Polycarp–The Sainted Christian Father

POLYCARP, an eminent Christian father, was born in the reign of Nero. Ignatius recommended the church of Antioch to the care and superintendence of this zealous father, who appears to have been unwearied in his endeavours to preserve the peace of the church, and to promote piety and virtue amongst men.
During persecution which raged at Smyrna, in the year 167, the distinguishes character of Polycarp attracted the attention of the enemies of Christ.
The general outcry was, "Let Polycarp be sought."
When he was taken before the proconsul, he was _*  to reproach Christ, and save his life: but with a holy indignation, he nobly replied: "Eighty and six years I have served Christ, who has never done me any injury: how then can I blaspheme my King and Saviour?"
When he was brought to the stake, the executioner offered as usual, to nail him to it; but he said, "Let me alone, as I am. He who has given me strength to come to the fire, will also give me patience to abide in it, without being fastened with Nails."
Part of his last prayer, at his death, was as follows: "O God, teh Father of Thy Beloved Son, Jesus Christ, by whom we have recieved the knoweldge of Thyself; O God of angels and powers, of every creature, and of all the just who live in Thy presence; I thank Thee that Thou hast graciously vouchsafed, this day and this hour, to allot me a portion among the number of martyrs. O lord, receive me; and make me a companion of saints in the resurrection, through the merits of our great Great High Priest, the Lord Jesus Christ. I praise and adore Thee, though thy beloved Son, to whom, with Thee, and Thy Holy Spirit, be all honour and glory, both now, and forever. Amen.
—Power of Religion

* the word in the document was illegible.