cornwall england newspaper

1854 BIRTHS

SEPTEMBER

1 SEPTEMBER 1854, Friday

A BISHOPRIC FOR CORNWALL - A meeting of the Clergy of Trigg Major was convened by the Rev. J. TRIPP, the Rural Dean, at Dolsdon, near Launceston, on Friday last to consider - first, the proposal for establishing a bishopric in Cornwall, and the propriety of requesting a meeting of the Archdeaconry thereon. Secondly. - A circular from the Rural dean of East, on the deficiency of missionaries in the Church of England, and on uniting with the other Archdeaconries in sending pupils to St. Augustine's College. Thirdly. - The desirableness of memorializing the Bishop on a better mode of taking dilapidations. Fourthly. - Any other business that may be brought forward - and taking such steps on each of these matters as the assembled Clergy shall deem fitting. We have not been informed of the result of the meeting.

PANORAMA - Mr. PROUT's panorama of a voyage to the Australian gold fields, has been exhibited at the Assembly-room, Truro, during the present week. A great number of most charming views are presented, possessing considerable artistic merit, the sketches having been made by Mr. Prout himself in Australia, and the paintings executed by Messrs. PROUT, ROBINS, and WEIGALL, members of the new society of painters in water colours. Not only are the views of a very interesting and superior kind, but a good deal of information is also conveyed in the lecture which accompanies the exhibition. It is perhaps the best panorama that has been exhibited in Cornwall for a long period, and must be especially interesting to the numerous persons in this county whose relatives and friends have emigrated to Australia.

THE CORRUPT PRACTICES PREVENTION ACT. - An act received the royal assent on the 14th of August "to consolidate and amend the laws relating to bribery, treating, and undue influence at the elections of members of parliament." In pursuance of this act, the Mayor of Truro, as returning officer at the borough elections, appointed, on Monday last, Mr. Edward SHARP, to be auditor of election expenses for the borough of Truro for the year ensuing. By the recent act, each candidate at any future election will have to pay the auditor GBP10 as remuneration for his trouble, with two per cent. on the amount of outlay audited, and all reasonable expenses.

BANKRUPTCY COURT - At the Exeter district Court of Bankruptcy, on Thursday the 22nd ult., Mr. J. E. PROCKTER, of St. Columb, miner, ship-owner, &c., came up upon his last examination, but not having filed his balance-sheet at the proper time, the case was, after a long examination, adjourned to the 18th of October. We shall give a report of the examination next week.

In the case of Samuel GARRATT, railway contractor of Perran Wharf, near Penryn, and proprietor of coal pits at Bedminster, near Bristol, Mr. STOGDON applied for an allowance for maintenance on behalf of the bankrupt. The Commissioner - What sum do you propose? Mr. Stogdon said five pounds per week had been recommended by the creditors. The Commissioner thereupon granted that amount, but said the bankrupt must pay his own accountant out of it. The debts already proved up to the 22nd of August amounted to GBP10,521. 6s. 8d.; the liabilities altogether being upwards of GBP30,000.

THE NEW BEER ACT - Monday last being the general licensing day at Truro, the Mayor called attention to the provisions of the act passed in the last session, under which it is made a condition of the licenses that all public-houses shall be closed during the morning and afternoon service on Sundays; that they may open from half-past twelve till half-past two; then be closed till six, when they may re-open, and be finally closed on Sunday nights at ten o'clock. The penalty is also by the recent act increased. There is now a penalty of GBP5 for every separate drawing, whereas under the former act the penalty was GBP2.

ATROCIOUS OUTRAGE - On Saturday last, George MATTHEWS, mason; James JOHNS, mason; Walter PENGELLY, mason's labourer; and Robert GLASSON, blacksmith, all of Truro, were charged before the magistrates of that borough with indecently assaulting Mary Ann CHENOWETH, of Redruth, a young woman about twenty-one years of age, who had resided for the last few weeks at Truro. The prisoners, it appears, were employed at the viaduct of the Cornwall Railway, at the top of Tydar-street. On Friday evening Chenoweth went to the viaduct and asked George Matthews if he knew where another young man was, one of the navvies. Matthews said he would show her where he was, and she went with him to a stable not far from the eastern end of the Carvedras viaduct. The men before named, Johns, Pengelly, and Glasson were there drinking, and William GREGSON, a stonemason, and John GREGSON, a time-keeper, were also in the stable. They asked the woman to come in, and they gave her some beer, which she drank. William Gregson then took hold of her and by force, as she alleged, committed the assault and offence complained of, and was brutally followed by the other men, with the exception of John Gregson, who was sitting down at the time in the stable, a witness of their proceedings. She screamed and tried to get away, upon which they left the place and locked her in the stable. Her cries brought people around the building, and a horse-keeper to Mr. Gregson, to whom the stable belonged, having come there, he opened the door, and let her out, and she immediately went to the police station and complained of the treatment she had received to Mr. NASH, the inspector, her clothes being much torn, and her general appearance at the time showing that she had been greatly ill-used. On the following day, Matthews, Johns, Pengelly, and Glasson were apprehended whilst working at the viaduct, and the case was investigated before the magistrates. The assault was not denied, but the prisoners all asserted that the woman was a consenting party, and she being of loose character, and having no witness to corroborate her statement to the contrary, the magistrates decided on convicting the prisoners of only a common assault, instead of the more serious offence. Matthews and Pengelly were each fined 10s. and costs, or to be committed for one month to the house of correction; and Johns and Glasson were fined 20s. and costs, or to be committed to hard labour for two months. The prisoners immediately paid the fines which were imposed upon them. On Saturday night William Gregson and John Gregson were apprehended on the same charge, John Gregson as an accessory to the offence. They were admitted to bail, and on Monday morning appeared before the magistrates when from some cause the woman was not forthcoming. The prisoners however, admitted their guilt; William Gregson was fined 5s. and costs, and John Gregson was discharged on paying the expenses. Three or four of the perpetrators of this outrage are married men, and they all very narrowly escaped being committed to take their trial at the assizes for the criminal office with which they were at first charged.

CORONER'S INQUESTS - The following inquests have been held by Mr. John CARLYON, county coroner:- On Saturday last, at Redruth, on the body of Mary Ann DAWE, aged four years. It appeared that on the morning of that day, as Downing's omnibus from Falmouth was passing through Penryn Street, Redruth, the deceased ran out from behind a wagon which was standing outside Mr. CORIN's warehouse, and attempted to cross the street; when she was knocked down by one of the omnibus horses, and before the driver had time to pull up, the two off wheels of the omnibus went over her and killed her on the spot. Another little girl nearly met with a similar fate, but she ran back just in time to save herself. The jury exonerated the driver from all blame and returned a verdict of "accidental death."

On Monday, at Port Isaac, in the parish of Endellion on the body of Henry LUXTON, fish-carrier, aged 51 years. Thomas SMITH of Port Isaac, deposed that on Saturday morning about four o'clock, as he was going to fetch a donkey, he heard a horse, making a noise; and on making towards the sound he saw the horse on his back with a cart behind him turned right over on its mouth. This was at the entrance of Port Isaac from Boscastle, and by the side of the road. Finding he could do nothing by his own strength, he went and got assistance, and in turning over the cart the deceased was found under it quite dead. From the evidence of deceased's wife it appeared that he resided at a village called Trevalga, near Boscastle, and that on his return from Camelford market on Saturday evening he said he should go to Port Isaac with the horse and cart for some fish. She tried to persuade him not to go, but he persisted in going, and started between eight and nine o'clock. From the track of the wheels it would appear that about four hundred yards from the place where the deceased was found, the horse had turned off from the road and drawn the cart along on the top of a bank and then fell over, a depth of about ten or twelve feet. It was supposed that the deceased was asleep at the time. Verdict, "accidental death."

On Tuesday, at St. Blazey, on the body of Eliza HAWKE, aged four months. It appeared that on Monday morning the mother of the deceased went out to wash about five o'clock, after giving the child the breast, which she took very heartily. The mother left the child in bed with two other little children. About two hours afterwards one of the children called in a neighbour, and said she thought the little child was dead, as it was cold and stiff and she could not move it. The neighbour on going in found this to be the case. The neighbours all gave the parents very good characters, and the jury were quite satisfied that the child died from natural causes, and returned a verdict accordingly.

On Wednesday, at Lanlivery, on the body of William RUSSELL (?), aged 25 years. Deceased was a "navvy" and had been employed in cutting the tunnel near Treverzes(?), in that parish. From the evidence of John COMSTOCK, the sub-contractor, it appeared that on Tuesday, he had twelve men and a boy at work on the eastern end of the tunnel; they had bored five holes at No. 1 shaft, and after firing them they all returned to a place of safety, where they remained from five to ten minutes. They then thought they might safely return to their work, and the deceased was the one to propose doing so, and the first to go, all the others following him. On looking at the holes they found that one of them had not gone off; but they supposed that the safety fuse, which was of the best description, had been cut in stemming the hole, and had missed. Presently afterwards however, the hole went off whilst all the men were near it - within a space of 24 feet by 32 feet. Fortunately the deceased, was the only one seriously hurt, and he died a few hours afterwards from the injuries he had received. Verdict, "accidental death."

PAUPERISM - From the returns which have been published, the following appears to have been the number of adult able-bodied paupers (male and female) in receipt of relief on the 1st of July, 1854, in the four western counties:- Cornwall, 2,054; Devon, 4,153; Somerset, 4,460; Dorset, 1,715. As compared with the numbers receiving relief on the 1st of July, 1853, there is an increase in Cornwall of 118, or 6.1 per cent.; in Devon, 104, or 2.6 per cent.; Somerset, 401, or 9.9 per cent.; and Dorset 24, or 1.4 per cent. The total expenditure for maintenance and out-door relief, during the year ending July 1st, 1854, was in Cornwall GBP30, 045, an increase of 8.7 per cent, as compared with the preceding year; Devon, GBP68, 972, an increase of 7.8 per cent.; Somerset, GBP70,707, an increase of 6.3 per cent.; Dorset, GBP32,157, an increase of 9.6 per cent. The increase in England and Wales to July 1st, 1854, as compared to July 1st, 153, is of general pauperism 5.3 per cent, and of able-bodied pauperism 13.2 per cent. Something must be allowed for the increase of population, and, in the three years since the census was taken the increase of people will account for an increase amounting to one-third of the number of paupers. The increase in the expense in the half-year ending July 1st, 1854, as compared to the expense in 1853, was GBP234,317, the totals having been in 1853, GBP1,665,978, and 1854, GBP1,900,295. A large portion of the increase is due to the dearness of food in 1854, which contributed also to increase the number of paupers from lessening the demand for labour. From the great and rapid diminution of pauperism after the great measures of Free-trade, we are inclined to say that a succession of such measures would be the best cure for pauperism.

8 SEPTEMBER 1854, Friday

MERCANTILE MARINE BOARD - Amongst the candidates at an examination for the Mercantile Marine, at Liverpool on the 11th ult., the name of Capt. Alfred READ, of Truro, appears as having received a first class certificate as master.

AUSTRALIA MAIL - a very heavy mail from Melbourne, Geelong, and Port Phillip, consisting of fifty-four bags or two wagon loads of letters, newspapers, &c., was landed at Penzance, on Thursday morning last, from the ship "Essex," Captain MARTIN, one hundred and fourteen days out from Melbourne, by the Scilly pilot cutter "A.Z." The mail was immediately forwarded to the metropolis. Twenty passengers were also landed, belonging to St. Just, Morvah, Ludgvan, Penryn, Liskeard, and Bere, near Plymouth. All of them were well supplied with the needful - one lucky fellow in particular having about one cwt. of pure gold in his possession. About one hundred and twenty passengers have arrived in the "Essex."

FOWEY - A mail was landed here on Friday last, from the "Admiral Greenfield," from Wellington, New Zealand, which was said to contain, at least, four hundred newspapers. The vessel was bound up channel, but with the wind right ahead.

POWDER EXPLOSION - On Thursday evening the 31st ult., the inhabitants of the neighbourhood of Lemon-street, Truro, were alarmed by an explosion in the upper part of the house of Mr. NETHERTON. It appears that his youngest brother (who is of weak intellect) had purchased 3 lbs. f powder at Redruth, and took it to a bedroom at the top of the house, in the back of the premises, where it exploded. The consequence was that a great part of the back wall of the room and of the roof were blown out, and one of the window sashes was thrown to the top of the market-house. A number of panes of glass were also broken in the adjacent premises of Mr. DAVIES, saddler, and Mr. HARRIS, jeweller. The lad was himself severely injured; and care should be taken to prevent him from executing any other freaks in future which might prove dangerous to life or property.

A FARM-HOUSE BURNT - On Monday last, about eleven o'clock in the morning, the farm-house of Mr. Thomas ROWE, of higher Lanner, in Sithney, caught fire, occasioned by sparks falling on the roof, which was of thatch. It immediately got into a blaze, and house and barn were burnt to the ground within an hour. Some of the furniture was saved, but from the absence of water, any attempt to allay the flames were unavailing.

LAUNCESTON - On Saturday the 2nd instant, a large stack of hay containing about forty tons, the property of the Duke of Northumberland, at Werrington, took fire, having been put together in too damp condition. The whole of it was utterly destroyed.

CAUTION TO THE PUBLIC - A man who stated that his name was Charles PEARSON, recently called upon Sir Colman RASHLEIGH, and represented that he was the son of a clergyman formerly resident in the west of this county, and that he was in distress. Some relief was given to him, and he afterwards went to Mr. FOSTER, Mr. TREMAYNE, and other gentlemen, and made use of Sir Colman Rashleigh's name, without authority for so doing, stating also that he had been kindly entertained at Prideaux for two days. This was utterly untrue; and we are requested by Sir C. RASHLEIGH to state that the man, Pearson is quite unknown to him in every way.

DISTRESSING ACCIDENT - As Mr. Thomas SEARLE, of Lelant Mills, was on Saturday last, riding on a load of corn, he accidentally fell on his back to the ground which injured him so much that he died early on Monday last.

CORONER'S INQUEST - On Wednesday se'nnight an inquest was held before Mr. HICHENS, county coroner, at Ludgvan, on the body of Mrs. Margaret LANYON. On the Monday evening she retired to bed in her usual health, but about eleven o'clock complained to her sister-in-law that she could not sleep, and in a few minutes expired, aged 72 years. Verdict "visitation of God."

15 SEPTEMBER 1854, Friday

CORNWALL INFIRMARY - A special general meeting of the governor of this excellent institution was held on Monday last, to receive the report of the committee appointed at the annual meeting to consider what steps should be taken to place the medical staff in an efficient state. Mr. TREMAYNE having been called to the chair, expressed his regret at not having been present at the annual meeting in consequence of his absence from the county, and the usual notice not having reached him in time. The committee reported that Mr. BULL having resigned the office of house surgeon, they recommended that he should be allowed to retain the rooms he now occupies for the remainder of his life, and to receive a pension of GBP150 a year; that measures should be taken to obtain a properly qualified person as house surgeon and apothecary, and that two visiting surgeons should be elected. Resolutions adopting the report, and authorising the weekly board to carry out the suggestions therein made, having been adopted, the meeting was adjourned to Monday the 23rd of October, when the election of the new medical officers will take place.

THE CORNWALL SAILORS' HOME - The Bazaar in aid of the funds of this most valuable and benevolent institution, was held at Selley's Royal Hotel, Falmouth, on Wednesday the 6th instant and two following days, and realized upwards of GBP200. The spacious room was fitted up and tastefully decorated by the Bazaar committee, by whom, and the directors present, the most unremitting exertions were made to give full effect to the object in view. The deep interest felt in the welfare and prosperity of "The Cornwall Sailors' Home" was evident from the numerous and splendid contributions received, the crowded state of the room, with the elite of the county, and the ready sale of the elegant and tasteful articles exhibited, (many of which through the kindness of a lady of Falmouth, ever foremost in the promotion of all that is benevolent, were sent by kind contributors resident in London, Liverpool, and other distant parts of the kingdom.) Lady RASHLEIGH, Mrs. G. C. FOX, and Mrs. W. WILLIAMS, presided at their stalls; the other Lady Patronesses were unable to be present, but magnificent contributions were received from many of those absent. The ladies of the Directors of the Home, and many others of the town and neighbourhood, presided at the remaining stalls; all of whom kindly exerted themselves to the utmost, and seemed to vie with each other in zeal for the promotion of this noble cause.

THE NEW BISHOPRIC FOR CORNWALL - A public meeting was held at St. Columb, on Tuesday the 5th instant, Mr. Thurston COLLINS in the chair, pursuant to a notice that the meeting was for the purpose of taking into consideration the magnificent offer of the Rev. Dr. WALKER, as to the disposal of the living of St. Columb parish, and to consider what steps should be taken to testify the approbation of the parishioners. A letter was read from the donor, in which he stated that in making the offer of the advowson of St. Columb Major, as the foundation of a bishopric, he did so with the special intention that the palace of the Bishop should be the Rectory House of that parish. A unanimous vote of thanks to Dr. Walker was then carried by acclamation and numerously signed; and further, a subscription was commenced for the purpose of effecting such repairs and alterations in the parish church, as these circumstances demanded. The partners of the St. Columb Bank headed the subscription list with the sum of GBP100.

HAYLE NEW BAPTIST AND TEMPERANCE CHAPEL - On Saturday the 3rd, two sermons were delivered in this unfinished building to full congregations, by the Rev. T. J. MESSER, Baptist minister, of London, one of the official members of the London Temperance League. On the previous Saturday and the following Monday evening, the same gentleman delivered two lectures on the "claims of the temperance movement" to numerous and delighted audiences. On Wednesday the 6th, a tea meeting was held in the chapel, at which upwards of 200 persons sat down. After tea, a public meeting was held, at which Mr. P. BIGGLESTONE presided. After the minister of the place had addressed the people, the Rev. T. J. Messer kept up the attention of the crowded auditory for an hour and a half. At the close of his animated address, Mr. James HOSKING moved a vote of thanks to the lecturer, which was carried by acclamation. The collections, &c., in connection with the sermons and lectures amounted to upwards of GBP23. On Friday evening Mr. Messer delivered a temperance lecture in the Wesleyan Association chapel, Penzance.

THE FISHERY - There have been no quantities of fish taken at Gunwalloe, within the last few days, except about thirty hogsheads, which were secured on Sunday night. The prospect of fish is very dull at Mevagissey and unless something good occurs, the seins will be put out of pay this week. On Monday night some of the drift boats caught from three to four thousand fish, at a great distance from the shore. They did not go to sea on Tuesday night on account of the weather. At Gorranhaven, the seins have been stopped for a fortnight. Hopes are entertained that as the quantity of fish is small, and the greater part of the fish at Mevagissey is of very good quality, they will fetch a better price than has been given for some years. No pilchards have been taken at Fowey for some days past, contrary winds having prevailed. At Perranporth on Saturday last, the seines took the following quantities of excellent fish:- "Union" seine 250 hhds., "Love" 200 hhds., "Miners" 200 hhds., altogether 650 hogsheads, about half of which have been put into cellars for the foreign markets.

ARRIVAL OF THE "ALGIERS" WITH RUSSIAN PRISONERS - This vessel has arrived with four hundred and fifty men, eight officers, and several invalids. We observe that the health of this fine ship has been the subject of remark, having lost only one man by cholera, which is attributed to the attention, perseverance, and ability of her surgeon, Mr. John ANDREWS, of Truro. No doubt many of our readers will recollect the courage and disinterested and valuable services rendered by him to the inhabitants of Mevagissey when that town was so severely affected by the cholera, and also when it visited Truro.

EXTENSIVE FIRE AT TRURO - A fire broke out at the West Bridge, Truro, on Thursday evening the 7th inst., in the premises occupied by Mr. Thomas BARRETT, grocer. It was first observed about six o'clock by Mr. TRENERRY, who keeps a clothes shop on the opposite side of Kenwyn Street, and who instantly gave the alarm. The fire originated in a wareroom belonging to Mr. Barrett which extended over a shop-occupied by Mr. SKYRME, jeweller and watchmaker in this room, it appears, there was a quantity of lighter(?) matches, the ignition of which, perhaps from spontaneous combustion, was possibly the cause of the fire. On the alarm being given, the first bell was rung, the engines were speedily on the spot, and thousands of the inhabitants were quickly gathered to the place. It was (...?) seen, however, that this premises in which the fire originated could not possibly be saved. Over the room, where it broke out was a loft full of teas, rice, a cask of olive oil, candles, and other groceries; and the fire extending upwards and consuming these inflammable articles, spread with fearful rapidity, and soon enveloped the whole of the premises. In the mean time the exertions of the firemen were applied to the saving of the adjacent property from being involved in the conflagration; and a large number of the people present, amongst them a great many of the respectable inhabitants of the town, as well as mechanics, navvies, and other working men, all exerted themselves in saving the shop goods, and furniture, and actively assisted in supplying water to the origins. There were three engines on the ground; of the large one, the suction hose was carried underneath the house of Mr. TREWOLLA, and was plentifully supplied from the river, it being providentially high water at the time. This engine threw water from two lines of hose; the smaller engines were fed by water obtained from the street gutters, handed in buckets by rows of men. The fire was now rapidly consuming the north part of Mr. Barrett's premises, and the flames extending across a passage about eighteen feet wide, set fire to a warehouse three stories high, belonging to Mr. JULIAN, of Fairmantle Street, and occupied by Mr. CATER, ironmonger, who had in the warehouse a valuable stock of goods. The utmost exertions of the firemen and others were now directed to the saving of these premises, because if they had been burnt the whole of the row of houses recently erected on that side of River Street, must have been destroyed, the houses being built merely of partitions and lath and plaster, with no party wall in the whole row. So great was the alarm that many of the residents in that row removed their furniture, and the yards at the entrances of the Independent and Baptist Chapels were filled with furniture, some of it hastily carried out in the excitement of the moment and much injured. But the greatest damage was caused to the furniture and shop goods of Miss BARLOW, who keeps a Berlin wool warehouse. The people in their excitement, without directions from the proprietor, broke into the different rooms, and by their violent and reckless removal of things destroyed a great deal of property, they even took out a marble chimney piece and a stove, and smashed the windows to get them out. In consequence of the exertions made with the engine, and by carpenters getting on the roof, taking off the slates, and pouring down water, Mr. Cater's warehouse was saved, though it was for a time on fire externally, the sashes, launders and cornices being burnt, and the water that was thrown on the premises coming down almost boiling hot. In fact the head from the burning houses was in some parts of the street almost insupportable. The firemen had also been playing on the front of Mr. OKE's house in Kenwyn Street, when the effect of the fire from the opposite side was visible in the cracking and melting of glass, and the blistering of paint from the intense heat. At last the cornice and launder took fire, but by the exertions of the firemen and others, who deserve great credit, the flames were subdued, and that side of Kenwyn Street was preserved. The premises where the fire originated, is part of a block of houses, occupied by Mr. Barrett, grocer, Mr. Skyrme, jeweller and watchmaker, Mr. SYMONDS, cabinet maker, (formerly Levy's) and Mr. TANK, who kept a poultry shop and eating house. Two of these, Mr. Barrett's and Mr. Symonds's, were large shops; and this "block" of houses was separated from surrounding premises by streets and passages. From the first, there was evidently no chance of saving the four shops last mentioned from destruction. The fire broke out in a room over Mr. Skyrme's shop, and soon extended to that, and to Mr. Symond's and Mr. Tank's premises. In Mr. Skyrme's there was a slight explosion of a small quantity of powder at the back of the shop; previously to which much alarm had been caused by a report that there was also powder in Mr. Cater's warehouse, which prevented many persons going near the premises until an assurance was given that none was kept there. At a little after eight the whole of the shops before named were on fire and rapidly consuming, and great fear was entertained that the fire would extend across a passage to the Black Horse Inn, on the north side of Kenwyn Street. The launder at the Black Horse premises was on fire several times, but, by prompt and judicious exertions in extinguishing the fire, and keeping the walls and roof constantly wet, the premises were fortunately preserved. If they had taken fire, the candle warehouse of Mr. POWNING, wholesale grocer, who had a very inflammable stock on his premises, would speedily have been also consumed. The danger was indeed great to Mr. Powning's premises, the sparks falling in his yard in showers, amongst timber and other substances. Mr. Powning removed a quantity of his goods, and so did other persons, as well as furniture; and we regret to hear that there was some pilfering by dishonest parties, but in most cases the inquiries made by the police since the fire have led to the recovery of missing property. At about half-past nine o'clock the fire was got under, having been confined to the insulated block of houses in one of which it broke out. The wind had been blowing from the east in the morning, but at the time of the fire it was a perfect calm; had the easterly breeze continued, the whole of River Street and much of Kenwyn Street could scarcely have been saved from destruction. Great credit is due to the large number of persons who so strenuously exerted themselves in such a time of excitement and danger; though thousands were present, there was no disorder with one exception, in the clearance and spoliation of Miss Barlow's goods and premises. The burnt houses are now a mass of ruins, the chimneys and a party wall being alone standing; and it is hoped that some arrangement may be made through which the space now cleared by the fire may not be again built upon, but be left open as an improvement in that part of the town. The buildings occupied by Mr. Barrett and Mr. Skyrme belonged to the executors of the late Mr. STEVENS, of Truro, and were insured in the Phoenix Fire Office for GBP900. Mr. Barrett's stock was insured in the Union office for GBP500, but his loss will be much beyond that amount; he was only able to save goods and furniture from the lower part of the premises, the shop and a small room behind. It was reported that Mr. Barrett had a coffee roaster, and that the fire was caused from his roasting coffee that day, but this rumour is incorrect. Mr. SKYRME was a sub-tenant of Mr. Barrett, and did not live on the premises; and his stock was small, and he lost only his working tools, worth about GBP20. Mr. Symonds's stock and furniture were insured in the Royal Insurance Office, Liverpool, for GBP300, which amount will cover his loss. Mr. Tank occupied only a small part of the premises; he lost all his property, and was not insured. Mr. Symonds and Mr. Tank's premises were the property of Mr. Joel BLAMEY, who had leased them to Mr. GOODMAN, of Redruth, and the latter had insured them in the County Fire Office for GBP300. A meeting of the sufferers by the fire, and the agents of the different insurance companies, took place on Saturday last, when it was resolved that Mr. Treleaven, as inspector of the fire brigade, should ascertain what properties are insured in the vicinity of the fire, and those that are not insured. The last fire of any great extent that occurred in Truro, was that at the Patent Wood Works in 1846.

CORNWALL COUNTY COURTS - Truro. At this court, held on Friday last there were eighty-five cases entered. MOYLE v. PADDON. Plaintiff was Mr. Moyle, surgeon, of Chacewater; defendant, Mr. John Paddon, of Truro. Plaintiff's claim of one guinea, was for a journey to Bodmin and examining the pauper lunatics in the asylum belonging to the parish of Kenwyn, which was done under a resolution of the select vestry of that parish in the year 1850, over which the defendant presided as chairman. Mr. Moyle subsequently applied to the parish officers for payment, but they refused, on the ground that they had no authority to pay, and that the charge was not likely to be allowed by the auditor. Plaintiff now made his demand on Mr. Paddon, as chairman of the vestry which gave him the directions. For the defendant, Mr. P. P. SMITH contended that the credit was originally given to the overseers, Mr. Paddon having been only called upon as a last resource; and that it would be unfair to require payment from the defendant, for if gentlemen who presided over such meetings were rendered liable in this way, it would prevent them from performing their public duties. On this point he cited Lancaster v. Frewer, Bingham's Reports; urging also, that if the claim was made on the overseers at all, it ought to have been on those who were in office when the work was performed, because overseers could only legally pay charges that were incurred during their year of office. It was then suggested that the case should be brought before the guardians (who should have been the medium, and not the vestry, of directing Mr. Moyle), and that they should be asked to pay the plaintiff, there being no doubt that he had performed the work. The case accordingly was postponed.

WILLIAM HOOPER v. JEREMIAH REYNALDS. - Plaintiff is a farmer at Ladock, and defendant a wholesale grocer at Truro. The claim was for GBP2. 14s. 8d. being the cost of repairing a gig and harness, caused by the negligence of defendant's servant in January last. Mrs. Hooper was driving the gig, with another female in it, when at Tresillian they met defendant's cart on the wrong side of the road, and the driver stretched out in it apparently asleep. A collision took place, and the two females were thrown into the road; the horse ran off, broke both shafts of the gig, and went home. A verdict was given for the full amount.

HODSON and CROWLE v. John DARRICH (?), mason - Defendant was committed for thirty days for non-payment of GBP5. 14s. 10d. after judgment of the court.

PENZANCE - Seventy-six cases were entered, five of these adjourned from the last court. There was amongst them no trial of any special interest.

HELSTON COUNTY COURT - At this court, held on Monday last, the only cases of any interest were the following:- Benjamin SAMPSON and Richard LANYON, v. Charles GREEN and Thomas FORKINGTON. Mr. HILL appeared for the plaintiffs, and Mr. FORFAR for defendant Green. This was a claim for GBP5. 18s. for powder supplied to the Trenethick and Treworlis Mines, in Wendron, of which the defendants were shareholders. Mr. Forfar submitted that Mr. Green was not liable, as he had transferred his shares to a Mr. GARDNER before the goods were supplied. Mr. Hill objected to the admission of the transfer, on the ground that calls were due on the shares at the time of the transfer, that no such person as Gardner was to be found, and the attesting witness should have been called. His Honor gave judgement for the plaintiff.

RICHARD STEPHENS v. John REED. Mr. ROGERS appeared for plaintiff, Mr. Hill for defendant. This was an action of trover, to recover a Cow. The damages were laid at GBP16. It appeared that about April 1850, the plaintiff put the heifer in dispute to graze at the defendant's farm, and about Michaelmas 1850, the defendant's son sold the plaintiff's heifer by mistake. The defendant shortly after offered another heifer in lieu of it, or to pay the value in money. The plaintiff stated the heifer to be worth GBP12, and he claimed two year's rent for her, and profit at GBP2 per year, making GBP16. The plaintiff's heifer was sold for GBP5. 10s. but would not be worth about eight guineas; The defendant had paid GBP1. 14s. on account of the heifer. Mr. Hill contended that the plaintiff was only entitled to recover the value of the heifer at the time of the conversion at Michaelmas 1851. His Honor gave a verdict for the plaintiff for GBP7. 10s.

SEIZURES OF POWDER AT TRURO - We stated last week, that an explosion took place on the premises of Mr. NETHERTON, occasioned by his brother. This, it appears, led persons residing in the town to suggest to the Mayor, that more gunpowder was generally kept by shopkeepers, on their premises, than the law allows. Seven search warrants were therefore granted, and on Saturday last, were executed by Mr. NASH, inspector of police. In three cases it was found that the dealers had no more than the quantity allowed by law, 200 lbs. nett. But on searching the premises of Mr. FURNISS, baker and gun-smith, in Church-lane, the police seized 130 lbs. which they found there beyond the legal quantity; on the premises of Mr. Jeremiah REYNALDS, New-road, they found 54 lbs. beyond the same quantity; on the premises of Mrs. TREGELLES and SON, Boscawen street, they seized 200 lbs.; and on the premises of Mr. Samuel CATER, West Bridge, 75 lbs. beyond the allowed quantity were found and seized. In all these cases the powder seized was forfeited to the Crown, and the parties are liable to a penalty of 2s. per lb., without power of mitigation, for transgressing the act of parliament. On Monday last the charges were heard before the Mayor, Mr. PADDON, and Mr. NANKIVELL, when the several parties were convicted, and the penalties enforced. Mr. Furniss for the 130 lbs. seized, had to pay GBP13; Mr. Jeremiah Reynalds's penalty for 52 lbs. seized, was GBP5. (?)s.; Mrs. Tregelles and Son, for 200 lbs., paid GBP20; and Mr. Carter's penalty for 75 lbs. seized, was GBP7. 10s. The total quantity forfeited was 457 lbs., and the total amount of penalties inflicted was GBP45. 14s. Any person laying an information and making a seizure is entitled to one-half the penalty, the other moiety being paid to the Crown. The powder was taken possession of by the police, and the authorities have since taken the precaution to send it out of the town and lodge it in a magazine, until the Secretary of State is made acquainted with the seizures, and shall direct its removal. There is reason to believe that the dealers in many towns are in the practice, at this time of the year, of keeping more powder than the authorised quantity, to the great danger, in case of accident, of the lives and property of surrounding inhabitants.

CAUTION TO SEAMEN - On the 2nd instant, the "Christiana Carnall," of Fowey, John BROKENSHAR, master, arrived in that port from London, with a general cargo, for the Persian Gulf, the mast having been carried away. On the 7th instant, the crew deserted the ship, but were taken into custody, and three of them, Stephen DAVIS, John SMITH, and John MORRIS, continuing to refuse to go the voyage, were on Saturday last, ordered by the Rev. John KEMPE to be committed, the men declaring that they preferred going to gaol rather than again going in the ship, they were then committed for six weeks to Bodmin gaol with hard labour.

SUICIDE - On Saturday, Mr. BRENT, deputy-coroner for Middlesex, held an inquest at the Turk's Head Tavern, London, touching the death of Mr. William NATTLE aged 54, a gentleman residing at 13 Charlotte-street, who committed suicide in his bed-room, on Friday morning last, by cutting his throat with a razor. The deceased was a native of Liskeard, and had formerly been in affluent circumstances but had become connected with mining speculations which had turned out unfortunate, and which had involved him in considerable pecuniary difficulties for some time past. Mrs. STIMPSON, the landlady of the house, stated that the deceased had lodged with her about two months, and was at times very cheerful. For some time past there had been two men waiting about the house to serve him with writs, and that fact preyed heavily upon his mind. On Friday morning last, Mrs. Stimpson went up as usual to serve him with shaving water, and upon opening the door she obtained no answer to her inquiries, when she saw the room floor covered with blood. She instantly raised an alarm, when medical assistance was immediately procured, but upon examination of the body by the surgeon, life was found to be entirely gone. The jury, after hearing some further evidence, returned a verdict of suicide during a state of temporary insanity. ACCIDENT - On Tuesday last, at St Columb, a horse ran away with a vehicle and broke the shafts. The Rev. S. M. WALKER, vicar of St. Enoder, who is lame, consequently caught between the wall of a house and the shafts, by which, we regret to say, he sustained considerable injuries; he was severely cut abut the head and otherwise bruised, and had his arm broken. CORONER'S INQUESTS - The following inquests have been held before Mr. John CARLYON, county coroner:- On Monday, at that part of the parish of St. Budeaux which is in the county of Cornwall, on the body of James GRANT, aged 42 years. The deceased was employed at Mr. MARE's works at Saltash, and on Thursday last was engaged with others in rolling some iron plates in the rolling-mill, when an instrument called a "dog" by which he had hold of the iron plate as it was passing through the mill, caught between the rollers, and was forced back against him, hitting him on the groin; and knocking him down, inflicted an internal injury, from the effects of which he died the following morning. Verdict, "accidental death."

On Tuesday, at Lewannick, on the body of Joseph TINK, a farm labourer, aged 65 years, who was killed on Saturday by the falling of a mow of corn. Deceased was on the top of the mow, making it, and about seven o'clock in the evening, as the hands were about to leave work, the mow suddenly fell away. The deceased was thrown with his chest across another mow-stead close by, and the sheaves fell on him. When taken out about five minutes afterwards, he was quite dead. Verdict, "accidental death."

22 SEPTEMBER 1854, Friday

ST COLUMB CHOIR - In connection with a beautiful church now building at Notting Hill, London, by the Rev. Dr. WALKER, rector of St. Columb, as a memorial to his father and mother, a College of choristers of the above name has been founded, for the training of sixteen or twenty boys for the purpose of performing full cathedral service daily.

CONSUMPTION OF SMOKE - A patent has been taken out by Captain MANLEY, of Chacewater, for an arrangement for the consumption of smoke, which has been for the last month in operation at Messrs. W. CAHILL and Co's works, in Gray's Inn Lane, London. The invention is thus described by a correspondent of the Builder: From the flue of the furnace, and without any alteration either of the flue or the fire-place, a flue is carried out horizontally, the original flue being stopped up immediately above the junction. From the end of the horizontal portion the flue descends. The smoke channel thus assumes the form of a Greek H. At the top of the descending limb a jet of water is introduced through a rose, the effect of which is to produce a current which carries the smoke into a receptacle below, where it condenses and floats in globules on the surface of the water. The superfluous water passes off in a clear state, and the gases which accompany the smoke are drawn back by a pipe into the furnace. The operation of this simple contrivance has been found unexceptionable; it has economized the fuel to the amount of above 50 per cent., and the product is useful and marketable, viz., lamp black. I have reason to believe that this invention is not palatable to some of the great producers of smoke. It discloses too readily how the law may be enforced, without leaving them the retort of "impossibility," "oppression," &c., &c.

ST GERMANS UNION - At a meeting of the Guardians of the poor of the St. Germans Union, held at Torpoint on the 15th inst., Mr. and Mrs. COCK, who formerly rented the Barton of Rame, were unanimously elected master and matron of the workhouse of that Union in the place of Mr. Philip STEER and Mrs. STEER, who have resigned.

LAUNCESTON UNION - At a weekly meeting held on Saturday the 16th instant, the guardians appointed Mr. Joseph SHORT, of Launceston, and Mr. R. DAWE, of Lewannick, Inspectors of Nuisances for this Union, for about two months, at a salary of one guinea a week; also Mr. BROWN, of Callington, to be medical officer, for the Stokeclimsland district, in lieu of Mr. W. HENDER, of Callington, deceased.

MINING CASE - At the Penzance County Court, Mr. W. BALL (?), innkeeper, of that town, sued Mr. Robert BYRON, of London, one of Lloyds underwriters, for GBP1. 18s. 6d., the value of brandy, tobacco, &c., furnished to North Ding Dong mine, in the parish of Madron. It was, however, admitted that Mr. Ball had only allowed the suit to be conducted in his name under indemnification, and that the real issue to be tried was whether Mr. Byron was the owner of 100 shares in the mine, or whether his repudiation of a bargain for that number of shares had been sufficient. Mr. R. MILLETT appeared for the plaintiff, and Mr. James PASCOE for defendant. It appeared that Mr. James PERMEWAN, of Penzance, who is a purser and shareholder in mines in that neighbourhood, became the proprietor of a mining sett in the parish of Madron, which had been previously worked, and was conveyed to him with an account-house, changing-house, &c. The mine was called North Ding Dong, and it was proposed to re-try her by means of 1024 one-pound shares. Mr. Permewan went to London to see shareholders, and, knowing that Mr. Byron was interested in adjoining mines, waited on him. A prospectus and plan were shown him, and it was agreed on that 100 shares should be transferred to him from Mr. John RICHARDS, in whose name a majority of the shares were place in the market, and who has since left the county. This transfer was dated the 26th March, 1853, and was forwarded to London for Mr. Byron's ratification. He retained it until the 23rd of April, when the transfer was returned. In the mean time a correspondence ensued, the parties in Penzance being desirous of completing their list of proprietors. The solicitor for the plaintiff, however, alleged that this interval in the negotiations was desired by Mr. Byron in order that he might watch the market, and, if possible, turn this half-completed bargain to advantage. The same gentleman also urged that this was not one of the catch-penny mines which tend to drug the mining market, and that there was a time when Mr. Permewan was in a position to have sold the shares so transferred to Mr. Byron at a sum above that agreed on by the latter to be given. On the other hand the bargain, as understood by Mr. Permewan, was positively denied by Mr. Byron, who stated that the shares were sold to him for GBP?0 and he ratified the transfer with this full understanding. Directly a demand was made contrary to this, he repudiated the whole transaction; and that this was understood and acted on in Penzance according to the evidence of a young man named (..................?), in his employ, but until recently a clerk under Mr. Permewan. The evidence of defendant and Mr. Permewan being directly contradictory on some points, a decision had to be arrived at by collateral features of the case. Thus an inquiry was instituted into the various meetings held in connection with North Ding Dong, and as to how far Mr. Byron had been treated as a shareholder. During the cross examination of Mr. Permewan much laughter was caused by the circumstance that a mine meeting had been held, at which resolutions were proposed and carried, "nm. Con," that the accounts produced were correct and shewed a balance due to the purser, that a call of 10s. per share should be made, and that the mine's claim on Mr. Byron should be inferred - and a statement was issued signed by all the adventurers present - when in reality Mr. Permewan alone attended the meeting. The case lasted many hours. In the course of it his honour once or twice gave an opinion that the repudiation was sufficient, according to cases recently decided; and in the end gave defendant a verdict, with costs of himself and witness from London.

COMMITTAL FOR FELONY - On Monday afternoon last, Mr. NASH, police inspector at Truro, saw a woman in Boscawen Street, called Mary THOMAS, carrying two large bundles, and knowing her character, his suspicions were excited, and going across the street, he asked her what the bundles contained, and she said clothing which she had received from friends in Bristol. He took her to the station, and opening the bundles found them to contain a large quantity of frocks, stockings, stays, and articles of men and women's linen, and children's apparel. The articles had been recently washed, and were then damp and wet. Hearing that there had been robberies in the neighbourhood of Helston on the following day, he went to Wendron and ascertained that clothing had been stolen from miners, named GILLARD and MICHELL, and from Mrs. PEARCE, in Wendron; and that at Helston similar articles had been stolen from John GILL, painter, and Thomasine KNEEBONE. All these parties identified some of their missing property amongst that found in the bundles taken from the prisoner; and altogether eleven or twelve persons in the neighbourhood of Wendron and Helston identified clothing that had been stolen from them. A guano bag the prisoner was stated to have stolen from Mrs. GILLARD's house, but the great bulk of the articles were stolen from the hedges where the cottagers' wives had placed them to dry. Three of those who had suffered loss, Gillard, Michell, and Pearce, appeared before the Truro magistrates, and having given evidence the prisoner was committed for trial on three charges of felony.

THE EARL OF ST. GERMANS - The Lord Lieutenant of Ireland and the Countess St. Germans intend to sojourn a few weeks at Port Eliot, the family seat in Cornwall. Lady Louisa Ponsonby (daughter of the noble Earl and Countess) and infant son, by the last letters from Camford, are progressing most favourably. His Excellency the Earl and Countess of St. Germans, accompanied by the Hon. Captain Granville ELIOT, arrived in Dover Street, London, on Saturday, from the Viceregal Lodge, Dublin, en route to Port Eliot.

BOCONNOC - The Hon. G. M. FORTESCUE and lady Louisa Fortescue and family are returned to Boconnoc from a tour in the Midland Counties.

UNIVERSITY OF LONDON - At the recent examination of candidates, for the degree of M.B. at the University of London, we find the name of Mr. Thomas VEALE, of Roswastis, in the parish of St. Columb, who took a first class certificate.

COAST GUARD - Commander Robert Tench BEDFORD, R.N., has been removed from Penzance to the command of the Gravesend District, and Commander Henry EDEN, R.N., from Kilrush, to the command of the Penzance District.

PENDENNIS GARRISON - The Pensioners are out for service at Pendennis Castle, under the command of Captain M'Dougal.

PICTURE OF NELSON AT THE BATTLE OF ST. VINCENT - Mr. LIDSTONE, of Plymouth, has exhibited at Truro, during the next week, the great historical picture of Mr. Jones BARKER, representing Nelson receiving the swords of the vanquished Spanish Officers on the quarter deck of the "San Josef," off Cape St. Vincent, February 14, 1797. Nelson's exploits at that great battle were amongst the most glorious in his splendid career. The picture represents him receiving the surrender of the Spanish officers on the capture of the magnificent ship of the Spanish Admiral. The grouping and composition of the picture are such as only genius could effect, and the minute details are depicted in an admirable manner. The portrait of Nelson is compiled from the case of his face by FLAXMAN, and from the best existing portraits of the navel hero. The picture is a magnificent work of art, and has been greatly admired by all who have had the opportunity of seeing it.

STABBING - On Tuesday last, at Mawnan-smith, near Falmouth, a man named MICHELL stabbed another called NANCARVIS. The former challenged the latter to a fight at a public house, and on Nancarvis striking Michell with his fist, he stabbed him in three places. Michell is in custody, but the wounded man was not able to be brought up to be examined. The prisoner was therefore remanded.

EXHUMATION OF A MINER - The remains of John STEPHENS, a miner, better known as "Cousin Jack Cobbler," who fell down the shaft of Pednandrea mine at Redruth, twenty seven years ago, were buried on Sunday last at Redruth; and so great was the excitement produced by the discovery of his remains after so long a period, that his funeral was followed by about four thousand persons. An account is given below of the circumstances under which his life was lost.

FATAL ACCIDENT - Thomas Lord MULLIS, about two and half years old, son of John Mullis, of Doublebois Farm, near Liskeard, died last week from a scald occasioned by falling into a hot pan of milk.

CORONER'S INQUESTS - The following inquests have been held before Mr. John CARLYON, county coroner:- On the 16th instant, at Redruth, on the body of John STEPHENS, aged 25 years. According to the evidence of William THOMAS, miner, it appeared that as long ago as 9th August, 1828, the deceased and his brother were employed in stripping the shaft, and drawing up the materials in Pednandrea Mine, near Redruth, which had ceased working about twelve months previously. About two o'clock in the afternoon, witness assisted deceased in removing above the mouth of the shaft, a quarter piece, which was a stay for poppet heads. As soon as witness had cut away one end of it with a "dag", the deceased and witness fell into the shaft together. Witness, after falling about twelve feet, contrived to stop his further descent by clinging with hands and feet to the sides of one of the angles of the shaft, here he held on till a rope was sent down, which he caught hold of and was drawn up. The deceased fell further down, with a large quantity of rubbish; all the collar of the shaft having fallen in. Though every exertion was made, for upwards of two months, to recover the body, it could not be found and the shaft was then closed over. In this state it remained, except during a short interval about fourteen years ago, until April last, when a company was formed to resume the workings of the mine, and on Friday last, in clearing up the 32nd fathoms level under the adit the body of the deceased was found, lying on the left side, at the bottom of the level. It had on a blue coat, with metal buttons, a coarse woollen shirt, and stockings and shoes. The body was identified by the witness THOMAS, by means of the coat and buttons, and the jury returned a verdict of "accidental death." Deceased was well known in the neighbourhood by the nickname of "Cousin Jack Cobbler." It appears that Thomas, after his remarkable preservation, on being hauled to surface, was so affected, that his conduct was for a while like that of a madman; he ran wildly away, apparently not knowing whither; and at length he was found in a pig's house, when proper means were had recourse to, to recover him. The account given by him of his preservation, would appear almost incredible; but it was corroborated at the inquest by a respectable witness, Mr. Anthony MICHELL, of Redruth, who was present at the time, saw him raised, and subsequently went in search of him after he had run away in the manner described.

COURT OF BANKRUPTCY, LONDON - Wednesday September 13, before Mr. Commissioner FONBLENQUE - Re: BURROWS, Redruth, &c. - This was the first meeting for the proof of debts and choice of assignees under the bankruptcy of Francis BURROWS, of Redruth, Cornwall, draper and tailor. Mr. HEATHER represented the petitioning creditors, Messrs BOYD and Co, wholesale warehousemen, of Friday Street, Cheapside, who presented the petition in bankruptcy on the 21st August last, for a debt of GBP177. 18s. 6d. The act of bankruptcy was a declaration of insolvency filed on the 19th of August last. The total amount of the bankrupt's debts exceed GBP2,000, but the amount of assets cannot be ascertained. The only proof of debts admitted on this occasion was on behalf of the petitioning creditors, and Mr. Joseph BARNICOT, of the firm of Boyd and Co., was appointed trade assignee. The bankrupt surrendered, and signed the declaration to speak the truth, and obtained protection from arrest until the 11th of October next, which is fixed for the examination of the bankrupt and the further admission of proof of debt. The proceedings then terminated.

THOMAS NICOLLS VOSPER - Saturday, September 16, before Mr. Commissioner HOLROYD. In re: Thomas Nicolls Vosper - The bankrupt was a draper at Launceston, Cornwall. This was a certificate meeting. The debts are about GBP1,200; assets about GBP800. Mr. ASHURST, for the assignee, did not oppose the bankrupt having his immediate certificate, but objected to one being granted of the highest class, on the grounds of a preferential payment having been made, and the bankrupt being a party to an alteration in his pass-book at his banker's. Mr. Lawrence supported. His Honour said, it appeared to him that the bankrupt was fortunate that the assignee was willing he should have his certificate, because what had taken place as regarded the bank had been very irregular, and to the transaction the bankrupt had been an assenting party. The books appeared to have been well kept, and the bankrupt had done all he could to assist in realizing the estate. Under these circumstances, and considering the amount of assets, the Court would grant a certificate of the second class, and he hoped for the further the bankrupt would keep clear, and not let one creditor take advantage over the others. Second class certificate accordingly.

29 SEPTEMBER 1854, Friday

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