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 French Daily-News “La Justice Exige la Mort”, which means Justice requires death. These words lingered around and were thought of by many people as they witnessed the execution of King Louis XVI. My name is Pierre Francois and I am the editor and reporter for the French Daily News. Today is the 21th of January, 1973 and it’s been a few hours since the end of King Louis XVI. January 20th was a cloudy afternoon and it became very dark very fast. The streets were filled with French citizens bearing arms and rotten food, while the king Louis along with his priest was in his carriage riding to the execution platform. Although it was hard to get through the citizens, I was able to get an interview of a man. “How do you feel about the methods of King Louis?” I said “I hate him. During his time as our ruler I lost everything. Our so called king ruined my life forever.” he replied. “Do you think this is the right way to go?” “Hell yes! If I had a hold of him myself I would kill him with my own hands!” he furiously claimed. Yes, King Louis XVI has ruined many lives including myself. My family and friends were killed due to the starvation of others in a terrible brawl for food and water. I have hated King Louis ever since. His lack of help has killed all who have been dear to me, but I disagree with this method of solving things. I would rather put him in jail for the rest of his life to suffer like we have over the dreadful years. While he was escorted by guards to the execution platform I was able to get through and ask him a few questions. “King Louis! How do you feel about today?” I said “……………………..” he answered. “Well yes um, do you hate us?” “I think this is madness! Killing your own king is unheard of...” “If you knew this would happen would you change your ways?” “If I knew this was my definite future, it would be difficult to change because I was raised this way, but I would be more careful.” “Is there anything you would like to say to the crowds of people watching you here today?” “……….. No I don’t.” And that was it. He was brought to the platform while people were booing and hissing at him. His priest was praying, although people showed anger towards him. As we watched the speed of the blade coming down, I am almost certain I saw a faint smile upon his face. -CHINKK-! And that was it. His death was swift and clean. It was dead silent. Nobody uttered a word after the blade struck down. I was shaking from the intense image of this horror. It seemed to have gone on forever, but then someone yelled “Vive la Republique!” and many others repeated this word in a matter of minutes. Soon thousands of people began repeating the word many times and, because it was a long and cloudy afternoon, people began returning to their homes satisfied and tired. “La Justice Exige la Mort” still lingered in many minds when visiting the place of execution where King Louis XVI was brought to justice. This is Pierre Francois of the French Daily News.

    