Genre:

News-Commentary

Subjects:

Utilitarianism, Class, Narcotics, Medical Treatment, Health

    Reports on the death from exhaustion of a pauper at the St Pancras Poor Law Union Workhouse. Explains that the deceased was denied the brandy that would have revived him because the poor-law guardian locked away the liquor. Adds that the administration of the brandy and other stimulants is now to be placed in the hands of the matron and head nurse of the workhouse infirmary. Concludes that this resolution has cost the guardians some effort but that because they saved brandy they have 'been let down so lightly as by a mere deposition from the dignity of "The Ruler of the Spirits"'. This is a possible reference to Carl M F E von Weber's opera Der Freischütz.