Boscobel, or the Royal oak by Willian Harrison Ainsworth is a fictional account based on the life and political reign of the English King Charles II. Excerpt: "During the Civil Wars, the old and faithful city of Worcester suffered severely for its devotion to the royal cause. Twice was it besieged—twice sacked by the Parliamentarians. In 1642, the Earl of Essex marched with a large force against the place, stormed and pillaged it, and sent several of the wealthier citizens prisoners to London."