News posted in 1880 was not just local. The following article appeared on page one of the June 15, 1880 Chicago Daily News;

“CRIMES OF A DAY.

ESCAPED THE GALLOWS.

TORONTO, June 15.- Robert De Courcier, sentenced to be hanged to-morrow for the murder of his brother, at Lambton Mills, died suddenly in his cell to-day. It is thought he poisoned himself.”

I guess I was surprised to read the method of execution planned for Mr. De Courcier. Perhaps he thought poisoning was a less horrible way to die.