By Franciscan Media - Nicholas, familiarly known as “Little John,” was small in stature but big in the esteem of his fellow Jesuits... Born at Oxford, this humble artisan saved the lives of many priests and laypersons in England during the penal times (1559-1829), when a series of statutes punished Catholics for the practice of their faith. Over a period of about 20 years, Nicholas used his skills to build secret hiding places for priests throughout the country.