Brett Fishburne (bfish@atlantech.net)





Alvira: The Heroine of Vesuvius

by Rev. A. J. O'Reilly, D.D.




Introduction




The Penitent Saints


The interesting and instructive character of this sensational narrative,
which we cull from the traditions of a past generation, must cover
the shortcomings of the pen that has labored to present it in an
English dress.

We are aware that the propriety of drawing from the oblivion of
forgotten literature such a story will be questioned. The decay of
the chivalrous spirit of the middle ages, and the prudish, puritanical
code of morality that has superseded the simple manners of our