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 Cromwell. Nought could more frightful be! Manasseh.Perchance.—But no; the spectres I recall Were seeking vengeance for the past, but thine— 'Twas for the future.—Wert thou not asleep? Cromwell. No. Manasseh. Such a vision ne'er was seen before! For had it not appeared to thee awake, 'Twould be a dream, no more, and I have seen More marv'lous ones.
 * [He falls to musing once more.

A ghost that from the tomb Came not! In all my long and weary life, I 've not seen such a spectre!
 * [He turns to.

When it fled, What odour did it leave? Cromwell [roughly.] What matters it? What does my vision mean? I bid you speak. Is it the truth? or is it but illusion? "All honour to King Cromwell!" Shall I be king? Remove the veil that hides my destiny. Manasseh [his eyes fixed on the sky. Ay, that's the star! Wherever in the vault Of heaven it shone, I should discover it; Though fixed, one seems to see it larger grow; Brilliant, but at its centre there's a spot. Cromwell [impatient. Thine eyes have gazed upon the sky full long. Shall I be king? Manasseh. In vain should I attempt To flatter thee, my son; one may not lie To the broad heavens. I cannot hide from thee That in its course elliptical thy star