The following newspaper cuttings were copied from the scrap book of William Robert Richards, born in Martock September 2nd 1869, died January 9th 1957. He was a son of Thomas Wilce Richards and Eliza Ware and married Annie Blanche Bartlett 29th November 1902 in Broadway, Ilminster. After living in Martock they moved to Langport.

Some of the articles have dates, most have not, but they probably all refer to the last twenty years of the 19th century. The cutting of the marriage of uncle William Richards to Phillippa Francis in Tintinhull is from 1861, before William Robert was even born.

These articles are not a huge database full of names, some of them do not have any at all, but to me genealogy is more than just names and dates, and maybe other people want a taste of the atmosphere in those days as well.( though some things do not seem to change at all!)

If you do find the name of one of your ancestors, you might regret you did! You will start wondering and wanting to find out about the inheritability of aneurism of the aorta, criminal behaviour, suicidal tendencies, not to mention indecent behaviour on the sands!I hope it does not stop you from reading!

Marijke Huysse

Information on the Richards’ from Martock would be most appreciated, please email my address as shown on the previous page.

MARTOCK

Wanted a cook.–For a Bachelor’s household. Weight about 7 stone, height 5 feet, waist 24 inches, age under 30.–Apply in first instance to J.H.Smith, North Street, Martock.

March 14-1861

March 14th, at Tintinhull, Wm.,eldest son of Mr. Wm. Richards, confectioner, Martock, to Phillippa, daughter of the late Hugh Francis, Esq., of Tintinhull.

   Drunk Whilst in Charge.— Guy Barrington, of Langport, was summoned for being drunk whilst in charge of horse and trap.— Mr. J.Trevor-Davies represented the defendant, and pleaded guilty.— P.S.Berry was on duty on the road between Stapleton Cross and Long Load when he heard a trap coming towards him. The constable stood in by the side of the road, and on the conveyance making its appearance he saw a man in a very intoxicated condition. Berry found pursuit out of the question, and accordingly went to Langport the day following, when he saw the defendant.— Fined £1 and costs.

June 8-1872

funeral of the late john wood, esq.

   The remains of this lamented gentleman were interred in the family vault in Martock churchyard on Saturday last.

   The deceased gentleman, as we announced in our obituary last week, died in London, where he had gone for medical advice. He had for some time past suffered from an internal disease, and, upon the recommendation of Dr. Adams, consulted Sir Henry Thompson. An operation was performed, and he appeared to gain in health very rapidly. Sir Henry Thompson wrote to Dr. Adams stating how well his patient was getting on, and expressing a hope that he would be able to return home on the following week. Mr. Wood, however, had a relapse, and died somewhat suddenly on Sunday, the 2nd of June. The suddenness of his death caused a very painful feeling in Martock, where the deceased had for so many years resided, and great sympathy is felt for Mrs. Wood and her sons— Mr. Pendarvis and Mr. Augustus Wood.

 The body was sent from London on Wednesday and arrived at Martock the same evening. It was conveyed to the house in a hearse. The body was enclosed in a shell, which was also enclosed in a  massive lead coffin. The outer coffin was of oak, covered with black cloth. The ornaments were very plain and simple. Upon the breastplate the following was engraved:—

                         John Wood,

                  Died 2nd June, 1872,

                        Aged 70 years.

   Saturday was one of the most miserable June days ever remembered. Rain poured down in streams and the wind blew and howled with November violence. The funeral was fixed for one o’clock, but it was delayed for some time owing to the non-arrival of the Rev. E.A.Salmon, who came from Bath expressly to officiate. The shops were closed during the whole of the morning and the blinds of the windows in every house drawn down.

   The funeral started from the house about a quarter to two—the body being born upon an oak bier by the servants of the family. Upon the procession arriving at the gates it was met by about sixty inhabitants of the town and neighbourhood. The procession then moved on in the following order:—

   F.M.Eastment, Esq., H.A.Richards, Esq., Rev. G.H.Cossins, Rev. V.P.Sells, Messrs. Thomas Dight, Joseph Pool, Mark Dight, W.Bishop, A.Patch, F.Gillett, R.Hill, J.Richards, T.M.Walker, R.Tullidge, J.Marsh, F.S.Banfield, R.Ware, J.Banfield, J.Stower, Joseph Bishop, W.Snell, R.W.Martin, W.W.Westcott, W.Gould, J.Hart, J.Viney, John Hayson, Geo. Cribb, T.Podger, Nosworthy, S.Darby, William Adams, J.Sandiford, Wm. Barber, F. Ash, T.W.Richards, George Bull, James Pulman, J.Talbot, Josiah Lock, T.B.Lock, M.T.Ring, W.Passley, J.Baker, J.Pottinger, George Hayes, E.Dight, James Pool, William Bicknell, Morey, W.Sparrow, W.Palmer, S.Tatchell, Franks,

 Welman, William Worner  

    J. T. Nicholetts,Esq.    Rev. E.A.Salmon,     Dr. Adams

                        Mr. Rodford       Mr.T.Hooper          Mr.G.Ralph

                               Mr. Ware, undertaker

            BEARERS:                The                    BEARERS:

       James Andrews          B           John Burgess

    John Chappell,sen.          O          Thomas Jeans

    Alfred Chappell                 D          John Chappell, jun.

    John Garland                Y          James Richards

                               Mourners:

            W.G.Pendarvis, Esq.   A.Wood, Esq

         J.Stusley, Esq.  T.Warry,Esq.   V.Stuckey, Esq.

   Although rain was falling heavily, a great number of people asembled to witness the ceremony. The Rev. E.A.Salmon met the procession at the entrance to the churchyard and commenced reading the burial services. In the interior of the church the usual portion of the service was read, and at its conclusion Mr. Nosworthy, the organist, played the “Dead March,” in “Saul,” very effectively. The concluding portion of the service was read at the grave  . The lowering of the coffin, owing to its immense weight, was attended with considerable difficulty, but with the assistence of Mr. Ware it was at length got into position.

   Mr. James Ware, of Martock, was the undertaker, and the arrangements were carried out very efficiently.

   The procession then re-formed and returned to the house. The inhabitants intend to present an address of condolence to Mrs. Wood and her sons expressive of their sympathy with them under their bereavement.

February 18-1884

                        MARTOCK.

   Sad Fatal Accident.— On Monday evening, as Mr. Lock, jun., of Stapleton Cross, was returning home from Yeovil on horseback, his horse suddenly swerved at a crossroad when about a mile from home, throwing its rider to the ground with great force. The accident was witnessed by Police-Sergeant Clark, who at once went to the assistance of Mr. Lock. The poor fellow, however, was unconscious, and died shortly afterwards. The event cast much gloom over the neighbourhood.

July 28-1888

DEATHS        

July 22, at Seavington St.Michael , Mr. Thomas Brice, aged 70.

July 26, Mr.J.P.Gibbs, of the Dolphin Hotel, Langport, in his 41st year

SOMERSET’S FAMOUS FIRST WICKET.

As a Somerset’s sportsman, I am naturally proud of the cricket record for the first wicket made by H.T.Hewett and L.C.H.Palairet, against Yorkshire, at Taunton, in 1892. The latter county had made 299 in their first venture, and the two gentlemen mentioned, opening Somerset’s first innings, were not separated till 346 runs had been signalled―Hewett 214, Palairet 132 not out―wiping out most effectually the record-stand for the first wicket of 283 by W.G.Grace and B.B.Cooper at the Oval in July, 1869.

April 4-1889

                        MARTOCK.

                             funeral of mr. j.poole.

   The funeral of Mr. J.Poole, of Coat, whose death we announced last week, took place in Martock Churchyard on Wednesday afternoon. Every respect to the memory of one so esteemed and beloved was shown by the towns people, business being entirely suspended during the early part of the afternoon. The Union Jack floated at half-mast at the Liberal Hall. The funeral cortège was a most imposing one. The number of gentlemen who preceded the hearse was estimated at 200, and double that number was present during the service at the church and at the grave-side. The procession was formed near the railway station at about half-past 12, and having been joined by the hearse and mourning-coaches proceeded to  the church by way of North Street, &c. It was headed by Dr. Adams and Major Wilkie, who were followed by the following guardians and officials of the Yeovil Union:— Lieut.-Col. Harbin ( vice-chairman), the Rev. L.H.P.Morris, Dr. Aldridge, Messrs. C.Trask, Wm. Raymond, W.P.Peters, J.Feaver, C.D.Gawler, A.Symes, A.B.Hull, W.Cox, J.C.Hallett, D.Brake, O.J.Rowles, S.Marsh, W.H.Hussey, and S.Hodder, the Rev. J.B.Hyson (chaplain), Mr. J.E.Rodber ( clerk), Mr.J.A.Y.Golledge and Mr. J.Woodman (relieving officers), and Mr. Wilton (Master of the House). Then came about 150 tradesman &c. including the following:— Messrs. W.Sparrow, Colin Harding, (Montacute), S.Cross (Yeovil), J.Corrie (Yeovil), Robt. Ware, Barber (Yeovil), T. Vaughan, M.A.Palmer, — Lewis, Wlter Palmer, W.Barber, J.Chubb, T.M.Walker, W.Leach, J.Banfield, G.Gould, J.Hunt, W., J., and A.Worner, G.Vaux, T.W.Richards, H.Hawkins (Ash), W. and H.Pasley, S.D.Richards, E.Sherrin, T.B. and H.Ring, H.Johnson, E.Head, W.Coussins, H.Sparrow, J.Willies, T.Tapp, R.Best, W.Rossiter, J.Stower, S.Lye, H.Rathers, J.Marsh, S.Dyer, W.S.Spiller, A.Isaac, B.Collings,— Tucker,— Mallard, J.Wills, W.Walker, W.G.Bull, W.B.Leach, J.Lock, H.Farrant, T.B.Lock, G.Gale, H.Griffin, W.Wheller, H.Banfield, J.H.Symes, W.Lye, S.Tatchell, G.Salisbury, J.Lock, J.Bicknell, W.White, J.Glover, J.Tatchell, J.Pottenger, R.Clarke, T.Perrin, E.Salisbury, E.Richards, J.Viney, — Day.J.Richards, L.Inder, F.Gatehouse, W.Baldwin, W.Hopkins, J.Sawtell (Yeovil), &c., &c. The hearse was an open one and displayed the coffin of polished oak with brass fittings , the breast-plate bearing the inscription:—

                        Joseph Poole.

                                 Born

         26th February, 1823.

                    Died

             4th April, 1889.

   About 50 beautiful wreaths and crosses were placed upon the coffin. Amongst them was one each of the following:— Mrs. Poole and daughters (Grace and Kate), Joseph and Emma Poole, Herbert and Jane, Mrs. George Harding, Mr. and Mrs. Hayne, Yeovil; G. and C.Harding, London; W. and M.Darby, Seavington, Mrs. Darby, Hinton St. George; Mrs. Leach, Seaton; Darby family, at Bower Hinton; grandchildren at Yeovil; Gillett family, Mrs. Symes and family, of Coat; Tom and Charlie Gillett, Richard and Sarah Hayne, Yeovil; H. and J.Bartlett, Yeovil;Mr. and Mrs. Glover, Kingsbury; the Rev. and Mrs. A.P.Wickham, the Rev. Preb. And Mrs. Salmon, Weston-super-Mare; Mr. W.R.Phelips, Montacute House; Mr. W.P.Peters, Mr. and Mrs. J.Bradford, Penn House, Yeovil; J.Roberts, Preston; Miss Tucker, Mrs. Conway, and Mrs. Sherston, Messrs. Way and Nutt, Martock; Mr. J.E.Rodber, Yeovil; &c. The bearers were employees of Messrs. Poole and Gillett. The mourning coaches contained the following:—

   1st Carriage: Mr. J.Pool (son), Mr. R.Hayne, Mr. W.Darby, and Mr. R.Symes.

   2nd Carriage: Mr. H.Bartlett, Mr. Geo. Harding, Mr. Gillett, and Mr. S.Darby.

   3rd Carriage: Mr. W.Darby, Mr. H.Pool, and Mr. T.Pool.

   The cortege was met at the south entrance to the Church by the Vicar (the Rev. A.P.Wickham), the Curate (the Rev. J.Harrison), and the full surpliced choir. The opening sentences of the burial service were here pronounced by the Vicar, and as the mourners, &c., took up their places in the nave of the building, the “Dead March” in Saul was played by the organist (Mr. H.Drew). The church was rapidly filled.Psalm xc. was chanted, and this was followed by the reading of I. Cor., xv. 20. Afterwards the hymn “ Brief life is here our Portion” was sung, and the cortege then proceeed by way of the west door to the grave-side. “ I know that my Remeeder liveth” being played meanwhile. The ceremony here was also conducted by the Vicar, the responses taken up by the choir, who very impressively sang the hymn:—

                        “ On the Resurrection morning

                           Soul and body meet again.”

The coffin was lowered into the grave by six choristers, this being a pretty remembrance of the deceased’s connection with the church as warden. A large crowd of towns-people surrounded the grave. The ringers rang muffled peals, under the direction of their foreman, Mr. J.Burgess.

   The undertakers were Messrs. Way and Nutt, the arrangements being very satisfactorily carried out under the superintendence of Mr. O.E.Nutt. The coffin was made by Mr. J.Pasley, and Mr. J.Wheller built the brick grave.                        

October 20-1893

( Letter to the Editor)    

SIR,― A queer story, relative to our Ploughing Match, which took place here last Thursday, has reached my ears, which, if, true, requires some explanation. It is to the effect that a wealthy and influential subsriber to the funds of the Association allowed men in his employ to compete for some of the prizes, which they succeeded in winning, and, as a reward for their cleverness, on Saturday, when they came to draw their week’s wages, were mulcted in a shilling for the half day they were away at the Ploughing Match. If this is a fact I think it is one of the most ingenerous thing I have heard of for a long time, and an act calculated to bring these meetings into disrepute.―Yours truly,  FAIR PLAY

January 29-1894

SOUTH PETHERTON   

Horse Racing on the Sabbath Day

(Letter to the Editor)

Sir,–Will you kindly insert in your paper so as to inform the public what happened in one of the country villages between Ilminster and South Petherton on the 21st inst. Two well-known horsemen who I will call Fred Archer and Tiny Wells made up a race for £1, from Tiny’s house to Cart Gate(on the Ilchester road),and back to the starting point.The race was to commence at nine a.m. Fred went home on the Saturday night, cleaned, watered and corned his horse, and went to bed. He was up early the next morning and at the starting point at nine a.m., with one stirrup six inches longer than the other. The words were given, “Are you ready?” Archer was to have five minutes start, and by all accounts took the wrong road, which brought him to the Hinton Sheepwash, thence to Lopen Flour Mills, where he asked for a drink and ordered a sack of meal to be sent on at once as he was going to win a pound. Starting from there he called at the King William, but found no admission, then to the Crown, and on to Lopen Head Inn, to Stratton, and through Chiselborough and Norton, where he enquired the way to Cart Gate. He was directed to Holy Tree Cross and in the straight road that leads to Cart Gate, he says he touched the gate and returned as quickly as possible, but a long time after his opponent, who was back in time to hear part of the church service.

Archer missed the way coming back, and got to Seavington, washed his horse’s legs in the pond, called for 3d of whiskey to be paid for on the Monday morning, and then rode away over the hills to his home, which he reached by dinner time.    A LOOKER ON.

January 29-1894

MERRIOTT    

FUNERAL OF THE LATE MR. B.B.NORTON.

The remains of this respected gentleman were interred in the parish churchyard on Monday afternoon. The funeral was of a simple character, in keeping with the deceased’s unostentations bearing. Deceased was well known throughout the West of England, and was renowned  for his probity and straightforward business relationships. He had filled most of the parochial offices of Merriott, and took his full share in the affairs of the parish. The cortege started from deceased’s late residence in the following order:―Messrs C E Alford and F E Swabey leading the way, succeeded by Messrs H E Whitley, Read, R Marks, J E French, Norman, S Newick, J Wheatley, T Palmer, junr, undertaker, and Rowsell, coffin builder; the hearse containing the body, which was enclosed in a massive oak coffin, with brass furniture, on the breastplate being engraved―”Benjamin B Norton, died 22nd January, 1894, aged 67.” The mourners, in three coaches, namely Messrs A Norton, brother; George Carey, Denis Rumsby, Mrs Norton’s son; Wm. Brooks Norton, Joseph Norton, Robt Norton, Arthur Norton, Benjmain George Norton , Robert Norton, Benjamin Norton, John Norton, and Joseph Shutler, nephews. The blinds of the houses en route were drawn as the procession passed. The funeral service was conducted by the Rev S C Percival―the first portion taking place in the church. The grave is situated on the east side of the church. The coffin was covered with wreaths from the widow, from his brother and family, and from B G Norton. The death of the deceased has removed a prominent figure in the parish and one whose loss will not be easy to supply.

February 1-1894

MARTOCK                 

Horticultural Society.–A dinner in connection with this Society was held at the White Hart Hotel on Thursday evening. Over 40 persons accepted the invitation of the Society, including the following:– Rev A P Wickham, Dr Adams, Messrs J W B Leach, H B Ring, R Ware, W J Darby, J Hebditch, J H Smith, H H Sparrow, W Lye, A T Stacey(Merriot), Sargent, H Johnson, G Harding,

Jos. Pool, Sutton(2), A Isaac, W Isaac, H Culliford, J R Lemon, W Gilliard, F Gilliard, Peddle, Banfield, J Chubb, W Chubb, F Alexander, W Passley, Ware Richards, T Tapp, J H E Willies, H Willies, E J Williams, Yard, L Inder, J Lawrence jun., S Best, Tucker, Harrison(West Coker), and S R Darby, hon.treas. and sec. The dinner table was nicely decorated with flowers and plants in pots, kindly lent by Messrs. Scott, of the Merriot Nurseries.The chair was taken by the president of the Society ( Rev A P Wickham), Dr. Adams occupying the vice-chair. A capital dinner was provided by Miss Milton, manageress. After the removal of the cloth, the Chairman gave the toast of “The Royal Family,”  which was received with musical honours. Dr Adams gave “The Bishop and Clergy of the Diocese and Ministers of all Denominations.”  The Rev Mr Wickham responded, and alluded to the Bishop of the Diocese as an ardent horticulturist, who sent a magnificent stand of cut chrysanthemum blooms to the Society’s Show in the autumn of 1892. He then gave the toast of “The Army and Navy,” to which Messrs J Hebditch and W J Darby responded. The toast of the evening, “The Horticultural Society,” was given by the Vice-Chairman, who spoke of the very successful way the show had been managed. Messrs J W B Leach and W Lye responded. The Chairman then gave “The Judges,” to which Mr Stacey (Merriot Nurseries) and Mr J Hebditch replied. The Chairman gave the toast of “The Hon Secretary and Treasurer,” which was heartily received. Mr S R Darby, in replying, thanked them for their kind reception of the toast. He said the Society had now become affiliated with the Royal Horticultural Society, and he had applied for and obtained that Society’s Banksian Medal for the cottagers’ section of the show.  He hoped the show would be well supported in the future. The following toasts were also given:–“The Chairman,” “Vice-Chairman,” “Town and Trade,” to which Messrs H H Sparrow, J H E Willies, Ware, and Richards responded; “ The Visitors,” for which Mr George Harding replied; “The Ladies,” given by Mr H H Ring, Mr H H Sparrow responding; “The Hostess,” given by Mr Joseph Pool, Mr H B Ring responding. During the evening some capital songs were sung by Messrs H Culliford, W Lye, A T Stacey, W J Darby, J Hebditch, J W B Leach, G Harding,J H E Willies, &co.

February 1-1894

SAD DEATH OF MR W G SMITH.  

A gloom was cast over the town on Sunday, when it became known that Mr W G Smith, draper, had died suddenly. From enquiries it seems clear that death resulted from poison self-administered, and during the absence of his wife and family at church. On Mrs Smith’s arrival home she found her husband in bed, and although he was then alive he was suffering intense agony, and a note left near at hand showed the cause of his illness. Dr Alford was at once summoned, and on his arrival, seeing the seriousness of the case, he went for Dr Webber and Dr Cave, both of whom came. Although the utmost medical skill could do was applied, it was unavailing, and death resulted about a quarter to two, to the intense grief of his widow and family and to the deep regret of a very large circle of friends and acquaintances. 

April 19-1895

Football Club Dinner.― To close the football season, after a friendly match between teams captained by Mr. G.A.Cox and Mr. T.Hayman on Wednesday afternoon, a dinner was held at the Langport Arms Hotel, under the presidency of Francis Meade, when the catering of Mr. and Mrs. Barling gave the utmost satisfaction. A large company of members and friends were present.― The usual toasts were duly honoured, “ Success to the Football Club” being proposed by the Chairman in appropiate terms, Messrs. Burmingham (the hon.sec.), Cox, and Hayman responding. ― Some capital songs were sung during the evening by Messrs. Guy Barrington, G.A.Cox, Meredith, J.F.Cox, W.Rowe, and Dennett. ― The trio, “ Ye shepherds, tell me,” was sung by Messrs. G.A.Cox, C.Morris, and J.F.Cox, ― A very pleasant evening was spent. ― The match in the afternoon was won by Mr. G.A.Cox’s team by four tries to two.

April 20-1895

MARTOCK     

   PRIMROSE  DAY was well observed here, a large number of people wearing the deceased statesman’s favourite flower.

   SWINE  FEVER ― On Saturday 27 pigs belonging to Mr.Burge were slaughtered under the swine fever regulations as being affected or in contact with others suffering from swine fever. Several others supposed cases have also been reported by the police during the past week.

    CHURCH  FINANCES AND  OFFICIALS. ― The Easter vestry was attended by the Rev. A.P.Wickham(chairman), Dr. J.D.Adams, Dr.Patrick, Major Symons, Messrs. T.W.Richards, J.H.Smith, H.B.Ring, J.Sandiford, A.W.Philpott and S.R.Darby.― The statement of accounts,which showed a small balance due to the churchwardens, was read by Mr.Richards, and passed.― The church officials were unanimously re-elected as follow:― Dr. J.D.Adams, Vicar’s churchwarden; Mr. T.W.Richards, parish churchwarden; Mr. C.W.Drew, organist; Mr. Eli Staple, organ blower; and Mr. Fred Pipe, sexton. The sidesmen were reappointed, with the addition of Mr. F.Gillet, jun., in place of Mr. J.W.B.Leach, who had left the neighbourhood.

   PRIMROSE  LEAGUE.― The annual meeting of the local branch was held in the Public Hall on Friday. The business part of the meeting was held at seven o’ clock. Mrs. Wilkie, Ruling Councillor, presided. There were also present Mesdames Symons, Phillips, Brown, Misses Richards, Huttonpot, Gale, Rodford, Harding, Tapp, Clarke, Lye &c., Major Wilkie and Symons, Drs. Patrick, Walter, and Nichols, Messrs. Ring, W.W.Adams, Duddridge, H.Gale, W.Lye, Franks, Strickland, Tapp, R.Haysom, and others, with the Rev. H.J.Phillips, hon. Secretaty.― The Ruling Councillor announced the receipt of a telegram from Mr. H.G.Turner, Unionist candidate for the division, who was to have been present, stating that influenza prevented the attending.― The Secretary’s and Treasurer’s reports were read and adopted.― The Treasurer stated that they still had a good balance in hand.― The following orders were then presented:― Rev. H.J.Phillips, 2nd Order of the Grand Star; Mr. H.B Ring, 1st Order of the Grand Star. Special service clasps were awarded the following:― Mrs. Symons, Misses G. Richards and K. Harding, and Messrs. J.B.Passley nd Eli Brown. Special service bars were also awarded to Mrs. Oxenbury, Miss K.Taylor, and Mr.H. Eves. The various officers of the League were re-appointed, with the following alterations or additions:― Mr. G.Duddridge to the Executive Council, and Major Wilkie and Dr. Walter as delegates to the Grand Council.― A hearty vote of thanks to Mrs.Wilkie for presiding closed the meeting.― A dance took place afterwards, which was fairly well attended. The League is in a very satisfactory position, and has increased largely during the past year.

May 4-1895

ACCIDENT     

We regret to state that a rather serious accident happened to Mr H W Richards, of Brakely Villas, Crewkerne. He was returning from Beaminster , on Thursday evening, and in rounding the corner at the Misterton old Turnpike gate house the pony he was driving shied. The suddenness of the jerk threw him out into the road, and he fell on his head. He sustained a severe blow on the forehead and injuries to the eye and face. Although much shaken, Mr Richards was able to walk to the Swann Inn  and Mr Newman drove him to his home, where he received the attention of Mr C E Alford. Happily no bones were broken and he is now going on favourably.

May 14-1895

Ploughing on a Sunday. ― He Forgot the Day.―

At Southmolton County Petty Sessions Samuel Setters, labourer, of Charles, was charged with working at his ordinary calling upon the Lord’s Day by ploughing by a team of horses, such work not being necessary or charitable.― The offence took place on April 21st, when P.C.Butt saw defendant, who told him he had been at work that morning and had ploughed half an acre of ground.― Defendant said on the morning in question he got up early and went to plough as usual, and came back to breakfast. He did not know it was Sunday morning until his wife told him. He should have gone to work again if his wife had not reminded him. He did it quite unintentionally.― The Bench fined defendant 2s 6d and costs.

WESTON POLICE COURT

Tuesday. ― Before Messrs. H.Pethick, C.Brown, and S.Harvey.

   Henry Stock, who has four times been charged with like offences, was charged with indecent behaviour on the sands on October 7.

   Marmaduke Wood, gentleman, of Burnham, was charged that on the 29th September he did feloniously steal and carry away from the premises of Jonas House, a goose, of the value of 6s. Mr.F.W.Bishop appeared for the defence. Henry Amesbury, farmer, of Bleadon, said on the 29th September, between 2.30.and 3 p.m., he was upstairs when he saw two gentlemen drive up the house in a pony and trap. Prisoner was one of them. He heard them ask his father whether he had any rabbit shooting on the hill. Witness’s father replied that he had not and one of the men then enquired the selling price of some geese which were in the orchard.They were told 5s a piece. They then said they were going to Weston and should be back between five and six p.m.in the evening. They thereupon drove away. Witness added that they bought two geese.They returned at 10.5 p.m., witness then being in bed. He did not see them, but he could swear to the voices. They came into the house and enquired of witness’s father where the geese were. He told them they were in a bag in the cow-house. Cross-examined by Mr. Bishop― The other gentleman asked questions as to the geese, but Wood occasionally spoke. Arthur Bailey, dairyman, of the Queen’s Arms Inn, Bleadon, deposed that on September 29th,at about 10.30 p.m., he met prisoner and another gentleman driving in a trap.Wood, who was driving, pulled up oppositeMr. House’s and enquired of witness what time the “pubs” closed in the village. Witness told hin 10 o’clock and they then enquired what the time was. He replied that he did not know and walked on. After proceeding about 200 yards, he saw prisoner get out of the trap and hold the pony whilst his companion stepped out of the trap on to the wall, and from thence into the place where the geese were. He heard the birds crying and as he walked on he heard one bird cry as if it had been caught. Crossexamined by Mr. Bishop― The gentleman appeared to be rather drinky; they were jolly enough. It was a bright night, and he saw no donkey in the roadway. He did not hear the trap collide with anything, neither did he hear either of the men say he had hurt one of the geese. He had not seen Wood from the Sunday until the day in court. He did not see Wood at the Queen’s Hotel that morning. By the bench― The reason he did not go back to the prisoner when he heard the geese cry, was because he thought they were doing it for a lark. George Cook, farmer, of Shiplett, said on Sunday, the 29th inst., at 10.30 p.m., he was driving from Berrow to Shiplett, and just before he arrived at prosecutor’s house, he heard the geese making a great noise. He saw prisoner holding the pony, and another gentleman over the wall, in the field, with a goose in his arms. The other birds were flying towards the orchard as if they had been frightened. Witness  drove on quietly and overtook Bailey. Cross-examined by Mr. Bishop― He did not know that the goose was injured, and he did not pull up and enquire what was the matter. What was done by the prisoner and his companion was done quite openly, but the man with the goose stood still under  the hedge, whilst witness was passing. He did not hear him say that the goose was injured. By the Bench― Wood had been pointed out to him that morning, Jonas House, farmer, of Lympsham, said on the 27th September he had 17 geese in a paddock by the side of the road, but on the 2nd inst. he missed one of the birds. He valued it at 6s. Cross-examined by Mr. Bishop― He knew prisoner and did not think he would do such a thing maliciously. Mr. Bishop next enquired wether prosecutor would be willing to drop the case if he were allowed to do so. Supt Balkwill protested and said in all his experience he had never known such a question put to a witness at that stage of the proceedings. The Bench, however, supported Mr. Bishop, and prosecutor replied in the affirmative. Ernest E. Lawrence, landlord of the Railway-hotel, Burnham, stated that on the 29th September prisoner and another gentleman came to his place at about 11.30 p.m. They had three geese, and they killed one of the bitds the same night as it was injured. The other two were put in the stable. Witness killed them on different days and sent them to Capt Morgan. Cross-examined by Mr. Bishop― Prisoner was a gentleman of position and means and Mr. Vincent Stuckey was his uncle. Capt. Morgan was also a man of means. By the Bench― They ate the goose that was killed on the Sunday on the following Wednesday. P.C.Palfrey proved the arrest of the prisoner, who said he had an accident on the road, and drove over a donkey and a goose. Two of the geese, he said, they bought, and the one they drove over, they ate at the hotel. He charged prisoner and Capt. Morgan jointly with the offence.Wood then said―” Can’t I see Mr. House and settle it?” Mr. Bishop, for the defence, said there was an absence of “felonious intent.” Prisoners drove over the goose and finding they had injured it, they indiscreetly put it into the trap. It was merely the outcome of a lark. If the case were dismissed prisoner would fully compensate prosecutor for his loss. After retiring to consider the case, Mr. Pethick said the Bench did not think the prosecution had established felonious intent, and the case was therefore dismissed. He advised the prisoner in the future to dine wisely and not too well.

                        ―――――――――――――――

   “ Not guilty, but don’t do it again. “

This, to many persons, will seem a fair interpretation of the verdict given in the Weston super-Mare Police Court, on Tuesday, in the goose stealing case. The question as to the proper meaning of “felonious intent” is answered in various ways by different magisterial authorities, but it is such a decision as the one on Tuesday that is apt to bring the administration of the law into contempt. People will naturally ask themselves whether the same leniency would be shown to a mechanic or a labourer under such circumstances as prevailed in the case of the “gentleman of position and means.” If a poor man had committed a theft in a drunken freak we wonder whether the plea that he had “dined well but not wisely” would have been countenanced. In Bristol this week two men who stole a pair of boots from a shop pleaded that they were driven to it by hunger, having been walking about all day without food. They were sent to gaol for three weeks with hard labour. The Weston magistrates may have been justified in dismissing the case against Mr. Wood after the prosecutor’s assertion that he was prepared to withdraw the charge on the prisoner promising to recompense him, but the magistrates ought not to have allowed the prisoner’s solicitor to have put such a thought into the prosecutor’s head during the hearing of the evidence, and the prosecutor, after having placed the case in the hands of the police, should not have acquiesced in the solicitor’s suggestion. In the interests of equity and justice to the police such irregularities ought not to be permitted.

IMPORTANT PROPERTY SALE AT MARTOCK

On Wednesday evening Messrs. Palmer held an auction for the sale of 500 acres of freehold land, with some houses, divided into 71 lots, at the White Hart Hotel, when 69 lots were sold by auction, and another by private contract, all at old-fashioned prices, the remaining unsold lot being the Market House. The property realised £ 40,000 and upwards, which it will be seen amounts to an average of £ 80 an acre. We subjoin a statement of the sums realised upon the sale of each lot, with the names of several purchasers. Messrs. Newman, Paynter and Gould, of Yeovil, were the solicitors for the vendor:–

   In Martock.– Steps, pasture, 5a.3r., £800, Mr Sparrow; house and land, 9a.0r.33p., £1,330, Mr. Mark Dight; Maynes, pasture, 7a.3r.14p., £640, Mr. Trevor Williams; Maynes, pasture, 8a.0r.36p., £670, Mr. Henry Marsh; two pieces of land near Half Way House, 2r.19p., £62, Mr. George Sprackett; Lakes, pastures, 20a.2r.13p., £1,570, Mr. George Sprackett; New Leaze, pasture, 3a.2r.2p., £280, Mr.R.T.Walter; New Leaze, pasture, 8a.0r.20p., £600, Mr.R.T.Walter; Reek Barton and New Leaze, arable, 7a.1r.33p., £420, Mr. John Leach;Eleven acres and N.E.Field, arable, 17a.0r.13p., £865, Mr. Trevor Williams; Young Orchard, orchard, 3a.2r.18p., £300, Mr.R.T.Walter; Seven Acres and Chimney Corner, arable, 8a.3r.12p.. £520, Mr. Walter Leach; Martock Field, arable, 7a.3r.20p., £485, Mr. Richard Haine; allotment N.E.field, arable, 22a.2r.19p., £950, Mr. Wm. Palmer; Dry Ground, pasture, 4a.1r.28p., £370, Mr. H.B.Hull; Beerly Common, pasture, 3a.2r., £230, Mr. Edward Nutt; three cottages and gardens, 21p., £95, Messrs. Bradley and Marsh; London, pasture, 2a.3r.8p., £305, Mr. Henry Johnson; orchard, 2a.1r.33p..£240, Mr. James Staple; house, buildings , and orchard, 3r.11p., £250, Mr. Samuel Gulliford, house, buildings, and land, 119a.3r.26p., £9,750, Mr. Leach;house, garden , paddock, &c., 2a.1r.10p.,£1,050, Mr. W.H.Mayo;Manor of Martock tolls and quit rents, £460, Mr. Leach; the Market house, withdrawn; Long Cod and Cod, pasture, 9a.0r.38p., £1,040, Mr. Richard Haine; Vens, pasture, 3a.1r.20p., £380, Mr. Richard Haine; Ozen Hole and Shepton Mead Plot, pasture, 6a.3r.1p., with Lot 28, Ozen Hole, pasture, 4a.3r.5p., £1,050, Mr. Scutt; Hills, pasture, 2a.1r.14p., £200, Mr. James Frank; Stacey Moor, pasture, 2a.1r.14p., £205, Mr. Trevor Williams; Rows New Leaze, pasture, 6a.2r.3p., £670, Misses Welman; New Leaze and Hinton Mead, Allotment, pastute, 16a.0r.35p., £1,400, Mr.Bull; Hinton Mead, pasture, 8a.3r.34p., £850, Mr. Scutt; Hinton Mead, pasture, 4a.3r.4p., £410, Mr. Trevor Williams; Pools Way, pasture, 2a.2r.12p., £215, Mr. Henry Parsons; South Leaze, pasture, 1a.1r.31p., £100, Mr. William Palmer; house, garden, and orchard,3a., £350, Mr. J.Tatchell;Farm Close, 2a.3r.13p., £275, Mr. J.Tatchell; cottage, garden, and orchard, 1r.12p., £90, Mr. Bush; cottage, garden, and orchard, 1r.12p., £90, Mr. William Salisbury; house, garden, and orchard, 1r.16p., £220, Mr. Sealy; interest of the Lord of the Manor in two cottages, &c., 1r.12p.,£56, Mr. James Terrell; interest of the Lord o the Manor in four cottages, &c., £30, Mr. Beaton; Steps Furlong, arable, 3a.0r.8p., £220, Mr. Walter Leach; North Field Allotment, arable, 6a.2r.4p., £390, Mr. Walter Leach; allotment, arable, 6a.0r.12p., £400, Mr. George Sprackett. 

   In Long Load.– New Mead, meadow, 7a.2r.4p., £385, Mr. Henry Gale; New Mead, meadow, 8a.1r.30p., £610, Mr. John Bradford; Wet Moor, Meadow, 2r.35p., £65, Messrs. T.&W. Perren; Bow Mead, meadow, 4a.1r.12p., £385, Messrs. T.&W. Perren; Bow Mead and Wet Moor, pasture, 20a.0r.26p., £1,600, Messrs. T.&W. Perren; Wt Moor, pasture, 29a.0r.18p., £1,710, Mr. Francis Gillett; Langland Allotment, arable, 6a.3r.31p., £460, Mr. J.B.Pittman; farmhouse, &c., 1a.2r.26p., £300, Mr. J.B.Pittman; River Field, arable, 7a.3r.4p., £480,  Mr. J.B.Pittman; 7¼ Leaze in Coat Hay, pasture, 4a.1r.8p., £260, Mr. J.B.Pittman; Coat Mead, pastue, 8a.2r.20p., £580, Mr. Thomas Moore.

   In Witcombe.–Farm-house, orchard, &c., 2a.3r.8p., £285, Mr. Scutt; orchard, 1r.26p., £25, Mr. Scutt;Judas, pasture, 2a.2r.27p., £130, Mr. Scutt; New Leaze, pasture, 13a.2r.9p., £580, Mr. William Palmer; Lower Field, arable, 4a.0r.16p., £160, Mr. T.B.Lock; Lower Field, pasture, 4a.0r.10p., £165, Mr. T.B.Lock; Hurst, pasture, 1a.3r.33p., £105, Mr. John Yard;Hams, meadow, 2a.3r.20p., £150, Mr. John Look; Ox Leaze, pasture, 5a.0r.24p., £335, Mr. William Palmer; Common in King’s Moor, pasture, 3r.7p., £50, Mr. John Yard; interest of Lord of the Manor in piece garden ground, 11p., £40, Mr. Joseph Brutton.

   In Kingsbury and Curry Rivel.– Part Yonder,Norton Field, arable, 1a.3r.30p., £140, Mr. Thomas Pittard; Tuchem Close, arable, 3r.31p., £60, Mr. Thomas Pittard; allotments, 1a.3r.15p., £160, Mr. J.S.Cable.

June 20-1895

Death and Funeral of Mr. J.Seward.―

We regret to record the death of Mr.J.Seward, who for some 18 or 19 years has been secretary of the Langport and Mid-Somerset Benefit Building Society, and who passed away on Tuesday last, after a lingering illness, at the comparatively early age of 36. The deceased, who was greatly respected in the town and neighbourhood,

leaves a widow to mourn his loss. The funeral took place on Friday afternoon at St. Mary’s Churchyard, Huish. The Revs. E.M.Lance (vicar of Langport) and J.Stubbs (vicar of Huish) officiated. The coffin, of polished oak, with brass furniture, was covered with wreaths of beautiful flowers sent by many sympathising friends, and was carried on a bier from the house to the grave. There were six bearers. The mourners were Mrs. Seward (widow), Mr. Baker, Miss Manley, Miss Maynard, Messrs. E.Seward, R.Bonning, H.Bonning, Manders (Yeovil), J.Lloyd, and H.Pearson Price. The following represented the Langport and Mid-Somerset Building Society: Messrs. Francis Meade (chairman), W.Rowe, G.A.Cox, J.F.Lenthall, F.H.Sawtell, and H.C.Stembridge (directors), and Major Kelly. The following sent wreaths and crosses: Mrs. Seward, Mr. and Mrs.R.Bonning, , Mr. and Mrs.C.Bonning, , Mr. and Mrs.H.Bonning, Mr. and Mrs. J.Lloyd, Mr. and Mrs. F.Meade, Mr. and Mrs.W.Rowe, Mr. and Mrs. Burroughs, Mr. and Mrs. W.J.C.Hill, Mr. and Mrs. Knott, Mr. G.H.Hemmel, Miss Shepherd, Mr. W.J.Gush, Mr. and Mrs. Nash and family, Miss Manley, Miss Maynard, Mr. and Miss. Seward, Mr. W.C. and Mrs. Morris, Miss E.Willy, and Mr. and Mrs. G.Pendle. Mr. Kirby, for the firm of Messrs. Francis Meade & Company, carried out the arrangements in a very satisfactory manner.

——————————————————————————

Here lies a poor woman who was always tired,

She lived in a house where help was not hired.

Her last words on earth were―’ Dear friends, I am going,

To where there’s no cooking, no washing, no sewing;

But everything there is exact to my wishes,

For where they don’t eat there’s no washing up dishes.

I’ll be where loud anthems will always be ringing,

But having no voice I’ll get quit of the singing.

Don’t mourn for me now― don’t mourn for me never,

I’m going to do nothing for ever and ever.’

————————————————————————————

funeral of a prominent footballer

The remains of the late Mr. George Bond, captain of the Bridgewater Albion Football Club, were interred on Saturday amid signs of general regret. The coffin was carried by six members, while the local clubs and county union sent representatives. Bond was only ill three days, and had been selected to play for Somerset against Gloucester.

lions at large

News has reached Yeovil of the escape of a lion from a wild beast show which was visiting the village of Queen Camel, six miles north of Yeovil.

 It appears that when the door of the cage was opened to allow Capt. Marco to enter, the animal jumped out and ran away, ultimately finding shelter in an outhouse. The greatest consternation  prevailed, and in the rush and excitement which followed one woman had her ankle sprained.

A number of men volunteered to assist in tracking the lion, and armed with cudgels they set forth. Darkness having set in they took lanterns with them. It was decided to bring the cage opposite to the outhouse, and to drive the lion into it. After some difficulty this plan succeeded. Another lion escaped from Anderton and Haslam’s menagerie at Martock, whilst a caravan was being cleaned out, and attacked an elephant which was chained up inside a tent. The screams of the elephant were heard for a great distance, and the lion was shot, it being feared that the beast would escape into the street. Great excitement prevailed and residents in the town were much alarmed by the firing and noise caused by the elephant. The lion was worth £150.

The Talk of Bristol

The Great Western Railway made a record on Saturday which deserves to be reported. A train which is due to leave Bristol at 2.35 was started at 3.5, and passengers were told that they might possibly be passed by the express. The train got as far as Keynsham and there was shunted until the express had passed. It was again shunted at a siding to the West of Twerton and waited while no less then five trains went by. The guard judiciously avoided answering any questions, and some of the many passengers got out on to the bank in search of flowers. Ultimately the train, which was due in Bath at 3.2, arrived there at 4.35. Is not this a record of traffic mismanagement?

Death of Thomas Watson Bagehot.

― Mr. Thomas Watson Bagehot died at his residence, Herd’s-Hill, Langport, on Sunday morning, in his 86th year. Deceased was the father of the late Mr. Walter Bagehot, editor of the Economist. He was the head of a mercantile firm trading under his name from Bristol, Bridgwater, and other ports in the West of England, and was pricipal of the Somerset Trading Company. Mr. Bagehot was also for many years chairman of the directors of Stuckey’s Banking Company. Deceased was a widower, and the late editor of the Economist was his only child, who pre-deceased him nearly five years.

Merriott― There were two polling stations here. Major Wilkie was presiding officer at No.1 station, with Mr.W R Richards as poll clerk. Mr. A. England was personation agent for the Conservatives and Mr. A. Tr?sk for the Liberals. Mr.G.R.Blake, of Crewkerne, was presiding officer at No.2 station, with Mr.S.J.Baker as poll clerk. Mr.J.French was personation officer for the Conservatives and Mr.J.Eas?n for the Liberals. The number of voters in this district is 605, the majority of whom polled before ten o’clock at No.2 station. Beyond some good humoured chaff between the two parties everything passed off quietly.

death of mr. frank may, near shepton mallet.

Mr. Frank May, formerly chief cashier of the Bank of England, died on Tuesday morning at Batcombe, a secluded village on the Mendip Hills, where he had lived a retired life for three or four years.

A correspondent writes as follows in the Leader:― A figure that loomed large and unenviably in the public eye in the early part of 1894 has just passed away in the person of Mr. Frank May, formerly chief cashier of the Bank of England, who died in the obscure village of Batcombe on the Mendip Hills, near Shepton Mallet. At one time Mr. May’s name was so well known from its appearing on the notes of the bank that after his retirement  old ladies and old gentlemen dwelling in the remoter parts of the country for a considerable time refused to have anything to do with bank-notes that did not bear his familiar name. News travels slowly, and it was some time before the news of Mr. May’s “irregularities,” as they were called, and the appointment of Mr. Bowen as his successor, penetrated the out-of-the-way corners of the country. The story of Mr. May’s “fall,” using the term in the pathetic sense, is one that has almost something tragic in it even now. For 20 years he had borne the highest character, and had occupied the highest position of responsibility and trust. In November, 1893, however, the directors of the Bank became aware that, as Mr. David Powell, the Governor of the Bank, phrased it, Mr. May had “seriously exceeded his authority, and had committed grave irregularities in connection with advances made by the Bank to a certain number of its customers, and had further, in one case, allowed a considerable overdraft without any authority whatever and without the knowledge of the Governor.” Nor was this all. Mr. May, it seemed, had also involved himself in serious difficulties by speculation on the Stock Exchange; so that the Governor had no alternative but to require him to immediately resign. The Bank, it should be explained, incurred loss in respect of the advances which were unsufficiently covered, and a sum of no less than a quarter of a million sterling was set aside by the directors in order to meet all possible contingencies. It is scarcely necessary to say that at the time the incident created an almost painful sensation. But for 200 years, while Continental banks were breaking, the Bank of England had kept steadily and solidly on his way, and confidence was soon restored. Some of the Bank’s shareholders were for further investigation into “the irregularities.” The Governors, for their part, were “filled with sorrow” for Mr. May’s lapse, but they thought it would not be wise or right to go into all the details in the public meeting; and so Mr. May vanished from the scene,and from that time forward to the day of his death lived in the kindly seclusion of the Mendip Hills.

The Globe of Wednesday observed:― Before he entered the service of the Bank of England, Mr. Frank May was employed in the recruiting office at Bristol, occupying the position of clerk to the inspecting field officer. His father was a sub-agent of the Bank of England, into whose service the future cashier entered in 1852. In 1873 he became chief cashier, which position he held untill a few years ago, when he resigned, under circumstances with which the public is familiar.

   A remarkable scene was witnessed at a wedding at Hinckley on Monday. The contracting parties were a chimney sweep, named James Evans, and Lucy Foxton, hosiery hand. On the way to the church the bridegroom, who wore a top hat and white waistcoat—gifts of a friend— was followed by hundreds of people, and he had his hat knocked off by an old boot. The service in church had to be stopped several times, owing to the disorderly congregation. A collection was taken at the door on behalf of the newly-married couple, who on their return were again escorted by the mob, great excitement prevailing.    

Westonians Duped.― The credulity of some people, even at this latter end of the nineteenth century, is surprising, and those who are on the look out for somebody to make a dupe, have little difficulty in finding a prey. The latest instance in Weston reveals extraordinary simplicity on the part of those bitten, and everyone is asking―”Have you seen Massa Johnson?” This individual, a tailor by trade, came to Weston some months ago, and speedily associated himself with a popular Bible Class in town. Being of affable disposition, and having what is known as “the gift of the gab,” he soon installed himself in the favour of the members and the leader. Having thus paved his way, Johnson commenced to work the oracle. His first move was to intimate to the members of the class that he had unexpectedly come into a considerable fortune, a portion of which he proposed to expend in the establishment of a home for young men. In order to lend colour to his statement, he actually negociated for the purchase of some premises, and there is little doubt that he induced the members of the aforesaid class to believe his plausible story. On the plea that untill the lawyers had completed the arrangements in connection with the newly inherited estate he was short of funds, he succeeded in getting one friend to part with £15, promising to refund the money and take the lender for a trip up the Mediterranean. He even went so far as to plead with the young man’s employer to allow him a few months’ holiday so that he might undertake the trip. He also fleeced a tradesman of a similar sum, and obtained goods from others, and altogether managed to feather his nest pretty well. A prayer meeting was held to wish him “God-speed,” but doubtless the future supplications of the Class will not be so earnest for so uncertain a character. The sequel is not difficult to imagine. Johnson is now missing, and his friends are left to mourn, not only  his loss, but their own as well.

To the Editor of the “Weston-super-Mare Gazette.”

     THE PIOUS FRAUD―JOHNSON.

Sir,― Please give me room to say this adventurer was not known at the Y.M.C.A. and was not in any way connected with this institution.

        h.harrison.

the pious fraud johnson and his dupes.

Sir,— The sympathy expressed by a correspondant who uses that word as a pseudonym, in last week’s issue of your contemporary, cannot possibly be felt by members of the public who have any discernment, as it is obvious that the victims of this imposter, for whom he affects to feel so keenly, so far from being the child-like innocents he represents them to be, belong to that class of persons who are ever ready to do most for those who least require their aid, but from whom something to their own advantage is ultimately to be expected. It is clear that it was not because Mr. Johnson was a man or a Christian, but they believed him to be quite a moneyed person.that they were so ready to accommodate him with their own cash. Had some poor honest man, at his wits’ end for a shilling, appealed to these money-gushing philantropists he would probably have been treated with that supercilious indelicacy which deters sensitive but honest people in stress of financial weather from applying to some “poor earth-born companion and fellow mortal” for a little help that might enable them to tide over their crises; for with the unco-righteous and respectable, none are so undeserving of help as those most in need of it. It was very beautiful in these good Christians “not to be forgetful to entertain strangers,” but if they want to “entertain angels unawares” they must become sufficiently angel-like themselves to act from disinterested motives when playing the benefactor, and let their sympathy, moral and financial,flow forth to the toil-worn poor and world-weary, whose frail barques have not been able to keep pace with the waves of circumstances. In their present ludicrious situation it is impossible to sympathise with them, for that feeling is merged in contempt for their motives. Their deceiver is doubtless chuckling to think how easily he was able to make them victims of their own selfish cupidity and divulge their true natures.  Had they helped Johnson because he was a Christian they would not bewail their loss; they would say, “He was a member of Christ; much good may it do to him; I lent it him for Christ’s sake, and shall find it again after many days.” But the sombreness of their chagrin does not seem to be relieved by the light of any such sublime hope. On the contrary, the outcry about their wrongs reminds one of the Scripture: “ In Weston their was a voice heard, lamentation and weeping and great mourning, philanthropists weeping for their money, and would not be comforted because it was not.” This clever swindler can rejoice in the knowledge that his own diplomatic talents are of so high an order as to enable him to turn to his own advantage whole confederacy of amateurs in the diplomatic art of money-grubbing. It is not the loss of their cash alone from which these poor things are suffering. It is the undefined vision of great expectations with which their imaginations had encircled the personality of their friend Johnson which has so suddenly and cruelly dissolved in air. Alas!  Sic transit gloria mundi!  Still:

            What is friendship but a name—

               A charm that lulls to sleep;

            A shade that follows wealth or fame,

               And leaves the wretch to weep?

Though in their case this sublime relationship does not seem to have acted as a soporific. One quite wonders what this ingenuous deceiver was like in sober reality, when divested of the glamour with which the gold-fevered imaginations of his fawning admirers had invested him. Was he really mortal? Never ate onions, of course? For as Goethe tells us “ the nose decideth well what is sacred, what profane.” A teetotaler, no doubt? A non-smoker? A vegetarian? An anti-everythingarian? Had  he a celestial nose of alabaster whiteness? Did divinity lurk in the gleam of his eye? Did he talk the language of Canaan or of Vanity Fair? One would have thought these experienced people could have classified him by his vernacular alone. Was there no faint twang of Philistia which the trained ears of these Canaanites could detect? It is strange that some prophetic premonition was not vouchsafed to these children of light. Did none of them dream he saw Johnson turn into an alligator and float away on a stream of gold, amid the sobs, groans, and execrations of the innocents? But his victims have the consolation of looking forward to meet Johnson again “ In the sweet by – and – by,” where temporal trifles are forgotten; for after all, he is only human like themselves, though a trifle ahead of them in mundane arts; and it would be invidious in them to bear him any ill-will on that account. Besides, by the time they meet him again, they may have acquired greater proficiency themselves, and will feel under a debt of gratitude to him for this tuition. These anglers mistook Mr. Johnson for a goldfish, and did not spare their bait; but he turned out to be an octopus and sucked his parasites. Poor birds! They were caught with chaff, and now have to bear chaffing, which under the circumstances must be somewhat chafing.

                        I am, Sir, yours truly,

                                                       Saint Simple

Langport― A Langport correspondant supplies a list of the extraordinary school attendance of the children of Sergt. Banyard, late instructor of the local Volunteers, which must surely “break the record” of all England. The list relates to the attendance of six children in the parish of Langport. The eldest, a girl aged 14, has attended 3,449 times in eight years, having never been absent once. Two boys, aged 11 and 9 respectively, have each attended 1,729 times in four years, having been away one day only to attend the choir festival at Bath Abbey. The fourth child, a girl aged 7 years, has attended 862 times in two years, not having had one absent mark. Finally, two boys, aged 5 and 4 respectively, have attended 429 times in one year, neither having an absent mark.

   Presentation to Sergeant-Instructor Moore.—

There was a large number of Volunteers and others present at the Black Swan Hotel on Tuesday evening to bid farewell to Sergt. Moore, the late instructor of the Langport Company of Volunteers, who is retiring from the service on a pension after 21 years service. During his five years stay in Langport Sergt. Moore has, by his genial position and kindly manner, won many friends. His comrades thought they could not let him leave the town without giving him some token of the respect which they had for him, and as a slight acknowledgement for the valuable service he has rendered to the Company. It will be remembered that Sergt. Moore recently met with a serious accident, being knocked down by a bicycle, and although the injuries he received were very severe, so much so that he was in a very critical condition for a few weeks, his friends were very pleased to see him once more among them apparently restored to his usual health and strenght. Col.-Sergt. Smith occupied the chair on Tuesday evening, and among those present were Col.-Sergt. Cullen, Sergt. G.A.Cox, Sergt. W.J.Cattle, Sergt. F.Cox, Sergt. Dennet, Sergt. C.S.Payn, Sergt. J.F.Lenthall, Corporal Jones and Trott and many others.— The Chairman in presenting Mr. Moore with a handsome English lever silver watch and chain with a pendant and an illuminated address, spoke of the valuable service the recipient had rendered to the Volunteer corps of the town, and expressed a hope that he would soon get thoroughly well of the accident that recently befell him. He also wished him every success in his future career, and hoped that he might live long to enjoy the use of the watch that had been presented to him that evening. Mrs. Moore was also presented with a gold brooch.— Mr. Moore, in thanking those present, spoke of the great kindness that had always been shown him, and he took the opportunity of thanking them most heartily. — On the back of the watch was the inscription: “ Presented to Sergt.-Instructor Moore by H Company, 2nd V.B.P.A. Somerset L.I.” The address, which was in massive oak frame with gilt edging, was beautifully executed by Mr. F.Burningham. The following was the insription which it contained: “ H Company, 2nd V.B.P.A. Somerset L.I.— List of subscribers to the testimonial ( a silver English lever watch and chain) presented by the officers and non-commissioned officers and men of the above company to Sergeant Moore, their late instructor, on his retirement, as token of the respect in which he was held by them, and the energy shown by him in the interests of the company during his five years connection with it. Langport, 3rd December, 1895.— Capt. E.Q.Louch, Lieut. W.J.Carne-Hill, Lieut. J.Kelway, Col.-Sergt. W.Gough (resigned), Col.-Sergt. A.J.Cullen (resigned), Col.-Sergt. W.H.Smith, Sergt. G.A.Cox, Sergt. W.J.Cattle, Sergt. J.F.Cox, Sergt. C.S.Payn, Sergt. F.H.Dennett, Sergt. J.F.Lenthall (resigned), Corpl. S.Jones, Corpl. C.Trott, Corpl. D.Mitcham, Corpl. H.Skinner (resigned), Lance-Corpl. W.Yard, Lance-Corpl. P.Burston, Lance-Corpl. H.Fouracre, Lance-Corpl. E.Skinner, Privates F.F.Burrows, J.Brooks, A.Bickel, H.Bonning, P.Boobyer, E.Butcher, J.Cross, J.Champion, J.Coate, H.Dabbinett, A.Gaylard, G.Goddard, H.Hartland, F.Harvey, D.Hallett, J.Hutchings, F.Hector, F.T.Hurford, J.S.Harris (resigned), A.Jeanes, J.Kelly, W.E.King, J.Knowles (resigned), W.Lock, G.Lock, C.Meredith, P.Mounter, C.Morris, J.B.Perkins, W.J.Paul, S.Purchase, E.Purchase, J.Purchase, H.Purchase, E.Pitman, A.Russell, W.R.Richards, J.Savidge, W.Salway, F.Stuckey, A.J.Turner, H.Wheller, G.Webb, W.Webb,F.Webb, C.West, and R.Weaver.”

— The silver watch, chain and pendant were supplied by Mr. F.Cox, jeweller, etc., of Bow Street, Langport. The handsome challenge cup, given for competition by Mrs. Bagehot, which was recently won by Corpl. Trott, was also supplied by Mr. Cox.

SEAVINGTON ST. MICHAEL.

Death of a Crimean Veteran.― About a week before last Christmas Charles Swain, a labouring man of this village, 68 years of age, had the misfortune to loose his footing on the frosty causeway outside the School, whereby he sustained such severe injuries to his back and head that the services of Dr. Sinclair were called into requisition, and the poor fellow has been confined to his bed undergoing much suffering almost ever since, until Thursday evening when he breathed his last. The deceased joined the Army at Taunton in December, 1848, and served 10 years as a private in the Coldstream Guards, during which time he fought throughout the Crimean Campaign, undergoing tremendous hardships  and privations. At the conclusion of his 10 years’ service in December, 1858, he took his discharge, and was awarded the then usual gratuity of £1. His certificate of discharge is endorsed as follows:― “Conduct good; he was present at the battles of Alma and Balaclava and the siege of Sebastopol, for which he has a medal and three clasps. He is also in possession of a good conduct ring.― Signed, Fredk. Poulet,Colonel.” Swain returned to Seavington and settled down as a farm labourer, without the least recognition from successive Goverments for the terrible hardships which he, in common with thousands of others, had undergone in the Crimea, until the summer of 1893, when he was awarded the “special campaign” pension of 9d a day for life, and for this he was indebted to the kind intervention of the Rev. J.P.Billing, rector of Seavington; Colonel Hoskins; and Mr.M.W.Blake, of South Petherton; and, it is believed, Mr. Strachey, the sitting member for South Somerset. ”Better late than never” is an old saying, none the less true in this case than numberless others, for the poor fellow’s  health and strength broke down of late years, and but for this timely allowance of 5s 3d a week and his club money he must  have  gone on the parish. He leaves a widow and a grown-up family. It is not a little singular that on the morning before his mishap he received through the post an invitation to dine with the veterans in London, which of course, he was unable to accept; and still more so that Sir John Astley, whose brother, Captain Astley, is now living within sight and hearing of the cottage in which Swain breathed his last, speaks in his “Fifty Years of My Life” of the time he was serving with the Scots Guards in the Crimea, and while ascending the heights of the Alma the Coldstream Guards were on their left and the Grenadiers on the right.

An Army Captain sent to Gaol.― William Thomas Foster (56), described as an Army Captain, and in the calendar stated to have no occupation, was indicted for obtaining by false pretences, from William Henry Webb, the sum of £2, with intent to defraud, at Weston-super-Mare, on the 14th March. He was also detained for obtaining by false pretences , from Harry Charles Parker, 6d in money and 12 stamps on the 17th March; and the sum of £5 and certain photographic apparatus and chemicals.― Mr. Weatherly prosecuted, and Mr. Metcalfe defended.― Mr. Metcalfe admitted that the prisoner was guilty of the act he was charged with. Prisoner was a captain in the Army. In 1857 he went into the Army as an Cornet in the 2nd Dragoon Guards, and became lieutenant on the 5th March, 1858. He went out to India, and fought during the Indian Mutiny, being present at the siege and capture of Lucknow. On his return to England he had a medal given him with a clasp for his services. Having become captain of his regiment on the 16th January, he retained that position for some time, and retired by the sale of his comission in the ordinary way permissable at that time. Subsequently to his retirement, in 1868, he became adjutant of the 2nd Cheshire Militia. Mr. Metcalfe then went into details of the prisoner’s life, with a view to prove that he was suffering from delusions, and from general paralysis of the brain.― Dr.Fox, of Brislington, and Dr.C.H.Hallett, of Bradnedge, Exeter, gave it as their opinion that prisoner was suffering from insanity in its early stages, and Mr.J.T.Hyatt, surgeon, and medical officer of the Shepton Mallet Gaol, gave rebutting medical evidence.― The jury found prisoner guilty, and he was sentenced to six weeks’ hard labour.

HUISH EPISCOPI.

Funeral of Mr. Gush.― On Thursday, the 25th ult., Mr.J.Gush, of Holly Villa, Newton, passed away at the comparatively early age of 47. The deceased had been suffering for nearly five months from an exceedingly painful illness, and since Easter has kept to his bed, since when he has been slowly sinking under the prostrating effects of his disease. He was, for nearly 30 years, a member of the staff of the head office of Stuckey’s Banking Co., Langport, and by his genial bearing and pen character he won for himself the regard of all his colleagues. He was well known throughout the neighbourhood, and, being highly esteemed and respected by all with whom he came in contact,    he gained many friends. His early death has caused deep regret throughout the neighbourhood, and general sympathy has been evinced to the bereaved children, who lost their mother only six weeks previously under exceptionally sad circumstances. The funeral took place at the parish church on Monday, and the body was interred in the churchyard. A large congregation assembled. The mourners were: Messrs. W.J.Gush, E.J.Gush, C.Lewis, L.A.Brookes, E.Tucker, and J.Perkins. Dr. Vereker, Messrs. J.Mead (Stuckey’s Bank), A.Perkins, W.A.Perkins, J.R.Fullaway, R.Avis, E.Brister, and J.C.Hill also followed to pay their last respects to the deceased. Several intimate friends were prevented from attending owing to the Volunteer Battalion inspection at Yeovil. Mr. F.Kirby (Messrs. Francis Meade & Co.) had charge of the funeral arrangements, which were consequently efficiently carried out. Mr. E.M.Gillett provided the coffin. The general respect for the deceased was shown by the handsome wreaths and crosses sent by the children, Mr. and Mrs. L.A.Brookes, Mr. J.Perkins, Mr.  W.Kelway, Mr. and Mrs. W.Gough, Mr. and Mrs. Norris, Mr. and Mrs. C.S.Payn, Mr. and Mrs. J.C.Hill, Mr. and Mrs. A.J.Cullen, Mr. and Mrs. Bowditch, Mr. and Mrs. Perkins, Messrs. W.Morris and F.Cox, Mr. and Mrs. H.Drummond, Mr. and Mrs. Reynolds, Miss Shepherd, Misses Manley and Maynard, Mrs. Seward, Mr. and Miss Inder, Mr. and Mrs. F.Small, Mr. and Mrs. Whitemore, Mr. and Mrs. J.Burrows, Mr. and Mrs. Kirkby, and Mrs. Vile.

Death of Mr.T.H.Pomeroy.― It is with much regret we announce the death of Mr. Thomas Howe Pomeroy, the late master at the Langport station of the Great Western Railway. The sad intelligence of the death of Mr. Pomeroy was received by wire early on Saturday morning last from St.Bartholomew’s hospital, London, where he had only recently been admitted as an in-patient. The commencement of his illness dated back to November, 1894, when, during the memorable floods of that year, the deceased, whose sense of duty was always foremost, was for many hours wading through water, endeavouring to protect the company’s goods as far as possible from the destructive effects of the flood. A throat affection followed, and the vocal cords being implicated he gradually lost his voice, eventually becoming invalided altogether. It was then he was advised to obtain treatment at the St.Bartholomew’s. The doctors found that he was suffering from aneurism of the aorta. As stated above, the sufferer  expired in this institution on Saturday morning, the news of his demise being received with considerable surprise by the attendance, who generally thought that he had begun to show signs of improvement. A sudden fit of coughing had ruptured the aorta and he died three minutes afterwards. Ever obliging, and ready to afford information, Mr. Pomeroy was a general favourite with his fellow townsmen and the travelling public, his congenial manner winning for himself the love, respect, and esteem of them all. He also carried with him the confidence of his employers during the whole of the sixteen years he was in their service on the railway. The funeral took place yesterday (Friday) amid every manifestation of sorrow, the mortal remains being conveyed from his residence in Langport to the parish church at Curry Rivel. A large number was present in order to pay their last tokens of respect, including a large number of masons of lodge Portcullis of which the deceased was a member. The service was conducted in an impressive manner by the Rev. W.Weldon Kirby, vicar. The cortege, followed by the mournful procession, left the residence of the deceased about 3 o’clock, the carriages being occupied thus:― 1st carriage― Mrs. Pomeroy, Mr. Webber, Miss Pomeroy, Mrs. Harapath. 2nd carriage:― Rev. J.Stubbs, Mr. Wm. Davidge. The Railway Company were represented by Mr. Shattock, chief inspector; Mr. J.Needs, sub. Inspector; Mr. Loveridge, relieving station master; Mr. Johnson, clerk. Dr. Johnstone (medical attendant) and Mr.W.J.Carne-Hill. Freemasons― Bro. Dr. Vereker, Bro. Wm. Gough, Bro. H.H.Bonning, Bro. G.A.Cox, Bro. C.S.Payn, Bro. A.Reynolds, Bro. E.Q.Louch, Bro. H.Pittard, Bro. Rev. E.W.Smith, Bro. H.C.Norton, Bro. W.Rowe, Bro. F.Hunt, Bro. G.Barling, Bro. S.H.Knight, Bro. A.Gaylard, Bro. Rev. G.H.Craven (Somerton), Bro. H.Davids (Somerton), Bro. T.G.Goggan (Somerton). From the town of Langport― Mr. Russell Barrington, Mr. Francis Meade, C.C., Mr. John Meade, Mr. Wm. Cattle, Mr. Fred Cox, , and Mr. J.G.Cheney. A large number of beautiful wreaths and crosses covered the coffin, which was of polished elm with brass furniture,and bore the inscription: “Thomas Howe Pomeroy, died February 29th, 1896, aged 49 years.” Among those who sent floral tributes were: Wreath , in glass dome, “In loving memory from sorrowing wife and relations”; wreath: “With much sympathy and deep regret,” from S. and A.Webber, his loving nieces and nephew, at Bristol; wreath from his staff and friends at Langport station, G.W.R.; wreath: “A token of esteem and respect,” from Miss Alice Maud; wreath, from Mr. and Mrs. W.J.Carne-Hill; wreath, “With Kelway  and Son’s deep regret”; cross, “In sorrowful silence and sympathy,” from Mr. and Mrs. Barling; wreath, “In loving memory,” from Mr. and Mrs. Pittard and family; cross, from Mr. J.Cullen and Mrs. Miller; wreath, “With deepest sympathy,” from Minnie Webber; wreath, “With sympathy from Mr. W.Fry and family”; wreath, “With deepest sympathy from Mrs. West and Eliza”; cros, “In affectionate rememberance the children of Mr. and Mrs. C.S.Payn”; cross, “With  deepest sympathy from Lizzie and Winnifred Willey.” The funeral arrangements were entrusted to Mr. H.Pittard, who brought home the remains from London, and were very satisfactorily carried out.

A Somerset Veteran.― Relative to a recent list of the few men living who were in Parliament when the Queen came to the Throne, a correspondent writes pointing out the omission of an interesting name― that of Colonel William Pinney, of Somerton-Erleigh, Somerset, and 30, Berkeley-square, London. This gentleman went to Westminster in the same year as Mr. Gladstone, 1832, representing Lyme Regis in the Liberal interest, while the latter sat as a Conservative for Newark. The gallant gentleman, notwithstanding his 90 years, retains in wonderful measure his mental and physical activity. It was three years later that Mr. Villiers, the father of the House of Commons, first obtained the suffrages of Wolverhampton, a constituency he has represented without a break up to the present time.

            ――――――――――――――――――――――

A lady cyclist in knickerbockers was riding in the neighbourhood of Wareham. She lost her way, and, seeing a countryman in front, rode up to him, alighted, and said “Can you tell me if this is the right way to Wareham?” The man looked her up and down with great attention, and then slowly replied “Yes, miss―you seem to have got’em on all right.”

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A Publican Fined for Assault.―John Tatchell, landlord of the Phelips Arms, Montacute, was charged with assaulting John Vincent, of the Red Lion Hotel, Yeovil.― Mr. J.Trevor Davies appeared for the prosecution, and, in opening the case, said he believed that it would be shown that the assault arose through the defendant losing some money and his temper at the same time. Complainant said he was engaged to drive Mr. Narrowmore, a commercial traveller, on a round of visits to his customers on the afternoon of March 6th, and they called  at the inn named in the course of the journey. After Mr. Narrowmore had transacted some business with the defendant, and they had all three had some drinks together, defendant admired the shirt that Mr. Narrowmore was wearing, and it was suggested that they should toss for two shirts, for which Mr. Narrowmore was an agent. They tossed and the witness won, when defendant refused to pay for the shirts. Witness called him a “mug,’ and the defendant instantly struck him a violent blow on the head, smashing his hat. He followed up the attack into the road, where witness was knocked down, after receiving several blows. His face was covered with blood, and the defendant told his servant girl to fetch a bucket of water so that he might wash the blood off. While he was doing this the defendant stood over him and asked him if “he wanted any more.” He replied “No, thank you.” (Laughter.) He had known Mr. Tatchell for years, and always considered him a very respectable man.― By Mr. J.Mayo, for the defence: Defendant gave witness some butter to apply to the bruises on his face, and afterwards they finished their business.― Edward Narrowmore, tailor’s traveller, Exeter, spoke as to the nature of the quarrel, and said that when he interferred the defendant threatened to knock him down. Prosecutor’s head was hit through a window and his face severely bruised. Mr. Tatchell had a cut on his lip, caused by the prosecutor putting up his arm in self-defence. The defendant subsequently remarked “I knew I was the best man,” and witness therefore concluded that there had been some rivalry between the parties.― Dr. P.A.Colmer said he attended to the prosecutor’s injuries on the evening of the day named. He had a large bruise over the right ear, one over his nose, an abrasion on the forehead,and other bruises on the head, some of them might have been caused by a fall.― Mrs. Florence Cole, of Montacute, corroborated with reference to the scuffle in the road.― Mr. Mayo then called witnesses for the defence.― John Hawkins, sawyer, Montacute, stated he heard Mr. Vincent call Mr. Tatchell a “mug,” and at the same time use an oath. He also offered to fight Tatchell, and eventually struck him in the face.He could not say who struck the first blow.― In cross-examination witness said he would not be angry if anybody called him a “mug” in a civil way. (Laughter.)

― Alice Hockey, servant to Mr. Tatchell, gave evidence in corroboration. She could not repeat what Mr. Vincent called the defendant, because the words were too wicked. She saw Vincent strike at Tatchell, who then turned upon him.― The Bench intimated their intention to convict, and a cross-summons was then heard.― Prosecutor swore that Vincent took the initiative, dealing him a deliberate blow on the mouth, besides inflicting other injuries. The reason why he refused to pay for the shirts was because he had understood that he was to have one of them, while Vincent claimed both.― The evidence was practically the same as in the last case.― The Chairman said the Bench had decided to dismiss the second case. In the first case , although some slight provocation was given, the assault was altogether incommensurate and a fine of £5, including costs, was inflicted.

a volunteer officer shot at langport.

The town of Langport was on Wednesday afternoon thrown into the greatest excitement on a rumour (which on enquiries was found to be true) that Lieut. Warren had been found in his father’s garden, shot in the head, and in a dying state. It appears that Lieut. Warren― who was well-known throughout the county as an excellent shot― started from home shortly after 10 o’clock. He went to the Dolphin Inn,  and, accompanied by Mr. Gibbs, landlord who is also a member of the Langport Rifle Corps, drove to the rifle butts. Lieut. Warren carried a Martini-Henry rifle, with which he practised for some time, returning to the Dolphin about five o’clock. After leaving Mr. Gibbs, Lieut. Warren went towards his home, calling on the way at two shops in the town. It is stated that at one of these shops he examined his rifle, and remarked, on leaving, that he should go home and see to his rabbits. He appears to have gone into the garden, and almost immediately afterwards the report of a rifle was heard. Mr. Warren’s groom and gardener hastened to the spot, and found Lieutenant Warren lying on the ground, in an insensible state. The rifle he had carried with him was found lying across his knees. The bullet had passed through his head, carrying away part of his skull. On examination it was found that life was not extinct. The unfortunate gentleman was immediately removed to his father’s house, and Dr. Morgan was quickly in attendance. He pronounced the case to be a hopeless one, and death occurred about eight o’clock. The greatest sympathy is expressed for the relatives of the deceased gentleman, who was of a most amiable disposition. Deceased was Clerk to the Langport Board of Guardians, and was 33 years of age. His father ― Mr. J.F.H.Warren― is Registrar of the County Court and Town Clerk of Langport. It is stated that deceased was as cheerful as usual during the morning. He was not married. The sad affair has cast a gloom over the town.

The West of England magistrates are severely pilloried by “Truth” this week as under:―

   Taunton police court

Before Messrs. E.Chisholm Batten, R.H.Sears, R.Bruford, Maj.-General Emerson and General England, John Foster, farmer, charged with cruelty to a gelding. The animal, which was in poor condition, aged, and suffering from an incurable disease, was left in a field, where it was found with one hoof almost eaten away, maggots and matter dropping out as it moved. A veterinary surgeon said it was the worst case he had ever seen  during 25 years experience. Four previous convictions for cruelty were recorded against defendant who was described as a man of means. Fined £5 and costs.

   Rotherham (West Riding) police court.

Before Mr. O.Wright, Mr. G.W.Chambers, and the Mayor. Arthur Burland, charged with poaching. Fined £5; in default two months.

   Weston-super-Mare police court. Before Messrs. Pethick and Brown. George Holt and Henry Fowler, charged with sleeping on the sea front. Seven days each.

Wedding.― A very pretty wedding took place at the Langport Church on Monday when the Rev. E.M.Lance, vicar, married Miss M.J.Honeyball, daughter of the organist at Langport church, to Mr. P.E.S.Payn, of London. A breakfast followed at the house of the bride’s parents. The happy couple subsequently left for their abode in London.

the “potwallopers.”

The late Mr. James Toleman, of Goswell-rd., was not only the last “potwalloper” in the city of Bristol, but the last in the United Kingdom. Before the passing of the Reform Act in 1832 the “potwallopers” were, in a political sense,  an important body in some of our English boroughs, and they possessed the franchise because they were able to “boil their own pots.” The word “wallop,” now obsolete or purely local in its use, means “to boil.”

June 1997

VOLUNTEER INTELLIGENCE.

h company, 2nd vol. batt. p.a.somerset l.i.

Orders for the ensuing week:―

Monday, Wednesday, and Friday― Recruit drill at Kingsbury, at 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday― Recruit drill at Langport, at 7.30 p.m.― Promotions: Privates E. Purchase and W.R.Richards to be Lance- Corporals from this date.

                                   edwd. q. louch,

                                               Captain Commanding.

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Possibly the Mayor of Bridgewater may be a perfect fountain of magisterial wisdom, but he certainly did not make it evident when fining an unfortunate lad for selling “The People” on Sunday. The boy was charged with performing “certain worldly labour, business, and work in your ordinary calling as newsvendor.” But the evidence very conclusively showed that selling newspapers was not his ordinary calling. Moreover, it was proved that other papers were sold on Sundays without let or hindrance. I do not know what the sapient mayor’s politics may be, but it looks suspicious that the chief weekly organ of the Conservative party should have been singled out for police attention.

THE POLICE COURTS.

   MANSION-HOUSE.― An Ex-Mayor before the Court. ―George Redmore Gawler, living in Bolsover-street, was summoned before the Lord Mayor by his wife for refusing to maintain her. The defendant did not appear, and it was stated, that when the summons was served at a solicitor’s office he anticipated having an attack of gout on the day of the hearing. ― Mr. E.E.Brook, who conducted the prosecution, said the defendant was a glove manufacturer at Yeovil, and was Mayor in 1893.― Mrs. Gawler said her husband deserted her a year ago, and was now living with a former servant of theirs in Bolsover-street. After being Mayor of Yeovil defendant went to South Africa, and her two sons were there still.― The Lord Mayor said he should require evidence as to means.― Mr. Brook said it was proved the defendant was keeping another woman.― The Lord Mayor said she might be keeping him.― Mr. Brook said there was evidence he was a provincial mayor two years ago. It was, however, right he should tell the Court that the defendant had written a long letter stating that he could plainly see starvation before him, and he hoped he should have strength enough to reach Yeovil Union.― The Summoning Officer, replying to the Court, said that the defendant did not look like a man in distress.― The Lord Mayor in the result made an order upon the defendant to allow his wife 2l. a week, and directed him to pay 3l.3s costs.  

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            LOST AND FOUND

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Sheep (Down wether) Lost. Marked black dot between shoulders and red stripes on the right side. Finder rewarded.―A.Isaac, Tintinhull, Yeovil. (81389

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Terrier dog Found (name on collar “Vick”) 7th March. If not claimed back in six days WILL SELL to pay expenses.― Jas.Herrington, Kilmington, Bath. (11450

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Spur Lost, last Monday, from Mudford Bridge.― Five shillings reward for same returned to Stud Groom,

Compton Castle, North Cadbury, Bath. (81510

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The countess of Ellesmere gave a reception on Wednesday night at Bridgewater-house, which attracted a large gathering. Among those present were the Duke and Duchess of Somerset, Countess Waldegrave and    Lady Mary Waldegrave, Earl and Countess Temple, Lord Sudeley and the Hon. Alice Hanbury-Tracy, Lady Llangattock and the Hon. Eleanor Rolls, Lady Arthur Wellesley and Miss Wellesley, Lady Lucy Hicks Beach and Miss Hicks Beach, the Right Hon. W.H.Long, M.P., and Lady Dorren Long, Lady Hill and Miss Hill, General Sir Redvers Buller, V.C., and Lady Audrey Buller, and Miss Howard and Lady Eleanor Howard.

Is there any record to beat that of Trumpet-Major Palmer, of Bridgwater, who is just going into camp with the West Somerset Yeomanry for his 56th year in succession? Mr.Palmer joined the regiment( Dunster Troop) in 1850, and has never missed a training since. His first commanding officer was Colonel Kemys Tynte, and he has served under four others, viz., Colonels, W.H.B.Portman, the Hon. A.W.A.N.Hood, F.W.Forester, and W.Barrett.

In 1854 Mr. Palmer was adjudged the best swordsman in the regiment,. Ten years later he became field trumpeter, and in 1882 he obtained his present rank. He has won 24 troop prizes in silver, seven first and five second money prizes as a marksman at the Avonmouth, Dunball, and Bedminster ranges, and last year he carried off the first prize in the squadron shooting competition. He has been able to secure fifty recruits for the regiment. Mr. Palmer will shortly retire, with permission to retain his rank and wear his uniform. If all able-bodied Englishmen aimed at such a splendid records, there would be  no room for talk about the possibility of conscription.

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                        witham station, g.w.r.

Moody & son, in conjunction with  Charles Cooper, will hold  their next fortnightly calf auction , in a field adjoining Witham Station, on Tuesday, June 11th,1895.

   Present entries: — 31 fat and suckler calves.

   Further Early  Entries respectfully solicited, which may be made either with Mr. Salvidge, Seymour’s Arms Inn, Witham; or with the Auctioneers, Evercreech, Bath, or Frome and Warminster

   Calves should be at the Yard not later than 12.30.

                        Sale at Half-past Two

Auction Offices, Evercreech, Frome, and Warminster.

( 45004

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              evercreech junction cheese sale

                                   12th June, 1895,

Messrs. Moody & Son will hold their next cheese auction  as above.

   Entries should be made early, so that the buyers should be properly advised.

   Present entries.—50 new Cheddars, about ¾ cwt. each; 70 old Cheddars; about 100 thin cheese.

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                        HUISH EPISCOPI.

   The Late Mr. B.Andrews.— On Tuesday afternoon the funeral of the late Mr. Benjamin Andrews took place at the churchyard. Deceased had been ill for some months. A few days before his death, attended by the Rev. Joseph Stubbs, he was removed in a conveyance to the Taunton Hospital, where his decease occurred, at the age of 62. Mr. Andrews had been with the family of the late Major-General Michell for nearly 45 years, having seen service with the General as confidential servant in India, South Africa, Barbadoes, Bermuda, &c. Returning from the Cape in 1875, he had since acted as butler at Huish House. The coffin, which was of plain oak, and bore the simple inscription:—“B. Andrews, died March 10th, 1899,” was preceded by several members, in regalia, of the “ Portcullis “ Court of Forresters, of which the deceased was a member. The service was conducted by the Rev. J.Stubbs, vicar, a numerous company being gathered around the open grave.

   Surely it was a slip of the tongue which led Mr. Vincent Stuckey to remark, in the case of an old man hauled before the Langport magistrates on Monday for creating a disturbance in a churchyard, that the defendant had rendered himself liable to go to hell. Mr. Vincent Stuckey is generally so guarded in his public speaking that the marvel is that he should have given utterance on the Langport Bench to a sentence which has caused much comment in the district.

                        ———————————

                        money at 4 per cent.

Forty thousand pounds to be advanced on mortgage at the above rate in various sums.

   Apply, in greatest secrecy, to

                                   j.ware,

                        high-street, bridgwater.

J.W. will be happy to wait on applicants on hearing from them, charging railway fare only.                   (173 l.

                        ———————————

            SOMERSET MAN ROBBED.

   George Henry Roberts,18, bookbinder, refusing his address, was charged at Clerkenwell with stealing from the vest pocket of Samuel Kalland a gold watch, value £30. — Prosecutor, a fish merchant, of the Cornhill, Wellington, Somersetshire, said he was standing in Farringdon-rd. watching a man execute some tracing work when a detective officer tapped him on the shoulder and asked him if he had lost his watch. He found that he had, and, seeing prisoner in custody, charged him.— Det.-sergt. Urber said he saw prisoner slowly lift prosecutor’ watch from his vest pocket, detach the watch from the chain, and drop it in his hand. He seized Roberts, who handed him the watch, at the same time exclaiming, “ You have been on me for a long time, and now you have done me, but I have played you up pretty well during the summer.” — 6 months.

The building society acts.—In the Matter of the central somerset permanent benefit building society of bridgewater, in the county of Somerset, Register No. 33 Somerset, and in the Matter of an Instrument of Dissolution of the said Society, dated the 21st day of December, 1896.— The creditors, depositors, and Shareholders of the above-named Society, who have not already proved their debts or claims are required, on or before the 15th day of May, 1897, to send their names and addresses  and particulars of their debts or claims to Alfred Willie Sully, of Bank Chambers, Bridgwater aforesaid, the Trustee appointed by the said Instruments, for the special purpose of the Dissolution of the said Society, and if so required, are to prove the said debts or claims, as the said Trustee may, by notice, direct, or in default thereof they will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts or claims are proved.— Dated the 26th day of April, 1897.

                        chas. e. hagon, High street, Bridgwater,

                        Solicitor for the said Trustee.

When writing or reading letters in a public place it is impossible to be too careful that names and addresses are not seen by a stranger. The base use to which a rogue can put the result of such spying is shown by the following letter, which has been handed to us by the Bristol branch of the U.K.C.T.A.: —

                                   Publow, 28th February, 1898

   Dear Sir—Having been made the victim of a very clever swindle, I think it right for the good of others to put the facts before you, which are these:——On Friday last I was staying at the Albany Temperance Hotel, Bridgwater. A supposed commercial traveller also spent the evening in the commercial room, and whilst doing my writing he took my private address from an envelope, and on Saturday morning wired my wife as follows:—

                                   “North Petherton, 9.30.

            “Mrs. Smith, Publow, near Bristol.

   “Accident; will not return untill Monday. Wire me five pounds immediately to North Petherton Post Office,” putting my name at foot of form.

   I regret to say cash was sent, and my wife being delicate was greatly upset; one of my daughters has been compelled to get medical advice.

   It was a cruel swindle, and for the good of others I have spent the day visiting Bridgwater, and have taken out a warant for his apprehension. He left the hotel without paying his bill.

    I returned on Saturday about 1.30, and wired hotel keeper to see police. He was traced to Taunton, and then lost sight of, but I hope he will be captured.

   I am 62 years of age, and cannot afford such loss.

   Please make the matter as public as possible, as I fear this will be a very easy way to make victims.

                                   Yours faithfully,

                                                           E.Smith.

To Mr. Frank Jackson, Secretary,

Bristol Branche U.K.C.T.A.

                        stoke bishop.

   The annual parish meeting for the election of parochial councillors was held in the schoolroom last evening. Mr. G.H.Perrin presided over a moderate attendance. In opening the proceedings the Chairman referred to the great necessity there was for providing appliances for extinguishing fire, and expressed the hope that the new Council would use endeavour to procure the needful apparatus without delay. The following members of the present Council were the only candidates nominated, and they were declared duly elected:— Messrs. F.Tothill, J.C.Godwin, A.M.Edwards, J.Partridge, A.D.Ambrose, and J.Thorne.

                        westbury-on-trym.

   Last evening a very large attendance in the Boys’ School testified to the deep interest which is taken in the annual election of parish councillors. Mr. F.Tothill presided. For the nine seats allotted to the Westbury Ward 15 candidates were nominated, and the show of hands resulted as follows:— H.W.Carpenter, 75; A.Shipley, 67; E.G.Tedder, 63; T.Beard, 62; P.Forrest, 59; H.Sinnot, 52; J.B.C.Burroughs, 37; H.Higgs, 29; J.W.Amos, 17; U.Hember, 15; R.L.Gore, 11; W.H.Mogford, 9; T.B.Pope, 8. Messrs. T.Faffe and J.A.Cooke withdrew. Five electors demanded a poll, and the Chairman announced that the election would be held on Monday, April 4th.

                        shirehampton.

   The election of the Parish Council for the ensuing year was held on Monday evening at the National Schools. There are 11 seats on the Council, and 13 nominations were handed in. Result:— G.A.Collins 47 votes, A.H.Athrell 47, G.Whitehead 43, F.Poole 42, G.Davis 41, J.A.Walker 40, G.Cook 39,J.H.Osman 37, M.Amos 30, H.Hack 31, J.Farr 27. These eleven were declared duly elected. No poll was demanded. The unsuccessful candidates were H.B.Falconar 20, and P.N.Miles 18.

Langport  May 31/95

   Friendly Society Anniversary.— The anniversary of this old established Society was held on Wednesday, various parts of the town being decorated with oak boughs and bunting. The bells of the All Saints’ Church were also rung at an early hour in the morning, and at intervals during the day. At nine a.m. the members, to the number of 159, out of a total of 204, assembled at the Town Hall, where the Secretary conducted the usual financial business. A procession was then formed, and headed by the flag of the Society ( carried by Mr. John Morris) and the Langport Town Band ( under Bandmaster Purchase), they marched to All Saints’ Church for service. The lessons were read by the Rev. E.M.Lance,( vicar), and an appropriate sermon was preached by the Rev. Joseph Stubbs. After service the members made their customary perambulations, and eventually found their way to the Balk Yard, kindly lent by Mr. H.Pittard, where a satisfactory dinner was admirably served in a marquee by Mr. Joseph Small, of the Dolphin Hotel. The Treasurer of the Society ( Mr. William Rowe) presided, and was supported by the Rev. J.Stubbs, Rev. S.Jones ( Congregationalist), Messrs. J.D.Blake, H.Pittard, S.H.Knight, E.J.Calder, T.Pomeroy, G.A.Cox, H.C.Norton, J.F.Cox, W.H.Smith (secretary), George Podger, T.Hayman, F.W.Kelland (from Messrs. Holt Bros., Burnham), and others.— The Chairman submitted the usual loyal toasts, which were duly honoured.— The Chairman proposed “ The Bishop and Glergy, and All Christian Ministers.” And the Rev. J.Stubbs and the Rev. S.Jones responded.— Mr. J.Blake proposed “ Army, Navy, and Reserve Forces,” and Mr. E.J.Calder responded for the Yeomanry, and Messrs. G.A.Cox and J.F.Cox for the Volunteers.— The Chairman, in submitting “ Success to the Langport Friendly Society,” read the financial statement, which was as follows:— May 29th, 1894, Balance at bank, £314 15s 11d; members’ subscriptions, £152 17s 6d; honorary subscriptions, £11 5s 6d; interest to December 25, 1894, £8 2s 11d; total £487 1s 10d. May 20th, 1895. Cash at bank, £478 4s 3d; paid Secretary for extra expenses, £8 17s 7d; total, £487 1s 10d. It was explained that a large portion of the sum paid to the Secretary for extra expenses resulted from some of the members not having paid their doctors’ fees, which would be returned to the funds after the next pay night.— “ The health of the Medical Officers, Messrs. Brook and Johnstone,” was then honoured in their absence, and Mr. J.D.Blake proposed “ The health of the Chairman,” which was heartily received.— The Chairman responded, and proposed “ The health of the hon. Members.” Adding that their subscription averaged over £10 a year, and would, at the end of the term, amount to over £100.(Cheers.) — Mr. H.C.Norton responded, and Mr. F.W.Kelland responded for the visitors.— The Chairman proposed “ The health of Mr. Pittard,” thanking him for the use of the Balk Yard.— Mr. Pittard briefly acknowledged the compliment.— “ The health of the Secretary” followed, and Mr. W.H.Smith returned thanks. He stated that during the year they had lost two members by death, and five members’ wives had died during that time.—

“ The Press” and “ The Host” were the next toasts, and soon afterwards the Chairman vacated his seat.— Dancing and other amusement were enjoyed during the evening, and the anniversary passed off in a very enjoyable manner.

House and SHOP, modern front, No. 8, Market-place, Frome, to be Let. Immediate possession.—Apply Charles Cooper House and Estate Agent, Frome. (42322

Shop and Bakehouse to be Let. Living room, scullery, sitting-room, three bedrooms; and stabling if required; situated in Huish and Orchard Street, Yeovil.— Apply J.L., 49, Huish, Yeovil.                                 (44781

Seymour villa, bratton, somerset. 2½ miles from Wincanton, three from Bruton and Castle Cary. Drawing, sitting, and four bedrooms, domestic offices, lawn, and garden. Excellent water. Rent moderate.—Hodges, Bratton, Wincanton.                     (43662

Villa.—To Let, with immediate possession, a well-built villa residence, in Sherborne Road, Yeovil, containing downstair three rooms with back-kitchen, larder, and the usual offices; upstairs, three bedrooms, dressing-room, and w.c.; commodious attic. The House is very pleasantly situated in one of the healthiest parts of the town.— Apply Wilfred T.Walters, 5, Earle Street, Yeovil.

                                                                (44872

House.—  charming old Manor House, in a delightful Somersetshire village, to LET, from Midsummer. South and West aspect, well sheltered from North and East by lofty hills. House contains three reception-rooms, 10 bedrooms, and all necessary domestic offices. Good stabling, coachhouse, gardener’s cottage, large fruit and kitchen gardens, shrubberies, lawns, conservatory, &c. Near Church and Rectory, two miles from telegraph, post, and railway town. Rent £60.— Apply Knight, Auctioneer, Langport.                                       (42853

Notice is hereby Given, that the partnership heretofore subsisting between us, the undersigned, william cox   and john tyte, carrying on business as jewellers and silversmiths, at Yeovil, in the county of Somerset, under the style or firm of Hancock, Cox, and Co., has been dissolved by Mutual Consent, as from the 25th day of October, 1897, and that the said John Tyte will henceforth carry on the said business, and will pay and receive all debts owing by and to the said partnership.— Dated this 25th day of October, 1897.

                                                           william cox.

                                                           john tyte.

KING’S COLLEGE, TAUNTON.

a church of england public school (one

            of the woodard schools).

   Provost : Rev. Prebendary meynell. Head Master; Rev. e.b.vincent, m.a., late Scholar of Univ. Coll., Oxford. Chaplain: Rev. w.e.kemp,B.A., Worcester College , Oxford. Fees for Board and Education, 22 Guineas per annum. Inclusive Terms for Day Boys, £14 per annum. Healthy Situation. Good Playing Fields. Spacious Dormitories. Classrooms. Chapel(temporary), &c. One scholarship and One exhibition, reducing the fees to 14 and 18 Guineas respectively, will be awarded at the end of July.—For prospectus and full information apply to the Head Master.

   Some time ago the propietor of a travelling wild beast menagerie, well known in Italy, quarrelled with his wife, and the pair separated. The wife soon afterwards went into business on her own account in the wild beast line. Last week the husband’s menagerie arrived in Bologna, and it was followed two days later by that of his wife. The husband was equal to the occasion. He had the walls of the town placarded with the following ambiguous announcement: “ In consequence of the arrival of my wife in this town, my stock of wild beasts has been increased."

                        MARTOCK.

   Fall from a Ladder.— George Pitman, in the employ of Mr. S.Darby, was engaged in picking apples on Thursday, when the ladder he was using slipped, causing him to fall heavily on his left shouder. He was at once taken to Dr. Adams’ surgery, and it was found that he had sustained very severe bruises and shock to the system. No bones were broken.

   Harvest Supper.— On Wednesday evening, October 6th, Mr. Wm.Tucker, of the Manor Farm, kindly invited the whole of his employees to a harvest supper. Thirty-two men and boys, in addition to the wives and children, responded to Mr. Tucker’s invitation and after justice had been done to an excellent meal songs were sung, the evening passing most pleasantly.

   Sudden Death.— An inquest was held at the Railway Hotel on Monday by Mr. E.Q.Louch, coroner on the body of a man named John Mitchell. Mr. John Marsh was choosen foreman of the jury.— Mr. N.Fish gave evidence bearing out the facts already replied.— Dr. George Adams said he was called in to see the deceased, and found him sitting on the floor quite dead. He was of opinion that the cause of death was syncope.— The jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

   exciting scene in a menagerie.

------------------

          lion tamer attacked.

   The lion tamer, Viola, who is attached to Biddall’s menagerie, was admitted into the county hospital, at Dorchester, on Thursday, suffering from severe lacerations caused by a lioness during a performance at Winfrith, on the previous night. Viola was attacked in Bridgwater at St.Matthew’s fair in the same menagerie in which Mr. Lloyd, of Bridgwater, entered the lion’s den, and again a few weeks since, when he had a narrow escape, beating the animals off with great difficulty. Since then he had exercised great care. On Wednesday night, at the close of the performance in the cage, which contained three lions, one of the animals, a powerful lioness, sprang upon him and seized him by the thigh. Viola managed to escape by the door, with the assistance of one of the employés, just as the other lions dashed at him. The scene caused great excitement. On examination at the hospital it was found that Viola had a very bad wound in the thigh and he was detained in the institution.

   A Somerset man,named John Bartlett, was sentenced some 14 years ago, by the Somerton magistrates, to two months’ imprisonment for an assault. He absconded, but returned to Somerton a few months ago. On Sunday morning, August 22nd, he was apprehended as he was returning home from church, and sent to Shepton Mallet gaol to carry out his sentence. A petition was got up on his behalf, the chief arguments being that the offence was committed many years ago, and that only one of the  accused had been apprehended. Last week Bartlett was released by order of the Home Secretary.

   Sir Spencer and Lady Ponsonby-Fane entertained a family party at Brympton-house, near Yeovil, for the celebration of their golden wedding on Thursday. Sir Spencer is a son of the fourth Earl of Bessborough, who died in 1847, when Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland. In 1840 Lord Palmerston gave him a clerkship in the Foreign Office, and he served in that department untill 1857, when theQueen (on the recommendation of Lord Breadalbane) made him Controller of Account (i.e., permanent under-secretary) at the Lord Chamberlain’s Office, in succession to Mr. Norman Macdonald. Her Majesty has since appointed him to be a Gentleman Usher Daily Waiter. Sir Spencer’s resignation of his post has been for some time expected, and it is understood at Court that he was promoted the other day from K.C.B. to G.C.B. in anticipation of his retirement at the end of the year. The estate of Brympton was left to him about twenty-three years ago by his maternal aunt, Lady Georgina Fane. Lady Ponsonby-Fane, who has  been a complete invalid for some time past in consequence of a severe paralytic stroke, is a daughter of the thirteenth Viscount Dillon.

                        “NON-POISONOUS.”

            WOOLLATT’S TAUNTON COUGH DROPS.

   This preparation strengthens the lungs when weak enfeebled, or consumptive, relieves the breathing in Bronchitis or Asthma, soothes any irritation of the throat, is good for violent Coughs, such as Whooping Cough, &c.; one dose only will prove its efficiency.— Sold in Bottles at 13½ d. and 2s. 9d. each, post free 3d. extra, by Woollatt, Chemist, Taunton, Somerset, and all medicine pealers.                                            1599.

Cowardly Assault on a young Woman.— George Roberts, blind and very hard of hearing, a hawker, of Langport, was summoned for assaulting his niece, Florence Emily Milsom, at Langport, on Sunday, 27th June.— Defendant pleaded guilty.— It appeared that complainant, who went about hawking with the defendant, had for some time been subjected to ill usage at the hands of the defendant, and others of the household. On the day named she had been to Stathe, and on the way back met a boy, with whom she walked for some distance. When she arrived home defendant beat her unmercifuly with a walking stick, and it was with great difficulty she could get out of the house. Although her grandfather and grandmother saw defendant attacking her in  so cowardly a manner, they did not take her part. When complainant got into the street, she presented a miserable appearance, her clothes being nearly torn from her.— Complainant’s grandfather alleged that she was a bad girl.— The Bench did not like to send such an afflicted person as the defendant to prison, and fined him £2 1s, including costs.

                        MARTOCK.

            AMATEUR ATHLETIC SPORTS.

   Encouraged by the success of last year’s experiment, the Committee of these sports organised this year another meeting, which took place on Wednesday, in very favourable weather, in a field kindly lent by Mr. John Leach. The townspeople heartily backed up the enterprise, and visitors from a wide neighbourhood also attended in goodly numbers, and showed their interest in the affair, which it is hoped may become an annual institution. Martock was made gay with bunting, and the bells from the fine old church tower rang merry peals during the day; while the prizes offered for arches tempted the residents to vie with each other in decorating the streets. The judges in this matter, however, had not a very difficult task. The arch erected by Messrs. Worner and Lye opposite Mr. Worner’s premises easily bore off the palm, and was deservedly awarded the first prize of £2. It was very artistically designed, carefully constructed, and represented an infinite deal of labour and patience. Appropiately to the occasion, it bore on one side the words, “To the front if we can,” and on the reverse, “Hurrah for the Winners.” Second honour fell to the railway officials, who had erected an arch at the entrance to the station-yard, bearing the mottos, “God save the Queen,” and “Success to our Sports,” and Mrs. Leach’s servants were rewarded with a “h.c.” for their structure, which, however, was not finished. The field in which the sports came off was conveniently situated, and the gate was prettily set off with greenery, flowers, and suitable mottos. Upwards of £30 was offered in prizes, many of which were of a handsome character. They were displayed in the field during the afternoon, and were much admired. With the sum at their disposal, the Committee had been able to arrange a good card, and most of the events secured a good number of entries, the competitions generally exciting considerable interest among the spectators. The menagerie race (for Committeemen only), however, did not come off, neither did the tug-of-war, there being no entries in either case.Two races resulted in dead heats, which had to be decided subsequently, and these, together with the 100 yards open flat race, were probably the best items on the programme. The attendance during the afternoon was very satisfactory, and exceeded that on the last occasion. Subjoined are particulars of the competitions:—

   100 Yards’ Flat Race.— Open handicap. Prizes, value £2 10s and £1. First heat: 1st, F.F.Edwards, Weymouth Rowing Club, 2 yards; 2nd, R.Leach, Martock Football Club, 3 yards. Second heat: 1st, F.Denton, Bristol, 2½ yards; 2nd, J.R.Marsh, Martock F.C., 6 yards. The final was won in good form by Edwards, Denton being second.

   Kicking Football.— Martock Football Club only. Prizes £1 and 10s. Six entries; five competed, viz. : Rev. C.F.Luckham, and Messrs. J.R.Marsh, M.Lock, R.Leach, and A.W.Philpott. Mr. Luckham’s kicks, extending the width of the ring, were too good to be beaten, and he was awarded first prize. Mr. Philpott also made several fine kicks, and was placed second. The other competitors were amateurs at the “drop.”

   Quarter-Mile Flat Race.— Open handicap. Prizes, £2 10s and £1 — 1st, F.Denton, 10 yards; 2nd, F.F.Edwards, Weymouth, 8 yards; R.Norton, Ilminster, scratch; E.K.Were, 20 yards; G.Burge, 20 yards, also ran. Twice round the course The course was covered once without change of position, Edwards then pressed to the front, and ran side by side with Denton, the limit man retaining his place. Thirty yards from home, however, he was dead beat, and there was a smart finish between Denton and Edwards, the former winning by about half-a-yard.

   100 Yards’ Hurdle Handicap. Martock only.— Prizes, £1 and 10s.— 1st, R.Leach, owes 2 yards; 2nd, J.R.Marsh, owes 2 yards. M.Lock, owes 10 yards; J.Oram, owes 2 yards; James Williams, scratch, also ran. Lock was soon left in the rear, and the race was between Leach, Marsh, and Oram, who cleared the last hurdle well together. Leach won on the tape by a foot.

   220 Yards’ Flat Race.— Handicap.— Boys under 16 only. Prizes, 10s and 5s.— First, W.E.Cridland, scratch; 2nd, J.Woodman, 10 yards. W.Culliford, H.Saunders, H.Haysom, F.Banfield, A.Pool, and A.Follett also ran.

   100 Yards Flat Race, Handicap. Martock only.— Prizes, £1 and 10s.— 1st, R.Leach(3yds); dead heat for second place between J.Oram (5yds) and A.E.Patterson (10yds). Leach had the race pretty well in hand, and won in a good style by at least two yards; a stiff fight between Oram and Patterson ended in a dead heat. The dead heat was run off later in the afternoon, when Patterson won by about a foot.

   Throwing Cricket Ball.— Martock Cricket Club only.— Prizes, £1 and 10s— M.Lock threw the ball 116 yards, and was declared the winner. His “shies” were fine exhibitions, and were deservedly applauded by the spectators. A.W.Philpott was second with 105 yards. M.A.Palmer, L.Lock, and H.Farrant also competed.

   One Mile Flat Race.— Open handicap. Prizes £3, £1, and 10s.— 1st, F.Bryant, Bristol, 55 yards; 2nd, A.Mills 75 yards; 3rd, G.Burge, 50 yards; F.Denton, 45 yards; R.Beaton, Ilchester, 50 yards; and D.Nicholls, Sherborne, 60 yards. Bryant took the lead soon after the start, and the rest was a mere procession, as Denton made no real attempt to run against his Bristol colleagues. The time was actually 5 min.52secs.

   220 Yards Flat Race.— Martock boys under 12. Four prizes. First heat:— 1st, C.Denning, 5 yards; 2nd, Frederick Burt, scratch; 3rd, F.R.Scutt, 5yards; 4th, Ernest Adams, scratch. Second heat;— 1st, H.Saunders, 5 yards; 2nd, O.Oram, 10 yards; 3rd, H.Willies, scratch, 4th, Frederick Tavener, scratch. Final:— 1st, H.Willies, 2nd, Tavener; 3rd, Saunders; 4th, Adams.

   One Mile Bicycle Handicap.— Martock only. Prizes £1 10s and £1. Eight enties; four ran. First, J.Richards, jun. (50 yds.); second, Arthur Viney, age 9 (440 yds) R.Leach (20yds.) and G.Tucker (50 yds.), also started, but retired.The youngster rode very pluckily, but was overhauled by Tucker, who, notwithstanding that he rode the course nine times (eight laps to the mile), came in the winner).

   High Jump.— Open handicap prizes, £1 and 10s. First, Mark Lock, 2½ inches; 2nd, Williams, 4 inches. J.R.Marsh, 5 inches, failed at 4 feet 4 inches; Leach, at 4 feet 6 inches; Lock, at 4 feet 7½ inches, and as he only had to give Williams 1½ inches, he was declared the winner, with Williams second.

   Quarter Mile Flat Race.— For Martock labourers. Prizes, 10s and 5 s. First, C.Vivian, 15 yards; 2nd, Septimus Goodden, 25 yards. George Middleton.(25 yards) was third; while J.Oram, H.Tucker, E.L.Rogers, J.Butcher, W.Rogers, and Albert West also ran.

   Half Mile Flat Race.— Open Handicap Prizes, £2 10s and £1. Dead heat for first place between Beaton (30 yds) and A.Mills (50 yards), 3rd, E.K.Were, 70 yards. On the third lap, the limit man was passed by Mills, who led until within a few yards of home when Beaton shot to the front, and the judges declared the finish to be a dead heat, Were was a bad third. R.Norton, the scratch man, was fourth. The dead heat was run off subsequently. Beaton tried his best, but he could not overtake his rival, who won by several yards.

   Broad Jump. Open Handicap.— Prizes, £1 and 10s.— 1st, M.Lock, scratch; 2nd, J.R.Marsh, 10 in. J.Williams 10 in. also competed.— Lock jumped 18 ft.3in.; but Marsh could do no more than 17 ft.3in., and reckoning his handicap, this left Lock winner by two inches. Williams failed to jump more than 16 ft.6in., and Marsh was therefore second.

   The band  of the South Petherton Rifle Volunteers (under Band Sergeant Willey) occupied the band stand, and discoursed selections of music during the afternoon.

   Major Wilkie and the Rev. W.H.Linklater acted as judges, Mr. W.Leach being the referee. Mr. R.Leach, of Yeovil, officiated as starter, and Mr. J.Viney was time-keeper. Other active officials included Major Symons (treasurer), and the hon. secs.(Mr.J.Pool, jun., and Mr. A.W.Philpott).

   On the conclusion of the programme, the spectators gathered round the band-stand, where the prizes were distributed by Mrs. Jelinger Symons. The successful competitors were cheered as they bore away their trophies. When this pleasing business was over,

   The Rev. Preb. Salmon expressed his pleasure at the success which had attended the occasion, and hoped the sports would become an annual institution in Martock.(Cheers.) He thanked those present for their attendance, and proposed a cordial vote of thanks to the Committee, the Treasurer, and other parties who had lent their assistance, and the proposition was greeted with cheers.

   Cheers for Prebendary Salmon and Mrs. Salmon were then called for and heartily given, and Prebendary Salmon having responded, referred to the kindness of Mr. Leach in granting the use of the field for the sports. (Cheers.) He then proposed “The Ladies,” and thanked them for gracing the festivities with their presence, especially mentioning the name of Mrs. Jelinger Symons, who had kindly distributed the prizes. (Cheers.)— Major Symons briefly replied, and the company dispersed.

   The day was brought to a pleasant termination with a dance in the field in the evening.

            STRANGE DISCOVERY.

   A remarkable discovery had been made at Yeovil during the formation of a new storage reservoir on Summerhouse Hill. When the excavations had been completed and the bottom was about to be levelled, a number of fissures were found in the bed of sand and rock. Some, on being opened up, extended  to over 10 ft. in width, and in a few instances no bottom has been sounded at a depth of 50 ft. Among the debris taken from the crevasses were several huge teeth and bones, thought to be those of an extinct species of ox, pieces of an ancient British urn, and fragments of sandstone, which is uncommon in the district. The cleavage is supposed to have been the result of an earthquake at a remote period. It will take several hundred tons of concrete to fill up the fissures, and the additional cost is estimated at about £2,000.

            pier fire at weston.

   A destructive fire broke out on Weston-super-Mare Pier, through a child upsetting a paraffin lamp into an open chest of drawers in a bedroom at the pavilion. The pavilion was occupied by Mr. and Mrs. Bennett and their 6 children. Mrs. Bennett was bathing 3 children in the bedroom when the lamp was upset, and she could only save her children in their night-dresses, and within an hour the roofs of the pavilion and concert hall fell in.

            the pavilion destroyed.

The brigade was summoned, but, it being holiday time, were got together only with great difficulty, and when they reached the island, which is connected with the mainland by the pier, the hose was found insufficient to reach the nearest hydrant by over 100 ft., and the suction pipe could not be worked efficiently. Eventually the pavilion was completely destroyed, the damage being estimated at about £4,000.

            TAKING A WIFE ON TRIAL

                        ——————

           ROMANCE OF A WORKHOUSE.

   A new feature of the Workhouse matrimonial bureau business has been developed in the Clutton Union, Somersetshire. Some time ago the local Board of Guardians received a letter from a man who had had the misfortune to lose his wife, and was left with five or six children, asking to be allowed to visit the Workhouse with the view of being introduced to an inmate who would be a “fit and proper” person for a wife. Nothing more was heard of the matter until a question was raised by a member of the Board, who at the last meeting indignantly enquired whether it was a fact that a man had been allowed to visit the Workhouse to choose a wife. To this the Chairman replied that there was no Act of Parliament which prevented a man from choosing a wife from a Workhouse.

   The member who first brought up the subject, however, was not satisfied, and the Master of the Workhouse was summoned to throw light on the conjugal transaction.His story was that on the previous Saturday, a man had visited the Workhouse, and, after mentioning the Vice-Chairman’s name, intimated that he wanted a woman to look after his house and children and that if she suited him he would marry her. “ I told him,” proceeded het Master, “ that we had ever so many women here, and he said he wanted a woman who had only one child. I told him of a woman in the House who seemed to answer his requirements, and he came to the conclusion that the woman would do, and she went with him for a week on trial. The week will be up to-morrow, and she will let me know whether she will stay there or not.”

   This story gave rise to an animated discussion, and a member observed that the matter had created a great deal of scandal. Another observed that the Master’s tale was a very ugly one, while a third enquired whether it was permissible for a man to visit the Workhouse and ask any woman to go out with him, and if so, was the woman to leave the House without let or hindrence? To this the Chairman replied that if anyone having obtained admittance to the House as a visitor could persuade a woman to go out with him, the woman had a perfect right to go.— The Vice-Chairman of the Board strongly objected to the Guardian’s assuming, without any grounds, that there was something wrong in the transaction. The man, he said, was perfectly honest and straightforward, and wanted a woman to look after his house and his children.—The subject was disposed of by the Board appointing a committee to enquire into the matter.

                        SOUTH PETHERTON.

   Inspection of Volunteers.— There was a muster of about 60 of all ranks at drill on Tuesday  evening, when the M Company were inspected in a field at Bridge House by the Adjutant, Captain Peacock. The band was in attendance.

   A Practical Joker and His Dupes.— On Sunday a man, formerly well-known in the town, engaged about 20 men to meet him and his supposed master at the Bell Inn at nine o’clock on the following morning. The work upon which the men was to be employed was the erection of posts for a telephone from South Petherton to Yeovil. The men were to receive £1 each per week, and there would be two months’ work. On Monday morning about 30 labourers and two tradesmen paraded in front of the Bell Inn, but there was no appearance of the individual at whose initiative they had assembled, and he has not since been heard of. The men returned home, sadly crestfallen, as some gave up good places to secure the £1 a week.

                        SALE BY AUCTION.

         SUTTON ROAD, SOMERTON, SOMERSET.

                             ---------------

                   Wednesday, OCTOBER 6th

        MESSRS.   R.  &    C.  SNELL,

Beg to announce that they have been favoured with instructions from Mr. J.H.Andrews, who has taken a thrashing business in Devonshire to SELL by AUCTION on above date, the undermentioned Live and Dead

farm   stock,   hay,   corn,   keep,

            And effects, comprising:—

   Live stock.— 2 dairy cows in calf and in milk, 1 coming two-year-old heifer in calf, 2 cart mares, donkey, 3 pigs, 3 geese, 27 ducks, 60 head poultry.

   Machinery & Implements.— 4 ft. 6 in. Thrashing machine, grinding mill fitted with stones, portable saw bench, steam chaffcutter, 2 potato mills, 60 ft. Leather 5-in. Driving belt, sundry small ditto, 5 pulleys, 2 portable barns, mowing and reaping machine, reaping ditto by Samuelson, one horse waggon, ditto broad wheel putt, plough and tackle, winnowing machine, cider pump and tub, water barrel and trucks, 3 sets harness, lifting jack, 3 rick cloths, picks and rakes, hay knife, oak round ladder, baskets, tools, milk tank, bucket, scales and weights, case of cattle oils, feeding manger, wheelbarrow, seed ditto, timber chains, heating stove, oil lamp, parrot cage, patent filter, wash barrel, old iron, faggot wood, et.

   The marriage between Mr. Philip Goodenough Barnard, district superintendent N.W.P. and Oudh Police, second son of the late Rev. Prebendary Barnard, formerly vicar of Yatton, Somerset, and Miss Bessie Helen Marr, second daughter of the late Mr. William Mackinnon, C.A., and Mrs. Mackinnon, 5 Marlborough-terrace, Glasgow, is arranged to take place at Mainpuri, N.W.P., at the end of November.

   Systematic Thefts by a Shepherd.— John Stone, a shepherd, in the employ of Mr. J.Manfield, farmer, of Hambridge, was charged with stealing a quantity of corn from his employer.— P.S.Colmer stated that on March 7th he was at Westport in company with P.C.Clist, when he saw the defendant, and, noticing that his pockets appeared  bulky, he stopped him and asked him what they contained. Defendant told him that it was cracked oilcake, and that he had it for the lambs. Witness told him that carrying off his master’s property was a serious matter, and he should hear what Mr. Manfield had to say about it. Witness then went to defendant’s house, and there noticed a sack which contained corn, and another receptacle which contained oilcake. Witness asked defendant how he accounted for the possession of this, and he made no reply. When Mr. Manfield was told of the matter he said to defendant “ I knew you were doing this, but I did not know that you were robbing me in such a wholesale way.”  On examining the sack he found it contained beans, barley, and oats, mixed; the barrel contained oilcake; and there were other receptacles also containing corn in the house. Mr. Manfield identified the goods as his property, and sent a waggon to remove the corn and cake to the farm. Witness weighed the stolen property before it as removed, and found that the total weight of  the oilcake was 2cwt. 2qrs. 6lbs., whilst the weight of the mixed corn was 3cwt, and 14lbs.— Mr. Manfield, the owner of the stolen goods, stated that defendant had worked for him for eight years, and had access to both the granary and the barn. For some time past he had suspected the defendant. He estimated the value of the different quantities of corn and cake found at the defendant’s house at £1 16s 4d.— A sentence of two months’ imprisonment was imposed.

—      Defendant left the Court with the remark “ Goodbye, lads.”

——————————————————————————

   the langport and mid-somerset

Benefit      Building     Society.

           Established 1849.     Incorporated 1875.

                OFFICES— The Hill, LANGPORT.

                 Secretary — William C.Morris.

                        SHARES, £ 60 Each.

                                   —         ————

   objects:— To enable Investors by Monthly Payments of 5s to accumulate their savings at the rate of £5 per cent. Compound interest.

   To enable Borrowers to purchase property, or to obtain loans on mortgage by monthly payments of 10s a month.

   To enable Members to become Owners of their houses, cottages, and gardens.

   ADVANTAGES:—  £5 PER CENT. Compound interest at present based on a fixed term of 14 years. Mortgages cannot be called in so long as the repayments are made regularly, while Mortgagors can redeem their properties at three months’ notice.

   The Law and Survey Charges are fixed by the rules at a very moderate rate. Entrance fee at present 1s per share.

   Any information can be obtained on application to the Secretary.

Dated. The Hill, Langport, 1st January, 1896.

            HARDINGTON MANDEVILLE.

   Early Gardening.— Should the gardens escape the frost there is every prospect of a bountiful season in this parish. Potatoes and peas in bloom and strawberries ready for the table may already be seen in the garden of Mr. Park, who lives near the church.

   A Local Bequest.— Mr. John Thorn, a native of Somersetshire, who left this country some years ago as a working-man, and has recently died in Utica (U.S.), after having amassed an immense fortune, has bequeathed to his niece, Mary Elizabeth Genge (who is a daughter of deceased’s sister, Mrs. Mary Ann Govier), of Hardington, 20,000 dollars.

   A Lunatic At Large.— Considerable excitement was caused in the village on Monday last by the appearance of a young man of respectable attire evidently not in his right mind. He entered into conversation with several villagers, but nothing definite could be gleaned from him. After wandering about he made his way to the School-room, where he sat down and remained for about a quarter of an hour. Mrs. Sercombe, the schoolmistress, suggested to him the advisability of proceeding to the nearest town, and he was after a time induced to leave the room. Almost immediately afterwards he returned, but as precautions had been taken to prevent his entrance he went away, and entered a cottage near the Rectory. Here he got into the pantry, and by means of an iron bar which was near by he fastened himself in. Dr. Eadie, of West Coker, happened to be passing at the time, and his attention was called to the man. He succeeded in persuading him to leave the pantry and accompany him. The man walked on very quietly for a while, and then suddenly he became very excited, and attacked Dr. Eadie in a savage manner. Assistance was quickly forthcoming, and he was with considerable difficulty taken to Dr. Eadie’s house at West Coker. Here he was examined by the doctor and pronounced to be insane. A conveyance was obtained, and he was taken to Mr. G.Troyte-Chafyn-Grove’s, at East Coker, in order to get an order for his removal to the Asylum, Major Aldworth, of West Coker, the resident magistrate, being absent from home at the time. The man was conveyed to the Yeovil Union in the evening and thence to Wells Asylum, where he is detained pending enquiries. In the course of a rambling statement the man said he was a native of Shoreditch and a painter by profession.

            ILMINSTER.

   Presentation.— The teachers of the Wesleyan Sunday School have presented Miss John with a handsome silver biscuit box on the occasion of her marriage with Mr. Walden.

May 31-1895

   Excessive Drinking.— Henry Davis, labourer, Walton, was charged with having been drunk and disorderly, at Walton, on the 4th inst.— Defendant pleaded guilty, and, having been previously convicted, was fined 5s and 6s costs.— He paid 5s, and was allowed a week to pay the reminder.

   Stone Throwing.— Amos Wallace, a youth, was summoned, on the information of P.S.Martin, for throwing stones, at Street, on the 17th inst., and was fined 10s and 6s costs.

   Ignorance No Excuse.— Silas Chick, labourer, Compton Dundon, was summoned for moving a pig along the highway at Compton Dundon without having a license to do so.— The information was laid by P.C.Sharp.— Defendant said he had not the least idea that a license was required.— It was explained that the animal was being moved for breeding purposes, and that another man who was driving it was equally liable.— Ordered to pay 2s 6d.

   Bastardy.— Arthur W. Chapman, shoemaker, late of Street, was summoned by Emily Dalwood, single woman, of Street, to show cause.— Defendant did not appear, and the service of the summons was proved by the police.— Applicant produced letters from defendant in corroboration, and stated that he had also sent her money by postal order since the child was born.— Mrs. Clements also gave corroborative evidence.— An order was made for the payment of 3s a week until the child reached the age of 16 years.

May 31-1895

            QUEEN CAMEL.

   Cricket.— Hazelgrove v. Ivel.— This match was played at Hazelgrove on Saturday, and resulted in a victory for the home team by 51 runs on the initial innings. Dampier rendered great help in batting and bowling. The Vicar very kindly entertained both teams to tea. Scores:— Hazelgrove, 80 and 82 for two wickets; Ivel Club, 29.

CHARLTON MUSGROVE.

  ALLEGED FALSE PRETENCES BY MR.

   MARMADUKE WOOD

                  COMMITTED FOR TRIAL.

      Further evidence was on Monday at the Marlborough-street Police-court given in the case of Marmaduke Wood, 28, gentleman, of Montagu Mansion, Great Russell-street, charged on remand with obtaining a sapphire pin, ruby ring, and setting of a turquoise pin, worth in all £21, by false pretences, from Barnett Weigel, a jeweller, of 41, Great Portland-street.— The accused represented that he was a member of Boodle’s Club, and gave a cheque which was returned from the bank.— Mr. Moyses, barrister, prosecuted; and Mr. Bernard Abrahams, solicitor, defended.— Edgar Harold Cayley, ledger clerk at Stuckey’s Bank, at Chard, said the prisoner had no account at that branch. The cheque in question was one of a series issued to a Mr. Gerald Langdon, since deceased. In September, 1894, prisoner was not a director or shareholder. His uncle, Mr. Vincent Stuckey, was now the chairman of the Company. Two or three other cheques drawn by the accused had been returned.— Miss Georgina Gaines, the executrix of the propietor of Boodle’s Club, stated that the prisoner had been a member till May, 1892, but then he failed to pay his subscription. He had used the Club since, and had had letters handed to him as late as the present month.— Mr. Bernard Abrahams, for the defence, called Mr. Percival Johnson Burt, of the firm of Powell & Burt, solicitors, of St. Swithin’s-lane. For some time he had managed Marmaduke Wood’s affairs. Prisoner’s father, a retired Army officer, who died in 1870, had acted as manager of one of the branches of the bank founded by his grandfather. On his decease he left about £150,000, of which prisoner inherited a large portion. Mr. Vincent Stuckey, prisoner’s uncle, was the trustee. Wood was still interested in £21,000 under the will, and a further sum under the marriage settlement of his mother. In July, 1894, he instructed witness to procure a loan of £1,000 for him. During September he had a balance in hand, which he had been instructed to pay into the family bank. There was, further, a year’s income due to him in October, which was actually paid by Mr. Vincent Stuckey. Wood was an extremely unbusiness-like young man, and very careless about money matters.— Mr. Richard Stuckey Wood said that his brother ( the accused) came of age in 1887. He has an account at the Wincanton branch of Stuckey’s Banking Company. He had spent a great deal of money. In the autumn of last year he went to America to see some friends, and did not return till two or three weeks ago. Mr. Langdon, whose cheque had been used, had been a very intimate friend of his brother’s.— Mr. Hannay regretted that he must send a young gentleman of good family and means for trial, but it was one of the commonest means of obtaining goods by fraud.— He accepted the bail of Mr. Burt and Mr. Stuckey Wood in £250 each for the prisoner’s appearance at the trial.

STOP!  I have not done yet with the Crewkerne heroes. Not very long ago, a couple of natives entered a hostelry, and they showed some “sport.” They were not lion tamers, but they had “trained” rats and moles, which they carried about with them between the shirt and the body! Now the rats and the moles were playful little creatures, and the rat was an especial favourite. For this is how they exhibited him. One of the ‘trainers” took the rat in his hand and placed its head in his mouth, while the other at the same time treated the hind quarters of the animal in a similar manner. They did not hurt the animal, although one of them said he was open to bite the head off of any live rat which could be brought him. In order to prove his “gift” in this direction, he produced three live mice, which he suspended in he air by the tail, dropped them one by one into his mouth, scrunched them up and swallowed them as a dog would, but washed them down with a “quart o’fourpenny.”

Mr. John Tompsett, Grocer, & c., Crewkerne

Mr. E.W.Arkell. Grocer, & c., Shepton Mallett.

            PALE AND MILD ALES FROM 10D.

December 5-1895

            WEST COKER.

   A  marriage has been arranged , and will take place in January, betwen Rev. Hubert Farquharson Grove, rector of Huish, Wilts, and Maude Dorothy, only daughter of the late Captain Francis James Berkeley, 17th ( the Leicestershire ) Regiment, and niece of Lieutenant-Colonel Edmund Henry Berkeley, of West Coker House, Somerset.

            THORN COFFIN.

   We regret to state that His Honour, Judge Hooper, was prostrated by a seizure on Wednesday, and has not since regained consciousness. We are glad to say there are slight symptoms of improvement.

            MILBORNE PORT.

   Orders for advertisements for the Somerset County Mail, received by Mr. H.Thring, grocer, &c., of whom the paper can be obtained. Papers can also be obtained of Mrs. Ottery, dressmaker, High Street.

   Football.— On Saturday the Milborne Port team went to Wincanton to play the return match with the United Schools, which resulted in a draw, each side scoring a goal. There were some very shady decisions on the part of the homesters by the referee, who was afterwards presented with a bun by one of the Milborne team.

   C.E.T.S.— On Monday evening the usual monthly meeting of the Band of Hope in connection with the above was held at the National Schools, under the presidency of Rev. C.H.P.Crawford. After singing a hymn, and prayers offered by  the Rev. S.O.Ridley, a short programme of recitations, &c, were given, but the special feature of the evening was temperance narrative, illustrated by lantern slides, entitled “ Joe Purkiss,” manipulated by the Rev. S.O.Ridley, who also gave the connective readings. The performances were highly appreciated by a large and influential audience,              ( members of the congregation and Sunday Schools  being invited). The other items were, a solo by Ethel Blandford: recitation, “ David and Goliath,” Tom Dyke: dialogue “ Our Resolve,” by six senior girl scholars, Misses Dawes(2), Field, Shepperd, Foot and Creighton; recitation, Tom Tabor; dialogue, “ Afraid to go Home,” Misses Pike, Foot, Field, and Eddy Cane; recitations— “ Perseverance,” Fred Coombs; “ Rags and Tatters,” Gilbert Tandy; “ Ben Bobbin.” Mabel Baunton; Lantern Narrative, Rev. S.O.Ridley. At the close a cordial vote of thanks to Mr. Ridley was moved, and seconded by the Vicar, and Mr. R.H.Ensor, supported by the Secretary, Mr. E.Pitman, which brought a very pleasant evening to an end.

   Entertainment.— On Tuesday evening an interesting and successful entertainment was given at the British Schoolroom by the scholars and friend of the Congregational Sunday Schools. A lengthy programme of solos and choruses by the choir, selections of music by Mr. H.Pitman’s string band, and recitations and dialogues were admirably rendered, especially two dialogues entitled, “ The Vagrant,” and “ Affectation,” ( in character) by a party of senior scholars. The programme was as follow:— March, “Symphonia,” band; recitation, “ Our Infant Sunday School.” Edgar Parsons; recitation, “ Totsy’s Lunch,” Flossy Pitman; chorus, “ How bountiful,” choir; recitations, “ The Baby over the Way,” Bessie Dangey; “ Try to do right, boys,” Albert Hodges; March, “ Sacred,” band; recitation, “ Little Ann and her mother,” Bessie Pitman; solo and chorus, “ Thus said Jesus,” choir; dialogue, “ The Vagrant,” four senior scholars; recitation, “ In a codemned cell,” Harty Trust; “ Little Jim,” Tom Dungey; “ Gavotte from Handel,” band;chorus, “ He passeth by,” choir; dialogue, “ Affectuation,” ( in character), senior scholars; March, “ The Signal,” band; recitation, “ Family Financier,” Stanley Weare; chorus, “ Chorus of Converts,” choir; recitation, ‘ Beautiful Snow,” Annie Hyde; chorus, “ Hosanna,” choir: “ God Save the Queen,” in which all joined. The whole of the items were highy appreciated by a large audience, and a hearty vote of thanks was moved and seconded by Mr. G.Pitman ( superintendent), and the Rev. E.A.Arthurs ( pastor) to all who had contributed to the evening’s enjoyment. The proceeds are to be devoted to the School funds. There were over two hundred present.

            TAUNTON.

   Mr. Francis Wheat Newton, J.P., D.L., of Great Barton Grange, Corfe, West Somerset, died on Wednesday, at the age of 82 years.

   Serious Fire.— On Saturday night a fire, the origin of which is a mystery, occurred at the Taunton Railway Station, and resulted in the destruction of a great part of the engineering storm and workshops of the Great Western Railway Company, the damage being estimated at £4,000. The fire was discovered about nine o’clock, and in a quarter-of-an-hour it had complete hold of the buildings. The Borough Fire Brigade and about 100 helpers succeeded in saving the divisional engineer’s offices and the blacksmiths’ and plumbers’ shop.

    The Sewage Works.— A special meeting of the Town Council was held on Friday morning, under the presidency of the Mayor ( Alderman W. Adams) for the cosideration of a report from Mr. Naylor, sewage engineer, of Preston, as to the improvement of sewage works. Mr. Naylor recommended the enlargement of the filtration area, and the use of polarite as the filtering medium. Mr. Spiller proposed that polarite should be employed. But after some discussion it was decided that the committee should be instructed to present a  supplementary report dealing wih a biological filter, several members of the Council being strongly in favour of the use of coke-breeze.

   West Somerset Teachers’ Association.— A meeting of the Taunton and West Somerset Teachers’ Association was held on Saturday afternoon at the Central Scools, Taunto. Mr. A.G.Daniel, of Albemarle, Taunton, President of the Association, occupied the chair, and there was a good attendance. Mr. R.P.C.Gregory, of Castle Cary, was nominated as a candidate for the executive of the N.U.T. Mr. Winfield, of Backwell. Bristol, gave an address explanatory of the provident scheme of the National Union of Teachers, and said that if teachers joined it they would find it was the best thing they had ever done in their lives. Mr. F.F.Wheeler, of Cheltenham, a member of the executive of the N.U.T. , next delivered an address on the programme of Sir John Gorst, Vice-President of the Council, as enunciated by that statesman in a speech recently delivered by him at Queen’s Hall, Langham Place. Of most of the measures advocated by John Gorst, Mr. Wheeler cordially approved, and he hoped they would soon be passed into law. Mr. Prosser, of Bath, and Mr. Gregory, of Castle Cary, also delivered addresses. The Chairman said that Col. Welby, M.P., for Taunton, did not intend that the superannuation scheme should lie on the table, for he had written as follows:— “ I understand that during the last Session superannuation was mentioned as one of the subjects which will be dealt with next year. If this proves not to be the case I will endeavour, with others, to press it on the attention of the Government. Education at the present time is a matter for national consideration.” (Applause.)

December 5-1895

PROPOSED NEW ROAD AT TAUNTON.

   A meeting of the residents of the East Ward, convened by Councillor W.A.Wrenn, was held on Saturday night in support of a scheme for securing a road from the end of Eastborne Road across Priory Fields and the River Tone to the Railway Station, which would save about ten minutes walk to the inhabitants of the Eastern end of the town  in going to and coming from the station. Mr.Wrenn presided, and explained that Messrs. Fisher were about to sell part of the Priory Estate for building purposes, and it had beenthought advantage should be taken of this to construct a road to the station. Councillors Standfast, Webber, and Sibley, and Messrs. D. Brown, and H.J. Van Trump spoke in favour of the proposal, and it was agreed that a deputation should wait on Messrs. Fisher and ask them to give the land and make the road, in view of the immense value which it would add to their estate, and also on the representatives of the Great Western Railway Company, to ask their assistance, especially in the provision of a bridge over the river.

JAMES WARE, Deceased.— Pursuant to the Act of the Parliament 22d and 23d Victoria, chapter 35, intituled “ An Act to furtherament the Law of Property and to relieve Trustees.” Notice is hereby Given, that all CREDITORS and other persons,having any claims or demands against the Estate of JAMES WARE, late of Grasmere, Wembdon, in the county of Somerset, accountant and manager of building society, deceased    ( who died on the 24th of March, 1896, and whose will was proved in het Principal Registry of the Probate Division of her Majesty’s High Court of Justice, on the 23d day of May, 1896, by Louisa Ware, the widow and relict of the above-named deceased, the executrix therein named), are hereby required to send the particulars, in writing, of their claims or demands to me, the undersigned, the solicitor for the said executrix, on or before the 25th day of March, 1897, after which date the said executrix will proceed to distribute the assets of the said deceased amongst the persons entitled thereto, having regard only to the claims and demands of which she shall then have had notice, and she will not be liable for the assets of the said deceased, or any part thereof, so distributed to any person or persons of whose claims or demands she shall not then have notice.— Dated this 16th day of Febryary, 1897

                     charles e.hagon, High-street, Bridgwater,

                           Solicitor for the Executrix.

            ————————————————————

                  CORPORAL VICKERY, V.C.

   The streets of Chard were densely crowded when Corpl. Vickery, V.C., arrived on a visit to his native village, Wambrook. A public reception was accorded the Dargai hero, and fog-signals were exploded as the train entered the station. Corpl. Vickery was greeted as he passed through the streets in the procession of public bodies. At a largely-attended smoking-concert held in the Corn Exchange the ex-Mayor, Maj. Kyrke, on behalf of the inhabitants of Chard and Wmbrook presented Corpl. Vickery with a gold medal suitably inscribed and £25.

   Colonel Pinney, who died last week at the age of 91, was the active leader of the Liberal party in Somerset for many years, and his energy and popularity much cotributed to our former successes in that county. Colonel Pinney sat in Parliament for many years, and to the end of his life he was a zealous a Liberal as when he first entered the House of Commons in 1831. He owned large estates in the West of England, and he was a most popular landlord. He passed most of his life at his house in Berkeley square, where he died, but he paid frequent visit to Somerton, his place in Somerset. Colonel Pinney at one time took a prominent part in county business, and he was widely known as an enthusiastic and very learned archeologist.— Truth.

   The ignorance diplayed by people who are generally credited with an average amount of intelligence is often astonishing. True, many stories are embellished in the course of their repetition, but examples which occur almost daily of quaint notions prevailing among the community lead folk of sound judgement to accept as true things which may have scarcely any foundation. It is related of a man who made a considerable fortune in business that he purchased a large holding, and, as a hobby, turned his attention to farming, of which he was totally ignorant. During the lambing season he was at his club in London, when a fellow-member, speaking of the terrible weather prevailing, observed that it was bad for lambing. Instantly the amateur farmer went to the telegraph office and wired to his chief shepherd, “Stop the lambing!”

                        BARROW GURNEY.

   The body of a man, at presently unknown, was found on Tueasday morning on the edge of the limekiln belonging to Mr. Tripp, at Barrow Gurney, apparently suffocated. Doubtless he was one of the many who came out from Bristol getting ferns, as his basket was only a few yards off with ferns in it. One arm and one leg of the unfortunate man were burnt. The body was removed to the Fox and Goose. The Coroner has been communicated with.     

                        CURRY RIVEL.

   Sussessful Poperty Sale.— On Friday last at the Bell Inn Messrs. C.R.Morris, Sons and Peard sold properties as under, containing together about 22a. 0r. 6p., situate in the parish of Curry Rivel, and in the occupation of Mr. Robert Giles as tenant. Lot 1. All that desirable small freehold estate, called or known as “Dyers Hole,” consisting of a suitable and convenient farmhouse and buildings, excellent garden and closes of productive arable and valuable orchard lands adjoining,situate near the village of Curry Rivel, and comprising 13a. 0r. 38p. Purchased by Mr. W.Jones for £500.— Lot 2. All those three closes of pasture and orchard land,situate adjoining Owlstreet Drove, near Lot 1. in the said parish, and comprising 6a. 3r. 19p. Knocked down to Mr. John Briton Selley for £166.— Lot 3. A close of pasture land, situate adjoining Oath Drove in Sedgmoor, in the said parish, and comprising 3r. 29p. Bought by Mr. W.Jones for £48.— Lot 4. A close of arable land, situate in Drayton Field, near the public road, leading from Curry Rivel to Drayton, in the said parish, and comprising1a., fell to Mr. Hill for £72.— There was a large attendance, the biddings were spirited, and the total amount realised was £786— a result considered highly satisfactory for the vendors.

THE RECENT RAILWAY FATALITY NEAR

BRIDGWATER.

   The following appears in Tit-Bits of today (Saturday):

— We have received a claim for the insurance money on account of the death of Mrs. Buckingham, Millbrook, Northmolton, who was killed on the Great Western Railway, between Bridgwater and Durston stations, on Wednesday, 8th December, 1897. The fatality is a particularly sad one, as her youngest child, an only daughter, who was travelling with her, was killed along with the mother. A lenghty inquiry was made at an inquest held before Mr. P.O.H.Reed, coroner for the borough of Bridgwater, but no precise information was forthcoming as to the manner in which deceased sustained their fatal injuries. The jury returned a verdict of accidental death.  The deceased was a regular subscriber to Tit Bits through Mr. Poole, of Kingstreet, Southmolton, Devon, and as the evidence received has been considered satisfactory, we have requested the Ocean Accident and Guarantee Corporation, Ltd., 40,42,44, Moorgate-street, London, E.C., to forward a cheque for £100 for the widower, whose receipt is appended:— “ Received on account of the death of my wife, Sarah Buckingham, the sum of one hundred pounds, in accordance with the terms of the Tit-Bits system of insurance.— (Signed) William Buckingham, Millbrook, Northmolton.”

WE regret to record the death of Mr Robert Ware, the well-known draper, of 11, 13 and 15 Victoria Street, Rochester, who died in St. Bartholomew’s Hospital on Friday.   Mr.Ware, who was 73, was a native of Martock, Somerset. For 13 years he was with Messrs. Edwin Jones, drapers, of Southampton, and came to Messrs. George Church and Co. Drapers, of High Street, Chatham, in 1915. In 1921 he set up his own business in Victoria Street. He ceased taking an active part in this about two years ago. Mr. Ware was a member of the Rochester Conservative Club. In addition to the widow, Mrs. L.E.Ware, two sons, Messrs. R.Ware ( Romford Home Guard) and A.Ware (Tank Corps) and a daughter, Miss B.Ware (A.T.S) are bereaved.    The funeral took place at St. Margaret’s Cemetery on Wednesday.   The Rev. E.C.Douglas conducted the service and mourners at the graveside were: Messrs. R.C. and A.F.Ware (sons), Mr. T.F.Ware (brother) and Messrs. H.Jones, W. Sparkes-Knight, W.Barker and L.M.Dewsberry (friends).          Floral tributes were sent by: To my dear husband from his devoted wife; Bob and Winifred; Arthur and Muriel; Betty; Amy, Betty and Jack; the cousins at Langport and Martock; Ethel and family (Winsham); Pat and Bobby (Colyton); Gertie and Pat; George and Lilia (Peacehaven); Mr. and Mrs. Fred Auger; Robert and Emma (Nashenden); Mrs.Dewsberry, Dorrie and Leslie; Mr. and Mrs. Sparkes-Knight; Mr.and Mrs. H.Jones and Gwen; Mrs. Barker and family; Major and Mrs. Sayer and Ken; Marjorie, Joyce and Avis; Hilda; Mr. and Mrs. Willingham; Mr. and Mrs. Campbell; Mr. and Mrs. Ashton; Mr. and Mrs. Myles and Mrs. Grigsby; Mr. and Mrs. C.A.Crossland and Marie; Arthur A.Durling; Mr. R.A.Reaks; Mr. and Mrs. Hunt; Mr. and Mrs. Willmot and Vera; Mr. and Mrs. Egan; Mr. and Mrs. Pritchard and Barbara; Mr. and Mrs C.Woolley; Mr. and Mrs. G.Watson; Mr. and Mrs. Williams and Jean; Mr. and Mrs. D.Moffat; Messrs. J.W.Leech and Son, Ltd.; Messrs. Creasey, Son and Wickenden; Members of the Rochester Conservative Club.

                        OBITUARY

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      MAJOR A.A.WILKIE, MARTOCK

The death took place yesterday, of Major Arthur Alexander Wilkie, at his residence,Ash House, Martock. Born in 1834, at Jamaica, his father, Major Wilkie, being stationed there with his regiment at that time, the deceased joined the Army in the early part of 1854, soon afterwards being gazetted to the 39th Regiment, which was ordered to the Crimea. Here he saw considerable active service, receiving the Sebastopol and Crimea medals. When the transport left England he was the youngest ensign on board, but so great was the loss among officers killed in battle that he was a lieutenant when he reached the seat of war—an all too common occurence at that time. In 1857 his regiment was sent to India to assist in quelling the Indian mutiny. He received the Lucknow medal for his services in India, where he took an active part in the pursuit and capture of many of the native ringleaders. Shortly after this he became an officer in the 16th Lancers, with which he served until 1865, when he took command of the Ilminster Troop of the Somerset Yeomanry, which he commanded for many years, after which he joined the Militia Battalion of the Gloucester Regiment (formerly 28th), being gazetted major while there. A keen sportsman, he was a well-known figure in the district, and had a large circle of friends. In later years he took great interest in golf, and as recently as last year carried off a number of prizes at the Burnham Tournament. He was one of the small party of local gentry who started the Golf Club and links at Langport, where he was a frequent player. The funeral takes place in Ash Church today( Saturday).