执事布罗迪

 执事布罗迪

Paul King

威廉-布罗迪(William Brodie)(1741-88)是爱丁堡社会中备受尊敬的成员,他是一位熟练的内阁制造商,也是市议会的成员,同时也是Wright和Masons公司的执事(负责人)。 然而,大多数绅士都不知道,布罗迪有一个秘密的夜间职业,他是一伙窃贼的头目。 为了支持他奢侈的课外活动,这是必要的。他的生活方式包括两个情妇、众多孩子和赌博习惯。

为了支持他的夜间活动,布罗迪有一份完美的白天工作,其中一部分是制作和维修安全锁和机制。 事实证明,当他在客户的房子里修锁时,诱惑显然太大了,因为他要复制他们的门钥匙!这将使他和他的三个犯罪同伙,布朗、史密斯和安斯利,在以后的日子里回来偷窃闲暇时从他们那里得到。

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布罗迪的最后一次犯罪和最终堕落是对位于卡农门(Canongate)的Chessel's Court的国王陛下消费税办公室的武装突袭。 尽管布罗迪亲自策划了这次盗窃,但事情却发生了灾难性的错误。 安斯利和布朗被抓,并将国王的证据指向该团伙的其他人。 布罗迪逃到了荷兰,但在阿姆斯特丹被捕并返回爱丁堡接受审判。

审判于1788年8月27日开始,然而,几乎找不到确凿的证据来指控布罗迪。 直到对他的房子进行搜查时发现了他的非法交易工具。 陪审团认为布罗迪和史密斯都有罪,他们的死刑被定在1788年10月1日。

布罗迪与他的同伙恶魔杂货商乔治-史密斯一起在托尔博斯被绞死。 然而,布罗迪的故事并没有完全结束。 他贿赂了刽子手,让他不要理会他身上的钢领,希望这能让绞索失效!但尽管他做出了安排,在绞死后迅速取出他的尸体,他还是无法苏醒。

最后的讽刺是,布罗迪被吊死在一个绞刑架上,而他自己最近才重新设计了这个绞刑架。 他自豪地对众人吹嘘说,他即将死去的绞刑架是现存同类绞刑架中最有效的。 布罗迪被埋葬在布克勒克教区教堂的一个无名墓里。

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据说布罗迪离奇的双重生活激发了罗伯特-路易斯-史蒂文森的灵感,他的父亲曾让布罗迪制作过家具。 史蒂文森将布罗迪的生活和性格的各个方面纳入他的人格分裂的故事中、 杰基尔博士和海德先生的奇异事件 .

Paul King

Paul King is a passionate historian and avid explorer who has dedicated his life to uncovering the captivating history and rich cultural heritage of Britain. Born and raised in the majestic countryside of Yorkshire, Paul developed a deep appreciation for the stories and secrets buried within the ancient landscapes and historic landmarks that dot the nation. With a degree in Archaeology and History from the renowned University of Oxford, Paul has spent years delving into archives, excavating archaeological sites, and embarking on adventurous journeys across Britain.Paul's love for history and heritage is palpable in his vivid and compelling writing style. His ability to transport readers back in time, immersing them in the fascinating tapestry of Britain's past, has earned him a respected reputation as a distinguished historian and storyteller. Through his captivating blog, Paul invites readers to join him on a virtual exploration of Britain's historical treasures, sharing well-researched insights, captivating anecdotes, and lesser-known facts.With a firm belief that understanding the past is key to shaping our future, Paul's blog serves as a comprehensive guide, presenting readers with a wide range of historical topics: from the enigmatic ancient stone circles of Avebury to the magnificent castles and palaces that once housed kings and queens. Whether you are a seasonedhistory enthusiast or someone seeking an introduction to the enthralling heritage of Britain, Paul's blog is a go-to resource.As a seasoned traveler, Paul's blog is not limited to the dusty volumes of the past. With a keen eye for adventure, he frequently embarks on on-site explorations, documenting his experiences and discoveries through stunning photographs and engaging narratives. From the rugged highlands of Scotland to the picturesque villages of the Cotswolds, Paul takes readers along on his expeditions, unearthing hidden gems and sharing personal encounters with local traditions and customs.Paul's dedication to promoting and preserving the heritage of Britain extends beyond his blog as well. He actively participates in conservation initiatives, helping to restore historical sites and educate local communities about the importance of preserving their cultural legacy. Through his work, Paul strives not only to educate and entertain but also to inspire a greater appreciation for the rich tapestry of heritage that exists all around us.Join Paul on his captivating journey through time as he guides you to unlock the secrets of Britain's past and discover the stories that shaped a nation.