Oliver Cromwell: A Play

by John Drinkwater

You never know, wife.

Hampden:

There are lessons to be learnt.

Cromwell:

That's what they said.

(Bridget returns with a foaming pot of ale, which she gives to Amos.)

Cromwell

(drinking):

To freedom, John. That's good sherry. I respect not such ill reasoners as would keep all wine out of the country lest men should be drunk. Now, Amos. Come along, John, my touch was good last night. I shall beat you.

(He goes out on to the lawn beyond the window, with Hampden and Ireton. They are seen passing to and fro, playing bowls.)