Sarah's 'Fright' 1859

The Fate Of Sarah

I want to crawl inside me, to you, baby.

To wrap myself around your little soul

And envelop your life into my own.

There forever.

They will take you from me, my baby,

Slide you out into the world.

Away from the comfort of my heartbeat

And the haven of my womb.

I didn’t mean for you to be there baby,

I didn’t try to give you life.

I only know I have to do man’s bidding

As a girl, a mistress or a wife.

They abuse me with names and accusations,

They say I’m a witch and lead them on.

They say I’m not fit to be a mother

And must be locked away to await my daughter or my son.

My heart is aching, my tears are drained,

My hands are shaking in fear.

The searing pains are racking my body

But guiding you baby, so near

Into my arms.

But you didn’t reach my arms baby,

You didn’t cry for me!

You whimpered meekly, you simpered softly

But didn’t yell for me!

You let them take you, you succumbed to their will,

You abandoned your mother,

You sent me to hell!

Oh! Forgive me baby, I let you down.

I let them take you, I didn’t fight,

I weakly surrendered to their way…

I held out my arms but couldn’t grasp!

I’m trying to wade through the torment of my life,

But I am not worthy.

With you inside I was somewhere towards love.

Without you I am somewhere towards despair.
(Polly Mullaney-Hinchliffe)

Sarah David… female 40 years… Single Spinster… Holyhead 1859

2nd Aug

Dementia … Almost idiotic and has been in her present state for 26 years and for the past twelve months confined to the house.
First caused it is said of a fright, lately been a little more violent - Bodily health feeble.

9th Aug.

Has been quiet, but no hope of any mental improvement.

1 Sept

No change

1 Oct

No alteration in any way.

Nov.

Continues without any alteration ---

Dec.

No improvement in any way

15th

 No Mental improvement

18th

Is quiet and does a little in the way of occupation but mind completely gone.

Is gradually getting weaker & is sinking.

12th

Died