Page:Works of Thomas Carlyle - Volume 06.djvu/248

214 tattery camp-followers ‘with long skean-knives about a foot in length,’ which they well knew how to use; upon whom I fear the Ordinance against Papists pressed hard this day. The King’s Carriage was also taken, with a Cabinet and many Royal Autographs in it, which when printed made a sad impression against his Majesty, gave, in fact, a most melancholy view of the veracity of his Majesty, ‘On the word of a King’ All was lost!—

Here is Cromwell’s Letter, written from Harborough, or ‘Haverbrowe’ as he calls it, that same night; after the hot Battle and hot chase were over. The original, printed long since in Rushworth, still lies in the British Museum,—with ‘a strong steady signature,’ which one could look at with interest. ‘The Letter consists of two leaves; much worn, and now supported by pasting; red seal much defaced; is addressed on the second leaf:’

Sir,—Being commanded by you to this service, I think myself bound to acquaint you with the good hand of God towards you and us.

''We marched yesterday after the King, who went before us from Daventry to Harborough; and quartered about six miles from him. This day we marched towards him. He drew-out to meet us; both Armies engaged. We, after three-hours fight very doubtful, at last routed his Army; killed and took about 5,000,—very many officers, but of what quality we yet know not. We took also about 200 carriages, all he had; and all his guns, being 12 in number, whereof two were demi-cannon, two demi-culverins, and I think the rest sackers. We pursued''