Tower hill; an historical romance

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1871 Excerpt: …and fro within his narrow chamber, vainly trying to shut out the frightful objects that rose before him, incessantly bemoaning his hopeless fate, and inveighing bitterly against his enemies. Cranmer visited him almost daily, prayed with him, and strove to bring him to a better frame of mind; but with very indifferent success. The unhappy man frequently gave way to violent outbursts of rage and grief. “Your Grace enjoins me to forgive my enemies,” he said. “But how can I do so after the injuries they have inflicted upon me? The King trusted me, honoured me, ennobled me, enriched me. They have brought false charges against me, have procured my disgrace, have bereft me of my dignities, have confiscated my possessions, have condemned me unheard, and will bring me to the block, if mercy is not shown me. I were more than human if I could forgive them.” “Doubtless, your cross is hard to bear, my lord,” said Cranmer; “but you must not sink beneath it. Your trials, though severe, will soon be over. Forget the injuries you have received, and think of the bliss in store for you.” All the response made by Cromwell was a groan. On the last occasion they were destined to meet on earth, Cranmer found the unhappy prisoner somewhat more resigned; but he still railed against his enemies, and taxed the King with ingratitude. “Never was servant more blindly obedient to a master than I have been to his Majesty,” he said. “Yet what has been the reward of all my service?” “My lord, you wot well that you might have maintained your post, had you not thwarted the King’s inclinations,” observed Cranmer. “Ay, I have paid the penalty of my imprudence. But I thought to benefit our Church. Had…