Here, according to another old custom, already alluded to, a criminal taken to execution was allowed to halt at a tavern, called the Crown, and take a draught from St.Giles's bowl, "as his last refreshment on earth." At the door of this tavern, which was situated on the left of the street, not more than a hundred yards distant from the church, the bell of which began to toll as soon as the procession came in sight, the cart drew up, and the whole cavalcade halted.

A wooden balcony in one of the adjoining houses was thronged with ladies, all of whom appeared to take a lively interest in the scene, and to be full of commiseration for the criminal, not, perhaps, unmixed with admiration of his appearance.

Every window in the public house was filled with guests; and, as in the case of St.
Andrew's, the churchyard wall of St.Giles's was lined with spectators.
A scene now ensued, highly characteristic of the age, and the occasion.
The doleful procession at once assumed a festive character.

Many of the soldiers dismounted, and called for drink.

Their example was immediately imitated by the officers, constables, javelin men, and other attendants; and nothing was to be heard but shouts of laughter and jesting,--nothing seen but the passing of glasses, and the emptying of foaming jugs.