Note (return) — Replies to Minor Queries.
Reading edition
"Old Rowley" (Vol. ix., p. 235.).—The nickname of "Old Rowley," as applied to Charles II., seems to be derived from Roland, and has reference to the proverbial saying, "A Roland for an Oliver;" the former name being given to Charles, in contradistinction to the Protector's name of Oliver. Roland and Oliver were two celebrated horses, or, as some say, two pages of Charlemagne possessing equal qualities and hence, "I'll give you a Roland for your Oliver" was tantamount to "I'll give you as good as you send."[10]