<P> Here, then, is what I was able to note immediately after the decapitation: the eyelids and lips of the guillotined man worked in irregularly rhythmic contractions for about five or six seconds . This phenomenon has been remarked by all those finding themselves in the same conditions as myself for observing what happens after the severing of the neck...</P> <P> I waited for several seconds . The spasmodic movements ceased . (...) It was then that I called in a strong, sharp voice: "Languille!" I saw the eyelids slowly lift up, without any spasmodic contractions--I insist advisedly on this peculiarity--but with an even movement, quite distinct and normal, such as happens in everyday life, with people awakened or torn from their thoughts . </P> <P> Next Languille's eyes very definitely fixed themselves on mine and the pupils focused themselves . I was not, then, dealing with the sort of vague dull look without any expression, that can be observed any day in dying people to whom one speaks: I was dealing with undeniably living eyes which were looking at me . After several seconds, the eyelids closed again (...). </P> <P> It was at that point that I called out again and, once more, without any spasm, slowly, the eyelids lifted and undeniably living eyes fixed themselves on mine with perhaps even more penetration than the first time . Then there was a further closing of the eyelids, but now less complete . I attempted the effect of a third call; there was no further movement--and the eyes took on the glazed look which they have in the dead . </P>

When was the guillotine last used in england