Epilogue
In the course of time, a few other truths were known about Sowenna.
The Constable found evidence at her home to show that she had dabbled in the art of poisons. Further investigation resulted in her also being charged with Linda Stevens murder. The innocent housemaid was promptly released from prison.
On a cold day in January 1867, Sowenna Whecca Stickles was sentenced to life in prison for the murder of John Vale Jr., Linda Stevens, and poisoning with intent to harm Ashley and Chrissy Worthington Pyke. She would have been hanged, if she had not been carrying a child at the time of sentencing.
Three months later, on a sunny day in April, Sowenna died at the young age of seventeen, giving life to a little girl. For a time, the child was looked after by prison authorities.
Two
