Now believed to be suicidal but has made no attempt.
Cause?
Not Epileptic
On admission
Depressed and anxious expression
Weight
Former temperament lively
Bowels - inactive?
brown eyes
Urine
Brown hair
abnormalities
No injuries
Skin - ash
Pulse - 100
Tongue dirty & coated
Pupils - small even, react to light
Special senses good
Lungs - has irritable loud cough - no expectoration
Heart
General Health
Seems well developed - fairly muscular - alert in movement. Has lost weight and is in reduced health - pale and unhealthy looking. tongue foul.
Mentally
Is suspicious & not inclined to converse & responding slowly to questions. Knows where he is & makes no objections. Seems to have anxiety to relatives - is confused and says he does not understand anything.
Revd J.G. Forrest
General History of Care
Is said to have had a lively disposition -
Was educated at Uppingham & Ch. Ch. Oxford -
at school did not play games much.
Went into the church and became curate at Rushton in Northants. There seems to have lived a hardworking life and was remarkable for measured self denial - giving up his income to relieving others and probably suffered in health from ascetic and irregular mode of life.
Was to have been inducted as Vicar but a few days before broke down suddenly and became dull, depressed and full of self accusations against his own moral character, and shewed animosity to his father.
Was seen by Dr. Percy Smith and then went with a medical man (Dr Stratton) to Bognor for 6 weeks. Afterwards went to a Dr Griffin at Crowborough and at Nottingham, and to Dr Cruikshank at Aylesbury. Then as paying guest to Dr Segundo in London and lately for about a year at Dr Elliot's in Gloucester Place.
All this time is said to have been natural in manner, went about by himself, did business attended church and theatres and is believed to have done some literary work, but apparently was was [sic] irritable in temper and shewed no desire to resume his work.
About a week ago visited his father ? and was troubled by some family affairs and is reported to have become suddenly worse restless at night and is said to have altered in manner - Temp 99 Pulse 118 some cough and bronchial signs.
Revd J.G. Forrest
Medical Certificates
Urgency order signed by Dr Chas. Mercier dated Feb 3rd 1909 at Gloucester Place. London:
"In an interview lasting about 25 minutes, he stared steadily at me without answering my questions or uttering any word except on three occasions - on one he said he was a bad lot, and in another accused himself of unnatural crimes."
From my experience of persons of similar demeanour I am of opinion that he is contemplating suicide, and that it is not safe to care for him in a private house. Chas. Mercier
Medical Certificate - by Dr. Stephen Watson 3rd of Feb 1909
That the patient looked very disturbed and restless - pacing the room and giving vent to self denunciations - saying “I am a bad one, living in a tissue of lies" there is a great scandal" have ruined Dr Elliot, no patient will ever come up the street on my account" When I asked him to explain, he stared for a long time vacantly chewing and would give no reply, except by a big groan.
These symptoms and delusions were the same on Feb 3rd.
By others
Dr Andrew Elliot of 110 Gloucester Place, in whose house Mr Forrest has been living for nine months, states:
For about a week patient was unusually reserved. On Feb 1st he developed definite delusions that he had been the ruin of the Parish in which he lived as well as several of his friends-
Medical Certificate - Dr T. B. Hyslop - Feb 4th
He was agitated & restless his manner was very suspicious and he told me "it had nothing to do with me if "forces" did any nasty things to him, he also told me that he felt very confused, that everything was in a horrible muddle and he did not care what was done to him, he refused to give any other account of himself.
Rev'd J Graham Forrest
Feb 3rd
Arrived here in a motor with his family medical attendant. Was anxious & restless in manner. Disinclined to converse and took little or no part in conversations - appeared suspicious and very odd and peculiar in expression- asked for a light for his pipe at once - afterwards took tea with me and smoked in a hurried and restless way. Did not ask any natural questions, but said several times that it was all wrong with him and that nothing could help him and that he did harm to everyone. I tried to reassure him and explain matters but he only said he could understand nothing and that he was “all right” – He took dinner and went to bed and slept quietly that night with an attendant in the room - grey powder gr iii Ch. Tuke
4th
Took meals quietly – Went out of doors and walked in the garden unwilling at first to go out. Very silent makes no enquiries. Seems to have delusions and hallucinations of hearing. Lately visited by Dr Hyslop who wrote a certificate of his unsoundness of mind
Tongue foul- B[owel] not open. given Calomel gr iii - Ch. Tuke
5th
Had a quiet night – walked out – rather more able to converse. Bowels acting freely after salines – His manner is less restless, but he gets up suddenly and makes observations such as “it is all wrong” He will not speak much about himself but answers a question now and then quite properly but more often stares fiercely and says nothing. He will not read or do anything but smoke, he fills up his pipe and purposely lights it and knocks it out again – Talks a little of his family saying they “always interfere with him” Ch. Tuke
8th
Has been going on well - unwilling to converse much and stares at one in a peculiar way but seems less confused and generally brighter – says we ought “to get him out of the country” Seems irritable and peevish if questioned and makes sudden odd gestures of annoyance – Visited by a diagnosticator(?) Dr Sheldon who signed order – Mr Forrest seems in better health – his tongue is clear - Ch. Tuke
9th
Is brighter today and more inclined to talk. Shews animosity against his father – says he cannot resume his clerical work. Seems very deluded about people “interfering with him” and said that his father accused him of “keeping a mistress” and spoke of him as his "mother's husband" Ch. Tuke
John Graham Forrest - Feb 10th
He suffers from delusions that his relatives "interfere" with him that "they call him a blackguard and a fool". That they accuse him of immoralities & various crimes". Especially his animosity is directed against his father who "won't let him alone". He hears "voices" and is he says "constantly worried" and says "everything is wrong he does"
He has an irritable and restless manner - Is more rational & better able to converse lately - He seems to wish for no occupation but reads a little - Sleeps well -
He is in very fair bodily health & has improved in this respect - walks out daily - is well nourished & takes food well - Has a cough, but there is no evidence of lung trouble. Sleeps well.
J. Graham Forrest
Feb 12th
Going on quietly and seems more rational and able to converse. He is restless in manner and constantly referring to his relatives interfering with him and has many delusions. Visited by Dr J Watson whose visit rather excited him – Looks better in health.
17th
Looks better and is more tranquil in manner, but is obsessed by delusions about his father and indeed is hardly able to talk of anything else. Has written to a friend. Plays the piano very well.
March 1st
Goes on quietly. Abuses his father and talks of what he means to do. Has very vague ideas about his future. Walks about the place, smokes, reads a little and writes what he calls notes which are not very coherent. A little noisy at night at times but as a rule quiet. Seems contented.
March 22nd
Quiet and generally well behaved. Plays piano a great deal, in a rather fluid style, and at times with rather too much emphasis! Still talks of the mischief his people have done him. Makes no complaints and takes things very easily. Reads, writes notes, etc Appetite good, is improved in health. T.S. Tuke
March 23rd
Saw Dr Savage today who talked to him about his clerical work and whether he would resume it. This seems to irritate him intensely, he declared he never could and never would and marched about the room excitedly – Talks of nothing but himself as a rule. T S Tuke
April 12th
Has gone on quietly lately. Talks in the same way about himself, says he is sensible enough for anything, but he is weak and uncertain in every way. Plays a good deal on piano, is out of doors as much as possible and has enjoyed sitting out these last few days. Makes sermons & draws designs for windows of churches etc. Sleeps finely - Is inclined to smoke too much. Very egotistical still. T.S. Tuke
JG. Forrest March 1909
A little calmer in manner, but still talks at length of his family, his father particularly, and his inability to be allowed to do anything.
Wanders along from subject to subject, takes very little interest in things but has lately talked of the prayer book mission a little. Says that he will never be allowed to do anything right, At times gets muted in an aimless way and does nothing, Broke his stick one day in a paroxysm of childish excitement.
_____________________
A little calmer of late, but still accuses people of "interfering" with him. Makes accusations against his father particularly. Manner is restless and preoccupied, but he speaks much often more freely than he did, chiefly about himself, and his parents and their behaviour.
Says he is not allowed to do anything right. Cannot undertake to do anything. Walks a good deal & plays skilfully on the piano, of which he seems really fond, displaying some knowledge of touch & expression & some execution. Makes no complaints, except against his own people.
J. Graham Forrest
June 15th
Mr Forrest has been going on quietly - and when composed is very pleasant in manner – he occupies himself by playing the piano and is welcome to go about the grounds unattended – But he is still obsessed by delusions about his father and family and has been unfortunately disturbed by being “served with a notice of appointment of Receiver” he was a great deal worried by this and in a long interview in which I tried to reassure him, he spoke more freely than usual of his delusions – saying again all the dreadful things his father said of him i.e. that he kept a mistress and now mentioned the woman by name – that he was followed by detectives when he was in London – and he talked in this sort of way for half an hour to me without any reason, and refusing to accept the slightest argument as to his being possibly mistaken – This is all mixed up with references to his mother’s will &c - and business matters – He thinks he “has been made to suffer” most cruelly by his relatives and that his reputation has been so destroyed that the only thing he can do is to remain here until his father’s death. He is in good health.
Lately, Dr Segundo & Mrs Segundo visited him. Ch. Tuke
Sept 15th
Lately Mr Forrest has been better and less inclined to dispute with vehemence about the treatment he receives from his father. He has seen two of his brothers and has written to them – he looks very well, is much out of doors. In the house occupies himself with music and plays the piano brilliantly and well - chess and reading. He is gentle in manner rather shy of strangers – goes to church - Ch. Tuke
16th
Today, at his request visited by the Vicar – Ch. Tuke
October 15th
Going on well but he is very odd in many ways – generally cheerful and talks less of his father, but absolutely refused to see one of his brothers (Frank) the other day because he comes from home – Mr Forrest slept badly for a few nights and I hear that in the bathroom he often abuses his father loudly
He goes to church frequently. He looks very well. – Ch. Tuke
1909 Jan 17th
[s/b 1910]
Has been going on quietly much in the same manner – Sometimes dines with me and behaves naturally – Is rather odd and suspicious and is put-out and rather disturbed by news of his father’s serious ill health – Today while talking very quietly he repeated that he used to be followed by detectives in town and asked whether there were any about now – He said that he forces P.T.O.
Revd J. Graham Forrest
Jan 17th 1909 (contd)
that he forces himself to go out and that he cannot concentrate his mind on anything. He spoke as usual of never being told the truth by his family – He is in good general health and sleeps quietly - reads and plays the piano a good deal. Ch. Tuke.
March 7th
Has been going on quietly in his usual rather odd way – But has been generally cheerful and has been to church. Today visited by his brother Frank. He became agitated and refused to see him or speak with him at all – offered to “show himself” and proceeded to walk in front of the window – general health very good. Ch. Tuke.
March 10th
Goes on much as usual. Says little about his father but knows he is ill and not likely to recover; at times he is self deprecating, says that he may have to give up going to church, as he thinks he may keep others from attending – at other times hilarious and cheerful. Sleeps rather erratically, generally soundly towards morning and does not always rise when called. Interested in "Times" and in books. Comes to meals with us. Plays piano. T.S. Tuke
March 21st
His father died today. Received the news calmly, but was evidently excited by it though he tried hard to conceal it. Talked a good deal about it, and is heard to talk to himself also. General behaviour as usual. T.S. Tuke
May 14th
Has received visits from his brothers and from his lawyer, has not exhibited any sentiment, but seems reasonably anxious to secure some better provision for his younger brother whose share under his father’s will is smaller – this seems to be likely to be arranged as he wishes. He is studying well – he goes to church and plays chess and does not obviously avoid meeting people. Ch. Tuke
July 18th
Mr Forrest seems tranquil and goes on quietly. He has lately seen his younger brother and has been introduced to this gentleman’s fiancée and her mother.
His conversation is less marked by reference to his own troubles, but today he talked freely to me. He spoke of the private detectives as a fact and referred to the various charges of immorality against him.
Revd J. Graham Forrest
July 18th (contd)
On my saying that “at least no one had interfered with him here” he replied “he was not so sure about that, that he believed that the Vicar had been troubled about him “and further told me that he found “that everyone in his parish to whom he had spoken had left the neighbourhood” This was to me a new delusion – He told me that he would like to attend his brother’s wedding. Also that he would like “to live abroad”. On speaking he becomes agitated and tremulous – He refers also to some delusion about a man who was formerly a gardener and thinks that he was the author of anonymous letters, but does not know where this man now is living. Ch. Tuke
August 8th
Visited by his brother Charles who is shortly to be married bringing his fiancée with him. Mr Graham Forrest presented her with some jewellery which had belonged to his Mother. He is cheerful and lively – Lately he has been at his own special request to visit his Mother’s grave – he went there and back in a motor car with three attendants and did not call on anyone. Ch. Tuke
August 22nd
Mr Forrest was to my surprise anxious to attend his brother’s wedding on the 20th. Very reluctantly I had to refuse permission as he continued to rail against his relatives and I thought that he was hardly in a condition of mental health to warrant me in allowing him to meet so many friends and relatives. He was angry and annoyed and his delusions were very apparent for several days. He has now become tranquil again and has resumed his ordinary self control- But he talks to himself loudly when alone violently abusing his relatives. Ch. Tuke
September 30th
Is generally rather more rational, seldom speaks of relatives in the former manner and occupies himself – has delusions that his presence is offensive to others - but lately has been more ready to go out on little excursions – plays the piano. Sleeps quietly. Ch. Tuke
Nov 26th
Mr Forrest is in fairly good health – Is rational on many points and generally cheerful. Has been considerably troubled by the sale that has taken place of his father’s effects but his friends have tried to please him by securing any silver or articles of value which he wished to have. Mr Forrest is still troubled by the delusions that he is responsible for any calamities or troubles, and thinks that by reason of his presence, that
Revd J. Graham Forrest
Nov 26th (contd)
that his presence in some way offends the people of the neighbourhood and that the congregation of the church falls off by this cause and that this gives trouble to his vicar – He begins to talk of wishing to leave and thinks that he would like to go abroad and learn a language. He is rather inclined to avoid people but comes to my house and lunches at times and has played the piano lately at a concert. On these occasions he is cheerful and natural in manner – he sleeps well but wishes to sit up rather late at night. He still talks in the same odd way about his family. Ch. Tuke
Dec 22nd
Mr Forrest seems to be more tranquil, he has asked me to write to his brother which I have done – he plays chess and has sent a wreath for his mother’s grave. Ch. T.
29th
Has been better and more natural lately. Attended church several times at Xmas. Plays chess. Ch. T.
Jan 18th 1911
Mr Forrest is very well pert[?] but has a cold in the head. He rather objects to taking proper care of himself – Mentally he is less troubled by delusions and his manner, though nervous and a little odd at times is tranquil. He can talk and converse well but on being questioned about his delusions he becomes rather secretive and very irrational repeating that he was followed by detectives in London and charged with wicked[?] conduct and scandals. He told me that his mother used to write to the Bishop of Oxford to complain of the clergy and made so much scandal that he could not get into the Diocese. He wants to get some occupation and I have persuaded him to resume a book he was engaged upon (history of a parish) and at his request I have written for some ancient “wills” which are in the Probate Office in Northampton. These he says will give him information for the book. He has been going to bed earlier lately. Ch. T.
March 14th
Going on quietly and is less disturbed by delusions but is nervous and very odd at times. He is going out to church regularly – plays chess – visited by his brothers and is occupied by writing and playing the piano etc. Ch. Tuke.
Revd J. G. Forrest
1911
May 3rd
Mr Forrest is about at his best mental condition, he is occupied and his conversation is quiet & he controls himself well. He begins to talk of “travel” or of going abroad but though rational in times it is evident that he is not normal or free from delusions. But his expression is certainly more natural and he appears less nervous and more cheerful. Ch. Tuke
15th
Is going on well has been out to the theatre with my brother F W Tuke – Today goes on special leave to visit his brother at Enfield – Improved manner – Ch. Tuke
June 20th
Mr Forrest has been very tranquil and at his best, at times agitation and nervous tremor[?] is seen but as a rule he has been better. – But the delusions are still there and he is very unstable. He talks sometimes of going to stay with one of his brothers – It is evident that he is likely to need supervision. Ch. Tuke
Sept 10th
Has been going on well, less agitation and quieter tranquillity. He plays the piano with moderation[?]. Has been to visit his brother at Bristol, travelling alone & returning very cheerfully – has dined with me several times lately. The delusions are still there as is shewn by his asking at times “if there has been much trouble about him lately” He looks well. Attends daily service at the Parish Church. Is very keen about croquet and plays daily. Has several times been up to lunch and dine with Miss Best. Does not sit up late. Ch. Tuke
October 8th
Was going on very well, paying visits and keeping in a cheerful frame of mind, playing croquet – dining with my family &c. Lately a good deal disturbed by being told by the Vicar of his Parish that it was not desirable that he should attend daily service, or visit the curates so much. The objections raised were chiefly that he turned round and looked at people as they came into church and that he took up too much of the curates time – I would have preferred that it has been left to me to inform Mr Forrest, for the matter has troubled him, as he always has delusions that his presence is in some way offensive to others – He seems now to be getting over this a little. Today goes to another church and lately with my permission goes to visit Miss Best, and seems to be quite self possessed and tranquil. Ch. Tuke
CHISWICK HOUSE,
CHISWICK.
Sep 31st. Is now very quiet and contented again. Has had several visitors lately. His solicitor came and talked to him of the sale at his old home, Mr. Forrest had sent for a catalogue, and just came in shouting about things that are or are not to be sold. His brother Frank came next day and was ordered out at once - Two days after Mr. Forrest wished to go to Princes Risboro' and see the things. Was allowed to go in motor with Head attendant. But his brother Frank there (he had told me he would not be there) and
they went around together, at times relations rather strained but on the whole agreed about things, and had tea together. Brother told Head attendant that he was not very civil at times, and that he seemed rather nervous. Came home in good spirits, but said "It might all have been avoided had they [___?] him", and talked rather strangely about it.
His brother Charles saw him, and he also entertained his youngest brother at dinner. He has had several conversations with me, was told that a nurse here had a relation in his old parish and said to me "that will account for so many nurses leaving". He also often says that people are watching him and asks me if there is anything said against him, and whether people leave Chiswick and church because of him.
Revd J. G. Forrest
October 14th
Mr Forrest had to some extent got over the trouble last referenced to. Now he is again disturbed by news of his brother’s financial position – he has however been able to go out, and has attended a concert, but he evidently is under the impression that in some way these troubles are “down to him” and that his presence is not good for others. Ch. Tuke
15th
Slept well, but this morning is disturbed in mind by delusions e.g. asked whether a certain person “was a detective” & said he would like to be sent to a county asylum – But played a game of croquet in the afternoon – Is kept under supervision. Ch. Tuke
Nov 4th
Quite cheerful again lately – But frequently refers to the delusions that he is responsible for everything that goes wrong – Looking fairly well – goes to another church frequently
1912 Jan 30th
Bright and active just now. Takes service - Is allowed to go out to make visits etc.
Sometimes nervous and odd in manner. The delusions are not so obvious. Health good. Ch. Tuke
March 12th
Going on well often very bright and cheerful at times shows that the delusions are present. His health is good he wished to play hockey and joined in a match. He visits friends and goes out to church – Rather nervous in manner. Ch. Tuke
April 12th
Was at Winkton for 48 hours on leave April 1st and 2nd, he was very cheerful and well and seemed to enjoy the change. Ch. T.
July 10th
Has been on the whole going well, but at times he tells people that he has to be blamed for all kind of things, misfortunes that have befallen others, people leaving the parish, and so on and asks if any enquiries have been made about him. He is as a rule cheerful, but he is very impulsive and easily upset, and still talks a great deal to himself. He is busy with music, and plays croquet a good deal. T.S. Tuke
Sept 25th
Is going on quietly has been away for a short time to Winkton with Mr F Tuke and his wife. Bathed and cycled a little & seemed to enjoy himself to a certain extent. He has been very busy lately composing songs, & has taken the word from the “Princess” Some of these are not without merit, he writes them most cleverly & well. Plays croquet
Revd J. G. Forrest
with my son & daughter; comes to visit & is pleasant. He still thinks troubles come through him, though he talks less wildly. Goes about freely, lunches with a cousin in town occasionally, & has been to see his brother & his wife. Generally civil, but not always to be depended on. Easily excited & then gets very shaky & tremulous. General health good [___?] good. Plays chess. T.S. Tuke.
Nov 20th
Has been very fairly well lately, but seeing a policeman at the gates yesterday asked if he had come for him. He plays the piano as usual & has been composing music. Ch. T.
Dec 18th
1913 -
Very good health - generally cheerful & sometimes amiable in manner - but the delusions appear frequently. He thinks that servants leave “through him”, if people are ill, it is “through him” &c. He is able to go out alone & behaves with propriety Ch. Tuke
Feb 16th
Though the delusions appear at times, he is at present very well & cheerful - playing the piano, composing - playing chess & bridge. Ch. Tuke.
March 10th
Gone to Winkton on train to join Mr Ch. Tuke. Has been very bright & cheerful lately, he still thinks troubles are due to him. Is generally occupied, reading, playing at chess or walking out. Says he is emptying another church. T.S. Tuke.
June 12th
Cheerful & good tempered deluded at times, but is occupied by music &c. & is very good to other patients & is frequently walking out with one now. He plays games indoors & out Ch. Tuke.
Sept. 15th
Has been well occupied by music & has done a good deal of composing & has been quite interested in it -
He has also become willing to play cards & now frequently takes part in a game of Bridge & plays very well - His odd & sometimes unexpected manner is seen at times & he no doubt has delusions but is able to control them better. He is looking well & is generally cheerful. Ch. Tuke
Dec. 17th
Has been very tranquil & free from excitement lately & has been occupied by music & also has been golfing frequently -
Today visited by his brother Frank & received him quietly in my presence, was visibly affected by hearing that his brother was ordered to [___?] for his health - Enquired about his “[___?]” & said “where did you get it.” Is looking well & [___?].
V.F. 110
Revd J. G. Forrest
Dec 27th 1913
The visit of his brother evidently disturbed Mr Forrest.
After a rather long interval of comparative tranquillity is a good deal troubled by delusions again. These as before are chiefly to the effect that he is responsible for all troubles, & also that “things are said about him”, He thinks that he has “emptied the church” he now attends – He is nervous and disturbed to some extent, but continues his occupations and plays the piano and plays golf. He lunched with Dr F Tuke on Xmas day but refused to dine with me, and delusions more troublesome all that day. Today he is a little better, but says he thinks he had better go away as his presence is bad for everyone. Ch. T.
Jan 2nd 1914
The morbid and troublesome delusions still noticeable. He dined at my house last night however and became more cheerful. Today tells me that he had a better night & sleep, & seems altogether to be brighter.
9th
The condition last observed is not so marked – Mr Forrest states that he is better & is sleeping well. He has been playing the piano lately – I asked him to go to Winkton. Ch. T.
March 19th
Very well just now, delusions not troublesome, he goes out to lunch with friends &c and also to the theatre to see “Parsifal” – He is looking well. Smokes a good deal & reads. He has been playing the piano and composing, which he always does when free from delusions.
June 25th
Very satisfactory condition lately – has been playing golf & lawn tennis a good deal & has improved in both. Looks stronger – cheerful and pleasant, has been very kind & nice to another patient lately, asking him to dine with him &c.
July 11th
Very cheerful & is more steady and contented in all ways – Plays golf & tennis, & is [___?] & pleasant in manner. Has been to visit friends in town.
July 18th
A good deal disturbed by visit of Lord Chancellor’s[?] Visitor. He expressed much concern, asking why his visit to him should be necessary. It appears to have disturbed and alarmed him though the visit was planned. But he is very suspicious – Mr Forrest is looking extremely well and he is playing games daily – tennis and golf. He is earlier to bed now.
Revd J. G. Forrest
From F[olio] 100
October 10th
Is looking a good deal stronger and better for having been playing games all the summer. Continues to play golf daily with another patient – Is in very fair mental condition and is not troubled by delusions so much. Sleeps better – Has been invited visited[?] & has been to London to see his brother. Is much interested in War news, and follows the campaign in the Papers – Does not seem to care to go away for a change.
Jan 2nd 1915
Is going on well. Is bright and active - Lately has been tried by the news of death of his brother Charles [s/b Frank] of Phthisosis at Bath, but has not broken down. Is still inclined to think that he is the cause of illness in others and of all their misfortunes – He has written letters to his lawyer & is to go to visit a sister in law.
Jan 15th
Went to visit sister in law near Oxford – Is cheerful generally and well occupied, plays golf.
Feb 20th
Was asked to visit sister in law at his late brother’s home, but this disturbed him & he began talking of his relations in very much the old strain. Eventually after some hesitation, he refused to go on this visit.
March 11th
Very well, except that he has had a slight cold. Is rather inclined to expose himself to chills – plays golf and takes __ exercise – Is going to visit his sister in law at Oxford, though he would not to go to see her at Gloucester.
April 21st
Has been much as usual, and is good tempered and cheerful as a rule. Rather troubled about his brothers who are in the Army, and especially over the one in the Canadian force. Occupies himself and sends things to them regularly. Easily “upset” as usual. And has occasional colds, stayed in bed one day for a chill, but soon recovered & was up to dinner. Made no requests at visit of B. [___?].
Plays golf regularly daily, and practices piano, compositions etc. several times a day. Much out of doors now. Looking well.
June 25th
Mr Forrest has been for a fortnight at a friends home at Highcliffe with another patient with whom he is on excellent terms, & an attendant. They had fine weather & appear to have enjoyed the visit, playing golf on the Highcliffe Links – all went on very quietly and they kept early hours.
Revd J. G. Forrest
Sept 4th
Is in very good health and is occupied by various interests – Has given up golf but plays squash racquets daily – goes to London attends concerts - writes to & visits friends & to his brothers who are on active service. Takes a keen interest in the war news, reads the papers & can discuss any subject, but his own affairs. So very odd and queer in some ways & has to be treated with much tact, & is offended sometimes without cause – Seems contented & does not suggest or talk of any change. Ch. Tuke
Dec 26th
Has been going on extremely well – Lately has had news of his brother’s death (killed in action in Baghdad). Was a good deal disturbed at first, but recovered in a few days & is now calm about it and speaks of it normally. His health is good – he continues to play games, golf etc. Ch. T
1916 March 27th
Has been going on quietly taking exercise, going to London, etc. Very odd in some ways at times but generally altogether more rational and less suspicious in manner. Has had a slight cold lately and the weather has been bad – on Friday asked to go to Winkton on 48 hours leave – this was at once agreed to and he was allowed to make his arrangements - and all was prepared for his visit. It seems to have been very successful and has returned today looking better for the change & pleased that he had been trusted to go alone. Ch. T.
April 7th
To Chistlehurst alone for the afternoon to see his nephew.
June 10th
Very cheerful & lively playing games & the piano, but has lately been odd & has been “suspicious” again. Much interested as usual in the War news which he studies & knows very much of. He is looking well. Ch. T.
August 20th
Is in good health & cheerful – Has been to visit friends & has had “48 hours leave” to go to Cheltenham alone – Though pleasant in manner, he has anxious peculiarities. Is remarkably parsimonious, Can hardly be induced to wear new clothes or to spend money. Has a very bad pair of hair brushes but will not hear of getting new ones and is easily “upset” if asked to do so – Very suspicious at times – Seems to take great interest in War news.
Nov 15th
Going on very well and cheerfully – Playing games and practicing the piano he has composed several pieces of music – He visits his sister in law and other friends. Behaviour unusual at intervals.
Revd J. G. Forrest
1917 Feb 28th
Though for some time Mr Forrest is able to go on in a daily routine very well, he is very liable to break down. He has been continually well for months. Lately disturbed by the serious illness of my brother Dr T S Tuke. He was all the time most sympathetic and kind, but as usual was disturbed by the delusions that he was in some way responsible. At the death of my brother he expressed his sincere sorrow most naturally and kindly, but at this time delusions were very evident e.g. he spoke of the accusations made against him (imaginary) by his late father.
He attended the funeral, but was very uncertain whether the Vicar of the parish would allow it.
Today a good deal more composed & has begun to play the piano again. Ch. T
March 15th
For some days Mr Forrest has been restless and disturbed in manner and troubled by delusions of a marked degree. Speaking of accusations made against him e.g. that he “kept a mistress” etc. He frequently spoke about “not going to church again” saying that he would not go – Very suspicious and unwilling to be reassured. Special attention was paid to him. For the past two days he has become more tranquil, and today seems in his normal condition again.
It is evident that these delusions are always more or less present though not always evident. Ch. T.
17th
A considerable improvement in the last two days. Is out in the gardens and talks on ordinary topics. Ch. T.
27th
Is quite at his best again talking cheerfully on all topics. Wishes to make his sister in law an allowance. Is playing games as usual.
May 20th
Very well and cheerful now – playing Bridge in the evenings - going to church again. Ch. T.
June 4th
Is particularly well and tranquil & free from any sign of delusion - Quite at his best. Ch. T.
Sep 4th
Going on quietly, playing games, and frequently at the piano – Is good tempered & [___?] – Visits his cousins & brothers – looking very well in health.
1918 Jan 9th
Patient has not been feeling well for the last ten days, from a chill (internal) Now he has developed jaundice. He does not wish to stay in bed but is keeping in his sitting room and being dieted taking an alliative mixture.
Jan 16th
The jaundice has disappeared & patient says he feels quite himself again and his appetite has returned. He looks much better & is cheerful and much better mentally again.
Jan 21st
Mr Forrest went away today on leave to his sister in law for a change of air
Feb 1st
Mr Forrest did not stay long with his sister in law as he started quarrelling in a day or two, & returned of his own accord in under the week. He is looking much better though very thin. Mentally is not very well.
May 2nd
Much the same, generally very cheerful but worries a little – nervous and odd in manner at times.
June 18th
Mr Forrest has been troubled with some idea that he is responsible for his brother & family. He has been visited by his brother – He has been writing to his lawyers and has apparently asked for an interview with one of H.M. Commissioners. This has fallen through. Mr Forrest was rather restless and agitated for some days, and told me that he desired to economize and “live at a cheaper place” He is now less troubled by this – The news of the War is still read with great interest.
July 13th
Mr Forrests’ mental condition causes some anxiety for he is fidgetty & nervous and unsettled – Tells me that he is no good to anyone & sometimes asks for something to do. Thinks that he might be “a hospital orderly” at other times says he wants to go into the depths of the country – He has the same ideas about economizing in his expenses, but he spends money on himself – Talks of giving up smoking but does not do so – Is offered work in the garden but will not do any or at the most works in a very desultory way for quite a short time – Says that he sleeps well, & certainly seems very well – He plays the piano almost daily.
The Rev. J. G. Forrest: from F 148
1919 April 4th
I have only seen him yet on one occasion as he has parole and is generally out. I am told he is very deluded, & often behaves & conducts himself in a queer way. H. Lonaghey
July 2nd
Lately Mr Forrest has been very fairly well and his physical health is maintained. He is amiable and [___?] – he visits friends in London and his sister in law, with whom he appears to be very indignant on account of her 2nd marriage, but afterwards became reconciled and satisfied and attended the wedding – at times his delusions of persecution are very evident – but on the whole he is able to enjoy considerable freedom.
26th Sept
Patient has a great deal of freedom and appears quite contented with his mode of life. He will converse on topics of interest and is a student of affairs but resents any efforts at close acquaintance and is suspicious and moody in his personal relations. He is in very good health. G W Smith
30th Dec
In good health: comes and goes as he wishes and is generally well controlled. His moods vary, at times he is friendly and confidential at others for no apparent cause he is hostile and suspicious GWS
1920 4th Feb
Appears very well physically and has full parole and is normally sociable and agreeable when left to follow his own devices GWS
3rd April
Interested in affairs and constantly in the open air: keeps his morbid ideas in the background
July 27th
He is very well in health – he goes out & about, visits friends etc. Has his moods as usual – Lately has quite given up his frequent visits to my home, but visits Granville House daily – He is now more ready to speak with me than he has been for some months . Ch T.
4th Oct
Remains in good health and goes out a great deal. He is very irritable and uncertain but on the whole has good control and does not air his delusional ideas very often. G.W.S.
1921 3rd Jan
No change to report: suspicious and reserved as a rule though he can be very friendly and amiable. Keeps good bodily health. G.W.S.
10th
Has lately spoken of a wish to go into the country, but there is no definite place preferred. Describes himself as being a “bundle of nerves” Is in the same state mentally with massive delusions of suspicions and asks if anything has been said connecting him with a suspicious[?] illness “ etc. He is worried about money matters, quite without cause.
Rev. J. G. Forrest
1921 12th April
Enjoys full parole and leads a quiet regular life. Very suspicious and rather difficult socially but handled tactfully manages to conceal his morbid ideas of persecution. In good health. G.W.S.
30th June
Went on 48 hours leave this week to his sister-in-law and returned as arranged. G.W.S.
31st Aug
Went on leave to Dr Lidderdale Cheltenham as arranged by the Receiver and Mr Forrest’s solicitor G.W.S.
13th Oct
The patient appears to be enjoying his stay at Cheltenham and good reports have been received about him. A further period of a month’s leave of absence has been sanctioned. G.W.S.
20th
I had received a good letter from Mr Forrest expressing his satisfaction at the extension of leave – Today I met his solicitor in London and discussed the possibility of Mr Forrest’s Discharge from certificates - I agreed to do so but pointed out that I could only discharge him as relieved and it was proposed to do so at the expiration of the leave in November – The solicitor was to ask for instructions from the “master” as regards the [___?]
That evening I had a telephone message from Dr Lidderdale to say that Mr Forrest had not returned to his home that day since being out at midday.
In the morning I had another message by telephone to tell me that a body had been found in the river at Tewkesbury by the Police which answered the description of the patient – This discovery was made on the 20th Oct 6pm
Later an Inquest was held by the coroner –
Verdict Suicide by drowning whilst of unsound mind, on Tue 20th.
