Page:CromwellHugo.djvu/416

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404
CROMWELL

Cromwell. Can he have learned—He has been here five days.

[He feels in his doublet and produces the sealed packet that he took from Davenant.

See, here's a packet that doth him concern.
His name is on the cover. Know you his address?
Broghill [embarrassed.
Not I, my lord.
Cromwell. Not I, my lord. "Bloum, Rat Hotel, the Strand."
Broghill [stammering.
But—
Ormond [aside, gazing at the parchment in Cromwell's hand.
But—Davenant's the traitor; Davenant!
'Tis the King's letter.
Cromwell [handing the packet to Broghill.
'Tis the King's letter. To Lord Ormond give it
From me. In other hands it might, perchance,
Have compromised him. Tell him to go hence
As soon as may be—never to return.
If he has need of money, give it him.
Rosebery [to Ormond, in an undertone.
Money! ah! what a lucky man you are!
If he would but agree to pay my debts!
Rochester [congratulating Ormond, in an undertone.
'Twas delicately done, and I rejoice
He spares you the affront of naming you.
Cromwell [in a loud, harsh voice.
Lord Rochester!
Rochester [starting in surprise.]How now!
Cromwell. Lord Rochester! How now! You have your pardon.
Go to the deuce!
Rochester [to Rosebery, in an undertone.
Go to the deuce! He's not so suave with me.
No matter! he's a sorcerer! a Proteus!
Accost him: he a royal lion seems.