Henry caused the letters to be read to him four times, and at one moment showed signs of relenting, but in the end was (as usual) inexorable. Four days from the passing of the sentence, Lord Essex was led forth to execution, and beheaded on Tower Hill. He made a speech full of loyalty and submission to the royal will, words which were thought to have been dictated by paternal solicitude for the welfare of his only son. He furthermore confessed his sins, repenting that he had ever abandoned the Catholic faith to which he now returned, for in that he was resolved to die; then kneeling in prayer, ‘he submitted his neck to the executioner, who mangled him in a shocking manner.’
No. 46. LADY KILLIGREW.
Standing. White satin gown, dark drapery. Hands crossed.
Brown curls.
By Vandyck.
Mistress Cecilia Crofts, maid of honour to the Queen Henrietta Maria?
