Page:Augusta Seaman--Jacqueline of the carrier pigeons.djvu/221

Rh sadness. Its silent appeal touched even the hearts of the famishing mob, and when he  raised his hand there was instant silence. Then after a moment he spoke, in words that history has forever made memorable:

“What would ye, my friends? Why do ye murmur that we do not break our vows  and surrender to the Spaniards? That would be a fate more horrible than what the  city now endures! I tell you I have made an oath to hold the city, and may God give me  strength to keep that oath! I can die but once, whether by your hands, or the enemy’s,  or the hand of God. My own fate is indifferent to me, but not so that of the city which has been entrusted to my care. I know that we shall starve if we are not soon relieved,  but starvation is preferable to a dishonored  death, is it not? Your threats move me not! My life is at your disposal. Here is my sword,—plunge it into my breast if ye will! Take my body to appease your hunger, but do not expect me to surrender while I live!”