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34
The respective numbers for the year 1877 were 1,462
and 464, together 1,926 ; but the epidemic of Small Pox
then existing had the usual effect of attracting general
attention to the advantages of, and necessity for vaccination.
When the danger is at an end, so, but too frequently,
are all precautionary measures.
Inquests.—Forty Inquests were held by the Coroner
during the year, and the following table will show the
results arrived at by the respective juries :—
Natural causes 17
Accidental causes—
Asphyxia 5
Killed on Railway 4
Concussion, &c., of Brain 3
Burns, Scalds 2
Drowned 2—16
Homicidal—
Suicide—Poison 4
Drowning 2
Stabs (Wilful Murder) 1— 7
Total 40
The latter crime was expiated by the trial, conviction
and execution of the murderer, who stabbed his paramour
repeatedly in a paroxysm of jealousy.
Uncertified Deaths.—In 18 instances the cause of
death was not certified by a medical practitioner nor an
inquest held by the Coroner. This is eminently unsatisfactory,
and in any future legislation it is to be hoped that
provision will be made to remedy this defect in our
otherwise perfect system of registration. Nine of these
cases were under 1 year of age, and the others were
aged—2, 4, 5, 7, 32, 55, 72, 77, and 89 years at the time