THE PENALTY WAS DEATH. Nineteenth Century Crime and Executions in Devon

Softcover. Fascinating details, discovered from contemporary sources, recording the crimes and the ultimate punishment suffered by the condemned criminals of 19th century Devon. The author describes the crimes in 19th century Devon which led to the ultimate penalty at Exeter Gaol - public hanging. Not all were murderers: George Rapson was hanged for stealing a bull, Edward Feltham a horse; others died for the crime of forgery, some for the sake of a few pounds, while 18yr old Betty Limpany of Oakford was executed for setting fire to her master's house. The author describes each case in detail, the circumstances surrounding the crime, and the subsequent trial and execution. He provides a compelling glimpse of English law in action set against the often brutish lives of ordinary men and women in Devon. Here is a reminder of the time, not so long past, when crowds of 15,000 people were drawn to Exeter to watch the hangman carry out his grisly task. Illus., Bibliog. and Index. 160pp. trade size softcover. From the library of true-crime writer, Wilfred Gregg, with his poersonal b/plate. F. with no creasing to covers.