Whatever Defects...

Bill Whelan

2024 04 11

The Evening Telegram followed Judge Daniel Woodley Prowse closely, reporting his occasional foible such as beginning the grouse season a few days before the day ordered by the government. And there was his practice of going out onto the barrens wearing his slippers rather than proper boots. The great jurist knew about wet feet: he would have wet feet in his boots or in his slippers. So, it was as well to go in slippers.

But the Telegram of the 6^th of December of 1894 came out in praise of the judge: Infectious Diseases-Preventive Measures Employed by Judge Prowse was the heading.

Then: His Honor Judge Prowse, whatever defects may be in his composition, is a humane man when infectious diseases beset us. He is our Hero of the Board of Health. For 15 years he has, when duty called, been an untiring worker on it.  And now that we are once more beset by disease, scarletina and diphtheria, he is on the alert.

John Diamond is his faithful follower and assistant who has done much and has undergone danger. He has stood by the bedside, ministering to parched lips, when nearest friends were frightened off. At one time, at Burnt Island, he spent 3 weeks in a house where 5 persons died, no person assisting him and all afraid to approach or receive him. He worked till death came to some of his patients and then attended to burial as best he could.

Now is again the time for work, for the saving of young lives. Come, Judge, buckle on your armour.