n
disdain, and had collected an army together for the avowed purpose of
invading Bengal. He even caused a pair of golden fetters to be made, to
bind the Governor-General of India when he should be led as captive to
Ava. But before the Emperor could carry out his plan, the English took
the initiative and invaded his country. He was confident of victory, but
information was soon brought to him that the English had captured
Rangoon, and this was followed by news of various other English
victories.

The foreign residents at Ava naturally felt that their position there
was somewhat precarious. At first the Emperor assured them that "as they
had nothing to do with the war, they should not be molested;" but when
tidings of English triumphs followed one another in rapid succession,
the attitude of the natives grew more and more menacing.

Some Englishmen formerly in the employ of the Court were seized, and
their belongings examined. In the account book of one of them were
items recording certain sums having been paid to Mr. Judson. This money
had been given to him in exchange for circular bankers' orders, sent
from America; but the Emperor did not understand this. He concluded that
Judson had been paid to be an English spy, and at once gave orders for
the arrest of both the missionaries.

The scene can best be described in Mrs. Judson's own words. "On the 8th
of June, just as we were preparing for dinner, in rushed an officer
holding a black book, with a dozen Burmans, accompanied by one whom,
from his spotted face, we knew to be an executioner, and a 'son of the
prison.' 'Where is the teacher?' was the first inquiry. Mr. Judson
presented himself. 'You are called by the King,' said the officer--a
form of speech always used when about to arrest a criminal. The spotted
man instantly seized Mr. Judson, threw him on the floor, and produced
the small cord, the instrument of torture. I caught hold of his arm.
'Stay,' said I, 'I will give you money.' 'Take her too,' said the
officer, 'she also is a foreigner.' Mr. Judson, with an imploring look,
begged they would let me remain till further orders. The hardened
executioner drew tight the cords, bound Mr. Judson fast, and dragged him
off I knew not whither. In vain I entreated the spotted face to take the
silver, and loosen the ropes; but he spurned my offers and immediately
departed."

Mr. Judson was hurried away to the death prison, and his wife found
herself a captive in her own