The Cardiff Times

Opening of the Case. I OLD BAILEY SCENES. I Miss Le Neve Absent. ACCUSED COOL & COLLECTED. FRESH EVIDENCE. Belle Elmore's Relations With Bruce Miller. With the appearance of Hawley Harvey Crippen in the dock at the Central Criminal Court on Tuesday there commenced the final investigation of a case which has attracted an amount of popular attention I quite unequalled in recent criminal his- tory. The appearance of the interior of the building at a comparatively early hour showed the extent to which the public mind has been stirred of late is in no way diminishnig. A large number of extra police were on duty, doors were carefully guarded and eveiybody's M' credentials were closely examined. So enor- mous have been the applications for admission coming from all classes of society, that ar- rangement prevailed, whereby ticket holders divided the day, some taking the morning and others the afternoon. One of the first arrivals was Mr Arthur Newton, the solicitor for Dr. Crippen. who was im- mediately followed by Sir Charles Matthews, the Director of Public Prosecutions, and Mr Pepper, the Home Office Analyst, after whom several members of the Junior Bar arrived with special permits filled in. The first splash of colour was imparted by the crimson robe s of the Recorder (Sir F. Fulton) who strolled in to the bench just as the ladies were arriving in the balcony allotted partly to their use. Another distinguished casual legal visitor was Judge Rentoul, who looked in on his way to his own court. At twenty minutes past ten the members of the jury commenced to take their seats, and at the same time the eminent counsel retained put in an appearance, they being, for the Crown, Mr R. D. Muir, Mr Tra., vers Humphreys, and Mr Ingleby Oddie for Crippen Mr A. Tobin, K.C., M.PMr Huntley Jenkins, and Mr Boomc and for Le Neve (indicted as an accessory after the fact), Mr Barrington Ware and Mr Jeffrey Moseley. It will be noticed that Mr F. E. Smith, K.C., M.P., who leads for Le Neve was not yet pre- sent. He, of course, knew that the cases were to be taken separately, and hence he left the earlier proceedings to the watchful care of his juniors.

Case for the Crown. Mr Muir rose and in slow and measured terms, and with his customary placidity pro- ceeded to unfold the case for the Crown. In 1905, he said, the husband and wife lived together at 39, Hilldrop-crescent, Mrs Crippen doing the housework with the occasional help of a charwoman, and so far as their friends were concerned their relations together seemed to be of the best possible kind According to Crippen's own statement, how- ever, he had been for three years carrying on an intrigue with a young woman named Ethel Le Neve, who had been associated with him as a typist. That being so the position was a somewhat strained one counsel remarked. He proceeded to refer t6 the money trans- actions between Crippen and Belle Elmore, and 'their accounts at the Charing Cross Bank, and said that in January he became pressed for money. On January 31st, which was a critical date as far as the case was concerned, the position was this:—His affections had fixed upon Ethel Le Neve, and it was quite clear that it was his desire to establish closer relations with that young woman. The presence of his wife was an obstacle to those relations. The fact that he had no money was another obstacle, and if Belle Elmore died, both those obstacles to his closer relations with Ethel Le Neve -would be removed, because Belle Elmore's money and property would enable him to keep Ethel Le Neve, which at that time he was Wholly unable to do. Mr Muir then ascribed Crippen's invitation to Mr and Mrs Paul Martinetti to dinner on January 31st to his desire to show them that he was on the best terms with his wife, so that they could be produced as wit- nesses if ever they should he required: to the fact that in the early morning of 1st April, he and his wife were on the usual affectionate terms, and if Mrs Crippen should from that moment disappear from the sight of all who knew her, who would suspect the kind, affectionate husband of being the cause of her disappearance ? Mrs Crippen, Mr Muir went on impressively, Was never heard of again after 1.30 in the early morning of the 1st February, when Mr and Mrs Paul Martinetti left after the dinner party. From that moment she passsed out of the world which knew her as completely as if she were dead. She left behind her everything ft he would have left behind if she had died on that date—money, jewels, furs, clothes, home, and husband. Crippen, the prisoner. made tip his mind that hot only had she left, but that she had left never to return, and he at once began to con- cert her property. On the 12th March Ethel Le Neve went to live with Crippen at Hilldrop- crescent, and Crippen started a campaign of lies to cover up Belle Elmore's disappear- ance. Counsel dealt at length with the various statements made by Crippen with that object in view. how that Mrs Crippen had gone to America, that she was ill, and that she had died in California. lie also spoke of Crippen's trip to Dieppe with Le Neve, and Crippen's evasive answers to the inquiries made by members of the Music Hall Ladies' Guild, of which Belle Ehnore was the treasurer. Counsel described the flight and the find- ing of the body at Elilldrop-crewent, It would be for the jury, he said, to say whether that was what Crippen • fled from. Whose remains were they that Were found there ? They were headless, limb- less, and boneless. Most of the viscera and tome of the outer flesh had been deposited in the grave.. I Flight and Arrest. Crippen having left on the 9th July, ^as not .seen again by Chief Inspector t>ew till the 3l3t of that month. When Inspector Dew found him on board the Montrose near Quebec, the ship having sailed worn Antwerp on 20th July, Crippen, whose heavy moustache was shaved off, was passing Jnder the false name of John Robinson, Ethel Lp Neve being also on board the ship occupy- ing the same cabin as Crippen, and dressed as J boy with her hair shaved off. Crippen was jold by Dew that he would be arrested for the murder of his wife, and Jhile he made no reply at the *?nie, a little later he said, I am not sorry 'he anxiety has been too much." On four occa- sions, when arrested, when the warrant was when charged at Bow-street Police Station, and when committeed for trial, oppor- Unities were given him to offer an explanation his flight if he had any to offer, and he did flot avail himself Qf any of those opportunities. There was his motive ^.get rid of his wife so that he might consort, ]??th Le Neve, there was he fact of the total J^sappearance of Belle Elmore, there was t ho I that Crippen was the only person who Professed to be able to account for the disap- (his first account admittedly false, his second account followed by immediate flight), and then there were the pieces of pyjama jacket found with the remains, and the mutilation of the latter by a person of such knowledge and skill as Crippen might be presumed to be possessed of. Questions to Jury. Then who but Crippen could have put the remains there,-vad how did Belle Elmore-if the remains were hers—come to die? Here they came to the post-mortem examination, as tHe result of which there was found in the viscera a quantity of hyoscin. The ordinary recognised dose of hyoscin was from l-200th to 1 -100th of a grain. It was found that more than a fatal dose of this deadly poison had in some way or other been taken by this person when alive. It could be taken in sweetened tea or coffee without its presence being detected. What was the cause of death ? Was it natural ?—That seemed a preposterous question in view of the facts. Who administered that drug Belle Elmore was in the full enjoyment of life, she was not likely to commit suicide. Crippen on the 17th January, counsel con- tinued, bought five grains of that drag from a well known firm of chemists, and in signing the poisons book of Messrs Lewis and Burrows, be made a fasle statement. He said the drug was required for Munyons. That was untrue, Munyons made no preparation in this country, He also said he wanted it for homeopathic remedies. And what became of it, asked counsel raising his voice, unless it went into the body of Belle Elmore, and unless the remains were those of Belle Elmore there is no explanation at all as to what became of it. Those were the facts so far as ho need open them. He had opened the case with such details in order that the jury might be able to appreciate the evidence piecemeal, as it was given. I ask you to keep in your mind these questions," counsel concluded—" What has become of Belle Elmore ? Whose remains are those found in the cellar ? If they are Belle Elm ore's, what explanation of their being found in that place is there, mutilated as they were ? Keep those questions before your mind, apply the evidence to them as it is being given, and I think you will understand the, evidence and be able to apply it to your verdict when the time comes to decide." The LORD CHIEF JUSTICE, w ho is trying the case. -(L.N.A.) I

The Evidence. Evidence was then called. Mr Frederick Towne, the landlord of 39, Hill- drop-crescent, living at Highgate, spoke to letting the house to Crippen in 1905 on a three years lease. Crippen gave him notice to leave in June, saying that he had been left some property in America. He also told witness that his wife was dead. Dr. John Herbert Burroughs, of 169, City- road, London, in replv to Mr Oddie, said he knew Mr and Mrs Crippen first in 1902. The witness described Belle Elmore as a bright and cheerful vivacious woman who was very fond of dress, and at times wore a quantity of jewelery. He heard of Belle Elmore's death through Mrs Martinetti, and wrote a letter to Crippen. Crippen in reply wrote him saying how much he felt his wife's death, especially as it had taken place so far away from him. Mrs Paul Martinetti, of King Edward's Mansions, Shaftesbury-avenue,who was deeply affected while giving evidence, then detailed the story of the dinner party on January 31. On the resumption of the proceedings Mrs Martinetti again went into the witness-box, and was further questioned about the deceased woman's furs, which were now lying before the witness. Mr R. D. MUIR, leading counsel for the Crown.—(L.N.A.) I In the course of this Mr Tobin,K.C.( interpos- ing) remarked If it will save time I may say there will be no dispute at all as to Miss Le Neve wearing jewellery and furs which once belonged to Mrs Crippen. The learned counsel then cross-examined witness as to the demeanour of Crippen after his wife was said to have gone abroad. She admitted that he never showed any signs of being upset or frightened, and she added that he was Apparently a kind, good-tempered man at thexime she and her husband used to visit him and his wife. Witness also admitted that Crippen would know that in going to the ball on the 20th February, Le Neve would meet a lot of Crippen's friends, notwithstanding which she wore the latter's jewels quite openly. Mrs Smythson, of Brixton Hill, who was present at the dinner referred to also identi fled the brooch worn by Miss Le Neve and said that when she asked Crippen v^here Belle Elmore was he rerlied Right up in the wilds of California." 1

WITNESSES FROM AMERICA. BELLE ELMORE'S SISTER. Mrs Hitnn, an elder sister of Belle Elmore, of Newport, Rhode Island, a self-possessed, middle-aged woman, who was attired in deep black, was then called. She first saw Crippen with her sister she said on the n<-st of September, 1892, when she was told they were married. A few months afterwards she saw a scar on her sister's body. It was then hardly healed, and wa3 four or five inches lonj. She saw the scar again later when it had healed. Wit- j ness had seen a letter received from 31, Hilldrop-crescent by her half-sister, M^s Robert Mill?, of Brooklyn, and signed Dor tor," sayinsr that Belle Elmore had died on her way to Calilo-nia, where Affile had gone to look after some property left them by a re- lative of theirs. The letter was dated 7th April, 1910. • Mr Bruce Miller. I Bruce Miller was then called. He described himself as a real estate agent living in East Chicago. He had been formerly engaged in the music hall profession. He came to England to follow his profession. While in England he made the acquaintance of Belle Elmore. Mr Muir When did you first meet her I—In the month of December, 1899. When did you last see her ?-In April, 1904, in London. You are now living with your wife and child in Chicago ?—Y es. Has there been any proposition that Belle Elmore should go out to you ?—Witness (sharply): No, sir. The Lord Chief Justice: Did you receive any communication from her since April, 1904 ?—Yes, three or perhaps four times a year. At Christmas time and New Year. The Lord Chief Justice Greetings, etc. ?— Yes, my Lord. Mr Tobin (cross-examining) Since De- cember, 1906, you have been an estate agent. Why did you give up the music hall profession. Was it because you were a failure ?—No. I don't think that I was a failure on the stage. Where did you first meet Mrs Crippen ?-In ColHngdon-square, in December, 1899. Was her husband present on that occasion ? -No. Where was he ?-In America. How long after was it you became acquainted with Belle Elmore that Dr. Crippen returned from America ?—From three to five months. Did you see Belle Elmore frequently ?— Yes, very often. Where was she staying during the time you saw her "i—I believe it was Guildford-street, I am not sure. Relations With Belle Elmore. Did you write letters during that time to Mrs Crippen ?—Yes. Were you writing to her on business ?—Not always. Were you writing as a lover ?-No. Did you ever tell her that you loved her ? —I don't think I ever put it in that way. Did you indicate to her that you loved her ? —By way of giving her presents, yes. You know the difference between friendship and love, I suppose ?—Yes. Were you mope than a friend ?—I could not be more than a friend. Were there any improper relations between you and her ?—No. Kiss6s to Brown Eyes." Mr Tobin j What I am more concerned about is thissi-Wben did you last write to Mrs Crippen before January 31st this y&ar ?—January 5th. Was that an affectionate letter ?-I don't re- member. It was very short, and I wrote to her because I had not heard Jrom her for some time. Did you write letters to her during 1909 ?-I did. Were they affectionate letters—" love and kisses to Brown Eyes "—that kind of thing ?— They might have been. Were they ?—Sometimes I wrote that way, sometimes I did not. Did she still write letters back to you Yes. Were they letters couched in the same kind of terms as yours to her ?—Perhaps not 'quite so endearing. Just an Affectionate Friend. His Lordship (to witness): I must ask you this question Were there any improper re- lations between you and Mrs Crippen ?-No, there were not. His Lordship You were just an affectionat,e friend ?-Yes. His Lordship Between May, 1909, and April 19<»-1 will take four years—how often did you see her husband and her ?-I have never met her husband. I have met her about six times. Mr A. A. TOBIN, K.C., leading counsel for Cnppcn.-(L.N.A.) I You say the husband knew of your calling ? —I never tried to avoid Mr Crippen in any shape or form. In fact, I believe Mr Crippen was in the house many times when I called. In what year did you give Belle Elmore these photographs ?-In the first year of our acquaintance. The Lord Chief Justice When did you go to America ?—About April 21st., 1904. Where were you living in 1901, 2; 3, and 4 ?— I was living in Clapham. On the request of Mr Muir, the Lord Chief Justice gave the witness permission to return mmediately to America. Court Adjourns. Evidence was then called to, prove the pur- chase of a suit of boy's clothing by a m&n named Long, at Crippen's request, on the date, Crippen and Le Neve disappeared. The court then adjourned. Detective Dew's Stary. The trial was resumed on Wednesday. Inspector Dew, replying to Mr Humphreys, for the Crown, told once more the story of how the investigation of the Crippen affair started. During the evidence of the Inspector there was an unusual incident, only noticed, how- ever, by those in proximity to the person chiefly concerned. The police discovered in the public gallery a lady-with a camera, partly concealed in what appeared to be a large box of chocolates. As snapshotting in court is not allowed she was called upon to withdraw and immediately retired. On July 13th," he continued, I again searched the coal cellar, which had a brick floor. I carried a small poker with a sharp end, and going down on my knees I probed the floor and finding some of the bricks loose, I got one or two of thetn up with a spade. I dug into the clay underneath and I came across what appeared to be human re- mains." Witness went on to say that the remains were given in charge of Dr. Pepper and Dr. Marshall. The following day he found also some articles, amongst which was a Hinde's curler, against the remains. Continuing his story of the search of the house, Inspector Dew said he found a large quantity of lady,'s clothing, and in a box under- neath a' bed, he discovered two suits of pyjamas and an odd pair of pyjama trousers. These were produced, and after looking at them the Lord Chief Justice remarked that the trousers were of a different pattern from that of the two complete suits. Flight and Arrest. Inspector Dew then proceeded to t 11 how, after obta-ining a warrant for the arrest of Crippen and Le Neve, he received cer- tain information, in consequancc of which ha proceeded to Canada, and arrested I the prisoner tind T Po NWe In hn8.1'O tbe Mont- rose on July 31st, off Father Point. Quebec. After Crippen had been taken into custody wit- ness went into a cabin and found Le Neve dressed in boy's clothing, with her hair cut short. In the same cabin was some of Crippen's clothes. Crippen was taken into another cabin when he remarked to witness I am not sorry. The anxiety has been too much." Crippen was handcuffed, the witness explaining that it was necessary as he had stated. on a card that he would jump over- board. Whereupon Crippen said I won't. I am more than satisfied because the anxiety has been too awful." On the cabin being searched witness discovered two cards. On the back of one was written—" P. llobinson and Co., Detroit, Mr John Robinson." Horror of It" On the other side of the card were the words :— 1 cannot stand the horror I go through every night any longer and as I see nothing bright ahead, and the money has come to an end, I have made up my mind to jump over- board to-night. I know I have spoilt your' life, but I hope some day you will learn to forgive me. With last words of love, Yours H. The other card was written Shall we wait until to-night, until 10 or 11 o'clock ? If not, what time ? Witness then refered to the conversation he had with Crippen on board the Megantic. Crippen asked to be allowed to see Le Neve, as he did not know how things would go with him, and he might never see her again. Crippen further remarked, She has been my only comfort for the last three years." Cross-examined by Mr Tobin, witness said the bricks in the cellar where the remains were found were laid closely together, but were not fixed with mortar. Crippen readily agreed to the house being searched. The Lord Chief Justice Do you know what the remains were ? Witness I cannot describe them as well as Dr. Pepper Mr Tobin Miss Le Neve and Dr. Crippen occupied the same cabiii ?—Witness As far as I know. Mr Tobin If the intimation about jumping overboard was intended for Miss Le Neve's information, there was no need to put it in writing ? The Lord Chief Justice That is not a ques- tion. That is argument. Mr Tobin I won't put it, my Lord.

ILLNESS OF A JUROR. Indigestion Suspends Hearing. At this stage, the time being shortly after half-past 11, it was noticed that a juryman sitting in a corner seat appeared to be ill. He was leaning forward and breathing heavily when an usher went to his assistance and sup- ported him. The proceedings were suspended while three doctors—Dr. Wilcox, Dr. Mar- shall, and Dr. Dyer (the prison sur- geon at Brixton) rendered aid. A number of people rose to their feet. The Lord Chief Justice requested them to resume their seats, and they did so rather anxiously, for visions of a postponement of the case had already arisen. In another moment or two the voice of the learned judge was again heard. He said, Will one of the doctors come up here and speak to me a minute ?" upon which Dr. Wilcox proceeded to the bench. After he had had a brief conversation with the medical man his Lordship, turning to counsel remarked—" It is nothing serious." At the same time the juryman was helped out of court, he having sufficiently recovered from his faint to walk with assistance. It was thought that the fresh air would revive him. Time went on and he did not return. The proceedings were suspended, a hubbub of con- versation arose, in the midst of which Crippen taking advantage of the interval, signalled to his solicitor, Mr A. Newton, who approached his client and had a conversation with him over the'dock rail. After the lapse of half an hour the whole o& the jury were allowed to temporary retire. In another quarter of an hour the judge desired them to be brought back, and Dr. Dyer went into the witness box and was sworn. In reply to the Lord Chief Justice he said that he had been in attendance on the juror who had been seized with illness, and who was suffering from a fainting attack due to indigestion. It was nothing serious, and the gsntleman would no doubt be well enough to resume his duties by two o'clock. Thereupon the Court was adjourned till that hour. One of the warders touched Crippen on the shoulders and he disappeared belpw.

AFTERNOON HEARING- On the Lord Chief Justice resuming the hearing after the luncheon interval, the juror was in his place and the cross-examination of In- spector Dew was continued. Sir John Hare occupied a seat beside the the clerk of arraign. Mr Tobin had onJy one more question to ask the witness. So far as you know, when Dr. Cripppen went away did he leave behind him, so far as you can ascertain, a single debt unpaid 1-1 made no inquiries, but so far as I know there were none. Re-examined by Mr Muitf, witness said that when he saw Crippen he (Crippen) was per- fectly cool and collected. Mr Muir Was there any difference in his manner after his arrest to his demeanour before his arrest T—None, whatever. The Lord Chief Justice To your judgment did the area of loose bricks in the cellar about correspond with the size of the hole in which the remains were found ?—That is so, my Lord. Evidence was next given regarding the re- moval of the remains to the mortuary. Medical Evidence. Then came the testimony of medical experts, upon which so much depends. Mr Pepper, consulting surgeon to St. Mary's Hospital, London, was called. In reply to Mr Muir, witness said he went to 39, Hiildrop crescent on July 14th with Inspector Dew. In a hole in the cellar he found what were animal remains. The soil was composed partly of loam and partly of clay, and lime had been mixed in it. He also observed in the hole, beside the remains, a tuft of dark brown hair on a Hinde's curler, about 3i inchps long. The natural colour of the hair was dark brown, and it had evi- dently been bleached. Witness also discovered a small piece of fair hair in a man's handkerchief and two small pieces of cloth of a reddish brown colour. Mr Muir Did you examine the contents of the shell at the mortuary next«day ?—Yes. I found all the bones had been removed. The head was missing, also the, limbs, excepting a piece of the thigh. The Judge What portions were found ?— The viscera of the-chest and abdomen in one piece, the heart and lungs. 21 inches of wind- pipe. the liver, kidneys, spleen, and stomach. Further examined by Mr Muir. witness spoke to finding pieces of skin, on one of which was an old scar. This came from the front of the body. and there wis human hair upon it. He also found with the remains a portion of a woman's combina- tions and parts of a pyjama jucket. Mr Muir: These were not in a fit state to be produced at the police court, but they have since been washed. Gruesome Jars. Here there was handed up to the witness a number of large glass jars which seemed filled with gruesome contents. Taking the lid off one he gradually drew out what looked like a long mouldy rag. He said that this was the neck of the pyjama jacket. Several fashionably, attired ladies at the same, time craned their necks to get a view of it. Reading a label on the collar band, witness said it bore the inscription, "Shirt-makers, Jones Bros., Holloway, N." Next a bundle lying on the seat near a quan- tity of feminine clothing was passed up to him and unfolded. This contained a new pyjama suit. Looking at the labels, he said the name of the makers was the same. Look at the bottom," said counsel. Witness did so, and said that those on the pyjama in the bottle and on the article in the bundle were the same marks. Mr Muir: Having examined the remans, would you say from the manner in which the viscera was extracted that it was done by a skilled person ?—Yes, it must have been. Mr Muir By a person skilled in what 1 The Judge In dissection, I suppose, Mr Muir Of human beings Witness: I would not like to go quite so far as that. I should say of human beings or other animals or both. Further examined by the Crown Counsel, witness said that in his opinion the remains had been buried from four to eight months, and were buried very shortly after death. Counsel: In your opinion, is it impossible that those remains could have been buried there before the 21st September, 1905?- Absolutely impossible. Witness went on to say that the remains with all the other articles found were placed in jars. The jars containing the hair were produced and witness expressed the opinion that it was a woman's hair I Counsel: Could you tell from the remains you examined what figure, of person this was m life t—She was stout. Counsel: Did you find anything to account for death, anything that you examined among those remains ?—No- Cross-examined by Mr Tobin, witness said that, taking the human remains by themselves it was quite impossible to, tell the sex except on anatomical grounds. A person who had once learned to remove the organs in the manner they had been removed could do it again, as it was not a minute dis- section. It v as true that two different bodies buried in the same soil and under apparently similar conditions presented such differences as to baffle all attempts at generalisation. Abdominal Wall Produced. At the request of Mr Tobin the piece of the wall 'of the abdomen which was found among the remains as then produced and placed in a white tray. As it was being carried inTront of the dock for counsel's inspection Crippen rose from his chair, and leaning over scrutinised it clqsely. Coensel proceeded to ask witness a< number of questions regarding the scar which witness had stated was upon the skin, and pointed to the spot with a quill pen, whereupon the Lord Chief Justiec sharply remarked, You arc I using an inky pen. Don't drop ink on it." Witness said the piece of neshcc-me from the I. lower part of the abdomen. He would have expected to find the m»ve] upon it. lie agreed 1 with r.Tinscl that on ojie side there was a mark which had been made by folding the flesh after death, but he said it was impossible, tha.t the mark which he said was a scar could have been similarly made. Counsei Is an operation in this part of the body usual ? Witness Yes. exceptionally common. In reply to further questions witness said it was quite beyond the reach of science to deter- mine the period of death for the progress of putrefaction would be retarded in the case of human remains buried closely and packed in day and lime, but the presence of damp clay would favour the change which happened in this'case. The Scar. Further cross-examined, witness said that the scar was such as he had many times seen after an operation on this part of the body. Did you not expect to see marks of the stitches —In the majority of the cases, yes in many cases, no. Are there any marks you can identify as stitches ?—No. Reexamined by Mr Muir, witness said that there were proofs that this piece of flesh with the scar came from the lower part of the abdo- men in front. Counsel You have been asked whether Dew told you the date when Mrs Crippen dis- appeared. Had your knowledge or want of knowledge as to the date she disappeared any effect in forming your opinion as to the time the remains were in the ground ?—None what- ever. Would it have any effect in your judgment as a scientific man i-Certainly not. You were asked with regard to the scar upon that piece of flesh whether before you dis- covered it you knew Mrs Crippen had been operated upon,and you said that you did. Had that information any effect whatever upon your opinion as a scientific man as to whether this is a scar or not ? Witness No I did not discover the scar until August 8. If I had wanted to find it I should have found it before. The scar that I found there is such that I have found jn my actual practice. In reply to the Judge witness said there was no indication that this piece of flesh had come from up towards the breast bone. Mr Tobin, rising, said it was not part of his case to suggest that. His Lordship replied that he thought from one part of the cross-examination that. that was Mr Tobin's suggestion. His Lordship (to the witness): You say the remains could not have been in the ground more than eight months, and that they could not have been in the ground less than four months ?—Witness That is my opinion. The Court then adjourned. Illness of Mrs Martinetti. Mrs Clara Martinetti, wife of Mr Paul Mar- tinetti, who was a great friend of Mrs Crippen's, and the last person known to have seen her alive, was taken ill' after the conclusion of her evidence at the trial on Monday. She is at present confined to her bed, and is in the hands of a medical man. (Continued on page 7.)

PRELIMINARY OFFICIAL INQUIRY. AID FOR ST. DAVID'S WIDOWS. Mr Talfourd Strick (Swansea), -representing the Board of Trade, on Wednesday conducted at St. David's a private inquiry concerning the wreck of the lifeboat Gem at Ramsey Sound, with the loss of three lives. Mr George Martin, second coxswain of the lifeboat, was examined at some length, as well as other witnesses. We understand a public inquiry will be held at Swansea at a future date. Lieut. Drury, the district inspector of the Lifeboat Institution, attended and watched the proceedings on behalf of that institution. Another important meeting of the local Lifeboat Committee was held in the after- noon, presided over by Alderman Wilfrid Wil- liams, the bon. secretary. Dr. Williams re- ported that the lifeboat crew had met and had recommended Mr Sidney Mortimer (who heroically assisted in the rescuing of the life- boat men) as their coxswain. The committee, therefore, confirmed the selection. Mortimer is only 20 years of age. and probably the youngest lifeboat coxswain around the coast. Mr William Brockhurst was chosen second coxswain, and Mr James Turner bowman, the latter appointments being temporary. A letter was read from the Royal National Lifeboat Institution enclosing a draft for JE73 17s 3d in respect of the services of the St. David's lifeboat on the 13th inst., and express- ing the deep regret of the committee of management at the calamity, and their sincere condolence with the relatives. The committee had doubled the ordinary scale of payment, so that each man of the crew would receive 903. The case of the rela- tives of the men who lost their lives would, it was added, receive the full consideration of the committee at their next meeting. It was decided to ask all the churches and chapels in the county to take a collection for the distressed widows on Sunday, October 30th. Mr Gilbert Harries, Llanunwas, a member of the committee, subscribed JE10 at the meeting the total amount collected to date being nearly Eloo.

NEW CRAFT ARRIVES AT ST. DAVID'S. Lieutenant Drury (district inspector of the Lifeboat Institution) visited the scene of-the recemt wreck at St. David's yesterday, and re- ported that the lifeboat is a total wreck. He decided to let her remain on the rocks. About 4 p.m. yesterday the s.s. Atlas, of London, arrived at St. Justinian's with a reserve life- boat called the Charlotte. In the evening the steamer towed to Fishguard the motor life- boat Charterhouse, which had so nobly assisted in the recent disaster. The wrecked lifeboat Gem came to St. David's ill 1885, and took part in the following rescues :— March 24th, 1895-Brigantinp. Lily Dale, of Cork, seven lives saved. September 15th. 1899-Ketch Clara Felicia, of Carnarvon, rendered assistance. January 25th, 1903—Steamship Graffock, of Grimsby, six lives saved. JOHN STEPHENS, Coxswain, one of the victims. Mr John Stephens, who with ten others lost his life in the St. David's lifeboat disaster, had several relatives in Cardiff, and to one of these, Mr James Stephens, builder, Brunswick- street, Canton, we are indebted for the above photograph. May 25th, ISO!—Schooner Edith Crossfield, of Barrow, landed five. August 5th, 1903—Steamship Langton Grange, of London, stood by vessel. October 13th, 1910—Ketch Democrat, of Barnstaple, saved three. The first lifeboat to be stationed at St. David's was the Augusta in 1869. The Lifeboat Committee met yesterday, under the presidency of Alderman Watts Williams. J.P., the other members present being Dr. W. Wilfred Williams. J.P. (hon. secretary), Mr Gilbert D. Harries, J.P. (Llanunwas), Mr Samson T. Williams, J.P. (Solva), Mr J. Howell Griffiths, C.C., Mr Francis Green, Mr J. Morgan Williams, Mr Sercombe (chief coastguard), Mr Small (motor expert of the Lifeboat Institution, London), Lieutenant Drurv (district inspector). The question of having a new motor boat for St. David's was discussed at some length, and Mr Small gave valuable information and sug- gestions to the committee, but the matter was deferred for future consideration. A majority of the committee favoured a motor-boat, Chief Coastguard Sercombe remarking that sail was inadequate to them with the strong tide pre- valent at Ramsey Sound.

A H AIR TONIC THAT IS GUARANTEED. Although there are countless hair tonics on the market, for which every possible—as well as impossible—virtue is claimed, it is yet most un- usual for the manufacturer of a hair tonic to substantiate his claims with a guarantee to return the purchase price in case the tonic fails to give satisfaction therefore we would call the attention of our readers to the fact that Messrs Duek and Son, of St. John's-square, and 90. High-street Arcade, are authorised to give an absolute guarantee of satisfaction—or money refunded—signed by themselves, with every bottle of Harriett Meta's Gold Medal Hair Tonic, the- only tonic made from the world-famous formula which calls for 3ozs. Bay Rum, loz. Lavona de Composee, dram Men- thol Crystals, and one teaspoonful French Fon Fleur Perfume. If this remarkable tonic, which is absolutely harmless and free from colouring matter, fails to destroy the dandruff germ, or to relieve an itching scalp, if it docs not make the hair grow, or if it fails to make the hair soft, bright, and glossy, take your signed guarantee to the storfe of Messrs Duck and Son, from which it was purthased. and your money will be refunded without quest ion. Be ure to ask for the signed guarantee. 20034

Mr F. C. Way. of Danygrai?, has been pre- sented with all illuminated address by the Swansea. TcfM:hMs* A3so iatichi in recognition of sarviocs as secretary of the N.U.T. charities.

This CAS-KET Filled tciih lafes Choco, and a3!ille.* to U.M. the King You can obtain this L Casket Free by saving the vouchers from tins of Roxvn- tree s Cocoa. No other cocoa lias j! the Rowntree Flavour, no other cocoa,brings ||/jjj the Gift Casket, filled with delicious Chocolates. SMI Start to-day drinking 8fjfi | ROWNTREE'S 1 ilfll COCOA mM. Send to Rowntree & Co., Ltd,, Dept. 2380 T«r,, for full J llffl particulars and the FOUR EREE VOOCHERiS. < Mt

DR. A. PLAIN, CARDIFF. I We regret to announce the death, which took place on Friday night, after a long illness, of Dr. A. Plain, 30, Park-place, Cardiff, in his 53th year. Dr. Plain was the only son of the late Mr T. W. H. Plain, shipbuilder, who was for many years vice-chairman of Cardiff for many years vice-chairman of Cardiff Board of Guardians. The deceased gentleman, who also held a position as medical officer under the Cardiff Board of Guardians for some under the Cardiff Board of Guardians for some years, was an M.B. of Edinburgh University. I He bad a distinguished scholastic career, and for many years he carried on an excellent practice at Wmdsor-place, Cardiff. His wife, a I Miss Gordon, of the North of Ireland, died about eight years ago, and shortly after the The Late Dr. A. PLAIN. (Photo by Bennett & Sons.) deceased, in consequence of failing health, re- tired from practice, and lived in his late father's house in Park-place. His condition gradually grew worse, and he died', as stated, on Friday night. He was attended by Dr. Sam Wallace. Dr. Plain was nursed by his sisters with devoted care. He was one of the earlier members of the Cardiff Football Club, and took a keen interest in the game for many y ?ars. Me also acted as hon. doctor to the clab.

A"LOCAL FOOTBALLER. News has reached Merthyr of the death in York Hospital of Willie "Smith, who at one timfe was a prominent Welsh footballer.; Deceased, who was 28 years of age, played for Merthyr Rugby Football team two seasons ago, and subsequently signed on for the York team. He was extremely well-known among local footballers. The interment will prob- ably take place at Cinderford.

FORMER SWANSEA POSTMASTER. At Clifton on Friday the death occurred of Mr Richard Barnett, who was postmaster at Swansea from 1893 to 1897. Previously be was chief clerk at Bristol. On leaving the Swansea position, on superannuation, bis staff pre- sented to him a service of plate as a token of their esteem.

A HOLIDAY PRIZE-WINNER. The death is reported of Miss Millie Davies, daughter of Mr John Davies, Manchester House, Pontardulais. De- ceased would have been 18 years old bad she lived to the last day of this year. She was a victim of the di ead white scourge, and had been at the West Wales Sanatorium and other places in pursuit of health. Miss Davies was one of the JE25 winners in the South Wales Daily News Holiday Scheme this year. 8

MR DODD GRIFFITHS, ST. DAVID'S. The funeral of Mr Dodd Griffiths, St. David's, who was well-known in Pembrokeshire, took place at Treffgarne Owen Cemetery on Satur- day. The Rev. J. Abel, B.A., and Rev. J. Hywel Thomas officiated. Mr Griffiths was formerly a commercial traveller for a large drapery house, but retired several years ago and came to reside at St. David's. He was a deacon and treasurer of the Ebenezer Congre- gational Church, and had been a useful mem- ber of several public bodies. He was over 80 years of age.

SWANSEA SHIPPING MANAGER. The death is announced of Mr David Morgan, Swansea, who was for over 20 years shipping manager of Messrs Williams, Foster and Pascoe Grenfell, Ltd. Deceased was a prominent Freemason and an active member of Argyle Chapel for more than 25 years.

MR DAVID RSSTBLAENGARW. Mr David Rees, under-manager of the Ocean Colliery. Blaengarw; passed away at his resi- dence. 27, Brynbedw-street, on Sunday after- noon at the age of 56. He was a, native of Clydacb, near Swansea. He had worked at the Ocean Colliery for about 25 years as a collier, fireman, apd under-manager.

MR MOXON FULLER, NEWPORT. N ews was received at N ewport onMonday that Mr W. Moxon Fuller, J.P., formerly of Clytha Park, Newport, died at Northcote, Stafford- place, Weston-super-Mare, on Saturday in! his 81st year. Mr Fuller was the son of the Rev. A. G. Fuller and grandson of the Rev. Dr. Andrew Fuller, one of the founders of the Bap- tist Mission and an eminent author and divine. Mr Fuller resided at Wolverhampton for some years, and was a member of the local Council and vice-chairman of the Wolverhamp- ton School Board. He removed to Newport in the early nineties and joined Sir John Morris, of Messrs Morris and Griffin, in promoting the Usk Chemical Works. During Mr Fuller's < manager-directorship of the works the manu- facture of glue was added to that of chemical manures. He was elected a member of the New- port School Board and chairman of a number of the Technical Education Committees. He was an active supporter of the National Eis- teddfod at N ewport in 1897, and was president of the Chamber ot Commerce in 1895.. In politics he was a Liberal and in religion a Baptist. He had resided at Weston-super-Mare for the last few years. He leaves a widow, three daughters (one of whom is married), and three sons (two of whom are married).

MRS ELIZABETH HUSHES, GLYNNEATH The death is announced of Mrs Hughes, wife of the Rev. David Hughes, Calvinistic Metho- dist minister, Glynneath, and the only daughter of the Rev. Thomas Powel, Penycae, Port Talbot. Mrs Hughes, who was only 38 years of age. was well known in Calvinistic Methodist circles in South Wales. She took a prominent part in temperance and religious work, and she was treasurer of the Glynneath Branch of the N.S.P.C.C.

OLDEST SWANSEA COMPOSITOR. At the advanced age of 82 there died at Rodney-street, Swansea, on Sunday, Mr Isaac Evans, the oldest compositor in the town. A native of Carmarthenshire, he re- tired some yoars ago after being on the 14 Cambrian newspaper for 44 years. In his early days the oldest paper in Wales was printed on a hand press.

AUTHORESS AND WOMEN'S LEADER. New* York, Monday.—The death is' an- nounced of Julia Ward Howe, the weil-known authoress. Mrs HoWo. who was born in 1819, was the daughter of M" and M-s Hush Ward, of New York. She married in 1843 Dr. Samuel Gridlcy Ilowe, the eminent philan- I thropist. She was a prominent lea,det- in the j women s suffrage, p.-ison reform, find PPIWC. movements. Probably her most widely known work is the 1-tittle Lymn of the K«'i>uldic. Other of ,-iher wouls ai-c Passion Flowers," j A Trip to Cuba," Sex Education," "It Society Polite ?" and sketches1 of represen- tative women of New England.—Reuter.

MR J. R. PHILPOTTS, NEWNHAM. The death occurred on Sunday at Newnham- on-Severn. Forest of Dean. of Mr Jamae Richard Philpotts. Deceased, who was ap- proaching 80, was the oldest dispensing chemist in est Gloucestershire, the business bein*' established by his father about a hundred years ago. Deceased filled many church i offices, and for many years was a member of the Urban District Council.

MR WILLIAM THOMAS. CYN6HORDY. The death has occurred of Mr Wm. Thomas, School House, Cynghordy, late of Llancarfan, Pembrokeshire. Deceased, who was 70 years of age, passed away on Tuesday morning. He was of a kind and generous disposition.

MR LEWIS JONES, ABERCARN. On Tuesday the death occurred, after a para- lytic seizure, of Mr Lewis Jones, Abercarn, at the age of 78. Deceased came from Dowlais to Abercarn over 60 years ago, and was highly respected, occupying an important position under the District Council. He leaves two soni and two daughters.

A'MERTHYR'MINISTER. "he Rev. J. J. H. Williams, Merthyrj passed away on Monday night. He was a native of Carmarthen, and was educated at Carmarthen College. He was for many years minister at Llaniestyn, Carnarvonshire, and subsequently at Pasfechan, near Merthyr, He was for a considerable time relieving officef under the Merthyr Board of Guardians.

WELSH AMERICANS. Y Drych records the following deaths :— Mr Evan Mclntyre, New York, a native of Carnarvon, in his 43rd year, of consumption. Deceased emigrated to the States four years ago, and resided for some time at Utica, and subsequently at Granville, New York. De. ceased leaves a widow and four young daugh- ters. Mrs John Owens, Wales, Iowa, a native ol Carnarvonshire. She had reached the advanced age of 76 years, and tad lived in the United States for the past 27 years.

A Veteran Welshman. THE OLDEST BENCHER. •, Pembrokeshire Associations. Mr Henry Griffith, who was such a promi- nent figure at the departure of the Duke ol Connaught when he left for South Africa, by no means looks his 95 years, while his intellect is as clear as when he made his name at the Bar. Difficulty of hearing, however, has come upon him. Mr Griffith told our representative on Satur- day that his family had connections with Perrv f Mr HENRY GRIFFITH. (Photo, by L.N.A.) brokcshire His grandfather was born in FKntf shire, but his fatherwas resident in Pembroke So," he added, of course I am a WeI8b( man. More than that, I am proud otmy à. scent." Mr Griffith proceeded, I was called to tbe Bar when I was 21 years of age—that was in 1837. Fancy, 74 years ago As a Bencher^ I called the present Duke of Connaisfat to tbm Bar 28 years ago. Mr Griffith, notwithstanding his age, has » wonderful memory, and he went back to 8flf years ago. He portrayed events as vividly a £ if they had taken place yesterday. From ancient portfolios he produced antiquatea relics, and read them without the aid o £ glasses. On Thursday last the Benchers decided t4 have his portrait painted and hung in the half,

RATING OF INFANT SCHOOLS. Novel Point it, Pontypridd. An important rating case was heard atPontt ypridd on Wednesday, before Mr D. Lleufet, Thomas, the stipendiary. Plaintiffs were the overseers of the parish of Llantrisant, and de- fendants the Glamorgan County Council. M* D. Rees (Messrs W. R. Davies and Co.) ap. peared for the overseers, and Mr A. H. Bullock (Cardiff) represented the County Council. Mr Rees said that the trustees of the Cal- vinistic Methodist Chapel, Tonyrefail, had let thir vestry to the County Council for the pur- pose of an infants' school at a rental of JE20 a year, the trustees reservingthe right to use the vestry for Sunday and week-night services. The overseers had assessed and demanded a rate from the County Council in respect of the premises, but the Council refused to pay. The present proceedings were taken to enforce pay- ment of the rate. Mr Bullock contended that infant schools were exempt from poor rates under the Poor Rate Exemption Act, 1833, and that inasmuch as th County Council were not in exclusive occupation of the vestry they were hot liable for the poor rates. The Stipendiary, in giving his decision, said with regard to the first point that infants' schools were exempted under the Act of 1833 he thought that the wording infant schools must be considered in connection with the first and second sections of the Act, which dealt with churches, chapels, and other places of religious worship. He thought, therefore, that the Act did not apply to provided infants schools. Witb regard to the other point, he had come to the conclusion that the County Council were in such exclusive occupation of the premises aa made them liable for the poor rates. He was satisfied on the two grounds indicated that the County Council were liable, and he gave judg- ment accordingly. The Stipendiary, however, agreed to state a case for appeal.

CHARGE NOT ESTABLISHED. Sarah Ann Davies (25), St. Fagans, was on Wednesday called upon .7o answer a charge of breaking and entering the house of John Hamil- ton, in Wood-street, at Cardiff. The case was heard before the Deputy Stipendiary (Mr Ray- m nnd Allen). Mrs Hamilton, wile of the occu- pier, said prisoner formerly lodged with her. On October 8 witness went out, leaving the door on the latch. When she was returning she met prisoner coming from the direction of the house. Prisoner said, 1 have just seen two tramps coming from your house." Witness said the doors w ere closed,, but prisoner replied, No they are not." Later witness missed 14s 6d from a purs; whjch she hnd left on the Kitchen table. Cross-exiimined by Mr Evin Davies, Mrs Hamilton admitted that the accused returned to her hous;- at half-past one, and she d'd not then accuse her of stealing the money. S<r;c.infc Kellet jr&ve t he woman a. trood ( h u-hHe. Deputy Stipendiary di"miRseu the ■f