Death By Fire And Water

This ancient method of purgation was by trial two ways, one by water, the other by fire. The former was either
in hot or cold water. If in cold, the parties were adjudged innocent, if their bodies, contrary to the course of nature, did float on the water if in hot water, the arms and legs of the person accused were put bare into boiling water, and, if brought forth unhurt, were held innocent of the crime he or she were charged with.

Those who were tried by fire ordeal walked barefooted and blindfolded over nine glowing plough-shares ; or were to carry in their hands burning irons usually of a pound weight, which was called Simple ordeal ; those of two pounds, Double ordeal, and they of three pounds, Triple ordeal ; and if they remained unhurt by the said irons were aquitted, and on the contrary condemned.

The Fire ordeal was for the trial of Freemen and persons of distinction; and that by Water for Bond. men and rustics. But those wicked and deceitful customs are long since abolished, to the ease and happiness of the people.

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