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Natty · 08-07-2012, 03:23 PM

(08-07-2012 02:09 PM)BettyO Wrote: Great post, Natty!

We had supposed that the Valerian Wine given to Mrs. Surratt and Herold (Atzerodt had Brandy) made them a little woozie.....perhaps they had something laced in it to make it a bit stronger. Powell refused to take this stuff ...or anything else for that matter!

Thank you, Betty! It always made me wonder how they could react so strongly to such a mild sedative. I'm inclined to think that "Valerian Wine" was a pretty strong cocktail - probably enhanced with opium for the occasion to prevent any unwanted, hysterical displays on the gallows. Lewis must have known that it would turn his brain and body to mush, so he wanted to avoid being carried or assisted due to failing physical control. Since he was always so brave and strong, the authorities must have respected that decision.