Abstract
With the softening influence of time, which modifies all things, our minds are prone to assume the blank state so necessary for calmness of thought and dispassionate consideration that should always be brought to bear on all questions of forensic medicine. It is in this frame of mind, I trust, that we now approach the consideration of a case that was attended by much public excitement. On Jan. 28, 1893, I visited the district jail, in company with Dr. Godding, of Washington, to examine into the mental condition of a young man under sentence of death for the murder of his wife. Certain features of this celebrated case, but more especially the lunacy inquiry, came within the unfortunate category of those prejudged by public sentiment, regardless of calm consideration of the attendant facts. But the question of guilt or innocence being no concern of mine, judgment may be suspended on
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