Page:Great Neapolitan Earthquake of 1857 Vol 2.djvu/279

218 ascribed the mournful sum of deaths in Polla to the inaccuracy which confusion entails, but a telegraphic despatch from the Intendant of Salerno, who has gone there, confirms the fatal intelligence, and asserts that the number amounts to upwards of 2000, and that the men are still engaged in disinterring the victims of this awful scourge. After Polla the communes of Pertosa, Atena, and Auletta have sustained the greatest injuries. The first two and Polla are completely destroyed, and the last is little better. Padula and San Pietro occupy the third grade in this mournful division, and Sala, Diano, Sassano, Montesano, S. Arsenio and Sapri the fourth. The entire number of deaths in these districts is 2600.

To moderate the consternation which these particulars must excite, wo hasten to add that when the large bounty of our pious sovereign was announced to the unhappy survivors, an unanimous "Viva il Re" burst from them. Sheds have been erected everywhere to receive the unfortunate individuals who had passed nights in the open air, and who would have suffered greatly but for the mildness of the weather. Buildings have also been constructed for oflices, and the celebration of divine service, which till now has been performed in the street or under unsuitable shelter. Ovens have been built where required, and it is consoling to learn that besides the relief bestowed by his Majesty's command, the communes have assisted each other by that law of Providence in virtue of which men are more charitable in time of misfortune. Physicians, nurses, and the consolations of religion are to be had everywhere. The wounded and ill, the bruised and lamed receive supplies of blankets, linen, and medicine. Provisions abound, thanks to the generous charity of the sovereign, so that yesterday many barrels of flour, as well as leeches and medicine, were in readiness to proceed from Principato Citeriore to Brienza, in the Commune of Basilicata. To these necessaries were added prepared meal, cheese, and other comforts. A means of relief of the highest importance, owing to the inclement season, is about to be sent to the aid of the unfortunate. Within a very few hours all those who are unsheltered will receive the bounty of our adored sovereign, who has commanded all the military tents to be forwarded to them.