without the loss of one man; the enemy following the rear with a great body. The honour of this retreat is due to God, as also all the rest: Major Whalley did in this carry himself with all gallantry becoming a gentleman and a Christian.
Thus you have this true relation, as short as I could. What you are to do upon it, is next to be considered.[1] If I could speak words to pierce your hearts with the sense of our and your condition, I would! If you will raise 2,000 Foot at present to encounter this Army of Newcastle’s, to raise the siege, and to enable us to fight him,—we doubt not, by the grace of God, but that we shall be able to relieve the Town, and beat the Enemy on[2] the other side of Trent. Whereas if somewhat be not done in this, you will see Newcastle’s Army march up into your bowels; being now, as it is, on this side Trent. I know it will be difficult to raise thus many in so short time: but let me assure you, it’s necessary, and therefore to be done. At least do what you may, with all possible expedition! I would I had the happiness to speak with one of you:—truly I cannot come over, but must attend my charge; the Enemy is vigilant. The Lord direct you what to do. Gentlemen, I am your faithful servant, OLIVER CROMWELL.
P.S. Give this Gentleman credence: he is worthy to be trusted, he knows the urgency of our affairs better than myself. If he give you intelligence, in point of time, of haste to be made,—believe him: he will advise for your good.[3]
About two miles south of Gainsborough, on the North-Scarle road, stands the Hamlet and Church of Lea; near which is a ‘Hill,‘ or expanse of upland, of no great height, but sandy, covered with furze, and full of rabbit-holes, the
- ↑ The rest of this paragraph, all except the last sentence, is omitted: Postscript, too, omitted.
- ↑ Means ‘to.’
- ↑ Rushworth, v. 278;—given now (Third Edition) according to Autograph in the possession of Dawson Turner, Esq., Great Yarmouth. (Papers of Norfolk Archæological Society, Jan. 1848; and Athenæum, London, 11th March 1848.
