Many of the dissenting clergy were present. William
Skirving, the most determined of the band, had been educated for the
ministry, and was a sincerely religious man. Joseph Gerrald was a young
man of brilliant talents and exemplary character. When the sheriff
entered the hall to disperse the friends of liberty, Gerrald knelt in
prayer. His remarkable words were taken down by a reporter on the spot.
There is nothing in modern history to compare with this supplication,
unless it be that of Sir Henry Vane, a kindred martyr, at the foot of the
scaffold, just before his execution. It is the prayer of universal
humanity, which God will yet hear and answer.
"O thou Governor of the universe, we rejoice that, at all times and in
all circumstances, we have liberty to approach Thy throne, and that we
are assured that no sacrifice is more acceptable to Thee than that which
is made for the relief of the oppressed. In this moment of trial and
persecution we pray that Thou wouldst be our defender, our counsellor,
and our guide.
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