The History of the Worthies of England

The Buildings.

KIMBOLTON Castle, This being part of the jointure of Queen Katharine Dowager, was chosen by her to retire thereunto as neither too near to London to see what she would not, nor so far off but that she might hear what she desired. Here she wept out the Remnant of her widdowhood (while her husband was yet alive) in her devotions. This Castle came afterwards by gift to the Wingfields, from them by sale to the Montagues; Henry late Earl of Manchester sparing no cost which might add to the beauty thereof.

HINCHING-BROOKE, once a Nunnery and which I am confident will ever be a Religious house whilst it relateth to the truly Noble Edward Montague (Earl of Sandwich ) the owner thereof. It showeth one of the Magnificent rooms which is to be beheld in our Nation.

We must not forget the House and Chapel in little Godding (the inheritance of Master Ferrer ) which lately made a great Noise all over England. Here three Numerous female families (all from one Grand-Mother) lived together in a strict discipline of devotion. They rise at midnight to Prayers, and other people most complained thereof, whose heads I dare say never akit for want of sleep. Sure I am, strangers by them were entertained, poor people were relieved, their Children instructed to read, whilst their own Needles were employed in learned and pious work to bind Bibles: Whereof one most exactly done was presented to King Charles. But their society was beheld by some as an Embryo Nunnery •… uspecting that there was a Pope Joan therein, which causeless Cavil afterwards confuted it self, when all the younger of those Virgins, practiced the Precept of St. Paul, to marry, bear Children, and guide their houses.

Medicinal Waters.

There is an Obscure Village in this County near St. Neots called Hail-weston whose very name Soundeth something of sanativeness therein, so much may the Adding of what is no Letter, alter the meaning of a Word, for.

• 1. Aile Signifieth a Sore or Hurt, with complaining the effect thereof.
• 2 Hail, (having an affinity with Heile the Saxon Idol for Esculapius ) Importeth a cure, or Medicine to a Maladie.

Now in the afore-said Village there be two Fountain-lets which are not far asunder.

• 1. One sweet, conceived good to help the dimness of the eyes.
• 2 The other in a manner salt, esteemed sovereign against the Scabs and Leprosy.

What saith St. James; Doth a Fountain send forth at the same Place sweet Water and bitter? meaning in an Ordinary way, without Miracle. Now although these different Waters flow from several Fountains; Yet seeing they are so near together, it may justly be advanced to the Reputation of a Wonder.

Proverbs.

This is the way to BEGGARS BUSH. ]

It is spoken of such who use dissolute and improvident courses which tend to poverty, Beggars Bush being a tree notoriously known, on the left hand of London road from Huntingdon to Caxton. I have heard, how King James, being in progress in these parts, with Sir Francis Bacon the Lord Chancellor, and having heard that morning, how Sir Francis had prodigiously rewarded a mean man for a small present, Sir Francis (said He) you will quickly come to beggars bush, and I may even go along with you, if both be so bountiful.

RAMSEY the Rich -]

This was the Cresus or Croessus of all our English Abbeys. For having (but sixty Monks to maintain therein, the Revenues thereof according to the standard of those times amounted unto Seven Thousand pounds a year, which in proportion was a hundred pound for every Monk, and a thousand for their Abbot. Yet at the dissolution of Monasteries, the Income of this Abby was reckoned but at One thousand nine hundred eighty three pounds by the year, whereby it plainly appears how much the Revenues were under rated in those valuations.

But how soon is Crassus made Codrus, and Ramsey the Rich, become Ramsey the Poor. The wealth of the Town, relative with the Abby, was dissolved therewith, and moe the Mendicants since in Ramsey than the Monks were before. However now there is great hope that Ramsey after the two extremes of Wealth and Want, will at last be fixed in a comfortable mediocrity, the wish of Agur being granted unto him, give me neither poverty nor riches, especially since it is lately erected (or rather restored ) to the Dignity of a Market-Town. And surely the convenient situation thereof since the draining of the Fens, doth advantage it to be a Staple-place for the sale of fat and lean Cattle.

Saints.

ELFLED, daughter of Aethelwold Earl of East-Angles (Founder of the Monastery of Ramsey in this County) was prefer'd Abbess of Ramsey, & confirmed by K. Edgar therein. She is reported to excel in austerity and holiness of life. When her Steward complained unto her, that she had exhausted her coffers with the profuseness of her Charity, she with her prayers presently recruited them to their former fullness. When her candle, as she read the Lesson, casually went out, there came such a brightness from the Fingers of her right hand, that it enlightened the whole Choir; which is as true as the New Lights to which our modern Sectaries do pretend, the one having Miracles, the other Revelations at their fingers-ends. She died Anno Dom. 992. being buried in the LadyChurch at Ramsey with high veneration.

Prelates.

WILLIAM de WHITLESEY, no printed Author mentioning the Place of his birth and breeding. He was placed by us in this County, finding Whitlesey a Town therein (so memorable for the Mere ) and presuming that this William did follow suit with the best of his Cote in that age, surnamed from the places of their Nativity▪ Mr. Parker (I tell you my story and my stories-man ) an industrious Antiquary, collecteth out of the Records of the Church of Eli, that (after the resignation of Ralph de Holbeach) William de Whitlesey Arch-deacon of Huntingdon, 1340. was admitted third Master of Peter-House in Cambridge. Yet hath he left more signal Testimony of his affection to Oxford, which he freed from the jurisdiction of the Bishop of Lincoln, allowing the Scholars leave to choose their own Chancellor.

He was Kinsman to Simon Islip Archbishop of Canterbury, who made him Vicar General, Dean of the Arches, and successively he was preferred Bishop of Rochester, Worcester, London, Archbishop of Canterbury. An excellent Scholar, an eloquent Preacher, and his last Sermon most remarkable to the Convocation on this Text, Veritas liberabit vos, The truth shall make you free. It seems by the story, that in his Sermon he had a 〈◊〉 reflection on the privileges of the Clergy, as exempted by preaching the truth from payment of Taxes, save with their own free consent. But all would not serve their turn, for in the contemporary Parliament the Clergy unwillingly-willing granted a yearly Tenth to supply the pressing occasions of King Edward the Third. This William died Anno Dom. 1375.

Writers.

The Candid Reader is here requested to forgive and amend what in them is of casual transposition.

HENRY SALTRY was born in this County, and became a Cistertian Monk in the Monastery of Saltry, then newly founded by Simon Saint Liz, Earl of Huntingdon. He was also instructed by one Florentian an Irish Bishop. He wrote a profitable book for his own Religion in the maintenance of Purgatory, which made him esteemed in that superstitious age. He flourished Anno Dom. 1140.

GREGORY of HUNTINGTON, so called from the place of his Nativity, was bred a Benedictine Monk in Ramsey, Where he became Prior or Vice-Abbot, a place which he deserved, being one of the most Learned men of that age for his great skill in Languages.

For he was through-paced in three Tongues, Latin, Greek (as appears by his many Comments on those Grammarians ) and Hebrew, which last he learned by his constant conversing with the Jews in England.

But now the fatal time did approach, wherein the Jews (full loath I assure you) must leave the Land, and many precious books behind them. Our Gregory partly by love, partly by the Kings power (both together will go far in driving a bargain) purchased many of those rarities to dispose them in his Convent of Ramsey; which as it exceeded other English Monasteries for a Library, so for Hebrew books that Monastery exceeded itself. After this Gregory had been Prior of Ramsey no fewer then 38 years, flourishing under King Henry the Third. He died in the Reign of K. Edward the First about 1280.

HUGH of Saint N •… OTS was born in that well known Market-Town, bred a Carmelite in Hitching in Hartfordshire. Hence he went to study in Cambridge, where for his worth, the Degree of Doctorship was by the University gratis, (quare whither without paying of Fees, or keeping of Acts ) conferred upon him. To him Bale, (though that be the best Bale which hath the least of Bale, and most of Leland therein) giveth this Testimony, that living in the Egyptian Darkness, he sought after the light of Truth, adding that he was Piscis in Palude nihil trahens de Sapore Palustri, a Fish in the •… enns, drawing nothing of the mud thereof, which is a rarity indeed. Many his Sermons; and he wrotea Comment on Saint Luke. He died 1340. and was buried at Hitching.

WILLIAM RAMSEY was born in this County famous for the richest Benedictines Abbey in England, yet here he would not stay but went to Crowland, where he prospered so well that he became Abbot thereof. He was a Natural Poet, and therefore no wonder, if faults be found in the feet of his verses. For it is given to thorough-pacedNaggs, that amble naturally, to trip much whilst artificial pacers go surest on foot. He wrote the life of St. Guthlake, St. Neots. St. Edmond. the King, &c. all in verse.

But that which may seem a wonder indeed is this, that being a Poet, he paid the vast debts of others, even forty thousand Mark for the engagement of his Covent, and all within the compass of eighteen Moneths, wherein he was Abbot of Crowland. But it rendereth it the more credible, because it was done by the assistance of King Henry the Second, who to expiate the blood of Becket was contented to be melted into Coine, and was prodigiously bountiful to some Churches. Our William died 1180.

HENRY of HUNTINGTON Son to one Nicholas, where born, unknown, was first a Canon of the Church of Lincoln, where he became acquainted with one Albine of Angiers born in France, but Fellow-Canon with him of the same Church. This Albine he afterwards in his writings modestly owned for his Master, having gained much learning from him.

He was afterwards Chaplain to Alexander that Great Bishop of Lincoln, (Magnificent unto Madness ) who made him Arch-Deacon of Huntingdon, whence he took his D •… nomination. A Town which hath received more Honor from him than ever it can return to him, seeing Huntingdon had never been mentioned in the mouths, nor passed under the Pens of so many foreigners, but for the worthy History of the Saxon Kings, written by this Henry. Let me add, that considering the sottishness of Superstition in the age, he lived in, he is less smoohted therewith, than any of his contemporaries, and being a secular Priest doth now and then abate the pride of Monastical pretended perfection. He flourished under King Stephen in the year of our Lord, 1248. and is probably conjectured to die about the year 1260.

ROGER of St. IVES was born at that noted Town of this County, being omitted by Bale but remembered by Pits (though seldom sounding when the other is silent ) for his activity against the Lollards, and Sir John Old-Castle, against whom he wrote a book, flourishing in the year 1420.

Exi •… -Romish-Writers.

RICHARD BROUGHTON was born at Great Steuckley in this County, bred at Reims in France, where he received the Order of Priesthood, and was sent over into England for the propagation of his party. Here he gave so signal testimony and fidelity to the cause, that he was (before many others) preferred. Assistant to the English Arch-Priest.

He wrote many books, and is most esteemed by those of his own Religion, for his English Ecclesiastical History from the first planting of the Gospel, to the coming in of the Saxons. But in plain truth, there is little milk, no cream and almost all whey therein, being farced with Legendary stuff, taken from Authors, some of condemned, most of suspected credit. If by the Levitical Law, a bastard should not enter into the congregation of the Lord (understand it, to bear Office therein) to the tenth generation: it is pity, that adulterated Authors being an illegitimate offspring should be admitted to bear rule in Church-History. This Broughton was living in the latter end of the Reign of King James.

Benefactors to the Public.

AMBROSE Son to John Nicholas was born at Needenworth in this County, whence he went to London and was bound apprentice to a Salter, thriving so well in his Trade that Anno 1576. he became Lord Mayor of London. He founded Twelve Alms houses in Mungwel-street in that City, indowing them with Competent maintenance.

Sir WOLSTAN (Son to Thomas Dixie ) was born at Catworth in this County, bred a Skinner in London whereof he became Lord Mayor Anno 1585. He was a man made up of deeds of Charity the particulars whereof are too long to recite. He gave 600. pound to Immanuel College in Cambridge to the founding of a Fellowship; Erected a Free-school at Bosworth in Leicestershire and Endowed it; where his family flourish at this day in a worshipful Estate.

RICHARD FISH •… OURN was born in the Town of Huntingdon; cut out of no mean Quarry, being a Gentleman by his Extraction. Leaving a Court life (as more pleasant then profitable) He became servant to Sir Raptist Hicks, afterwards Viscount Camden, and by God's blessing on his industry attained a great Estate; whereof he gave two thousand pounds for the buying out of Impropriations in the Northern parts, and settling a preaching Ministry where most want ▪thereof, he bequeathed as much to the Company of Mercers, whereof he was free, and the same sum to Huntingdon the place of his Nativity, with One thousand marks to Christ-Church Hospital. The whole sum of his benefactions amounted to ten thousand seven hundred pounds and upwards, briefly summed up in his Funeral Sermon (commonly called Corona Charitatis ) preached by Master Nathaniel Shute, wherein (to use his Expression) He supped up many things with a very short breath, contracting his Deeds of Charity to avoid tediousness.

Nor must it be forgotten how this Gentleman lying on his death-bed, when (men are presumed to speak with unmasked consciences) did profess that to his knowledge he had got no part of his goods unjustly. No man of his Quality won more Love in health, Prayers in sickness, and Lamentation at his Funeral; dying a single man, and buried in Mercers Chapel, May the 10. 1625.

Memorable Persons.

Sir OLIVER CROMWELL Knight, son of Sir Henry Cromwell, Knight of Hinching-brook in this County, is Remarkable to Posterity on a four-fold account. First, For his hospitality and prodigious entertainment of King James and his Court. Secondly, for his upright dealing in bargain and sale with all chapmen, so that no man, who soever purchased Land of him, was put to charge of three pence to make good his Title; Yet he sold excellent penniworths, insomuch that Sir John Leamon (once Lord Mayor of London ) who bought the fair Manor of Warboise in this County of him, affirmed; That it was the cheapest Land that ever he bought, and yet the dearest that ever Sir Oliver Cromwell sold. Thirdly, for his Loyalty, always beholding the Usurpation and Tyranny of his Nephew, God-Son, and NAME-SAKE with Hatred and Contempt. Lastly, for his Vivacity, who survived to be the oldest Gentleman in England, who was a Knight; Though not the oldest Knight who was a Gentleman; seeing Sir George Dalston, younger in years (yet still alive,) was Knighted some days before him. Sir Oliver died, Anno Dom. 1654.

The Farewell.

Much of this Counties profit depends on the Northern road crossing the body thereof from God Mondchester to Wainsforde-Bridge. A Road which in the winter is the ready way, leading not only to trouble but Danger; Insomuch that here it coms to pass, (what war caused in the days of Shamgar) The high ways are un employed and Travelers walk through by-ways, to the present prejudice and future undoing of all ancient Stages. And indeed though STIF-CLAY (commonly called Stukley ) be the name but of one or two Villages in the midst, yet their Nature is extensive all over the County, consisting of a deep Clay, giving much annoyance to Passengers May a mean man's motion be heard? Let the repairing of bad places in that High way, (which is now the Parish, ) be made the County Charge, whereby the burden will become the less (born by more backs) and the benefit the more, when the ways thereby shall effectually be mended and maintained.

Natural Commodities.

Manufactures.

Though clothing (whereof we have spoken before) be diffused through many Shires of England, yet is it as vigorously applied here as in any other place, and Kentish cloth at the present keepeth up the credit thereof as high as ever before.

The Buildings.

The Cathedral of Rotchester is low and little proportional to the Revenews thereof. Yet hath it, (though no Magnificence ) a venerable aspect of Antiquity therein The King hath (besides other) three fair Palaces in this Shire, Greenwich with a pleasant medlay prospect of City, Country, Water and Land, Eltham not altogether so wholesome, and Otford, which Arch-Bishop Warham did so enlarge and adorn with Building, that Cranmer his Successor was in some sort forced to exchange it with King Henry the Eighth on no gainful conditions. To lesson the Clergy to content themselves with Decency without sumptuousness, lest it awaken Envy, and in fine they prove losers thereby.

COBHAM, the House of the late Duke of Richmond, and..... the fair Mansion of Sir Edward Hales Baronet (adequate to his large Estate) when finished, will carry away the credit from all the buildings in this County.

The Wonders.

A marvelous accident happened August 4. 1585. in the Hamlet of Mottingham (pertaining to Eltham in this County) in a Field, which belongeth to Sir Percival Hart. Betimes in the morning the ground began to sink, so much that three great Elm-trees were suddenly swallowed into the Pit; the tops falling downward into the hole: and before ten of the Clock they were so overwhelmed, that no part of them might be discerned, the Concave being suddenly filled with water. The compass of the hole was about 80. yards, and so profound, that a sounding-line of fifty Fathoms could hardly find or feel any bottom. Ten yards distance from that place, there was another piece of ground sunk in like manner, near the Highway, and so nigh a dwellinghouse, that the Inhabitants were greatly terrified therewith.

The Navy Royal.

It may be justly accounted a WONDER of Art; and know the Ships are properly here handled, because the most, best and biggest of them have their Birth (built at Woolwich ) and Winter abode nigh Chattam in the River of Medway in this County. Indeed before the Reign of Q. Elizabeth the ships Royal were so few, they deserved not the name of a Fleet, when our Kings hired Vessels from Hamborough, Lübeck, yea, Genoa itself. But such who instead of their own servants use chair folk in their houses, shall find their work worse done, and yet pay dearer for it.

Queen ELIZABETH, sensible of this mischief, erected a Navy-Royal (continued and increased by her successors) of the best ships Europe ever beheld. Indeed much is in the matter, the excellency of our English-Oak; more in the making, the cunning of our shipwrights; most in the manning, the courage of our Seamen, and yet all to God's blessing who so often hath crowned them with success.

If that man who hath versatile ingenium be thereby much advantaged for the working of his own fortune; Our ships, so active to turn and wind at pleasure, must needs be more useful than the Spanish▪ Gallions, whose unwieldiness fixeth them almost in one posture, and maketh them the stedier marks for their enemies. As for Flemish bottoms, though they are finer built, yet as the slender Barbe is not so fit to charge with, they are found not so useful in fight. The great SOVERAIGN built at Dulwich, a Leigership for State is the greatest Ship our Island ever saw. But great Medals are made for some grand solemnity, whilst lesser Coyn are more current and passable in payment.

I am credibly informed, that that Mystery of Ship-Wrights for some descents hath been preserved successively in Families, of whom the Petts about Chattam are of singular regard; Good success have they with their skill, and carefully keep so precious a pearl, lest otherwise amongst many Friends some Foes attain unto it. It is no Monopoly which concealeth that from common enemies, the concealing whereof, is for the common good. May this Mystery of ship-making in England never be lost till this floating world be arrived at its own Haven, the End and Dissolution thereof.

I know what will be objected by Foreigners, to take off the luster of our Navy-Royal, viz. That (though the Model of our great Ships primitively were our own yet, we fetched the first Mold and Pattern of our Frigots from the Dunkerks, when in the days of the Duke of Bukcingham (then Admiral) we took some Frigots from them, two of which still survive in his Majesty's Navy by the name of the Providence, and Expedition.

All this is confessed, and honest men, may lawfully learn something from thieves for their own better defense. But it is added, we have Improved our Patterns, and the Transscript doth at this day exceed the Original: witness some of the swiftest Dunkirks and Ostenders, whose wings in a fair flight have failed them, overtaken by our Frigots, and they still remain the Monuments thereof in our Navy.

Not to disgrace our Neigbouring Nations, but vindicate ourselves, in these nine following particulars, The Navy-Royal exceeds all Kingdoms and States in Europe.

Medicinal Waters.

TUNBRIDGE - WATER. ]

It is usual for Providence when intending a Benefit to Mankind to send some signal chance on the Errand to bring the first Tidings thereof; most visible in the News of Medicinal-Waters.

The first Discovery of this Water (though variously reported) is believed from a Footman to a Dutch Lord, who passed this way, and drinking thereof found it in taste very like to that at the Spaw in Germany.

Indeed, there is a great Symbolizing betwixt them in many concurrences, and I believe it is as Sovereign as the other, save that it is true of Things as of Persons, Major e longinquo Reverentia. Surely it runneth thorough some Iron-Mine, because so good for Splenitick distempers. But I leave the full Relation to such, who having experimentally found the Virtue of it can set their Seal of Probatum est unto the commendation thereof.

Proverbs.

A KENTISH Yeoman ]

It passeth for a plain Man of a plentiful estate, Yeomen in this County, bearing away the Bell for wealth from all of their rank in England.

Yeomen contracted for Yemen-mein are so called, saith a great Antiquary from Gemein, (G in the beginning is usually turned into Y as Gate into Yate ) which signifieth Common in old Dutch, so that Yeoman is a Commoner, one undignified with any title of Gentility. A condition of People almost peculiar to England, seeing in France, Italy and Spain, (like a lame Dye which hath no points betwixt Duce and Cinque ) no medium between Gentlemen and Pesants. Whereas amongst us the Yeomen, Ingenui, or Legales Homines, are in effect the Basis of all the Nation, formerly most mounting the subsidy Book in Peace with their purses, and the Muster Roll in war with their Persons. Kent as we have said affordeth the richest in this kind whence the Rime.

CALES Knights were made in that voyage by Robert Earl of Essex anno Dom. 1596 to the number os sixty, whereof (though many of great birth and estate) some were of low fortunes, and therefore Queen Elizabeth was half offended with the Earl for making Knighthood so common. Of the numerousness of Welsh Gentlemen we shall have cause to speak hereafter. Northern Lairds are such who in Scotland hold Lands in chief of the King, whereof some have no great Revenue, so that a Kentish Yeoman (by the help of an Hyperbole) may countervail, &c.

Yet such Yeomen refuse to have the Title of Master put upon them, contenting themselves without any addition of Gentility, and this mindeth me of a Passage in my memory. One immoderately boasted, that there was not one of his name in all England, but that he was a Gentleman, to whom one in the company retnrned, I am sorry, Sir, you have never a good man of your name.

Sure I am in Kent there is many a hospital Yeoman of great ability, who though no Gentleman by Descent and Title, is one by his Means and state, let me also add by his courteous carriage, though constantly called but Goodman, to which Name he desireth to answer in all respects.

A Man of KENT. ]

This may relate either to the Liberty, or to the courage of this County-men. Liberty, the tenure of Villanage (so frequent elsewhere) being here utterly unknown, and the bodies of all Kentish persons being of free condition. In so much that it is holden sufficient for one to avoid the Objection of bondage, to say that his Father was born in Kent. Now seeing servi non sunt viri quia non sui sur is, A bond-man is no man, because not his own man; the Kentish for their Freedom have achieved to themselves the name of Men.

Others refer it to their courage, which from the time of King Canutus hath purchased unto them the precedency of marching in our English Armies to lead the Van.

Our Author lived in the Reign of Henry the Second, and whether Kentish-men retain this Privilege unto this day (wherein many things are turned upside-down, and then no wonder it also forward and backward ) is to me unknown.

Neither in KENT nor Christendom. ]

This seems a very insolent expression, and as unequal a division. Surely the first Anthour thereof had small skill in even distribution to measure an Inch against an Ell; yea to weigh a grain against a pound. But know Reader, that this home-Proverb is calculated only for the elevation of our own Country, and ought to be restrained to English-Christendom, whereof Kent was first converted to the Faith. So then Kent and Christendom, (parallel to Rome and Italy ) is as much as the First cut, and all the Loafe besides. I know there passes a report, that Henry the fourth King of France, mustering his Soldiers at the siege of a City, found more Kentish-men therein, than Foreigners of all Christendom beside, which (being but seventy years since) is by some made the Original of this Proverb, which was more ancient in use; and therefore I adhere to the former Interpretation, always provided,

For mine own part I write nothing but animo revocandi, ready to retract it when better evidence shall be brought unto me. Nor will I oppose such who understand it for Periphrasis of NO-WHERE; Kent being the best place of England, Christendom of the World.

KENTISH Long-TAILES. ]

Let me premise, that those are much mistaken, who first found this Proverb on a Miracle of Austin the Monk, which is thus reported. It happened in an English Village where Saint Austin was preaching, that the Pagans therein did beat and abuse both him and his associates, opprobriously tying Fish-tails to their back-side. In revenge whereof an impudent Author relateth, Reader, you and I must blush for him, who hath not the modesty to blush for himself) how such Appendants grew to the hind-parts of all that Generation. I say they are much mistaken, for the Scaene of this Lying Wonder was not laid in any Part of Kent, but pretended many miles off, nigh Cerne in Dorsetshire.

To come closer to the sense of this Proverb, I conceive it first of outlandish extraction, and cast by foreigners as a note of disgrace on all the English, though it chanceth to stick only on the Kentish at this Day. For when there happened in Palestine a difference betwixt Robert brother of Saint Lewis King of France and our William Longspee Earl of Salisbury, hear how the French-man insulted over our nation.

That the English were nicked by this speech appears by the reply of the Earl of Salisbury following still the metaphor; The son of my father shall press thither today, whither you shall not dare to approach his horse tail.

Some will have the English so called from wearing a pouch or poake, ) a bag to carry their baggage in) behind their backs, whilst probably the proud Monsieurs had their Lacquies for that purpose. In proof whereof they produce ancient pictures of the English Drapery and Armory, wherein such conveyances do appear. If so, it was neither sin nor shame for the common sort of people to carry their own necessaries, and it matters not much whether the pocket be made on either side, or wholly behind.

If any demand how this nick-name (cut off from the rest of England ) continues still entaild on Kent? The best conjecture is, because that county lieth nearest to France, and the French are beheld as the firstfounders of this aspersion. But if any will have the Kentish so called from drawing and dragging boughs of trees behind them, which afterwards they advanced above their heads and so partly cozened partly threatened King William the Conqueror to continue their ancient customs, I say, if any will impute it to this original, I will not oppose.

KENTISH Gavel▪ Kind ]

It is a custom in this County, whereby the lands are divided equally among all the sons, and in default of them, amongst the daughters; that is, Give all kind, kind signifying a Child in the low Dutch. This practice, as it appears in Tacitus, was derived to our Saxons from the ancient Germans

It appeareth that in the eighteenth year of King Henry the sixth, there were not above forty persons in Kent, but all their land was held in this tenure. But on the petition of divers Gentlemen this custom was altered by Act of Parliament in the 31. of King Henry the eighth, and Kentish -lands for the most part reduced to an uniformity with the rest in England.

DOVER-COURT, All speakers and no hearers ]

There is a Village in Essex not far from Harwich called Dover-Court formerly famous for a Rood burnt in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth. But I take it here to be taken for some Tumultuous Court kept at Dover, the Consluence of many Blustering Sea-men, who are not easily ordered into awful attention. The Proverb is applied to such irregular conferences, wherein the People are all Tongue and no Ears, parallel to the Latin Proverb, Cyclopum Respublica, being thus charactered that therein 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 .

The Father to the Bough ]

The Son to the Plough. ]

That is, though the Father be executed for his Offence the Son shall nevertheless succeed to his Inheritance.

In this County if a Tenant in Fee-simple of Lands in Gavel-kind commit Felony, and suffer the judgment of Death therefore, the Prince shall have all his Chattels for a forfeiture. But as touching the Land, he shall neither have the Escheat of it, though it be immediately holden of himself, nor the Day, year and Wast, if it be holden of any other; for in that case the Heir, notwithstanding the offense of his Ancestor, shall enter immediately and enjoy the lands after the same Customs and services by which they were holden before, In assurance whereof the former Proverb is become Currant in this County. But this Rule holdeth in case of Felony and of Murder only, and not in case of Treason, nor (peradventure) in Piracy, and other Felonies made by Statutes of later times, because the custom cannot take hold of that which then was not in being. It holdeth moreover, in case where the offender is justiced by Order of Law, and not where he withdraws himself after the fault committed, and will not abide his lawful trial.

TENTERDENS Steeple is the Cause of the Breac •… in Goodwin Sands. ]

It is used Commonly in derision of such, who being demanded to render a reason of some inportant Accident assign Non causam pro causa, or a Ridiculous and improbable cause thereof, and hereon a story depends.

When the Vicinage in Kent met to consult about the Inundation of Goodwin sands and what might be the Cause thereof, an Old man imputed it to the building of Tenterden Steeple in this County; for those sands (said he) were firm Lands before that steeple was built which ever since were overflown with Sea-water. Hereupon all heartily laughed at his unlogical Reason, making that the effect in Nature which was only the consequent in time; not flowing from but following after the building of that steeple.

But One story is good till another is heard. Though this be all whereon this Proverb is generally grounded I met since with a * supplement thereunto. It is this. Time out of mind money was constantly collected out of this County to fence the East bancks thereof against the eruption of the Seas. And such Sums were deposited in the hands of the Bishop of Rochester. But because the Sea had been very quiet for many years, without any encroachings; The Bishop commuted that money to the building of a Steeple and endowing of a Church in Tenterden. By this diversion of the Collection for the maintenance of the Banks, the Sea afterwards brake in upon Goodwin Sands. And now the old man had told a rational tale, had he found but the due favor to finish it. And thus sometimes, that is causelessly accounted ignorance in the speaker which is nothing but impatience in the Auditors unwilling to attend the end of the discourse.

A Jack of Dover ]

I find the first mention of this Proverb in our English Ennius, Chaucer, in his Proem to the Cook.

This is no Fallacy but good Policy in an household, to lengthen out the Provision thereof, and though less toothsome may be wholesome enough: But what is no false Logic in a Family is false Ethics in an Inn, or Cooks-shop, to make the abused Guest to pay after the rate of New and Fresh for meat at the second and third hand.

Parallel to this is the Latin Proverb crambe bis cocta, crambe being a kind of Colewort, which (with vinegar) being raw is good, boiled better, twice boiled noisome to the Palat and nauceous to the stomach.

Both Proverbs are appliable to such who grate the ears of their Auditors with ungrateful Tautologies, of what is worthless in it self, tolerable as once uttered in the notion of Novelty; but abominable if repeated for the tediousness thereof.

Princes.

JOHN of ELTHAM Second Son to King Edward the Second by Isabell his Queen was born at Eltham in this County. He was afterwards created Earl of Cornwall. A spritely Gentleman, and who would have given greater evidence of abilities, if not prevented by death in the prime of his age. He died in Scotland in the tenth year of the reign of King Edward the Third.

Be it observed that hitherto the younger Sons to our English Kings, were never advanced Higher than Earls. Thus Richard Second son to King John never had higher English Honor then the Earl of Cornwel, though at the same time he were King of the Romans: But this John of Eltham was the last Son of an English King, who died a plain Earl, the Title of Duke coming a •… erwards into fashion. Hence it was that all the younger Sons of Kings, were from this time forwards Created Dukes, except expiring in their infancy.

BRIDGET of ELTHAM fourth Daughter of K Edward the fourth and Elizabeth his Q. was born at Eltham in this County. Observing her three eldest Sisters not over happy in their husbands, she resolved to wed a Monastical life and (no whit ambitious) of the place of an Abbess, became an ordinary votary in the Nunnery at Dartford in this County, founded by K. Edward the 3. The time of her death is uncertain, but this is certain, that her dissolution happened some competent time before the dissolution of that Nunnerie.

EDMUND youngest Son to King Henry the 7. and Elizabeth his Queen. (bearing the name of his Grand-father Edmund of Haddam ) was born at Greenwich in this County 1495. He was by his Father created Duke of Somerset, and he died before he was full five years of age at Bishops Hatfield in Hartford▪ shire, which then was the Nursery for the Kings Children: Little notice generally is taken of this Prince, and no wonder, for.

He died Anno Dom. 1500. in the 15. year of his Fathers Reign, and lieth buried (without any Monument) in Westminster.

HENRY the Eighth, second son of King Henry the Seventh, was born at Greenwich. A Prince who some praise to the Skies, others depress to the Pit, whilst the third (and truer) sort embrace a middle way betwixt both.

For mine own part, I humbly conceive, God effected more by his work, as the Instrument, than he was directed by God's Word as the Principal. Indeed he was a Man of an Uncomptrolable spirit, carrying a MANDAMUs in his mouth, sufficiently sealed when he put his hand to his Hilt. He awed all into Obedience, which some impute to his skillfulness to Rule, others ascribe to his Subjects ignorance to resist.

Let one pleasant passage (for Recreation) have its Pass amongst much serious Matter. A company of little boys were by their School-Master not many years since appointed to act the Play of King Henry the Eighth, and one who had no presence but (an absence rather) as of a whyning voice, puiling spirit, Consumptionish body was appointed to personate K. Henry himself, only because he had the richest Cloaths and his parents the best people of the parish: but when he had spoke his speech rather like a Mouse then a Man, one of his fellow Actors told him; If you speak not HOH with a better spirit your Parliament will not grant you a penny of Money.

But it is vain to Glean in the stubble seeing the Lord Herbert hath so largely wrote the life of this King that nothing of moment can be added thereunto. He died January 28, 1546.

MARY eldest Daughter to King Henry the Eighth and Q. Katharine of Spain was born at Greenwich the 18. of February 1518. She did partake of both her parents in her person and properties, having from her Father a broad face, big voice, and undaunted spirit; from her Mother a swarthy complexion, and a mind wholly devoted to the Romish Religion. She attained the crown by complying with the Gentry of Norfolk and Suffolk, promising them to continue Religion as established by K. Edward the 6. after the breach of which promise she never prospered. For first she lost the hearts of her subjects, then her hopes of a Child, then the company (not to say affection) of her husband, then the City of Calais, then her mirth, then her health, then her life, which ended on the. 17. of November, 1558.

Queen ELIZABETH Second Daughter to King Henry the Eighth was born at Greenwich: September. 7. 1533. She was Heir only to the eminences of her Father, his Learning, Bounty, Courage and Success; Besides Grace and true goodness, wherein she was Daughter to her Mother.

Her Learning appears in her two Latin speeches to the University, and a third little better then Ex tempore to the Poland Ambassador. Her bounty was better then her Fathers, less flowing from Humour, and more founded on Merit, and ordered with Moderation; seeing that▪s the best Liberality that so enricheth the Receiver that it doth not impoverish the Giver.

Her Courage was undaunted, never making herself so cheap to her Favorites, but that she still valued her own Authority, whereof this an eminent instance;

A prime Officer with a White staff (whose name I purposely forbear) coming into her presence, the Queen willed him to confer such a place now void on one of her servants whom she commended unto him. Pleaseth your Highness, Madam, saith the Lord, The disposal thereof pertaineth to me by virtue of this white staff conferred upon me. True, said the Queen; yet I never gave you your office so absolutely, but I still reserved myself of the Quorum: But of the Quarum, Madam, returned the Lord, presuming on the favor of her Highness.

Hereat the Queen in some passion snatching the staff out of his hand; you shall acknowledge me, said She, of the Quorum Quarum Quorum before you have it again. The Lord waited Stafflesse almost a day (which seemed •… o long unto him as if the Sun stood still) before the same was reconferred upon him.

Her success was admirable, keeping the King of Spain at Arms. End all her Reign. She was well skilled in the Queen-craft; and by her policy and prosperity she was much beloved by her people insomuch that since it hath been said, That Queen Elizabeth might lawfully do that, which King James might not. For although the Laws were equally the rule to them both, yet her popularity sugared many bitter things, her subjects thanking her for taking those Taxes which they refused to pay to her Successor. She died at Richmond March 24. Anno Domini 1602.

MARY; Daughter to King James and Anne of Denmark his Queen, was born at Greenwich April 8. about eleven a clock at night, and soon after baptized with greater state, than the memory of any then alive in England could recover. King James was wont pleasantly to say, that he would not pray to the Virgin Mary, but he would pray for the Virgin Mary; meaning his own Daughter. But it seems his prayers prevailed not ( Divine Providence having otherwise determined it) for her long life, who expired in her infancy, and lies buried at Westminster.

SOPHIA, youngest daughter to King James and Queen Anne, was born at Greenwich the 22. day of June 1606. and departed this life three days after. This Royal Babe lieth buried nigh Queen Elizabeth, in the North part of the Chapel of King Henry the Seventh, represented sleeping in her Cradle, wherewith vulgar eyes, especially of the Weaker sex, are more affected (as level to their Cognizance, more capable of what is pretty, than what is pompous)▪ than with all the magnificent Monuments in Westminster.

CHARLES eldest Son of King Charles and Q. Mary, was born at Greenwich Anno 1629. A fright of his Mother is generally reported to have accelerated, or rather antedated his nativity. The Popish Priests belonging to the Queen stood ready, watching to snatch the Royal Babe to their superstitious baptism; but the tender care of King Charles did out▪ vigil their watchfulness, commanding Doctor Web (His next Chaplain in attendance) to Christian it according to the Church of England. This done, within few hours he expired, and lies buried at Westminster.

Saints.

EALPHAGE born of good parentage, had his education during his youth in Glocestershire, then he became a Monk at Glastenbury. But, that place not sufficiently suiting the severity of his solitary soul, removing thence he built himself a Hut at Bath, which small Cel in process of time (the longest line proceedeth from a little point at first) proved the beautiful Priory in that place. Hence by Dunstan he was preferred Bishop of Winchester continuing therein twenty two years; And at last became Bishop of Canterbury.

It happeneth that the cruel Danes seizing on that City put it under Decimation. Start not, loyal reader, at the word, if in the late Tyranny of the times thou thyself hast been against all right and reason Decimated in thy Purse, as now the poor Citizens of Canterbury were in their Persons. For the Danes, under pretence of Tribute detained,

As for Arch-Bishop Alphage, they demanded of him a greater sum, than he could pay or procure, whose wealth consisted chie •… y in his Piety, no currant Coin with the Pagan Danes; So that after seven months imprisonment they barbarously murdered him near Greenwich about the year 1013.

His Corps was first buried in Saint Paul's, and then removed by the command of King Canutus to Canterbury. Impudent Monks have almost as much wronged his memory, as the Danes did his Person, farcing his life with such abominable lies, that thereby the very truth therein is rendered suspected.

AGELNOTH Son to Count Agelmar, was a Calendred Saint in this County being Elected Archbishop of Canterbury from being Dean over the Canons in that Convent.

This is the first time I find the Dignity of Decanus or Dean in England so called from 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , Ten, having (it seemeth at the first) Inspection just over that Number, though since an Heteroclite in England, as, either over fewer, but Six in Norwich, Bristol, &c. or many more in other Cathedrals.

He was so pious in his Life, that he was commonly called the GOOD. And here one may justly wonder, God having two Grand Epithets OPTIMUS and MAXIMUS most give the former the go-by, and strive only for the latter, to be the Greatest, though Greatness without Goodness is both Destructive to him that hath it, and Dangerous to all others about him.

Going to Rome to get his Pall from the Pope, by him he was courteously entertained, and deserved his welcome, who gave him (saith my Author) for the Arm of Saint Augustine Bishop of Hippo) one hundred Talents of Silver, and one Talent of Gold, citing Bishop Godwin for his author; But indeed that Bishop though reporting the hundred Talents of Silver, mentioneth not at all that of Gold.

Perchance Mr. Weaver had lately read (still obversing his fancy) how Pharaoh K. of Egypt having taken away King Jehoahash, condemned the land in An Hundred Talents of Silver, and A Talent of Gold; and to me it is a double wonder; First, that this Archbishop would give; Secondly, that he could give, living in a harraged Land, (wherein so much Misery and little Money) so vast a sum.

However this mindeth me of a passage in Saint Augustine speaking of the Relics of the deceased, Si tamen Martyrum, if so they be of Martyrs; and let me choose the words of this Father on this Father, Si tamen Augustini, If this were the arm of Saint Augustine and not of some other Ordinary (not to say Infamous ) person.

Well, were one as good a Mathematician, as He, who collected the Stature of Hercules from the length of his Foot,