Democratic Sentinel, Volume 5, Number 12, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 29 April 1881 — Throwing the Hatchet; [ARTICLE]

Throwing the Hatchet;

In the fourteenth century the situation of public executioner to the city of Florence became vacant, and, as it was a place of considerable emolument there were three candidates. A. day was appointed for public display of their several abilities. The first candidate, with a knife, cleverly separated the head of the victim from his shoulders. He was outdone by the rapid stroke of the second, whose glittering broadsword struck terror into the hearts of the surrounding multitude. The third and least promising held in his hand a short hatchet, and, when the victim was extended with his head on the fatal block, approached him, and ip a low whisper inquired if he was a swift runner and if lie could swim well. On being answered in ‘the affirmative, he desired him to spring on his feet and cross the river. The executioner then put on a fierce look, swung his weapon roundhis head, but, instead of making it descend on the devoted creature’s neck, struck it with great force into the block ! Shouts of execration rose from

the crowd, and the trembling wretch, astonished at his wonderful escape, had nearly gained the opposite bank of the river before any steps were taken to pursue him. He had scarcely, however, gone ten yards on dry land when the executioner, taking steady aim, threw his hatchet with such effect that the body continued running some time after the head was off! From this rather improbable incident the common phrase of throwing the hatchet is said to be derived.