Reports of Trials for Murder by Poisoning;by Prussic Acid, Strychnia, Antimony, Arsenic, and Aconita. Including the Trials of Tawell, W. Palmer, Dove, Madeline Smith, Dr. Pritchard, Smethurst, and Dr. Lamson, with Chemical Introduction and Notes on the Poisons Used

A legal and scientific text written in the late 19th century. The work is a collection of documented trials related to the crime of murder by poisoning, highlighting notable cases and the associated chemical analyses. The book explores various poisons, detailing their effects, symptoms, and the scientific methods used to detect them, thus serving as a resource for both medical and legal professionals. The opening of the book introduces the rationale behind collecting reports of trials for murder by poisoning, emphasizing the importance of scientific testimony alongside moral evidence in legal proceedings. It discusses the complexities of using chemical evidence in trials, especially when conflicting expert opinions arise regarding the toxicology and effects of different poisons. The text sets the stage for its subsequent chapters, starting with a chemical introduction that outlines the symptoms of poisoning and the significance of proper analytical methods, before delving into specific landmark cases such as those involving prussic acid and strychnine.