_Ireton:_
We carry too many callow soldiers against them. Example will be
everything. General Cromwell and his chosen troops have that, and
experience; none like them.
_Pemberton:_
Does the General himself know of our necessity, do you think, sir?
_Fairfax:_
There is no tracing him. He almost certainly does not know, or he would
have insisted. There are rumours of him from the eastern counties, of
some activities with his men, but no more.
_Ireton:_
And the hope of England here in grave peril. Westminster is disgraceful.
_Staines:_
Your appeal was plain, sir--weighty enough?
_Fairfax_
(taking a paper from the table):
You may hear for yourself.
(Reading the end of a letter copy.)
"The general esteem and affection which he hath with the officers and
soldiers of this whole army, his own personal worth and ability for
employment, his great care, diligence, courage, and faithfulness in the
services you have already employed him in, with the constant presence
and blessing of God that have accompanied him, make us look upon it as
the duty we owe to you and the public, to make it our suit."
_Pemberton:_
It is shameful of them.
_Ireton:_
It is. But that hope is gone. Do I take the left, sir?
_Fairfax:_
You must choose.
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