Page:CromwellHugo.djvu/211

Gramadoch [to Trick, in an undertone.
In the Book of Kings, for instance! [Exit Thurloe.
Rochester [aside.] …ok of Kings, for instance! What do I hear?
O martyred Charles! how he avengeth thee!
What a vile scourge succeeds thy glorious sceptre!
Cromwell [calling Rochester's attention to his fools.
As we're alone, I fain would merry be.
These be my jesters, O most reverend sir,—
I make them known to you.
[Lord Eochester and the jesters bow.
I make them known to you. When we're inclined
To merriment, they most diverting are.
We all make verses here, ay, everyone,
Even my old Milton takes a hand therein.
Milton [in dudgeon.]Old Milton, say you? By your leave, my lord,
I am full nine years younger than yourself.
Cromwell.Easily said!
Milton. Easily said! But you, my lord, were born
In ninety-nine, and I in sixteen eight.
Cromwell.A courteous reminder!
Milton [earnestly.] …reminder! It were meet
That you do deal with me more civilly!
An alderman and notary's son am I.
Cromwell.O be not angry, Milton; well I know
That you're a mighty theologian, too;
Nay, more,—but heaven's sparing of its gifts,—
A poet of a sort, but far below
Wither and Donne!
Milton [as if speaking to himself.] Below! a cruel word!
But let us bide our time, and we shall see
If heaven hath to me denied its gifts!
The future is my judge. 'Twill understand
My Eve descending like a blissful dream