Publisher's Synopsis
This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1882 edition. Excerpt: ... majority of instances, the inference to which a piece of circumstantial real evidence gives rise, is only probable or presumptive. On charges of homicide, for in Now turning to the evidence, we find that on the 9th day of July last (1873), as John Ilurford was passing Baer's Woods, on the Gap and Newport Turnpike in this county, he observed buzzards about it, and an unpleasant odor in the vicinity. Two days later, as Gainer P. Moore passed the same place, on his way to Cochranville, he observed buzzards there in large numbers, and a very offensive odor. When returning home he entered the woods to ascertain the cause of what he observed; and at the distance of about sixty-five feet from the turnpike, discovered (in his own language) " something mysteriously hidden;" a small part of which was uncovered (doubtless by the birds), the balance concealed by means of leaves and a thin covering of earth, with the dead limbs of trees placed lengthwise over it. Obtaining the aid of Mr. Rhoades, who lives some distance away, he returned to the place with a shovel. Upon the earth being raised up at the left side of the body, a bloody shirt was uncovered. Next the head was raised, and the body ascertained to be that of a man. At this time, the witness says, the face was quite white and natural; and he believes he could have recognized it, had he been acquainted with the individual in life. It was now about half-past five o'clock in the evening. They left the grave in the condition described; and (after attempting to procure the aid of a man who drove by on the turnpike) went to Penningtonville, and notified the deputy coroner, Mr. Rambo. This gentleman, with several others, started for the place, and reached it, as they have said, about seven o'clock, ...
