Articles and media mentions of Torpedo Billy Murphy

ollowing is a transcript of a letter believed to be written to James Murphy, father of Billy, Jimmy and Tim.

April 14th 1898

Dear Sir

Being the boxing editor of the Standard & Diggers News. To which you recently addressed a letter asking for information respecting the death of your son Jimmy, your communication was handed to me to answer the other day. The unfortunate boy I knew him very well indeed, about a year ago
went in to training for a contest with Martin Denny and during the course of his preparation contracted a severe attack of Eye poisoning through using a red coloured pocket handkerchief to wipe his face while he was in a state of profuse perspiration which resulted in his losing his right eye, and the cancellation of the undertaking he had entered into. The removal of his optic prayed on the poor boys mind to such an extent that he fell into a very despondent state from which despite the unremitting efforts of his large circle of friends all of whom belonged to the best class of people he could not be dragged.

Shortly after leaving the infirmary where the operation of depriving him partially of his sight had been performed. Young Jim began to lead an erratic existence not appearing to care whether he lived or not.

About this time July his patron and friend Mr J R Couper committed suicide, and as he was deeply attached to the late author of Mixed Humanity his melancholia became aggravated, finally he was seized with camp fever and was removed to the hospital whether not withstanding careful nursing and the best medical ...procured he passed away on Nov. 7th.

During his last moments a Roman Catholic priest Revd Father De-Lacy administered spiritual comfort to him and the same gentleman officiated at his burial. To mark the spot where he lies a handsome little monument has been erected to his memory by his admirers. I shall have this photographed and shall forward you a copy of the picture. It may console you some what to be assured by me that though he died far away from home nothing that money could command to prevent your son going to his long rest was spared by the inhabitants of Johannesburg.

Condoling sincerely with you in your affection.

I am Yours faithfull W.E or T Mackay

Under headstone letter says.

Jim Murphy's grave, taken in South Africa (inscription reads as follows)

I. H.S.
In Memory of
James Murphy
Died at Johannesburg
7th Dec. 1897
Aged 25
R.I.P.
This stone is erected as a mark of respect
By Johannesburg Sportsmen