Hasilrig and the Republicans were taken by surprise, and could only protest that the motion was unseasonable and that other matters ought to have precedence.

The bill having been read the first time that day, Thurloe consented that the second reading should be deferred to the 7th.

On that day, accordingly, there began a debate which lasted for seven successive days, and was a full trial of strength between the Government and the Republicans.

Hasilrig, Neville, Scott, Vane, Ludlow, and others, exerted themselves to the utmost, Hasilrig leading, and making one speech three hours long.

It was evident, however, that the Republicans knew themselves to be but a minority, and used the debate only for re-opening the question of a Republic.
They did not attack the direct proposal of the Bill; on the contrary they vied with the Cromwellians in language of respect for Richard.
"I confess I do love the person of the Lord Protector; I never saw nor heard either fraud or guile in him." said Hasilrig.