The History of the Worthies of England
Richard the Second.
5. ARNOLD SAVAGE.]
He was a Knight, and the third Constable of Queenborough-Castle. He lieth buried in Bobbing Church, with this Inscription,
The rest is defaced.
16. GULIELMUS BARRY.]
In the Parish Church of Senington in this County, I meet with these two sepulchral Inscriptions,
There is in the same Church a Monument, whereupon a man armed is portrayed, the Inscription thereon being altogether perished, which in all probability, by the report of the Parishioners, was made to the memory of Sir William Barry aforesaid.
Henry the Fourth.
6 VALENTINE BARRET.]
He lieth buried in the Parish Church of Lenham in this County, under a Grave-stone, thus inscribed,
Henry the Sixth.
7. WILLIAM SCOT.]
He lieth buried in Brabo •… ne Chu •… ch, with this Epitaph,
His Family afterwards fixed at Scots Hall in this County, where they flourish at this day in great reputation.
9. JOHN SEINTLEGER.]
I find him entombed in Ulcombe Church, where this is written on his Grave, Here lieth John Seintleger, Esq and Margery his Wife, sole Daughter and Heir of James Donnet, 1442. Wonder not that there is no mention in this Catalogue of Sir Thomas Seintleger, a Native and potent person in this County, who married Anne the Relict of Henry Holland D. of Exeter, the Sister of K •… ng Edward the Fourth, by whom he had Anne, Mother to Thomas Manners, first Earl of Rutland. For the said Sir Thomas Seintleger was not to be confided in under King Henry the Sixth; and afterwards, when Brother-in-law to King Edward the Fourth, was above the Office of the Sherivalty.
16. RICHARDUS WALLER.]
This is that renowned * Soldier, who in the time of Henry the Fifth, took Charles Duke of Orleans, General of the French Army, Prisoner at the Battle of Agin-Court, brought him over into England, & held him in honorable restraint or custody at GromeBridge, which a Manuscript in the Heralds Office notes to be twenty four years: In the time of which his recess, he newly erected the house at Grome-Bridge upon the old Foundation, and was a Benefactor to the repair of Spelherst Church, where his Arms •… emain in stone-work over the Church porch: but lest such a signal piece of service might be entombed in the Sepulcher of unthankful forgetfulness, the Prince assigned to this Ri •… hard Waller and his Heirs forever, an additional Crest, viz. the Arms or Escoucheon of France, hanging by a Label on an Oak, with this Motto affixed, Haec Fructus Virtutis. From this Richard, Sir William Waller is lineally descended.
23. WILLIELMUS CROWMER.]
This year happened the barbarous Rebellion of Jack Cade in Kent. This Sheriff, unable with the posse Comitatus, to resist their numerousness, was taken by them, and by those wild Justicers committed to the Fleet in London; because, as they said (and it must be so if they said it) he was guilty of extortion in his Office. Not long after, these Reformers sent for him out of the Fleet, made him to be brought to Mile-end, where, without any legal proceedings, they caused his head to be smitten off, and set upon a long pole on London bridge, next to the Lord Say aforesaid, whose Daughter he had married.
38 JOHN SCOT, Arm. Et vicissem Vic. ]
I understand it thus, that his Under-Sheriff supplied his place, whilst he was busied in higher affairs. He was knighted, much trusted and employed by King Edward the Fourth. I read in a Record,
The aforesaid King, in the twelfth year of his reign, sent this Sir John (being one of his Privy Council, and Knight Marshall o •… Calis ) with others, on an Embassy, to the Dukes of Burgundy and Britain, to bring back the Earls of Pembroke and Richmona, whose escape much perplexed this Kings suspicious thoughts. But see his honorable Epitaph in the Church of Braborne.
Richard the Third.
3. RICHARDUS BRAKENBURY, Mil. & WILLIELMUS CHENEY.]
The former was of an ancient extraction in the North. I behold him as nearly allied (if not Brother) to Sir Robert Brakenbury, Constable of the Tower, who dipped his fingers so deep in the blood of King Edward the Fifth and his Brother. It concerned King •… ichard, in those suspicious times, to appoint his Confident: Sheriff of this important County; but he was soon un-Sheriffed by the Kings death, and another of more true Integrity substituted in his room.
Henry the Seventh.
5. WILL. BOLEYN, Mil.]
He was Son to Sir Ieffery Boleyne, Lord Mayor of London, by his Wife, who was Daughter and co-heir to Thomas Lord Hoo and Hastings. This Sir William was made Knight of the Bath at the Coronation of King Richard the Third. He married one of the Daughters and Co-heirs of Thomas Butler, Earl of Ormond, by whom (besides four Daughters married into the Worshipful and Wealthy Families of Shelton, Calthrop, Clere, and Sackvil ) he had Sir Tho. Boleyn, Earl of Wiltshire, of whom hereafter.
10. JOH: PEACH, Arm.
This year Perkin Warbeck landed at Sandwich in this County, with a power of all Nations, contemptible not in their number or courage, but nature and fortune, to be feared, as well of Friends as Enemies, as fitter to spoil a coast, than recover a country. Sheriff Peach (knighted this year for his good service) with the Kentish Gentry, acquitted themselves so valiant and vigilant, that Perkin sh •… unk his horns back again into the shell of his ships. About 150. of his men being taken, and brought up by this Sheriff to London, some were executed there, the rest on the Sea Coasts of Kent, and the neighbouring Counties, for Sea-marks to teach Perkin's people to avoid such dangerous shoars.
Henry the Eighth.
5 JOH. NORTON, Mil. ]
He was one of the Captains, who in the beginning of the Raign of King Henry the eight went over with the 1500. Archers, under the conduct of Sir Edward Poynings, to assist Margaret, Duchess of Savoy (Daughter to Maximillian the Emperor, and Governesse of the Low-Countries ) against the incursions of the Duke of Guelders; where this Sir John was knighted by Charles, young Prince of Castile, and afterwards Emperor. He lieth buried in Milton Church, having this written on his Monument; Pray for the souls of Sir John Norton, Knight, and Dame Joane his Wife, one of the Daughters and Heirs of John Norwood, Esq who died Febr. 8. 1534.
7. THOMAS CHEYNEY, Arm. ]
He was afterward knighted by King Henry the Eighth, and was a spriteful Gentleman, living and dying in great honor and estimation; a Favorite and Privy Counselor to four successive Kings and Queens, in the greatest •… urn of times England ever beheld; as by this his Epitaph in Minster Church, in the Isle of Shepey will appear.
11. JOHN WILTSHIRE, Mil. ]
He was Controller of the Town and Marches of Calis, Anno 21. of King Henry the Seventh. He founded a fair Chapel in the Parish of Stone, wherein he lieth entombed with this Inscription,
Bridget his sole Daughter and Heir was married to Sir Richard Wingfield, Knight of the Garter, of whom formerly in Cambridge-shire.
12. JOHN ROPER, Arm. ]
All the memorial I find of him, is this Inscription in the Church of Eltham, Pray for the soul of Dame Margery Roper, late Wife of John Roper, Esquire, Daughter and one of the Heirs of John Tattersall, Esquire, who died Febr. 2. 1518. Probably she got the addition of Dame (being Wife but to an Esquire) by some immediate Courtattendance on Katharine first Wife to King Henry the Eighth.
King James.
3. MOILE FINCH, Mil. ]
This worthy Knight married Elizabeth, sole Daughter and Heir to Sir Thomas Heneage, Vice Chamberlain to Queen Elizabeth, and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster. She in her Widowhood, by the special favor of King James was honored Vicoun •… ess Maidston, (unprecedented, save by One, for this hundred years) and afterwards by the great Grace of King Charles the First, created Countess of Winchelsey, both Honors being entailed on the Issue-male of her Body; to which her Grand-Child, the Right Honorable Heneage (lately gone Embassador to Constantinople ) doth succeed.
The Farewell.
Having already insisted on the Courage of the Kentish-men, and shown how in former Ages, the leading of the Van-guard was entrusted unto their magnanimity, we shall conclude our Description of this Shire, praying that they may have an accession of Loyalty unto their Courage, (not that the Natives of Kent have acquitted themselves less Loyal, than those of other Shires) but seeing the one will not suffer them to be idle, the other may guide them to expend their Ability for God's glory, the defense of his Majesty, and maintenance of true Religion.
CANTERBURY.
CANTERBURY is a right ancient City, and whilst the Saxon H •… ptar chy flourished, was the chief seat of the Kings of Kent. Here Thomas Becket had his death, Edward surnamed the Black Prince and King Henry the Fourth their Interment. The Metropolitan Dignity first conferred by Gregory the Great on London, was for the Honor of Augustine afterwards bestowed on this City. It is much commended by William of Malmesbury for its pleasant situation, being surrounded with a fertile soil, well wooded, and commodiously watered by the River Stoure, from whence it is said to have had its name Durwhern, in British, a swift River. It is happy in the vicinity of the Sea, which affordeth plenty of good Fish.
Buildings.
CHRIST CHURCH, First dedicated, and (after 300. years intermission to Saint Thomas Becket ) restored to the honor of our Savior, is a stately structure, being the performance of several successive Arch-Bishops. It is much adorned with glass Windows. Here they will tell you of a foreign Embassador, who proffered a vast price to transport the East Window of the Choir beyond the Seas. Yet Artists who commend the Colours, condemn the Figures therein, as wherein proportion is not exactly observed.
According to the Maxim, Pictures are the Books, painted windows were in the time of Popery the Library of Lay men; and after the Conquest grew in general use in England. It is much suspected Aneyling of Glass (which answereth to Dying in grain in Drapery ) especially of Yellow, is lost in our age, as to the perfection thereof. Anciently Colours were so incorporated in Windows, that both of them lasted and faded together: Whereas our modern Painting (being rather on than in the Glass) is fixed so faintly, that it often changeth, and sometimes falleth away. Now, though some being only for the innocent White, are equal enemies to the painting of Windows as Faces, conceiving the one as great a Pander to superstition, as the other to wantonness; Yet others of as much zeal and more knowledge, allow the Historical uses of them in Churches.
Proverbs.
So Chaucer calleth his Book, being a collection of several Tales, pretended to be told by Pilgrims in their passage to the Shrine of Saint Thomas in Canterbury. But since that time Canterbury-Tales are parallel to Fabulae Milestae, which are Charactered, Nec verae, nec verisimiles, merely made to mar precious time, and please fanciful people. Such are the many miracles of Thomas Becket; some helpful (though but narrow, as only for private conveniency) as when perceiving his old Palace at Otford to want water, he struck his staff into the dry ground (still called Saint Thomas his well ) whence water runneth plentifully to serve that house (lately re-built) unto this day. Others spiteful: as when (because a Smith dwelling in that Town had clogged his Horse) he ordered, that no Smith afterwards should thrive within that Parish. But he, who shall go about seriously to confute these Tales, is as very a Fool, as he was somewhat else, who first impudently invented and vented them.
Prelates.
STEPHEN LANGTON. Here we are at a perfect loss for the place of his birth, his surname affording us so much direction, in effect it is none at all. Inopes nos copia fecit, finding no fewer than twelve Langtons (though none very near to this place) which makes us fly to our marginal refuge herein. Stephen, born in England, was bred in Paris, where he became one of the greatest Scholars of the Christian world, in his age. He was afterwards consecrated Cardinal of Saint Chrysogone, and then by Papal power intruded Arch-Bishop of Canterbury, in defiance of all opposition which King John could make against him.
Many are his learned Works, writing Comments on all the Old, and on some of the New Testament. He was the first that divided the whole Bible into Chapters, as Robert Stephens a French-man, that curious Critick and painful Printer, so ne six score years since, first subdivided into Verses.
A worthy Work, making Scripture more managable in men's memories, and the passages therein the sooner to be turned to, as any person who is •… ooner found out in the most populous City, if methodized into Streets and Houses with signs, to which the Figures affixed do fitly allude.
Say not this was a presumption, incurring the curse denounced to such, who add to Scripture, it being no Addition but an Illustration thereof. Besides, God set the first pattern to men's industry herein, seeing the distinction of some Verses may be said to be Jure Divino, as those in the Lamentations and elsewhere, which are Alphabetically modelled.
As causeless their complaint, who cavil at the inequality of Chapters, the eighth of the first of Kings, being sixty six, the last of Malachi but six verses, seeing the entireness of the sense is the standard of their length, or shortness. It is confessed some few Chapters end, and others begin obruptly: and yet, it is questionable, whether the ateration thereof would prove advantageous, seeing the reforming of a small fault, with a great change, doth often hurt more than amend: and such alterations would discompose Millions of Quotations, in excellent Authors conformed to the aforesaid received divisions.
Here it must not be concealed, that notwithstanding this general tradition of Langtons chaptering the Bible, some learned men make that design of far ancienter date, and particularly that able Antiquary Sir Henry Spelman. This I am confident of, that Stephen Langton did something much material in order thereunto, and the Improver is usually called the Inventor, by a complemental mistake.
However, though I believe Langton well employed in dividing the Bible, he was ill bus •… ed in rending asunder the Church and Kingdom of England, reducing King John to sad extremities. He died, and was buried at Canterbury Anno Dom. 1228.
Soldiers.
WILLIAM PRUDE, Esquire, (vulgarly called Proud ) was born in this City, where his stock have continued for some hundreds of years, bred a Soldier in the Low Countries, where he attained to be Lieutenant Colonel. He was slain July 12. 1632. at the siege of Mastrich. His body (which I assure you was no usual honor) was brought over into England, and buried in the Cathedral of Canterbury, in Saint Michaels Chapel on the South side of the Choir, with this Inscription on his Monument;
He married Mary Daughter of Sir Adam Sprackling, Knight, and had Issue by her four Sons and three Daughters; to whose memory his surviving Son Searles Prude hath erected this Monument.
Writers.
OSBERN of CANTERBURY, so called, because there he had his first birth, or best Being, as Chanter of the Cathedral Church therein. An admirable Musician, which quality endeared him (though an Englishman ) to Lankfrank, the Lordly Lombard, and Arch-Bishop of Canterbury. He was the English Jubal, as to the curiosity thereof in our Churches. An Art, which never any spake against who understood it; otherwise Apollo is in a sad case, if Midas his ears must be his Judges. However in Divine Service all Music ought to be tuned to edification (that all who hear may understand it) otherwise it may tend to delight not devotion, and true zeal cannot be raised where knowledge is depressed. This Osbern wrote the life of Saint Dunstan in pure Latin, according to that age, flourishing under William the Conquerer, Anno 1070.
SIMON LANGTON, was by his Brother Stephen Langton the Arch-Bishop, preferred Arch-Deacon of Canterbury; who, Carne & sanguine revelante (saith the Record) made the place much better, both to him and his successors, in revenue and jurisdiction. A troublesome man he was, and, on his Brothers score, a great adversary to King John, even after that King had altered his Copy, and became, of a fierce Foe, a Son-Servant to the Pope, by resigning his Crown unto him. But our Simon could not knock off when he should, having contracted such an habit of hatred against K. John, that he could not depose it, though commanded under the pain of excommunication. This caused him to trudge to the Court of Rome, where he found little favor. For, such who will be the Popes white Boys, must watchfully observe his signals, and not only charge when he chargeth, but retreat when he retreateth. This Simon (beside others) wrote a Book of the penitence of Magdalene, in relation (it seems) to himself, though she found more favor in the Court of Heaven, than he at Rome. He died Anno Dom. 12—
Benefactors to the Public.
JOHN EASDAY, was Alderman and Mayor of this City, Anno 1585. He found the Walls thereof much ruined, and being a man but of an indifferent estate, began the reparation thereof at Ridingate, and therein proceeded so far as his name is inscribed on the Wall; whose exemplary endeavors have since met with some to commend, none to imitate them.
THOMAS NEVILE, born in this City of most honorable extraction, as his name is enough to notify and avouch. He was bred in Cambridge, and Master first of Mag dalen, then of Trinity College, and Dean of Canterbury. He was the first Clergy man (sent by Arch-Bishop Whitgift ) who carried to King James tidings of the English Crown; and it is questionable whether he brought thither or thence more welcome news (especially to the Clergy) acquainting them with the Kings full intentions to maintain Church-Discipline, as he found it established.
But the main matter commending his memory is his magnificency to Trinity College, whose Court he reduced to a spacious and beautiful Quadrangle. Indeed he plucked down as good building as any erected, but such as was irregular intercepting the sight, disturbing the intended uniformity of the Court, whereby the beauty at this day is much advanced. For as the Intuitive knowledge is more perfect, than that which insinuates itself into the Soul Gradually by discourse, so more beautiful the prospect of that Building, which is all visible at one view, than what discovers itself to the sight by parcels and degrees. Nor was this Doctor like those Poets, good only at Translation, and bad at Invention, all for altering, nothing for adding of his own, who contributed to this College (I will not say a Widows Mite, but) a Batchelours Bounty: a stately new Court of his own expense, which cost him three thousand pounds and upwards. Much enfeebled with the Palsy, he died an aged man Anno Dom. 161—
The Farewell.
I am heartily sorry that the many laudable endeavors for the scouring and enlargement of the River Stoure (advantageous for this City) have been so often defeated, and the Contributions given by well-disposed Benefactors (amongst whom Mr. Rose, once an Alderman of Canterbury gave three hundred pounds) have missed their ends, praying that their future enterprises in this kind may be crowned with success.
For the rest I refer the Reader to the pains of my worthy Friend Mr. William Somner, who hath written justum volumen of the Antiquities of this City. I am sorry to see him Subject-bound (betrayed thereto by his own modesty) seeing otherwise, not the City, but Diocese of Canterbury had been more adequate to his abilities. I hope others, by his example will undertake their respective Counties; It being now with our age, the third and last time of asking the Banes, whether or no we may be wedded to skill in this kind, seeing now use, or forever hold your Pens, all Church Monuments leading to knowledge in that nature, being daily irrecoverably imbezeled.
LANCASHIRE.
LANCASHIRE: Hath the Irish Sea on the West, York-shire on the East, Cheshire (parted with the River Mersey ) on the South, Cumberland and Westmorland on the North. It rangeth in length from Mersey to Wenander-Mere, full fifty five miles, though the Broadest part thereof exceedeth not One and thirty. The Air thereof is Subtil and Piercing, (being free from Foggs saving in the Mosses ) the Effects whereof are found in the fair Complections and firm Constitutions of the Natives therein, whose bodies are as able as their minds willing for any laborious Employment. Their Soyle is tolerably fruitful of all things necessary for human Sustenance: A •… d, as that Youth cannot be counted a D •… nce, though he be Ignorant, if he be Docible, because his lack of Learning is to be scored on the want of a Teacher; So Sterilitie cannot properly be imputed to some places in this County, where little Graine doth grow, because capable thereof (as daily experience doth avouch) if it were husbanded accordingly.
This Shire, though sufficiently thick of people, is exceedingly thin of Parishes, as by perusing this parallel will plainly appear,
| Rutland hath in it, Parishes Forty eight. | Lancashire hath in it, Parishes Thirty six. |
See here how Rutland being scarce a Fifth part of Lancashire in greatness, hath a fourth part of Parishes more therein.
But, as it was a fine Sight to behold Sir Tho. More, when Lord Chancellor of England, every morning in term time, humbly ask blessing in Westminster-hall of Sir John More his Father, then a pusnie Judge: so may one see in this Shire some Chapels, exceeding their Mother-Churches in fairness of Structure and numerousnesse of people, yet owning their filial relation and still continuing their dutiful dependence on their Parents. But for Numerosity of Chapels, surely the Church of Manchester, exceedeth all the rest, which (though anciently called, but Villa de Manchester ) is for Wealth and Greatness corrival with some Cities in England, having no less then Nine Chapels, which before these our civil Wars, were reputed to have five hundred communicants a piece. Insomuch that some Clergy men, who have confulted God's Honor with their own credit and profit, could not better desire for themselves, than to have a Lincoln-shire Church, as best built, a Lancashire Parish, as largest bounded, and a London Audience, as consisting of most intelligent people.
The people, generally devout, are, (as I am informed) Northward and by the West Popishly 〈◊〉 ; which in the other parts (intended by Antiperistasis ) are zealous Protestants. Hence is it, that many Subtile Papists, and Jesuits have been born and bred in this County, which have met with their Matches (to say no more) in the Natives of the same County; So that thereby it hath come to pass, that the house of Saul hath waxed weaker and weaker, and the house of David stronger and stronger.
Natural Commodities.
Oats.
If any ask why this Graine growing commonly all over England, is here entered as an Eminent Commodity of Lancashire? Let him know, that here is the most and best of that kind; yea Wheat and Barlie may seem but the adopted, whilst Oats are the Natural Issue of this County; so inclined is its genius to the production thereof. Say not Oats are Horse-grain, and fitter for a Stable then a Table. For, besides that the Meal thereof is the distinguishing form of Gruel or Broth from Water, most hearty and wholesome Bread is made thereof, Yea anciently North of Humber, no other was eaten by People of the Primest Quality. For we read, how William the Conqueror bestowed the Manor of Castle Bitham in Lincoln-shire, upon Stephen Earl of Albemarle and Holderness, chiefly for this consideration, that thence he might have wheaten bread to feed his Infant Son, Oaten bread being then the Diet of Holderness and the Counties lying beyond it.
Allume.
I am informed that Allume is found at Houghton in this County, within the Inheritance of Sir Richard Houghton, and that enough for the use of this and the neighbouring Shires, though not for Transportarion. But because far greater plenty is afforded in York-shire, the larger mention of this Mineral is referred to that place.
Oxen.
The fairest in England are bred (or if you will, made) in this County, with goodly heads, the Tips of whose horns are sometimes distanced five foot afunder. Horns, are a commodity not to be slighted, seeing I cannot call to mind any other substance, so hard, that it will not break, so solid, that it will hold liquor within it, and yet so clear, that light will pass through it. No Mechanic Trade, but hath some Utensils made thereof, and even now I recruit my pen with Ink from a Vessel of the same. Yea it is useful cap-a-pe, from Combs to shooing-horns. What shall I speak of the many gardens made of horns, to garnish houses? I mean artificial flowers of all colors. And besides what is spent in England, many thousand weight are shaven down into leaves for Lanthorns and sent over daily into France. In a word the very Shavings of Horn are profitable, sold by the Sack, and sent many miles from London for the manuring of ground. No wonder then that the Horners are an ancient corporation, though why they and the Bottle-makers were formerly united into one company, passeth my skill to conjecture. The best horns in all England: and freest to work without Flaws, are what are brought out of this County to London, the shop-general of English Industry.
The Manufactures.
Fustians.
These anciently were creditable wearing in England, for persons of the primest quality, finding the Knight in Chaucer thus habited.
But it seems they were all Forreign Commodities, as may appear by their modern names.
- 1. Jen Fustians, which I conceive so called from Jen a City in Saxony.
- 2. Ausburgh Fustians made in that famous City in Swevia.
- 3. Millaine Fustians, brought over hither out of Lumbardy.
These retain their old names at this day, though these several sorts are made in this County, whose Inhabitants buying the Cotton, Wool, or Yarne, coming from beyond the Sea, make it here into Fustians, to the good employment of the Poor and great improvement of the Rich therein, serving mean people for their out- 〈◊〉 , and their betters for the Lineings of their garments. Bolton is the staple-place for this commodity, being brought thither from all parts of the County.
As for Manchester, the Cottons thereof carry away the credit in our Nation, and so they did an hundred and fifty years ago. For when learned Leland on the cost of King Henry the Eighth, with his Guide travailed Lancashire, he called Manchester, the fairest and quickest Town in this County, and sure I am, it hath lost neither spruceness nor spirits since that time.
Other Commodities made in Manchester are so small in themselves and various in their kinds, they will fill the shop of an Haberdasher of small wares, being therefore too many for me to reckon up, or remember, it will be the safest way to wrap them all together in some Manchester-Tickin, and to fasten them with the Pinns (to prevent their falling out and scattering) or tie them with the Tape, and also, (because sure bind sure find ) to bind them about with points and 〈◊〉 all made in the same place.
The Buildings.
MANCHESTER, a Collegiate as well as a Parochial Church, is a great ornament to this County, The Choir thereof, though but small is exceeding beautiful, and for Woodwork an excellent piece of Artifice.
The Wonders.
About Wiggin and elsewhere in this County, men go a Fishing with spades, and Mathooks, more likely one would think to catch Moles then Fishes with such Instruments. First, they pierce the Turffie ground, and under it meet with a black and deadish water, and in it small Fishes do swim. Surely these Pisces Fossiles or subterranean Fishes must needs be unwholesome, the rather because an unctuous matter is found about them. Let them be thankful to God in the first place, who need not such meat to feed upon. And next them let those be thankful, which have such meat to seed upon, when they need it.
Proverbs.
I believe that the God of nature, having given fair complections to the Women in this County, Art may save her pains, (not to say her sins, ) in endeavoring to better them. But let the Females of this County know, that though in the Old Testament express notice be taken of the beauty of many Women,
Sarah, Rebekah, Rachel, 〈◊〉 , Tamar, Abishag, Esther; yet in the New Testament no mention is made at all of the fairness of any Woman; not because they wanted, but because Grace is chief Gospel-beauty, Elizabeth's unblameableness, the Virgin Mary's pon •… ering God's word; the Canaanitish Woman's faith; Mary Magdalens charity; Lydia her attention to Paul's Preaching; these soul-piercing Perfections, are far •… etter than skin-deep Fairness.
And why on a Wall? Indeed the Italians have a Proverb, A wall is the fools paper, whereon they scribble their Fancies. 〈◊〉 not to be overcurious in examining hereof, we suppose some Monumental Wall in Rome, as a Register, whereon the names of principal Places were inscribed, then subjected to the Roman Empire: and probably, this Ribchester anciently was some eminent Colony (as by pieces of Coins and Colu •… s there daily digged out doth appear.) However at this day it is not so much as a Mercate Town, but whether decayed by age, or destroyed by accident, is uncertain.
Here Reader give me leave, the Historian must not devour the Divine in me, so as to debar me from spiritual Reflections, What saith S.* Paul? We have here no continuing City: and no wonder, seeing Mortal Men are the Efficient, Moldring Buildings the Material, and Mutable Laws the formal cause thereof. And yet S. Paul was as well stocked with Cities as any man alive: having three, which in some sort he might call his own; Tarsus, where he was born, * Jerusalem where he was bred at the feet of Gamaliel, and Rome, whereby he received the Priviledg of Freedom: all which he waved as nothing worth, because of no abiding and continuance.
Martyrs.
JOHN ROGERS was born in this County, and bred in the University of Cambridge, a very able Linguist and General Scholar. He was first a Zealous Papist, till his eyes being opened, he detested all Superstition, and went beyond *Seas, to Witenberg, where (some years after Tyndale ) he translated the Bible, from Genesis till the Revelation, comparing it with the Original: coming to England he presented it in a fair Volumne to King Henry the 〈◊〉 prefixing a Dedicatory Epistle, and subscribing himself (those dangerous days required a Disguise) under the name of Thomas Matthew.
And now Reader that is unriddled unto me which hath pusled me for some Years; for I find, that K. James, in the Instructions which he gave to the Translators of the Bible enjoined them to 〈◊〉 the former Translations of,
- 1. Tindal,
- 2. Matthews,
- 3. Coverdale,
- 4. 〈◊〉 ,
- 5. Geneva.
Now at last I understand who this Matthews was (though unsatisfied still in Whitchurch ) believing his Book never publicly printed, but remaining a Manuscript in the Kings Library.
Yet this present could not procure Mr. Rogers his security, who it seems for fear of the 6 Articles was fain to fly again beyond Seas, and returning in the Raign of King Edward the six •… became a Preacher of London. He and Mr. Hooper were the two greatest Sticklers against Ceremonies, though otherwise allowing of Episcopal Government. He was the first Martyr, who suffered in Smithfield, in Queen Mary's days, and led all the rest, of whom we may truly say, that if they had not be •… n flesh and blood▪ they could not have been burnt: and if they had been no more then flesh and blood they would not have been burnt.
The Non-Conformists account it no small Credit unto them, that one of their Opinion, (as who would not flinch from the faith) was chosen by Divine Providence, the first to encounter the fire. Such may remember, that no Army is all FRONT, and that as constant did come behind as went before. Had those of an opposite judgment been called first, they had come first to the stake; and in due time the defenders of Ceremonies were as substantial in their Sufferings. This John Rogers was martyred, Febr. 4. 1555.
JOHN BRADFORD was born at * Manchester, in this County, and bred first a Lawyer in the Inns of Court, and for a time did solicit Suits for Sr. John Harrington▪ afterwards (saith my * Author, ex Rixoso Causidico mitissimus Christi Apostolus: going to Cambridge a man in maturity, and ability, the University by special Grace bestowed on him the Degree of Master of Art: and so may he be said to Commence, not only per saltum, but per volatum, The Jesuit doth causelessly urge this his short standing for an Argument of his little understanding; whereas he had always been a hard Student from his youth: and his Writings and his Disputings give a sufficient Testimony of his Learning.
It is a demonstration to me, that he was of a sweet temper, Because Parsons who will hardly afford a good Word to a Protestant, saith, that he seemed to be of a more soft and mild nature than many of his fellow 〈◊〉 Indeed he was a most holy and mortified man, who secretly in his closet would so weep for his sins, one would have thought he would never have smiled again: and then appearing in public, he would be so harmlesly pleasant, one would think he had never wept before: But Mr. Fox his pains have given the pens of all Posterity a Writ of ease, to meddle no more with this Martyr, who suffered Anno Dom. 1555.
GEORGE MARSH was born at Dean in this County, bred a good Scholar in a Grammar-School, and then lived in the honest condition of a Farmer: after the death of his wife he went to Cambridge, where he followed his Studies very close, and afterwards solemnly entering into Orders, became a profitable Preacher and Curate to Mr. Lawrence Sanders, the worthy Martyr, Causlesly therefore doth Parsons asperse him, that he of a Farmer turned a Preacher, as if he had done it immediately (with many of our Age leaping from the plough to the pulpit) concealing his Academical breeding, such is the Charity of his jesuitical reservation.
As little is his Charity for condemning him for answering 〈◊〉 and fearfully at first, to such who examined him about the Sacrament of the Altar, seeing the said Marsh condemned himself for doing it, as therein too much consulting carnal Respects to save his life, as appears in Mr. Fox, whence the Jesuit fetcheth all his Information. But Marsh made amends for all these failings with his final constancy, being both burnt and scalded to death (having a barrel of pitch placed over his head, an accent of cruelty peculiar to him alone) when he was martyred at Westchester, Apr. 24. 1555.
Cardinals.
WILLIAM ALAN was born in this County (saith my Author) nobilibus parentibus, of 〈◊〉 Parentage. He was bred in Oriel College, in the University of Oxford, and became Head of S •… . Mary's Hall therein, Then going beyond the Seas he became Kings 〈◊〉 at 〈◊〉 , Cannon of Cambray, and Reims, and at last by Pope Sixtus Quint us made Cardinal priest of Martins in Rome, 1587. and deserved his Red Hat by his good Service the year after against his Native Country. But hear what Different Characters two Authors of several persuasions bestow upon him.
| PITZEU▪ 〈◊〉 ANO. Script. page. 792. | GODWIN in his Catalogue of Cardinals, page 479. |
| He was somewhat▪ above an ordinary man in Stature, comely of Countenance, composed in his Ga •… e, affable in all Meetings; and for the Gifts of his Mind, Pious, Learned, Prudent, Grave, and though of Great Authority, Humble, modest, meek, patient, peaceable, in a word, beautified and adorned with all kinds of Virtues. | He was the last of our English Cardinals, in time, and first in wickedness, deserving not to be counted among English men, who, as another Herostratus, to achieve himself a name amongst the Grandees of Earth, endeavored to fire the Church of England, the Noblest (without envy be it spoken) in the Christian World, so that his memory deserveth to be buried in oblivion. |
He collected the English Exil •… s into a Body, and united them in a COLLEDG, first at Douay, then at Reims, so great an Advancer, that we may behold him as Founder of that Seminary. He •… yed at Rome, Anno 1594. and preferred rather to be buried in the English School, than in the Church of St. Martins, which gave him the Title of Cardinal.
Prelates.
HUGH OLDHAM, born in this County, at Oldham, a Village some fix miles from Manchester, bred in Queens College in Cambridge, was no ill Scholar, and a good Man, most pious according to and above the Devotion of the Age he lived in; he was afterwards Bishop of Exeter, a Foe to a Monkish Superstition, and a Friend to University Learning. Brazen-Nose College in Oxford, and Corpus-Christi College therein will forever bear witness of his bounty, to advance Religion, and Learning. Besides the Town of Manchester have good cause to remember him, who founded and endowed a School therein, with large Revenue, appointing the Warden of the College therein, Caput Scholae.
This Bishop, having a tough contest with the Abbot of Tavestock, was excommunicated for refusing to stand to the decision of the Court of Rome. He had formerly built a Chapel, in the South side of his Cathedral, and dying excommunicate (on the aforesaid account) was Buried, not in the very Church, but brink thereof, and body of the Wall. He died Anno Dom. 1520.
JAMES STANLEY, D. D. brother of Thomas, Earl of Darby, was born in this County, and was by K. Henry the seventh (his kinsman by marriage (preferred Bishop of Eli, 1506. a man more memorable than commendable, who never resided at his own Cathedral. I can partly excuse his living all the Summer with the Earl his Brother, in this County, but must condemn his living all the Winter at his Manor at Somersham, in Huntingtonshire, with one who was not his sister, and wanted nothing to make her his Wife save marriage. However if Jehu allowed a Burial to his most professed Enemy, on this account, that she was a Kings Daughter, none I hope will grudge his memory a room in this Book, were it only because he was an Earls Brother. He died Anno 1515.
HE •… RY STANDISH was, as I have just cause to conclude, extracted from the Standishes of Standish in this County, bred a Franoiscan, and Dr. of Divinity in Cambridge, and afterwards made Bishop of S. Asaph. I neither believe him so Good as Pitz doth character him, pietate & doctrina clarum, nor so bad as Bale doth decry him, making him a doteing Fool. Sure I am, there was Impar congressus, betwixt him and Erasmus, as unequal a Contest, as betwixt a Child and Man, not to say, Dwarf and 〈◊〉 . This Stand •… is said to have fallen down on his knees before King Henry▪ the Eighth, petitioning him to continue Religion, established by his Ancesters, and 〈◊〉 into Ma •… ers of Divinity, he cited the Col •… s for the Corinthians, which being but a Memory-mistake in an Aged Person, needed not to have exposed him so much, as it did, to the laughter of the Standers by. After he had sat 16 years, Bishop of St. 〈◊〉 , he died very aged, 1535.
JOHN CHRISTOPHERSON was born in this County, bred first in Pembrook Hall, then Fellow of St. Johns; and afterwards Master of Trinity College in Cambridge: an excellent Scholar, and Linguist especially. I have seen a Greek Tragedy, made and written by his own hand, (so curiously that it seemed printed) and presented to K. Henry the eight: He no less eleganly (if faithfullly ) translated Philo and 〈◊〉 into Latin: Besides his own benefaction to the Masters Lodgings and 〈◊〉 , he was highly instrumental in moving Queen Mary to her magnificent bounty to Trinity College. In the visitation of Cambridge, he was very active in burning the bones of 〈◊〉 , being then Elect Bishop of Chichester, scarcely continuing a year in that Place.
All expected, that at his first coming into his Diocese, he should demean himself very favourably. For why should not the Poets Observation of Princes be true also of Prelates.
But he had not so much mercy as Nero, to begin courteously, having no sooner put on his Episcopal Ring, but presently he washed his hands in the blood of poor Martyrs, whereof in due * Place. In the First of Qu. Elizabeth he was deprived, and kept in some restraint, wherein he died, about the Year 1560.
Since the Reformation.
JAMES PILKINTON, D.D. was the third Son of James Pilkinton of Rivington, in this County, Esq. a Right ancient Family, being informed by my good Friend Master William Ryley, Norrey, and this Countryman, that the Pilkintons were Gentlemen of repute in this Shire, before the conquest, when the chief of them, then sought for, was fain to disguise himself, a Thresher in a barn. Hereupon partly alluding to the 〈◊〉 of the flail (falling sometime on the one, sometime on the other side) partly to himself embracing the safest condition for the present, he gave for the Motto of his Arms, Now thus, Now thus.
This James, bred fellow of St. Johns in Cambridge, was in the First of Qu. Mary forced to fly into Germany, where he wrote a Comment on Ecclesiastes, and both the Epistles of St. Peter: after his return, in the First of Qu. Elizabeth, he was chosen Master of St. Johns, and March the 2d 1560. was consecrated Bishop of Durham.
Nine Years after the Northern Rebels came to Durham, and first tore the Bible, then the English Liturgy in pieces. Unhappy (though most innocent) Book, equally odious to opposite parties; such who account the Papists Heretics esteeming it popish, whilst the Papists themselves account it heretical. The Bishop had fared no better than the book, could he have been come by. But when the Rebellion was suppressed▪ the Bishop commenced a Suit against Qu. Elizabeth for the Lands and Goods of the Rebels attainted in the Bishopric, as forfeited to him by his Charter, and had prevailed, if the Parliament had not itnerposed, and on special consideration pro hoc tempore adjudged them to the Queen. He died Anno Dom. 1576.
EDWIN SANDYS was born at Conisby in this County; whose good actings, great sufferings, pious life, and peaceable death, 1588. are plentifully related in our Church. History.
RICHARD BARNES was borne at Bolde near Warrington in this County, bred in Brasen-Nose College, in Oxford, and afterwards advanced Suffragan Bishop of Nottingham, thence he was preferred to Carlisle, 1570. and seven years after to Durham. He was himself One of a good nature, (as by the sequel will appear) but abused by his Credulity and affection to his Brother John Barns, Chancellor of his Diocese.
A Man, of whom it is hard to say, whether he was more Lustful, or more Covetous: who, where as he should have been the man who ought to have reformed many Enormities in the Diocese, was indeed the Author of them, permitting base and dishonest Persons to escape scot-free for a piece of money, so that the Bishop had a very ill report everywhere.
By the suggestion of this ill instrument, the Patriarchal man Mr. Gilpin, fell into this Bishops Displeasure, and by him was suspended from his Benefice.
But the good Bishop afterwards restored him; and visiting him at his house, took him aside into the Parlour, and thus accosted him;
This Bishop sat about Eleven years in his See, and died a very aged man, a little before the Spanish Invasion, Anno Dom. 1588.
JOHN WOOLTON was born at Wiggin in this County, of honest Parents, and worshipful by his mothers side. He was bred a short time in Oxford, and in the reign of Queen Mary, attended his Uncle Alexander Nowell in his flight beyond the Seas. Returning into England, he was made first Cannon Residentiary, and after, Anno 1579. Bishop of Exeter, being an earnest assertor of Conformity against opposers thereof. He met (whilst living) with many hard speeches, but after his death (when men's memories are beheld generally in their true colors) he was restored to his deserved esteem, even by those who formerly had been his adversaries. He indicted Letters full of Wisdom and Piety, becoming the strength of one in health, not two hours before his death, which happened March the 13. Anno 1593. It is a part, though not of his Praise, of his happiness, that his Daughter was married to Francis Godwin Bishop of Hereford, whose Learned pen hath deserved so well of the Church of England.
MATTHEW HUTTON. I have given a large account of him formerly, in my Ecclesiastical History. However having since received an exact A •… narie (as I may so say) from his nearest relation, of his life, I will here insert an Abridgement thereof.
- 1. Being Son to Matthew Hutton of Priest▪ Hutton in this County, he was born Anno Dom. 1529.
- 2. He came to Cambridge in the 17. year of his age, Anno 1546. the 38. of K. Henry the Eighth.
-
3.
cōmenced. Bach. of Arts, 1551 Mr. 1555 - 4. Chosen Margaret Professor of Divinity, December 15. Anno 1561. in the 4. of Queen Elizabeth.
- 5. In the same year commenced Bachelor of Divinity.
- 6. Elected Master of Pembroke-hall May the 12. and the same year September the fifth, admitted Regius Professor, Anno 1562.
- 7. Answered a public Act before Q. Eliz. and Her court at Cambridge. A. 1564
- 8. Married in the same year Katharine Fulmetby (Neice to Thomas Goodrick late Bishop of Eli ) who died soon after.
- 9. Made Dean of York, Anno 1567.
- 10. Married for his second Wife Beatrix Fincham, Daughter to Sir Thomas Fincham of the Isle of Eli
- 11. Resigned his Mastership of Pembroke-hall, and his Professors place to Dr. Whitgift April 12. A. 1567.
- 12. Married Frances, Wid. of Martin Bows, son of Sir Martin Bows, Alderman of London, Nov. 20. 1583.
- 13. Chosen Bishop of Durham, June 9. Anno Dom. 1589.
- 14. Confirm'd by the Dean and Chapter July 26.
- 15. Consecrated by John Arch-bishop of York, July 27.
- 16. Translated to York, and consecrated at Lambeth, anno 1594. the Thirty seventh of Queen Elizabeth, by John Arch-bishop of Canterbury, and others March 24.
- 17. He died in January, anno 1605. in the seventy sixth year of his age.
He gave an hundred marks to Trinity college in Cambridge, and founded an Hospital at Wareton in this County. In a word, he was a learned Prelate, lived a pious man, and left a precious memory.
MARTIN HETON was born in this County (as by his Epitaph on his Monument lately set up by his Daughters in the Church of Eli may appear) and bred first a Student then a Canon of Christ's-church, on whom Queen Elizabeth bestowed the Bishopric of Eli, after 20. years vacancy thereof. Now although his memory groweth under the suspicion of Simoniacal compliance, yet this due the Inhabitants of Eli do unto him, that they acknowledge him the best House▪ keeper in that See▪ within man's Remembrance. He died July 14. 1609. leaving two Daughters married in those Knightly Families of Fish and Filmer.
RICHARD BANCROFT was born at......... in this County, bred in Jesus College in Cambridge, and was afterwards by Queen Elizabeth made Bishop of London, by King James Arch bishop of Canterbury. Indeed he was in effect Arch-bishop whilst Bishop, to whom Doctor Whitgift in his decrepit age remitted the managing of matters, so that he was the Soul of the high Commission.
A great Statesman he was, and Grand Champion of Church Discipline, having well hardened the hands of his Soul, which was no more then needed for him, who was to meddle with Nettles and Briars, and met with much opposition. No wonder if those who were silenced by him in the Church, were loud against him in other places.
David speaketh of poison under men's lips. This Bishop tasted plentifully thereof from the mouths of his Enemies, till at last, (as Mithridates ) he was so habited to poisons, they became food unto him. Once a Gentleman coming to visit him, presented him a Lyebell, which he found pasted on his Dore, who nothing moved thereat; Cast it (said he) to an hundred more which lie here on a heap in my Chamber.
Many a Lyebell, [Lye ] (because false) [ Bell ] because loud ) was made upon him. The aspersion of covetousness, though cast, doth not stick on his memory; being confuted by the estate which he left, small in proportion to his great preferment.
He cancelled his first Will, wherein he had bequeathed much to the Church, which gave the occasion for scurrilous pens to pass on him;
Whereas indeed, suspecting an Impression of popular violence on Cathedrals, and fearing an alienation of what was bequeathed unto them, he thought fit to cancel his own, to prevent others cancelling his Testament.
This partly appears by his second Will, wherein he gave the Library at 〈◊〉 (the Result of his own, and three Predecessors Collections ) to the University of Cambridge (which now they possess) in case the Archi episcopal See should be extinct.
How came such a jealousy into his mind? What fear of a Storm when the Sun shined, the Skye clear, no appearance of Clouds? Surely his skill was more then ordinary in the Complexion of the Common-wealth, who did foresee, what afterward (for a time) came to pass. This clause providentially inserted, secured this Library in Cambridge, during the vacancy of the Archi-episcopal See; and so prevented the embeselling, at the least the dismembering thereof, in our late civil distempers. He died Anno Dom. 1610. and lieth buried at the Church in Lambeth.
THOMAS JONES was born in this County, bred Master of Arts in Cambridge, but commenced Doctor of Divinity in the University in Dublin. He was first Chancellor then Dean of St. Patricks in that City, and thence was made Bishop of Meath, Anno 1584. and the next Month appointed by Queen Elizabeth one of her Privy Council in Ireland. Hence he was translated to be Archbishop of Dublin, An. 1605. and at the same time was by King James made Chancellor of Ireland, which office he discharged Thirteen years, dying April 10. 1619.
As he was a good Officer for the King, he was no bad one for himself, laying the Foundation of so fair an estate, that Sir Roger Jones his Son, was by King Charles created Viscount Renelaugh. Thus whilst the Sons of the Clergy men in England never mounted above the degree of Knighthood, Two of the Clergy men in Ireland attained to the dignity of Peerage: I say no more, but good success have they with their honor in their persons and posterity.
RICHARD PARR was born in this County, bred Fellow of Brazen-nose College in Oxford: whilst he continued in the University, he was very painful in reading the Arts to young Scholars, and afterwards having cure of Souls, no less industrious in the Ministry.
He was afterwards prefer'd to be Bishop of Man, by the Earl of Derby, Lord thereof: for the Lord's of that Island have been so absolute Patrons of that Bishopric, that no lease made by the Bishop, is valid in Law, without their confirmation. This Prelate excellently discharged his Place, and died anno Domini, 16—
Soldiers.
Sr. WILLIAM MOLINEUX, Kt. of Sefton in this County: He was at the Battle of Navarret, in Spain, made Knight Banneret by Edward the Black Prince, Anno 1367. under whose command he served in those Warrs, as also for a long time, in the Warrs of France. From whence returning homewards, he died at Canterbury, Anno 1372. on whom was written this Epitaph.
His Monument is not extant at this day, and it is pity that so good a Sword did not light on a better Pen; and that Pallas (so much honored by him in her Military relation) did not more assist in his Epitaph in her Poetical capacity.
Sr. WILLIAM MOLINEUX, junior, Knight, descendant from the former, flourished under K. Henry the eighth, being a man of great command in this County, bringing the considerable strength thereof to the seasonable succor of the Duke of Norfolk, with whom he performed signal service in Flodden-Field.
It is confess •… ed on all sides, that the Scots lost the Day, by not keeping their Ranks, but not agreed on the cause thereof. Bucanan (who commonly makes the too much Courage of his Countrymen the cause of their being conquered) imputes it to their indiscreet pursuing of the English, routed at the first. Others say, they did not break their Ranks, but they were broken, unable to endure the Lancashire Archers, and so forced to sunder themselves. In this Battail the Scotch King, and chiefest Gentry were slain; the English loosing scarce any, of the Sc •… ts scarce any but of prime note. The King afterwards wrote his gratulatory Letter, to Sr. William Molin •… ux, in form following:
Trusty and Welbeloved, We greet you well, and understand as well by the Report of Our Right Trus •… y Cousin and Counselor, the Duke of Norfolk, as otherwise, what acceptable servi •… e You amongst others lately did unto us, by your valiant towardness in the assisting of Our said Cousin, against our great Enemy, the late King of Scots; and how courageously you as a very hearty loving Servant, acquitted yourself for the overthrow of the said late King, and distressing of his malice and power, to our great Honor, and the advancing of your no little Fame and praise: For which We have good cause to favor and thank you, and so we full heartily do; and assured may you be, that We shall in such effectual wise remember your said service in any your Reasonable Pursuits, as you shall have cause to think the same Rightwell employed to your comfort and weal hereafter. Given under our Signet, at our Castle at Windsore, the 27 of November.
It appears by our Author, that th •… like Letters, mutatis mutandis, were sent unto Sr. Edward Stanley, and some other men of principal note, in Lancashire and Cheshire. I have nothing more to observe, save that these two worthy Sr. Williams were Ancestors unto the truly Honorable the Lord Molineux, Viscount Marybourgh in Ireland, lately deceased.
Writers.
HUGH of MANCHESTER was, saith my Author, when Adolescens [a youth] a Dominican, but when Juvenis [a young man] he changed his Copy, and turned a Franciscan. Say not he degraded himself, choosing a later order then he left▪ for it seems that amongst them the last is counted the best, as of a more refined perfection. He was a great scholar, and highly esteemed in that age, for his severity and discretion.
An Imposter happened at this time, pretending himself first blind, then cured at the Tomb of King Henry the Third, so to get coin to himself, and credit to the dead King. But our Hugh discovered the cheat▪ and Writing a Book De 〈◊〉 Diliriis, Dedicated it to King Edward the First, who kindly accepted thereof, preferring that his Fathers memory should appear to posterity, with his true face, 〈◊〉 painted with such false miracles. This Hugh with another Franciscan, was employed by the same King to Philip, King of France, to demand such Lands as he detained from him in Aquitain. Such who object, that sitter men than Friers might have been found for that service, consider not how in that Age such mortified men were presumed the most proper Persons, peaceably to compremise differences between the greatest Princes. This Embassy was undertaken Anno Dom. 1294.
RICHARD ULVERSTON was born in this County, at Ulverston, a well-known Market in Loins •… ay-Hundred: A great Antiquary (ambitious of all Learned Men's acquaintance) complained, that he knew him not so well as he desired, He was bred in Oxford, and wrote a Book entitled the Articles of Faith, or the Creed of the Church, this lay latent a good while, till John Stanberry Bishop of Hereford rescued it from the Moaths, some Thirty Years after the Authors death, and bestowed a double Light upon it; one in producing it into the Public, the other illustrating it with a Commentary he wrote thereon. Say not, this was false Her •… ldry, but true. Humility, to see a Bishop commenting (which is not usual) on the Book of a Priest, Bale concludeth all thus▪
The Time and Place of his Death are equally uncertain; but by probability about 1434. under the Reign of King Henry the sixth.
THOMAS PENKETH, so was his true name (though wrested by some Latinists into Pen •… hettus, and miswritten Penthy, and Penker, by some English ) taken from a Village in this County. He was bred an Augustinian in Warrington, and a Doctor of Divinity in Oxford, a deep Scotist, and of so great a memory, that Foreigners (amongst whom he lived) report of him, that had all the Books of Scotus been lost, he could easily have restored every word of them. He was called to be Professor at Padua, and returning into England, became Provincial of his Order.
But his last act stained his former life, who promoted the bastardizing of the Issue of K. Edward the 4th. and as Dr. Shaw ushered, his Flattery held up the train of the Usurper 's Praises, in a Sermon at St. Paul's, in preaching whereof, he who had formerly forfeited his Honesty, lost his* Voice, a proper punishment for a Parasite. His Disgrace had some influence on his Order, which then vertical and numerous, •… ayly 〈◊〉 in England, to their Dissolution. This Thomas died, and was buried in London, 1487.
JOHN STANDISH. Short mention shall serve him, who might have been left out w •… thout loss. He was Nephew to Henry Standish, Bishop of St. Asaph, of no mean Family in this County. One would suspect him •… ot the same Man, called by Pale a scurrillous Fool, and admired by pit •… for piety and learning, jealous lest another man should be more wise to Salvation than himself: he wrote a Book against the Translation of Scripture into English▪ and presented it to the Parliament. His death happened seasonably for his own safety, 1556. a little before the Death of Queen Mary.
Since the Reformation.
THOMAS LEAVER was born in this County, where his Family and Name still remains, at two Villages, called Leaver at this day. He was bred Fellow and Bachelor of Divinity o •… St. Johns College in Cambridge, whereof he was chosen Master, 1552. He was also preferred Master of Sherburn -House, or Hospital in the Bishopric, a Place it seems of good profit and credit, as founded by Hugh Pudsey, Bishop of Durham, and Earl of Northumberland.
In the beginning of Queen Mary he was forced to fly beyond the Seas, and became the principal Pastor (for they had three other) of the English Exiles at Arrow in Switzerland, which Congregation I behold, as the least, so the freest from Factions of any in that age of our Nation. He was, saith my Author, Virtutum in omni mansuetudine seminator, and besides some Sermons, and a Comment on the Lord's Prayer, he wrote a Book entitled, The Right Path way to Christ.
After the death of Queen Elizabeth coming over into England, he took a Journey to Durham, to visit his old Hospital of Sherburne, and falling sick by the way, died at Ware, anno 1558. in that very juncture of time, when what Church-Preferment he pleased courted his Acceptance thereof. I find two more of his Name, Ralph Leaver, and John Leaver (probably his Kinsmen) Exiles for their Conscience in Germany, in the Reign of Queen Mary.
WILLIAM WHITACRE was borne at Holme in this County, whose Life hath been formerly twice written by me. He died anno 1596.
ALEXANDER NOWELL was born 1510. of a Knightly Family at Read in this County, and at thirteen Years of age being admitted into Brasen-nose College in Oxford, studied thirteen Years therein. Then he became School-Master of Westminster.
It happened in the first of Queen Mary he was fishing upon the Thames, an Exercise wherein he so much delighted, insomuch that his Picture kept in Brazen-nose College, is drawn with his lines, hooks, and other •… ackling, lying in a round on one hand, and his Angles of several sorts, on the other. But whilst Nowel was catching of Fishes, Bonner was catching of Nowel, and understanding who he was, designed him to the Shambles, whither he had certainly been sent, had not Mr. Francis Bowyer then Merchant, afterwards Sheriff of London, safely conveyed him beyond the Seas.
Without offense it may be remembered, that leaving a Bottle of Ale (when fishing) in the Grass; he found it some days after, no Bottle, but a Gun, such the sound at the opening thereof: And this is believed (Casualty is Mother of more Inventions than Industry ) the Original of bottled-Ale in England.
Returning the first of Queen Elizabeth he was made Dean of St. Paul's, and for his meek Spirit, deep Learning, Prudence, and Piety, the then Parliament and Convocation both, chose, enjoined and trusted him to be the man to make a 〈◊〉 for public use, such a one as should stand as a Rule, for Faith and Manners to their Posterity.
〈◊〉 (by the way) is an ancient Church▪ Ordinance, as appears by Theophilus and Apollos, both exercised 〈◊〉 . It remained in state during th •… •… rimitive Church, and did not decline till Popery began to increase▪ For, 〈◊〉 Catechising continued, it had made the Laity more wise in Religion, than would well have stood with the interest of the Church of Rome. It was therefore outed by School-Divinity, and then a fruitful Olive was cut down, to have a b •… amble set in the room thereof. In the first Reformation Protestants revived this Ordinance, and by the use thereof Religion •… ot the speed, and great ground of Superstition; till the Jesuits sensible thereof have since outshot us in our own bow, most careful to catechise their Novices, whilst English Protestants (for I will not condemn Foreig •… Churches) grew negligent therein. What is the Reason that so much •… loath so soon changeth color▪ even because it was never well 〈◊〉 : and why do men so often change their Opinions? even because they were never well catechised.
He was Confessor to Queen Elizabeth, constantly preaching the First and Last Lent-Sermons before Her. He gave two Hundred Pounds per annum to maintain thirteen Scholars in brazen. Nose College. He died being Ninety Years of age, not decayed in sight, Febru. 13. 1601.
JOHN DEE, where born I cannot recover, was a man of much motion, and is mentioned in this place, where he had his (though last) best fixation. He was bred (as I believe) in Oxford, and there Doctorated, but in what faculty I cannot determine.
He was a most excellent Mathematiti an and Astrologer, well skilled in Magic, as the Ancients did, the Lord Bacon doth, and all may accept the sense thereof, viz. in the lawful knowledge of Natural Philosophy.
This exposed him, anno 1583. amongst his Ignorant Neighbors, where he then lived, at Mortclack in Surrey, to the suspicion of a Conjurer: the cause I conceive, that his Library was then seized on, wherein were four thousand Books, and seven hundred of them Manuscripts. This Indignity joined with the former Scandal, moved him to leave the Land, and go over with Sr. Edward Kelly, into Bohemia, as hereafter shall be more fully related.
Returning to Mortclack, 1592. the same Scandal of being a Conjurer, haunted him again: Two Years after Viz. 1594. he was under a kind of Restraint, which caused him to write to the Lady Scydemore, to move Queen Elizabeth, either, that he might declare his case to the Counsel, or have liberty under the broad Seal to depart the Land. Next year he wrote an apologetical Letter to Arch-bishop Whitgift, which it seems found good reception: yea, at last he gave such satisfaction of the lawfulness and usefulness of his Studies▪ that the Queen (besides many considerable New-Years Gifts sent unto him) presented him Warden of Manchester in this County, 1596. where he had many contests and suits with the Fellows of that College.
The last mention I find of him, is in Mr. Camden, to whom he presented an ancient Roman Inscription, found about Manchester, and Mr. Camden in his requital, presented him with this Commendation.
And indeed all the books he hath left behind him, speak him a learned, as those, de Usu Globi Terrestris. De Nubium, Solis, Lunae, ac Planetarum distantiis, &c. an aged man, being dedicated to King Edward the Sixth, and he dying about the beginning of King James.
ROGER FENTON, D. D. Fellow of Pembroke-Hall in Cambridge, was born in this County, as appeareth by his Epitaph, in St. Stephens Wallbrook, London, being the painful, pious, learned and beloved Minister thereof. Little is left of him in print, save a solid Treatise against Usury. Great was his intimacy with Dr. Nicholas 〈◊〉 , being Contemporaries, Collegiates, and City-Ministers together, with some 〈◊〉 in their Sirnames, but more sympathy in their Natures.
Once my own Father gave Dr. Fenton a visit, who excused himself from entertaining him any longer; Mr▪ Fuller (said he) hear how the passing-bell towls 〈◊〉 this very Instant, for my Dear Friend, Dr. Felton, now a dying; I must to my Study, it 〈◊〉 mutually agreed upon betwixt us in our healths, that the Surviver of us should 〈◊〉 the others Funeral-Sermon. But see a strange change, God, to whom belongs the 〈◊〉 from death, was pleased (with the Patriarch Jacob blessing his 〈◊〉 ) wittingly to guide his hands 〈◊〉 , reaching out death to the living, and life to the dying, So that Dr. Felton recovered, and not only performed that last office to his Friend Dr. Fenton, but also survived him more than ten years, and died Bishop of 〈◊〉 ▪ Roger Fenton died in the fiftieth Year of his age, anno Dom. 1615. buried in his own Church, under a Monument made at the expense of the Parish.
ROBERT BOITON was born at Blackborne in this County, on Whit sunday 〈◊〉 ▪ 〈◊〉 Year, as infamous for the Massacre of many Protestants in France, so for the 〈◊〉 of some eminent in England. His Parents having a narrow Estate, struggled with their necessities, to give him liberal Education; and he was bred first in 〈◊〉 ▪ then in Brazen-nose College in Oxford. He had Isocrates his six Marks, or Properties of a good Scholar,
His want of means, proved an advancement unto him: For, 〈◊〉 having whence to buy Books, he borrowed the best Authors of his Tutor, read over, abridged into Note-books, and returned them. He was as able to express himself, in Latin, or Greek, as English; and that Stylo Imperatorio. He was chosen one of the Disputants before King James, at his first coming to the University, and performed it with great applause.
Thus far I have followed my Author mentioned in the Margine, but now must depart from him a little in one particular. Though Mr. Boltons parents were not overflowing with wealth, they had a competent Estate (as I am informed by credible intelligence) wherein their Family had comfortably continued long time in good repute.
Sr. Augustine Nicholls presented him to the Rectory of Broughton in Northamptonshire, sending him his Presentation unexspectedly, from his Chamber in Sergeants •… nn, where D. King Bishop of London, being accidentally present, thanked the Judge for his good choice, but told him withal, that he had deprived the University of a singular Ornament. Besides his constant Preaching he hath left behind him many useful Books, the Witnesses of his Piety and Learning, and died in the 59th Year of his age, December 17. 1631.
JOHN WEEVER was born at ▪ in this County, bred in Queens College in Cambridge, under Dr. John Person his worthy Tutor. He was very industrious in the Study of Antiquity, and composed a useful Book of Funeral Monuments, in the Diocese of Canterbury, Rochester, London, and Norwich: He died in London in the fifty sixth Year of his age, and was Buried in St. James Clerken-well, where he appointed this Epitaph for himself,
The certain date of his Death I cannot attain, but by Proportion I collect it to be about the Year of our Lord, 1634.
RALPH CUDWORTH, D. D. the second Son of Ralph Cudworth, of Wernith-hall near Manchester Esquire; Chief Lord of Ouldham, was bred Fellow of Immanuel-college in Cambridge. A most excellent preacher, who continued and finished some imperfect works of Mr. Perkins, and after his Decease supplied his place in St. Andrew's in Cambridge. He was at last presented by the College to the parish of Auler in Somersetshire, Anno 163..
LAWRENCE CHADERTON was born at Chaderton in this County, of ancient, and wealthy Parentage, but much nuzled up in Popish Superstition. He was intended for a Lawyer, and in order thereunto, brought up some time in the Inns of Court, till he changed his profession, and admitted himself in Christ's College in Cambridge. His Father hearing that he had altered his place, studies, and Religion, sent him a Poke with a groat therein, for him to go a begging therewith, disinheriting him of •… hat fair estate, which otherwise had descended upon him. But God who taketh men up when their Fathers and Mothers forsake them, provided him a comfortable subsistence, when chosen Fellow of the College. He was for many years Lecturer at St. Clements in 〈◊〉 , with great profit to his Auditors, afterwards made by the Founder first Master of Immanuel. He was chosen by the Non-Conformists to be one of their four Representatives in Hampton-court conference, and was afterwards employed one of the Translators of the Bible. He had a plain but effectual way of Preaching. It happened that he visiting 〈◊〉 friends, preached in this his Native Country, where the Word of God (as in the days of Samuel ) was very precious. And concluded his Sermon which was of two hours continuance at least, with words to this effect. That he would no longer trespass upon their Patience. Whereupon all the Auditory cried out, (wonder not if hungry people craved more meat) for God 〈◊〉 Sir Go on go on. Herea •… Mr. Chaderton was surprised into a longer Discourse, beyond his expectation, in Satisfaction of their importunity, and (though on a sudden) performed it to their contentment and his commendation. Thus, constant Preachers, like good house keepers, can never be taken so unprovided, but that, (though they make not a plentiful Feast ) they can give wholesome food at a short warning.
He commenced Dr. in Divinity, when Frederick Prince Palatine (who married the Lady Elizabeth ) came to Cambridge. What is said of Mount Caucasus, that it was never seen without Snowe on the Top, was true of this Reverend Father, whom none of our Fathers generation knew in the University, before he was gray headed, yet he never used Spectacles till the day of his death, being Ninety four years of age.
He was not disheartened with that common saying, he that resigneth his place before his death, buryeth himself alive, but put off his Clothes long before he went to bed, divested himself of the Master-ship of Immanuel College, that so he might see a worthy successor in his life time. The blessing which befell Job, was in some sort appliable unto him, he saw his Successors to the fourth generation. I mean Doctor Presson, and after his Death Doctor Sancroft, and after his death Doctor Holesworth, who preached his Funeral Sermon Anno 1640. about the Ninety fourth year of his age.
GEORGE WALKER was born at Hauxhead in Fournifells, of Religious Parents. Being visited when a child, with the Small-poxe, and the standers by expecting his dissolution, he started up out of a Trance, with this ejaculation, Lord take me not away till I have shown forth thy praises, which made his Parents devote him to the Ministry after his recovery.
He was bred B. D. in St. Johns College in Cambridge, where he attained to be well skilled in the Oriental Tongues, an excellent Logician and Divine, Mr. Foster (formerly his Tutor) resigned unto him his living of St. John the Evangelist, London, wherein Mr. Walker continued the painful Preacher well nigh forty years, refusing higher preferment often proffered him. Dr. Felton (the same morning he was elected Bishop of Eli ) made him his Chaplain, and Dr. Featly chose him his second in one of his Disputations against Father Fisher, yea Mr. Walker alone had many encounters with the subtlest of the Jesuitical party.
He was a man of an holy life, humble heart, and bountiful hand, who deserved well of Zion College Library, and by his example and persuasion, advanced about a thousand pounds towards the maintenance of preaching-Ministers in this his Native County. He ever wrote all his Sermons, though making no other use of his Notes in the Pulpit, than keeping them in his pocket, being wont to say, that he thought he should be out if he had them not about him. His Sermons since printed, against the profanation of the Sabbath, and other practices and opinions, procured him much trouble, and two years Imprisonment, till he was released by the Parliament. He died in the seventy year of his Age, Anno Dom. 1651.
Romish Exile Writers.
EDWARD RISHTON was born in this * County, and bred some short time in Oxford, till he fled over to Douay, where he was made Master of Arts. Hence he removed to Rome, and having studied Divinity four years in the English College there, was ordained Priest 1580. Then was he sent over into England to gain Proselytes, in prosecution whereof, he was taken and kept Prisoner three years. Yet was the Severity of the State so merciful unto him, as to spare his Life, and only condemn him to Banishment.
He was carried over into France, whence he went to the University of Pontmuss in Loraine, to plye his Studies. During his abode there, the place was infected with the Plague. Here Rishton for •… ate the Physicians Rule, Cit •… , Procul, Longe, Tarde, fly away soon, live away far, s •… ay away long, come again slowly. For he remained so long in the Town, till he carried away the infection with him, and going thence, died at St. Manhow, 1585. I presume no Ingenuous Papist will be censorious on our Painful Munster, Learned Junius, Godly Greenham, all dying of the Pestilence, seeing the most conscientious of their own Perswasion subject to the same, and indeed neither Love nor Hatred can be collected from such Casualties.
THOMAS WORTHINGTON was born in this * County, of a Gentile Family, was bred in the English College at Douay, where he proceeded Bachelor in Divinity, and a little before the Eighty Eight was sent over into England as an Harvinger for the Spanish Invasion, to prepare his Party thereunto. Here he was caught and cast into the Tower of London: yet found such favor, that he escaped with his life, being banished beyond the Seas.
At Triers he commenced Doctor in Divinity, and in process of time, was made President of the English College at Reims. When after long expectation the Old Testament came out in English at Reims (permitted with some cautions for our Lay-Catholics to read) this Worthington wrote his notes thereupon, which few Protestants have seen, and fewer have regarded. He was alive in 1611. but how long after is to me unknown.
If not the same, (which for his vivaciousness is improbable) there was a Father Worthington, certainly his Kinsman and Countryman, very busy to promote the Catholic cause in England, about the beginning of King Charles. He Dining some thirty years since, with a Person of Honor in this Land, (at whose Table I have often eaten) was very obstreperous in arguing the case for Transubstantiation, and the Ubiquitariness of Christ's body; Suppose (said he) Christ were here. To whom, the Noble Master of the House (who till then was silent) returned, If you were away, I believe he would be here. Worthington perceiving his Room more welcome then his Company, embraced the next opportunity of Departure.
ANDERTON whose Christian name I cannot recover, was born in this County, and brought up at Blackborne School therein, and (as I have been informed) he was bred in Christ's College in Cambridge, where for his Eloquence he was commonly called Golden Mouth Anderton; afterwards he went beyond the Seas, and became a Popish priest, and one of the learnedst amongst them.
This is he, who improving himself on the poverty of Mr. Robert Bolton, sometimes his School-Fellow, (but then not fixed in his Religion, and Fellow of Brazenose college ) persuaded him to be reconciled to the Church of Rome, and go over with him to the English Seminary, promising him gold enough, a good argument to allure an unstable mind to popery, and they both appointed •… meeting. But it pleased the God of Heaven, who holdeth both an Hour-glass and reed in his hand; to measure both time and place, so to order the matter, that though Mr. Bolton came, Mr. Anderton came not accordingly. So that Rome lost, and England gained an able Instrument. But now I have lost J. Pitz to guide me, and therefore it is time to knock off, having no direction for the date of his Death.
Benefactors to the public.
WILLIAM SMITH was born at * Farmeworth in this County, bred Fellow in Pembroke hall in Cambridge, and at last by King Henry the Eighth, preferred Bishop of Lichfield and Coventry. That Politick Prince to ease and honor his Native Country of Wales, erected a Court of Presidency, conformable to the Parliaments of France, in the Marshes thereof, and made this Bishop first President, those Parts lying partly in his Diocese. He discharged the place with singular Integrity, and general contentment, retaining that Office till the day of his Death, when he was removed to be Bishop of Lincoln.
A good name is an Ointment poured out, saith Solomon, and this man wheresoever he went, may be followed by the perfume of charity he left behind him.
- 1. At Lichfield he founded an Hospital for a Master, two priests, and ten poor people.
- 2. In the same place he founded a School, procuring from King Henry the seventh, that the Hospital of Downholl in Cheshire, with the Lands there unto belonging, should be bestowed upon it. Say not this was Robbing the Spittle, or at the best Robbing Peter to pay Paul, seeing we may presume so charitable a Prelate, would do nothing unjust, though at this distance of time we cannot clear the particulars of his proceedings.
At Farmeworth where he was born, he founded a school, allowing ten pounds annually (in that age no mean salary ) for the Master thereof.
The University of Oxford discreetly chose him ( Oxford being in his Diocese of Lincoln ) their Chancellor, and lost nothing thereby, for he proved a more loving Nephew than Son, so bountiful to his Aunt Oxford, that therein he founded Brazen Nosecolledge but died 1513, before his Foundation was finished.
Molineux a famous preacher about Henry the Eigths time, descended of the house of Sefton in the County of Lancaster, built the Church at Sefton anew, and houses for Schools about the Church-yard; and made the great Wall about Magdalene College in Oxford.
EDWARD HALSALL in the County of Lancaster Esquire, sometimes Chamberlain of the Exchequer at Chester, founded a Free-school in Halstall, and endowed it with competent Revenue, for the maintenance of a Schoolmaster there forever. When this party lived, I cannot as yet recover.
THOMAS WEST was younger Brother to the Lord De la Ware, and Parson of Manchester; On whom the Barony was devolved, his Brother dying Issuelesse; The Pope allowed him to marry for the Continuance of so honorable a Family, upon condition that he would build a College for such a number of priests (fellows under a Warden) as the Bishops of Durham and Lichfield should think fit, which he did accordingly in Manchester. The Endowment of this collegiate and parochial church, were the Gleabe and Tithes of the parsonage of that parish, and besides them, scarce any other considerable Revenue.
I say the Gleab, esteemed about 800. Acres of that County (half as much more as the statute) Measure; Besides a considerable part of the Town commonly called the Deans Gate, corruptly for St Dionise Gate, (to whom with the Virgin Mary, and St. George, Manchester Church was dedicated) built upon the Gleab-Land belonging to the Church. As for the Tythes of the Parish, they lie in two and thirty Hamblets, wherewith the Collegiats were to be maintained, which were, one Warden and four Fellows; The integrated and incorporate Rector unto whom the parsonage was appropriated. There were also two Chaplains, Singing-men, Queristers, and Organists.
This College hath passed many Dissolutions and refoundations. But was lately dissolved, and the Lands thereof sold by the late Act for Sale of Dean and Chapters Lands: Some skillful in the Gospel much bemoaning it, and some learned in the Law, conceiving, That being but the Gleab of that Rectory, it came not within the compass of that Act: but blessed be God it since hath reverted to its former Condition.
Since the Reformation.
JOHN SMITH was born at. . . . . . . . . in this County, bred in Magdalene C •… ll. in Cambridge. Whereof he became Fellow and Proctor of the University, when past Sixty years of age, when the Prevaricators gave him this Homonyous Salute Ave Pater.
This man could not fidle, could not Tune himself to be pleasant and plausible to all Companies: but He could, and did make that little Coll. great; wherein he had his Education.
The Poets fain how Bachus, by reason of his Mother Semyles her untimely death, was taken out of his Mothers Womb, and sewed into the thigh of Jupiter his Father, where he was bred until the full time of his Nativity. A Fiction which finds a Moral in this Magdalene Coll. Whose Mother may be said to decease before the Infant was fit to be borne, and that Mr. Smith performed the rest of the Parents part thereunto.
Indeed Ed. Stafford Duke of Buckingham, the first founder thereof, gave it little more than a Name. The Lord Audley bestowed on it a new name, with little buildings and less Indowment, Magnificent Dr. Nevill for a Time was Mr. thereof, but (according to the fashion of the World the rich shall still have more) his affections were all for Trinity Coll. to which he was after removed.
Only Mr. Smith by his long life and thrifty living, by what he gave to, and what he saved for the College, so Improved the Condition thereof, that though he left it Lateritium as he found it, yet what he found poor and empty he left rich and full of Scholars.
Nor must we forget his painfulness, when with Dr. Gouge he solicited the Suit called Magdalene College Case, Nor yet his Patience, when he lay so long in the Fleet, for refusing to submit to an Order of Chancery (fearing their cause would be prejudiced thereby) so that he may be called the Confessor of the College, from inconsiderable Income. He raised by his carefulness considerable profit to the Fellows of that house, and by observing the Statutes, brought the College into such Reputation for Learning, That yearly it afforded one or more Eminent scholars. In a word, he was a true servant to the College all his life and at his Death, to which he bequeathed all he had, six hundred pounds at least, and died Anno. Dom. 163. . .
GEORGE CLARKE Haberdasher, a plain honest man, just, temperate and •… ugal: And according to his understanding, (which in the Worlds esteem was not great) devout, a daily frequenter of the Prayers in the College Church, and the Hearer of Sermons there. Not long before the breaking forth of our civil dissensions; dying without issue, he made the Poor his Heir; and did give them one hundred pounds per annum, in good lands lying in a place called Crompsall, within a Mile from Manchester; I have not yet attained the certain Date of his Death.
HUMPHREY CHETHAM, third Son of Henry Chetham of Crompsall Gentleman, is thought (on just ground) to descend from Sir Jeffrey Chetham of Chetham, (a man of much Remark in former days) and some old Writings in the hands of Worshipful persons, not far remote from the place, do evidence as much, but the said Sir Geoffrey falling in troublesome times into the Kings Displeasure; his Family (in effect) was long since ruinated.
But it seems his Posterity was unwilling to fly far from their old (though destroyed) Nest, and got themselves a handsome habitation at Crompsall hard by, where James, elder Brother of this Humphrey Chetham, did reside. The younger Brethren George, Humphrey, and Ralph, betook themselves to the Trading of this County, dealing in Manchester commodities, sent up to London; And Humphrey signally improved himself in piety and outward prosperity. He was a diligent Reader of the Scriptures and of the Works of sound Divines, a Respecter of such Ministers, which he accounted truly godly, upright, sober, discreet and sincere. He was HighSheriffe of this County, 1635. discharging the place with great Honor. Insomuch that very good Gentlemen of Birth and Estate did wear his Cloth at the Assize, to testify their unfeigned affection to him, and two of them of the same profession with him •… elf, have since been Sheriffs of the County.
Grudge not Reader, to go through so long a Porch, for I assure thee it leads unto a fair Palace; to as great a Masterpiece of Bounty, as our age hath afforded. This Mr. Chetham by his Will bearing Date the 16. of January 1651. gave 7000. l. to buy a Fee-simple estate of 420. l. forever, for the Education of forty poor Children in Manchester at School, from about 6. till 14. years of age, when they are to be bound out Apprentizes. They must be the Children of poor but honest Parents, no bastards, nor diseased at the time wherein they are chosen, not lame or blind, in regard the Town of Manchester hath ample means already (if so employed) for the maintenance of such Impotents. Indeed, he intended it for a Seminary of Religion and Ingenuity, where the aforesaid Boys were to have Diet, Lodging, Apparel and Instruction. He gave a 1000. l. for Books to a Library, and a 100. l. to prepare a place for them. He bequeathed 200. l. to buy Books, (such as he himself delighted in) for the Churches of Manchester, Bolton, and other Chapels thereabouts; He gave the Remainder of his Estate (Debts and Legacies first paid) to the Encrease of the books in the Library.
Now as the Loaves in the Gospel, multiplied in the breaking, So Mr. Chethams Estate did not shrink but swell in the calling of it in; Insomuch, That the aforesaid Surplusage, is known to be the better part of Two thousand pounds. Dying a Bachelor, he appointed George Chetham Esquire, Citizen and Grocer of London (whereof he was chosen Alderman 1656. and fined for the same) and Edward Chetham Gent. Executors of his Will and Testament: God send us more such men, That we may dazzle the Eyes of the Papists, with the light of Protestant good works. And know Reader I am beholding for my exact Information herein, to my worthy friend Mr. Johnson, late Preacher of the Temple, and one of the Feoffees appointed by Mr Chetham for the uses aforesaid.
Memorable Persons.
- Sir EDMUND de TRAFFORD Knights,
- Sir THOMAS de ASHTON Knights,
were persons of high esteem, as anciently descended, and richly reveneued in this County, how great their skill was in Chemistry, will appear by the following Patent (faithfully transcribed with mine own hand, out of the Original in the Tower ) granted unto them by King Henry the sixth, in the four and twentieth year of his Reign.
Sciatis, quod cum dilecti & fideles nostri, Edmundus de Trafford Miles, & Thomas Ashton Miles, Nobis per quandam supplicationem monstraverint, quod quamvis ipsi super certis metallis, per Artem sive Scientiam Philosophiae operari vellent, metalla imperfecta de suo proprio genere transfer, & tunc ea per dictam Artem sive Scientiam, in Aurum sive Argentum perfectum transubstantiare, ad omnimodas probationes & examinationes, sicut aliquod aurum sive argentum in aliqua Minera crescens, expectandum & indurandum, ut dicunt; Nihilominus certae personae illis malevolentes, et malignantes, supponant ipsos per Artem illicitam operari, & sic ipsos in probatione dictae Artis sive Scientiae impedire et perturbare p •… ssunt. Nos praemissa considerantes, ac conclusionem dictae operationis, sive Scientiae scire volentes, de gratia nostra specially concessimus & licentiam dedimus iisdem Edmundo & Thomae, & ipsorum servientibus, quod ipsi Artem sive Scientiam praedictam, operari & probare possint licite & impune, abs{que} impetione nostra vel Officiariorum nostrorum quorumcunque; aliquo Statuto, Actu, Ordinatione, sive Provisione in contrarium facto ordinat. sive provis. non obstante.
In cujus, &c. T. R.
apud Westmond. septimo die Aprilis.
The King
to all unto whom, &c. Greeting.
Know ye, that whereas our beloved & loyal Edmund de Trafford Knight, and Thomas 〈◊〉 Knight, have by a certain Petition shown unto Us, that although they were willing by the Art or Science of Philosophy, to work upon certain metals, to translate imperfect metals from their own kind, and then to transubstantiate them by the said Art or Science, as they say; into perfect Gold or Silver, unto all manner of proofs and trials, to be expected and endured, as an •… Gold or Silver growing in any Mine, Notwithstanding certain persons ill willing, and maligning them, conceive them to work by unlawful Art, and so may hinder and disturb them in the trial of the said Art and Science. We considering the premisses, and willing to know the conclusion of the said Working or Science, of Our special grace have granted and given leave to the same Edmund and Thomas, and to their Servants, that they may work and try the aforesaid Art and Science, lawfully and freely, without any hindrance of Ours, or of Our Officers whatsoever, Any Statute, Act, Ordinance, or Provision, made, ordained, or provided to the contrary notwithstanding.
In witness whereof, the King at Westminster, the 7. day of April.
Mr. ...... KIDSON. Reader, I presume not now to direct thee, who myself am at a loss, and Grope for a Guide▪ Leland in his Itinerary, speaking of Warton a Village in this County, observeth, that Mr. Kidson was born there, a passage which never had fallen from his Pen, had he not been one of signal Remark. Who this Mr. Kidson was, where he lived, what he did, where he died, I shall be thankful to such as give me Satisfaction.
RICHARD ROTHWELL was born at or near Bolton in the Mores, in this County. Taking the Ministry (after his education in Cambridge ) upon him, he disposed his temporal estate to his friend to live of the Gospel. I remit the Reader to his Life extant at large in Print, wherein this most remarkable, viz. his dispossessing of John Fox near Nottingham of a Devil, there passing betwixt them a large Discourse, by way of Question and Answer. I know that such Confabulations are common in the Church of Rome, to whose Exorcists, Satan's Language is as Familiar as Erasmus his Dialogues are well known to men, or those of Corderius to School-Boys. But such accidents amongst Protestants are very rare, and therefore the more to be observed. There are I confess, more Thomases then myself, much given to mistrust (whose faith will be at a stand herein) However finding it atteste •… by an honest and * able person, I dare not deny the truth thereof. All I will say, is this, That is the best belief, which is neither over forward, nor over-froward, which, as it will not run itself out of breath with too much speed, will not be like a 〈◊〉 horse, which no force can make to go farther. He died at Mansfield in Nottingham-shire, 1627. in the 64▪ year of his age. No •… could I write less of him, whom one termeth Orbis Terra▪ rum Anglicarum Oculum, The Eye of our English World, and my Book would seem 〈◊〉 and blind, if passing him over in Silence.
Lord Mayors.
| Name. | Father. | Place. | Company. | Time. | |
| 1 | Nicholas Mossey | Edward Mossey | Hough | Clothworker | 1599. |
| 2 | James Pemberton. | James Pemberton | Eccleston •… | Goldsmith | 1611. |
Reader, Lancashire is one of the 12. pretermitted Counties, the Names of whose Gentry, were not returned into the Tower, in the Twelfth year of K. Henry the Sixth.
Sheriffs.
| Name. | Place. | Arms. |
| Reginae Elizab. | ||
| Anno, | ||
| 1 Johan. Talbot, ar. | Arg. 3 Lions Rampant, Purpre▪ | |
| 2 Rob. 〈◊〉 , 〈◊〉 . | ||
| 3 Joh. 〈◊〉 , m. | Atherton | 〈◊〉 3 Falcons, Or. |
| 4 Joh. Southworth | ||
| 5 Tho. Hesketh, m. | Arg. on a Bend S. 3 Garbs, Or. | |
| 6 Tho. Houghton, a. | Houghton | 〈◊〉 3. Bars Argent. |
| 7 Edw. Trafford, ar. | Tr •… fford | Argent a Griffin Ramp. Gules. |
| 8 Ric. Mollineux, m | Sheff •… on | 〈◊〉 a Cross Moline, Or. |
| 9 Tho. Laugnton, m. | Arg. 3 〈◊〉 Gules. | |
| 10 Edw. Holland, ar. | Az. a L. R. sem. de Fluer de L. Ar. | |
| 11 Joh. Preston, arm. | Arg. 2 bars, ou a Cant. Gules, a | |
| 12 Tho. •… utler, arm. | Cinque foil, Or. | |
| 13 Edw. Trafford, a. | ut prius | |
| 14 Fran▪ Holt, arm. | Arg. on a Bend Engrailed S. 3 Flower de Luce of the first. | |
| 15 Rich. Holland, a. | ut prius | |
| 16 Will. Boothe, ar. | Arg. 3 〈◊〉 heads Erased and Erected S. | |
| 17 Fran▪ Holt, arm. | ut prius | |
| 18 Rich. Bold, arm. | Argent a 〈◊〉 Rampant S. Io-zeenge▪ of the Field & Sables. | |
| 19 Ro •… . Dalton, ar. | ||
| 20 Johan▪ 〈◊〉 | 〈◊〉 | Party per Pale 〈◊〉 , Az. and Or 6 Martlets counter changed Arg. a Mullet Sable. |
| 21 Rad▪ Ashton▪ ar.* | ||
| 22 Edw. Trafford, m. | ut prius | |
| 23 Joh. Byron miles | Argent 3. Bendlets Gules. | |
| 24 〈◊〉 . Holland, | ut prius | |
| 25 Joh. Atherton, ar. | ut prius | |
| 26 Edwar. Trafford, | ut prius | |
| 27 Tho. Preston, ar. | ut prius | |
| 28 Richard. Asheton | ut prius | |
| 29 Johan. Fleetwood | ut prius | |
| 30 Tho. Talbot, ar. | ut prius | |
| 31 Rich. Mollineux | ut prius | |
| 32 Rich. Bold, ar. | ut prius | |
| 33 Jac. Asheton, ar. | ut prius | |
| 34 Edw. Fitton, ar. | Az. on a Bend Arg. 3. Garbs O. | |
| 35 Richard. Asheton | ut prius | |
| 36 Radulp. Asheton | ut prius | |
| 37 Tho. Talbot, arm. | ut prius | |
| 38 〈◊〉 . Holland | ut prius | |
| 39 Rich. Molleneux | ut prius | |
| 40 Richard. Asheton | ut prius | |
| 41 Rich. Houghton | ut prius | |
| 42 Robert. Hesketh |