In like manner, Farrar and Rhodes were interrogated and sentenced.
Mr. Hammond was then called to his feet and the same formal question asked.
Although pale and weak from protracted illness, Mr. Hammond responded in a firm voice to the Registrar's question.
The Judge, then addressing the prisoner, said: 'John Hays Hammond, it is my painful duty to pass sentence of death upon you.
'I am only applying the punishment which is meted out and laid down according to law, leaving it to his Honour the State President, and the Executive Council, to show you any mercy which may lie in their power.
'May the magnanimity shown by his Honour the State President, and this Government, to the whole world, during the recent painful events be also shown to you.
'I have nothing to do with that, however.
'I can only say, that in any other country you would not have a claim on their mercy. The sentence of the Court is, that you be taken from this place where you are now, and be conveyed to the jail at Pretoria, or any such other jail in this Republic as may be appointed by law, to be kept there till a time and place of execution shall be appointed by lawful authority, that you be taken to the place of execution to be there hanged by the neck till you are dead.
'May Almighty God have mercy on your soul!'
Whilst the sentences were being passed upon the four leaders the auditors were wrought up to the highest pitch; sobs were heard on every side, tears were on many cheeks, and even stolid old Boers were seen to weep. One man was carried from the room in a fit.