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Philippe-Joseph Aubert de Gaspé (1786-1871)
De Gaspé inherited the title of seigneur of Saint-Jean-Port Joli. In early life, he practiced law and eventually became sheriff of Quebec City. Poor spending habits and rash investments landed him in the Quebec City Common Gaol for debt. De Gaspé was incarcerated for 3 years, 4 months and 5 days.
“The prisoner feels a singular need for continual movement during the first month of incarceration, a feverish anxiety that makes him keep getting up from the table at mealtimes or even from the bed at night. He is like the caged lion – although I ask this noble beast's pardon in comparing it to man. The lion only devours its prey when hungry; after eating its fill, it is generous toward the weak creatures that cross its path.”
- from Canadians of Old (translation by Jane Brierley)
© 2010  Literary and Historical Society of Quebec All rights reservedPhoto: The Prison in 1830 (James Pattison Cockburn, ANC) Contact: info@morrin.org |