A day with Cromwell: a drama of history, in five acts, by Auctor.

  • Benjamin Ward Richardson
Date:
1869
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: A day with Cromwell: a drama of history, in five acts, by Auctor. Source: Wellcome Collection.

Provider: This material has been provided by Royal College of Physicians, London. The original may be consulted at Royal College of Physicians, London.

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    [The musicians opening icith a solo play a pavine. As they arc coining to a close, re-enter Herbert Lee, Smite’em in his new uniform, and Josh. Herbert waits until the music and applause ceases]. ■ Cromwell [ To musicians] Oh you bewitching' crew ! You lift us from ourselves; you raise our life Prom had to very good; from grief to joy. I wonder not the poets seize on you, To fill the vault above with ministers Of that perennial feast of happiness, They picture for the worn out of the earth. Herbert.—A despatch for your Highness. Cromwell. [Opening and reading despatch hastily'].—Gentlemen, our mirth must cease; here is news I would you all knew the meaning of. All. [ Gathering round.]—What is it, my Lord. Cromwell.—To those who know it, everything ; to those who do not, nothing. [Puts despatch in his pocket. To Smite-em. Aside.] Go arm thy troop, and set it quick on guard. All round the palace. Smite-em.—Yea, verily. [Exit. Cromwell—Now, worthy friends, I know you all would know The cunning of this scrip. I’ll tell you then. Our worthy wife would see you in to sup; A good despatch forsooth for hungry souls. We’ll do Her Highness justice ere we part. [To Milton].—My Milton, you and I will lead the way. [He offers his arm to Milton.] Musicians play your jig—“Tattle de Moy.” ’Twill cheer us on our march, to our good cheer. [Musicians play. Exeunt omnes. Scene closes. Scene II.—The Porch of a Hostel near Whitehall. Enter De Tours and Leonine in disguise as Falconers. De Tours.—Well, and what progress ? Leonine.—All fair, Sire, the lot hath fallen on me. Be you away at once; make for your vessel and get on hoard. If all goes well a hundred messengers will call you back. If things