MIDDLESEX, APRIL 24, 1840 - Mr. Thomas NICHOLAS, late of Truro, solicitor, applied for his discharge under the Insolvent Act. He was opposed by Mr. COOKE, on behalf of Messrs. Willyams and Co., Bankers. On his examination, the Insolvent stated that he resided at Truro, up to the early part of the year, 1838; that in March, 1839, he sold his household furniture, left Truro, and went to the Island of Jersey; that he subsequently went to Guernsey, and afterwards to St. Mary .. Strand Place, Old Kent Road, London. That an action was brought against him by Mr. Kelly, formerly [ ..] Sheriff of Cornwall, on an indemnity given by the insolvent to the Sheriff, and that a verdict was found for Mr. KELLEY, at the assizes for Cornwall in March 1839, for the sum claimed; and that Mr. Kelly had taken a freehold estate, to which the Insolvent was entitled, called Trenarth, in Cornwall, under an elegit, and was then in possession of the rents and profits thereof. That there was a provision in the Insolvent's marriage settlement, that in case of his Insolvency or Bankruptcy, the trustees under the settlement should receive the rents of this estate for his wife's benefit. That his detaining creditor was a Mr.George POPKIN, who formerly practiced as a solicitor in London, but was not now in the profession, and the Insolvent did not know where he lived; that the debt was [.], and was for business done by him as Insolvent's agent. That Popkin sued him about three months since for the debt, and that he did not do anything with the writ served on him at the suit of Popkin. That he was afterwards taken on a Judge's order, that he did not know anything of it until after he had been arrested, and that he was then about to go to Guernsey. That he was arrested on the [ ..] February; that it was quite unexpected; it was indeed a great surprise to him, and when he was arrested he had no intention of taking the benefit of the act. That Popkin's bill of costs was at Truro, and that a threatening letter which he had received from Mr. Popkin, demanding payment of the debt, was also at Truro. That he did not know how it happened that his retainer to his Attorney was dated the day before his arrest and that the broker had signed his inventory four days before he was arrested. The [..] regular inventory bears date the 14th of February, [..] Guernsey; that it was sent to him by post, and that when it arrived he went with it to his Attorney's, and signed some paper, but did not know whether it was a retainer, or on what day it was he so signed it.

The Court adjourned the further hearing of the case, .. the 29th of April, for the Insolvent to produce Mr. Popkin. On that day, the Insolvent refused to be further heard, and the Court dismissed his petition.

PUBLIC NOTICE EMIGRATION to SOUTH AUSTRALIA - A ship will leave Falmouth, in June next, for ADELAIDE, and a Free Passage will be granted to all eligible persons, provided they make immediate application for their papers to Mr. I. LATIMER, Rosewyn, Truro

A Gentleman from the Office in London will be at Truro, on Wednesday next, the 13th of May, when all Persons desirous of emigrating should attend, with their Families, in the Morning, at Pearce's Hotel. The same gentleman will attend at the King's Head, Chacewater, on Thursday at 9 o'clock, and at Andrews' Hotel, Redruth at 12 o'clock precisely. And on the following day, Friday, at the King's Head, Grampond, at 9 o'clock, and at the White Hart, St. Austell, at 12 o'clock, at which places all applicants must attend with all the members of their families that are to go out.

Mechanics and Laborers, married, and under thirty years of age, may have a Free Passage. If above thirty, they must have one Child for each year that they exceed that age.

Brothers, unmarried, may have a free passage, if accompanied by a Sister.
The Sisters of married Emigrants may also have a passage.
All Children of eligible Parents, above Seven and under One Year of age, will go free. For those between One and Seven, �3 each will have to be paid.

The following is an extract from a letter just sent home by John PAULL, formerly a common miner, to his father Erasmus Paull, of Goonvren, in St. Agnes: "I have been working at well-sinking and I have got �4, and sometimes �5 per week. Sometimes I have cut grass and have got �1 per day, and if I did not get more than 15s. per day I count it slight. Now I am working at bricklaying and stone building, and I have done very well. I believe our family has done as well as any that have come out here. Fat pork is 9d. per lb., and fresh pork is 14d. per lb., but I have nine pigs - two large and seven small ones. I have bought some land and built a house, which cost me one hundred pounds. This is what I saved the first year."

The accounts from Adelaide are most gratifying. All the letters that have come into Cornwall, and they are many, speak in the most satisfactory terms of the prosperity of the Colony. Truro, May 7, 1840

15 MAY 1840, Friday

EDITORIAL - Transportation of convicts to Australia ...The speech of Sir W. Molesworth, on the subject of transportation, is one of the most important that has been delivered in the House this session. We have given as full an abstract of it as our space will allow; and as we hope to see it printed in the form of a pamphlet, we recommend it to the attentive perusal of our readers of all parties. Although technically unsuccessful, we have reason to know that this motion, coupled with his previous labours in the Committee, have made a very deep impression both on the government and the public. The government already have determined to put an end to the worst part of the transportation system, the assignment of convicts; and have resolved to send no more convicts to the settled part of our Australian colonies. The only places for the future, to which convicts will be sent, are Tasman's Penninsula, in Van Dieman's Land, and Norfolk Island. The horrible sufferings of the convicts at both these places are almost beyond description. Death loses its terrors when put in comparison with them. We hope shortly to return to the subject.

THE SMALL POX - We understand that this disease has been lately prevailing in the neighbourhood of Redruth, to a distressing extent, and with fatal virulence. It appears to have attacked persons who had been vaccinated, as well as those who had not obtained that hoped for protection.

CAMELFORD - On Thursday, the 7th instant, the Police officer of this place took two married women from St. Cleather parish, with infants at their breasts, to Bridewell, for 14 days, for ill using a sheep, which died in consequence. On Friday, the same officer took four young men into custody, who, in alark, after drinking at a beer-shop to a late hour at Pengelly, in the parish of St. Teath, threw down most of the gates and stiles in their way home. Three of them were taken before the Rev. C. Hodgton, on Saturday morning, and discharged after paying a fine and expenses. On Monday last, six vagrants were committed from Boscastle by the Rev. S. Chillcott, for one month at the tread-mill. Some of them had organs and white mice, which were of no avail, as they had been begging. Several of them had been committed before for the same offence.

TRURO POLICE - [Witness saw that a beer-shop was open after hours, and there was a noisy disturbance; when he tried to enter, the owner shut the door in his face. He went around to the back door, and got] inside, he immediately went into the passage leading to the kitchen, and, looking into the tap-room, saw some men in the attitude of fighting. He was attempting to go in, when Michell seized him by the collar, and forced him out of the room. A policeman was sent for, and was also refused to be let in. Michell was fined 10s., with 10s. costs. On the same day, Sally MENHENNET, a fish-girl, was summoned for assaulting Elizabeth BURLEY, a dressmaker, in Charles-street. Menhennet said, in her defence, that she was in the habit of selling fish, and whenever the girl Burley met her, she abused her, and called her such names as she thought no creditable girl would use. The magistrates thought it was an aggravated case, and ordered Menhennet to pay the costs, 6s., and not to be guilty of a like offence again. Yesterday, James FRIEND, a labourer, was fined 5s. and 4s. 6d., costs for being drunk, and incapable of taking care of himself; and John WILLIAMS, shoemaker, of Charles-street, was fined 5s. and 5s.3d. costs for a like offence, and on the complaint of his wife was bound to keep the peace for twelve months.

TOWN HALL FALMOUTH - On Wednesday se'nnight, five persons of St. Mawes, were charged by a man called William MARTIN, with having committed a felony, by taking up a quantity of oysters from a spot in St. Just pool. Martin stated that he had been for many years in the employ of Messrs. Austin, of London, oystermen; and that he was sent to Falmouth to superintend the dredging of oysters. That he had hired a spot in St. Just pool, and deposited the produce of some days dredging; but that on the preceding Monday, from 30 to 40 fishermen, from St. Mawes, went to the place and took up about 26 tubs of oysters out of 50 which had been put there. Mr. Andrew Young, watched the proceedings for the complainant, and Mr. J. B. Moorman, for the fishermen; and after a number of witnesses had been examined, to show that the oysters were not removed feloniously, but in the open day, and that it was done to try the right of the party depositing in the aforesaid spot, the magistrates agreed that a felony had been committed, and bound over the parties to prosecute. The five men were also bound over to appear at the next sessions to answer the charge.

NARROW ESCAPE - On Saturday last, as a little boy, about eight years of age, named WHITE, was drawing water from a well, in the parish of St. Just in Penwith, his foot slipped, and he was precipitated to the bottom, a depth of seven fathoms. After buffeting with the water some time, he was happily taken up unhurt, by the timely assistance of a man named James NICHOLAS, who, at the risk of his own life, succeeded in climbing down the well, just as he [the boy] was about to sink for the last time. Too much praise cannot be given to the individual who acted with so much intrepidity in saving the life of a fellow creature.

SOUTH AUSTRALIA - The "Waterloo," a first-class vessel of 500 tons burden, has been chartered by the South Australian Commissioners for the conveyance of the Cornish Emigrants. She will leave London for Falmouth on the 12th of June, and be at Falmouth about the 21st.

The "Cleveland," in which some Cornish Emigrants left Plymouth on the 4th of August last, had reached Adelaide, South Australia, before the 28th of December. The "Morley" has been heard of, all well, from the Island of Trinidad, near the South American Coast. She sailed from Plymouth the 28th of December.

RAIN TANKS - After the long season of drought we have recently had, the following extract from a paper read at a meeting of the Polytechnic Society some years ago, by Davies Gilbert, Esq., may be interesting to many of our readers: "Rain enough.. falls on every house in England for the use of its inhabitants; and one of the Tanks of which he had spoken, of less than seven feet wide and deep, had supplied two labourers' families for three years, while most of the springs in the neighbourhood were dry. A tank twelve feet by seven feet had been found sufficient for a large family and seven horses, and upwards of twenty labourers' gardens had been watered by the rain that formerly injured the public road, and, in consequence, was turned into a sink well." The correspondent who directs our attention to this matter remarks that such tanks might be useful in Cornwall. Care should be taken to select a proper spot for them, and they should be well lined with clay to prevent absorption, as well as planted round with willows, or trees of quick growth, to prevent evaporation.
DEVON - Sir Bouchier Wrey, Bart., of Barnstaple, has given an acre of ground each to 60 poor people for tillage for their own use; and by way of encouragement, the person who cultivates the best will be further rewarded with a prize.

The River Teign was never known to be so low as at present. It can be crossed near Christow, Ashton, and Bridford, in many places, without wetting the sole of the shoe. The ripping season has commenced very generally round this neighbourhood. It is nearly a fortnight earlier than usual, and the dry weather has enabled the owners of the bark to send it off almost as soon as taken from the tree.

SUDDEN DEATH - On Saturday last, Mr., William CHAPPEL, who for a great number of years has had the conveyance of prisoners from Helston to Bodmin, after eating a hearty dinner, went into the market at Helston, where he was shortly after taken unwell and assisted home; but he had scarcely reached his house when he was seized with a fit to which he had been subject, and almost instantly expired.
ASSAULT and ROBBERY - We understand that an assault and robbery was committed at Venterden, in the parish of Stokeclimsland, on the 23rd ult., by four men, on the person and property of Mr. Joseph WHITLEY, of Callington. One of the ruffians, we hear, states his name to be BRIDGE, of Okehampton. He is very deaf, and a watchmaker by trade.

MELANCHOLY ACCIDENTS - On Tuesday, the 5th instant, as a poor man named John NEWTON, was at work in the Morvah and Zennor mines, charging a hole for blasting, the charge exploded, and melancholy to relate, blew both his eyes out, and otherwise injured him.

On Thursday, the 7th instant, as a lad named Richard MARTIN was engaged in rolling stuff under ground, at North Roskear, by some means his foot slipped, and he was precipitated a depth of 20 fathoms in the shaft, but we are happy to say he is in a fair way of recovery.

On Saturday last, as a man, of the name of Benjamin ROWE, was at work in the whim shaft of Tin Croft mine, assisting the timber-man to put in a plot, he by some means lost his footing, fell a depth of 30 fathoms, and was killed on the spot. The deceased was 51 years of age, and has left a widow and family, all grown up. An inquest was held on the body, on Monday last, and the jury returned a verdict of accidental death.

ROBBERIES - On the 24th ult., Ingleden, the police officer of Wadebridge, searched the house of a man, named Robert BEAR, of Wadebridge, and found in his possession a large quantity of property supposed to be stolen. The man has since been committed for trial for stealing a box belonging to Mr. GILLARD, druggist, of Bodmin, and also for robbing Mr. Samuel WEST, of Wadebridge, of a two gallon bottle. On the 27th ult., the same active officer apprehended John SCANTLEBURY, charged with stealing a quantity of boards, the property of Mr. COLENSO of Bodmin. The prisoner was committed. On the 29th ult., Ingleden, apprehended Richard HONEY, servant of Mr. WARDEN, of St. Endellion, who was charged with stealing 37 gallons of barley, belonging to his master, in February last. John SKINNER, of Port Issac, was also taken after a desperate resistance, on a charge of having received the barley from Honey knowing it to have been stolen. We believe that both the prisoners have been committed to take their trial. Inglenden also apprehended Jane BISHOP for stealing a quantity of turnips, the property of Mr. POLLARD, of Clupper, near Wadebridge, but as Mr. Pollard did not appear against her she was discharged.We received this communication last week, but not till after our paper had gone to press.

ADVERTISEMENT - This Day is published, in 8vo, (pp.60), price One Shilling. CONSIDERATIONS on the STATE of the LAW regarding MARRIAGES with a DECEASED WIFE'S SISTER. By a BARRISTER of the Middle Temple. London: Longman, Orme, and Co. MARRIAGE ACT, 5th and 6th Wm. IV., c. 54, commonly called Lord Lyndhurst's Act. Parties aggrieved by the above Act, which prohibits marriages with a deceased wife's sister, are earnestly solicited to co-operate in an endeavour now making to obtain its repeal. The prohibition has no foundation either in religion or morality, and cannot be supported upon any ground of rational expediency. Communications to be addressed to A. B., care of Messrs. Wilson and Oglivy, Printers, No. 57, Skinner-street, Snowhill. Names will be scrupulously concealed, if desired.

22 MAY 1840, Friday

SCILLY - Nothing of consequence has occurred here for several weeks past. The weather, which, during March and April, was astonishingly dry, and generally warm, has lately altered considerably. Much rain fell last week, which was very desirable, and the ground was parched in many places; and the cattle severely felt the want of pasture. It is now blowing a gale from the north, and Very Cold!

After all that has been written about the missions of the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge (by which the minds of the islanders have been much agitated) it appears that the present missionaries are to retire, after having served twenty years and upwards, on pensions of �75 per annum each; and that a "Trust Fund" of FOUR THOUSAND POUNDS has been raised for the purpose of providing other clergymen in their room! Whether the maintenance of the existing schools is to be 'part and parcel' of the Trust, does not appear. The departure of the missionaries is contemplated with sincere regret by all classes of the inhabitants.

ST. MABYN - On Easter Tuesday, April 21st, this beautiful village was the scene of great rejoicing by the members and friends of the teetotal society, occasioned by the second anniversary of the above institution, which, through the Divine blessing, has been rendered useful in reclaiming many drunkards. The opening services commenced with a public prayer meeting; at half-past one o'clock, an able and interesting sermon was preached in a field adjoining the Wesleyan Association chapel (which was found far too small to contain the congregation) by the Rev. W. Patterson, of Helston, when a procession was formed, headed by the Revds. W. Patterson, A. Weston, T. B. Thompson, mounted on three beautiful grey horses, followed by two brass teetotal bands. Upwards of 20 banners, and nearly 400 members of the society paraded the village, and were kindly permitted to walk through the enchanting lawns and gardens of Richard ANDREW, Esq., and then proceeded to the malt-house and brewery formerly occupied by Messrs. E. and H. HARRY, which was tastefully fitted up for the occasion. The tables and forms were supported by barrels; the brewer's furnace was converted into a tea-kettle; and two large coolers were made into a platform. The chair was occupied by Mr. TREGASKIS, when the meeting was ably and eloquently addressed by Messrs. MUDGE, GAVED, FOX, MARTYN, PATTERSON, and THOMPSON, whose speeches produced a powerful effect; and at the conclusion of the meeting many joined the society.

WESLEYAN METHODISTSDuring the present week, the Ministers of this body, in what is called the Cornish District, have held their annual district meeting in Truro, and according to their custom, have had public services in their chapel at five o'clock in the morning, and at seven in the evening of each day. On Monday evening, the Rev. Thomas WOOD, of St. Columb, preached; on Tuesday morning, the Rev. John SMART, of Tuckingmill; on Tuesday evening, the Rev. S. DUNN, of Camborne; on Wednesday morning, the Rev. John Dawson, of St. Agnes; on; Wednesday evening, the Rev. John HOBSON, of Redruth; on Thursday morning, the Rev. W. R. Williams, of Helston; and on Thursday evening, the Rev. Wm. APPLEBY, of St. Ives. We understand that 4,730 members have been added to the Societies in the district during the last year, and that in addition to this large increase, there are 1,493 on trial.

LISKEARD - We have had some very heavy hail showers on Saturday, accompanied with violent claps of thunder and vivid flashes of lightning, some of the hailstones were of a very large size.

TRURO POLICE - On Friday last, Matthew HEATH, beer-shop keeper, of Tabernacle-street, was ordered to pay the costs only, 9s. 6d., for having his house open after ten o'clock at night. Richard PILL was fined 2s. 6d., with 9s.6d. costs, for refusing to pay John DUNSTAN, a turnpike gate keeper, his toll, 2d., on passing through with a horse, with a bag of potatoes on his back.

SERIOUS FROLIC - On Tuesday last, as a poor old woman named GROSE, who is very decrepit, was walking as well as she could over the road in St. Just in Penwith, some mischievous boys, by way of frolic, we suppose, began jumping on her back and otherwise annoying her, until they threw her down. The poor woman's arm was broken by the fall, so that the result of this wanton frolic may be more serious than was expected.

WADEBRIDGE - On Saturday, the 9th instant, a man called Edward BYRNE, who was hawking, without a license, was taken before a magistrate, by the police officer INGLEDEN, and committed for one month at hard labour. The following day, the same officer took a man named Wm. BUNT, of Burlawn, into custody, for deserting his wife and children, but on promising to pay all expenses, and live with his family in future, he was discharged. The same day, Ingleden found a man named Williams JAMES loitering about the premises of James MANKIN, of the Ship Inn, Egloshayle, with intent to commit a felony. The magistrates committed him for two months at hard labour. On the 12th instant, during Wadebridge fair, the same active officer detected another hawker, named James FRAISER, without a license, and, after much difficulty, secured him. He was committed for two months' at hard labour.

CAMELFORD - On Thursday, the 14th inst., a labourer of profligate habits, called COWLING, from the parish of St. Teath, was committed to the Bodmin tread-mill, for one month, for deserting his wife and four children, and leaving them chargeable to the parish.

STRATTON FAIR - This fair, on Wednesday last, exhibited an unusual assemblage of choice cattle. The sale was more than commonly brisk, and 370 head of prime stock exchanged owners. Fat bullocks brought 56s. to 60s. per cwt; stores 35s. to 42s.; fat sheep in their wool 7d. per lb.; shorn 5 1/2d. to 6d. Cows and calves were plentiful and fetched high prices. Five of the thimble-rig gents, who were plying with great diligence the suspicious business of their order, were taken into custody at an early hour in the morning by the active police officer, GODDARD, and we hear have since been committed to the House of Corrections, to three months' hard labour, as rogues and vagabonds. The residence of a police officer in Stratton has been attended with the happiest effects. The place is now free from those frequent depredations to which property was before exposed, and the fair passed off without disturbance and without loss to the pockets of the farmer, or the shop of the tradesman.

THE LATE ATTEMPT AT MURDER ON THE HIGH SEAS - On Wednesday, the 13th instant, Samuel BAILEY, who had been committed by the magistrates of Falmouth, for cutting and wounding Wm. COOMBE, a seaman, on board the schooner "Sprightly," with intent to murder him, was placed at the bar at the Central Criminal Court, and underwent his trial. As we have already laid the evidence in this case before our readers, we need not repeat it here. The prisoner stated in his defence, that he knew nothing about it. He had got a wound in his head, and when he had had any liquor it took great effect upon him. He had drunk two glasses of liquor that day. The jury returned a verdict of Guilty of the assault with intent to murder. The prisoner was called up for judgment, and the Court observed that the offence of which he had been found guilty was one of a most grevious character, and there could be no doubt that he intended to have destroyed the whole of the crew as a medium for his own escape. Under these circumstances, Mr. Baron ALDERSON observed that he could not hold out to him any hope of mercy in this world. Sentence of death was then passed in the usual form.

CORONER'S INQUEST - On the 16th instant, an inquest was held before J. Carlyon, Esq., at Newquay, on the body of a boy named Henry PAPPEN, about six years of age, son of Mr. George PAPPEN, of the coast-guard service, at that place. The little fellow was amusing himself with some others in gathering wild flowers, or taking butterflies on the cliff, when a man who was drawing water at the well near the pier, hearing some rubbish falling near him, looked up, and observed the poor little fellow rolling with frightful rapidity down the precipice, from a height upwards of 80 feet. When he reached the bottom, he was quite dead, his skull being dreadfully fractured. The jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

SOUTH AUSTRALIA The South Australian Register of January 11, says that "upwards of a thousand emigrants had just landed from England, and out of the whole of them, only eighteen remained unemployed in the Emigration depot. Such is the demand for labour at Adelaide." The "Rajasthan," with Cornish Emigrants, was spoken with on the 18th December, in lat. 35.30. and lon.13.14.w, all well.

29 MAY 1840, Friday

Advertisements - TWO APPRENTICES ABSCONDED ABSCONDED from their Masters, Messrs. LUKE ROWE and JOHN THOMAS, Cordwainers, Camborne, on the 26th instant, James NICHOLLS and William ELLIS. The said James Nicholls is about 18 years of age, 5 feet 3 inches high, rather slight, dark hair, and fair complexion; wore away a fustian rowed jacket and trousers, and a blue cap with the peak torn. William Ellis is about 17 years of age, 4 feet 4 inches high, light hair, red face, and fair complexion; wore away a round blue jacket, a brown plain trousers, round blue cap tied with black ribbon, and pumps on.

ABSCONDED from his master, Mr. James SAMBLE, Builder &c., Helston, on Sunday Night last, without any cause of complaint, John Martin TRESIDDER, who is legally bound Apprentice to the said James Samble, and whose apprenticeship is yet unexpired. He is about 20 years of age, 5 feet 5 � inches high, sallow complexion, dark brown hair, dark eyes, and has a very suspicious countenance. Master-tradesmen and others are cautioned against employing or detaining the said run-away Apprentice after this public notice.James SAMBELL Helston, May 25, 1840

NEWS

HER MAJESTY'S BIRTHDAY - The birthday of her Majesty was celebrated at Falmouth, on Monday last, by a royal salute from the "Astrea," and the manning of the yards of the packets in port, the whole of which, as well as many of the other vessels in the harbour, were decorated with flags, colours being also exhibited at the various public offices on shore. The Dutch ship "Kaniagin der Nederlander," also saluted. At five o'clock, a party of 40 gentlemen, sat down to a sumptuous repast on board of H.M.S. "Astrea," with Capt. PLUMRIDGE, the gallant superintendent of the packet service. The officers of the "Royal Pendennis Artillery," held their mess at Pearce's Royal Hotel; besides which, a booth was erected in the bowling green, where a party of gentlemen retired to a cold condition, after having played several matches of their favourite game. The members of the "Penryn Victoria Club," 118 in number, dined at the King's Arms, Falmouth; and although the day was not very favourable for a holiday, it was spent by many in mirth and gaiety. There was to have been a sailing match with the different classes of boats belonging to H. M. packets, but owing to the boisterous weather, it was postponed. The match took place, however, on Wednesday afternoon, and the day being exceedingly fine, numbers of other sailing yachts were out, presenting a fine spectacle to the lovers of aquatic sports. The gig of H.M. packet "Mutine," won the prize for that class, and the cutter and launch of the "Ranger," the prizes for those two classes.

LANYON'S ALMSHOUSE - The Trustees of Lanyon's Almshouse, in the parish of Kea, gratefully acknowledge the receipt of � 5, (through the Rev. G. CORNISH), from A.B., being the third donation to that charity.

Ship ROYAL ADELAIDE - This fine ship, which left Falmouth on the 21st March last, had a beautiful passage of thirty days across the Atlantic, and landed all her passengers, 194 in number, at New York, in excellent health and spirits, to proceed to their several destinations in the interior. The officers of the port, we understand, passed the highest encomiums on the clean and healthy appearance of the passengers.

THE FINE ARTS - Mr. Phillip MITCHELL, artist, has just brought out another View of Truro, sketched from a point near Poltisko, overlooking nearly the whole of the town, and taking in all its most prominent features. The view embraces the whole range of buildings from the smelting-house near Newham, on the one side of the river, and the new wharfs, near the parade, on the other, to the valley of Carvedras. It is decidedly the best view that has been taken from that spot, and as it is only half the size of a page of letter paper it will form a very pretty heading in a letter to a friend.

PENZANCE - Large quantities of mackarel have been taken in the Mount's-bay, during the past week, in seans, and the prospects of the fishermen are still good.

TRURO POLICE - On Wednesday last, William HOCKIN CLARK was brought before W. H. BULLMORE, Esq., Mayor, and W.P. KEMPE, Esq., charged by policeman DAVEY, with being drunk and disorderly, and assaulting him in the execution of his duty. The defendant was fined �2. 10s. with costs. John HENWOOD, mate of the "Johnson and Elizabeth" schooner, of Padstow, was summoned by John FURSE, a boy on board, who stated that Henwood had struck him a violent blow on the head. Henwood was fined 6s., with 14s. 2d. costs.

A GRAVE FROLIC - On Saturday last, Mark WILLIAMS, of St. Just in Penwith, was committed to Bodmin gaol to take his trial at the ensuing sessions, for stealing a waistcoat-piece from an itinerant vendor of such articles. It is supposed to have been taken by way of fun.

SINGULAR CIRCUMSTANCE - On Wednesday last, a horse, the property of Capt. John MITCHELL, of South Tresamble, Gwennap, fell into a shaft of the St. Aubyn mine, to the depth of from ten to eleven fathoms, and was found about ten feet back in the adit by the proprietor, after having been there several hours. The search was made in consequence of the surface earth on the shaft having been disturbed; and the parties after having proceeded at the tail of the adit some fathoms, heard the horse neighing. The poor animal was found standing, and when taken out, a few slight scratches was the only injury he appeared to have suffered.

MINE ACCIDENT - On Monday last, as James ELLIOT was coming up the ladders in Botallack mine, the chain which was attached to the whim kibble broke, and in its fall knocked a piece of timber into the ladder, which threw the man down a depth of seven fathoms, and he would have fallen 15 fathoms more had it not been for a ladder solar, which prevented him. He has received some very severe bruises, but we are happy to add there is no danger apprehended.

FATAL MINE ACCIDENT - On Tuesday last, two men named John POLGLASE, and George TRENOWTH, were killed, and a third named Benjamin GEAREY, severely injured, at the Charlestown Mines, St. Austell, by the premature explosion of a hole which they had prepared for blasting. On the following day, an inquest was held on the bodies of the two who were killed, when the jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

CORONER'S INQUEST - An inquest was held on Saturday last, in the Poor-house, of the parish of Advent, near Camelford, on the body of a girl, about 3 years of age, called LANGDON, who was left in a house with two other children. Her clothes by some means caught fire, and she was so dreadfully burnt before assistance came, that she died soon after the accident. Verdict, accidental death.

RESTRAINTS ON MARRIAGE - We beg to call the attention of our readers to an advertisement in another part of our paper relating to restraints on marriages, which we hope to see shortly placed upon some certain basis, consistent with sound reason and good sense.

CAMELFORD FAIR - This fair, on Tuesday last, was well supplied with cattle, most of which sold readily at good prices, particularly steer bullocks.

FIRE WORKS - On Monday se'nnight, Mr. CONNACK, of Falmouth, exhibited a grand display of fire-works, in a garden belonging to Mr. PEARCE, Hotel, Truro. The evening being rather damp, the attendance was not so great.

DEVON - DESTRUCTIVE FIRE AT BRIDPORT - Friday last, about noon, a most destructive fire, with loss of life, occurred at Allington, adjoining the thriving town of Bridport. Twenty-two cottages were burnt to the ground, in so short a time that the inhabitants saved but very little of their property. - being all thatched houses it crossed the street from side to side. The thatch of one house being more stickle (as it is called) than the rest, after the yarns and laths that kept it down were burnt off in the inside, slipped off into the street, burying in one mass of fire several people. The following are the names of the sufferers: John WILKINS, aged 15, and Isaac WAY, aged 60, both dead. Joel CORNICK, aged 25, William HODDER, aged 30, and John THATCHELL, aged 30, so dreadfully burnt that they are not expected to live. Several others are slightly burnt. Although the boy WILKINS was so burned that he did not appear anything but a lump of burnt flesh, he lived in the greatest agony for three hours after he was taken from the fire. The town council of Bridport was to meet on Monday, for the purpose of devising the best means for the relief of the sufferers.

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