Inquest.

Cromwell Argus, Volume XXXIV, Issue 1798, 2 September 1902, Page 5

Inquest.

Touching tho somewhat sudden death of James Sloan, miner, Bendigo on Sunday whose body was brought to the morgue here, an inquest was held in the Courthouse on Tuesday before E. Murrell, Esq., coroner. The following jury were empannelled: Messrs Little (foreman), Williamson, Sanders, Smith, Wrightson and Stephens. The following evidence was taken : Charles o‘Donnoll, storekeeper deposed that he identified the body. Deceased was 60 years of age. He met Sloan on Saturday about a mile from his, (O'Donnell’s) residence. Sloan was under the influence of drink and had a bottle of brandy in his possession. Witness put him into his trap and drove him to witness’s home where he was put to bed. Deceased got up on Sunday morning and after a violent fit of coughing went back to bed again about 4 p.m., when witness heard Sloan breathing heavily, He went then into his bedroom when in a few moments death ensued.

John Lofr, Bendigo said he had known Sloan for years and slept in the same room with him on the Saturday night. Deceased made no complaint of being ill and got up on Sunday morning at 9.30 when a severe vomiting fit forced him to bed where he died at about 4 p.m on that dayWilliam Patterson, licensee of the Rocky Point Hotel deposed that Sloan came to his hotel on Thursday, 21st August and remained until Saturday afternoon when he left about 3 o’clock. He only knew of four shandy gaffs Sloan had. He never complained. He did not know whether or not more drink was given Sloan because he (witness) was away from the hotel all Saturday a ball having taken place on Friday.

Constable Dale of Cromwell said information about Sloan’s death was given him on Sunday night when he at once repaired to Bendigo. He found the body fully dressed and lying on its back. There were no marks upon it. He had the remains conveyed to the morgue, Cromwell immediately. From enquiries deceased had cashed a cheque of £l3 15s on the 18th insb but be found no money in his possession. jThejury having considered the evidence the following verdict was given. " That deceased died from natural causes accelerated by excessive drinking.” After the intjaest Constable Dale drew attention to the morgue stating that as it stood it was totally unfit for tbe reception of dead bodies. After the jury had considered the matter it was decided to leave it with the Mayor who would see if the Borough Council could get the Government to subsidise, [or otherwise assist in having the place pub in a proper condition.