Not long after (August 19) the flutter of innumerable bosoms was
stilled by an Act, which the king, that his mercy might want no
recommendation of elegance, rather called an Act of Oblivion than of
Grace. Goodwin was named, with nineteen more, as incapacitated for
any public trust; but of Milton there was no exception.

Of this tenderness shown to Milton the curiosity of mankind has not
forborne to inquire the reason. Burnet thinks he was forgotten; but
this is another instance which may confirm Dalrymple's observation,
who says, "that whenever Burnet's narrations are examined, he
appears to be mistaken."

Forgotten he was not; for his prosecution was ordered; it must be
therefore by design that he was included in the general oblivion.
He is said to have had friends in the House, such as Marvel,
Morrice, and Sir Thomas Clarges: and undoubtedly a man like him
must have had influence. A very particular story of his escape is
told by Richardson in his Memoirs, which he received from Pope, as
delivered by Betterton, who might have heard it from Davenant. In
the war between the King and Parliament, Davenant was made prisoner
and condemned to die; but was spared at the request of Milton. When
the turn of success brought Milton into the like danger, Davenant
repaid the benefit by appearing in his favour. Here is a
reciprocation of generosity and gratitude so pleasing, that the tale
makes its own way to credit. But if help were wanted, I know not
where to find it. The danger of Davenant is certain from his own
relation; but of his escape there is no account. Betterton's
narration can be traced no higher; it is not known that he hid it
from Davenant. We are told that the benefit exchanged was life for
life; but it seems not certain that Milton's life ever was in