“Courage!” murmured he.
They next brought a ladder to the back of the cart. I leaned on the arm of the Priest and descended. I made one step, and turned round to advance another, but I had not the power; beyond the lamp I saw something startling....
Oh, it was the Reality!
I stopped as if staggered by a blow.
“I have a last declaration to make,” cried I, feebly.
And then they brought me up here.
I asked them to let me write my last wishes; and they unbound my hands; but the cord is here, ready to be replaced.
FORTY-SIXTH PAPER.
A JUDGE, a Commissioner, a Magistrate,—I know not what was his rank,—has just been here.
I intreated him to procure my pardon; I begged it with clasped hands, and dragging myself on my knees at his feet.