| Citation |
BNL.733.012
21-28 Jun 1733:11,12 (1535)
London, April 21. The following is an account of the
uncommon behaviour of William Alcock, who was lately
executed at Northampton for the murder of his wife. He
never own'd the fact, nor was he at all concerned as his
approaching death; refusing the prayers and assistance of
any persons. In the morning he drank more than was
sufficient, yet sent and paid for a pint of wine, which
being denied him, he would not enter the cart before his
money was returned. On his way to the gallows he sang part
of an old song of Robin Hood, with the chorus, Derry, derry,
down, &c. and swore, kick'd and spurn'd at every person that
laid hold of the cart; and being told by a person in the
cart with him, it was more proper for him to read, or hear
somebody read to him than so vilely to swear and sing, he
struck the Book out of the person's hands, and went on
damning the spectators, and calling for wine. Whilst Psalms
and prayers were performing at the tree, he did little else
but talk to one or other, desiring some to remember him,
others to drink to his good journey, and to his last moment
declared the injustice of his case.
|