But when they were unto the placë brought, To tellë shortly the conclusión, They would incénse nor sacrifice right nought. But on their knees they settë them adown, With humble heart and sad 4553 devotión, And lostë both their headës in the place; 4554 Their soulës wentë to the King of grace.

This Maximus, that saw this thing betide, With piteous tearës told it anon right, That he their soulës saw to heaven glide With angels, full of clearness and of light; And with his word converted many a wight. For which Almachius did him to-beat 4555 With whip of lead, till he his life gan lete. 4556