ST. JUST PLOUGHING MATCH. On Thursday, the 30th ultimo, a spirited match was
got up by subscription, in St. Just in Roseland, and was carried out in a field at
Commerrious, belonging to MR. THOMAS ROGERS. Twelve ploughs entered for the
prizes, and contended with great skill and energy, while they afforded much satisfaction
and entertainment to a numerous body of spectators, many of whom were connoisseurs of
ploughing, and capable of appreciating properly the test and exertions of the different
competitors. Nothwithstanding the very unfavourable state of the weather, the ground
was thronged with visitors. For the first class, without drivers, the head prize fell to WM.
CHIPMAN, a servant to MR. WHITFORD; the second prize of the same class, was
awarded to EDWARD MITCHELL, servant of MR. GUMMOE. In the next class, with
drivers, WM. PINCH, a servant of MR. BLITCHFORD won the first prize; the second
prize fell to RICHARD HOOPER, a servant of MR. WHITFORD; and the third prize to
GEORGE CHIPMAN, a servant to MR. T. ROGERS. Two other smaller prizes for the
boys, were won by FAITHFUL BLITCHFORD RICKARD, and CHARLES GEORGE.
The unsuccessful candidates received a small gratuity. After the amusements and
business of the field were over, the managing committee, consisting of Messrs. T.
ROGERS, JOSEPH LAWRY, JAMES JAMES, FAITHFUL BLITCHFORD, and __
WHITFORD, jun., together with the umpires, Messrs. HAYES HILL, T. MARTYN, and
OLIVER, with a number of the inhabitants of the parish, fell back to St. Just Lane, where
MRS. TIDDY, of the Seven Stars, supplied them with a neat and substantial dinner, at
which MR. BOYNE presided. The cloth being removed, the Queen, and the Royal
Family were drunk; Speed the Plough followed; the health of the Rector of St. Just was
next given; after which, the health of DAVIES GILBERT, of Trelissick, Esq., was
proposed. This toast was responded to by Mr. T. ROGERS, who spoke highly of the
public spirit of Mr. Gilbert, his consideration in patronizing this meeting, and of the local
advantages likely to be derived by the residence of so liberal a gentleman in the
neighbourhood. Indeed, it is to the dearth of such useful persons in country parishes, that
the destitution of many of our rural districts is mainly attributable. In the middle of the
last century, when the mansions of the gentry were more generally tenanted than,
unfortunately, they are at present, it was a frequent remark of the celebrated King of
Prussia, that an English country gentleman was the most useful and happy individual in
civilized Europe. But, "luxury, cursed by Heaven's decree" has gradually alienated most
of the owners from their estates, and furnished a melancholy contrast to the condition of
the country in the time of that great monarch. The next toast was the Managing
Committee, which was ably and cheerfully responded to, by Mr. Rogers, and also by Mr.
Whitford. The health of the chairman next ensued, for which Mr. Boyne returned thanks,
and expressed the value which every member of society must feel for the success of the
cultivators of the soil. He viewed agriculture as the basis of national wealth, [and] gave a
brief sketch of the progress of mankind from the hunting state to that of shepherds.
[article continues with his entire speech, regarding his chosen topic of agriculture as the
basis for wealth. jm]
FUNERAL OF THE EARL OF ST. GERMANS. The remains of this late venerable
and lamented nobleman were deposited in the family vault in the parish church of St.
Germans, on Thursday, the 30th ult. A large concourse of the gentry and yeomanry of the
neighbourhood attended.
FALMOUTH AND THE CORNWALL RAILWAY. The following letter,
accompanied by one from the Board of the Admiralty, has been received by the Mayor of
Penryn, from Capt. PLUMRIDGE, M.P., in answer to the memorial dated 4th inst, against
the construction of a viaduct across the Penryn river by the Cornwall Railway Company:
DEAR SIR: I was in bed last night (half-past eleven o'clock) when I received the
enclosed reply from the Admiralty, by special messenger, having written to MR.
HERBERT on the preceding Saturday, pointing out the importance of your receiving
their Lordships reply before the meeting of Parliament.
I congratulate you and the borough of Penryn on this decision of their lordships, and have
the honour to remain,
Yours, dear Sir, ever faithfully,
J. HANWAY PLUMRIDGE
Chester Square, January 29, 1845
To the Mayor of Penryn (COPY)
Admiralty, 28th January 1845
SIR, Having laid before my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty a Memorial, dated
the 4th instant, signed by you and the aldermen and councilors of the borough of Penryn,
I am commanded to acquaint you in reply, that their lordships have decided that the line
of the Cornwall Railway is not to cross Penryn Creek, as it would cut off all possibility of
future improvement in its navigation, and as the object of placing the terminus in the
town of Falmouth would be secured by carrying the line westward of Penryn.
I am, Sir,
Your most obedient humble servant,
SIDNEY HERBERT
Joseph Brokenshir, Esq., Mayor
February 4, 1845
At a public meeting of the inhabitants of the borough and its vicinity, his worship the
mayor in the chair; it was moved by W. P. WILLIAMS, Esq., and seconded by MR.
JOHN STEPHENS, "that the warmest thanks be given to Capt. Plumridge, for the active
service he has rendered to the said borough in presenting the memorials to the Board of
Admiralty and the Trinity Board, against the construction of a viaduct by the Cornwall
Railway Company over the Penryn river." Carried unanimously.
THE PERPETUAL CURACY OF ST. STEPHENS BY LAUNCESTON. The
patronage of this curacy, which is now vacant, is in the landholders and rate-payers of the
parish. It is worth GBP 110 per annum, exclusive of surplus fees.
TRURO TOWN COUNCIL. The first quarterly meeting for the year was held on
Tuesday last, the Mayor in the chair. {...} The resolution of February 1839, respecting
the fire-engines was rescinded, and a new one agreed to by a majority authorizing the
inspector to proceed with the engines to fires within any distance from Truro, without
first securing guarantee of payment. {...} The Mayor then read a letter from J. L.
DAMPIER, Esq., Vice-Warden of the Stannaries, offering to present them with a new
clock of the best workmanship for the new court, to attest his appreciation of the
corporation granting the use of the court for the Stannary business, and further expressing
a hope that this present would not exclude him from aiding in a subscription for a clock
outside, should such be thought requisite in the event of the railway coming [through]
Truro. The handsome offer of the Vice-Warden was accepted, and the thanks of the
corporation voted to him.
MEVAGISSEY. On Wednesday afternoon, the 29th ult., the friends and supporters of
the new Wesleyan school, met in the school-room, at that place, when nearly 400 sat
down to a most excellent tea. The sight was truly interesting, the room being very
spacious, and having a fine gallery, occupying one third of its area. After tea, the doors
were thrown open, and a public meeting held. It commenced with singing and prayer,
after which J. PEARCE, Esq., was called to the chair. He stated his reason for coming
forward on the occasion, to be a desire to benefit the rising generation; and although a
churchman he felt from the liberal rules laid down for carrying on the school, that he
could most heartily give it his support, and that under all the circumstances, it might be
truly called the "one and all school." After many more excellent observations, and advice
to parents for the government of their children, he suggested that as funds would be
necessary beyond the small charge for teaching, all should throw in their mite, and have in
their houses an "offertory box," taking care to put into it one penny out of every twenty
of their income, for religious and other charitable purposes, and on no consideration to
use it for any other purpose. He had long done so, and although considered an enemy to
the "offertory," he felt otherwise, still thinking every person ought to give their own
away. He had looked into his little box before he had left home, and found GBP 5,
which he begged to give the school, GBP 2 of which was to be given to ten of the best
behaved scholars at the end of twelve months. The worthy chairman sat down amidst
great applause. MR. WRENCH, the master, explained the manner of conducting the
school. It is on the system taught at the Normal school at Glasgow. No flogging, but all
means of encouragement, to draw them by love. The Rev. Messrs. GEACH,
CHRISTOPHERS, and WITHINGTON, also addressed the meeting. The whole
proceedings were of the most interesting kind, and we regret our inability to find room
for more than to say, that all felt fully impressed, both with the good and liberal spirit in
which it is to be conducted, the Bible being the standard reading book, without note or
comment. We augur much good from this establishment, and rejoice to see the school-
master abroad in such a substantial form. The school opened on Monday last, and more
than 200 children are already on the books.
HEROIC ACTION. On Tuesday afternoon last, shortly after the "Cornwall" steamer
had left the pier at St. Ives, a little boy, about five or six years of age, while playing on
the edge of the pier, fell suddenly over, and sank. A brave young seaman, named
WILLIAM WILLIAMS, son of MR. JOHN WILLIAMS, who resides near the Primitive
Methodist Chapel in St. Ives, ran from a distant part of the pier, and with great bravery
leaped in after the unfortunate child, whom he at length succeeded in bringing to the
surface; and help being at hand, both the child and his preserver were speedily ashore.
This is the second act of a similar kind performed by Williams. While in one of the
London docks, with his vessel on a recent occasion, he witnessed the fall of a lad into the
water, and immediately sprung overboard, and rescued him from a watery grave; for
which he received GBP2 from the Humane Society. The child, in the former case, as in
the latter, was restored alive to his affrighted parents, while the deliverer walked quietly
away apparently the most disinterested person present.
ACCIDENT AT SEA. On Sunday morning last, while the brig "Rambler," J.S.
BENNETT, master, belonging to C. H. SMITH, Esq., was nearly opposite the Worm's
Head, on her voyage from St. Ives to Swansea, a heavy sea washed the master overboard,
but enabled the mate, who had been previously washed off the deck, to regain the vessel.
All the efforts of the crew to recover the body of the master, we regret to state, proved
unavailing. Capt. Bennett, who resided at Llanelly, was about twenty-seven years of age,
a married man, with no family. He was a native of Rottendean, in Sussex, and a man so
highly respected by his connexions and acquaintances, that his unexpected loss must be
severely felt and sincerely regretted.
INCENDIARISM. On Sunday evening last, about seven o'clock, the inhabitants of
Porkellis, in the parish of Wendron, were greatly excited by an alarm made that a corn
stack, belonging to WILLIAM and WALTER PASCOE, brothers, residing at Halwyn,
had been maliciously set on fire. The wind being low at the time, the fire was soon
subdued, it having been principally confined to the butts of the sheaves. Had the wind
been blowing even moderately, the situation of the stack would have greatly endangered
the safety of the dwelling-houses adjoining. The sufferers are beer-retailers, and also
shop-keepers, and have been in the habit of supplying some of the miners in the
neighbourhood, whose ill-success in mining prevents their paying off their monthly
accounts for victuals till a more favourable opportunity for settling arrives. Having lately
denied further credit to a few of them, they were in return threatened with injury, and it
is supposed their revenge has been satiated by the committal of this shameful act.
FELONY. WILLIAM ROBERTS, of Penzance, labourer, was committed to the town
gaol on the 28th ultimo, by JOHN BATTEN, Esq., to await his trial at the borough
sessions, on a charge of having stolen several articles from the dwelling-house of MRS.
TREMEWAN, in Clarence-street.
ROBBERIES AT ST. AUSTELL. A lad named MATTHEWS, belonging to St.
Austell, was committed for trial on Monday last, by C. B. G. SAWLE, Esq., charged
with stealing straw from the farm of MR. RICHARD NETTLE; and at the petty sessions
held at St. Austell, on Tuesday last, two women named GEACH and ALLEN, belonging
to the same place, were brought up, charged with picking the pockets of MR. HENRY
BEER, of a purse containing money. The case being clearly proved, they were both
committed for trial.
POULTRY STEALING. Last week, some daring villains took away seven fowls and
one duck from MR. THOMAS STEPHENS, of Geen Mill, in the parish of Probus. Every
effort has been made to detect the offender, but without effect. This parish and
neighbourhood have been so much infested by thieves as to call loudly for the re-
establishment of a police.
ADVERTISEMENTS
SHEEP STRAYED.
THREE SHEEP having strayed into a field at Bissick, belonging to FRANCIS ROOKE,
butcher, on Christmas Eve last, this is to give Notice, that the owner may have them again
by proving the same, and paying the expenses incurred; and if not claimed within thirty
days from the date hereof, they will be sold to pay for their keep and other expenses.
Dated Ladock, February 6, 1845
TO BLACKSMITHS
WANTED. a BLACKSMITH, a young man will be preferred, who understands country
work; there will be constant employment and moderate wages. References as to character
will be required. Apply to JOHN KNEEBONE, Mountjoy, Colan.
Dated, February 5th, 1845
The BARQUE "CLIO", 900 tons burthen, THOMAS BROWN, Commander, is
scheduled to sail from Padstow for Quebec, on or about the 7th of April next. This ship
has superior accommodation for passengers, having seven feet high between decks. Early
application is recommended as from the well known good qualities of the ships, and long
experience o he master, all berths will be speedily taken.
Applications to be made to MR. W. H. JENKINS, Truro; Mr. T PEARSE, Mayoralty
House, Bodmin; Mr. JOHNS, Cooper, Holsworthy; Mr. JOSEPH KITTO, Mevagissey;
Mr. CHAPMAN, Porthpean, near St. Austell; Mr. P W BRAY, Auctioneer, Stratton; Mr.
SAMUEL CORNISH and Mr. DANIEL CORNISH, Bridgerule; Mr. STONEMAN,
Dolphin Inn, Launceston, and for further particulars apply to Captain BROWN, Park
Villa, Endellion, or at
Mr. AVERY's OFFICES,
Boscastle or Padstow,
Dated, Boscastle, February 5,1845
14 FEBRUARY 1845, Friday
LOCAL INTELLIGENCE
FREE-MASONRY. The various lodges in this province have held their yearly
meetings, and at nearly all of them the P.G.S. ELLIS attended according to invitation,
when he duly installed the masters and invested the officers, &c., according to regular
and ancient form. The P.G. master discharged the duties of his own lodge on St. John's
day. On the Bodmin anniversary, about fifty brethren assembled under the chairmanship
of the P.G.S. and closed their meeting with a concert of vocal and instrumental music.
The St. Austell lodge, (lately constituted) after business was transacted, had an evening
party of between twenty and thirty, and passed a few hours in true masonic good
fellowship. The Helston lodge has increased considerably in number by the accession of
several respectable gentlemen. The Truro lodge has greatly revived; and we learn that the
lodge at Penzance still retains a goodly portion of its respected members. Other lodges
are being petitioned for, and dormant ones revived.
HELSTON MECHANICS' INSTITUTE. On Tuesday evening last, MR. W.
HEWETT, of Fowey, delivered a highly interesting and talented lecture, in the long room
of the Star Hotel, on the County of Cornwall, its features, geological structure, druidical
remains, history, games, &c. The lecture throughout was listened to with great attention
and interest by a numerous and highly respectable audience; and after its delivery, the
chairman, F. JAMES, Esq., complimented the lecturer on his able production, which Mr.
Hewett neatly acknowledged.
TREGONY FAIR. This fair, held on Shrove Tuesday, was well supplied with both
cattle and sheep, but the sales were limited. Good beef fetched about 50s. per cwt., and
best fat sheep 6d. per pound. For store cattle there was little demand, and very few
changed hands.
TRURO CATTLE MARKET. At this market, on the 5th instant, there was a good
supply of fat cattle and sheep, which sold pretty freely. Beef 50s. per cwt; mutton 6d.
per pound.
LERRIN FAIR. This fair, on the 11th instant, was poor, compared with former years.
There were about one hundred and fifty sheep, which sold at 6d. per pound; fat beef, the
supply of which was very small, and of very ordinary quality, sold at 50s. to 52s. per cwt.
A few store bullocks were exposed, but the prices demanded being high no business was
done amongst them.
LARGE PIG. MR. BUDGE, of St. Erme Church-town, killed, on Monday last, a pig,
fifteen months old, which weighed twenty-four score and five lbs.
ALARMING ACCIDENT. On Saturday afternoon last, between four and five o'clock,
a horse belonging to MR. W. PENGELLY, grocer, of Penzance, was frightened by some
means, and ran off at a rapid pace from Causewayhead, down the street, drawing an
empty cart after him. The affrighted animal, instead of turning the corner at Mr.
BRANWELL's, ran into MR. ARGALL's shop - both shafts clearing the windows, and
the door-way being just wide enough to admit them, the wheels came in contact with the
window-frame and an iron pillar, by which the further progress of the horse was checked,
otherwise he would, no doubt, have made an outlet at the back window. The female
assistants in the shop, as may be supposed, were alarmed at the unceremonious visit, and
the poor horse was again terrified, but the cart being jammed in, he could not back out
before he was seized by some men, who ran to the assistance of MR. ARGALL. There
were only five panes of glass broken, and the window-frame slightly damaged. Happily
no person was hurt, and the horse escaped without a bruise.
FALMOUTH UNION. We are informed that the guardians of this Union have inquired
into the truth of the reports which have been circulated regarding the alleged ill-
treatment, in the Penryn Workhouse, of JOHN BAWDEN, upon whose body an inquest
was recently held in Bodmin, and that such reports have been found to be perfectly
groundless. We are also informed that the guardians have called the attention of the
Poor-law Commissioners to the evidence taken on the inquest, and have requested that
the circumstances may be immediately inquired into.
ANOTHER CHILD BURNT TO DEATH - At Dupath, near Callington, a child
belonging to WILLIAM STEENS, an agricultural labourer, was recently burnt to death.
CORONER'S INQUESTS. On Monday last, an inquest was held at Breage, by W.
HICHENS, Esq., coroner, on the body of JANE SYMONS, daughter of JAMES
SYMONS, of that parish, miner, aged four years, whose death was occasioned by her
clothes taking fire. The accident happened on the 8th, during a very short absence of the
child's mother at the adjoining house, where she had gone to return some articles she had
borrowed in the course of the day, leaving the deceased alone in her own house. Verdict,
accidentally burnt.
On Tuesday last, an inquest was held at Twelveheads, in the parish of Kenwyn, before J.
CARLYON, Esq., coroner, on the body of NANCY, the wife of RICHARD STEVENS,
cordwainer, aged 40 years, who came by her death under the following circumstances:
On Wednesday, the 5th instant, as she was getting out of bed, she was seized with a
lightness in her head, and fell head foremost on the floor, by which the spinal marrow
below the fifth vertebrae of the neck was so seriously injured that she became completely
paralysed below the affected part, and continued so up to the time of her death, which
happened on Monday last. From the bed being so low, it appeared almost incredible that
she could have been injured to such an extent by the fall, and this probably gave rise to a
rumour in the neighbourhood that her husband had not treated her kindly; but it was
proved that he was below stairs at the time, and that he had been a particularly kind and
attentive husband to her from the day they were married, about sixteen months ago.
Verdict, accidental death.
On the following day an inquest was held at Chacewater,
before the same coroner, on the body of MATTHEW TRUAN, miner, aged 38 years,
who had been kicked in the lower part of the abdomen, last Saturday, by his horse, which
he went into a field to catch, and who died from the injuries he thus received on the
following Tuesday. Verdict, accidental death - Deodand sixpence.
THE MUTUAL LIFE ASSURANCE SOCIETY in the Old Jewry is desirous, as it would appear from our
advertising columns of to-day, to establish a local board in our neighbourhood. The possibility of
extending some of the advantages of this excellent society into this locality, surely calls for the assistance
of some of our more influential friends and neighbours.
DEVON INTELLIGENCE
TEIGNMOUTH. The surplice is still continued. On Sunday last, the greater part of a
very small congregation left the church, amidst much noise and confusion. Report says,
that the worthy incumbent is preparing for a siege, and that on Sunday next the police are
to guard the church to prevent an uproar, that the surplice worshippers may not be
disturbed.
[this continues a series of articles, all regarding the wearing apparel of vicars, and changes
in the ceremony. The Bishop of Exeter wanted changes, but the congregations did not.
One whole church was excommunicated, with no vicar assigned, until they humbly
acknowledged the Bishop's authority in these matters. jm]
BARNSTAPL. A melancholy accident occurred on Friday, the 31st ult., at MR.
PUDDICOMBE'S limekiln, situated at Fremington Pill, about three miles from this town,
which has spread a gloom over the whole of that parish. JOHN FAIRCHILD, one of the
men employed at the kiln, having incautiously descended without the ladder, soon found
that the sulphurous effluvia from the culm affected his respiration, and called to his
brother-in-law, RICHARD GAYTON, for help, who instantly lowered a rope, which in
drawing him from his perilous situation unfortunately broke; Gayton then immediately
descended to the poor fellow's assistance, but the exhalations proving too strong for him
also, another man named SHADDOCK jumped down, and TAYLOR, a fourth man,
stood ready to render immediate aid should it be necessary, who, soon perceiving that
Shaddock was overpowered, put a board and slid down. He happily succeeded in
getting him up, and he ultimately recovered. By this time the neighbourhood became
alarmed, and Gayton and Fairchild being got out, medical assistance was procured, but
life was extinct. They were men of sober and industrious habits, and have each left a
wife with a very large family. We are informed that eight of Gayton's children are under
fifteen years of age, and the number of children thus suddenly bereaved is near twenty.
21 FEBRUARY 1845, Friday
LOCAL INTELLIGENCE
FALMOUTH CHURCH. On Tuesday last, the REV. J. SYMONDS, curate of this
parish, received a letter from the rector, the REV. W. J. COOPE, absent in Florence,
instructing him to abandon all the innovations so much complained of by the parishioners.
Various rumours are afloat as to the cause of authority which has induced the rector to
yield so suddenly, after his recent instructions to his curate, that he would consent to no
alteration, and that he was to continue the mode of service as he found it upon taking
charge of the cure. It is to be hoped that this concession will restore peace, and that both
parties will now sedulously endeavour to heal the division which this unhappy contention
has made in the parish.
BODMIN LITERARY INSTITUTION. A very interesting lecture was given at this
institution, on Tuesday week, by MR. T. N. LEWARNE, of St. Austell, on the "Life and
Writings of Burns," The birth and education, the moral and social qualities, the dauntless
independence of character in the midst of poverty, the originality of thought, and the
power and fertility of imagination of the illustrious poet, were in their turn commented on
in clear and vigorous language, and several apt and very beautiful quotations from the
poems of the bard were given. At the close, a well merited vote of thanks was accorded
to the lecturer.
TYWARDREATH USEFUL KNOWLEDGE SOCIETY. [lecture by Mr. DANIEL of
Lostwithiel, on "Poetry of Shelly" which combated passages of Shelly which savoured of
infidelity. The next lecture, "On the General Advantages of Enquiry," will be delivered
by MR. GLOYE March 12th. On Friday evening last, a lecture on "Fiction" was
delivered by Mr. R. JENKINS, of Torquay, to the Penzance Literary Institution. jm]
BAZAAR. On Thursday and Friday last, a Fancy Bazaar was held in the spacious
Corn-market, Helston, the object of which was to raise funds for the liquidation of the
existing debt on the Wesleyan chapel in that town. The bazaar was furnished with an
abundance of elegantly worked and tastefully-made articles, the whole being laid out for
exhibition to the best possible advantage by the young ladies who formed the committee.
In less than two months the whole was prepared, and the profits realized amounted to
forty guineas.
THE LATE WRECK AT PADSTOW. At the adjourned public meeting at
Wadebridge, a memorial to the Lords of the Admiralty, on the propriety of making
Padstow a more accessible and efficient place of refuge, was agreed to. It appears that
no less than 200 vessels have been wrecked on that part of the coast between Trevose
Head and Lundy Island, by which 426 lives, and property to the amount of GBP295,000
have been lost, in consequence probably of there being no harbour of refuge at hand. It is
calculated that 40,000 vessels pass this rocky and dangerous coast every year, to whom
such a harbour would prove invaluable. It was announced to the meeting that the Trinity
Board had applied for the evidence taken before the coroner, on which the verdict of the
jury was founded - no doubt with the view of investigation the charge of negligence
brought against the pilots.
CAUTION TO FARMERS. About a fortnight since, MR. ALFRED RANDLE, of St.
Martin, near Helston, lost a fine ox, which died in a few hours after having been turned
into the field; and last week, MR. JOHN DAVIES, of Landewednack, had a cow and
heifer which also died in a short time after being turned out. Some other farmers in the
same neighbourhood have also sustained similar losses. A suspicion arose that the death
of the animals had been caused by their eating some poisonous plant, and on their being
opened, the stomachs in each instance were found to contain some roots, which have
been examined, and proved to be those of the Oenanthe Crocata, or Hemlockwater
Dropwort, [also known as the water dropwort, and dead tongue] which is one of the most
virulent vegetable poisons this country produces. It grows in moist situations, attaining
from two to three feet in height, and the root throws out tubers of about the length of the
finger, of a whitish appearance.
[See http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/d/drophe21.html for more information. jm]
THE CUSTOMS. We are happy to learn that MR. C. W. PEACH, of Goran Haven, has
been appointed landing waiter in the customs at Fowey. Mr. Peach, we hear, has also
been elected an honorary member of the Torquay Natural History Society.
IMPROVEMENT ON PENZANCE PIER. At the Council meeting, on Wednesday
morning, MR. JOHN MATTHEWS, of Penzance, was appointed clerk of the works.
There were fifteen candidates.
CAUTION TO PERSONS USING FIRE-ARMS. A few days since, a large party of
shooters were out in Goran, for the purpose of destroying foxes, which are rather plentiful
in the cliffs there. They started three, two of which were shot, and both by men who
could use only one arm. After their sport, they went to the Church-town, and whilst
there the son of MR. J. MICHELL, of Tregondean, who was giving a charge of shot out
of his belt to a friend, and set his gun down, with the muzzle resting by the side of his
breast, had a narrow escape from death. In that position the gun went off, when the
charge penetrated his shot belt, coat, waistcoat, and shirt, and passed under his arm,
which was fortunately raised in the act of taking out the shot; but strange to say, never
touched his skin. We cannot too strongly reprehend the custom of placing guns inclined
in this manner, and also of carrying them cocked; and we only wonder more serious
accidents do not oftener occur. We congratulate the young man on his narrow escape,
and hope it will make him very careful for the future.
ROBBERY. Early on Saturday morning last, the mill-house belonging to MR.
WILLIAM COURAGE, near Constantine Church-town was entered, and two bushels of
wheat and barley flour stolen. Half a bushel of wheat was also removed to some distance
from the house, but was found the next morning. The mill house adjoins the dwelling;
but he robbers' access was easy, as there was no lock on the door. No clue has been
obtained to the thieves.
DISGRACEFUL CONDUCT. On the night of Saturday last, about ten o'clock, when
the peaceable inhabitants of the villages of Carnhill, Wall, and other houses by the way
side between Carnhill and Fraddon, in the parish of Gwinear, were mostly retiring to their
beds, they were startled by the most horrid yells, screams of murder, and other frightful
sounds, apparently from the voice of a female in great distress, in a carriage driving at a
furious rate towards Camborne. Many left their homes in the greatest consternation, and
some one or two were bold enough to try to get near the carriage to ascertain the cause of
such alarm; but they were threatened to be shot by one of the party on nearer approach.
The terror occasioned was such, that many had sleepless hours, and some females of weak
nerves suffered severely from the fright they received. The public will hardly credit the
assertion, but true it is, that this "lark", or, in words more appropriate, this disgraceful
conduct, was acted by two respectable sprigs in a gig, going on to the neighbouring
town, who had been out all day on what is termed a spree, and were returning at night
spreading terror amongst a peaceable community. Their names are known, and will most
assuredly be exposed if such freaks are repeated. Such fictitious alarms will prevent any
notice been taken of real distress on the highway should such an event occur.
FOWL STEALING. Several farmers in the neighbourhood of Camelford having had
fowls stolen, the vigilant police officere of that district was desired to keep a good look
out. Accordingly, last week, he followed a woman, called PARSONS, from the parish of
Otterham with a basket, which she carried into a shop at Camelford, and, taking up the [basket?],
he saw nine fowls, nicely picked, except the heads. Knowing the woman to be a
suspicious character, he said he should detain the fowls, on which she coolly walked off.
Inquiry being made, a farmer from Egloskerry, who saw the fowls, stated that he could
make oath that three of them were his, from some peculiarity about the heads. A warrant
was consequently obtained, but the woman and her husband had left their residence, and
have not yet been found.
HELSTON POLICE. On Saturday last, four persons were apprehended on suspicion of
having attempted to pass counterfeit coin in the market. They were remanded until
Monday, when they were committed by GLYNN GRYLLS, Esq., Mayor, to take their
trials at the next quarter sessions for the borough. It is suspected that a gang of
accomplices have made their escape.
EXETER COURT OF BANKRUPTCY
Thursday, February 18
In re NICHOLAS TREVENEN HAWKE. The bankrupt, who had been a grocer at
Penzance, passed his last examination without opposition. Mr. STOGWIN, who
supported him, said he had not the means to apply for his certificate; but he was
endeavouring to get a situation, and would apply as soon as he was able. In the
meantime, he wished to have his protection enlarged.
His Honour - Are there any creditors who have not proved their debts, or from whom
you have anything to fear?
The bankrupt answered in the negative; but he wished to have the order of protection to
show that he was in the Court without any imputation on his character.
His Honour - That is not the object of the protection; it is intended not as a certificate of
your character, but to secure you against any proceedings from your creditors; and if there
are no creditors from whom you have anything to fear, there can be no use in the
protection.
[Order for enlarged protection denied]
28 FEBRUARY 1845, Friday
LOCAL INTELLIGENCE
THE RECTOR OF ST. COLUMB AND HIS PARISHIONERS - Our readers are
aware, from communications which have already, on more than one occasion, appeared in
our columns, that the REV. S. E. WALKER, rector of St. Columb, and the great body of
his parishioners, have long been at daggers drawn, in consequence of the Tractarian
fooleries which the reverent gentleman has introduced into the services of the church, and
the alterations he has taken upon himself to make in the interior of the sacred edifice, for
the purpose of adapting it to his popish notions of public worship. Private remonstrances
against these innovations were used by the more respectable and influential portion of the
parishioners in vain, the rector stating in answer to them that he was bound to obey the
orders of his diocese, and that as to the alteration in the church they had been done by the
churchwardens. As soon, however, as the bishop issued his letter, withdrawing his order
for the use of the surplice in the pulpit, the parishioners determined on holding a public
meeting, which accordingly took place on the 22nd of January last, and was attended by
every person of respectability in the parish, the churchwardens excepted. At this meeting
a number of resolutions were passed unanimously, embodying the grievances of the
parishioners, which were, in substance, as follows:
That since the commencement of his incumbency the Rev. S. E. Walker has gradually and
insidiously altered, changed, and perverted, the form and manner of the church service as
used during he lives of the late lamented rector and his predecessors, and introduced
novelties hitherto unknown in the parish, leading to the restoration of the service of the
Roman Catholic church - that he has introduced the sacring bell and ter sanctus before
the communion service, contrary to the usual form of worship in the Protestant church as
by law established - that in the churching of women after childbirth and other occasional
services of the church, he has sought to establish forms and ceremonies highly
objectionable and contrary to ancient usages and customs - that he has worn the surplice
in the pulpit instead of the gown as heretofore - that contrary to the usual custom of the
parish, he has caused the bell to be tolled before the solemnization of every marriage -
that instead of confining the offertory to the Sundays and other holidays on which the
Lord's supper is celebrated, he had introduced it on every Sunday throughout the year,
and has applied portions of the money so collected from pew to pew to extra-parochial
purposes.
SEASONABLE BENEVOLENCE - A few weeks ago, the REV. J. DAUBUZ, Rector
of Creed, distributed among the poor of Grampound, two tons of coals; and since that
time two tons more have been distributed among them, the expense of which was
defrayed by the subscriptions of the inhabitants.
TRIAL OF STEAMERS - On Thursday, the 20th instant, her Majesty's yacht the
"Victoria and Albert," the "Black Eagle," and the "Rattler," the latter fitted with the
Archimedear screw propeller, arrived at Falmouth, on their way to the Bay of Biscay, for
the purpose of proving their comparative speed. The squadron left Plymouth Sound
between one and two o'clock, and arrived at the entrance of Falmouth harbour about five
on the same afternoon. The "Rattler" made her appearance first, and was closely
followed by the royal yacht, the "Black Eagle" bringing up the rear. From the trials
which these vessels have already made in smooth water, and fine weather, there can be
little doubt that the "Rattler" will prove superior to the other vessels in a heavy sea, or a
strong breeze, notwithstanding the difference in tonnage and power being very much
against her. She is a very beautiful model, 196 feet in length, and is by far the finest
looking of the squadron. Capt. Sir. W. SYMONDS, surveyor of the navy, Mr. SMITH,
the inventor of the screw, and several other naval and scientific gentlemen accompany the
squadron, and it is expected they will remain at sea about five days. The United Service
Gazette says that on the passage from Portsmouth to Plymouth, the royal yacht beat the
"Black Eagle" by five miles, and the "Rattler" by ten miles.
PENZANCE - H.M. cutter "Sylvia" has claimed GBP 60 for the assistance she rendered
the schooner "Lord of the Isles" of Scilly, on the 2nd inst., and the underwriters, after
some demur, have paid the amount. One of the Mount boats, which also rendered
assistance, is to have GBP 15. The claim made by the "Sylvia" for assisting the
"Lockwoods" has been resisted by the underwriters, and a suit is now pending in the
Court of Admiralty.
TRURO POLICE - On Friday last, GEORGE KANINKE, an Irishman, was charged
with stealing a glass decanter, with a pint and half of brandy, from the Ship Inn, the
property of ELIZABETH JANE, and was committed to take his trial at the next assizes.
FALMOUTH POLICE - On Wednesday, last week, RALPH HENDERSON, master of
the brig "Emma" of Newcastle, was summoned for non-payment of pilotage. HENRY
WILLIAMS, pilot, stated that he hailed the brig to the westward of the Manacles; she
was lying to at the time; he (the pilot) directed the captain of the brig what course to
steer, and to follow him, which the captain did, and followed him into the harbour; and
he therefore claimed two guineas distance money. The captain of the brig said he spoke
to the pilot, and told him he should not pay him the distance money, but the pilot denied
it; when the magistrates, under all the circumstances said, the captain should pay one half
the amount claimed, to which the parties consented.
HELSTON POLICE - On Monday last, a man of the name of ELLIS was apprehended
and brought before the authorities of Helston, on a charge of having discharged a pistol at
a man called GAY, with intent to kill him. The ruffian, at the time, had his face
blackened, in consequence of which he could not be identified, and the case was
dismissed accordingly.
MORTALITY IN CORNWALL - From the last quarterly table of the mortality in a
number of the districts of England, we glean the following local statistics: In Redruth
district, the number of deaths in 1843 was 845, and in the autumn quarter of last year,
ending 31st of December, 310 - showing an excess of 45 over the average of the five
autumn quarters ending 31st of December, 1842. In Penzance district, the deaths in 1843
amounted to 996, and in the autumn of 1844 to 386, the latter being 108 above the
average of the five years. The following notes are subjoined to the returns: Redruth -
Mortality rather above the average, but the district is comparatively healthy. Gwennap
and Illogan - Hooping-cough and measles have been prevalent. Camborne - the deaths
are three below the average of the corresponding quarters of the last six years. Penzance
- the deaths are rather more than the average, owing to the effects of measles and
hooping-cough, which were also prevalent during the preceding quarter. St. Buryan - the
deaths are two more than the corresponding quarter of 1843 - the total number registered
is fifteen; there is but one above twenty years, and the district is healthy at present. St.
Ives - Deaths above the average, owing to the continuance of hooping-cough and
measles; the deaths from other diseases are below average. Uny Lelant - Measles,
hooping-cough, and typhus have been very prevalent this quarter, and have caused an
increase of eight above the last, and forty-nine on the corresponding quarter of 1843, but
the district appears more healthy at present. No other returns from this county are given.
CORONERS' INQUESTS - On Friday last, an inquest was held before Mr. GILBERT
HAMLEY, deputy coroner, at Bodmin, on the body of LOUISA BABBAGE. It
appeared that the deceased, an interesting girl fifteen years old, lived with her brother-in-
law, Mr. CHARLES PEARSE, in Bodmin. On the evening previous to her death, she
complained of having a sick head-ache, and was advised by Mrs. PEARSE to go to bed,
which she did. She continued very sick all the night, and the following morning Mrs.
Pearse sent for an emetic, which was given her. It caused great sickness about ten
minutes after it was taken; after which, deceased fell into a sound sleep. The servant was
sent into her room almost every five minutes to see how she was, and thinking her asleep,
did not go near the bed for fear of waking her. She went up about two o'clock to take up
the carpets, and listened to perceive if deceased was still asleep; she went over to the bed,
and not hearing her breathe, became frightened, and hastened for her mistress, who
immediately came and found she was dead. MR. PEARSE, the druggist, stated that he
was called upon for an emetic on Thursday morning, and having asked the age of the
person for whom it was intended, sent ten grains of ipeda...ous, which was a small dose,
twenty grains being generally used. MR. MUDGE, surgeon, stated that he was sent for
on Thursday to come and see Louisa Babbage. When he arrived, he found life extinct.
Having been informed of the history of the case, and judging from what he had heard, he
had no hesitation in saying that she died of apoplexy, caused by the rupture of a blood
vessel in the head. Verdict accordingly.
On Saturday, Mr. Gilbert HAMLEY held an inquest at St. Dennis, on the body of ANN
GRIGG. It appeared that the deceased, sixteen years old, being left in the house with
two children, during the absence of her mother, caught her clothes on fire, and ran
immediately out of doors. The wind being very high, she was burnt in such a manner that
she survived the injury but a very short time. The dress, as usual, was of cotton. The
coroner had some neighbours called in, and strongly advised them not to purchase in
future any cotton dresses for their children, telling them that, in all probability, if the poor
girl had been clad in a stuff dress, which would not be more expensive, she would not
have lost her life. Verdict, accidental death.
On Monday last, an inquest was held before JOS. HAMLEY, Esq., at St. Blazey, on the
body of ANN CARNE, wife of a miner, who died suddenly. She had been as well as
usual, but suddenly complained of pain in her head; a neighbour came in, put her to bed,
and gave her some tea; but on going into her room a short time afterwards, found her in a
dying state. A surgeon came within five minutes, but she was dead before he arrived.
Verdict, visitation of god.
On the following day, before the same coroner, at St. Neot, on the body of JAMES
THOMAS, a child of a miner, burnt to death by its clothes taking fire. The mother had
gone to Liskeard, leaving deceased and other children in the care of her sister, who went
into an adjoining house for a short time. Two minutes after she left, she heard a shriek,
and running back, met the child coming out of the door in flames. The neighbours put
out the fire immediately, but she died from the injury in a few hours. Verdict, accidental
death. [tr: definitely says 'she died', but name given was James]
On Monday last, an inquest was held on the boy of CHARLES GREEN, aged thirteen
years, before J. CARLYON, Esq., coroner, at the Globe Inn, Truro. EDWARD
BARTLETT, a tin-plate worker, and a cousin of the deceased, stated that on the 3rd of
January last, THOMAS SECCOMB came into his (witness's) father's shop, whilst he and
deceased were there. A few minutes afterwards, whilst deceased was stooping to pick up
a bit of tin, Seccomb went behind him, and taking hold of both his ears, lifted him nearly
off the ground; and whilst he struggled to escape, gave him a push in the back with his
knee, and pushed him forward. Seccomb afterwards let go his ears, when he ran out of
the shop, rubbed his back against the wall, and began to cry. He then called Seccomb by
a nick name, and ran off; Seccomb ran after him, but witness did not think he caught him.
There was no provocation at the time, nor did Seccomb appear to be in a passion.
Believed deceased, like other boys in the town, had called Seccomb by a nick-name
before, for which the latter threatened to punish him. He looked very red in the face
whilst Seccomb held him by the ears, but there was no appearance of blood flowing.
ELIZABETH GREEN, mother of the deceased, stated that on her return from Redruth
market, in the evening of the 3rd of January last, her son complained of a pain in his back,
and went early to bed. Next morning he got up and went to Truro market, but
complained so much that she sent him home to bed again. Next day, he still complained,
and the day after she sent for Mr. TRURAN, surgeon. He was carried up to bed that
evening, where he remained until he died. His nose began to bleed on the 4th, and that
continued on and off until the following Tuesday. On asking what was the matter with
him, he said Seccomb had "heaved" him by the head, and given him a push in the back
with his knee. Seccomb had told witness once or twice, that if she did not punish her boy
for calling him nick-names, he would. She therefore spoke to her boy, and he promised
not to repeat the offence. Met Seccomb four or five days after he had ill-used deceased,
and told him he had murdered her child; he said he did not mean to hurt him. Deceased
was in general very healthy, but subject to a running of the ears, which ceased after he
took to his bed.
MARY ANN GREEN, sister of deceased, spoke as to the apparent illness of the
deceased when he came home on the 3rd of January. He complained to his mother of a
pain in the back.
THOMAS TRURAN, surgeon, said, that on the 7th of January last, he found deceased
labouring under symptoms similar to those of ordinary fever in a mild form. Some days
afterwards he complained of his back, which witness then examined, but perceived no
marks of external injury. The pain increased, and a collection of matter formed, which
witness opened at the proper time, and a large quantity of pus came out. All requisite
means were adopted to maintain his strength, but they failed, and he died on Saturday
evening last. A post mortem examination was made by witness, assisted by DR.
BARHAM, and MR. H. ANDREW, when various abscesses were found containing
matter, but no injury clearly referable to any external violence, and nothing to forbid the
conclusion that death might have arisen from natural causes. Verdict, natural death.
On the 13th inst., an inquest was held by W. HICHENS, Esq., Coroner, in the parish of
Sancreed, on the body of a child of the age of six years, named MARTIN ROW
TONKIN, whose death was produced by fright, occasioned by a dog having been set on
him a few days before by a young man of the name of FRANCIS OLIVER. The inquiry
stood over by adjournment to the 21st, in order that MR. ARTHUR BERRYMAN, of
Penzance, surgeon, might make a post mortem examination; and on that day, the jury
returned a verdict of manslaughter against Oliver, who has in consequence thereof been
committed to Bodmin, to take his trial at the approaching assizes.
LEGAL INTELLIGENCE - Exeter District Bankruptcy Court
In re JOHN PERRY - The insolvent, who was an inn-keeper of Helston, in Cornwall,
came up on his examination, supported by Mr. LAIDMAN, and opposed by Mr.
MOORE, for Messrs. Hart, wine merchants, of Waterlane, London, on the ground of
vexatious defence. Mr. Hart had brought an action against him for goods supplied; and he
had set up a plea of "not indebted," had made several applications to the Judge in
chambers for further particulars, and had entered into negotiation for a compromise, all,
as he said, to gain time that he might come into the Bankruptcy Court. The object of the
examination was to prove that he concealed from Mr. Hart his insolvent condition up to
the last moment. The case was adjourned.