Scene 10.—The Same, The Champion of England.
The Old Soldier [to Overton, in an undertone.
Let 's hear what words he 'll fling unto the winds.
The Champion [on horseback, in front of the throne.
Hosannah!—In the name of the living God
I speak.—The most exalted Parliament,
Having by long and constant prayers implored
The blessed guidance of the Holy Spirit,
To put an end at last to all the ills
Of the people and the faith, doth nominate
Oliver Cromwell, and proclaim him king.
[Mutterings in the crowd.
Trick [to his companions, in an undertone.
See how yon psalm-singers are waxing wroth!
The Champion [continuing.]Now if in London, or the kingdoms three,
There be a man, be he or old or young,
Or knight or burgher, who contests the right
Of the said Oliver, we, England's champion,
Do him defy to mortal combat here,
With dagger, axe, sabre, or scimitar;
And we will sacrifice him without grace
Or ransom, and will hang his coat of arms
To this good charger's mane.—If he be here,
Let him but speak, let him arise, and with
His sword make good his words! You all do witness
That I, by sin unstained, throw down this glove,
Ta'en from my good right hand.
The Banner-Bearer, and the Halberdiers.Hosannah, Lord!
