London's Martyrs

My visits to the south of England are never quite complete without calling at a martyrs’ memorial. This, above and below, is the site close by Smithfield Market, where public executions would take place. This is where Sir William Wallace died for the sake of Scottish nationalism and John Ball, with other leaders of the Peasants’ Revolt, died for a fairer England. It is also where Johns Bradford, Rogers and Philpot were burned for the sake of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Now a busy pavement, their respective memorials gazed upon by half curious tourists, it is the spot on which great men of God were despatched to His throne room.

When the Christians, upon these occasions, received martyrdom, they were ornamented, and crowned with garlands of flowers; for which they, in heaven, received eternal crowns of glory.

- John Foxe