Page:CromwellHugo.djvu/402

  with low reverences.—', pale and perturbed, steps forward, bearing the crown on a rich cushion of crimson velvet.—' forces his way through the crowd and takes his place near him. Lambert [kneeling on the steps of the platform. My lord— Overton [to , in an undertone. 'Tis I! Be brave! Lambert [aside.]He's at my side! [To , in a faltering tone. Receive the crown— Overton [in an undertone, to , drawing his dagger. And death!

Cromwell [as if suddenly awakened from a dream. How now! What means this? Why this crown—to me? What would you that I do with it? And who Doth give it me, I pray? Is it a dream? Is it, in truth, the diadem I see? And by what right do ye with kings confound me? Who dares into our pious festivals Such scandal to import?—Their crown, to me, Who caused their heads to fall!—Have you mistook The purpose of this ceremonial?— My lords, and Englishmen, and brothers all, Who hear my voice, I come not to this place To assume the crown, but to renew my rights, Confirm my title and my power replenish, Here in my people's very heart of hearts, Twice was the consecrated scarlet dyed. This purple cloak's the people's, and from them