While he was thus occupied, the prisoner appeared, still guarded by Lieutenant Vosper, Trubshaw, and the halberdiers, and his appearance was the signal for a renewal of the terrible outcries that had before assailed him. He bore them undauntedly, continuing perfectly motionless, until the executioner called out from above that all was ready. He then sprang quickly up the ladder, as if eager to meet his doom.
In another minute all was over, and his body swinging in mid air; while a universal groan—though not a groan of pity—burst from the spectators.
Thus died the traitor Gives, whose name is still execrated in faithful Worcester.
At the moment when Urso was launched into eternity, the discharge of a cannon from Fort Royal informed Cromwell that the spy he had employed had been punished with death.
Cromwell, who was with Lilburn and Lord Grey of Groby on Perry Wood at the time, could not control his rage.
"The man's execution is justified by the laws of war," he said; "but it shall cost the citizens of Worcester dear. The great service he rendered us last night shall be requited as he desired. His widow shall have the reward I intended for him."
"How much is it to be?" asked Lord Grey.
"Two hundred pounds, and a pension of two hundred a year," replied Cromwell.
"A good reward, in sooth," said Lord Grey. "She will be well consoled for his loss."