Note (Back to Main Text) — Chapter III · RECONCILIATION WITH ROME.

Among the people the constancy of the martyrs had called out a burst of admiration. It was rumoured that bystanders had endeavoured to throw themselves into the fire to die at their side.[449] A prisoner, on examination before Bonner, was asked if he thought he could bear the flame. You may try me, if you will, he said. A candle was brought, and he held his hand, without flinching, in the blaze.[450] With such a humour abroad, it seemed to Renard that the Lords had only to give the signal, and the queen and the bishops would be overwhelmed.