While this took place, Mauger, who had limped back as fast as he could after his bloody work on Tower I Till,—only tarrying a moment to exchange his axe,—ascended the steps of the scaffold, and ordered Wolfytt to get down. Sir Thomas Brydges, who was greatly shocked at what had just occurred, and would have prevented it if it had been possible, returned to Jane and offered her his assistance. But she did not require it. The force of the shock had passed away, and she firmly mounted the scaffold.
When she was seen there, a groan of compassion arose from the spectators, and prayers were audibly uttered. She then advanced to the rail, and, in a clear distinct voice, spoke as follows:—
“I pray you all to bear me witness that I die a true Christian woman, and that I look to be saved by no other means except the mercy of God, and the merits of the blood of his only son Jesus Christ. I confess when I knew the word of God I neglected it, and loved myself and the world, and therefore this punishment is a just return for my sins. But I thank God of his goodness that he has given me a time and respite to repent. And now good people, while I am alive, I pray you assist me with your prayers.”
Many fervent responses followed, and several of the by-standers imitated Jane’s example, as, on the conclusion of her speech, she fell on her knees and recited the Miserere.
At its close, Feckenham said in a loud voice, “I ask you, madam, for the last time, will you repent?”
“I pray you, sir, to desist,” replied Jane, meekly. “I am now at peace with all the world, and would die so.”
She then arose, and giving the prayer-book to Angela, said,—“When all is over, deliver this to the lieutenant. These,” she added, taking off her gloves and collar, “I give to you.”