Attempted Assassination.

Manawatu Herald, 20 November 1902, Page 3

Attempted Assassination.

’ Rubino, a notorious Italian anarchist, fired three ball cartridges from a revolver at the cortege of the King of the Belgians, while it was returning from a funeral service at Saint Gudule’s Church in memory of the late Queen. The window of the third carriage was shattered, but two Aides-de-camp and Ladies of Honour, who were sitting in the vehicle, were aahurt.

King Leopold usually drives in the third carriage, but on this occasion occupied the first carriage, and only learned of the attempt after reaching the Palace. Rubino was, arrested, and was examined atj the 4 police station. He admitted that he came from London, the Italian Government bad employed him to watch the movements of anarchists, but he was furnishing information to the anarchists. The attask on King Leopold, who • has lately been unpopular owing to bis treatment of his daughter, produced a revulsion of feeling. The police with difficulty rescued Rubino from the infuriated crowd, which backed with knives the vehicle, conveying him to the police station. The vehicle was damaged in many places. Rubino was inside Saint Gudule’s earlier in the day, but left, fearing that if he made the attempt there be would wound the soldiers. He declares that kings, clergy, and all established authorities are his enemies. Rubino, while a soldier, was sentenced to five years at Milan for forgery. He Was not employed by the Italian Government, The anarchists considered him a 'spy, and say that the present crime was intended to rehabilitate him in their eyes. King Leopold has received many sympathetic messages.