Moved by
curiosity I quickened my steps, and as I drew nearer I felt sure
that this must be some interesting institution of which I had not
heard. Presently I observed along the facade a row of heads of oxen
carved in stone--an ornament decidedly puzzling. Last of all my
eyes perceived, over the stately entrance, the word "Macello," and
with astonishment I became aware that this fine structure, so
agreeably situated, was nothing else than the town slaughter-house.
Does the like exist elsewhere? It was a singular bit of advanced
civilization, curiously out of keeping with the thoughts which had
occupied me on my walk. Why, I wonder, has Reggio paid such
exceptional attention to this department of its daily life? One did
not quite know whether to approve this frank exhibition of
carnivorous zeal; obviously something can be said in its favour,
yet, on the other hand, a man who troubles himself with finer
scruples would perhaps choose not to be reminded of pole-axe and
butcher's knife, preferring that such things should shun the light
of day.
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