"I'm one of the ruins that Cromwell knocked about a bit"

This quote by Marie Lloyd is a humorous reference to the English Civil War, which happened in the 17th century. The English Civil War was a dispute between the Royalists, who supported the monarchy, and the Parliamentarians, led by Oliver Cromwell. Cromwell's forces were victorious, and he became the Lord Protector of England. Marie Lloyd's quote is a lighthearted way of saying that she has been through a great deal of difficulty in her life. She is comparing her struggles to the destruction brought on by Cromwell's forces throughout the Civil War. By using humor to make light of her battles, Marie Lloyd is revealing her resilience and strength in the face of misfortune. Her quote is a suggestion that no matter how difficult life can be, it is possible to discover humor and strength in the midst of it.