Many hid themselves groaning and lamenting, others prayed aloud, and most awaited what might happen with pale lips and painful breathing.
"Magdalen remained perfectly calm.

The names of the Christian prisoners were called out, and the imperial soldiers led them all together to one spot.

Neither my name nor hers was called, for I did not belong to the prisoners, and she had not been apprehended for the faith's sake.

The officer was rolling up his list, when Magdalen rose and stepped modestly forward, saying with quiet dignity, 'I too am a Christian.' "If there be an angel who wears the form and features of man, his face must resemble hers, as she looked in that hour.

The Roman, a worthy man, looked at her with a benevolent, but searching gaze.