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Dog Unearths Clue Linked to Victorian Murder Case

3/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Paul Phillips's dog, Stanley, unearthed a blue bottle inscribed 'Not to be taken' in the garden at Clyst Honiton.
He believes the find may relate to a Victorian murder case.
The 1865 murder of William Ashford by his wife Mary Ann, hanged in Exeter, ended with a guilty verdict on March 16, 1866, amid inheritance-related allegations.

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Story summary

Paul Phillips's dog, Stanley, unearthed a blue bottle inscribed 'Not to be taken' in the garden at Clyst Honiton.
He believes the find may relate to a Victorian murder case.
The 1865 murder of William Ashford by his wife Mary Ann, hanged in Exeter, ended with a guilty verdict on March 16, 1866, amid inheritance-related allegations.