Cromwell's Faustian Deal over Worcester.
There's a wonderful story told in Worcester concerning the end of the civil war. My father - a taxi driver - fascinates his customers with his local knowledge, and I reproduce here one of his very best stories...
"It was the evening of September 2nd, 1651 - and looking towards Perry Wood from the city of Worcester it was possible to see the flickering campfires of Oliver Cromwell's army camped just outside the city at Red Hill. In the midst of the wood the General and the most high ranking of his officers had been discussing possible tactics to be used in the planned battle the next day.
The men were in sombre mood and all had agreed they had a very difficult if not impossible task to take such a well defended city.
Whilst all were pondering on their seemingly inevitable defeat, a dark cloaked figure appeared from the shadows and took Cromwell aside. Cromwell's colleagues, although at first alarmed to think a stranger had entered the camp unseen by the sentries , were soon put at ease when it became apparent that the General obviously knew the intruder.
The two men were speaking in low murmers at first and as the officers curiosity was aroused they tried to listen, but although unable to hear the conversation, they did realise an argument took place. As the quarrel became more heated Cromwell was clearly heard to say;
'I must have ten!'
'No.', hissed the other man, "We agreed five.'
After several minutes the tempers seemed to cool and the man said;
'Very well, seven. I`ll hold you to it.'
Then, almost as he came, the stranger seemed to melt into the
night again. Returning to his friends, Cromwell seemed to give an almost confident smile as he bad them goodnight.
The next morning is recorded in history; Cromwell`s troops over-ran Fort Royal and broke through the Sidbury gate.
Strangely, exactly seven years to the day after winning the battle of Worcester on Sept 3rd 1651 Cromwell died - Sept 3rd 1658...
After the battle roundhead troops ransacked the city, burning pillaging and destroying the city walls. A party of Cromwells cavalry were having fun dessicrating the Cathedral and one trooper was enjoying galloping his horse up and down the isle when suddenly, a large chunk of masonry fell from the roof and killed him.
Act of God or hoofbeats upon an ancient floor?"