114
CROMWELL
Guards, in his uniform; Stoupe, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs.
[Throughout the scene the Earl of Carlisle stands behind Cromwell's chair, with drawn sword; Whitelocke stands at the right, Stoupe at the left, with an open booh in his hand.
[When Cromwell enters, the various groups arrange themselves in two lines and remain with heads bent low until the Protector has reached his seat.
Cromwell [standing in front of his chair.
Greeting and peace to all well-purposed hearts!
Since all of you are envoys to our State,
We, in the English nation's name, do give
You audience.
[He sits down, removes his hat, then puts it on again.
Speak, Duc de Créqui, you.
[The Duc de Créqui, followed by Mancini and his suite, walks toward Cromwell with the same ceremonious reverences as for a king. All the others retire to the rear of the stage, out of hearing.
Duc de Créqui.My lord, th' alliance which doth you assure
Of his Most Christian Majesty's support
Is closer drawn to-day by other bonds.
Monsieur de Mancini will presently
Read to your grace the letter which his uncle,
His Eminence the Cardinal sends to you.
[Mancini approaches, bends his knee, and presents the Cardinal's letter on a cushion. Cromwell breaks the seal and hands the letter back to Mancini.
Cromwell [to Mancini.]From Cardinal Mazarin? Pray, read.
