He even went so far as to enter into a correspondence with Spain, and Cromwell, who knew the distempers of the army, was justly afraid of some mutiny, to which a day, an hour, an instant, might provide leaders.
Of assassinations, likewise, he was apprehensive, from the zealous spirit which actuated the soldiers.

Sindercome had undertaken to murder him; and by the most unaccountable accidents, had often been prevented from executing his bloody purpose.

His design was discovered; but the protector could never find the bottom of the enterprise, nor detect any of his accomplices.

He was tried by a jury; and, notwithstanding the general odium attending that crime, notwithstanding the clear and full proof of his guilt, so little conviction prevailed of the protector's right to the supreme government, it was with the utmost difficulty[*] that this conspirator was condemned.

When every thing was prepared for his execution, he was found dead; from poison, as is supposed, which he had voluntarily taken.
* Thurloe, voL vi.p.