Required reading
The Protector: A vindication by J. H. Merle D'Aubigne (Available from Amazon or free here) - Read Chapter 3 (Schism between the king and the parliament).
My summary
This week we learn about the war against the king.
We hear about:
(i) the various battles;
(ii) Cromwell's strategies;
(iii) the piety of Cromwell and his men;
(iv) the aid of the Scots;
(v) the defeat of the king.
What grabbed me
I liked Cromwell's solution to his army's weakness: 'The winter passed away quietly : in spring the war broke out again, with still doubtful success. The legitimate resistance of the Parliament could only be justified and maintained by prompt and decisive victories, Cromwell immediately saw the main cause of weakness in the parliamentary army, and found a remedy for it. He knew that to conquer a strong moral force, there is required another and one still more powerful. Accordingly he began at the beginning. 'How can we be otherwise than beaten ?" said he to Hampden. " Your troops are most of them old decayed serving- men, and tapsters, and such kind of fellows ; and theirs are gentlemen's sons, younger sons, and persons of quality. But I will remedy that. I will raise men who will have the fear of God before their eyes, and who will bring some conscience to what they do ; and I promise you they shall not be beaten." With this design he went through the Eastern Counties, calling upon the young freeholders, with whose piety he was acquainted, to take up arms in the cause of God. Fourteen squadrons of zealous Protestants were soon raised. It was this new element that decided the destinies of the war and of England. From that hour the course of events was changed. '
Surrounding yourself with those who are zealous for God will accomplish much.
Next week's reading
Read Chapter 4 (Schism between the parliament and the army).
Now it's your turn
Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.
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