Post-trial
Although convicted, Kewish had the hope of receiving leniency from the British Government. The Lieutenant-Governor received several sworn statements intended to encourage leniency including from the jurors of the first trial, his examining physician, and others. Kewish's post-trial statements were inconsistent. At one point Kewish's gaoler stated that Kewish admitted he had accidentally shot his father and hid the weapon in the thatch of an outhouse (where a bird gun was later found). At other times Kewish repeated his claims of innocence and requested a free pardon. The pitchfork had not clearly been identified however the Home Secretary advised the Queen that he could not recommend mercy. He felt the crime was premeditated, committed from greed, and added that neither the deemster nor the jury had recommended mercy at the trial.
Manx law at the time required the British Crown to order the execution by positive act. Queen Victoria was displeased with this which she indicated in a letter to the Home Secretary. He apologised and promised to bring Manx law into compliance with that of England which did not require such an order. Although expressing personal doubts about the case, she took his advice and indicated that the execution was to proceed.
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