Wikipedia
Galway, Ireland
Thursday, June 12, 1823
On Wednesday, rather an interesting looking woman was observed standing on the verge of the quay, opposite where the brig Fortitude, freighted with passengers for America, was lying; when, on hearing a shot fired, she thought it was the signal for sailing, on which she plunged into the river with a view of reaching the vessel, or abiding the consequences.
She was fortunately taken up, and on being recovered, she said in explanation, that her husband was on board the vessel, having deserted her and her family.
There was an order immediately for his being re-landed. In furture he should atone for having taken a step that was near ending so fatal to a wife that loved him better than he deserved.
The Burren and Beyond 