Newspaper Extract
Suspected Death from Poison in 1872
A mysterious case of poisoning is now under investigation. Some weeks ago a married lady named Mrs. Sarah Bates, 53 years of age, of 114 Tennant Street, Birmingham, paid a visit to Mr. Emiley of Whiston Grove, Rotherham, in order to attend the marriage festivities of his daughter.
On the 18th October she visited a son in law of Mr. Emiley's who resided in the neighbourhood, and while there had sausages for supper.
About midnight, the same night, she was taken seriously ill and her life was in danger. Mr. Oxley the surgeon attended her and she improved.
Later she had a relapse and showed signs of mineral poisoning. She died on 26th October.
She was buried at the Old Cemetery, Birmingham on 31st October.
There was much excitement in Rotherham at the time and the deceased's husband made an application to the Birmingham coroner that he wished an enquiry to be made, stating there were rumours that his wife had been purposely poisoned.
The body was exhumed and after tests, the inquiry was adjourned.
Source: Leeds Mercury
