e church. They instantly threw
open all the other portals, and the populace, who had been retiring like
an ebbing tide, now rushed back, and flowed into the building, raging
and foaming like an angry sea.

A'Dale and I had remained at the further end of the church, unable,
without mixing with the crowd, to make our escape. Those who had charge
of the building made a vain attempt to carry off some of its more
precious possessions, but they had to retreat before the threatening
aspect of the crowd. Instead of the expected vespers, a hymn was raised
by the multitude who filled the church. At that moment, perhaps many
who joined in it hoped that it would have the effect of tranquillising
the multitude. Scarcely, however, had it concluded before a band of the
most ruffianly-looking of the assemblage united together, and, as if
with one accord, made a rush at the figure of the Virgin--the same idol
which had been carried about the city a few days previously. Before any
one could interfere, it was dragged from its pedestal and hurled to the
ground. It was immediately set upon, the rich robes were torn off it,
and with axes and hammers, wielded by brawny arms, the figure in a few
minutes was hewn into a thousand pieces, which were scattered over the
floor. A wild shout of triumph succeeded. All sorts of weapons of
destruction were now produced by the mob. Some had sledge-hammers in
their hands, others axes, and others bludgeons; while ladders,
handspikes, and ropes and blocks were brought into the church.
Immediately they went to work. The images which could be most easily
got at were hurled from their niches, and the pictures were torn from
the walls, and the painted windows shivered to atoms. Some of the men
were seen climbing up the carved work, striking with their hammers on
every side; others, placing ladders against the walls or columns,
ascended to dizzy heights, with ropes and blocks, and pulled down the
ornaments which were otherwise out of reach. The wax candles were
seized from the altars, and held by some of the party to light the
others in executing their task. Everything was done in the most
systematic manner. There were no less than seven chapels in the
cathedral, every one of which in succession was utterly spoilt. Chests
of treasure were broken open, and the gorgeous robes of the priests
dragged forth, many of the mob attiring themselves in them. Casks of
wine were broached and the liquor poure