Memories of Virginia
sacre and rebellion and much apprehension felt that was realized on Good Friday, April 24, 1644, at a period when war was raging in England, and anxiety in Virginia. Matthews was prepared for the attack and his followers not surprised; still a key note of danger was sounded, and with courage the settlers accepted the gauntlet and a vigorous war upon the Indians lasted until 1646. Berkeley was Governor of Jamestown; Matthews on "the war path." "We are fighting for England," he said to his people, and his enthusiasm for home and country was contagious. His first object was to hold Virginia a "Fifth power of Britain"; a kingdom home for Charles First, one secure from fatalities of war. It is set forth in history, "Matthews was the greatest opposer of Cromwell and the leader of the persecution of the Puritans." No doubt he was as dictatorial as "a Czar," for true to his heritage and birthright he would stand firm and true for England in her "dark hour," and aid to the fullest extent of his ability. A man to count no effort to serve the Crown: but Virginians in their most melancholy fancies never dreamed nor visioned the fate awaiting their King until the blow fell with crushing force, to daze heads and make hearts faint. It is related when the fearful news reached Virginia in 1649—four months after the tragedy that left England without a King—men were dazed. Governor Berkeley would no longer act under Cromwell and retired from service, then it was that Matthews in his sorrow showed the greatness of his character to seize and accept conditions. "We must stand together." he said. "We must save Virginia. We must be prepared
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