The History of the Worthies of England

Martyrs.

WILLIAM SAUTRE, aliàs Chatris, Parish-Priest of the Church of St. Osiths London, was the first Englishman that was put to death by fire, for maintaining the opinions of Wycliffe.

In the Primitive times (pardon Reader, no impertinent digression) such the lenity and tenderness of the Fathers of the Church, towards Heretics, that, contenting themselves with condemning their blasphemous opinions, they proceeded to no penalty on their persons. Yea, in after ages, when the Christian Emperor would have punished the furious Donatists with a pecunlary mulct, the Holy men of those times so earnestly interceded, as to procure the remission. And St. Augustine himself, who was most zealous in his writing against those Donatists, professeth he had rather be himself slain by them, than by detecting them, be any cause they should undergo the punishment of death. Whereas henceforward in England, many were brought to the fire by the Bishops, and others of the Clergy, whose opinions were neither so blasphemous, nor deportment so inhumane as ancient Heretics.

I confess not only simple heresy was charged on this Sautre, but also a relapse thereinto after abjuration, in which case such is the charity of the Canon-Law, that such a person is, seculari judicio sine ulla penitus audientia relinquendus, not affording any audience to one relapsed, though he should revoke his opinions. Quite contrary to the charitable Judgment of St. Chrysostom who sticked not to say, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 ; If thou fall a thousand times, and repent thee of thy folly, come boldly into the Church.

There is some difference amongst Authors, about the legal proceedings against this Sautre, by what power he was condemned to die:

The latter seemeth most true, because the Writ De Haeretico comburendo, (sent down by the advice of the Lord's Temporal, to the Mayor of London, to cause his execution) bare date the 26 of February; whereas it was ordered in that Parliament, that the penal Statutes made therein, should not take effect till after Whitsuntide.

But, by what power soever it was done, poor Sautre was burnt in Smithfield, about the 28 of February, 1400. One criticism of cruelty and hypocrisy is most remarkable. The close of the Archbishops sentence of degradation, when Sautre was committed over to the Secular Court, endeth with this expression,

We are much beholding to Baronius, for the better understanding this passage, informing us that it was ever fashionable with their Clergy to this day, that when they consigne an Heretic over to the Secular for execution, they effectually intercede that he may not be punished with death. For, it appeareth in Prosper, that 4 Bishops were excommunicated An. 392. for being accusers of Priscilian (the first Heretic who was confuted with steel) that age conceiving all tendency to cruelty, utterly inconsistent with Clerical profession. And hence it was, thinks the aforesaid Baronius, that this custom was taken up, of the Clergy's mock-mercy, in their dissembled mediation for condemned Heretics. I say dissembled: for, if the Lay, having them in his power, shall defer the doing of it more than ordinary, it is the constant tenet of the Canonists, (relying on a Bull of Alexander the 4 ^th . 1260.) he is to be compel'd unto it by spiritual censures.

We have been the larger upon this Sautre 's death, because he was the English Protestant (pardon the Prolepsis) Proto-martyr. But every son must not look to be an heir, we will be shorter on the rest in this City, contenting ourselves with their bare names, except some extraordinary matter present itself to our observation.

JOHN BADBY was an Artificer in Black Friars in London, condemned, and burned in Smithfield, about 1401. Henry Prince of Wales (afterwards King Henry the 5th.) happened to be present at his execution, who not only promised him pardon on his recantation, but also a stipend out of the Kings Treasury, sufficient for his support; all which Badby refused. He was put into an empty Tun, (a ceremony of cruelty peculiar to him alone) and the fire put therein.

At the first feeling thereof, he cried Mercy, Mercy, begging it of the God of heaven, which Noble Prince Henry mistook for a kind of Revocation of his Opinions, and presently caused the fire round about him to be quenched, renewing his promises unto him with advantage, which Badby refused the second time, and was Martyred.

But Reader, I will engage no deeper in this copious subject, lest I lose myself in the Labyrinth thereof. * Joseph left off to Number the Corn in Egypt, for it was without number; the cause alone of my desisting in this subject. Yea, Bloody Bonner had murdered many more, had not that Hydropical Humor which quenched the life of Queen Mary, extinguished also the Fires in Smithfield.

Prelates.

Here in this City we are at a greater loss, as to this Topic, than in any Shire in England: for in vain it is for any man to name himself Thomas of London, John of London, &c. such Sirnames not reaching their end, nor attaining their intention, viz. 〈◊〉 diversify the Person, the laxity of so populous a place leaving them as unspecified as it found them. We therefore have cause to believe, that many Clergy-men both Bishops and Writers born in this City, did not follow suit with others of their Coat, to be named from the Place of their Nativity, but from their Fathers, the Reason why we can give so slender an account of them as followeth.

SIMON OF GAUNT, was born in this City, (his Mother being an English Woman, his Father a Flemming ) and being bred in good literature, became so famous, that by King Edward the first he was preferred Bishop of Salisbury, 1298. He gave the first leave to the Citizens thereof, to fortify that place with a deed Ditch, partly remaining, and a strong wall wholly demolished at this day. Now seeing good Laws are the best walls of any foundation, no less was his care for the Church, than City of Salisbury, making good Statutes, whereby it was ordered even unto our age. He died about the year 1315.

JOHN KITE, was born in London, bred in Oxford, sent Ambassador into Spain, made a Grecian titulary Arch bishop, (receiving thence as much profit, as men shear wool from hogs ) and at last the real Bishop of Carlisle: yet is his Epitaph in the Church of Stepney neither good English, Latin, Spanish or Greek, but a barbarous confusion, as followeth,

These, if made 300 years ago, had been excusable, but such midnight verses are abominable, made, as it appears, in the dawning of good learning and pure language. Yet because some love Poetry, either very good or very bad, that if they cannot learn from it, they may laugh at it, they are here inserted.

WILLLIAM KNIGHT, was born in this City, bred Fellow of New-college in Oxford, on the same token, that there have been ten of his Sirname, Fellowes of that Foundation. He proceeded Doctor of Law, and a noble Pen makes him Secretary to King Henry the Eighth. Sure it is, he was the first Person employed to the Pope, to motion to him the matter of his Divorce; advertizing the King, by his weekly dispatches, how slowly his Cause, (though spurred with English Gold) crept on in the Court of Rome. After his return, the King rewarded his Industry, Fidelity and Ability, with bestowing the Bishopric of Bath and Wells upon him.

In Wells) with the assistance of Dean Woolman) he built a stately covered Cross in the Market-place, for the glor •… of God, and conveniency of poor people, to secure them from the weather, adding this Inscription; Laus Deo, Pax Vivis, Requies Defunctis. He died September 29. Anno 1547.

NICOLAS HEATH, was born, and had his childhood in the City of London, being noted for one of St. Anthony's Pigs therein, (so were the Scholars of that School commonly called, as those of St. Paul's, Paul's pigeons) and bred first in Christ's-College, then Fellow of Clare-hall in Cambridge▪ By K. Henry the eighth (to whom he was Almoner) he was preferred Bishop first of Rochester, then of Worcester: deprived by K. Edward the Sixth, restored by Q. Mary, who advanced him Arch-bishop of York, and Lord Chancellor of England. A moderate man, who would not let the least spark of persecution be kindled in his Diocese, if any in his Province.

In the Conference at Westminster betwixt Papists and Protestants, primo Elizabethae he was a kind of Moderator, but interposed little. Infected b •… his Fellow-PrisonerPopish-Prelates, he could not be persuaded to take the Oath of Supremacy, for which he was deprived. He led a pious and private life on his own lands; at Cobham in Surrey, whither Q. Elizabeth came often to visit him, and died about the year of our Lord 1566.

Statesmen.

Sir THOMAS MORE was, Anno Domini 1480 born in Milkstreet London, (the 〈◊〉 that ever shined in that Via lactea ) sole Son to Sir John More Knight, one of the Justices of the Kings Bench.

Some have reported him of mean parentage, merely from a mistake of a modest word, in an Epitaph of his own making on his Monument in Chelsey Church.

Where Nobilis is taken not in the civil but Common Law sense, which alloweth none Noble under the degree of Barons. Thus men cannot be too wary what they inscribe on Tombs, which may prove a Record (though not in Law, in History ) to posterity.

He was bred first in the Family of Arch-bishop Morton, then in Canterbury College (now taken into Christ Church ) in Oxford, where he profited more in two, then many in ten years continuance.

Thence he removed to an Inn of Chancery called New Inn, and from thence to Lincolns Inn, where he became a double Reader. Then did his worth prefer him to be Judge in the Sheriff of London's Court, whilst a Pleader in others. And although he only chose such causes which appeared just to his Conscience, and never took Fee of Widow, Orphan or poor person; he gained in those days four hundred pounds per annum.

Being made a Member of the House of Commons, he opposed King Henry the Seventh, about money for the Marriage of his Daughter Margaret: Whereat the King was much discontented, when a Courtier told him, that a beardless Boy (beard was never the true Standard of brains) had obstructed his desires. Which King being as certain, but more secret then his son in his revenge, made More the mark of his Displeasure, who to decline his anger had travelled beyond the Seas, had not the Kings going into another World stopped his journey.

King Henry the Eighth coming to the Crown, and desirous to ingratiate himself by preferring popular and deserving persons, Knighted Sir Thomas, and made him Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, the Kings personal patrimony.

Finding him faithful in lesser matters (according to the method of the Gospel) he made him in effect Ruler of all, when Lord Chancellor of England; a place wherein he demeaned himself with great integrity, and with no less expedition. In testimony of the later, it is recorded, that calling for the next cause, it was returned unto him, there are no more to be heard, all Suits in that Court depending, and ready for hearing, being finally determined. Whereon a Rhythmer.

Falling into the Kings displeasure for not complying with him about the Queens divorce, he seasonably resigned his Chancellors Place, and retired to his House in Chelsey, chiefly employing himself in writing against those who were reputed Heretics. And yet it is observed to his Credit (by his great friend Erasmus ) that whilst he was Lord Chancellor no Protestant was put to death, and it appears by some passages in his Utopia, that it was against his mind that any should lose their Lives for their Consciences.

He rather soyled his Fingers then dirtied his hands in the matter of the holy Maid of Kent, and well wiped it off again. But his refusing (or rather not accepting ) the Oath of Supremacy, stuck by him, for which he was 16. Months imprisoned in the Tower, bearing his afflictions with remarkable patience He was wont to say that his natural temper was so tender▪, that he could not endure a philip; But a supernatural Principle (we see) can countermand, yea help natural imperfections.

In his time (as till our Memory) Tower Prisoners were not diet •… d on their own, but on the Kings charges; The Lieutenant of the Tower providing their Fare for them. And when the Lieutenant said that he was sorry that Commons were no better, I like (said Sir Thomas) Your Dyet very well, and if I dislike it, I pray turn me out of Dores.

Not long after he was beheaded on Tower hill, 153.. He left not above one hundred pounds a year Estate, perfectly hating Covetousness as may appear by his refusing of four or five thousand pounds offered him by the Clergy. Among his Latin Books his Utopia beareth the Bell, containing the Idea of a complete Common-wealth in an Imaginary Island (but pretended to be lately discovered in America ) and that so lively counterfeited, that many at the reading thereof mistook it for a real truth. Insomuch, that many great Learned men, as Budeus, and Johannes Paludanus, upon a fervent zeal, wished that some excellent Divines might be sent thither to preach Christ's Gospel; yea, there were here amongst us at home sundry good men and Learned Divines, very desirous to undertake the Voyage to bring the People to the Faith of Christ, whose manners they did so well like.

By his only Son Mr. John More, he had five Grandchildren, Thomas and Augustine born in his Life time, who proved zealous Romanists; Edward, Thomas and Bartholomew (born after his Death) were firm Protestants, and Thomas a married Minister of the Church of England.

MARGARET MORE. Excuse me Reader, for placing a Lady among Men and Learned Statesmen. The Reason is, because of her 〈◊〉 affection to her Father, from whom she would not willingly be parted (and for me shall not be) either living or dead.

She was born in Bucklers-bury in London at her Fathers house therein, and attained to that Skill in all Learning and Languages, that she became the miracle of her age. Foreigners took such notice hereof, that Erasmus hath dedicated some Epistles unto her. No Woman that could speak so well, did speak so little: Whose Secresie was such, that her Father entrusted her with his most important Affairs.

Such was her skill in the Fathers, that she corrected a depraved place in St. Cyprian, for whereas it was

Yea she translated Eusebius out of Greek, but it was never printed, because I. Christopherson had done it so exactly before.

She was married to William Roper of Eltham in Kent Esquire, one of a bountiful heart and plentiful Estate. When her Fathers head was set up on London Bridge, it being suspected it would be cast into the Thames, to make room for divers others (then suffering for denying the Kings Supremacy ) she bought the head, and kept it for a Relique (which some called affection, others religion, others Superstition in her) for which she was questioned before the Council, and for some short time imprisoned, until she had buried it; and how long she herself survived afterwards, is to me unknown.

THOMAS WRIOTHESLEY Knight of the Garter, was born in Barbican, Son to William Wriothesley York Herald, and Grandchild to John Wriothesley (descended from an heir general of the ancient Family of the Dunsterviles ) King of Arms. He was bred in the University of Cambridge; and if any make a doubt thereof, it is cleared by the passage of Mr. Ascams Letter unto him, writing in the behalf of the University when he was Lord Chancellor,

He afterwards effectually applied his Studies in our municipal Law, wherein he attained to great eminency. He was by King Henry the Eighth, created Baron of Titchborne at Hampton Court, January the first, 1543. and in the next year about the beginning of May by the said King made Chancelor of England. But in the first of King Edward the Sixth, he was removed from that place (because a conscientiously Rigorous Romanist) though in some reparation he was advanced to be Earl of Southampton. He died at his House called Lincolns place in Holborn, 1550. the 30. of July, and lies buried at St. Andrew's in Holborn.

WILLIAM PAGET Knight, was born in this City of honest Parents, who gave him pious and learned education, whereby he was enabled to work out his own advancement; Privy-Counselor to 4 successive princes, which, though of different persuasions, agreed all in this, to make much of an able and trusty Minister of State.

• 1. King Henry the Eighth made him his Secretary, and employed him Embassador to Ch. the Emperor and Francis King of France.
• 2. King Edward the Sixth made him Chancellor of the Duchy, Comptroller of his Household, and created him Baron of Beaudesert.
• 3. Queen Mary made him •… eeper of her privy Seal.
• 4. Queen Elizabeth dispensed with his attendance at Court, in favor to his great Age, and highly respected him.

Indeed Duke Dudley in the days of King Edward ignominiously took from him the Garter of the Order; quarrelling, that by his extraction he was not qualified for the same. Bur if all be true which is reported of this Dukes Parentage, he of all men was most unfit to be active in such an employment. But no wonder if his Pride wrongfully snatched a Garter from a Subject, whose Ambition endeavored to deprive two Princes of a Crown. This was restored unto him by Queen Mary, and that with Ceremony and all solemn accents of honor, as to a person, who by his prudence had merited much of the Nation. He died very old, anno 1563, and his Corps (as I remember) are buried in Lichfield, and not in the Vault under the Church of Drayton in Middlesex where the rest of that Family, I cannot say lie (as whose Coffins are erected) but are very completely reposed in a peculiar posture, which I meet not with elsewhere; the horror of a Vault, being much abated with the Lightnesse and Sweetness thereof.

THOMAS WENTWORTH, was born (his Mother coming casually to London ) in Chancery Lane in the Parish of St. Dunstans in the West. Yet no reason Yorkshire should be deprived of the honor of him, whose Ancestors long flourished in great esteem at Went-worth-Woodhouse in that County.

He was bred in St. John's College in Cambridge, and afterwards became a Champion Patriot on all occasions. He might seem to have a casting voice in the House of Commons; for where he was pleased to dispose his Yea or Nay, there went the affirmative or negative. It was not long before the Court gained him from the Country, and then Honors and Offices were heaped on him; created Baron and Viscount Wentworth, Earl of Strafford and Lord Deputy of Ireland.

When he went over into Ireland, all will confess, he laid down to himself this noble foundation; vigorously to endeavor the Reduction of the Irish to perfect obedience to the King, and profit to the Exchequer. But many do deny the Superstructure (which he built thereon) was done by legal line and Plummet.

A Parliament was called in England, and many Crimes were by prime persons of England, Scotland and Ireland, charged upon him. He fenced skillfully for his Life, and his Grand-guard was this, that (though confessing some Misdemeanors) all proved against him amounted not to Treason.

And indeed Number cannot create a new kind, so that many Trespasses cannot make a Riot, many Riots one Treason, no more then many Frogs can make one Toad. But here the D •… stinction of Acumulative and Constructive▪ Treason was coined, and caused his Destruction.

Yet his Adversaries politically brake off the Edge of the Axe, which cut off his head, by providing his Condemnation should not pass into Precedent to Posterity, so that his Death was remarkable but not exemplary. Happy had it been, if (as it made no Precedent on Earth so) no Remembrance thereof had been kept in Heaven.

Some hours before his Suffering he fell fast asleep, alleged by his friends, as an Evidence of the Clearnesse of his Conscience, and hardly to be paralleled, save in St. Peter, in a dead sleep, the Night before he was to die, condemned by Herod. His death happened, 1641.

He hath an eternal Monument in the matchless Meditations of King Charles the First, and an everlasting Epitaph in that weighty Character * there given him,

God alone can revive the dead, all that Princes can perform, is to honor their Memory and Posterity, as our Gracious Sovereign King Charles hath made his worthy Son Knight of the Garter.

LYONEL CRANFIELD Son to Randal Cranfield Citizen, and Martha his Wife, Daughter to the Lady Dennis of Gloucester-shire, (who by her will, which I have perused, bequeathed a fair estate unto her) was born in Bassing-hall street, and bred a Merchant, much conversant in the Custom-House.

He may be said to have been his own Tutor, and his own University: King James being highly affected with the clear, brief, strong, yea and profitable sense he spake, preferred him Lord Treasurer 1621. Baron of Cranfield, and Earl of Middlesex. Under him it began to be young flood, in the Exchequer (wherein there was a very low Ebb when he entered on that Office (and he possessed his Treasurers place some four years, till he fell into the Duke of Bucks (the best of Friends, and worst of Foes) displeasure. Some say this Lord, who rose chiefly by the Duke (whose near Kinswoman he married) endeavored to stand without, yea in some cases (for the Kings profit) against him, which Independency and opposition that Duke would not endure. Flaws may soon be found, and easily be made Breaches, in great Officers, who being active in many cannot be exact in all matters.

However this Lord by losing his Office, saved himself, departing from his Treasurers place, which in that age was hard to keep: Insomuch, that one asking, what was good to preserve Life? was answered, Get to be Lord Treasurer of England, for they never do die in their place, which indeed was true for four Successions.

Retiring to his magnificent House at Copt-hall, he there enjoyed himself contentedly, entertained his friends bountifully, neighbors hospitably, poor charitably. He was a proper person, of comely presence, cheerful, yet grave countenance, and surely a solid and wise man. And though their Soul be the fattest, who only suck the sweet Milk, they are the healthfullest, who (to use the Latin Phrase) have tasted of both the Breasts of fortune. He died as I collect anno 1644, and lieth interred in a stately Monument in the Abby at Westminster.

Writers on the Law.

FLETA or FLEET. We have spoken formerly of the Fleet as a Prison, but here it importeth a person disguised under that name, who, it seems being committed to the Fleet, therein wrote a Book of the Common Laws of England, and other Antiquities. There is some difference concerning the Time, when this Learned Book of Fleta was set forth, but it may be demonstrated done before the fourteenth of the Reign of King Edward the Third: for he saith that it is no Murder except it be proved that the Party slain was English and no Stranger, whereas this was altered in the fourteenth year of the said King, when the killing of any (though a Forreigner living under the Kings protection) out of prepensed Malice, was made Murder.

He seemeth to have lived about the End of King Edward the Second, and beginning of King Edward the Third. Seeing in that Juncture of Time, two Kings in effect were in being, the Father in right, the Son in might, a small contempt might cause a confinement to that place, and as Loyal ubjects be within it as without it. Sure it is, that (notwithstanding the confinement of the Author) his Book hath had a good passage, and is reputed Law to posterity.

CHRISTOPHER St. GERMAN. Reader wipe thine eyes, and let mine smart, if thou readest not what richly deserves thine observation; seeing he was a person remarkable for his Gentility, Piety, Chastity, Charity, Ability, Industry and Vivacity.

• 1. Gentility; descended from a right ancient Family, born (as I have cause to believe) in London, and bred in the Inner Temple in the Study of our Laws.
• 2. Piety; he carried Saint in his nature (as well as in his Surname ) constantly reading and expounding every night to his Family, a Chapter in the Bible.
• 3. Chastity; living and dying unmarried without the least spot on his Reputation.

• 4. Charity; giving consilia and auxilia to all his People gratis.

  Indeed I read of a Company of •… hysicians in Athens, called 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , because they would take no Money of their Patients, and our St. German, was of their Judgment as to his Clients.

• 5. Ability; being excellently skilled in Civil, Caxon and Common Law; so that it was hard to say wherein he excelled. Add to these his skill in scripture, witness his Book called The Doctor and Student: where the former vics Divinity with the L •… w of the later.
• 6. Industry; he wrote several works wherein he plainly appeareth not only a Favourer of, but Champion for the Reformation.
• 7 Vivacity; L •… ving to be above eighty years old, and dying anno Dom. 1593. was buried at St. Alphage London, near Criplegate.

WILLIAM RASTAL, was born in this City (Sisters Son to Sir Thomas More ) and was bred in the Study of our Common Law, and whoever readeth this passage in Pitz., will thence conclude him one of the two Chief Justices of England,

whereas in deed he was but one of the Justices of the Kings Bench: yet his Ability and Integrity, did capacitate him for higher preferment, being also a person of Industry. He wrote the Life and set forth the Works of his Uncle More, made a Collection of, and Comment on the statutes of England.

Great was his Zeal to the Ro •… ish Religion▪ flying into Flanders, with the changing of his Country (under King Edward the Sixth) he changed the nature of his Studies, but then wrote worse Books on a better subject, I mean Divinity. He undertook Bishop Jewel, as much his over match in Divinity, as Rastal was his, in the common Law. The Papists are much pleased with him, for helping their cause (as they conceive) and we are not angry with him, who hath not hurt ours in any degree.

He died at Lovain 1565. and lieth buried with his Wife in the same Tomb, and this Epitaph may be bestowed on him.

Know that Winifrid Clement his Wife, was one of the greatest Female Scholars, an exact Grecian, and (the Crown of all) most pious according to her persuasion.

Soldiers.

No City in Europe hath bred more (if not too many of late) and indeed we had had better T •… adesmen if worse Souldiets. I dare not adventure into so large a Subject, and will instance but in one (to keep possession for the rest) submitting myself to the Readers censure, whether the Parties merit, or my private Relation puts me on his Memorial.

Sir THOMAS ROPER Son of Thomas Roper Servant to Queen Elizabeth, was born in Friday Street in London, whose Grandfather was a younger Son of the House of Heanour in Derby shire. Indeed Furneaux was the ancient name of that Family, until Richard Furneaux married Isald the Daughter of..... Roper of Beighton in the County of Derby Esquire, and on that Consideration was bound to assume the name of Roper by Indenture, Dated the S •… venth of Henry the Sixth. This Sir Thomas Going over into the Lowe Countries became Page to Sir John Norrice, and was Captain of a Foot Company at sixteen years of age: what afterwards his Martial performances were, to avoid all suspicion of Flattery (to which my Relation may incline me) I have transcribed the rest out of the Original of his Patent.

Cum Thomas Roper Eques auratus, e Secretioribus Concilliariis nostris in regno nostro Hyberniae, jampridem nobis Bellicae virtutis Splendore clarus innotuerit; Utpote qui quam plurimis rebus per eum in nuperrimo bello hujus Regni fortiter gestis, praeclarum Nomen & Strenui Militis, & prudentis Ducis reportavit: Cujus virtus praecipue in recessu in Provinciâ nostrâ Conaciae prope Le Boyle emicuit, ubi paucissimis admodum equestribus ingentes equitum turmas per Regni Meditullia hostiliter grassantes fortiter aggressus: Ita prudentiâ suâ singulari receptui cecinit, ut non modo, & se, & suos, sed etiam totum exercitum ab ingenti periculo Liberavit, hostesque quam plurimos ruinae tradidit.

Qui etiam, cum Provincia nostra Ultoniae bello deflagaverat, ob exploratam animi fortitudin •… m ab honoratissimo Comite Essexiae exercitus tunc imperatore, unius ex omnibus designatus fuit ad Duellum eum Makal, uno ex fortissimis Tyronentium agminum ducibus suscipiendum, nisi praedictus Makal duello praedicto se exponere remisset.

Cumque etiam praedictus Thomas Roper, in nuperrimo Bello apud Brest in Regno Gallie se maximis periculis objiciendo & sanguinem suum effundendo Fortitudinem suam invictam demonstravit: Qui etiam in expeditione Portugalenci se fortiter ac honorifice 〈◊〉 ac etiam apud Bergen in Belgio cum per Hispanos obsideretur invictissimae fortitudinis juvenem in defensione ejusdem se praebuit.

Qui etiam in expugnationis Kinsalensis die primus 〈◊〉 juxta 〈◊〉 propissime constitutus fuerat, Hispanesque ex eo oppido sepius eodem die 〈◊〉 , fortissime felicissimeque, & ad maximam totius exercitus 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 & profligavit.

Sciatis igitur quod nos intuitu praemissorum Dominum Thomam Roper millitem, &c.

Whereas Thomas Roper Knight, one of our Privy Counselors of our Kingdom of Ireland, long since hath been known unto us famous, with the Splendor of his Warlike virtue; As who by the many Atchievements valiantly performed by him in the late War of this Kingdom, hath gained the eminent Repute both of a stout Soldier, and a disc •… eet Commander; whose Valour chiefly appeared in his Retreat near Le Boyle in •… ur Province of Conaught, where with very few horse he undantedly charged great Troops of the Horse of the Enemy, who in a Hostile manner forraged the very Bowels of the Kingdom, and by his Wisdom made such a singular retreat, that he not only saved himself and his men, but also delivered the whole Army from great danger, and slew very many of his Enemies.

Who also when our Province of Ulster was all on Fire with war, being one out of many, was for the tried resolution of his mind, chosen by the Right Honorable the E. of Essex, then General of the Army, to undertake a Duel with Makal, one or the stoutest Captains in the Army of Tyrone, had not the said Makal declined to expose himself to the appointed Duel.

And also when the aforesaid Thomas Raper, in the late war in the Kingdom of France at Brest, by exposing himself to the greatest perils, and shedding of his own blood, demonstrated his courage to be unconquerable. Who also i •… the voyage to Portugal, behaved himself valiantly and honorably; as also at Bergen in the Nether-lands, when it was besieged by the Spaniards, approved himself a young man of 〈◊〉 valor in the defense thereof. Who also in the day wherein Kinsale was assaulted, was placed in the first rank, nearest of all unto the Town, and with no less success then valor, to the great safety of the whole army beat back and put to flight the Spaniards, who in the same day made several sallies out of the Tow •… .

Know therefore, that We in 〈◊〉 of the premises have appointed the aforesaid Thomas Roper Knight, &c.

Then followeth his Patent, wherein King Charles in the third of his reign created him Baron of Bauntree, and Viscount 〈◊〉 in Ireland.

I will only add from exact intelligence, that he was a principal means to break the hearts of Irish Rebels; for whereas formerly the English were loaded with their own cloths, so that their slipping into Bogs did make them, and the slopping of their breeches did keep them prisoners therein; he first being then a Commander put himself into Irish Trouzes, and was imitated first by all his Officers, then Soldiers, so that thus habited they made the more effectual execution on their enemies. He died at 〈◊〉 Rest, Anno Dom. 164.. and was buried with Anne his wife (daughter to Sir Henry 〈◊〉 , ) in Saint Johns Church in Dublin.

Seamen.

I behold these Sea men as the Sea it •… elf, and suspect, if I launch far therein, I s •… all see land no more: Besides, I know there be many laws made against Forestalers, and would be loath to fall under that penalty; for preventing the pains of some able person a 〈◊〉 of the Trinity- 〈◊〉 , who may write a just tract thereof.

Civilians.

Sir HENRY MARTIN Knight, was born in this City, where his Father left him forty pounds a year, and he used merrily to say, that if his Father had left him 〈◊〉 , he would never have been a Scholar, but lived on his Lands; whereas this being (though a large encouragement, but) a scant maintenance, he plied his book for a better livelihood. He was bred a Fellow in New college in Oxford, and by the advice of Bishop Andrew's addressed himself to the Study of the Civil Law.

By the advice of the said Bishop, Master Martin had weekly transmitted unto him from some Proctors at Lambeth, the Brief heads of the most Important causes which were to be tried in the high Commission, Then with some of his familiar friends in that faculty they privately pleaded those Causes amongst themselves, acting in their Chamber what was done in the Court. But Mr. Martin, making it his work, exceeded the rest in amplifying and agravating any fault moving of anger and indignation against the guilt thereof, or else in extenuating and excusing it, procure pity, obtain pardon, or at least prevail for a lighter punishment. Some years he spent in this personated pleading, to enable himself against he was really called to that Profession.

Hence it was that afterwards he became so eminent an Advocate in the high Commission, that no cause could come amiss to him. For he was not to make new armor, but only to put it on and buckle it, not to invent but apply arguments to his Cliant. He was at last Knighted and made Judge of the Prerogative for Probate of Wills, and also of the Admiraltry in causes concerning foreign traffick; so that as King James said pleasantly; He was a mighty Monarch in his Jurisdiction over Land and Sea, the Living and dead. He died very aged and wealthy, Anno Dom. 1642.

Physicians.

RICHARDUS ANGLICUS was certainly a man of Merit, being eminently so denominated by Foraigners, (amongst whom he conversed) from his Country, and he who had our Nation for his Name, cannot have less then London for his Lodging in this our Catalogue of Worthies. He is said to have studied first in Oxford, then in Paris, where he so profited in the faculty of Physic, that he is counted by Simphorianus Champerius (a stranger to our Nation, and therefore free from Flattery,) one of the most eminent Writers in that Profession. Now, because he was the first English man, whom I find famous in that Calling, may the Reader be pleased with a Receipt of the several names of the Books, left by him to posterity.

• 1. A Tractate of 〈◊〉 .
• 2. Of the Ru •… es of Urins.
• 3. Of the Signs of Diseases.
• 4. Of Prognostick Signs.
• 5. Of Letting Blood.
• 6. Of Anatomy according to •… alen.
• 7. Of Feavors.
• 8. A Correction of Alchymy.
• 9. A Mirour of Alchymy.
• 10. Of Physic.
• 11. Repressive.
• 12. Of the Signs of Feavors.

Leland reporteth, that besides these, he writ other works, which the Envy of time hath denied unto us. He flourished about the year of our Lord 1230.

JOHN 〈◊〉 was born in this City, bred Fellow of Baliol-college in Oxford, where he contracted familiarity with his Colleague and Mecaenas, I. Tiptoft Earl of Worcester. He afterwards travelled into Italy, and at Ferrara was a constant auditor of Gwarinus an old man, and famous Philosopher. Hitherto our Phreas made use only of his ears, hereafter of his tongue, when of Hearer he turned a Teacher; and see the stairs whereby he ascended.

• 1. He read Physic at Ferrara, concerning Medicinal herbs.
• 2. Then at Florence, well esteemed by the Duke thereof.
• 3. Then at Padua, (beneath Florence in beauty, above it in learning, ) an University where he proceeded Doctor of Physic.
• 4. Then at Rome, where he was gracious with Pope Paul the second, dedicating unto him many books translated out of Greek.

The Pope rewarded him with the Bishopric of Bath and Wells, dying before his consecration, poisoned (as is vehemently suspected) by some, who maligned his merit;

Solomon himself, who wrote of all Simples, from the Cedar in Lebanus, to the Hyssop on the Wall, could find no defensative against it; which made him cry out But who can stand before envy? No wonder therefore, if our Phreas (though a skillful Botanist ) found men's malice mortal unto him. He died at Rome Anno Domini 1465. and Lelands commendation of him may serve for his Epitaph, if but, Hic jacet Johannes Phreas be prefixed before it; qui primus Anglorum erat, qui propulsâ barbarie, patriam honesto labor bonis literis restituit.

ANDREW BORDE Doctor of Physic, was (I conceive) bred in Oxford, because I find his book called the Breviary of Health examined by that University. He was Physician to King Henry the eighth, and was esteemed a great Scholar in that age. I am confident his book was the first written of that faculty in English, and dedicated to the College of Physicians in London. Take a taste out of the beginning of his Dedicatory Epistle,

Indeed his book contains plain matter under hard words, and was accounted such a Jewel in that age, (things whilst the first are esteemed the best in all kinds,) that it was Printed, Cum privilegio ad imprimendum solum, for William Midleton, Anno 1548. He died as I collect in the reign of Queen Mary.

Writers.

NOT •… ELMUS of LONDON. Having casually let slip his forelock, I mean his Episcopal Capacity, (being successively Bishop of London, and Arch-bishop of Canterbury, ) under which he ought to be entered, we are fain to lay hold on his hind-part, (that his memory may not escape us) taking notice of him as a Writer. In his Age shined a Constellation of three learned men, Bede, Alcuinus, and our Nothelme, whom the two former by their letters invited to writ (a performance proper for his Pen) the gests of Gregory the Great, and the Disciples sent by him with Austin the Monk, for the Conversion of Britain. Nothelme the more effectually to enable himself for this work, went to Rome, obtained leave from Pope Gregory the second, to peruse his Records; then sent his completed collections to Bede, to be inserted in his Church history. Bede in gratitude, (according to the courteous custom of the learned exchange,) dedicated to him his thirty questions on the Books of Kings. His death happened Anno Domini 739.

WILLIAM FITZ-STEPHENS was descended saith Leland of Norman Nobility, but born in this City, and bred a Monk in Canterbury. He wrote many learned works, and one in Latin of the description of London, since commendably (because rare to come by) translated and added to the Survey of London.

Say not that London then, was but the Suburbs to the London now, for the bigness and populousness thereof; seeing in Fitz Stephens time, it accounted thirteen Conventual and an hundred and six and thirty Parochial Churches, not producing so many at this day▪ so that it seems though there be more Bodies of Men, there be fewer Houses of God therein.

As for the populousness thereof in his time, it was able to set forth sixty thousand Foot, which I believe it may treble in our time. It could also then raise twenty thousand Horsemen, which would pose it at this day to perform. But as railing Rabshakeh made Jerusalem weaker, [not able to set two thousand Riders on horses] so possibly Fitz-Stephens might make London stronger then it was. I hope one may safely wish this City may be better in holiness, as bigger in houses, then it was when Fitz-Stephens flourished 1190.

ALBRICIUS of LONDON. Leland maketh him a Native of this City, and signally learned, though little is extant of his writings, save a work of the Original of Heathen God's. Herein he showeth how mankind having by error and ignorance, left and lost the true God, multiplied Deities, that a Mock-infinite (viz. what was but Indefinite in number ) should supply his place, who was Infinite in Nature. Albricius flourished Anno Domini 1217.

WILLIAM SENGHAM born of mean, but honest Parents, being one of a meek nature, and quick wit, was brought up in learning, wherein he attained to great perfection. He wrote many books and one de fide & Legibus, wherein Bale highly praiseth this passage,

Now although this be but a plain expression of the common truth, yet was it beheld as an Oracle in that ignorant age. Thus a beam of noon-day might it be seen at mid-night, would shine as the Sun itself; besides, these words were uttered in that age, when impudent Friers began to obtrud on the world a fifth forged Gospel, (consisting of superstitious ceremonies and) called Aeternum Evangelium, which did much mischief in the Church amongst credulous men. This William is supposed by some an Augustinian Frier, who flourished Anno Dom. 1260.

LAURENTIUS ANGLICUS was certainly an English-man, and probably a Londoner, but brought up and living most of his time in Paris, where he was Master of the College, which had an English-man for the sign thereof. Hence I collect it for building little better then our ordinary Inns for entertainment, where probably our Country men had their lodgings for nothing. This Laurence, being a learned and pious person, stoutly opposed that mock Gospel commonly called Evangelium Aeternum, with the Mendicant Friars the Champions thereof. He wrote a smart book contra Pseudo-Praedicatores; but afterwards being frightened with the Popes thunderboults, and the Friars threatenings, he cowardly recanted. But what saith Solomon A just man falleth seven times, [the Vulgar Latin addeth in die, in one day, ] and riseth again, as we hope this Laurence did, who flourished Anno Dom. 1260.

NICHOLAS LYRA was (as Barnabas a Jew-Cypriot, and Saul a Jew-Gilician a Jew-English man, the first by Nation, the second by Nativity. He had the R •… bbins at his Fingers ends, but conversed so long with, that at last he was converted by some Franciscans to be a Christian; and I behold Nicholas [Conqueror of his People ] as his Font-name then given him, as predictory of those Victories he afterwards got, by his disputings and writings, over his own Country-men. Nor doth the Church of God more complain of Nicholas, that Proselyte of Antioch, (the last of the seven Deacons, and first founder of the Nicholaitans whom God hated,) then it doth commend our Nicholas, who vigorously confuted the Jews; who expect the rising of the Sun in the afternoon, waiting for Messias still to come.

I read, how some fifty years before, Henry the third, founded a house called Domus Conversorum, (where now the Office of the Rolls is kept in Chancery-lane, ) where Converted Jews were accommodated with Lodging, and a small Salary. But I believe Lyra made no use thereof, contenting himself to live first in Oxford, then in Paris a Franciscan Friar, and wrote Comments on all the Old and New-Testament, whereof so different the Editions, that I am certainly informed, one is so bad, one can hardly give too little; and one so good, one can hardly give too much for it. Though sometimes he may be wide of the Mark, and this Harp be out of Tune, yet uncharitable their censure of Lyra Delirat, whilst Luther highly praiseth him▪ because his wanton wit did not gad after empty Allegories, but with the good house-keeper stays at home, keeping himself close to the Text in his literal interpretations. Now though there were many Jewish Synagogues in England, (at York, Cambridge, Northampton, &c.) yet the Old Jury in London, equalling all the rest in numerousness, Lyra his birth is here assigned with best assurance, though dying in Paris about the year 1340.

BANKINUS of LONDON, not Bancks of London, (who taught his Horse reason to perform feats above belief,) but one of hgher Parts, and worse employed. Being an Augustinian Friar he set himself wholly to suppress the poor Wicklevicks, and being ready to dispute against them in a public Council, was taken off in his full speed with the following accident, worthy of the Readers observation;

This if literally true, deserved a down-right (and not only so slenting a) mention. But hitherto meeting it in no other Author; I begin to suspect it meant Metaphorically of some consternation of mind, wherewith God's restraining grace charmed the adversaries of the truth. Bankinus flourished under King Richard the second, Anno 1382.

ROBERT IVORY was, saith Leland, none of the meanest Natives of this City, a Carmelite and President General of his Order, D. D. in Cambridge. He wrote several books, and Prece & Precio, procured many more, wherewith he adorned the Library of White-Friars in Fleet-street. He died November the fifth, 1392.

JULIANA BARNES was born ex antiquâ & illustri domo. Understand it not in the sense wherein the same was said of a certain Pope, born in a ruinous Cottage, where the Sun did shine through the Rotten Walls and Roof thereof. But indeed she was descended of a respective Family, though I, not able to find the place, am fain to use my Marginal Mark of greatest uncertainty.

She was the Diana of her Age for Hunting and Hawking, skillful also in Fishing, and wrote three books of these Exercises, commending the practice thereof to the Gentry of England.

The City of Leyden is scited in the very bottom of the Low-Countries, so that the water settled their, would be soon subject to putrefaction, were it not by Engines forced up that it might fall, and so by constant motion kept from corruption. Idleness will betray Noble men's minds to the same mischief, if some ingenious industry be not used for their employment.

Our Julian also wrote a book of Heraldry. Say not the needle is the most proper pen for the woman, and that she ought to meddle with making no Coats, save such as Dorcas made for the widows, seeing their Sex may be not only pardoned, but praised for such lawful diversions. No Gentleman will severely censure the faults in her 〈◊〉 , but rather imitate Julius Scaliger who passing his verdict on all Poets, and coming to do the like on Sulpitia a Roman Poetress (living under Domitian ) thus courteously concludeth, Ut tam 〈◊〉 Heroinae ratio habeatur, non ausim objicere ei judicii severitatem. She flourished Anno Domini 1460. under King Henry the sixth.

ROBERT FABIAN was born and bred in this City, whereof he became Sheriff 1493. Treating his Guests with good cheer and welcome, he doubled his dishes with pleasant discourse, being an excellent Historian, witness two Chronicles of his own writing.

• 1. From Brutus to the death of King Henry the second.
• 2. From the first of K. Richard, to the death of K. Henry the seventh.

He was also an excellent Poet, both in Latin, French and English.

A Modern Master wit, in the contest betwixt the Poets of our age, for the Laurel maketh Apollo to adjudge it to an Alderman of London, because to have most wealth was a sign of most wit. But had the Scene of this competition been laid seven score years since, and the same remitted to the umpirage of Apollo, in sober sadness he would have given the Laurel to this our Alderman.

As for his Histories, if the whole strain of them doth 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , it must be indulged to him that followed the genius of his own education. He died at London 1512. and was buried in the Church of All-hallows, where he hath a tedious and barbarous Epitaph, as commonly ( Reader, I should be glad to have my observation confuted,) who hath worse Poetry then Poets on their Monuments? After his death, Cardinal Wolsey caused so many Copies of his Book as he could come by to be burnt, because therein he had opened the Coffers of the Church too wide, and made too clear discovery of the Revenues of the Clergy.

THOMAS LUPSET was born in this City, and was related to most English and some foreign learned eminencies of his age.

• 1. Bred a child in the house of Dean •… olet.
• 2. Under W. Lily in St. Paul's School.
• 3. Sent to Oxford, where he became Greek Professor.
• 4 Resigns his place to his friend Ludovicus Vives.
• 5. Travailed into Italy, and at Padua was familiar with C. Pole.
• 6. Was known unto Erasmus, who giveth him this Character; Hujus ingenio nihil gratius, nihil amantius.
• 7. Intended Divinity, diverted by Cardinal Woolsy.
• 8. At Paris was Tutor to Th. Winter, a ward to the Cardinal.
• 9. Returning into England, was known to King Henry the eight.
• 10. Began to grow into his favor, when cut off with a Consumption 1532. in the prime of his life.

He died in London, and lieth buried in the Church of Saint Alphage nigh Cripplegate, without a monument.

Romish Exile Writers.

JOHN HEIWOOD was born in London, and was most familiar with Sir Thomas More, whom he much resembled in quickness of parts, both undervaluing their friend to their jest, and having Ingenium non edentulum, sed mordax. I may safely write of him, what he pleasantly writes of himself, that he applied mirth more then thrift, many mad plays, and did few good works. He hath printed many English proverbial Epigrams, and his Monumenta Literaria are said to be non tam labor condita, quàm lepore condita. He was highly in favor with Queen Mary, and after her death, fled for Religion beyond the seas. It is much, that one so Fancyful should be so conscientious. He lived, and (for ought I find) died at Mechlin about the year 1566. Gasper Heiwood his son, was a great Jesuit, and executed here in Q. Elizabeth's reign.

MAURICE CHAMNEE most probably born in this City, was bred a Friar in Charter-house, now called Suttons Hospital. He was imprisoned for refusing the Oath of Supremacy, with 18. of his Order, all which lost their lives for their obstinacy, whilst our Maurice (like Jobs messenger) only escaped alone to tell of his fellows misfortune, and write the history of the execution. Some of Chamnee 's party, report to his praise, that Martyrdom was only wanting to him, and not he to Martyrdom. Others more truly tax him, for warping to the Will of King Henry the eighth, not so much to decline his own death, as to preserve his Covent from destruction, who sped in the first, and failed in the latter. However fearing some afterclaps, he fled beyond the Seas, passing the rest of his life in the Low-Countries, dying Anno Dom. 1581.

EDMUND CAMPIAN was born in this City, and bred Fellow in Saint Johns-college in Oxford, where he became Proctor Anno 1568. when Queen Elizabeth visited that University, being made Deacon by the Protestant Church; he afterwards renounced that Order, and fled beyond the Seas. A man of excellent parts, though he who rod post to tell him so, might come too late to bring him tidings thereof, being such a valuer of himself, that he swelled every drop of his ability into a bubble by his vain ostentation. And indeed few who were reputed Scholars, had more of Latin, or less of Greek, then he had.

He was sent over with Father Parsons into England, to reduce it to the Church of Rome; to this purpose he set forth his Ten Reasons so purely for Latin, so plainly and pithily penned, that they were very taking, and fetched over many ( Neuters before) to his persuasion.

It was not long before he was caught by the Setters of the Secretary Walsingham, and brought to the Tower, where one of his own Religion saith that he was exquisitissimis cruciatibus tortus, racked with most exquisite torments.

Yet the Lieutenant of the Tower truly told him, that he had rather seen then felt the rack, being so favourably used therein, that being taken off, he did presently go to his lodging without help, and used his hands in writing. Besides, (as Campian confessed) he was not examined upon any point of Religion, but only upon matters of State. Some days after he was engaged in four solemn disputations, to make good that bold challenge he had made against all Protestants.

An Authentic Author giveth this unpartial account of Campian in his Disputation, ad disputandum productus expectationem concitatam aegre sustinuit, and in plain truth, no man did ever boast more when he put on his Armor, or had cause to boast less when he put it off. Within few days, the Queen was necessitated for her own security to make him the subject of severity, by whose laws he was executed in the following December.

Benefactors to the Public.

THOMAS POPE Knight, was born in this City, as my worthy friend Doctor Seth Ward the Head, and others of the Society of Trinity college in Oxford have informed me. I behold him as fortunae suae fabrum, the Smith (who by God's blessing) hammered out his own fortune without any Patrimonial advantage. Indeed he lived in an Age which one may call the harvest of wealth, wherein any that would work might get good wages at the dissolution of Abbyes.

Herein he was much employed, being under the Lord Cromwell, an instrument of the second magnitude, and lost nothing by his activity therein; however by all the Printed books of that age he appeareth one of a candid carriage, and in this respect stands sole and single by himself. That of the Abby Lands which he received, he refounded a considerable proportion for the building and endowing of Trinitycolledge in Oxford. He died as I collect about the beginning of the reign of Queen Elizabeth.

There are in Oxford shire many descendants from him continuing in a worshipful Estate, on the same token, that King James came in Progress to the house of Sir 〈◊〉 Pope Knight, when his Lady was lately delivered of a daughter, which Babe was presented to King James with this Paper of Verses in her hand, which because they pleased the King I hope they will not displease the Reader;

I behold the Earl of Down in Ireland (but living in Oxford shire ) the chief of the Family.

THOMAS CURSON born in Alhallows Lombard street, Armorour, dwelt without Bishop-gate. It happened that a Stage-player borrowed a rusty Musket, which had lien long Leger in his Shop: now though his part was Comical he therewith acted an unexpected Tragedy, killing one of the standers by, the Gun casually going off on the Stage, which he suspected not to be Charged.

O the difference of divers men's in the tenderness of there Consciences! some are scarce touched with a wound, whilst others are wounded with a touch therein. This poor Armourer was highly afflicted therewith, though done against his will, yea without his knowledge, in his absence, by another, out of mere chance. Hereupon he resolved to give all his Estate to pious uses, no sooner had he gotten a round sum, but presently he posted with it in his Apron to the Court of Aldermen, and was in pain till by their direction he had settled it for the relief of poor in his own and other Parishes, and disposed of some hundreds of pounds accordingly, as I am credibly informed by the then Church-wardens of the said Parish. Thus as he conceived himself casually (though at great distance) to have occasioned the death of one, he was the immediate and direct cause of giving a comfortable living to many, he died Anno Domini 16.

EDWARD ALLIN was born in the aforesaid Parish near Devonshire-house, where now is the sign of the Pie. He was bred a Stage-player, a Calling which many have condemned, more have questioned, some few have excused, and far fewer conscientious people have commended. He was the Roscius of our age, so acting to the life, that he made any part (especially a Majestck one) to become him. He got a very great Estate, and in his old age following Christ's Council, (on what forcible motive belongs not to me to inquire) He made friends of his unrighteous Mammon. Building therewith a fair College at Dulwich in Kent, for the relief of poor people.

Some I confess count it built on a foundered foundation, seeing in a spiritual sense none is good and lawful money save what is honestly and industrously gotten; but perchance such who condemn Master Allin herein, have as bad Shillings in the bottom of their own bags if search were made therein; sure I am, no Hospital is tied with better or stricter laws, that it may not Sagg from the intention of the Founder. The poor of his native Parish Saint Buttolph •… ishopgate have a privilege to be provided for therein before others. Thus he who out-acted others in his life, out did himfelf before his death, which happened Anno Domini 16.

WILLIAM PLAT was born in this City (as his Heir hath informed me) son to Sir Hugh Plat, grand-son to Richard Plat Alderman of London. He was a FellowCommo •… er b •… ed in Saint Johns college in Cambridge, and by his Will bequeathed thereunto Lands to maintain Fellows and Scholars, (Fellows at thirty, Scholars at ten pounds per annum ) so many as the Estate would extend unto.

But this general and doubtful settlement was liable to long and great suits betwixt the College and the Heirs of the said William, until Anno 1656. the same were happily compoled betwixt the College and John Plat Clerk, (Heir to the foresaid William ) when a settlement was made by mutual consent of four Scholars at ten, and two Fellows at fifty pounds per annum. Here I mention not thirty pounds yearly given by him to the poor of Hornsey and High-gate, with a Lecture founded therein. This William Plat died Anno 1637.

ALEXANDER STRANGE son to a Doctor in Law, was born in London, bred in Peter-house in Cambridge, where he commenced Bachelor of Divinity, and afterwards for forty six years was Vicar of Layston, and Prebend of Saint Paul's, where his Prebenda submersa the Corps whereof were drowned in, the Sea afforded him but a noble year.

Now, because Layston Church stood alone in the fields, and inconveniently for such who were to repair thereunto, he built at Buntingford (a thorough-road market, mostly in his Parish, a neat and strong Chapel e stipe collatitiâ, from the bounty others gave, and he gathered.) Wherefore having laid the foundation, before well furnished for the finishing thereof, he gave for his Motto,

None could tax him (with the Scribes and Pharisees) for binding heavy burdens and grievous to be born, and laying them on other men's shoulders, whilst he himself would not move them with one of his fingers. First, because the burdens were not heavy, being light in the particulars, though weighty in the total sum. Secondly, he bound them on none, but professed himself bound unto them, if pleased to take them up for a public good. Thirdly, he put his, and that a bountiful hand unto them, purchasing land out of his own purse to pay for the daily reparation thereof. He also promoted the building of a Free-school in the said place, to which some sisters worsh •… pfully born in the same Town, wealthily and honourably married, were the Foundresses, yet so as it will still be thankful to contributors thereunto for better accommodation.

This Master Strange being no less prosperous then painful in compounding all differences among his neighbors, being a man of peace went to eternal peace December 8. in the eightieth year of his age 1650.

To the Reader.

Pauperis est numerare, They have but few who have but a number. It passeth my power to compute the Benefactors Natives of this City, whose names are entered in fair Tables (the Counterpart of the Original no doubt kept in heaven,) in their respective Parishes; so that in this City it is as easy to find a Steeple without a Bell hanging in it, as a Vestry without such a Memorial fixed to it: Thither I refer the Reader for his better satisfaction, and proceed to the