TRAGIC DEATH OF A NIHILIST.
A STRANGE STORY. Another remarkable story has to be added to the list of curious and exciting narratives connected with tbe Nihilist cause. The St. Petersburg corespondent of the Voltaire guarantees the authenticity of the following facts, which are said to have materially increased the anxiety felt in the Russian capital for the Czar's safety. Shortly after the opening of the Moscow Exhibition, which was recently inaugurated by the Grand Duke Vladimir, a young man demanded an audience of the chief of the police at St. Petersburg. He refused to state his errand to any of the subordinate officials, so after being carfully searched he was admitted to the presence of the General. Here he stated at once that he was sent by the revolutionary party, and explained his mission in the following terms : —" The Emperor is prevented from going to Moscow by his fear of our schemes. His dread "will cease to be justified whenever he grants a constitution. Then he need fear no conspiracy, and can go in safety wherever he pleases. It has fallen to my lot to inform you that if the Emperor persists in his reactionary policy, nothing can save him. Neither my friends nor myself wish to murder him treacherously. Alexander 111. is warned as was Alexander 11. We do not assassinate, but we render justice." At this point of the interview the police-officer seemed anxious to call in assistance, but the young Nihilist stopped him and added : " I do not wish to be subjected to the indignity of torture. In coming here I have sacrficed my life. I could have killed you, bnt we do not commit murders uselessly." With these words the youth stepped back a few paces, and knocked two large buttons, with which his cuffs were fastened, against his forehead. The buttons, being full of an explosive substance, burst, and inflicted such wounds on tbe young man that he expired in a few moments, leaving no trace of bis identity. This sensational incident has reminded the public that the murder of Alexander 11. was preceeded by similar warnings.
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Daily Telegraph (Napier), Issue 3482, 4 September 1882, Page 4
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353TRAGIC DEATH OF A NIHILIST. Daily Telegraph (Napier), Issue 3482, 4 September 1882, Page 4
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