English Puritan & Reformed

The History of the Worthies of England

Thomas Fuller (1608-1661) · 654,712 words · 2910 min

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I find no great difference betwixt their age, seeing

George Day was admitted in Kings College, Anno 1538.

William Day was admitted in the same College Anno 1545.

Yet was there more than forty years betwixt the dates of their deaths.

George Day died very young Bishop of Chichester, Anno Dom. 1556.

William Day died very old Bishop of Winchester, Anno 1596.

But not so great was the difference betwixt their Vivacity, as distance betwixt their Opinions: the former being a Rigid Papist, the later a Zealous Protestant. Who requesting of his Brother some Money to buy Books therewith, and other necessaries, was returned with this denial That he thought it not fit to spend the goods of the Church on him who was an enemy of the Church.

However, this William found the words of Solomon true, And there is a friend who is nearer than a Brother; not wanting those who supplied his necessities: He was Proctor of Cambridge, 1558, and afterwards was made by Queen Elizabeth (who highly esteemed him for his Learning and Religion) Provost of Eton and Dean of Windsor, two fair preferments (parted with Thames, but) united in his person; The Bishopric of Winchester he enjoyed scarcely a whole year, and died as aforesaid, 1596.

Statesmen.

Sir THOMAS BROMLEY, was borne at Bromley in this County, of a right ancient Family, I assure you; bred in the Inner Temple, and General Solicitor to Queen Elizabeth. He afterwards succeeded Sir Nicholas Bacon, in the Dignity of Lord Chancellor, April 25. 1579.

Now although it was difficult to come after Sir Nicholas Bacon, and not to come after him: Yet such was Sir Thomas his Learning and Integrity (being charactred by my Authors, Virjuris prudentia insignis: ) That Court was not sensible of any considerable alteration. He possessed his place about nine years, dying Anno 1587, not being 60 years old. Hereby the pregnancie of his parts do appear, seeing by proportion of time he was made the Queens Solicitor before he was 40, and Lord Chancellor before he was 50 years old. Learning in Law may seem to run in the veins of that name, which since had a Baron of the Exchequer of his Alliance.

Sir CLEMENT EDMONDS was born at Shrawardine in this County, and bred Fellow in All-Souls College in Oxford, being generally skilled in all Arts and Sciences. Witness his faithful Translations of, and learned Illustrations on, Caesar's Commentaries. Say not that Comment on Commentary was false Heraldry, seeing it is so worthy a work, that the Author thereof may pass for an eminent instance to what perfection of Theorie they may attain in matter of War, who were not acquainted with the Practick part thereof, being only once employed by Queen Elizabeth, with a dispatch to Sir Francis Vere which occasioned his presence at the Battail at Newport: For he doth so smartly discuss pro and con, and seriously decide many Martial Controversies, that his judgment therein is praised by the best Military Masters.

King James taking notice of his Abilities, made him Clerke of the Council, and Knighted him: And he was at last preferred Secretary of State, in the vacancy of that place, but, prevented by Death, acted not therein. He died Anno 16.. and lies buried at Preston in Northamptonshire, where he purchased a fair Estate, which his Grandchilde doth possess at this day.

Capitall Judges and Writers on the Law.

EDMUND PLOWDEN, was borne at Plowden in this County, one who excellently deserved of our Municipall Law, in his learned Writings thereon: but consult his ensuing Epitaph, which will give a more perfect account of him.

Conditur in hoc Tumulo corpus Edmundi Plowden Armigeri. Claris ortus Parentibus, apud Plowden in Comitatu Salop. natus est; à pueritia in literarum studio liberaliter est educatus, in provectiore vero aetate Legibus, & juris prudentiae operam dedit. Senex jam factus, & annum aetatis suae agens 67. Mundo valedicens, in Christo Jesu sancte obdormivit, die sexto mensis Februar. Anno Domini, 1584.

I have rather inserted this Epitaph inscribed on his Monument on the North side of the East end of the Choir of Temple Church in London, because it hath escaped (but by what casualty I cannot conjecture) Master Stow in his Survey of London. We must add a few words out of the Character Mr. Camden gives of him.

Vitae integritate inter homines suae professionis nulli secundus.

And how excellent a medley is made, when honesty and ability meet in a man of his Profession! Nor must we forget how he was Treasurer for the Honorable Society of the Middle-Temple, Anno 1572. when their magnificent Hall was built: He being a great advancer thereof.

Sir JOHN WALTER, son to Edmund Walter, Chief Justice of South-Wales, was born at Ludlow in this County, and bred a Student of our Common-Laws, wherein he attained to great Learning, so that he became, when a Pleader, eminent; when a Judge, more eminent; when no Judge, most eminent.

1 Pleader. ] The Character that Learned James Thuanus, gives of Christopher Thuanus his Father, being an Advocate of the Civil Law, and afterwards a Senator of Paris, is exactly agreeable to this Worthy Knight;

Ut bonos a calumniatoribus, tenuiores a potentioribus, doctos ab ignorantibus opprimi non pateretur.

That he fuffered not good men to be born down by slanderers, poor men by more potent, Learned men by the ignorant.

2 Judge. ] Who (as when ascending the Bench, entering into a new temper) was most passionate as Sir John, most patient as Judge Walter; and great his gravity in that place. When Judge Denham, his most upright and worthy Associate in the Western Circuit once said unto him, My Lord, you are not merry; Merry enough (returned the other) for a Judge.

3 No Judge. ] Being outed of his place, when Chief Baron of the Exchequer, about the Illegality of the Loan, as I take it.

He was a grand Benefactor (though I know not the just proportion) to Jesus College in Oxford, and died Anno 1630. in the Parish of the Savoy, bequeathing 20 l. to the Poor thereof.

EDWARD LITLETON born at Mounslow in this County, was the eldest son to Sir Edward Littleton, one of the Justices of the Marches, and Chief Justice of NorthWales. He was bred in Christ -Church in Oxford, where he proceeded Bachelor of Arts, and afterward one of the Justices of North-Wales, Recorder of London, and Solicitor to king Charles. From these places he was preferred to be Chief Justice of the CommonPleas, when he was made Privy Counselor; thence advanced to be Lord Keeper and Baron of Mounslow, the place of his Nativity. He died in Oxford and was buried in Christ Church, Anno 1645.

Soldiers.

Sir JOHN TALBOT was born (as all concurring indications do avouch) at BlackMere in this County, the then flourishing (now ruined) House, devolved to his Family by marrying the Heir of the Lord Strange of Black-Mere. Many Honorable Titles deservedly met in him, who was,

1 Lord Talbot, and Strange, by his Paternal extraction.
2 Lord Furnival and Verdon, by marriage with Joan, the daughter of Thomas de Nevill.
3 Earl of Shrewsbury in England, and Weisford in Ireland, by creation of King Henry the Sixth.

This is that terrible Talbot, so famous for his Sword, or rather whose Sword was so famous for his arm that used it. A Sword with bad Latin upon it, but good Steel within it, which constantly conquered where it came, insomuch that the bare fame of his approach, frighted the French from the Siege of Burdeaux. Being victorious for twenty four years together, success failed him at last, charging the enemy near Castilion on unequal terms, where he with his Son the Lord Lisle were slain with a shot July 17. 1453. Hence forward we may say, Good night to the English in France, whose victories were buried with the body of this Earl, and his body enterred at White-Church in this County.

Sir JOHN TALBOT, son to Sir John Talbot aforesaid, and Viscount Lisle in right of his Mother. Though he was slain with his Father, yet their ashes must not be so huddled together, but that he must have a distinct commemoration of his valor. The rather, because a Noble Pen hath hinted a parallel, betwixt him and Paulus Aemilius the Roman General, which others may improve.

1 Aemilius was overpowered by the forces of Hannibal and Asdrubal to the loss of the day.
2 Corn. Lentulus entreated Aemilius (sitting all bloodied upon a stone) to rise and save himself, offering him his horse and other assistance.
3 Aemilius refused the proffer, adding withal, That he would not again come under the judgment of the people of Rome.

1 The same sad success attended the two Talbots, in fight against the French.
2 The Father advised the son, by escape to reserve himself for future fortune.
3 His son craved to be excused, and would not on any terms be persuaded to forsake his father.

In two considerables Talbot far surpass'd Aemilius, for Aemilius was old, grievously, if not mortally wounded: our Lord in the flower of his youth, unhurt, easily able to escape. Aemilius accountable for the over-throw received, the other no ways answerable for that day's mis-fortune, being (as we have said) the 17 of July 1453.

Learned Writers.

ROBERT of SHREWSBURY. Take, Reader a taste of the different Spirits of Writers concerning his Character.

Leland's Text. Eadem opera, & religionem celebrabat, & literas. With the same endeavor He plied both Religion and Learning.

Bale his Comment. Per religionem fortassis Monachatum intelligit, per literas Sophistica praestigia.

It may be he meaneth Monkery by Religion and by Learning Sophistical fallacies.

I confess he might have employed his pains better. But Bale proceeds, de Consultis Ruthenis, consulting (not the Russians, as the word sounds to all Critics ) but the Men of Ruthin in Wales. He wrote the Life and Miracles of S. Winfride, flourished Anno 1140.

DAVID of CHIRBURY, a Carmelite, was so named from his Native place in the West of this County, bordering on Mountgomery-shire. A small Village I confess, yet which formerly denominated a whole hundred, and at this day is the Barony of the Lord Herbert. He was, saith Leland, (whom I take at the second hand on the trust of John Pits) Theology cognition clarus. And going over into Ireland, was there made Episcopus Dormorensis, Bishop of Drummore, as I take it, He is said to have wrote some Books, though not mentioned in Bale, and (which is to me a wonder) no notice taken of him by that Judicious Knight Sr. James Ware. So that it seems his Writings were either few, or obscure. Returning into England he died, and was buried in his Native County at Ludlow, in the Convent of the Carmelites, Anno Dom. 1420.

Since the Reformation.

ROBERT LANGELAND, forgive me, Reader, though placing him (who lived one hundred & fifty years before) since the Reformation: For I conceive that the Morning-star belongs rather to the Day, then to the Night. On which account this Robert (regulated in our Book not according to the Age he was in, but Judgment he was of,) may by Prolepsis be termed a Protestant.

He was born at Mortimers-Clibery in this County eight miles from Malvern-Hills: was bred a Priest, and one of the first followers of J. Wycliffe, wanting neither Wit, nor Learning, as appears by his Book called, The vision of Pierce Plowgh-man, and hear what Character a most Learned Antiquary giveth thereof.

It is written in a kind of English meeter, which for discovery of the infecting corruptions of those times, I prefer before many of the more seemingly serious Invectives, as well for Invention as Judgment.

There is a Book first set forth by Tindal, since, exemplied by Mr. Fox, called The Prayer and complaint of the Plowghman, which though differing in title and written in prose, yet be of the same subject at the same time, in the same Language, I must refer it to the same Author: and let us observe a few of his strange words with their significations.

1 Behotef	1 Promiseth
2 Binemen	2 Take away
3 Blive	3 Quickly
4 Fulleden	for	4 Baptized
5 Feile times	5 Oft times
6 Forward.	6 Covenant.
7 Heryeth	7 Worshipeth
8 Homelich	8 Household
9 Lesew	9 Pasture
10 Leude-men	10 Lay-men
11 Nele	11 Will not
12 Nemeth	for	12 Taketh
13 Seggen	13 Do say
14 Swevens	14 Dreams
15 Syth	15 Afterwards.
16 Thralles	16 Bond-men.

It's observable that Pitzaeus (generally a perfect Plagiary out of Bale ) passeth this Langland over in silence: and why? because he wrote in oppositum to the Papal Interest: Thus the most Light finger'd Thieves will let that alone, which is too hot for them. He flourished under King Edward the Third, Anno Dom. 1369.

THOMAS CHURCHYARD was born in the Town of Shr •… wesbury, as himself doth affirm in his Book made in Verse of the Worthines of Wales, taking Shropshire within the compass, making (to use his own expression) Wales the Park, and the Marches to be the Pale thereof. Though some conceive him to be as much beneath a Poet, as above a Rbimer, in my opinion his Verses may go abreast with any of that age, writing in the beginning of Queen Elizabeth. It seems by this his Epitaph in Mr. Camdens Remains, that he died not guilty of much Wealth.

           Come
           
            Alecto
           
           lend me thy Torch,
          
           To find a
           
            Church-yard
           
           in a
           
            Church-porch:
           
            Poverty
           
           and
           
            Poetry
           
           his Tomb doth enclose,
          
           Wherefore good nighbours be merry in Prose.

His death, according to the most probable conjecture, may be presumed about the eleventh year of the Queens Reign Anno Dom. 1570.

THOMAS HOLLAND D. D. was born in this County, in finibus & limitibus Cambriae, in the confines and Marches of Wales, bred in Exeter College in Oxford, and at last became Rector thereof. He did not with some only sip of Learning, or at the best but drink thereof: but was Mersus in Libris, Drowned in his Books, so that the Scholar in him almost devoured all other Relations. He was, saith the Author, of his Funeral Sermon so familiar with the Fathers, as if he himself had been a Father. This quality commended him to succeed Dr. Lawrence Humphrid, in the place of Regius Professor, which place he discharged with good credit for twenty years together. When he went forth of his College on any journey for any long continuance, he always took this solemn Valediction of the Fellowes.

I commend you to the love of God, and to the hatred of Popery and Superstition.

His extemporaries were often better than his praemeditations, so that he might have been said to have been out, if he had not been out. He died in March Anno Dom. 1612. and was buried in Oxford with great solemnity and lamentation.

ABRAHAM WHELOCK was born in White-church Parish in this County, bred Fellow of Clare-Hall, Library-keeper, Arabic Professor, and Minister of St. Sepulchers in Cambridge. Admirable his industry, & no less his Knowledge in the Oriental tongues, so that he might serve for an Interpreter to the Queen of Sheba coming to Solomon, and the Wise Men of the East who came to Herod, such his skill in the Arabi •… and Persian Language. Amongst the Western Tongues he was well versed in the Saxon, witness his fair and true Edition of Bede.

He translated the New Testament into Persian, and printed it, hoping in time it might tend to the conversion of that Country to Christianity. Such as laugh at his design as ridiculous, might well forbear their mirth, and seeing they expended neither penny of cost nor hour of pains therein, might let another enjoy his own inclination. True it is he that sets an acorn, sees it not a timber-oak, which others may behold, and if such Testaments be conveyed into Persia, another age may admire what this doth deride. He died, as I take it, Anno Dom. 1654.

Benefactors to the Public.

Sir ROGER ACHLEY born at Stanwardine in this County. He beheld the whole City of London as one Family, and himself the Major 1511 (for the time being) the Master thereof. He observed that poor people, who never have more than they need, will sometimes need more than they have. This Joseph collected from the present plenty, that a future famine would follow, as in this kind, a Lank constantly attendeth a Bank. Wherefore he prepared Leaden-Hall, (therefore called the Common Garner ) and stored up much Corn therein, for which he deserved the praise of the Rich, and the blessing of the Poor.

Since the Reformation.

Sir ROWLAND HILL, son of Richard Hill, was born at Hodnet in this County, bred a Mercer in London, whereof he was Lord Major 1549. Being sensible that God had given him a great estate, he expressed his gratitude unto him

In Giving maintenance to a fair▪ School at Drayton in this County, which he built and endowed, besides six hundred pounds to Christ-Church-Hospital, and other benefactions.

In Forgiving at his death all his Tenants in his Manors of Aldersy and Sponely, a years Rent. Also enjoining his Heirs, to make them new Leases of one and twenty years, for two years Rent.

As for the Cause-ways he caused to be made, and Bridges built (two of stone containing eighteen arches in them both) seeing hitherto it hath not been my hap to go over them, I leave his piety to be praised by such passengers, who have received safety, ease, and cleaness, by such conveniences. He died Anno Dom. 15..

A note to the Reader.

I have heard the natives of this County confess and complain of a comparative dearth (in proportion to other Shires) of Benefactors to the public. But sure, Shropshire is like to the Mulberry, which putteth forth his leaves last of all Trees, but then maketh such speed, (as sensible of his slowness with an ingenious shame) that it overtaketh those trees in Fruit, which in Leaves started long before it. As this Shire of late hath done affording two of the same surname still surviving, who have dipped their hands so deep in charitable mortar.

Sir THOMAS ADAMS, Kt. was born at Wem in this County, bred a Draper in London, where God so blessed his honest industry, that he became Lord Major thereof 164.. A man, who hath drunk of the bitter waters of Meribah without making a bad face thereat, cheerfully submitting himself to God's pleasure in all conditions.

He gave the house of his nativity, to be a Free School (that others might have their breeding, where he had his birth ) and hath liberally endowed it. He liveth in due honor and esteem and, I hope, will live to see many years, seeing there is no better Collurium or Eye-salve to quicken and continue ones sight, than in his life time to behold a building erected for the public profit.

WILLIAM ADAMS Esq. was born at Newport in this County, bred by Trade a Haberdasher in London, where God so blessed his endeavors, that he fined for Alderman in that City. God had given him an heart and hand proportionable to his estate, having founded in the Town of his nativity a School-house in the form following.

1 The building is of Brick, with Windowes of free stone, wherein the School is Threescore and ten in length, and two and twenty foot in breadth and height.
2 Over it a fair Library furnished with plenty and choice Books.

At the South end, the lodgings of the Schoolmaster, whose salary is sixty; On the North the Ushers, whose stipend is thirty pounds per annum.
3 Before the front of the School a stately Crupto-porticus, or fair walk all the length of the School, with Pillars erected, and on the top thereof a leaden Tarras, with Railes, and Barristers.
4 Two Alms-houses for poor people, at convenient distance from the School, with competent maintenance.
5 Two Gardens a piece, for School-master and Usher, with well nigh two Acres of ground for a place for the Scholars to play in.
6 The Rent for the maintenance thereof deposed in the hands of Trustees, a year before, that in case of casualty there may be no complaint.
7 More intended for the settlement of exhibitions to Scholars chosen hence to the University, as God hereafter shall direct the founder. But who for the present can hold from praising so pious a performance.

           Come
           
            Momus,
           
           who delight doest take,
          
           Where none are
           
            found,
           
           there faults to make:
          
           And count'st that cost, and care, and pain,
          
           Not spent on thee, all spent in vain.
          
           See this bright structure, till that smart
          
           Blind thy blear-eyes, and grieve thy heart.
          
           Some
           
            Cottage
           
           -Schools are built so low,
          
           The
           
            Muses
           
           there must groveling go.
          
           Here, whilst
           
            Apollo
           
           's sharp doth sound,
          
           The
           
            Sisters Nine
           
           may dance around;
          
           And Architects may take from hence
          
           The Pattern of magnificence.
          
           Then grieve not,
           
            Adams,
           
           in thy mind,
          
           'Cause you have left no Child behind:
          
           Unbred! unborn, is better rather
          
           If so, you are a second Father
          
           To all bred in this School so fair,
          
           And each of them thy
           
            Son
           
           and
           
            Heir.

Long may this Worthy person live to see his intentions finished and completed, to his own contentment.

Memorable Persons.

THOMAS PARRE, son of John Parre, born at Alberbury in the Parish of Winnington in this County, lived to be above one hundred and fifty years of age, verifying his Anagram

Thomas Parre.

Most rare hap.

He was born in the reign of King Edward the Fourth, one thousand four hundred eighty three, and two months before his death was brought up by Thomas Earl of Arundel (a great lover of Antiquities in all kinds) to Westminster. He slept away most of his time, and is thus charactered by an eye witness of him

From head to heel his body had all over,

A quick-set, thick-set nat'ral hairy cover.

Change of Air and Diet (better in itself, but worse for him) with the trouble of many Visitants or Spectators rather are conceived to have accelerated his death, which happened Westminster, November the 15, 1634, and was buried in the Abbey -Church, all present at his burial, doing homage to this our aged Thomas de Temporibus.

Lord's Majors.

Name	Father	Place	Company.	Time
1 Roger Acheley	Thomas Acheley	Stanwardine	Draper	1511
2 Rowland Hill	Thomas Hill	Hodnet	Mercer	1549
3 Thomas Lee	Roger Lee	Wellington	Mercer	1558
4 Thomas Lodge	William Lodge	Cresset	Grocer	1562
5 Rowland Heyward	George Heyward	Bridge North	Clothworker	1570
6 Robert Lee	Humphry Lee	Bridge North	Merchant Tailor	1602
7 John Swinnerton	Tho. Swinnerton	Oswestry	Merchant Tailor	1612
8 Francis Jones	John Jones	Glaverley	Haberdasher	1620
9 Peter Probey	Not Recorded	White-church	Grocer	1622
10 Allen Cotton	Ralph Cotton	White-church	Draper	1625
11 George Whitmore	Will. Whitmore	Charley	Haberdasher	1631
12 Thomas Adams	Thomas Adams	Wem	Draper	164.

See we here a Jury of Lord's Majors born in this (which I believe will hardly be paallel'd in a greater) County. All [no doubt] Honestmen, and true.

The Names of the Gentry of this County, returned by the Commissioners in the twelfth year of Henry the Sixth 1433.

A] William, Bishop of Coven. & Leichf.	Commissioners to take the Oaths.
B] John de Talbot, Knight.
C] Richard Laken,	Knights for the Shire.
William Boerley.

Willielmi Malory, Militis
Johannes Fitz-Piers
Willielmi Lodelowe
Thomae Hopton, de Hopton
Richardi Archer
Johannes Wynnesbury
Thomae Corbet, de Ley
Thomae Corbet, de Morton
Johannes Bruyn, senioris
Thomae Charleton
Richardi Peshale
Thomae Newport
Georgii Hankeston
Johannes Brugge
Thomae Banastre
Hugonis Harnage
Leonardi Stepulton
Hugonis Cresset
Johannes Skryven
Willielmi Poynour
Richardi Neuport
Richardi Horde
Nicholai Sandford
Griffin Kynaston
Johanuis Bruyn, junioris
Hugonis Stepulton
Simonis Hadington
Alani Wetenhull
Richardi Sonford
Johannes Otley
Edwardi Leighton, de Mershe
Edmundi Plowden
Thomae Mardford
Rogeri Bromley
Richardi Lee
Humfridi Cotes
Willielmi Leighton
Richardi Horton
Willielmi Welascote
Richardi Husee
Johannes Wenlok
Willielmi Mersheton
Walteri Codour
Ricdardi Gerii
Willielmi Bourden.

A] This William was William Hieworth, Bishop of Coventry and Leichfield, of whom here after.

B] Sir John Talbot, (though here only additioned Knight) was the Lord Talbot, and eight years after created Earl of Shrewsbury, of whom before.

C] Richard Laken, the same Family with Lacon, whose Seat was at Willily in this County, augmented both in Blood and Estate by the Matches with the Heirs of

1 Harley. 2 Peshal. 3 Passilew. 4 Blunt of Kinlet.

My hopes are according to my desires that this Ancient Family is still extant in this County, though I suspect shrewdly shattered in Estate.

The Commissioners of this Shire were neither altogether Idle, nor very Industrious: having made but a short and slender return, only of 45 principal persons therein.

Sheriffs of Shropshire.

Anno 1
Anno 2: Will. filius Alani, for 5 years together.
Anno 7: Guido Extraneus, for 5 years together.
Anno 12: Gaufrid. de Ver, for 4 years together.
Anno 16: Gaufrid. de Ver, & Will. Clericus.
Anno 17: Guido Extraneus, for 9 years together.
Anno 26: Hugo Pantulfe, for 8 years together.

Anno 1: Will. filius Alani, & Reginal. de Hesden.
Anno 2: Idem.
Anno 3: Will. filius Alani, & Will. de Hadlega.
Anno 4: Will. filius Alani, for 4 years together.
Anno 8: Will. filius Alani, & Reginald. de Hedinge.
Anno 9: Will. filius Alani, & Wido. filius Roberti.
Anno 10: Will. filius Alani Masculum.

Anno 1: Will. filius Alani, & Warrus de Wililegh.
Anno 2: Idem.
Anno 3: Will. filius Alani, & Reiner de Lea.
Anno 4: G. filius Petri, & Richardus, de Ambresleg.
Anno 5: Idem.
Anno 6: Thomas de Erolitto & Robertus de Alta Ripa.
Anno 7: Idem.
Anno 8: Thomas de Erdington, for 9 years together.

Anno 1
Anno 2: Ranul. Com. Cestriae, & Hen. de Aldetheleg.
Anno 3: Idem.
Anno 4: Idem.
Anno 5: Ranul. Com. Cestriae, & Philippus Kinton.
Anno 6: Idem.
Anno 7: Idem.
Anno 8: Ranul. Com. Cestriae.
Anno 9: Johannes Bovet.
Anno 10: Idem.
Anno 11: Hen. de Aldithle.
Anno 12: Idem.
Anno 13: Idem.
Anno 14: Hen. de Aldithle, & Will. de Bromley.
Anno 15: Idem.
Anno 16: Idem.
Anno 17: Petr. Rival. & Rob. de Haye, for 4 years together.
Anno 21: Johannes Extraneus, & Robertus de Acton.
Anno 22: Johannes Extraneus, for 11 years together.
Anno 33: Thomas Corbet
Anno 34: Idem.
Anno 35: Robertus de Grendon, for 5 years together.
Anno 40: Hugo Acover
Anno 41: Idem.
Anno 42: Wilhelmus Bagod
Anno 43: Idem.
Anno 44: Idem.
Anno 45: Jacobus de Audeley, for 7 years together.
Anno 52: Walterus de Hopton
Anno 53: Idem.

Anno 1: Roger. de Mortuo Mari.
Anno 2: Idem
Anno 3: Idem
Anno 4: Bago de Knovile
Anno 5: Idem
Anno 6: Idem.
Anno 7: Rogerus Sprengehuse, for 8 years together.
Anno 15: Dominus de Ramesley
Anno 16: Idem.
Anno 17: Robertus Corbet
Anno 18: Will. de Tickley, ( •… ive Tittle) for 6 years together.
Anno 24: Radulphus de Schirle.
Anno 25: Idem
Anno 26: Idem.
Anno 27: Tho. Corbet
Anno 28: Idem.
Anno 29: Richardus de Harleigh.
Anno 30: Idem
Anno 31: Walter de Beysin
Anno 32: Idem
Anno 33: Johannes de Acton
Anno 34: Johannes de Dene
Anno 35: Idem

Anno 1: Rogerus Trumvine
Anno 2: Johannes Extraneus, & Hugo de Crofts. Hugo de Crofts
Anno 4: Idem
Anno 5: Hugo de Audeley
Anno 6: Idem
Anno 7: Idem
Anno 8: Will. de Mere.
Anno 9: Rogerus de Cheyney
Anno 10: Rogerus Trumwine
Anno 11: Idem.
Anno 12: Robertus de Grendon
Anno 13: Nul. Tit. Vicom. in hoc Rot.
Anno 14: Nec in hoc.
Anno 15: Johannes de Swinerton
Anno 16: Idem.
Anno 17: Hen. de Bishburne
Anno 18: Idem
Anno 19: Idem

Anno 1: Joh. de Hinckley, & Hen. de Bishburn
Anno 2: Idem
Anno 3: Johannes Hinckley
Anno 4: Idem
Anno 5: Henricus de Bishburn
Anno 6: Idem
Anno 7: Richardus de Peshal
Anno 8: Idem
Anno 9: Johannes de Hinckley
Anno 10: Simon de Ruggeley
Anno 11: Richardus de Peshal
Anno 12: Idem
Anno 13: Simon de Ruggeley
Anno 14: Idem
Anno 15: Adam de •… eshal
Anno 16: Thomas de Swinerton
Anno 17: Idem
Anno 18: Johannes de Aston
Anno 19: Richardus Com. Arundel, for 31 years together.
Anno 50: Richardus Peshall
Anno 51: Petrus de Careswel.

Name.	Place	Arms.
RICH. II.
Anno
1 Brian. de Cornwel	Burford	Ar. a Lion ramp. Gu. crowned Or, a border Sa. Beazante.
2 Johannes Ludlow	Hodnet	Argent, a Lion rampant, Sable.
3 Joh. de Drayton	Drayton
4 Rogerus Hord		Ar. on a Chief Or, a Raven proper.
5 Johannes Shery
6 Edw. de Acton	Aldenham	Gu. 2 Lions passant Arg, betwixt 9 croslets, Or.
7 John. de Stepulton		Argent, a Lion rampant, Sable.
8 Edw. ac Acton	ut prius
9 Nich. de Sandford	Sandford	Parteper Cheveron, Sable and Er. 2 Boarsheads coupee in chief, Or.
10 Robert. de Lee	Lee-hall	Gu. a Fess componee, Or, & Az. betwixt 8 Billets Argent.
11 John. * Mowetho		Alias * Mowellio, quaere.
12 Rob. de Ludlow	ut prius
13 Edw. de Acton	ut prius
14 John. de Stepulton	ut prius
15 Will. Huggeford
16 Hen. de Winesbury		Az. on a Bend, betwixt 2 cotises, Or, 3 Lions Gules.
17 John. de Eyton	Eyton	Or, a Fret, Azure.
18 Thomas de Lee	ut prius
19 Will. Worthie
20 Will. Huggeford
21 Adamus de Peshal		Argent, a Cross formee, fleury, Sable, on a Canton, Gules, a Wolfs-head erased of the field.
22 Idem.	ut prius
HEN. IV.
Anno
1 Io. Cornwall, Mil.	ut prius
2 Will. Huggeford, & Johan. Daras
3 Will. Banaster	Wem	Argent, a Cross Patee Sable.
4 Tho. Newport	Arcol	Argent, a Cheveron, Gules, betwixt 3 Leopards heads Sable.
5 Idem.	ut prius
6 John. Cornwail, Mil.	ut prius
7 Tho. de Witton	Witton	Or, on a Cheveron, Sable, 5 Plates.
8 Will. Brounshul
9 John. Boreley	Broms-croft Ca •… tle	Arg. a Fesse checque Or, and Az. upon a Lions ramp. Sable, armed Gnles.
10 Rog. Acton	ut prius
11 Edw. Sprengeaux
12 Robertus Tiptot		Argent, a Saltire ingrailed, Gules.
HEN. V
Anno
1 Rob. Corbet, Mil.	Morton	Or, a Raven proper.
2 Rob. Corbet, Mil.	ut prius
3 Rich. Laken, Mil.		Quarterly per Fesse indented, Ermin and Azure.
4 Geor. Hankeston
5 Will. Ludelowe	ut prius
6 Adam Peshal, Mil.	ut prîus
7 Rob. Corbet	ut prius
8 Johannes Bruyn		Azure, a Cross Molin, Or.
9 Idem.	ut prius
HEN. VI.
Anno
1 Johannes Bruyn	ut prius
2 Hugo Harnage	Cund	Argent, 6 Torteauxes.
3 Tho. le S •… ange		Gules, 2 Lions passant, Argent.
4 Will. Bo •… y	ut prius
5 Tho. Corbet	ut p •… ius
6 Will. Li •… chfeld
7 John. Winnesbury	ut prius
8 Hugo Bu •… gh, & Thomas •… opton		Az. a Cheveron betwixt 3 flower de Luces, Ermin.
	Hopton	Gu. Seme de Cross croslets a Lion Ramp. Or.
9 Rich. A •… chet
10 Johannes Bruyn	ut prius
11 Johannes Ludlow	ut prius
12 〈◊〉 . Corbet, de Ley	ut prius
13 Hugo Cr •… sset	Upton Cresset	Azure, a Cross within a Border ingrailed, Or.
14 Rob. Inglefeld	BERK-sh.	Barry of 6 Gules and A •… gent, on a chief, Or, a Lion passant Azure.
15 Will. Ludlow	ut prius
16 Will. Liechfield
17 Hum. Low
18 Nicholaus Eyton	ut prius
19 Idem	ut prius
20 Johannes Burgh	ut prius
21 Will. Ludlow	ut prius
22 Thomas Corbet	ut prius
23 Nichol •… us Eyton	ut prius
24 Hugo Cresset	ut prius
25 Fulcho Sprencheaux
26 Will. Ludlow	ut prius
27 Io •… . Burgh, Mil.	ut prius
28 Rogerus Ey •… on	ut prius
29 Thomas Herbert	Chirbury	Per pa •… e Azure & Gules, 3 Lions ramp •… , Argent.
30 Will. Laken	ut prius
31 John. Burgh, Mil.	ut prius
32 Robertus Corbet	ut prius
33 N •… cholaus Eyton	ut prius
34 Will. Mitton		Per Pale Gules •… nd Azure, au •… Eagle 〈◊〉 with 2 he •… , Or.
35 Tho. Hord, Arm.	ut prius
36 Fulco Sprencheaux
37 Tho. Cornwail, ar.	ut prius
38 Rob. Co •… ber, Mil.	ut prius
EDW. IV.
Anno
1 Hum. Blou •… t, Ar.	Kin •…	〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 six. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Sable.
2 Rog. Kin •… ston, ar.	Hor •… ey	See ou •… es in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ▪
3 Idem	ut prius
4 John. Burgh, Mil.	ut prius
5 Rich. Lee Armig.	ut prius
6 Rob. Ey •… on, ar.	ut prius
7 Hum. Blount, ar.	ut prius
8 John. Leighton, ar.	Watlesbury	Quarterly per 〈◊〉 indented Or, and Gules.
9 Rob. Cresset, Ar.	ut prius
10 Rog. K •… naston, ar.	ut prius
11 Rog. K •… aston, Mi.	ut prius
12 Rob. Charleton, ar		Or, a Lion rampant, Gules.
13 Will. Newport	ut prius
14 Johan. Leighton	ut prius
15 Hum. Blount, Mil.	ut prius
16 Johannes H •… i
17 Rich. Laken, Ar.	ut prius
18 Rich. Ludlow, Mil.	ut prius
19 Richardus Lee	ut prius
20 Th. Blount, Arm.	ut prius
21 John. Harley, Mil.		Or, a •… end cotised, Sable.
22 John. Leighton, ar.	ut prius
RICH. III.
Anno
1 Thomas Mitton	ut prius
2 Thomas Hord.	ut prius
3 Rob. Cresser, & Gilber. Talbot, Mil.	ut prius	Gules, a Lion Rampant, and a border ingrai •… ed, Or▪
HEN. VII.
Anno
1 John. Talbot, mil.	ut prius
2 Rich. Laken, mil.	ut prius
3 Thomas Hord.	ut prius
4 Edward▪ Blount	ut prius
5 Rich. Ludlow, mil.	ut prius
6 Johan. Newport	ut prius
7 Will. Young, mil.	Kenton	Or, 3 Roses, Gules.
8 Edw▪ Blount, ar.	ut prius
9 Tho. Blount, mil.	ut prius
10 Th. Leighton, mil. & Rich. Lee, armig.	ut prius
	ut prius
11 Rich. Lee, armig.	ut prîus
12 Tho. Screvin, arm.	Fradgly	Argent, Guttee Gules, a Lion rampant, Sable.
13 Rich. Laken, Mil.	ut prius
14 Rich. Harley, Mil▪	ut prius
15 Will. Otteley, ar.	Pichford	Argent, on a Bend Azure, three Garbs, Or▪
16 John. Newport, Ar.	ut prius
17 Tho. Blount, Mil.	ut prius
18 Pet. Newton, ar.	Heytley	Argent, a Cross Sable, fleury, Or▪
19 Idem.	ut prius
20 Geo. Manwayring, arm.	CHESH	Argent, two Barres, Gules.
21 Th. Cornwail, mil.	ut prius
22 Rob. Corbet, Mil.	ut prius
23 Th▪ Kinaston, mil.	ut prius
HEN. VIII.
〈◊〉
1 Th. Laken, arm.	ut prius
2 John. Newport, ar.	ut prius
3 Th. Scriven, arm.	ut prius
4 Pe •… . Newton, ar.	ut prius
5 •… ill. Otteley, ar.	ut prius
6 Tho. Laken, arm.	ut prius
7 Th. Cornwall, mil.	ut prius
8 Rob. Pigot, armig.	Chetwin	Er •… in, 3 Fusiles in Fesse, Sable▪
•… Pet. •… ewton, arm.	ut prius
10 Tho. Blount, mil.	ut prius
11 Th. Cornwall, mil.	ut prius
12 John. Salter, armig.	Oswa •… rey	Gules, 10 Billets Or, 4, 3, 2, & 1 •…
13 Geo. Bromley, ar.	Bromley	Quarterly per Fesse indented, Arg. and Or.
14 Pet. N •… wton, arm.	ut prius
15 Thomas Vernon	Hodn •… t	Argent, Frettee, Sable, a Canton, Gules.
1 •… Th. Cornwall, mil.	ut prius
17 〈◊〉 . Corbet de ley, ar.
18 Tho. Screvin, arm.	ut prius
19 John. Talbot, mil.	Alb •… ighton
20 Rob. Nedeham, ar.	Shenton	Argent, a Bend ingrailed, Azure, betwi •… t 2 B •… cks-heads, Sable▪
21 Rog. Corbet, arm.	ut prius
22 Th. Cornwall, Mi •… .	ut prius
23 Th. Manwayring	ut prius
24 Th▪ Laken, miles.	ut prius
25 Th. Talbot, miles	ut prius
26 Tho. Vernon, arm.	ut prius
27 Rob. Nedeham, M.	ut prius
28 John. Corbet, arm.	ut prius
29 John▪ Talbot, miles.	ut prius
30 Rich▪ Manwayring	ut prius
31 Rich. Laken, arm.	ut prius
32 Rob. Nedeham, mi.	ut prius
33 John. Talbot, mil.	ut prius
34 Th. Newport, mil.	ut prius
35 Rich. Mitton, ar.	ut prius
36 Rich▪ Manwayring	ut prius
37 Th. Vernon, arm.	ut prius
38 Th. L •… e, armig.	ut prius
EDW. VI.
Anno
1 Will. Young, ar.	ut prius
2 Rich. Cornwall, ar.	ut prius
•… Tho. Newport, ar.	ut prius
4 Andr. Corbet, mil.	ut prius
5 Rich. Newpo •… t, ar.	ut prius
6 Ric. Manwayring (mil▪	ut prius
PHIL▪ Rex, & MAR. Reg.
Anno
1 Adam Milton, m •… .
2 Nic. Cornwall, ar.	ut prius
3 Andr. Corbet, mil.	ut prius
4 Rich. Leveson, mil.	Lilleshall	Az. 3 Laurel-leaves slipped, Or.
5 Rich. Newport, ar.	ut prius
6 Th. Farmour, arm.		Argent, a Fesse Sable, between 3 Lions-heads erased, Gules.
ELIZ. Reg.
Anno
1 Rich. Mitton, Ar.	ut prius
2 Rich. Corbet, arm.	ut prius
3 Rich. Cornwall, ar.	ut prius
4 Arth. Manwayring	ut prius
5 Geor. Blount, mil.	ut prius
6 Rob. Nedeham, ar.	ut prius
7 Hum. O •… slow, ar.	Onslow	Argent, a Fesse Gules, betwixt 6 Merlins Sable, beaked and legged, Or.
8 Th. Charlton, arm. & Th. Eaton, armig.	ut prius
9 Edw. Leighton, ar.	ut prius
10 Rich. Newport, mi.	ut prius
11 And. Corbet, mil.	ut prius
12 Rol. Laken, arm.	ut prius
13 Will. Gratewood, A.
14 Th. Powel, armig.	Worthen	Arg. 3 •… ars-heads coupee, Sable.
15 Roub. Pigot, arm.	ut prius
16 John. Hopton, arm.	ut prius
17 Walt, Leveso •… , ar.	ut prius
18 Art. Maynwa •… ing, m.	ut prius
19 F •… anc. Lawley, ar.	Spoon-Hill	Argent, a Cross Fo •… me throughout, Or and Sable.
20 Will. Young. arm.	ut prius
21 Edw. Cornwall, ar.	ut prius
22 Will. Gratewood, a.
23 Th. Williams, ar.	Willaston	Sa. 3 Nags-heads erased, Ermin.
24 Carolus Fox, arm.	Chain ham	Ar. a Cheveron betwixt 3 Foxes beads erased, Gules.
25 Rich. Cresset, arm.	ut prius
26 Roul. Barker, a •… m.	Haghmond	Gules, a Fess checky Or and Az. betwixt 6 Annulets of the Second.
27 Fran •… . Newp •… rt, ar.	ut prius
28 Rob. Nedeham.	ut prius
29 Edw. Leighton, ar.	ut prius
30 Th. Cornwall, ar.	ut prius
31 Andr. Charleton, •… .	ut prius
32 Will. Hopton, ar.	ut prius
33 Rob. Eyton, armig.	ut prius
34 Rich. Corbet, arm.	ut prius
35 Rob. Powel, armig.	ut prius
36 Frances Albany, ar.	Fern-Hill	Arg. on •… Fess betwixe 3 cinquefoiles Gules, a Gray- •… ond currant, Or.
37 Rob. Nedeham, ar.	ut prius
38 Edw. Scriven, arm.	ut prius
39 Carolus Fox, arm.	ut prius
40 Edw. Kinaston, mi	ut prius
41 Hum. Lee, armiger.	ut prius
42 Franc. Newport, a •… .	ut prius
43 Franc. Newton, ar.	ut prius
44 Rog. Ki •… aston, ar.	ut prius
45 Rog. Owen, mil.	Condover	Arge •… t, a Lion rampant Sable, a Canton of the field.
JACOB. Rex
Anno
1 Rog. Owen▪ mil.	ut prius
2 Hum. Briggs, arm.	Haughton	Gu. 2 Bars gemels, Or, on a Canton, Sa. a Cressent of the first.
3 He •… . Walop, mil.	Red-Castle	Argent, a Bend Wavy, Sable.
4 Rob. Nedeham, m.	ut prius
5 Ed •… . Fox, miles.	ut prius
6 Rob. Purslow, mil.	Sidbury	Ar. a Cross ingrailed fleury Sa. a Border of the same form Gu. •… ezance.
7 Rich. Mitton, arm.	Holston	Per Pale Gu. and Az. an Eagle displayed with 2 heads, Arg.
8 Bonham. Norton, a •… .	Stretton	Or, 2 Bars Gules, on a Chief, Azure, an Ineschoucheon Ermin.
9 Fran. Laken, mil.	Kinlet	Quarterly per Fess indented, Ermin and Azure.
10 Tho. Gervis, mil.
11 John. Cotes, armig.	Woodcoat	Quarterly Ermin, and paly of six, Or and Gules.
12 Tho. Piggot, ar.	ut prius
13 Th. Cornwall, Mil.	ut prius
14 Rolan. Cotton, mi.	B •… lla-Porte	Az •… a a Cheveron betwixt 3 CottonSkeans Arg.
15 Rob. Owen, Arm.	ut prius
16 Tho. Harris, Arm.	Boreatton	Or, 3 Vrchins Azure,
17 Will. Whitmore, ar	Appley	Vert, Fret •… y, Or.
18 Walter Barker, ar.	ut prius
19 •… h. Edwa •… ds, Arm.	Crete	Gules, a Cheveron, engrailed between 3 Boars heads erased, Or.
20 Will. Owen, Mil.	ut prius
21 Walt. Piggot, Ar.	Chetwin	Ermin, 3 Fusils in F •… sse, Sable.
22 Tho. Jones, arm.
CAR. Rex.
Anno
1 Fran. Charleton, ar.	Appley
2 Ric. Newport, Mil.	High Ar •… ol	Ar. a Cheveron Gules, betwixt 3 Leopards heads, Sable.
3 Rich. Prince, arm.	Shr •… wsbury	Gu. a Saltir Or, over all a Cross ingrailed, Ermin.
4 John. Corbet, Barr.	Stoake	Or, 2 Ravens in Pale proper, a border ingrailed, Gules.
5 Walt. Acton, ar▪	Aldenh •… m	Gu. 2 Lions passant Arg. between 9 Crosses croslets, Fitched, Or.
6 Hum. Walcot, ar.	Walcot	Ar. a Chever. inter 3 chess-Rooks, Er.
7 Tho. I •… eland, arm.	Abrington	Gul. 6 fleur de Luces, Argent.
8 Phil. Eyton▪ Mil.	Eyton	Or, a Fret, Azure.
9 Tho. Thynne, Mil.	Caus Castle	Barry of 10 Or and Sable.
10 John. Newton, arm.	Heytleigh ut prius	Arg. a Cross Sable fleury, Or.
11 Rob. Co •… bet, arm.
12 Paulus Harris, mil.	ut prius
13 Will. Pierpoint, ar.	Tong-Castl •…	Arg. a Lion Ramp. Sab. in an Orbe of Cinquefoiles, Gules.
	14 Rich. Lee▪		Gules, a Fess Co •… ponee, Or and Az. betwixt 8 Billels, Argen.
15 Rog. Kinnaston, ar	ut prius
16 Th. Nicholas, arm.	Shrewsbury
17 John. Welde, ar	Willye
18 Bellum nobis
19 hoc fecit
20 inane.
21
22 Rob. Powel, ar.	T •… Park	Arg. 3 Boars-heads co •… pee, Sable▪

RICHARD the Second.

9. NICHOLAS de SANDFORD.] This ancient Name is still extant, at the same place in this County in a worshipful equipage; Wellfare a dear token thereof. For in the List of such as compounded for their reputed delinquency in our late Civil Wars, I find Francis Sandford, of Sandford Esq. paying four hundred fifty nine pounds for his composition. Yet I believe the Gentleman begrudged not his money in preservation of his own integrity, acting according to the information of his conscience, and the practice of all his Ancestors. I understand that the said Francis Sandford was very well skilled in making Warlike Fortifications.

HENRY the IV.

1 JOHN CORNWALL, Miles.] A Person remarkable on several accounts. 1 For his high Extraction, descended from Richard Earl of Cornwall, and King of the Almains, as his Arms do evidence. 2 Prosperous Valour under King Henry the Fifth in France, there gaining so great Treasure, as that therewith he built his fair house at Amp-hi •… in Bedfordshire, 3 Great Honor, being created by King Henry the Sixth Baron Fanhop, and Knight of the Garter. 4 Constant Loyalty, sticking faster to King Henry the Sixth, than his own Crown did, faithfully following after the other forsook him. 5 Vigorous vivacity, continuing till the reign of King Edward the Fourth, who dispossessed him of his Lands in Bedford-shire. 6 Chearful disposition, pleasantly saying: That not He, but his fine House at Amp-hill, was guilty of high Treason: happy! that he could make mirth at his misery, and smile at the loosing of that, which all his Frowns could keep no longer. Know Reader that if this J. Cornwall, shall (which I suspect not) prove a distinct person, from this his Kinsman and Namesake, none will blame me for taking here a just occasion of speaking of so eminent a Man, who elsewhere came not so conveniently under my Pen.

EDWARD the Fourth.

2 ROGER KINASTON, Ar.] I cannot satisfy myself in the certain Arms of this ancient Family (much augmented by match with HORD) finding them giving sundry [all good and rich] Coats in several Ages, but conceive they now fix on, Ar. a Lion ramp. Sa.

RICHARD the Third.

1 THOMAS MITTON.] He, in obedience to King Richard's commands, apprehended the Duke of Buckingham (the Grand Engener to promote that Usurper ) in the house of Humphry Banaster, who for the avaricious desire of a thousand pounds betrayed the Duke unto the Sherif.

3 GILBERT TALBOT Mil.] He was son to John Talbot, second Earl of Shrewsbury, of that name. In the time of his Sherivalty, Henry Earl of Richmond (afterwards King Henry the Seventh) marching with his men to bid battle to King Richard the Third, was met at Shrewsbury by the same Sir Gilbert, with two thousand men well appointed (most of them Tenants and Retainers to his Nephew George fourth Earl of Shrewsbury, then in minority) whence forward and not before, his Forces deserved the name of an Army. For this and his other good service in Bosworth-field King Henry rewarded him with fair Lands at Grafton, in Worcester-shire, made him Governor of Calis in France, and Knight of the Garter, and from him the present Earl of Shrewsbury is descended.

I conceive it was rather his son than himself, to whom King Henry the Eight (fearing a sudden surprise from the French ) wrote briefly and peremptorily That he should instantly fortify the Castle of Calis. To whom Governor Talbot unprovided of necessaries as briefly as bluntly replied, That he could neither fortify nor fiftifie without money.

Queen ELIZABETH.

45 ROGER OWEN, Miles.] He was the son of Sir Thomas Owen, the Learned and religious Justice of the Common Pleas, who lieth buried on the South side of the Choir of Westminster Abbey. This Sir Roger, most eminent in his Generation, deserved the Character given him by Mr. Camden.

Multiplici doctrinâ tanto Patre dignissimus.

He was a Member of Parliament, Vndecimo Jacobi, (as I take it) when a great Man therein (who shall be nameless) cast a grieveous, and general Aspersion on the English Clergy. This Sir Roger appeared a Zealot in their defense, and not only removed the Bastard [Calumny ] from their doors, at which it was laid, but also carried the Falsehood home to the true Father thereof, and urged it shrewdly against the Person, who in that place, first revived the Aspersion •… .

King JAMES.

14 ROWLAND COTTON, Miles.] Incredible are the most true relations, which many eye-witnesses, still alive, do make of the Valour and Activity of this most accomplished Knight. So strong, as if he had been nothing but bones: so nimble, as if he had been nothing but sinews.

CHARLES the First.

2 RICHARD NEWPORT, Miles.] Signal his Fidelity to the king, even in his lowest condition, by whom he was deservedly rewarded with the Title of Baron of High-Arcol in this County, being created at Oxford the 14 of October, 1642. His son Francis Lord Newport at this day honoreth his honor with his Learning and other natural accomplishments.

Farewell.

May this Shire, by Divine Providence, be secured from the return of the Sweating sickness, which first began and twice raged in the Town of Shrewsbury. The Cure was discovered, too late to save many, yet soon enough to preserve more thousands of Men viz. by keeping the Patient in the same posture wherein he was seized, without Food or Physic, and such who so weathered out the disease, for twenty four hours, did certainly escape.

SOMERSET-SHIRE hath the Severn-sea on the North, Glocestershire on the North-east, Wilts-shire on the East, Dorcet-shire on the South, and Devonshire on the West. Some will have it so called from the Summerlinesse, or temperate pleasantness thereof. With whom we concur, whilst they confine their Etimologies to the Air; dissent, if they extend it to the Earth, which in winter is as winterly, deep and dirty, as any in England. The truth is, it is so named from Sommerton, the most ancient Town in the County. It stretcheth from East to West 55 miles, and from North to South 42 miles. No Shire can show finer ware which hath so large measure, being generally fruitful though little moistry be used thereon.

The Inhabitants will tell you that there be several single Acres in this Shire (believe them of the larger sise and sesqui-jugera if measured) which may serve a good round Family with bread for a year, as affording a bushel of Wheat for every week therein, a proportion not easily to be paralleled in other places.

Natural Commodities.

Lead.

Plenty of the best (for the Kind thereof) is digged out of Myndip-hills. Indeed it is not so soft, pliant and equally fusile, as that in Derby-shire, not so proper for sheeting, because when melted it runs into knots, & therefore little known to, and less used by our LondonPlumbers. For being of a harder Nature it is generally transported beyond the Seas, and employ'd to make Bullets and Shot, for which purposeit is excellent. May Foreigners enjoy wild Lead to kill Men, whilst we make use of tame Lead to cover Houses, and keep people warm and dry therein.

'It is almost incredible what great sums were advanced to the Bishops of Bath and Welles by the benefit of Lead, since the later end of Queen Elizabeth, Bishop Still is said to have had the Harvest, Bishop Montague the Cleanings, Bishop Lake the Stubble thereof, and yet considerable was the Profit of Lead to him and his Successors.

Lapis Calaminaris.

Plenty hereof is also found in Myndip-Hills, and it is much used in Physic (being very good as artificially ordered for the clearing of the sight) and more by Mettalists. For Brass, no original, but a compound Mettal is made of this Stone and Copper, and becometh more hard than Copper alone, and therefore the more serviceable for many other purposes.

And now the Ridle in Nature which so long hath posed me, is at last explained, viz. How it can come to pass that Brass, being made of the best Copper with much Art and Industry, is notwithstanding afforded some Pence in the Pound cheaper, than Copper itself. This cometh to pass because the Calaminary-stone being of itself not worth above six pence in the pound, doth in the composition metalescere, turn Metal, in the mixture thereof, whereby the mass and Bulk of Brass is much advanced.

I have no more to observe of this Stone, save that it was first discovered in this County in that juncture of time when the Copper Mines were newly r •… -discovered in Cumberland, God doubling his gift by the seasonable giving thereof.

Cheefe.

The Best and Biggest in England are made at Chedder, in this County. They may be called Corporation Cheeses, made by the Join-Daryes of the whole Parish, putting their Milk together, and each one, Poor and Rich, receive their share according to their proportion.

So that some may think, that the Unity and Amity of those Female Neighbors, living so lovingly together, giveth the better Runnet and Relish to their handiwork.

If any ask, why as good Cheese may not be made in the Vicenage, where the soil is as rich, and the same Houswifry? it will be demanded of them, why (nails must be driven out with nails) the like Cheese in Colour, Taste and Tenderness may not be made at Cremona, as at Parma, both lying in Lombardy, near together, and sharing equally in all visible advantages of fatness and fruitfulness. The worst fault of Chedder Cheese is, they are so few and dear, hardly to be met with, save at some great Mans Table.

Woad.

In Latin Glastum, or Glaustum, was much used by the Ancient Britons, for the painting of their Faces: for I believe it will hardly be proved, that they die their whole bodies. Say not, painted terribleness, is no terribleness, rather ridiculous than formidable, seeing Vizards are more frightful than men's own faces. This Woad gave the Britons a deep black tincture, as if they would blow up their enemies with their Sulphurous countenances.

Our Dyers make much use thereof, being Color ad Colorem, the Stock (as I may say) whereon other Colours are gra •… ted. Yea, it giveth them truth and fruithfulnesse, who without it prove fading and hypocritical.

This Herb doth greatly impair the ground it groweth on; profitable to such to set, who have land to let without Impeachment of Waste, it being long before it will recover good grass therein. I have placed Woad (which groweth in all rich places) in this County, because (as I am informed) it groweth naturally therein (hardly to be destroyed) especially about Glassenbury. Insomuch that a Learned Critick, and my Worthy good friend had almost persuaded me, that from this Glastum, that Town taketh its denomination.

Mastiffes.

Smile not, Reader, to see me return to course Creatures amongst the Commodities of this County. Know, they are not (like Apes ) the fools and jesters, but the useful Servants in a Family, viz. the Porters thereof. Pliny observes, that Britain breed's cowardy Lions, and courageous Mastiffes, which to me seems no wonder, the former being whelp'd in prison, the later at liberty. An English Mastiffe Anno 1602 did in effect worst a Lion, on the same token, that Prince Henry allowed a kind of pension for his maintenance, and gave strict order That he that had fought with the King of Beasts should never after encounter any inferior Creatures.

Our English Mastiffes are in high reputation beyond the Seas, and the story is well known, that when an hundred Molossi were sent hence a present to the Pope; a LackLatin Cardinal, standing by, when the Letter was read, mistook Molossos for so many Mules. Surely had Britain been then known to the Ancient Romans, when first (instead of manning, ) they Dogged, their Capitol, they would have furnished themselves with Mastiffes fetched hence for that purpose, being as vigilant as, more valiant then, any of their Kind. For the City of St. Malow in France is Garrisoned with a Regiment of Doggs, wherein many ranks are of English Extraction.

Hence it is that an Author tells me, that it passeth for the Blazon of this County,

Set the Band-Dog on the Bull.

It seems that both the Gentry and Country-folk in this Shire, are much affected with that pastime, though some scruple the lawfulness thereof. 1 Man must not be a Barrater, to set the Creatures at variance. 2 He can take no true delight in their Antipathie, which was the effect of his sin. 3 Mans Charter of Dominion empowers him to be a Prince, but no Tyrant over the Creatures. 4 Though Brute Beasts are made to be destroyed, they are not made to be tormented. Others rejoin, that God gave us the Creatures as well for our pleasure as necessity: that some nice consciences, that scruple the Baiting of Bulls, will worry men with their vexatious cruelties. All that I dare interpose is this, that the tough flesh of Bulls is not only made more tender by baiting, but also thereby it is discoloured from Ox-beef, that the Buyer be not deceived.

Manufactures.

Taunton Serges are eminent in their Kind, being a fashionable wearing, as lighter than Cloath, yet thicker than many other Stuffs. When Dionysius sacrilegiously plundered Jove his Statue of his Golden Coat (pretending it too cold for Winter, and too hot for Summer) he bestowed such a vestimēt upō him to fit both Seasons. They were much sent into Spain, before our late War therewith, wherein Trading (long since complained of to be dead) is now lamented generally as buried, though hereafter it may have a resurrection.

The Buildings.

Of these the Churches of Bath and Wells are most eminent. Twins are said to make but one Man, as these two Churches constitute one Bishops See. Yet as a Twin ofttimes proves as proper a person as those of single Births. So these severally equal most, and exceed many Cathedrals in England.

We begin with Bath considerable in its several conditions, viz. the beginning, obstructing, decaying, repairing, and finishing thereof.

1 It was begun by Oliver King Bishop of this Diocese in the reign of Henry the Seventh and the West end most curiously cut and carved with Angels climbing up a Ladder to Heaven. But this Bishop died before the finishing thereof.

2 His Death obstructed this structure so that it stood a long time neglected, which gave occasion for one to write on the Church-wall with a Char-coal.

           O Church I wail thy woeful plight,
          
           Whom
          
          King,
          
           nor
          
          Card'nal, Clark,
          
           or
          
          Knight
         
           Have yet restored to ancient right.

Alluding herein to Bishop King who begun it, and his four Successors in thirty five years, viz. Cardinal Adrian, Cardinal Wolsey, Bishop Clark, and Bishop Knight, contributing nothing to the effectual finishing thereof.

3 The decay and almost ruin thereof followed when it felt in part the Hammers which knocked down all Abbyes. True it is the Commissioners proffered to sell the Church to the Towns-men under 500 Marks. But the Towns-men fearing if they bought it so cheap to be thought to cozin the King: so that the purchase might come under the compass of concealed lands, refused the profer. Hereupon the Glass, Iron, Bells, and Lead (which last alone amounted to 480 Tun) provided for the finishing thereof were sold and sent over beyond the Seas, if a ship-wrack (as some report) met them not by the way.

4 For the repairing thereof, collections were made all over the Land in the reign of Queen Elizabeth, though inconsiderable, either in themselves, or through the corruption of others. Only honest Mr. Billet (whom I take to be the same with him, who was designed Executor, to the Will of William Cecil Lord Burghley ) disbursed good sums to the repairing thereof, and a Stranger under a feigned name took the confidence thus to play the Poet and Prophet on this Structure.

           Be blithe fair Kirck, when
          
          Hempe
          
           is past,
          
           Thine
          
          Olive,
          
           that ill winds did blast,
          
           Shall flourish green for age to last.
          
          Subscribed Cassadore.

By Hempe understand Henry the Eight, Edward the Sixth, Queen Mary, King Philip, and Queen Elizabeth. The Author I suspect had a Tang of the Cask, and being parcel-popish expected the finishing of this Church at the return of their Religion, but his prediction was verified in a better sense, when his Church

5 Was finished by James Montague Bishop of this See, disbursing vast sums in the same, though the better enabled thereunto by his Mines at Mynedep, so that he did but remove the Lead from the bowels of the Earth to the roof of the Church, wherein he lies enterred under a fair Monument.

This Church is both spacious and specious, the most lightsome as ever I beheld, proceeding from the greatness of the Windows, and whiteness of the Glass therein.

All I have more to add is only this, that the parable of Jotham [Judge. 9. 8.] is on this Church most curiously wrought (in allusion to the Christian Sirname of the first Founder thereof,) how the Trees going to choose them a King, proffered the place to the OLIVE. Now when lately one OLIVER was for a time Commander in Chief in this Land, some (from whom more Gravity might have been expected) beheld this Picture as a Prophetical Prediction, so apt are English fancies to take fire at every spark of conceit. But seeing since that Olive hath been blasted bottom, his Root and Branches, this pretended Prophecy with that observation the reason is withered away.

As for the Cathedral of Wells it is a greater so darker than that of Bath, so that Bath may seem to draw devotion with the pleasantness, Wells to drive it with the solemnity thereof, and ill tempered their Minds who will be moved with neither. The West Front of Wells is a Master-piece of Art indeed, made of Imagiry in just proportion, so that we may call them Vera & spirantia signa. England affordeth not the like. For the West end of Excester beginneth accordingly, it doth not like Wells persevere to the end thereof.

As for the Civil Habitations in this County (not to speak of Dunstar Castle, having an high ascent, and the effect thereof, a large prospect by Sea and Land) Montague built by Sir Edward Philip's, Master of the Roles, is a most magnificent Fabric. Nor must Hinton St. George, the House of the Lord Poulet be forgotten having every stone in the Front shaped Doule-ways, or in the form of a Cart-nail. This I may call a Charitable Curiosity, if true what is traditioned. That about the reign of King Henry the Seventh, the owner thereof built it in a dear year, on purpose to employ the more poor people thereupon.

The Wonders.

Wockey Hole in Mendip-hills some two miles from Wells. This is an undergroundConcavity, admirable for its spacious Vaults, stony Walls, creeping Labyrinths, the cause being un-imaginable, how and why the Earth was put in such a posture, save that the God of Nature is pleased to descant on a plain hollowness, with such wonderful contrivances.

I have been at, but never in this Hole, and therefore must make use of the description of a Learned eye Witness.

Entring and passing through a good part of it with many lights. Among other many strange Rarities, well worth the observing; We found that water which incessantly dropped down from the Vault of the Rock, though thereby it made some little dint in the Rock, yet was it turned into the Rock itself, As manifestly appeared even to the judgment of sense, by the shape, and color, and hardness; It being at first of a more clear and glassie substance then the more ancient part of the Rock, to which no doubt but in time, it hath been and will be assimilated: And this we found not in small pieces, but in a very great quantity, and that in sundry places enough to load many Carts; From whence I infer that as in this Cave, so no doubt in many other, (where they searched) the Rocks would be found to have increased immediately by the dropping of the water, besides that increase they have from the Earth in the Bowels thereof, which still continuing as it doth, there can be no fear of their utter failing.

Medicinal Waters.

BATH is well known all England and Europe over, far more useful and wholesome though not so stately as Dioclesian his Bath in Rome, (the fairest amongst 856 in that City, made only for pleasure and delicacy) beautified with an infinite of Marble Pillars, (not for support but ostentation,) so that Salmuth saith, fourteen thousand men were employed for some years in building thereof. Our Baths-waters consist of

1 Bitumen, (which hath the predominancy,) sovereign to discuss, glutinate, dissolve, open obstructions, &c.

2 Niter, which dilateth the Bitumen, making the solution the better, and water the clearer. It cleanseth and purgeth both by Stool and •… rine, cutteth and dissolveth gross Humours.

3 Sulphur, In regard whereof, they dry, resolve, mollify, attract, and are good for Uterine effects, proceeding from cold and windy Humours.

But how thes •… Waters come by their great heat, is rather controverted than concluded amongst the Learned. Some impute it to Wind or Airy Exhalations, included in the Bowels of the Earth, which by their agitation and attrition (upon Rocks and narrow passages) gather Heat, and impart it to the Waters.

Others ascribe it to the heat of the Sun, whose Beams piercing through the Pores of the Earth, warm the Waters, and therefore anciently were called Aquae Solis, both because dedicated to, and made by the Sun.

Others attribute it to quick-lime, which we see doth readily heat any water cast upon it, and kindleth any combustible substance put therein.

Others refer it to a Subterranean fire kindled in the bowels of the Earth, and actually burning upon Sulpher and Bitumen.

Others impute the heat (which is not destructive but generative joined with moisture) to the fermentation of several minerals.

It is the safer to relate all, than reject any of these Opinions, each having both their Opposers and Defenders.

They are used also inwardly, in Broths, Beer, Juleps, &c. with good effect. And although some mislike it because they will not mixe Medicaments with Aliments, yet such practice beginneth to prevail. The worst I wish these waters is, that they were handsomely roofed over (as the most eminent Bathes in Christendom are,) which, (besides that it would procure great benefit to weak persons,) would gain more respect hither in Winter Time or more early in the Spring; or more late in the Fall. The Right Honorable James Earl of Marleborough, undertook to cover the Cross-Bath at his own charge, and may others follow his resolution, it being but fit, that where God hath freely given the Jewel, Men bestow a Case upon it.

Proverbs.

Where should I be bore else th •… n in Tonton Dean?

This is a parcel of Ground, round about Tonton, very pleasant and populous, (as containing many Parishes) and so fruitful, to use their Phrase with the Zun and Zoil alone, that it needs no manuring at all. The Peasantry therein are as Rude as Rich, and so highly conceited of their good Country (God make them worthy thereof) that they conceive it a disparagement to be born in any other place: as if it were eminently all England.

The Beggars of Bath.

Many in that place, some natives there, others repairing thither from all parts of the Land, the Poor for Alms, the pained for ease. Whither should Fowl flock in an hard frost, but to the Barn-door? Here all the two seasons the general confluence of Gentry. Indeed Laws are daily made to restrain Beggars, and daily broke by the connivence of those who make them: it being impossible, when the hungry Belly barks, and bowels sound, to keep the tongue silent. And although Oil of whip be the proper plaster for the cramp of laziness, yet some pity is due to impotent persons. In a word, seeing there is the Lazars-Bath in this City, I doubt not but many a good Lazarus, the true object of Charity may beg therein.

Saints.

DUNSTAN was born in the Town of Glassenbury in this County. He afterwards was Abbot thereof, Bishop of London & Worcester, Archbishop of Canterbury, and at last for his promoting of Monkery, reputed a Saint. I can add nothing to, but must subtract something from, what I have written of him in my Church History. True it is he was the first Abbot of England, not in time but in honor, Glassenbury being the Proto-Abbaty then and many years after, till Pope Adrian advanced St. Albans above it. But, whereas it followeth in my Book, That the title of Abbot till his time was unknown in England, I admire by what casualty it crept in, confess it a foul mistake, and desire the Reader with his Pen to delete it. More I have not to say of Dunstan, save that he died, Anno Dom. 988. and his skill in Smithery was so great, that the Gold-smiths in London are incorporated by the Name of the Company of St. Dunstans.

Martyrs.

JONH HOOPER was born in this County, bred first in Oxford, then beyond the Seas. A great Scholar and Linguist, but suffering under the notion of a proud man, only in their Judgments, who were un-acquainted with him. Returning in the reign of king Edward the Sixth, he was elected Bishop of Gloucester, but for a time scrupuled the acceptance thereof, on a double account. First, because he refused to take an Oath tendered unto him.

This Oath I conceived to have been the Oath of Canonical obedience: but since, (owing my information to my Worthy Friend, the Learned D ^r . John Hacket, ) I confess it the Oath of Supremacy, which Hooper refused, not out of lack of Loyalty but store of Conscience. For, the Oath of Supremacy as then modelled, was more than the Oath of Supremacy, enjoining the receivers thereof conformity to the Kings commands in what alterations soever he should afterwards make in Religion. Which implicit and unlimited obedience, Learned Casuists allow only due to God himself.

Besides, the Oath concluded with So help me God and all his Angels and Saints. So that Hooper had just cause to scruple the Oath, and was the occasion of the future reforming, whilst the King dispensed with his present taking thereof.

The second thing he boggled at, was the wearing of some Episcopal habiliments, but at last it seemeth, consented thereunto, and was Consecrated Bishop of Gloucester.

His adversaries will say, that the refusing of One is the way to get Two Bishoprics, seeing afterward he held Worcester in Commendam therewith. But, be it known that as our Hooper had double dignity, he had treble diligence, painfully preaching God's Word, piously living as he preached, and patiently dying as he lived, being martyred at Gloucester Anno 155-.

He was the only native of this Shire suffering for the testimony of the Truth, and on this account we may honor the memory of Gilbert Bourn Bishop of Bath and Wells in the reign of Queen Mary, who persecuted no Protestants in his Diocese to Death, seeing it cannot be proved that one Lush was ever burnt though by him condemned. I mention Bishop Bourn here the more willingly, because I can nowhere recover the certainty of his Nativity.

Prelates.

JOCELINE of WELLS. Bishop Godwin was convinced by such evidences, as he had seen, that he was both born and bred in Welles, becoming afterwards the Bishop thereof.

Now whereas his Predecessors styled themselves Bishops of Glaston, (especially for some few years after their first Consecration) He first fixed on the Title of Bath and Wells, and transmitted it to all his Successors. In his time the Monks of Glassenbury, being very desirous to be only subjected to their own Abbot, purchased their Exemption, by parting with four fair Manors to the See of Wells.

This Joceline, after his return from his five years Exile in France, (banished with Archbishop Langton on the same account of obstinacy against King John ) laid out himself wholly on the beautifying and enriching of his Cathedral. He erected some new Prebends, and to the use of the Chapter, appropiated many Churches, increasing the revenues of the Dignities, (so fitter called than Profits so mean then their maintenance) and to the Episcopal See, he gave three Manors of great value. He with Hugo Bishop of Lincoln was the joint Founder of the Hospital of St. Johns in Wells, and on his own sole cost, built two very fair Chapels, one at Wokey, the other at Wells. But the Church of Wells was the Master-piece of his Works, not so much repaired, as rebuilt by him, and well might he therein have been afforded a quiet repose. And yet some have plundered his Tomb of his Effigies in Brasse, being so rudely rent off, it hath not only defaced his Monument, but even hazarded the ruin thereof. He sat Bishop (which was very remarkable) more than thirty seven years, (God to Square his great undertakings giving him a long life to his large heart ) and died 1242.

FULKE of SAMFORD was born in this County, but in which of the Samfords (there being four of that name therein & none elsewhere in England ) is hard (and not necessary) to decide. He was first preferred Treasurer of St. Paul's in London, and then by Papal Bull declared Archbishop of Dublin, 1256. M ^r . Paris calleth him Fulk Basset by mistake. He died in his Manor of Finglas 1271, and was buried in the Church of St. Patrick, in the Chapel of St. Mary's which likely was erected by him.

JOHN of SAMFORD. It is pity to part Brethren. He was first Dean of St. Patrick in Dublin, (preferred probably by his Brother) and for a time Eschaetor of all Ireland. Indeed the Office doth male audire, sound ill to ignorant ears, partly because the vicinity thereof to a worse word ( Esquire and Squire, are known to be the same) partly because some by abusing that Office, have rendered it odious to people, which in itself was necessary and honorable. For the name Eschaetor cometh from the French word Escheoir, which signifieth to Happen or Fall out, and He by his place is to search into any Profit accruing to the Crown by casualty, by the condemnation of Malefactors, Persons dying without an Heir, or leaving him in minority, &c. and whereas every County in England hath an Eschaetor; This John of Samford being Eschaetor General of Ireland, his place must be presumed of great Trust from the King, and Profit to himself.

He was Canonically chosen and by King Edward the first confirmed Archbishop of Dublin 1284, mediately succeeding ( John de Derlington interposed) his Brothet Fulke therein, and I cannot readily remember the like Instance in any other See. For a time he was Chief Justice of Ireland, and thence was sent (with Anth •… Bishop of Durham ) Embas •… adour to the Emperor: whence returning he died at London 1294. and had his Body carried over into Ireland (an Argument that he was well respected) and buried in the Tomb of his Brother in the Church of St. Patricks.

THOMAS BECKINTON was born at Beckinton in this County, bred in NewColledge Doctor in the Laws, and Dean of the Arches, till by King Henry the Sixth he was advanced Bishop of Bath and Welles.

A good

1 States-man; having written a Judicious Book to prove the Kings of England to the Crown of France, notwithstanding the pretenced Salique-Law.
2 Church-man; (in the then notion of the Word) professing in his Will, that he had spent six thousand Marks in the repairing and adorning of his Palaces.
3 Towns-man; besides a Legacy given, to the Town where he was born, he built at Wells, where he lived, a fair Conduit in the Market-place.
4 Subject; always loyal to King Henry the Sixth, even in the lowest condition.
5 Kinsman; plentifully providing for his alliance with Leases, without the least prejudice to the Church.
6 Master; bequeathing five pounds a piece to his chief, five Marks a piece to his meaner Servants, and forty shillings a piece to his Boys.
7 Man; He gave for his Rebus (in allusion to his Name) a burning Beacon, to which he answered in his Nature, being a burning and a shining light.

Witness his many benefactions to Wells Church, and the Vicars therein; Winchester, New, Merton, but chiefly Lincoln-College in Oxford, being little less than a second Founder thereof.

A Beacon (we know) is so called from Beckoning, that is, making signs, or giving notice to the next Beacon. This bright Beacon doth nod and give hints of bounty to future ages, but it is to befeared, it will be long before his signs will be observed, understood, imitated. Nor was it the least part of his prudence, that (being obnoxious to King Edward the Fourth) in his life time he procured the confirmation of his Will under the broad Seal of England, and died January the 14, 1464.

RICHARD FITZ-JAMES Doctor at Law, was born at Redlinch in this County, of right ancient and worshipful extraction, bred at Merton College in Oxford, whereof he became Warden: much meriting of that place, wherein he built most beautiful Lodgings, expending also much on the repair of St. Mary's in Oxford. He was preferred Bishop first of Rochester, next of Chichester, last of London.

He was esteemed an excellent Scholar, and wrote some Books, which if they ever appeared in public, never descended to posterity. He cannot be excused for being over busy with fire and faggot in persecuting the poor Servants of God in his Diocese. He deceased Anno 1512. lieth buried in his Cathedral (having contributed much to the adorning thereof) in a Chapel-like Tomb, built (it seems) of Timber, which was burnt down when the steeple of St. Paul's was set on fire, Anno 1561. This Bishop was brother to Judge Fitz-James, Lord Chief Justice, who with their mutual support much strengthened one another in Church and State.

To the Reader.

I cannot recover any native of this County, who was a Bishop since the Reformation, save only John Hooper, of whom formerly in the Catalogue of Martyrs.

States-men.

Sir AMIAS POULET, Son to Sir Hugh, grand-Child to Sir Amias Poulet, (who put Cardinal Wolsey, then but a Schoolmaster, in the Stockes ) was born at Hinton Saint George in this County. He was Chancelor of the Garter, Governor of the Isles of Jersey and Gernsey, and Privy Counselor to Queen Elizabeth, who chiefly committed the keeping of Mary Queen of Scots to his fidelity, who faithfully discharged his trust therein.

I know the Romanists rail on him, as over-strict in his Charge; but indeed without cause, for he is no unjust Steward, who to those under him alloweth all his Masters allowance, though the same be •… ut of the scantest proportion. Besides it is no news for Prisoners (especially if accounting their restraint unjust) to find fault with their Keepers merely for keeping them. And such who complain of him, if in his place, ought to have done the same themselves.

When Secretary Walsingham moved this Knight to suffer one of his Servants to be bribed by the Agents of the Queen of Scots, so to compass the better intelligence, he would in no terms yield thereunto. Such conniving at, was consenting to; and such consenting to, in effect was commanding of such falsehood. Whereupon the Secretary was fain to go further about, and make use of an Instrument at a greater distance, who was no menial servant to Sir Amias.

He died Anno Dom. 15.. And was buried in London, in St. Martins in the fields, where his Epitaph is all an allusion to the three Swords in his Arms, and three words in his Motto, Gardez la Foy, Keep the Faith. Which harping on that one string of his fidelity, (though perchance harsh music to the ears of others) was harmonio •… s to Queen Elizabeth.

Capital Judges.

JOHN FITZ-JAMES Knight, was born at Redlinch in this County, of right ancient and worthy Parentage, bred in the Study of our Municipal Laws, wherein he proved so great a Proficient, that by King Henry the Eighth, He was advanced Chief Justice of the Kings Bench. There needs no more be said of his merit, save that King Henry the Eighth preferred him, who never used either Dunce or D •… one in Church or State, but Men of Ability and Activity. He sat above thirteen years in his Place, demeaning himself so, that he lived and died in the Kings favor.

He sat one of the Assistants when Sir Thomas More was arraigned for refusing the Oath of Supremacy, and was shrewdly put to it to save his own Conscience, and not incur the Kings displeasure. For Chancellor Audley Supreme Judge in that place, (being loath that the whole burden of Mores condemnation should lie on his shoulders alone) openly in Court asked the advice of the Lord Chief Justice Fitz-James, whether the Indictment were sufficient or no? to whom our Judge warily returned.

My Lord's all, by St. Gillian (which was ever his Oath) I must needs confess, that, if the Act of Parliament be not unlawful, then the Indictment is not in my conscience insufficient.

He died in the thirtyeth year of King Henry the Eighth, and although now there be none left at Redlinch of his Name and Family, they flourish still at Lewson in Dorsetshire, descended from Alfred Fitz-James (brother to this Judge, and to Richard Bishop of London ) whose Heir in a direct line Sir John Fitz-James Knight I must acknowledge a strong encourager of my weak endeavors.

JOHN PORTMAN, Knight, was born of Wealthy and Worshipful Extraction at Portm •… ns Orchard in this County, a fair Manor; which descended to him by Inheritance, the Heir of the Orchards being matched into his Family. He was bred in the Study of the Common Law, attaining to such eminency therein, that June 11, the second of Queen Mary he was made Chief Justice of the Kings Bench continuing two years in the place, and dying therein for ought I find to the contrary, and a Baronet of his name and Linage flourisheth at this day with a great and plentiful Estate.

DAVID BROOKE, Knight, born at Glassenbury, son to John Brook, Esq. who (as I read in Clarentiaux ) was Serjeant at Law to King Henry the Eighth. Our David was also bred in the study of our Laws, and in the First of Queen Mary was made Chief Baron of the Exchequer, but whether dying in, or quitting the place in the First of Queen Elizabe •… h I am not informed. He married Katharine daugher of John Lord Shandois, but died without Issue.

JAMES DIER, Knight, younger son to Richard Dier Esq. was born at Roundhill in this County, as may appear to any by the Heralds Visitation thereof, and doth also to me by particular information from his relations.

He was bred in the study of our Municipal Law, and was made Lord Chief Justice of the 〈◊〉 Pleas, Primo Eliz. continuing therein 24 years, longer (if my eye or Arithmetic fa •… l me not) than any in that place before or after him. When Thomas Duke of Northfolk was Anno 1572 arraigned for Treason, this Judge was present thereat on the same token, that, when the Duke desired Council to be assigned him pleading that it was granted to Humphry Stafford in the reign of King Henry the Seventh, our Judge returned unto him, That Stafford had it allowed him only as to Point of Law, then in dispute, viz. Whether he was legally taken out of the Sanctuary, but as for matter of Fact, neither he, nor any ever had, or could have any Council allowed him, a course observed in such Cases, unto this day.

But let his own Works praise him in the Ga •… es, (is known for the place of public Justice amongst the Jews) Let his Learned Writings, called his Commentaries or Reports evidence his Abilities in his Profession.

He died in 25 Eliz. (though married) without any Issue; and there is a House of a Baronet of his name (descended from an elder son of Richard father to our Judge) at Great Stoughton in Huntingdon-shire, well improved I believe with the addition of the Judges Estate.

S ^r . JOHN POPHAM of most ancient descent was born at Huntworth in this County. In his youthful days he was as stout and skillful a Man at Sword and Buckler, as any in that age, and wild enough in his recreations. But Oh! if Quick-silver could be really fixed, to what a treasure would it amount? Such is wild Youth seriously reduced to Gravity, as by this young man did appear. He applied himself to a more profitable Fencing, the study of the Laws, therein attaining to such eminency, that he became the Queens Attourny, and afterwards Lord Chief Justice of England.

Being sent Anno 1600, by the Queen with some others to the Earl of Essex, to know the cause of the confluence of so many Military Men unto his House, the Soldiers therein detained him for a time, which some did make to Tantamount to an imprisonment. This his violent detention Sir John deposed upon his Oath at the Earls Trial; which I note the rather for the rarity thereof, that a Lord Chief Justice should be produced as witness in open Court.

In the Beginning of the reign of king James his Justice was exemplary on Thieves and Robbers. The Land then swarmed with people which had been Soldiers, who had never gotten, (or else quite forgotten ) any other vocation. Hard it was for peace to feed all the Idle mouths which a former war did breed, being too proud to beg, too lazy to labor. Those infected the Highwayes with their Felonies, some presuming on their multitudes, as the Robbers on the Northern Rode, whose knot (otherwise not to be untied ) Sr. John cut asunder with the Sword of Justice.

He possessed King James how the frequent granting of pardons was prejudicial to Justice, rendering the Judges to the contempt of insolent Malesactors; which made his Majesty more sparing afterward in that kind. In a word, the deserved death of some scores, preserved the lives and livelyhoods of more thousands: Travelers owing their safety to this Judges severity many years after his death, which happened Anno Dom. 16.

Soldiers.

JOHN COURCY, Baron of Stoke-Courcy in this County, was the first Englishman who invaded and subdued Ulster in Ireland, therefore deservedly created Earl thereof. He was afterward surprised by Hugh Lacy (corrival for his Title) sent over into England, and imprisoned by King John in the Tower of London.

A French-Castle, being in controverfie, was to have the Title thereof, tried by Combat, the Kings of England and France beholding it. Courcy being a lean lank body, with staring eyes, (prisoners with the wildness of their looks, revenge the closenesse of their bodies) is sent for out of the Tower to undertake the Frenchman, and because enfcebled with long durance, a large bill of fare was allowed him to recruit his strength. The Monsieur, hearing how much he had eat and drank, and guessing his courage by his stomach o •… rather stomach by his appetite, took him for a Canibal who would devour him at the last course, and so he declined the Combat.

Afterwards the two Kings, desirous to see some proof of Courcy's strength, caused a steel Helmet to be laid on a block before him. •… ourcy looking about him 〈◊〉 grim countenance (as if he intended to cut with his eyes as well as with his arms) sundered the Helmet at one blow into two pieces, striking the Sword so deep into the wood, that none but himself could pull it out again.

Being demanded the cause why he looked so sternly, Had I (said he) failed of my design, I would have killed the Kings and all in the place; words well-spoken because well taken, all persons present being then highly in good humor. Hence it is, that the Lord Courcy, Baron of Ringrom, second Baron in Ireland, claim a privilege (whether by Patent or Prescription, Charter or Custom I know not) after their first obeisance, to be covered in the Kings presence, if process of time had not antiquated the practice.

His devotion was equal to his valor, being a great Founder and endower of Religious Houses. In one thing he foully failed, turning the Church of the Holy Trinity in Down, into the Church of St. Patrick, for which (as the Story saith) he was condemned, never to return into Ireland, though attempting it fifteen several times, but repel'd with foul weather. He afterwards went over and died in France, about the year 1210.

MATTHEW GOURNAY was born at Stoke-under-Hamden in this County, where his Family had long flourished since the Conquest, and there built both a Castle and a College. But our Matthew was the honor of the House, renowned under the reign of King Edward the Third, having fought in seven several signal set Battails, viz.

1 At the siege of d'Algizer, against the Sarazens.
2 At the Battail of Benemazin, against the same.
3 Sluce, a Sea-fight against the French.
4 Cressy, a Land-fight-against the same.
5 Ingen, Pitch'd fights against the French
6 Poitiers, Pitch'd fights against the French
7 Nazaran, under the Black Prince, in Spain.

His Armor was beheld by Martial Men with much civil veneration, with whom his faithful Buckler was a relique of esteem.

But it added to the wonder, that our Matthew, who did lie and watch so long on the bed of honor, should die in the bed of peace, aged ninety and six years, about the beginning of King Richard the Second. He lieth buried under a fair Monument in the Church of Stoke aforesaid, whose Epitaph legible in the last age, is since (I suspect) defaced.

Sea-men.

Sir AMIAS PRESTON Knight, was descended of an Ancient Family, who have an Habitationat Cricket, nigh Creukern in this County. He was a Valiant Soldier, and Active Seaman, witness in 88. when he seized on the Admiral of the Galiasses, wherein Hugh de Moncada the Governor making resistance, with most of his Men, were burnt, or killed, and Mr. Preston (as yet not Knighted) shared in a vast Treasure of Gold taken therein.

Afterwards Anno 1595, he performed a victorious Voyage to the West-Indies, wherein he took by assault the I will of Puerto Santo, invaded the I will of Coche, surprised the Fort and Town of Coro, sacked the stately City of St. Jago, put the Town of Cumana to ransom, entered Jamaica with little loss, some profit, and more honor, safely returned, within the space of six months to Milford Haven in Wales.

I have been informed from excellent hands, that on some dis-taste he sent a Challenge to S ^r . Walter Raleigh, which S ^r . Walter declined without any abatement to his Valour (wherein he had abundantly satisfied all possibility of suspicion) and great advancement of his Judgment. For having a fair and fixed Estate, with Wife and Children, being a Privy Counselor, and Lord Warden of the Stannereys, he thought it an uneven l •… y to stake himself against S ^r . Amias, a private, and (as I take it) a single person, though of good birth and courage, yet of no considerable Estate. This also is consonant to what he hath written so judiciously about Duels, condemning those for ill Honors, where the Hangman gives the Garland. However these two Knights were afterwards reconciled, and S ^r . Amias (as I collect) died about the beginning of the reign of King James.

Learned Writers.

GILDAS, surnamed the WISE was born in the City of Bath, and therefore it is that he is called Badonicus. He was eight years junior to another Gildas called Albanius, whose Nativity I cannot clear to belong to our Britain. He was also otherwise sur-styled, Querulus, because the little we have of his Writing is only a Complaint. Yet was he none of those whom the Apostle condemneth. These are Murmur •… s, Complainers, &c. (taxing only such who either were impious against GOD, or uncharitable against men, complaining of them either without cause or without measure, ) whilst our Gildas only inveigheth against the sins, and bemoaneth the sufferings of that wicked and woeful age wherein he lived, calling the Clergy Montes Malitiae, the Brittons generally, Atramentum seculi.

He wrote many Books, though we have none of them extant at this day (some few fragments excepted, inserted amongst the Manuscript Canons) but his aforesaid History. This makes me more to wonder that so Learned a Critick as D ^r . Gerrard 〈◊〉 should attribute the Comedy of Aulularia in Plautus to this our Gildas, merely because that Comedy is otherwise commonly called Querulus. Whereas indeed their language is different, that in Aulularia tolerably pure (though perchance courser than the rest in Plautus ) whilst the style of Gildas is hardly with sense to be climbed over, it is so harsh and barbarous. Besides I do not believe that Gildas had a drop of Comical blood in his ve •… nes, or any inclination to mirth and festivity, and if he had prepared anything Scenical to be acted on the Theater, certainly it would have been a Tragedy relating to the ruin and destruction of his Nation. Some variety there is about the date of his death, which most probably is assigned, Anno 570.

MAURICE SOMERSET carried this County of his Nativity about with him in his Name, and was bred first a Cistercian Monk in Ford-Abbey, then studied in Oxford, and became a good Writer both in Prose and Verse. His deserts preferred him Abbot of Wells, which in his old age he resigned, loving Ease above Honor. Some Books he dedicated to his Diocesan, Reginald Bishop of Bath, and flourished Anno 1193.

ALEXANDER of ESSEBIE is (saith my Author) by some accounted a Somerset, by others a Staffordshire man; and therefore by our fundamental Laws, (laid down in our Preface, to decide differences about nativities) falls to the share of this County. He was the Prince of English Poets in his age, and in imitation of Ovid de Fastis, put our Christian Festivals into Verse, setting a copy therein to Baptista Mantuanus.

Then leaving Ovid he aspired to Virgil, and wrote the History of the Bible (with the lives of some Saints) in an Heroical Poem; and though falling far short of Virgil, went beyond himself therein. He afterward became Prior of Esseby-Abbey, belonging to the Augustine's and flourished under King Henry the Third, Anno Dom. 1220.

ADAMUS de MARISCO, or ADAM of MARSH was born in this County, where there be plenty of Marshes in the Fenny part thereof. But I take Brent-marsh as the principal, the most probable place for his Nativity. It seemeth that a foggy Air is no hindrance to a refined Wit, whose Infancy and Youth in this place was so full of pregnancy. He afterwards went to Oxford, and there became D. D. It is argument enough to persuade any indifferent man into a belief of his Abilities, because that Robert Groshead that Learned and Pious Bishop of Lincoln, made use of his pains, that they might jointly peruse, and aompare the Scripture. He became afterwards a Franciscan Frier in Worc •… ster, and furnished the Library thereof with most excellent Manuscripts, for then began the E •… ulation in England betwixt Monasteries, which should outvie other for most and best Books. He flourished Anno Dom. 1257. I cannot grieve heartily for this Adam his loss of the Bishoprik of Eli, because Hugo de Balsham his corrival got it from him, the Founder of Peter house in Cambridge.

Since the Reformation.

HENRY CUFF •… was born at St. George Hinton in this County, as the late Lord Powlet, Baron thereof, did inform me, though none of that name left there at this day. He was afterwards fellow of Merton College in Oxford, and Secretary to Robert Earl of Essex, with whom he engaged in his rising, Anno 1600. being arraigned at Westminster for his life. Sir Edward Cook (then but the Queens Attorney) disputed Syllogistically against him, whom Cuffe an admirable Logician could caeteris paribus well have encountered. But power will easily make a solecism to be a silogisme. The most pregnant proof brought against him was a Verse out of Lucan alleged by him. For when the Earl sitting in consultation with his Complices demanded their advice, whether he should proceed in their design, or desist, Mr. Cu •… e returned

Viribus utendum est quas •… ecimus, Arma ferenti Omnia dat, qui justa negat.

This I may say proved his Neck▪verse being attested against him, for which he suffered. He wrote an excellent Book of the difference of the Ages of man, a rare piece indeed, though not altogether so hard to be procured as worthy to be perused.

S ^r . JOHN HARRINGTON Knight, where born I know not, sure I am he had a fair Estate at Kelston near Bath in this County, and is emiment for his Confessor Extraction.

His Father only for carrying a Letter to the Lady (afterwards Queen) Elizabeth, by Bishop Gardener kept twelve months in the Tower, and made to spend 1000 pounds ere he could get free of that trouble.

His Mother servant to the Lady Elizabeth, was by Gardiners command sequestered from her, as an Heretic, and her husband enjoined, not to keep company with her.

Queen Elizabeth was Godmother to this Sir John, and he was bred in Cambridge, where Doctor Still was his Tutor, but whether whilst he was Fellow of Christ's, or Master of St. Johns, is to me unknown. He afterward proved one of the most ingenious Poets of our English Nation, witnsse his translation of Orlando Furioso out of the Italian, dedicated to the Lady Elizabeth, since Queen of Bohemia, and the several pieces of his own invention.

It happened that while the said Sir John repaired often to an Ordinary in Bath, a female Attendress at the Table, neglecting other Gentlemen which sat higher, and were of greater Estates, applied herself wholly to him, accommodating him with all necessaries, and prebenting his asking anything with her officiousness. She being demanded by him, the reason of her so careful waiting on him? I understand, said she, you are a very Witty man, and if I should displease you in anything, I fear you would make an Epigram of me.

A posthume Book of his is come forth, as an Addition to Bishop Godwins Catalogue of Bishops; wherein (beside mistakes) some tart reflections in Uxoratos Episcopos, might well have been spared. In a word, he was a Poet in all things save in his wealth, leaving a fair Estate to a Learned and Religious Son, and died about the middle of the reign of King James.

SAMUEL DANIEL was born not far from Taunton in this County, whose Faculty was a master of Music: and his harmonious Mind, made an impression on his Sons Genius, who proved an exquisite Poet. He carried in his Christian and Surname two Holy Prophets, his Monitors so to qualify his Raptures, that he abhorred all profaneness.

He was also a judicious Historian, witness his Lives of our English Kings since the Conquest, until King Edward the Third, wherein he hath the happiness to reconcile Brevity with Clearnesse, qualities of great distance in other Authors. A work since commendably continued, (but not with equal quickness and judgment) by M ^r . Trusal.

He was a Servant in Ordinary to Queen Anne, who allowed him a fair Salary. As the Tortoise burieth himself all the Winter in the ground, so M ^r . Daniel would lie hid at his Garden-house in Oldstreet, nigh London, for some Months together, (the more retiredly to enjoy the Company of the Muses, ) and then would appear in public, to converse with his Friends, whereof D ^r . Cowel, and M ^r . Camden were principal.

Some tax him to smack of the Old Cask, as resenting of the Romish Religion, but they have a quicker Palat •… than than I, who can make any such discovery. In his old Age he turned Husbandman, and Rented a Farm in Wiltshire nigh the Devises. I can give no account how he thrived thereupon. For though he was well versed in Virgil, his fellow Husbandman-Poet, yet there is more required to make a rich Farmer, than only to say his Georgicks by heart, and I question whether his Ita •… ian will fit our English Husbandry. Besides, I suspect that M ^r . Daniel his fancy was too fine and sublimated to be wrought down to his private profit.

However he had neither a Bank of wealth or lank of want, living in a competent condition. By Justina his wife he had no child, and I am unsatisfied both in the Place and Time of death, but collect the latter, to be about the end of the reign of King James.

HUMPHRY SIDENHAM was born at Dalverton in this County, of a most Ancient and Worshipful Family, bred Fellow of Wadham College, so Eloquent a Preacher that he was commonly called Silver-tongued Sidenham. But let his own printed Sermons, (and especially that, called the Athenian Babbler ) set forth his deserved praise, who died since our Civil distempers, about the year 1650.

Romish-exile Writers.

JOHN GIBBON was undoubtedly born in this County, though herein Pitts presents us with an untoward and left-handed direction, Patrica Somersetensis Diocesis Wintoniensis. Now either W •… nchester is imprinted for Wells, or he was born in this County in some peculiar belonging to Winchester, which See hath large revenues about Taunton. Leaving the Land for his Religion, Pope Gregory XIII. collated on him a Canons place in the Church of Bonn. This he soon quitted, and became Rector of the Jesuits College in Triers, he wrote a Book against G. Schon Professor at Heydelberge in vindication that the Pope was not Antichrist. Being indisposed in health, his hearing of the defeat of the Spanish Armado, was no cordial unto him, and died Anno 1589.

ROBERT PERSON was born in this County, bred in Baliol -College in Oxford, till for his viciousness he was expelled thence with disgrace. Running to Rome, and there finishing the course of his studies, he with Campian were the first brace of English Jesuits, who returned hither 1589 to preserve this Nation. Two years after he escaped hence, and got beyond the Seas.

One of a troublesome spirit, wherewith some moderate Romanists were so▪offended, that (during his abode here) they once resolved to resign him up to the Queens Officers. He had an ill natured Wit, biassed to Satyricalnesse. A great States-man, and it was not the least part of his policy to provide for his own safety; who would look on, direct, give ground, abet on other men's hands, but never plaid so, as to adventure himself into England.

He wrote a shrewd Book of the Succession to the English-crown, setting it forth under the false name of Dolman (a dulsecular Priest, guilty of little Learning, and less policy) dedicating the same to the Earl of Essex. He had an authoritative influence on all English Catholics, nothing of importance being agitated by them, but Person had a finger, hand, arm therein. He was for 23 years Rector of the College at Rome, where he died Anno Dom. 1610.

JOHN FEN was born at Montacute in this County, bred in New-College in Oxford,