THROWING THE HATCHET.
Tho following is given as the origin of the phrase " throwing the hatchet :" — In the 14th century the situation of publio executioner to the city of Florence became Tacant, and as it was a place of considerable emolument there were three candidates. A day was appointed for tho public display of their several abilities. The first candidate, with a knife, cleverly separated the head of the victim from hia shoulders ; but he was outdone by the rapid stroko of tho second, whoße glittering broadsword struck terror into the hearts of the surrounding multitude. The third, the least promising, held in his hand a short hittchet, and when the victim waß extended with his head on the fatal block he approached him, and in a whisper enquired if he wa9 & swift runner, and if he could swim -well. On being answered in the affirmative, he desired him to spring to his feet and crosa the river. The execu'ioner then putting on a fierce look, swung'the weapon round his head, but instead of miking it descend on the devoted creature's neck, struck it with great force into tho block. Shouts of execration rose from the crowd, and the trembling wretch, astonished at his wonderful escape, had nearly gained the opposite bank of tho river before any steps were taken to pursue him. He bad scarely, however, gone ten yards on dry land, when the executioner, taking steady aim, throw hiß hatohet with such effect that the body continued running some time after the head was off!
THROWING THE HATCHET.
Star (Christchurch), Issue 3948, 13 December 1880, Page 4
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