This scene traditionally shows Colonel Russell (1620-81), who, having given up his commission, is being persuaded to take it up again by Prince Rubert and Colonel William Murray. However, Dr Malcolm Rogers, in the catalogue for the Dobson exhibition in 1984 suggests that a more likely explanation is that it shows Colonel Murray receiving his commission, and he is seen dipping his cockade into a glass of wine to pledge his loyalty.

After the painting in a private collection (see William Dobson exhibition, National Portrait Gallery, 1984, no.25).