From the papers of 100 years ago we read the following:
“Two tramps of the most objectionable class have been creating fun around Newry for the last few days.
From bottles found in their possession when arrested it seems both are victims of the ‘other habit’.
Failing the procuring of which delectable spirit its victims generally fall back on the less appetising methylated spirits for their consumption.
…
All of which is interesting twice over:
In the press’s attitude to those reduced to low circumstances ; and
In the much more colourful standards of journalism then than that we are used to today!