Thanks for the comments, Ken.
The possibility that Rachel was the intended victim is
interesting, and an angle not previously suggested. As with all the theories in
this case there are frustrating points for and against. How physically similar Rachel
and Liz were, we simply don't know. If they were very similar that could give
substance to the suggestion. What we do know is that on the night of the murder
there was a waxing moon, which would have given some light, but whether it was
enough to see the person clearly is debatable. However, if the attacker was one
of Ramsden's circle, he would have known both girls very well and unless the
attack was carried out in a panic, I think he would have known who the girl
was, even in poor light. Given Liz and Rachel's colourful love lives, it's
certainly likely that both had made enemies. Rachel, in particular, had very
likely made an enemy of Anne Ramsden, Thomas's wife, but the way the act was
carried out seems unlikely for a woman.. If the murderer was Thomas or one of
his apprentices, I think they would have been aware of Rachel's whereabouts,
due to her being the Ramsdens' servant. On the night in question she was doing
the Ramsden's family's laundry until around 10.00 and when she left, was
accompanied by one of Thomas's brothers and one of his sons and I suspect this
accompanying her home was a regular occurrence. As a result, I think it
unlikely the attackers would have thought the girl hurrying alone down
Sheepcote Lane was Rachel. Of course, it isn't outside the realms of
possibility either...Frustrating, isn't it!
