When I went there, I did not think to have done this. But perceiving the spirit of God so strong upon me, I would not consult flesh and blood. - Oliver Cromwell

Your pretended fear lest error should step in, is like the man that would keep all the wine out of the country lest men should be drunk. It will be found an unjust and unwise jealousy, to deny a man the liberty he hath by nature upon a supposition that he may abuse it.

That which brought me into the capacity I now stand in, was the Petition and Advice given me by you, who, in reference to the ancient Constitution, did draw me here to accept the place of Protector. There is not a man living can say I sought it, no not a man, nor woman, treading upon English ground.

This is a righteous judgement of God upon these barbarous wretches, who have imbrued their hands in so much innocent blood.