"I would know by what power I am called hither, I would know by what authority, I mean lawful; there are many unlawful authorities in the world, thieves and robbers by the highways; but I would know by what authority I was brought from thence, and carried from place to place, and I know not what. And when I know what lawful authority, I shall answer. Remember, I am your King, your lawful King, and what sins you bring upon your heads, and the judgement of God upon this land, think well upon it, I say, think well upon it, before you go further from one sin to a greater."

Charles I, statement to the High Court of Justice, Westminster Hall, London, 20 January 1649. Delivered at the opening of his trial for treason against the people of England.