cornwall england newspaper
1847 NEWS
FEBRUARY
5 FEBRUARY 1847, Friday
RELIEF OF THE POOR - On Wednesday last, a meeting was held at St. John's School-
room, Truro, to consider the best means of alleviating the privations of many of the poor
people of the parishes of Kenwyn and Kea, and to decide on appealing to the public for
subscriptions in their behalf. The Rev. G. J. CORNISH, vicar of the parishes of Kenwyn
and Kea, presided on the occasion; and the condition of the poor people was represented
by Mr. MOYLE, guardian, Mr. HODGE, overseer of Kea, and Mr. HALL, relieving
officer of the union. It appeared that there were at present 600 paupers in Kenwyn, and
more than 300 in Kea, who were receiving relief, the whole population being 14,000,
many of whom were suffering the most distressing privations. It was stated that among
the miners especially, of whom there are a large number in the neighbourhood of
Chacewater, and many of them working at tribute, with uncertain wages, great distress at
present existed; and when they came before the board of guardians, being able-bodied
men, out-door relief, in the present state of the law, could not be legally granted them.
As an instance of this, a case was mentioned in which an able-bodied miner, with a
family of eight children, had applied for relief, and the board had allowed him a
temporary loan of 5s. a week for three weeks until he should receive something from the
mine, rather than take him from his work. There were also a number of small occupiers
in a very distressed condition, having to subsist upon low wages. Mr. HEMING stated
that in the parishes of Kenwyn and Kea he should say there were two hundred men not
earning 9s. a week. Mr. MOYLE said the board of guardians had done all in their power;
but it was utterly impossible for them to meet all the cases of privation that existed in
their district. It appeared that the Rev. Mr. Cornish had done what he could to alleviate
the distress of the people, by soliciting subscriptions, and giving soup to the poor of the
two parishes, a large number of whom had availed themselves of this seasonable charity.
Mr. HEMING recommended that a committee be appointed, the Rev. Mr. Cornish to be
chairman, and that the landowners, mine adventurers, merchants, and others in the two
parishes, be requested to subscribe towards a fund for the relief of those in need; and to
purchase meal, coal, clothing, &c., and let the poor have those articles at reduced prices.
Lord Falmouth had authorized him to say that whatever the amount subscribed might be,
he would double it; so that if they raised GBP 100, Lord Falmouth would give GBP200;
and GBP300 he (Mr. HEMING) thought would go a long way in relieving the
necessitous people of the two parishes. If the present severe weather should continue, a
great many persons would be thrown out of employ; Lord Falmouth, he said, was ready
to take his share in providing labour for those unemployed, and if other landlords would
do the same, but very few would be out of employ. The Chairman intimated that they
should endeavour to establish a soup shop at Chacewater, to relieve the poor people of
that neighbourhood. Mr. HEMING said the most urgent cases at present were among the
miners; but between this and harvest they must expect much distress among the poor
generally. He thought they should lend money to poor persons to buy seed for potatoes,
or any thing else; or try to induce poor persons to sow parsnips, which were very
wholesome and nutritious food. They might also sell them things at reduced prices -
peas, rice or other things. The Rev. G. J. CORNISH said this should be done so as not to
interfere with the common course of trade; and Mr. MOYLE explained that the system of
relief could be carried out so as not to affect the shops. It was ultimately resolved to form a committee, with the Rev. G. J. Cornish as chairman, who should appeal to the
benevolent in the two parishes for the purpose of relieving the necessities of those who
were not at present earning sufficient to support themselves and their families, and also,
as a subsequent application of the fund, to lend money to small occupiers for the purchase
of seed for their crops.
THE PUBLIC DISTRESS - On Sunday last, the Rev. W.J. COOPE, rector of Falmouth,
preached a sermon in aid of the funds for the relief of the destitute in Ireland, Scotland,
and the surrounding districts at home; and the rev. gentleman announced that he intended
to make three other collections in the present month for the same purpose. The amount
collected was upwards of GBP 14, of which GBP 5 were sent to Ireland, GBP 5 to
Scotland, and the remainder to be distributed to the poor of the neighbourhood. [The
article continued in much the same vein as the above. The Mayor chaired a meeting the
next day. Eventually, it was decided a canvass of the town would be made, and sums
subscribed are to be applied, according to the wishes of the donor, either to the Irish, the
Scotch, or the poor of the surrounding districts. A collection was made which amounted
to nearly GBP 10. jm]
KILKHAMPTON - A large and influential meeting of the parishioners was lately held
to take into consideration the distressed state of the agricultural labourers, and the best
mode for their relief. There were many cases of distress existing, which roused the
sympathy of all present. A voluntary subscription was immediately set on foot, and
upwards of GBP 50 were collected at the meeting by the yeomanry of the parish. The
resolutions of the meeting have been sent to the landlords, who we trust will stand
forward in supporting so laudable a cause in this time of necessity. We hear that peas and
rice will be purchased and distributed to the afflicted families, by the committee
appointed for that purpose.
CAMBORNE - Economical Food - A Camborne correspondent writes to us as follows:
"Having seen in the Daily News that turnips grated had been mixed with flour, and thus
baked into bread, I yesterday requested my servant to make a loaf with half of each by
weight, and the result was that it made one agreeable to the palate, and good in every
respect, so much so that my loaf has been eaten with avidity, and I have had another
baked to-day. I availed myself of the sitting of the relief committee yesterday, to offer
some of it to parties there assembled, and without a dissentient voice they unanimously
declared it to be exceedingly good. I am much pleased at being able to inform you that
our relief fund is swelling its dimensions fast. It commenced with GBP 82 subscribed in
the room, and within a week it amounted to GBP 140, and this too without the assistance
of the neighbouring gentry. Some further experiments are about being made here with
turnips, which will be communicated to you, as at this time of scarcity it is important to
make public every circumstance which may tend to assist the poor."
A LIBERAL LANDLORD - At the Court of JOSEPH CARNE, Esq., of Penzance, held
on Friday last, that gentleman returned to his tenantry, of the parish of Paul, from fifteen
to twenty per cent, on the amount of their rents, according to their holding.
GOOD SERVICE PENSION -His Grace the Duke of Wellington has obtained her
Majesty's sanction to the grant of an annuity of GBP20, commencing from the 1st of
April, 1846, to Sergeant Major JOHN WING, late of the 17th Foot, at present Sergeant
Major of the Royal Cornwall and Devon Miners (Light Infantry) Militia, at Truro, for his
meritorious conduct while in her Majesty's service. Sergeant Major Wing served
upwards of thirty-two years in her Majesty's 17th Foot, or Royal Tigers, and was present
through the whole of the campaign of Afghanistan, and the capture of Ghuznee and
Khelat. This is the first non-commissioned officer of the line who has obtained this
honourable bonus, under the Royal warrant of the 19th of December, 1845.
FALMOUTH POLICE - On Thursday, the 28th ult., five seamen, named WILLIAM
STEWARD, HENRY McPHRENE, JAMES GRAY, JAMES CALL, and GEORGE
MILLER, belonging to the barque "Constantinople," of Sunderland, were brought up
under warrants before J. B. COX, Esq., and JOHN HILL, Esq., justice, charged by the
master, JOHN YOUNG, with refusing to proceed in the said vessel after signing articles,
when the master, on his oath, stated that they shipped in London on the 7th ult., had
received a month's advance each, and this morning knocked off work and refused to
proceed; that their conduct had been bad all the passage down channel; and he believed
there was not a half a sailor amongst them. He had been to sea twenty-two years, but
never saw such a useless crew before, The men were called upon for their defence, when
they set up that the mate had abused them. The Magistrates told them they could plainly
see their drift; they had received - one as much as GBP 4.10s., and the rest GBP 2.10s.
each, in advance, and now they wanted to leave the ship. They were all committed for
thirty days.
AN IMPOSTER DETECTED - On Friday last, a man was soliciting alms at Camborne
with a paper purporting to be drawn by Mr. COX, the Mayor of Falmouth, containing the
names of several gentlemen of that neighbourhood, and stating the bearer's name to be
JAMES WILLIAMS of that town, a saddler by trade, but deaf and dumb. The paper also
stated that any suspicious person might examine his mouth and ears, that he was able to
write, and that he was educated at the Asylum for the Deaf and Dumb at Topsham Road,
Exeter. The fellow had also two other papers, with the names of two respectable saddlers
of Truro, one of the papers also stating that he had two sisters who were deaf and dumb.
It would seem that the man has been carrying on his impositions on the inhabitants of
Truro, Helston, Penzance, and other towns for some time, but having excited suspicions
in Camborne, PRIDEAUX, the policeman, on going in search of him, found him in a beer
house about to sing a song, and using very obscene language. He was of course
immediately taken into custody, and the following day was taken before J. F. MAGOR,
Esq., when he gave the name of John HILL, and was committed in the name of JOHN
HILL, alias James Williams, for three months, as a rogue and vagabond.
VESSEL LOST - The "Charles," BIRD, master, from Newport to Padstow, foundered
on Friday week, at two p.m. about two miles off Sharpe's Nose. The crew were taken out
by the "Herald" of Penzance, since arrived at Ilfracombe. The "Charles" was laden with
coals and about ten tons of Bristol goods.
ACCIDENT - On Monday evening last, between seven and eight o'clock, as an elderly
man, named WILLIAM GOOD, a groom with Lord Falmouth, and who acts also as
postman, was returning from Truro, and riding at a slow pace past Trennick Row, the
horse suddenly fell, and coming down on Good's leg, broke it in two places below the
knee. He was shortly afterwards found in this state, and conveyed in an arm chair to the
Union Hotel, where he remained the night, and the next morning was taken to the Royal
Cornwall Infirmary, where every attention is paid to the sufferer that his case demands.
FATAL MINE ACCIDENT - On Monday evening, the 25th ult., just as the men were
about to leave their work at the Restormel Iron Mine, Lostwithiel, a portion of the earth
gave way, and a man named JOHN JENKIN was completely buried. Although quickly
extricated by his comrades, he died in a few minutes afterwards from the injuries he had
received. Another man was severely bruised.
MELANCHOLY AND FATAL ACCIDENT - On Wednesday, the 27th ultimo, a very
sad occurrence took place at Trevol, near Torpoint, the residence of J. CARYTON
ROBERTS, Esq. A married woman, named ELIZABETH MITCHELL, was in the habit
of working at Trevol, as a dress-maker, and she was there on Wednesday evening, in the
nursery, doing some plain work. Mr. Roberts's two sons were at home from school at the
time, enjoying the vacation. They were very friendly with Mrs. Mitchell, frequently
played with her, and were much attached to her. About seven o'clock in the evening,
Master ERASMUS ROBERTS, the eldest son, about fourteen years of age, went into the
nursery, and asked the .. to sing a song. She said she could not, and told him he had
better ask Mrs. Mitchell. He did so, but she refused two or three times, and he repeated
his question, playfully saying, "which shall I call you, a gipsey or jewese?" She said
"gipsey" at the same time adding that if he called her "gipsey" she would call him
"Bluebeard". As she still refused to sing he went out of the room, but shortly afterwards
returned, and took a pistol out of his pocket. It appears he had before snapped caps at
her, and on seeing him ... she requested him to take it off, which he did. She then went
into another room, but he followed and brought her back, saying if she did not sing whilst
he counted twenty he would snap the pistol. She had been in the habit of singing to him,
but on this occasion, she still declined, upon which he pointed the pistol and snapped it.
She immediately fell, and the nurse ran to her assistance, thinking her faint, but on the
young gentleman discovering that a wound had been inflicted, he exclaimed, "Oh, good
God, the pistol was loaded; Charley must have loaded it." He then rushed out of the
room in the most affrighted manner, and the alarm being given, the consternation which
befell all in the house at this most deplorable occurrence can scarcely be imagined. Mr.
CHUBB, surgeon, of Torpoint, was instantly sent for, but medical effort was of no avail,
the bullet had entered the right temple, lodging in the brain, and when the surgeon
arrived, the unfortunate woman was already in a state of collapse, and died in about
twenty minutes afterwards without uttering a word. In addition to the terrible shock
occasioned by this event was the fright produced by the innocent cause of it being
missing. Search was made for him in all directions, and it was nearly midnight before he
was found in the neighbourhood of the house in a state of perfect nervous bewilderment.
An inquest was held on the body of the deceased on Friday last, before GILBERT
HAMLEY, Esq., deputy-coroner, when, in addition to the above facts, it was deposed
that Erasmus possessed the pistols altogether, without the knowledge and concurrence of
his father. It appeared also that his brother CHARLES ROBERTS, finding a brace of
pistols in a drawer in his brother's room on Wednesday morning, had loaded one of them,
and replaced it in the drawer, intending afterwards to fire it himself. The jury returned as their verdict "that the deceased had died in consequence of receiving the charge of a
pistol fired by Erasmus Roberts, but that the said Erasmus Roberts was not aware at the
time that the pistol was loaded." It is not easy to convey any idea of the distress created
in the family of Mr. Roberts by this dreadful misfortune; and in the neighbourhood of
Torpoint, where Mr. Roberts's family are deservedly held in high esteem, the occurrence
has also excited the most painful sensation. The unfortunate deceased was twenty-nine
years of age, and was much respected by those who knew her; her husband is a
boatswain's mate at sea, but she expected him home shortly, and had lately been making
preparations to receive him.
CORONER'S INQUESTS - The following inquests have been held by W. HICHENS,
Esq., coroner, since our last report: At Perranuthnoe, on the 2nd instant, on the body of
ELLEN CARTER, aged about eight weeks. The deceased, who had been in very delicate
health from her birth, was taken to bed by her mother on Sunday night last, apparently as
well as usual, and on the following morning was found dead by her side. The mother was
unable to account for the child's death, and in the absence of any proof of the cause the
jury returned a verdict "found dead, cause unknown." It is due to the parents to observe,
that they are both persons of acknowledged good character, and that no suspicion is
entertained against either of them.
On the following day, at St. Hilary, on the body of ISAAC JOHNS, aged between four
and five years, whose death was occasioned by his having drunk boiling water out of a
tea kettle. The mother of the child having in the afternoon of Sunday last put the tea
kettle on the fire to boil for tea, went up stairs, leaving three children in the window of
the kitchen, the oldest of whom was about nine years of age, the deceased being the
youngest. The kettle having boiled before the mother came down again, the second child
in point of age went from the window to the fire-place, and lifting off the kettle from the
fire placed it by the side, when the deceased, having at the same moment also come from
the window to the fire, instantly took hold of the kettle by the handle, and putting his
mouth to the spout drank of the boiling water. The child lived until about four o'clock in
the afternoon on the day following. Verdict, accidental death.
On Friday last, an inquest was held at Cross Lanes, in the parish of Kea, before J.
CARLYON, Esq., coroner, on the body of RICHARD COLLINS, aged twenty-three
years. RICHARD FRANCIS, miner, aged thirty-one years, deposed as follows:
Yesterday morning about eleven o'clock, Richard Collins, the deceased, aged twenty-
three, WILLIAM DODSON of the same age, MATHEW JEFFERY, aged twenty-one,
RICHARD NINNIS, aged thirty, and myself, all miners, went out together to shoot small
birds. The deceased and R. Ninnis were the only two who had guns, and we had no dogs
except a little kind of one belonging to deceased. After we had been out about half an
hour, and before we had fired a shot, we saw a flock of [.....fares] alight in a field near
the old Wheal Falmouth Mine and Hugo's Chapel. It was agreed that deceased was to
fire at them on the ground, and R. Ninnis, as they rose; and as they were advancing
towards them for that purpose - the deceased about three yards before Ninnis - the birds
suddenly rose, and both guns were fired at them at once. I was looking on about sixty
yards off, at the time, and so was Dodson and Jeffery. Seeing deceased fall to the
ground, we ran to his assistance, and when I got up to him, he was lying on his back
insensible, and we found he had a small roundish hole in the back part of his head. This
was the only wound he had about him, and it was no doubt caused by the charge of R.
Ninnis's gun. As soon as we could get a cart, we put him in it and took him home, where
every attention was paid to him by Mr. MOYLE, surgeon, Chacewater, but he died from
the injuries he had received the following morning, about three o'clock. There had been
no bad feeling or angry words between any of the parties, and the deceased and Richard
Ninnis were as fond of each other as brothers. It was a pure accident. The above
evidence was corroborated in every particular by William Dodson and Matthew Jeffery,
after which Richard Ninnis, on being asked if he wished to say anything, stated that so
entirely unconscious was he of having shot the deceased, that as soon as he had fired the
gun, he ran forward to see what he had shot, and passed the deceased, who was lying on
the ground, by two or three yards. At that time he fancied deceased had been knocked
down by the recoil of his own gun, but finding he did not get up and follow him, he
returned and saw that he was wounded. Even then, he fancied he had been hurt by the
bursting of the gun, which he - the deceased - had fired, and it was only after that had
been examined and found perfect, that he knew he must have shot him. The coroner,
after this, summed up, and the jury returned a verdict of - homicide by misadventure.
On Wednesday, an inquest was held by the same coroner, at Ponsanooth, on the body of
JOHN WOOLCOCK, a boy aged twelve months, who died from injuries he received
from the upsetting of a tank of boiling water on his neck and shoulders. Verdict,
accidental death.
12 FEBRUARY 1847, Friday
THE PUBLIC DISTRESS - The committee appointed at the public meeting held in the
Guild Hall, Falmouth, on Wednesday week, to canvass the inhabitants for subscriptions,
have collected nearly GBP 300. They intend to appropriate one half to Ireland, a quarter
to Scotland, and the remainder to the town and neighbourhood of Falmouth. They have
erected a soup kitchen, and have commenced serving out soup to the poor, whose cases
entitle them to relief, at the charge of one penny per quart, with the addition of one
pennyworth of bread. In cases of extreme destitution no charge will be made. Coals are
to be delivered also upon payment of 2d. per bushel, and the clothing at the same reduced
prices upon their cost. Soup will now be delivered four times per week - twice from
funds collected at the parish church, and twice from funds out of the public subscription.
The committee referred to expect to be able to extend their relief over six weeks.
Collection were made in the Wesleyan Chapel, last Sunday, and likewise again in
Falmouth church in behalf of the distressed of the United Kingdom, but more particularly
those in Ireland.
RATE OF MORTALITY, &c - From returns recently published by authority of the
Registrar-General, it appears that the quarter ending December 31st, 1846, had been a
most unhealthy season. The number of deaths registered in that quarter, in 115 districts
of England, was 52,905, being 13,727 more than were returned in the corresponding
season of 1845, and 7,311 more than the quarterly average of eight previous years. With
the exception of the spring quarter, the whole of last year appears to have been unusually
unhealthy, there having been 50,000 more deaths registered throughout that year than in
1845. The Registrar-General states, from a comparison of returns of temperature, that
upon the whole the weather in December, 1846, was not so severe as the weather in
December, 1844; and he concludes that although the cold was fatal to many lives in both
years, it was not the chief cause of the excessive mortality in the last quarter of 1846.
By some of the district Registrars the increased mortality was attributed to the influx of Irish in a destitute condition, and by others to the distressed condition of the poor; but the Registrar-General, on examination, does not conceive these to have been the causes of
the high mortality, although he admits that in connexion with cold, want was the cause of
many deaths in December. He observes that "no mention is made of the potatoe disease
having had any direct connexion with the mortality. The potatoe, in a state of partial
disease," he says," has no doubt been extensively consumed without giving rise to any
specific malady in man, or indeed, having any appreciable connexion with the disorders
of the bowels and fever, which grew prevalent about the time the last crop came into
use."
In further tracing the cause of the increase of deaths, the Registrar-General compares the
returns from some salubrious districts with the frightful mortality of Liverpool,
Manchester, and the worst parts of other towns. He then remarks as follows: "It is
proved satisfactory by the facts collected under the registration act that the excessive
mortality from diseases of the zymotic and other classes, observed in towns, is
occasioned by animal or vegetable poisons with which the atmosphere is charged in
different degrees of concentration, depending on accumulated filth, crowding in
dwellings and workshops, the closeness of courts, imperfect supplies of water, and the
want of efficient sewers. The high temperature of the summer of 1846 accelerated the
decomposition, and increased the virulence of these effluvial poisons, as well as of the
diseases which they promote. Once grown epidemic, the diseases continued to rage
during the rest of the year, and thus the mortality of 1846 may be accounted for." The
deaths, he further states, were nearly twice as numerous in ill-constructed towns, where
the poison is concentrated, as in the country, where it is diluted and destroyed by the
fresh air.
The returns from this county are from two Superintendent Registrars' districts - Redruth
and Penzance, comprising together a population of about 100,000. In the Redruth district
the number of deaths registered in the quarter ending December 31, 1846, was 265; in the
corresponding quarter of 1845, the number was 183. The Registrar at Redruth reports
that there is no particular disorder in the district to account for the increase; and the
Registrar at Camborne stated that there has been no epidemic to account for the increased
mortality, but it appears to have arisen from a large number of old people, weak and
sickly young children, and other diseased persons falling victims to the severe weather
which has prevailed. From the Penzance district the registered return of deaths for the
quarter ending December 31, 1846, is 269; in the corresponding quarter of 1845, the
number was 213. The Registrar at Penzance reports that the deaths (125) are above
average, but without any epidemic disease, and they had principally been with very old
persons and young children; twenty-five deaths occurred under one year, and sixty at
upwards of sixty years of age. The Registrar at St. Buryan remarks that the deaths in his
district were five above the corresponding quarter for last year; influenza had been very
prevalent, but not fatal, and at that time the district was pretty healthy.
METEOROLOGIAL RETURNS - from Truro, Falmouth, and Helston.
From observations made by Dr. BARHAM, it appears that the mean temperature at Truro
for the three months ending the 31st of December, 1846, was 43.6; at Falmouth, from
observations by Mr. LOVELL SQUIRE, the mean temperature was 46.4; and at Helston,
the mean temperature observed by Mr. M. P. MOYLE, was 46.1. The total depth of rain
that fell during the three months, as observed by the same gentlemen, was - at Truro, 11-
2 1/2 inches; at Falmouth, 13-11 inches; and at Helston, 11-77 inches.
COUNTERFEIT COIN - A large quantity of counterfeit coin has of late been in
circulation in different parts of this county, more particularly in St. Agnes, consisting of
half-crowns, shillings, and sixpences. For some weeks, ARGALL, the constable, has
been on the watch for certain parties frequenting the markets at St. Agnes, and on
Thursday last, after active exertions, he succeeded in capturing two of the gang, and two
others who fled were detained on the road to Truro by a fisherman and given in custody
of constable EDWARDS. The whole four were the next day committed to Bodmin gaol
to await their trial a the ensuing assizes.
ROBBERY of BARLEY AND FOWLS - On Saturday last, a labourer named
ELLIOTT, his wife and his son, were brought before the Rev. Dr. FLETCHER, and
committed to Bodmin gaol, for stealing a quantity of barley from Mr. WM. BOLITHO,
and some fowls from Mr. RICHARD SNELL, both of the parish of Callington.
ROBBERIES AT CAMBORNE - On Friday night last, or early on Saturday morning,
some persons entered the slaughter house of MR. JOHN WALES, butcher, by digging
through the wall of the house, and carried away about sixty pounds of beef, the breast fat
of a fine ox, and about twenty pounds of pork. On Tuesday following, suspicion fell on
two men, when their houses were searched, and in one of them about one half of the meat
was discovered, but nothing was found in the other house. Both men were, however,
apprehended, and taken before Mr. MAGOR, who committed JAMES NICHOLLS, the
man on whom the meat was found, to take his trial at the assizes; and the other, named
DUNSTONE, being of good character, was discharged, nothing having been found on
him.
On Saturday night last, some person or persons broke into the West Cornwall Railway
station house, at Camborne, but could not find any money. They, however, left a large
cudgel behind them, plainly showing the intentions of the party. No clue has yet been
found that is likely to lead to their discovery.
On Monday night, five men with their faces blackened, went to the house of GILES
JOLLY, at Boscawarne downs; and having knocked at the door, the wife, thinking it was
her husband come home from the mines, came down stairs and opened the door, when
one of the villains immediately seized her by the throat to prevent her making an alarm.
Having intimidated the woman by their actions and threats, she gave them a sign where
they might find the money, and they carried away ten pounds and twelve shillings, which
by economy they had saved out of their gettings, intending to build a house. The thieves
also carried away two bed sheets and some clothes. As soon as they had left the house,
the woman made an alarm, and the brother of Jolly, living in an adjoining house, in going
to her assistance, found that his door was fastened so that he could not get out. The
husband came home almost immediately after the villains had left the house, but as yet no
clue has been discovered that is likely to bring them to justice.
CAUTION TO VAN DRIVERS - On Friday last, a van belonging to JOSEPH WILLS,of Gorran, partly laden with iron, having been left in the street at St. Austell by the driver, the horse took fright at something, and started down Fore Street, where it fell, and upset the vehicle against Mr. STOCKER's shop window, which was completely smashed in. The horse escaped with a few scars, but the wheels of the van were broken, and the alarm and confusion created among the market people was considerable.
CORONERS' INQUESTS - Manslaughter - On Saturday last, an inquest was held at
Redruth, before J. CARLYON, Esq., and a very respectable jury, fifteen in number, on
the body of ELIZABETH BLAMEY, aged 20 years. It appeared that the deceased
resided with her mother and father, and that they and her two brothers and one of her
sisters all slept in the same bed, or rather, on a kind of mattress placed on the floor. That on Tuesday morning, the 19th ult., when they were all in bed together, the mother accused the deceased of dragging away the bed clothes, which led to a quarrel between them, in the course of which the former took up a hob-nailed shoe, and struck the deceased a
heavy blow with it on the top of the head. The question which the jury had to decide was
whether this blow was the cause of her death, which took place last Friday; and after a
most patient investigation of all the circumstances, which occupied several hours, they
decided that it was. They therefore returned a verdict of manslaughter against the
mother, who was immediately committed under the coroner's warrant to take her trial at
the next assizes in this county.
On Monday last, an inquest was held in Lower St. Columb parish, before the same coroner, on the body of FRANCIS BREWER, miner, aged 31 years, who died from injuries he received on the 3rd inst. by falling from one of the ladders in Tregullock mine, as he was descending to his labour. Verdict, accidental death.
The following inquests have been held before W. HICHENS, Esq., since our last report:
At the Redruth Union Workhouse, in the parish of Illogan, on the 4th instant, on the body
of a male bastard child of JANE SINCOCK, a single woman. The mother of the child,
finding that she was unable by her own exertions to support her offspring, applied to the
proper officer of the union for relief, which she received for three successive weeks; but
on Monday, the 1st inst., having renewed her application to him, she was told by him that
he had mentioned her case to the guardians at the board-meeting on that day, and they
had determined to discontinue the out-door relief to her, and that she must therefore go
with her child into the union house and he gave her a ticket for her admission
accordingly. On the following day, she left her home at Camborne with her child, who
was suffering from thrush, having it well wrapped up under her cloak, for the purpose of
going to the workhouse. She stopped on the way at the house of a MR. MATTHEW
ROGERS, at Tuckingmill, where she had some dinner, and at the suggestion of Mrs.
Rogers nursed the child in consequence of it being restless and crying. She left the house
with the child at her breast, accompanied by a lad, the grandson of Mrs. Rogers, but had
not proceeded further than Pool, when some acquaintance of hers there asking to see the
child, she threw back her cloak for the purpose of showing it, and they found it
apparently dying. The child was immediately taken into a house there, and shortly
afterwards expired. A post mortem examination was made by MR. HARRIS, of Redruth,
the union house surgeon, who, in the course of his evidence, stated that death was caused
by inflammation of the bowels, proceeding altogether from natural causes. Verdict,
natural death.
On Saturday last, in the parish of Sithney, on the body of a lad named JOHN
WILLIAMS, aged about seven years. [The mother left him with two younger children,
expecting the father to return from an errand shortly. She "particularly cautioned
deceased not to venture near the fire". However, his sister complained of the cold, and he
took a bush of furze and put it in the fire, whereupon his clothing caught fire. He was
badly burnt, and died the following day. jm] Verdict, accidental death.
On Monday last, in the parish of Buryan, on the body of THOMAS OSBORN, aged 59
years. The deceased was a widower and was, it appeared, about to marry a widow named
MARY HARVEY. On the evening of the 6th instant they had gone together to put in
their banns. This was a step to which Mrs. Harvey's children, who were grown up, were
much opposed, and the deceased accompanied Mrs. Harvey back near to her house, and
remained outside for the purpose, it would seem, of overhearing what might pass,
supposing any quarrel should arise within. It appeared that two sons of Mrs. Harvey,
named JOHN and WILLIAM HARVEY, came out, probably suspecting that the deceased was there, and presently John exclaimed - "William, here he is." The deceased had a stick in his hand, and John Harvey was armed with a poker. Those two began to fence with each other. John Harvey,in doing so, retreated towards his mother's door whence he was pulled in by his sisters. William, however, managed to take the poker from him, and the deceased and he then began to fence with each of them, and William struck the deceased a blow with the poker on the side of the head, thereby much cutting the deceased's hat, which falling off from the blow, William kicked it into a pool of water. By this time, John Harvey had again made his appearance, having in his hands a long staff, used for supporting a clothes-line, and the deceased having made towards him, he (Harvey) struck him on the bare head therewith. The deceased, after some time, was put home, and, on the following morning, he got up a!
s usual, and went into the town without apparently suffering any thing more from the blows than pain in his head. On Sunday evening he went to bed, and never left it again, and Mr. ARTHUR BERRYMAN, of Penzance, and his partner, attended upon him up to the time of his death, which took place on the 6th instant. A post mortem examination was made by Mr. A. Berryman,
assisted by Mr. E. MOYLE, surgeon, for the purpose of ascertaining the cause of death.
Both those gentlemen were decidedly of opinion that the blows received by the deceased
had neither of them inflicted any serious injury, nor had occasioned the deceased's death;
and stated, as their firm belief, that his death was produced by serous effusion on the
brain produced from natural causes. Verdict, natural death.
EXETER COURT OF BANKRUPTCY - Re HENRY LAMBE
The insolvent was opposed by Mr. w. D. MOORE and Mr. COOPER, of Cambridge, and
supported by Mr. G. W. TURNER.
In answer to questions by Mr. Moore, he stated that he was 25 years of age, his father, an
attorney, resident at Truro, was a gentleman of considerable landed property, and he was
the eldest son, but the property was not entailed, and he had five brothers.
Mr. Turner said Mr. Lambe was entitled, under his grandmother's will, to one-third of
GBP700, which was left to his mother to be applied to his advancement in life, GBP180
of which was still remaining.
His Honour thought he had no power to compel the trustees to give up this money, as it
was left for a specific purpose.
Examined by Mr. Cooper - Resided at Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, three terms,
from October, 1843 to June, 1844. My father made me no allowance - he promised me
GBP 200 a year, but I only got small sums, and altogether, including the bills he had
paid, he has given me about GBP 150. I never told my bedmaker at college that a picture
which hung in my room was a view of my father's mansion and park. I might have told
her that it was Mount Radford school, where I was educated. I had several pictures,
which I bought of Mr. GENDALL for GBP 70. Mr. HUNT, a solicitor of Cambridge,
has them in his possession now, he advanced me GBP 30 on them. The furniture at my
college residence was taken possession of by my father, and removed to St. John's
College, for the use of my next brother. I don't know that my father ever paid for it.
Mr. Cooper then addressed the court, contending that although it was the son petitioning
for relief, yet in reality it was the father asking to be protected against his son's creditors.
He was a man of very considerable property, and had promised his son a liberal
allowance, on the strength of which the son obtained credit, and he now sought to shelter
himself from the payment of debts which would not have been contracted but on the faith
of a promise which he had not kept. There was also evidence that he had exercised
considerable authority over his son's property, and had taken the furniture of his rooms
from him. The creditors whom he represented had no wish to press hard on the son, but
they thought the father should offer them some terms.
Mr. Moore followed on the same side.
Mr. Turner said if a remand were pressed the insolvent must go to prison, perhaps for
years, for he had no means of paying a penny, and his father, although a man of large
property, was not on good terms with him.
His HONOUR said that if the creditors asked for a remand, it would be his duty to grant
it. He suggested that his decision should stand over until the final order, in order, if
possible, that some arrangement might be come to with the father.
19 FEBRUARY 1847, Friday
LOCAL INTELLIGENCE
TREGONY FAIR - There was an abundant supply of fat bullocks at this fair on
Tuesday last, owing, in a great measure, to the scarcity of turnips; but the sale was dull,
although there were a great many bargains made at from 52s. to 57s. per cwt. Plough
oxen and steers were dear. The sheep fair was small, and mutton realized 7d. per lb.
PUBLIC DISTRESS - In addition to the sums previously noticed, GBP 10 were
collected in Falmouth church, on Sunday last, towards relieving the destitute poor of
Ireland and the neighbourhood. On Sunday next, another collection will be made,
exclusively for Ireland, in obedience to the Queen's letter. The committee of the fund for
providing soup, bread, coals, &c. for the poor of Falmouth and neighbourhood, continue
the beneficial distribution of these articles as heretofore.
WORTHY OF IMITATION - Sir W. MOLESWORTH, on account of the high price of
provisions, has raised the wages of all his labourers.
ST. ERTH - At the recent tithe-audit for this parish the receiver had instructions from
the Rev. J. PENNETTS, the vicar, who owns the small tithes, to remit to the most
necessitous occupiers to the amount of GBP 5; and also from the Bishop of Exeter, who
owns the rectorial tithes, to make an allowance of the same sum on his lordship's
account.
RELIEF OF THE POOR - On Tuesday last, a requisition, signed by several of the
inhabitants of Helston, was forwarded to FRANCIS JAMES, Esq., mayor, requesting him
to convene a meeting of the inhabitants to take into consideration the best means of
relieving the great distress at present existing amongst the poor inhabitants of that
borough. In compliance with the requisition, a public meeting was appointed by the
mayor to be held at the Town Hall on Thursday, for the purpose mentioned by the
requisitionists.
ST. JUST IN PENWITH - On Monday last, a vestry was called to take into
consideration the best means of mitigating the distress of many of the poor people of this
neighbourhood. The chair was taken by Colonel SCOBELL, of Nanceslverne[?], who
headed the subscription list with a handsome sum, and the amount raised was about GBP
75, which it is expected will yet be considerably increased. Mr. BOYNE was chosen
secretary, and Mr. J. BENNETTS, treasurer.[The committee will canvass the poor to
determine their needs, and solicit more donations to the fund. jm]
GWENNAP - The poor of this parish having for some time been in a very distressed
state, we are glad to find that the clergy, gentry, and other inhabitants, with the lords of
the different manors, have come forward nobly to their relief. A meeting of the
inhabitants was called at the Vestry Room, on Tuesday week, by advertisement, signed
by the clergymen of the parish, the Wesleyan ministers, Messrs. WILLIAMS of Scorrier
House, and other influential persons, which was most handsomely responded to,
subscriptions promised in the room to the amount of more than GBP 230. On Tuesday
last, the subscription list showed about GBP450, which will be all spent in provisions
purchased in the best markets, for the suffering poor of that neighbourhood. Everything
connected with the affair is being carried on in the most liberal spirit; all religious
differences seem to be forgotten, and all have but one object, that of relieving their poor
neighbours in their present distress.
WEST CARADON MINE - A soup kitchen has been opened at this mine, from which,
at the expense of the adventurers, all persons employed at the mine receive a pint of soup
per day.
DISTRESS IN IRELAND � A series of public meetings having been arranged by the
Bodmin teetotal society, in behalf of the destitute Irish and Scotch, the second came off
on Monday last, when MR. MUDGE was called to the chair. Mr. BALKWILL detailed
the state of Ireland, reading letters which had just been received by MISS A. N. ADAIR a
lady whose indefatigable exertions are meeting with some response in Bodmin; and he
was followed by Mr. GAWTHORP on the general bearings of the teetotal question. The
meeting was well attended, and a collection was made at its close.
THE WESLEYANS AND THE DISTRESS IN IRELAND AND SCOTLAND - On Sunday last, collections were made at St. Mary's Wesleyan chapel, Truro, in behalf of the distressed poor in Ireland and the Highlands of Scotland. The Rev. R. YOUNG, after each of the services, gave an affecting statement of the distress existing both among the Irish poor and the Scotch Highlanders; and the amount realized, including private subscriptions in the vestry, was GBP 63.9s.7d. A meeting of ladies connected with the Wesleyan community was held on Tuesday morning to aid this laudable object, and from their efforts an additional sum may be fully expected.
On Sunday last, collections were made in the Wesleyan chapel, St. Just in Penwith, in
behalf of the distressed and starving inhabitants of Ireland, when the sum raised
amounted to GBP 9.6s.
MACKAREL FISHERY - On Saturday last, a few hundreds of fine Mackarel were
brought into Falmouth, by the Mount's Bay boats, and retailed at six for a shilling.
THE POOR LAWS - The Board of Guardians of the Helston Union, at their meeting on
Saturday last, signed a petition for presentation to parliament, praying for the abolition of the law of parochial settlement and for a national rate based on principles for more
generally equalizing the burthen of the maintenance of the poor, to be substituted for the
present parochial assessment.
POOR REMOVAL LAW - On the 5th instant, a petition from the inhabitants of
Grampound against this bill was presented to the House of Commons by Mr.
PENDARVES.
GRATIFYING TESTIMONIAL - CAPTAIN GEORGE REID, of Belmont Lodge, near
Falmouth, has just received a magnificent piece of plate from his brother officers. [It is
handsomely decorated�with the crest of the regiment, an eagle, in commemoration of
the regiment having taken an eagle from the 45th regiment of France on the plains of
Waterloo. Engraved with "from his brother officers of the Royal Scots Greys,�, on his
leaving the Regiment." jm]
FACT FOR THE FLORIST - Mr. CROFT, the gardener at Clowance, the seat of the
Rev. Molesworth St. Aubyn, has this week sent us a beautiful bouquet of Camellia
flowers, gathered from plants of the red and white varieties, which have for years past
grown unprotected in the open air, trained against a south wall. The flowers wre as
perfect and as rich in colour as if they had been grown in a conservatory. The plants, we
understand, have been in full bloom ever since the early part of January, and are still
covered with flowers in full expansion. There are several places in this county �
Trevince and Grove Hill, amongst others, where the Camellia flowers to perfection out of
doors; but we never saw flowers in greater beauty than those sent to us from Clowance.
This fact proves that the Camellia, at least many varieties of it, may be acclimated in
Cornwall, and we hope it may induce other parties in Cornwall, and promote the
cultivation of this beautiful class of plants. Mr. Croft has also sent us a large bouquet of the common hedge primrose.
INHALATION OF ETHER - On the 9th instant, Mr. TUCK, dentist of Camborne,
extracted two large upper teeth for MR. WILLIAM LUGG, while under the influence of
either. The effect of the vapour was very perceptible after inhaling from three to six
minutes, and both the teeth were removed without pain, and without any subsequent ill
effect from the use of the vapour. Mr. PEARCE, druggist, of Bodmin, also states that he
has found the ether to answer perfectly, but was conscious of feeling a little (he could not
call it pain) during the time his tooth was taken out, which lasted, with the inhaling, about a minute. The sensation produced was at first coughing, but afterwards a desire to inhale,
and a feeling truly delightful. He believes that no one after using the ether once will be
willing to have any subsequent operation performed without it.
CAUTION TO MARINERS - On Tuesday week, GEORGE GRUZELIER, master of
the schooner, "Eliza", of Scilly, was summoned before the mayor of Falmouth, J.B.
COX, Esq., and J. CORNISH and J. HILL, Esqrs., for having assaulted a boy on board
the said schooner, called WILLIAM NIXON JONES, when it appeared from the
evidence of the boy that the master on several occasions beat him, particularly on
Saturday night while the vessel was lying alongside of the pier, in that port. There were
no marks of violence on the boy. The master, in his defence, said that the boy was very
dirty in his habits, and that he had left his bed to rot under him, and was altogether a
dirty, useless boy; that he never beat him severely during the voyage, or at any time. He
assured the magistrates that he gave him only one or two stripes with a piece of ratling
line. The bench ordered the captain to pay the boy GBP 2.10s, and 10s. costs, which was
ordered to be handed over to Julyan, the officer, who was to lay it out for him in clothes,
and to see his passage paid to Liverpool to his friends.
RESTITUTION - On Thursday evening, the 11th inst., some person unknown left a
bundle of wrecked goods near the door of Mr. JOSEPH HORE[?], one of the coast guard
men, at Mangan Porth, containing thirty-six yards of printed calico, a gown, a pillow slip,
a half handkerchief, two small tin plates, a pair of calico sheets, and some small pieces of
calico. In the bundle was an anonymous letter, stated that the goods were taken from the
wreck of the "Samaritan," on the first two days after she came on shore, and requesting
that they might be forwarded to Lloyds. The letter also contained 2s., which it stated was
the full value of some other goods that could not be restored. We recommend other
persons who hold goods obtained in the same dishonest way to "go and do likewise."
HORSE STEALING - On Thursday, the 11th instant, a man named WILLIAM
TRENAMAN, charged with stealing a mare, the property of MR. SOWDEN, of Bicton
farm, in the parish of St. Ive, was landed at Plymouth from the island of Guernsey, where
he had been apprehended by BRENT, a constable of Devonport. It seems the robbery
was committed on the 18th of 19th of January last, and that the mare was found in the
possession of some gipseys, who had bought her from a man named CORRIE, to whom
she had been sold by Trenaman for a small sum. The thief was found working in a stone
quarry in Guernsey, and the day after his arrival at Plymouth was taken before the Rev.
Dr. FLETCHER and W. D. RORNDON. Esq., at Callington, where he was examined and
afterwards committed to Bodmin gaol to take his trial at the approaching assizes.
TRURO POLICE - On Monday last, WALTER HICKS was fined 5s. and costs for
assaulting WILLIAM HODGE.
COINING and UTTERING COUNTERFEIT COIN - As we stated last week, a large quantity of counterfeit coin has lately been circulated in different parts of this county, and
more particularly in St. Agnes. At length, however, several of the suspected parties have
been apprehended, and committed to take their trial at the approaching assizes. On
Tuesday last, a man named AMBROSE MARTIN, living in Penryn, was brought before
CLEMENT CARLYON, Esq., at Truro, and charged with coining two counterfeit half-
crowns. It appeared that on the evening of Thursday, the 4th instant, NANCY MARTIN,
the wife of the accused, went to MRS. PRATER's shop, at St. Agnes, and asked to buy a
looking-glass; she bought it for five-pence, and offered in payment a half-crown, which
Mrs. Prater suspected to be a counterfeit coin, and took it to Mrs. OPIE's in order to test
it. Finding it to be bad, she sent for constable JOSEPH ARGALL, who came and took
Nancy Martin into custody. [She had been to another shop, kept by WILLIAM
MARTIN, and bought some tea and snuff for sixpence, and gave in payment a half-
crown, which was also found to be bad. The woman, being brought before the
magistrate, was committed for trial. jm] When Argall took Mrs. Martin into custody, he
found in her possession a genuine half-crown, which bore precisely the same impression
as the counterfeit ones. This induced him to go to Penryn and to search with constable
NINNIS the dwelling-house of Ambrose Martin, her husband, who was in her company
in St. Agnes. He found a pair of handcuffs, which had been missed on the day that
Martin's wife was committed, and a file, about which was a quantity of soft metal similar
to that of which the counterfeit coins were composed. They also discovered some plaster
of Paris in and about a chest, a board on which it appeared to have been wetted, and some
soft leather. The chest appeared as if it had contained more plaster of Paris, but which
had been removed before the constables came. Martin said he had no plaster of Paris, but
that it was lime with which he intended to whitewash his house. He also said he had no
money, but Argall found in the chest four shillings and sixpence, genuine coin, which
bore precisely the same impression as several counterfeit coins which he had lately
received from shopkeepers at St. Agnes. Martin said he was very sorry that his wife had
been committed, and that he would rather be transported for seven years than that she
should be imprisoned for seven days. Argall took Martin into custody, but he afterwards
managed to escape, and was advertised with a reward for his apprehension. He was at
length taken into custody by BENNETT, a constable at St. Blazey, from whom he also
escaped once, but was recaptured. The prisoner was committed to take his trial at the
ensuing assizes, on the charge of coining.
CORONERS' INQUESTS - Before J. CARLYON, Esq., coroner:
On Friday last, at New Mills, in the parish of Kenwyn, on the body of ALEXANDER
BENNETT, aged 50 years. [Deceased was a waggoner, employed by Mr. PARSONS of
New Mills, and was taking a load of timber to East Wheal Rose mine last Friday
morning. The roads were uncommonly slippery from the frost, and on descending Penair
hill he had hold of the shaft horse, and was trying to keep him on his legs, when he was
knocked down by the point of the shaft. The wheel passed over his head, and killed him
on the spot. Verdict, accidental death. jm] [note- I eliminated the medical description of
injuries. jm]
On Wednesday, at Goran, on the body of MARY DUNN, aged sixty-four years, who
dropped down dead last Monday, in an awfully sudden manner. [MARY ANN
LIDDICOAT testified she went to house of deceased last Monday to return an umbrella,
and found her looking well and washing some clothes. jm] They chatted about three
minutes, when deceased wheeled half-around, and dropped dead on the floor. Mr.
BALL, surgeon, of Mevagissey, was of opinion that she died from the rupture of one of
the large vessels connected with the heart, and the jury returned a verdict to that effect.
Before GILBERT HAMLEY, Esq., deputy-coroner.
On Monday last, at Calstock, on view of the body of JOHN HONEYCOMBE. It
appeared that deceased, for some time past, had been addicted to drinking. [When he
came home on the Saturday previous, he seemed well to his neighbours. Hearing noise
of a man groaning in the night, the neighbour knocked on the wall, thinking him to be
tipsy. Next morning his door was locked. Neighbours broke in, and found him dying.
Sent for a surgeon, Mr. JONES, but he died just after surgeon arrived. He had been very
miserly in his habits since youth, and accumulated some money, and possessed property,
including the house in which he lived and several adjoining houses. On the coroner and
jury entering the house, they found him lying on three narrow boards with no bedding on
them, and merely an old counterpane to cover him. The jury waited for the surgeon's
report, which stated deceased had died from apoplexy. jm] Verdict accordingly.
The following inquests were held before W. HICHENS, Esq., coroner:
At St. Ives, on the 11th inst., on the body of RICHARD STEVENS, aged about 67 years.
Deceased was a journeyman cordwainer, who found work at Zennor. He took a cart
from there to Hayle, where he had left his tools. The weather was 'cold and piercing,'
and he was very asthmatic. When the horses broke into a gentle trot, he complained to
the driver, who slowed them, but he sat with his hand to his chest, shaking, and appeared
to be in much pain. Some persons who saw him recommended driver take him to St.
Ives, which was nearer than Hayle; before he reached St. Ives, deceased's head fell on his
breast, and he died. jm] Verdict, natural death.
At Towednack, on the 13th instant, on the body of PAUL ROWE, a lad about six years of
age. [Mother went in the morning to Penzance market, leaving deceased with another
younger child in charge of their sister, a girl of about 14 years of age. While the sister
was in the field, feeding oats to their cow, the deceased put a bush of furze on the fire,
and set fire to his saveall. He died the same day. jm] Verdict, accidental death.
At Crowan, on the 17th instant, on the body of MARTIN MADDRON, aged about 50
years. The deceased was a labourer, but from ill health had been unable to follow his
employment for a few days prior to his death. On Sunday night last he went to bed not at
all worse than he had been for some days before, but was found by his wife dead by her
side on the morning. His complaint was long-standing. Verdict, natural death.
On the same day, at Camborne, on the body of JANE NICHOLLS, aged about 45 years.
The deceased, on the 15th instant, being to all appearance in perfect health, went with her
sister to a shop in the town to buy some articles of mourning to wear at her mother's
funeral. On their return to the house, the sister, who was only a short distance before the
deceased, hearing her scream, turned round and saw her lying on the ground on her face.
She was seen to fall by other persons, who speedily came to her assistance and lifted her
up, but life was extinct. Verdict, natural death.
Stannaries Court
BAWDEN v HARVEY - Plaintiff MISS GRACE BAWDEN; defendant MRS. JECOLIAH HARVEY, of St. Day. Action brought to recover GBP 50, which plaintiff alleged to have lent defendant.
The most material witness was JONATHAN BAWDEN, brother of the plaintiff, who
deposed in Feb, 1844, defendant told him that EDMUND JEFFERY, who had a mortgage
on her property, had served her with notice for payment of what was due. She asked him
how she could get the money. Witness, who acts as business agent for his sister, obtained
a loan from his sister for GBP 50 for the defendant, which was afterwards paid to
Edmund Jeffery, the mortgagee, at JOSEPH GRENFELL's inn. Witness also said his
sister understood she was to have a piece of defendant's garden for the money, but this
defendant afterwards refused to sell, or to repay the money lent to her. The defence, set
up by Mr. STOKES, was that plaintiff should have sued to compel Mrs. Harvey to live up
to the agreement to sell the garden ground. The Vice-Warden said there was not
sufficient evidence to show a contract existed for the sale; if there were, defendant had
negatived that contract by refusing to transfer the land. Verdict for plaintiff for GBP 50,
with interest of GBP 6.5s. Mr. HOCKIN appeared for plaintiff.
RICHARDS v RICHARDS - Plaintiff PHILIP RICHARDS; defendant SAMUEL RICHARDS, two brothers living in Perranarworthal, re a promissory noted dated 16 December, 1844, for GBP 19.
Defendant pleaded first, he did not make the note; secondly, he was insane at the time he
did it; thirdly, he was never indebted, and had received no consideration for the note.
[Which he never made in the first place... jm] The father, sister, uncle and brother-in-law
of the defendant testified against the defendant.
Defendant five years before applied to his father, ABRAHAM RICHARDS, to lend him
money to help him with his business. The father told him to ask his brother, Philip, who
loaned him 13 sovereigns on the father's recommendation. Before this, he owed Philip
GBP 6, making GBP 19 of debt in all.
In 1844, defendant was taken very ill with fever. On one of his frequent visits, the father asked him what Philip was to do for his money, and defendant said he would sign a note.
The father went home, and a few days later sent uncle RALPH STEPHENS, the clerk of
the parish, to draw the note, which he then took to defendant's house. Defendant put his
mark on it, being unable to get out of bed. After this, defendant became quite well again.
Last Midsummer uncle Ralph saw him at Truro, and asked about his circumstances.
Defendant said he did not know what to do about the note, and said if Ralph would 'hold
his tongue' it would be sufficient. Mr. Stephens said "But you are not going to cheat
Philip, are you?" To which defendant replied "I don't know that I would cheat him; but I
was not fitty when the note was drawn; I was out of my mind." To refute this, Mr.
Hockin called the father, sister, and other witnesses, who allowed that defendant was very
ill at the time, but testified they never considered his mind unsound.
Captain JOHN MOYLE, of the Untied Mines, stated he heard defendant admit he was indebted to his brother Philip about GBP 20 or so.
On behalf of the defendant, Mr. Stokes first objected to the form of the declaration; this
was overruled. He then said the note of hand was invalid, and the defendant was of
unsound mind when it was drawn. Any evidence of previous debt would not be
applicable to the present action. He then called SAMUEL PAUL ARTHUR, the surgeon
who attended on defendant during his illness. [Witness deposed in December, 1844,
patient was often in a state of stupor, and when roused, his answers were incoherent. He
opened a large abscess on the 13th of December, which would have relieved the brain, if
there had not been another abscess forming, which he opened on the 23rd. He did not see
the patient between the 13th and 23rd, and admitted his mind might have been more
composed during that period. The nurse who attended was not present on the 16th, when
the note was drawn, and could not testify to his state of mind. jm]
The jury considered that a lucid interval had taken place, and that defendant was of sound mind when the note was drawn. Verdict for plaintiff, including interest, for GBP 21.
DODD v. PASCOE - The plaintiff, Dodd, is a maltster at Truro; defendant Pascoe is
landlord of the "Jolly Sailor" in St. Austell-street, Truro. Suit was brought to recover
payment for malt plaintiff supplied to defendant. At commencement of the proceedings,
on application of Mr. CORNISH for defense, all witnesses were ordered out of the court
till called for.
Mr. HOCKIN called WILLIAM SIM; worked for Mr. Dodd, and proved delivery of forty
bushels of malt within the last two years. Witness thought price of malt was about a
pound, but never less than 17s. a bushel. JOHN FERRIS, maltster and innkeeper, stated
the average price of good malt would be GBP 1 a bushel, or more. He had supplied
defendant with some at a guinea a bushel. JOHN PHILLIPS, an innkeeper who had dealt
with Mr. Dodd, paid 20s. a bushel. JOHN BEAGLEHOLE was at the London Inn when
plaintiff and defendant were there, discussing their dispute. Pascoe said he had been
served by Dodd with a claim for GBP 26, but that the real difference was very little
between them. He (Pascoe) also said plaintiff omitted to put down 30s. which had been
paid.
Mr. Cornish denounced this as a most disgraceful action, and said he could show Mr.
Dodd was indebted to Mr. Pascoe for GBP 12. He then produced a small account book
kept by Mr. Pascoe, in which Mr. Dodd had from time to time entered payments when
made to him by defendant. [Mr. Cornish argued that unless plaintiff could prove the
market price of each lot of malt at the time it was delivered, he, Mr. Cornish, was legally
justified in adopting the lowest price quoted for all the deliveries. jm]
The judgment was for the plaintiff, in the amount of GBP 25.
The next day, Mr. Cornish brought another action, once again making the claim that only
the lowest price mentioned in the book kept by Mr. Pascoe would apply; this was rejected
by the court, and the initial judgment was upheld.
26 FEBRUARY 1847, Friday
LOCAL INTELLIGENCE
LISKEARD INSTITUTION - On Tuesday week, the members of this institution were
favoured with an interesting lecture on the Genius and Writings of Charles Dickens, by
Mr. W. W. RUNDELL, of Falmouth.
CARHARRACK MINERS' and MECHANICS' INSTITUTE - The lovers of harmony
had a rich treat at the above institution on Tuesday evening last, when MR. BAILEY
gave an admirable lecture on music, which was interspersed with specimens of vocal and
instrumental music by some friends of Mr. Bailey, whose execution was excellent, and
gave the highest satisfaction to a large auditory. Mr. WILLIAMS, the bass singer,
entertained the meeting by some recitations, which added considerably to the
amusements of the evening.
THE LEVEE - Among the presentations at the late levee were MR. SERGEANT
MANNING, on being appointed Queen's Sergeant; and CAPTAIN CARLYON, 10th
Hussars, on promotion.
STANNARIES COURT - Jennings and others V. Henry Fowell Stephens
In this case, as given in our last week's paper, a mistake occurs in the mention of parties.
It is stated that a person who claimed to be a creditor had made an affidavit of his debt,
and supported it by an affidavit of Dr. STRICKLAND KEARNEY KINGSTON, who
was said to be in Winchester prison for debt. The mention of parties should be here
exactly reversed; the applying creditor being Dr. Strickland Kearney Kingston, while the
witness supporting his claim was a person stated to be now in Winchester prison for debt.
We think it right to recapitulate the rest of the application, in order that no mistake may
ensue in the matter. [Mr. SIMMONS, on behalf of Dr. Kingston, applied to the Court to
issue a commission to examine the witness in Winchester gaol. Mr. STOKES, who
appeared for the general body of creditors, opposed the application on the grounds that
the witness had deposed already, and Mr. Stokes had already called a person who
contradicted the affidavit, and swore he heard witness in the gaol say that he and Stevens
were shareholders. Mr. Stokes did not think it proper to give that witness a chance to
change his testimony. jm] The Vice-Warden deferred his decision on the application, but on
the following Monday he granted the issue of the commission.
DISTRESS IN IRELAND AND SCOTLAND -
TRURO - On Sunday last, sermons were preached in St. Paul's Church, Truro, and
collections made, in obedience to the Queen's letter, to relieve the distress existing in
Ireland and the highlands of Scotland. On the same day, a collection was made in
Bethesda Chapel, Truro, for the same object. The sum contributed, with subscriptions
also made among the same body of Christians (Independents) amount to about GBP 40.
MADRON � On Sunday last, sermons were preached in the parish church, by the Rev.
M.N. PETERS, in behalf of the distressed Irish, when the sum of GBP 50 was
contributed.
CAMBORNE � A sermon was preached in the parish church on Sunday last, in behalf of
the famishing Irish, by the Rev. W. W. BUTLIN, at the close of which a collection was
made amounting to upwards of GBP 9.
RELIEF OF THE POOR - TRURO � [A meeting was held in the Coinage Hall, to take
into consideration the best means of further relieving the poor in the three parishes of St.
Mary, St. Clement, and Kenwyn. It was admitted by all that the condition of the poor
was such as to demand instant and effective relief. At first it was suggested that
subscriptions should be raised, and applied to the purchase of flour, bacon, &c, which
could be sold to the poor at about 25%. This was opposed, as it would be much greater
expense than the advantage, and it would tend to injure the small dealers in the articles
mentioned, who could not afford to lose the little profits they now realize. Mr.
KIRKNESS moved a soup kitchen should be established. Mr. READ supported that
suggestion, mentioned the successful results from the dispensing of soup by the vicar of
Kenwyn. On the motion of MR. R. MICHELL, it was resolved that 1/3 the amount
subscribed would be applied to the purposes of soup kitchens, and the remainder should
be expended in the purchase of bread. Mr. HUMPHRY WILLYAMS moved the town be
divided into four districts, and a visiting committee be appointed for each, who should
collect subscriptions and apply the proceeds to the relief of the poor. jm]
DISASTER AT SEA - The "Susanna," WILLIAMS, of Mevagissey, arrived at Cardiff,
from Fowey, on Monday week, with loss of boat, bulwarks, staunchions, sails, and
master and men's clothes. The "Churchill" schooner, of Truro, fell over on her broadside
at Newport, but was righted, with damage to hull, spars, &c.
THE LATE FIRE AT BREAGE - Mr. WILLIAM BAWDEN and his wife have been
committed for trial at the ensuing assizes, for threatening to burn the King's Arms public
house, at Breage Church-town. The occurrence was noticed in our paper of the 22nd ult.,
the fire having also extended to Mr. TREWEEKE's property adjoining.
TRURO POLICE - On Wednesday last, MOSES FRIEDEBERG, a jew, from P..en, was
committed for one calendar month for begging. He had a petition stating that he was in
the greatest distress in a strange country, but on searching him the policeman found in his
possession nine watches, three sovereigns, and 12s.6d. in silver. He also had a pedlar's
box at his lodgings, without possessing a hawker's license.
DETECTION OF THIEVES - On Monday afternoon last, a woman named
ELIZABETH HOLLOW entered the shop of Mr. JOSEPH, pawnbroker, Penzance, and
produced certain articles of wearing apparel which she wished to pledge. Mr. Joseph
having been apprized that such articles had recently been stolen from a person of the
name of WILLS, at Newlyn, gave the woman into custody; and on the following day she
was committed by Joseph CARNE, Esq., for trial at the approaching assizes. A search
warrant having been placed in the hands of police-officer OLDS, he proceeded to the
residence of the prisoner, in New Street, Penzance, and, secreted in the bed-tick, he
discovered other property stolen from the same place. Olds, in his search, found several
other articles that have been recently stolen in that neighbourhood; and the husband of the
prisoner has bolted.
CABBAGE STEALING - J BULL, Esq., of Bosinwick, Budock, having lately lost a
number of cabbages, sometimes as many as two dozen at a time, he determined on
having the field watched. The cabbages had been mostly stolen on Friday nights; and last
Friday, about seven o'clock in the evening, Mr. Bull's eldest son, on passing the field,
heard some rogue already at work. He immediately went to the house for his double-
barrelled gun, and accompanied by some of the men-servants, he shortly after returned to
the spot and hailed the thief, who was just then going to start. He called on him to stand
and surrender, or he would fire; the fellow, however, instantly took to his heels as fast as
he could, upon which Mr. Bull fired, and called out that if the man did not stop he would
fire the other barrel, which he did, and the charge took effect in the runaway�s legs, Mr.
Bull having pointed low. After a little further run, the rogue was overtaken and secured,
when he was found to be a man called GEORGE PASCOE, of Mawnan, a smith, who
had been long suspected of petty thefts. He had been met on his way to the field, and had
commenced his operations soon after the farm servants had left work. The fellow had
been pretty active, having cut fifteen fine cabbages, which were afterwards found with a
bag. As he had been well peppered with shot, and earnestly begged not to be punished,
he was released by Mr. Bull, and it is hoped the neighbourhood will now be more free
than it has been from petty thefts in the gardens and fields.
COMMITTAL - On Friday last, RACHEL WHITFORD, a married woman with a
family, was committed to Bodmin gaol by the Rev. S. CHILCOTT, to take her trial at the
next Sessions, for stealing a wood pail belonging to WILLIAM HOCKIN, cooper, of
Camelford.
ROBBERIES - We learn that within the last three weeks several robberies have been
committed in St. Stephens in Branwell and St. Mewan. In one place a house has been
broken into and robbed of sixty sovereigns; in another instance some wearing apparel
was taken; a silver watch and 15s. were stolen from another house; and in another place
25s. were taken, but the thieves being disturbed by one of the family coming home, they
dropped 15s. on the stairs. Several farmers have also lost nearly all their poultry. Most
of these robberies have taken place on Sunday evenings during divine service. Another
correspondent informs us that on Friday last, about midnight, the premises of Mr.
DAVID YELLAND, a shoemaker at Pothole, were entered, and a new pair of shoes, with
a great part of a hide of leather, were carried off from the workshop. The dwelling house
had also been broken into, the thieves having taken money from Mr. Yelland's desk, also
loaves of bread, cream, and other articles from the kitchen, including a dozen silver
teaspoons, and a quantity of wearing apparel. The thieves had evidently enjoyed
themselves, having smoked an ounce of tobacco taken from the mantel-piece, and
fastened a lighted candle against the table before they decamped. On Friday last, Mr.
JOHN JENKIN and family of Pothole, near Sticker, were alarmed by the breaking of
glass and the sound of footsteps around the house. Mr. Jenkins had been absent from
home for a considerable time past, but on this occasion he was fortunately with the
family; an alarm was soon raised, but the scamps succeeded in making their escape to the
moors. On the same night, JOSEPH HAM, living at Sticker, had his house entered, and
several articles of wearing apparel were stolen. Suspicion has fallen on some vagabond-
looking fellows of the neighbourhood, but we regret to state that none of the thieves have
as yet been apprehended.
CORONER'S INQUEST - On Friday last, GILBERT HAMLEY, Esq., held an inquest
at the Sailor's Return Inn, in the town of Fowey, on the body of JOHN SEAWARD, an
apprentice belonging to the Quebec timber tender "Alicia," Capt. ROBINSON. About
noon on the preceding day, the Captain hailed the "Alicia" to go on board from the
passage slip, and the deceased, being the only person on board at the time, he, in
attending to the captain's hail, and passing from the "Alicia" to the "Augusta," which lay
close alongside, fell between the bows of those vessels, in sight of the captain and others,
who immediately made an alarm, but assistance came too late. The poor fellow sunk, and
it was about three o'clock before he was taken out of the water. He was a fine youth,
about 17 years of age, a native of Plymouth, and respectably connected. It is said that the
apprentices of the "Alicia" are a credit to the captain for diligence and good conduct.
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