§ 80. Mr. GINNELLasked if the hon. Gentleman can state the present estimated value of the property left by Mrs. Helen. Blake née Sheridan, a native of Boherquill, Westmeath, who died childless and intestate at Kensington some thirty years ago; why Mrs. Blake's next-of-kin have never been sought in her native parish where they are; whether they will now be afforded an opportunity of proving their kinship; and whether an account of the property, and of what has been done in relation to it, can be examined on their behalf?
§ Mr. MASTERMANThe property left by Mrs. Helen Blake, late of No. 4, Earl's Terrace, Kensington, who died on 23rd September, 1876, a widow and intestate, is of the value of£100,000 and upwards. The estate was administered under the direction of the High Court, which found in the year 1884, after the issue of the usual advertisements for kin, that the deceased died without known kin, and that the estate had devolved on the Crown. It is open to any person now claiming to be next of kin to take such proceedings at law as he may be advised. So far as the advisers of the Crown are aware, there is no evidence that the deceased was a native of Boherquill, Westmeath, or that any kin of hers are living there. The accounts do not bear on the question of title, and could only be shown when title had been proved.
§ Mr. GINNELLCan the hon. Gentleman say where these advertisements for kin appeared?
§ Mr. MASTERMANI am afraid I cannot without notice. If the hon. Member will give me notice I will inquire.