It appeared that that worthy gentleman and the Red Rapparee had been sentenced to die on the same day, and at the same hour.

It is true, Whitecraft was aware that a deputation had gone post-haste to Dublin Castle to solicit his pardon, or at least some lenient commutation of punishment.

Still, it was feared that, owing to the dreadful state of the roads, and the slow mode of travelling at that period, there was a probability that the pardon might not arrive in time to be available; and indeed there was every reason to apprehend as much.

The day appointed for the execution of the Red Rapparee and him arrived--nay, the very hour had come; but still there was hope, among his friends.

The sheriff, a firm, but fair and reasonable man, waited beyond the time named by the judge for his execution.