"
He now, in the warfare of political life, made free use of his
keen wit and bitter sarcasm as serviceable weapons. These were
chiefly employed in exposing measures he considered calculated to
ruin the country, though they might gratify the king. However,
he had no hatred of monarchy, but would occasionally divert
Charles by the sharpness of his satire and brilliancy of his wit.
Considering how valuable these would be if employed in service of
the court, Charles resolved to tempt Marvell's integrity. For
this purpose the Lord Treasurer Danby sought and found him in his
chamber, situated in the second floor of a mean house standing in
a court off the Strand. Groping his way up the dark and narrow
staircase of the domicile, the great minister stumbled, and
falling against a door, was precipitated into Marvell's
apartment, head foremost. Surprised at his appearance, the
satirist asked my Lord Danby if he had not mistaken his way.
"No," said the courtier with a bow, "not since I have found Mr.
Marvell." He then proceeded to tell him that the king, being
impressed by a high sense of his abilities, was desirous of
serving him. Apprehending what services were expected in return,
Marvell answered that he who accepted favours from the court was
bound to vote in its interests. "Nay," said my lord, "his
majesty but desires to know if there is any place at court you
would accept." On which Marvell replied he could receive nothing
with honour, for either he must treat the king with ingratitude
by refusing compliance with court measures, or be a traitor to
his country by yielding to them.
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