We often forget, in considering Belgian affairs, the intensity of
bigotry by which part of the population is distinguished. *even colliers have recently been tried at Antwerp for torturing two comrades to death to make them do homage to the Virgiu. One
of the unhappy victims was bound to a cross made of two planks ; nailed together in the form of an X, and there left for hours. When released he died of pain, hunger, and nervous excitement. IAnother was burnt with a hot iron and plunged in water till he ; fell into a fever and also died. The principal murderer, a man named Neese's, was sentenced to only six years' imprisonment, and his abettors to shorter terms, all of which, at the intercession of the priests, will gradually be remitted. But that the sceptical Catho- lics defend them, Protestant workmen could scarcely live in Belgium.
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