Cromwell. I am not such a hard man that I don't see how you are left. Do you know what I say? I say I don't know one man in England who would have done what you have done, for a man disgraced and fallen. The king says so. Even him, Chapuys, the Emperor's man, he says, you cannot fault what's-he-called. I say, it's a pity you ever saw Wolsey. It's a pity you don't work for me." "Well," he says, "we all want
In "Wolf Hall" by Hilary Mantel, a conversation unfolds where Cromwell recognizes the extraordinary actions of a man who has fallen from grace, suggesting that few in England would have acted similarly. He expresses admiration for the resilience shown amidst disgrace, highlighting that even the king acknowledges this person's valor. Cromwell implies that associating with someone like Wolsey, the disgraced cardinal, has hindered opportunities for greater loyalty and service. This dialogue illustrates Cromwell's shrewd understanding of power dynamics and the value of loyalty. By suggesting that the man should consider working for him instead, Cromwell positions himself as a pragmatic leader that values ability and strength over past failures. This interaction captures the complexities of loyalty and ambition in the political landscape of the time.
