placable, clamoring for his death? I cannot forget it would I could! He was a good servant; somewhat imperious, perhaps displeasing to the Court, and indeed, in part, to myself. Importunate, too, he was, as if he labored for reward. Still, a good servant, and I would he were alive; he might have saved me now—that is, if there were danger. A king's is a sad life, Herbert; but his help, as all men's, is above. See, the day dawns at last! I will go to prayer awhile, and then, if it may be, to sleep. IX Cromwell December 5, 1648 [December 6 was the day on which Colonel Pride "purged" the Parliament of the members who were still for treating with the king, in order to secure a majority in favor of his trial. Cromwell arrived in London on the evening of the 6th. The king was executed in the following January.] IX CROMWELL. Is this a king? Then from such kings deliver us! Who, on this sea of troubles, like a gull, Skims the mere froth, or, diving, dives to prey, As promised an immortal consummation, Must in a moment crash, then be the blame |