Stiffleaf's photos with the keyword: haselton

one of the gravestones affixed to the charnel house built c.1280 is to 9 year old catholic mary haselton, struck down by lightning whilst saying her prayers in 1785. the poem seems sure that some moral can be drawn from this, but somewhat confused as to detail.

odd epitaph on 1785 gravestone to mary haselton. affixed to the old charnel chapel between the ruined abbey and st.mary's church. A young maiden of this town, Born of Roman Catholic parents, And virtuously brought up, Who, being in the act of prayer Repeating her vespers, Was instantaneously killed by a flash of Lightning, August 16th, 1785. Aged 9 years. Not Siloam's ruinous tower the victims slew, Because above the many sinn'd the few, Nor here the fated lightning wreaked its rage By vengeance sent for crimes matur'd by age. For whilst the thunder's awful voice was heard, The little suppliant with its hands uprear'd. Addressed her God in prayers the priest had taught, His mercy craved, and His protection sought ; Learn reader hence that wisdom to adore.