Every yeoman, all the workers in the land, all
courtesy and brave reason look to us. What men hereafter shall make of
their lives must be between them and God in their own hearts. But to-day
it must be given to them, the right to live as they most truly may in
the light of their own proper character. No king may be against us. He
may lead us, but he may not be against us. Have no misgivings, mother.
Faith everywhere, that is our shield.
_Mrs. Cromwell_
(rising):
I will be no hindrance, son.
_Cromwell:_
You are my zeal. I grew to it in you.
_Mrs. Cromwell:_
I must see.
(She goes out.)
_Cromwell:_
How is Seth, Bridget?
_Bridget:_
He mends daily. Amos tends him like a mother.
_Cromwell:_
I must see them. Send to Mistress Hall and Robert. Let us have music
this evening. Anthony, too. Let him bring his flute. There's good music
here, Henry.
(He goes.)
_Bridget:_
Robert Hall sings beautifully.
_Ireton:_
Will you sing, too?
_Bridget:_
I expect so.
_Ireton:_
I once tried to learn the flute. It was no good. I couldn't do it unless
I watched my fingers.
_Bridget:_
Was it very terrible at Edgehill?
_Ireton:_
Yes.
_Bridget:_
Were we really beaten?
_Ireton:_
No.
Pages:
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47