Inquest · 4 October 1888, 11 October 1888
The inquest into the death of Catherine Eddowes
Editorial summaryCompiled by the research team from the transcribed press reports.
Because Mitre Square lay inside the City of London, Eddowes's inquest was held by the City coroner, Samuel Langham, at Golden Lane, with the City Solicitor Henry Crawford examining witnesses on behalf of the police. The first day (4 October) heard identification evidence from her sister Eliza Gold and partner John Kelly, the lodging-house deputy, PC Watkins's discovery, Inspector Collard's account of the scene, and the lengthy evidence of the City Police surgeon Dr Frederick Gordon Brown. Brown described the facial mutilation, the removed left kidney and uterus, a sharp pointed knife at least six inches long, and a killer with 'a good deal of knowledge as to the position of the abdominal organs' who needed at least five minutes. The second day (11 October) filled in her final hours: the drunken arrest in Aldgate, release from Bishopsgate at 1 a.m., Joseph Lawende's sighting of her with a man at Church Passage at 1.35 a.m. (his description deliberately withheld at Crawford's request), and PC Long's discovery of the apron fragment and chalked message in Goulston Street. Jurors pressed Long and Halse on why the tenements were not searched and why the writing was erased; Long's notebook ('Jews') and Halse's copy ('Juwes are not') differed. Dr Sequeira disagreed with Brown on the killer's skill, and Dr Saunders found no poison in the stomach. Langham declined to adjourn further and suggested a verdict of wilful murder against 'some person unknown', since the medical evidence indicated a single killer; the jury agreed immediately and gave their fees to Eddowes's daughter, Annie Phillips.
About these reports. No official verbatim transcript is used here. Each testimony comes from a newspaper's report of the hearing, read through a modern transcription. Reporters condensed and paraphrased, and papers sometimes differ. Where a second paper's version exists, it is shown as well. Inside quotations, "[...]" marks text left out by this project. Bracketed words such as "[Coroner]" were added by the transcriber.
Witnesses
Eliza Gold
sister of the deceased; identified the body
Gave evidence 4 October 1888
Editorial summary of the evidence
Eddowes's sister, weeping, identified the body as Catherine Eddowes, aged about 43, a hawker 'of sober habits' who had lived for some years with John Kelly and before that with Thomas Conway, by whom she had children. Pressed by a juror, she corrected her statement that she had last seen her sister 'four or five months ago' to three or four weeks.
Verbatim report: The Daily Telegraph, 5 October 1888, p. 3
Historical text, verbatim:
Eliza Gold deposed: I live at 6, Thrawl-street, Spitalfields. I have been married, but my husband is dead. I recognise the deceased as my poor sister (witness here commenced to weep very much, and for a few moments she was unable to proceed with her story). Her name was Catherine Eddowes. I cannot exactly tell where she was living. She was staying with a gentleman, but she was not married to him. Her age last birthday was about 43 years, as far as I can remember. She has been living for some years with Mr. Kelly. He is in court. I last saw her alive about four or five months ago. She used to go out hawking for a living, and was a woman of sober habits. Before she went to live with Kelly, she had lived with a man named Conway for several years, and had two children by him. I cannot tell how many years she lived with Conway. I do not know whether Conway is still living. He was a pensioner from the army, and used to go out hawking also. I do not know on what terms he parted from my sister. I do not know whether she had ever seen him from the time they parted. I am quite certain that the body I have seen is my sister.
By Mr. Crawford: I have not seen Conway for seven or eight years. I believe my sister was living with him then on friendly terms.
[Coroner] Was she living on friendly terms with Kelly? - I cannot say. Three or four weeks ago I saw them together, and they were then on happy terms. I cannot fix the time when I last saw them. They were living at 55, Flower and Dean-street - a lodging-house. My sister when staying there came to see me when I was very ill. From that time, until I saw her in the mortuary, I have not seen her.
A Juryman pointed out that witness previously said she had not seen her sister for three or four months, whilst later on she spoke of three or four weeks.
The Coroner: You said your sister came to see you when you were ill, and that you had not seen her since. Was that three or four weeks ago?
Mrs. Gold: Yes.
[Coroner] So that your saying three or four months was a mistake? - Yes. I am so upset and confused. Witness commenced to cry again. As she could not write she had to affix her mark to the deposition.
Casebook transcription: Catherine Eddowes inquest, day 1 (4 October 1888), from The Daily Telegraph, 5 October 1888, p. 3 · Inquest day 1 (sitting of 4 October 1888); The Daily Telegraph, 5 October 1888, p. 3 · Transcription John Kelly
labourer who had lived with Eddowes for seven years
Gave evidence 4 October 1888
Editorial summary of the evidence
Kelly, a labourer who had lived with her for seven years at Cooney's lodging house, said they parted on good terms in Houndsditch at about 2 p.m. on Saturday when she went to find her daughter Annie in Bermondsey, promising to be back by four. He heard she had been locked up for drink but did not inquire, expecting her release in the morning. He described their return from hop-picking in Kent and pawning his boots, and denied that she went out for immoral purposes.
Verbatim report: The Daily Telegraph, 5 October 1888, p. 3
Historical text, verbatim:
John Kelly, a strong-looking labourer, was then called and said: I live at a lodging-house, 55, Flower and Dean-street. Have seen the deceased and recognise her as Catherine Conway. I have been living with her for seven years. She hawked a few things about the streets and lived with me at a common lodging-house in Flower and Dean-street. The lodging-house is known as Cooney's. I last saw her alive about two o'clock in the afternoon of Saturday in Houndsditch. We parted on very good terms. She told me she was going over to Bermondsey to try and find her daughter Annie. Those were the last words she spoke to me. Annie was a daughter whom I believe she had had by Conway. She promised me before we parted that she would be back by four o'clock, and no later. She did not return.
[Coroner] Did you make any inquiry after her? - I heard she had been locked up at Bishopsgate-street on Saturday afternoon. An old woman who works in then lane told me she saw her in the hands of the police.
[Coroner] Did you make any inquiry into the truth of this? - I made no further inquiries. I knew that she would be out on Sunday morning, being in the City.
[Coroner] Did you know why she was locked up? - Yes, for drink; she had had a drop of drink, so I was told. I never knew she went out for any immoral purpose. She occasionally drank, but not to excess. When I left her she had no money about her. She went to see and find her daughter to get a trifle, so that I shouldn't see her walk about the streets at night.
[Coroner] What do you mean by "walking the streets?" - I mean that if we had no money to pay for our lodgings we would have to walk about all night. I was without money to pay for our lodgings at the time. I do not know that she was at variance with any one - not in the least. She had not seen Conway recently - not that I know of. I never saw him in my existence. I cannot say whether Conway is living. I know of no one who would be likely to injure her.
The Foreman of the Jury: You say you heard the deceased was taken into custody. Did you ascertain, as a matter of fact, when she was discharged? - No. I do not know when she was discharged.
[Coroner] What time was she in the habit of returning to her lodgings? - Early.
[Coroner] What do you call early? - About eight or nine o'clock.
[Coroner] When she did not return on this particular evening, did it not occur to you that it would be right to inquire whether she had been discharged or not? - No, I did not inquire. I expected she would turn up on the Sunday morning.
Mr. Crawford: You say she had no money. Do you know with whom she had been drinking that afternoon? - I cannot say.
[Coroner] Do you know any one who paid for drink for her? - No.
[Coroner] Had she on a recent occasion absented herself from you at night? - No.
[Coroner] This was the only time? - Yes.
[Coroner] But had not she left you previously? - Yes, a long time ago - some months ago.
[Coroner] For what purpose? - We had a few words, and she went away, but came back in a few hours.
[Coroner] Had you had any angry conversation with her on Saturday afternoon? - No, not in the least.
[Coroner] No words about money? - No.
[Coroner] Have you any idea where her daughter lives? - She told me in King-street, Bermondsey, and that her name was Annie.
[Coroner] Had she been previously there for money? - Yes, once last year.
[Coroner] How long have you been living in this lodging-house together? - Seven years, in the self-same house.
[Coroner] Previous to this Saturday had you been sleeping there each evening during the week? - No; I slept there on Friday night, but she didn't.
[Coroner] Did she not sleep with you? - No.
[Coroner] Was she walking the streets that night? - She had the misfortune to go to Mile-end.
[Coroner] What happened there? - She went into the casual ward.
[Coroner] What was the evening you two slept at the lodging-house during that week? - Not one. [...]
Casebook transcription: Catherine Eddowes inquest, day 1 (4 October 1888), from The Daily Telegraph, 5 October 1888, p. 3 · Inquest day 1 (sitting of 4 October 1888); The Daily Telegraph, 5 October 1888, p. 3 · Transcription The excerpt is shortened. The full report is longer: follow the source link.
Frederick William Wilkinson
deputy of Cooney's lodging house, 55 Flower and Dean Street
Gave evidence 4 October 1888
Editorial summary of the evidence
The deputy of Cooney's had known the couple for seven years; they lived on good terms and Kate was 'a very jolly woman, always singing' and not often drunk. He saw them breakfast together on Saturday morning. His register showed 52 beds occupied on Saturday night, with six strangers, but he could not say whether anyone came in at about 2 a.m.
Verbatim report: The Daily Telegraph, 5 October 1888, p. 3
Historical text, verbatim:
Frederick William Wilkinson deposed: I am deputy of the lodging-house at Flower and Dean-street. I have known the deceased and Kelly during the last seven years. They passed as man and wife, and lived on very good terms. They had a quarrel now and then, but not violent. They sometimes had a few words when Kate was in drink, but they were not serious. I believe she got her living by hawking about the streets and cleaning amongst the Jews in Whitechapel. Kelly paid me pretty regularly. Kate was not often in drink. She was a very jolly woman, always singing. Kelly was not in the habit of drinking, and I never saw him the worse for drink. During the week the first time I saw the deceased at the lodging-house was on Friday afternoon. Kelly was not with her then. She went out and did not return until Saturday morning, when I saw her and Kelly in the kitchen together having breakfast. I did not see her go out, and I do not know whether Kelly went with her. I never saw her again.
[Coroner] Did you know she was in the habit of walking the streets at night? - No; she generally used to return between nine and ten o'clock. I never knew her to be intimate with any particular individual except Kelly; and never heard of such a thing. She use to say she was married to Conway; that her name was bought and paid for - meaning that she was married. She was not at variance with any one that I know of. When I saw her last, on Saturday morning, between ten and eleven, she was quite sober. I first heard from Kelly on Saturday night that Kate was locked up, and he said he wanted a single bed. That was about 7.30 in the evening. A single bed is 4d, and a double 8d.
By a Juryman: I don't take the names of the lodgers, but I know my "regulars." If a man comes and takes a bed I put the number of the bed down in my book, but not his name. Of course I know the names of my regular customers.
Mr. Crawford: When was the last time Kelly and the deceased had slept together in your house previous to last week? - The last time the two slept at the lodging-house was five or six weeks ago, before they went to the hop-picking. Kelly slept there on Friday and Saturday, but not Kate. I did not make any inquiry about her not being there on Friday. I could not say whether Kate went out with Kelly on Saturday, but I saw them having their breakfast together. I saw Kelly in the house about ten o'clock on Saturday night. I am positive he did not go out again. I cannot tell when he got up on Sunday. I saw him about dinner time. I believe on Saturday morning Kate was wearing an apron. Nothing unusual struck me about her dress. The distance between our place and the scene of the murder is about 500 yards. Several Jurymen: Oh, more than that.
Mr. Crawford: Did any one come into your lodging-house and take a bed between one and two o'clock on the Sunday morning? - No stranger came in then.
[Crawford] Did any one come into your lodging-house about that hour? - No; two detectives came about three, and asked if I had any women out.
[Crawford] Did anyone come into your lodging-house about two o'clock on Sunday morning whom you did not recognise? - I cannot say; I could tell by my book, which can soon be produced.
By a Juryman: Kelly and the deceased were at breakfast together between ten and eleven on Saturday morning. If they had told me the previous day that they had no money I would have trusted them. I trust all lodgers I know. The body was found half a mile from my lodging-house.
The deputy was dispatched for his book, with which after an interval he returned. It merely showed, however, that there were fifty-two beds occupied in the house on Saturday night. There were only six strangers. He could not say whether any one took a bed about two o'clock on Sunday morning. He had sometimes over 100 persons sleeping in the house at once. They paid for their beds, and were asked no questions.
Casebook transcription: Catherine Eddowes inquest, day 1 (4 October 1888), from The Daily Telegraph, 5 October 1888, p. 3 · Inquest day 1 (sitting of 4 October 1888); The Daily Telegraph, 5 October 1888, p. 3 · Transcription PC Edward Watkins (881 City)
City constable who found the body in Mitre Square
Gave evidence 4 October 1888
Editorial summary of the evidence
Watkins's 12-14 minute beat took him through Mitre Square. He passed through at 1.30 a.m. with his lantern and saw nothing; at 1.44 a.m. he found the woman in the south-west corner with 'her throat... cut and the stomach ripped open', lying in a pool of blood. He fetched the watchman Morris from Kearley and Tonge's warehouse and stayed with the body. He heard no footsteps and carried no whistle.
Verbatim report: The Daily Telegraph, 5 October 1888, p. 3
Content notice: graphic material
This item describes or shows severe injuries in explicit detail. It is part of the historical record and is shown for evidential reasons only.
Your choice applies to this kind of material for the rest of this browser session.
Also recorded as: Watkin; PC 881 City
Frederick William Foster
architect and surveyor who produced plans of Mitre Square
Gave evidence 4 October 1888
Editorial summary of the evidence
An architect and surveyor of Old Jewry, Foster produced plans of Mitre Square and the district and stated that Berner Street to Mitre Street was three-quarters of a mile, walkable in twelve minutes.
Verbatim report: The Daily Telegraph, 5 October 1888, p. 3
Historical text, verbatim:
Frederick William Foster, of 26, Old Jewry, architect and surveyor, produced a plan which he had made of the place where the body was found, and the district. From Berner-street to Mitre-street is three-quarters of a mile, and a man could walk the distance in twelve minutes.
Casebook transcription: Catherine Eddowes inquest, day 1 (4 October 1888), from The Daily Telegraph, 5 October 1888, p. 3 · Inquest day 1 (sitting of 4 October 1888); The Daily Telegraph, 5 October 1888, p. 3 · Transcription Inspector Edward Collard (City Police)
senior City officer at the scene
Gave evidence 4 October 1888
Editorial summary of the evidence
Collard received word at Bishopsgate at 1.55 a.m., reached the square at about 2.02, found Dr Sequeira there and the body untouched until Dr Brown arrived. He listed items found near the body and in her possession, including buttons, a thimble and a mustard tin containing two pawn tickets, saw no sign of a struggle, and judged that she had not been dead more than a quarter of an hour.
Verbatim report: The Daily Telegraph, 5 October 1888, p. 3
Historical text, verbatim:
Inspector Collard, of the City Police, said: At five minutes before two o'clock on Sunday morning last I received information at Bishopsgate-street Police-station that a woman had been murdered in Mitre-square. Information was at once telegraphed to headquarters. I dispatched a constable to Dr. Gordon Brown, informing him, and proceeded myself to Mitre-square, arriving there about two or three minutes past two. I there found Dr. Sequeira, two or three police officers, and the deceased person lying in the south-west corner of the square, in the position described by Constable Watkins. The body was not touched until the arrival shortly afterwards of Dr. Brown. The medical gentlemen examined the body, and in my presence Sergeant Jones picked up from the foot way by the left side of the deceased three small black buttons, such as are generally used for boots, a small metal button, a common metal thimble, and a small penny mustard tin containing two pawn-tickets. They were handed to me. The doctors remained until the arrival of the ambulance, and saw the body placed in the conveyance. It was then taken to the mortuary, and stripped by Mr. Davis, the mortuary keeper, in presence of the two doctors and myself. I have a list of articles of clothing more or less stained with blood and cut.
[Coroner] Was there any money about her? - No; no money whatever was found. A piece of cloth was found in Goulston-street, corresponding with the apron worn by the deceased. When I got to the square I took immediate steps to have the neighbourhood searched for the person who committed the murder. Mr. M'Williams, chief of the Detective Department, on arriving shortly afterwards sent men to search in all directions in Spitalfields, both in streets and lodging-houses. Several men were stopped and searched in the streets, without any good result. I have had a house-to-house inquiry made in the vicinity of Mitre-square as to any noises or whether persons were seen in the place; but I have not been able to find any beyond the witnesses who saw a man and woman talking together.
Mr. Crawford: When you arrived was the deceased in a pool of blood? - The head, neck, and, I imagine, the shoulders were lying in a pool of blood when she was first found, but there was no blood in front. I did not touch the body myself, but the doctor said it was warm.
[Crawford ?] Was there any sign of a struggle having taken place? - None whatever. I made a careful inspection of the ground all round. There was no trace whatever of any struggle. There was nothing in the appearance of the woman, or of the clothes, to lead to the idea that there had been any struggle. From the fact that the blood was in a liquid state I conjectured that the murder had not been long previously committed. In my opinion the body had not been there more than a quarter of an hour. I endeavoured to trace footsteps, but could find no trace whatever. The backs of the empty houses adjoining were searched, but nothing was found.
Casebook transcription: Catherine Eddowes inquest, day 1 (4 October 1888), from The Daily Telegraph, 5 October 1888, p. 3 · Inquest day 1 (sitting of 4 October 1888); The Daily Telegraph, 5 October 1888, p. 3 · Transcription Dr Frederick Gordon Brown
surgeon to the City of London Police; made the post-mortem
Gave evidence 4 October 1888 and 11 October 1888 (recalled)
Editorial summary of the evidence
The City Police surgeon arrived at about 2.18-2.20 a.m. and described the body on its back, face mutilated, throat cut and abdomen laid open, with (per his full deposition) the intestines placed over the right shoulder; the left kidney and most of the uterus had been removed and were missing. Cause of death was haemorrhage from the left common carotid artery; the mutilations were post-mortem. He judged the killer had 'a good deal of knowledge as to the position of the abdominal organs', worked at least five minutes kneeling on her right side, and that the Goulston Street apron piece matched the apron she wore. Recalled on 11 October, he rejected the theory that she was killed elsewhere.
Verbatim report: The Daily Telegraph, 5 October 1888, p. 3
Content notice: graphic material
This item describes or shows severe injuries in explicit detail. It is part of the historical record and is shown for evidential reasons only.
Your choice applies to this kind of material for the rest of this browser session.
Verbatim report: The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2
Content notice: medical evidence
This testimony contains clinical descriptions of injuries and post-mortem findings.
Your choice applies to this kind of material for the rest of this browser session.
Also reported elsewhere. Compare the wording:
Verbatim report: Casebook: Jack the Ripper, victim page "eddowes"
Content notice: graphic material
This item describes or shows severe injuries in explicit detail. It is part of the historical record and is shown for evidential reasons only.
Your choice applies to this kind of material for the rest of this browser session.
The excerpt is shortened. The full report is longer: follow the source link.
Dr George William Sequeira
local surgeon, first doctor at the scene
Gave evidence 11 October 1888
Editorial summary of the evidence
A surgeon of Jewry Street, Sequeira was the first doctor at the scene, arriving at 1.55 a.m. He agreed with Brown on the body's position, thought the spot the darkest part of the square but light enough, did not think the killer had 'any great anatomical skill' or a design on any particular organ, and put death at not more than a quarter of an hour before.
Verbatim report: The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2
Content notice: medical evidence
This testimony contains clinical descriptions of injuries and post-mortem findings.
Your choice applies to this kind of material for the rest of this browser session.
Dr William Sedgwick Saunders
Medical Officer of Health for the City; analysed the stomach
Gave evidence 11 October 1888
Editorial summary of the evidence
The City's Medical Officer of Health analysed the stomach contents for narcotic and other poisons, with negative results.
Verbatim report: The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2
Content notice: medical evidence
This testimony contains clinical descriptions of injuries and post-mortem findings.
Your choice applies to this kind of material for the rest of this browser session.
Annie Phillips
daughter of the deceased
Gave evidence 11 October 1888
Editorial summary of the evidence
Eddowes's daughter said her mother had lived with her father, Thomas Conway, a hawker and teetotaller who left because of her mother's drinking; she had not seen him for 15-18 months and did not know where he or her brothers were. Her mother had last received money from her 'just over two years ago', when she nursed her in her confinement, and she had last seen her mother and Kelly together about three and a half years earlier.
Verbatim report: The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2
Historical text, verbatim:
Annie Phillips stated: I reside at No. 12, Dilston-road, Southwark Park-road, and am married, my husband being a lamp-black packer. I am daughter of the deceased, who formerly lived with my father. She always told me that she was married to him, but I have never seen the marriage lines. My father's name was Thomas Conway.
The Coroner: Have you seen him lately? - Not for the last fifteen or eighteen months.
[Coroner] Where was he living then? - He was living with me and my husband, at No. 15, Acre-street, Southwark Park-road.
[Coroner] What calling did he follow? - That of a hawker.
[Coroner] What became of him? - I do not know.
[Coroner] Did he leave on good terms with you? - Not on very good terms.
[Coroner] Did he say that he would never see you again, or anything of that sort? - No.
[Coroner] Was he a sober man? - He was a teetotaller.
[Coroner] Did he live on bad terms with your mother? - Yes, because she used to drink.
[Coroner] Have you any idea where Conway is now? - Not the least. He ceased to live with Eddowes entirely on account of her drinking habits.
[Coroner] Your father was in the 18th Royal Irish Regiment? - So I have been told. He had been a pensioner ever since I was eight years old. I am twenty-three now. They parted about seven or eight years ago.
[Coroner] Did your mother ever apply to you for money? - Yes.
[Coroner] When did you last see her? - Two years and one month ago.
[Coroner] Where did you live when you last saw her? - In King-street, Bermondsey.
[Coroner] Have you any brothers or sisters by Conway? - Two brothers.
[Coroner] Where are they living? - In London.
[Coroner] Did your mother know where to find either of you? - No.
[Coroner] Were your addresses purposely kept from her? - Yes.
[Coroner] To prevent her applying for money.
The Foreman: Was your father aware when he left you that your mother was living with Kelly? - Yes.
Mr. Crawford: Are you quite certain that your father was a pensioner of the 18th Royal Irish? - I was told so, but I am not sure whether it was the 18th or the Connaught Rangers. It may have been the latter.
The Coroner: That is the 88th - I do not know.
Mr. Crawford: That is so. It so happens that there is a pensioner of the name of Conway belonging to the Royal Irish, but that is not the man.
To witness: When did your mother last receive money from you?
Witness: Just over two years ago. She waited upon me in my confinement, and I paid her for it.
[Coroner] Did you ever get a letter from her? - No.
[Coroner] Do you know anything about Kelly? - I have seen him two or three times at the lodging-house in Flower and Dean-street, with my mother.
[Coroner] When did you last see them together? - About three years and a half ago.
[Coroner] You knew they were living together as man and wife? - Yes.
[Coroner] Is it the fact that your father is living with your two brothers? - He was.
[Coroner] Where are your brothers residing now? - I do not know.
[Coroner] He was always with them. One was fifteen and the other eighteen years of age.
[Coroner] When did you last see them? - About eighteen months ago. I have not seen them since.
[Coroner] Are we to understand that you had lost all trace of your mother, father, and two brothers for at least eighteen months? - That is so.
Casebook transcription: Catherine Eddowes inquest, day 2 (11 October 1888), from The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Inquest day 2 (sitting of 11 October 1888); The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Transcription Detective Sergeant John Mitchell (City Police)
searched for Thomas Conway
Gave evidence 11 October 1888
Editorial summary of the evidence
Mitchell reported that the police had been unable to trace Thomas Conway or Annie Phillips's brothers; Detective Baxter Hunt added that a pensioner named Conway of the 18th Royal Irish had been found but Eddowes's sisters did not recognise him.
Verbatim report: The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2
Historical text, verbatim:
Detective-Sergeant John Mitchell, of the City police, said: I have, under instructions, and with other officers, made every endeavour to find the father and brothers of the last witness, but without success up to the present.
The Coroner: Have you found a pensioner named Conway belonging to the 18th Royal Irish? - I have. He has not been identified as the husband of the deceased. Detective Baxter Hunt: Acting under instructions, I discovered the pensioner, Conway, of the Royal Irish, and have confronted him with two sisters of the deceased, who, however, failed to recognise him as the man who used to live with the deceased. I have made every endeavour to trace the Thomas Conway in question and the brothers of Annie Phillips, but without success.
A Juror: Why did you not confront this Conway with the daughter of the deceased, Annie Phillips? - That witness had not been found then.
Casebook transcription: Catherine Eddowes inquest, day 2 (11 October 1888), from The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Inquest day 2 (sitting of 11 October 1888); The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Transcription PC Louis Robinson (931 City)
arrested Eddowes for drunkenness in Aldgate High Street
Gave evidence 11 October 1888
Editorial summary of the evidence
At 8.30 p.m. on 29 September, Robinson found Eddowes lying drunk on the footway outside 29 Aldgate High Street. With another constable he took her to Bishopsgate Police Station, where she gave her name as 'Nothing'. He identified the apron she was wearing.
Verbatim report: The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2
Historical text, verbatim:
City-constable Lewis Robinson, 931, deposed: At half-past eight, on the night of Saturday, Sept. 29, while on duty in High-street, Aldgate, I saw a crowd of persons outside No. 29, surrounding a woman whom I have since recognised as the deceased.
The Coroner: What state was she in? - Drunk. Lying on the footway? - Yes. I asked the crowd if any of them knew her or where she lived, but got no answer. I then picked her up and sat her against the shutters, but she fell down sideways. With the aid of a fellow-constable I took her to Bishopsgate Police-station. There she was asked her name, and she replied "Nothing." She was then put into a cell.
[Coroner] Did any one appear to be in her company when you found her? - No one in particular.
Mr. Crawford: Did any one appear to know her? - No. The apron being produced, torn and discoloured with blood, the witness said that to the best of his knowledge it was the apron the deceased was wearing.
The Foreman: What guided you in determining whether the woman was drunk or not?
Witness: Her appearance.
The Foreman: I ask you because I know of a case in which a person was arrested for being drunk who had not tasted anything intoxicating for eight or nine hours.
[Coroner] You are quite sure this woman was drunk? - She smelt very strongly of drink.
Casebook transcription: Catherine Eddowes inquest, day 2 (11 October 1888), from The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Inquest day 2 (sitting of 11 October 1888); The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Transcription Sergeant James Byfield (City Police)
station sergeant at Bishopsgate who released her
Gave evidence 11 October 1888
Editorial summary of the evidence
The station sergeant at Bishopsgate recorded her arrival, very drunk, at 8.45 p.m. and discharged her at about 1 a.m. when sober, after she gave her name and address as 'Mary Ann Kelly, No. 6, Fashion-street' and said she had been hopping.
Verbatim report: The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2
Historical text, verbatim:
Sergeant James Byfield, of the City Police: I remember the deceased being brought to the Bishopsgate Station at a quarter to nine o'clock on the night of Saturday, Sept. 29.
[Coroner] In what condition was she? - Very drunk. She was brought in supported by two constables and placed in a cell, where she remained until one o'clock the next morning, when she had got sober. I then discharged her, after she had given her name and address.
[Coroner] What name and address did she give? - Mary Ann Kelly, No. 6, Fashion-street, Spitalfields.
[Coroner] Did she say where she had been, or what she had been doing? - She stated that she had been hopping.
Casebook transcription: Catherine Eddowes inquest, day 2 (11 October 1888), from The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Inquest day 2 (sitting of 11 October 1888); The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Transcription PC George Henry Hutt (968 City)
gaoler at Bishopsgate Police Station
Gave evidence 11 October 1888
Editorial summary of the evidence
The gaoler checked on Eddowes in her cell during the evening and at 12.55 a.m. found her sober. Releasing her at about 1 a.m., he told her to pull the door to and she replied, 'All right. Good night, old cock'; he saw her turn left, towards Houndsditch. He identified her apron and said Mitre Square was about 400 yards away.
Verbatim report: The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2
Historical text, verbatim:
Constable George Henry Hutt, 968, City Police: I am gaoler at Bishopsgate station. On the night of Saturday, Sept. 29, at a quarter to ten o'clock, I took over our prisoners, among them the deceased. I visited her several times until five minutes to one on Sunday morning. The inspector, being out visiting, I was directed by Sergeant Byfield to see if any of the prisoners were fit to be discharged. I found the deceased sober, and after she had given her name and address, she was allowed to leave. I pushed open the swing-door leading to the passage, and said, "This way, missus." She passed along the passage to the outer door. I said to her, "Please, pull it to." She replied, "All right. Good night, old cock." (Laughter.) She pulled the door to within a foot of being close, and I saw her turn to the left.
The Coroner: That was leading towards Houndsditch? - Yes.
The Foreman: Is it left to you to decide when a prisoner is sober enough to be released or not? - Not to me, but to the inspector or acting inspector on duty.
[Coroner] Is it usual to discharge prisoners who have been locked up for being drunk at all hours of the night? - Certainly.
[Coroner] How often did you visit the prisoners? - About every half-hour. At first the deceased remained asleep; but at a quarter to twelve she was awake, and singing a song to herself, as it were. I went to her again at half-past twelve, and she then asked when she would be able to get out. I replied: "Shortly." She said, "I am capable of taking care of myself now."
Mr. Crawford: Did she tell you where she was going? - No. About two minutes to one o'clock, when I was taking her out of the cell, she asked me what time it was. I answered, "Too late for you to get any more drink." She said, "Well, what time is it?" I replied, "Just on one." Thereupon she said, "I shall get a ---- fine hiding when I get home, then."
[Coroner] Was that her parting remark? - That was in the station yard. I said, "Serve you right; you have no right to get drunk."
[Coroner] You supposed she was going home? - I did.
[Coroner] In your opinion is that the apron the deceased was wearing? - To the best of my belief it is.
[Coroner] What is the distance from Mitre-square to your station? - About 400 yards.
[Coroner] Do you know the direct route to Flower and Dean-street? - No.
A Juror: Do you search persons who are brought in for drunkenness? - No, but we take from them anything that might be dangerous. I loosened the things round the deceased's neck, and I then saw a white wrapper and a red silk handkerchief.
Casebook transcription: Catherine Eddowes inquest, day 2 (11 October 1888), from The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Inquest day 2 (sitting of 11 October 1888); The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Transcription George James Morris
night watchman at Kearley and Tonge's warehouse, Mitre Square
Gave evidence 11 October 1888
Editorial summary of the evidence
The night watchman at Kearley and Tonge's tea warehouse was sweeping the steps with the door ajar when Watkins pushed it and cried, 'For God's sake, mate, come to my assistance... here is another woman cut to pieces.' Morris ran out blowing his whistle to fetch more police. He had heard nothing beforehand, though he would have heard a cry.
Verbatim report: The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2
Historical text, verbatim:
George James Morris, night watchman at Messrs. Kearley and Tonge's tea warehouse, Mitre-square, deposed: On Saturday, Sept. 29, I went on duty at seven o'clock in the evening. I occupied most of my time in cleaning the offices and looking about the warehouse.
The Coroner: What happened about a quarter to two in the morning? - Constable Watkins, who was on the Mitre-square beat, knocked at my door, which was slightly ajar at the time. I was then sweeping the steps down towards the door. The door was pushed when I was about two yards off. I turned round and opened the door wide. The constable said, "For God's sake, mate, come to my assistance." I said, "Stop till I get my lamp. What is the matter?" "Oh, dear," he exclaimed, "here is another woman cut to pieces." I asked where, and he replied, "In the corner." I went into the corner of the square and turned my light on the body. I agree with the previous witnesses as to the position of the body. I ran up Mitre-street into Aldgate, blowing my whistle all the while.
[Coroner] Did you see any suspicious persons about? - No. Two constables came up and asked what was the matter. I told them to go down to Mitre-square, as there was another terrible murder. They went, and I followed and took charge of my own premises again.
[Coroner] Before being called by Constable Watkins, had you heard any noise in the square? - No.
[Coroner] If there had been any cry of distress, would you have heard it from where you were? - Yes.
By the Jury: I was in the warehouse facing the corner of the square.
By Mr. Crawford: Before being called I had no occasion to go into the square. I did not go there between one and two o'clock; of that I am certain. There was nothing unusual in my door being open and my being at work at so late an hour. I had not seen Watkins before during the night. I do not think my door had been ajar more than two or three minutes when he knocked.
Casebook transcription: Catherine Eddowes inquest, day 2 (11 October 1888), from The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Inquest day 2 (sitting of 11 October 1888); The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Transcription PC James Harvey (964 City)
City constable whose beat reached the end of Church Passage
Gave evidence 11 October 1888
Editorial summary of the evidence
Harvey's beat brought him down Duke Street and Church Passage to the edge of Mitre Square; he saw and heard nothing, and passed the Aldgate post-office clock at 1.28 a.m. Hearing a whistle, he met Morris and went to the body with PC Hollins, who fetched Dr Sequeira.
Verbatim report: The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2
Historical text, verbatim:
James Harvey, City constable, 964: On the night of Saturday, Sept. 29, I was on duty in the neighbourhood of Houndsditch and Aldgate. I was there at the time of the murder, but did not see any one nor hear any cry. When I got into Aldgate, returning towards Duke-street, I heard a whistle and saw the witness Morris with a lamp. I asked him what was the matter, and he told me that a woman had been ripped up in Mitre-square. Together with Constable Hollins I went to Mitre-square, where Watkins was by the side of the body of the deceased. Hollins went for Dr. Sequeira, and a private individual was despatched for other constables, who arrived almost immediately, having heard the whistle. I waited with Watkins, and information was sent to the inspector.
[Coroner] At what time previous to that were you in Aldgate? - At twenty-eight minutes past one o'clock I passed the post-office clock.
Casebook transcription: Catherine Eddowes inquest, day 2 (11 October 1888), from The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Inquest day 2 (sitting of 11 October 1888); The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Transcription George Clapp
caretaker, 5 Mitre Street (backing onto the square)
Gave evidence 11 October 1888
Editorial summary of the evidence
The caretaker at 5 Mitre Street, whose back rooms overlooked the square, went to bed at about 11 p.m. and heard no disturbance in the night.
Verbatim report: The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2
Historical text, verbatim:
George Clapp, caretaker at No. 5, Mitre-street, deposed: The back part of the house looks into Mitre-square. On the night of Saturday week last I retired to rest in the back room on the second floor about eleven o'clock.
The Coroner: During the night did you hear any disturbance in the square? - No.
[Coroner] When did you first learn that a murder had been perpetrated? - Between five and six o'clock in the morning.
By Mr. Crawford: A nurse, who was in attendance upon my wife, was sleeping at the top of the house. No person slept either on the ground floor or the first floor.
Casebook transcription: Catherine Eddowes inquest, day 2 (11 October 1888), from The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Inquest day 2 (sitting of 11 October 1888); The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Transcription PC Richard Pearce (922 City)
City constable living at 3 Mitre Square
Gave evidence 11 October 1888
Editorial summary of the evidence
A City constable living at 3 Mitre Square, from whose window the murder spot was plainly visible, Pearce went to bed at 12.20 a.m. and heard nothing until called at 2.20 a.m.
Verbatim report: The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2
Historical text, verbatim:
Constable Richard Pearce, 922 City: I reside at No. 3, Mitre-square. There are only two private houses in the square. I retired to rest at twenty minutes past twelve on the morning of last Sunday week.
[Coroner] Did you hear any noise in the square? - None at all. When did you first hear of the murder? - At twenty past two, when I was called by a constable.
[Coroner] From your bedroom window could you see the spot where the murder was committed? - Yes, quite plainly.
By Mr. Crawford: My wife and family were in no way disturbed during the night.
Casebook transcription: Catherine Eddowes inquest, day 2 (11 October 1888), from The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Inquest day 2 (sitting of 11 October 1888); The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Transcription Joseph Lawende
commercial traveller who saw a man and woman at Church Passage at 1.35 a.m.
Gave evidence 11 October 1888
Editorial summary of the evidence
A commercial traveller leaving the Imperial Club in Duke Street with Levy and Harris at about 1.35 a.m., Lawende saw a man and a woman at the corner of Church Passage, which leads into Mitre Square; she stood facing the man with her hand on his chest 'very quietly'. He identified her clothing as Eddowes's. At the City Solicitor's request his description of the man was withheld from the public beyond 'a cloth cap with a peak', 'rather rough and shabby'; he doubted he would know him again.
Verbatim report: The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2
Historical text, verbatim:
Joseph Lawende: I reside at No. 45, Norfolk-road, Dalston, and am a commercial traveller. On the night of Sept. 29, I was at the Imperial Club, Duke-street, together with Mr. Joseph Levy and Mr. Harry Harris. It was raining, and we sat in the club till half-past one o'clock, when we left. I observed a man and woman together at the corner of Church-passage, Duke-street, leading to Mitre-square.
The Coroner: Were they talking? - The woman was standing with her face towards the man, and I only saw her back. She had one hand on his breast. He was the taller. She had on a black jacket and bonnet. I have seen the articles at the police-station, and believe them to be those the deceased was wearing.
[Coroner] What sort of man was this? - He had on a cloth cap with a peak of the same.
Mr. Crawford: Unless the jury wish it, I do not think further particulars should be given as to the appearance of this man.
The Foreman: The jury do not desire it.
Mr. Crawford (to witness): You have given a description of the man to the police? - Yes.
[Coroner] Would you know him again? - I doubt it. The man and woman were about nine or ten feet away from me. I have no doubt it was half-past one o'clock when we rose to leave the club, so that it would be twenty-five minutes to two o'clock when we passed the man and woman.
[Coroner] Did you overhear anything that either said? - No.
[Coroner] Did either appear in an angry mood? - No.
[Coroner] Did anything about their movements attract your attention? - No. The man looked rather rough and shabby.
[Coroner] When the woman placed her hand on the man's breast, did she do it as if to push him away? - No; it was done very quietly.
[Coroner] You were not curious enough to look back and see where they went. - No.
Casebook transcription: Catherine Eddowes inquest, day 2 (11 October 1888), from The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Inquest day 2 (sitting of 11 October 1888); The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Transcription Joseph Hyam Levy
butcher, Lawende's companion
Gave evidence 11 October 1888
Editorial summary of the evidence
A butcher with Lawende, Levy saw the couple at the corner of Church Passage but paid little attention, thinking 'they were up to no good'. He thought the man about three inches taller than the woman, who was perhaps 5ft, and said the passage was badly lit.
Verbatim report: The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2
Historical text, verbatim:
Mr. Joseph Hyam Levy, the butcher in Hutcheson-street, Aldgate, stated: I was with the last witness at the Imperial Club on Saturday night, Sept. 29. We got up to leave at half-past one on Sunday morning, and came out three or four minutes later. I saw a man and woman standing at the corner of Church-passage, but I did not take any notice of them. I passed on, thinking they were up to no good at so late an hour.
[Coroner] What height was the man? - I should think he was three inches taller than the woman, who was, perhaps, 5ft high. I cannot give any further description of them. I went down Duke-street into Aldgate, leaving them still talking together.
By the Jury: The point in the passage where the man and woman were standing was not well lighted. On the contrary, I think it was badly lighted then, but the light is much better now.
By Mr. Crawford: Nothing in what I saw excited my suspicion as to the intentions of the man. I did not hear a word that he uttered to the woman.
[Coroner] Your fear was rather about yourself? - Not exactly. (Laughter.)
Casebook transcription: Catherine Eddowes inquest, day 2 (11 October 1888), from The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Inquest day 2 (sitting of 11 October 1888); The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Transcription PC Alfred Long (254A)
Metropolitan constable who found the apron piece and chalk writing in Goulston Street
Gave evidence 11 October 1888 (recalled)
Editorial summary of the evidence
At about 2.55 a.m. Long found a blood-stained piece of white apron in the passage leading to the staircase of Nos. 106-119 Goulston Street, a model dwelling-house (the Wentworth Model Dwellings), with chalk writing above it which he recorded as 'The Jews are the men that will not be blamed for nothing.' He said the apron had not been there when he passed at 2.20. Under questioning about the spelling ('Juwes') and why he searched the staircases but not the tenements, he produced his pocket-book. The writing was rubbed out in his presence at 5.30 a.m.
Verbatim report: The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2
Historical text, verbatim:
Constable Alfred Long, 254 A, Metropolitan police: I was on duty in Goulston-street, Whitechapel, on Sunday morning, Sept. 30, and about five minutes to three o'clock I found a portion of a white apron (produced). There were recent stains of blood on it. The apron was lying in the passage leading to the staircase of Nos. 106 to 119, a model dwelling-house. Above on the wall was written in chalk, "The Jews are the men that will not be blamed for nothing." I at once searched the staircase and areas of the building, but did not find anything else. I took the apron to Commercial-road Police-station and reported to the inspector on duty.
[Coroner] Had you been past that spot previously to your discovering the apron? - I passed about twenty minutes past two o'clock.
[Coroner] Are you able to say whether the apron was there then? - It was not.
Mr. Crawford: As to the writing on the wall, have you not put a "not" in the wrong place? Were not the words, "The Jews are not the men that will be blamed for nothing"? - I believe the words were as I have stated.
[Coroner] Was not the word "Jews" spelt "Juwes?" - It may have been.
[Coroner] Yet you did not tell us that in the first place. Did you make an entry of the words at the time? - Yes, in my pocket-book. Is it possible that you have put the "not" in the wrong place? - It is possible, but I do not think that I have.
[Coroner] Which did you notice first - the piece of apron or the writing on the wall? - The piece of apron, one corner of which was wet with blood.
[Coroner] How came you to observe the writing on the wall? - I saw it while trying to discover whether there were any marks of blood about.
[Coroner] Did the writing appear to have been recently done? - I could not form an opinion.
[Coroner] Do I understand that you made a search in the model dwelling-house? - I went into the staircases.
[Coroner] Did you not make inquiries in the house itself? - No.
The Foreman: Where is the pocket-book in which you made the entry of the writing? - At Westminster.
[Coroner] Is it possible to get it at once? - I dare say.
Mr. Crawford: I will ask the coroner to direct that the book be fetched.
The Coroner: Let that be done.
[...]
At this point Constable Long returned, and produced the pocket-book containing the entry which he made at the time concerning the discovery of the writing on the wall.
Mr. Crawford: What is the entry? - Witness: The words are, "The Jews are the men that will not be blamed for nothing." [Coroner] Both here and in your inspector's report the word "Jews" is spelt correctly? - Yes; but the inspector remarked that the word was spelt "Juwes."
[Coroner] Why did you write "Jews" then? - I made my entry before the inspector made the remark.
[Coroner] But why did the inspector write "Jews"? - I cannot say.
[Coroner] At all events, there is a discrepancy? - It would seem so.
[Coroner] What did you do when you found the piece of apron? - I at once searched the staircases leading to the buildings.
[Coroner] Did you make inquiry in any of the tenements of the buildings? - No.
[Coroner] How many staircases are there? - Six or seven.
[Coroner] And you searched every staircase? - Every staircase to the top.
[Coroner] You found no trace of blood or of recent footmarks? - No.
[Coroner] About what time was that? - Three o'clock.
[Coroner] Having examined the staircases, what did you next do? - I proceeded to the station.
[Coroner] Before going did you hear that a murder had been committed? - Yes. It is common knowledge that two murders have been perpetrated.
[Coroner] Which did you hear of? - I heard of the murder in the City. There were rumours of another, but not certain.
[Coroner] When you went away did you leave anybody in charge? - Yes; the constable on the next beat - 190, H Division - but I do not know his name.
[Coroner] Did you give him instructions as to what he was to do? - I told him to keep observation on the dwelling house, and see if any one entered or left.
[Coroner] When did you return? - About five o'clock.
[Coroner] Had the writing been rubbed out then? - No; it was rubbed out in my presence at half-past five.
[Coroner] Did you hear any one object to its being rubbed out? - No. It was nearly daylight when it was rubbed out.
A Juror: Having examined the apron and the writing, did it not occur to you that it would be wise to search the dwelling? - I did what I thought was right under the circumstances.
The Juror: I do not wish to say anything to reflect upon you, because I consider that altogether the evidence of the police redounds to their credit; but it does seem strange that this clue was not followed up.
Witness: I thought the best thing to do was to proceed to the station and report to the inspector on duty.
The Juror: I am sure you did what you deemed best. [...]
Casebook transcription: Catherine Eddowes inquest, day 2 (11 October 1888), from The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Inquest day 2 (sitting of 11 October 1888); The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Transcription The excerpt is shortened. The full report is longer: follow the source link.
Also recorded as: PC 254A
Detective Constable Daniel Halse (City Police)
City detective who copied the Goulston Street writing
Gave evidence 11 October 1888
Editorial summary of the evidence
Halse, one of the City plain-clothes officers on patrol, reached Mitre Square at about 2 a.m., went to Goulston Street and copied the chalk message as 'The Juwes are not the men who will be blamed for nothing.' He said instructions had been given to photograph it, but the Metropolitan Police had it rubbed out for fear of a riot against the Jews, despite his protest that it should at least remain until Major Smith had seen it.
Verbatim report: The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2
Historical text, verbatim:
Daniel Halse, detective officer, City police: On Saturday, Sept. 29, pursuant to instructions received at the central office in Old Jewry, I directed a number of police in plain clothes to patrol the streets of the City all night. At two minutes to two o'clock on the Sunday morning, when near Aldgate Church, in company with Detectives Outram and Marriott, I heard that a woman had been found murdered in Mitre-square. We ran to the spot, and I at once gave instructions for the neighbourhood to be searched and every man stopped and examined. I myself went by way of Middlesex-street into Wentworth-street, where I stopped two men, who, however, gave a satisfactory account of themselves. I came through Goulston-street about twenty minutes past two, and then returned to Mitre-square, subsequently going to the mortuary. I saw the deceased, and noticed that a portion of her apron was missing. I accompanied Major Smith back to Mitre-square, when we heard that a piece of apron had been found in Goulston-street. After visiting Leman-street police-station, I proceeded to Goulston-street, where I saw some chalk-writing on the black facia of the wall. Instructions were given to have the writing photographed, but before it could be done the Metropolitan police stated that they thought the writing might cause a riot or outbreak against the Jews, and it was decided to have it rubbed out, as the people were already bringing out their stalls into the street. When Detective Hunt returned inquiry was made at every door of every tenement of the model dwelling-house, but we gained no tidings of any one who was likely to have been the murderer.
By Mr. Crawford: At twenty minutes past two o'clock I passed over the spot where the piece of apron was found, but did not notice anything then. I should not necessarily have seen the piece of apron.
[Coroner] As to the writing on the wall, did you hear anybody suggest that the word "Jews" should be rubbed out and the other words left? - I did. The fear on the part of the Metropolitan police that the writing might cause riot was the sole reason why it was rubbed out. I took a copy of it, and what I wrote down was as follows: "The Juwes are not the men who will be blamed for nothing."
[Coroner] Did the writing have the appearance of having been recently done? - Yes. It was written with white chalk on a black facia.
The Foreman: Why was the writing really rubbed out? - Witness: The Metropolitan police said it might create a riot, and it was their ground.
Mr. Crawford: I am obliged to ask this question. Did you protest against the writing being rubbed out? - Witness: I did. I asked that it might, at all events, be allowed to remain until Major Smith had seen it. Why do you say that it seemed to have been recently written? - It looked fresh, and if it had been done long before it would have been rubbed out by the people passing. I did not notice whether there was any powdered chalk on the ground, though I did look about to see if a knife could be found. There were three lines of writing in a good schoolboy's round hand. The size of the capital letters would be about 3/4 in, and the other letters were in proportion. The writing was on the black bricks, which formed a kind of dado, the bricks above being white.
Casebook transcription: Catherine Eddowes inquest, day 2 (11 October 1888), from The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Inquest day 2 (sitting of 11 October 1888); The Daily Telegraph, 12 October 1888, p. 2 · Transcription
The coroner's summing-up (excerpt)
Historical text, verbatim:That being all the evidence forthcoming, The coroner said he considered a further adjournment unnecessary, and the better plan would be for the jury to return their verdict and then leave the matter in the hands of the police.
In summing up it would not be at all necessary for him to go through the testimony of the various witnesses, but if the jury wanted their memories refreshed on any particular point he would assist them by referring to the evidence on that point. That the crime was a most fiendish one could not for a moment be doubted, for the miscreant, not satisfied with taking a defenceless woman's life, endeavoured so to mutilate the body as to render it unrecognisable.
He [Coroner] presumed that the jury would return a verdict of wilful murder against some person or persons unknown, and then the police could freely pursue their inquiries and follow up any clue they might obtain. A magnificent reward had been offered, and that might be the means of setting people on the track and bringing to speedy justice the creature who had committed this atrocious crime.
On reflection, perhaps it would be sufficient to return a verdict of wilful murder against some person unknown, inasmuch as the medical evidence conclusively demonstrated that only one person could be implicated.
The jury at once returned a verdict accordingly.