Deep Dive into Foxe's Book of Martyrs by John Foxe - Further Account of the Proceedings of the Catholics at Nismes

October 1815 in Nismes was marked by relentless persecution, primarily targeting Protestants. This period saw no improvement in the government's approach, leading to increased audacity among the attackers. Houses in areas like the Quartier St. Charles were sacked and burned, accompanied by songs, dances, and shouts of "Vive le Roi!". Attempts by the mayor to intervene were met with defiance and dismissal.Preparations for widespread violence were evident on October 16th. Trestaillon, a key leader, reviewed his followers, urging them to commit crimes and explicitly planning the total extermination of Protestants, declaring "not a single man shall escape". Late that night, General La Garde perceived the danger and felt the urgent need for action. Ruffians filled the streets, uttering horrible imprecations. The generale sounded at eleven o'clock, and a small number of troops rallied around La Garde, who was distressed by the situation.Catholic advocate M. Durand witnessed the chaos near midnight, hearing drums, firing, and shouts including "Vive le Roi!". He observed a furious crowd, armed with various weapons and vowing extermination. He learned the massacre was general. From hiding, M. Durand saw the brutal murder of Louis Lichare, a father of four. Lichare begged for mercy while being mocked by his captors. After being shot multiple times, he lay groaning. Disturbingly, arriving national guards finished him off with more shots.The day after a massacre was treated as a "sort of fete," with people abandoning their work to gaze upon and insult the deceased. M. Durand later swore to the truth of his account at a murder trial. The violence was fueled by religious hatred and linked to political loyalties.Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologianPatreon: patreon.com/edi_reformed