about two o'clock in the morning
These dresses were of grey stuff , and loose , like a waggoner 's frock ; at the lower part of them , both before and behind , was painted the likeness of the wearer that is the face only , resting upon a burning fagot , and surrounded with flames and demons . Under the portrait was written the crime for which the party suffered . Sugar-loaf caps , with flames painted on them , were also brought and put on their heads , and the long wax candles were placed into their hands . Amine , and the others condemned , being arrayed in these dresses , remained in the chambers for some hours before it was time for the procession to commence , for they had been all summoned up by the gaolers at about two o'clock in the morning . The sun rose brilliantly , much to the joy of the members of the Holy Office , who would not have had the day obscured on which they were to vindicate the honour of the Church , and to prove how well they acted up to the mild doctrines of the Saviour -- those of charity , good-will , forbearing one another forgiving one another . God of Heaven ! And not only did those of the Holy Inquisition rejoice , but thousands and thousands more , who had flocked from all parts to witness the dreadful ceremony , and to hold a jubilee -- many , indeed , actuated by fanatical superstition , but more attended from thoughtlessness and the love of pageantry .