Hans Pichner, of Sal, in the Year 1555

In the year 1555, Hans Pichner of Sal was arrested at Vorst, in Etschland or Vintschgau, and taken by the beadles to Schanters, before the judge, who was a dreadful tyrant and of a very fierce disposition. He immediately examined John, questioning him harshly, so that he would betray the one who had lodged him; but when he would not do it, he was tortured without delay from the first day. All their torturing, however, was in vain, and they were greatly vexed that they could get no information from him. Several times he was stripped, and, while being tortured, left hanging by cords for several hours; indeed, he was stretched so far that he could not stand on his feet, or take a single step, or bring his hand to his mouth to eat; yet he was not to be led astray, but remained steadfast in the Lord. After this, they bound him hand and foot, and kept him imprisoned in a dark dungeon for more than six months. They also brought to him many men of worldly learning (in case they might be able to draw him away from his faith), as priests and monks, also some noblemen, who assailed him mightily for two days and one whole night; but they were put to shame, for he convinced them with the truth, and was not to be intimidated.

After this, they sentenced him to death, and led him out to the place of execution, where he exhorted the people, who had gathered in great numbers, to repentance. Finally he was placed in a sitting position, with his back against a block of wood, and beheaded in that way; for they had racked and tortured him so pitifully that he was unable to kneel. But he held firmly to the Lord and His truth nevertheless; therefore God kept him in the hour of his temptation, and from now on he shall not be hurt by the second death; he shall not see the eternal fire, but shall enter into an innumerable company of angels, to the supper and marriage of the Lamb, clothed in linen clean and white, where there will be exceeding joy forever and ever. Revelation 3, verse 10; Revelation 2, verse 11; Hebrews 12, verse 22; Revelation 3, verse 20.