Patient Admission Record – Confidential
File No.: 0472-A
Ward: Melancholic Observation – North Wing
Date of Admission: October 3, 1887
Assigned Bed: 12-B

Patient Name: Elspeth M. Fairchild

Age: 6
Birthplace: Marblehead, MA
Next of Kin: Miriam Fairchild (mother – deceased), Father unknown

PRESENTING SYMPTOMS:

• Prolonged night terrors (reports of "singing shadows")

• Persistent mutism since mother's death (7 months prior)

• Self-inflicted scratches on arms and chest

• Cradles a decaying doll referred to as “Nora,” claims “she keeps the bad ones away”

NOTES FROM DR. HORACE FELL:

“Child exhibits a dissociative fugue state, possibly a result of traumatic grief or... some darker influence. Eyes are unusually dilated even in full light. Has not spoken, but has been observed mouthing unidentifiable phrases during sleep. Doll appears to exert a psychological influence — removal causes violent outbursts and catatonia.”

TREATMENTS ADMINISTERED:

• Ice bath immersion (3 minutes, 2x daily)

• Electro-convulsive therapy (low voltage; discontinued after seizure)

• Solitary observation in Quiet Wing initiated on Oct 30, 1887

• Soul Extraction attempt noted in Quiet Wing Logbook (Nov 2, 1887) — outcome inconclusive

STATUS:

 INTERNAL TRANSFER – QUIET WING
Date: November 4, 1887
Attending Nurse: Sister Miriam (resigned shortly after)

FINAL NOTE (Unverified):

Multiple staff reported seeing Elspeth walking the hallway two nights after transfer. Bed 12-B remains undisturbed, yet the doll “Nora” continues to reappear there — even after incineration.