Page 13 - 12 The French Reformation

remained steadfast. Many witnessed for the

truth amid the flames. By their courage and

fidelity at the stake, these humble Christians

spoke to thousands who in days of peace had

never heard their testimony.

It was not alone the humble and the poor that

amid suffering and scorn dared to bear

witness for Christ. In the lordly halls of the

castle and the palace there were kingly souls

by whom truth was valued above wealth or

rank or even life. Kingly armor concealed a

loftier and more steadfast spirit than did the

bishop's robe and miter. Louis de Berquin

was of noble birth. A brave and courtly

knight, he was devoted to study, polished in

manners, and of blameless morals. “He was,”

says a writer, “a great follower of the

papistical constitutions, and a great hearer of

masses and sermons; ... and he crowned all