He was not in arms for Parliament (though he had been one of the famous five members), and, being estranged from the army by the fact of his Presbyterian religion, and animated by a great dislike of Oliver Cromwell, he stood as much aloof as he was able from the clashes of the times, though he led a considerable party in the Commons.
"Any news?" asked his sister, after greeting him affectionately.
"The usual," replied Sir Denzil gloomily. "Oxford surrendered—the princes and Sir Ralph Hopton are gone beyond seas—Sir Jacob Astley with the last force of royalists hath been taken—and Bridget Cromwell is now Bridget Ireton."
"The King's cause, then," said the Countess, "is utterly lost and ruined?"
"As far as it can be maintained by arms, it is," replied her brother, who, though he had been imprisoned by King Charles, showed no great elation at his downfall. "And as it is certain he will not take the Covenant—why, you may take it it is altogether ruined."
"He will not?" asked Lady William Pawlet.
"Nay, though they have entreated him on their knees, with tears—as have we, the Presbyterians—and if he will not take it, there is not a single Scot will shoulder a musket for him."
"It seems," remarked the Countess quietly, "that the King can be faithful to some things."
"Ay," said Sir Denzil, "to the Church of England and his Crown. I believe he would resign life itself sooner than either."