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| Alexandra Hotel, Date unknown. Photo kindly supplied by Martin Easdown |
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| Alexandra Hotel, c1905. Credit Eamonn Rooney |
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| Former Alexandra Hotel c1950 |
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| Former Alexandra Hotel c1950 |
Licensees
Charles
Spurrier 1866 1875
Caroline Spurrier (became Campbell) 1876 c1881
William Satchell c1881 1883
Caroline
Spurrier (became Campbell) 1818 c1891
Alexander Campbell c1891 c1891 (1891 Census)
John
Brice 1892 1894
Mary
Brice 1894 1895
Bernard
Hertsiel 1895 1897
Edwin
Trapnell 1897 1899
Arthur
Thorpe 1899 1900
Walter
Barnes 1900 1903
John
Barber 1903 1915
Mary
Barber 1915 1918
Harry
Stiff 1918 1920
William
Taylor 1920 1921 To Alexandra Tavern
Charles
Tapsell 1921 1923
John
Fortune 1923 1930
Stanley
Bishop 1930 1931
Frank
Allwood 1931 1933
Frank
May 1933 1940 Perhaps from Lord Nelson
Folkestone
Observer 24-8-1866
Licensing Day
The magistrates issued their licensing certificates on
Wednesday to all established publicans who applied for them, Mr. Morford, of
the Fountain, being the only pub who got a lecture, and that a not very severe
one. There were seven applications for new houses, and certificates were
granted for four, namely: The Rendezvous, Mr. S. Hogben (another publican lost
a £10 bet over this, we hear); Alexandra, Mr. Spurrier: Raglan, Mr. Lepper; and
a house in Bouverie Mews, Mr. J. B. Tolputt
Notes: If this is the first license for the
Raglan it puts the accepted date of 1864 into doubt. Also, no record of Tolputt
having a license anywhere. Could this, however, be the first license for the
Albion Hotel?
Folkestone
Chronicle 25-8-1866
Licensing Day
A Special Sessions was held at the Town Hall on
Wednesday, for the purpose of renewing old and granting new spirit licenses
&c. The magistrates present were Captain Kennicott R.N., James Tolputt and
A.M. Leith Esqs. There was a large attendance of publicans, some interest being
excited in consequence of strong opposition being raised against the granting
of several new licenses. The first business was to renew old licenses, and
about 70 names were called over alphabetically.
The fifth applicant was Mr. Spurrier, for a license to
the Alexandra, an hotel recently erected by him in Harbour Street, in support
of which he presented a petition signed by several householders in the
locality.
Mr. Boult, landlord of the Victoria in South Street,
said that on the second Sunday when the notice should have been on the door he
noticed that it had been removed to the window to allow the door to be painted,
and he called the attention of Supt. Martin to it. Besides the house was not
finished even now.
Mr. Spurrier denied this, and said the notice was not
removed from the door till the 28th.
The court was then cleared for a short time, and on the
re-admission of the public Captain Kennicott said the magistrates had decided
on granting a license to Mr. Spurrier.
Southeastern Gazette 28-8-1866
Local News
Wednesday last was the annual licensing day, when the
magistrates on the bench were Capt. Kennicott, R.N., J. Tolputt and A. M. Leith
Esqrs.
All the old licenses were renewed. There were seven
applications for new licences namely, Mr. Hogben for the Rendezvous, in Broad
Street, (lately opened as a luncheon bar); Mr. Spurrier, for the Alexandra, in
Harbour Street; Mr. Lepper, for a new house, the Raglan Tavern, in Dover Road;
Mr. J. B. Tolputt, for a house in Bouverie Square; Mr. Elliott for the Gun,
Cheriton- Road; Mr. Tite, for the Shakespeare, Oheriton Row; and Mr. Mullett,
for the Star, in Seagate Street (sic). The Bench granted licences to the four
first-named, and refused the other applications. Mr. J. Minter presented a
petition signed by all the publicans in the town against new licences, and
appeared specially to oppose the granting of licences to the Rendezvous and
Star.
Folkestone
Chronicle 22-9-1866
Advertisement
Public Notice
The Alexandra Hotel
Harbour Street, Folkestone
Is Now Open
For the sale of first class Pale and Burton Ales,
Truman, Hanbury & Co.`s London Ales, Porter and
Stout
On Thursday October 11th It Will Be Licensed
For the sale of First Class Wines and Spirits
The Hotel Department will be carried on with strict
attention to the comfort of visitors, at a moderate
tariff.
Bass`s Bottled Ales
Guinness`s Bottled Stout
C.W. Spurrier, Proprietor
Folkestone
Chronicle 3-11-1866
Suspected Murder Of A French Gentleman.
On Saturday morning last a report reached here of the
discovery, by a coastguardsman, about half past ten on Friday night, of the
body of a gentleman who had evidently been brutally murdered and left on the
beach at Sandgate, near Seabrook. Information was at once given to the Station
of the County Police at Seabrook, which is strange to say but a very short
distance from the spot where the body was found. Notwithstanding every exertion
has been used by the Police to discover the perpetrator of this foul deed, no
clue up to the present moment has been obtained.
The body has been identified by Mr. C.W. Spurrier,
proprietor of the Alexandra Hotel, Folkestone, as being that of a French
gentleman who arrived at his house on Thursday afternoon by train from Dover,
having crossed the Channel from Calais. He slept at the hotel that night, and
having breakfasted next morning paid his bill and left, as he stated, to walk
to the Camp at Shorncliffe to see a friend. He left in his room a railway
wrapper and a travelling valise, and said in broken English that he should
return to dinner. He has been traced to having been in the company of a soldier
and two females in a public house in Sandgate up to half past nine on the
evening of the murder, only an hour previous to the discovery of his dead body,
which had received several severe blows about the face and temples.
Notwithstanding it was a bright moonlight night, the tide having just begun to
flow, and a gang of men had been working near the spot up to half past nine,
strange to say this cowardly murder was committed without observation and
without any cries for help having been heard.
He had evidently been dragged down the beach to the
water`s edge and there left; the body was not stiff when found. Whether his
murderer or murderers committed any robbery is unknown, but there was found
upon him about £4 in money, partly in silver, a silver Geneva watch with a
platinum Albert chain, a latch key, and a draught letter in French upon family
matters (the signature as near as can be deciphered, “Gabriel”), but affording
no clue to his connections. He was about 35 to 40 years of age, 5 ft. 6 in. in
height, stout built, fresh complexion, high forehead, slightly bald, brown
beard and moustache. He was of respectable appearance and dressed in a dark
coat, overcoat, and vest, grey tweed trousers, shirt with pink spots, and
plated sleeve links, new side-spring boots (French make), white socks marked in
red cotton with the initials “O.L.”, and had a cambric handkerchief with the
same mark. All the clothing appeared to be nearly new. There were also found
upon him several French Railway time tables, showing that he had recently been
travelling in France.
An inquest on the body was opened on Saturday at
Sandgate, and the jury returned an open verdict of Found Drowned! (If our
information is correct, the verdict seems to us to have been one of the most
extraordinary that could have been returned, as the body had not been in the
water at all. Ed.)
By a singular coincidence another French gentleman, of
rather eccentric habits, was staying at the same hotel, who was in possession
of a considerable sum of money. Some confusion has occurred in the identity of
these two individuals, it having been reported that the unfortunate gentleman
who had been murdered was the one above referred to, and that he had been
robbed of all his money.
Southeastern Gazette 6-11-1866
Local News
We noticed in our last week’s impression the finding of the body of a
man who is supposed to have been a Frenchman, close in shore near the police
station at Seabrook, under very suspicious circumstances. The deceased was a
stranger to the district, and put up at the Alexandra Hotel, Folkestone, on
Thursday evening week, carrying a travelling bag, just after the arrival of the
South Eastern Company’s passenger steamer Napoleon III from Boulogne. He slept
at the hotel that night, and next morning paid his bill, left his bag in his
room, and proceeded on foot to Shorncliffe Camp, remarking in broken English
that he should return to dinner. He is traced to the company of two prostitutes
in the evening in a Sandgate beerhouse, where he left with them, and proceeded
to a public house. At nine o’clock he left the latter house in liquor, but not
decidedly drunk, and from the door of that house he cannot be traced alive.
About half-past ten o’clock the same night his body was found as before stated,
half in the sea and half on the shore. It was a moonlight night, the tide had
just begun to flow, and a gang of men had been working on the spot down to 9.30
p.m; a coastguardsman was stationed about a hundred yards off, and the police station
and barracks were barely 250 yards off the spot, the highway running between
them; yet either a brutal murder was committed on the slightly sloping beach
without observation, or the murder was done at a short distance and the body
dragged down the beach to the water’s edge without any notice. The discovery
was made at half-past 10 by four men rowing westward on a fishing expedition.
The gentleman during life had received a heavy blow on the nose between the
eyes, and an extraordinarily heavy blow on each temple, but life appears not to
have been extinct when the body was thrown into the water. On the body was
found about £4 in money (chiefly French), a silver watch with platinum watch
guard, and a draft letter, in French, on family matters (the signature, as
nearly as it can be deciphered, “Gabriel”), but giving to strangers in it the
slightest clue to his connections. There were bruises on each side of the
temples, also on the bridge of the nose, which were quite fresh and bleeding
when taken from the water.
Kentish Gazette 6-11-1866
The dead bocy of a man was found on the shore al Seabrook on Friday night week by some young men who were rowing from Folkestone towards Hythe on a fishing expedition. They immediately gave the alarm al the police station, and with the assistance of the coastguard and other persons they got the body on the shore. It was at once then to the Fountain Inn, almost opposite to which it was picked up. It was at first thought that the deceased came from Hastings, and Supt. English sent the following description of his person and clothing to that town: About 30 to 40 years of age, 5ft. 5in. high, stout built, dark brown heard and moustache, fresh complexion, high forehead, of respectable appearance, dressed in dark coat, dark overcoat and vest, grey tweed trousers, cotton shirt with pink spots, blue and black striped neck-tie, plated sleeve-links in shirt, new spring-side boots (French make), white socks, marked O. L., in red cotton, cambric handkerchief marked the same; all the clothing appears nearly new; had in his possession a silver Geneva watch, No. I7642-6,981, platinum Albert chain, a large latch key, several pieces of French and English money, some in a purse and some loose in his pocket; supposed to be a Frenchman, or had recently travelled in France, as he had several French railway timetables with him.
When the deceased was picked up the body was still warm. There were bruises on each side of his temples, and also on the bridge of his nose, and they were quite fresh and bleeding. An inquest was held at the Fountain on Saturday afternoon week, before the county coroner. Not the slightest evidence could be procured as to who he was or where he came from; but the landlady of a beer-house of ill-fame in Sandgate identified him as having been drinking in her house on Thursday evening, in company with two prostitutes and a man supposed to be an officer’s servant. He left the beer-house with the same companions, and it has transpired that they then proceeded to a public house together. At nine o’clock deceased left the public house. He was then in liquor, although he was not decidedly drunk, and from the public house he cannot be traced alive. At half-past ten o’clock his body was found, lying on the face, half in the sea and half on the shore, by the persons before-mentioned. The spot where it was found is about half a mile west of Sandgate The beach curving southward at that spot, and the wind blowing north-east, each lime the upper part of the body was raised by the waves the wind sent him shoreward about equal to the advance of the tide.
It was a very moonlight night, the tide had just begun to flow, and a gang of men had been working on the spot down to 9.30 p.m.; a coastguardsman was stationed about a hundred yards off, and a county police-station ami barracks were barely 250 yards off the spot, the highway running between them; yet either a brutal murder was committed on that slightly sloping beach without observation, or the murder was done at a short distance, and the body dragged down the beach to the water’s edge without any notice; or the deceased had lost his way in his intoxicated state, damaged his face by falling about, and ultimately reeled to the water's edge and tumbled down, where, as he was unable to rise, the waves choked him. Additional strength is given to the supposition that the deceased`s death was accidental from the fact of his watch and money being found upon him.
The evidence al the inquest went Io show that drowning was the cause of death. The surgeon stated that the blows or cuts on the temples and nose might be produced by the body coming into contact with the stones on the beach, but they must have been given in his opinion before death.
The jury accordingly returned a verdict, of Found drowned.
Yesterday week Supt. English succeeded in discovering more particulars respecting the deceased. He brought over to Seabrook the proprietor of the Alexandra Hotel at Folkestone, who immediately identified the body as that of a gentleman, a stranger to the district, who put up at the Alexandra Hotel on Thursday evening, carrying a travelling bag, just after the arrival of the South Eastern Company`s steamer Napoleon III, from Boulogne. He slept at the hotel that night, and next morning paid his bill, left his bag in his room, and proceeded on foot to Shorncliffe Camp remarking, in broken English, that he should return to dinner, but he never came back. The landlord was quite positive as to the identity of the deceased, and also as to the time at which he was at his house. There is, therefore, a discrepancy as to time between his statement and that of the Sandgate beer-shop keeper, which tends to increase the mystery by which the case is surrounded. A draft letter in French on family matters was found on the body (the signature as nearly as it can be deciphered “Gabriel”), but giving to strangers not the slightest clue to his connections.
We understand the police are making a searching investigation of the matter, and that several persons have been arrested on suspicion.
Folkestone
Chronicle 17-11-1866
Thursday November 15th:- Before W. Bateman
Esq., Captain Kennicott R.N. and J. Tolputt Esq.
Margaret Corfield, a person connected with an itinerant
rag and bone merchant, was charged with stealing a spirit measure from the Alexandra
Hotel, on the previous day.
Charles William Spurrier, proprietor of the Alexandra
Hotel, identified the measure produced as his property by certain dents
outside, and sundry scratches inside it. The value of it was 1s.
P.C. Ovenden deposed that he was on duty in High Street
on Wednesday afternoon. Just after three o`clock, from information received, he
went in pursuit of prisoner, whom he found at the Dolphin Inn, Kingsbridge
Street. He took her into custody on a charge of stealing from the Fountain Inn,
and took her to the police station. On the way there she dropped the measure
produced from under her clothes. He afterwards found this was not the measure
that wasw stolen from the Fountain Inn, but belonged to the Alexandra Hotel.
Elizabeth Jacobs, barmaid at the Alexandra Hotel,
deposed that prisoner came into the bar of the hotel between two and three
o`clock on Wednesday afternoon and had a glass of ale. She was there about half
an hour, but the bar was not left during that time. The pewter measures
sometimes stand on the counter while in use, but she did not remember that they
were there at the time, nor could she say when she had last seen the measure.
She did not miss anything after prisoner left.
Prisoner stated that she took the measure from the
Fountain; she did not take anything from the Alexandra, but she pleaded guilty
for the purpose of being tried by the bench, and was committed for two months`
hard labour.
Folkestone
Observer 17-11-1866
Thursday November 15th:- Before W. Bateman
and James Tolputt Esqs, and Captain Kennicott R.N.
Margaret Carefield was charged with stealing a pewter
spirit measure.
Charles William Spurrier, proprietor of the Alexandra
Hotel, identified a small spirit pewter measure as his property, value 1s. Had
seen the prisoner at his house the day before yesterday, but not on yesterday.
P.C. Ovenden was on duty a little after three o`clock
yesterday afternoon in the High Street, and from information received went to
the Fountain Inn in that street, when Mrs. Morford told him she had lost a
pewter measure, and described the prisoner. He then went in search of her and
found her in the Dolphin Inn, and took her into custody. Bringing her up to the
station, prisoner dropped the measure from under her clothes in Broad Street.
Witness saw it fall, and as he stooped to pick it up a gentleman stooped at the
same time and picked it up and gave it to witness. Had observed all the way up
High Street the uneasiness of the prisoner, as if she had something she desired
to get rid of. Made enquiries and ascertained that the measure belonged to Mr.
Spurrier.
Cross-examined: Prisoner was just in front of witness,
not an arm`s length off, when the measure was picked up. It was picked up from
close to his feet.
Elizabeth Jacobs Spurrier, residing at the Alexandra
Hotel, saw prisoner come into the bar of the hotel yesterday between two and
three o`clock for a glass of ale. Witness served her. She was in the bar about
half an hour. Witness thought she did not leave the bar at all during the time
prisoner was there. When the spirit measures are being used they stand on the
bar. Could say that it was Mr. Spurrier`s spirit measure, but could not say
whether it was on the bar yesterday. Had not discovered the loss of the measure
when the policeman called, between five and six o`clock. Identified the
measure.
Cross-examined: Prisoner stood at the bar some portion
of the time, while calling for the beer, and afterwards sat on the form. She
was certainly there half an hour. Did not remember when she last saw the
measure.
Prisoner now pleaded guilty to taking the measure from
Mrs. Morford`s bar.
The Clerk: If you plead guilty to stealing from Mrs.
Morford`s, that is not guilty to stealing from Mr. Spurrier.
Prisoner: Then I must plead guilty, I suppose, to have
it decided here.
She was sentenced to two months` hard labour.
Folkestone
Chronicle 11-5-1867
Wednesday May 8th: Before the Mayor, Captain
Kennicott RN, and J. Tolputt Esq.
Charles William Spurrier was summoned for assaulting
Richard Hawkes.
Prosecutor was recently employed as porter at the Alexandra
Hotel, of which defendant is the landlord. On Sunday morning last between
eleven and twelve o`clock, he went into the bar of the hotel with a friend who
called for a pint of beer. Defendant told witness to take off his cap and waistcoat,
and he did so, saying he had a right to his own sleeves which he had put in the
waistcoat. Defendant then struck him seven times, and turned him out of the
house. In cross-examination witness said he had been with defendant six months,
and was discharged on Saturday.
Thomas Hart corroborated prosecutor`s evidence.
Mr. Minter addressed the bench on behalf of defendant,
and the case was dismissed.
Folkestone
Observer 11-5-1867
Wednesday, May 8th: Before The Mayor,
Captain Kennicott R.N. and J. Tolputt Esq.
Charles William Spurrier was charged with assault.
Mr. Minter appeared for the defendant.
Richard Hawkes, lately porter at the Alexandra Hotel,
said: On Sunday morning last, between 10 and 11 o`clock, I went into the bar of
the Alexandra Hotel. A friend of mine was there, and called for a pint of beer.
Mr. Spurrier was there, and he told me to take off my cap and waistcoat,
belonging to him. I said to him “All right, old man. I`ll let you know about
this”. I told him I was entitled to the sleeves that I had put in, the old ones
being worn out. I took the waistcoat and cap off, and Mr. Spurrier then struck
me. He hit me seven times, and said he would break my jaw for me. I said “That
is a pretty way to send me home on a Sunday morning, without any cap or
waistcoat”. He said “Get out of my house”, and I went out.
Cross-examined: Mr. Spurrier put me out. It was between
10 and 11 on a Sunday morning. I`m sure it was not 12 o`clock. I have been
living with Mr. Spurrier six or seven months. I can`t say how often during that
time he has given me notice to leave his service. He gave notice on Saturday
night, and I said I would go at once. He did not say anything about leaving my
uniform behind. I told him on Sunday morning I would bring the coat and waistcoat
back if he would let me wear them home then.
Thomas Hart, mariner, said: Last Sunday morning, a
little after 10, I was on the Harbour, talking to Hawkes. He asked me if I was
going to have half a pint of beer. I said I didn`t mind. We went together to
the Alexandra, and called for a pint of half and half. Mr. Spurrier refused to
draw it, and said to Hawkes “Pull off that waistcoat”. Hawkes said “All right,
sir, I`ll send it down after dinner”. Mr. Spurrier said “Pull it off now”, and
Hawkes pulled it off. Mr. Spurrier said “Pull off that cap”, and Hawkes said
“I`ve been a good servant to you, sir, and I shall have you”, and with that,
Mr. Spurrier up with his fist and hit him, and said “You`ll have me? What are
you going to have? I`ll break your ----- jaw”. Hawkes then put on his coat and
went out.
Cross-examined: Did not see Mr. Spurrier telling Hawkes
to go out, and on his refusing to go out, Mr. Spurrier put him out. Don`t know
that I heard Hawkes swearing on the outside. Believe I did not. It was a long
sleeve waistcoat. Heard Hawkes saying “Part of these sleeves belong to me”, but
did not see him tear the sleeves. My back was to him. He put the waistcoat on
the counter. Did not see him attempt to tear the sleeves before he put it down.
Mr. Minter said it was a paltry case, and he thought
the Bench would take no notice of the last witness, because it was given in
such a loose manner. Hawkes was a servant of Mr. Spurrier, and he went on
Sunday morning ostensibly to get some beer, at a time when the house should be
closed. But being an hotel, a side door was open for residents and passengers,
and Hawkes knowing the way of the house went to the house with his companion
for the purpose of annoying him. The man was improperly in the house and Mr.
Spurrier had a right to turn him out, and as he was tearing up the waistcoat,
Mr. Spurrier took his clothes from Hawkes and bundled him out. Hawkes went
there to make up a disturbance, and even if Mr. Spurrier did commit what in law
was an assault, the Bench would say that complainant had brought what occurred
upon himself, and it was a trumpery case, which they would dismiss.
The Mayor, having consulted the magistrates, said the
justices considered that the evidence they had heard against Mr. Spurrier was
at variance, and on the other hand the complainant ought not to have been at
the Hotel on Sunday morning, that it was a very improper time for him to be
there, and more than that, he went there with Mr. Spurrier`s clothes on, which
he had no right to wear, he having been discharged. They therefore dismissed
the case.
Folkestone
Chronicle 19-9-1868
Monday September 14th: Before Captain
Kennicott R.N. and J. Tolputt Esq.
Mary Beedel was charged on a warrant, having neglected
to appear in answer to a summons, with having assaulted Mr. Spurrier on th 6th
instant. Mr. Minter appeared for complainant, and Mr. Creery, of Ashford, for
defendant.
Charles William Spurrier, the complainant, proprietor
of the Alexandra Hotel stated that defendant went to the hotel on Tuesday week
and remained until the following Sunday. On Sunday afternoon a young man went
to the bar and asked for defendant, and they both went into his private sitting
room. He objected, and asked them to go into the coffee or dining room, and
after some persuasion she left. Soon after, in consequence of what his servant
told him, he went to the dining room, where two gentlemen were at dinner,
defendant being also there, and without saying anything to him, she rose from
the table and threw a knife at him, using at the same time a foul epithet,
saying she would stab him in the heart. Witness left the room and sent for
Superintendent Martin.
Cross-examined: In the evening I took defendant by her
arms and turned her out of doors. We both fell. I have received a letter from
defendant`s solicitor claiming £500 damages.
Sarah Wright, chambermaid and waitress in the employ of
Mr. Spurrier, was called. She said she was waiting in the dining room on the 6th
instant, and when defendant went into the room, she began to swear at her, so
that she was obliged to fetch her master, and when he came into the room
defendant threw a knife at him.
Examined: The gentlemen said they would not stay in the
room with defendant. She got drunk and was abusing everybody.
Mr. Creery addressed the Bench, but called no
witnesses, and defendant was convicted of the assault, and fined 10s., with
17s. 6d. costs, or seven days` hard labour.
Folkestone
Observer 19-9-1868
Saturday, September 12th: Before Captain
Kennicott and Alderman Tolputt.
Mary Beedle was summoned by Charles William Spurrier
for assault.
Mr. Minter for complainant.
Defendant did not appear, but a letter was put in from
the Harp Hotel, Dover, in which defendant stated that she proposed coming to
Folkestone as early as possible, and bring her solicitor with her to explain
the case for her. She had not committed any assault upon Mr. Spurrier, but he
nearly dashed her brains out by throwing her with great force on the pavement.
Mr. Minter said it was only due to Mr. Spurrier that
the case should be heard, and applied for a warrant that defendant might be
compelled to appear.
The application was granted.
Monday, September 14th: Before Captain
Kennicott and Alderman Tolputt.
Mary Beedle was brought up on a warrant charged with
assaulting Mr. Spurrier.
Mr. Minter appeared for plaintiff, and Mr. Creery, of
Ashford, for defendant.
Complainant said: I am the proprietor of the Alexandra
Hotel in this town. The defendant came to the hotel on Tuesday week and stayed
till the following Sunday. At three o`clock on Sunday afternoon a young man
came to the house and asked for her. He went up into my private sitting room
with her, and I objected to it, and wished her to withdraw to one of the public
rooms. After a deal of persuasion she went downstairs into the coffee room, and
after remaining there about a quarter of an hour returned upstairs. She went to
the dining room, where two gentlemen were waiting. In consequence of what my
servant told me I went to the dining room, and on opening the door I saw the
defendant standing at the table near the door. On my entrance she rose from the
table and, taking a large table knife in her hand, stepped back towards the
window, called me ---- villain, and swore she would stick me to the heart. (Defendant:
Oh, mty God! Oh, what a wretch! Is there a God?) She immediately threw the
knife at my head. It passed me and struck the frame of a picture that was
hanging against the wall. I left the room immediately and sent for the
Superintendent of Police.
By. Mr. Creery: I objected to her going into my sitting
room with the young man. I had permitted her to use that room on previous
occasions to write letters. There were two gentlemen in the dining room at the
time of the assault. I have not got them as witnesses. I did not subpoena them
as I did not think it necessary, as my servant saw the assault. Defendant had
been dining in that room. It was a good-sized table knife she threw at me, and
not a dessert knife. I was standing three or four feet from her. She threw the
knife. I was going to request her to retire from the room in consequence of
what the servant had told me, but not a word was spoken on either side before
the knife was thrown in a direct line with my head. I did take defendant by the
arms and put her out of the house; that was in the evening. She fell, and I
also went down. I tripped over the luggage, and she over the step of the door.
She fell on the back of her head. I applied for this summons on hursday. I had
a letter from the solicitors at Dover, claiming on behalf of the defendant £500
damages for an assault I committed upon her. I received that letter on Tuesday
morning, but did not apply for the summons until Thursday. I do not know the
position of the defendant, but I believe she gets her living by attending
schools and teaching some artistic work.
In reply to Mr. Minter, complainant said it was in the
evening when he turned defendant out of doors, and did so then in consequence
of the abuse she heaped upon him.
In answer to Mr. Creery, complainant denied that there
was any truth in the assertions defendant made. (Defendant excitedly “Put him
on his oath! He is a lira! I wish God may strike him dead!) Complainant still
said her assertions were unfounded, and defendant more emphatically than ever
exclaimed “Liar! You did come into my bedroom, God strike me dead!”
Sarah Wright, complainant`s servant, corroborated the
statement of her master.
Mr. Creery, in replying to the case on behalf of the
defendant, contended that the assault was a very trivial one, defendant having
simply thrown her plate and it`s contents off the table. Without imputing
anything like perjury to Mr. Spurrier or his witness, he submitted that they
had exaggerated a little. This was to be inferred from Mr. Spurrier`s own
evidence. He had told them that he received a lawyer`s letter on the Tuesday,
and that he took out the summons on the Thursday following, and the Bench might
depend on it that had it not been for that lawyer`s letter they would not have
heard anything of this case. He trusted, therefore, their Worships would
consider it as a trumpery matter, and if they were satisfied that an assault
had been committed, impose the smallest possible penalty.
The room was cleared for a short time, and on the
re-admission of the public, Captain Kennicott told defendant there was no doubt
she had been guilty of a serious assault, and had Mr. Spurrier taken the proper
steps the consequences might have been very serious indeed. Under the
circumstances, however, the penalty would be a light one. She was fined 10s.,
and 17s. 6d. costs.
Folkestone
Express 19-9-1868
Monday, September 14th: Before Captain
Kennicott R.N. and Alderman Tolputt.
Mary Beedell, a respectably dressed female, was charged
with an assault. She seemed to feel her position when brought before the Bench,
and was allowed a seat during the examination. Mr. Minter prosecuted, and Mr.
Creery, of Ashford, assisted by Mr. Lewis, of Dover, defended.
Mr. C.W. Spurrier, proprietor of the Alexandra Hotel,
Folkestone, deposed that defendant had been stopping at his hotel for about a
week. On Sunday the 6th inst., at three o`clock in the afternoon, a
young man called and asked for the defendant, and went upstairs. She showed him
into a private room, to which witness objected and asked them to withdraw to
the dining room or coffee room downstairs. The defendant objected, but
afterwards went downstairs into the coffee room with the young man. After being
there for about half an hour she left him and went upstairs to her bedroom. A
servant shortly afterwards came to witness, and in consequence of what she said
he went upstairs to the dining room and opened the door. The defendant, who was
in the room sitting at a table near the door, rose from her seat and took a
large table-knife, stepped back towards the window, called him by very
opprobrious epithet, and said she would stab him to the heart. She then threw
the knife at his head; it passed within 8 inches of it and struck a picture
frame about 6 feet from the ground. He then left the room and sent for Mr.
Martin, the Superintendent of the police. This was about half past four
o`clock.
Cross-examined: She always paid her bills. He objected
to the young man going into the room, but she showed him in. Did see something
to complain of; the defendant was on the couch in an unladylike position. They
were in the sitting room three minutes. She had spent about £3 during the time
she stayed at the hotel. There were two gentlemen in the dining room when the
assault took place; the servant was also present. Defendant had dined in that
room. The knife bruised the frame. On the same evening witness took defendant
and pushed her out of the house. Do not know the position defendant was in. She
attends schools teaching some artistic work.
Re-examined: He went into the room in consequence of
what the servant said. It was half past eight at night when they turned her
out. During the intervening time she had hysterics and was raving mad.
Sarah Wright said she was in the employment of Mr.
Spurrier as chamber maid and waitress. On the day mentioned she had to wait on
two gentlemen who were dining in the dining room. The defendant was there and
swore at her. In consequence of this she went downstairs and complained of her
to Mr. Spurrier. He went up to the dining room and witness followed. Defendant
took up a knife and threw it at him.
Cross-examined: She was standing just behind Mr.
Spurrier. Defendant was having her dessert, and did not throw the dessert off
the table, but she knocked the glasses down. Did not see her throw the knife
off a plate. The picture was at the side of the door. Defendant swore at
witness, and that was not the first time; she swore because she did not take
her dessert up. Mr. Spurrier did not say anything to her. The gentlemen said they would not stop in the
room if defendant remained there; she sometimes got “tight”.
By the Bench: She had drank half a pint of sherry and a
glass of bitters previous to the dessert.
Mr. Creery said he had seldom met with such an
extraordinary case as this, and was surprised that she was charged with
assaulting the landlord of this hotel. She is placed in a most unfortunate
position, as her mouth is shut, and it was only through him that she could
represent her case to the Bench. Defendant is employed in giving lessons in
artistic work, and she has been so employed in Folkestone for some time. She is
now somewhat excited, but not more than any young lady would be who was locked
up since Saturday. Your Worships will see there must have been some
provocation. She must have had a cause, and if this is not so she must have
been in a state of madness. Mr. Spurrier and this lady had no previous
disturbance. According to what the last witness says she does not wait for Mr.
Spurrier to say anything, but takes up a knife and throws it at his head. This
lady, after spending the money, was entitled to be treated with respect by the
servant. He did not impute to Mr. Spurrier or his witness perjury, but the
evidence was exaggerated. Defendant took up a dessert plate and threw the knife
off the plate. If there was an assault, he hoped the smallest fine would be
inflicted. There was something peculiar in this case. Why did not Mr. Spurrier
call the two gentlemen as witnesses?
Mr. Minter: I should be happy to adjourn the case to
allow Mr. Creery to call them.
Mr. Creery: The case could have been heard here on
Monday morning, and then those gentlemen could have been called. Mr. Spurrier
did not say a word about the assault till he got the lawyer`s letter, and he
thinks he will have the first pull, and he has got it. On another occasion they
may bring it before the Bench again. Why were the police not called in? The
first man on the spot is the Superintendent and why is he not called, and why
did Mr. Spurrier not give her into custody.
Mr. Minter: You cannot do so.
Mr. Creery would have done so himself.
The Court was then cleared; the defendant had
interrupted the proceeding several times and was very much excited. After a
short deliberation the doors were thrown open.
The Bench said they were sorry to see defendant here
under such a charge, and had Mr. Spurrier taken steps at once the fine would
have been very heavy. They had decided to fine her 10s. and 17s. 6d. costs, or
seven days` imprisonment. The fine was paid.
Folkestone
Observer 17-10-1868
County Court
Monday, October 12th: Before W.C. Scott Esq.
F.W. Lankester and E. Evans c C.W. Spurrier: A claim
for £15 14s. 4d. brought by plaintiffs, who are tradesmen in London, against
Mr. Spurrier, the landlord of the Alexandra Hotel in this town, for a quantity
of spirits &c.
Mr. Minter, for defendant, admitted two items amounting
to £1 19s, but denied having ordered the remainder.
Plaintiffs` traveller swore that he took the order for
the whole of the things from defendant personally, and produced his pocket book
in which he noted down the various items at the time the order was given.
Cross-examined: Would swear defendant gave the order
for the things. Did not know that some of the things were bad. Knew defendant
had been to the firm in town, but was not there at the time. Did not know
whether defendant had used any of the articles or not. Defendant had complained
that the articles were bad.
Defendant admitted having given the order for two
items, but positively denied any further order. The articles were submitted to
him, and he told the traveller distinctly they were things he did not use, and
did not require them. He had not used any of the articles, except the two he
ordered. He called upon the firm in London and told them that he did not order
the goods, that it was a mistake on the part of their traveller, and they
agreed to take them back again. Most of them were flavourings that he did not
use. He was willing to pay the £1 19s. for the two items; he had touched
nothing else.
His Honour said it appeared that the firm themselves
were willing to take for the two items only, and it was quite impossible, after
that evidence, for him to give a verdict for the whole amount. Verdict was
accordingly given for £1 19s., the goods to be returned.
S. Finnis v C.W. Spurrier: A claim for £6 4s. 9d.
balance of account for materials, plaintiff being a timber merchant at Dover.
Mr. Minter for defendant.
Defendant admitted the delivery of all the goods, but
objected to four items of the account which were not in accordance with the
prices firs given by plaintiff to defendant. An overcharge of £9 2s. 6d. was
made out, that sum including a deduction for four rotten spars that were
delivered. Defendant said he had worked the items out carefully according to
plaintiff`s own prices and found the result to be as stated.
No evidence was given to the contrary, and plaintiff
was non-suited.
Folkestone
Express 17-10-1868
County Court
Monday, October 12th: Before W.C. Scott Esq.
Ramsden & Co. v Spurrier: This was an action to
recover £15 14s. 4d. for goods supplied to the defendant, who is landlord of
the Alexandra Hotel.
Mr. Minter appeared for the defendant.
A traveller, in the employ of the plaintiffs, deposed
that he took the order for the goods from the defendant, and that he forwarded
the particulars in the usual course, and the goods were sent in April of this
year.
Mr. Minter, for the defendant, admitted that an order
had been given by defendant as to £1 19s., for which he had been always ready
to pay, but as to the remainder, the defendant would distinctly deny having
given the order, and the traveller in his anxiety to do business, had no doubt
caused the goods to be sent in the hopes that defendant would accept them. He,
however, had declined to do so, and had called on the firm in London and
explained the matter, and they had agreed that their traveller should on his
next journey take back the goods.
Defendant was called and examined, and having supported
his solicitor`s statement, His Honour decided that he was liable for £1 19s.
only.
Folkestone
Chronicle 28-11-1868
Coroner`s Inquest
On Wednesday morning, about half past eleven o`clock,
the dead body of a gentleman was cast ashore on the beach opposite the West end
of the Leas. It appears that a female who was on the Undercliff footpath first
saw the body, but for a long time no-one came by, so she waited till a man
named Williams, of Hythe, passed, and he gave the alarm. This woman should
certainly have been found, and her evidence given before the coroner. It was
remarked as very singular that nothing save an eye-glass and a railway pass
should be found on the deceased, when he had been staying at an hotel. The
particulars will be found recorded below.
An inquest on the body was held at the Alexandra Hotel
on Thursday afternoon before J, Minter Esq., and a jury.
The court having been duly opened, the coroner asked
who was his first witness, and his officer replied that he had none – the
police had prevented him from obtaining information. The jury accordingly
waited while Mr. Eastes was sent for. Supt. Martin, who came in soon after, was
asked how the matter stood, and he said he was always willing to give Morford
all the information he could.
The jury then proceeded to view the body, and on their
return S. Eastes, surgeon, said: About noon yesterday I was called by Williams,
a coastguardsman, to the Lower Sandgate Road to see a body which had just been
found on the beach, and which the jury have now viewed. I found it that of a
middle-aged man. It was a few yards from the water`s edge, opposite the new
bathing establishment. The body was dressed, except that it had no coat or hat
on. I examined the deceased. There were one
or two superficial cuts over the right temple, and several abrasions of skin
over the nose and forehead, as though it had been knocked against the rocks and
shingle. Several pieces of shingle were up the nostrils. There were no other
marks of violence, and the body presented the usual appearance of death by
drowning. He had evidently been dead but a few hours, as only partial rigidity
had come on. On unbuttoning the shirt I saw the name of J.V. Gibbs marked on
the guernsey. The police searched the body in my presence, but only found an
eye-glass in the waistcoat pocket.
William Williams, a tailor of Hythe, said he was coming
into Folkestone about half past eleven on Wednesday morning, and just before he
reached the Bathing Establishment a lady called his attention to the body of
deceased, lying on his face on the beach, close to the water`s edge, quite
dead, and the clothes wet. There were several large rocks near the body.
Thomas Hunter, labourer, of South Street said he
occupied a garden on the Lower Sandgate Road. About ten o`clock yesterday
morning he went to the garden, and before getting there, just beyond opposite
Royal Terrace, he found the hat, coat, and gloves produced, lying on one of the
seats on the Undercliff footpath. In the coat he found a first class railway
pass, London and South Western Railway, between Waterloo and Putney, with the
name J.V. Gibbs Esq. He took them to the police station. The tide ebbed from
about nine o`clock.
Alfred Stone, boots at the Paris Hotel, said deceased
came to the Paris Hotel on Tuesday, about half past four. He had some cold
meat, ale, and half a pint of sherry, and a cigar with port wine negus after.
He then wrote a letter which witness posted. It was addressed to Mr. or Mrs.
Gibbs. Deceased appeared very dull, and went to bed at ten. He got up at half
past seven, paid his bill, and went out. He had no luggage with him.
P.C. Hobday said between eleven and twelve o`clock he
received information of the discovery of a dead body on the beach. He sent for
a doctor, and took P.C. Smith with a stretcher. Deceased was lying between the
third and fourth groynes, about five yards from the water`s edge. He was in
charge of an officer and two men of the coastguard. Witness searched the
pockets and only found an eye-glass. No money, watch, or jewellery.
Elizabeth Kennett, cook at the Paris Hotel, said
deceased paid her his bill on Wednesday morning. It amounted to 3s. 6d. He gave
her two half crowns, telling her to keep the change. She did not notice
anything peculiar about him. She watched him go round the Clock House on to the
beach. She had no reason for watching him, but often watched visitors round to
the station. When deceased came down stairs he had a coat on his arm, but she
could not remember whether he had one on or not. He did not carry one out of the
hotel. He did not take the 5s. out of a purse.
John Lewis Rutley, gentleman, living at Stratford
House, West Hill, Putney, said: Joseph Vine Gibbs, the deceased, was a tea
merchant, carrying on business at Pall Mall, was my father in law. I believe
his age was fifty five.
At witness`s request, the inquest was adjourned to
Monday, at three o`clock.
Folkestone
Observer 28-11-1868
Inquest
An inquest was opened at the Alexandra Hotel on
Thursday, J. Minter Esq., coroner, on the body of Mr. Joseph Vines Gibbs, tea
merchant, carrying on business in Pall Mall, London.
The Coroner asked if Mr. Morford had got any witnesses.
Mr. Morford said he had heard nothing of the case. The
only witness he had got was the man who had picked up the coat and hat. He had not
been to the doctor`s, or anywhere else, as he thought the police had got the
witnesses.
The Coroner said it was a great neglect on his part in
not having the witnesses there.
Superintendent Martin said he had desired the witness
Williams to be in attendance. All the police had to do was to take charge of
the body. He was always willing to give Morford any information if he came to
him in a proper manner.
After some delay cause by waiting while Mr. S. Eastes
was sent for, the following evidence was taken.
Silvester Eastes said: Yesterday afternoon I was sent
for by the coastguard Williams to see a body found on the beach near the Lower
Sandgate Road. It was the body I have now viewed. I drove down immediately, and
found the body by the water`s edge, by the new Bathing Establishment. The
deceased was dressed, with the exception of his hat and coat, and was lying on
his back when I saw him. I examined the deceased, and found two or three
superficial cuts on the temple, and abrasions on his forehead, as if deceased
had been knocked against the rocks. Several pieces of shingle were up
deceased`s nostrils, but no other marks were found. The deceased presented the
appearance of a man whose death was caused by drowning. I should think the
deceased had been dead but a few hours, as rigidity had set in. On opening the
shirt he found the name “J.V. Gibbs” on the corner. The police searched the
deceased and found an eyeglass in the waistcoat pocket.
William Williams said: I am a tailor and live at Hythe.
I was coming into Folkestone about half past eleven o`clock yesterday morning,
along the Lower Sandgate Road. A lady beckoned to me, and I went to her, and
she showed me the deceased, who was lying on the beach opposite the first
opening west of the new Bathing Establishment. Deceased was lying on his face
close to the water`s edge. I could not see a policeman, and I therefore went to
the coastguard. The deceased was quite dead, and had neither hat nor coat on.
There were two large rocks a little distance from him, and I think deceased had
been knocking about those rocks.
Thomas Hunter said: I am a labourer and live in South
Street. I occupy a garden on the Lower Sandgate Road. I walked along the path
between the sea shore and the Lower Sandgate Road yesterday morning. My garden
lies to the west of Royal terrace. I found the hat, coat, and gloves on a seat
placed for the convenience of visitors nearly opposite Royal Terrace. I found
the card in the coat pocket now produced. (A pass on the South Western Railway
between London and Putney, with the name of J.V. Gibbs Esq., January 1st,
1868 to February 1st, 1869, number of contract 175, was here put
in.) I heard of the gentleman being found, after I went back to dinner. After
dinner I took the things to the Police Station. When I came back from the
garden I did not see anybody as I came by the Lower Road. The tide was ebbing
when I picked up the clothes; it was high tide at nine that morning.
Alfred Stone said: I am a porter at the Paris Hotel. I
saw the deceased about half past four on Wednesday, at the door of the Paris
Hotel. Deceased asked for something to eat, and he had some cold meat, half a
pint of sherry, and a glass of ale. After he had partaken of this refreshment
he went into the smoking room and lit a cigar, and had some port wine negus.
Deceased asked me to bring him an envelope, stamp, and paper, and I did so. He
gave me the letter to post about nine, and I posted it about ten. The letter
was directed to Mr. or Mrs. Gibbs, and I think it was addressed to London. The
deceased appeared to be very dull, and went to bed at ten o`clock. Deceased
asked to be called at eight next morning, but was up at half past seven. He
paid his fare to the cook, and left the hotel, during the time I was gone to
the morning boat. The cook noticed that deceased went round to the beach.
A juror: Why did you notice he was in a desponding
state?
Witness: He laid his head down on his hand at times,
and he did not eat hardly any dinner.
P.C. John Hobday said: A little before 12 yesterday I
was on duty at the Police Station. A coastguard came and requested me to go to
the beach and see deceased. I sent for a doctor, and in company with P.C. Smith
proceeded to the beach. Deceased was lying on the beach about five yards from
the water`s edge. I took possession of the body, on which searching I found in
the waistcoat pocket a pair of eye glasses, which I now produce. There was no
watch or money in his pockets. He had no studs in his shirt, and his pockets
were full of beach. The name of J.V. Gibbs was on his flannel shirt. I stayed
there until the Superintendent came down, and he had the body taken to Willis`s
waiting room on the beach. Mr. Lewis Rutley saw the hat, now produced, and
identified it as his father-in-law`s property. The maker`s name in the hat was
the same as deceased.
Elizabeth Kennett said: I am general servant, living at
the Paris Hotel. I took up deceased`s boots yesterday morning, and he told me
he was going, and asked how much he had to pay. I took him his bill, which amounted
to 3s 6d. He gave me two half crowns, and told me to keep the change for myself
and porter. Deceased then went out, and I noticed him going round the clock
house. I did not see any more of him after. Deceased took the money out of his
pocket; I did not see any purse. When he came downstairs he had his coat
hanging over his arm, and his gloves in his hand.
John Lewis Rutley said: I am a gentleman, and live at
Stratford House, West Hill, Surrey. The deceased, Joseph Vines Gibbs, is my
father-in-law. I am not certain of his age, but I think it is about 55. (The
witness here asked for an adjournment, as he wished to bring another witness.)
The Coroner said it was only fair to the friends of the
deceased to adjourn the inquest. The inquest was thereupon adjourned.
Folkestone
Express 28-11-1868
Suicide Of A Gentleman
On Wednesday morning, as a lady was walking along the
footpath between the Lower Sandgate Road and the beach, she was horrified at
seeing the lifeless body of a middle-aged gentleman lying close to the sea,
without his hat and coat. She informed a man that was walking towards
Folkestone of the circumstance, who at once went to the Coastguard Station and
gave the alarm. The deceased lay on his face and had evidently been thrown up
by the waves. Dr. Eastes was called to see the body and he pronounced him to
have been dead more than an hour. The body was conceyed to Willis`s waiting
room and searched, but the only articles found in the pockets of the deceased
person were a pair of spectacles and a railway pass. The clothes, being
examined, were marked “J.V. Gibbs”. A son-in-law of the deceased identified the
body on Wednesday evening, and a hat, coat, and gloves found by a labourer on
one of the seats were identified as the missing clothes of the deceased person.
The inquest was held on Thursday afternoon at the Alexandra
Hotel before the Coroner, J. Minter Esq. A jury was sworn and proceeded to the
beach to view the body.
Dr. Eastes was then sworn. He said: Yesterday I was
called by Williams and a Coastguardsman to go to the Lower Sandgate Road to see
the body just found on the beach, and which is the body the jury has now
viewed. I went down and saw the body lying on the beach opposite the new
Bathing Establishment, and only a few yards from the water`s edge. It appeared
to be a middle-aged gentleman, and was dressed, with the exception of having no
coat or hat. I examined the deceased, and found one or two superficial cuts on
the right temple, and several abrasions of the skin on the nose and forehead,
as though the body had knocked against the rocks. The body presented the usual
appearances of death by drowning, and I thought he must have been dead a few
hours, as rigidity was only just come on. The shirt and Guernsey was marked.
The police searched the body while I was there, and found an eye-glass in the
waistcoat pocket.
William Williams, tailor, of Hythe, was next sworn. He
said: As I was walking into Folkestone at half past eleven o`clock, along the
Lower Sandgate Road, when, opposite the Bathing Establishment, a lady attracted
my attention. I thought first she was calling someone else, but I went towards
the beach when she pointed, and I saw the deceased lying there. The water had
just left him. This was opposite the last opening before I came to the new
Bathing Establishment. Deceased was lying on his face, and the water was ebbing
at that time. The lady told me to make haste and find a police constable, and
as I could not see one I went to the Coastguard, and afterwards to the police
station. The lady said she had seen him some time before she had seen me. He
had no hat or coat on. There are two rocks just below the place where he was
found, and not far from the body.
Thomas Hunter, labourer, of South Street, said: I am
the occupier of a garden in the Lower Sandgate Road, and I went there about ten
o`clock on Wednesday. I went along the footpath, as my garden lies between the
road and the beach. I turned into the path at the first opening the other side
of the Bathing Establishment. About forty or fifty yards before I came to my
garden I found a hat, coat, and a pair of gloves laying on a seat. I should say
that the seat is nearly in a line with the Royal Terrace, on the Leas. I
searched the pockets, and there found a first class railway pass of the London
and South-Western Railway Company between Waterloo and Putney. It was inscribed
with the name of J.V. Gibbs Esq., from January 31st, 1868 to
February 2nd, 1869, contract 175. I took the things and left them in
the garden. As soon as I had dinner I took them to the police station, as I
heard that a body had been found without a coat or hat. I did not see anyone on
the beach. I did not look particularly, as people sometimes leave their things
on the seats. The tide was ebbing. It was high water, I should say, at nine
o`clock.
Alfred Stone, a porter at the Paris Hotel, said: I saw
deceased on Tuesday at half past four at the Paris Hotel; I received him at the
door. He asked for something to eat. He had some cold meat, and then he asked
to write a letter. I do not think he wrote one then. He had half a pint of
sherry and a glass of ale with the meat. He then went into the coffee room and
had a cigar and a port wine negus, and he asked me to bring another envelope,
stamp, and writing paper. I did so, and he wrote a letter which he asked me to
post. This was about nine o`clock. It was addressed to Mrs. or Mr. Gibbs. I do
not know which, as I did not notice the address particularly. I think that
London was the town it was directed to, but I am not certain. The deceased
slept at the hotel; he went to bed at ten. I posted the letter about half past
ten. He appeared rather dull, but did not make any observation. He asked to be
called at eight o`clock, but he got up at half past seven. His bill amounted to
5s., and he gave me 6d. Mr. Pointer`s cook noticed him go round the
clock-house. She thought it rather singular that he should go to the beach at
that time in the morning.
One of the jury: How came you to notice he was in a
desponding state?
Witness: Because he laid his head on his hand and was
looking as if in trouble.
P.C. Hobday said: From information I received about a
quarter to twelve o`clock, from a coastguardsman and the witness Williams, who
came to the police station while I was on duty and requested me to go to the
beach, as a man was lying dead there. I sent for a doctor and went to the beach
with P.C. Smith. We took the stretcher. We found the deceased lying near the
stone groyne on the beach, about five yards from the water`s edge. I took possession
of the body and searched it, but I only found an eye-glass in his waistcoat
pocket. He had no money or anything else. J.V. Gibbs was marked on his flannel
shirt. Superintendent Martin came down and ordered the body to be removed to
the bathing waiting room; this was about twelve o`clock. His son-in-law came to
the station and identified the hat. He did not see the eye-glass.
Elizabeth Kennett, general servant at the Paris Hotel,
said: The deceased paid me on Wednesday morning at twenty minutes to eight. He
asked for his boots and I took them to him. He then asked “How much have I to
pay?” I then got his bill and took it to him; it amounted to 3s 6d. He gave me
two half crowns and told me to keep the change for myself and the porter. He
then went out of the door, and I watched him go round by the clock-house, and I
never saw more of him. He took the money out of his pocket; I saw no purse. I
saw him the previous evening as I took the candle to him when he went to bed.
He came downstairs in the morning with an overcoat on his arm and a pair of
gloves in his hand. I could not tell if he had a coat on at the time or whether
he was in his shirt sleeves. He had no coat on his arm when he went out.
John Lewis Rattley, gentleman, living at West Hill,
Surrey, was next called. He said: The name of the deceased is Joseph Vines
Gibbs. He was a wholesale tea dealer at 20, Pall Mall, London, and is my
father-in-law. I should think he was about 55 years of age, or perhaps a little
older. The letter he wrote was not addressed to me, and it has passed out of my
possession, but if the enquiry was adjourned for a day or so some other
witnesses could be produced.
The Coroner consulted the jury, and an adjournment was
agreed till Monday next, at three o`clock. The body was ordered to be given up
to the friends of the deceased.
Southeastern Gazette 30-11-1868
Inquest
On Wednesday morning the body of a middle-aged
gentleman was found lying on the beach near the Lower Sandgate- Road, and not
far from the New Bathing Establishment buildings. The deceased had no hat or
coat on. An alarm was given, and Dr. Eastes, who was sent for, certified that
the man was dead, and had been in the water at least two hours. The body was
then removed to a shed near the bathing machines, where the pockets were
searched, but the only article found was a pair of spring eye-glasses. The
under-clothing was marked J. V. Gibbs. Later in the day a man brought a coat,
hat, and pair of gloves to the police station, stating that he had found them
on a seat a little nearer Sandgate than where the body was at first discovered.
In the coat pocket was found a railway pass. of the London and South Western
Railway, enabling the bearer, J. V. Gibbs, Esq., to travel from the Waterloo Road
station from January 31st, 1868, to February 2nd, 1869.
The inquest was held at the Alexandra Hotel on Thursday
afternoon, before the coroner, J. Minter, Esq.
Dr. Eastes was the first witness called. He said he had
examined the deceased, and he found no marks of violence except some superficial
cuts and abrasions of the skin, which were caused by the body being thrown on
the rocks, otherwise the body presented the usual appearance of a man who had
come to his death by drowning.
William Williams, a tailor, of Hythe, said he was
coming into Folkestone on Wednesday morning when a lady called his attention to
a body lying on the beach. He at once went to the coastguard and gave the
alarm, and he afterwards fetched the police and a doctor.
Thomas Hunter deposed to finding a hat, coat, and pair
of gloves lying on a seat about ten o’clock on Wednesday. He gave them up to
the police. He searched the pockets, and found a railway, pass in one of them.
Alfred Stone, porter at the Paris Hotel, said he was
standing at the door of the hotel on Tuesday, at half-past four o’clock, when
the deceased came up and asked for something to drink. He went into the
smoking-room, and had some cold meat with half-a-pint of sherry. He then had a
cigar and port wine negus. In the evening he gave witness a letter to post, addressed
to Mrs. or Mr. Gibbs. He then had a bed at the hotel.
P.C. Hobday deposed to searching the body and finding
the eye-glass in his waistcoat pocket.
Elizabeth Kennett, a general servant at the Paris
Hotel, said that at twenty minutes to eight on Wednesday morning the deceased
sent for his boots. She took them to him, and he asked for his bill. She got
the bill and gave it to him. It amounted to 3s. 6d. He gave her 5s., and told
her to keep the change. He then went out, and she watched him go round the
clock house to the beach.
Mr. John Lewis Rattley, said he was a gentleman living
at West Hill, Surrey. The deceased was his father-in-law. His name was Joseph Vines
Gibbs, and he was a wholesale tea-dealer, of 20, Pall Mall, London, and aged
about 55. He asked for an adjournment of the inquest, when the people to whom
the letter was addressed would be able to be present.
The Coroner, after consulting the jury, consented to
the inquisition being adjourned to Monday.
Folkestone
Chronicle 5-12-1868
Adjourned Inquest
The adjourned inquest on the body of Mr. Gibbs was held
on Monday, at the Alexandra Hotel, before J. Minter Esq., coroner, and a jury.
Mr. Abdy, of the Northern Circuit, instructed by Messrs. Wilse & Co., of
College Hill, appeared to watch the case on behalf of the friends of the
deceased.
The first witness called was James Gibbs, partner of
deceased as tea merchant in Pall Mall. He said he received a letter on
Wednesday the 25th November, dated from Paris Hotel, containing a
request to send money to the deceased, and a telegram at the same time saying
“Do not send the money”. The firm had customers here, and it was not unusual
for him to take a trip occasionally. There was money due to thje firm at
Folkestone. When he read the letter he thought that had not been paid, and when
he read the telegram that it had been paid, and deceased was not going to wail
till the remittance came. The business was in a prosperous condition. Deceased
had freehold property in various parts of the country, and no cause of anxiety.
He was brother to the witness, was very fond of bathing, even in the winter,
and had nearly lost his life by that means. He was subject to epileptic fits.
He left his watch at home, because of the elections, very seldom carried much
money, and never used a purse.
Joseph Johnson, clerk in the employ of deceased,
deposed that when he left home on Monday he was very cheerful, and talked about
giving his vote at Wandsworth and Westminster. On examining deceased he found a
wound at the back of the skull.
Alfred Stone, re-called, said he made a mistake in the
time deceased gave him the letter. It was seven o`clock, not nine. He then paid
four shillings for his dinner, and said he thought he should leave, but came in
afterwards to stay the night as the train would be so long going up.
Geo. Francis White, M.R.S.C.E., living in Charles
Street, St. James` Square, said he was deceased`s medical attendant, having
attended him for ten years. In May last he had a fit of epilepsy, and again in
August. The fits would attack him suddenly, and the family had been cautioned
about it.
John Lewis Rutley, re-called, said he saw deceased at
his house on Monday evening, on his birthday, when he was happy, and in his
usual spirits. He was very fond of bathing, and was very likely to bathe in
November. His family were rather anxious about him while he was away because of
the fits, but did not tell him so. He had a fit about a month ago. He usually
sat with his head resting on his hands.
Mr. Abdy then addressed the jury. He touched on the
unreliable character of the evidence of the waiter at the Paris Hotel about the
deceased appearing dull, as the fact of a man resting his head on his hand did
not make him so, and besides that was the usual posture in which deceased sat.
Then there was the fact of his sending the letter for money to return. No doubt
the deceased had done as many a man might do – come out for a day`s trip, and
he chose Folkestone because he had been there before and found it an agreeable
spot. He arrived at Folkestone and found he had not sufficient money to carry
him back, and wrote for some. He was fond of bathing, and on Wednesday morning
he determined to have a dip, and he chose the retired spot where the body was
found. While undressing he fell down in a fit, struck the back of his head, and
the waves washed over him.
Edward Warner, telegraph clerk, deposed to sending a
telegram for deceased on the Wednesday morning, and that he did not seem
agitated or depressed.
Mr. Abdy said no doubt the deceased thought during the
night that he could not get the order paid, for what was so likely but that he
should get some money from one of his customers in Folkestone. He therefore
sent the telegram intending to obtain the money as soon as he could and return.
This was all the evidence and, the coroner having
summed up, the jury returned a verdict that deceased fell down in a fit, and
was drowned.
Folkestone
Observer 5-12-1868
Adjourned Inquest
The inquest on the body of Joseph Vines Gibbs was
resumed on Monday afternoon at the Alexandra Hotel.
Mr. Abdy, of the Norfolk Circuit, instructed by Messrs.
Wilde, Humphrey, Wilde and Berger, solicitors, College Hill, London, appeared
on behalf of the friends of the deceased, and stated that he had several
witnesses, friends of the deceased, and who he thought would throw a light on
this painful affair. He was greatly obliged to the jury for the attention they
had hitherto shown to this case.
He called James Gibbs, who said: I am brother to
deceased, and carry on business in Pall Mall, in partnership with the deceased
Joseph Vines Gibbs. I received a letter from him on the 25th Nov.,
dated from the Paris Hotel, Folkestone. I have not the letter with me. The
letter contained a request that I should send him some money, as he had none.
He asked for a Post Office order for £2. At the same time I received the letter
I received a telegram from deceased, the contents of which were “Do not send
the money”. The letter and telegram were awaiting me at my place on business
when I went on the Wednesday morning. I opened the telegram first, and was of
course astonished, and did not know what it meant until I saw the letter. There
were several letters there. We have several customers at Folkestone, and it was
not at all remarkable for him to take a trip down to Folkestone. There was
money due to the firm from some of our customers, and I was therefore not
surprised on receiving the telegram, as I thought deceased might have wanted
the money to be able to return more quickly. Deceased was not in difficulties;
he had property in Northampton and Middlesex. The deceased had no cause for any
anxiety whatever. He was exceedingly fond of bathing, and did not confine his
bathing to particularly one part of the year. Deceased considered himself a
more hardy man than he really was. He had been to Hasting about ten seasons in
all, and constantly bathed while there. He was subject to epileptic fits.
Deceased nearly lost his life at Yarmouth in the Isle of Wight. He jumped off a
jetty into very deep water.
A juror: Was deceased in the habit of going out without
any money in his pocket?
Witness: Yes. If deceased went into any crowd or any
public place he would take all his money and valuables out of his pocket.
A juror asked if deceased was in the habit of
travelling with only one thin coat on?
Witness: He considered himself a hardy man; a great
deal more so than he really was. He was in the habit of going out with only one
coat on, and he carried what money he had loose in his pocket. He had never
seen him use a purse.
A juror: Did you notice what time the telegraph was
dated from Folkestone?
Witness: I did not see any time specified. The sheet was
signed and given back to the messenger.
Alfred Stone, on being re-called, said: It was only
because deceased laid his head on his hand that I thought deceased was dull. He
gave me the letter to post at nine, and not seven as I stated in my last
evidence. He gave me 4s. for the refreshment he had had before he went to bed.
He afterwards said as I had not charged for the bed he thought he should go
away then. Deceased went out, but he returned and said the train would be so
long before it went that he would not go that night. Deceased asked how the
election was going on down here, and said he had votes for two places. There
was a railway guide in the room deceased occupied. He wrote the letter before
he went out.
Joseph Johnson said: I am a clerk in the employ of
Dicksons, Gibbs and Sons, carrying on business in Pall Mall. Deceased was one
of the partners. Saw him on Monday the 23rd November, at 12 o`clock
noon. He appeared to be in the usual health, and told me that he was going home
to keep his birthday, and on the day following he was going to vote at
Wandsworth and Westminster. I have heard deceased speak of the customers at
Folkestone, and if he went down he should give them a call. I went to the
undertakers and saw the body, and the undertaker showed me a large wound on the
back part of the head; there was also a large stain on the cloth produced by a
discharge from that wound. Deceased was very cheerful on the Monday.
In reply to a juror, witness said he had never noticed
any dullness about the deceased.
Charles Francis White said: I am a member of the Royal
College of Surgeons, and live at 10, Charles Street, St. James Square, London.
I am Mr. Gibbs` medical attendant, and have known him about 10 years. I first
attended him professionally last May. He was suffering from a fit of epilepsy.
I saw him in August last when he was suffering from the same. I have had great
experience in these cases; in some cases there is warning, and in others none.
When the fit is on, the patient sometimes falls backwards, and sometimes face
down; the body is bent, and distortion of the features takes place. I have
cautioned his family as to his state. I have never seen him distressed; before
these fits came on, he was most cheerful. The fits were very sudden. In deceased`s
previous fits he fell backwards.
By the juror: The fits are caused by over-excitement in
most cases.
John Lewis Rutley said: I saw my father-in-law the day
before the day he left for Folkestone, at his own house. There was a sort of
friendly gathering, as we were celebrating deceased`s birthday. It was his 57th
birthday, and he was very cheerful. He family of the deceased were always about
him, because of the fits. Deceased often went away, and no-one knew where he
went to. It was his habit to do so. I have remonstrated with him repeatedly. He
was very much interested in the elections, and had spoken to me about them on
the Monday. Deceased was also very fond of bathing and yachting, and fancied he
was a very hardy man. I have spoken to him on several occasions of his only
wearing one coat, and he would joke with me and say that he only wore one coat
while I wore two. Deceased was very fond of the sea coast. Laying his head on
his hand is his usual posture while he is reading or at dinner.
By the jury: It was nearly 11 when I saw him on Tuesday
morning. He did not mention that he was going to Folkestone. It was about a
month ago that he had the fit. I do not remember his having a fit when
travelling. I have taken him home when he has had a fit of an evening when he
was very ill, and he would go to town the next morning against the earnest
solicitation of myself and family.
Mr. Abdy said he did not wish to take up the time and
attention of the jury long, and he thanked them for the attention they had
already shown to the case. There was a remark made by the witness Stone, the
porter at the Paris, as to deceased`s being dull simply because of his laying
his head on his hand. These words thus spoken did certainly look ugly, but now
the evidence proved that deceased was in the habit of sitting with his head
lying on his hand, and as to his leaving the hotel after having ordered his
bed, it was very natural he should do so. There was a railway guide in the room
by which the deceased saw by what time the train left. It appeared that he
walked round to the station, and finding that the train would be so long before
it went, deceased determined to stop in the town to get the money from the
customers and go in the morning; but while at the station he took the opportunity
of sending off the telegram. Now, was there anything extraordinary in deceased
not having any money in his pockets? There were customers in the town with
money due to the firm, and as the place was a town noted for it`s
salubriousness, and from the fact that part of the family had visited the town
before, there was certainly nothing suspicious in his coming here without
money. He had been to the spot where the clothes were found, and as the place
was obscured from any view from the road, and as deceased was, as he thought, a
hardy man, there was nothing extraordinary in his determination to have a
bathe, even in November; and it would be seen that he had had one of his fits
and fallen backwards into or near the water. The undertaker had remarked about
the wound on the back of the head, and it was caused, no doubt, by deceased
falling in the fit. Deceased`s pecuniary affairs were prosperous. He had a
happy home, one of his daughters being settled in life, and the other about to
be so. His friends had remonstrated with deceased in vain. He would only laugh
at them, and they did not carry their remonstrances too far for fear it would
lie on his mind. The jury had traced deceased from his place of business to his
home, to join a festival on his birthday, and he had left to go to the
election, but then he took the freak into his head to come to Folkestone, and
he probably would have returned the same night had he not, as is seen by the
evidence, had to wait for so long for the train. The learned gentleman thought,
as everybody would think, that the accident (for it was an accident) was caused
by a fit, brought on by over-excitement at the election. He thought a verdict
of death by natural causes could only be returned, but he left the case in
their hands.
Mr. Abdy then called Edward Warner, who said: I am
telegraph clerk at the Harbour Station, S.E.R. I received a message addressed
to “James Gibbs Esq., 119, Pall Mall, London”. The message was either “Do not
send the money” or “Do not send money”. The gentleman did not appear in any way
agitated or distressed. He paid a shilling for the message.
The Coroner, in summing up, said the jury had heard the
evidence, and it was their duty to determine how the deceased came by his
death. In reading the evidence he did not think there was anything suspicious
in the gentleman laying his head on his hand, and as to his appearing dull, as
described by the porter, if the gentleman had not met his death in this manner
there would have been no thought of it. We have clearly the contents of the
letter before us, that the deceased had come to Folkestone, and intending
collecting several accounts and return the same day. Then as to the fact of his
bathing. There were some people who bathed all the year round. It would appear
curious to inland people, but it was so. Deceased was well off in worldly
affairs, had a happy home, and was most cheerful when he left home on the
morning. Doubtless the over-excitement had caused him to fall backward in a fit
at the place described. He therefore thought the jury had no alternative but to
bring in an open verdict.
The jury, after a private discussion for half an hour,
returned a verdict of Found Drowned.
Mr. Abdy then begged to thank the Coroner and jury on
the part of the family of the deceased for the attention they had shown this
case.
Folkestone
Express 5-12-1868
Adjourned Inquest On The Body Found On The Beach
Last week we gave an account of the discovery of a body
of a gentleman found on the beach on Wednesday, the 25th ult. On the
following Thursday the inquest was opened at the Alexandra Hotel by the
Coroner, J. Minter Esq., and the evidence adduced proved that the gentleman had
slept at the Paris Hotel on the evening before the body was discovered, and he
appeared quite rational, no action showing that he contemplated suicide. But on
the other hand, the fact of the body, when found, being only partially dressed,
and the hat and coat of the deceased being discovered on a seat at some
distance from the body, led people to infer that the gentleman had committed
suicide.
On the application of the son-in-law of the deceased
gentleman, who identified the body as that of Mr. Joseph Vines Gibbs, a
wholesale tea dealer, Pall Mall, London, the enquiry was adjourned till Monday
afternoon last, when the jury reassembled at the Alexandra Hotel. The usual
formalities were gone through, and all the jury being present the Coroner again
opened the Court.
Mr. Abdy, of the Norfolk Circuit, instructed by a
solicitor from the firm of Wilde, Humphrey, Wilde and Berger, of College Hill,
London, appeared on behalf of the friends of the deceased.
Mr. James Gibbs was then sworn. He said: I am a tea
dealer in Pall Mall, and was in partnership with the deceased. I received a
letter from him on the 25th of November; it came by post and was
dated from the Paris Hotel, Folkestone. I have not got the letter with me, as I
passed it to a gentleman to show to Mrs. Gibbs, and he has mislaid it. It
contained a request to send some money, as he had none, and it mentioned a Post
Office Order for £2. The letter was in the deceased`s handwriting. I also
received a telegram at the same time, five minutes to nine in the morning, from
Mr. Gibbs, and I passed that on in the same way. The telegram said “Do not send
the money”. I opened the telegram before I had seen the letter, and was at a
loss to account for it. I passed it on to the same person with the letter. We
have several customers at Folkestone, and it was not an unusual thing for
deceased to take a trip to Folkestone. There is money due to us here, and I was
not surprised at his sending the telegram, as I thought perhaps he had got some
of the money paid him. The deceased was in no difficulties. He has one estate
in Northamptonshire and another in Middlesex. I am his brother. I know he was
very fond of bathing, and when he visited Hastings in the winter he used to
bathe; he was very hardy. He had visited Hastings with his family about ten
seasons. Lately he had been subject to epileptic fits. He was rather rash, and
nearly lost his life at Yarmouth in the Isle Of Wight. That was about 30 years
ago, when he jumped from a jetty.
By the jury: He seldom travelled with valuables. On the
days of the Middlesex and Westminster elections he left his watch with me, as
he said he was going to the Committee Room. He took great interest in the
election of Mr. Smith for Westminster. He was in the habit of travelling
without an overcoat. He always thought himself very hardy. He generally carried
a little money about with him loose; he never had a purse that I know of. The
election in Westminster had taken place the week previous. I did not notice the
time the telegraph was sent. The deceased has been in Folkestone on a visit
with his family. I have been here myself, and I recommended the deceased to
bring his family here.
Alfred Stone (re-called; this witness gave evidence at
the previous enquiry, as to the deceased stopping at the Paris Hotel on the
Tuesday night. He was examined by Mr. Abdy.): The deceased appeared dull
because he rested his head on his hands. He went to bed at ten. I did not see
him at all in the morning. He paid his refreshment bill to me at seven o`clock
on the Tuesday evening, and said he was going to London. I made a mistake in
saying the deceased gave me the letter at nine o`clock. He gave it to me about
seven o`clock, and about that time he paid me 4s. for refreshment that he had
had, and said “I will give the room up and go off to London again”. He
afterwards returned, and said he would engage the room again, as he would have
to wait so long before the train started. He then gave me the letter. He asked
me how the election was getting on down here, and said he had votes for two
places.
By the jury: He wrote the letter before he went out.
There was a railway book in the room where he wrote the letter.
Mr. Joseph Johnson was then sworn. He said: I live in
Pall Mall, and am a clerk in the firm of Dickson, Gibbs and Sons. The deceased
was one of the partners in that firm. I last saw him on Monday, the 23rd
of November, at twelve o`clock, at noon. He was then in his usual health, and
told me he was going home to keep his birthday. He also told me he was going to
vote at Wandsworth and Westminster. He has spoken to customers from Folkestone,
and said when he came here he would pay them a visit. I went to the
undertaker`s in Long Acre, London, on Friday last and saw the body there. I
noticed the marks on the face of the deceased, when the undertaker said “There
is a much more severe wound on the back of the head”.
The Coroner syayed that Mr. Eastes informed him of that
wound, but he omitted to mention it in his evidence.
Witness: There was a very large stain on the cloth from
that wound, and the man spoke as if it was a very severe wound.
By the jury: I did not observe that the deceased was
dull. He was quite cheerful on that day; that was on Monday.
Mr. George Francis White deposed that he lived at 18,
Charles Street, St. James`s Square, and a member of the Royal College of
Surgeons. I was the deceased`s medical attendant, and had known him for ten
years. I attended him first professionally in May last. He was labouring under
a severe fit of apoplexy when I saw him. I also attended him in August last,
when he was again suffering from a fit. I have had great experience in these
cases. The fit comes on suddenly, but sometimes the patient may have warning
some time before. The patient generally falls down backwards. There is
distortion of features, and the body may be arched. I never saw the deceased
depressed; he was generally vey cheerful. He did not have any warning with his
fits; they came on suddenly. He did not inform me how he fell, but I should say
he must have fallen backwards.
By the jury: These fits are sometimes caused by
excitement.
Re-examined: He was likely to suffer suddenly. I
cautioned the family on the subject.
Mr. L.J. Ruttley said: I saw my father-in-law on Monday
evening, the 23rd November, at his own house; it was a family
gathering. He appeared much as usual; we met to celebrate his birthday, and his
age was 57. His domestic affairs are very satisfactory. We were always a little
nervous while he was away, but we did not feel so much anxiety on ordinary
occasions, as in travelling backwards and forwards to business he generally met
friends. He used to go away from home sometimes, and I told him he may let us
know where he was going. I did not like to tell him that I was afraid he might
have a fit; he only laughed when I spoke to him. On the Monday I was talking to
him about the election; he was very much interested in the election. He was
very fond of bathing in the sea. He also thought himself very hardy and strong,
and laughed at me for wearing two coats; he fancied himself very strong. He did
not like anyone to give him hints about his travelling. I should not have been
surprised to have heard he had a dip in the sea. It was quite a usual posture
with him to rest his head on his hand and sit in that position.
By the jury: I saw him last on Monday evening at eleven
o`clock. I did not see him at all on Tuesday. He would not mention to me his
coming to Folkestone. He had a fit about a month ago. When he had those fits he
used to recover in a most wonderful manner. He went off to town on the
following morning, and he may have had a fit while travelling.
Edward Warner said: I am a telegraph clerk, employed by
the South Eastern railway Company. I received a message at five minutes padt
eight from Mr. Gibbs, a gentleman; that was on Wednesday. It was addressed, I
think, to 119, Pall Mall, to James Gibbs. The message was “Do not send the
money”, the word “not” being underlined.
By the jury: He did not appear depressed at the time,
and he only said “How much is a message to London?”. I said 1s., and he paid
me. I did not see any more money in his possession. He signed the message.
Mr. Abdy asked to address the jury, as they must be
aware the interest the friends of the deceased would feel in this matter. He
wished to draw attention to one or two remarks made by the waiter, who said he
appeared dull because he rested his head on his hand, but it had been proved
that was the way he usually sat. Again, the waiter said he went out; well,
there is really nothing in that. He had sent the letter for money, and he
altered his mind and sent the telegram. His leaving his watch and valuables was
nothing out of the way, as he used to do that. “Why did he come to Folkestone?
“ was a very reasonable question, but he (the learned counsel) should imagine
it was because he had customers here, and because Folkestone was a very agreeable
spot for anyone to come to who took a trip from London. He came, and did not
think he had come without money till he arrived here. He had been to the spot
where the body of the deceased was found, and it was not at all improbable that
the deceased would have a bathe on that morning. He could not choose a more
secluded or better spot for that purpose. While bathing he had a fit, and
falling, struck the back of his head on a stone. The undertaker was struck with
the extensive nature of that wound. They had heard that the deceased had every
comfort, with his children in a good position round him. His pecuniary affairs
were everything a man could require. A relation also took care that the subject
of fits should not be brought before him, and that would be the reason that it
would not do to press the matter of his travelling unattended. The deceased was
talking of his birthday on the Monday, and the celebration that was going to be
held. He left with cheerfulness, and went the following morning to vote, and afterwards,
like many persons would do, came down here for a change, and to see if he could
meet with friends. When he came here he found he had not money enough to carry
him back; he then wrote the letter, but thinking, perhaps, during the night,
that there would be some delay before he got the post office order, he thought
he would get some money from one of his customers. He then sent the telegram to
countermand the order, and being fond of bathing he went to have a dip, was
overcome by a fit, and the waves washed him away.
The Coroner then reviewed the evidence. He said he did
not attach much importance to the evidence of the porter concerning the
deceased appearing dull as most probably, if the gentleman had not been found
dead, he would not have taken any notice of it. The jury must look to the whole
actions of the deceased, and his actions appeared to be those of a man of
business, and the statement of the learned counsel concerning the telegram
appears very feasible, that he may have drawn a little on one of his customers
here, which would account for countermanding the request sent in the letter. It
appears it was nothing unusual for the deceased to come here, and in our town,
although it may appear strange to people living inland, it is nothing unusual
for people to bathe all year round. He did not know if they noticed it when
viewing the body, that the features were drawn on one side. It was for them to
return a verdict, but there did not appear any reason why the deceased should
deprive himself of life.
The room was then cleared. When the public was
admitted, the foreman said the jury had unanimously agreed “That the deceased,
Joseph Vines Gibbs, was found drowned, and the jury were of opinion from the
evidence adduced that the deceased fell down in a fit”.
Mr. Abdy thanked the Coroner and jury on the part of
the friends of the deceased for the attention they had given to the case.
Southeastern Gazette 7-12-1868
Inquest
The adjourned inquest on the body of a gentleman found
on the beach near the Lower Sandgate Road, was resumed, before J. Minter, Esq.,
at the Alexandra Hotel, on Monday afternoon. Mr. Abdy, of the Norfolk circuit,
appeared on behalf of the family of the deceased. Mr. Abdy examined the
witnesses he produced, and before the proceedings commenced he made a request
that the witness, Alfred Stone, should be recalled.
Mr. Janies Gibbs, of Pall Mall, said he was in
partnership with the late Mr. Gibbs, the deceased. He received a letter from
him on Nov. 25th. It came by post, and was dated from the Paris Hotel,
Folkestone. It contained a request that he should send some money to Mr. J.V.
Gibbs at that address, as he had none, and the sum mentioned was £2. It was in
the deceased’s hand-writing. Witness also received a telegram at the same time
from Mr. Gibbs, which said, “Do not send the money.” He opened the telegram
first, and passed it on with the letter. The firm he belonged to had several
customers at Folkestone, and there was some money due to them. He was not
surprised at deceased sending the telegram, as he thought he might have got
some of that money. The deceased was in no difficulties; he had an estate in
Northamptonshire, and another in Middlesex. Witness was his brother. He was
very fond of bathing, and when he visited Hastings he often bathed in the
winter. He had lately been subject to fits.
By the jury: He seldom travelled with valuables or with
an extra coat. He always thought
himself hardy. He generally carried a little money about loose in his pocket;
never saw him with a purse. He had visited Folkestone previously.
Mr. J. Johnson deposed that he was a clerk in the firm
of Dickson; Gibbs, and Sons, wholesale tea dealers, of Pall Mall. The deceased
was one of the partners, and he last saw him on Monday, Nov. 23rd, at twelve
o’clock, when he said he was going away to keep his birthday, and he was going
to vote at Wandsworth and Westminster. Remembered his speaking to a customer
from Folkestone, and he said when he went there he, should pay him a visit.
Witness went to the undertaker’s at Long Acre, London, and saw the body of
deceased, Noticed the marks on the face. The undertaker answered “There is a
much more severe wound on the back of the head”. The wound caused a large stain
in the cloth on which the head rested. The man spoke as if it was a very severe
wound. The deceased was quite cheerful on the Monday.
Alfred Stone, the porter,
recalled, said he thought the deceased gentleman appeared dull because he
rested his head on his hands. The deceased, on Tuesday evening, about seven
o’clock, said he would give up his bedroom and go to London He asked for his
bill, which he paid, and went out. He returned shortly after and said he would
re-engage the room as he found there would be no train for some time. He then
gave witness the letter to post. He asked how the election got on down at
Folkestone, and said he had voted for two places.
Mr. G. Francis White,
sworn, said he was a member of the Royal College of Surgeons, and the medical
attendant of the deceased, whom he had known for some years. He attended him
first professionally in May last, when he was labouring under a severe fit of
apoplexy. He had another fit in August. The fits sometimes came on suddenly.
Deceased was subject to sudden attacks. He cautioned the family that the
deceased was likely to fall down suddenly.
Mr. J. L. Ruttley was re-examined. He deposed
that he saw the deceased, who was his father-in-law, on the Monday evening, at
his own house. He was celebrating his 57th birthday, and had a family
gathering. He appeared in his usual health. His domestic affairs were in a very
satisfactory state. They were always a little anxious during his absence. He
used to go away from home, and they told him he might let them know where he
was going, but he only laughed. They did not like to tell him their anxiety
about the fits. . He was very much interested in the election. He was fond of
bathing, and was a good swimmer. He thought himself hardy and strong, and used
to laugh at witness for wearing two coats. Witness would not have been
surprised to hear that he had taken a bath in the sea when he was at the
sea-side. His usual posture was to sit with his head resting on his hands; he
often sat like that. .
By the jury: Witness
parted with him on Monday night at eleven o’clock. Deceased would not mention
to him about going to Folkestone. He had a fit about a month ago, and he used
to recover from them in a most wonderful manner.
Mr. Abdy then addressed
the jury.
A juryman requested that
the telegraph clerk should be sent for.
Edward Warner, sworn,
said he was a telegraph clerk on the South Eastern Railway. On Wednesday
morning, November 25th, he received a message at five minutes to eight from Mr.
Gibbs. The message was, “Do not send the money.” He did not appear depressed at
the tune, and only asked how much a message would be to London.
The coroner then read the
evidence and commented on the most important points in it. The room was then
cleared, and after a short consultation, the jury returned a verdict to the
effect “That the deceased was found drowned, and the jury are of opinion that
he fell down in a fit.”
Folkestone
Chronicle 26-12-1868
Police
At the Borough Police Court yesterday William Fairall
pleaded guilty to a charge of wilful and malicious damage, in breaking a pane
of glass at the Alexandra Hotel, in consequence of a grudge he bore against Mr.
Spurrier, and he was committed for 21 days` hard labour at Petworth gaol.
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