But the head was disposed of differently. Wrapped in black baize by the direction of Sir John Fryer, it was taken to a hackney-coach, stationed near the hearse, and delivered to a lady, habited in deep mourning, and shrouded in a veil. With her was a priest.
No sooner did she receive the terrible bundle than she raised her veil, and pressed her lips to it.
The hearse and the coach then quitted Tower Hill, and were driven slowly to Dagenham Park.
But the headsman had only half-finished his task.
When fresh sawdust had been strewn on the gory scaffold, another head—that of Lord Kenmure—was fitted to the block, and the axe again fell.
IV.—WHAT HAPPENED IN THE CHAPEL AT DAGENHAM PARK.
Not till the second night after the earl's body had been brought to Dagenham Park did the countess commence her journey to Dilston.
During the interval the coffin was placed upon a catafalque in the chapel attached to the mansion, and tapers were lighted around it—masses being said for the repose of the soul of the departed by Father Norham.