Note 1023 — Chapter VIII
Reading edition
A favorite order from the bench for the execution of the condemned was that the culprit should be drawn prostrate at the tails of horses through the jagged and filthy streets from the court-room to the place of execution; the legs, arms, nose, and ears there cut off; the intestines ripped out and burned "before the eyes" of the victim; and finally the head cut off. Details still more shocking were frequently added. See sentences upon William, Lord Russell, July 14, 1683 (State Trials Richard II to George I, vol. 3, 660); upon Algernon Sidney, November 26, 1683 (ib. 738); upon William, Viscount Stafford, December 7, 1680 (ib. 214); upon William Stayley, November 21, 1678 (ib. vol. 2, 656); and upon other men condemned for treason.