Page "George Monck, 1st Duke of Albemarle" Paragraph 14

During the confusion which followed Cromwell's death on 3 September 1658, Monck remained silent and watchful at Edinburgh, careful only to secure his hold on his troops.

At first he contemplated armed support of Richard Cromwell, but on realising the young man's incapacity for government, he gave up this idea and renewed his waiting policy.

In July 1659 direct and tempting proposals were again made to him by the future Charles II.

Monck's brother Nicholas, a clergyman, brought to him the substance of Charles's letter.

He bade his brother go back to his books, and refused to entertain any proposal.

But when Booth rose in Cheshire for Charles, so tempting did the opportunity seem that he was on the point of joining forces with him, and a manifesto was prepared.

His habitual caution, however, induced him to wait until the next post from England, and the next post brought news of Booth's defeat.