The Petition of Judith Donnelly of the Township of Biddulph

[…] That your Petitioners' Husband James Donelly, was unfortunately the cause of the death of one Patrick Farrell in an offrey which took place at a Logging Bee in the Township of Biddulph in the year 1857, for which he is now undergoing a term of Seven years in prison in the Provincial Penitentiary; four years of the said term being now nearly expired.

Your Petitioner has been left during that time with a family of eight children who are mostly helpless, and dependent upon your Petitioner.

Your Petitioner Humbly Prays,

That your Excellency will be Pleased to take her helpless condition into the merciful consideration of her husband's case, and that finding the offence was committed without malice or premeditation, and in the heat of passion; your Excellency will be graciously pleased to extend the Clemency of the Crown to the said James Donelly, by granting him a pardon.

and as in duty bound Your Petitioner will Ever Pray.

(signed) Judith Donelly

The undersigned respectfully recommend the above to your Excellency's merciful consideration.

[…] [A list of numerous signatures follows, including the sheriff, etc.]