[6] See the evidence on the trials of Hacker, Axtell, and Hulet,
State Trials, vol. v.
"_The Bishop._ Though your Majesty's affections may be very well known
as to religion; yet it may be expected that you should say something
thereof for the world's satisfaction."
"_The King._ I thank you heartily, my Lord, for that I had almost
forgotten it. In troth, Sirs, my conscience in religion, I think, is
very well known to all the world; and therefore I declare before you all
that I die a Christian, according to the profession of the Church of
England, as I found it left me by my father; and this honest man, I
think, will witness it."
Then to Colonel Hacker he said, "Take care that they do not put me to
pain: and, Sir, this and it please you--"
But a gentleman coming near the axe, the King said, "Take heed of the
axe, pray take heed of the axe."
Then speaking unto the executioner, he said, "I shall say but very short
prayers, and when I thrust out my hands--"
Then turning to the Bishop, he said, "I have a good cause, and a
gracious God on my side."
"_The Bishop._ There is but one stage more, this stage is turbulent and
troublesome, it is a short one; but you may consider it will soon carry
you a very great way, it will carry you from earth to heaven; and there
you will find a great deal of cordial joy and comfort."
"_The King.
Pages:
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43