The Execution of Lady Jane Grey

Executioner: X

Lady Jane Grey: J

X: In your own time.

J: Yes.

X: You come here to die.

J: This morning was my last morning.

X: I trust you thanked God for it.

J: I am always grateful for waking.

X: What do you have to say?

J: Very little. I am humbled by the way the light is falling on the grass.

X: And in front of these people do you acknowledge the multitude of your sins?

J: I am bound to.

X: We who are left behind will pray for you.

J: I had hoped to see one final bird before the end.

X: There’s an edge to the air.

J: Despatch me quickly.

X: This is your life’s final transaction.

J: I have never taken pleasure in money.

X: This is a necessity. God will reward you for it.

J: Within reason, a wilting flower is revived with water.

X: The possibilities of the Lord are not bound by reason – you know this.

J: (pause) My clothes?

X: Your gown first.

J: Here.

X: Your headdress.

J: Here.

X: You’ve been told many times, I’m sure, how your hair resembles fire.

J: People have said, the fires of Hell.

X: Your collar.

J: Here.