LES TREMBLEMENTS DE TEEEE DE 1883 EN ITALIE

Thème.

In 1883 occurred in Italy the most terrible earthquakes of this century. The pretty island of Ischia, which lies in the Bay of Naples, was shaken to its very foundation, and in one day was changed from one of the loveliest spots on earth to a gloomy, death-stricken place. This catastrophe took place on July the 28th. While people were enjoying the lovely evening, a deep rolling sound was suddenly heard, and in fifteen seconds there was nothing left on the island but a heap of débris, under which almost the whole of the population was buried.

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The town of Casamicciola, one of the most clelightful summer resorts in Italy, was completely destroyed, and nearly two tliousand people were crushed to death. During ail the night nothing but heart-rending cries and moans were heard. What remained of the inhabitants rushed to the shore, trying to get into the fishing-boats lying at anchor in the small creeks and inlets that indent the coast of the island. Women and children were running through the streets crying out, " Hâve you seen my husband ? Hâve you seen my son ? "

On the next morning it was seen that hardly a single honse was left standing, and corpses were found everywhere. Battles are horrible, but they are mère plays compared with earthquakes.