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 A crime deserving death, whereat doth smile Beelzebub. But every punishment Should have a twofold aim; humanity Insists upon it for the sufferer's sake. Scourging his body, we must save his soul. Now, whether is the better, fire or rope, To reconcile a sinner with his God? The fire purifies him— Rochester [aside.] And the rope Doth strangle him. Cromwell. Daniel was purified I' the burning triangle. But none the less The gallows has its own advantages; The Cross a gibbet was— Rochester [aside.] I much admire The charming fashion wherein Oliver, As in his own domain, ambles along From punishment to punishment; drops one, Takes up another, and unstumbling goes From stake to rope, from rope to stake again. He coruscates with many a hidden charm! Cromwell [still reflecting.]How difficult it is to know the truth! A knotty question 'tis; I reckon it Among the subtlest and most delicate. [After a moment's silence, he suddenly addresses . Doctor, decide for us. Rochester [aside.] As Pilate did, He does. Cromwell [to the , pointing to . He is another Cromwell, sirs. Rochester [bowing.]Your Highness flatters me! The Leader of the Deputation [to. If one should fall