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Response To Dix Memorial

CREATOR:  n/a
DATE:  February 9, 1843
PUBLICATION:  Newburyport Herald
SOURCE:  Available at selected libraries



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We have seen this case repeatedly quoted in the paper as one of great cruelty, and for the sake of those whose humanity is thus called in question, we have felt bound to give publicity to the above facts. We repeat our conviction that the memorialist had not the least disposition to give other than a perfectly true picture; our only regret is that she did not know all the particulars, so as to be able to throw in the lights that belong to it and so correct in some measure its unrelieved gloom. Had this been done, a strong case for her purpose would still have remained. For, notwithstanding all we have said, we do not mean for a moment to imply that the condition of the insane in our alms-house, is what it ought to be. They are not properly -- although they are, as far as possible, kindly treated. It is no place for them. It is wrong to impose them upon such an establishment and mix them up with the other inmates. The slumbers of the aged poor should not be broken -- the ears of the young should not be permitted to hear the blasphemous ravings of the mad. We sympathise with Miss Dix, certainly, in her noble effort to bring about a reform -- to have the insane removed from jails and alms houses, to places where they can be treated as their malady requires. And we repeat the hope expressed the other day, that her memorial will receive immediate attention. Let the facts be ascertained and such laws passed as will relieve the commonwealth from the deserved charge of inhumanity which still stains its fair fame.

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