David Edward

On November 2nd and 3rd, 1870, I lost my two eldest boys, David Edward and Harry, in scarlet fever, they being then three and four years old, respectively.

Harry died at Abbot’s Langley on November 2nd, fourteen miles from my vicarage at Aspley; David the following day at Aspley. About an hour before the death of this latter child he sat up in bed, and pointing to the bottom of the bed, said distinctly: “There is little Harry calling to me.” It has been said that the child said: “He has a crown on his head,” but I do not remember this myself; but I was so overcome with grief and weariness from long watching, that I may have let it escape me. But of the truth of this first fact I am sure, and it was heard also by the nurse.” (Signed: X. Z., Vicar of H.)

In letters and conversations with Mr. Podmore, Mr. Taylor adds the following details: “Mr. Z. tells me that care was taken to keep David from knowing that Harry was dead and that he feels sure that David did not know it. Mr. Z. was himself present, and heard what the boy said. The boy was not delirious at the time.

James Hyslop, Psychical Research and the Resurrection (Boston: Small, Maynard, and Company, 1908), p. 99-100.