Page:CromwellHugo.djvu/314

From Wikisource
Jump to navigation Jump to search
This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
302
CROMWELL

[Aloud.] All goes well! are you on guard?
[At this shout the Jew turns with a start.
Manasseh [aside.]Jacob! I did not see that sentinel!
With what a cloud old age mine eyes hath veiled!
The Voice of a Sentinel [in the distance.
All goes well! are you on guard?
Manasseh [approaching Cromwell with respect.
Good-morrow, master soldier.
Cromwell [aside.] …row, master soldier. Need that cry
Have terrified him so? How he betrayed himself!
[Aloud.]Good-morrow, Jew.
Manasseh [saluting again.] By Lord Ormond were you
Stationed upon this spot?
Cromwell. Stationed upon this spot? What need hast thou
That I should answer yes, son of the prophets?
Manasseh.To see you triumph I am overjoyed.
So Cromwell falls at last; my compliments.
Cromwell.Much thanks!
Manasseh [bowing.] The power of the former kings
Is born again; what happiness for you!
Cromwell.Aha!
Manasseh. Aha! I give you joy. Doubtless you hope
Promotion?
Cromwell. Promotion? Yes. I'm to be corporal.
Manasseh.A noble rank! You will be corporal,
My friend! 'tis fine, indeed! A corporal
Commands four men! superb! and shoulder-straps!
Cromwell.Delightful!
Manasseh. Delightful! I am charmed that Cromwell's fall
Doth make your fortune, with the common joy,
Good master soldier!
Cromwell [aside.] …ter soldier! Hypocrite!
Manasseh. Good master soldier! Hypocrite! At last,