The Diary of Caspar Kruse III, Executioner: Goslar, February 12, 1632 – Summons Before Colonel Bergström

 Today I was summoned to the Swedish commander, Colonel Bergström, who has ruled the city with a firm hand since the surrender. A soldier fetched me from my house at the Rosenberg. I followed him through the cold streets, where the presence of the foreign troops was felt everywhere. Musketeers stood at the gates, riders patrolled, and in the inns the murmur of foreign tongues resounded.

At the town hall, which now resembles a garrison more than a council house, the colonel awaited me. He was a man of strong build, his eyes sharp, his voice harsh. Without preamble he said:
“Kruse, you will continue your work as before. The city may be occupied, but order and justice must remain. Only now you act in the name of the Swedish crown.”

I bowed my head and replied that I would not let my office rest so long as God granted me strength. He nodded with satisfaction and declared that my payment would henceforth come from the military treasury, and that I was to turn directly to him or his adjutants for assignments.

When I returned home, I felt a deep conflict in my chest. On the one hand, I am relieved that my work continues and my family will not be left without bread. In this time, when the people grow impoverished and many lose their goods to plundering soldiers, it is a blessing that my income remains secured.

On the other hand, it pains me that I now serve a foreign power. My office has always been bound to the city of Goslar, to our own council and our laws. Now I must bow to the commands of a colonel who has no bond with our people or our traditions.

This evening I prayed with Anna that the Lord may guide us through these dark days. May He preserve us and grant me wisdom to bear this office without losing my soul. For whatever may come: the executioner’s sword remains sharp, and men continue to die. Only the seal under which I serve has changed.




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