Conclusion

So, in conclusion, what can be said about Sir Thomas Fairfax's qualities as a general? He was undoubtedly brave, leading from the front to the point of recklessness. He was well versed in the art of war and by the end of 1644 had gained a wealth of experience. He was, on balance, successful. He was certainly vigorous in the conduct of his campaigns and actions and I would suggest that above all else it was, as Manchester put it this "resolution and valour" [50] that marked him apart from other generals of the civil war. Although I have not considered these qualities in this piece, he was also undoubtedly inspirational and by all accounts very likeable.

There is also one other aspect to him that I have not discussed. It is sometimes difficult to believe that Tom Fairfax was quite as perfect as he is made out to be or that he could have been so succesful if he was so thoroughly decent. Everyone knows his nickname, "Black Tom" which seems to pre-date the war.

This is said to be because of his dark looks. Yet I can't help wondering if that is the whole explanation. Was there, perhaps, a darker side to Tom Fairfax which gave rise to the name? I wonder because in the obvious vigour and determination of his actions there is also a hint of ruthlessness. Such as in his determination to get to Hull whatever the cost and whatever the odds, and in his pursuit and destruction of the Royalist horse at Winceby.

During the final collapse of the Royalist army at Marston Moor he is reported to have cried out "Spare the poor deluded countrymen who are misled and know not what they do, but slay the Irish and the buff coats and feathers, for they are the authors of your misfortunes. [51] Not touched on here was his personal intervention to ensure the destruction of the last of the King's infantry at Naseby. There are also hints of a formidable anger, with the anonymous infantry at Seacroft and with Gifford at Adwalton, an anger which can still be sensed in his writing 20 years after the event.

Sprigge wrote of Sir Thomas, of the Rider of the White Horse, "Yet when he hath come upon action, or been near an engagement, it hath been observed, another soul hath looked out at his eyes; I mean he hath been so raided, elevated and transported, as that he hath been not only unlike himself at other times but indeed more like an angel than a man." [52]

I wonder if he had in mind Revelations 6, v2?

"And I saw, and behold a white horse: and he that sat on him had a bow; and a crown was given unto him: and be went forth conquering, and to conquer."