ABSTRACT
The Portugals who were captives there affirm that when the order is received, the noise and clamour in the jail is that it seems as if all the devils in hell were in there, for every one of the prisoners dreadeth greatly that the lot should fall on him. An honourable Portugal who was a prisoner, affirmed that in the jail where he lay, about two thousand people died each year, some from hunger, some from cold, and others from stripes. And after reviewing their sentences yet again, the Louthias command another three pieces of ordnance to be shot off which is the signal that each one must die the death to which he has been sentenced. When they wish to execute this justice, as it is a thing which is done but seldom, there is great fear throughout the city and everyone goes about in awe. All the shops are shut and nothing is sold, nor doth anybody work.
