The Grahamstown Journal

Tuesday 2 August 1887

DIED at East London on Sunday 24th instant, Kenneth Munro MORRISON, aged 36, late of the Royal Hotel. Deeply regretted by all who knew him.

DIED at Bathurst on July 27th 1887, Agnes Ruth, aged 22 years, the beloved wife of John LANSDELL and eldest daughter of Levi and Rachel GRADWELL of Bathurst.

MATRIMONIAL
The marriage of Mr. Wm. NELSON of Beaconsfield and Miss Lucy Maud IRVING of this city was solemnised in St.George’s Cathedral yesterday morning by the Rev. Canon SMITH. The bride is the third daughter of the late Mr. Edward IRVINE [sic], one of the engineers under whose direction the Kowie Harbour Works were carried on in their early stage, and one of whose daughters was married to Mr. Charles NELSON, a brother of the bridegroom. The bride was attended by her nieces, the daughters of Mr. Advocate BROWN and Mr. Charles NELSON. Mr. Robert IRVINE acted as groomsman. The dress of the bride was of bronze plush and cashmere with cream lace front. The bonnet was of plush to match the dress, and was ornamented with cream feathers. The little bridesmaids wore dresses of brown jersey cloth trimmed with plush, and faced with cream satin, the fronts being of lace. It scarcely needs saying that the wedding group was a very pretty one. At the conclusion of the ceremony the party drove to the house of the bride’s mother, where lunch was provided, after which the happy couple left town. We wish them long life and happiness.

DEATH OF MR. JUSTICE DWYER
It was with much surprise as well as regret that the news was received here by telegram on Saturday of the death of Mr. Justice DWYER in Capetown, for though for some time past his health was known to have been indifferent, no intimation had been given of his condition being so serious. The Judge’s birthplace was in Ireland, and he was a member of the Roman Catholic Church, but the more active sphere of his life, previous to leaving the old country, was in the county of Lancashire. The first post he occupied on his arrival in the colony was on the bench of the Eastern Districts’ Court, of which he was for some years a judge, previous to his removal to the bench of the Supreme Court. He was a man who in various ways made his presence felt in Grahamstown. Beside the high professional reputation which he bore, he interested himself in many matters of local concern, and possessed a geniality of disposition which is remembered by friends far and near who met at his hospitable board. We tender our sincere sympathy to the widow and family who are thus bereaved.

Thursday 4 August 1887

CIVIL SERVICE LAW EXAMINATION 1887
The following is a list of the candidates who have passed the Civil Service law Examination:-
C.R.VAUGHAN, Namaqualand
H.M.E. ORPEN, Uitenhage
W.F. LEFFLER, Kimberley
J.H. GATELY, East London
L. NEETHLING, Worcester
F.W. ROBERTS, Capetown
H. TUCKER, Seymour
G.B. WILLIAMS, Kimberley
G.J. BOYES, Umtata
C.S. NICHOLSON, Dordrecht
T.S. NIGHTINGALE, Capetown
W.W. THOMPSON, Capetown
A.W.H.R. PRESTON, Uitenhage

Saturday 6 August 1887

BIRTH on July 12 at Antananarivo, Madagascar, the wife of J.C. THORNE of a daughter.

DEATH OF A BAY MERCHANT
Much regret was expressed in the City today at the painful news of the suicide of Mr. J. GORDON of Port Elizabeth. The deceased was much respected, and liked, not only at the Bay but by a wide circle of business friends throughout the Colony.

OBITUARY
It is with much regret that we have to record the death of Mrs. TALBOT (relict of the late Mr. Charles TALBOT of Grahamstown) which occurred at Sidbury on Monday last, at the residence of her son-in-law, Mr. Isaac SHORT. Mrs. TALBOT was a daughter of the late Mr. William MILLER, who took a prominent part in establishing the Baptist Church in the Colony. She was in her 77th year, having arrived with the British Settlers at the age of six. The funeral service, which took place at Sidbury on Wednesday afternoon, was conducted by the Revs. J. WHITESIDE, W. COTTON and G.W. CROSS, the followers numbering over a hundred. We sincerely sympathise with the bereaved family.

FALL FROM A SCAFFOLD
Yesterday afternoon, reports the Cape Times, while a workman named Christian PAULSE was employed on a building in course of construction at the corner of Plein and Mostert streets, opposite Messrs. Scott Brothers’ establishment, he slipped from the scaffolding and fell a distance of some twenty feet on to some iron pillars which had been laid outside for the purposes of the building. He was picked up, fearfully injured about the head and lower part of the spine, and was at once conveyed to the New Somerset Hospital, where he lies in a precarious condition.

DEATH OF A MISSIONARY
The last mail brought the news of the death of the Rev. Matthew GODMAN, for nearly thirty years a Wesleyan missionary in South Africa. He passed away suddenly on Saturday evening, June 26th, at the age of 71 and in the 44th year of his ministry.

SAD CASE OF DROWNING
A sad case of drowning occurred on Monday night, says the E.L. Dispatch, the unfortunate victim being Mr. Peter McNEIL, a young [man] of 27 or 28, who was well known by the frequenters of the Central Hotel as the obliging barman there for a considerable period. The body was found floating in the Buffalo near the export wool shed, close to where the Dolphin is moored, early on Tuesday morning, when life had been some time extinct. Deceased had been seen at the jetty at a quarter to six on the evening before. He had unfortunately given way to drink of late, and his death is naturally associated with the fact. Some persons, however, who saw him during Monday, do not appear to have noticed anything specially remarkable about him then, though on Sunday night and early on Monday morning he had been seen wandering in a confused condition.

Tuesday 9 August 1887

FELL ASLEEP at her residence, Cradock, on 31st July 1887, Everilda, beloved wife of George Lincoln ASPINALL, and eldest daughter of N. BROWN of Hell Poort, aged 29 years and 7 days.
The family tender their sincere thanks to the friends who visited deceased during her illness, more especially to Mr. and Mrs.Edward ASPINALL.

OBITUARY
We have to record with much regret the death of one of the oldest residents of Grahamstown, Mr. William BEADLE. After an illness of many months, he at last passed away somewhat suddenly on Sunday afternoon. The funeral, which took place this morning, was largely attended.
Again today the Cathedral bell tolled for the aged and respected widow of the late Mr. George PALMER, who died early this morning, at her residence in African-street. The deceased lady, who arrived in the Colony with the British Settlers, had lived nearly ever since in Grahamstown.
To the numerous relatives of both families we tender our sincere sympathy.

Thursday 11 August 1887

DIED at Grahamstown on Tuesday August 9th 1887, Ann, relict of George PALMER Sen., aged 72 years and 11 months, deeply regretted by a numerous family circle.

OBITUARY
It is our sad duty to record the death of Mrs. KNOWLES, the wife of Dr. KNOWLES of this city, which occurred early this morning. The deceased lady, who was widely respected, has been for years in very feeble health. Though no immediate fear was entertained regarding her, for the greater part of three days preceding her death she has been unconscious. We tender our sincere condolence to the bereaved husband and family.

Saturday 13 August 1887

DIED this morning at her residence in Bathurst-street, Louisa Simmons KNOWLES, the beloved wife of Henry KNOWLES, aged 71 years.

MARRIED on the 11th August by special licence, at St.George’s Cathedral by the Rev. Canon Wharton B. Smith, David STEPHEN, Telegraph Dept, Capetown, to Hilda Mary, youngest daughter of T.R. PRATT Esq. of Grahamstown.

DEATH OF MR. CHARLES SIRR ORPEN
It is with much regret that we (Friend) chronicle the death of this well known and highly respected gentleman. The melancholy event took place at Smithfield, at 5 o’clock in the morning on Thursday last. The cause of death was inflammation of the lungs, which made such rapid progress that we only heard of his dangerous illness one day and of his death two days later. He was ill but a week. On Wednesday evening we received a telegram, saying that he was “slightly better, although still dangerously ill”. On Friday he was buried, everybody in the town of Smithfield following his remains to the grave. Several farmers and townsmen from Rouxville came over to be present at the last sad rites; and we are informed that there would have been a larger gathering of farmers at the grave, had they but known that the sad event had taken place. His death is a blow not only to Smithfield, where he had lived for more than a third of a century, but to the State and to South Africa generally. Mr. ORPEN was, we believe, born in Dublin in the year 1826, and was the second son of the late Rev. Dr. ORPEN of Colesberg, and came out with his brother Francis in the year 1844. In his younger days Mr. ORPEN followed the sea, and made several voyages. He was brother to Mr. F.H. ORPEN, formerly Surveyor-General of Griqualand West; to the Hon Mr. J.M. ORPEN, formerly Governor’s Agent in Basutoland; to Mr. H.M. ORPEN, Under Treasurer-General of the Cape Colony; and to Mr. A.R. ORPEN, Sub-collector of Customs at Port Elizabeth. His wife, who died about twelve years ago, was a sister to Mrs. EVERY, Mrs. HAMELBERG and Mrs. HOLMES, all of whom have been at one time or another residents of this town. He leaves behind him four children – two daughters, Mrs. WALLACE and Mrs. WOHLER; and two sons, the elder of whom is at the Gold-fields and the younger is farming in this State – with whom we condole in their bereavement. Mr. ORPEN accompanied the celebrated Gordon CUMMING into the Interior during 1848-9, and was nearly killed by a wounded leopard – the marks of the death-conflict Mr. ORPEN carried to his grave. So mangled was he by the infuriated animal that little or no hopes were entertained of his recovery, but his robust constitution helped him in the emergency. The name of Charles ORPEN, of Smithfield, is known by thousands who never looked upon his face, as a labourer in the fields of geological investigation, geographical researchers and expositions of native customs, geology and government…..He was an indefatigable worker. Although up to the time of his death engaged in an extensive business, which took up much of his time, yet he always found spare moments to carry on a correspondence upon all subjects of interest – political, social and scientific. Only those who have been in constant communication with Mr. ORPEN can fully recognise the extent and versatility of his genius.
Mr. ORPEN was a Pastmaster of the Lodge Caledonia, being for years and years the Worshipful Master of the Lodge, and, it will be remembered by many Freemasons, was present in the Lodge Rising Star when Sir Charles WARREN attended it in 1885. He was a consistent and devoted member of the Anglican Church, and was for many years past a Churchwarden of St.John the Divine, Smithfield, and represented that parish at the Synod in February last, in which he took an important part, and it will be remembered voluntarily undertook to draw up a precis of the Marriage Laws of the Orange Free State, Cape Colony, Basutoland and Bechuanaland, for the guidance of the clergy, which must have taken him a considerable time.

Thursday 18 August 1887

DIED at Spitzkop, near Highlands, on August 15th 1887, William NICOL in his 70th year.

OBITUARY
It is with much regret that we have to record the death of Mr. Wm. NICOLL in the 70th year of his age, which occurred on Monday last at Spitzkop, near Highlands, where he has for many years been farming. Mr. NICOLL was a native of Scotland, and was married to a daughter of the late Mr. A.G. BAIN F.R.G.S. of Grahamstown. We tender our sincere sympathy to the bereaved widow and family.

Tuesday 23 August 1887

DEATH OF MR. SAMUEL NATHAN [sic]
We regret to hear, says the Herald, that Mr. Samuel NATHAN of the firm of Samuel NATHAN & Co, Main-street, received a telegram yesterday morning informing him that his brother, Mr. John NATHAN, had been killed by an accident to the post-cart near Pretoria. We understand that the cart capsized, throwing Mr. John NATHAN out on his head, and inflicting such terrible injury that death must have been almost if not quite instantaneous. Mr. John NATHAN was quite a young man, and his terribly sudden death has caused a great shock to his many friends in Port Elizabeth.

Thursday 25 August 1887

DIED at Truro Villa, Grahamstown, on the 25th day of August, Edith Maude Irving, youngest daughter of Mr. Advocate and Mrs. BROWN, aged 5 years.

Tuesday 30 August 1887

OBITUARY
It is with much regret that we have to record the death of Mrs. HUNTLY, the wife of C.H. HUNTLY Esq, late Civil Commissioner and Resident Magistrate of Grahamstown, which occurred this morning after an illness of several weeks, from which partial recovery had been made, followed by a sudden relapse. The deceased lady was the only daughter of the late Mr. John BAILIE, a near connection of the HOPE family, who came to this Colony at the head of a party of the British Settlers, and was the only child born after the arrival of her parents in the Colony. There were several brothers, one of whom was killed by the Kafirs in the war of 1835. We tender our sincere sympathy to the bereaved widower and family.

TYPHOID FEVER
Typhoid fever has been raging in some parts of Stockenstrom. No less than four young children have succumbed to it during the last three weeks; and some grown up persons are still prostrated from its effects. Parents close to Balfour seemed to have suffered most.

Thursday 1 September 1887

PASSED AWAY at the Oaks, Grahamstown, on the 30th August 1887, Isabella Bennett, the beloved wife of Charles H. HUNTLY.

Saturday 3 September 1887

FUNERAL
On Thursday morning the funeral of the late Mrs. HUNTLY took place, the Very Rev the Dean conducting the first portion of the service in the Cathedral, the Rev Canon SMITH officiating at the grave.

DROWNED IN THE GREY RESERVOIR
It is with much regret that we have to report that the body of Mr. Roger SHAW, who was missed from his home some days back, has been found in the Grey Reservoir. How the sad accident occurred there is of course nothing to show; but it is known that he was at the time in a very weak state and more or less wandering in mind. [see notice for 8 September]

SUICIDE
The correspondent of the Cape Mercury writes:- Sad news again. On the evening of the 15th a young trader, with every prospect of doing fairly well, committed the rash act of taking his own life. This suicide is Mr. E. PRIOR, of Nququ, Tembuland, who put the muzzle of his gun in his mouth and blew out his brains by pulling off the trigger with his toe. At present no reason is assigned for this act.

Tuesday 6 September 1887

BIRTH at Jansenville on the 28th August, Mrs. D.E. HOBSON Jun. of a daughter.

DIED at Grahamstown on September 5th, Walter Charles, eldest son of C.R. DUBBER, aged 11 years and 6 months
“Suffer little children to come unto Me.”

OBITUARY
It is our very sad duty to record the death of Mr. William ROBEY, which took place at Port Elizabeth on Friday last. Mr. ROBEY, who till a few years ago resided at Manley’s Flat, has for many months been in failing health. The sad news of his death caused little surprise among his large circle of friends and acquaintances.

OBITUARY
It is with much regret that we have to record the death of Mrs. Charles IMPEY, which occurred last night in Grahamstown. The deceased lady had been in ill health for two months past, and had only removed here from Port Alfred on Thursday last, since which her health had improved, but a sudden change for the worse took place early yesterday evening, which soon terminated fatally. We tender our sincere sympathy to the numerous relatives.

BIRTH at De Beers, Kimberley on the 5th September, the wife of C.E. GARDNER, chemist, of a son.

DIED at Grahamstown on the 5th inst, Mrs. Charles IMPEY.
The Funeral will move from the residence of Mr. Henry WOOD, Oatlands, at 8 o’clock precisely tomorrow morning. Friends are invited to attend.

Thursday 8 September 1887

THE LATE DROWNING CASE – INQUEST
An inquest on the body of the late Roger SHAW was held on the 6th inst before the Resident Magistrate.
William MOORE, the Waterman, deposed that on the 2nd he was informed by a small boy that a body was floating in the reservoir. He at once went to the spot and found that it was the body of Mr. Roger SHAW. He got the body to the bank and left it there until the coroner arrived. He also knew the deceased to be eccentric in his habits.
Albert FARREL, a boy of ten, deposed that he was at the Grey Reservoir on Friday gathering flowers, and saw a dead body in the water. This he reported to Mr. MOORE and at the gaol.
Wm. ARNOTT deposed: The deceased was my father-in-law, and boarded in my house. He disappeared about three weeks ago, about 15th August. From that time I did not see him again till I saw his body in the gaol hospital. For some time he had been a little out of his mind, at some times worse than others, but harmless. He had been in that condition for 12 or 15 months. I believe that being weak. He had fallen into the water and was drowned. He used to wander about. I know the Grey Reservoir to be a dangerous place. The water is very deep. A man falling in would have to be a good swimmer to get out, as he would have to swim from one end to the other.
Dr. FIGG, acting District Surgeon, produced his certificate of the post mortem examination, which was to the effect that death was caused by drowning, and that there was nothing to lead him to suppose that any violence had been used or that deceased had met his death from any other cause. The witness had attended him in his lifetime, and knew him to be of weak mind.
The verdict of the Coroner was as follows: I find that the deceased, Roger SHAW, was accidentally drowned in the Grey Reservoir. The Grey Reservoir when full is, in my opinion, a most dangerous place, and should be fenced in with a close and high paling. Its vicinity is a great place of resort for the citizens on account of the plantations surrounding it, and some precaution should be taken by the authorities to prevent accidents.
(Signed) John HEMMING, Coroner.

Saturday 10 September 1887

PASSED AWAY on Saturday 3rd Sept 1887, Albert Louis (Bertie), youngest son of J.W. GREEN of Balfour, aged 6 years and 8 months.

SHOCKING MURDER AND SUICIDE
From Port Elizabeth news has reached us of a terrible tragedy which is supposed to have occurred early yesterday morning, but of which few particulars are yet to hand. William MULES, a guard and night watchman on the Midland line, returned home to his house in Port Elizabeth early in the morning, and killed his wife with an axe, mutilating her in a frightful manner, and after the commission of this crime, shot himself with a revolver. It is believed that though the event occurred early yesterday, it was not known till evening, when information of it was telegraphed to the relations of the unfortunate victim in Grahamstown. William MULES, till about eighteen months ago, was in the District Police, and lived in Grahamstown.

Tuesday 13 September 1887

BIRTH at Grahamstown on Sept 11 1887, Mrs. T.F. HUTCHINSON of a daughter.

TERRIBLE MURDER AND SUICIDE
We extract from the Herald the following particulars of the dreadful tragedy which occurred in Port Elizabeth on Friday last.
William MULES, who till eighteen months ago had for some time been resident in Grahamstown, was employed as a guard on the Midland Railway. He had been ailing for some time, and had left his work on Thursday 8th inst, owing to indisposition. On the night of Thursday he was visited by some of his relations, who, however, saw nothing in his manner or conduct to excite suspicion. He was lying on the bed and complained of pains in his head. His wife, who had been out spending the evening with her sister and some friends, returned about 11 o’clock. On the following afternoon about 4 o’clock they were discovered, both dead, the woman with her skull fractured, and the man shot dead by a rifle discharged into his mouth. The evidence given at the inquest clearly shows that this terrible catastrophe took place about half past eight o’clock in the morning, but was not discovered till late in the afternoon. To the sorrowing relations we tender our sincere sympathy.
The inquest was held on Saturday last before Mr. T.E. WRIGHT, as coroner, when the following evidence was taken.
Inquest on the body of Fanny MULES, who was found lying dead in bed at No.9 Hill-street on the afternoon of the 9th September 1887.
Rachel Isabella MURRELL, sister of the deceased, deposed: On Thursday evening at 8 o’clock I was at my late sister’s house; her husband was then lying on the bed in the front room. My sister and I left the house together, and returned about 11 o’clock. I accompanied her to the door, but did not go in with her. I then went home, and saw no more of the deceased until about half past three in the afternoon of the 9th September 1887. I had expected the deceased to come to my house during the day, but she did not come. I sent my little sister, Jessie, to find out the cause at about 2:30pm. She returned to me and informed me that my sister’s house was locked, but that both the front bedroom and the sitting room windows were open, and that she had closed the bedroom window. I at once went to my deceased sister’s house and found the front door locked on the inside. I lifted up the sitting room window and got in through it. I went into the bedroom and discovered her lying in bed. I called to her, thinking she might be asleep, but received no answer. I then thought she must be dead, and I got frightened and went outside, going again through the sitting room window. I met a little girl and asked her to go and tell my husband that my sister was dead. I then went home, but shortly after returned and found my husband and my mother-in-law on the stoep. We all three went into the front bedroom, but I became so upset that I had to be taken out. I only saw my sister lying in bed, but did not touch her, nor did I notice any wounds on her. I thought she had died in her sleep, and that her husband had gone to work as usual. My sister and her husband always lived on terms of the utmost affection, and he always treated her well and kindly.
Frederick ENSOR MD deposed: On arrival at the house I found a policeman in charge, who opened the door of a bedroom. On entering the room I saw the body of a young woman in bed, covered by the bed clothes, lying on her right side. The deceased had the appearance of a delicate looking female, under 30 years of age, of refined, gentle-looking features, with light brown hair. She had on a night dress: the face was in no way distorted, and had the placid calm of sleep, the arms were crossed on the chest, the lower extremities drawn up in an attitude of repose. Part of the forehead and the whole of the upper part of the skull presented the appearance of having been driven in by some heavy blunt instrument. The contents of the skull were scattered on the curtain and pillow, which, with the sheet and bed, were saturated with blood. There were no other marks of violence about the body. To my mind it seemed evident that deceased had been assaulted in her sleep, and immediate death had been the result of three or four repeated blows by some heavy blunt instrument. The other side of the bed presented the appearance of having been laid on, and on the pillow lay an open book, a novel, with the title “A Life’s Atonement”. There was no heavy stick or axe or bar to be found, but on the dressing table I found the instrument now in Court, which I had not seen before. It seems a sort of iron boot mould, with which, most probably, the injuries were inflicted. (Signed) F. ENSOR, District Surgeon.
John Wharin MURRELL deposed that it had been reported to him that Mrs. MULES was dead, and that he went to the house and found that to be the case. He remembered seeing the Magistrate take from under the bed and iron instrument covered with blood, produced in Court.
Inquest on the body of William Marwood MULES.
Rachel Isabella MURRELL, the wife of the previous witness, deposed: On the afternoon of the 8th September 1887 I was at deceased’s house at about half past five. I asked him if he would cut my hair, and he said yes. He cut my hair. He told me did not feel at all well, and that he had a very violent pain in the back of his head. He was perfectly quiet, and spoke rationally. Of late the deceased has been in monetary difficulties, which preyed very much on his mind.
Frederick William ENSOR MD handed in the following original note: On opening the door of a room which was entered from the bedroom I saw the following: On the floor, lying on his left side, in a large pool of blood, was the body of a man dressed in a tweed suit, with stockings on, but no boots. The right side of his head had been blown away by a gunshot, and the contents of the skull dispersed about the wall and floor. On further examination I found the lower jaw fractured, and the left side of the face discoloured by the explosion stains. From the appearance of the parts, I should judge that the muzzle of the gun had been placed in the mouth, between the lips, and fired, with the result described. A rifle lay on the bed near the body. I hand into Court an open letter addressed to a gentleman in England. It contains one of the most pathetic stories I have ever read, and gives a clue to the sad events which have occurred. From the appearance of the bodies, and accompanying circumstances, I am of the opinion that the case revolves itself into one of homicidal mania, and suicide, when under the same insane condition. (Signed) F. ENSOR.
Patrick Oswald CONSIDINE, sworn, states: I knew the deceased, Mr. MULES, whom I have been attending for about eight months. I last saw the deceased on Thursday morning, 8th September 1887. He was complaining of severe pains in the head and of fits of giddiness. I told him his liver was out of order, and prescribed for him. He was very low-spirited, and talked about committing suicide: he said what with being hard worked, hard up and sick, it was enough to make a fellow kill himself. I told him he must never be such a coward as that. I told him it was only bile that was troubling him. He told me that he could not do his work as a guard on the railway. I told him not to go to work. I never saw him alive again. The deceased was always in a most excitable condition.
Douglas W.B. MILLER, a master baker, deposed: On Friday morning I was driving my bread cart, and when about five yards from deceased’s house I heard a peculiar thumping noise as if something had fallen on the floor. As I pulled up next door a man came to the door and looked [hardly] at me for a few seconds. I thought perhaps he wanted bread, but as I jumped off the cart he went inside and looked at me through the window. I was just serving Mrs. SIMPSON with bread when he again came to the door and looked at me. He then closed the door and went inside, and I saw nothing more of him. Justas I reached Mrs. SIMPSON’s door and was about to knock I heard the report of a gun. I have seen the deceased this morning, and recognise him as the man who came to the door and looked so hard at me.
John Wharin MURRELL deposed: The deceased was married to my wife’s sister. At 1pm on the 9th I was informed that she was dead, I at once went to the house and saw my sister-in-law lying dead. I at once searched for her husband and on entering the back bedroom I found him on the floor lying in a pool of blood, with his brains blown out. Beside him on the floor there lay the rifle now produced. He was dressed in a tweed suit, but was minus his boots. I at once locked both doors and went to the police station and reported the occurrence. I was present when the Magistrate came to investigate the matter. The deceased was a railway guard, he was also a member of Prince Alfred’s Volunteer Guard. I had last seen him alive at his house on Wednesday evening 7th September. He then seemed very ill, and had a wild look about the eyes. He seemed, however, in fair spirits, but he was evidently making an effort to appear so. He always struck me as being peculiar, and as if he had something weighing on his mind. The deceased and his wife lived on terms of affection, and he always treated his wife well and kindly. Within the last six months deceased had been in difficulties, which weighed terribly on his mind. Lately he has complained of a severe pain in the head, and an inability to put his thoughts together. It always struck me that deceased was suffering from mania.
The Court then adjourned.

The Funeral of the late Mr. and Mrs. MULES took place on Saturday afternoon at St.Mary’s cemetery, South-end. The relations of the unfortunate couple attended, and among a number of friends were several non-commissioned officers and privates of the P.A. Guard, of which Mr. MULES was a respected and popular member. The service was read over the body of Mrs. MULES by the Rev. Dr. WARGMAN. The sight of the two coffins lying in the same grave brought tears to the eyes of many of the mourners present. The father and mother were buried in the grave which contains the remains of their only child.
[Transcriber’s Note: Mrs. MULES was born Frances Sophia WALLIS, the daughter of Isabella BROOKS and granddaughter of 1820 settler Henry BROOKS of PIGOT’s Party. William Marwood MULES was born in Aden, the son of an officer in the Indian army of the same name.
Death Notices https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSQF-D39Z-P?i=1646&cc=2517051&cat=331262 and https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSQF-DS5L-S?i=1647&cc=2517051&cat=331262]

Thursday 15 September 1887

BIRTH, 14th September, the wife of William Pepperwell HUTTON of a son.

MATRIMONIAL
Yesterday morning at St.Bartholomew’s Church Dr. William Thompson HAMILTON was married to Miss Ellen Louisa COPELAND, second daughter of Mr. T.H. COPELAND of this City. The bride, who was attended by Miss Jannet HAMILTON, was given away by her father, Mr. Harry COPELAND acting as best man. The ceremony was performed by the Rev. William IMPEY in the presence of a number of the friends of both families. On the conclusion of the service, the happy couple started for Port Alfred. We wish them long life and happiness.

Saturday 17 September 1887

THE LATE MR. DRIVER
The Queenstown Free Press writes: The many friends of Mr. Arthur R. DRIVER will regret to hear of his death, which took place, after a painful illness of six weeks’ duration, at his farm near Queenstown on Friday Sept 9th. Deceased had been a great sufferer for the last year or so, and had only miraculously recovered from a severe illness some months before the second and fatal attack. Mr. DRIVER was well-known in connection with the late wars, he being captain commanding the native levies, the natives looking up to him as one of their chiefs. The funeral took place on Sunday from the residence of his brother-in-law, Mr. A.D. WEBB, and the coffin was followed to the grave by a large number of sympathising friends anxious to pay the last tribute of respect to his memory. The Rev. S.P. NAUDE, an intimate friend of the deceased’s family, officiated at the grave.

FATAL GUN ACCIDENT
A Johannesburg telegram says: Mr. BECKER, Pretoria, was shot yesterday whilst shooting. Going across a hedge, both barrels went off, and he was killed on the spot.

Saturday 24 September 1887

OBITUARY
Mr. Philip POWELL of Falloden, Shrewsbury, Peddie District, died on the 13th inst, at the age of 71 years. He had been a widower about 18 months, his wife, Mrs. Frances POWELL, having died in 1886, and from that time Mr. POWELL also gradually declined in health. His death was an easy one; being seized with faintness he became unconscious, and so after about four hours passed away. Mr. POWELL was greatly respected in the Peddie district, and also in Grahamstown, where he was well known. He was a devoted Christian, a man of blameless life, and sustained many important offices in the Methodist Church, to which he had been united for upwards of 50 years, and his death will leave a gap in Peddie Methodism not easily to be supplied.

Tuesday 27 September 1887

MARRIED at Mafeking on Wednesday 21st Sept by the Rev. Appleby, Lorimer B. DOLD, third son of John DOLD, Grahamstown, to Emily FRANCIS, eldest daughter of Mr. Geo. FRANCIS of Mafeking.

Thursday 29 September 1887

WILL OF THE LATE MRS. C. IMPEY
The will (dated August 5th 1887) of Caroline IMPEY, a widow, who died at Albany Hospital, Grahamstown on September 5th 1887, was filed September 26th 1887 by the Resident Magistrate of Grahamstown. The testatrix bequeathed to George KING, of Bedford, the sum of £500 in trust to be paid by him in equal shares to Ivy Ivanthe, Norman Lyndsay Kay, Ethel Emily Kay and Maude Blanche, minor children of Lyndsay EDDIE, as they become of age. She bequeathed to William IMPEY, in trust, the sum of £500 to be paid to his minor children, Emma William Norton and Nolly, as they become of age or marry; to Johanna Cecilia HEYWORTH, £500; to John Percy HORN £500; to Mrs. GARD £25; to Mary Elizabeth IMPEY, her house linen; to Mrs. Henry WOOD, all her jewellery, china and pictures; and the residue of her estate to the Albany Hospital. She appointed Mr. Henry WOOD of Grahamstown the executor of her will.

Saturday 1 October 1887

MURDER AT CAPETOWN
A shocking murder was committed this morning by one HAYNE, who killed his wife. Jealousy is supposed to have been the cause of the crime. The murderer is in custody.

Tuesday 4 October 1887

VIOLENT DEATH OF A SURGEON
The body of Dr. LITTLE, former District Surgeon at Humansdorp, has been found on his farm in Zululand, with a bullet wound through the skull.

DEATH OF MR. R. GRAHAM
We (Independent) regret to learn of the death of Mr. R. GRAHAM, the father of the High Sheriff and of our respected fellow townsman, the Master of the High Court and Mr. R. GRAHAM. The deceased gentleman, who had been in failing health for some months past, held several appointments under the Colonial Government. He was for some years magistrate of Grahamstown, and acted as Lieut. Governor of British Kaffraria for two or three years prior to the annexation of that Province to the Colony. He was subsequently appointed Collector of Customs, and a member of the Executive Council, retiring on a pension on the establishment of Responsible Government. The late Mr. GRAHAM was son of Colonel GRAHAM, after whom Grahamstown was named, and was held in high respect and esteem by all with whom he was brought in contact, in official and private life. We tender our condolence to the members of the family.

Thursday 6 October 1887

DEATH OF MR. S. CARLISLE
Mr. S. CARLISLE, attorney, lately resident at Kimberley, died at Molopolo on 29th September of dysentery.

Saturday 8 October 1887

MARRIAGE
This morning our esteemed townsman Dr. FLIGG was married to Miss Marion Teresa BORTON. A very large number of onlookers were present to witness the interesting ceremony, and while regretting that space will not allow us to give full particulars today, we wish the happy couple all possible prosperity.

DEATH OF A KIMBERLEY SOLICITOR
A very large circle of friends, not only on the Diamond Fields but throughout the Colony, will regret very much to learn that Mr. W.W. PALEY, Solicitor of Kimberley, died in Hospital here yesterday evening. Mr. PALEY was seized with a bad attack of fever combined with liver complaint some weeks ago, necessitating his removal to the Hospital. Notwithstanding the careful attention which he there received, and the splendid constitution which nature had gifted him, he became gradually worse and succumbed as we (D.F. Advertiser) stated last evening.

Tuesday 11 October 1887

BIRTH at Grahamstown on the 7th inst, the wife of the Rev. H. COTTON of twins (sons).

MARRIAGE
In our last issue we reported a marriage ceremony which took place in the Cathedral. We have now further to intimate that another similar ceremony might have been witnessed the same day in St.Bartholomew’s Church. The happy pair were T.C. KOLLER Esq, of Fort Beaufort, and Miss Amy JENSEN (second daughter of the late Mr. J. JENSEN of this city). We trust the newly-married pair have a very happy future in store for them.

DEATH OF MR. H.H. SOLOMON
The death is recorded of Mr. H.H. SOLOMON, lately of Port Elizabeth, and more recently of Pretoria, in his fifty-eighth year. Mr. SOLOMON was an able pressman as well as a good speaker, and used to have great influence at Port Elizabeth.

Thursday 13 October 1887

HYMENEAL
We take over the following from the D.F. Express, as it cannot fail to be of interest to many Grahamstown friends:-
Trinity Wesleyan Church was, on Wednesday, the scene of a grand display in connection with the celebrations of the nuptials of Miss Susan Webb GIBSON, daughter of James W. GIBSON Esq, to Mr. Hugh McLean NOBLE. Long before the appointed hour the church was filled to overflowing. The sacred building was profusely decorated with flowers and evergreens, in honour of the occasion – the bride being not only a member of the Trinity congregation, but for some time past a leading member of the choir. The ceremony was performed by the Rev. W. WYNNE and the Rev. R. HAYES, Chairman of the district. The service being choral several anthems were beautifully rendered, Mr. GARDNER presiding at the organ. The bride wore a cream satin dress trimmed with ribbed plush: while the bridesmaids - Misses Annie GIBSON, Alice WEBB, Ada DORWOOD, E. NOBLE, Lily NOBLE and Flora CORFE – were dressed in beautiful satin dresses of blue and pink, with bonnets to match – these with the bride’s dress being manufactured at the far-famed establishment of Messrs. Muirhead and Gowie, and reflecting very great credit on that firm. At the conclusion of the service a large party of the guests assembled at the residence of the bride’s parents, in De Beer’s Road, where refreshments were provided, and the usual toasts were duly honoured – that of the Bride and the Bridegroom being proposed in felicitous terms by Mr. W.B. SHAW, who read a large number of congratulatory telegrams from Grahamstown, evincing the great respect in which the bride is held in the home of her childhood. In the drawing-room were exhibited a large number of presents received from all parts of the Colony, expressive of the esteem in which Miss GIBSON is held by a large and widespread circle of admirers. By the evening train the happy couple left Kimberley for Modder River, en route to Grahamstown, Port Alfred and Port Elizabeth. We join with their many friends in wishing Mr. and Mrs. NOBLE long life and happiness.

Saturday 15 October 1887

MARRIED on the 8th inst at St.George’s Cathedral, Grahamstown, by the Lord Bishop of the Diocese, assisted by the Rev. Canon Wharton B. Smith, William FLIGG M.B. Edin., to Marion Teresa, elder daughter of the late Captain Henry Martin BORTON, Royal Artillery.

DIPHTHERIA
Mr. P.J. SLABBERT, of […otsfontein], in this division, says the G.R. Advertiser, has lost three children during the current month from this fell disease. On the 1st inst a boy of 3 years succumbed to it; on the 9th he lost one age 9 years; and on the 12th, another aged 7. Much sympathy is felt for the bereaved parents. The poor little victims were very fine children.

SAD DEATH
We regret to have to inform our readers that information has just come per wire from Kimberley, that Mrs. George CHRISTIE died on Thursday last from the effects of typhoid fever. This lady was the eldest daughter of Mr. ANSLEY of this town, and we beg to tender our sincere sympathy to the relatives of the deceased on the occasion of their sad bereavement.

DEATH OF MRS. CHALMERS SEN.
We learn that this esteemed lady, the widow of the late Rev. William CHALMERS, for many years a missionary at the Chumie, died yesterday at Alice in her 88th year. By this event the families of her sons, the Rev. J.A. CHALMERS and W.B. CHALMERS Esq, C.C. of Kingwilliamstown, will be in mourning.

Tuesday 18 October 1887

BIRTH at Grahamstown on the 16th inst, the wife of Joseph H. SAUNDERS of a daughter.

MARRIED on the 5th October, at Trinity Church, Kimberley, by the Rev. W. Wynne, assisted by the Rev. R. Hayes, Hugh McLean, eldest son of A. NOBLE Esq. F.E.I.S. to Susie, youngest daughter of J.M. GIBSON Esq.

ENTERED INTO REST last night, 14th inst, at Alice, in her 88th year, Mary Munsie, widow of the Rev. William CHALMERS, for many years missionary at the Chumie.

Thursday 20 October 1887

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS
In the Estate of the late James MILNE
All persons claiming to be Creditors in this Estate are requested to send in their claims within six weeks from date, and all persons indebted to the said Estate are requested to settle their Accounts within the same period, at the residence Napier-street.
Margaret MILNE, Executrix Dative
Grahamstown 29th Sept 1887

THE LATE MR. JAMES ELLIOTT
The many friends throughout the Colony of the late Mr. James ELLIOTT will be gratified to learn that his grave in the cemetery of Trinity Church has not only been enclosed by substantial iron railings, but that a massive tombstone of white granite, sent out from Scotland, has just been erected by Mr. MAITLAND of this city. The tombstone bears the following inscription: “In memory of James ELLIOTT M.A., a native of Annandale, Scotland, and sometime Rector of Burghersdorp Academy, died at Grahamstown on 20th Jan. 1887, aged 52 years. Erected by his friends in the Colony, and his sorrowing relatives in Scotland.” It would be very gratifying to those friends here who have attended to the marking of the resting-place of the late Mr. ELLIOTT if the newspapers of Queenstown and Burghersdorp would take over the above notice, and that those who contributed towards the erection of the memorial may see that the work has been carried to a successful issue.

DEATH OF DR. ESSELEN
Dr. ESSELEN, who was one of the band of medical students who came to the Transvaal to assist the Boers wounded in the War of Independence, died on Monday last at Pretoria.

Saturday 22 October 1887

BIRTH at Grahamstown on the 19th inst, the wife of P. CURRIN of a son.

SUICIDE
A correspondent writes to the Umtata Herald that Joseph Hassall Bruce LEONARD, Clerk of the Resident Magistrate and Assistant Magistrate of Maclear, committed suicide on the 6th by blowing out his brains. No possible cause is assignable, his accounts are all in order, and it is believed he must have been temporarily insane.

REV. J. EDWARDS
We learn that the condition of this venerable minister is still very critical, although he is somewhat better this morning. His medical attendant gives but slight hope of his recovery; bur Mr. EDWARDS’s well known strength of constitution may still, we trust, enable him to rally. His daughters, Mrs. PARKES and Mrs. TROLLIP, arrived in town some days since, there being at the time no prospect of Mr. EDWARDS’s recovery. We are sure that the family of this universally esteemed pastor will have the entire sympathy of a very large circle of friends in the present dangerous illness of Mr. EDWARDS.

Tuesday 25 October 1887

BIRTH at Grahamstown on the 23rd inst, the wife of J. Hastings WOOD of a son.

MARRIED on the 20th October at Grahamstown, by the Rev.S. Rappaport, Leonard FRANK, of Prieska, to Elizabeth Diana (Lizzie), fifth daughter of Joseph LAWRANCE Esq.

DIPHTHERIA
Throughout the Colony this disease appears to be prevalent at present, particularly at Kimberley, where there have been a good many deaths recently. We notice from a Kimberley paper that a daughter of Mr. Kenneth McKENZIE has succumbed to the disease, and to make matters worse Mr. McKENZIE is at present at the Gold Fields.

Saturday 29 October 1887

ALLEGED EMBEZZLEMENT
At the Magistrate’s Court, Port Elizabeth, on Thursday, Arthur George WILSON was charged with embezzlement by omitting to make entries of transactions (made by him for the firm of Saillard & Co) in the cash book or ledger, and by overdrawing his salary by certain sums, amounting in all about £1,200.
The affidavit on which the arrest was made by David Lewis BERGER, Secretary to Philip Felix Renaud SAILLARD of 86 and 87 Aldersgate-street, London, ostrich feather merchant, and stated that SAILLARD was a buyer of ostrich feathers in this town, under the superintendence of Arthur G. WILSON, under an agreement between the latter and SAILLARD. In consequence of SAILLARD not having received accounts of his business from the said Arthur G. WILSON for a long time, he instructed deponent to proceed to Port Elizabeth to ascertain the cause. He arrived here on September 25 and took possession of SAILLARD’s business from Arthur G. WILSON, and he found that the books had not been written in for the last twelve months. Whereupon he retained the services of Mr. R. RAMSAY-DENNY, an accountant, to go through the books, and the result of the investigation is that the said A.G. WILSON, who was only entitled to draw a salary of £500 a year, has drawn without the consent or knowledge of the said P.F.R. SAILLARD a sum in excess of that amount, viz. £1,200 during 1885-6 and 1887, £800 of which has been drawn during the last 21 months. Wherefore he, David BERGER, charges said Arthur George WILSON with having fraudulently abstracted from the moneys of Philip Felix Renaud SAILLARD, which ought to have been applied towards the purchase of ostrich feathers and defraying the current expenses of the business, the sum of £1,200, and appropriated the same to its own use instead of applying it &c.
Further evidence was taken, and the accused was committed for trial. The magistrate accepted two sureties of £250 each on bail.
Advocate SOLOMON has been secured for the defence.
E.P. Herald.

Tuesday 1 November 1887

FATAL GUN ACCIDENT
The Volkstem has an account of a gun accident which happened about a fortnight ago in the Middelburg district. Two young men, JOOSTE and VAN JAARSVELD, were out shooting when one of them wounded a buck. They followed the animal, and on finding it, one of them placed his loaded gun on the hind feet of the buck, while the other proceeded to kill it by sticking a knife into its brain from behind its head. The buck kicked, and its feet coming in contact with the trigger, the latter exploded, and VAN JAARSVELD received the charge through his body, causing death soon afterwards.

Thursday 3 November 1887

MARRIED: APPLEBE – HOLDEN
Nov 1st at Commemoration Wesleyan Church, Grahamstown, by the Rev Fred’k Mason, assisted by the Rev. W.C. HOLDEN (uncle of the bride), the Rev. Robt. F. APPLEBE, of Mafeking, Bechuanaland, son of Benjamin APPLEBE Esq, Ballineen, Co. Cork, Ireland, to Fanny Louisa (Louie) youngest daughter of John HOLDEN Esq, J.P. of Folkestone, England.

Thursday 10 November 1887

BIRTH on the 22nd October, at Maraisburg, the wife of Laurie S. WRIGHT of a son.

ATTEMPTED MURDER
A woman named MALONEY, while under the influence of drink, is reported to have made an attempt to drown her child on Wednesday by throwing it into the river. It was carried down for a considerable distance, but was fortunately rescued by some people who had witnessed the occurrence.

CHILD DROWNED
At Bathurst on Wednesday morning Police Constable ARNOLD discovered that one of his children, aged 3 years and 11 months, was missing. A man named LEIGH had been offloading forage some time previously, and it was supposed the child had gone off in his wagon. When questioned LEIGH stated that such was not the case, but suggested that the youngster might have fallen into the well. A search was made in that direction, and a rope having been attached to the person of Harry SKEA, he promptly descended, and succeeded in finding the body of the child. Life was extinct, the body having apparently been in the water for about two hours. No explanation can be given as to how the accident happened.

Saturday 12 November 1887

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS
In the Estate of the late James MILNE
All persons claiming to be Creditors in this Estate are required to send in their claims within six weeks from date, and all persons indebted to the said Estate are requested to settle their Accounts within the same period, at the residence Napier-street.
Margaret MILNE, Executrix Dative
Grahamstown, 29th Sept. 1887

DIED at his house in Somerset-street, Grahamstown, on the 11th November, the Rev. Jno. EDWARDS, Wesleyan Minister, in his 84th year.
The Funeral will proceed from the Residence at 9 o’clock on Sunday morning next.

The Rev. Jno. EDWARDS, so well and widely known in this Colony, passed away to his rest about 7 o’clock yesterday morning. He has been ill for some time, and for the last few weeks but little hope was entertained of his recovery. He was in his 84th year, and had been for 57 years in the ministry of the Wesleyan Methodist Church. During his illness he had the constant attention of several members of his family, who remained with him to the end. He had a large circle of friends in various parts of the Colony, who will miss his cheerful presence and lovingly cherish his memory. A memorial service in reference to the deceased will. We learn, shortly be held, when we shall have the opportunity to furnish a more extended notice of his life.

Tuesday 15 November 1887

DIED at his house in Somerset-street, Grahamstown, on the 11th November, the Rev. Jno. EDWARDS, Wesleyan Minister, in his 84th year.
The Widow of the late Rev. John EDWARDS and his Children desire publicly to thank Dr. FLIGG for his unremitting kindness, care and attention during the illness of their late Father, and also to his numerous friends.
Grahamstown, Nov 14th 1887

MATRIMONY
Mr. H.P.C. EVANS, Standard Bank, contemplates matrimony. He leaves tonight for Cradock, where tomorrow the ceremony will take place.

Thursday 17 November 1887

BIRTH at Grahamstown on Sunday the 13th November 1887, the wife of W.H.S. BELL, of Grahamstown, of a son.

OUTRAGE AT MAITLAND
The Cape Argus gives the following: A most gross outrage was perpetrated at Maitland on Saturday morning. A little girl, nine years of age, named Laura THOMPSON, had been sent by her mother to fetch a cow which was grazing at some distance from her home. The child had found the cow, and was returning when a coloured youth of about nineteen, named John WILLIAMS, seized the child and outraged her. The child was soon afterwards found, and taken to her home, where she lies in a very critical condition. Information was at once given to Inspector GOULD, and that officer, with his well-known energy, soon had the villain safely locked up in the Woodstock police station. WILLIAMS will be brought before Mr. J.M. CROSBY R.M. this morning, but it is probable that the case will have to be postponed for the attendance of the child.

Saturday 19 November 1887

MARRIED at St.Peter’s Church, Cradock, on the 16th November 1887, by the Rev. W.C. Wallis MA, Harry Percy Cragg, youngest son of Mr. John EVANS, Oatlands, Grahamstown, to Grace, youngest daughter of Mr. Hugh DAVIES, Cradock.

HYMENEAL
On Wednesday last in the English Church, Cradock, Mr. Harry P.C. EVANS, teller of the Standard Bank here, was married to Miss Grace DAVIES of Cradock, and formerly of Grahamstown. The Church was crowded with visitors who had assembled to witness the ceremony. The bride was dressed in a beautiful cream-coloured cashmere, and looked very charming. The happy couple left the same day for Somerset East, where they will spend their honeymoon, and lots of friends met at the station to see them off and wish them good speed.

Tuesday 22 November 1887

MEMORIAL SERVICE
A memorial service was held at Commemoration on Sunday morning last in connection with the death of the late Rev. J. EDWARDS. The sermon was preached by the Rev. F. MASON, Chairman of the District, from the text Matt. xxx 3. The Rev. C. HOLDEN, an old Ministerial friend of the deceased, read a short biographical sketch, stating that Mr. EDWARDS was born in 1804 in Bridford in Devonshire. He became a decided Christian in early life, and was admitted into the membership of the Methodist Church in the year 1820, being then about 16 years of age. Three years later he became a Local Preacher, and in this capacity did much faithful work, including a good deal of journeying from village to village. He had much opposition to encounter, but by his Christianity, consistency and wise firmness he lived that down. It was in 1828 that he was induced to offer himself for the regular Ministry, and was accepted, his destination being the Mission work. He was ordained in City-road Church, London on November 17th 1831, and shortly after embarked with his wife, and some others of a Missionary party, in the Caledonian for Algoa Bay. They had a tedious and uncomfortable voyage of three months. Mr. EDWARDS’s first station was Buchnap in the Baralong country, not far from the present town of Mafeking. The journey thither can now be accomplished in a week, but in those days it took two months, by bullock wagon. Here he remained some years. An interesting account of his work in that country is given in the autobiography which Mr. EDWARDS published some years ago. On his return to the Colony in 1839, which was rendered necessary by Mrs. EDWARDS’s illness, Mr. EDWARDS was appointed to Port Elizabeth to commence Methodist operations there; and from that time to the close of his life he laboured in Colonial Circuits. He had a hopeful and enterprising spirit, not easily discouraged by difficulties, and the traces of his work are left in several Methodist Circuits which he was the means of originating. Of these Graaffreinet was the latest, and the work there, now thoroughly established and successful, was commenced and maintained by Mr. EDWARDS, when even the Missionary Committee were disposed to withdraw from it as unlikely to succeed. Mr. EDWARDS was abundant in labours, both in preaching and in pastoral visitation. His cheerful piety often encouraged the sick and the downcast, and his unblemished life was a powerful witness for the religion he professed. Many Colonists in all parts of the Eastern Province have reason to bless his memory. In 1877 he retired, through infirmity, from circuit labour, and took up his abode in Grahamstown, where however he was always active in the work of a Minister and Pastor, almost to his life end. In his last and fatal illness he suffered much pain, but bore all with patient and bright resignation. He came to his grave in a full age, like as a shock of corn cometh in its season – leaving to his sorrowing friends and kindred the consoling memory of a holy and useful life, and the confidence that he has reached the Paradise of happy souls.

Tuesday 29 November 1887

BIRTH at Thorndon, Wilson’s Party, on the 8th November, the wife of C. PURDON of a daughter