The History of the Worthies of England

Since the Reformation.

............. HALES Esquire, He purchased a prime part of the Priory of Coventry. Now, either out of his own inclination, or as a Condition of his Composition with King Henry the eighth, or a mixture of both; he founded and endowed a fair Grammar-school▪ in Coventry. Herein I have seen more▪ (abate the Three English▪schools of the first Magnitude ) and as well learned Scholars, (be it spoken that the Master, Us •… er, and Scholars, may according to their Proportions divide the praise betwixt them) as in any School in England. Here is also an Infant, which may be an Adult Library, when it meeteth with more Benefactors.

JOHN Lord HARRINGTON son to James Lord Harrington, was born at Comb Abby in this County, (accruing unto him by his Mother Heiress of •… elway, ) as by a property of that Family, lately (or still ) surviving, I have on very strict enquiry been certainly informed.

He did not count himself privileged from being Good, by being Great, and his timely Piety rising early, did not soon after go to Bed, (as some young Saints, beheld under another Notion) but contiuned watchful, during his life.

He was one of the first, who began the pious fashion (since followed by few of his Quality,) of a Diary, wherein he registered, not the Injuries of others done unto him, (a work of Revenge not Devotion, ) but of his Fa •… lings and Infirmities toward his Master. Thus making even with the God of Heaven, by Repentance in Christ at the end of every day, he had (to use the Expression and Counsel of the Reverend ArchBishop of Armagh) but one day to repent of before his death.

He lived out all 〈◊〉 days in the appointment of Divine Providence, not half of them according to the course and possibility of Nature, not Half a Quarter of them according to the hopes and desires of the Lovers and Honourers of Virtue in this Nation, especially of the society in Sidney-college in Cambridge, whereto he was a most 〈◊〉 Benefactour. He was the last Male of that Honorable Family, as one justly complains.

The Reader is referred for the rest, unto his Funeral Sermon, preached by Master Stock of London, who though he would not (to use his own Phrase) Gild a Po •… sheard, understand him, Flatter unworthiness; yet giveth him his large and due Commendation. He died unmarried Anno 161.. leaving his two Sisters his Heirs, Lucy married to Edward Earl of Bedford, and Anne, who by Sir Robert Chichester had a daughter Anne, married to Thomas Earl of Elgin, and Mother to Robert L. Bruce, who is at this day, Heir Apparent to no small part of the Lands, but Actually possessed of a larger of the Virtues of his Honorable Great-uncle.

Lord Mayors.

The Names of the Gentry of this County Returned by the Commissioners in the 〈◊〉 year of King Henry the sixth. 1433.

• Radul. Nevill, mil.
• John. Colepeper, mil.
• Will. Mounford, mil.
• Edw. Oddingsselles, m.
• Tho. B •… rdet, mil.
• Rich. Otherston Abbatis de Camba
• Will. Pole Abbatis de Alyncestre
• Joh. Buggeley Abbatis de Miravalle
• Edw. Bron •… ete de Farnburgh, ar.
• Bald. Mountford de Hampton, ar.
• R •… d. Brasebrugg de Kinnesbury, ar.
• Will. Lucy de Charlecote, ar.
• Tho. Hugford de Emescote, ar.
• Tho. Erdington de Erdington, ar.
• Rob. Arden de Bromwich, ar.
• Will. Pucfrey de Shiford, ar.
• Rog. Harewell de Morehall, ar.
• Rich. Hyband de Ippesley, armig.
• Will. Botoner de Wythybroke
• John. Midlemore de Eggebaston, ar.
• Thome Porter de Escote, ar.
• Tho. 〈◊〉 de Tonworth, ar.
• Tho. Waryng de eadem, ar.
• Rich. Verney, ar. de Wolverton
• Tho. G •… ene de Solyhull, ar.
• Joh. Chelwyn de Alspath, ar.
• John. Waldiene de eadem, ar.
• Nich. Ruggeley de Donton, ar.
• Will. Holt de Aston, ar.
• Rich. Merbroke de Codbarow, ar.
• Galf. Allefley d eparva Lalleford
• Tho. Greswold de Solyhull
• Tho. Haynton de Napton
• Will. Parker de Tonworth
• Edm. Starkey de Stretton
• Ranul. Starky de eadem
• Will. Derset de Thurlaston
• Rich. Hall de Stretford
• John. Mayell de eadem
• Simon. Forster de Althercton
• Clemen. Draper de •… adem
• Johan. Darant de Berston
• Rog. Mullward de Nuneton
• Johan. Omfrey de eadem
• Johan. Waryn de eadem
• Hum. Jacob de Tamworth
• Tho. Neuton de eadem
• Math. Smalwode de Sutton
• Rich. Dalby de Brokhampton
• Rich. Eton de Warwick
• Hum. Corbet
• Johan. Aleyn de Berford
• Tho. Iakes de Woner
• Rog. Clerk de Tatchbrook
• Rich. Briches de Longedon
• Will. Reynold de Attilburgh
• John. Michell majoris civitatis Coventrae
• Will. Donington unius Ballivorum civitatis Predictae.
• Rob. Southam alterius Ballivorum civitatis Predicte.
• Egidii Alles sley Magistri Gildae Sanctae Trinitatis de Coventrae.
• Lauren. Cook de Coventrae Merchant
• Rich. Sharp de eadem Merchant
• Rich. Boton de eadem Fishmonger
• John. Lychefeld de eadem Grasier
• John. Walle de eadem Fishmonger
• John. Leder de Coventrae Merchant
• Tho. Estop Magi •… ri Gildae Sanctae Trinitatis Warwick
• Nich. R •… dy de eadem
• John. Mayell de eadem sentor
• Will. Hopkyns de eadem
• John. Broune de eadem junior.
• Johan. Stokes de Henlen in Ardeon Gildae
• Villae Magistri predictae
• Johan. Thorp de Kolle.

Sheriffs.

This Shire was in Conjunction, under the same Sheriffs with Leicester-shire, until the year of Q. Elizabeth. Since which time Warwick-shire hath these appropriate to itself.

The Manufacture.

Kendall Cottons are famous all over England, and Master Camden termeth that Town Lanificii gloria, & industria praecellens. I hope the Town •… men thereof (a word is enough to the wise) will make their commodities so substantial, that no Southern Town shall take an advantage, to gain that Trading away from them: I speak not this out of the least distrust of their honesty, but the great desire of their happiness, who being a Cambridge-man out of Sympathy wish well to the Clothiers of Kendall▪ as the first founder of our Sturbridge-fair.

Proverbs.

Tradition reporteth, that this Uter-Pendragon had a design, to fortify the Castle of Pen-Dragon in this County. In order whereunto, with much art and industry, he invited and tempted the River of Eden, to forsake his old channel, and all to no purpose. The Proverb is appliable to such, who offer a rape to Nature, endeavoring what is cross and contrary thereunto.

However, Christians have not only some hope, but comfortable assurance, that they may conquer the corruptions of their Nature. If F •… rca (in no unusual sense ) be taken for the Cross, by the virtue of Christ's sufferings thereon, a man may so repel Nature, that it shall not recoil to his destruction.

Princes.

KATHARINE PAR daughter of Sir Thomas Par, was born at Kendall-castle in this County, then the prime seat of that (though no parliamentary) Barony, devolved to her father by inheritance from the Bruses and Rosses of Werk. She was first married unto John Nevile Lord Latimer, and afterwards to K. Henry the eighth.

This King first married half a maid, (no less can be allowed to the Lady Katharine, the Relict of Prince Arthur, ) and then he married four maids successively; of the two last he complained, charging the one with impotency, the other with inconstancy, and being a free man again, resolved to wed a Widow, who had given testimony of her fidelity to a former husband.

This Lady was a great favourer of the Gospel, and would earnestly argue for it, sometimes speaking more then her husband would willingly hear of: Once politick Gardener (who spared all the Weeds, spoiled the good Flowers and Herbs ) had almost got her into his clutches, had not divine Providence delivered her. Yet a Jesuit tells us that the King intended, if longer surviving, to behead her for an Heretic; to whom all that I will return is this, that he was neither Confessor, nor Privy-Coun •… ellour to King Henry the eighth.

This Queen was afterward married to Thomas Seymer, Baron of Sudeley and Lord Admiral, and died in child-bed of a daughter Anno Domini 1548. her second husband surviving her. This makes me the more admire at the great mistake of Thomas Mills (otherwise most industrious and judicious in genealogies) making this Lady married the third time, unto Edward Burgh eldest son unto Thomas Lord Burgh, without any show of probability.

Cardinals.

CHRISTOPHER BAMBRIDGE born near Apleby in this County, was bred Doctor of Law in Queens-college in Oxford. He was afterwards Dean of York, Bishop of Durham, and at last Arch-bishop of York. Being employed an Embasadour to Rome; he was an active instrument to procure our King Henry the eight, to take part with the Pope against Lewis King of France, for which good service he was created Cardinal of Saint Praxis. A title some say he long desired, let me add, and little enjoyed. For falling out with his Steward Rivaldus de Modena an Italian, and fustigating him for his faults, the angry Italian Poysoned him.

Herein something may be pleaded for this Cardinal out of the Old, sure I am more must be pleaded against him out of the New Testament, if the places be Parallell'd.

But grant him greatly faulty, it were uncharitable in us, to beat his Memory with more stripes, who did then suffer so much for his own Indiscretion; His death happened July 14. 1511▪ and was buried at Rome (not in the Church of Saint Praxis, which entitled him, but) in the Hospital of the English.

Prelates.

THOMAS VIPONT was descended of those Ancient Barons, who were Hereditary Lord's of this County. Surely either his Merit was very great, or Might very prevalent, (advantaged by his near and potent Relations.) That the Canons of Carlisle stuck so stiffly to their electing their Bishop, when King Henry the third, with so much importunity commended John Prior of Newbury unto them. This Thomas enjoyed his place but one year, the only reason as I conceive that no more is reported of him. He died Anno Dom. 1256.

JOHN de KIRKBY born at one of the two Kirkbies (Landsdale or Stephens ) in this County, was first Canon, and afterwards Bishop of Carlisle Anno 1332. This is that Stout Prelate who when the Scots invaded. England Anno 1345. with an Army of thirty thousand, under the conduct of William Douglas, and had taken and burnt Carlisle with the Country thereabouts, I say this John Kirkby was he who with the assistance of Thomas Lucy, Robert Ogle, (persons of prime power in those Parts) fighting in an advantageous place, utterly routed and ruined them. Such as behold this Act with envious eyes, cavilling that he was non-resident from his Calling, when he turned his Miter into an Helmet, Crosier-staff into a Sword, consider not that true Maxim, In▪ Publicos hosts omnis home miles, and the most conscientious Casuists, who forbid Clergy-men to be Military Plaintiffs, allow them to be defendants. He died Anno Dom. 1353.

THOMAS de APPLEBY born in that Eminent Town in this County, where the Assizes commonly are kept, was legally chosen Bishop of Carlisle by all that had right in that Election. Yet he was either so Timerous, or the Pope so Tyrannicall, or both, that he durst not own the choice with his public consent, until he had first obtained his Confirmation from the Court of Rome. He was Consecrated Anno Dom. 1363. and having set 33. years in that See, deceased Decemb▪ 5. 1395.

ROGER de APPLEBY went over into Ireland, and there became Prior of Saint Peters near Trimme (formerly founded by Simon de rupe forti Bishop of Meath ) hence by the Pope he was preferred Bishop of Ossory in the same Kingdom. He died Anno Dom. 1404.

WILLIAM of STRICKLAND descended of a Right Worshishful Family in this County, Anno 1396. by joint consent of the Cannons chosen Bishop of Carlisle. However by the concurrence of the Pope and K. Richard the second, one Robert Read was preferred to the Place, which injury and affront, Strickland bare with much moderation. Now it happened that Read was removed to Chichester, and Thomas M •… x his successor translated to a Grecian Bishopric, that Strickland was Elected again, (Patience gains the Goal with Long-running, ) and Consecrated Bishop of Carlisle Anno 1400. For the Town of Perith in Cumberland, he cut a p •… ssage with great Art, Industry, and Expence, from the Town into the river Petterill for the conveyance of Boatage into the Irish sea. He sat Bishop 19. years, and died Anno Dom. 1419.

NICHOLAS CLOSE was born at Bibreke in this County, & was One of the Six Original Fellows whom K. Henry the sixth placed in his new erected College of Kings-college in Cambridge. Yea he made him in a manner Master of the Fabric, committing the building of that house to his Fidelity, who right honestly discharged his trust therein. He was first Bishop of Carlisle, then of Leichfield, where he died within a year after his Consecration, viz. Anno Dom. 1453.

States-men.

Sir EDWARD BELLINGHAM Knight, was born of an ancient and warlike family, in this County, servant of the Privy-Chamber to King Edward the sixth, who sent him over Anno 1547. to be Lord Deputy of Ireland, whose Learning, Wisdom, and Valour, made him fit to discharge that place.

Hitherto the English-pale had been hide-bound in the growth thereof, having not gained one foot of ground in more then two hundred years, since the time of King Edward the third. This Sir Edward first extended it, proceeding against the Irishry in a martial course, by beating and breaking the Moors and Connors, two rebellious Septs. And, because the Poet saith true,

He built the forts of Leix and Offaly, to secure his new acquisition. Surely, had he not been suddenly revok▪d into England, he would have perfected the project in the same sort, as it was performed by his successor the Earl of Sussex, by settling English plantations therein.

Such his secrecy (the soul of great designs) that his Soldiers never knew whither they went, till they were come whither they should go. Thus he surprised the Earl of Desmond, being rude and unnurtured, brought him up to Dublin, where he informed and reformed him in manners and civility, sometimes making him to kneel on his knees an hour together, before he knew dis duty) till he became a new man in his behavior. This Earl all his life after highly honored him▪ and at every dinner, and supper would pray to God for good Sir Edward Bellingham, who had so much improved him.

This Deputy had no fault, in his Deputiship but one, that it was so short, he being called home before two years were expired. Surely, this hath much retarded the reducing of the Irishry, the often shifting of their Deputies, (too often change of the kinds of plasters, hinders the healing of the sore,) so that as soon as they had learned their trade, they must resign their shop to another, which made King James continue the Lord Chichester so long in the place, for the more effectual performance therein.

Coming into England he was accused of many faults, but cleared himself as fast as his adversaries charged him, recovering the Kings favor in so high a degree, that he had been sent over Deputy again, save that he excused himself by indisposition of body, and died not long after.

Writers.

RICHARD KENDAL. I place him here with confidence, because no Kendal in England, save what is the chief Town of this County. He was an excellent Grammarian, and the greatest instructer ( Shreud and Sharp enough) of youth in his age. He had a vast collection of all Latin Grammars, and thence extracted a Quintessence, whereof he was so highly conceited, that he publicly boasted, that Latin only to be Elegant, which was made according to his Rules, and all other to be Base and Barbarous; Which, Reader, I conceive, (being out of his, though) under thy Correction, a Proud and Pedantick expression. He flourished in the reign of K. Henry the sixth.

Benefactors to the Public.

• ROBERT LANGTON Doctors of Law.
• MILES SPENCER Doctors of Law.

It is pity to part them, being Natives of this County, (as I am credibly informed) Doctors in the same facul •… y, and Co-partners in the same Charity, the building of a fair School at Appleby, The Pregnant Mother of so many Eminent Scholars.

As for Robert Langton he was bred in, and a Benefactor to Queens- •… edge in Oxford, owing the Glaseing of many Windows therein to his Beneficence. Witness his Conceit to Communicate his Name to Posterity, viz. a Ton (the 〈◊〉 or Fancy General, for all Sirnames in that Termination ) extended very long beyond an ordinary proportion, [ Lang the Northern man pronounceth it] whereby he conceived his Surname completed. I shall be thankful to him, who shall enform me of the Dates of their several deaths.

ANNE CLYFFORD, sole Daughter & heir to George Earl of Cumberland, Wife first to Richard Earl of Dorset, then to Phillip Earl of Pembrok •… and Montgomery, (though born and nursed in Hartfordshire, yet) because having her greatest Residence and Estate in the North, is properly referrable to this County. The Proverb is, Homo non est ubi animat, sed amat, One is not to be reputed there where he lives, but where he loves, on which account this Lady is placed, not where she first took life, but where she hath left a most lasting Monument of her Love to the Public.

This is that most beautiful Hospital, Stately Built, and Richly Endowed, at her sole Cost, at Appleby in this County.

It was conceived (a bold and daring part of Thomas Cecil (son to Treasurer Burghleigh ) to enjoin his Masons and Carpenters, not to omit a days Work, at the building of Wimbleton house in Surr •… y, though the Spanish Armado, Anno 1588. all that while shot off their Guns, whereof some might be heard to the Place. But Christianly Valiant is the Charity of this Lady, who in this Age, wherein there is an Earthquake of Antient Hospitals, and as for new ones, they are hardly to be seen for New lights, (I say) Couragious this Worthy 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , who dare found in this Confounding Age, wherein so much was demolished and a •… ened, which was given to God and his Church. Long may she live in Wealth and 〈◊〉 , exactly to Compleat, what •… oever her 〈◊〉 Intentions have 〈◊〉 .

M •… morable Persons.

RICHARD GILPIN, a Valiant Man in this County, was 〈◊〉 offed in the Raign of K. John about the year 1208. in the Lordship of Kent-mire- •… all by the Baron of Kendal, 〈◊〉 his singular deserts •… oth in Peace and War.

I confess the story of this Westmorland-Hercules soundeth something Romanza like. However, I believe it, partly, because so reverend a pen hath recorded it, and because the people in these parts need not feign foes in the fancy, Bears, Bores and Wild beasts, who in that age had real enemies, the neighbouring Scots to encounter.

The Farewell.

Reader, I must confess myself sorry and ashamed, that I cannot do more right to the Natives of this County, so far distanced North, that I never had yet the opportunity to behold it. O that I had but received some intelligence from my worthy friend Doctor Thomas Barlow Provost of Queens-college in Oxford! who for his Religion and Learning, is an especial ornament of Westmorland. But Time, Tide, and a PrintersPress, are three unmannerly things, that will stay for no man, and therefore I request, that my defective endeavors may be well accepted.

I learn out of Master Camden, that in the River Cann in this County, there be two Catadupae or Waterfalls, whereof, the Northern sounding Clear and Loud, foretokeneth Fair Weather, the Southern on the same Terms presageth Rain▪ Now I wish that the former of thesemay be Vocall in Hay-time and Harvest, the latter after Great Drought, that so both of them may make welcome Music to the Inhabitants.

Natural Commodities.

The Manufactures.

The Buildings.

The Cathedral of Salisbury (dedicated to the Blessed Virgin) is paramount in this kind, wherein the Doors and Chapels equal the Months, the Windows the Days, the Pillars and Pillarets of Fusill Marble (an ancient Art now shrewdly suspected to be lost) the Hours of the Year, so that all Europe affords not such an Almanac of Architecture.

Once walking in this Church, (whereof then I was Prebendary) I met a Countryman wondering at the Structure thereof. I once (said he to me) admired that there could be a Church that should have so mamy Pillars, as there be Hours in the Year; And now, I admire more, that there should be so many Hours in the Year, as I see Pillars in this Church.

The Cross Isle of this Church is the most beautiful and lightsome of any I have yet beheld. The Spire Steeple (not founded on the ground, but for the main supported by Four Pillars,) is of great heighth and greater workman-ship. I have been credibly informed that some Foreign Artists beholding this building, brake forth into Tears, which some imputed to their Admiration, (though I see not how wondering can cause weeping, ) others to their Envy, grieving that they had not the like in their own Land.

Nor can the most Curious (not to fay Cavilling ) Eye, desire anything which is wanting in this Edifice, except possibly an Ascent, seeing such who address themselves hither for their devotions, can hardly say with David, I will go up into the house of the Lord.

Amongst the many Monuments therein, that of Edward Earl of Hartford, is most magnificent, that of Helen Sua •… enburgh a Swede, (the Relict of William Marquess of Northampton, and afterwards married to Sir Thomas Gorges, ) is most commended for its artificial plainness.

But the curiosity of Critics is best entertained with the Tomb, in the North of the Nave of the Church, where lieth a Monument in stone, of a little boy habited all in Episcopal Robes, a Miter upon his •… ead, a Crosier in his hand, and the rest accordingly. At the discovery thereof (formerly covered over with Pews) many justly admired, that either a Bishop could be so small in Person, or a Child so great in Clothes; though since all is unriddled. For it was fashionable in that Church (a thing rather deserving to be remembered, then fit to be done,) in the depth of Popery, that the Choristers chose a boy of their society, to be a Bishop among them, from Saint Nicholas till Innocents day at night, who did officiate in all things Bishop-like, saying of Mass alone excepted, and held the state of a Bishop, answerably habited, amongst his fellows the counterfeit Prebends: one of these, chancing to die in the time of his mock-Episcopacy, was buried with Crosier and Miter as is aforesaid. Thus superstition can dispence with that, which Religion cannot, making Piety Pageantry, and subjecting what is sacred, to lusory representations.

As for Civil-buildings in this County, none are such Giants as to exceed the Standard of Structures in other Counties. Long-leat the house of Sir James Thynne was the biggest, and Wilton is the stateliest and pleasantest for Gardens, Fountains, and other accommodations.

Nor must the industry of the Citizens of Salisbury be forgotten, who have derived the River into every Street therein, so that Salisbury is a heap of Islets thrown together. This mindeth me of an Epitaph made on Mr. Francis Hide a Native of this City, who died Secretary unto the English Leiger in Venice,

The truth is that the strength of this City consisted in the weakness thereof, uncapable of being Garrison'd, which made it in our Modern Wars to scape better then many other places of the same proportion.

The Wonders.

Proverbs.

It is done secundum usum Sarum.]

This Proverb coming out of the Church, hath since enlarged itself into a civil use. It began on this occasion; Many Offices or forms of service were used in several Churches in England, as the Office of York, Hereford, Bangor, &c. which caused a deal of Confusion in God's Worship, until Osmond Bishop of Sarum, about the year of our Lord 1090. made that Ordinall or Office which was generally received all over England, so that Churches thence forward easily understood one another, all speaking the same words in their Liturgy.

It is now applied to those persons which do, and Actions which are formally and solemnly done, in so Regular a way by Authentic Precedents, and Paterns of unquestionable Authority, that no just exception can be taken thereat.

Princes.

MARGARET PLANTAGENET Daughter to George Duke of Clarence, and Isabel Nevile Eldest Daughter and Co-heir of Richard Nevile Earl of Warwick, was born August 14. 1473. at Farrley-Castle in this County. Reader, I pray thee, let her pass for a Princesse, because Daughter to a Duke, Niece to two Kings, ( Edward the fourth, and Richard the third,) Mother to Cardinal Reginale Poole. But chiefly, because she was the last liver of all that Royal Race, which from their birth wore the names of Plantagenets. By Sir Richard Poole a Knight of Wales, and Cozen-Jerman to King Henry the seventh, she had divers children, whereof Henry Lord Montague was the eldest, he was Accused of Treason, and this Lady his Mother Charged to be Privy thereunto, by King Henry the eighth, who (as his father was something too slow) was somewhat too quick in discovering Treasons, as soon as (if not before) they were. On the Scaffold as she stood, she would not gratify the Executioner with a Prostrate Posture of her body.

Some beheld this her action as an argument of an erected soul, disdaining pulingly to submit to an infamous death, showing her mind free, though her body might be forced, and that also it was a demonstration of her innocence. But others condemned it as a needless and unseasonable animosity in her, who, though supposed innocent before man for this fact, must grant herself guilty before God, whose Justice was the supreme Judge condemning her. Besides it was indiscreet to contend, where it was impossible to prevail, there being no guard against the edge of such an axe, but patience; and it is ill for a soul to go recking with anger out of this world.

Here happened an unequal contest betwixt Weakness and Strength, Age and Youth, Nakedness and Weapons, Nobility and Baseness, a Princess and an Executioner, who at last draging her by the hair (gray with age) may truly be said to have took off her head, seeing she would neither give it him, nor forgive him the doing thereof. Thus died this Lady Margaret, Heir to the name and stout nature of Margaret Dutchess of Burgundy, her Aunt and God-mother, whose spirits were better proportioned to her Extraction then Estate, for though by special Patent she was created Countess of Sarisbury, she was restored but to a small part of the inheritance she was born unto. She suffered in 23. year of the reign of K. Henry the eighth.

JANE SEYMORE, Daughter to Sir John Seymoure Knight, (honourably descended from the Lord's Beauchamps ) was (as by all concurring probabilities is collected) born at Wulfall in this County, and after was married to King Henry the eight.

It is currently traditioned, that at her first coming to Court, Queen Anne Bollen espying a Jewell pendant about her neck, snatched thereat, (desirous to see the other unwilling to show it,) and causually hurt her hand with her own violence; but it grieved her heart more, when she perceived it the Kings Picture by himself bestowed upon her, who from this day forward dated her own declining and the others ascending in her husbands affection.

It appeareth plainly by a passage in the Act of Parliament, that the King was not only invited to his marriage, by his own affections, but by the Humble Petition and intercession of most of the Nobles of his Realm, moved thereunto, as well by the conveniency of her years, as in respect that by her Excellent Beauty and Pureness of Flesh and Blood, (I speak the very words of the Act itself,) she was apt (God willing) to Conceive Issue. And so it proved accordingly.

This Queen died some days after the birth of Prince Edward her son, on whom this Epitaph.

Of all the Wives of King Henry she only had the happiness to die in his full favor, the 14. of Octob. 1337. and is buried in the quire of Windsor Chapel, the King continuing in real mourning for her even all the Festival of Christmas.

Saints.

ADELME Son to Kenred, Nephew to Ina King of the West-Saxons, was bred in Foreign parts, and returning home was Abbot of Malmesbury Thirty years, a Person Memorable on several Accounts.

• 1. He was the first Englishman whoever wrote in Latin.
• 2. He was the first that ever brought Poetry into England.
• 3. The first Bishop of the See of Sherburn.

Bede giveth him a large commendation for his Learning, the rather, because he wrote a book for the reducing the Britons to observe Easter according to the Church of Rome.

Impudent Monks have much abused his Memory with Shameless lies, and amongst the rest with a Wooden Miracle, that a Carpenter having cut a Beam for his Church too short, he by his Prayers stretched it out to the full proportion. To this, I may add another lie as clear as the Sun itself, on whose Rayes (they report) he hung his Ve •… meant, which miraculously supported it to the great admiration of the beholders.

Coming to Rome to be Consecrated Bishop of Sherburn, he reproved Pope Sergius his fatherhood, for being a father indeed to a Base Child, then newly born. And returning home he lived in great Esteem until the day of his death, which happened Anno Dom. 709.

His Corps being brought to Malmesbury, were there Inshrined, and had in great Veneration, who having his longest abode whilst living, and last when dead in this County, is probably presumed a Native thereof.

EDITH Natural daughter of King Edger, by the Lady Wolfhild, was Abbess of Wilton, wherein she demeaned herself with such Devotion, that her Memory obtained the reputation of Saint-ship. And yet an Author telleth us, that being more curious in her attire, then beseemed her profession, Bishop Aethelwold sharply reproved her, who answered him roundly, That God regarded the Heart more then the Garment, and that Sins might be covered as well under Rags as Robes.

One reporteth that after the slaughter of her brother Edward, holy Dunstan had a design to make her Queen of England, (the Vail of her head it seems would not hinder the Crown, ) so to defeat Æthelred the lawful Heir, had she not declined the proffer, partly, on Pious, partly, Politick diswasions. She died Anno Dom. 984. and is buried in the Church of Dioness at Wilton of her own building, she is commonly called Saint Edith the younger, to distinguish her from Saint Edith her Aunt, of whom before.

Martyrs.

It plainly appeareth that about the year of our Lord 1503. there was a persecution of Protestants (give me leave so to Antedate their name) in this County, under Edmund Audley, Bishop of Salisbury, as by computation of time will appear. Yet I find but one man, Richard Smart by name, (the more remarkable, because but once, and that scentingly mentioned by Mr. Fox ) burnt at Salisbury, for reading a book called Wicliffs Wicket, to one Thomas Stillman, afterwards burnt in Smithfield. But under cruel Bishop Capon Wiltshire afforded these

Confessors.

These both being condemned to die, were little less then miraculously preserved, as will appear hereafter.

ALICE COBERLY must not be omitted, wife to William Coberly forenamed, (charitably presuming on her repentance,) though she failed in her Constancy on this occasion. The Jailors wife of Salisbury, heating a key fire hot, and laying it in the grass, spake to this Alice to bring it in to her, in doing whereof, she pitiously burnt her hand, and cried out thereat. O (said the other) if thou canst not abide the burning of a key, how wilt thou endure thy whole body to be burnt at the stake. Whereat the said Alice revoked her opinion.

I can neither excuse the Cruelty of the one (though surely doing it not out of a Persecuting, but Carnal preserving intention ) nor the Cowardliness of the other. For she might have hoped that her whole body encountering the flame with a Christian resolution, and confidence of Divine support in the Testimony of the truth, would have found less pain, then her hand felt from the sudden surprise of the fire, wherein the unexpectedness added (if not to the pain, ) to the fright thereof. This sure I am, that some condemn her shrinking for a burnt hand, who would have done so themselves for a scratched finger.

Cardinals.

WALTER WINTERBURN was born at Sarisbury in this County, and bred a Dominican-fryer. He was an excellent Scholar in all Studies suitable to his age, when a Youth, a good Poet and Orator, when a Man, an acute Philosopher, (Aristotelicarum doctrinarum heluo, saith he who otherwise scarce giveth him a good word,) when an Oldman, a deep Controvertial Divine, and Skilfull Casuist, a quality which commended him to be Confessor to King Edward the first.

Now news being brought to Pope Benedict the eleventh, that William Maklesfield Provincial of the Dominicans, and designed Cardinal of Saint Sabin, was dead and buried at London, before his Cap could be brought to him, he appointed this Walter to be heir to his Honor. The worst is, as Medlers are never ripe till they are rotten, so few are thought fit to be Cardinals, but such as are extremely in years. Maklesfield had all his body buried, and our Winterburn had one foot in the grave, being seventy nine years of age, before he was summoned to that dignity.

However, over he went with all hast into Italy, and though coming thither too late, to have a sight of Pope Benedict the eleventh, came soon enough to give a suffrage at the choice of Clement the fifth. This Walter his Cardinals Cap was never a whit the worse for wearing, enjoying it but a year. In his return home he died, and was buried at Genua, but afterwards his Corps were brought over, and Re-interred most solemnly in London Anno 1305.

ROBERT HALAM. was, saith my Author, Regio sanguine Angliae natus, born of the blood Royal of England, though how, or which way, he doth not acquaint us. But we envy not his high Extraction, whilst it seems accompanied with other Eminences. He was bred in Oxford, and afterwards became Chancellor thereof 1403. From being Arch-deacon of Canterbury, he was preferred Bishop of Salisbury. On the sixth of June 1411. he was made Cardinal, though his particular title is not expressed. It argueth his Abilities, that he was one of them, who was sent to represent the English Clergy, both in the Council of Pisa and Constance, in which last service he died, Anno Dom. 1417. in Gotleby Castle.

Prelates.

JOANNES SARISBURIENSIS was born at, and so named from, old Sarum in this County, though I have heard of some of the Salisburies in Denby shire, who Essay to assert him to their Family, as who would not recover so eminent a person?

Leland saith, that he seeth in him Omnem 〈◊〉 Orbem, all the World (or if you will the whole Circle) of Learning. Bale saith, that he was one of the first, who since Theodorus Arch-bishop of Canterbury, living five hundred years before him, (oh the 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 of Barbarism in England! ) endeavored to restore the learned languages to their Original Purity, being a good Latinist, Grecian, Musician, Mathematician, Philosopher, Divine, and what not?

What learning he could not find at home, he did fetch from abroad, travelling into France and Italy, companion to T. Becket in his Exile, but no partner in his protervity against his Prince, for which he sharply reproved him. He was highly in favor with Pope Eugenius the third, and Adrian the fourth, and yet no author in that age hath so pungent passages against the Pride and Covetousness of the Court of Rome. Take a taste of them.

How doth our Author Luther it (before Luther ) against their errors and vices? the more secure for the general opinion men had of his person, all holding our John to be, though no Prophet, a Pious man, King Henry the second made him Bishop of Chartres in France, where he died 1182.

RICHARD POOR Dean of Sarisbury, was first Bishop of Chichester, then of Sarisbury, or Old Sarum rather. He found his Cathedral most inconveniently seated for want of water, and other necessaries, and therefore removed it a mile off, to a place called Merry-field, (for the pleasant situation thereof,) since Sarisbury. Where he laid the foundation of that Stately Structure, which he lived not here to finish.

Now, as the place whence he came was so dry, that as Malmesbury saith, miserabili commercio, ibi aqua vaeneat, by sad chaffer, they were fain to give money for water, so he removed to one, so low and moist, men sometimes, (upon my own knowledge) would give money to be rid of the water. I observe this for no other end, but to show, that all human happiness, notwithstanding often exchange of places, will still be an Heteroclite, and either have too much or too little for our contentment.

This Poor was afterwards removed to the Bishopric of Durham, and lived there in great esteem, Mat. Paris characterizing him, eximiae sanctitatis, & profundae scientiae virum. His dissolution in a most pious and peaceable manner happened, April 5. Anno Domini 1237. His Corps by his Will were brought and buried at Tarrent in Dorsetshire, in a Nunnery of his own founding, and some of his Name [and probably Alliance] are still extant in this County.

WILLIAM EDENDON was born at Edendon in this County, bred in Oxford, and advanced by King Edward the third, to be Bishop of Winchester and Lord Treasurer of England. During his managing of that Office, he caused new coins (unknown before) to be made, groats and half-groats, both readier for change and fitter for charity. But the worst was imminuto nonnihil ponder, the weight was somewhat abated. If any say, this was an un-episcopal act; know, he did it not as Bishop, but as Lord Treasurer, the King, his Master, having all the profit thereby. Yea, succeeding Princes, following this pattern, have sub-diminished their coin ever since. Hence is it, that our Nobility, cannot maintain the port of their Ancestors, with the same revenues; because so many pounds are not so many pounds, though the same in noise and number, not the same in intrinsical valuation.

He was afterward made Lord Chancellor, and erected a stately Convent for Bonhomes at Edendon in this County, the place of his Nativity, valued at the Dissolution per annum at five hundred twenty one pounds, twelve shillings, five pence, half penny. Some condemn him for robbing Saint Peter (to whom with Saint Swithin, WinchesterChurch was dedicated) to pay all Saints collectively, to whom Edendon-Covent was consecrated, suffering his Episcopal Palaces to decay and drop down, whilst he raised up his new foundation. This he dearly paid for after his death, when his Executors were sued for dilapidations, by his successor William Wickham, (an excellent Architect, and therefore well knowing how to proportion his charges for reparations,) who recovered of them one thousand six hundred sixty two pounds ten shillings, a vast sum in that Age, though paid in the lighter groats and half-groats. Besides this, his Executors were forced to make good the standing-stock of the Bishopric, which in his time was impaired, viz.

This Edendon sat in his Bishopric twenty one years, and dying 1366. lieth buried on the South-side, in the passage to the Choir, having a fair Monument of Alabaster, but an Epitaph of course stone, I mean so barbarous, that it is not worth the inserting.

RICHARD MAYO alias MAYHOWE was born nigh Hungerford in this County, of good parentage, whose Sur-name and Kindred was extinct in the last generation, when the Heirs-general thereof, were married into the Families of Montpesson and Grove. He was first admitted in New-college, and thence removed to Magdalens in Oxford, where he became President thereof 27. years. It argueth his abilities to any indifferent apprehension, that so knowing a Prince as Henry the seventh, amongst such plenty of Eminent Persons, elected and sent him into Spain, Anno 1501. to bring over the Lady Katharine to be married to Prince Arthur, which he performed with all fidelity, though the heavens might rather seem to Laugh at, then Smile on that unfortunate marrying. After his return he was rewarded with the Bishopric of Hereford, and having sat 11. years therein died 1516 and lieth buried in his Church on the South-side of the high Altar, under a Magnificent Monument.

States-men

EDWARD SEIMOR and THOMAS SEIMOR, both Sons of Sir John Seimor of Wolfull Knight in this County. I join them together, because whilst they were united in affection they were invinsible, but when divided, easily overthrown by their enemies.

Edward Seimor Duke of Sommerset, Lord Protector and Treasurer of England, being the Elder Brother, succeeded to a fair Paternal inheritance. He was a valiant Soldier for Land-service, fortunate, and generally beloved by Martial men. He was of an open nature, free from jealousy and dissembling, affable to all People. He married Anne Daughter of Sir Edward Stanhop knight, a Lady of a high mind and haughty undaunted spirit.

Thomas Seimor the Younger Brother, was made Barron of Sudley, by offices and the favors of his Nephew, K. Edward the sixth, obtained a great Estate. He was well experienced in Sea affairs, and made Lord Admiral of England. He lay at a close posture, being of a reserved Nature, and was more cunning in his Carriage. He married Queen Katharine Parr, the Widow of King Henry the eighth.

Very great the Animosities betwixt their Wives, the Dutchess refusing to bear the Queens Train, and in effect justled with her for Precedence, so that what betwixt the Train of the Queen, and long Gown of the Dutchess, they raised so much dust at the Court, as at last, put out the eyes of both their husbands, and occasioned their Executions, as we have largely declared in our Ecclesiastical History. The Lord Thomas Anno 154.. The Lord Edward Anno 154.

Thus the two best Bullworks of the safety of King Edward the sixth, being demolished to the ground, Duke Dudley had the advantage the nearer to approach and assault the Kings Person, and to practice his destruction as is vehemently suspected.

Sir OLIVER SAINT JOHN Knight, Lord Grandison, &c. was born of an ancient and honorable family, whose prime seat was at Lediard-Tregoze in this County. He was bred in the wars from his youth, and at last by King James was appointed Lord Deputy of Ireland, and vigorously pursued the principles of his Predecessors, for the civilizing thereof. Indeed the Lord Mountjoy reduced that Country to obedience, the Lord Chichester to some civility, and this Lord Grandison first advanced it to considerable profit to his Master. I confess T. Walsingham writeth, that Ireland afforded unto Edward the third, thirty thousand pound a year paid into His Exchequer, but it appears by the Irish-records (which are rather to be believed) that it was rather a burden, and the constant revenue thereof beneath the third part of that proportion. But now, the Kingdom being peaceably settled, the income thereof turned to good account, so that Ireland (called by my Author the Land of Ire, for the constant broils therein for 400. years,) was now become the Land of Concord. Being re-called into England, he lived many years in great repute, and dying without issue, left his Honor to his Sisters son by Sir Edward Villiers, but the main of his estate to his Brothers son Sir John Saint John Knight and Baronet.

Sir JAMES LEY Knight and Baronet, son of Henry Ley Esquire, (one of great Ancestry, who on his own cost with his men, valiantly served King Henry the eighth, at the siege of Boleyn ) was born at Tafant in this County. Being his fathers sixth son, (and so in probability barred of his inheritance) he endeavored to make himself an Heir, by his Education, applying his book in Brasen-nose-college, and afterwards studying the Laws of the Land in Lincolns-Inn, wherein such his proficiency, King James made him Lord Chief Justice in Ireland.

Here he practiced the charge King James gave him at his going over, (yea, what his own tender Conscience gave himself,) namely, Not to build his Estate on the ruins of a miserable Nation, but aiming by the unpartial execution of Justice, not to enrich himself, but civilize the People, he made a good Progress therein. But the King would no longer lose him out of his own Land, and therefore recalled him home about the time when his fathers inheritance, by the death of his five elder brethren descended upon him. It was not long before Offices and Honor flowed in fast upon him, being made by

He was a person of great gravity, ability and integrity, and as the Caspian Sea is observed neither to ebb nor flow, so his mind did not rise or fall, but continued the same constancy in all conditions.

Sir FRANCIS COTTINGTON Knight, was born nigh Meer in this County, and bred, when a youth, under Sir........ Stafford. He lived so long in Spain, till he made the garb and gravity of that Nation become his, and become him. He raised himself by his natural strength, without any artificial advantage; having his parts above his learning, his experience above his parts, his industry above his experience, and (some will say) his success above all; so that at the last he became Chancellor of the Exchequer, Baron of Hanworth in Middlesex, and (upon the resignation of Doctor Juxon ) Lord Treasurer of England, gaining also a very great estate. But, what he got in few years, he lost in fewer days, since our Civil Warrs, when the Parliament was pleased (for reasons only known to themselves) to make him one of the examples of their severity, excluding him pardon, but permitting his departure beyond the seas, where he died about the year 1650.

Capitall Judges.

Sir NICHOLAS HYDE Knight, was born at Warder in this County, where his father in right of his wife, had a long lease of that Castle, from the family of the Arundels. His father, I say, (descended from an Antient Family in Cheshire, ) a fortunate Gentleman in all his Children, (and more in his Grand-children) some of his underboughs out-growing the top-branch, and younger children (amongst whom Sir Nicholas ) in wealth and honor exceeding the heir of the family.

He was bred in the Middle-Temple, and was made Sergeant at Law the first of February 1626. and on the eighth day following was sworn Lord Chief Justice of the Kingsbench, succeeding in that Office, next save one unto his Countryman Sir James Ley, (then alive, and preferred Lord Treasurer, born within two miles one of another) and next of all unto Sir Randal Crew lately displaced. Now, though he entered on his place with some disadvantage (Sir Randal being generally popular) and though in those days, it was hard for the same person, to please Court and Country, yet he discharged his office with laudable integrity, and died 1631.

Soldiers▪

First, for this County in general, hear what an ancient Author, who wrote about the time of King Henry the second, reporteth of it, whose words are worthy of our translation and exposition.

The Severian Province. ] We thank our Author for expounding it Wiltshire, otherwise we should have sought for it in the North, near the Wall of Severus.

By the same right] Viz. by which Kent claimeth to lead the Vanguard, whereof formerly.

To have the Rear] So translated by Mr. Selden (from whom it is a sin to dissent in a Criticisme of Antiquity) otherwise some would cavil it to be the Reserve. Indeed the Rear is the basis and foundation of an Army, and it is one of the chief of Divine promises, The glory of the Lord shall be thy rearward.

We read how the Romans placed their Triarii, (which were Veteran soldiers) behind, and the service was very sharp indeed cum res rediit ad Triarios. We may say that these three Counties, Wiltshire, Devonshire and Cornwall, are the Triarii of England, yet so that in our Author Wiltshire appears as principal, the others being added for its assistance.

Here I dare interpose nothing, why the two interjected Counties betwixt Wilts and Devon, viz. Dorset and Summerset are not mentioned, which giveth me cause to conjecture them included in Devonia, in the large acception thereof. Now amongst the many worthy Soldiers which this County hath produced, give me leave to take special notice of

HENRY D'ANVERS. His ensuing Epitaph on his Monument in the Church of Dantsey in this Shire, will better acquaint the Reader with his deserts, then any character which my Pen can give of him.

H •… re lieth the body of Henry Danvers second son to Sir John Danvers Knight, and Dame Elizabeth Daughter and Co-heir to Nevill Lord Latimer. He was born at Dantsey in the County of Wilts, Jan. Anno Dom. 1573. being bred up partly in the Low-CountryWars under Maurice Earl of Nassaw, afterward Prince of Orenge; and in many other military Actions of those times, both by Sea and by Land. He was made a Captain in the Wars of France, and there Knighted for his good Service under Henry the fourth the then French King. He was employed as Lieutenant of the Horse, and Serjeant Major of the whole Army in Ireland, under Robert Earl of Essex, and Charles Baron of Mountjoy, in the Raign of Queen Elizabeth. By King James the first, he was made Baron of Dansey, and Peer of this Realm, as also Lord President of Munster, and Governor of Guernsey. By King Charles the first, he was Created Earl of Danby, made of his Privy Council, and Knight of the most noble Order of the Garter. In his latter time by reason of imperfect health considerately declining more active Employments, full of Honors, Wounds and Days, he died Anno Domini 1643. Laus Deo.

For many years before St. George had not been more magnificently Mounted I mean the solemnity of his feast more sumptuously observed,) then when this Earl with the Earl of Morton were installed Knights of the Garter. One might have there beheld the abridgment of English and Scottish in their Attendance. The Scottish Earl (like Zeuxis his Picture) adorned with all Art and Costliness, whilst our English Earl (like the plain sheet of Apelles ) by the Gravity of his habit, got the advantage of the Gallantry of his Corrival with judicious beholders. He died without Issue in the beginning of our Civil Wars, and by his Will made 1639. settled his large Estate on his hopeful Nephew Henry D'Anvers, snatched away (before fully of age) to the great grief of all good men.

Writers.

OLIVER of MALMESBURY was (saith my Author) i •… ipsius Monasterii terratorio natus, so that there being but few paces betwixt his cradle, and that Convent, he quickly came thither, and became a Benedictine therein. He was much addicted to Mathematics, and to judicial Astrology. A great Comet happened in his age, which he entertained with these expressions;

Venisti? Venisti? multis matribus lugendum malum? Dudum te vidi, sed multo jam terribilius, Angliae minans prorsus excidium.

Art thou come? Art thou come? thou evil to be lamented by many mothers? I saw thee long since, but now thou art much more terrible, threatening the English with utter destruction.

Nor did he much miss his mark herein, for soon after, the coming in of the Norman Conqueror deprived many English of their lives, more of their laws and liberties, till after many years by God's goodness they were restored.

This Oliver having a mind to try the truth of Poetical reports, an facta vel ficta, is said to have tied Wings to his hands and feet, and taking his rise from a Tower in Malmesbury, flew as they say a •… rlong, till something failing him, down he fell, and brake both his Thighs. Pity is it but that Icarus-like he had not fallen into the water, and then

I find the like Recorded in the Ecclesiastical History of Simon Magus, flying from the Capitol in Rome high in the Air, till at last (by the Prayers of Saint Peter, ) he fell down and bruised himself to death. But that Simon did it by the Black, our Oliver by the White Art, he being supported by ill spirits, this by mere ingenuity, which made him the more to be pitied.

He wrote some books of Astrology, and died Anno Dom. 1060. five years before the Norman Invasion, and so saw not his own prediction (prevented by death) performed. It being the fate of such Folk, Ut sint Oculati foras & caecutiant Domi. That when they are quick sighted to know what shall betide to others, they are blind to behold what will befall to themselves.

WILLIAM quitting his own name of SUMMERSET, assumed that of MALMESBURY, because there he had (if not born) his best Preferment. Indeed he was a Duallist in that Convent, (and if a Pluralist no ingenious person would have envied him,) being Canter of that Church, and Library-Keeper therein. Let me add and LibraryMaker too, for so may we call his History of the Saxon Kings and Bishops, before the Conquest and after it until his own time. An History to be honored, both for the Truth and Method thereof, if any fustiness be found in his Writings, it comes not from the Grape, but from the Cask, the smack of Superstition in his books, is not to be imputed to his person, but to the Age wherein he lived and died, viz. Anno Dom. 1142. and was buried in Malmesbury.

ROBERT CANUTUS. His Surname might justly persuade us to suspect him a Dane, but that Bale doth assure him born at Cricklade in this County, and further proceedeth thus in the desciption of the place.

Having so good security, I presumed to Print the same in my Church-History, and am not as yet ashamed thereof. But since my Worthy Friend Doctor Heylin, (whose Relations living thereabouts, gave him the opportunity of more exactness,) thus reporteth it, that Cricklade was the place for the Profession of Greek, Lechlade, for Physic and Latin, a small village, (small indeed, for I never saw it in any Map) hard by the place where Latin was professed.

But to proceed, our Canute went hence to Oxford, and there became Chief of the Canons of Saint Fridswith. He gathered the best flowers out of Pliny his Natural History, and composing it into a Garland, (as he calleth it) dedicated the book to King Henry the second. He wrote •… so his Comments on the greater part of the Old and New Testament, and flourished Anno 1170.

RICHARD of the DIVISES. A word of the place of his nativity. The Vies or Devises, is the best and biggest Town for trading ( Salisbury being a City) in this Shire, so called, because anciently divided betwixt the King and the Bishop of Salisbury, as Mine-Thine (corruptly called Minden ) a City in Westphalia had its Name from such a partition. Now because the Devises carrieth much of strange conceits in the common sound thereof, and because Stone-henge is generally reputed a wonder, CountryPeople who live far off in our Land misapprehend them (distanced more then 12. miles) to be near together. Our Richard born in this Town, was bred a Benedictine in Winchster, where his Learning and Industry rendered him to the respect of all in that Age. He wrote a History of the reign of King Richard the first, under whom he flourished, and an Epitome of the British affairs, dedicating them both to Robert Prior of Winchester. His History 〈◊〉 could never see but at the second hand, as cited by others, the rarity thereof making it no piece for the Shop of a Stationer, but a Property for a public Library. His death was about the year 1200.

GODWIN of SALISBURY Chanter of that Church, and (what ever was his skill in Music ) following the precepts of Saint Paul, he made melody in his heart, having his mind given much to Meditation, which is the Chewing of the Cud of the food of the soul, turning it into Clean and Wholsome Nourishment. He wrote (beside other works) a book of Meditations, dedicating the same to one Ramulia, or rather Ranilda, an Anchoress and most incomparable woman, (saith my Author) the more remarkable to me, because this is the first and last mention I find of her memory. This Godwin flourished about the year of our Lord, 1256.

JOHN of WILTON Senior, was bred an Augustinian Friar, and after he had stored himself with home-bred Learning, went over into France, and studied at Paris. Here he became a subtle Disputant, insomuch that John Baconthorp (that Staple School-man ) not only highly praiseth him, but also useth his authority in his

JOHN of WILTON Junior, was bred a Benedictine Monk in Westminster. He was Elegant in the Latin tongue praeter ejus aetatis sortem. He wrote Metricall Meditations, in imitation of Saint Bernard, and one Book highly prized by many, entitled Horologium sapientiae, english it as you please, the Clock or Diall of Wisdom. Arguments. I meet not with any man in that age better stocked with Sermons on all occasions, having written his Summer, his Winter, his Lent, his Holy-day Sermons. He flourished under King Edward the second, Anno 1310.

He was a great Allegory-Monk, and great his dexterity in such Figurative conceits. He flourished some fifty years after his Namesake under King Edward the third.

Reader, I confess there be eleven Wiltons in England, and therefore will not absolutely avouch the Nativities of these two Johns in this County. However because Wilton which denominateth this Shire, is the best and biggest amongst the Towns so called, I presume them placed here with the most Probability.

JOHM CHYLMARK was born at that Village, well know in Daworth Hundred, and bred Fellow of Merton-college in Oxford. He was a diligent searcher into the mysteries of Nature, an acute Philosopher and Disputant, but most remarkable was his skill in Mathematics, being accounted the Archemedes of that age, having written many Tractates in that Faculty, which carry with them a very good regard at this day. He flourished under King Richard the second, Anno 1390.

THOMAS of WILTON D. D. was for his Learning and Abilities made first Chancellor, and then Dean of Saint Paul's in London, in his time (in the reign of King Edward the fourth,) happened a tough contest betwixt the Prelates and the Friars; the latter pretending to poverty, and taxing the Bishops for their pomp and plenty. Our Wilton politically opposed the Friars. Now as the only way for to withdraw Hannibal from his invasive war in Italy, was by recalling him to defend his own Country near Carthage, so Wilton wisely wrought a diversion, putting the Friars from accusing the Bishops, to excuse themselves.

For although an Old Gown, a Tattered Cowle, a Shirt of Hair, a Girdle of Hempe, a Pair of Beads, a Plain Crucifix, and Picture of some Saint, passed for all the wealth and Wardrobe of a Friar, yet by hearing Feminine Confessions, (wherewith Wilton twitteth them) and abusing the Key of Absolution, they opened the Coffers of all the Treasure in the Land. He wrote also a smart Book on this subject,

The Anti-Friarists maintaining, that such were Rogues by the Laws of God and Man, and fitter for the House of Correction, then State of Perfection. This Dean Wilton flourished Anno Dom. 1460.