KING OF THE BRIGANDS.

Hawera & Normanby Star, Volume XLVIII, Issue 8241, 13 June 1905, Page 4

KING OF THE BRIGANDS.

FAMOI'S BOUBEII SLAIN B£ AN UN

KNOWN HAND

For over 14 years a .notorious brigand named Varsalona. terrorised the whole of Hidly by his murderous exploits, which were carried on with tho greatest audacity An army of carabineers was employed against him, but he always escaped cap1 urc. Year was his principal ally, and there was not a villager in Sicily who would not from sheer terror help to save tlu* "King of the Brigands'* from Ihe representatives of tho law or supply him with all lie required.

About a year ago a severed human head was found resting on a wall, on which was written in letters of blood : "Varsalona." Thero was sonic doubt at the time as lo whether the ghastly relic actually belonged to the famous brigand, but all doubts have now been dispelled.

Recently a- headless botly was discovered in bushes close to the village of Belvedere, near Palermo, and from the remaining shreds of the dress, the gun, and other indications the body was identified as that of Varsalona.

Who rid Sicily of the tyrant? That is a mystery, and in all probability will remain so, as the robber had faithful associates and adherents who might revenge the death of their chief did they know his' slayer.