15 
about half an hour in prayer. Having prepared him¬ 
self for immolation, he requested of the spectators to 
repeat the Lord’s prayer with him, and to pray for him 
while he should continue in the agonies of death. 
Instantly arose the voice of prayer, interrupted by 
sobs and groans from every quarter of the crowded 
area. He then ascended to the stake, and irons were 
brought to fasten him to it. ‘ You need not,’ said he, 
‘ thus to trouble yourselves. I doubt not but God 
will vouchsafe me strength to abide the fire’s extremity 
without bands.’ A chain, however, for the waist, he 
willingly allowed to be drawn around him; admitting 
that the frailty of his flesh might make him swerve 
from his position. Bundles of reeds were now thrown 
on the pile, some of which the sufferer embraced in his 
arms; and he calmly gave directions for the placing of 
others. Flame being added to the mass of fuel, its 
progress was, to feeling spectator's, most painfully slow. 
Much of the wood was green, and violent gusts of wind 
blew the devouring element away from the victim.” 
But why minutely trace the several details of this most 
horrid tragedy ? He bore his agonies, which were pro¬ 
longed through more than three quarters of an hour, 
with admirable constancy, moving incessantly his lips 
in prayer. 
