The generous effusions of their zeal and their affection were neither serviceable to Cyprian nor dangerous to themselves.

He was led away under a guard of tribunes and centurions, without resistance and without insult, to the place of his execution, a spacious and level plain near the city, which was already filled with great numbers of spectators.

His faithful presbyters and deacons were permitted to accompany their holy bishop.

* They assisted him in laying aside his upper garment, spread linen on the ground to catch the precious relics of his blood, and received his orders to bestow five-and-twenty pieces of gold on the executioner.

The martyr then covered his face with his hands, and at one blow his head was separated from his body.