The setting is England during the reign of King James. Catholicism is outlawed so certainly being a priest was dangerous. This didn't stop priests from ministering to the people, especially the Jesuits.
I also cringed at the tortures that were inflicted. How can people be so cruel? What kind of people think up such cruel, inhuman ways of punishment?
I was surprised that gentlemen prisoners were treated better than poor ones. I was also surprised that Father Gerard seemed to only ingratiate himself with the rich. He wasn't hiding in huts, barns, sheds, or in the woods. Even so, his hardships were great.
He survived! And thrived! He was tortured and escaped.
Another surprise was the bravery of Catholics. They sought martyrdom. They looked forward to it.
Could I be a martyr? Maybe. If I was killed quick.
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