"And I thank God that hitherto my stomach hath served me very well thereunto, so that yet I have not feared death.
Wherefore I desire you all to help and assist with your prayers, that at the very point and instant of death's stroke I may in that very moment stand steadfast, without fainting in any one point of the Catholic Faith, free from any fear." He paused again; his hands closed one on the other.

He glanced up.
"And I beseech the Almighty God of His infinite goodness and mercy, to save the King and this realm; and that it may please Him to hold His hand over it, and send the King's Highness good counsel." He ceased abruptly; and dropped his head.
A gentle groan ran through the crowd.
Chris felt his throat contract, and a mist blinded his eyes for a moment.
Then he saw the bishop slip the crucifix into his other hand, and open the book, apparently at random.

His lean finger dropped upon the page; and he read aloud softly, as if to himself.
"This is life eternal, that they might know Thee, the one true God, and Jesus Christ whom Thou hast sent.

I have glorified Thee on the earth; I have finished the work which Thou gavest me to do." Again there was silence, for it seemed as if he was going to make a sermon, but he looked down at the book a moment or two.

Then he closed it gently.
"Here is learning enough for me," he said, "to my life's end." There was a movement among the silent figures at the back of the scaffold; and the Lieutenant stepped forward once more.