He took off his George and the little miniature of the Queen (which he kissed), and gave them to Juxon.
He gave a purse of guineas to the grey-bearded vizard with the axe, who knelt to ask his pardon, and again that awful sickness closed over his heart.
"Take care they do not put me to pain," he said to Colonel Hacker, and his lips trembled. Then to the man, "I shall say but very short prayers, and then thrust out my hands—at this sign do you strike."
"I will warrant, sir," said Colonel Hacker, "the fellow is skilful."
The King now took off his doublet, sword, and sword-string, doing it carefully that he might gain time for perfect composure at the supreme minute.
Juxon approached him.
"Your Majesty hath but one more stage to travel in this weary world, and though that is a turbulent and troublesome stage, it is a short one, and will carry Your Majesty all the way from earth to heaven."
Charles looked at St. James's Palace showing beyond the multitude of faces.
"I have a good cause and a gracious God on my side," he said. He took the white satin cap from the bishop, and put his hair up in it; a slight figure he looked now in the straight blue vest and white cap.
The church bells struck half-past twelve, the sluggard sun sent faint rays through the low winter clouds. The King knelt down. "Remember," he said to Juxon.