From The Toronto Star, February 6, 1909
CONFIRMED MAN HATER THREW AWAY MONEY
Because It Had King’s Head on It—Strange Life Story
London — The strange life story, not without its pathetic features, of an eccentric old lady who was so confirmed a man hater that she would not use money or stamps that bore the King’s head, was partially disclosed at a London inquest.
Her name was Harriet Evans, she was 68 years old, a spinster, and she lodged in Spurstowe road, Hackney Downs.
Ann Arthur, the landlady, gave evidence that Miss Evans had lodged with her since July last. She had one room and partial board for 10s. per week. She was found dead in bed on Tuesday last.
“Did she ever have a sweetheart?” asked Coroner Westcott.
“No, and she said that she did not want one,” replied the landlady. “She was so much against the men that she would not even have any of King Edward’s money. If any was given her she would throw it in the fire. She would only deal in the Queen’s money.
“My daughter brought her a penny change a few days ago, and it happened to be one of King Edward’s. The old lady said, ‘Throw it in the fire; I won’t have it.’”
In Miss Evans’ room a document was found showing that she had an annuity of £56 4s. from the “National Debt Office,” bought in 1885.
Further evidence showed that in July last Miss Evans went to the office of a local newspaper, but refused to enter until she could deal with a lady. Her advertisement for apartments stipulated that there should be “no man and no cats or dogs in the house.” She declined to have her letters sent on to her, because the stamps bore the King’s head, and called at the office for them.
The jury returned a verdict of natural death. ♦
