Background information: This quote was taken from an eyewitness who was tasked with sitting with the body of King Charles I before his burial. What can you infer that Cromwell meant when he stated that the death of the king was a "cruel necessity"? He was ashamed and filled with regret about the execution. He was sad about the execution but satisfied with the result. He was fearful that he would be punished for taking part in the execution. He was proud of the execution and believed the country was better off.