by Laurel | August 6th, 2009
August 6, 1898, page 8
"Rough On Rats" Victorian Product Label
David Closson, 37, of Bridge street took a big dose of “rough on rats” yesterday forenoon with the evident intent of committing suicide. By the aid of emetics Mr. Closson’s life was saved. He had been making a round of the saloons in the morning and returning about 10 o’clock received a certain lecture from his wife, which made him feel uncomfortable. He retired to private life and brooded over the matter and finally came to the conclusion that a half-ounce of “rough on rats” would end his troubles. Going into the kitchen he mixed up a dose of this poison and told his wife that he was going to another world. Mrs. Closson, however, called in a neighbor and an immediate acting emetic was administered which rendered Mr. Closson exceedingly uncomfortable. The only change that was noticed after the emetic had finished its work was a great craving for water. Mr. Closson would not allow a doctor to be called, and was willing to admit he was foolish to do it and laid the blame to liquor. He has a hard-working wife and four small children.
— Adapted from The Springfield Republican.
