t about 10am, Mary Queen of Scots climbed the stairs to the wooden stage on which the executioner's block had been placed. She wore a black satin dress with a white veil and carried her crucifix and a prayer book. She crossed herself and sat down on a chair. The warrant of execution was read to her and prayers were said.

Mary slowly took off her veil and dress, under which she wore a red petticoat. Blindfolded, with tears in her eyes, she then laid her head on the block and said:

"Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit".

The axe rose and fell three times. The executioner held up her severed head. There was silence, then one voice shouted:

"So perish all Queen Elizabeth's enemies!".

Her pet Skye terrier, which had hidden amongst her skirts, crawled out from under her body. It was covered in Mary's blood. Later, it refused to eat and pined away.