The Martyrdom of Polycarp

But the most admirable Polycarp, when he first heard he was being sought, was not at all disturbed and decided to stay in the city. However, out of respect for the wishes of many, he was persuaded to leave. So he went to a country house not far from the city. There, he stayed with a few friends, doing nothing day and night but praying for all people and for the Churches throughout the world, as was his usual practice. And while he was praying, a vision appeared to him three days before he was captured; and, behold, the pillow under his head seemed to be on fire. At this, he turned to those who were with him and said prophetically, “I must be burnt alive.”