Writing for Fun
September 2018
Endless - Gerry Miller
The giant door clanged and others watched from their cells whilst the soldiers marched the silent shuffling prisoner down the hallway. Everyone moved back into their own private spaces, the sense of foreboding was tangible. Each and every one knew what was coming next and the sickness in their stomachs grew. It was not possible to say how time could stand still and yet pass in the blink of an eye. But once the screaming started that was what happened for all the other inmates.
The cruelty seemed endless and as dusk began to fall they all heard the sound they had been waiting for. The giant door opening again, this time there was no shuffling just a quiet shushing, dragging noise. This captive was no longer able to stand upright or walk. Not one of them went to their door knowing it would be too painful to see the wretched sight being dragged by. Everyone felt both admiration for the pure courage and anger at the torment that had been inflicted on them. They had also suffered, unable to shut out the petrifying screams from the not too distant torture room. Why was this prisoner not breaking his silence? For sure they all were going to be executed whether they talked or not. The question remaining was when?
And as on every other day whilst the soldiers marched back the rebels sang out loud and clear, spirits were all too fleetingly raised. This was their only act of defiance possible, this night was different, the soldiers did not retaliate; there was no surprise beatings nor kicking’s and not even a voice raised in anger. At last maybe even the soldiers were ashamed of the punishment meted out. The door banged shut and soon all was still apart from the gentle moaning from the end cell.
The next morning several ludicrous things happened, a doctor appeared on the wing and appeared to attend to the injured prisoner. Raised voices were heard but the words were inaudible, a crate was taken into the cell, the door closed, and then silence. Breakfasts were taken to all including the cell where the doctor remained. No one knew if this prisoner was even capable of eating. Clean shirts were given to all; the large white circle clearly identified this mixed bunch. They also served to segregate them from all others and identified to others who they were.
Over the next few days various prisoners were tried and returned to their cells. Not one of them was permitted defence counsel. All were found guilty; all sentenced to death. During the following twelve days a total of fourteen prisoners were taken outside, each being tied to wooden stakes. The predominant white circle’s purpose was clear and was obviously a clear target. The tortured prisoner was named James Connolly, he was brought out tied seated on a wooden box, as due to injuries sustained he was unable to stand or walk. He was removed from the crate and left wedged against the wall. No one wanted him to fall over. The firing squad marched in and James Connolly was executed. The British soldiers returned to their barracks. But the fight for Independence carried on.