Was Dutfields Yard Really Empty?

[c.d.]

Hi Philip,

Thanks for your response. That is very helpful information.

I have to wonder though, what would Jack have been doing hiding in the yard? Who would he have been waiting for?

c.d.

[George Hutchinson]

Hi, CD.

The yard was a cul-de-sac by 1888 though it had not always been so. There was certainly a bend to the right at the end that someone could have hidden in. The yard was dark enough for Louis Diemschutz not to be able to see what had made his pony pull up sharp and it's often said that the only source of light that night was from the fanlight over the door into the IWMC. This was beyond the spot where Liz's body was found and, rather like the lights in Mitre Square, would not have lit the relevant spot.

You would have been able to see into the yard from the street if you don't consider the darkness as the gates were not closed as far as I know. The gates were the only way in and out by normal means and I have long thought it is perfectly possible that JTR could have been hiding in the shadows at the end of the yard. Possible does not make likely, however.

PHILIP

[c.d.]

The Liz was not a victim of JTR camp makes a strong point when they point out that several witnesses testified that they had been in the yard shortly before Liz was killed and that the yard was empty. I am just not that familiar with the layout of the yard. Is it possible that someone could have been in the yard and not been seen? What were the lighting conditions like? Was the gate the only possible way to enter the yard? Could you see into the yard from the street?

Thanks for your help.

c.d.