Hi MargM Yes, I did see the replies and was just in the middle of answering yours when your second message came through. Thanks so much for all your help. I'm sure you're correct re the records being lost. Charles sure is elusive even in death!! The Charles in NSW Probate indexes is my Charles. He had lived in Paddington, NSW but died in Culcairn. His parents were supposedly Ellen & Charles but I have no idea where they were from. His wife's name was Alice Maud/e Butler. They married in QLD in Springhill, Brisbane in 1910. He was a Showman, travelling Optician, Theatrical Agent etc., etc., which is what he was doing when he died in Culcairn...well I assume he was! The Affidavit signed by the Police Constable doesn't mention a doctor attending the deceased only that the Constable 'knew and was well acquainted with the deceased'. Hmmmm wonder why. Today I phoned the Public Trustee in Sydney to ask what other paper work there might be with regard to Charles wife claiming his belongings etc. I was told that in order for them to look it up it would cost me $100+ - unbelievable! But I'm considering it. I'll have to keep plugging away. My next effort will be to try to track his widow, Alice Maud Coles nee Butler. She seems to use Maud as her first name. She may have re-married or perhaps stayed a widow. I received a Marriage cert. today hoping it was her but no luck. I've offered it to anyone interested via the NSW List but of course anyone can email me and I'll send them a scan. I'm in touch with her descendants but they have no idea what happened to her. If I can track her I might just get some answers. Thanks again for your help, much appreciated. Marcelle Western Australia