Obituaries Australia

The body of a man named William Rich was found in the river near the Dobie-street punt, Grafton, on Friday. The man's legs were tied at the ankles, and the hands were tied behind his back. It is presumed that the body had been in the water several days, and the victim is unknown further than by his belongings. Among his possessions were an elector's right bearing date March 14th, 1894, and issued in the name of William Rich, Inverell. The trousers pocket contained three A.J.S. £1 notes, and 18s 0½d in coin. In his pocket book was an address, Arthur H. Rich, care of F. Marshall, Warialda, and an order on Maclean and Davis, Inverell, for 1s, provided the bearer purchased £1 worth of goods. In a tent at the foot of Fitzroy street was found a ready reckoner containing scriptural quotations, and an intimation to return (if found) to W. Rich, rousabout. The coat and hat were found on the flap of the punt. Deceased was about 40 years of age, had brown hair, sandy beard, and was slightly bald in the front of the head. The man to all appearances had committed suicide. An enquiry was held at the Star Hotel by the P.M. on Friday, Dr. Smith stating it was possible for the man to tie himself in the manner he was found. The decision was that Wm. Rich came by his death by drowning on the night of September 10th.— S. G. Mercury