Church History of Britain
33. They were scattered all over England. In Cambridge, Bury, Norwich, Lin, Stanford, Northampton, Lincoln, York, and, where not? But their principal abode was in London, where they had their Arch-Synagogue at the North corner of the Old-Jury, as opening into Lothbury. After their expulsion, their Synagogue was turned into the Covent of the Friers of the Sack, or, De Poenitentia Jesu; and after their supression, it became successively the house, first of a Lord, then of a Merchant; since of any man for his money, being turned into a Tavern, with the sign of the Wind-mill. A proper sign to express the moveableness of that place, which with several gales of success, hath been turned about, from so many owners, and to so many uses.
34. As for the civil government of Jews in England, the King set over them one principal Officer, called the Justicer of the Jews, whose place in honor was next to the Barons of the Exchequer. His office was to be the Patron & Protector of the Jews in their just rights, to decide all suits betwixt Christians and them, and to keep the seal of the Jews their Corporation, with the keys of their Treasury; I conceive of such moneys as they paid as Tribute to the King: otherwise the Jews had age enough to keep the Keys of their own coffers themselves, and wit too much to trust them with others. S r Robert de Hoo, and S r Philip Luvel (afterward Treasurer of England ) men of signal Nobility, successvely discharged this place. These Justicers often acted very high in defense of their Clients, the Jews; insomuch as I find it complained of by the English Clergy, as a great grievance; that, when a Jew was convented before the Ecclesiastical Judge, for his misdemeanors (as Sacrilege, violence offered to some Priest, adultery with a Christian woman, &c.) their own Justicer would interpose, and, by a Prohibition obtained from the King, obstruct all legal proceedings against such a Jew, as only responsible in his own jurisdiction.
35. In their spiritual government they were all under one Pontifex, or High Priest. We find his name was Elias, who Anno 1254. had that office. He was also called the Presbyter of the Jews, whose place was usually confirmed at least, if not constituted by the King, who by his Patent granted the same, as may appear by this copy of King Johns, as followeth.
REX omnibus fidelibus suis, & omnibus Judaeis, & Anglis salutem. Soiatis Nos concessisse, & praesenti Chartâ nostrâ confirmasse Jacobo Judge de Londoniis Presbyterio Judaeorum, Presbyteratum omnium Judaeorum totius Angliae babendum & tenendum quamdiu vixerit, libere & quiet & bonorifice, & integre, its quod nemo ei super hoc molestiam aliquam, aut gravamen infer praesumat: Quare volumus, & firmiter praecipimus, quod eidem Jacobo quoad vixerit Presbytoratum Judaeorum per totam Angliam, garantetis, manu teneatis, & pacifice defendatis; & si quis ei super eo foriffacere praesumserit, id ei sine dilatione (salva nobis emenda nostra) de forisfactura nostra emendari faciatis, tanquam Dominico Judaeo nostro quem specialiter in servitio nostra retinuimus. Prohibemus etiam ne de aliquo ad se pertinente ponatur in placitum, nisi coram Nobis, aut coram Capitali Justitia nostra, sicut Charta Regis Richardi, fratris nostri, testator. Taeste S. Bathomensi Episcopo &c. Dat. per manus H. Cantuariensis Archiepiscopi Chancellarii nostri apud Rothomagum 31. die Julii, Anno Regni nostri primo.
I have transcribed this Patent the rather for the rarity thereof, it being a strange fight, to see a Christian Arch-Bishop date an Instrument for a Jewish Presbyter.
36. Their livelihood was all on Usury. One Verse in Deuteronomy (with their Comment thereon) was more beneficial unto them, then all the Old Testament besides. Unto a stranger thou mayest lend upon usury, but unto thy brother thou shalt not lend upon usury: Now interpreting all strangers who (though neighbors at the next door) were not of their own nation, they became the universal Usurers of all England; and did our Kingdom this courtesy, that, because all hated the Jews for their Usury sake; all also hated Usury for the Jews sake, so that Christians generally disdained to be guilty thereof. Now, seeing there are two ways to wealth, one long and sure, by saving at home; the other short, but not so certain (because probably it may meet with detection and punishment) by oppressing abroad, no wonder if the Jews, using both ways, quickly arrived at vast estates.
37. For, first for their fare, it was course in the quality, and yet slender in the quantity thereof. Insomuch, that they would, in a manner, make pottage of a flint. Swines-flesh indeed they would not eat, but dogs-meat they would; I mean, beef and mutton, so poor, and lean, that the refuse of all Christians, was the Jews choice in the Shambles. Clothes they wore so poor, and patch'd, beggars would not take them up to have them. Attendants they kept none, everyone waiting on himself. No wonder then, if easily they did over-grow others in wealth, who basely did under-live themselves in all convenient accommodations. Nor were they less gripple in keeping, then greedy in catching of goods; who would as soon lose their fingers, as let go what they had clutched therein.
38. I was of the opinion (and perchance not without company in my mistake) that the Jews were not permitted to purchase Lands in England. I thought, only the ground of their graves (generally buried without Cripplegate, in the Jews garden, on the West side of S t Giles 's Church-yard, now turned into Tenements in Red-cross-street) could be termed theirs. But since I am informed, that Benomy Mittun, a Jew (as certainly many moe besides him) was possessed of much Land, and many houses in several parishes in London. Surely their purchases were limited within some restrictions. But the Jews generally more fancied letting-out of money, then buying in of Land, as which made their estates less subject to discovery, more plentiful in their increasing, and more portable in the removing thereof.
39. It was an usual punishment legally inflicted on these Jews, for their offenses not capital, to Excommunicate them. Thus such Jews should be Excommunicated, who, contrary to the Laws, kept Christian-nurses in their houses; or, who cast off that badge, or cognizance, which they ought to have worn over their upper garment, to be distinguished from Christians. Surely such Excommunication was no Ecclesiastical censure, needless to keep the Jews out of our Churches, who hated all coming into them. Rather it was a civil penalty (equivalent to the Universities discominoning a Townsman in Cambridge) whereby the Jews were derred all commerce with Christians (worse to them then all the plagues of Egypt) and so the mart of their profit marred, dearer unto them then life itself.
40. Endless it were to reckon up the indignities offered unto these Jews, on occasion sometime given, but oftener taken▪ Apprentices now adays do not throw sticks at Cocks on Shrove-tuesday so commonly, as then on that day they used clubs on the Jews, if appearing out of their houses. A people equally unhappy at feasts, and at frays. For, whensoever the Christians at any revels made great entertaintments, the Jews were made to pay the reckoning. And wheresoever any brawl began, in London, it ended always in the Old-Jury, with pillaging of the people therein. What good heart can without grief, recount the injuries offered to those, who once were the only people of God? These were they who preferred Barabbas, before Christ their Savior, which Barabbas was a robber, a raiser of insurrection, and a murderer. And ever since that time, in all insurections against them (when they desired, and sought safety, and deliverance) it hath been their constant portion, to be robbed and murdered.
41. But the most terrible persecution fell upon them at the Coronation of King Richard the first, which, according to the Jewish computation was their Jubile; and then busy in the observance thereof, though (alas) they had not one merry day in the compass of the whole year. They were forbidden, for fear of their enchantments, to approach the Kings Coronation, upon heavy penalties denounced. Now, their curiosity was so far above their covetousness, or rather, their willfulness so far above their curiosity herein, that, out of their old spirit of contradiction, some appeared there, which caused the killing of many, robbing of moe Jews in London. On the same account, within few days after (how quickly can cruelty ride post seven score and ten miles?) five hundred Jews besieged in a Tower at York, first beheaded their own wives and children, and then burnt themselves, to escape more cruel torments.
42. In the seventeenth year of the Reign of King John, the Barons brake into the Jews houses, and rifled their coffers, and with the stone of their houses, repaired the gates, and walls of London. Surely such stones must be presumed very hard, like the Jews, their owners, from whom they were taken, and yet they soon mouldred away with wind and weather. Indeed plundered stone never make strong walls. And I impute it as a partial cause of the weakness of London -walls (which no enemy ever since assaulted, but he entered them) that a great part of them (enough to infect all the rest) was built with materials got by oppression.
43. But, of all our English Kings, none ground the Jews with exactions, like King Henry the third. Only herein the Jews might, and did comfort themselves, that the English, his Native Subjects, also smarted soundly under his oppression. He not only flayed the skin, but raked the flesh, and scarrified the bones of all the Jews estates in England; ut vivere fastidirent, that is was irksome for them to live. Gold he would receive of every Jewish man, or woman, always with his own hand, but consigned other officers to receive the silver from them. One offensive act he willfully did to their conscience, in giving them leave, at their own cost and charges, to build them a new Synagogue, and when they had finished it, He commanded them to dedicate it to the Virgin Mary, whereby they utterly lost the use thereof; and afterwards the King gave it to be a Cell of S t Anthony of Vienna. A vexatious deed, merely to despite them, who are (since their smarting for Idolatry in the captivity of Babylon) pertinacious worshippers of one God, and nothing more retardeth their conversion to Christianity, then the scandal given daily unto them, by the Popish Saint-ship to their images.
44. It may justly seem admirable, whence these Jews so often pillaged to their bare skins, so suddenly recruited themselves with wealth. What I have heard affirmed of some ground in Gloucester -shire, that in a kindly spring, bite it bare over night, next morning the grass will be grown to hide a wande therein, is most certainly true in application to the Jews, so full and fast did wealth flow in upon them. Let their eggs not only be taken away, but their nests be plucked down; yet within few years we shall find them hatching a new brood of wealth therein. This made many suspect them, for clipping and coining of money. But, to lessen the wonder of these Jews their speedy recovery, know, that (besides some of their invisible hoardes escaping their plunderers hands) the Jews in other places (where the persecution for the present) furnished them to set up trading again. Indeed commendable was the Jews charity to their own Country-men, save that necessity commanded them to love one another, being hated of all other nations.
45. To avoid these miseries, they had but one shift (and, as used by some of them, it was but a shift indeed) to pretend themselves Christian Converts, and to tender themselves to be baptized. To such persons; in a temporal respect, Baptism washed away all sin; they being cleared and quitted from all ante-facts how heinous soever, by their entrance into Christianity. Thus Anno 1259. Elias Biscop, a London -Jew, charged with many horrible crimes; and, amongst others, that with poisoned drink he had caused the death of many English Gentlemen, escaped all punishment by being baptized. For the farther encouragement of their conversion, King Henry the third erected a small house in Chancery -Lane (where the office of the Rolls is now kept) for Convert-Jews to dwell in, allowing a daily salary to them for their maintenance. It is to be feared many lived therein who were Jews inwardly, but not in the Apostles acception thereof, in the spirit, but in the letter, whose praise is not of men, but of God; but I mean such, who still retained the dregs of Judaism under the feigned profession of Christianity. Sure I am, King Edward at this time was so incensed against the Jewish Nation, that now he resolved the total and final extirpation of them, and theirs, out of his Dominions.
46. Many misdemeanors were laid to their charge, amongst which these following were the principal. First, Enchantments. This was an old sin of the Jews, whereof the Prophets always complained, the multitude of thy sorceries, and the great abundance of thine enchantments. And it seems they still retained their old wicked wont. Secondly, Poisoning. To give the Jews their due, this was none of their faults, whilst living in their own land, not meeting with the word in the whole Bible. It seems they learnt this sin after their disperson in other Nations, and since are grown exquisite in that art of wickedness. Thirdly, Clipping of money. Fourthly, Counterfeiting of Christians hands and seals. Fifthly, Extortion. A Jew occasioned a mutiny in London, by demanding from a poor Christian, above two shillings for the use of twenty shillings for one week, being (by proportion) no less then five hundred and twenty pounds per annum for every hundred. Sxthly, Crucifying of the children of Christians (to keep their hands in ure) always about Easter. So that the time pointed at their intents directly in derision of our Savior. How sufficiently these crimes were witnessed against them, I know not. In such cases weak proofs are of proof against rich offenders. We may well believe, if their persons were guilty of some of these faults, their estates were guilty of all the rest.
47. Now although it passeth for an uncontrolled truth, that the Jews were by the King violently cast out of the Land, yet a great Lawyer states the case much otherwise (viz.) that the King did not directly expel them, but only prohibit them to put money to use; which produced a petition from them to the King, that they might have leave to depart the Land; a request easily granted unto them: some will say it is all one in effect, whether one be starved or stabbed, death inevitably following from both, as here the Jews were famished, on the matter, out of England; usury being their meat and drink, without which they were unable longer to subsist: However this took off much from the Odium of the act, that they were not immediately, but only indirectly and consequentially banished the Realm, or rather permitted a free departure on their own petition for the same. As for the sad accident that some hundreds of them being purposely shipped out of a spiteful design, in a leaking vessel, were all drowned in the Sea, if true, it cannot but command compassion in any Christian heart.
48. It is hardly to be believed, what vast sums of wealth accrued to the King, by this (call it ejection, or amotion, or) decesion of the Jews. He allowed them only bare viaticum to bear their charges, and seised on all the rest of their estates. Insomuch, that now the King needed not to listen to the counsel of William Marsh, Bishop of Bath and wells, and Treasurer of England (but therein speaking more like a Treasurer then a Bishop) advising him, if in necessity, to take all the plate and money of Churches and Monasteries, therewith to pay his soldiers. The poor Jews durst not go into France (whence lately they had been solemnly banished) but generally disposed themselves in Germany, and Italy, especially in the Popes territories therein, where profit from Jews and Stews, much advance the constant revenues of his Holiness.
49. King Edward having done with the Jews, began with the Scots, and effectually humbled them, and their country. This the occasion. Two Competitors appearing for the Crown of Scotland, [John Bailiol, and Robert Bruce] and, both referring their title to King Edward 's decision, he adjudged the same to Bailiol, or rather to himself in Bailiol. For he enjoined him to do homage unto him, and that hereafter the Scottish Crown should be held in fealty of the English. Bailiol, or his necessity rather (his person being in King Edward 's power) accepted the condition, owning in England one above himself, that so he might be above all in Scotland. But, no sooner was he returned into his own Kingdom, and peaceably possessed thereof, but instantly in a Letter of defiance, he disclaimeth all former promises to King Edward, appealing to the Christian world, whether his own enforced obedience were more to be pitied, or King Edward 's insolence (improving itself on a Princes present extremitics) more to be condemned.
50. Offended hereat, King Edward▪ advanceth into Scotland, with the forces he formerly intended for France. Power and policy make a good medley, and the one fareth the better for the other. King Edward to strengthen himself, thought fit to take in the title of Robert Bruce, (Bailiols corrival, hitherto living privately in Scotland) pretending to settle him in the Kingdom. Hereupon the Scots, to lessen their losses, and the English victories, affirm, that in this expedition their own Country-men were chiefly conquered by their own Country-men, the Brucian party assisting the Englsih. Sure it is that King Edward took Barwick, Dunbar, Sterling, Edenbrugh, the Crown, Scepter, and (out of Scone) the Royal Chair, and prophetical Marble therein. And though commonly it be observed, that English valor hopefully budding and blossoming on this side of Edinburgh-Frith, is frost-bitten on the North thereof; yet our victorious Edward, crossing that sea, took Montross, and the best Counties thereabout. In a word, he conquered almost all the Garden of Scotland, and left the wilderness thereof to conquer itself. Then having fetled Warren, Earl of Survey, Vice-Roy thereof, and made all the Scottish Nobility (Doughty Douglas alone excepted, who was committed to prison for his singular recusancy) swear homage unto him, and taking John Bailiol captive along with him, he returned triumphantly into England.
CENT. XIV.
TO CLEMENT THROCKMORTON, the Elder, OF Haseley in Warwick-shire, Esq
LEt other boast of their French blood, whilst your English family may vie Gentry with any of the Norman Extraction. 1. For Antiquity, four Monosyllables being, by common pronunciation, crowded into your name; THE, ROCK, MORE, TOWN. 2. For Numerosity, being branched into so many Counties. 3. For Ingenuity, charactered by Camden to be FRUITFUL OF FINE WITS, whereof several instances might be produced.
But a principal consideration, which doth, and ever shall command my respect unto your person, is, your faithful and cordial friendship, in matters of highest concernment, (whatever be the success thereof) to the best of my Relations, which I conceived myself obliged publicly to confess.
1. AMidst these cruel Wars, betwixt the English and Scots, Pope Boniface the eighth, sent his Letters to King Edward, requiring him to quit his claim, and cease his Wars, and release his prisoners, of the Scotch Nation, as a people exempt, and properly pertaining to his own Chapel. Perchance the Popes right to the Crown of Scotland is written on the back-side of Constantine's Donation. And it is strange, that if Scotland be the Popes peculiar Demeanes, it should be so far distant from Rome, his chief Mansion house; he grounded his Title thereunto, because Scotland was first converted, by the relics of S t Peter, to the unity of the Catholic faith. But it seems, not so much ambition in his Holiness, made him at this present to start this pretence, but the secret solicitation of the Scots themselves, who now to avoid the storm of the English, ran under this Bush, and put themselves in the Popes protection.
2. Hereupon King Edward called a Council of his Lord's at Lincoln, where perusing the contents of the Popes prescript, he returned a large answer, where in he endeavored by evident reasons, and ancient predceents, to prove his propriety in the Kingdom of Scotland. This was seconded by another from the English Peerage, subscribed with all their hands, the whole tenor whereof deserves to be inserted, but this passage must not be omitted, being directed to no meaner then his Holiness himself.
Wherefore, after treaty had, and diligent deliberation of the contents of your foresaid Letters, this was the common agreement, and consent with one mind, and shall be without fail, in time to come, by God's grace, that our foresaid Lord the King ought by no means to answer in judgment in any case, or should bring his foresaid rights into doubt, nor ought not to send any Proctors or messengers to your presence. Especially seeing that the premisses tend manifestly to the disheriting of the Crown of England, and the plain overthrow of the State of the said Realm, and also hurt of the Liberties, Customs, and Laws of our Fathers; for the keeping and defense of which, we are bound, by the duty of the Oath made, and we will maintain them with all power, and will descend them (by God's help) with all our strength.
The Pope perceived he had met with men, which understood themselves, and that King Edward was no King John, to be frighted or flattered out of his Right, he therefore was loath to clash his Keys against the others sword, to try which was made of the hardest metal; but foreseeing the Verdict would go against him, wisely non-suited himself. Whereas had this unjust challenger, met with a timorous Defendant, it had been enough to have created an undeniable title to him and his successors. The best is, Nullum tempus occurrit Papae, no process of time doth prejudice the Popes due; but whensoever he pleaseth to prosecute his right, Scotland lieth still in the same place where it did before.
3. About this time a subject brought in a Bull of Excommunication against another subject of this Realm, and published it to the Lord Treasurer of England, and this was by the ancient Common-Law of England adjudged Treason against the King, his Crown and dignity, for the which, the offender should have been drawn and hanged, but at the great instance of the chancelour and Treasurer, he was only abjured the Realm forever. And this case is the more remarkable, because he was condemned by the Common-Law of England, before any particular Statute was enacted in that behalf.
4. But the Courage of the King Edward most appeared in humbling and ordering Robert Wincelsey, Arch-Bishop of Canterbury. He was an insolent man, hated even of the Clergy, because though their champion to preserve them from Civil and Secular burdens, yet the Popes Broker, to reserve them for his unconscionable exactions, as if keeping Church-men to be wronged by none, but himself. Long had the King looked on him with an angry eye, as opposite to his proceedings, and now at the last had him at his mercy, for plotting Treason with some others of the Nobility, against him, against him, projecting to depose him, and set up his Son Edward in his Room.
5. The Arch-Bishop throwing himself prostrate at the Kings feet, with tears and lamentation, confessed his fault in a posture of cowardly dejection, descending now as much beneath himself, as formerly he had arrogantly insulted over others; some are loath to allow him guilty of the crime objected, others conceive him only to have done this, presuming on the Kings noble disposition for pardon. But such must yield him a Traitor either to the Kings Crown, or to his own innocence by his unworthy acknowledging his offense. Thus that man who confesseth a debt, which he knows not due, hoping his Creditor will thereupon give him an acquittance, scarce deserveth pity for his folly, if presently sent to prison for non-payment thereof. Then he called the King his Master, a term, wherewith formerly his tongue was unacquainted, (whom neither by word or letter he would ever acknowledge under that nation) tendering himself to be disposed at his pleasure.
6. No, Quoth the King, I will not be both party and judge, and proceed against you as I might by the Common-Law of the Land. I bear more respect to your order, whereof you are as unworthy as of my favor: having formerly had experience of your malice in smaller matters, when you so rigorously used my Chaplains attending on me in their ordinary service beyond the Seas; so that though I sent my Letters unto you, you as lightly regarded what I wrote, as what they pleaded in their own behalf. Wincelsey having but one guard for all blows, persisted in his submission, desiring (a president unparalle'd) that the King would give him his blessing: No, said the King, it is more proper that you should give me your blessing. But, well, I will remit you to your own great Master the Pope, to deal with you according to your deserts. But the Arch-Bishop loath belike to-go-to Rome, and staying longer in England, then the Kings command, and (perchance) his own promise, lurk'd in a Covent, at Canterbury, till fourscore Monks were by the Kings command thrust out of their places for relieving him out of their charity; and were not restored till the aforesaid Arch-Bishop was banished the Kingdom.
7. Not long after he appeared before Pope Clement the fifth, at Burdeaux, where having been so great a stickler for his Holiness, (insomuch that his present disfavour with the King was originally caused by his activity for the Pope) he might rationally have expected some courtesy. But though he had used both his hands to scrape treasure for the Church of Rome; the Pope would not lend his least finger to his support, but suspended him from office and benefit of his place, till he should clear himself from the crime of Treason wherewith he was charged. Whether done to procure reputation to the Justice of the Court of Rome; where, in public causes, men, otherwise privately well deserving, should find, no more favor there, then they brought innocence thither: Or because (which is most probable) the Pope loved the Arch-Bishopric, better then the Arch-Bishop; and knew during his suspension, both to increase his profit, and improve his power in England, by such cunning Factors, as he employed in the business; namely, William de Testa, and Peter Amaline, both strangers, to whom the Pope committed the sequestration of Canterbury, whilst the cause of Wincelsey did as yet depend undetermined.
8. These by Papal Authority, summoned before them John Salmon Bishop of Norwich, for exacting the first-fruits of vacant Benefices, from the Clergy of his Diocese. The case was this. Some sixty years since, Pandulph, an Italian, and Popes Legat (a perfect Artist in progging for money) being Bishop of Norwich, pretending his Church to be in debt, obtained of his Holiness the first-firuits of vacant Benefices in Norfolk, and Suffolk, to discharge that engagement. This Grant to him, being but personal, local, and temporary, was improved by his Successors to a constant revenue; yea (covetousness being an apt Scholar, and profit an easy lesson) this example was followed by other English Bishops in their respective Dioceses. Behold here a piece of exemplary Justice. Who could have looked for less (the illegality of these payments appearing) but that the Clergy should be eased of them? Whereas these foreign Sequestrators did order, that generally throughout England, the first-fruits of all spiritual promotions falling void next, for three years should be paid over to the Popes Chamber at Rome; only Cathedral, and Conventual-Churches were excepted herein. No reason is rendered, why the burden fell on Parish-Churches; except any will say, that the Ass must bear more then the Horse; and the load is best laid on that beast, which hath least mettle to kick it off, and throw it down: the poor Parochial Clergy being most unable to resist the usurpation of his Holiness.
9. Afterwards, this William Testa, who according to his name, came over an empty shell, but departed with the kernel of the English wealth, complained of, for his extortion to the Parliament, was called home, and Peter a Spanish Cardinal sent in his room; where he concluded and celebrated a marriage, betwixt Prince Edward and Isabel, the King of France his Daughter. Towards the bearing of his charges, this Cardinal required twelve mark of all Cathedrals, and Convents; and of Parish-Churches eight pence out of every mark of their yearlie revenue. But the King made him content with the moity of his demand.
10. Mean time intolerable were the taxes, which the English Clergy paid to Rome. The Poets fain Arethusa, a River in Armenia, to be swallowed up by the earth, and running many miles under the Ocean, in Sicily (they say) it vents itself up again. But (without any fiction) the wealthy streams, flowing from a plentiful spring in England, did suddenly disappear, and being insensibly conveyed in invisible channels, not under, but over the Sea, were found far off to arise afresh at Rome, in the Popes Treasury; where the Italians, though (being themselves bred in a clear and subtle Climate) they scorned the dullness of the wits, and hated the gross air of this Island, yet hug'd the heaviness of the gold thereof; this Kingdom being one of the best places for their profit. Although proud Harding saith, that the Popes yearly gains out of England were but as a GNAT to an ELEPHANT. Oh the over-grown Beast of Rome's Revenues!
11. The death of King Edward the first, gave a great advancement to the Popes encroaching. A worthy Prince he was, fixed in his generation betwixt a weak Father, and son; as if made wise and valiant by their Antiperistasis. Equally fortunate in drawing, and sheathing the sword; in war, and peace: having taught the English loyalty, by them almost forgotten; and the Welsh, subjection, which they never learned before. In himself religiously disposed; founded the famous Abbey of Val-royal for the Cistercians in Cheshire, and by Will bequeathing thirty two thousand pounds to the Holy War. Obedient, not servile to the See of Rome. A soe to the pride, and friend to the profession of the Clergy: whom he watered with his bounty, but would not have to spread so broad, as to justle, or grow so high as to overtop the Regal Authority; Dying in due time for himself, almost seventy year old; but too soon for his Subjects, especially for his Son, whose giddy youth lack'd a guide to direct him. In a word, As the Arm of King Edward the first was accounted the measure of a yard, generally received in England: so his actions are an excellent model, and a praise-worthy platform for succeeding Princes to imitate.
12. Edward his Son, by Letters to the Pope, requested, that Robert Wincelsey might be restored to his Arch-Bishopric, which was done accordingly, though he returned too late to Crown the King; which solemnity was performed by Henry Woodlock, Bishop of Winchester. Here let the peaceable Reader part two contrary reports from fighting together, both avowed by Authors of credit. Some say, Wincelsey, after his return, received his profits maim'd and mangled, scarce amounting to half; and that poor pittance he was fain to bestow to repair his dilapidated Palace. Others report, his revenues not less'ned in quantity, and increased in the entireness, were paid him all in a lump; insomuch, that hereby (having learned thrift in exile to live of a little) he speedily became the richest of all his Predecessors; so that he gained by losses; and it was his common Proverb, that, There is no hurt in adversity, where there hath been no iniquity; and many make his future success, and evidence of his former innocence.
13. The calamitous Reign of King Edward the Second, afforded little history of the Church, though too much of the Common-wealth except it had been better. A debauched Prince this Edward was; His beauty being the best (not to say only) commendable thing about him: He had an handsome man-case, and better it had been empty with weakness, then (as it was) ill filled with vitiousness. Pierce Gaveston first corrupted him, maugre all the good counsel that Robert, Arch-Bishop of Canterbury, and all his good friends, could give him. And, when Gaveston was killed and taken away, the Kings badness was rather doubled, then diminished; exchanging one pandor to vice for two, the two Spencers. In a word, the Court was turned Tavern, Stews, Stage, Play-house: wherein as many vain and wanton Comedies were acted before the King in his life time, so a sad, and sorrowful Tragedy was acted by him a • his death.
14. Robert Bruce, King of Scotland, encouraged by the laziness of King Edward, thought this a sit time to recover his Country, and which the English detained from him. Wereupon he regained Berwick, inroaded England, invaded Ireland. King Edward in wrath advanceth against him, with an Army rather dancing then marching, fitter for a Masque, then a Battle: their horses rather trapped then armed: In all points it appeared a triumphant Army, save that no field as yet was fought by them. Thus, excluding all influence of Divine Providence, and concluding 'twas Fortunes duty to favor them, at Sterling they bid the Scots battle, wherein ten thousand of our men are by our own Authors confessed to be slain. There fell the flowere of the English Nobility, the King with a few, hardly saving himself by flight. Thus, as Malleus Scotorum, the Hammer, or mauler of the Scots, is written on the Tomb of King Edward the first, in Westminster: Incus Scotorum, the Anvil of the Scots, might as properly be written on the Monument (had he any) of Edward the second.
15. But leaving these fights, we proceed to other Polemical Digladiations, more proper for our Pen; namely the disputes of SCHOOL-MEN, which in this Kings Reign were heightened to perfection; Formerly those were termed Scholastici, who in the Schools were Rethoricians, making therein Declamatory Orations. Such Exercises ceasing in this Age, the Terme was Translated to signify those who bused themselves in Controversial Divinity, though some will have them so called, from Scolion a Commentary, their studies being generally nothing else then illustrations of the text of Peter Lombard, the Master of the Sentences. Take them here together at one view, intending to resume them again in their several Characters.
| Born at, | Bred in, | Buried in, |
| Or night Hales in Gloucester -shire. | Hales, ibidem. | The Franciscan Church in Paris. |
| Oxford, in Merton Col. | Oxford. | |
| Uncertain whether at Middleton-Stony in Oxford- shire, or Middleton Cheny in Northampton- shire. | Oxford, or, Paris. | Paris. |
| Dunstan (contracted Duns) in Emildon Parish in Northumb. | Merton College in Oxford. | Colen. |
| Merton College in Oxford. | Paris. | |
| Baconthorpe in Norfolk. | Blackney Abbey in Norfolk. | The Church of his Order in London. |
| Ocham in Surrey. | Merton College. | Munchin in Bavaria. |
| Holcot in Northampton -shire. | Oxford. | Northampton, where he died of the Plague. |
| Bradwardine in Hereford -shire. | Merton College in Oxford. | S t Anselm 's Chapel in Canterbury. |
Besides, many other School-men of inferior note, which we pass by in silence; Now we may safely dare all Christendom besides to show so many Eminent School-Divines, bred within the compass of so few years; insomuch that it is a truth what a foreign writer saith, Scholastica Theologia, ab Anglis, & in Anglia, sumpsit exordium, fecit incrementum, pervenit ad perfectionem. And although Italy falsely boasteth that Britain had her Christianity first from Rome; England may truly maintain, that from her (immediately by France) Italy first received her School-Divinity.
16. Of these School-men, Alexander Hales goeth the first, Master to Thomas Aquinas, and Bonaventure, whose livery in some sort, the rest of the School-men may be said to wear, insisting in his foot-steps. At the command of Pope Innocent the fourth, he wrote the body of all School-Divinity in four Volumes. He was the first Franciscan whoever took the degree of Doctor in the University (who formerly counted the height of a degree inconsistent with the humility of their order) as appeareth by the close of his Epitaph.
So great an honorer of the Virgin Mary, that he never denied such who sued to him in her name: As since our M r Fox is said never to have denied any who begged of him for Jesus Christ.
17. Roger Bacon succeeds. O what a sin is it to be more learned then ones Neighbors in a barbarous age! being excellently skilled in the Mathematics (a wonder-working Art, especially to ignorant eyes) he is accused for a Conjurer by Hieronymus de Esculo, Minister general of his Order, and afterwards Pope, by the name of Nicholas the fourth. The best is, this Hieronymus before he was a Pope was not Infallible, and therefore our Bacon might be scandalized by him; however he was committed to Prison at Rome, by Pope Clement the fourth, and remained in durance a considerable time, before his own innocence, with his friends endeavors, could procure his enlargement.
18. For mine own part, I behold the name of Bacon in Oxford, not as of an Individual man, but Corporation of men; No single Cord, but a twisted Cable of many together. And as all the Acts of Strong men of that nature are attributed to an Hercules: All the predictions of Prophecying women to a Sibyll; So I conceive all the achievements of the Oxonian Bacons in their liberal studies, are ascribed to ONE, as chief of the name. And this in effect is confessed by the most learned and ingenious Orator of that University. Indeed we find one Robert Bacon who died Anno, One thousand two hundred forty eight, a Learned Doctor, and Trithemius styleth John Baconthorpe, plain Bacon, which addeth to the probability of the former assertion. However this confounding so many Bacons in one, hath caused Anticronismes in many Relations. For how could this Bacon ever be a reader of Philosophy in Brasen-Nose College, Founded more then one Hundred years after his death; so that his Brasen head (so much spoken of, to speak) must make time past to be again, or else these inconsistences will not be reconciled. Except any will salve it with the Prolepsis of Brasen-Nose Hall, formerly in the place where the College is now erected. I have done with the Oxford Bacons, only let me add, that those of Cambridge, Father and Son, Nicholas and Francis, the one of Bennet, and the other of Trinity College, do hold [absit in vidia] the Scales of desert, even against all of their name in all the world besides.
19. John Duns Scotus succeeds, who some will have called Scotus, ob profundi ssimam dicendi obscuritatem, from his profound obscurity in writing: Indeed there was one Heracletus, to whom cognomen Scotinon fecit orationis obscuritas, but others conceive him so called, either from Scotland his Country, or John Scott his father. Nor was he called Duns, as some will have it contractedly from Dominus, but from the place of his Nativity, though three Kingdoms earnestly engage to claim him for their Country-man.
I doubt not but the Reader will give his verdict, that the very Scotiety of Scotus belongeth to England as his Native Country, who being born in Northumberland, which Kingdom in the Saxon Heptarchie extended from Humber to Edinburgh Frith; it was a facile mistake for Foreigners to write him a Scotch-man on his Monument. As for the name of Scotus, it is of no validity to prove him that Country-man; as a common-Sir-name amongst us, as some four years since, when the Scotch were enjoined to depart this Land, one M r English in London, was then the most considerable Merchant of the Scotch Nation. The sad manner of Scotus his death is sufficiently known, who being in a fit of a strong Apoplexy, was by the cruel kindness of his over-officious friends, buried whilst yet alive, and recovering in the grave, dashed out his brains against the Coffin, affording a large field to such wanton wits in their Epigrams, who could make sport to themselves on the sad accident of others.
20. I had almost over-seen John Baconthorpe, being so low in stature, as but one remove from a Dwarfe, of whom one saith,
Insomuch that Corpus non tulisset, quod ingenium protulit, his body could not bear the Books which his brain had brought forth. Coming to Rome (being sent for by the Pope) he was once hissed at in a Public Disputation, for the badness forsooth of his Latin and pronunciation; but indeed because he opposed the Popes power in dispensing with Marriages, contrary to the Law of God, whose judgment was afterwards made use of by the defenders of the divorce of King Henry the eight.21. William Occam sided with Lewis of Bavaria against the Pope, maintaining the Temporal power above the Spiritual; he was fain to fly to the Emperor for his safety, saying unto him,
22. Robert Holcot was not the meanest amongst them, who died of the Plague at Northampton, just as he was reading his Lectures on the seventh of Ecclesiasticus; wherein as many Canonical truths, as in any Apocrypha chapter; and although as yet in his public reading he was not come to the last verse thereof (so proper for mortality) we may charitably believe he had seriously commented thereon, in his private meditations. Whatsoever thou takest in hand, remember the end, and thou shalt never do amiss.
23. Thomas Bradwardine bringeth up the rear, though in learning and piety (if not superior) equal to any of the rest, witness his worthy book against Pelagianism, to assert the freeness of God's grace in man's conversion, which he justly intituleth, De causa Dei, of God's cause; for as God is a Second in every good cause, so he is a Principal in this, wherein his own honor is so nearly concerned. And though the Psalmist saith, plead thine own cause O Lord; yet in this age (wherein Miracles are ceased) God pleadeth his cause, not in his Person, but by the proxie of the tongues, and pens, hands, and hearts, of his Servants. This Bradwardine was afterwards Arch-Bishop of Canterbury, and how highly esteemed, let Chaucer tell you.
This testimony of Chaucer by the exact computation of time, written within forty years after Bradwardines death, which addeth much to his honor, that in so short a time his memory was in the peaceable possession of so general a veneration, as to be joined in company with S t Augustine and Boethius, two such eminent persons in their several capacities.
24. The School-men principally employed themselves in knotty and thorny Questions of Controversial Divinity; Indeed as such who live in London, and like populous places, having but little ground for their foundations to build houses on, may be said to enlarge the breadth of their houses in height (I mean increasing their room in many stories one above another; so the School-men in this age, lacking the latitude of general learning and languages, thought to enlarge their active minds by mounting up. So improving their small bottom with towering Speculations, though some of things mystical, that might not, more of things difficult, that could not, most of things curious that need not be known unto us.
25. Their Latin is generally barbarous, counting anything Eloquent that is Expressive, going the nearest way to speak their own Notions, though sometimes trespassing on Grammar, abusing if not breaking Priscians head therein: Some impute this their bald and thread-bare language, to a design that no vermin of Equivocation should be hid under the • ap of their words; whilst others ascribe it to their want of change, and their poverty in learning, to procure better Expressions.
26. Yet these School-men agreed not amongst themselves in their judgments. For Burley being Scholar to Scotus, served him as Aristotle did Plato his Master, maintaining a contrary faction against him. Ocham his Scholar, father of the Nominals, opposed Scotus the founder of the Reals; which two sactions divided the School-men betwixt them; Holcot being a Dominican, stiffly resisted the Franciscans, about the conception of the Virgin Mary, which they would have without any original sin. However the Papists, when pressed that their Divisions Mar their Viritie, (a mark of the Church whereof they boast so much) evade it, by pleading that these poines are not de side only, in the out skirts of Religion, and never concluded in any Council to be the Articles of faith.
27. All of these School-men were Oxford, most Merton College men. As the setting up of an eminent Artist in any place of a City, draws Chapmen unto him to buy his wares, and Apprentices to learn his Occupation. So after Roger Bacon had begun School-Divinity in Merton College, the whole Gang and Genius of that house successively applied their studies thereunto, and many repaired thither from all parts of the Land for instruction in that nature. Mean-time Cambridge men were not Idle, but otherwise employed, more addicting themselves to preaching, whereof though the world took not so much notice, possitive Divinity not making so much noise as controversial (where men engage more earnestness) yet might be more to God's glory, and the saving of the souls of men.
28. Some will wonder, seeing School-Divinity was so rise in Oxford in this Age, for some hundred years together (viz. from towards the end of Henries, to the end of Edwards Reign, both the third of their names) how the study thereof, should sink so suddenly in that University, which afterwards produced not such eminent men in that kind. But hereof several reasons may be assigned:
1. The Wars betwixt York and Lancaster soon after began; a Controversy indeed, which silenced School-velitations, Students being much disheartened with those martial discords.
2. Once in an Age the appetite of an university alters, as to its diet in learning, which formerly filled (not to say surfeited) with such hard questions, for variety sake, sought out other employments.
3. The sparks of Scholars wits, in School-Divinity, went out for want of fuel in that subject, grown so trite and thread-bare, nothing could be, but what had been said of the same before. Wherefore fine wits, found out other ways to busy themselves.
4. Only information of the brain, no benefit to the purse, accrued by such speculations, which made others in after ages, to divert their studies, à Quaestionibus, ad Quaestum, from Metaphysical Queries, to Case-divinity, as more gainful, and profitable; best enabling them for hearing Confessions, and proportioning Penance accordingly.
28. Return we now to the Common-wealth which we left bad, and find amended, as an old fore without a plaster in cold weather; King Edward rather wilsul then weak, (if wilsulness be not weakness, and sure the same effects are produced by both, ruin and destruction) slighted his Queens company, and such a Bed, if left (where Beauty without Grace) seldom standeth long empty. Queen Isabel blinded with fury, mistook the party who had wronged her, and revengeth her husbands faults on her own conscience, living incontinently with R. Mortimer; a man martial enough, and of much merit otherwise, save that an Harlot is a deep pit, therein invisibly to bury the best deserts. The two Spencers ruled all at pleasure, and the King was not more forward to bestow favors on them, as they free to deal affronts to others their superiors in birth and estate. Thus men of yesterday, have Pride too much to remember what they were the day before; and providence too little to fore-see what they may be tomorrow. The Nobility (then petty Kings in their own Countries) disdained such Mushrooms should insult over them; and all the Spencers insolencies being scored on the Kings account, no wonder if he (unable to discharge his own engagements) was broken by suretyship for others.
29. I find it charged on this King, that he suffered the Pope to encroach on the dignity of the Crown, to the great damage, and more dishonor of the Nation. Indeed his father left him a fair stake, and a winning hand, (had a good Gamester had the playing thereof) having recovered some of his privileges from the Papal usurpation, which since it seems his Son had lost back again, though the particulars thereof in History do not so plainly appear. Only it is plain, that to support himself, and supply his necessities, he complied with the Clergy (a potent party in that age) favourably measuring out the causes of their cognizances; for although in the Reign of his Father, an hedge was made by an Act in that nature, betwixt the Spiritual and Temporal Courts; yet now a Ditch (an new act) was added to the former scene. So that hereafter (except willfully) they could not mutually trespass on each others Jurisdictions.
RICHADO SEYMERE, Necessario meo.
INter Amicum meum & Necessarium hoc pono discriminis, quod ill ad been esse, Hic, ad meum esse quodammodo requiratur; Quo nomine Tu mihi es salutandus, qui sine te plane mancus mihi videor. Tuâ enim artifici dextrâ, usus sum, per totum hoc opus in scutis Gentilitiis depingendis. Macte, vir Ingenue, ac Natales tuos, Generosos satis, novo splendore illustriores reddito.
1. COlledges, yet, were few, and Students now many in Oxford: whereupon Walter Stapleton, (Bishop of Exeter) founded and endowed one therein, by the name of Stapletons Inn, since called Exeter College. This Bishop was one of high Birth and large Bounty, being said to have expended a years revenues of his (this rich) Bishopric in the Solemnity of his instalement. He also founded Hart-Hall in Oxford. But oh the difference betwixt the Elder and Younger Brother, though Sons to the same Father! the one carrying away the whole Inheritanoe, whilst the other sometimes hath little more than himself left unto Him, as here this Hall is altogether unindowed.
2. This worthy Bishop had an unworthy and untimely death some ten years after. For being Lord Treasurer, and left by the King in his absence, to govern, the (then mutinous) city of London, the Citizens, (not without encouragement from the Queen) furiously fell upon him, and in Cheapside most barbarously butchered him, and then (as hoping to bury their murder with his body) huddled him obscurely into a hole. But afterward to make his Ghost some reparation and stop the clamour of the Clergy, the Queen ordered the removing and interring of his Body and his Brothers (a valiant Knight slain on the same account) in the Cathedral of Excter. One would wonder this Bishop was not made a Martyr and Sainted in that Age, save that his suffering was of civil concernment, and not relating to Religion.
3. This House hath since found two eminent Benefactors, first, Sir William Petre (born of honest Parentage in Exeter) principal Secretary to four successive King and Queens. One who in ticlish and turning times, did good to himself, (got a great estate) injurious to none, (that I ever heard, or read of) but court • us to many, and eminently to this College, wherein he bestowed much building, and augmented it with eight Fellowships.
4. The other George Hackwel Doctor of Divinity, late Rector thereof, who though married, and having children, (must it not be a quick and large fountain, which besides filling a Pond, had such an over flowing stream?) bestowed more than one thousand pounds in building a beautiful Chapel. This is He who wrote the Learned and Religious Apology for Divine Providence, proving that the World doth not decay. Many begin the reading thereof with much prejudice, but few end it, without full satisfaction, converted to the Authors Opinion, by his unanswerable Arguments.
5. This College consisteth chiefly of Cornish and Devonshire men, the Gentry, of which latter, Queen Elizabeth used to say, were Courtiers by their birth. And as these Western men do bear away the Bell for might and sleight in wrestling, so the Scholars here have always acquitted themselves with credit in Palaestra literarie. The Rectors of this House anciently were annual, (therefore here omitted) fixed, but of latter years, to continue the term of their lives.
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So that lately therein were maintained, one Rector, twenty three Fellowes, a Bible-Clerk, two Pensioners, Servants, Commoners and other Students to the number of two hundred.
6. Clergy-men began now to complain, that the Lay-Judges entrenched on their Privileges, and therefore they presented a Petition to the King in his Parliament at Lincoln, requesting the redress of sixteen grievances. To most of them the King returned a satisfactory answer, and so qualified his denials to the rest, that they could not but content any reasonable disposition.
7. These Concessions of the King were digested into Laws, and are printed at large in the Statutes known by the title of Articuli Cleri. Whereon Sir Edward Coke in the second part of his Institutes, hath made no less learned then large Commentary. So that though the Law of circumspecte agatis had stated this difference; Yet it seems this Statute (as Circumspectivus agatis) was conceived very requisite.
8. Moreover, these Statutes did not so clearly decide the difference betwixt the Spiritual and Temporal Jurisdictions, but that many contests happened afterwards betwixt them, no longer ago then in the fifth of King James, when the Doctors of the Commons under Richard Bancroft (Arch-Bishop of Canterbury their General) opposed the Judges about the indeterminable controversies of Prohibitions. Add hereunto, that the Clergy claimed to themselves the most favorable interpretation of all Statutes in their own behalf, whilst the Temporal Judges (in the not sitting of Parliaments) challenged that privilege to themselves.
9. The most lasting Monument of the memory of woeful King Edward the second, was the building of Orial College in Oxford. Indeed some make Him, and others Adam Brown his Almoner Founder thereof, and both perchance truly, the King allowing, his Almoner issuing money for the building and endowing thereof. Others will have it, that his Almoner persuaded him on conscientious Principles to this good work, pertinently all eadging and pressing this instance, to prove that the Kings nature not bad in itself, but too yielding to the impressions of others. Now whereas the other Alms of this King were perishing, as relieving only poor for the present, these, as more lasting, have done good to many Generations.
10. I meet with no satisfactory reason of the name which some will have to contain something of Easternes therein: So situated comparatively to some more ancient Foundation. Others deduce it from Criolium an eminent room in Monaesteries, and I cannot but smile at such who will have O Royal, as a Pathetical admiration of Princely Magnificence.
11. However, I do not deny, but that the Kings of England have been very indulgent to this Foundation. For besides, King Edward the second the Founder thereof, his Son King Edward gave unto them the Hospital of Saint Bartholomew's nigh Oxford, with Lands to maintain eight poor people, subject to the government of the Provost and Fellows of this College. Besides, King James being informed of some Legal defects in this Foundation, granted them a new Corporation Cavil-proof against all exceptions.
12. This College being much decayed, Anthony Blencow late Provost, bequeathed twelve hundred pounds to the new building of a Front thereof: Which being done, lest it should be a disgrace to the rest of the Fabric, the whole College is rebuilt in a most decent manner.
So that lately were maintained therein, one Provost, eighteen Fellows, one Bible-Clerk, twelve Exibitioners, with Commoners and College Officers amounted to one hundred and sixty.
13. Let us cast our eye on the Common-wealth only, as it is the Ring wherein the Diamond of the Church is contained, and that now full of Cracks, caused by the several state-factions. The two Spencers ruled all things till the Queen and her Son (who politiquely had got leave to go beyond the Seas) returned into England with a Navy and Army landing in Suffolk; She denounceth open war against her Husband, unlessse he would presently conform to her desires.
14. The King proclaimed that a thousand pound should be given to Him that brought the head of Roger Mortimer. The Queen proclaimed (such who had the better purse may give the greater price) that whosoever brought the head of the young Spencer (it seems his Father was not so considerable) should have two thousand pounds. The Queens party gave out that the King of France had sent over a vast Army for her assistance, and the Kings side Anti-rumoured (who could raise reports easier then Armies) that the Pope had excommunicated all such who sides against him: now though both reports were false, they made true impressions of hope in such hearts as believed them.
15. Three ways were presented to King Edward, Fight, Flight, and Concealment, the first he was unable to do, having no effectual Forces, only able for a time to defend the Castle of Bristol, till many of his Complices were taken therein: a Tower therein (given out to be undermined) being indeed undermonied with bribes to the defenders thereof. Here the elder Spencer was taken and executed.
16. Flight was no less unsafe then dishonorable, For his Kingdom being an Island, the Sea would quickly put a period thereunto. Indeed there was some thoughts of his Flight into Ireland, which was no better then out of a dirty way, into a very Bogg, besides great the difficulty to recover the Sea, and greater to pass over it, all Ports and passages were so way-laid.
17. Concealment was at the last resolved on, not as the best; but only way of his security, for a time he lay hid amongst the Welsh (not able to help, but willing to pity him as a Native of their Country) concealed in the Abby of Neath, till men are sent down with money (no such ligh: as the shine of silver wherewith to discover a person inquired for) and soon after he was betrayed into their hands. The younger Spencer taken with him, is hung on a Gallows fifty foot high, and the promised two thousand pounds were duly paid, and equally parted betwixt several persons employed in his apprehension.
18. Many Persons of quality were sent down from the Parliament then sitting, to King Edward, to Kenelworth Castle, to move (alias to command) him to resign the Crown, which at last he sadly surrendered. Sir William Trussel a Lawyer of great [abused] abilities (being rather to make then find a precedent in this kind) improved his wits in the formalities thereof. Soon after, Prince Eward his Son is Crowned King, whose Father is now no more then plain Edward of Caernarvon, though his mother (whose title was Relative to, and a Derivative from her Husband the dethroned King) was now more Queen Isabel then ever before. Thus the degradation of a Knight (as some have informed me) extendeth not to his Wife, who by the courtesy of England, if once, is ever a Lady.
19. Edward late King, with many Letters Solicited to be admitted into the Queens company. All in vain, she found embraces at a less distance, dearer unto her, preferring the society of a Lord, who, in effect, had deposed a King, before a King, who had deposed himself: She made many excuses of sickness, and indisposition to enjoy him. So easily can that Sex make plausible pretences, that they cannot, what they will not do.
20. Roger Mortimer, whose lust and revenge was equally insatiable, could not be quiet whilst King Edward was alive: he feared King Edward was might play an after game of affection in his Subjects, in order therefore to his death, he is removed from Kenelworth (where the Earl of Leicester his Keeper was suspected too, sympathising with his sorrow) unto Berkley Castle, where he was barbarously butchered, being struck into the Postern of his body with a hot spit, as it is generally reported.
21. Nothing now remaineth in this Kings reign, save to take notice, how the Clergy (understand such who were Active (for Newters, shall pass for none) stand affected in this great State-difference. I find not enough to call a number of the Bishops cordial to the King. For besides Walter Stapleton Bishop of Exeter (of whom before) only John Stratford Bishop of Winchester heartily adhered unto him, and yet this Stratford was employed on a message from the Parliament to the King at Kenelworth, to persuade him to resign sign the Crown, though having no other design, then the Kings safety therein. He hoped that in this tempest the casting out of the Lading, would save the Hulke of the Ship, and the surrendering of the Scepter, secure the Kings person.
22. With John Stratford let me couple Robert de Baldock (though no Bishop, a Bishops mate) as a Priest and Chancellor of England. This man unable to assist, resolved to attend the King, and was taken with him in Wales. Hence was he brought up to London, and committed to Adam Tarleton Bishop of Hereford. Here the shadow of Tarleton Miter, (if pleased to put forth his power) might have secured this his Guest-prisoner from any danger, whereas on the contrary, it is more then suspicious that he gave a signal, to the tumultouous people to seize his person. For he was dragged to Newgate, and there paid his life for his Loyalty: yet was never heard to complain of the dearness of his penyworth. If any violence was secretly offered unto his person, he might endure it the more patiently, having read, that the Disciple is not above his Master, nor the servant better then his Lord. This Baldock was a good Justicer, nor charged in our Chronicles with any misdemeanor, save faithfulness to an unfortunate Master, and his Memory will travers his Innocence, as confessing the Fact, but denying any fault therein.
23. But we have more then a good number of such Bishops, which ungratefully sided with the Queen, against her Husband, and their Sovereign. Walter Reynolds Arch-Bishop of Canterbury leads their Van, preferred to that See, at the Kings great importunity, and by the Pope his Power of Provision. On the same token that, a Far better Man, Thomas Cobham by name, Dean of Salisbury, (so learned and pious a person, that he was generally called the good Clergy-men) legally elected by the Commons, was put by, by the Pope, to make room for this Reinolds. He afterwards complied with the Queen, (his new Mistress) against his old Master, active to perform his desires. This some seek in vain to excuse, by pleasing Her imperious spirit, and this Arch-Bishops fearfulness, alleging, that cowardliness is rather a defect in nature, then default in Morality.
24. A word by the way of the nature of the Popes provisions (lately mentioned) which now began to be a general grievance of our Nation. When any Bishopric, Abbots place, Dignity or good Living (Aquila non capit muscas) was like to be void, the Pope (by a profitable Prolepsis to himself) predisposed such places to such successors as he pleased. By this devise he defeated (when so pleased) the Legal election of all Convents, and rightful presentation of all Patrons. He took up Churches before they fell, yea, before they ever stumbled: I mean, whilst as yet no suspicion of sickness, in Incumbents younger and healthier than his Holiness himself. Yea, sometimes no Act of Provision, was entered in scriptis in the Court, only the Pope was pleased to say by word of mouth, (and who durst confute him?) he had done it. So that Incumbents to Livings, who otherwise had a rightful Title from their Patrons, were, (to purchase their peace) glad to buy of the Popes provisions. Yea, his Holiness sold them aforehand to several persons, so that not he who gave the first, but the most Money, carried away the preferment.
25. Next we take notice of Henry Burwash Bishop of Lincoln, lately restored to the favor of King Edward, and by him lately esteemed. Yet no sooner did the Queen appear in the field, with an army, against him, but this Bishop was the first, and for wardest, who publicly repaired unto Her. This Burwash was he, who by mere might, against all right and reason, took in the Land of many poor people, (without making also the least reparation) therewith to complete his Park at Tinghurst. These wronged persons, though seeing their own Bread, Beef, and Mutton, turned into the Bishops Venison, durst not contest with him who was Chancellor of England, though neither Law, nor equity in this his Action; only they loaded him with curses and execrations. This mindeth me of a Modern accident, when, (some twenty years since) a Knight went about injuriously to inclose the Commons of a Town, and demanded of his Builiffe what the railing in of the same would amount to; to whom his servant answered, that if he would take in the Commons, the Country would find him railings, as here they did this injurious Bishop. Otherwise let me say, that enclosures made without oppression, are a grand enriching both to private persons and to the Commonwealth.
26. Here let the Reader smile or frown, I am resolved to write what I find recorded in a Grave Author, deriving it no doubt from good intelligence. This Bishop Burwash is said after his death, to have appeared to one of his former familiar friends, appareled
27. This pretended Apparition seems inconsistent with the nature of Purgatory, as usually by Papists represented to people. Surely the smoke thereof would have sooted his Green suit, and the Penance seems so slight and light for the offense, as having so much liberty and pleasure in a place of Command. Some Poets would have fancied him rather conceived himself turned Acteon-like, into a Deere, to be daily hunted by his own Hound; (guilt of Conscience) until he made restistution. But it seems there be degrees in Purgatory, and the Bishop not in the Prison itself, but only within the Rules thereof, privileged to go abroad, (whether on his Parel, or with his Keeper, uncertain) till he could procure Suffrages for his Plenary relaxation.
28. Adam Tarlton Bishop of Hereford, is the last we will insist on, born in that City, where afterward he became Bishop, yet not honored, but hated, and feared in the place of his Nativity. He was the grand Engineer, and contriver of all mischief against the King. Witness the Sermon preached by him at Oxford, before the Queen (then in hostile pursuit after her Husband) taking for this Text the words of the sick Son of the Shunamite) My head, my head. Here his wit and malice endeavored to reap, what God's Spirit did never intentionally sow, and urged that a bad King (the distempered head of a State) is past Physic, or Chirurgery to be cured by Receits or Plasters, but the only way is to cut it off from the Body.
29. His writing was worse then his Preaching: For when such Agents set to keep King Edward in Berkley Castle, were (by secret Order from R. Mortimer) commanded to kill him, they by letters addressed themselves for advice to this Bishop (then not far off at Hereford) craving his Counsel, what they should do, in so difficult and dangerous a matter. He returned unto them a Ridling Answer, altogether unpointed, which carried in it Life and Death, yea, Life or Death, as variously construed, resolved to be guided and governed wholly by his direction, not to dispute, but do what from him was recommended unto them, as knowing him able both in Conscience and Policy to advise them.
Life, and Death.
To kill King Edward you need not to fear it is good.
Life.
To kill King Edward you need not, to fear it is good.
Death.
To kill King Edward you need not to fear, it is good.
30. This Adam Tarlton was afterwards accused of Treason, in the beginning of the reign of King Edward the third, and arraigned by the Kings Officers, when in the presence of the King, he thus boldly uttered himself,
My Lord the King, with all due respect unto your Majesty, I Adam, an humble Minister and member of the Church of God, and a consecrated Bishop, though unworthy, neither can, nor ought to answer unto so hard Questions, without the connivence, and consent of my Lord Arch-bishop of Canterbury, my immediate Judge under the Pope, and without the consent of other Bishops who are my Peers.
Three Arch-Bishops were there present in the place, Canterbury, York, and Dublin, by whose intercession, Tarlton escaped at that time.
31. Not long after, he was arraigned again at the Kings Bench, the news whereof so startled the Clergy, that the foresaid Arch-Bishops erected their standards, I mean, set up their Crosses, and with ten Bishops more, attended with a numerous train of well-weaponed servants, advanced to the place of judicature. The Kings Officers frighted at the sight, fled away; leaving Tarlton the Prisoner alone at the Bar; whom the Arch-Bishops took home into their own custody, denouncing a curse on all such who should presume to lay violent hands upon him.
32. The King offended hereat, caused a jury of Lay-men to be impannelled, and to inquire according to form of Law, into the actions of the Bishop of Hereford. This was a leading case, and the first time that ever Laymen passed their verdict on a Clergy-man. These Jurors found the Bishop guilty, whereupon the King presently seized on his Temporals, he proscribed the Bishop, and despoiled him of all his moveables. However, afterwards he came off, and was reconciled to the King, and by the Pope made Bishop of Winchester, where he died, a thorough old man and blinded with age, many envying so quiet a death, to one who living had been so turbulent a person. But these things happened many years after.
SECT.
To Master THOMAS WILLIAMS And Master WILLIAM VANBRVG of London Merchants.
AStronomers affirm that some Planets; [Saturn, Jupiter &c.] are by many degrees greater then the Moon it self; And this they can easily evidence by Demonstration. However the Moon is bigger, and shows brighter to men's eyes, because of the Vicinity thereof; Whilst other Stars are dimmed, and diminished by their distance.
He is not the happiest man who has the Highest friends (too remote to assist him) whilst others lesser might be nearer at his need. My own experience can avouch the truth thereof, in relation to your Courtesies bestowed upon me.
SOon after his death, King Edward was much lamented by those of whom in his life time he was never beloved. Whether this proceeded from the mere mutability of men's minds (weary to loiter long in the lazy posture of the same affection.) Or whether it proceeded from the pride of Mortimer, whose insolence grew intolerable. Or whither it was because his punishment was generally apprehended to be too heavy for his fault; So that Deposition without death, or (at the worst) death without such unhumane cruelty had been sufficient.
One of our English Poet-Historians acquainteth us with a passage, which to my knowledge appeareth not in other Authors.
It is much that one but a small Saint whilst alive, should be so great an one when dead, as to be miraculously illustrious. But every man may believe his proportion.
2. Indeed great was the conformity betwixt this King Edward and that King Richard, both being secundi, the second of their name: but not secundi, happy in their success. And had King Richard the second known aforehand what casualty did attend him, no wonder if he secretly sympathized with his condition. Both sons of valiant and beloved Fathers, both of proper and amiable persons. Both debauched by the ill Counsel of their dissolute companions. Both deposed from their Crowns. Both murdered, whilst prisoners in a Clandestine (and as some report self same) way of Cruelty.
3. Ingenuous people are very loath to believe King Edward the third accessory to his Fathers death, otherwise then by accepting the Crown which he should have resused, and antedating his own Sovereignty. Which may be excused by his tender years, thirteen as some, fifteen as others compute them. Nor is it a weak argument of his innocence with impartial people, because he reigned above fifty years, and lived to be a thorough old man. An happiness promised by God to such who are obedient to their Parents. Besides, it is considerable, that this King having a numerous issue of active children of both Sexes none visibly appear a cross unto him, for any notorious undutifulness.
4. The former part of this Kings reign affords but little Church-History, as totally taken up with his achievements in Scotland and France, where his success by Sea and Land was above belief and even to admiration. He conquered both before his face and behind his back. Whence he came and whither he went. North and South, the one in his person, the other by his substitutes in his absence. Insomuch that he got more then he knew what to do with, exhausting the Land to man, the Cities which he had gained. Herein he stands without a parallel, that he had both the Kings he fought against, viz. John de Dalois of France, and David the King of Scotland his prisoners at one time, not taken by any cowardly surprise, but by fair fight in open field.
5. It soundeth much to the commendation of his modesty and moderation, that intending to found an Order of Knight-hood at his Castle of Windsor, where he had these two Royal prisoners. In the institution thereof he neither had any insolent relation to his own conquest, nor opprobrious reflection on his enemies captivity, but began the innocent Order of the Garter, unreferring to any of his former achievements. But more hereof in due time.
6. The King and State began now to grow sensible of the great gain he Netherlands got by our English Wool, in memory whereof the Duke of Burgundy not long after instituted the order of the Golden Fleece, wherein indeed the Fleece was ours, the Golden theirs, so vast their Emolument by the Trade of Clothing. Our King therefore resolved, if possible to reduce the Trade to his own Country, who as yet were ignorant of that Art, as knowing no more what to do with their Wool, then the sheep that wear it, as to any Artificial and curious Drabery, their best Clothes then being no better then Freezes, such their coursnesse for want of skill in their making. But soon after followed a great alteration, and we shall enlarge ourselves in the manner thereof.
7. The intercourse now being great betwixt the English and the Netherlands (increased of late since King Edward married the Daughter of the Earl of Hainalt) unsuspected Emissaries, were employed by our King into those Countries, who wrought themselves into familiarity with such Dutch men as were Absolute Masters of their Trade, but not Masters of themselves, as either Journeymen or Apprentiees, These bemoaned the slavishness of these poor servants, whom their Masters used rather like Heathens then Christians, yea rather like Horses then Men. Early up and late in bed, and all day hard work, and harder fare (a few Herrings and mouldy Cheese) and all to enrich the Churls their Masters without any profit unto themselves.
8. But oh how happy should they be if they would but come over into England, bringing their Mystery with them, which would provide their welcome in all places. Here they should feed on fat Beef and Mutton, till nothing but their fullness should stint their stomachs: yea they should feed on the labors of their own hands, enjoying a proportionable profit of their pains to themselves, their beds should be good, and their bedfellows better, seeing the richest Yeomen in England would not disdain to marry their Daughters unto them, and such the English beauties, that the most envious Foreigners could not but commend them.
9. Liberty is a Lesson quickly conn'd by heart, men having a principle within themselves to prompt them in case they forget it. Perswaded with the premises, many Dutch servants leave their Masters and make over for England. Their departure thence (being picked here and there) made no sensible vacuity, but their meeting here altogether amounted to a considerable fullness. With themselves, they brought over their Trade and their Tools, namely, such which could not [as yet] be so conveniently made in England.
10. Happy the Yeomans House into which one of these Dutchmen did enter▪ bringing industry and wealth along with them. Such who came in strangers within their doors, soon after went out Bridegrooms, and returned Son in laws, having married the Daughters of their Landlords who first entertained them. Yea, those Yeomen in whose houses they harboured, soon proceeded Gentlemen, gaining great estates to themselves, arms and worship to their estates.
11. The King having gotten this Treasury of Foreigners, thought not fit to continue them all in one place, lest on discontent they might embrace a general resolution to return, but bestowed them thorough all the parts of the Land, that Cloathing thereby, might be the better dispersed. Here I say nothing of the Colony of old Dutch, who frighted out of their own Country with an Inundation, about the reign of King Henry the first, (possibly before that Nation had attained the cunning of Cloath-making) were seated only in Pembroke-shire. This new Generation of Dutch was now sprinkled everywhere, so that England (in relation, I mean to her own Counties) may be speak these Inmates in the language of the Poet,
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I am informed that a prime Dutch Cloth-maker in Gloucestershire, had the Sirname of Web given him by King Edward there: a Family still famous for their manufacture, Observe we here that mid- England, Northamptonshire, Lincolnshire, and Cambridge, having most of Woe • l, have least of clothing therein.
12. Here the Dutchmen found Fullers earth, a precious Treasure, whereof England hath (if not more) better then all Christendom besides: a great Commodity of the Quorum to the making of good Cloath, so that Nature may seem to point out our land for the Staple of Drapery, if the idleness of her inhabitants be not the only hindrance thereof. This Fullers Earth is clean contrary to our Jesuits, who are needless Drugs, yet still staying here though daily commanded to depart, whilst Fullers earth, a precious ware is daily scoured hence, though by law forbidden to to be transported.
13. And now was the English Wool improved to the highest profit, passing through so many hands, everyone having a fleece of the Fleece, Sorters, Kembers, Carders, Spinsters, Weavers, Fullers, Diers, Pressers, Packers, and these Manifactures have been heightened to a higher perfection since the cruelty of the Duke de Alva drove over more Dutch into England. But enough of this subject, which let none condemn for a deviation from Church-history; First, because it would not grieve one to go a little out of the way, if the way be good, as this digression is for the credit and profit of our Country. Secondly, it reductively belongeth to the Church-History, seeing many poor people both young and old, formerly charging the parishes (as appeared by the accounts of the Church Officers) were hereby enabled to maintain themselves.
14. The extortion of the Pope being now somewhat aba • ed in England, the Caursines or Lumbards formerly the money Merchants of his Holiness, and the grand Usurers of England, did not drive so full a Trade as before. Wereupon they betake themselves to other Merchandize, and began to store England with foreign commodities, but at unreasonable rates, whilst England itself had as yet but little and bad shipping, and those less employed.
15. But now King Edward, to prevent the ingrossing of Trade into the hand of Foreigners, and to restore the same to his native Subjects, took order, that these Aliens should no longer prey on the Radical moisture of his Land, but began to cherish Navigation in his own Subjects, and gave a check to such Commodities which Forreiners did import as in ancient Poems is largely described, whereof so much as concerneth our purpose,
16. About this time the Clergy were very bountiful in contributing to the Kings necessities, in proportion to their Benefices. Hereupon a survey was exactly taken of all their Glebeland, and the same (fairly engrossed in parchment) was returned into the Exchequer, where it remaineth at this day, and is the most useful Record for Clergy men, (and also for Impropriators as under their claim) to recover their right. Many a straggling Acre, wandering out of the way, had long since by Sacrilegious Guides been seduced into the possession of false owners, had not this Record directed them at last to their true proprietary.
17. The worst is, whilst some Dioceses in this Terreer were exactly done, and remain fairly legible at this day, others were so slightly slubbered over that (though kept with equal carefulness) they are useless in effect, as not to be read. Thus I was informed, from a Clerk in that Office lately desceased, who when Living, was older and as able as any therein. And thus Manuscripts (like those men who wrote them) though starting with their equals, hold not all out to the same length, their humidum radicale, (their ink I mean) not lasting alike in all Originals.
18. It was now generally complained of as a grand grievance, that the Clergy engrossed all places of Judicature in the Land. Nothing was left to Lay-men, but either military commands, as General, Admiral, &c. or such Judges places as concerned only the very letter of the Common Law: and those also scarcely reserved to the Students thereof. As for Embassies into foreign parts, Noblemen were employed therein, when expense, not experience was required thereunto, and Ceremony the substance of the service: otherwise when any difficulty in civil-law, then Clergy-men were ever entertained. The Lord Chacellor was ever a Bishop, (as if against Equity to employ any other therein) yea that Court generally appeared as a Synod of Divines, where the Clerks were Clerks, as generally in Orders. The same was also true of the Lord Treasurer and Barons of the Exchequer.
19. Some imputed this to the pragmaticalnesse of the Clergy, active to insinuate themselves into all employment, how improper soever to their profession. Others ascribed it to the Kings necessity; The war engrossing the main of his men of merit; so that he was necessitated to make use of Clergy-men. Others attributed it to the Kings election (no way weak in head or hand, plotting or performing) finding such the fittest to serve him; who being single persons, and having no design to raise a family, were as knowing as any in the Mysteries of money, and safest to be entrusted therein. But more hereof hereafter.
20. Robert Eglesfield Bachelor of Divinity, Chaplain to Queen Philippa, wife to King Edward the third, founded a College on his own ground, by the name of Queens College (commending the Patronage thereof to his Lady the Queen, and to the Queens of England successively) which he endowed with Lands and Revenewes for the maintenance of a Provost and twelve Fellows, which were to be augmented as the Revenews increased.
21. Now though this was called Queens, from their Honorarie Patronesses, it may be styled Princes College from those pair of Students therein. Edward the black Prince, who presently after this foundation had his Education therein, and Henry the fifth (as yet Prince of Wales) under Henry Beaufort Chancelor of this University and his Uncle, his Chamber was over the College gate, where his picture at this day remaineth in brass with this inscription under it
22. Now according to the care and desire of the founder. The Queens of England have ever been Nursing Mothers to this Foundation. O what advantage they have when lying in the bosoms of their Royal Consorts, by whom they cannot be denied what is equal, and of whom they will not desire what is otherwise. Thus Queen Philippa obtained of her Husband King Edward the third, the Hospital of St. Julians in Southampton, commonly called God's House. Queen Elizabeth, wife to King Edward the Fourth procured of him the Priory of Sherbourn in Hampshire, and Queen Mary by her intercession prevailed with King Charles for the perpetual Patronage of certain Benefices in the same County.
23. Nor let not our Virgin Queen be forgotten, as in effect Refoundresse of this from the third year of her reign, being informed that the Title of the Foundation thereof, with the lands thereunto belonging, were in question, and subject to eviction; by Act of Parliament conferred a sure Estate of the same.
24. I meet in the Records of the Tower Rouls, with a passage concerning this College, and though I do not perfectly understand, I will exemplify it.
And a little after, upon divers matters moved between the said Arch-bishop, and the Arch-Bishop of York, upon certain privileges pretended by the said Arch-Bishop of York in the College called QUEEN-HALL in the University of Oxford. The said Arch-Bishop of Canterbury in presence of the King and of the Lord's promised, that if the said Arch-Bishop of York could sufficiently show any Privilege, or specially of Record, wherefore the said Arch-Bishop of Canterbury ought not to use his Visitation of the said College, he would then abstain, Saving to himself always the Visitation of the said Scholars abiding in the said College, according to the judgment and decrees, made and given by K. Richard the second, and by our Lord K. Henry that now is, as in the Record thereof made, thereof more plainly is declared.
It seems hereby (so far as I can apprehend) this College was so parted betwixt the two Metropolitans, that the dead Moity, viz. the Lands and Revenues) thereof belonged to the inspection of the Arch-Bishop of York, whilst the living half, namely the Scholars (especially in matters concerning their Religion) pertained to the Visitation of the Arch-Bishop of Canterbury.
So that at this present are maintained therein, one Provost, fourteen Fellows, seven Scholars, two Chaplains, two Clerks, and other Students about 160.
25. In the mean time the Pope was not idle, but laid about him for his own profit. Knowing King Edward could not attend two things at once. And therefore whilst he was busied about his wars in France, his Holiness bestirred him in England, cropping the flowers of the best Livings in their bud before they were blown. Yea in a manner he may be said to seethe the Kid in the Mothers milk. So that before Livings were actually void, He provisionally pre-provided Incumbents for them, and those generally Aliens and his own Countrymen.
26. Though late, the King got leisure to look on his own Land, where he found a strange alteration, for as France lately was made English by his Valour, England was now turned Italian by the Popes Covetousness. In prevention therefore of future mischief, this Statute of Provision was made: whereby such forestalling of Livings to Forrainers was forbidden.
27. Our Authors assign another accidental cause of the Kings displeasure with the Pope, namely, That when his Holiness created twelve Cardinals at the request of the King of France, He denied to make one at the desire of this King of England. Surely it was not reasonable in proportion, that his Holiness giving the whole dozen to the King of France, might allow the advantage to the King of England. However betwixt both, this statute was made to the great enriching of the Kingdom, and contentment of the Subjects therein.
28. Yet this Law, of Provisions (as all others) did not at the first making meet with present and perfect obedience. The Papal party did struggle for a time, till at last they were patient per-force finding the Kings power predominant. True it is, this grievance did continue, and was complained of, all this, and most of the next Kings Reign, till the Statute of praemunire was made, which clinted the nail which now was driven in. So that afterwards the Land was cleared from the incumbrance of such Provisions.
29. A good Author tells us, Habent Imperia suos Terminos, huc cùm venerint, sistunt, retrocedunt, ruunt. Empyres have their bounds, whither when they come, they stand still, they go back, they fall down. This is true in respect to the Papal power in England. It went forward until the Statute of Mort-main was made in the reign of King Edward the first. It went backward slowly when this Statute of provisions, swiftly when this Statute of Praemunire was made. It fell down when the Papacy was abolished in the reign of King Henry the eighth.
30. Three years after the statute against the Popes Provisions was made, the King presented unto him Thomas Hatlife to be Bishop of Durham, one who was the Kings Secretary, and when this is, all is said that can be, in his commendation, as utterly devoid of all other Episcopal qualifications. However the Pope confirmed him without any dispute or delay; and being demanded why he consented to the preferment of so worthless a person, he answered, that rebus sic stantibus, if the King of England had presented an Ass unto him, he would have, confirmed him in the Bishopric. Indeed as yet his Holiness was in hope, that either the K. would revoke the foresaid statute, or else moderate the execution thereof.
31. This year, Authors generally agree (some few making it later, viz. after John K. of France was taken prisoner) K. Edward instituted the Order of the Garter, consisting of
1. One Chief Guardian, or Sovereign, being the King of England.
2. Five and twenty Knights, whereof the first set were termed Founders, and their Successors ever since called Fellows or Companions of the Order.
3. Fourteen Canons resident being Secular Priests.
4. Thirteen Vicars, or Chorol Priests.
5. Twelve Military Gentlemen of the meaner sort decayed in age, and estate, commonly called the poor Knights of Winsor.
6. One Prelate of the Garter, being always the Bishop of Winchester.
7. One Chancellor thereof, being anciently the Bishop of Salisbury (in whose Diocese Winsor is) but lately a Lay-Person. The truly Honorable and well experienced Statesman and Traveler Sir Thomas Row (if I mistake not) was the last Chancellor of the Garter.
8. One Register, being always the Dean of Winsor.
9. One Usher, who is one of the Ushers of the King his Chamber) called the Black Rod.
10. A chief Herald added for the more Solemnity by K. Henry the 5. and called Garter. This Order the K. founded within his Castle of Winsor, to the honor of Almighty God, and the blessed Virgin Mary, and of the glorious Martyr St. George, and to the exaltation of the holy Catholic Faith.
32. Four Essentials are requisite in the Persons Eligible into this Order, that they be Gentlemen of Name and Arms by Fathers and Mothers side, for three descents. Secondly, that he be without spot or foul reproach, understand it not convicted of Heresy, or attainted of Treason. Thirdly, that he have a competent estate to maintain the dignity of the Order. Fourthly, that he never fled in the day of battle, his Sovereign Lord or his Lieutenant in being in the field.
33. Their habiliments are either ordinary, as a Blew Ribbon with the picture of St. George appendent, and the Sun in his Glory on the left shoulder of their Cloak) added as some say by King charles) being for their daily wearing; or extraordinary, as their Collar of S. S. their Purple Mantle, their Gown, Kirtle, Chaperon, and chiefly their Garter. This being made of Blew is with, Honey Soit qui male pense in Golden Letters, enchased with precious stones, fastened with a Buckle of Gold, and worn on the left leg of the Fellows of this Order.
34. They take an Oath, that to their power, during the time that they are Fellows of the Order, they shall defend the honor, quarrel, rights, and Lordships of their Sovereign, that they shall endeavor to preserve the honor of the Order, and without fraud or Covin, well observe the Statutes thereof. This is taken absolutely by the Natives of this Kingdom, but by Forrainers relatively, and in part, with their reference to some former Order.
35. They oblige themselves, first, to be personally present, (without a just cause specified to, and accepted by the Sovereign or his Deputy) at Winsor on the Festival of St. George. Secondly, that if coming within two miles of that place, (except hindered by some important business) they repair thither, put on their Mantles, (lying constantly Liegers there) proceed to the Chapel and there make their Offering. Thirdly, that they be never openly seen without their GEORGE'S which they shall neither engage, alien, Fell, nor give away on any necessity whatsoever. Lastly, that they take order their Garter at their death, be safely and solemnly sent back to the Sovereign, to confer the same on one to succeed him in the Order.
36. I have done when I have told that their places may be vacated, on three occasions. First by death, which layeth this (as all other) honor in the dust. Secondly, by deprivation on the persons misdemeanor or want of the foresaid qualifications. Thirdly, by cession, or surrender, when a Foreign Prince (entereth into enmity with this Crown) is pleased to send his Garter back again.
37. Excess in Apparel began now to be great in England, which made the State take order to retrench it. Some had a project, that men's Cloatthes might be their signs to show their Birth, Degree, or Estate, so that the quality of an unknown person might at the first sight be expounded by his Apparrel. But this was soon let fall as impossible. Statesmen in all Ages (notwithstanding their several laws to the contrary) being fain to connive at men's R • ot in this kind, which maintaineth more poor people than their charity. However, the ensuing passage must not be omitted.
38. Item that the Clerks which have a degree in a Church, Cathedral, Collegial, or in Schools, and the Kings Clerks which have such an estate that requires Fur, do, and use according to the constitution of the same, and all other Clerks which have above two hundred marks rent per annum, use, and do as Knights of the same rent. And other Clerks under that rent, use as Squires of an hundred pound rent. And that all those, as well Knights as Clerks, which by this Ordinance may use Fur in Winter, by the same manner may use it in Summer.
39. Passe we now from soft Furr, to hard Steel, I mean a command from the King for the arming of all Clergy-men.
40.
Here we see, In hosts publicos omnes homo miles, none are dispensed with, to oppose an invading enemy. But where were these Foreign Foes, France, and Scotland, being now both of them ordered into a defensive posture, whose invasion was expected? Possibly these dangers were represented thorough State -Multiplying Glasses, to quicken the care, and continue the Taxes on the English Nation.
41. The Lord's and Commons in Parliament began now to find themselves much agrieved, that the Clergy engrossed all Secular Offices, and thereupon presented the ensuing Petition to the King, according to this effect insisting only in the substance thereof.
42.
43. To this Petition the King returned, that he would ordain upon this point as it shall best seem to him by the advice of his good Council. He therefore who considereth the present power of the Clergy, at the Council-Table, will not wonder, if all things remained in their former Condition, till the Nobility began more openly to favor John Wycliffe his Opinions, which the next Book, God willing, shall relate.
44. We will close this with a Catalogue of the Arch-Bishops of Canterbury, Contemporary with King Edward the third, and begin with Simon Mepham made Arch-Bishop in the first year of his reign, so that the Crown and the Mitre may seem in some sort to have started together, only here was the odds, the King was a young, (yea, scarce a) man, whereas the Arch-Bishop was well stricken in years. Hence their difference in holding out, the King surviving, to see him buried and six more (whereof four Simon's inclusively) heart-broken as they say with grief. For when John Grandison Bishop of Exeter (making much noise with his Name, but more with his Activity) refused to be visited by him, (the Pope siding with the Bishop) Mepham so resented it, that it cost him his life.
45. John Stratford was the second, Consecrated first Bishop of Winchester on the Lord's day, whereon it was solemnly sung, many are the afflictions of the Righteous, whereof he was very apprehensive then, and more afterwards, when his own experience had proved a Comment thereon. Yet this might comfort him, whilst living, and make others honor his memory, that a good Conscience without any great crime, generally caused his molestation. For under King Edward the second, he suffered for being too loyal a Subject, (siding with the King against the Queen and her Son) and under King Edward the third, he was molested for being too faithful a Patriot, namely, in pitying his poor Countreymens taxations, for which he was accused for correspondency with the French, and complying with the Pope, (Pope and King of France then blowing in one Trumpet) whereat King Edward was highly incensed.
46. However Stratford did but say what thousands thought, viz. that a peace with France was for the profit of England, especially as proffered upon such honorable conditions. This the Arch-Bishop was zealous for, upon a threefold accompt, First, of Piety, to save the effusion of more Christian blood. Secondly, of Policy, suspecting success, that the tide might turn, and what was suddenly gotten, might be as suddenly lost. Thirdly, on Charity, sympathizing with the sad condition of his fellow Subjects, groaning under the burden of Taxes to maintain an unnecessary war. For England sent over her wealth into France, to pay their victorious Soldiers, and received back again honor in exchange, whereby our Nation became exceeding proud, and exceeding poor. However the end (as well as the beginning of the Psalm) was verified of this Arch-Bishop, the Lord delivereth them out of all, dying in great honor and good esteem with the King, a strong argument of his former innocence.
47. The third was Tho. Bradwardine, whose election was little less then miraculous. For Commonly the King refused whom the Monks chose: the Pope rejected whom the Monks and King did elect, whereas all interests met in the choice of Bradwardine. Yea, which was more, the Pope as yet not knowing that the Monks and the King had pre-elected him, of his own accord (as by supernatural instinct) appointed Bradwardine for that place, who little thought thereon. Thus Omne tulit punctum, and no wonder, seeing he mingled his profitable Doctrines with a sweet and amiable conversation: indeed he was skilled in School Learning, which one properly calleth Spinosa Theologia, and though some will say, can figs grow on thorns, yet his thorny Divinity produced much sweet devotion.
48. He was Confessor to king Edward the third, whose miraculous victories in France, some impute more to this man's devout prayers: Then either to the Policy or Prowess of the English Nation He died before he was inthronized few months after his consecration, though now advanced on a more Glorious and durable Throne in Heaven, where he hath received the Crown from God, who here defended the Cause of God. I behold him as the most pious man who from Anselm (not to say Augustine) to Cranmer, sat on that Seat. And a better St. Thomas (though not sainted by the Pope) then one of his predecessors commonly so called.
49. Simon Islip was the fourth, a parcimonious (but no avaricious) man, thrifty whilst living, therefore clandestinely Inthronized, and when dead, secretly interred without any solemnity: Yet his frugality may be excused (if not commended herein) because he reserved his estate for good uses, founding Canterbury College in Oxford: Thus generally Bishops founders of many Colleges therein, denominated them either from that Saint to whom they were dedicated, or from their See, (as Exeter, Canterbury, Durham, Lincoln) putting thereby a civil obligation on their Successors to be (as Visitors, so) Benefactors thereunto. This Canterbury College is now swallowed up in Christ Church, which is no single Star as other Colleges, but a Constellation of many put together.
50. Simon Langham is the fifth, much meriting by his munificence to Westminster Abbie. He was made Cardinal of St. Praxes, and by the Pope Bishop of Preneste in Italy, with a faculty to hold as many Ecclesiastical preferments as he could get. Hereupon he resigned his Arch-Bishopric of Canterbury, lived for a time at Avenion in France, and there buried (according to his own directions) in a temporary Tomb, in a Religious house of his own, till three years after removed to Westminster. William whitlesee succeeded him, famous for freeing the University of Oxford, from the jurisdiction of the Bishop of Lincoln, formerly the Diocesan thereof. As for Simon Sudbury, the last Arch-Bishop of Canterbury, in the reign of King Edward the third, of him, God willing, hereafter.
CENT. XIV.
TO CLEMENT THROCKMORTON, the Elder, OF Haseley in Warwick-shire, Esq
LEt other boast of their French blood, whilst your English family may vie Gentry with any of the Norman Extraction. 1. For Antiquity, four Monosyllables being, by common pronunciation, crowded into your name; THE, ROCK, MORE, TOWN. 2. For Numerosity, being branched into so many Counties. 3. For Ingenuity, charactered by Camden to be FRUITFUL OF FINE WITS, whereof several instances might be produced.
But a principal consideration, which doth, and ever shall command my respect unto your person, is, your faithful and cordial friendship, in matters of highest concernment, (whatever be the success thereof) to the best of my Relations, which I conceived myself obliged publicly to confess.
1. AMidst these cruel Wars, betwixt the English and Scots, Pope Boniface the eighth, sent his Letters to King Edward, requiring him to quit his claim, and cease his Wars, and release his prisoners, of the Scotch Nation, as a people exempt, and properly pertaining to his own Chapel. Perchance the Popes right to the Crown of Scotland is written on the back-side of Constantine's Donation. And it is strange, that if Scotland be the Popes peculiar Demeanes, it should be so far distant from Rome, his chief Mansion house; he grounded his Title thereunto, because Scotland was first converted, by the relics of S t Peter, to the unity of the Catholic faith. But it seems, not so much ambition in his Holiness, made him at this present to start this pretence, but the secret solicitation of the Scots themselves, who now to avoid the storm of the English, ran under this Bush, and put themselves in the Popes protection.
2. Hereupon King Edward called a Council of his Lord's at Lincoln, where perusing the contents of the Popes prescript, he returned a large answer, where in he endeavored by evident reasons, and ancient predceents, to prove his propriety in the Kingdom of Scotland. This was seconded by another from the English Peerage, subscribed with all their hands, the whole tenor whereof deserves to be inserted, but this passage must not be omitted, being directed to no meaner then his Holiness himself.
Wherefore, after treaty had, and diligent deliberation of the contents of your foresaid Letters, this was the common agreement, and consent with one mind, and shall be without fail, in time to come, by God's grace, that our foresaid Lord the King ought by no means to answer in judgment in any case, or should bring his foresaid rights into doubt, nor ought not to send any Proctors or messengers to your presence. Especially seeing that the premisses tend manifestly to the disheriting of the Crown of England, and the plain overthrow of the State of the said Realm, and also hurt of the Liberties, Customs, and Laws of our Fathers; for the keeping and defense of which, we are bound, by the duty of the Oath made, and we will maintain them with all power, and will descend them (by God's help) with all our strength.
The Pope perceived he had met with men, which understood themselves, and that King Edward was no King John, to be frighted or flattered out of his Right, he therefore was loath to clash his Keys against the others sword, to try which was made of the hardest metal; but foreseeing the Verdict would go against him, wisely non-suited himself. Whereas had this unjust challenger, met with a timorous Defendant, it had been enough to have created an undeniable title to him and his successors. The best is, Nullum tempus occurrit Papae, no process of time doth prejudice the Popes due; but whensoever he pleaseth to prosecute his right, Scotland lieth still in the same place where it did before.
3. About this time a subject brought in a Bull of Excommunication against another subject of this Realm, and published it to the Lord Treasurer of England, and this was by the ancient Common-Law of England adjudged Treason against the King, his Crown and dignity, for the which, the offender should have been drawn and hanged, but at the great instance of the chancelour and Treasurer, he was only abjured the Realm forever. And this case is the more remarkable, because he was condemned by the Common-Law of England, before any particular Statute was enacted in that behalf.
4. But the Courage of the King Edward most appeared in humbling and ordering Robert Wincelsey, Arch-Bishop of Canterbury. He was an insolent man, hated even of the Clergy, because though their champion to preserve them from Civil and Secular burdens, yet the Popes Broker, to reserve them for his unconscionable exactions, as if keeping Church-men to be wronged by none, but himself. Long had the King looked on him with an angry eye, as opposite to his proceedings, and now at the last had him at his mercy, for plotting Treason with some others of the Nobility, against him, against him, projecting to depose him, and set up his Son Edward in his Room.
5. The Arch-Bishop throwing himself prostrate at the Kings feet, with tears and lamentation, confessed his fault in a posture of cowardly dejection, descending now as much beneath himself, as formerly he had arrogantly insulted over others; some are loath to allow him guilty of the crime objected, others conceive him only to have done this, presuming on the Kings noble disposition for pardon. But such must yield him a Traitor either to the Kings Crown, or to his own innocence by his unworthy acknowledging his offense. Thus that man who confesseth a debt, which he knows not due, hoping his Creditor will thereupon give him an acquittance, scarce deserveth pity for his folly, if presently sent to prison for non-payment thereof. Then he called the King his Master, a term, wherewith formerly his tongue was unacquainted, (whom neither by word or letter he would ever acknowledge under that nation) tendering himself to be disposed at his pleasure.
6. No, Quoth the King, I will not be both party and judge, and proceed against you as I might by the Common-Law of the Land. I bear more respect to your order, whereof you are as unworthy as of my favor: having formerly had experience of your malice in smaller matters, when you so rigorously used my Chaplains attending on me in their ordinary service beyond the Seas; so that though I sent my Letters unto you, you as lightly regarded what I wrote, as what they pleaded in their own behalf. Wincelsey having but one guard for all blows, persisted in his submission, desiring (a president unparalle'd) that the King would give him his blessing: No, said the King, it is more proper that you should give me your blessing. But, well, I will remit you to your own great Master the Pope, to deal with you according to your deserts. But the Arch-Bishop loath belike to-go-to Rome, and staying longer in England, then the Kings command, and (perchance) his own promise, lurk'd in a Covent, at Canterbury, till fourscore Monks were by the Kings command thrust out of their places for relieving him out of their charity; and were not restored till the aforesaid Arch-Bishop was banished the Kingdom.
7. Not long after he appeared before Pope Clement the fifth, at Burdeaux, where having been so great a stickler for his Holiness, (insomuch that his present disfavour with the King was originally caused by his activity for the Pope) he might rationally have expected some courtesy. But though he had used both his hands to scrape treasure for the Church of Rome; the Pope would not lend his least finger to his support, but suspended him from office and benefit of his place, till he should clear himself from the crime of Treason wherewith he was charged. Whether done to procure reputation to the Justice of the Court of Rome; where, in public causes, men, otherwise privately well deserving, should find, no more favor there, then they brought innocence thither: Or because (which is most probable) the Pope loved the Arch-Bishopric, better then the Arch-Bishop; and knew during his suspension, both to increase his profit, and improve his power in England, by such cunning Factors, as he employed in the business; namely, William de Testa, and Peter Amaline, both strangers, to whom the Pope committed the sequestration of Canterbury, whilst the cause of Wincelsey did as yet depend undetermined.
8. These by Papal Authority, summoned before them John Salmon Bishop of Norwich, for exacting the first-fruits of vacant Benefices, from the Clergy of his Diocese. The case was this. Some sixty years since, Pandulph, an Italian, and Popes Legat (a perfect Artist in progging for money) being Bishop of Norwich, pretending his Church to be in debt, obtained of his Holiness the first-firuits of vacant Benefices in Norfolk, and Suffolk, to discharge that engagement. This Grant to him, being but personal, local, and temporary, was improved by his Successors to a constant revenue; yea (covetousness being an apt Scholar, and profit an easy lesson) this example was followed by other English Bishops in their respective Dioceses. Behold here a piece of exemplary Justice. Who could have looked for less (the illegality of these payments appearing) but that the Clergy should be eased of them? Whereas these foreign Sequestrators did order, that generally throughout England, the first-fruits of all spiritual promotions falling void next, for three years should be paid over to the Popes Chamber at Rome; only Cathedral, and Conventual-Churches were excepted herein. No reason is rendered, why the burden fell on Parish-Churches; except any will say, that the Ass must bear more then the Horse; and the load is best laid on that beast, which hath least mettle to kick it off, and throw it down: the poor Parochial Clergy being most unable to resist the usurpation of his Holiness.
9. Afterwards, this William Testa, who according to his name, came over an empty shell, but departed with the kernel of the English wealth, complained of, for his extortion to the Parliament, was called home, and Peter a Spanish Cardinal sent in his room; where he concluded and celebrated a marriage, betwixt Prince Edward and Isabel, the King of France his Daughter. Towards the bearing of his charges, this Cardinal required twelve mark of all Cathedrals, and Convents; and of Parish-Churches eight pence out of every mark of their yearlie revenue. But the King made him content with the moity of his demand.
10. Mean time intolerable were the taxes, which the English Clergy paid to Rome. The Poets fain Arethusa, a River in Armenia, to be swallowed up by the earth, and running many miles under the Ocean, in Sicily (they say) it vents itself up again. But (without any fiction) the wealthy streams, flowing from a plentiful spring in England, did suddenly disappear, and being insensibly conveyed in invisible channels, not under, but over the Sea, were found far off to arise afresh at Rome, in the Popes Treasury; where the Italians, though (being themselves bred in a clear and subtle Climate) they scorned the dullness of the wits, and hated the gross air of this Island, yet hug'd the heaviness of the gold thereof; this Kingdom being one of the best places for their profit. Although proud Harding saith, that the Popes yearly gains out of England were but as a GNAT to an ELEPHANT. Oh the over-grown Beast of Rome's Revenues!
11. The death of King Edward the first, gave a great advancement to the Popes encroaching. A worthy Prince he was, fixed in his generation betwixt a weak Father,