EXTRACTION

See Jones, Male Infant

A Chinaman, named Ah Chong, met with his death on Wednesday last, whilst working a claim on Quarry Hill. It appears he was opening a new drive, when the timber and earth gave way, forcing him to the ground upon his stomach, and completely covering him. He never spoke afterwards, and his body was not extricated by his mates for four hours. An inquest was held yesterday, when a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, and the Coroner censured one of the witnesses named Wallace for neither rendering nor procuring assistance when aware of the accident.

Mining Accident. - An inquest was held yesterday by the District Coroner, at Praetz’s German Club house, on the body of Ah Fie, aged 25 years. Deceased met with an accident at the Bullarook Diggings by the falling in of a drive. Contrary to their usual practice, his mates (Chinamen) dug him out in about a quarter of an hour. Dr Roche attended the sufferer, who was paralysed in his lower extremities, and after his removal to Creswick the injuries proved to be too serious for medical aid to overcome, and he died early on Sunday morning. Verdict - Accidental death, with a rider calling upon the Government to establish some provision for the inspection of mines and the prevention of accidents to miners.

Inquest. - The District Coroner yesterday held an inquest into the death of Ah Hang, a Chinese butcher, formerly residing on the Black Lead. From the evidence it appeared that for some time prior to his decease he was not under proper medical treatment, and his disease (bronchitis) in consequence gained head and terminated fatally. Dr Beatty made the post mortem and deposed to the above facts. Verdict accordingly. The deceased was about 35 years of age, and left a wife and two children in China.

See Ah Yeh

On Saturday, the 9^th of November, a fatal accident occurred to a Chinaman, Ah Sang. It appeared that deceased was working ground upon which an old tree had been felled. The ground gave way, and the tree was found on the back of deceased. Mr W B Lees, the district coroner, held an enquiry on the body on Sunday, and after the jury having heard evidence, the following verdict was returned:- "That the deceased was accidentally killed by the falling of a tree, while he was in the act of undermining, at Mopoke Gully, on the 9^th instant, causing severe internal injuries and death."

See Ox Sue

An Inquest was held this day at Slaty Creek Hotel, by W B Lees, Esq, the coroner of the district, on the body of Ah Tigh, a Chinaman, 35 years of age, who died on the 19^th. Dr Roche made a post mortem examination, and gave the cause of death to be peritonitis. The jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Another inquest was held on Wednesday last, at Spring Hill Hotel, on the body of Ah Tim, aged 33 years. From the evidence we learn that deceased was accidentally smothered in a claim in Spring Gully, and from the loose nature of the ground several hours elapsed before the body was taken out; in fact, it was necessary to sink a fresh shaft and slab it down. Great credit is due to John Relfe, Thomas Kelloway, and others, who, with about twenty Chinamen, wrought manfully at the shaft for six hours. Deceased had only been a few weeks on Creswick, and was a new chum Chinaman. Verdict - Accidental death; with a rider blaming deceased and his mate for their manner of working.

the other inquiry was held yesterday at Henry Praetz’s restaurant, on the body of Ah Yeh, a Chinaman, whose spine was fractured by a fall of earth in a drive. Ah Sam, one of his mates, narrowly escaped. Although deceased was got out within ten minutes after the accident, and Dr. Huston attended shortly after, he died in a few minutes after the doctor’s arrival. Verdict - "Accidental Death".

Since our last, two inquests have been held by W B Lees, Esq., District Coroner, one on a Chinaman, named Ah Yuk, who was drowned under singular circumstances, whilst sinking a shaft on the White Flat; the other on William Thomas ……At each inquest a verdict of "Accidental Death" was recorded.

See Parker, Matilda

See Taylor, Arthur

See Rogers, Mary Anne

See Cummins, Ellen Susanna

See Manning, Wm

See Hooper, George

See Barclay, James

Lamentable suicide at the bald Hills

An inquest was held on Monday, the 18^th, at the Bald Hills, by Mr W B Lees, the district coroner, on the body of James Barclay, landlord of the Bald Hills hotel, who committed suicide the same morning.

The following jurymen were sworn:- Messrs John Bresnan, William Lockhart, John Stewart, Edward Dooly, John Hanly, Michael Nolan, John Shine, Kennedy O’Brien, M Rourke, Robert Batty, P McLoughlin, and James Duggan.

The following witnesses were examined:-

James Madden sworn - Am a miner, residing on the Bald Hills. The deceased is my brother-in-law. Lived in the same house with him. The deceased came to bedroom about eight o’clock this morning, and wanted the razor and strop, for shaving. He then left me. About 20 minutes after I heard a woman screaming in the hall. I got up, and went into several rooms, and opened the one opposite my apartment, where I found deceased suspended from a brace on the roof, by his handkerchief and comforter. The feet of deceased were about three feet from the floor. With the assistance of Patrick Molloy, got deceased down, and found he was dead. I sent for Dr Foster, who examined him, and said he was quite dead. I believe Mrs Barclay first saw deceased. I thought deceased looked rather wild this morning when he spoke to me. I cannot say if he was the worse for liquor, as I had only a few words with him. I was speaking to deceased for an hour and a half yesterday evening; I then thought he was not in his right mind. Deceased has been in the habit of drinking more that usual lately. For the last two weeks he was very foolish in his manner and his business generally. He spoke to me last night of a bill he had to meet this day of £ 100. It seemed to trouble him very much, and he said he was afraid he could not meet it. It was my bill. I said I would not press him, but that I would make it all right. The bill was for cash lent. If there had been any struggling in the room where deceased was found I must have heard it.

Anne Barclay, sworn - Deceased is my husband. He slept in my room last night as usual. He left me this morning about eight o’clock to go to the bar. I got some hot water for him to shave with. I thought he had gone to our own room. In about ten minutes I went to our room for deceased, as I wanted him to come to breakfast. He was not in his own room. I then looked into several bedrooms, and found deceased suspended from the ceiling. I screamed out and left the room. My brother then got out of his bed and came into the room. I was kept out of the room. Dr Foster was sent for. Deceased went to bed last night before twelve o’clock. He was sober, but had had a little drink. I have not noticed anything particular about deceased. I cannot say that he was lately in the habit of taking more drink than he usually did. He could take a great deal of drink without it being noticed on hie. I never heard deceased threaten to hang himself. I have been married to deceased seven years. I have two male children alive and four dead. He was bout 30 years of age, a native of Dublin, Ireland. He has kept the Bald Hills Hotel for nearly two years, and kept a store before he came to the Bald Hills. If deceased had made any noise, or had struggled much, the men in the bar must have heard him. I know nothing about my brother’s bill.

Patrick Molloy, who assisted in taking down the deceased, corroborated part of the previous evidence, and added that deceased asked him yesterday whether he had heard any one say that he was hard up for money, when witness replied in the negative.

Thomas Foster, a legally-qualified medical practitioner, sworn - Saw deceased alive this morning about fifteen minutes to nine. About twenty minutes after I was called and saw the deceased lying on a bed with his clothes on. I found the pupils very much dilated, a ring of congested blood round the upper part of the windpipe. Found no dislocation of the cervical vertebra. Believe deceased died from suffocation caused by hanging. Know deceased has been drinking to excess for some time back. He frequently told me he was ill, but took no medicine. Have attended deceased on several occasions for delirium tremens. Deceased looked very pale and nervous when I saw him this morning. I believe deceased was dead about ten minutes before I was called in this morning.

The jury returned the following verdict: - "Deceased was found, on the morning of the 18^th August, suspended by a handkerchief to the roof of his room. The jury are of the opinion that deceased committed the act himself whilst laboring under a temporary fit of insanity."

See Dean, Elizabeth

See Jones, Mary

See Jones, Mary

See Loo Ching, Fung Laned

See Loo Ching, Fung Laned

See Loo Ching, Fung Laned

See Loo Ching, Fung Laned

See Barclay, James

See Ellete, Mary

See Brown, Isabella

See Ah Hang

See Bergin, Henry

See Brown, Isabella

See Gill, Joseph

See Grenfell, Female infant

See King Sap

See Loo Ching, Fung Laned

See Ogilvie, George

See Orr, Christina

See Praetz, Charles Henry

See Telford, William

Bald Hills. - An inquest was held on Sunday last, at Barclay’s Bald Hills Hotel, by Mr W B Lees, district coroner, on the body of Henry Bergin, storekeeper, 58 years of age, who was found dead in his bed on Saturday at noon. From the evidence of john Bresnan, who was with deceased until late on Friday night, it appeared that he had complained of shortness of breath. On Saturday morning, Bresnan observed the place shut, and as it remained unopened at midday he took a ladder, and, on looking through the window, saw Bergin lying motionless on the bed. He at once gave information to some neighbors, when Mr Barclay and several others came to the conclusion that it would be best to break open the door. They then entered the place; Bergin was dead. Dr Beatty made the post mortem examination, and found that deceased died of degeneration of the heart and effusion in to the pericardium. The jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence. The remains of Mr Bergin were committed to the grave yesterday at noon, followed by a large number of people. Several members of mining companies had taken a half-day’s holiday to join the funeral procession. Mr Bergin was well known for several years as a storekeeper on Spring Hill and generally respected.

See Martin, Richard

The first inquiry was as to the cause of death of Mr Besemeres infant daughter, aged two days, which was found dead in bed the night before, by the side of its mother, who was taking a short sleep. The child was put to bed an hour before bye its grandmother. Dr Roche conducted the post mortem, and deposed that death arose from pneumonia. Verdict - natural death.

See Carter, Mr

See Soderberg, Carl

See Schimmel, John

See Way, George

See Reynolds, Robert

See Taylor, Arthur

See Barclay, James

See Broome, Wm Humphrey

An Inquest was held on the 21^st inst. at Creswick, by Mr W B Lees, the district coroner, on the body of Wm Humphrey Broome, a boy who died at Bullarook on the 19^th inst.

Dr Roche sworn - Am a legally qualified medical practitioner. I have this day made a post mortem examination of the body of deceased. I found no external marks of violence, no marks of leeches or blisters. On opening the body I found the abdominal viscera healthy. The right lung was slightly congested. On opening the head I found that the membranes of the head had suffered from recent inflammation. There was no effusion or serum in any part of the brain. I believe the cause of death to have been inflammation of the membranes of the brain. I am certain deceased could not have had hydrocephalus a week previous to his death. I do not think that the warm baths could have hurt the deceased. I should treat acute hydrocephalus by taking blood from the head by leaches, cold applications to the head, and putting the patient rapidly under the influence of mercury. Blisters might have been applied to the nape of the neck, or even on the head, strong purgatives where effusion of serum is supposed to have taken place. I cannot say Mr Walpole has done any wilful injury to decease, but consider the child died from want of proper or active treatment.

The jury returned the following verdict:- "The deceased, William Henry Broome. died at Bullarook, on the 19^th January, from inflammation of the brain. The jury are of the opinion that Mr Walpole treated the deceased to the best of his ability, but record their disapproval of any person not legally qualified being allowed to practice."

See Orr, Christina

See White, Mary

An inquest was held on Tuesday last at Cabbagetree Flat, by Mr W B Lees, the district coroner, on the body of Isabella Brown alias McFarlane, who died on the 30^th December. Henry King, a miner, with whom the deceased had been living fro two years, her husband hiving left her, gave evidence that she brought three children when she came to him, but had none since. Deceased was ill for five of six weeks, Her husband, his former mate, was living at Inglewood; she received a letter from him about 4 weeks ago. Deceased was drinking hard. He had no money lately. Julia Wellington deposed that she had been stopping for a short time with deceased, who seemed to be very poor. There was no bed clothing, and the children had nothing to cover them. Deceased sent for the Rev Mr Pollard, who came accordingly. Got 5s. for deceased. John Bayly, a non-registered surgeon, attended her for dropsy of the abdomen, he tapped her, she was much better a fortnight afterwards. Saw her last Wednesday; thought the case hopeless and sent for doctor from Creswick. Dr Beatty made the post mortem examination. Was called when deceased was just dying. There were no marks of violence. Found large bed sores about the back, the brain and right lung were congested. The left lung was congested and encroached upon by the heart. On proceeding to examine the heart found the pericardium adhering to the diaphragm below, and to the right lung and to the sternum in front. The heart was enlarged and softened. Found the liver very much enlarged, about three times its usual size. The stomach was in a state of chronic inflammation. A Want of nourishment and clothing was visible. The Jury returned the following verdict "Deceased died of cardiac dropsy accelerated by intemperate habits."

See Marh?, James

See Cockrill, Mrs Robert

See Orr, Christina

See Stewart, May

See Cummins, Ellen Susanna

See Cummins, Ellen Susanna

See Delaney, Margaret

Mr G.G. Morton, coroner of the Learmonth District, on Tuesday last, held an inquest on the body of Duncan Campbell, whose skull was fractured in falling down from a dray whilst returning from Miners-rest.

See Stevenson, Eliza

See Ryan, Patrick

The District Coroner, Mr W B Lees, held an inquisition on Wednesday last on the body of Mr Carter, who was thrown from his horse on his return from Smeaton to Creswick, on Monday. The Jury having been empanelled, the following depositions were taken:-

William Davies deposed - He left Creswick on Monday in company with the deceased, who was detained by business at Smeaton until next afternoon. Left for Creswick about 2 p.m., passing Mr B Hepburn’s at a sharp canter. My horse shied and threw me into the head of a tree that was lying in the road. Called to deceased to catch my horse. Deceased rode after the horse. Next saw him about three quarters of an hour after lying at Mr Beveridge’s store; he was then insensible. Were both excited by Liquor, having had nothing to eat; but were perfectly capable of taking care of ourselves. Believes the horse deceased rode was a dangerous horse. Had known deceased about three years, and was on intimate terms with him. Deceased was about thirty-five years of age.

William Edward Quick, of Spring Hill, deposed - On yesterday afternoon, about three o’clock, he was working in a paddock in the Spring Hill road. Saw Deceased riding past at the rate of eight miles an hour. Was riding after a horse with a saddle and bridle on, trying to head it, and to catch the bridle by putting out his hands. There were some horses ahead just at that time I turned to look after them. When I looked again in the direction of deceased I saw both horses without riders. Went with his mate to look for Mr Carter, whom we found lying flat on his back. Called his father and brothers, and left them in charge of the body and went after the horses, one of which had gone towards Creswick and the other towards Bullarook; did not find them. Came back again towards deceased. A man was then passing on horseback. Told him to inform the police. Mr Patrick, the baker, came up with his cart and brought deceased to where he now lied. Deceased breathed when I first saw him. But did not speak; he was bleeding at the mouth and left ear. There was likewise some blood at the back of the head.

George Roche - Is a legally qualified medical practitioner. Between three and four o’clock yesterday afternoon, was summoned to attend deceased, whom I found suffering from all the symptoms of fracture of base of the skull. He had compression of the brain. Continued to attend him until a quarter past four this morning, when he died. Believes the cause of death was compression of the brain.

Verdict accordingly.

See Cummins, Ellen Susanna

An inquest was held, on Saturday last, at Loo Chin’s residence, on the body of Chew Ling, of Clark’s Flat, who died the previous day. Dr Roche made the post mortem, and gave it as his opinion the at death arose from tubercular disease of the lungs. Verdict - "Natural death"

See Holland, Jane

See Holland, Jane

See Mooney, Infant

Shocking Accident :- An inquest was held at the Kent Hotel, Clunes, on Wednesday, before W B Lees, Esq., on the body of William Coad, aged 34 years. Thomas Mark deposed that on Tuesday last, in company with four other person, he was returning from witnessing a prize fight. Deceased rode past them, and when a few yards ahead, was by a low, projecting tree, knocked off his horse. He never spoke afterwards. The accident happened near Antrim Arms, whither the body was taken. Dr Robinson attended, and ascribed his death to concussion of the bran. Verdict - Accidental Death.

See Lowe, Enoch

See Murphy, John

See Stewart, May

Charles William

See Parker, Matilda

See Haylock, John

On Monday last, an enquiry into the death of Mrs Robert Cockrill, aged 38 years, was held at Mr Whitton’s store. The Deceased was confined on the morning previous, a nurse (Mrs Buckley) being in attendance. The child born about 2 a.m., but, in compliance with the wish of deceased, medical aid was not called in until six o’clock, and in two hours after the deceased was dead. Dr Huston made a post mortem examination and found that death arose from a haemorrhage, which might have been prevented by his earlier attendance. Verdict in accordance with the evidence. The Coroner cautioned the nurse to be more careful in future. Deceased has left a young family of ten, including the infant, which is doing well.

See Way, George

Discovery of the body of the missing man, John Collins

Coroner’s Inquest

Yesterday morning, between ten and eleven o’clock, some persons crossing the bridge leading to the Port Phillip works discovered the body of the above unfortunate man, who, it will be recollected, had been missing since the 22^nd of July, and as it was surmised at the time, and has since proved correct, fell over the above bridge into the creek, which was at that time swollen with the heavy winter rains, and met with a watery grave. As was given out in evidence at the inquest, it appears that deceased was the worse for liquor, the night was dark and stormy, and, losing his footing, the swollen waters soon engulfed their prey. Ineffectual efforts, it will be remembered, were made soon after the man was missed, by dragging the creek to recover the body, but only deceased’s hat was found. A large amount of sand is carried down the creek when a flood prevails, and it would seem that the body was arrested in its course down the stream by a couple of posts, and, when found, the unfortunate man was half buried in the sludge, and had consequently to be dug out. As may be supposed by the immersion, deceased was in an advanced stage of decomposition, the head especially being almost decayed. The inquest was held at the Criterion Hotel this morning, before Mr W B Lees, and deceased’s brother was examined at some length. Deceased was twenty-four years of age, a native of Cornwall, and had been five years in the colony. Nothing material was, however, adduced from the inquiry. Four £ 1, notes, 2s in silver, a watch, and pipe were found on his person. The evidence of Richard Kent, who was in the deceased’s company at the Criterion Hotel on the night in question, was taken, who, it seems, advised the deceased not to go over the bridge to the Port Phillip Hotel. Deceased however would go, and thus met his death. The jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally drowned." The deceased’s remains were interred in the Cemetery this afternoon, followed by a numerous procession of mourners, amongst whom were many Oddfellows, of which society deceased was a member.

See Wilton, Sarah

See Dean, Elizabeth

See Mamford, Infant girl

See Ryan, Patrick

See Way, George

A Boy Drowned.- On Sunday last, at Meyer’s White Swan Hotel, Mr W B Lees, the District Coroner, held an inquest on the body of Frederick Cribbins, a boy four years nine months old, who was drowned the day previous. From the evidence it appeared that the deceased on the day in question, about one o’clock, was playing with another boy, Pemberton, seven ;years of age, when he fell into the creek. The older boy ran away, and instead of giving the alarm, on being asked about his companion even told a lie, and said he had seen him going up the hill. A second inquiry being made, he confessed that the little one had fallen into the water. Diligent search was at once made, and at about three o’clock Mr Lloyd found the dead body. This fatal accident teaches parents two lessons - first, not to allow their children to play near the water; and, secondly, to inculcate into their minds principles of truth, as in the above case a life might easily have been saved.

See Dean, Elizabeth

Inquest on Mrs Cummins.

First Day - Wednesday August 29^th

W B Lees, Esq, the Coroner of the district, presided.

The following Jurymen were sworn, viz.; J Jebb, W Cheney, J Webster, C Nees, J Morgan, W Lyons, Ae McLeod, G Watson, P Walker, J Edwards (foreman), M McCormick and T W Anthony.

Sergeant Drummond conducted the examination.

Hugh Cummins, senior constable stationed at Creswick, sworn - Deceased was my wife. On coming home on the 16^th August, at half past one o’clock. I found her very ill. Called immediately Dr Daniel, who came and prescribed. He stopped a few minutes. Paid three visits between 1.30 and 10 or 11 o’clock. Asked him about the complaint. He said it was touch of the gravel. He ordered a mustard plaster to the small of her back, and some pills to take, a linseed meal poultice to her stomach, and medicines which were administered. She likewise had a bottle of medicine. The last time Dr Daniel visited, he ordered a boiling-hot water cloth to be applied to the stomach. I carried these instructions out myself. Deceased told Dr Daniel that she was six months in the family way. After the doctor had left, deceased got worse, and sent for Mrs Walker, a neighbour. On Coming back, deceased told me that she was about being confined. I then brought Mrs Walker, and went for Dr Bunce. He told me that deceased would be confined in a few minutes. She was delivered by Dr Bunce of twins about an hour after his visit. Dr Bunce remained a short time. I went for medicines, first at his own place and then at Lees’, the chemist. Deceased was in good health and spirits after her confinement. Dr Bunce came several times during thirty hours after her confinement to see her. Deceased then got worse. Dr Bunce attended deceased from the 16^th to the morning of the 24^th of August. He went away without my authority. I noticed deceased became bad, and , not believing that Dr Bunce treated her properly, I called Dr Huston. Dr Huston came in, and said he could not (professionally) meet Dr Bunce. Dr Bunce then jumped up, called me, and exclaimed, "I will stop for wife’s sake, but do not have that drunken man." Dr Huston would not come in whilst Dr Bunce was present. Dr Bunce then left. I understood that salivation took place on two occasions. Dr Bunce told me it was necessary to salivate her. Dr Huston went into the sick chamber, and as soon as he laid hold of my wife’s hand, said, "She is murdered." Dr Huston attended her two or three times, until one o’clock this morning (August 29^th). On the second day, the aid of Dr Nicholson, of Ballarat, was called in. On Saturday, I gave Dr Huston authority to telegraph for him. Dr Nicholson came on Sunday, and in company with Dr Huston, saw deceased. Dr Nicholson, after having seen deceased, said she was very bad - she had not been treated properly. He (the doctor) made a remark that the blister had not been put on the right place.

To a juryman - The blister as applied to the abdomen.

My wife was thirty years of age. Dr Nicholson, in consultation with Dr Huston, saw her three times. We were married seven months. It was my wife’s first confinement. I requested an inquest to be held, believing she met with an untimely death. Dr Huston advised me to have an inquest held.

To a juror - My wife was always healthy. About one hour elapsed between Dr Daniel leaving my place and the other doctor coming in.

Mr Burton - Did not Dr Bunce propose to call a second medical man?

Witness - I cannot say exactly - he might have made the remark. He mentioned that he would, for my wife’s sake, forego any ill feeling against Dr Huston, but wished to call in either Dr Roche, Dr Currie, or Dr Daniel.

In reply to a question, witness said he did not know who put on the blister; but it was ordered by Dr Bunce.

The jury then proceeded to view the body, and on their return Mrs Walker was called; but, as she had not administered any medicines, her testimony was dispensed with.

Mrs Jane Edwards sworn - I was called last Thursday week, at 11 o’clock a.m., to attend as a nurse. When I came in first, one child was half-born. On my arrival, I saw Dr Bunce, who asked me to go on the bed and press the bowels of the deceased. The first child was born dead about an hour after my arrival; the second child was born about an hour afterwards, at half-past one, and lived five and a half hours. It seemed to have come wrong - the doctor had to turn it. I was constantly with the deceased until her death. She felt comfortable the first day. The following day she complained of pains in her bowels. Dr Bunce ordered her a dose of castor-oil, but deceased could not take it. She got a powder instead. Next day the pains continued. Turpentine and hot flannels were ordered. I applied them, and the patient felt relieved. The day following she complained again, and the application was repeated. After the fourth day she was relieved. Dr Bunce told me he thought deceased had inflammation, and ordered thirty leeches - fifteen on each side. They were put on. The following morning the doctor ordered a fly-blister across the abdomen, which I put on as the doctor told me. The blister was left on about six hours. The doctor came and took it off himself. After it was taken off the patient felt worse. Linseed meal poultices were next applied to at the place where the blister was on, changed every four hours, and kept two days. During that time the patient was getting sundry medicines. Ointment was rubbed down her thighs. Patient refused to take the powders, and ointment was used instead. Deceased took portions of the medicines which Mr Cummins brought. I was present when Dr Huston was called in. Dr Bunce was waiting for Dr Huston. The latter said he would not meet Dr Bunce. Dr Bunce then left. Dr Huston came in and removed poultices. I heard Dr Huston say that the patient had been salivated, and that she was half-murdered; that she was kept low in order to get money. Deceased became better for a day or two. Dr Huston called in Dr Nicholson the second day. Both visited the patient at the same time. Dr Nicholson said the patient was salivating, and they might as well put the blister on the back of his hand as where it was. I was present at Dr Nicholson’s second visit. I put a mustard plaster on each leg, as ordered by him. The patient being very weak, Dr Huston ordered to give eggs and brandy every two hours.

Frederick Daniel, when called, declined to make a statement on oath. The Coroner then took his affirmation, as administered by Mr Burton. - I recollect Wednesday, the 15^th of August. At 8 o’clock a.m., I was called to attend the deceased, whose husband believed her complaint to be the gravel. Saw patient who was in bed, and said not urinate. My attention was called to her legs, which were swollen. She said she had been suffering for some time. I replied, she appeared to have the dropsy. I examined the swelling and found it to be dropsical. She could not urinate on several occasions; had not done so freely for several days. The patient said she was six months in the family way, and did not expect to be confined for three months. From examination made, I found the lower part of the abdomen very tender; there were no symptoms of labor or uterine contraction. The tongue was hot and dry. Ordered fomentation’s till the husband of the deceased could get linseed meal, and soothing medicines, quiet, and rest, and wished them to call me again in case she got worse. Heard nothing more about patient. At about eight o’clock went down to see her. She said she had been relieved between my first and second visit. I might have been sent for the second time. I examined the region of the bladder, and found that there was still a considerable quantity of water. I told her that I was obliged to go into the country. Saw her again between nine and ten o’clock the same morning. She said she was quite easy, and had passed a large quantity of water. I swear that she was suffering from dropsy. I gave her soothing medicine, composed of hyoscyamus, morphia, and gum, I ordered hot cloth, as hot as she could bear it. I told her she would be liable to those pains for the next three months to come. There was no appearance of labor.

Dr Richard Bunce sworn :- I am a legally qualified surgeon. On the 16^th of August, about eleven o’clock in the morning, I was requested by Mr Cummins to see his wife, whom he believed to be labor. When I arrived at the house, I examined the patient, and found that she was in labor. One of the lower limbs of the child was projected into the vault as far as the knee. I then told Mr Cummins that his wife would be shortly delivered. In about half-an-hour, a still born child appeared. In about another half hour I delivered patient of a second child; it lived about six hours. The child was a cross birth. It was delivered in the usual manner by turning. After waiting one hour, as I usually do, to see that patient was safe from hemorrhage, I left her, at one o’clock, and saw her, I think, twice in the evening. She was doing well forty-eight hours after her delivery. I have no knowledge what medicines were given to her before. On the third day, I had reason to suspect that she had inflammation of the womb and parts adjacent, and I prescribed calomel and opium, in powders, two grains - four or five in twenty-four hours. I might have told the nurse to give them in every three hours. Cannot remember without referring to my book. [Book produced, and examined by the Coroner.] I altered the powders afterwards. I used these medicines as a precaution. Feeling satisfied that there was inflammation in the parts mentioned before, I ordered fifteen leeches on each side of the belly, and linseed meal poultices to be applied every four hours. I was not told that deceased was getting on well. Deceased was not impatient, and said she felt comfortable previous to the leeches being applied.

Sergeant Drummond - Did not the nurse tell you the patient was better?

Witness - Cannot remember. I would’n’t go by what nurses say. I do not remember when I ordered leeches, having heard from the nurse that the patient was better. After the leeches were taken down patient had a much easier pulse. It fell from 120 to 100. I applied the leeches in the afternoon, between two and three o’clock. One night I considered patient was worse, and told Mr Cummins that, if she was not better before the following morning, it would be agreeable to me to have another medical man called in. I asked the husband who he would like to see with me, should such a contingency arise? Mr Cummins mentioned Dr Huston’s name, to which I remarked that I would rather not meet Dr Huston.

Sergeant Drummond - State your reasons.

Witness - I did not intend to mention my reasons publicly, but as you press me I will name them. Dr Huston is a man totally devoid of truth and an habitual drunkard. I offered to meet any other of the Creswick doctors, viz., Dr Daniel, Dr Roche, or Dr Currie. I continued attending patient. Next morning and evening she was better. On Thursday afternoon I applied a blister to the lower part of the bowels, and ordered mercurial ointment to be applied externally, because the patient objected to take the powders, and because there was some looseness of the bowels. Patient was not in a state of salivation at that time. Patient complained about Wednesday of her mouth being a little sore. I examined her carefully several times. Asked her to breathe in my face; but I never could perceive that she was under the influence of mercury. Friday evening went to see patient. Found her very weak. The pulse was about 100, or rather under. Examined her, and saw Mr Cummins afterwards, who said that his wife was very weak; he would go and fetch another doctor. On that morning I did not wish for another doctor. I did not think patient was in danger that morning, but I thought she was seriously ill. I waived my own feelings and was prepared to meet Dr Huston. I waited fifty minutes for the arrival of Dr Huston. When he came he said he would not meet me. I advised Mr Cummins not to trust the life of his wife into the hands of Dr Huston. I did not come back. Cummins appeared to have confidence in Dr Huston, and said if he (Dr Huston) was not drunk he would bring him. I consider of deceased to have been correct.

To a juryman - Two afterbirths came together. Were removed and shown to the nurse.

Examination continued - Altered the first powders because she had a little looseness in the bowels. The ingredients of the second powder were composed of three grains of grey powder and half-a-grain of opium; one given every four hours. I ordered that the patient should not be disturbed when at sleep. She might have taken eight in forty-eight hours. Only attended the patient for seven days. For a few days she did not take powders. The night before I discontinued to attend her, I ordered a suppository, but on the following morning found that it had not been used, contrary to Mr Cummins’s wishes.

By a juryman - What occasion was there for a blister when the patient was going on well?

Witness - It is very common, to remove the remains of the inflammation.

Dr George Nicholson, of Ballarat, sworn - I am a legally-qualified surgeon and accoucheur. Dr Huston called my by telegram on Saturday, for Sunday, to see deceased. I met Dr Huston in Bullarook Forest, and at first refused to come; but ultimately met him on Sunday, at noon, and visited the deceased. We found that she had been under the treatment of another medical man. We heard a statement that diarrhoea, which I was called to check, had been brought on by a profuse administration of mercury. During my stay in the house the bowels were acted on, which confirmed partly the truth of the statement. The character of the evacuation convinced me. I noticed shreds of mucous membrane, such as I have seen before from the administration of mercury. I examined the parts very carefully. There was no very well-marked tenderness. Except in the right iliac region. The patient complained of excessive debility and great prostration, but pronounced herself much better. I looked, but could not well see marks of salivation.

Sergeant Drummond - Had the deceased received proper treatment, would her life not have been saved?

Witness - th8is is a bold question. I have no fault to find with the treatment. I ordered soothing ointment for the bowels, embrocations on the abdomen in general, as well as fomentation. When I arrived the patient was suffering from excessive debility and from the effects of diarrhoea. There was no acute inflammation. Yesterday (August 28thth) she was in a state of collapse.

To a juryman - Some constitutions cannot hold mercury.

Examination continued - I suggested a blister over the bowels. We ordered wine and water given internally. Saw her yesterday casually. Saw her only twice. Noticed symptoms of subacute inflammation and much tenderness in the region of the uterus. Ordered mixtures, the principal ingredients of which were spirit of turpentine, laudanum, and gum water. We intimated to Mr Cummins the extreme danger in which his wife was.

The inquest was then adjourned until the following day.

The post mortem examination of the body was made to-day by Dr Robinson, of Clunes, in conjunction with Dr Roche, of Creswick.

Examination of witnesses continued:-

Dr William Keating Huston, sworn - I am a legally-qualified practitioner. On the morning of the 24^th August, Mr Cummins, or one of the police, came to me. Went to the house of deceased, and, on my arrival, saw Dr Bunce there. Declined to meet him professionally.

Sergeant Drummond - On what grounds?

Witness - I decline to answer that question.

Examination continued - Dr Bunce then withdrew. As soon as I saw the deceased, I said she was under the influence of mercury. Did not know that she was blistered. Examined her and found she was blistered, and inquired whether there was any blue ointment in the house . A box was brought to me. Mr Cummins told me that Dr Bunce had brought it. Found the blister applied over the abdomen. In my opinion it was injudicious to put the blister as I found it. The opinion I expressed was that she was murdered through maltreatment. Mercury brought on diarrhoea. There was a maladministration of medicine. When I first visited deceased I found, she had inflammation of the small intestines, and diarrhoea. I found her almost pulseless. The motions of deceased were streaked with mucous membrane, which I attribute to the overaction of mercury. My professional opinion is that diarrhoea was produced by mercury. The peritonitis came on the second day. There was a mixture of syrup and water on the table. Mercury was used both externally and internally. I telegraphed to Ballarat for Dr Nicholson to meet me the following day. He met me. We ordered medicines. [Prescriptions put in and examiner by the Coroner, one of which was without date.]

Examination continued - First prescribed laudanum to check diarrhoea. Agreed with Dr Nicholson as to the treatment of deceased. Though she was dangerously ill, I had hopes the first day. Friday morning, the 24^th of August, I saw her first. When on my first visit, I said to Dr Nicholson that deceased had been maltreated, he made no answer. He did not give an opinion. Blistered her two or three times a day. The following Saturday I telegraphed for Dr Nicholson. Continued visiting the patient until her death. Visited her on the morning of the 29^th for the last time. She was then alive, but fast sinking.

To a juryman - She died the same morning at 5.30. I am of opinion that if she had been left alone after the confinement she would have had a better chance. I believe the proper administration of mercury caused the low state which she was in at first. I state that patient was not dropsical when I saw her. She had then no swelling of the limbs on the lower extremities. I saw a blister on the hip. I did not apply the blister myself. Any medical man could ascertain whether it was dropsy or swelling of the limbs. After the second day patient sunk gradually.

Mr Burton here wished to address the Coroner on behalf of Dr Bunce, but the Coroner would not grant permission, saying it was merely a preliminary inquiry, and he could not allow any lawyer to plead in a Coroner’s Court. He would hear Dr Bunce, who was present, and who could appear for himself. There was no charge made.

Mr Burton, with all respect to the Court, would submit that it was the practice all over England to hear lawyers in a Coroner’s Court.

The Coroner objected.

Sergeant Drummond produced two rings worn by the deceased.

Dr Bunce - The rings produced are no proofs of salivation.

Dr Bunce to Dr Huston - Had the deceased inflammation of the womb and adjacent parts, on the 21^st of August, or not?

Dr Huston - I cannot swear.

Dr Bunce - If she had inflammation of these parts was it right to apply leeches?

Dr Huston - Yes.

Dr Bunce - Is it proper to use mercury?

Dr Huston - Some do; some do not. I think it is improper.

Dr Bunce - Would it not be proper to use a milder dose after a long administration of calomel.

Dr Huston - Yes.

Dr Bunce - Grey powder is milder. When medical man finds that certain medicines act injuriously, is it not proper to desist from using them.

Dr Huston - Yes; it is proper then to leave off.

After Dr Robinson had been sworn, the evidence, as taken down yesterday, was read to him by the Coroner.

Dr Robinson examined - I am legally qualified practitioner and reside at Clunes. Made a post-mortem examination of deceased, assisted by Dr Roche. Found the intestines inflamed. The rectum, or lower intestine, was very much inflamed, both the external and internal parts. Examined the womb, which was also inflamed. At the mouth of the womb the inflammation had extended to gangrene; there was also considerable inflammation of the left fallopian tube ; the walls of the uterus were somewhat enlarged or softened. There was also considerable inflammation of the lining membrane of the bladder. There was no serous effusion in the cavity of the abdomen. Observed kidney, liver, lungs, and heart to be healthy. Am of opinion that deceased died from inflammation of the womb, terminating in gangrene of the os uteri, combined with the inflammation of the intestines and bladder. The inflammation of the bladder might have been a thing of long standing. Might last a fortnight. It varies according to the temper and treatment of patients. The external adhesions of the bladder in this case may have been of long standing. Examined the gums, and found them affected with mercury. The use of mercury has not produced the inflammation. After having heard the evidence, I do not see any malpractice in this case. Deceased had the inflammation before the diarrhoea. The means for checking it and the treatment were excellent. Deceased had inflammation of the bladder.

To Dr Daniel - I saw no indications of dropsy.

Dr Daniel - I alluded yesterday only to having found deceased dropsical in the legs.

Dr Robinson - I have heard the evidence of the medical men, and believe no party could suffer acute inflammation without feeling pain.

Dr Roche, sworn - am a legally qualified practitioner. Made a post-mortem examination of deceased, in conjunction with Dr Robinson. Deceased appeared to be about thirty years of age. The features had a pinched appearance - the sign of inflammation. The lower portion of the abdomen was blistered. On examining the abdominal cavity, found the uterus, bladder, and rectum to have been recently suffering from acute inflammation. The inflammation seems to have originated from the mouth of the womb, which is in a state of mortification, travelling up the neck of the womb, and involving the uterus posteriorly with acute inflammation; then spread from the posterior side of the uterus to the bladder and rectum. The peritoneum was all inflamed. The small and large intestines had a healthy appearance higher up; found the liver healthy, kidneys healthy, and no other abdominal disease. On opening the cavity of the chest, found the lungs and heart perfectly healthy. Did not think it necessary to make any further examination. Believes the deceased suffered from inflammation of the intestines, spread from the os uteri, running into gangrene, and causing death from collapse. Do not think that medicines could have produced inflammation. Inflammation has terminated fatally in the hands of the most skilful men. Found inflammation of the womb and parts adjacent. Cannot account for the inflammation of the uterus.

The Coroner, in summing up, detailed the facts of the case to the jury, and advised them to bring in a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence, particularly of the two medical gentlemen who made the post-mortem examination. He, however, left the verdict in their hands.

The jury were locked up for half-an-hour, and brought in the following verdict, viz.:-

"We are of the opinion that the deceased, Ellen Susanna Cummins, died at Creswick, on the 29^th of August, 1860, from inflammation of the womb and adjacent parts."

Inquest on Mrs Cummins. - An inquest was held on Wednesday and yesterday, at the Council Chambers, to inquire into the cause of the death of Mrs Ellen Susanna Cummins, wife of Senior Constable Cummins. Mrs Cummins died on the 29^th inst., after having been delivered of twins on the 16^th inst. W B Lees, Esq, the coroner of the district, presided, and a respectable jury of twelve having been sworn, the proceedings began, Sergeant Drummond conducting the examination. Owing to the pressure on our columns, and the late hour at which the inquest concluded, we are compelled to postpone the report of the evidence until our next publication. The jury, after being locked up for half-an-hour, returned the following verdict.:- "We are of the opinion the deceased, Ellen Susanna Cummins, died at Creswick, on the 29^th of August, 1860, from inflammation of the womb and adjacent parts."

See Cummins, Ellen Susanna

See Stubbs, Thomas

See Fum Wagh

See Gardiner, Eliza

See King Sap

See Lawrence, Samuel

See Mathewson, Mary Anne

See Postlethwaite, Leah

See Reekie, George

See Schimmel, John

See Soderberg, Carl

See Telford, William

See Jones, Female Infant

See Cummins, Ellen Susanna

See Dean, Elizabeth

See Scott, William

See Carter, Mr

An inquest was held yesterday (before Mr W B Lees, the district coroner) at Rosekilly’s British Hotel, on the body of Charles Davis, aged 60, who died suddenly on Sunday last. From the evidence it appeared that deceased arrived on Creswick on Tuesday last, and put up at House’s boarding-house, where he did not obtain any spirituous liquors. He went out, however, and returned home intoxicated. Mr House saw him early on Sunday morning, when he complained of pains, and advised him to go to bed. Deceased followed his advice. In the course of conversation, and in answer to a question put by Mr House to deceased to what place he (deceased) expected to go, he replied "To hell!" Dr Roche was called in. Deceased expired on Sunday evening at a quarter to ten o’clock. Mr Ogilvy, of Ascot, stated that deceased had been in his employ as cook about a year ago. Dr Roche deposed that when he saw the deceased he had no hopes of recovery. He found that deceased died of pericarditis, accelerated by excessive indulgence in intoxicating liquors and want of timely aid. Verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Davis

Elizabeth

Inquest.- Yesterday, at Mr Whitfield Raw’s house, Mingilla, Mr W B Lees, the district coroner, held an inquest on the body of Elizabeth Davis, a little girl three years old. From the evidence it appeared that deceased had been in delicate health for the last four months, without having had medical attendance. On Saturday she got worse, and died yesterday about five o’clock. The father of the deceased is a farm labourer for nine months in the employ of Mr Whitfield Raw. The latter gentleman stated that the parents of deceased are hard working sober people, but unable to pay for medical attendance. Dr Roche, who made the post mortem examination, deposed that he found the right lung filled with tubercles throughout the greater part of the structure, the left lung adherent to pleura, and had passed into the last stage of tubercle disease, and perfectly useless during life. He considered the cause of death to have been tubercular consumption. Under proper medical treatment deceased might have recovered and lived for some time. The jury returned a verdict in keeping with the medical evidence.

The District Coroner, W B Lees, Esq, held an inquest on Wednesday last, on the body of Elizabeth Dean, who died from the brutal wounds inflicted by her husband the night before. The husband was also taken before the Bench, and remanded, particulars of which will be found in our Wednesday’s Police Report. The following witnesses were examined at the inquest:-

Joseph Dean, sworn - Prisoner is my brother, I reside about 400 yards from the prisoner’s tent. My brother and I kept the prisoner in charge from Monday morning last, until within an hour of the occurrence, when we thought him steady enough to be allowed to go where he pleased. Prisoner has been drinking for the last fortnight, and has done so more or less for the last two years. Previous to that, he was of perfectly sound mind. On entering the tent, prisoner told me that he had hist his wife with the gun, and that he had placed it against the chimney, where the policeman and myself found it. Prisoner was married to deceased about seven years since. Deceased was about 35 years of age, and of perfectly steady habits.

Frederick Daniel, sworn - Is a legally qualified medical practitioner at Creswick. Was called last evening about 8 o’clock to attend the deceased. Found her nearly pulseless and bleeding very freely from several wounds in the head, and stopped the bleeding. Attended deceased again at 11 p.m. and at 4 next (this) morning. Found her much worse. Returned again about midday, she sank about ten minutes after. She never spoke during the time I was in attendance. I made a post mortem examination, and found there was very extensive bruising and swelling of the right eye. On the left eye there was an incised wound about an inch and a half in length, and another on the right side about the same length. At the back of the head there was a large jagged wound about four inches long down to the bone with two or three wounds branching from it, there were about ten wounds altogether on the head; upon raising the covering of the skull, there was a large effusion of blood coagulated. Upon lifting the skull, a fracture was found extending from the eye through the parietal to the occipital bone. Underneath the covering of the brain there was a large clot of blood extending down to the base of the crown, which clot, I consider, was the cause of death, and which was the effect of the wounds inflicted. An instrument like the gun produced would cause the wounds. There was no bleeding after I first bandaged up the head of the deceased. When I first saw the deceased, the prisoner was sitting at the fire in the tent. I thought from the appearance of the prisoner that he was insane; he did not appear to be the drunk. I examined the prisoner this morning and consider him to be suffering from delirium tremens.

Mary Watson, of White Hills, examined. Have known the prisoner, John Dean, for three years; also knew the deceased. About 4 o’clock yesterday, saw the deceased and the prisoner, the deceased was running after the prisoner, and asking him to go home. Prisoner said "let me alone, or if you do not I will give it to you." The prisoner then went on towards the township, and deceased returned towards home. He did not appear to be drunk; the deceased was likewise sober, I have never seen her the worse for liquor. My tent is about 200 or 300 yards from deceased’s tent.

Ann Connor, of White Hills, examined. Know the prisoner and deceased. I live about 400 yards from the prisoner’s tent. About half-past seven o’clock last night, in company with Mrs Barker, went to the prisoner’s tent. Was induced to do so through having heard cries of murder. Found deceased lying between the prisoner’s legs, speechless. We then lifted her up and put her on the bed, her head was then bleeding freely; the prisoner was undressed and appeared to have blood on his shirt. We remained with deceased until she died. She never spoke during our attendance on her. Have known the prisoner and deceased last two years.

Edmund Nurse, examined. Know the prisoner and the deceased, his wife. Reside within 90 yards of their place. Went to the prisoner’s dwelling last night about 7 o’clock, to return some tacks. Heard some quarrelling, on approaching the tent. Asked if there was anyone in. Receiving no reply, went in, and found the prisoner with his left knee on the ground, with her head on the prisoner’s right knee. The prisoner was undressed and had his shirt covered with blood. Saw no blood on the deceased when I entered; but there might be blood without my noticing it. There was a quantity of blood on the floor about three or four feet from deceased, quite congealed. When I first entered the tent, prisoner said to me "Ned, take the child,: I took the child. Prisoner then asked me to give him some brandy for deceased. There was some brandy on the table, in a bottle, which I gave to the prisoner. I then put the child on the sofa, and ran to the prisoner’s brother’s and gave the alarm. The distance was about a quarter of a mile. I then went to Mrs Watson’s tent and remained there until the police came, whom I accompanied to the tent of the deceased. Have known the prisoner about ten months. The prisoner has been of steady habits for the last three or four months, about three weeks since, the prisoner and I were mates for two days. Did not consider him safe to work with then. He never threatened to do my any harm.

By a Juror. The prisoner, I consider, was perfectly sober when I went in at first. Did not notice him the worse of liquor afterwards.

The prisoner told me that he gave the deceased a stroke of a gun on the side of the head and shot her.

The evidence of Senior Constable Cummins was similar to that adduced at the Police Court on the same day.

After the Coroner had summed up, the Jury returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against John Dean, who was committed on Coroner’s warrant to take his trial.

See Dean, Elizabeth

See Dean, Elizabeth

Delaney

Margaret

On Friday last, at Mount Prospect, an inquest was held by Mr W B Lees, the district coroner, on the body of Margaret Delaney, a girl four years of age. From the evidence it appeared that on Thursday, the 4^th instant, deceased was seen about 100 yards distant from the house of her mother, who sent a man, Patrick Cagill, to look for her. After a search of about ten minutes he found her in a dying state in the scrub. When the girl was picked up, a semi-circular mark on the jaw was observed, as if caused by the kick of a horse, and two horses were seen grazing about within a few yards distance from where deceased was found, so the supposition is very probable. Dr Roche made the post mortem examination, and gave evidence, the verdict was - "Deceased died from concussion of the brain. The jury are of opinion that the deceased received a kick from a horse, which caused her death."

See Smith, James

See Manning, Wm

Edward

See Barclay, James

See Fell, Edward Thomas

See Cummins, Ellen Susanna

See Barclay, James

See Webb, Agnes

See Loo Ching, Fung Laned

See Loo Ching, Fung Laned

See Praetz, Charles Henry

See Loo Ching, Fung Laned

See Cummins, Ellen Susanna

See Loo Ching, Fung Laned

See Cummins, Ellen Susanna

See Ellete, Mary

Inquest: - An inquest was held on Friday last, at Woof’s Hotel, Slaty Creek, by Mr W B Lees, the district coroner, on the body of Mary Ellete, aged 35 years, who died suddenly after having been delivered of a still born child. Henry Ellete, the husband of deceased, John Bayley, a medical man not legally qualified in this colony, and Anne Hawkins gave evidence. The last witness deposed that deceased and her husband had been frequently under the influence of liquor. Dr Roche, who made the post mortem examination of the body of deceased and her infant also gave evidence, and deposed that the infant was still born. On examining the body of deceased, Mary Ellete, he found no external marks of violence. On opening the cavity of the chest found the heart and lungs healthy. On opening the abdominal cavity, found the stomach inflamed in its mucous coat; it contained about a quart of dark fluid with a faint alcoholic smell. The kidneys were inflamed. On examining the womb he found it had been subject to recent inflammation of the circumjacent parts. Remarked no other morbid indication. The deceased must have been recently confined. The uterus seemed to have suffered recently from more than ordinary hemorrhage. He believed the immediate cause of death to have been inflammation of the uterus, conjoined with inflammation of the stomach and kidneys. A person in the habit of drinking to excess would be likely to bring on inflammation of these parts. Having heard the evidence of John Bayley, he considered that what that witness gave deceased could not have hurt her. The jury returned the following verdict:- " "Deceased, Mary Ellete, died at Slaty Creek on the 20^th of February, from inflammation of the womb and adjacent parts, accelerated by want of proper medical care."

The inquest was held at Mr Jones’s store, Cabbage-tree Flat, on the body of George Farrell, aged six years. Deceased was sent with a message to Mr Ware, at Mopoke, accompanied by a lad younger than himself. The two lads stopped on the way to roll a log (20 feet in length and two feet round) down the hill to the creek. Deceased fell, and the tree rolled upon him. The other lad, George Herring, ran home, and fetched his mother and Mrs Farrell; Mr Ingamells, assisted by the women, raised the log, but deceased was quite dead. The coroner said he had visited the spot, and thought that the death was purely accidental. The jury coincided and returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

See Farrell, George

See Fawcett, Thos

Thos

On Sunday last an inquest was held at the Royal Hotel, on the body of Thos. Fawcett, a miner, aged 33 years. From the evidence, it appeared that deceased, who was working for the Clunes Company, went into Ballarat on a Friday about eight weeks ago, for the purpose of witnessing a pigeon shooting match. He came back to Clunes the following Tuesday, sleepy, and remained almost insensible ever since. Robert Fawcett, brother to deceased, from Bendigo, and Robert Smith gave evidence.

Dr Robinson made the post mortem examination, and deposed that he had attended deceased since the 8^th instant, once in consultation with Dr Schmidt. He found the brain and its membranes highly congested, and, from the appearance and symptoms of the case, considered deceased drugged by some irritant or narcotic poison. All necessary remedies were applied.

At the request of Dr Robinson, who suggested that the contents of the stomach be analysed by the Government chemist, the coroner enclosed in two jars, and undertook to communicate with the Government. The jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Death from Drowning. - A fine little boy, named Edward Thomas Fell, (who would have been seven years old in December next,) son of John and Jane Fell, and grandson of the person who has the bridge, was accidentally drowned yesterday (Wednesday) morning whilst on his way from his own home to his grandfathers house at the bridge. How or the exact spot where the child fell into the water is not solved by the evidence, but no doubt Mr Dow’s opinion as to the cause of the accident is the most likely one, viz., that the child slipped into the creek owing to the recent flood having left the banks in a slippery and dangerous state. The parents were extremely fond of the poor boy, and the father, only an hour and a-half before the fatal accident, had affectionately taken leave of him and the remainder of the family, as he was then leaving Clunes en route for the New Zealand gold-fields. The deceased’s father, grandfather, and other members of the family, had formerly resided in New Zealand, and placing much reliance in the favorable reports of the auriferous character of the gold-fields, he was hastening thither, little thinking that in so short a time he would be bereft of a loved and loving child. A telegram was forwarded to Mr W B Lees, District Coroner, which was placed in his hands, in Creswick, a few minutes before two o’clock, and shortly after four he arrived in Clunes to hold the inquest. At a quarter to five o’clock a respectable jury were sworn, who selected for their foreman Mr Nicholson, of the Scandinavian Hotel. There were only tree sworn witnesses, no one appearing to entertain a doubt that the deceased’s death was otherwise than accidental. The following is the gist of the evidence: - Jane Elizabeth Fell, sworn. I reside at Clunes. The deceased is my son. He left my house this morning in good health about half-past eight o’clock to go his grandmother’s. My house is not many yards from the house he was going to. There were a quantity of people standing on the banks of the creek about half-past nine a.m. The death of my son was not communicated to me until near two o’clock. The deceased was taken to his grandmother’s house. He would have been seven years of age in December next. He was in the habit of going to his grandmother’s. I have been resident in Clunes for about six years. The deceased’s father left here this morning at eight o’clock for New Zealand. The deceased was born in Collingwood, Melbourne. - Agnes Honnor (a girl about nine years of age having satisfactorily answered the interrogations of the Coroner as to the nature of an oath) deposed: I knew the deceased. I saw a boy floating and kicking in the water as I was on my way to school. I went to Mr Fell’s at the bridge and told him that a boy was in the water. I did not then know that the deceased was the same boy. I told my governess, and she immediately gave information of the accident to the people around. - To a juror: I did not see the boy fall into the water. - George W Dow, builder, sworn: I reside at Clunes. I have known the deceased for three years. About 10 or half-past 10 this morning my drayman told me that Mr Fell’s child was in the creek. By means of a long piece of quartering and a hook fastened to the end I found the body, after searching for about a quarter of an hour. The place was about 10 feet deep and 30 feet wide. There were about 100 persons present. Grappling irons had been used by other persons in the same spot I found the body, but they were of no use. I infer that the body must have been in the water about three-quarters of an hour when I found it. - To the foreman: The body was found in the large round water-hole. I think the hour was bout eleven o’clock when I found the body. - Two other witnesses, Thos. Fell and the grandfather, were called into the room, but as they had nothing new to add to the evidence, they were not sworn. - W Dow recalled: I know the direction the deceased generally took from his own home to that of his grandfather’s, which would be about 100 yards by the side of the creek. I consider it to be highly dangerous when the water has been high and banks left slippery, as at present. - The Coroner recapitulated the evidence, and the jury through their foreman immediately returned a verdict of "Accidentally drowned in the creek at Clunes."

See Fell, William

See Fell, Edward Thomas

See Fell, Edward Thomas

See Fell, William

See Fell, Edward Thomas

Inquest. - This morning (Thursday)’ an inquest was held at the Royal Hotel, Fraser street, before Mr W B Lees, district coroner, on the body of William Fell, late owner of the bridge known as Fell’s Bridge, who expired yesterday (Wednesday) morning, about eleven o’clock. The circumstances attending his death were deposed to by Elizabeth Fell, wife of the deceased; Thomas Fell, son of the deceased; and Esther Martin, a neighbour. From the evidence of the three witnesses, it appeared that the deceased and his wife had lived unhappily together for many years; that he was an inveterate consumer of ardent spirits; and that he had been drinking to excess the day previous to his death. In the absence of Dr Schmidt, (who had attended the deceased on the morning of his death), Dr Robinson was requested by the coroner to make a poste mortem examination which showed that the brain was generally diseased and highly congested with blood; the lungs congested, especially the left one; the heart small, and in a softened condition; the liver considerably enlarged; and both kidneys highly congested. Disease of the brain was the immediate cause of death, resulting in sero-sanguineous apoplexy. In answer to the foreman, Dr Robinson said that he believed nothing could have saved his life. Verdict - "Died from disease of the brain, brought on by the violent use of ardent spirits."

Sudden Death. - At inquest was held yesterday at Eastern Hill, by Mr W B Lees, the district coroner. On the body of Edward Felstead, age 19 (unmarried), who lost his life suddenly. From the evidence taken, it appeared that Mr John Felstead, the father of the deceased, yesterday, about seven o’clock in the morning, went out whit his son to fell a tree, for the purpose of cutting props. He was about 20 yards distant, sharpening a saw, when he heard the tree crack, and saw it in its fall knock down his son and another man. On examining his son, he found him dead, the head being smashed and the brain protruding. When the accident happened, both the deceased and Mr Peters (one of the partners) stood at a distance of about two yards behind the tree, which, when falling, alighted on the fork of another tree and instead of falling forwards, rebounded - the butt striking deceased on the head, causing instantaneous death. Mr Peters was also struck by the trunk, and remained for a moment unconscious, but he soon recovered, and was able to give his evidence. The jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally killed by the falling of a tree." The deceased was a steady and industrious young man, much respected, and his loss is felt not only by his family but also by a large circle of friends.

See Felstead, Edward

Yesterday the Coroner held an inquest upon the body of Capt. Fenwick, master and owner of the schooner Juliet, who had been the same morning, whilst sleeping on a sofa in the Freemason’s Hotel, stabbed through the heart with a butcher’s knife, the weapon being left in the wound up to the haft, by one Lawrence Park Shanklin. Some slight altercation had taken place between Fenwick and Shanklin during the night, but they had parted without any apparent ill feeling on either side. During the morning Shanklin endeavoured to borrow a knife, in which he failed, remarking at the time that he would stab either the deceased or a man named Etheridge, which ever he met first. He then attempted to purchase a carving knife, and fork, but in this attempt to obtain a weapon he was also foiled. Finally he proceeded to a lodging-house, and stole a butcher’s knife out of the kitchen, with which he proceeded to the Freemason’s and blunged it into the heart of his victim whilst sleeping. He then proceeded to the watch-house and gave himself up, stating what had occurred. The jury returned a verdict of "wilful murder", and the prisoner was committed to take his trial. - Geelong Advertiser, Jan. 2

See Filling, John Henry

In our last issue we mentioned that Mr Filling’s little child, who had been missing for about two hours, was on Monday evening found drowned in a water-race. The following day (Tuesday) and inquest was held at Rosekilly’s British Hotel by Mr W B Lees, the district coroner, when several witnesses were examined. The deceased, John Henry Filling, was two years and six months of age. Mrs Grace Filling gave evidence that Mr Spence and Mr Rouse found deceased about eight p.m. The water-race is about two feet deep and two feet wide. Dr Steel was immediately sent for, and for nearly and hour did all he could to restore animation, but it was too late. Mr Archibald Spence, and Drs Roche and Steel were also examined. The jury returned a verdict of "Accidental death by drowning," and recommended the coroner to causse additions to be made to the water-channel in order to prevent future accidents.

See Loo Ching, Fung Laned

See Macdonald, Mary

See Taylor, Arthur

On Saturday evening a second inquest was held, at the Star Hotel, Slaughteryard Hill, on the body of a Chinaman named Fong Pui, who received a gunshot wound whilst assisting in slaughtering cattle at Orr’s slaughteryard. Several witnesses were examined and the inquest was adjourned until the following day for a post-mortem examination, which was conducted by Dr Roche. (For a full report, see our police news.) The jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death;" and Mr Orr, who had been in custody since the unfortunate occurrence, was discharged, but re-arrested to appear at the Police court on Monday, 5^th inst.

See Webb, Agnes

See Hooper, Ann

See Barclay, James

See Hooper, George

Inquest. - the District Coroner held an inquest on Friday last, at Quin’s Hotel on the body of Fum Wagh, aged 39 years. Deceased was mining at Humbug Hill, when a quantity of ironstone, or cement insufficiently timbered, fell upon him. Dr Daniel was sent for, but deceased must have met with an almost instantaneous death, caused by fracture of the spine. Verdict "Accidental death.: Deceased has left a wife and three children in Canton.