THE RACK.
THIS horrible engine of barbarity and error is not peculiar to Roma n
Catholic countries, it is used even in China, for the purpose of extorting
confession. Th e method of employing it, in torturing the ankles,
is exhibited in this Plate. Th e instrument is composed of a thick, strong
plank, having a contrivance at one end to secure the hands, and at the
other a sort of double wooden vice. T h e vice is formed of three stout
uprights, two of which are moveable, but steadied by a block, that is
fastened on each side. T h e ankles of the culprit being placed in the
machine, a cord is passed round the uprights, and held fast by two men.
The chief tormentor then gradually introduces a wedge into the interalternately
changing sides. Th i s method of forcing an expansion
at the upper part, causes the lower ends to draw towards the central
upright, which is fixed into the plank, and thereby compresses the
ankles of the wretched sufferer; who, provided he be fortified by innocence,
or by resolution, endures the advances of the wedge, until his
bones are completely reduced to a jelly.