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Clifford [to Ormond.]When once the sword is drawn, then, good my lord,
We needs must strike. We have but this brief hour;
Let 's make the most of it. He 's in our hands,
This Cromwell—let him die!
All the Cavaliers [except Ormond and Jenkins.
This Cromwell—let him die! Ay, let him die!
Jenkins [solemnly.]I do protest!
Richard [intensely excited, aside.]They mean to kill my father!
O Heav'n!
[He rushes into the midst of the Cavaliers.
O Heav'n Hold, murderers!
All the Cavaliers. O Heav'n Hold, murderers! 'Tis Richard Cromwell!
Cromwell [aside.]What doth he?
Richard [to the Cavaliers.]Stay your hands! In pity's name,
If of our former friendship there remains
A vestige in your hearts, then, Rosebery,
Sedley and Downie, list to me, I pray!
Murray [impatiently.]Damnation!
Richard. Damnation! Spare my father!
Sedley. Damnation! Spare my father! Did he spare
His king?
Richard. His king? Ah! that, I doubt not, was a crime;
But am I guilty? Should I be the victim?
In striking him, you strike me, too, my friends.
Cromwell [aside.]Can this be Richard, heartless parricide?
I am nonplust.
Rosebery [to Richard.]We love you like a brother;
But duty must be done, whate'er betide.
Richard.You shall not kill my father!
Cromwell [aside.] … not kill my father! He defends me!
What happiness! I had misjudged my child.