The Dying Words of Spence Broughton
Before the execution, on the Thursday evening, it is recorded that Broughton requested pen, ink and paper and wrote the following:
"Surely I have greatly transgressed the laws both of God and man! In what manner shall a sinful wretch, like me, presume to approach the throne of mercy? Alas! my repeated provocations do now wound me to the very soul. How have I trifled away the hours, the days, the months, and years of my life! O the profligacy of my heart! O the misery that I have, as it were laboured to bring forth! Father of mercies, forgive me. Jesus, my saviour, plead for me, for, if thou inclinest thine ear, I am eternally happy; otherwise, eternally miserable. To thee I commend my soul --- O take it to thy heavenly protection! So shall I pass thro' walls of tears, to the heaven of perfect and uninterrupted blessedness. Grant me, gracious God, this heart-felt dying request, and I will not be dismayed; for thou alone art a refuge for those who confide in thee"
Broughton was from a relatively well to do background, and would have been literate, but he probably didn't write the letter himself. Leader in Sheffield Reminiscences suggests: This letter is believed by many to be authentic, though it is, in truth, so modelled on the " Correct Letter Writer" style, and so high flown in sentiment, as to be strongly suggestive of the hand of the prison chaplain. The Execution »
