A HORRIBLE MASSACRE. 



81 



a quantity already too low. After an anxious consultation, we came to the resolution of 

 throwing them into the sea, and thus terminating at once their sufferings. This was a 

 horrible and unjustifiable expedient, but who amongst us would have the cruelty to put 

 it into execution? Three sailors and a soldier took it on themselves. We turned away 

 our eyes from the shocking sight, trusting that, in thus endeavouring to prolong our own 

 lives, we were shortening theirs but a few hours. This gave us the means of subsistence 



ON THE RAFT OF THE " MEDUSA " A SAIL IN SIGHT. 



(After the celebrated Painting by Gericault.) 



for six additional days. After this dreadful sacrifice, we cast our swords into the sea, 

 reserving but one sabre for cutting wood or cordage, as might be necessary." Was there 

 ever such an example of demoniacal hypocrisy, mingled with pretended humanity ! 



One can hardly interest himself in the fate of the remaining fifteen, who, if they were 

 not all human devils, must have carried to their dying days the brand of Cain indelibly 

 impressed on their memories. A few days passed, and the indications of a close approach 

 to land became frequent. Meantime, they were suffering from the intense heat, and from 

 excessive thirst. One more example of petty selfishness was afforded by an officer who 

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