Mystery of tragic lovers
THE deplorable and mysterious tragedy which occurred on theEnborne Roadlast Monday night will long remain, it may be hoped, without parallel in our local annals. The causes and circumstances of the dreadful affair are fully known only to the two whose tongues are now sealed by death, and the evidence given at the enquiry throws but little light upon the terrible mystery.

A young man goes for a summer evening's walk with a lady to whom he appears sincerely attached, nevertheless carrying in his pocket a loaded revolver -a detestable weapon which has happily not yet become a common necessity in this country - and at the end of their stroll he commits the cruel and dastardly act of taking her life, and the equally cowardly and criminal act of putting an end to his own.

As to the motives, or the immediate occasion which led to the perpetration of this double tragedy, there seems no clue whatever; but the Coroner's jury refused to shelter the apparently pre-determined act of murder under the specious plea of "temporary insanity". Whether of deliberate purpose, in a fit of despondency, or in a "lovers quarrel", the dreadful deed was done will never be known; but even making every allowance for a pecuniary disappointment Wynn is said to have experienced, or for the excitable temperament by which he is said to have been characterised, there seems nothing that can justly palliate the terrible deed. If the virtues of self-control, of chivalry and courage were thus habitually wanting in the conduct of young men who have health and strength on their side, as well as many other advantages which should lead them to take a hopeful view of life, it were indeed a sad prospect for the future of society.

The terrible affair may in this way serve as a warning; while for the unfortunate victim and her bereaved mother, the deepest commiseration will be felt. The young lady appears to have been of irreproachable character; and that she should have had the confidence which she reposed in her lover so fatally betrayed is the saddest feature in one of the darkest pictures which has ever figured in our local annals.

ELLIS WILLIAM WYNN

THE ENBORNE ROAD TRAGEDY

SHOCKING MURDER AND SUICIDE

A dreadful occurrence took place on Monday evening on the Enborne road, about one mile from Newbury, which has occasioned a very painful sensation in the town. It would appear that a Mr. Ellis W. Wynn, formerly assistant to Mr. Garlick, Jeweller to this town, has been paying attentions to a Miss Stevens, a young lady in the drapery establishment of Mr A. Jackson .Market-place, and the two went a walk shortly before nine o'clock, but nothing more is known of their movements until their dead bodies were found lying in the road near Enborne Gate Farm.

Shortly after ten o'clock, Sergeant Holding, of Stockcross, was on duty near the "Lamb" Inn, when he heard the report of fire-arms, and walked along the Enborne-road in the direction of the sound. When about forty yards beyond Enborne Gate Farm, which is a homestead almost opposite the turning to Enborne House (the residence of Mr. T. W. Fielder), the sergeant found a young man and young lady lying in the road. His first impression was that a trap accident had happened, and that the two had been thrown out. Seeing, however, no horse or conveyance near, he examined the bodies, both of whom were found to be dead, with blood oozing from wounds in the head. The young lady was lying on her side, with her head in the direction of Newbury. The young man lay across the road, his head close to her feet, and in his hand was a five-chambered revolver. Sergeant Holding obtained a bicycle lamp from Mr. F.W.C. Wallis, who had come up on his machine to meet Quelch, the shepherd, about some sheep. Quelch and young Mr. Wallis were on the point of going to the sheep fold, which was in a field close by, and the latter was armed with a gun, his object being the protection of the sheep, as a savage dog was known to be in the neighbourhood, and had created great havoc among the flock of Mr. Thatcher, of Enborne. Henry Holloway, the carter living at the farm, also appeared. Sergt. Holding having thus received assistance, directed Quelch to go at once to the police station, at Speenhamland, and he kept guard over the bodies until Superintendent Bennett arrived, who also refused to have them touched until seen by a doctor Subsequently Dr. Jenner Clarke and Dr. Wylie arrived at the spot and made an examination, which showed that Miss Stevens had received wounds from two shots in the head, and that Wynn had also been wounded in the head, the revolver having been probably placed in his open mouth, and then fired. The revolver was five-chambered, and known as the English Bull Dog pattern, and was taken from Wynn's hand by Superintendent Bennett before the removal of the bodies. The bodies were then removed to a building on the farm, and a police officer placed in charge of the same.

As previously stated, Mr Wynn was a jeweller's assistant in Newbury, having been in the town about three years. A few weeks ago he left his situation, but on Saturday night he returned to the town, as he said, to see his sweetheart and to wish his friends good-bye. It is stated that he had an intention of going abroad, and had mentioned Naples as his destination. On Sunday Miss Stevens accompanied him to Savernake, where they spent the day, going and returning by train. On Sunday evening they called upon Mr. and Mrs. Andrews, of Craven-street, and Miss Stevens getting too late to return to her place of business, remained for the night at the house of Mr. and Mrs. Andrews. It would appear that Mr. Wynn had complained of trouble, and expressed a determination to shoot himself in consequence, and that Mr. Andrews took from him a revolver. Miss Stevens returned to business on Monday morning and Mr. Wynn was about the town during the day wishing his friends "good-bye," and also visiting Reading and Hungerford. He was present at the Queen's Hotel in the evening, and before going out wished his friends good-bye. On Miss Stevens leaving business in the evening in company with Miss Pecover, another young lady assistant, they were joined by Mr. Wynn, and they proceeded together to the house of a mutual friend, where they parted; Mr. Wynn and Miss Stevens continuing their walk in the direction of Enborne-road. Miss Stevens has been in Newbury about 13 months and her acquaintance with Mr. Wynn has extended nearly the whole of that time. She is spoken of as an amiable young lady, and much liked by her fellow assistants. Her mother, who lives at Watford, was communicated with. With regard to the trouble expressed by Mr. Wynn it is thought that this has reference to a disappointment in regard to money which he had been expecting on the death of a friend a short time since, it having been mentioned by him previous to him leaving Newbury, that the matter was in the hands of a lawyer. In course of Tuesday thousands of persons visited the spot, Enborne-road presenting at times a thronged appearance.

THE INQUEST

The jury were summoned, met the Coroner at Enborne Gate Farm, and there viewed the bodies which lay on trestles in an out building, the medical gentlemen having just completed the post mortem examination ordered by the Coroner. There was a large number of persons in the road to watch the arrival of the jurors, but no one unless officially concerned was allowed admission within the gates. The spot where the tragedy occurred was pointed out, the roadway still being marked with blood. This was about 40 yards beyond Guyer's Lane, the turning to Enborne House. After viewing the bodies (the Jury having been previously sworn), they returned to the "Black Boys" where the evidence was taken by Mr. J. Cockburn Pinniger, County Coroner, the spot where the tragedy occurred, being about 100 yards beyond the Borough boundary. The Jury empanelled were as follows:- Messrs Alfred Watts, James Leighton Giles, Alfred Thos. Whitington, Richard Canning, Henry Smith, James Freebody, Samuel Hughes, William Cordery, Benjamin Smith, Edwin George Green, William James Swaite, and Charles Ball. Mr. W. Knight was chosen foreman.

HE SAW THE BODIES AND PASSED ON.

Henry Withers said- I live at Skinner's Green and am a labourer. On my way home from Newbury last night at about quarter past ten and when I got just beyond the turn to Mr. Fielder's I saw what I thought to be two men lying across the road. I said : "Hullo, there!" and got no answer. I walked on. I did not believe them to be dead. I thought they had a drop of beer. The Coroner:- Why didn't satisfy yourself as to their condition? The Witness replied he did not think it was any business of his. The Coroner said the man did not appear to realise his duty. The proper thing would have been to ascertain their condition, and if he did no more he should have got them out of the way of any passing carriage.

THE POLICE SERGEANT FINDS THE BODIES

Edmund Holding said:- I am a police sergeant of the Berks., Constabulary, stationed at Stockcross. Last night about ten o'clock I was with Sergeant Seagrove near the "Lamb and Flag," in the Enborne-road. I heard the report of fire-arms in the direction of Enborne Gate Farm. I only heard one discharge. I walked leisurely along the road towards Enborne. About twenty minutes past ten when I got 40 yards beyond Guyer's Lane, I saw two persons- a man and woman- lying in the middle of the road. The woman was lying with her head towards Newbury on her right side. The man was lying about a foot from her feet, with his head towards Wash Common. I stooped down and saw there was a stream of blood coming from their heads. I thought there had been a trap accident and I walked a few yards towards Enborne. I could see nothing and then turned back. I came as far as the farm, and Mr. Wallis, jun., was outside with a shepherd. They had a bicycle lamp. I told them what had happened. On the left side of the upper part of the female's head the brains protruded. I then further examined the man and found he had a revolver (produced) in his right hand. I felt his pulse and found he was dead. I sent Quelch, the shepherd, to give information to Sergt. Bennett, and I remained with the bodies until he arrived. I assisted in removing the bodies, and searched the body of the male and found one revolver, cartridge and other articles in his coat pocket. There were two watched, one in his waistcoat pocket, and another in his trousers pocket; also 9s 11 ½ d. in money. Supt. Bennett then produced a telegram which had also been found upon the deceased, and read "Do come home, so anxious to see you". It was handed in at Newbury at 1.12 on May 5th, and delivered at New Brompton at 1.42.[New Brompton is on the London, Chatham and Dover Line, and was where the deceased Wynn was staying when he left Newbury. The telegram bore no signature, and it is not known by whom it was sent.]

THE SHEPHERD HEARS THREE SHOTS

John Quelch said- I live at Enborne Gate Farm, and am shepherd to Mr. Wallis. Last night about five minutes before ten o'clock when leaving the sheep-fold which is in the field almost opposite the farm house, I heard three shots fired, but heard no cry. I walked indoors and found that my wife had also heard the shots. About half past ten I saw Sergeant Holding, and with him viewed the bodies of the man and woman lying in the road. Soon afterwards Sergeant Holding sent me to Supt. Bennett. There was an interval between the first and second shots, and about two minutes after there was another shot. The Coroner- Did you hear loud talking? None whatsoever.-Or cry of any kind?-No. Dr Jenner Clarke- Would you ask the witness, Mr. Coroner, what interval there was between the shots? Witness- The two first shots followed in quick succession, and there was an interval of between the second and the third. When I first heard the shots I thought it was someone had shot the dog which was about worrying the sheep.

WHAT THE POST-MORTEM REVEALED

Dr William Jenner Clarke said — I am a registered medical practitioner residing at Speenhamland, Newbury. Last evening shortly after eleven o'clock, a cab came to my house with a request that I should go at once to the Enborne Gate Farm. I called for my partner, Dr Wyllie, and we went together. My information was that someone was dying there. On arrival I saw the two persons lying in the road, and both were quite dead. Supt. Bennett told me they had waited for my arrival, and nothing had been done. I suggested that the bodies should be removed to a convenient place, and they were removed to a shed in the farm-yard. After the removal, I found a bunch of keys and a few coppers in the pocket of the woman. I looked about the road, but saw no signs of a struggle. To-day by order of the Coroner I and my partner, kindly assisted by, made a post mortem examination of both bodies. We confined our examination exclusively to where the shot wounds were. There was a good deal of blood about the face, more especially round the nose and mouth. A very marked swelling on the lower jaw on the left side, on the centre of the top of the head, and the brain was protruding. On examining the jaw more minutely it was found to be completely shattered on the left side. After some time we extracted this bullet (produced). There was no external wound, so it must have been fired whilst the mouth was opened. When we came to examine the head we found the skull fractured around the wound, and there was a small portion of lead lying between the scalp and the bone. The bullet had taken a course downward, slightly backward and to the right. The bullet was lying in the brain, having fractured the bone just behind the right ear. Death was obviously due to the latter wound in the skull. The first wound was not sufficient to be fatal. A Juror asked whether he thought there would be any screaming from the female on account of this wound. Dr Clarke- I cannot say, but so far as could be judged the shots would be fired from above, and if the muzzle was not in the mouth it must have been very close. The shot must have been fired from above downwards, either whilst kneeling or in a lying position. We then examined the man. There had been a great discharge from the nose and mouth, and the mouth showed signs of scorching. I have no doubt the weapon was fired into the mouth. On further examination we found the bullet had taken a course upwards and slightly backwards and to the left, having gone through the roof of the mouth, the centre and base of the skull, the middle of the brain, and out of the hole at the top of the head. Death was of course due to this wound and must have been instantaneous.

THE REVOLVER

Supt. Bennett said he had the gunsmith, who would show what charges had been fired. The Coroner- Is it necessary to go into this. There is no doubt that the poor man shot himself

Supt. Bennett- I have evidence to show that this revolver was repaired, and someone who would speak to his having threatened to shoot himself Coroner- Evidence that will show his state of mind had better be taken.

DECEASED THREATENED TO SHOOT HIMSELF

Francis Robert Andrews said- I live at Craven-street and am the Town Crier. On Sunday night about 1 0.15, I was just got in bed, and heard a knock at the door. A young person staying at my house answered the door, and it was Miss Edith Ethel Stevens. She ran in and asked where we were. She ran upstairs and said, "Mr Andrews, Mr. Wynn is going to shoot himself" She had the revolver in her hand, and said "Take car of it I am afraid of him." I took it away and locked it up. I told her to bring him indoors. I got up and went downstairs and when I got there, Mr. Wynn and Miss Stevens were in my front room. I asked him how he was, and he replied "My head is very bad." I said, as you are not well you had better sleep here to-night." He said "I can't, I have taken a bed at the "Queen's." I said "Bed taken or not you will not go out to-night." I tried to take off his overcoat, but he would not let me do so. I felt in his pockets, and Miss Stevens brought out two small cartridges, which would fit the revolver which I had taken from him. Wynn would not go to bed and I locked the house up, and kept him in my room till the morning. He seemed to ramble during the night and talked about Dr. Clarke. He said "I shall do it," which I thought referred to shooting himself In the morning he seemed quieter and had breakfast at my house. He thanked me for my kindness and left with Miss Stevens at half-past eight. He said he was going to Reading. The Coroner — Was he violent? Oh no. Perfectly sober? Oh yes. In the morning he seemed better. He said he should go to Reading to take the revolver back to the friend of whom it was borrowed. Coroner — I do not take much notice of that. Unfortunately anyone can carry a revolver, one can be bought for a few shillings.

Mr Andrews, in reply to questions from the jury, said both Mr Wynn and Miss Stevens remained in his house and were in the same room. Wynn seemed quieter when Miss Wynn was present. Had known him nearly ever since he had been in Newbury. He complained sometimes about his head.

WHERE THE REVOLVER WAS PURCHASED

Mr. Ranshaw, who was present, said he had just received a telegram from a Mr. Lewis, of Reading, to whom he had sent a special edition of the Newbury Weekly News:- Received dreadful news , was with Wynn when he bought the revolver at Rose's Reading, yesterday." The Mayor said that there was a young lady present who was the last to speak to Miss Stevens. The Coroner- Very well, let her be called.

THE LAST TO SPEAK TO MISS STEVENS

Miss Lizzie Pecover said- I am an assistant at Mr. Jackson's. I was friendly with Miss Stevens. I was with her last night and left her outside Miss Reid's at five minutes to nine. We had been walking together and came round Cheap-street and the Station-road. Wynn was with us and I thought he was in good spirits. They went off together in the direction of Enborne-road. Miss Stevens had never said she was afraid of Wynn. On Monday morning she told me that he had a pistol and that he had tried to shoot himself, and told her to go on. This happened on Sunday evening. I have never heard of them having a quarrel. They were very affectionate towards one another.

A CLAIM FOR THE GOLD WATCH

Supt. Bennett said there was a gentleman present from London, and he claimed the gold watch which he lent to the deceased. The Coroner- I have nothing to do with that. It is more a matter for you Mr. Bennett; but I think it will be likely that money will be required.

Supt. Bennett — I shall not part with anything until I am satisfied that he has received decent burial. He does not seem to have any friends to come forward and be responsible for the burial expenses. The Coroner- You have heard the evidence, gentlemen. I don't think there is need that I should sum up unless you require it.

THE JURY DELIBERATED

The jury then deliberated and the Coroner asked if there was any doubt in which he could help them.  

It was remarked by some of the jury that the only difficulty was with regard to the state of mind of the deceased, Wynn, and upon that point there was no evidence to guide them, but if there were certain facts as had been stated to them, it might show a homicidal tendency in the family and perhaps prevent a harsh verdict. The Coroner agreed that there was nothing in the evidence to show the state of mind, and they must, as jurymen form their own conclusion.

THE VERDICT

After further consultation the Foreman announced that the deceased Wynn had been guilty of the murder of Edith Ethel Stevens, but that there was not sufficient evidence to prove that he was of unsound mind, and that with regard to himself he had committed suicide by shooting himself with a revolver. A juror inquired if that verdict would prevent decent burial. The Coroner replied to the negative. The Mayor (Mr. A. Jackson) who was present, said it was perhaps right he should state that Miss Stevens was an amiable lady-like young person, beloved by all who had been brought into contact with her. She was the youngest daughter and her mother is a widow and not in good circumstances.

THE JURY SYMPATHISE

The Foreman suggested that it would be a sympathetic act if the jury presented their fees to the mother of Miss Stevens. The jury having acquiesced, Mr Knight said he should be pleased to add to the same a sovereign.

THE AGES OF DECEASED

The Coroner said that he had no evidence as to the ages of the deceased which must go on the deposition. It was stated by the Mayor that the age of Miss Stevens was 21, and Supt. Bennett said he believed Mr. Wynn's age was 24.

REMOVAL OF THE BODIES TO THE MORTUARY

Supt. Bennett asked that permission might be given for the removal of the bodies to the Mortuary. It was very inconvenient to Mr. Wallis that his farm buildings should be occupied, and also attracted large numbers of people. At one time there were as many as 500 persons around the farm. With the removal, the curiosity would perhaps soon die out.

The Coroner said that as most desirable, and the Mayor at once gave his permission for the mortuary to be used.

Supt. Bennett said he would take steps for the removal of the bodies in the course of the night. The proceedings terminated with the signing of the depositions by the witnesses. The inquiry lasted about two hours and a half. As bearing out the statement of the Mayor we may state that Miss Stevens used to send remittances to her mother from her salary. As regards burial, it is likely that both will be buried in Newbury Cemetery. The mother of Miss Stevens reached Newbury on Tuesday and grieves bitterly over the loss of her favourite daughter.

INSANITY SUSPECTED

A News representative last night had an interview with a Mr. Coreen, jeweller, of New Brompton who had travelled to Newbury on purpose to attend the inquest to give evidence of the condition of Wynn's mind. He stated that Wynn had been staying with him for the last fortnight and that from his actions he had not the slightest doubt that his mind was unhinged. On Monday morning he received from him a packet of receipts, enclosed in an envelope bearing the address of the Queen's Hotel, Newbury, and without any letter or intimation as to their meaning. He at once suspected dangerous intentions on Wynn's part and telegraphed to the proprietor of the Queen's Hotel asking if Mr Wynn was staying there, if such were the case. Mr Hamlen delayed answering the telegram for a short time, and in the meanwhile Wynn came in. He showed to him the telegram and asked him to answer it himself This he did in wiring: "Shall be in town tomorrow." Mr. Careen said that the statements about going abroad were entirely without foundation, and that he had not the slightest intention of going to Naples, although he had talked about the idea so frequently, and also that he was going to Buenos Ayres. Mr Coreen says that two of his brothers had come home from Australia, and had talked about their voyage, which probably gave him the facts about which he uttered so freely, he stating that he had engaged a berth on the Orient line, and was to sail from Tilbury in a day or two, yet at the same time making appointments for later dates. In conversation with our representative on Monday afternoon he was full of his forthcoming trip, and seemed in the best of spirits. Mr. Wynn was of very hasty disposition, but showed great intelligence, approaching cleverness, and was well read in literature. He was very sociable in his habits and had many friends, but now and again exhibited strange fancies such as carrying live snakes about in his pocket. It was known among his friends that he carried a loaded revolver about with him. During his journey to Hungerford on Monday afternoon, he appeared more than usually lively, and sang snatches of the latest music hall ditties all the way. When saying "Good-bye" to a friend, he said "I'm sure I shall never see you again, as the ship is bound to go down."

It is stated that his father showed a homicidal tendency.

REMOVAL OF THE BODIES

The removal of the bodies from Wallis' farm to the mortuary took place on Tuesday evening in a manner that attracted no public attraction whatever. Supt. Bennett, a sergeant and two constables, together with the Foreman of the jury (Mr. William Knight) proceeded to the farm at ten o'clock, and the bodies were placed in a low Scotch cart. They were then taken along the Enborne-road and to the mortuary at the back of the Corn Exchange, where they were placed shortly before eleven o'clock, the only spectators being three or four persons who had seen the vehicle pass. Yesterday morning when it became known that the bodies could be seen through an air-brick in the wall, a large crowd assembled, taking their turn to gaze through at the melancholy spectacle, the face of the young man being uncovered and presenting a ghastly appearance.

ERRATUM In yesterday's special edition it was stated by a printer's error that Mr. Coreen was a jeweller of Southampton; it should have been New Brompton.

Newbury Weekly News 19 May 1892

ELLIS WILLIAM WYNN

THE ENBORNE ROAD TRAGEDY

With the holding of the inquest the excitement in regard to the Enborne-road tragedy has somewhat abated, though many persons yesterday were to be seen going in the direction of where the appalling deed was committed on the fateful night of Monday last. The event has caused considerable inquiry to be directed into the antecedents of Wynn, who has been adjudged guilty of murder and suicide, and there seems to be grounds for the correctness of the sensational information as to a family incident spoken of at the inquest by which at a tender age, on the death of his mother, he was practically left an orphan. At some period in his life he seems to have dropped his own name and to have adopted the maiden name of his mother, so that prior to leaving Newbury, the death of a relative occurred, and he believed himself entitled to benefit thereby, the change in the name was a matter which he said caused him some difficulty in making his claim. These family incidents were known perhaps to only one or two in Newbury, and as may be supposed, he always maintained a reticence in regard to them, so that those who knew him most intimately, formed their own opinion that there was a mystery in his career which he was not inclined to unveil. It is known that he entertained opinions of a sceptical nature. It is moreover asserted that he was to some extent in debt, and there is a report that he borrowed money of the young lady to whom he was engaged. They Coroner and Jury have been blamed for not hearing more evidence to show his mental condition, but it has been laid down by the Coroner that the business of his court is to to ascertain the cause of death. This limitation is hardly accepted by the public, who consider that the enquiry should have a more extended range. A friend of the deceased from Tunbridge, where Wynn formerly lived, to make enquiries of the funeral: but we learn that some of the members of the Guildhall Club, with whom Wynn was formerly connected, have, in conjunction with other friends, raised a subscription to defray the expenses of his interment which will be privately conducted. The body of Miss Stevens will be removed to-day by train to Watford, for burial by the side of her father. The widowed mother returned by the afternoon train yesterday to her home. A suggestion has been made by a correspondent that if a subscription were announced for placing a tombstone over the grave of Miss Stevens, it would be readily responded to, It is stated that in lying out Miss Stevens yesterday a bullet wound was discovered in her breast. This discovery sets at rest the question as to the destination of the fourth bullet. The revolver had five chambers, one of which was undischarged. It is now seen that Miss Stevens received one bullet in the breast in addition to two in the head, and Wynn one in the head.

Newbury Weekly News 19 May 1892

ELLIS WILLIAM WYNN

THE ENBOURNE ROAD TRAGEDY FUNERAL OF THE VICTIMS LATER PARTICULARS

The painful excitement which was caused last week by the sensational affair which will be henceforth described in local annals as the Enbourn-road Tragedy, has considerably quieted down, although the same melancholy interest attaches to any fresh particulars that may be forthcoming regarding the sad affair. One of the most striking facts discovered after the inquest was the bullet wound in the back of Miss Stevens, which alters completely the conjectures that had been previously formed as to the manner in which the unfortunate lady met her death. The doctors confined their post-mortem examination strictly to the heads, and it was not until the body was being prepared for burial that the third wound was discovered. In the first instance the mark of a wound was noticed in the breast, but later it was found that there was a bullet wound in the back, under the right shoulder-blade, the bullet having forced its way through the body causing the mark in the breast.. From this it was clearly apparent that Wynn must have fired the first shot at Miss Stevens from behind. His walking stick was discovered a short distance from the spot where the bodies were found, and it is thought that he purposely dropped it; then making the excuse to stop and pick it up he fired at her back. Possibly the shot did not produce instantaneous death, and as she was lying on the road he discharged the other two chambers of the revolver into her head. This so far accords with the medical theory that the shots were fired in a downwards direction.

REMOVAL OF THE BODIES

The body of Miss Stevens was removed from the mortuary on Thursday morning under the direction of Mr. E.C. James, undertaker, and consigned by the 9.17a.m. train to Acton, en route to Watford, where it arrived at half-past two, and was conveyed to the house of a friend in Queen's-road pending the interment in Watford Cemetery on Sunday afternoon.

BURIAL OF WYNN

The body of Wynn lay in the mortuary uncoffined, and just as it was found, but covered with a rough sack, until Thursday morning. There appeared to be some difficulty as to the liability for burial, the body having been found in Enbourn parish, but subsequently removed into the borough. Supt. Bennett had the order for burial, but was unable to take any steps, being instructed that he had no authority to sell the watch and other things found upon him to defray the cost of burial. It appeared probable that the body would have had to remain until the sanitary authorities had to step in as a matter of public health. No tidings could be learned of Wynn's friends, and to prevent a public scandal some members of the Newbury Guildhall Club, of which Wynn was formerly a member, undertook the responsibility, and instructed Mr. E .C. James to have the poor fellow buried decently. The corpse was therefore placed in a plain elm coffin, with black furniture, and at midnight on Thursday was removed from the mortuary to the cemetery chapel. The greatest secrecy was observed, as it was feared some painful demonstration might possibly occur if the funeral were witnessed by a large number of persons, and there were constant inquiries of the sexton on Thursday. The time fixed for was seven o'clock, and at that hour some half-dozen members of the club attended at the cemetery, a police-sergeant being stationed at the gates, but his services were not required. The Rev. John Pate, Congregational Minister, had kindly acceded to the request to bury the deceased, and he performed the ceremony in an earnest manner, making reference to the sad event in his prayer, appealing for consolation for those bereaved, and sympathy with those who were called upon to perform the last painful offices to one whose life had ended in such a tragic way. It was a cold, cheerless morning, and rain fell as the small group of mourners followed the coffin to the grave, where the ceremony was completed. A wreath was placed upon the coffin by a private friend. The grave was filled immediately after the ceremony, and its identity could not be traced, although on Sunday a very large number visited the cemetery, and some managed to find out its locality. A letter has been received from the local lodge of Oddfellows at Tonbridge, of which Wynn was a member, offering to defray the cost of a decent burial, but as the matter had already been taken in hand, the offer of the Tonbridge Oddfellows is still in abeyance.

THE SITE OF THE TRAGEDY

The spot where the tragedy occurred has been full of interest to many hundreds who visited it, and it was not until Saturday that the painful indications of the murder were obliterated. The exact spot has been marked by a cross cut in the bank, and on Sunday the road was thronged with curious sight-seers.

MISS STEVENS-BIOGRAPHICAL INCIDENTS

The Watford Advertiser states that Miss Stevens was well known and highly respected by a large circle of friends at Kings Langley, Rickmansworth, Croxley Heath, Watford and the surrounding neighbourhood. She was the daughter of the late Mr. Benjamin Stevens, miller, Waterside, Kings Langley, and the young woman was reared and educated in the village. About six years ago she became apprenticed to the millinery at Mrs. Grace's establishment, Rickmansworth, and when there she was a regular worshipper at the Baptist Chapel. Subsequently she went to Brighton; and, twelve months last March, accepted the position of milliner at the establishment of Mr. Alfred Jackson, Mayor of Newbury. She had only been at Newbury a few months, when she made the acquaintance of Ellis Watkin Wynn, who represented to her that he was an independent gentleman, having had a large sum left to him recently, and that he only followed his trade for amusement. Miss Stevens came over to see her friends on Easter Sunday, and stayed until the Tuesday with her mother, who now keeps the "Boatman" public-house at Kings Langley. She spoke of her engagement to her relatives, and remarked that it was arranged that they would, all being well, get married shortly. On Tuesday morning Mrs Stevens got a telegram telling her that her daughter was dangerously ill, and preparing for the worst, she immediately started for Newbury, but when she arrived at Rickmansworth, a telegram, conveying the sad news of her daughter's death, was handed to her, but not until she got to Newbury did she learn how the tragedy occurred. The shock to the aged parent was almost more than she could bear, and it is feared that her health will be permanently injured by the effect of the sudden sad intelligence. Her sister at Croxley Green- Mrs Henry Holloway- is also prostrated by the news of the tragedy, and much sympathy is felt for the entire family in their sudden bereavement. Mrs King, of Hemel Hempstead, is another sister, Miss Stevens being the only unmarried daughter.

HER LAST LETTER

Mr. Henry Holloway, of Croxley Green, received a letter from Miss Stevens on the Friday previous to the tragedy, and this is supposed to be the last letter the unfortunate young lady wrote to her relatives. Mr/ Holloway wrote to her a few days previously, and told her about the bazaar the intended to hold at Croxley Green Primitive Methodist Chapel on the 25th and 26th of May. He asked her to contribute, and facetiously remarked that her lover might send a £10 note, being an independent gentleman. To this, Miss Stevens replied that she would send something herself, but that she could not ask Wynn as he had left Newbury owing to serious losses in money matters which had nearly driven the poor fellow mad. Their arrangements, she said, had thus been put off for some time for she had not seen him as he told her he could not come back to Newbury and seemed overcome with grief on learning that

THE FORTUNE-TELLING STORY

One of the many statements in circulation is that Miss Stevens had her fortune told by a gypsy, who predicted that she would jilt her lover and meet her death at the hands of his rival. The story is hardly accurate in details, and appears as if it had been adapted to suit the event. That Miss Stevens had, at one time, had her fortune told is no doubt perfectly true as she often joked about it, remarking that according to the gypsy woman she was to come to a fateful end, and on one occasion saying to a friend "When it does come to pass you'll put some flowers on my coffin won't your Mere appears to be no ground for the statement that Miss Stevens lent Wynn any money. On Thursday her former lover came to Newbury from Chertsey, having with

him a wreath and seemed overcome with grief that the corpse had been removed by rail a short time before his arrival. He was, however, present at the funeral at Watford on Sunday.

THE CONTRIBUTION OF THE JURY

Mr W. Knight, of Cyprus Villas, Greenham, the foreman of the jury, has addressed the following letter to Mrs. Stevens. The mother of the deceased young lady: "Dear Madam, I am desired by the Coroner's Jury appointed to enquire into the painful circumstances in connection with the death of your daughter, to transmit to you their fees, together with other small amounts which have been handed to me, making a total sum of £3. On the other side is a detail of the amount so given. At the same time we wish to express our deep sympathy with you and your family in the heavy sorrow which has so unexpectedly fallen on you. The Jury, £1; one of the jury (in addition) 2s. 6d.; Miss Pecover (one of the witnesses), Is.; a friend, 4s.; a friend, 6s. 6d. ; total £3.

FUNERAL OF MISS STEVENS

The remains of Miss Edith Stevens were interred at Watford Cemetery, last Sunday afternoon. Miss Stevens was well known in Watford, and shocking and untimely end has caused much sorrow amongst her numerous friends and relatives. When the body arrived at Watford last Friday, it was conveyed to 171, Queen's-road, where Mrs Stevens had a few weeks previously taken rooms with the intention of selling her public business at Kings Langley and retiring to Watford. Mrs Grace of Rickmansworth, a former mistress of Miss Stevens, and to whom she was much attached, carried out almost entirely the funeral arrangements for the bereaved mother and it was through her influence the funeral took place at Watford. A considerable time before the announced hour, a crowd assembled in the vicinity of the house in Queens-road, and blinds were drawn en route to the cemetery, the greatest sympathy having been shown to the relatives since the sad news was first made known in the town. Shortly before three o'clock, the coffin — a polished black oak in black mountings, and having the inscription:-

EDITH STEVENS

Died May 16th, 1892

Aged 21 years

-was borne from the house to the hearse. It was literally covered with beautiful wreaths and crosses, and surmounted with a basket of sweet forget-me-nots sent by a companion of the deceased. Among the tokens were a beautiful combined cross and wreath of choice white flowers, and a large case of artificial roses sent by the assistants at Mr. Jackson's establishment, Newbury. The former bore the following words, "With loving sympathy from her fellow assistant, Market-place, Newbury," and the latter, "A token of esteem from the employer." The mourners were conveyed in four coaches, amongst them being Mrs. Stevens, mother of the deceased, Mrs. King of Hemel Hempstead (sister), and Mr. King, Mr H. Holloway, bother-n-law, Mrs and Miss Grace (with whom Miss Stevens served her apprenticeship), Mr. Rolfe, a Newbury gentleman, living at Hemel Hempstead, representing Mr. Jackson and the assistants in his shop, and Mr. Barlow, the former lover of the deceased, who was mentioned as having visited Newbury on Friday. Mr. Barlow also sent a handsome wreath with the simple word "Jim." A wreath from Mr. and Mrs Andrews, of Newbury, had the following inscribed on the label: "With deepest sympathy and love. Thy will be done, 0 Lord." Many of her fellow assistant from Newbury were present at the graveside to pay their last token of esteem. The streets on the way to the cemetery were crowded, and when the cortege arrived at the cemetery, thousands had taken up their position, making it almost impossible for friends to get a sight of the grave. The first part of the burial service was read in the Nonconformist Chapel, -which had been uncomfortably crowded, persons even finding their way into the minister's seat,- by the Rev. H. J. Dyer. When he alluded to the sad event in prayer, there was scarcely a dry eye, many of the friends sobbing audibly. Again, at the graveside, the scene was a pathetic one, the enormous crowd being visibly affected when the aged mother and near relatives took their farewell look at the coffin. Miss Stevens was buried beside her father, who died about three years ago.

WYNN'S ANTECEDENTS

Several letters have been received on the subject in contradiction of the statement that appeared in the London papers that nothing is known of Wynn's antecedents. One writer says: "He was a native of Tonbridge, Kent, and was the only child of William and America Chittenden, he taking the name of Wynn through the divorce of his parents, Wynn being the maiden name of his mother, who carried on a business as a dress and mantle maker for years in High-street, Tonbridge, in that name, her son residing with her. He was apprenticed to Messrs. Connell, Bros. Watch makers and jewellers, High-street, Tonbridge. His father made an attempt to cut his mother's throat, and was sentenced to twenty years penal servitude. After serving fifteen years, he went to Australia or New Zealand. His mother is dead.

A writer who has been intimate with the family thirty years, speaks to the fact of the attempt on the part of Wynn's father to murder his mother, for which he has served a term of imprisonment of fifteen years. Another letter states that relatives of Wynn's father lived at Ashford, in Kent, and that relatives of Wynn's mother, named Peacock, live in the neighbourhood of Tonbridge. "One who knew him intimately" says that "Wynn was as stated in the paper, fond of having snakes in his pockets, because when he came to Tonbridge on a visit he brought several and laid down in the rooms, which were found when he had left. He was the last person I should have thought would have committed such a deed. I never herd him threaten to take his life. He never seemed short of money. He did not have many friends: his principal friend friend being Mr. T. J. Mockford, who journeyed down to Newbury the other day. His views with regard to religion were very wide. In fact, while at Tonbridge in lodgings, he was not known to go to church once. He was fond of boating and tennis. He was a sort of fellow that would pass by you, look straight to the face and at the same not see you at all. When leaving Tonbridge he went to Ventnor, and stopping there came back again, and went to Oxford. From Oxford he went to Newbury, I think, and then from Newbury to London, and then from London to Newbury, where the unfortunate occurrence took place".

IMPORTANT LETTER FROM A FRIEND SHOWING THE STATE OF WYNN'S MIND

To the Editor of the Newbury Weekly News

Sir, If you allow the space that the following will occupy in your next publication I think it will conclusively show the state of poor Wynn's mind at the time this shocking tragedy was enacted. About eight weeks since he wrote me that the anticipation which he had of having some money left him by Mr. Stenning of Tonbridge, had not been realised, as that gentleman had died (by the way I might say that I, with many others, had always thought that he would be well provided for from that source), and had not mentioned his name in the will. This appearing to blight his prospects, he wrote me that "he should commit suicide," explaining at the same time that "he had not abused the confidence placed in him by his employer (Mr Garlick), and also that his accounts in connection with the Guildhall Club (of which he was either treasurer or secretary were correct, and that he had resigned the same." This I know to be true as I saw all the correspondence. Fearing that he might carry out his threat before I could prevent it, as he asked me not to write and lecture him, I sent him a telegram "inviting him here for a change, as it would do him good," not mentioning that I was coming to Newbury by the next train. However I came by the next train, and arrived at Newbury somewhere about four o'clock, called for him at Mr. Garlick's and prevailed upon him to come out with me for a few minutes, at the same time making an excuse to Mr. Garlick. I asked him what hotel could we go to and have a private room. We went to the "Queen's" Hotel where I had a long conversation with him, he appeared to be very despondent, so much so that I would not allow him to leave my sight. He cried a great deal, which I allowed him to do, thinking it would give him relief; this may be remembered by the waitress who brought in some lunch, of which I partook, not having had anything to eat or drink since early breakfast. I then prevailed upon him to come back to New Brompton with me that evening, although it was much against his will. However, I went and saw Mr. Garlick and also Miss Stevens, and made an excuse for his leaving in such a hurried manner, and caught the 5.30 train to town, arriving here about 11.30pm. He stayed here for a week, during which time I did all I possibly could to occupy his mind, taking him over the Dockyard, to see the military parade, the Extension works etc., which he appeared to enjoy, and the fits of melancholia seemed to leave him; I reasoned with him, and he then regained his original demeanour. He then decided to return to Newbury and settle up all his accounts previous to leaving (as he had given notice to Mr. Garlick to leave his employ), to return here and stay till he was well enough to take another position. While he was here during that week he complained a great deal about his head, I advised him to take a minute quantity of bicarbonate of soda, which he did, I thinking the change might cause him to be bilious. In the correspondence which I had from him during the month he was again in Newbury he invariably complained about his head aching. I again advised him to take a little bicarbonate of soda. After this he wrote that he felt very much better, and would leave Newbury on Friday, the 29th April, to return here. After his return here for the first eight or nine days he appeared very jolly. I was then under the impression that he had broken off the engagement with Miss Stevens, as he made the remark, that "he had upon entering the train shaken the Newbury dust from off his feet," which I took to mean that he had "done with Newbury." About three or four days after his arrival here, he received a telegram from Newbury (read at inquest) asking him to return, but unsigned. This, I afterwards found was from Miss Stevens, as it was followed by letter. After he had been here about eight or nine days, that would be the 9th or 10th inst., he came over so despondent and complained about his head, at the same time biting his fingernails; this continued till about the 12th, when he appeared so jolly that I was put off my guard.

On Saturday, the 14th inst., about ten o'clock he received a telegram purporting to have come from Spiers and Pond, who have large stores embracing a jewellery department, and with whom he had been in correspondence respecting a situation as an assistant. This turns out a specimen of his madness, which had made him artful, as it was a forged telegram, and

which he must have prevailed upon someone in London to send in the name of Spiers and Pond, knowing that it would mislead me:-  Come at once- Spiers and Pond,"-and which I have since found was not sent by anyone in their employ. He leaves here as I think with the intention of going to see the said firm. About five o'clock p.m, I receive a telegram worded:-"Certainly not home tonight.- Ellis." Of course, I could not fathom what this meant, I was compelled to wait. Sunday passes without any news, although I expected him to return by every train. Monday arrives and I begin to get fearful, so much that I go to his room to look for his razor; (I ought to mention that I had previously taken charge of his razor) and not being able to find it all of his pockets to see if he had left any note to give me any clue as to his whereabouts, but was unable to find anything. On Monday evening my suspicions were somewhat confirmed as I received by post an envelope containing a few receipted bills of his, which he had paid to various tradesmen in Newbury, but not a word as to where he was staying, but on the back of the envelope is the impression, "Queen's Hotel, Newbury." I thereupon send a telegram (reply paid) asking the proprietor, "Is Mr. Wynn staying at your hotel?" Unfortunately the proprietor hands the telegram to Wynn, and he answers it himself to this effect:-"Will return to-morrow,-Ellis" This is another specimen of his madness, as (it is well known that a person with a deranged brain is invariably very artful and ingenious to obtain the means to carry out their intentions. Although I received this telegram I was fearful that all was not well, and intended following him up next morning as there was no train from here that night; but early in the morning I received a telegram from Platt (his fellow assistant at Mr. Garlick's), worded: Sad accident to Wynn; come at once." I telegraphed: "Send particulars; is he alive?" In reply I get: "Dead shot Stevens and himself last night." Upon receipt of this I made a few arrangements and leave by the next train to Newbury, with the intention of stating the above to the police. Upon my arrival in Newbury at 5.45, I am informed that the inquest is to be held about at about 7 o'clock I saw the sergeant who discovered the bodies, and informed him who I was. He said I had better see the Superintendent. This I did and said I was prepared to state what I knew, and asked him if he would ask the Coroner to call me early, as I desired to return by the 8.30 train from Newbury, as I had about 100 miles to travel and must get back that night. He informed me that he would do so; but after I had waited till nearly all the witnesses had been called, and finding my time for catching the train getting less, I interviewed the Superintendent again, he saying that he spoken to the Coroner and that they could not see that I or my evidence would be required, as their duty was to ascertain the cause of death.  Now, Mr. Editor, I think that it was patent to very one that the cause of death was the loss of blood caused by a bullet from a revolver. I always thought that it was the duty of a coroner and jury to listen to any evidence which would throw any light on the state of the suicide's mind at the time of or before the deed.

The time had elapsed for me to catch the 8.30 train so I decided to catch the 9.52, but with little hopes of getting home that night. However, I was anxious to give my evidence and appear before the jury if possible. Finding that I was not to be called to give evidence, I again saw the Superintendent, this time making a claim for the gold watch which was in Wynn's pocket; this I had lent him when he returned to Newbury on the first occasion, after staying here a week. I was I hopes that upon my making this claim the Coroner would call me, but I was again denied, this time with the answer that that matter rested with the police. The value of the watch was not so much, and I certainly should not have taken the trouble to travel just upon 200 miles, with the attendant loss of time and expense of telegrams just to claim a cheap second-hand gold watch.

You can see, Mr Editor, that I have not written at this length out of mere sentimentalism, or with any idea of excusing the shocking murder of such a young lady as Miss Stevens, but with the intention of letting the public know the facts of the case as to the state of the poor man's mind. It is well-known that there was evidence of homicidal mania in his family; and which only necessitated some extraordinary worry or disappointment to assert itself to cause him to commit this rash act. When I spoke to the police concerning my evidence, they asked me if I would undertake the burial of the body. This I could not do as I was not sure some of his relations would not do so, and upon that it appeared to me that the Coroner and Police declined to take my evidence, and not only mine, but the evidence of Mr. Platt, who was warned by the police to attend the inquest, but was not asked to give his evidence, but who could have spoken as to the peculiar habits of Wynn at various times.

There is not least doubt that poor Wynn has had a great deal to put up, for while at school he had to stand the jests of his school fellows as to his family affairs, and then to be apparently taken in hand by a wealthy man who paid his apprenticeship premium and otherwise made him think that he would eventually make provision for him, for by entertaining him as he did, giving him expensive articles such as dressing gowns etc. would without a doubt give him cause to have anticipations which were not realised.

I leave the reader of the above to think whether the Coroner, Police, and Jury were justified in not allowing either Mr. Platt or myself to give evidence or state what we knew, at what is generally supposed by Englishmen to be a public enquiry by twelve good men and true, presided over by a learned Coroner.

Thanking you for your patience in perusing such a long epistle, and hoping you will find space for it in your widely circulated newspaper,

I am, Sir, respectfully, Poor Wynn's true friend

H.G. Croneen

P.S.- About the 9th inst. A copy of the "Tonbridge Free Press" was sent to Wynn, this contained the announcement of sale of property by the order of the Executors of the late George Stenning, Esq. This no doubt he read.

THE LATE VERDICT

To the Editor of the Newbury Weekly News

Sir,;- Will you allow me to express contrary opinions to those stated by Remo in yot last. My individual opinion, though not one held solely by myself is, that this verdict given at the inquiry held over that dreadful affair, was both a just and true one, and which can neither injure the criminal nor his unfortunate victim. On the contrary, verdicts of insanity, or temporary otherwise-verdicts of doubtful meaning, so frequently found at inquests may inflict great harm upon the living. The antecedent of families are often dragged to light in order to give force and colour to imaginary theories of supposed inherited insanity, and consequently a lasting stigma is inflicted on surviving relatives. Much more might be written on this subject, but this is merely an expression of individual dissent from the views of your correspondent, and a thorough assent to the verdict given on that sad occasion.- I remain, sir, yours respectfully,

OUTIS

May 30th, 1892.

ELLIS WILLIAM WYNN

THE DOUBLE TRAGEDY AT NEWBURY

The bodies of the victims in this tragedy, Edith Ethel Stevens, and her murderer, Ellis W. Wynne have been removed from Wallis Farm, to which they were taken immediately after the discovery was made on Monday night, to the public mortuary at the back of the Corn Exchange, in the Market Place, to await interment. The remains of Miss Stevens will be conveyed to her home for burial, and those of Wynne will be interred in the Newbury Cemetery. Much excitement continues to prevail in the town, and throughout yesterday hundreds of persons repaired to the mortuary, anxious to catch a glimpse of the bodies. It is stated that so far from Wynne having money left him and being in a position to take a holiday in Naples, as he had represented, facts elicited since his suicide show that last week he pawned a watch, and he had previously borrowed 10 of Miss Stevens.

Portsmouth Evening News Thursday 19 May 1892