To obtain the power and secrets of witchcraft, it is necessary to visit a churchyard at midnight, and cut off the hand of a recently buried corpse with your own hand. This is preserved by drying or smoking, and can then be used with great and fatal effect. Old women are known as the strongest tools of the devil, and as having the most fatal powers of witchcraft. These witch-women are recognised at once by their glittering eyes and long, skeleton fingers; and if they have a dead hand in their possession, their influence is irresistible.
Lady Wilde, Irish Cures, Charms and Usages of Ireland (pp 49-50)
Linnets Sing In The Trees 
You must be logged in to post a comment.