1
The crowd hurried to gather wood and fuel from workshops and public baths.
2
Polykarpos removed his outer garments and began to loosen his sandals.
3
Those around him remembered that in ordinary times believers had competed simply for the chance to help the elderly overseer with such tasks.
4
Some wanted to nail him to the stake so he could not move.
5
He told them to leave him un-nailed, saying that the One who gave strength to endure the fire would also enable him to remain still.