The Good Old Days: London, 1582

The most grotesque attraction at Paris Garden is an old, blind bear securely fastened, then struck with canes and sticks by young boys. Bewildered and upset, it can neither see its attackers nor escape; innocent of any crime, too old to be threatening. These children are the hope of London's future, this is their education. The cruelty hits home once when the animal pathetically unfastens its rope and flees to the safety of its own cage. It is enough to bring tears to the eyes, but doesn't. Instead its antics are greeted by howls of laughter.

--Lee Miller, Roanoke.