Burking Poor Old Mrs Constitution

In honor of William Burke's execution 182 years ago today, a satirical print protesting against Catholic emancipation.


The two "burkers" represent Sir Robert Peel and Arthur Wellesley, Duke of Wellington. The caption at the top reads "Hark! The Pastore knoxcks -- she is almost done -- and ready for you." No, that's not a misspelling, but rather a not-at-all-subtle reference to Dr. Robert Knox, who purchased all the cadavers from Burke and Hare.