They are allowed to answer ere they die:

’Tis death for me to ask the reason why.

But, sacred Saviour, with thy words I woo 25

Thee to forgive, and not be bitter to

Such as Thou know’st do not know what they do.

Augment my patience, nullify my hate,

Preserve my issue, and inspire my mate;

Yet, though we perish, bless this Church and State. 30

King Charles the First.

CIII
HORATIAN ODE UPON CROMWELL’S RETURN FROM IRELAND.