On Tuesday the statue of Cromwell by Mr. Thornycroft was
unveiled without any ceremony. The statue, though placed in the kind of giant's area which cuts off the side of Westminster Hall from the roadway, is raised on so lofty a pedestal that the Protector does not in the least look as if he were sunk in a bear-pit. Though the statue is not in any sense a great one, we are most heartily glad to see a memorial of Cromwell placed in so conspicuous and honourable a position in London. England cannot be too often reminded of her heroic son,—one who was at once the first and greatest of Unionists and of sane Imperialists, and the representative of all that is strongest and best both on the spiritual and the political side of the national character. There never was a greater patriot than Crom- well, or one more determined to make England and Englishmen "signify somewhat." Mr. Thornycroft has depicted Cromwell on foot, with Bible in one hand and sword in the other, and his head uncovered. That is well enough, but Cromwell is inadequately represented in not having an equestrian statue. Not only was he a great cavalry officer, but as the Protector of the realms he had united he deserved the form of public memorial reserved for rulers.
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