Cromwell

Also known as: General Cromwell · Family: Puritan · Role: political leader · First appears: Chapter 39

Cromwell, also known as General Cromwell, is a Puritan political leader. In chapter 39, Madame Henrietta finds him embarrassed but firm in his refusal, while by chapter 41 Mordaunt is revealed as his agent sent to Mazarin: “Then I understand it all! he has been sent by Cromwell to Mazarin, and the queen guessed rightly; we have been forestalled.” Mazarin is occupied revising his reply to Cromwell in chapter 49.

In chapter 55, Cromwell arrives at Newcastle and his forces surround the camp and block the Tyne passages: “Sire, Cromwell has arrived this night at Newcastle.” This places him in enemy relation to Charles I and in conflict with Lord Leven. By chapter 63, Lady Fairfax has been seen at General Cromwell’s house, and in chapter 67 Cromwell is discovered inside the house watched by the four friends.

In chapter 68, Cromwell authorizes Mordaunt to seize the four French conspirators, orders him to recover the rescue vessel’s powder, and grants him time to settle personal matters. Mordaunt is among Cromwell’s most intimate friends and trusted in his service; Cromwell also reveals that he had permitted the attempted rescue to proceed. In chapter 70, he appoints Groslow to command a maritime expedition. By chapter 74, D’Artagnan and Porthos are his enemies after abandoning their mission to Cromwell to support Charles I, while in chapter 88 Cromwell and Charles are described as rivals.