ained at first. Austin spoke somewhat
hopefully of Robin, the only charge against him being that brought
against all the prisoners, namely, absence from mass and confession, and
presence at the service on New Year's night; yet he did not hide his
conviction that it would have been better for them all had that service
been any other than the Lord's Supper. Isoult asked Austin if he had
any hope of Mr Rose.

"None whatever, as touching this life," was his terrible answer.

Both sent a message by Austin.

"Robin's was,--`Tell my father and mother, Austin, that I am, it may be,
less troubled than they; for I am ready to serve God in what way He will
have me; and if this be the way, why, I will walk therein with a light
heart and glad. That it hath pleased Him to exalt me to this calling,
with all mine heart and soul, friend, I thank God! I can go unto the
stake as I would to my bridal; and be assured of an happier and
blesseder meeting therefor hereafter. Kiss the dear childre for me, and
tell them God hath given me some physic that I need, after the which He
promiseth me somewhat very sweet.'"

"And none other message, Tremayne?" said Austin, when he paused. "Ay,"
resumed he, "one other. `Ye now therefore have sorrow; but I will see
you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from
you.'" Austin did not ask him to whom he should give this; but he
showed how well he knew, by waiting till Thekla was present before he
gave it.

Afterwards, he told them Mr Rose's words. "Brethren, the Devil hath so
great wrath, that he must needs know he hath but a short time. Yet for
the elect's sake the days shall be shortened. The trouble shall be very
quickly over, and the joy shall be eternal. Our way may be rough; yet
shall it not be painful, for we go to God. Jesus Christ hath wrought
for us everlasting righteousness; He now waiteth to see of the travail
of His soul and to be satisfied. He died for us, with the fearful
weight of the wrath of God upon Him; we die for Him, with the sweet and
certain hope of eternal life."

So much was for all the Gospellers; but there were added a few special
words for those at the Lamb.

"I ask not Avery and his wife to have a care of my beloved ones," said
he, "for I well know they will. Say only from me to those beloved, that
the time is very short, and the glory of God is very near. There shall
be no persecution, no death, no parting, in the presence of t