g as inherent and inseparable to a King as Justice, I
desire at this time in some measure to show that likewise, by
suffering that unfortunate Man to fulfill the natural course of
his Life in a close Imprisonment: yet so, if ever he make the
least Offer to escape, or offer directly or indirectly to meddle
in any sort of public Business, especially with Me either by
Message or Letter, it shall cost him his Life without farther
Process. This, if it may be done without the Discontentment of my
People, will be an unspeakable Contentment to me.

"I will not say that your complying with me in this my intended
Mercy, shall make me more willing, but certainly 'twill make me
more cheerful in granting your just Grievances: But if no less
than his Life can satisfie my People, I must say Let justice be
done. Thus again recommending the consideration of my Intention
to you, I rest,

"Your Unalterable and Affectionate Friend,
"CHARLES R."

[Illustration: STRAFFORD AND LAUD]

The Lords were inexorable. Three days from the time of signing the
bill, arrangements were made for conducting the prisoner to the
scaffold. Laud, who had been his friend and fellow-laborer in the
king's service, was confined also in the Tower, awaiting his turn to
come to trial. They were not allowed to visit each other, but
Strafford sent word to Laud requesting him to be at his window at the
time when he was to pass, to bid him farewell, and to give him his
blessing. Laud accordingly appeared at the window, and Strafford, as
he passed, asked for the prelate's prayers and for his blessing. The
old man, for Laud was now nearly seventy years of age, attempted to
speak, but he could not command himself sufficiently to express what
he wished to say, and he fell back into the arms of his attendants.
"God protect you," said Strafford, and walked calmly on.

He went to the place of execution with the composure and courage of a
hero. He spoke freely to those around him, asserted his innocence,
sent messages to his absent friends, and said he was ready and willing
to die. The scaffold, in such executions as this, is a platform
slightly raised, with a block and chairs upon it, all covered with
black cloth. A part of the dress has to be removed just before the
execution, in order that the neck of the sufferer may be fully exposed
to the impending blow. Strafford made these