Memories of Virginia
to meet conditions and make most of opportunities. Virginians are loyal to Charles of dear memory; to us our King still lives and it should be considered and imagined that he reigns as he has since the death of his father." Again he said: "We want clear heads and bold hearts to ever be ready to meet the enemies of England and every man at his post."
At this period cavaliers were high livers and excessive drinking men, but from an order given by the Captain-General it will be seen that he believed men on duty should be partakers, only to a moderate degree, of liquid refreshments. "A member of the Council or Burgess, disguised with overmuch drink, forfeits one hundred pounds of tobacco." It is safe to presume much of the Virginia weed, the currency of the country, was forfeited.
It is also evident while sentiment filled Matthews' heart over the death of his King, that he practically looked the future squarely in the face, and arranged for the welfare of Virginia, which was ever paramount in his words and deeds. It is related his courage was phenomenal and no man more brave and defiant in the discharge of duty at a period of affairs when a man and monarch was called for, and could be met in the Captain-General. His entire record was fearless and direct to serve King and Crown, and after the death of Charles First to stand for Virginia "In the name of God and the Colonists."
It was known to Cromwell that Matthews was an open enemy, of unblemished character and great achievements; an intrepid, fearless leader, a conqueror of Indians and a man of conquest, all of which he demonstrated when
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