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BOYLE 141 fusion, and Cromwell, wanting a man of abilities in whom he could confide, to preside in that country, fixed upon e Lord Broghill for that high situation. His lordship, how ever, was uawilling to accept so delicate an office, he was aware that his conduct would be grossly misrepresented by the factions with which that country was then divided, and he requested the Protector to excuse his not accepting that post, informing him at the same time of his reasons for refusing the honour intended him. Cromwell, how- ever, stating that it was necessary for his service, he was compelled to submit. He, however, obtained a promise of the Protector, that his highness would listen to no com- plaints which should be made against him, till he had an opportunity of vindicating himself, and that he should be recalled at the end of one year. The Protector fulilled his promises, and Broghill, on his return, found, as he ex- pected, that numerous and violent complaints had been made against him. He, however, gave so clear an account of his reasons for his conduct in every particular, that Cromwell was perfectly satisfied, and conceived a much bigher esteem for him than he had before entertained. During the protectorate of Cromwell, Lord Broghill had many opportunities of relieving and assisting the adherents of the king, from the affection which Cromwell entertained for him. In proof of this, we may mention, that Cromwell one day, in the midst of a friendly conver- sation, told him in a gay manner, that an old friend of his was just come to town. Broghill desiring to know whom his highness meant? Cromwell, to his great surprise, an- swered, the Marquis of Ormond. On this Broghill pro- tested that he was wholly ignorant of it. I know that well enough, said the Protector; however, if you have a mind to preserve your old acquaintance, let him know, that I am not ignorant either where he is or what he is doing. He also told him where the Marquis lodged, and Broghill, having obtained this generous permission to save his friend, went directly to him, and acquainted him with