Chapter XVIII.--The body of Polycarp is burned.
The centurion then, seeing the strife excited by the Jews, placed the body 1 in the midst of the fire, and consumed it. Accordingly, we afterwards took up his bones, as being more precious than the most exquisite jewels, and more purified 2 than gold, and deposited them in a fitting place, whither, being gathered together, as opportunity is allowed us, with joy and rejoicing, the Lord shall grant us to celebrate the anniversary 3 of his martyrdom, both in memory of those who have already finished their course, 4 and for the exercising and preparation of those yet to walk in their steps.
