The History of the Worthies of England
The certain date of his death is unknown, which by proportion may be collected about the year 1388. After which time, no mention of him, and it was as impossible for such a spirit not to be, as not to be active.
Sir ROBERT KNOWLES Knight, was born of mean parentage in this County, yet did not the weight of his low extraction depress the wings of his Martial mind, who by his valor wrought his own advancement. He was Another of the thirty English, who for the honor of the Nation, undertook to duel with as many Britons, and came off with great reputation.
He was afterwards a Commander in the French-war under King Edward the third, where in despite of their power he drove the people 〈◊〉 him like sheep, destroying Towns, Castles and Cities, in such manner and number, that many years after, the sharp points, and Gable end of overthrown houses, (cloven asunder with instruments of war) were commonly called KNOWLES HIS MITRES.
The last piece of his servrce, was performed in suppressing Wat Tiler and his Rebells. Then I behold aged Sir Robert, buckling on his armonr, as old Priam at the taking of Troy, but with far better success, as proving very victorious; and the Citizens of London infranchized him a member 〈◊〉 of, in expression of their thankfulness.
His Charity was as great as his Valour, and he rendered himself no less loved by the English, then feared of the French. He gave bountifully to the building of Rochesterbridge▪ founding a Chapel and Chantery at •… he East end thereof, with a College at 〈◊〉 in Yorkshire, where Constance his Lady was born, endowing it with one hundred and eighty pounds per annum.
He died at his 〈◊〉 of Scon •… -Thorp in Norfolk, in peace and honor, whereas 〈◊〉 generally set in a cloud; being at least ninety years of age, for he must be 〈◊〉 no 〈◊〉 then 〈◊〉 years old, when Anno •… 52. he was a General under K. Ed •… 〈◊〉 third, and he 〈◊〉 until the 〈◊〉 . of August 1407. being buried in WhiteFriers in London, to which he had been a great benefactor.
JOHN SMITH Captain, was 〈◊〉 in 〈◊〉 County, as Master Arthur Smith his Kins man, and my School-master did inform me. But whether or no, related unto the Worshipful Family of the Smiths at 〈◊〉 . I know not.
He spent the most of his life in 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 . First in Hungary under the Empe •… , fighting against the Turks, Three of which, he himself killed in single Duells, and therefore, was Authorized by 〈◊〉 King of Hungary to bear three Turks-heads, as an Augmentation to his Arms. Here 〈◊〉 gave intelligence to a besieged City in the night, by significant 〈◊〉 -works formed in 〈◊〉 , in legible Characters, with many strange performances, the Scene whereof is laid at such a distance, they are cheaper credited, then confuted.
From the Turks in Europe, he passed to the Pagans in America, where towards the latter end of the Raign of Queen Elizabeth, such his Perills, Preservations, Dangers, Deliverances, they seem to most men above belief, to some beyond Truth. Yet have we two witnesses to attest them, the Prose and the Pictures both in his own book, and it soundeth much to the diminution of his deeds, that he alone is the Herald to publish and proclaim them.
Two Captains being at dinner, one of them fell into a large relation of his own atchivements, concluding his discourse with this question to his fellow, And pray Sir (said he) what service have you done? To whom he answered, Other men can tell that. And surely such reports from strangers carry with them the greater reputation. However, moderate men must allow Captain Smith to have been very instrumental, in settling the plantation in Virginia, whereof he was Governor, as also Admiral of New-England.
He led his old age in London, where his having a Princes mind imprisoned in a poor man's purse, rendered him to the contempt of such who were not ingenuous. Yet he efforted his spirits with the remembrance and relation of what formerly he had been, and what he had done. He was buried in Sepulchers-Church-Choir, on the Southside thereof, having a ranting Epitaph inscribed in a table over him, too long to transcribe. Only we will insert the first, and last verses, the rather because the one may fit Alexanders life for his valor, the other his death for his religion;
The Orthography, Poetry, History and Divinity in this Epitaph are much alike. He on the 21. of June, 1631.
Physicians.
If this county hath bred no Writers in that faculty, the wonder is the less, if it be true what I read, that if any here be sick, They make him a posset, and tie a kerchieff on his head; and if that will not mend him, then God be merciful to him. But, be this understood of the common people, the Gentry having the help (no doubt) of the learned in that profession.
Writers.
THOMAS ECLESTONE (A Village in Broxtone Hundred) was born in this County, bred a Franciscan in Oxford. Leland saith of him, that under the conduct of prudence and experience, he contended with many paces to pierce into the Penetrales of Learning. He wrote a book of the succession of Franciscans in England, with their works and wonders, from their first coming in, to his own time, dedicating the same to (not G. Nottingham the Provincial of his Order) but to his friend and Fellow-Frier, his mortified mind (it seems) not aiming at honor therein. He wrote another Book entitled, De impugnatione Ordinis su •… per Dominicanos, Of the assaults which the Dominicans made on his Order. These two sorts of Friers whipping each other with their Cords or Knotted Girdles to the mutual wounding of their reputations. He died Anno Domini 1340.
Since the Reformation.
RALPH RADCLIFFE was born in this County, who travelling Southward, fixed himself at Hitching in Hertfordshire, where he converted a demolished house of the Carmelites, into a Public Grammar-school. He here erected a fair stage, whereon, partly to entertain his Neighhours, and partly to embolden his Scholars in pronunciation, many interludes were acted by them. Pitz. praiseth him, being a School-master, that he confined himself to his own profession, not meddling with Divinity, and yet amongst his books he reckoneth up a Treatise of the Burning of Sodom, and another of the Afflictions of Job.
Nor must we forget his book entitled de triplice Memoriâ, of the Threefold Memory, which (though I never met with any that saw it) may probably be presumed,
| of the | |||||||||
| Water | Wax | Iron | Memory, receiving things | ||||||
| very | somewhat | very hardly | easily | retaining them | no | a little | long | Time. |
He flourished under the reign of King Edward the sixth, Anno Domini 1552. and it is likely he died before the reign of Queen Mary.
JOHN SPEED was born at Farrington in this County as his own Daughter hath informed me; he was first bred to a handicraft, and as I take it to a Taylor. I write not this for his but my own disgrace, when I consider how far his Industry hath outstripped my Ingenious Education. Sir Fulk Grevill, a great favourer of Learning, perceiving how his wide soul was stuffed with too narrow an occupation, first wrought his enlargement as the said Author doth ingeniously confess,
This is he who afterwards designed the Maps and composed the History of England, though much helped in both (no shame to crave aid in a work too weighty for any ones back to bear,) by Sir Robert Cotton, Master Camden, Master Barkham and others. He also made the useful Genealogies preposed formerly to English Bibles in all Volumes, having a Patent granted him from King James, in reward of his great Labors, to receive the benefit thereof to him and his. This was very beneficial unto them by Composition with the Company of Stationers, until this Licentious age neglecting all such Ingenious helps to understand Scripture, and almost levelling (if not prevented) the propriety of all Authors of Books. He died in London Anno 1629. and was buried in Saint Giles without Criplegate, in the same Parish with Master John Fox, so that no one Church in England, containeth the Corps of two such useful and voluminous Historians. Master Josiah Shute Preach'd his Funeral Sermon: and thus we take our leaves of Father Speed, truly answering his name in both the acceptions thereof for Celerity and Success.
JOHN DOD was born at Shottliedge in this County, (where his Parents had a competent Estate) bred in Jesus-college in Cambridge, by Nature a Witty, by Industry a Learned, by Grace a Godly Divine, successively Minister of Hanwell in Oxford, FennyCompton in Warwick, Cannons-Ashby and Fausly in Northampton-shire, though for a time silenced in each of them.
A Father (who shall pass nameless) is censured by some for his over-curiosity in his conceit, rather then Comment, Math. 5. 2. And he opened his mouth and taught them. For Christ (saith he) taught them often, when he opened not his mouth, by his Example, Miracles, &c. Here I am sure, accordingly Master Dod, when his mouth was shut, (prohibited preaching) instructed almost as much as before, by his holy demeanour, and pious discourse. A good Chemist, who could extract Gold out of other men's lead, and how loose soever the premises of other men's discourse, piety was always his natural and unforced conclusion inferred thereupon.
For the rest I refer the Reader to Master Samuel Clark, by whom his life is written, wherein are many remarkable passages. I say Master Samuel Clark, with whose pen mine never did, nor shall interfere. Indeed as the flocks of Jacob were distanced three days journeys from those of Laban, so (to prevent voluntary or casual commixtures ) our styles are set more then a Months journey asunder.
The Jewish Rabbins (have a fond and a false conceit, that Methuselah, who indeed died in the very year (and his death a sad prognostic) of the deluge, had a Cabin built him in the outside of Noah's Ark, where he was preserved by himself. But most true it is, that good Father Dod, though he lived to see the flood of our late Civil Wars, made to himself a Cabin in his own contented conscience, and though his cloths were wetted with the waves, (when plundered) he was dry in the deluge, such his self-solace in his holy meditations. He died being eighty six years of age, Anno 1645.
When thieves break in a house and steal, the owner thereof knows for the present that he is robbed, but not of what or how much, till some days after he finds out, by the want of such things which were taken from him. The Vicenage of Fausly, where Mr. Dod died, knew then they were bereaft of a worthy treasure, though ignorant in the particulars of their losses, till daily discovery hath by this time made them sensible thereof.
Benefactors to the Public.
Sir RICHARD SUTTON was born at Presbury in this County, he is generally believed a Knight, though some have suspected the same, but suppose him but Esquire. He was one of a Plentifull Estate and Bountiful Hand.
It happened that William Smith Bishop of Lincoln began Brasen-Nose-College, but died before he had finished one Nostrill thereof, leaving this Sutton his Executor, who over-performed the Bishops Will, and completed the Foundation with his own liberal Additions thereunto. When the following Verses were composed, in the Person of Brasen-Nose-College, the Muses seemed neither to smile nor frown, but kept their wonted countenance. But take them as they are.
This Worthy Knight being born in this County, deservedly reflected upon his own Country-men, making them (and those of Lancashire ) most capable of Preferment. I collect his death to have happened about the middle of the Raign of King Henry the eighth.
Since the Reformation.
ROBERT BRASSY was born at Bunbury (contracted for Boniface-Bury ) in this County, bred D. D. in Kings-college in Cambridge, whereof he was elected the 13. Provost. He being a Learned and Stout man, publicly protested against the Visitors of the University in the Raign of Queen Mary, as to his own College. Say not he only opposed Superstition with Superstition, pleading Popish Exemptions: For considering the times, he Drave the nail which would best go, and thereby took off the edge of those Persecuting Commissioners.
But let none Envy him a place under this title, who deserved so well of Cambridge. For when many Doctors therein, whose Purblind souls saw only what was next them, for the present, and either could not, or would not look far forward to Posterity, had resolved to sell their Rights in Sturbridge-fair for a trifle to the Towns-men, (which if done, the Vice-Chancellor might even have held the Stirrup to the Mayor, ) he only opposed it and dashed the designs. He died Anno Domini 1558. and lies buried on the South-side of the Chapel.
GEORGE PALIN was (as I have Cogent presumptions ) born at Wrenbury in this County, bred a Merchant in London, free of the Company of Girdlers. Indeed we may call his Benefactions Aureum Cingulum charitatis, the Golden Girdle of Charity. With our Savior he Went ABOUT doing good, completing the Circuit of his Bounty, continuing till he ended where he began.
- 1. To Wrenbury (where we believe him born) two Hundred pound to purchase Lands for the relief of the poor.
- 2. Nine Hundred pound for the building of Alms-houses in or about London.
- 3. To Trinity-college in Cambridge three hundred pound.
- 4. To the College of Saint Johns the Evangelist in Cambridge, three Hundred pounds.
- 5. To the Hospital of Saint Thomas in Southmark, fifty pounds.
- 6. To the Preachers at Paul's Cross, towards the bearing of their charges, two Hundred pounds.
- 7. Toward the making a sweet Chime in Bow-church, one Hundred pounds.
- 8. To six Prisons in and about London, sixty pounds.
- 9. To Brasen-Nose-college in Oxford, two Scholar-ships, to each yearly four pounds.
- 10. To the College of Saint John the Baptist in Oxford, two Scholar-ships of the same value.
- 11. To Christ-Church Hospital, three Hundred pounds.
- 12. To the Church and Poor (to buy them Gowns ) of Wrenbury, seventy pounds.
With other Benefactions; Verily, I say unto you, I have not met a more universal and unpartial Charity to all Objects of want and worth. He died about the beginning of the reign of King James.
JOHN BREWERTON Knight, a Branch of that well-spread Tree in this County, was bred one of the first Scholars of the foundation in Sidney-college, and afterwards being brought up in the study of the Common-law, he went over into Ireland, and at last became the Kings Serjeant therein. I say at last, for at his coming thither (in the tumults of Tirone ) neither Rex nor Lex, neither King nor Serjeant were acknowledged, till Loyalty and Civility were by degrees distilled into that Nation.
He obtained a plentiful Estate, and thereof gave well nigh three thousand pounds to Sidney-college. Now as it is reported of Ulysses returning from his long travail in Foreign Lands, that all his family had forgot him, so when the news of this Legacy first arrived at the College, none then extant therein ever heard of his name, (so much may the spunge of forty years blot out in this kind) only the written Register of the College faithfully retained his name therein.
This his gift was a gift indeed, purely bestowed on the College, as loded with no detrimentall Conditions in the acceptance thereof. We read in the Prophet, Thou hast increased the Nation, and not multiplied their Joy. In proportion whereunto we know it is possible, that the comfortable condition of a College may not be increased, though the number of the Fellows and Scholars therein be augmented, superadded Branches sucking out the sap of the Root. Whereas the Legacy of this worthy Knight, ponebatur in lucro, being pure gain and improvement to the College. His death happened about the year 1633.
JOHN BARNSTON D. D. was born of an ancient Family in this County, bred Fellow of Brasen-Nose-College in Oxford, afterwards Chaplain to Chancellor Egerton, and Residentiary of Salisbury. A bountiful House-keeper, of a cheerful spirit, and peaceable disposition, whereof take this eminent Instance. He sat Judge in the Consistory when a Church-warden, out of whose house a Chalice was stolen, was sued by the Parish to make it good to them, because not taken out of the Church-Chest, (where it ought to have been reposited ) but out of his private house. The Church-warden pleaded that he took it home only to scour it, which proving ineffectual, he retained it till next morning to boil out the in-laid Rust thereof.
Well (said the Doctor) I am sorry that the Cup of Union and Communion should be the cause of difference and discord between you. Go home and live lovingly together, and I doubt not, but that either the Thief out of remorse will restore the same; or some other as good will be sent unto you, which by the Doctors secret Charity came to pass accordingly. He founded an Hebrew Lecture in Brasen-Nose-College and departed in Peace in the beginning of our Wars about the year 1642.
Memorable Persons.
WILLIAM SMITH was born in this County, wherein his Surname hath been of signal note for many ages. His Genius inclined him to the study of Heraldry, wherein he so profitted, that Anno ——he was made Persuivant of Arms. By the name of Rougdragon, he wrote a description Geographical and Historical of this County, left (it seems) in the hands of Raynulph Crew Knight, sometimes L. Chief Justice of the Kings Bench, and lately set forth by the favor of Mr. Raynulph Crew Grand-child to that worthy Knight, the time of his death is to me unknown.
WILLIAM WEB a native of this County, was bred a Master in Arts▪ and a •… terwards betook himself to be a Clark of the Mayors Court in Chester. It appeareth also he was Under▪ sheriffe to Sir Richard Lee High-sheriffe of this County, in the thirteenth year of King James. He compiled a description of Cheshire and Chester, lately Printed by procurement of that no less Communicative then Judicious Antiquary Sir Simon Archer of Tamworth, in Warwickshire. I cannot attain the certain date of his death.
RANDAL CREW Esquire, second Son to Sir Clipsby, Grand-child to Judge Crew. He drew a Map of Cheshire, so exactly with his pen, that a judicious eye would mistake it for Printing, and the Gravers skill and industry could little improve it. This Map I have seen, and Reader, when my eye directs my hand, I may write with confidence. This hopeful Gentleman went beyond the Seas, out of design to render himself by his Travells more useful for his Country, where he was Barbarously Assassinated by some French-men, and honourably buried with general lamentation of the English at Paris 1656.
Lord Mayors.
| Name | Father | Place | Company | Time |
| 1 Hugh Witch | Richard Witch | Nantwich | Mercer | 1461 |
| 2 Thomas Oldgrave | William Oldgrave | Knotysford | Skinner | 1467 |
| 3 Edmond Shaw | John Shaw | Donkenfield | Goldsmith | 1482 |
| 4 James Spencer | Robert Spencer | Congleton | Vintner | 1527 |
| 5 Thomas Offley | William Offley | Chester | Merchant-Taylor | 1556 |
| 6 Humphrey Weld | John Weld | Eaton | Grocer | 1608 |
| 7 Thomas Moulson | 1634 |
I am certainly informed that this Thomas Moulson •… ounded a fair School in the Town where he was born, but am not instructed where this is, or what Salary is settled thereon.
Reader, know this, that I must confess myself advantaged in the description of this County, by Daniel King a native of this County, whence it seems he travelled beyond the Seas, where he got the Mystery both of Survaying and Engraving. So that he hath both drawn and graven the portraicture of many ancient structures now decayed.
I hope in process of time this Daniel King will out-strip King Edgar, erecting more Abbeys in Br •… ss, then he did in Stone, though he be said to have built one for every day in the Year. But Cheshire is chiefly beholding to his Pains, seeing he hath not only set forth two Descriptions thereof, (named the Vale Royal of England, ) with the praise to the dead Persons the Authors thereof duly acknowledged, but also hath enlivened the same with several Cuts of Heraldry and Topography, on whom we will bestow this Distich.
What is amiss in my Poetry, shall be amended in my Prayers for a Blessing on his and all ingenious-men's undertakings.
Cheshire is one of the 12. pretermitted Counties, the Names of whose Gentry were not returned into the Tower, in the 12. year of K. Henry the sixth.
Sheriffs.
-
HEN. II.
- Anno 30
- Gilbert. Pipehard
- Anno 35
- Rich. de Pierpoint
-
RICH. I.
- Anno 1
- RECORDA MANCA
-
JOHAN.
- Anno 1
- 〈◊〉 Rich. de Burham Anni Incerti
-
HEN. III.
- Anno 15
- Rich. de Sonbach
- Anno 23
- Rich. de Wrenbury
- Anno 52
- Jordan. de Peulesdon
- Anno 56
- Hugh de Hatton.
-
EDW I.
- Anno 4
- Patrick de Heselwall
- Anno 9
- Will. de Spurstow
- Anno 15
- Rich. de Wilbraham
- Anno 26
- Will. de Prayers
- Anno 33
- Robert. de Bressey
-
EDW. II.
- Anno 2
- Philip. de Egerton
- Anno 5
- David. de Egerton
- Anno 13
- Will. de Mobberley
- Anno 16
- Rich. Filhurst
-
EEW. III.
- Anno 1
- Joh. de Wrenbury
- Anno 10
- Adam. de Parker
- Anno 19
- Rich. de Oulton
- Anno 22
- Jacob. Audley, Mil.
- Anno 24
- Tho. Daniers
- Anno 33
- Tho. le Young
- Anno 41
- Johan. Scolehall
- Anno 44
- Lauren. de Dutton, Mil.
Sheriffs.
| Name | Place | Arms |
| RICH. II. | ||
| Anno | ||
| 1 Hu. de Venables | Kinderton | Azure 2 Bars Argent. |
| 8 Tho. del. Wood | ||
| 9 Hu. E. of Stafford | Or, a Cheveron Gules. | |
| 10 Idem. | ut prius | |
| 11 John. Massy, mil. | Quarterly counterchanged Gules & Or. in the first a Lion pass. | |
| 12 Rob. Gravenour | Eton | Azure a Garbe Or. |
| 17 Rob. Leigh | High-liegh | Arg. five fusils Bend-wise Sable. |
| HEN. IV. | ||
| Anno | ||
| 1 John. Massy | Puddington | Ut prius, save th •… t in the first quart. 3 flour de lu •… es Ar. |
| 2 Idem. | ||
| 3 Hen. 〈◊〉 | Arg. a Cheveron betwixt 3 Ravens-heads erazed S. | |
| 10 Will. Bruerton, m. | Bruerton | Argent 2 Bars Sable. |
| HEN. V. | ||
| Anno | ||
| 3 Tho. 〈◊〉 | Adlington | Az. 2 Bars Arg. a Bend c •… mponce Or & Gules. |
| 10 Hugh. Dutton | Dutton | Quarterly counter-changed Arg. & G. in the 2 & 3 Quarter a Fret Or. |
| HEN. VI. | ||
| Anno | ||
| 5 Rich. Warberton | Arley | Arg. 2 Cheverons and a Canton G. a Mullet Or. |
| 8 Ran. Bruerton, m. | ut prius | |
| 16 John. Troutbeck | Az. 3 Troutes 〈◊〉 in Triangle, Teste a la 〈◊〉 Arg. | |
| 17 Rob. Booth, † m. | Dunham | |
| 18 Rob. Booth, mil. prioris filius. | ut prius | † Arg. 3 Boars-heads eraz ed & erected Sable. |
| EDW. IV. | ||
| Anno | ||
| 2 Will. Stanly | Howton | Arg. on a Bend Az 3 Stags-beads 〈◊〉 Or. |
| RICH. III. | ||
| Anno | ||
| 〈◊〉 Idem. | ut prius | |
| HEN. VII. | ||
| Anno | ||
| 1 Idem. | ut prius | |
| 10 John. Warberton | ut prius | |
| 21 Rasp. Birkenhead | S. 3 Garbs Or, within a border engrailed Argent. | |
| HEN. VIII. | ||
| Anno | ||
| 1 Idem. | ut prius | |
| 17 Will. Stanly, mil. | ut prius | |
| 18 Geo. Holford | Holford | Arg. a Grey-hound Passant S. |
| 19 Tho. Venables | ut prius | |
| 20 Idem. | ut prius | |
| 21 John. Done | Az. 2 Bars Arg. on a Bend G. 3 Arrows. | |
| 22 Idem. | ut prius | |
| 23 Edw. Fitton | Gowsworth | Arg. on a Bend Az 3 Garbs Or. |
| 33 John. Holford | ut prius | |
| EDW. VI. | ||
| Anno | ||
| 1 Idem. | ut prius | |
| REG. MARI. | ||
| Anno | ||
| 1 Will. Brereton, k. | ut prius | |
| PHIL & MAR. | ||
| Anno | ||
| 2, 1 Pet L •… igh, kni. | ut prius | |
| 3, 2 Hu Cholmley, es. | Gu. in Cheif 2 Helmets Arg. in Base a Garbe Or. | |
| 4, 3 〈◊〉 . Wilbrahā, es. | Wodey | Az. 2 Bars Arg. on a Canto •… S. a Wolfs-head etased of the second. |
| 5, 4 Tho. Venables, es. | ut prius | |
| 6, 5 Phi. Egerton, esq. | Ridley | Arg. a Lion Ramp. G. betwixt 3 Pheons Sable. |
| REG. ELIZA. | ||
| Anno | ||
| 1 Will. Cholmley, es. | ut prius | |
| 2 John. Savage, esq. | Rocksavage. | Argent 6 Lions rampant Sable. |
| 3 Ral. Egerton, es. | ut prius | |
| 4 Io 〈◊〉 , es | ut prius | |
| 5 Rich. Brook, esq | Cbecque Or and Sable. | |
| 6 Will. Massey, esq. | ut prius | |
| 7 John. Savage, esq. | ut prius | |
| 8 Hug. Cholmly, es. | ut prius | * Az. 2 B •… rs 〈◊〉 Erm▪ on a chief O •… , a demi Lion Issuant S. |
| 9 Lau. Smith * esq. | Hough | |
| 10 Ral. Done, esq. | Az. 2 Bars Arg. on a Bend G. 3 Arrows of the second. | |
| 11 Geo. Calveley, es. | Arg. a. Fess G. betwixt 3 Calves, Sable. | |
| 12 John. Savage, esq. | ut prius | |
| 13 Will. Booth, kn. | 〈◊〉 | Arg. 3 〈◊〉 Erected S. |
| 14 Tho. Stanley, esq. | Arg. on a Bend Az. three | |
| 15 John. Savage, kni. | ut prius | |
| 16 John. Savage, mil. | ut prius | |
| 17 Hen. Manwaring. | Argent 2 Bars Gules. | |
| 18 Row. Stanley, es | ut prius | |
| 19 John. Warren, esq | Checkee Azu. & O •… , on a Canton G. a Lion R •… mpant Arg. | |
| 20 Tho. Brook, esq. | ut prius | |
| 21 John. Savage, kni. | ut prius | |
| 22 Ral. Egerton, es. | ut prius | |
| 23 Geo Calveley, kn. | ut prius | |
| 24 Will. Brereton, kn. | ut prius | |
| 25 Pet. Warberton, e. | ut prius | |
| 26 Will. Leversage, e. | Whelock | Arg. a 〈◊〉 betwixt 3 Plow- •… hares S. |
| 27 Tho. Wilbraham | ut prius | |
| 28 Hug. Calveley, es. | ut prius | |
| 29 Ran. Davenport, e. | Damport | A •… g. a Cheveron betwixt 3 Cross Croslets Fitch. e S. |
| 30 Tho. Leigh, esq. | ut prius | |
| 31 Hu Cholmley, kn. | ut prius | |
| 32 Will. Brereton, kn. | ut prius | |
| 33 John. Savage, kn. | ut prius | |
| 34 Tho. Brook, esq. | ut prius | |
| 35 Tho. Venables: es. | ut prius | |
| 36 Per. Warberton, e. | ut prius | |
| 37 Per. Leigh, esq. | ut prius | |
| 38 John. Done, esq. | ut prius | |
| 39 Geo. Booth, kni. | ut prius | |
| 40 Edw. Warren, kn. | ut prius | |
| 41 Tho. Holcroft, kn. | Arg. a Cross and Border. engrailed S. | |
| 42 Tho. Smith, kn. | ut prius | |
| 43 Tho. Ashton, kn. | Ashton | Per Cheveron. S. and Arg. |
| 44 Ric. Gravenor, k. | ut prius | |
| JAC. REX. | ||
| Anno | * Az. a Fess Arg. Frettee G. betw •… xt 3 Flower de Luces Or. | |
| 1 Geo. Le▪ cester, * | Toft | |
| 2 Will. Davenport, k. | ut prius | |
| 3 Ra. Manwaring, k. | ut prius | |
| 4 Tho. Vernon, kn. | Hasting | Or on a Fret Azure 3 Garbs of the first. |
| 5 John. Savage, kn. | ut prius | |
| 6 Hen. Bunbury, kn. | Staney | Arg. on a Bend S. 3 Chest-rooks of the first. |
| 7 Will. Brereton, es. | ut prius | |
| 8 Geff. Shakerly, es. | Arg. 3 Molehills vert. | |
| 9 Tho. Dutton, esq. | ut prius | |
| 10 Will. Brereton, kn. | ut prius | |
| 11 Urian. Leigh, kn. | ut prius | |
| 12 Geo. Calveley; kn. | ut prius | |
| 13 Rich. Lea▪ kn. | Lea. | Arg. a Cheveron betwixt 3 Leopards-heads S. |
| 14 Rich. Wilbrahā, k. | ut prius | |
| 15 John. Davenport | ut prius | |
| 16 Ralp. Calveley, es. | ut prius | |
| 17 Ran. Manwaring | ut prius | |
| 18 Ro. Cholmondely | ut prius | |
| 19 Tho. Marbury, es. | Marbury | Or on a Fess engrailed Azure 3 Garbs of the first. |
| 20 Geor. Booth, bar. | ut prius | |
| 21 Tho. Smith, kn. | ut prius | |
| 22 Ric. Gravenor, b. | ut prius | |
| CAR. REG. | ||
| Anno | ||
| 1 Tho. Brereton▪ kn. | ut prius | |
| 2 John. Done, kn. | ut prius | |
| 3 John. Calveley, es. | ut prius | |
| 4 Edw. Stanley, bar. | ut prius | |
| 5 Tho. Leigh, esq. | ut prius | |
| 6 Pet. Dutron, esq. | ut prius | |
| 7 Tho. Stanley, esq. | ut prius | |
| 8 Ric. Brereton, es. | ut prius | |
| 9 Edw. Fitton, esq. | ut prius | |
| 10 Pet. Venables | ut prius | |
| 11 Tho. Ashton, bar. | ut prius | |
| 12 Will. Leigh, esq. | ut prius. | |
| 13 Tho. 〈◊〉 bar. | Duddingtō | Arg. a Cheveron 〈◊〉 . 〈◊〉 Or, betwixt 3 Gadds of stteel S. |
| 14 Tho. Cholmley | ut prius | |
| 15 Phil. Manwaring | ut prius | |
| 16 Tho. Powell, bar. | Berkenhad | Sable 3 Roses Arg. |
| 17 John. Billot, esq. | Arg. on a Chief G. 3 Cinque foils of the Field. | |
| 18 Hug. Calvely, k. | ut prius | |
| 19 Tho. Leigh, esq. | ut prius | |
| 20 Ri. Gravenor, ba. | ut prius | |
| 21 Rob. Totton, esq. | Winthaw | Quarterly Arg. & G. 4 Crescents counter changed. |
| 22 Hen. Brood, esq. |
Reader, if thou discoverest any difference in the Method betwixt this and the other Catalogue of Sheriffs, impute it to this cause, that whilst I fetched the Rest from the Fountain in the Exchequer, I took these out of the Cestern, I mean the Printed Book of Vale-royal. I presume, that the Sheriff who is last named, continued in that Office all that Intervale of years, till his Successor here nominated entered thereon.
The Reader may with the more confidence rely on their Arms, imparted unto me by Mr. Daniel King, who to me really verifieth his own Anagram.
And indeed he hath been a Tutelar one to me, gratifying me with whatsoever I had need to use, and he had ability to bestow.
Henry III.
56 HUGH de HATTON.]
King William the Conquerer bestowed Lands on one of his Name and Ancestors at Hatton in this County. From him is Lineally descended that Learned and Religious (witness his pious meditations on the Psalms▪) Sir Christopher Hatton Knight of the Bath, created by King Charles the first, Baron Hatton of Kerby in Northampton-shire. The Original of this grant of the Conquerors is still in this Lord's Possession, preserved in our Civil Wars, with great care and difficulty by his virtuous Lady. On the same token that her Lord patiently digested the plundering of his Library and other Rarities, when hearing the welcome tidings from his Lady, that the said Record was safely secured.
Queen Mary.
3 Sir HUGH CHOLMLY or CHOLMONDELEIGH.]
This worthy person bought his Knight-hood in the field at Leigh in Scotland. He was five times High-sheriffe of this County, (and sometimes of Flintshire, ) and for many years one of the two sole deputies Leiutenants thereof. For a good space he was Vice-President of the Marches of Walls under the Right Honorable Sir Henry Sidney Knight, conceive it during his abscence in Ireland. For Fifty years together he was esteemed a Father of his Country, and dying Anno 157.. was buried in the Church of Mallpasse, under a Tomb of Allabaster, with great lamentation of all sorts of people, had it not mitigated their Mourning, that he left a Son of his own name Heir to his Virtues and Estate.
2 JOHN SAVAGE, Ar.]
I behold him as the direct Ancestor unto Sir Thomas Savage Kt. and Baronet, Created by K. Charles the first, Baron Savage of Rock savage in this County. This Lord (a very prudent States-man ) married Elizabeth eldest Daughter and Co-heir of Thomas Lord Darcy of Chich, Viscount Colchester, and Earl of Rivers, Honors entailed on his Posterity, and now enjoyed by the Right Honorable Thomas Savage Earl Rivers.
The Battles.
Rowton heath 1645. Sept. 24.
His Majesty being informed, that Colonel Jones had seized the Suburbs and Strong Church of St. Johns in Chester, advanced Northward for the relief thereof. Poins, one of the Parliaments Generalls, pursued his Majesty. At Rowton-heath within 3. miles of Chester the K. Army made an Halt, whilst his Majesty with some prime persons marched into the City.
Next day a fierce Fight happened on the Heath, betwixt the Kings and Poinses Forces, the latter going off with the greater loss. Judicious Persons conceive, that had the Royalists pursued this Single Enemy, (as yet unrecruited with additional strength,) they had finally worsted him, which Fatall omission ( opportunities admit of no after-games ) proved their overthrow.
For next day Col. Jones drew out his men into the field, so that the Royalists being charged on the Heath in Front and Rear, were put to the worst, the whole body of whose Army had Wings without Legs, Horse without Foot, whilst the Parliament was powerful in both.
Immediatly after, a considerable Party of Horse (the Lord Byron Governor of the City being loath to part with any Foot as kept to secure the Kings person,) came out of Chester, too late to succor their defeated Friends, and too soon to engage themselves. Here fell the Youngest of the three Noble Brethren, who lost their lives in the King service, Bernard Stuart Earl of Leichfield, never sufficiently to be lamented.
The Farewell.
To take my leave of Cheshire, I could wish that some of their hospitality were planted in the South, that it might bring forth fruit therein; and in exchange I could desire, that some of our Southern delicacies might prosperously grow in their gardens, and Quinces particularly, being not more pleasant to the palate, then restorative of the health, as accounted a great cordial. The rather, because a native of this County, in his description thereof, could not remember he ever saw Quince growing therein.
CHESTER is a fair City on the North-east side of the River Dee, so ancient that the first founder thereof is forgotten, much beholding to the Earls of Chester and others for Increase and Ornaments. The Walls thereof were lately in good repair, especially betwixt the New-tower and the Water-gate. For I find how Anno 1569. there was a personal fight in this City betwixt the two Sheriffs thereof, viz. Richard Massey and Peter Lycherband, (who shall keep peace if aged Officers break it?) who deservedly were fined for the forfeiting of their gravity, to repair that part of the Wall. It seems it is more honor to be keeper of a gate in Chester, then a whole City elsewhere, seeing Eastgate therein was committed to the c •… ody formerly of the Earl of Oxford, Bridgegate to the Earl of Shrewsbury, Watergate to the Earl of Da •… by, and Northgate to the Mayor of the City.
It is built in the form of a Quadrant, and is almost a just Square, the four Cardinal Streets thereof (as I may call them) meeting in the middle of the City, at a place called the Pentise, which affordeth a Pleasant Prospect at once into all Four. Here is a property of building peculiar to the City called the Rows, being Galleries, wherein Passengers go dry without coming into the Streets, having Shops on both sides and underneath. The fashion whereof is somewhat hard to conceive, it is therefore worth their pains, who have Money and Leasure to make their own Eyes the Expounders of the manner thereof. The like being said not to be seen in all England, no nor in all Europe again.
The Buildings.
Saint Werburges Church is a fair structure, and had been more beautiful if the tower thereof (intended some say for a steeple, the first stone whereof was laid 1508.) had been finished. It was built long before the Conquest, and being much ruined was afterward repaired by Hugh Lupus first Earl of Chester. It was afterward made by King Henry the eighth, one of his five Royal Bishoprics, Oxford, Gloucester, Bristol and Peterborough, being the other four. I say Royal Bishoprics, as whose Ecclesiastical Jurisdictions were never confirmed by the Pope, nor Baronies by the Parliament.
The first is plain, King Henry the eighth erecting them after he had disclaimed the Popes Supremacy, and in the days of Queen Mary, when England was in some sort reconciled to Rome, the Pope thought not fit to contest with the Queen about that Criticismē, because these five Bishoprics were erected without his consent, but suffered them to be even as he found them. Their Baronries also were not (though their Bishoprics were,) ever confirmed by Act of Parliament, so that they owed their beings solely to the Kings Prerogative, who might as well Create Spiritual as Temporal Peers, by his own Authority. And therefore when some Anti-praelatists in the late Long Parliament, 1641. endeavored to overthrow their Baronries, (as an Ess •… y and Preludium to the rest of the Bishoprics, ) for want of Parliamentary Confirmation, they desisted from that design as fond and unfeisable, on better consideration.
Proverbs.
Pepper-gate was a postern of this City, on the East-side (as I take it) thereof; but in times past closed up and shut upon this occasion. The Mayor of the City had his daughter (as she was playing at ball with other Maidens in Pepper-street, ) stolen away by a Young-man, through the same gate; whereupon in revenge he caused it to be shut up, though I see not why the City should suffer in her conveniences, for the Mayor his want of Care, or his Daughter her lack of Obedience. But what shall we say Love will make the whole Walla Gate to procure its own Escape. Parallel to this Proverb is the Latin, Sero sapiunt Phryges, when men instead of preventing, postvide against dangers.
Martyrs.
GEORGE MARSH was condemned by Bishop Coats, and cruelly burnt without this City, near unto Spittle Boughton; but because he was born elsewhere, see his character in Lancashire.
Prelates.
GEORGE DOUNHAM D. D. son to John Dounham Bishop of Chester, was born in this City, as by proportion of time may most probably be collected. He was bred in Christ's-college in Cambridge, elected Fellow thereof 1585. and chosen Logic-professor in the University. No man was then and there better skilled in Aristotle, or a greater Follower of Ramus, so that he may be termed the Top-twig of that Branch.
It is seldom seen, that the Clunch-fist of Logic (good to knock a man down at a blow) can so open itself as to smooth and stroke one with the Palme thereof. Our Dounham could do both, witness the Oration made by him at Cambridge, (preposed to his book of Logic) full of Flowers of the choicest eloquence. He preached the Sermon April 17. 160 •… . at the Consecration of James Montague Bishop of Bath and Wells, irrefragably proving therein Episcopacy jure Divino.
He that receiveth a Bishop in the Name of a Bishop, shall receive a Bishops reward. It was not long before Doctor Dounham was made Bishop of Derry in Ireland, then newly augmented with the addition of London-Derry, because so planted with English, it was easy to find London in Derry, but not Derry in Derry, so much disguised from itself with new buildings. But this Learned Bishop was the greatest beauty thereof, endeavoring by gentleness to Cicurate and Civillize the wild-Irish, and proved very successful therein. The certain date of his death I cannot attain.
Sea men.
DAVID MIDDLETON was born in this City, as his Kinsman and my Friend hath informed me. He was one of those who effectually contributed his assistance to the making of Through lights in the World, I mean New Discoveries in the East and WestIndies, as we may read at large in his own Printed relation.
The tender-hearted Reader whose affections go along with his eye, will sadly sympathize with his sufferings, so many and great his dangers, with Caniballs and Portugals, Crocodiles and Hollanders, till at last he accomplished his intentions, and settled the English trade at Bantam, I meet with no mention of him after 1610.
Sir HENRY MIDDLETON Knight, was younger brother (as I take it) to the former, deservedly knighted for his great pains and perils in advancing the English trade. Amongst many most remarkable is his Voyage into the Red-sea, which had like to have proved the Dead sea unto him, I mean cost him his life. Here he was tolled to land at Moha, by the treacherous Aga, and then had eight of his men barbarously sl •… in, himself and seven more chained up by the Necks. The pretence was because that Port was the Door of the Holy City, which (though it be Jerusalem in the language of the Scripture ) is Mecca in the Phrase of the Alcaron, and it is Capitol for any Christian to come so near thereunto. Then was he sent eightscore miles and upwards to the Bashaw at Zenan in Arabia, in the Month of January 1611. This City of Zenan lieth but sixteen degrees and fifteen minutes of Northern latitude from the Equator, and yet was so cold, that there was Ice of a Fingers thickness in one night, as the said Sir Henry did relate; This confuteth the Character of these Countries misapprehended by Antiquity not to be habitable, for the excess of heat therein.
At last the Turkish Bashaw gave him leave to depart, and sailing Eastwards, he repaired himself by a gainful composition with the Indians, for the losses he had sustained by the Turks. His ship called the Trades increase, well answered the name thereof, until it pleased God to visit his men therein with a strange disease, whereof one hundred English deceased, the grief whereat was conceived the cause of this worthy Knights death, May 24. 1613. whose name will ever survive whilst Middletons Bay (from him so called) appeareth in the Dutch Cards.
Writers.
ROGER of CHESTER was born and bred therein, a Benedictine Monk in Saint Werburges. In obedience to the Bishop of Chester, he wrote a British Chronicle from the beginning of the World. This was the fashion of all Historians of that age, running to take a long rise, [from the Creation itself] that so (it seems) they might leap the further with the greater force. Our Rogers Chronicle was like a ship with double decks, first only continuing it to the year 1314. and then resuming his subject, he superadded five and twenty year more thereunto, entitling it
Both Bale and Pitz praise him for pure latin (a rarity in that age) and assign 1339. the time of his death, Chester the place of his burial.
RANDAL or RANULPH HYGDEN, (commonly called Ranulph of Chester ) was bred a Benedictine in Saint Werburge. He not only Vamped the history of Roger aforesaid, but made a large one of his own from the beginning of the World, commendable for his Method and Modesty therein.
Method, assigning in the Margent, the date of each action. We read Genesis 1. that Light was made on the First, and the Sun on the Fourth day of the C •… eation, when the Light (formerly diffused and dispersed in the Heavens, was Contracted, United, ) and Fixed in one full Body thereof. Thus the Notation of Times confusedly scattered in many ancient Authors, (as to our English Actions ) are by our Ranulphus reduced into an Intire bulk of Cronology.
Modesty. Who to his great commendation, Unicuique suorum Authorum, honorem integrum servans, confeseth himself (to use his own expression,) with Ruth the Moabite, to have gleaned after other Reapers. He calleth his book
He continued sixty four years a Monk, and dying very aged, 1363. was buried in Chester.
HENRY BRADSHAW was born in this City, and lived a Benedictine therein. A diligent Historian, having written no bad Chronicle, and another Book of the Life of Saint Werburg in verse. Take a taste at once, both of his Poetry, and the Original Building of the City, both for Beauty alike.
These his verses might have passed with praise, had he lived, (as Arnoldus Vion doth erroneously insinuate Anno 1346. But flourishing more then a Century, since [ viz. 1513.] they are hardly to be excused. However Bale informeth us that he was (the Diamond in the Ring) pro ea ipsa aetate, admodum pius, and so we dismiss his Memory with Commendation.
Since the Reformation.
EDWARD BRIERWOOD was as I am informed born in this City, bred in Brasennose-college in Oxford. Being Candidate for a Fellowship, he lost it without loss of credit. For where preferment goes more by favor then merit, the Rejected have more honor then the Elected.
This ill success did him no more hurt then a Rub doth to an over-thrown Bowl, bringing it the nearer to the mark. He was not the more sullen, but the more serious in his studies, (retiring himself to Saint Mary-hall ) till he became a most accomplished Scholar in Logic, witness his worthy work thereof, Mathematics, being afterwards a Lecturer thereof in Gresham-college, All learned and many modern languages, hereof he wrote a Learned book, called his Enquiries. No Sacrilegious Enquiries, whereof our age dothsurfet. ( It is a Snare after vows to make Enquiries, ) but judicious disquisitions of the Original and Extent of Languages.
A little before his death Pens were brandish'd betwixt Master Byfield and him, about the keeping of the Sabbath, Master Brierwood learnedly maintaining that th▪other exacted more strictness therein then God enjoined. Let me contribute my symbol on this Subject. Our Savior is said to be made under the Law, and yet he saith of himself, The Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath. Indeed he was made under the fourth Commandment, as under the rest of the Law, to observe the dominion, not tyranny thereof, (usurped, partly, by the misinterpretation of the Priests partly, by the misapprehension of the People,) and therefore both by his Life and Doctrine did manumisse men from that vassalage, that the day instituted for rest and repose should not be abused for self-affliction and torment.
To return to our Brierwood, I have heard a great Scholar in England say, That he was the fittest Man whom he knew in England, to sit at the Elbo of a Professor to prompt him. But in my opinion he was a very proper person to discharge the place himself. I conjecture his death about 1633.
JOHN DOWNHAM younger Son of William Downham Bishop of Chester, was (as far as my best enquiry can recover) born in this City, bred in Cambridge B. D. and afterwards became a painful and profitable Preacher in London. He was the first who commendably discharged that eminent Lecture, plentifully endowed by Master Jones of Munmouth, and is memorable to posterity for his worthy work of the Christian Warfare. Well had it been for England, had no other war been used therein, for this last twenty years, all pious Persons being comfortably concerned in the prosecution thereof. Seriously considering that their Armor is of proof, their Quarrel is lawful, their Fight is long, their Foes are fierce, their Company are Saints, their Captain is Christ, their Conquest is certain, their Crown is Heaven. This grave Divine died very aged about the year 1644.
Benefactors to the Public.
WILLIAM ALDERSEA a pious and godly man, was Mayor of the City 1560. demeaning himself in his place with much Gravity and Discretion. He caused with much Cost and Industry the Catalogue of the Mayors of Chester to be completed, and that on this occasion. He found by Authentic Evidences, that one Alano de Whetly •… ad been four times Mayor of Chester, and yet his name was never mentioned in the ordidinary Book of Mayors. This put this good Magistrate on the employment, ( Detection of faults informs little without Correction of them,) to amend and complete that lame list out of their Records. Thus Imperfections may occasion Perfection, which makes me to hope, that hereafter the Defects of this my Book (without prejudice to my Profit or Credit, ) will be judiciously discovered, and industriously amended by others. This William died the twelfth of October Anno 1577. and lieth buried in the Chancel of Saint Osswalls under a fair stone of Alabaster.
Sir THOMAS OFFLEY Son to William Offley was born in the City of Chester, and bred a Merchant-taylor in London, whereof he became Lord Mayor Anno 1556. The useful custom of the night Bellman (preventing many Fiers and more Felonies, ) began in his Mayoralty. He was the Zachaeus of London, not for his low Stature, but his high Charity, bequeathing the half of his Estate (computed by a Reverend Divine, to amount to five thousand pounds ) unto the Poor, although he had children of his own. Yea, he appointed that two hundred pound should be taken out of the other half (left to his son Henry ) and employed to charitable uses. He died 1560. and was buried in the Church of Saint Andrew's Undershaft. I am heartily sory to meet with this passage in my Author.
If the Testators Will were not justly performed, it soundeth to the shame and blame of his Executors. But if the charity of Sir Thomas acted Eminus not Comminus, I mean at some distance, and not at his own habitation, it was no injury for any to dispose of his own at his own pleasure. I find also two other of the same Sur-name, not mutually more allied in blood, then in charitable dispositions.
It is hard to instance in a Lease of kinsmen born so far from, bred in London, meeting together in such bountiful performances.
I believe it was the First of these three Offleys on whom the Rhythme was made,
This I behold neither sin nor shame in him, feeding himself on plain and wholesome repast, that he might feast others by his bounty, and thereby deserving rather praise then a jear from posterity.
JOHN TERER Gentleman, and a Member of this City. He erected a seemly waterwork built Steeplewise at the Bridgegate, by his own ingenious industry and charge. This since hath served for the conveying of River-water from the Cistern, in the top of that Work, through Pipes of Lead and Wood, to the Citizens houses, to their great conveniences. I could wish all designs in the like nature hopefully begun, may as h •… ppily be completed. My industry cannot attain the exact time of his death, only I find that his son of the same name, endeavored the like to bring water from a fine spring, to the midst of this City, which I believe was effected.
The Farewell.
And now being to take our leave of this Antient and Honorable City, the worst that I wish it is, that the distance betwixt Dee and the New-tower may be made up, all Obstructions being removed, which cause or occasion the same. That the Rings on the New-tower (now only for sight ) may be restored to the Service for which they were first intended, to fasten Vessels thereunto. That the Vessells on that River (lately degenerated from Ships into Barks ) may grow up again to their former Strength and Stature.
CORNWALL.
CORNWALL, it hath its name partly from the Form, partly from the Inhabitants thereof: from the former it is so called, because narrow in fashion of a horn, which (by the way) is a word of all others passing thorough both Learned and Modern Languages with the least variation,
- 1 Keren, Hebr.
- 2 Keras, Gr.
- 3 Cornu, Lat.
- 4 Corn, Fr.
- 5 Cuerno, Span.
- 6 Corno, Ital.
- 7 Horn, Eng.
- 8 Horne, Dut.
- 9 Kerne, Well.
The latter Wale signifies strangers, for such were the Inhabitants of this County, reputed by their Neighbors.
It hath Devonshire on the West, divided from it generally with the River Tamer, encompassed with the Sea on all other sides, affording plenty of Harbours, so that Foreigners in their passage to or from Spain, Ireland, the Levant, East or West Indies, sometimes touch herewith, sometimes are driven hither against their will, but never without the profit of the Inhabitants, according to the Common Proverb, where the horse lieth down, there some hairs will be found.
The Language of the Natives, it is a different tongue from the English, and dialect from the Welsh, as more easy to be pronounced, and is sufficiently copious to express the conceits of a good wit both in Prose and Verse. Some have avouched it derived from the Greek, producing for the proof thereof many words of one sense in both, as Kentron, A spur; Schaphe, A boat; Ronchi, Snoring, &c. But the judicious behold these as no regular congruities, but casual coincidencies, the like to which may be found in languages of the greatest distance, which never met together since they parted at the confusion of Babel. Thus one would enforce a conformity between the Hebrew and English, because one of the three giants sons of Anak, was called Ahiman.
The Cornish-tongue affordeth but two natural oaths, or three at most; but whether each of them be according to the kinds of Oaths, divided by the School-men, one Assertory, the other Promissory, to which some add a third, Comminatory, is to me unknown. The worst is, the Common Cornish supply this (I will not say defect) not only with swearing the same often over, but also by borrowing other oaths of the English.
Natural Commodities.
Diamonds.
These of themselves sound high, till the Addition of Cornish substracteth from their Valuation. In Blackness and Hardness, they are far short of the Indian. Yet Set with a good Foyle (advantaged Hypocrisy, passeth often for Sincerity, ) may at the first sight deceive no unskillful Lapidary: as their Luster is less then Orient Diamonds, so herein they exceed them, that Nature hath made both their Face and their Dressing, by whom they are Pointed and Polished. But, enough hereof, the rather, because some from the Latin names of Jewels, Jocalia, things to be jested and played with, and Baubellae, things which are Trifles and Baubles, spitefully collect that Stones, accounted precious, are more beholding to the Consent of Fancy, then their own Intrinsic worth for their high valuation.
Ambergreese.
I confess this precious Commodity is fixed to no place in the world, as too great a Treasure for any one Country to engross, and therefore it is only fluctuating and casually found by small parcels, sometimes in one place, and sometimes in another; yet, because the last, greatest and best quantity thereof, that ever this Age did behold, was found on the Coasts of this County, we will here insert a little of the name, nature, and use thereof.
It is called Ambra-gresia, That is, gray Amber, from the Colour thereof, which modern name utterly unknown to the Ancients, doth speak it to be of later invention, whereof a Learned Doctor of Physic hath assigned this probable reason, because it was never found in the Midland-sea, (which in effect was all the Seas to the Ancients ) but only in the main Ocean, which was not navigated on, till within this last two hundred years, since Seamen have gotten the use of the Card and Compass.
It is almost as hard to know what it is, as where to find it. Some will have it the sperme of a fish, or some other unctuous matter arising from them; others, that it's the foam of the Sea, or some excrescency thence boiled to such a height by the heat of the Sun; Others, that it is a gum that grows on the shore. In a word, no certainty can be collected herein, some Physicians holding one way, and some another, but this is most sure, that Apothecaries hold it at five pounds an Ounce, which some say is dearer then ever it was in the memory of man.
It is a rare Cordial for the refreshing of the spirits, and sovereign for the strengthening the head, besides the most fragrant scent, far stronger in Consort when Compounded with other things, then when singly itself.
A mass of this Ambergreese was about the third year of King Charles found in this County, at Low water, close to the shore of the Manor of Anthony, then belonging to Richad Carew, Esquire.
Garlic.
Here is a great and sudden fall indeed, from the sweetest of Gums, to the most stinking of Roots. Yet is not the distance so great, if the worth of Garlic be such as some have avouched it. Not to speak of the murmuring Israelites, who prized it before Manna itself; some avow it Sovereign for men and beasts in most Maladies. Indeed the scent thereof is somewhat Valiant and Offensive, but wise men will be contented to hold their noses, on condition they may thereby hold or recover their health. Indeed a large book is written de esu allii, which if it hold proportion with truth, one would wonder any man should be sick and die, who hath Garlic growing in his Garden. Sure I am, our Palate-people are much pleased therewith, as giving a delicious Hault-gust to most meats they eat, as tasted and smelt in their Sauce, though not seen therein. The best Garlic is about Stratton in this County.
Pilchards.
Plenty hereof are taken in these parts, persecuted to the shore by their enemies, the Tunny and Hake, till in pursuance of their private revenge, they all become a prey to the Fisherman. The Pilchard may seem contemptible in itself, being so small, though the wit of the vulgar here will tell you, they have seen many Pilchards an elllong, understand it laid at length, head and tail together. Their numbers are incredible, employing a power of poor people, in Polling, (that is, Beheading,) Gutting, Splitting, Powdering and Drying them, and then (by the name of Fumadoes, ) with Oil and a Lemon, they are meat for the mightiest Don in Spain. I wish, not only their nets, but fish may hold, suspecting their daily decay, their shoals usually shifting coasts, and verging more westward to Ireland. Other fish here be which turn to good account, all welcome to Fishermens hooks, save the Star-fish, esteemed contagious.
Blew-Slate.
These are commonly found under the Walling-Slate, when the depth hath brought the workmen to the water. They are thin in substance, clear in color, light in weight, and lasting in continuance. Generally they carry so good a regard, that (besides the supply of home-provisions) great store of them are imported into other parts of the land, and transpotted into France and the Low-Countries. All that I have to say of Slate, is that Cinyra the son of Agriopae is said first to have found them in Cyprus, for the Covering of Houses.
Tinne.
The most and best in Christendom this County doth produce. Yea it was the Only Tinne in Europe, until a Fugitive Miner running hence, discovered Tinne in Voiteland; in the Confines of Bohemia. God may be said in this County, to rain Meat (such the plenty thereof,) and give Dishes too, made of Pewter, which hath Tinne for the Father, and Lead for the Mother thereof, and in our Age doth Matriza •… e too much. Vast their Expence in making their Addits, (understand them Addresses, and Accesses to the Mine, ) with Dressing, Breaking, Stamping; Drying, Crazing, Washing and Melting, all plentifully repaid in the Selling of it.
The discovery of many of these Mines have been very remarkable, for some have gained more Sleeping, then others Waking, having dreamt that in such [Impropable] places, Tinne was to be found, and pursuing such Directions, have found it accordingly.
The Poet we know feigneth Two Ports of Dreams,
Strange that the Best Gate, for matter [ Ivory ] should present the Worst [false] Dreams. It seems these Cornish Dreams passed through the Horny Gate, which fell out so happily, that, thereby many have been enriched, and left great Estates to their Posterity.
I cannot take my leave of these Tinners, until I have observed a strange practice of them, that once in seven or eight years, they burn down (and that to their great profit) their own Melting houses. I remember a merry Epigram in Martial, on one Tongilian, who had his house in Rome, casually [reputed] burnt, and gained ten times as much, by his friends contribution to his loss.
But here the Tinners avow themselves incendiaries of their own houses, on a profitable account. For, during the Tinnes melting in the blowing-house, diverse light sparkles thereof, are by the forcible wind, which the bellows sendeth forth, driven up to the thatched roof, on the burning whereof they find so much of this light Tinne in the ashes, as payeth for the new building, with a gainful overplus.
The Buildings.
Master Attorney Noy was wont pleasantly to say, that his house had no fault in it, save only that it was too near unto London, though indeed distanced thence full three hundred miles, in the remoter part of this County. But seriously one may say, and defend it, that the distance of Cornwall from that Metropolis, is a Conventent Inconveniency. As for the structure of their Houses, they are generally but mean, though the Nobility and Gentry have hansome habitations, and amongst them none excelleth.
Mount-Edgecomb •… .
It was built by Sir Richard Edgecomb Knight, take his Character from one who very well knew him, mildness and stoutness, diffidence and wisdom, deliberateness of undertakings, and sufficiency of effecting; made in him a more commendable, then blazing mixture of virtue. In the Raign of Queen Mary (about the year 1555.) he gave entertainment at one time, for some good space to the Admirals of the English, Spanish, and Netherland, and many Noble men besides. A passage the more remarkable, because I am confident that the Admiralls of those Nations never met since, (if ever before) amicably at the same Table. Mount-Edgcombe was the Scene of this Hospitality, a house new built and named by the aforesaid Knight, a square Structure with a round Turret at each end, Garretted on the top. The Hall (rising above the rest) yieldeth a stately sound as one entereth it, the Parlour and Dyning-Roome afford a large and diversified prospect both of Sea and Land. The high situation (cool in Summer, yet not cold in Winter) giveth Health: the Neighbor River wealth. Two Block-houses great safety, and the Town of Plymouth good company unto it. Nor must I forget the fruitful ground about it, (pleasure without profit, is but a flower without a root,) stored with Wood, Timber, Fruit, Deer and Gonnies, a sufficiency of Pasture, Arable and Meadow, with Stone, Lime, Marl, and what not?
I write not this to tempt the Reader to the breach of the Tenth Commandment, To covet his Neighbors house, and one Line in the prevention thereof. I have been credibly informed that the Duke of Medina Sidonia Admiral of the Spanish-Fleet in the 88. was so affected at the sight of this House (though but beholding it at a distance from the Sea,) that he resolved it for his own possession in the partage of this Kingdom, (blame him not if choosing best for himself,) which they had preconquered in their hopes and expectation. But he had catched a great Cold, had he had no other Clothes to wear, then those which were to be made of a skin of a Bear, not yet killed.
Medicinal Waters.
I know none in this County, which are reported to be Sovereign constantly for any diseases. Yet I meet with one so remarkable a recovery, that it must not be omitted. However I remember his Good Counsel, He that telleth a miraculus truth, must always carry his Author at his Back. I will only Transcribe his words, speaking of the good Offices which Angels do to God's Servants.
Doctor Joseph Hall then Bishop of Exeter, since of Norwich, in his Book called, The Great Mistery of Godliness, pag. 169.
Of this kind was that (no less then Miraculous) Cure, which at Saint Maderns in Cornwall was wrought upon a Poor Cripple, whereof (besides the attestation of many hundred of the Neighbors,) I took a strict and impartial Examination in my last Visitation.
This Man for sixteen years together was fain to walk upon his hands, by reason the sinews of his legs were so contracted, and upon Monitions in his Dream to wash in that Well, was suddenly so restored to his limbs, that I saw him able both to walk, and get his Own Maintenance. I found here was neither Art, nor Collusion. The thing done, the Author Invisible of God.
So Authentical an Author, (without any other Assistance ad Corroborandum, ) is enough to get belief in any, save, such surly souls, who are resolved on Infidelity of what their own Eyes have not beheld.
The Wonders.
If the word be strained up to the height, I confess Cornwall affordeth none at all; but if it be slackened, and let down a little, there are those things which this Duchy doth tender, and we all willing to take for Wonders, for discourse sake, at the least, viz.
The HURLERS.
These are Stones competently distanced, whom Tradition reporteth, to be formerly Men Metamorphoz'd into Stones, for Hurling (a Sport peculiar to Cornwall ) on, and so profaning of the Lord's-day. Thus unequally yoaking Scripture and Ovid together, the Tale is made up betwixt them. But seeing such Devotion is not durable which is founded on Deceit, we protest against, and reject this fiction, the rather, because▪ the same Lawgiver, who enjoined us, Remember thou keepest holy the Sabbath day, gave us also in Command, Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy Neighbor, and we will not accept a false Doctrine, to make a true use thereof. Yet surely conformable to the Judgment of those Times was this Tradition made, and thence one may collect that boisterous Exercises (or Labors rather,) so far from refreshing the weary, that they weary the refreshed, are utterly inconsistent with the conscientious keeping of that Day, and deserve heavy Punishments, for profaning thereof.
Otherwise we really believe, these Stones were Originally set up for Limits and Bounds, or else a Monument erected in Memory of some Victory here achieved.
Main Amber.
Main is in Cornish the Stone, and Amber as some conceive of Ambrosius that valiant Brittan, erected probably by him on some Victory achieved against the Romans, or some other Enemies. This is a Master-piece of Mathematics and Criticall Proportions, being a great stone of so exact position on the Top of a Rock, that any weakness by touching it may move it, and yet no force can remove it, so justly is it poised. I have heard in common discourse, when this Main Amber hath been made the Emblem of such men's dispositions, who would listen to all counsel, and seem inclined thereunto, but are so fixed, that no reason can alter them from their first resolution.
But know Reader, that this Wonder is now Unwondred, for I am credibly informed that some Soldiers of late have utterly destroyed it. Oh, how dangerous is it for Art to stand in the way where Ignorance is to pass! Surely covetousness could not tempt them thereunto, though it did make one to deface a fair Monument in Turkey on this occasion.
A Tomb was erected near the high-way (according to the Fashion of that Country,) on some person of quality, consisting of a Pillar, and on the Top thereof a Chapiter or great Globe of stone, whereon was written in the Turkish Tongue,
This passed many years undemolished, it being Piaculum there to violate the concernment of the dead, until one not of more Conscience, but Cunning then others, who had passed by it, resolved to unriddle the meaning of this Inscription; breaking the Hollow Globe open, he found it full of Gold, departed the richer, not the honester for his discovery. Sure I am, if any such temptation invited the Soldiers to this Act, they missed their mark therein.
Their pretence as I understand to this destructive design was Reformation, some People as they say making an Idol thereof, which if true, I pity the destroying of Main Amber, no more then the Stamping and Pulverizing of the brazen Serpent by King Hez •… kiah. But I cannot believe so much Stupidity in Christians, they took much pains by cutting off the Stone to dislodge it from its Center, (in how few minutes may envy ruin what art hath raised in more hours,) and now Cornwall hath one Artificial wonder fewer then it had before. Except any will say that to keep up the number, the unexampled Envy of these Soldiers may be Substituted in the room thereof. And let them sink in Obscurity, that hope to swim in Credit by such mis-atchivements.
Proverbs.
These three words are the Dictionary of such Surnames, which are originally Cornish, and though Nounes in sense, I may fitly term them Prepositions.
| 1. Tre | a Town. Hence Tre-fry, Tre-lawney, Tre-vanion, &c. | |
| 2. Pol | signifieth | an Head. Hence Pol-wheel. |
| 3. Pen | a Top. Hence Pen-tire, Pen-rose, Pen-kevil, &c. |
Some add to these a fourth inchoation, viz. Car (which I guess to signify a rock) as Carmino, Carzew, &c. but I dare not make additions, but present it as I find it in my Author.
The Cornish are Masters of the Art of Wrestling, so that if the Olympian Games were now in fashion, they would come away with the victory. Their Hugg is a cunning close with their fellow combitant, the fruits whereof is his fair fall, or foil at the least. It is figuratively appliable to the deceitful dealing of such, who secretly design their overthrow, whom they openly embrace.
The truth hereof none can confirm, or confute; seeing under-ground-wealth is a Nemo scit, and vast may the treasure be of Tinne in this Down. Sure I am, that the gainful plenty of metal formerly afforded in this place, is now fallen to a scantsaving-scarcity. But, to make the Proverb true, it is possible, that the Cornish Diamonds found therein, may be pure and orient (as better concocted) in the bowels thereof. For, though crafty (not to say dishonest) Chapmen, put the best grain in the top, and worst in the bottom of their sack; such is the integrity of nature, that the coarsest in this kind are higher, and the purest still the lowest.
Which is to say, Tr •… u consisteth of three streets, and it shall in time be said, Here Truru stood. I trust the men of this town are too wise, to give credit to such predictions, which may justly prove true to the superstitious believers thereof. Let them serve God, and defy the Devil with all his Pseudo-prophesies. Like to this is another fond observation, presaging some sad success to this Town, because ru, ru, which in English is Woe, Woe, is twice in the Cornish name thereof. But, let the men of Truru, but practice the first syllable in the name of their town, and they may be safe and secure from any danger in the second.
This is an Italian Proverb, where it passeth for a description (or derision rather) of such a Man who is wronged by his Wises disloyalty.
I wonder the Italians should take such pains to travail so far to fetch this expression, having both the Name and Matter nearer home. Name, Having the field Cornetus Campus in agro falisco, (called Corneto at this day.) And a people called Corni in Latium, with the Cornicti montes near Tiber, not to speak of its two Promontories termed by good Authors Cornua duo Italiae, the two Horns of Italy. Matter, Keeping their wives under restraint as generally full of Jealousy, which if just, I much bemoan the Gaolers, if not, I more pity their Prisoners.
Whereas in our Cornwall, the Wives liberty is the due reward of their Chastity, and the Cause of their husbands comfortable confidence therein.
This is a joculary and imaginary Court, wherewith men make merriment to themselves, presenting such Persons as go Slovenly in their Attire, untrussed, wanting a spur, &c. Where judgment in formal terms is given against them, and executed more to the scorn then hurt of the persons. But enough hereof, least I be summoned thither myself.
These are two forelands, well known to Sailers, well nigh twenty miles asunder, and the Proverb passeth for the Periphrasis of an impossibility. However, these two Points have since met together, (though not in position) in possession of the same owner, Sir Pierce Edgecombe, enjoying one in his own, the other in right of his wife.
Saints.
SAINT KIBY was son to Solomon Duke of Cornwall, whom several inducements moved to travail. First, because A Prophet hath the least Honor in his own Country. Secondly, because Britain at that time was infected with Arianism. Thirdly, because he had read so much of the works, and heard more of the worth of Saint Hilary Bishop of Poicteers in France. This main motive made him address himself to that worthy Father, with whom he lived fifty years, and afterwards saith learned Leyland was by him made Bishop of the Isle of Anglesey.
Pardon me Reader, if suspending my belief herein, seeing, surely that holy and humble French Saint would not pretend to any Metropolitical power, in appointing a Bishop in Britain. More probable it is that Saint Hilary made him a Bishop at large sine titulo, whereof there are some precedents in Antiquity. However into Wales he went, and there converted the Northern parts thereof to, and confirmed the rest in Christianity.
A Three-fold memorial is in the Isle of Anglesey, extant at this day. One of his Master, in Point Hilary, another of himself, in Caer-Guiby, and a third of both, in Holyhead. He flourished about the year of our Lord, 380.
URSULA daughter to Dinoth Duke of Cornwall, was born in this County. This is she, who se life is loaden with such Anticronismes, and Improbabilities, that it is questionable, whether this fable was ever founded in a truth, or hath anything in History for its Original.
This Ursula is said to have carried over out of Britain, eleven thousand Maids of prime quality, besides threescore thousand of meaner rank, ( seventy one thousand in all, a prodigious number,) to be married to so many in little Britain in France. Preposterous in my mind, to proffer themselves, and it had argued more modesty if their Husbands had fetched them hence.
But blame them not, who paid so dear for their Adventures. All shipp'd from London, some of them were drowned in their Passage, the rest slain by the Huns of Colen, say some, at Rome, say others, by King Attila under Gratian the Emperor. Mendacium Aequabile, observing equal Temper of untruth, in time, place, and person. However, there is a Church at Colen dedicated to their Memories, where the Virgin Earth (let the reporter have the Whetstone) will digest no other body, no not the Corps of an Infant newly Baptized, (as good a Maid I believe as the best of them) but will vomit it up in the night time again, as if they had never been buried. This Massacre is reported to have happened in the year of our Lord 383.
SAINT MELIORUS was only son of Melianus, Duke of this County, who being secretly made a Christian, was so maliced by Rinaldus his Pagan-brother-in-law, that he first cut off his right-hand, and then his left-leg, (no reason of this transposed method of cruelty, save cruelty,) and at last his head about the year 411. whose body being buried in some old Church in this County, by the miracles reported to be done thereat, procured the reputation of a Saint to his memory.
Prelates.
WILLIAM de GREN-VIL was born of a worshipful family in this County, and became Canon of York, Dean of Chichester, Chancellor of England, (under K. Edward the first,) and Arch-bishop of York. But the worst was, two years his Confirmation was deferred until he had paid nine thousand fiveh undred marks. Let him thank the Pope, who gave him the odd five hundred, not mounting it to even ten thousand. Besides he had this favor, not (as many others) to be consecrated by a Proxy, but the very hands of P. Clement the fifth. This payment reduced him to such poverty, he was relieved by the Clergy of his Province, by way of Benevolence. This, not doing the deed, to make him a Saver, he was fain to crave another help of the same Hand, under the new name of a Subsidy. Indeed it was pity that the Father of the Diocese should want anything, which his Sons could contribute unto Him. He highly favored the Templars, though more pitying, then profiting them, as persons so stiffly opposed by the Pope and Philip King of France, that there was more fear of his being suppressed by their Foes, then hope of their being supported by his Friendship. He was present in the Council of Vienna, on the same token, that therein he had his place assigned next the Arch-bishop of Triers, and that I assure you, was very high, as beneath the lowest Elector, and above Wortzbury or Herbipolis, and other German Prelates, who also were Temporal Princes. But now he is gone, and his pomp with him, dying at Cawood 1315. and buried in the Chapel of Saint Nicholas, leaving the reputation of an able Statesman, and no ill Scholar behind him.
MICHAEL TREGURY was born in this County, and bred in the University of Oxford, where he attained to such eminency, that he was commended to King Henry the fifth, fit to be a foreign Professor. This King Henry, desiring to Conquer France, as well by Arts, as Arms, (knowing that learning made Civil Persons, and Loyall 〈◊〉 , ) reflected on the City of Cane (honored with the Ashes of his Ancestors ) in Normandy, and resolved to advance it an University, which he did Anno 1418. placing this Michael, the first Professor in the College of his Royal Erection. Hence King Henry the sixth, preferred him Arch bishop of Dublin in Ireland, wherein he continued 22. years, deceasing December 21. 1471. and is buried in the Church of Saint Patrick in Dublin. I am sorry to see the Author of so many learned books disgraced on his Monument, with so barbarous an Epitaph.
Allowing him thirty years old when Professor at Cane, he must be extremely aged at his departure.
JOHN ARUNDLE was born of right ancient Parentage of Lanhearn in this County, bred in the University of Oxford, and was by King Henry the seventh preferred Bishop of Coventry and Lichfield, anno 1496. thence translated to his Native Diocese of Exeter, 1501.
Impute it to the shortness of his continuance in that See; that so little is left of his Memory, (not enough to feed, much less Feast the Pen of an Historian.) He died at London, anno 1503. and lieth buried saith my Author in St. Clements, not acquainting us whether Clements East cheap, or Clements▪ Danes; but I conclude it is the latter, because the Bishops of Exeter had their Inn or City-house (now converted into Essexhouse ) within that Parish.
Capital Judges and Writers on the Law.
There passeth a pleasant Tradition in this County, how there standeth a man of great strength and stature with a black Bil in his hand, at Polston-bridge (the first entrance into Cornwall, as you pass towards Launceston, where the Assizes are holden) ready to knock down all the Lawyers that should offer to plant themselves in that County. But in earnest, few of that profession have here grown up to any supereminent height of Learning, Livelyhood or Authority. Whether because of the far distance of this County from the Supremer Courts, or because of the multiplicity of petty ones nearer hand, (pertaining to the Duchy, Stannerie's, and other Franchises, ) enabling Attorneys and the like of small reading to serve the people's turn, and so cutting the profit from better-studied Counsellers.
Some conceive that Sir Robert Tresillian, chief Justice of the Kings-Bench in the fifth of King Richard the Second, to be this Country-man, though producing no other evidence save Tre the initial syllable of his Surname, as a badge of Cornish extraction. However we have purposely omitted him in this our Catalogue; partly, because not claimed by Mr. Carew in his Survey for their Countryman, partly, because no Worthy, as justly executed by Act of Parliament for pronouncing their Acts revocable at the Kings pleasure. As for one Cornish man (though neither Writer nor actual Judge) his worth commands us to remember him: namely,
WILLIAM NOY born in this County, was bred in Lincolns-Inn, a most sedulous Student, constantly conversant with ancient Records, verifying his Anagram:
He was for m •… ny years the stoutest Champion for the Subjects Liberty, until King Charles entertained him to be his Attorney; after which time, I read this Character of him in an History written by an ingenious Gentleman.
However others behold his Actions with a more favorable eye, as done in the pursuance of the place he had undertaken, who by his Oath and Office was to improve his utmost power to advance the profit of his Master. Thus I see that after their Deaths, the Memories of the best Lawyers may turn Clients, yea and sue too in forma Pauperis, needing the good word of the Charitable Survivors to plead in their behalf. He died, anno Domini 163.. Let me add this passage from his mouth that was present thereat. The Goldsmiths of London had (and in due time may have) a Custom once a year to weigh Gold in the Star-Chamber, in the presence of the Privy Council and the Kings Attorney. This solemn weighing by a word of art they call the Pixe, and make use of so exact scales therein, that the Master of the Company affirmed, that they would turn with the two hundereth part of a grain. I should be loath (said the Attorney Noy standing by) that all my actions should be weighed in those Scales. With whom I concur in relation of the same to myself. And therefore seeing the Ballance of the Sanctuary held in God's hand are far more exact, what need have we of his mercy and Christ's merits to make us Passable in God's presence?
Soldiers.
King ARTHUR, Son to Uther-Pendragon, was born in Tintagel-Castle in this County, and proved afterward Monarch of Great Britain. He may fitly be termed the British Hercules in three respects,
- 1. For his illegitimate birth, both being Bastards, begotten on other men's wives, and yet their Mothers honest women, deluded, the one by Miracle, the other by Art-Magic of Merlin, in others personating their husbands.
- 2. Painfull life, one famous for his twelve labors, the other for his twelve victories against the Saxons, and both of them had been greater, had they been made less, and the reports of them reduced within compass of probability.
- 3. Violent and woeful death, our Arthurs being as lamentable, and more honorable, not caused by Feminine Jealousy, but Masculine Treachery, being murdered by Mordred, near the place where he was born.
As for his Round-Table, with his Knights about it, the tale whereof hath Trundled so smoothly along for many ages, it never met with much belief amongst the judicious. He died about the year Anno Dom 542.
And now to speak of the Cornish in general. They ever have been beheld men of Valour. It seemeth in the reign of the aforesaid King Arthur, they ever made up his Van-Guard, if I can rightly understand the barbarous Verses of a Cornish Poet.
But afterwards in the time of King Canutus, the Cornish were appointed to make up the Rear of our Armies. Say not they were much degraded, by this transposition from Head to Foot, seeing the judicious in Marshaling of an Army, count the •… rength (and therefore the credit ) to consist in the Rear thereof.
But it must be pitied, that these people misguided by their Leaders, have so often abused their valor in rebellions, and particularly in the reign of King Henry the seventh, at Black-heath, where they did the greatest execution, with their Arrows, reported to be the length of a Tailors-yard, the last of that proportion, which ever were seen in England. However the Cornish have since plentifully repaired their credit, by their exemplary Valour and Loyalty, in our late Civil Wars.
Sea-men.
JOHN ARUNDEL of Trerice Esquire, in the fourteenth of King Henry the eighth took prisoner Duncane Campbell a Scot, (accounted their Admiral by his own Countrymen, a Pirat by the English, and a Valiant man by all,) in a fight at Sea. This his Goodly, Valiant, and Jeopardous enterprise, (as it is termed) was represented with advantage by the Duke of Norfolk to the King, who highly praised and rewarded him for the same.
Civilians.
JOHN TREGONWELL was born in this County, bred in Oxford, where he proceeded Doctor of the Laws, both Canon and Civil, and attaining to great perfection in the Theoretick, and practical parts of those professions, he was employed to be Proctor for King Henry the eighth, in the long and costly cause of his divorce from Queen Katherine Dowager. Now as it was said of the Roman Dictator, Sylla suos divitiis explevit, So King Henry full fraught all those with wealth and rewards, whom he retained in that employment. This Doctor he Knighted, and because so dexterous and diligent in his service, gave him a pension of forty pounds per annum. And upon the resignation thereof, (with the paying down of a Thousand pounds ) he conferred on him and his heirs the rich demesne and scite of Middleton, a Mitred Abby in Dorsetshire, possessed at this day by his posterity. This Sir John died about the year of our Lord one thousand five hundred and forty, and is buried under a fair Monument in the Church of Middleton aforesaid.
Physicians.
Although this County can boast of no writer graduated in that faculty in the University, and that generally they can better vouch practice for their warrant, then warrant for their practice, yet Cornish-men would be offended if I should omit
RAWE HAYES a Blacksmith by his occupation, and furnished with no more learning then is suitable to such a calling, who yet ministered Physic for many years, with so often success and general applause, that not only the home-bred multitude believed so mainly in him, but even persons of the better calling resorted to him, from the remote parts of the Realm, to make trial of his cunning, by the hazard of their lives, and sundry either upon just cause, or to Cloke their folly, reported that they have reaped their errands ends at his hands. He flourished Anno Dom. 1602.
—ATWELL born in this County and Parson of Saint Tue therein, was well seen in the Theoricks of Physic, and happy in the practice thereof, beyond the belief of most, and the reason that any can assign for the same. For although now and then he used bloodletting, he mostly for all diseases prescribed milk, and often milk and apples, which (although contrary to the judgments of the best esteemed practitioners) either by virtue of the Medicine, or fortune of the Physician, or fancy of the Patient, recovered many out of desperate extremities. This his reputation for many years maintained itself unimpaired, the rather, because he bestowed his pains and charge gratis on the poor, and taking moderately of the rich, left one half of what he received in the households he visited. As for the profits of his benefice, he poured it out with both hands in pious uses. But for the truth of the whole, fit fides penes authorem. This Atwell was living 1602.
Writers.
HUCARIU the LEVITE was born in this County, and lived at Saint Germans therein. All-eating Time hath left us but a little Morsell for manners of his Memory. This we know, he was a pious and learned man, (after the rate of that Age) and it appeareth that he was eminent in his function of Divine Service, because Levite was 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 fixed upon him. In his time (as in the days of Eli) the Word of God was precious, which raised the repute of his pains, who wrote an hundred and ten Homilies, besides other Books. He flourished 1040.
JOHN of CORNWALL (so called from the County of his Nativity, ) leaving his Native soil, studied in foreign Universities, chiefly in Rome, where his Abilities commended him to the Cognizance of Pope Alexander the third. It argueth his learning, that he durst cope with that Giant, Peter Lombard himself, commonly called The Master of the Sentences, and who on that account, expected that all should rather obey, then any oppose his judgment. Yea it appeareth, that the judgment of this Peter Bishop of Paris, was not so sound in all points, by a passage I meet with in Matthew Paris of Pope Al •… xander the third, writing a letter to an Arch-bishop of France, to abrogate the ill doctrine of Peter sometimes Bishop of Paris, about Christ's Incarnation.
But our John wrote against him in his life time, a book de Homine assumpto, and put Peters Pen to some pains to write his own vindication. He wrote also a book of Philosophy and Heresies. Wonder not at their conjunction, Philosophy being in Divinity, as Fire and Water in a Family, a good Servant, but bad Master; so Sad it is, when the Articles of our Creed must be tried by the Touchstone of Aristotle. This John flourished under K. Henry the second, Anno 1170.
SIMON THURWAY was born in this County, bred in our English Universities, until he went over into Paris, where he became so eminent a Logician, that all his Auditors were his admirers. Most firm his memory, and fluent his expression, and was knowing in all th •… ngs, save in himself: For, profanely he advanced Aristotle above Moses, and himself above both. His pride had a great and sudden fall, losing at the same instant, both language and memory, becoming completely 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 without reason or speech. Yet was his dumness to all intelligent people, a loud Sermon on Saint Paul's precept, Not to think of themselves more highly then they ought to think, but to think soberly. Polydore Virgil saith of him, Juvene nil acutius, seen nihil obtusius; whilst others add, he made an inarticulate sound like to lowing. This great judgment befell him about the year of our Lord 1201.
MICHAEL BLAUNPAYN born in Cornwall, (some so commonly call him Michael the Master, that he had almost lost his native name,) was bred in Oxford •… nd 〈◊〉 , and became as good a riming Poet as any in that Age. In happened one Henry of Normandy chief Poet to our Henry the third, had traduced Cornwall as an inconsiderable Country, cast out by nature in contempt into a corner of the land. Our Michael could not en •… ure this affront, but full of Poetical fury falls upon the Libeller, take a taste (little thereof will go far) of his strains.
Then as a valiant Champion he concludeth all with this exhortation to his Countrymen.
His Pen so lushious in praising when so pleased, was as bitter in railing when disposed, witness this his Satirical character of his foresaid Antagonist.
He flourished Anno 1350. though the certain time and place of his death is unknown.
GODFREY of CORNWALL was bred a Doctor in Paris and Oxford, and afterwards became a Carmelite of no mean esteem amongst those of his own order. It happened in his time that Gerardus Bononiensis, a French-man, Master General of the Carmelites, made two Provincials (formerly but one ) of that order in England, alleging that two * are better then one, and matters would be the more exactly regulated, by their double inspection. The plain truth was, the French-man did it out of covetousness, that so two loaders might bring double grists to his Mill. Our Godfrey appeared a Champion for the old way, that matters might run in their ancient channel, and wrote a Book to that purpose, as many others on several subjects.
John Baconthorpe, his Contemporary, much esteemed him, and quoted him by the Title of
I doubt not but this our Godfrey in mannerly requital, re-gave Baconthorpe the courtesy of Doctor Resolutus, and here I would fain be satisfied how these received Epithets [Doctor Profundus, Doctor Subtilis, &c.]came first to be fixed on such and such Schoolmen. Surely they as •… umed them not themselves, which had argued too much pride and presumption. Nor could I ever, as yet, meet with any Authentic record of Pope or University, which settled it upon them. Possibly one Eminent Writer gave it to another his Correspondent, who in reciprocation of kindness ( title thou me, and I will title thee, ) returned as splendid a style to him again. This our Solemn Doctor flourished Anno Domini 1310.
JOHN TREVISA was born at Caradock in this County, bred in Oxford, afterwards Vicar of Berkeley in Gloucester-shire, and Chaplain to Thomas Lord Berkeley, at whose instance (besides other Histories writ by him) he translated the Bible into English, a daring work for a private person in that age, without particular Command from Pope or Public Council.
Some much admire he would enter on this work, so lately performed (about fifty years before) by John Wicklife. What was this, but actum agere, to do what was done before? Besides Wicklife and Trevisa agreeing so well in their judgments, it was much he would make a Retranslation. Such consider not, that in that age it was almost the same pains for a Scholar to translate as transcribe the Bible.
Secondly, the time betwixt Wicklife and Trevisa was the Chrisis of the English tongue, which began to be improved in fifty, more then in 300. years formerly. Many course words (to say no worse) used before are refined by Trevisa, whose translation is as much better then Wicklifes, as worse then Tyndals. Thus, though the fountain of the Original hath always clearness alike therein, channels of Translations will partake of more or less purity, according to the translators age, industry and ability. This Trevisa died a through old man, about the year 1400.
Since the Reformation.
JOHN SKUISH was born in Cornwall, a man of much experience and general learning. He was saith my Author à consiliis to •… ardinal Woolsy, whereby I collect him learned of the Laws, and of his Counsel, except that, that great Prelate like a Prince, had Counsel of State belonging unto him. This Skuish wrote a Chronicle being collected out of many several Authors. I have some presumptions to conclude him inclined to the Protestant reformation. He flourished Anno Dom. 1530.
BARTHOLOMEW TRAHERON. The first syllable of his Name, and what is added thereunto by my Author, parentum stemmate clarus, and the sameness of his name with an ancient Family in this County, are a three-fold Cable to draw my belief, that he was this Country-man. He was bred in the University of Oxford, and having attained to good learning therein, twice travailed beyond the Seas.
Once for pleasure and curiosity into France and Italy, whereby he much improved himself. Returning home, he became Library-keeper to King Edward the sixth, and Dean of Chichester. The second time for safety and necessity, in the first of Q. Mary, getting (I believe) his best subsistence (being an Exile in Germany, ) with making and translating of Books, where he was living 1556. and may be rationally presumed to die before Q. Elizabeth came to the Crown, because being a man of merit, and Ecclesiastically Dignified, we hear no more of his preferment.
RICHARD CAREW Esquire, son to Thomas Carew and Elizabeth E •… gecomb, was born at Anthony in this County, of right worshipful parentage, who honored his extraction with his learning. He was bred a Gentleman-commoner in Oxford, where, being but fourteen years old, and yet three years standing, he was called out to dispute ex tempore, before the Earls of Leicester and Warwick, with the matchless Sir Philip Sidney.
He afterwards wrote the pleasant and faithful description of Cornwall, and I will not wrong his memory with my barbarous praise, after so eloquent a pen.
This his book he dedicated to Sir Walter Raleigh, with this modest complement, that he appealed to his direction, whether it should pass; to his correction, if it might pass; and to his protection, if it did pass. Adding moreover, that duty not presumption, drawing him to that offering, it must be favor, not desert, must move the other to the acceptance thereof. This Survey was set forth 1602. and I collect the Author thereof died about the middle of the reign of K. James. I know not, whether he or his son first brought up the use of Gambadoes, much worn in the West, whereby whilst one rides on horseback, his legs are in a Coach, clean and warm, in those dirty Countries.
CHARLES HERLE was born in this County, of an Antient and Worshipful Family, bred (though never Fellow ) in Exeter-college, and at last richly Beneficed in Lancashire.
We read how Pharaoh removed all the Egyptians, (the Priests alone excepted) from one end of the Borders of the land to the other end thereof, but we the Ministers in England are of all men most and farthest removeable, three hundred miles and more being interposed betwixt the place of Mr. Herles Birth and Benefice.
He was a good Scholar, and esteemed by his party a deep Divine, and (after the death of Doctor Twisse ) President of the Assembly. As I dare not defend all the doctrine delivered in his Printed books; so I will not inveigh against him, lest in me it be interpreted a revenge on his memory for licencing a book written against me, wherein I was taxed for Popish Complyance, though since (in myself still the same man) I groan under a contrary Representation. The best is, innocence doth turn such groans in to songs of gladness. Mr. Herle departed this life about 1655.
Having received no instructions of any eminent benefactors in this County, either before or since the Reformation, we may proceed to
Memorable Persons.
— KILTOR in the last Cornish Commotion, (which was in the reign of King Edward the sixth, Anno Dom. 1546.) was committed to Launceston Gaol, for his activity therein. This man lying there, in the Castle-green, upon his back, threw a stone of some pounds weight, over the Towers top, (and that I assure you is no low one, ) which leadeth into the Park.
JOHN BRAY Tenant to Master Richard Carew, (who wrote the survey of this County) carried upon his back about the year 1608. at one time by the space well near of a Butt length, six Bushells of Wheaten Meal, reckoning fifteen gallons to the Bushel, and upon them all the Miller, a Lubber of four and twenty years of age.
JOHN ROMAN his Contemporary, a short Clo •… nish▪Grub, may well be joined with him. He may be called the Cornish Milo, so using himself to burdens in his Child-hood, that when a man, he would bear the whole carcass of an Ox, and (to use my Authors words) yet never tugged thereat.
VEAL, an old man of Bodmin in this County, was so beholden to Mercuries predominant strength in his nativity, that without a teacher, he became very skillful in well-near all manner of handy-crafts, a Carpenter, a Joyner, a Mill-wright, a Free-mason, a Clock-maker, a Carver, a Mettall-founder, Architect, & quid non? yea, a Chirurgeon, Physician, Alchemist, &c. So as that which Gorgias of Leontium vaunted of the liberal Sciences, he may prosess of the Mecanicall, viz. to be ignorant in none. He was in his eminency Anno 1602.
EDWARD BONE of Ladock in this County, was servant to Mr. Courtney therein. He was Deaf from his Cradle, and consequently Dumb, (nature cannot give out where it hath not received,) yet could learn, and express to his master any news that was stirring in the Country. Especially, if there went speech of a Sermon within some miles distance, he would repair to the place with the soonest, and setting himself directly against the Preacher, look him steadfastly in the face, while his Sermon lasted, to which religious zeal, his honest life was also answerable. Assisted with a firm memory, he would not only know any party, whom he had once seen, forever after, but also make him known to any other, by some special observation and difference. There was one Kempe, not living far off, defected accordingly, on whose meetings, there were such embracements, such strange, often, and earnest tokenings, and such hearty laughters, and other passionate gestures, that their want of a tongue, seemed rather an hindrance to others conceiving them, then to their conceiving one another.
Lord M •… yors
I meet with but this one and that very lately [Sir Richard Cheverton Skinner] born in this County, imputing it chiefly to their great distance from London. Insomuch that anciently when Cornish-men went (or rather were driven up by the violence of their occasions) to that City, it was usual with them to make their Wills, as if they took their Voyage into a Foreign Country.
Besides the children of the Cornish Gentry, counted themselves above, and those of the Poorer sort counted themselves beneath a Trade in London, as unable to attain it, by reason of the differance of their Language, whose Feet must travail far to come to London, whilst their Tongues must travail further to get to be understood when arrived there.
This is one of the twelve pretermitted Counties, the names of whose Gentry were not returned into the Tower in the 12. of King Henry the sixth.
Sheriffs of Cornwall.
-
HEN. II.
- Anno 1
- RECORDA MANCA
- Anno 22
- Eustachius fil. Stephani for 5 years.
- Anno 27
- Alanus de Furnee for 4 years.
- Anno 31
- Hug. Bardulph Dapifer
- Anno 32
- Idem.
- Anno 33
- Idem.
-
RICH. I.
- Anno 1
- Will. de Bachland
- Anno 2
- Rich. Revel for 9 years.
-
JOHAN. R.
- Anno 1
- John. de Torrington
- Anno 2
- Hug. Bardolph
- Anno 3
- Rich. Flandry
- Anno 4
- Idem.
- Anno 5
- Idem.
- Anno 6
- Will. de Botterel for 5 years.
- Anno 11
- John. filius Richard. for 6 years.
-
HEN. III.
- Anno 1
- Anno 2
- Anno 3
- Guliel. Lunet
- Anno 4
- Idem.
- Anno 5
- Idem.
- Anno 6
- Gul. de Pucot
- Anno 7
- Reg. de Valle Torta
- Walt. de Treverden
- Anno 8
- Reg. de Valle Torta
- Anno 9
- Gul. Bregnen junior
- Rog. de Langford
- Reg. de Valle Torta
A BLANK in the Records to the end of this Kings Raign, (being forty four years) except, any suppose (which is not very probable, that) the three forementioned persons, all, two, or one of them, continued so long in their Office.
-
EDW. I.
- Anno 1
- Anno 2
- Anno 3
- John. Wigger
- Anno 4
- Idem.
- Anno 5
- Rob. de Chini
- Anno 6
- Anno 7
- Will. de Munckton for 5 years.
- Anno 12
- Alex. de Sabridsworth
- Anno 13
- Idem.
- Anno 14
- Idem.
- Anno 15
- Simon. de Berkeley
- Anno 16
- Idem.
- Anno 17
- Edw. Comes Cornubiae for 12 years.
- Anno 29
- Thom. de la Hide for 7 years.
-
EDW. II.
- Anno 1
- Anno 2
- Anno 3
- Pet. de Gaviston Com. Cornubiae
- Anno 4
- Idem.
- Anno 5
- Idem.
- Anno 6
- Tho. de la Hide
- Anno 7
- Tho. de Excedekney
- Anno 8
- Rich. de Polhampton
- Anno 9
- Rich. de Hewish