After a momentary pause, he added:
“I would die with the holiest name on my lips. When I have thrice pronounced it, strike!”
“My lord, I will not fail,” said the headsman.
Laying himself upon the block, the earl then ejaculated:
“Lord Jesu! receive my spirit! Lord Jesu! be merciful to me! Lord Jesu!——”
At this juncture the axe descended.
Next moment the head was held up to the concourse, while the executioner called out in trumpet tones:
“Behold the head of a traitor! God save King George!”
An irrepressible groan broke from the concourse.
The body was instantly placed in the coffin, and conveyed to a hearse, which was waiting for it at a short distance.