Written in blood

Who would have thought such beautiful, copperplate writing could be the root of such mental anguish? There was nothing externally visible in the hand-written document to indicate that each carefully formed letter had been created under the threat of severe physical punishment.

The Brothers set high standards for their students and achieved them through beatings and fear. This harsh treatment of young children destroyed their confidence and resulted in a life-long resentment of the Church.

I am always amazed, when looking at this exacting and perfect piece of work, that no-one thought to question its production by a six-year-old boy.