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Country code |
GB |
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Repository code |
234 |
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Repository |
National Records of Scotland |
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Reference |
HH16/40 |
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Title |
Criminal case file: Ethel Moorhead alias Edith Johnston, alias Mary Humphreys, alias Margaret Morrison and Dorothea Lynas or Smith (Suffragettes) |
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Dates |
1912-1914 |
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Access status |
Restricted |
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Access conditions |
This record has been digitally imaged and will not be produced for readers. The digital images may be seen in the NRS Search Rooms on the 'Virtual Volumes' system. |
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Location |
Off site |
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Description |
Ethel Moorhead, alias Edith Johnston, alias Mary Humphreys, alias Margaret Morrison.
As Edith Johnston: convicted of Malicious Mischief, Stirling Sheriff Summary Court, 7 Sep 1912 and sentenced to a fine of £2 or 7 days imprisonment (prison no. 540/12, Perth Prison).
As Ethel Moorhead: convicted of Assault at Edinburgh Police Court, 2 Nov 1912 and sentenced to a fine of £1 or 10 days imprisonment.
As Mary Humphreys: convicted of Malicious Mischief at Aberdeen Police Court, 3 Dec 1912 and sentenced to a fine of 40s or 10 days imprisonment. Prison number 536/12, H.M. Prison Aberdeen. (See file HH16/41).
As Margaret Morrison: convicted of Assault, Breach of the Peace, Malicious Mischief and Assault at Cupar Sheriff Summary Court, 4 Feb 1913 and sentenced to a fine of £20 or 30 days imprisonment (prison no. 48/13, Perth Prison). Convicted of Housebreaking and Attempted Fire-raising, High Court, Glasgow, 15 Oct 1913 and sentenced to 8 months imprisonment. Suspected of fire raising in Perthshire.
Dorothea Lynas or Smith: convicted of Housebreaking and Attempted Fire-raising, High Court, Glasgow, 15 Oct 1913 and sentenced to 8 months imprisonment.
There are 7 parts to the file. Part 1 contains the following documents:
Copy telegram to Perth Prison, 7 Sep 1912. States that case to be treated under special rule pending approval of Secretary for Scotland, and requesting further information.
Copy answer by Secretary for Scotland to Parliamentary Question (PQ) by Mr T.M. Healy MP about the treatment of Ethel Moorhead, 31 Mar 1914. Attached newspaper cutting from 'The Scotsman' with text of Mr Healy's question and Secretary for Scotland's answer, 1 Apr 1914.
Telegram from the Governor of Perth Prison to the Prison Commissioners, 7 Sep 1912. Reports admission of suffragette prisoner who protests against ordinary treatment, and gives the opinion that she should be treated as a civil prisoner, pending instructions.
Report by the Medical Officer to the Governor of Perth Prison, 7 Sep 1912. States that the prisoner Edith Johnston has indicated that she will refuse food under certain conditions, describes her physical condition and offers the opinion that artificial feeding may be appropriate in this case.
Report from the Governor of Perth Prison to the Prison Commissioners, 7 Sep 1912. States that Edith Johnston has been granted privileges of a civil prisoner in accordance with the instructions received and that she is receiving a special diet. "On admission the prisoner refused to give any information regarding her previous history, but she appears to be respectable, and I would say well brought up, I may state when visited by the Medical Officer she accidentally let out that she was once in Holloway Prison for 2 days untried, for a similar offence."
Draft letter from the Prison Commission to the Under Secretary for Scotland, 9 Sep 1912. Reports details of Edith Johnston's admission to Perth Prison and seeks approval from Secretary for Scotland to treat her according to the special Rule for suffragette prisoners.
Report from the Governor of Perth Prison to the Prison Commissioners, 10 Sep 1912. States that Edith Johnston has broken windows in the prison and refused food in protest about her status, and gives details of privileges granted. Annotated to state that she has since accepted privileges.
Letter from John Lamb, Scottish Office to the Prison Commissioners, 11 Sep 1912. Grants approval for the treatment of Edith Johnston according to the special Rule approved by the Secretary for Scotland on 29 Jul 1910.
Letter from Edith Johnston to the Prison Commissioners, 24 Sep 1912. Protests about the condition of the police cell in Stirling where she was held overnight on the 6 Sep 1912, and that the Governor of Perth Prison didn't grant privileges as a political prisoner until she fought for them.
Report from the Matron to the Governor of Perth Prison, 26 Sep 1912. States that Edith Johnston behaved very badly in prison, defying authority and refusing to conform to any prison rules.
Newspaper cutting from 'Votes for Women', 20 Sep 1912. Article entitled 'Scots Wha Hae' describes Edith Johnston's offence (smashing glass at the Wallace monument) and her trial, and gives the text of her letter complaining about the condition of the police cell at Stirling and about her fight for privileges at Perth Prison.
Report from the Governor of Perth Prison to the Chairman of the Prison Commissioners, 25 Sep 1912. States that Edith Johnston was defiant throughout her imprisonment, and that her complaints about her treatment are only partially accurate.
Copy extract from letter from Edith Johnston to the Prison Commissioners protesting about her treatment in Perth Prison, 24 Sep 1912. Annotated with comments by the Prison Commissioners and the Governor of Perth Prison.
Letter from the Chief Constable, Stirling to D. Crombie, Secretary, Prison Commission, 26 Sep 1912. Comments on Edith Johnston's complaints about her confinement in the prison cells at Stirling, claiming that these are exaggerated. "I have no doubt whatever that Miss Johnston's complaint is made for the sole purpose of carrying out the avowed policy of the Suffragists to cause trouble. She was made more comfortable here than she had any right to be."
Newspaper cutting from the 'Edinburgh Evening Dispatch, 2 Nov 1912. Article entitled 'The Suffragette and the Teacher' describes Ethel Moorhead's trial on a charge of assaulting a teacher at Broughton Higher Grade School with a whip on the 25 Oct 1912.
Letter from Margaret Morrison to the Governor [of Dundee Prison], 15 Feb 1913. Alleges that a rug and cushion sent to her while in Dundee Prison were retained by the Matron and were not given to her on her release, and asks to know where these items are. Cover sheet attached.
Report from the Matron to the Governor of Dundee Prison, 17 Feb 1913. States that Margaret Morrison took all her property with her on leaving the prison for trial at Cupar Sheriff Court, including the rug and cushion alleged to have been lost.
Report from M. McIvor, 2nd Class Warder, to the Governor of Dundee Prison, 17 Feb 1913. States that Margaret Morrison's luggage was attached to the top of the car taking them from Dundee Prison to Cupar and Perth, and that on arrival at Perth Prison the prisoner informed her that a brown rug was missing.
Report from Elizabeth Tully, 2nd Class Warder to the Governor of Dundee Prison, 17 Feb 1913. States that all of Margaret Morrison's property was sent from the prison by car.
Copy memo from Ja[me]s Crowe, Governor of Dundee Prison to Margaret Morrison, 17 Feb 1913. Acknowledges receipt of letter concerning lost property but states that all articles were sent from Dundee Prison to Cupar with the prisoner.
Letter from Margaret Morrison to the Governor of Dundee Prison, 18 Feb 1913. Acknowledges receipt of answers concerning lost property, but holds the Governor answerable and threatens that the matter will be placed in the hands of her solicitors.
Inventory of clothing and other articles received with Margaret Morrison on admission to prison, 4 Feb 1913. Annotated "Comm[issioner]s. Forwarded. J. Grant Gov[ernor of Perth Prison] 26:2.13."
Report from the Matron to the Governor of Perth Prison, 22 Feb 1913. States that on admission to the prison Margaret Morrison complained that a rug was not found amongst her property, and that she used a friend's rug whilst in Perth Prison.
Statement from Thomas D Duncan, motor car driver, 20 Feb 1913. States his role in the delivery of Margaret Morrison's luggage from Dundee to Cupar and Perth.
Minutes of communication between staff at Dundee and Perth Prisons and the Prison Commissioners concerning Margaret Morrison's claims about missing property, 18-20 Feb 1913.
Letter from D. Crombie, Secretary, Prison Commission to the Governor of Dundee Prison, 19 Feb 1913. Requests that the driver of the motor car which took Margaret Morrison to Cupar and Perth be interviewed for a report to be sent to the Prison Commissioners. Annotated with minutes of communication between the Governor of Perth Prison and Mr Crombie, 20-26 Feb 1913.
Inventory of Margaret Morrison's clothing etc as entered in female prisoners property book, [Dundee Prison], undated. Annotated to show that it was forwarded to the Prison Commissioners on 25 Feb 1913.
Minutes of communication between staff at Dundee Prison and the Prison Commissioners about Margaret Morrison's claims of missing property, 24-26 Feb 1913.
Report from the Matron to the Governor of Dundee Prison concerning Margaret Morrison's property, 25 Feb 1913.
Report from the Matron to the Governor of Dundee Prison replying to specific queries concerning Margaret Morrison's property, 26 Feb 1913.
Report from M. McIvor, 2nd Class Warder to the Governor of Dundee Prison concerning Margaret Morrison's property, 26 Feb 1913.
Newspaper cutting from the 'Edinburgh Evening Dispatch', 7 Sep 1912. Article entitled 'Wallace Monument Incident' describes Edith Johnston's trial at Stirling Sheriff Court.
Letter from Margaret Morrison to the Secretary, Prison Commission, 24 Feb 1913. Provides a full summary of events relating to her lost property and complains about her treatment on remand at Dundee Prison by the Governor.
Unsigned note concerning Margaret Morrison's refusal to submit to medical examination and unsuitability for artificial feeding, 4 Feb 1913.
Part 2 contains the following documents:
Copy letter from Margaret Morrison to the Secretary, the Prison Commission, 24 Feb 1913. Provides a full summary of events relating to her lost property and complains about her treatment on remand at Dundee Prison by the Governor. Annotated with comments from Prison Commission staff.
Covering note from the Governor of Dundee Prison to the Prison Commissioners accompanying papers relating to Margaret Morrison's lost property, 26 Feb 1913.
Note of questions from the Prison Commissioners to Miss McIvor, Warder at Dundee Prison concerning the transit of Margaret Morrison's possessions, with transcript of Miss McIvor's answers, 27 Feb 1913.
Copy letter from Margaret Morrison to the Secretary, the Prison Commission, 24 Feb 1913. Provides a full summary of events relating to her lost property and complains about her treatment on remand at Dundee Prison by the Governor. Annotated with comments from Prison Commission staff.
Report from the Governor of Perth Prison to the Prison Commissioners, 26 Feb 1913. Answers specific questions posed by the Commissioners about Margaret Morrison's letter of 24 Feb 1913.
Minutes of telephone conversations about Margaret Morrison's property between William Harvey, Prison Commission and staff at Perth and Dundee Prisons, 27 Feb 1913.
Report from the Governor of Dundee Prison to the Prison Commissioners, 4 Mar 1913. Gives details from the Police Inspector who accompanied Margaret Morrison from Dundee Prison concerning her luggage and states that the police have been asked to check local dealers, brokers and pawn shops for the missing items.
Draft letter from the Prison Commission to J. Tennant Gordon Esq, Chief Constable of Fife, undated. Describes the circumstances concerning Margaret Morrison's luggage and refers the matter to the Chief Constable as the loss occurred while the prisoner was in the custody of a police officer.
Fifeshire Constabulary form giving list of prisoners sent from Cupar Sheriff Court to Dundee Prison with money and other articles signed for, 30 Jan 1913.
Copy letters between Margaret Morrison and Inspector A Peattie concerning the alleged loss of property in transit from Dundee Prison to Cupar and Perth, 18-19 Feb 1913.
Copy letter from D. Crombie, Secretary, Prison Commission to J. Tennant Gordon Esq, Chief Constable of Fife, 5 Mar 1913. States the Commission's view that the police were responsible for Margaret Morrison's luggage between the time of leaving Dundee Prison and arriving at Perth Prison.
Letter from J. Tennant Gordon Esq, Chief Constable of Fife, to the Secretary, Prison Commission, 1 Mar 1913. Encloses copy letters between Margaret Morrison and Inspector Peattie and form giving list of prisoners (found elsewhere in Pt 2 of file).
Letter from Margaret Morrison to the Prison Commissioners, 13 Mar 1913. Requests return of missing rug and threatens action from solicitors.
Report from the Matron to the Governor of Dundee Prison, 21 Mar 1913. Describes the drawing up of a list of Margaret Morrison's property on admission to the prison, and states that the prisoner was not asked to sign the property list on her removal from the prison due to the difficulty she was causing.
Letter from Margaret Morrison to the Secretary, Prison Commission, 19 Mar 1913. States that she cannot find the police responsible for the loss of her rug and cushion as these were not brought from Dundee Prison, and reports that she was not asked to sign a receipt for her property on leaving the prison. Annotated with comments from the Prison Commission and the Governor of Dundee Prison.
Copy letter from D. Crombie, Secretary, Prison Commission to J. Tennant Gordon Esq, Chief Constable of Fife, 19 Mar 1913. States that property belonging to prisoners in transit is responsibility of police, and that the Commissioners propose to inform Margaret Morrison that all her property was handed to the police officer who escorted her from Dundee Prison.
Letter from J. Tennant Gordon Esq, Chief Constable of Fife, to D. Crombie, Secretary, Prison Commission, 18 Mar 1913. States that Fifeshire Constabulary can take no responsibility for a rug alleged to be missing by Margaret Morrison.
Copy letter from D. Crombie, Secretary, Prison Commission to Margaret Morrison, 22 Mar 1913. States that after careful enquiry the Prison Commissioners find that all her property received into Dundee Prison was put on the taxi-cab with her when she left the prison.
Letter from J. Tennant Gordon Esq, Chief Constable of Fife, to D. Crombie, Secretary, Prison Commission, 20 Mar 1913. Acknowledges receipt of letter dated 19 Mar 1913 and objects to the reply proposed to be sent to Margaret Morrison.
Letter from J. Tennant Gordon Esq, Chief Constable of Fife, to D. Crombie, Secretary, Prison Commission, 25 Mar 1913. Acknowledges receipt of letter dated 22 Mar 1913 enclosing copy of letter to Margaret Morrison.
Report from the Governor of Dundee prison to the Prison Commissioners, with extract from Medical Officer's Journal, 31 Jan 1913. Describes the results of two visits to Margaret Morrison while held as an untried prisoner and her general mental state. "You will observe the M:O. is of opinion that the visits have 'done her no good' and recommends that others should not be admitted in the meantime. I quite agree with him for Miss Morrison turned from a lamb to a lion after seeing her friends going back to her cell & breaking eight panes of glass after giving me her word on her honour that she would break or destroy nothing."
Report from Fifeshire Constabulary, undated. Describes the circumstances of Margaret Morrison's arrest in Leven on 29 Jan 1913 on a charge of assaulting a police constable by throwing a packet of pepper which struck him on the face, with an account of her behaviour until she was removed to Dundee prison the next day.
Letter from J. Tennant Gordon Esq, Chief Constable of Fife, to the Governor of Dundee Prison, 30 Jan 1913. Requests that photographs and finger prints of Margaret Morrison be taken and sent to New Scotland Yard, and states that the prisoner is suspected of being a militant suffragette with previous convictions. Annotated by the Governor to state that Margaret Morrison has not given any trouble but that he is sure she will object, and requesting instructions from the Prison Commissioners.
Minutes of communication between the Governor of Dundee Prison and the Prison Commissioners, 31 Jan-3 Feb 1913. Notes the Prison Commissioners decision that force should not be used if Margaret Morrison refuses to consent to being photographed and finger printed. Attached letter from the Procurator Fiscal, Cupar to the Governor, 30 Jan 1913. Requests that Margaret Morrison be observed by the Medical Officer of the prison to judge her mental condition and suitability for trial. Attached extract from Medical Officer's Journal, undated. States the opinion that Margaret Morrison is in fairly sound mental condition.
Copy telegram from the Governor of Dundee Prison to the Procurator Fiscal, Cupar, 1 Feb 1913. Reports that Margaret Morrison now refusing food and conduct very bad, and recommends that case be disposed of expeditiously.
Copy letter from the Governor of Dundee Prison to the Chief Constable of Fife, 1 Feb 1913. Reports that Margaret Morrison refuses to submit to be photographed or to disclose any information about herself, and that her behaviour in prison is very bad, having broken windows, being abusive to staff and refusing to eat.
Letter from the Procurator Fiscal, Cupar to the Governor of Dundee Prison, 1 Feb 1913. Reports on arrangements for Margaret Morrison's trial.
Letter from J. Tennant Gordon, Chief Constable of Fife to the Governor of Dundee Prison, 1 Feb 1913. States that under the circumstances he does not wish to press for the photographing and finder printing of Margaret Morrison.
Report from the Medical Officer to the Governor of Dundee Prison, 2 Feb 1913. States that Margaret Morrison has refused food since the 31 Jan 1913 and has periodical fits of temper in which she does as much damage as possible.
Letter from D. Crombie to the Governor of Perth Prison, 3 Feb 1913. Encloses papers concerning Margaret Morrison (not attached) and states that if convicted she will be committed to Perth Prison. Reports the opinion of the Commissioners' Medical Adviser that artificial feeding may commence immediately if she continues to refuse food.
Letter from Margaret Morrison to the Prison Commissioners, 31 Jan 1913. Demands privileges of an untried political prisoner.
Prison Commission memorandum by D. C[rombie, Secretary], 3 Feb 1913. Notes concerns of Dundee Prison Medical Officer that Margaret Morrison will not be fit for trial, and the Assistant to the Medical Adviser's opinion that she will be able to attend court. Notes suggestion that if convicted she be moved to Perth Prison as the medical staff have experience of artificial feeding.
Report from the Governor of Dundee Prison to the Prison Commissioners, 3rd Feb 1913. Gives transcription of telegram sent by the Governor to the Procurator Fiscal informing him that Margaret Morrison will be fit to appear at court.
Report from the Governor of Dundee Prison to the Prison Commissioners, 3 Feb 1913. States that Margaret Morrison has been allowed wide latitude in letter writing but that attached letter has been suppressed.
Suppressed letter from Margaret Morrison to Miss A. Scott, 3 Feb 1913. Comments on treatment in Dundee Prison and complains that privileges have been gradually removed. "I want you to warn my people (in L[ondon?]) & friends that there is a plot hatching - was visited today by a blurry-eyed doctor (I thought smelling of whiskey) & with an affectionate manner! He was sent by the prison commissioners - the prison doctor accompanied him, & effaced himself for the occasion. I refused to answer the affectionate questions of course, but no doubt replies will be manufactured & a sensational report sent in."
Letter from Margaret Morrison to Miss Hutton, Matron at Dundee Prison, undated (postmarked 6 Feb 1913). Requests penknife and rug left behind at Dundee Prison, reports that staff at Perth Prison are very kind, and that she has been given full privileges of a civil prisoner without having to fight. "Was sorry that I had to fight so much in Dundee - I'm afraid you were a good deal worried about me. I hope you are having peace now." Annotated to note that the prisoner was liberated from Perth Prison before the letter arrived in Dundee.
Telegram to Lord Polwarth [the Master of Polwarth, Chairman of the Prison Commission], 3 Feb 1913. Asks for permission for Margaret Morrison to receive visitors. Annotated with comments from the Prison Commission.
Pt 3 contains the following documents:
minutes of communication between the Prison Commission and Dundee Prison, 2-4 Feb 1913. Notes that Margaret Morrison continues her fast and that in event of conviction she is to me committed to Perth Prison.
Unidentified newspaper cutting, undated. Article entitled 'Suffragette Who Threw Pepper at Leven' describes the trial of Margaret Morrison at Cupar Sheriff Court.
Letter from the Procurator Fiscal, Cupar to D. Crombie, Secretary, Prison Commissioners, 4 Feb 1913. States that Margaret Morrison was convicted at Cupar Sheriff Court and that she was committed to Perth Prison as requested by the Commissioners.
Telegram to the Prison Commissioners [from the Governor of Perth Prison], 4 Feb 1913. States that Margaret Morrison refuses to be medically examined, that the Medical Officer considers an examination by force to be unsatisfactory and that it is unsafe to feed without examination. Requests instructions.
Report from the Governor of Perth Prison to the Prison Commissioners, 4 Feb 1913. Requests instructions whether Margaret Morrison should be treated in accordance with rules for civil prisoners and states that she is identical with Suffragette prisoner Edith Johnston, liberated from Perth Prison 14 Sep 1912. Reports that the Medical Officer will have her artificially fed as directed by the Commissioners.
Telegram from Mr Dodds, Scottish Office to the Prison Commission, 6 Feb 1913. States that the Secretary [for Scotland] grants authority to discharge Margaret Morrison if and when necessary.
Report from the Medical Officer to the Governor, Perth Prison, 5 Feb 1913. States that Margaret Morrison has been refusing food since 31 Jan 1913, and describes her refusal to submit to a medical examination. Offers the opinion that an examination by force would be useless and that artificial feeding is not possible without an examination. States the general impression that Margaret Morrison's health is not as good as it was when he last examined her in 1912, and that she is suffering from lack of food.
Report from the Governor of Perth Prison to the Prison Commissioners, 5 Feb 1913. Confirms telephone call of previous day about Margaret Morrison and states that she continues to refuse food but is otherwise well behaved.
Letter from James Dodds, Scottish Office to the Prison Commissioners, 6 Feb 1913. Confirms telegram authorising discharge of Margaret Morrison from prison if necessary, and asks Commissioners for advice whether the sheriff has powers to order removal of prisoners to hospitals under the Prisons (Scotland) Act 1860.
Letter from W.G. [Hepburne] Scott, [the Master of Polwarth, Chairman of the Prison Commission] to [D.] Crombie, [Secretary, Prison Commission], 6 Feb 1913. States that the Governor of Perth Prison has reported that Margaret Morrison will probably be released tomorrow morning.
Minute by D. C[rombie, Secretary, Prison Commission] for the Prison Commissioners, 7 Feb 1913. Notes the release of Margaret Morrison from Perth Prison on the 6 Feb 1913.
Report from the Medical Officer to the Governor, Perth Prison, 7 Feb 1913. States that he advised Margaret Morrison's release on medical grounds.
Report from the Governor of Perth Prison to the Prison Commissioners, 7 Feb 1913. States that Margaret Morrison was liberated last night and travelled to Perth with a friend.
Draft letter [from the Prison Commission] to J. Tennant Gordon Esq, Chief Constable, Fife, 10-11 Feb 1913. Regrets that it was not possible under the circumstances to have a photograph and set of finger prints taken of Margaret Morrison, and provides information about her previous history under different aliases.
Newspaper cuttings from the 'Edinburgh Evening Dispatch', 8 Mar 1913. Articles entitled 'Edinburgh Suffragette's Appeal' and 'Scene in High Court' describe the proceedings in the Bill of Suspension by Ethel Moorhead against her sentence for assault in November 1912.
Letter from J. Tennant Gordon, Chief Constable of Fife, to D. Crombie, Secretary, Prison Commission, 13 Feb 1913. Acknowledges receipt of letter giving details of Margaret Morrison's previous convictions.
Copy report by Superintendent P. Fraser to J. Carmichael Esq, Chief Constable, City Police Dundee, 26 Mar 1913. States that Ethel Moorhead came to Dundee from India with her father and sister about 8 years ago. Gives further details about her activities in Dundee until she moved to Edinburgh about 18 months ago. "She frequently complained to the Police here about her servants, and oftentimes made frivolous complaints. She was thought to be a little eccentric and no doubt very easily advised to commit any act of violence. She got into an excited state on many occasions, and while in that condition did not seem to be responsible for her actions."
Letter from J. Carmichael, Chief Constable, City Police Dundee to D. Crombie, Secretary, Prison Commissioners, 26 March. Acknowledges receipt of list of Ethel Moorhead's convictions and encloses report by Superintendent Fraser.
Letter from D. Crombie, Secretary, Prison Commission to the Governor of Duke Street Prison, 24 Jul 1913. Encloses lists and papers relating to suffragettes.
Letter from Margaret Morrison to the Prison Commissioners, 24 Jul 1913. Complains that she and the other the suffragette prisoners arrested in Glasgow that day and held in Duke Street Prison are not being treated as political prisoners. Attached report by the Governor of Duke Street Prison to the Prison Commissioners annotated with minutes of communication between the Prison Commissioners and the Governor.
Copy of minute by Dr [James] Devon given to the Governor of Duke Street Prison, 24 Jul 1913. Details privileges to be allowed to suffragist prisoners.
Draft letter [from the Prison Commission] to the Under Secretary for Scotland, 25 Jul 1913. States that two suffragist prisoners (including Margaret Morrison) have been admitted to Duke Street Prison, asks for provisional authority to discharge them in case of continued refusal to take food, and states that instructions about photographing and finger printing prisoners have been given to prison governors.
Report by the Governor of Duke Street Prison to the Prison Commissioners, 24 Jul 1913. Describes the behaviour of Margaret Morrison and another suffragette prisoner (A.B.) since admission to the prison.
Copy excerpt from Visiting Committee Inspection Book, 25 July 1913. Reports that requests by Margaret Morrison and A.B. to have cells furnished under rules for untried prisoners have been granted, and that the prisoners were encouraged to take food.
Report by the Governor of Duke Street Prison to the Prison Commissioners, 25 Jul 1913. States that Margaret Morrison claims an injury to her arm caused by violence of warders, but that the Medical Officer can find no trace of injury. Describes the visits by the Chairman of the Visiting Committee to A.B. and Margaret Morrison. Acknowledges receipt of papers relating to suffragette prisoner Edith Johnston and identifies her as Margaret Morrison.
Letter from James Dodds, Scottish Office to the Prison Commissioners, 26 Jul 1913. Confirms telegram (attached) authorising release of prisoners Morrison and Young if necessary, and stating that they should not be photographed or finger-printed.
Report from the Governor of Duke Street Prison to the Prison Commissioners, 28 Jul 1913. Notes the release on bail of Margaret Morrison and continuing imprisonment of Mrs Smith. Certificate from the Medical Officer relating to A.B. (Mrs Smith) attached.
Newspaper cutting from 'The Glasgow Herald', 28 Jul 1913. Article entitled 'Glasgow Suffragist Prisoners' describes the events leading to the arrest of Ethel Moorhead and Elizabeth Dorothea Chalmers Smith, and their subsequent incarceration in Duke Street Prison.
Memorandum by D. Crombie, [Secretary, Prison Commission], 28 Jul 1913. Notes release on bail of Margaret Morrison and medical advice that Mrs Smith may need to be liberated in the next 36 hours, with annotations concerning arrangements for her temporary discharge. Draft copies of temporary discharge notice for Mrs Smith attached.
Prison Commission minutes, 30 Jul 1913. Provides details of delivery of parcel from Commissioners to Glasgow. Encloses report by the Governor of Duke Street Prison to the Prison Commissioners concerning notice for the temporary discharge of Dorothea Smith and certificate from the Medical Officer recommending her liberation, 29 Jul 1913.
Order for liberation of Dorothea Lynas or Smith under the Prisoners (Temporary Discharge for Ill Health) Act 1913, 29 Jul 1913. The date for return to prison is given as 5 Aug 1913.
Letter from D. Crombie, Secretary, Prison Commission to the Governor of Duke Street Prison, 2 Aug 1913. Encloses order for temporary liberation of Dorothea Lynas or Smith.
Copy Scottish Office minutes relating to Margaret Morrison and the temporary discharge of Dorothea Lynas or Smith, 29 Jul-2 Aug 1913.
Report from A. Sharp, Head Warder at Duke Street Prison to the Prison Commissioners, 5 August 1913. States that Dorothea Lynas or Smith has not returned to prison, and describes communications with the Procurator Fiscal and police about apprehending her.
Letter from John C. Christie, North British Railway to D. Crombie, Secretary, Prison Commission, 26 Aug 1913. Describes the circumstances leading to delayed delivery of parcel to the Governor of Duke Street Prison.
Pt 4 contains reports, correspondence, official papers and newspaper cuttings and includes the following documents:
Letter from Mr Sinart, Crown Office, Edinburgh to the Secretary, Prison Commission, 7 Oct 1913. Encloses copy of indictment against Margaret Morrison and Dorothea Lynas or Smith (not included).
Newspaper cutting from 'The Glasgow Herald', 16 Oct 1913. Article entitled 'Riotous Scene in Glasgow Court' describes the proceedings in the trial at the High Court, Glasgow of Margaret Morrison (Ethel Moorhead) and Dorothea Lynas and Smith.
Report from W. B. Buglass, Governor of Duke Street Prison to the Prison Commissioners, 16 Oct 1913. Notes readmission of Dorothea Lynas or Smith and Margaret Morrison under sentence, and that privileges under the Rule dated 29 Jul 1910 are to be granted to Smith.
Newspaper cutting from unidentified newspaper, undated. Contains a photograph of Miss Morrison and Mrs Smith, and photograph of the Rev W. Chalmers Smith, Mrs Smith's husband.
Statement by Dr McWalter and Dr Sinclair recommending release for Margaret Morrison and Dorothea Smith due to their enfeebled physical condition, 19 Oct 1913.
Report from Dr McWalter to the Governor, Duke Street Prison, 19 Oct 1913. Describes physical condition of Margaret Morrison, who has suffered a fainting fit and who declares that she is seriously ill.
Report from Dr McWalter, Medical Officer to the Governor of Duke Street Prison, 19 Oct 1913. States that Margaret Morrison shows considerable physical enfeeblement, that Dorothea Smith is also weak, and that early liberation for both prisoners is urgently called for.
Notices of temporary discharge of Margaret Morrison and Dorothea Lynas or Smith under the Prisoners (Temporary Discharge For Ill-Health) Act 1913, undated. The date for return to prison is given as 27 Oct 1913.
Copy list of suffragist prisoners, May-Oct 1913. Provides name, age, court, date, sentence, prison, and details of temporary discharge, with comments.
Copy letter from Walter G. [Hepburne] Scott, [the Master of Polwarth, Chairman of the Prison Commission] to Mr Dodds, [Scottish Office], 16 Oct 1913. Expresses opinion that suffragettes released early due to hunger striking should be kept under observation by the police so that they can be rearrested when licence expires. "It makes the administration of justice a farce if after receiving a long sentence a prisoner gets off with a few days of actual imprisonment." Notes instructions that artificial feeding not to be used without the sanction of the Secretary for Scotland.
Minutes of communication between the Scottish Office and the Prison Commission, 16-23 Oct 1913. Discussion of the treatment of Margaret Morrison and Dorothea Lynas or Smith in prison and the issue of rearresting them if they fail to return after temporary discharge.
Report from the Governor of Duke Street Prison to the Prison Commissioners, 20 Oct 1913. Notes temporary discharge of Margaret Morrison and Dorothea Lynas or Smith at 3.30 pm that day.
Draft letter [from the Prison Commission] to the Under Secretary for Scotland, 28 Oct 1913. Requests opinion from Secretary for Scotland about powers of police to search premises for temporarily discharged prisoners who have not returned on expiry of licence period.
Letter from the Prison Commission to the Under Secretary for Scotland, 29 Oct 1913. States that Margaret Morrison and Dorothea Lynas or Smith have failed to return to prison after the expiry of their licence period.
Letter from the Chief Constable, City of Glasgow Police to the Prison Commissioners, 1 Nov 1913. States that Margaret Morrison's whereabouts are unknown and that Dorothea Lynas or Smith is believed to be in her home, which is under constant police surveillance. Reports that Mrs Smith is said to be pregnant.
Minutes of communication between the Scottish Office, the Lord Advocate's Department and the Prison Commission, 29 Oct-4 Nov 1913. Discussion of powers of police to enter and search premises for temporarily discharged prisoners. Notes opinion that a warrant is necessary.
Letter from [Rev] W. Chalmers Smith to Mr Buglass, Governor of Duke Street Prison, 6 Nov 1913. Provides details of his wife's health in the hope that police surveillance of his house will cease. Annotated with a note from Mr Buglass to the Prison Commissioners, undated, and a copy of the reply sent to Rev Smith from Mr Buglass, 11 Nov 1913. "The position of the matter is this: - an extension of the liberty granted to Mrs Smith would doubtless follow representations as to her state of health if supported by a medical certificate the terms of which should clearly indicate her present condition."
Newspaper cutting from the 'Daily Record and Mail', 20 Nov 1913. Article entitled 'Tricking the Police' describes how Mrs Smith escaped from her house whilst under police surveillance.
Note stating that the Secretary for Scotland decided not to rearrest Dorothea Lynas or Smith, but to remit remainder of her sentence, 12 Aug 1914.
Prison Commission minute, 18-19 Feb 1914. Reports recapture of Margaret Morrison by Peebles Police and arrangements for her to be held at Edinburgh Prison. Notes that the police in Dunblane have charges against her.
Letter from D. Crombie, Secretary, Prison Commission to the Under Secretary for Scotland, 19 Feb 1914. States that Margaret Morrison has been allowed to wear her own clothing in Edinburgh Prison but that in view of her previous history she is not being granted any further privileges in terms of the Special Rule for suffragette prisoners. Attached copy of report by the Governor of Edinburgh Prison to the Prison Commissioners, 19 Feb 1914.
Report by Robert Dickson, Deputy Chief Constable, Peebles, undated. Describes the arrest of Margaret Morrison alias Ethel Moorhead and Miss Stewart in Peebles, 18 Feb 1914.
Prison Commission memoranda concerning Margaret Morrison, 19-20 Feb 1914. Notes opinion of Sir Thomas R. Fraser, Medical Adviser, that artificial feeding is advisable. Encloses copies of Prison Commission minutes and newspaper cutting, 18-19 Feb 1914.
Part 5 contains reports, correspondence, official papers, newspaper cuttings and includes the following documents:
letter from Mr Dodds, Scottish Office to Mr Crombie, [Prison Commission], 20 Feb 1914. States that the Secretary for Scotland sanctions action proposed by Sir Thomas Fraser.
Letter from D. Macpherson, Superintendent, Perthshire Constabulary to the Prison Commissioners, 18 Feb 1914. States that the Procurator Fiscal at Dunblane intends to send witnesses to Edinburgh Prison to identify Ethel Moorhead in connection with a charge of fire raising.
Report by James [Dunlop?] to the Prison Commissioners, 21 Feb 1914. Describes the artificial feeding of Margaret Morrison that day.
Prison Commission memoranda concerning Margaret Morrison's request to see a lawyer to make a will, 23-24 Feb 1914.
Draft order for the temporary discharge of Margaret Morrison under the Prisoners (Temporary Discharge for Ill Health) Act 1913, undated. Annotated "Copy sent to S[ecretary] for S[cotland] 25.II.14."
Copy letter from D. Macpherson, Superintendent, Perthshire Constabulary to the Chief Constable, Criminal Investigation Department, City Police, Edinburgh, 23 Feb 1914. States that he holds a warrant for the arrest of Ethel Moorhead and requests she be arrested if released from Edinburgh Prison.
Draft letter from the Prison Commission to the Under Secretary for Scotland, 25 Feb 1914. States that Margaret Morrison alias Ethel Moorhead has been temporarily released for 12 days on medical advice as she has contracted pneumonia.
Copy memorandum by Ja[me]s Devon for the Chairman [of the Prison Commissioners] describing meetings with supporters of Margaret Morrison, 24 Feb 1914. (See description of top copy of this document in Pt 6 of this file).
Copy instructions to the Governor of Edinburgh Prison from Ja[me]s Devon for the treatment of Margaret Morrison alias Ethel Moorhead, 24 Feb 1914. (Also contained in Pt 6 of this file).
Report by H. Ferguson Watson, Medical Officer, Edinburgh Prison, 25 Feb 1914. States that Margaret Morrison's condition is worsening and that he has observed signs indicating pneumonia, and that on consultation with Sir Thomas Fraser it has been agreed to continue artificial feeding but that she should be discharged. Gives the opinion that the pneumonia is not associated with feeding but is caused by deliberate self-exposure to a chill.
Report from the Governor of Edinburgh Prison to the Prison Commissioners, 25 Feb 1914. States that Margaret Morrison was that day removed to the care of Dr Grace Cadell.
Copy memorandum by Ja[me]s Devon for the Chairman [of the Prison Commissioners] describing treatment of Margaret Morrison in Edinburgh Prison, 26 Feb 1914. (See description of top copy of this document in Pt 6 of this file).
Note recording the Secretary for Scotland's decision not to rearrest Margaret Morrison but to remit the remainder of her sentence, 12 Aug 1914.
Part 6 contains reports, correspondence, official papers, newspaper cuttings and includes the following documents:
Letter from the Chief Constable, Leith to D. Crombie, Secretary, Prison Commission, 26 Feb 1914. States that a special watch is kept day and night on the residence of Dr Grace Cadell, 145 Leith Walk, in which Margaret Morrison is at present living.
Copy report by James C. Dunlop for the Prison Commissioners, 21 Feb 1914. Describes the feeding of Margaret Morrison by stomach tube in Edinburgh Prison that day.
Memorandum by Ja[me]s Devon for the Chairman [of the Prison Commissioners], 24 Feb 1914. Describes meetings with suffragette supporters of Ethel Moorhead during which he acknowledges the risks of artificial feeding but argues that the method is justified in this case due to the high risk of re-offending. "She said that this meant that we were prepared to injure permanently a woman's health, to which I replied that for my part I was of opinion that if the woman's health could only be preserved by allowing her to set fire to other people's houses, we must with regret risk her health." States that he assumed full responsibility for the decision to artificially feed Ethel Moorhead. (Copy contained in Pt 5 of this file).
Copy instructions to the Governor of Edinburgh Prison from Ja[me]s Devon for the treatment of Margaret Morrison alias Ethel Moorhead, 24 Feb 1914. (Also contained in Pt 5 of this file).
Copy minute by [Sir Thomas R. Fraser], Medical Adviser to the Prison Commissioners, 26 Feb 1914. Describes [Margaret Morrison's] medical condition, gives opinion that her symptoms were caused by her deliberate exposure to cold and recommends that she be temporarily released.
Memorandum by Ja[me]s Devon for the Chairman [of the Prison Commissioners], 26 Feb 1914. Describes the treatment of Margaret Morrison in Edinburgh Prison from 18-25 Feb, 1914. States that friends of the prisoner attribute her pneumonia to forcible feeding, but disagrees. Acknowledges the risks involved in artificial feeding and discusses public opinion and the opinion of Margaret Morrison's supporters. States that he has publicly assumed full responsibility: "I have given them to believe that I am personally responsible for the forcible feeding of Miss Morrison, and I have done this because I believed it would be an advantage to fix their attention on somebody. It does not increase the risk to me and it may diminish that of the others. I find there are a number of people quite willing to help who are a little nervous as to consequences, and my plan may help to give them confidence. My personal view is that the risk is very slight and I have been far too frequently threatened by lunatics in and out of prison to worry about this lot." (Copy contained in Pt 5 of this file).
Newspaper cutting from the Edinburgh 'Evening Dispatch', 5 Mar 1914. Article entitled 'Forcible Feeding' gives Ethel Moorhead's statement about her experiences of imprisonment and artificial feeding in Edinburgh Prison.
Report from H. Ferguson Watson, Medical Officer, Peterhead Prison to the Governor of Peterhead Prison, 6 Mar 1914. Refutes details given in Ethel Moorhead's statement about artificial feeding published in the 'Evening Dispatch'.
List of questions [compiled by the Prison Commission] concerning Margaret Morrison's treatment in Edinburgh Prison, undated.
Report from the Governor of Edinburgh Prison to the Prison Commissioners, 9 Mar 1914. Provides answers to the Commissioners' questions about the treatment of Margaret Morrison.
Extract of parliamentary question concerning allegations of ill-treatment of Ethel Moorhead in Edinburgh Prison, annotated [by Scottish Office staff] with request for further information from the Prison Commissioners, 9 Mar 1914.
Draft telegram [from the Prison Commission] to Scottish Office, 9 Mar 1914. States that Prison Commissioners have received no allegations of ill-treatment of Morrison but allegations have appeared in a statement published in the Edinburgh 'Evening Dispatch'. Refutes these allegations. Annotated with corrections.
Secretary for Scotland's answer to parliamentary question concerning allegations of ill-treatment of Ethel Moorhead, 9 Mar 1914. Attached newspaper cutting from the Edinburgh 'Evening Dispatch', 10 Mar 1914.
Newspaper cutting from the 'Scotsman', 11 Mar 1914. Article entitled 'Disturbance at a Glasgow Meeting' describes attempts by militant suffragettes to protest at a lecture given by Dr Devon.
Letter from Grace Cadell to Dr Hay, 4 Mar 1914. Requests that Miss Moorhead's licence be extended due to her condition. Annotated by the Gov[ernor of Edinburgh Prison] to state that Dr Cadell is an advanced suffragette.
Copy letter from D. Crombie, Secretary, Prison Commission to Dr Grace Cadell, 7 Mar 1914. States that the Commissioners will consider an extension of Margaret Morrison's licence on receipt of a detailed medical statement of her condition.
Letter from the Chief Constable, Leith to D. Crombie, Secretary, Prison Commission, 3 Mar 1914. States that he will apply for a warrant to apprehend Margaret Morrison alias Ethel Moorhead should she fail to return to prison, and that police officers have been detailed to keep Dr Cadell's house under surveillance.
Minute by James Dunlop for the Prison Commissioners, 11 Mar 1914. States that he visited Dr Cadell's house that day to ascertain the condition of Miss Moorhead but was told she was not present.
Letter from the Chief Constable, Leith to D. Crombie, Secretary, Prison Commission, 12 Mar 1914. States that two police officers searched Dr Cadell's house that day but failed to find Margaret Morrison.
Police circular issued by Leith Burgh Police concerning Ethel Moorhead, 13 Mar 1914.
Newspaper cutting from the Edinburgh 'Evening Dispatch', 17 Mar 1914. Article entitled 'Glasgow Prison Door Scene' describes attack on Dr James Devon by a suffragette at the gates of Duke Street Prison, Glasgow on 16 Mar 1914.
Precognition of James Devon taken by Central Police, Glasgow, 16 Mar 1914. Describes being attacked by a suffragette with a whip outside Duke Street Prison, Glasgow that day,
Pt 7 contains an issue of the newspaper 'Forward', 7 Mar 1914. Includes articles concerning Ethel Moorhead. |
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