Church History of Britain

CENT. XVI.

1. KIng Edward, tender in years, and weak with sickness, was so practiced on by the importunity of others, that, excluding His two Sisters, he conveyed the Crown to the Lady Jane His Kinswoman, by that which we may we call the Testament of King Edward, and the Will of the Duke of Northumberland. Thus, through the piousintents of this Prince, wishing well to the Reformation; the Religion of Queen Marie, obnoxious to exception; the ambition of Northumberland, who would do what he listed; the simplicity of Suffolk, who would be done with as the other pleased; the dutifulness of the Lady Jane, disposed by her Parents; the fearfulness of the Judges, not daring to oppose; and the flattery of the Courtiers, most willing to comply, matters were made as sure, as man's policy can make that good which is bad in itself. But the Commons of England who for many years together had conn'd loyalty by-heart, out of the Statute of Succession, were so perfect in their lesson, that they would not be put out of it by this new started design: so that everyone proclaimed Mary next Heir in their consciences: and, few days after King Edwards death, all the project miscarried: of the plotters whereof some executed, more imprisoned, most pardoned, all conquered, and Queen Mary crowned. Thus, though the stream of Loyalty for a while was violently diverted, (to run in a wrong channel,) yet with the speediest opportunity it recovered the right course again.

2. But now in what manner this Will of King Edwards was advanced, that the greatest blame may be laid on them who had the deepest guilt, the following answer of Sr. Edward Montague, Lord Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas (accused for drawing up the Will, and committed by Queen Mary to prison for the same) will truly acquaint us. The original whereof under his own hand, was commnuicated unto me, by his great grandchild, Edward Lord Montague of Boughton, and here faithfully exemplified;

SR. Edward Montague, Knight, late Chief-Justice of the Common Pleas, received a letter from Greenwich, dated the eleventh day of June last past, signed with the hands of the Lord Treasurer, the Duke of Northumberland; John Earl of Bedford, Francis Earl of Shrewsburie, the Earl of Pembroke, the Lord Clynton, the Lord Darcie, John Gate, William Peter, William Cecil, John Cheke: whereby he was commanded to be at the Court on the morrow by one of the clock at after-noon, and to bring with him Sr. John Baker, Justice Bromley, the Attorney, and Solicitor General, and according to the same, all they were there at the said hour of one of the clock. And, after they were brought to the presence of the King, the Lord Treasurer the Marquess of Northampton, Sr. John Gate, and one or two more of the Council, whose names he doth not now remember, were present.

And then and there the King by His own mouth said, that now in His sickness he had considered the state of this His Realm and Succession, which, if He should decease without Heir of His body, should go to the Lady Mary, who was unmarried, and might marry a stranger-borne, whereby the Law • of this Realm might be altered and changed, and His Highness proceedings in Religion might be altered. Wherefore His pleasure was, that the state of the Crown should go in such form, and to such persons as His Highness had appointed in a Bill of Articles not signed with the Kings hand, which were read, & commanded them to make a Book thereof accordingly with speed. And they, finding divers faults not only for the incertainty of the Articles, but also declaring unto the King, that it was directly against the Act of Succession, which was an Act of Parliament which would not be taken away by no such devise. Notwithstanding His Highness would not otherwise, but that they should draw a Book according to the said Articles, which he then took them, and they required a reasonable time of His Highness for the doing thereof, and to consider the Laws and Statutes made for the Succession, which indeed were and be more dangerous then and of them, they did consider and remember, and so they departed commanding them to make speed.

And on the morrow all the said persons met, and, perusing the said Statutes there grew this question amongst them, whether it were presently treason by the words of the Statute of Anno primo Edvardi Sexti, or no treason till it were put in execution after the Kings death? because the words of the Statute are, the King His Heirs, and Successors, because the King can have no Successors in His life; but to be sure they were all agreed that it were the best and surer way to say to the Lord's, that the execution of this devise after the Kings decease was not only treason, but the making of this devise was also presently treason, as well in the whole Council as in them, and so agreed to make their report without doing anything for the execution thereof.

And after Sr. William Peter sent for the said Sr. Edward. to Eely-place, who shown him that the Lord's required great speed in the making of the said Book, and he told him, there were none like to be made for them for the danger aforesaid. And after that, the said S. Edward, with the rest of his company, went to the Court, and before all the Council, (the Duke of Northumberland being not in the Council-chamber,) made report to the Lord's, that they had considered the Kings Articles, and also the Statutes of Succession, whereby it appeared manifestly, that if they should make any Book according to the Kings commandment, they should not only be in danger of treason, but also their Lordships all, wherefore they thought it their bounden duties to declare the danger of the Laws unto them, and for avoiding of the danger thereof they had nothing done therein, nor intended to do, the Laws being so dangerous and standing in force.

The Duke of Northumberland, having intelligence of their answer, either by the Earl of Huntingdon, or by the Lord Admiral, cometh into the Council-Chamber before all the Council there, benign in a great rage and fury, trembling for anger, and amongst his ragious talk called the said Sr. Edward Traitour; and further said, that he would fight in his shirt with any man in that quarrel (as all the whole Council being there will report) whereby the said Sr. Edward, with the rest were in great fear and dread, in special Mr. Bromley, and the said Sr. Edward, for Mr. Bromley told the said after, that he dread then that the Duke would have stricken one of them: and after they were commanded to go home, and so departed in great fear, without doing anything more at that time, wishing of God they had stood to it, as they did then, unto this time.

And after the said Sr. Edward received another letter dated at Greenwich the 14 ^th. of June last past, signed with the hands • f the Lord Treasurer, the Earl, of Bedford, the Marquess of Northampton, the Earl of Shrewsburie, the Lord Clynton, the Lord Cobham, the Lord Darcy, William Peter, John Gate, John Cheeke, whereby he was commanded to bring with him Sr. John Baker, Justice Bromley and Mr. Gosnolde, and to be at the Court on the morrow by one of the clock at after-noon, where all they were at the same hour, and conveyed into a chamber behind the Dining-Chamber there, and all the Lord looked upon them with earnest countenance, as though they had not known them. So that the said Sr. Edward, with the other, might perceive there were some earnest determination against them: and at length they were brought before the King Himself, there, being present all the whole Council.

And the King demanded of them why they had not made His Book, according to His commandment, and refused that to do? with sharp words and angry countenance; and the said Sr. Edward opened unto His Highness the cause why they did it not; and he and other had before declared and opened to the Council, that if the writings were made, they were of no effect nor force, but utterly void when the King should decease, and the Statute of Succession not impaired nor hurted, for these will not be taken away, but by the same authority they were made, and that was by Parliament. To that said the King we mind to have a Parliament shortly, not telling when, which was the first time that the said Sr. Edward heard of any Parliament to be 〈◊〉 . Whereunto he said, if His pleasure were so, all might be deferred to the Parliament, and all dangers and perils saved. Whereunto the King said he would have this done, and after ratify it by Parliament. And after commanded them very sharply upon their allegiance to make it; and there were divers of the Lord's, that stood behind the said Sr. Edward, said, and if they refused to do that▪ they were traitors. And the said Sr. Edward was in great fear as ever he was in all his life before, seeing the King so earnest and sharp, and the said Duke so angry the day before, who ruled the whole Council as it pleased him and were all afraid of him (the more is the pity) so that such cowardnesse and fear was there never seen amongst honorable men, as it hath appeared.

The said Sr. Edward▪ being an old weak man and without comfort, began to consider with himself, what was best to be done for the safeguard of his life, which was like to chance in that fury and great anger presently. And, remembering that the making of the said writing was not presently treason by the Statute of Anno primo, because this word Successor would take no place while the King was living, and determined with himself not to meddle nor execute anything concerning the same, after the death of the King, which he hath truly kept hereunto. And also remembering that the Queens Highness that now is should come by Act of Succession, as a purchaser by the law, might not lawfully punish treason or contempt committed in the Kings life, he said unto the King, that he had served His most noble Father many years, and also His Highness during His time, and loath he would be to disobey His commandment; for his own part he would obey it, so that His Highness would grant to them His commandment, license and commission under His great Seal, for the doing, making, and executing of all things concerning the same, and, when the things were done, that they might have a general pardon. All which Commission and pardon was as much as the said Sr. Edward could invent to help this danger over, and besides the things above remembered; which Commission and pardon the King granted them, saying, it was but reason that they should have them both, and the Commission is passed the Great Seal, and the Pardon was signed, and (as far as he knew) sealed.

All the said matters considered, the said Sr. Edward said, for his part he would obey the Kings commandment, and so did M. Bromley say the same; and the King said to Sr. John Baker, what say you? you said never a word today; who (as I take it) agreed to the same. Mr. Gosnold required a respite, for he was not yet persuaded to do the thing required. How the said Duke and the Earl of Shrewsburie handled him, he can tell best himself. And after upon the said Sr. Edwards motion the King gave him license to be advised until upon the morrow, who of himself being in great fear was content to obey the Kings commandment; and so the doers and makers of the said Book, with sorrowful hearts, and with weeping eyes, in great fear and dread devised the said Book, according to such Articles as were signed with the Kings proper hand, above and beneath, and on every side. And their said Commission, with Articles so signed with the Kings hand, and the Book drawn in paper, were conveyed from the Court to the Lord Chancelors, to be engrossed in parchment and to pass the great Seal, which was done accordingly.

And on the morrow next after the last Terme ended, the said Sr. Edward and all the Judges were sent for; he puts his hand to the Book in parchment sealed with the Great Seal, and so did many others. The said Book of Articles so signed remaineth with the Lord Chancellor, Bishop of Eely; but, who conveyed the said Paper Book into the Chancery, or who wrote them, or who set their hands to the same Book, the said Sr. Edward till he see them he cannot tell: but he will not deny but he was privy to the making of them, as he hath before said: and that he came to the knowledge of the matter by the Articles unsigned, and by the Articles signed, with the Kings hand, and both delivered unto him by the Kings own hands. Who put the King in mind to make the said Articles; or whowrote them, or any of them; or by whose procurement or counsel they were made: or by what means he and others were called unto this matter: he knoweth not, but he thinks in his conscience the King never invented this matter of Himself, out by some wonderful false compass: he prayeth God the truth may be known, as he doubts not it will be.

And further, he and all his company, as well before the King as before the Lord's at all times, said, that their writings (before they were made, and after they were made) were of no value, force, nor effect, to any intent, constitution, or purpose, after the Kings death, and there is no remedy to help this but by Parliament. And that after the said Thursday, being the morrow after the Terme last past, that he by any writing, printing, overt, deed or act, never did anything sithence the same day, in the Kings life, ne sithence the death of the King, for he determined with himself to be no executor of the said devise, whatsoever should chance of it: nor ever meddled with the Council in anything, nor came amongst them, until the Queens Grace that now is, was proclaimed Queen in London, nor never executed Commission, Proclamation, or other commandment from the Lady Jane nor Her Council, but commanded my son to serve the Queens Grace that now is, and to go to Sr. Thomas Tresham, and Buckingham-shire -men that went to her Grace to defend Her, which he so did to my no little cost.

SO far the late Judge with his own hand: Wherein he affirmeth that he meddled not with the Council in anything afterward, as may appear by his not subscribing the letter of the Lord's to Queen Mary (enjoying, shall I say? or) advising Her to desist from claiming the Crown, whereto all the Privy Counselors subscribed, only the hand of Sr. Edward Montague is wanting. And, seeing in the whole transaction of this matter, the obedience rather then invention of Judge Montague was required, not to devise, but draw things up according to Articles tendered unto him, I cannot believe his report report relating, that the King used the advise of Justice Montague in drawing up the Letters Patents, to furnish the same with reasons of Law, as Secretary Cicil with arguments from Policy.

3. Some will wonder that no mention herein of Sr. Roger Cholmley, Lord Chief Justice of the Kings Bench, and in dignity above Sr. Edward Montague (at this time but Judge of the Common-Pleas,) that he was not employed to draw up the Book. But it seems Judge Montague his judgment was more relied on, who had been formerly Lord Chief Justice of the Kings-Bench, and deserted it. Yet the said Sr. Roger Cholmley was imprisoned for bare subscribing this Will, and (as it seems) lost his place for the same. For Justice Bromley, though equally guilty with the rest (so far favor extends in matters of this nature) was not only pardoned, but, from an inferior Judge, advanced to be successor to Sr. Roger Cholmly, and made Judge of the Kings-Bench.

4. Whereas Sr. Edward saith that all the Judges were sent for and that many put their hands to the Book, it intimateth that all did not but that some refused the same, it being eminently known to the everlasting honor of Sr. James Hales that no importunity could prevail with him to underwrite this will as against both law and conscience.

5. Eight weeks and upwards passed between the proclaiming of Mary Queen, and the Parliament by her assembled: during which time two religions were together set on foot, Protestantisme and Popery, the former hoping to be continued, the later laboring to be restored, And as the Jews Children after the captivity spake a middle language betwixt Hebrew and Ashdod, so during the aforesaid interim the Churches and Chapels in England had mongrell celebration of their Divine services betwixt Reformation and Superstition. For the Obsequies for King Edward were held by the Queen in the Tower August the seventh, with the Dirige sung in Latin, and on the morrow a mass of Requiem, and on the same day his Corps were buried at Westminster with a sermon service, and Communion in English. No small iustling was there betwixt the zealous Promoters of these contrary Religions. The Protestants had possession on their side, and the Protection of the Laws lately made by King Edward and still standing in free and full force unrepealed. Besides, seeing by the fidelity of the Suffolk and Norfolk Protestant Gentry, the Queen was much advantaged for the speedy recovering of her Right, they conceived it but reason, that as she by them had regained the Crown, so they under her should enjoy their Consciences. The Papists put their Ceremonies in Execution, presuming on the Queen her private practice and public countenance, especially after she had imprisoned some Protestant, and enlarged some Popish Bishops: advancing Stephen Gardener to be Lord Chancellor. Many which were Newters before conceiving which side the Queen inclined would not expect, but prevent her authority in Alteration: So that Superstition generally got ground in the Kingdom. Thus it is in the Evening Twi-light, wherein light and darkness at first may seem very equally matched, but the later within little time doth solely prevail.

6. What impressions the Comming in of Queen Mary made on Cambridge, shall, God willing be presented in our particular History thereof. The sad and sudden alterations in Oxford, thereby are now to be handled. Ma. John Jewel was chosen to pen the first Gratulatorie Letter to the Queen, in the Name of the University; an office, imposed on him, by his enemies, that either the refusal thereof should make him incur danger from his foes, or the performance expose him to the displeasure of his friends; Yet he so warily penned the same in General terms, that his Adversaries missed their mark. Indeed all, as yet, were confident, that the Queen would maintain the Protestant Religion according to her solemn promise, to the Gentry of Norfolk, and Suffolk, though (she being composed of Courtship and Popery,) this her unperformed promise was the first Court-holy-water, which she sprinkled amongst the People.

7. And, because ever one was counted a Truant in Popery, who did not out-run the Law, Dr. Tresham, an active Papist, and a Van-Currier before Authority, repaired the great Bell in Christ Church, which he new named, and baptized MARY. And whilst Mr. Jewel was reading the Letter he had penned, to Dr. Tresham, for his approbation thereof, presently that bell tol'd to Mass, (a Parenthesis which was not in the Letter) and Tresham breaking off his Attention to what was written, exclaimed in a zealous Extasie. Oh sweet Mary! how musically, how melodiously doth she sound. This Bell then rung the knell for that time to the truth in Oxford, henceforward filled with Protestant Tears, and Popish Triumphs.

8. Then Stephen Gardener visitor of Maudlins, (as successor to William Wainfleet Bishop of Winchester founder thereof) sent Commissioners to the College, (whereof Sr. Richard Read the chief, and Dr. Wright Arch-Deacon of Oxford,) whereby strange effects were produced.

• 1. Walter Haddon, then President of the College, (though omitted by Brian Twine for what cause I know not, in their Catalogue) willingly quitted his place.
• 2. Thomas Bentham (that year Censor) being required to Correct the Scholars for their absence from Popish Prayers, ingenuously confessed his sorrow for his Complyance in the Reign of King Henry the 8 ^th and constantly professed that he would not accumulate sin on sin, adding moreover, that he accounted it not equal, to punish that in others, which he himself did willingly and wittingly commit, and thereon was outed of his place.
• 3. Thomas Bickley was served in the same manner. This was be who formerly snatching the Host out of the Pixe at evening Prayer, first rent it with his hands, then trampled it under his feet, and now expelled, with great difficulty escaped into France.
• 4. Henry Bull, who about the same time openly in the quire snatched the Censer out of his hands, who was about to offer Idolatrous Incense therein, was likewise by the visitors put out of his Fellowship.

What shall I speak of learned Laurence Humphery, painful John Fox, studious Michael Re • niger, sweet natured John Molins, Arch-Deacon of Paul's, Arthur Saul, Peter Morvin, Hugh Church, and Luke Purisie, dear brethren in Christ, all at this time forced to forsake their College: So that then Magdalene wept indeed for the loss of so many worthies. All this extremity was executed by these visitors, not as yet empowered by law, the statutes of King Edward, standing hitherto unrepealed. But some are so desirous to Worship the rising Sun, that, to make sure work, they will adore the dawning day: And many of the Oxford Scholars thought Prolepsis the best figure in their Grammar to foresee what the Queen would have done, and to ingratiate themselves by antedating the doing thereof.

9. Of all the visitors in Magdalene College, Arch-Deacon Wright was most moderate, seeking to qualify the cruelty of the rest, as far as he could or durst appear. Blind he was in one eye, but acute and clear-sighted in his mind, and though his compliance for the present cannot be excused, yet commendable was his forwardness, that presently on the Crowning of Queen Elizabeth, he confessed his errors, and with a weak voice but strong Arguments in his Sermon preached in All-hallows, solidly confuted the main of Popish opinions; This was his last Will and Testament, being at the present much decayed in his Body, his strength only serving him, to give a solemn account of his Faith. For soon after he fell sick, and at the end of eight days, in perfect mind and memory, peaceably departed this life. Wherefore lying Sanders is not to be listened to, when reporting that this Wright died raving and distracted. It being usual with him, to account all those staring mad, who are not strake blind with ignorance and superstition: Let not Sanders be too busy in traducing God's dying Servants, lest what he wrongfully chargeth on others, justly befall himself, as it came to pass accordingly. For a learned Pen tells us, that he died in Ireland, Mente motus, which if it amounts not to a Madness, I understand not the propriety of that expression.

10. Passe we now from Maudlins to Corpus Christi College, where behold a sudden Alteration; Mass being presently brought up in the place of the Communion. It may seem a wonder, seeing so many Superstitious Utensils are required thereunto, where the Papists got attiring Cloaths for the Theatricall Pomp thereof; yet so it was, that they who today [visibly] had nothing, next day wanted nothing for the Celebration of the Mass. Surely these Trinkets were never dropt down from Heaven; but such who formerly had been cunning in concealing, were now forward in producing their wicked Wardrobe; and one College afforded enough, not only to suffice itself, but for the present to supply the whole University.

11. But how well soever any College kept their superstitious Trifles, sure I am Corpus Christi College lost an essential Ornament thereof, namely Mr. John Jewel, fellow therein, who, on his refusal to be present at Mass, and other Popish Solemnities, was driven out of the College, and retired himself to Broadgates Hall; where he continued for a short time in great Danger.

12. It was now high time for Mr. Peter Martyr seasonably to provide for his own security, who being by Birth a stranger, and invited over hither, and placed here by King Edward the sixth, to be Professor of Divinity in Oxford, had the Warrant of the Public faith, and the Law of Nations, for his safety. Whereupon he solicited for leave to return, which was granted unto him. Well it was that he had protection of proof; otherwise such was the enmity of the Papists, and so sharp set were the Teeth of some persecuting Bishops against him, that they would have made this Martyr brook his own name, and have sacrificed his life to their fury.

13. About the time of his Departure, (pardon a short digression) the Dutch congregation in London was also dissolved, gaining Licence with much ado to transport themselves. These taking the opportunity of two Danish Ships, then lying in Thames mouth, adventured themselves therein even in the beginning of Winter, uncertain were to get any habitation. One hundred seventy and five were embarqued in one vessel, from which the other was divided with Tempest, and with much danger got at last to Elsinore in Denmark. Had they sai'd longer in England, until the Queens marriage with King Philip of Spain (being most of them his Native Subjects in the Netherlands) it had been difficult, if not impossible for them to have procured their safe, and public departure.

14. As for Mr. Jewell, he continued some weeks in Broad-Gates Hall, whither his Scholars repaired unto him, whom he constantly instructed in Learning, and Religion. Of all his Pupils, Edward Year in this one respect was most remarkable, who by his tutor being seasoned with the love of the Truth, made a double Copy of Verses, against the Superstition of the Mass, which so enraged Mr. Welsh, the Censor, as I take it of Corpus Christi College, against him, that he publicly and cruelly whipt him, laying on one lash, for every verse he had made, which I conceive were about eighty in all: Part of them, I have here thought fit to insert; and blessed be God I may Translate, and the Reader peruse them without any pain and peril, and not at the dear rate, whereat the Author composed them. I have the rather presented them, because they proved as well Prophetical as Poetical, comfortably foretelling, what afterwards certainly came to pass.

Supplex oro Patris veniant coelestis ad aures Ex animo paucae quas recitabo preces: Ecce patent aditus, patet alti januae Coeli Ad summum votis am penetrabo Deum. Sum Pater, qui cuncta vides, qui cuncta gubernas, Qui das cuncta tuis, qui quoque cuncta rapis, Effice ne maneat longaevos Missaper Annos: Effice ne fallat decipiatve tuos; Effice ne coecos populorum reddat ocellos Missa, docens verbo dissona multa tuo: Effice jam rursus Stgias descendat ad Vndas, Vnde trahit fontem principiumque suum. Respondet Dominus spectans de sedibus Altis, Ne dubites recte Credere parve pure: Olim sum passus mortem, nunc occupo dextram Patris, nunc summi sunt mea regna poli: In coelis igitur toto cum corpore versor, Et me Terrestris nemo videre potest; Falsa Sacerdotes de me mendacia fingunt, Missam quique colunt, hi mea verba negant: Durae Cervicis populus me mittere Missam Fecit, & e medio tollere dogma sacrum; Sed tu creed mihi, vires Scriptura resumet, Tolleturque suo tempore Missa nequam.

Accept O heavenly Father I request These few Devotions from my humble Breast: See there's Access, Heaven's gate open lies, Then with my Prayers I will penetrate the skies; Great God, who all things feest, dost all things sway, And All things givest, and all things take'st away, Let not the present Mass long-lived be, Nor let it those beguile belong to thee: Thy people's eyes keep it from blinding quite, Since to thy word it is so opposite, But send it to the Stygian Lakes below: From whence it's rise and source doth spring and flow. The Lord, beholding from his Throne, replied, Doubt not, young Youth, firmly in me confide I died long since, now sit at the right hand Of my blessed Father, and the world command My body wholly dwells in heavenly light, Of whom no earthly Eye can gain a sight: The shamlesse Priests of me forge truthlesse lies And he that worships Mass, my word denies A stiffeneck'd people for their sins did make Me send them Mass, my word away to take But trust me, Scripture shall regain her sway, And wicked Mass in due time fade away.

15. But to return to Mr. Jewel: he had not lived long in Broadgates Hall, when, by the violence of the Popish Inquisitors being assaulted, on a sudden, to subscribe, he took a pen in his hand, and, smiling, said, have you a mind to see how well I can write? and thereupon under-writ their Opinions. Thus the most orient Jewel on earth Hath some flaws therein. To conceal this his Fault, had been partiality; to excuse it, flattery; to defend it, impiety; to insult over him, Cruelty; to pity him, Charity; to admire God, in permitting him, true devotion; to be wary of ourselves, in the like occasion, Christian discretion.

16. Such as go out when God openeth them, a Door to escape, do peaceably depart; But such who break out at the window, either stick in the passage, or bruise themselves by falling down on the outside. Jewell may be an instance hereof, whose cowardly compliance, made his foes no fewer without him; and one the more ( a guilty Conscience) within him. The Papists neither loved, nor honored, nor trusted him any whit the more, for this his Subscription, which they conceived not Cordial; forced from him by his fear: Yea thereby he gained not any degree of more safety: and his life being way-laid for, with great difficulty, he got over into Germany.

17. Rejoice not over me O mine Enemy, for though I fall, yet shall I rise again, as here it came to pass: Comming to Francfort, he had Dr. Edwin Sandys, (afterwards Arch-Bishop of York,) for his Board, and Bedfellow, who counseled Mr. Jewell, with the joint advice of Mr. Chambers, and Mr. Sampson, his bosom friends, to make a public Confession of his sorrow for his former Subscription: whereupon on a Sunday, after his fore-noons Sermon, in the Congregation of Francfort, he bitterly bewailed his fall, and heartily requested pardon from God and his People, whom thereby he had offended. Wet were the eyes of the Preacher, and those not dry of all his Auditors: what he fairly requested was freely given: and hence forward all embraced him, as a Brother in Christ, yea as an Angel of God. Yea whosoever seriously considereth the high Parts Mr. Jewell had in himself, and the high opinion others had of him, will conclude his Fall necessary for his Humiliation.

18. But to return to Oxford, whither, about this time, Cranmer, Ridley, and Latimer, were brought to be baited in Disputation, by the fiercest Papists of both Universities; Which worthy Bishops, restrained in Liberty, debarred from Books, deprived of Friends, and straightened for time, were brought out of the Prison, to dispute, and after the end thereof thither remanded. Here it is sad to recount those Legiens of Taunts, which were passed upon them: They who had three Logical terms in every Syllogism, had far more railing ones after it, in following their Argument, and opprobrious improving thereof against the Prisoners. Wherefore when Weston, the Prolocutor (or Obloquutor rather) closed all with his vain glorious brag, Vicit veritas, many of the impartial Auditors conceived, that Vicit vanitas, was a truer Conclusion of the Disputation; though indeed there could be no proper victory, where there was no fair Fight: things not being methodized with Scholastical Formality, but managed with tumultuous Obstreperousnesse. See all at large in Mr. Fox: to transcribe which would be tedious, excribe something, imperfect, Contract all, obscure: may the reader therefore be remitted thither, for his perfect Satisfaction. Only, I will add; this Disputation was but a preparative, or Prologue to the Tragedy of these Bishops Deaths: as it were to dry their Bodies, the more afore-hand, that afterwards they might burn the brighter, and clearer for the same.

19. But we leave the prosecution hereof with the impression made by the Alteration of Religion on every several College in Oxford, to some learned men of that University, as an office proper for them to perform, having as their education therein, so their advantage thereby in consulting the Registers of their several Colleges. I have hitherto, and shall hereafter be the shorter in Matters of this University, remembering two profitable Precepts, for this purpose; the one Minus notis, minus diu insistendum: the other 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , Being a stranger be not over-busy: Who confess my self bred in another Seminary of learning. Wherefore if my tongue, long acquainted with CAMBRIDGE Siboleth, have or shall chance to faulter in pronouncing the terms of Art, or Topicall Titles, proper to this University, I hope the Readers Smile shall be all the writers Punishment. For as I heartily protest the fidelity of my Affections to my Aunt, and humbly request that my Weakness or want of Intelligence, may no way tend to her Prejudice, so I expect that my Casuall mistakes should meet with a Pardon of Course: And if any of her own Children (which is much to be desired) Will hereafter write a particular History of Oxford, I should be joyful if the best Beams I can bring will but make him Scaffolds, and the choicest of my Corner-stones, but serve to fill up the Walls of his more beautiful Building.

20. We have something trespassed on time to make our Story of Oxford entire, and must now go a little backward. The Queen being crowned on the first of October, her first Parliament began the fifth day following, wherein Godwot a poor appearance of Protestant Bishops. For Cranmer of Cant. was in the Tower for treason. Ridley of London, and Poynet of Winchester were displaced on the restitution of Bonner and Gardener, Holegate of York, Bush of Bristol, Bird of Chester, Hooper of Worcester and Gloucester, Barlow of Bath and Wells, Scory of Chicester, Ferrar of St. David's, Coverdale of Exeter were already deprived either for being married, or delivering some displeasing doctrines. Only two Protestant Bish os, viz. John Taylor of Lincoln and John Harley of Hereford (on what score I know not) found the favor to be last undone, as remaining un-deprived at the beginning of the Parliament, where they presented themselves according to their duty, & took their place amongst the Lord's. But presently began solemn Mass after the Popish manner, which these two good Bishops not abiding withdrew themselves, and shortly both of them died their natural deaths; Providence graciously preventing their violent destructions.

21. All the rest of the Bishops present in Parliament, as Samson of Coventry, and Litchfield, Capon of Salsbury, Thirleby of Norwich, Bulkley of Bangor, Parfew of St. Asaph Kitchen of Landaffe, though dissembling themselves Protestants in the days of King Edward, now returned to their Vomit, and the advancing of Popery. No wonder then if all things were acted according to their pleasure, the Statute of Premunire made by King Henry the Eight, and many other goodlaws of Edward the Sixth repealed. Mass and Latin service with the main of Popery reestablished.

22. But in the Convocation which began few days after, amongst all the Clergy therein assembled there were found but six which opposed the Reduction of Popery, Viz.

• 1. Walter Philip's Dean of Rochester.
• 2. James Haddon Dean of Exeter.
• 3. John Philpot Archdeacon of winchest.
• 4. Richard Cheyney Archdeacon of Hereford.
• 5. John Ailmer Archdeacon of Stow.
• 6. One whose name is not recorded.

Of these Mr. Philpot one of a fervent spirit (but not to any distemper as some suspect) was so zealous against Transubstantiation, that he offered to maintain the negative by God's word, and confound any six who should withstand him in that point, or else saith he, let me be burned with as many fagots as be in London before the Court gates.

23. But Weston the Prolocutor in the Convocation threatened him with the Prison, adding that he was a mad man, meeter to be sent to Bedlam then continue there. Philpot returned he would think himself happy to be out of that company. Nay, lest you slander the house said Weston, and say we will not suffer you to declare your mind, we are content you come into the house as formerly on two conditions. First, that you be appareled in a long gown and Tippet as we are. Secondly, that you speak not but when I command you. Then said Philpot, I had rather be absent altogether; and so it seems departed the place, and soon after the Convocation ended, having concluded all things to the hearts desire of the Papists therein.

24. Afterwards Philpot was troubled by Gardener for his words spoken in the Convocation. In vain did he plead the Privilege of the Place, commonly reputed a part of Parliament, alleging also how Weston the Prolocutor once and again assured them, that the Queen had given them leave and liberty, fully and freely to debate of matters of Religion according to their own conscience. Once at his Examination the Lord Rich affirmed, that the Convocation was no part of the Parliament House, and we must believe him herein, because a Lawyer, and a Lord Chancelor: Otherwise we have the Statute 8. Hen. 6. That the Clergy of the Convocation shall have such liberty as they that come to the Parliament. In fine Philpot, in defense of the Truth acted the valiant part of a Martyr according to his promise, though the Scene was altered from the Court-gates to Smithfield.

25. The match of Queen Mary with Philip King of Spain was now as commonly talked of as generally distasted. To hinder the same Sr. Thomas Wyat a Kentish Knight took Arms with a great party assisting him. Saunders faith, and that very truly, that he was Vir maguae potentiae, being indeed well borne, well allied, well learned, well landed, and well loved, wanting neither wit, wealth, nor valor, though at present all were ill employed by him. Indeed this his Treason may be said to fall in labor, some weeks before the full time thereof (occasioned by a sudden fright) and therefore no wonder if the issue thereof proved abortive. For Wyat hearing that one of his Dear Friends was cast into the Fleet (though for a cause unrelating to this Plot, to which the Partie was privy) suspected, as guilt is ever jealous, that this his Friend had betrayed the design, which made Wyat anticipat the due date thereof, and break our the sooner into open hostility.

26. The Queen, hearing of his commotion, sent an Herald unto him to desist, which Herald came to Sr. Tho. his house deeply moated round about, the Bridge being drawn up, yet so that a place like a Ford pretended a safe passage thereunto. On the inside thereof walked the proper case of a man well habited, and his face carrying no despair of wisdom therein. The Herald asked him whether he might safely go over there, to whom the other slightly answered, Yea, Yea; but had not the strength of his Horse been more then ordinary, he either had been drowned in the water, or buried in the mud.

27. The Herald hardly escaping fills all the House with complaints, that being an Officer sent from the Queen under the protection of the public faith (having his coat, his conduct upon him) he should be so willfully abused by false directions to the danger of his life by one of Sr. Tho. his servants. The Knight highly offended at the fault (as Gentleman enough, and enemy to actions of baseness) summons all his Servants to appear before the Herald, vowing that the Offendour should be sent Prisoner to the Queen with his legs bound beneath his Horse belly, to receive from her the reward of his wickedness.

28. The Herald challengeth the party at the first sight of him. Alas said Sr. Tho. he is a mere Natural, as will appear, if you please to examine him. Why Sirrah said the Herald did you direct me to come over where it was almost impossible to pass without drowning? To whom the other answered, the Ducks came over not long before you, whose legs were shorter then your horses. Hereat the Herald smiled out his anger, adding withal, Sr. Thomas, hereafter let your Fool wear the Badge of his Profession on him, that he may deceive no more in this kind. But pass we to matters of more moment; Wyat courteously dismissed the Herald, but denying to desist, marched to Rochester to meet his Complices out of the West of Kent, who came short unto him, as intercepted and routed, with Sr. Henry Ilsley their Conductour, by the Lord Abergaveny, though this loss was presently repaired.

29. For when Thomas Duke of Norfolk marched down with five hundred Londoners, in white Coats to resist Wyat, and was now come to Stroud, on the other side of Rochester, the Londoners revolted to Wyat. Thus the most Valiant Leader cannot make his Followers Loyall. Yet these Londoners false to forsake the Duke were faithful not to betray his person, which they might easily have done if so disposed. Wyat is much elated with this supply, as more in the omen then in itself, who concluding all Londoners of the same lump, hereby promised himself easy entrance into that City, and hearty entertainment therein.

30. His insolency is said to rise with his success, so that having a Treatie with some of the Privy Counselors in his passage to London, he demanded unreasonable conditions, affirming that he would rather be trusted then trust, and therefore requiring the person of the Queen, the Tower of London to be committed unto him, with power to displace evil Counselors not propounded with more pride, but that with as much scorn they were refused. Mean time, Queen Mary came to Guild-Hall, and there made a long oration, and indeed if on just occassion she could not speak confidently and pertinently, She was neither Daughter to her Father, nor to her Mother. Mr. Fox addeth that she seemed to have perfectly conned her speech without book; which if so, sounds nothing to her disgrace, some being for extempory prayers, but none to my knowledge for extempory policy. This her oration secured the affections of the Citizens unto her, as by the sequel will appear.

31. Entring Southwarke he enjoineth his Soldiers to offer no violence, or take anything without payment, yet Winchester House soon felt their fury, though such by his command (a General can but proclaini and punish the Breakers of his Proclamation) were made exemplary for their rapine. Then were the Prisons (and Southwarke is well stored with houses of that kind) set open for such who were guilty only of pretended heresy, not Felionte and murder. But some who thanked him for his courtesy, refused the acceptance thereof, (a tender conscience is a stronger obligation then a Prison) because as they were legally committed they would be legally discharged.

32. But now all the Towers of the Tower, and the topps of the square Steeples near the Bridge-Foot, on the other side were planted with Ordnance (so that both Church and State threatened his ruin) ready to be discharged into Southwarke, either to beat down the Burrough, or to force Wyat to depart, who perceiving it impossible to force his passage into London over the Bridge, and moved with the miserable moans of the Southwarkers, left their Burrough, and though towards the evening marched swiftly, silently, secretly to Kingston upon Thames. Speed begets speed, quickness causeth success in matters of execution, as here in Wyat his coming to Kingston before any almost had notice of his motion.

33. But Wyat was not so much advantaged with his own expedition, as with the coincident oversights of the Queens party (whose carelessness and cowardice met together) enough to destroy her cause, had not Divine Providence resolved with final success to rectify all human mistakes. First, such set to order Kingston Bridge did their work by halves, breaking and not breaking it down, so that the substantials standing, the rest were easily repaired for Wyat his safe passage over. Secondly, two hundred men set to defend the opposite bank quitted their Station , the very sight of two pieces of Ordnance planted against them. Thirdly, the Queens Scouts lost their eyes, (and deserved to lose their Heads) who could not discover a Body of four thousand men marching with a large train of Artillery so that the Queen had notice thereof, by the Kentish Fugitives sooner then by her own Scouts.

34. But time soon gained by Wyat was as soon lost, on the accident of a piece of Ordnance breaking its carriage. Now whilst the Army waited the leisure of bringing up this broken piece (an hour to Wyat being of greater consequence then the greatest Gun) he came short of the time prefixed to such Citizens as were Fautours of his cause. Otherwise he had been at London in the night (taking his enemies napping before they dreamt of him) and all terror is most active in the dark, when the less men see, the more they suspect, whereas now it was break of day before they had gotten to Knights-Bridge.

35. Wyat had a double design, and performed them both alike. One violently to take White-Hall, the other peaceably to be taken into London. Captain Vaughan with five hundred Welsh-men (and one would wonder how they should straggle into Kent) embraced the right-hand way towards Westminster, and then wheeled away to White-Hall, his men shooting their arrows (regardless where they lighted) into the windows of the Court, but could not force their passage into it. Wyat went directly to Charing-Cross, where he met with some opposition, but continued his resolution for London.

36. Here one might have observed, that within three hours the tongue of the multitude in London thrice altered their tunes. First they cried,

• 1. A Wyat, a Wyat, every mouth giving the alarm to the next man he met. The next note was
• 2. Treason, Treason, all suspecting that the Earl of Pembroke the Queens General had revolted, because hovering aloof in the fields he

3. Down with the Draggle tails, Down with the Draggle-tails. And indeed no wonder if these Kentish-men marching in the dark, to avoid discovery in the depth of winter through dirty ways were richly landed in their clothes, and well fringed with mire and mud about them.

37. Wyat himself marched directly up the Strand and Fleetstreet with the loss of less then twenty men, and coming to Ludgate promised himself entrance into the City. But there he found nothing forbid his admission save a strong gate close shut and well fortified against him with men and Amunition. From that minuite he went backward both in motion and success. Returning to Fleetstreet He sat down on a Bench over against the Bell Savage (an Inn so called, because given by one Isabell Savage to the Company of Cutlers) and there too late began to bemoan and accuse his own rashness. Retreating to Temple-Barre he was faced with some horse, and after a fight being moved by a Herald to submit himself. Then will I yield saith he to a Gentleman, and so submitted himself (say most) to Sr. Maurice Berkley, say others to Sr. Clement Parton being in neither of them mistaken for their Gentle extraction.

38. Hence was he carried to White-Hall to be examined, thence to the the Tower to be committed; Entring therein Sr. John Bridges Livetenant thereof taking him by the collar with his Dagger in his hand; Ah Traitour, saith he, I would stab thee myself, but that I know thou wilt be executed, to whom the other calmly replied, Sr, now it is no mastery. Some days after he suffered penitently and patiently on the Scaffold, condemning his own act, and therefore we have spoken the less against him, for speaking so much against himself. Fifthly, of his Complices were hanged four hundred, led with ropes about their necks, pardoned by the Queen, and all things stilled and quieted.

39. Long since had Queen Mary sent for Cardinal Poole in Italy, to come over into England. But Charles the Emperor by the Popes power, secretly retarded his return, fearing it might obstruct the propounded marriage betwixt King Philip his Son and Queen Mary. Indeed the Queen bare Poole an unfeighned affection; and no wonder to him that considereth

• 1. Their age. He being about ten years older, the proportion allowed by the Philosopher betwixt Husband and Wife.
• 2. Parentage. She being Daughter to King Henry the eighth. He (by his Mother Margaret, Daughter to George Duke of Clarence) Grandchild to Edward the Fourth.
• 3. Education. Both when young brought up together, the aforesaid Lady Margaret being Governesse of Queen Mary in her infancy.
• 4. Religion. Both zealous Catholics, and suffering, the Queen confinement, the Cardinal exile for the same.

His person also and nature was such as might deserve love, and though a Cardinal Deacon, yet that shallow character might easily be shaved off by the Popes dispensation, so that there was some probability of their marriage: and Oh how Royally Religious would their Ofspring have been extracted from a Crown and a Cardinals Cap.

40. But now when the marriage with Prince Philip was made up; Poole at last got leave for England, and to wipe away all superstition of Lutheranism wherewith he was formerly taxed, he became a Cruel, that he might be believed a Cordial Papist. For meeting in Brabant with Immanuel tremellius, requesting some favor from him, he not only denied him relief, but also returned him railing terms, though formerly he had been his familiar Friend. Yea his Godfather giving him his name at the Font, when Tremellius from a Jew first turned Christian.

41. Arrived in England, he was first ordained Priest (being but Deacon before) and then consecrated Arch-Bishop of Canterbury by Heath, Arch-Bishop of York, and six other Bishops the Queen her self being present thereat, in the Franciscan Church at Greenwich, one of those Bankrupt Covents which her grace had set up again, Three days after he was dedicated in Bow Church in Cheapside, where rich in costly-robes and sitting on a gulded Throne his Pall was presented unto him. Adorned herewith, Poole presently mounts the Pulpit and makes a dry Sermon of the use and honor of the Pall without good language or matter therein (may they all make such who take for their Text what is not in Scripture) many much admiring the jejunenesse of his discourse, as if putting off his parts when putting the Pall upon him.

42. Now sat the second Parliament in this Queens Reign, wherein she parted with her Supremacy to the Pope, and Poole by his power Legatine solemnly reconciled England to the Church of Rome, that is, set it at open odds and enmity with God and his Truth. Then did he dispense with much irregularity in several persons, confirming the Institution of Clergy-men in their Benefices, legitimating the Children of forbidden marriages, ratifying the Processes, and Sentences in matters Ecclestasticall, and his Dispensations were confirmed by Acts of Parliament, as in the Statutes at large appear. Then was Anthony Brown, Viscount Mountacute, Thirleby Bishop of Eli, and Sr. Edward Carne sent on a gratulatorie Embassy to Pope Paul the fourth to tender England's thanks for his great favors conferred thereon: A sad and certain presage of heavy persecution which immediately did ensue.

SECTION. II.

1. WE come now to set down those particular Martyrs that suffered in this Queens Reign. But this point hath been handled already so curiously, and copiously by Mr. Fox, that his industry herein hath starved the endeavors of such as shall succeed him, leaving nothing for their penns, and pains to feed upon. For, what can the man do that cometh after the King? even that which hath been already done, saith Solomon. And Mr. Fox appearing sole Emperor in this subject, all posterity may despair to add any remarkable discoveries, which have escaped his observation. Wherefore to handle this subject after him, what is it, but to light a candle to the Sunn? or rather (to borrow a metaphor from his book) to kindle one single stick to the burning of so many faggots? However, that our pains may not wholly be wanting to the Reader herein, we will methodize these Martyrs, according to the several Dioceses, and make on them some brief observations.

2. In the Diocese of Exeter (containing Cornwall and, Devonshire) I find but one Martyr, namely Agnes Priest, condemned by William Stanford then Judge of the Assise of Lanceston, but burned at Exeter. The tranquility of these parts is truly imputed to the good temper of James Turbervile the Bishop; one, as gentilely qualified, as extracted; and not so cruel to take away the lives from others, as careful to regain the lost livings to his Church: and indeed he recovered to him and his successors, the Feefarme of the Manor of Crediton. Yet to show his sincerity in Religion, that he might not seem to do nothing, he dipped his fingers in this poor woman's blood, but did not afterwards wash his hands in the persecution of any other Protestant for ought we can find in any history.

3. The like quiet disposition of Gilbert Bourn, Bishop of Bath and Wells secured Somerset shire. Indeed, he owed his life under God, to the protection of a Protestant (for Mr. Bradford at Paul's-cross, saved him from a dagger thrown at him in a tumult) and this perchance, made him the more tender to Protestants lives. Yet in the Register of his Church, we meet with one Richard Lash condemned by him, though his execution doth not appear, and yet it is probable, that this poor Isaac, thus bound to the Altar, was afterward sacrificed, except some intervening Angel stayed the stroke of the sword.

4. So also the Diocese of Bristol, made up of Dorset -shire, and part of Gloucester -shire, enjoyed much quietness, John Holyman the Bishop did not for ought I can find, profane himself with any barbarous cruelty. But Mr. Dalby his Chancellor (as an active Lieutenant to a dull Captain) sent three, namely, Richard Sharpe, Thomas Benton, and Thomas Hale, to the stake at Bristol, for the testimony of the truth. This Dalby knowing himself to be low in parts and learning, and despairing otherwise to appear in the world, thought, the only way to recommend himself to men's notice, was, to do it by his cruelty.

5. More sparks of persecution flew into the Diocese of Sarisbury, in Wiltshire and Barkshire, under John Capon the Bishop, and Dr. Geffray his Chancellor, for, this D • eg was worse then Saul himself. At Nubery he sent three Martyrs to heaven in the same chariot of fire, Jalius Palmer, John G • in, and Thomas Askin. Yea, this was but a light flourish, in respect of that great blow he intended, had not heaven prevented him, and many others of his bloody crew, by the death of Queen Mary; whereby, to use David's phrase, God smote them on the cheek-bone, and brake the teeth of the ungodly.

6. In the Diocese of Winchester, consisting of Hantshire, and Surrey, I find no great impression from Stephen Garainer the Bishop, and much marvel thereat. It may be this politician, who managed his malice with cunning, spared his own Diocese, fox-like preying farthest from his own den. Indeed he would often stay behind the traverse, and send Bonner upon the stage (free enough of himself without spurring to do mischief) to act what he had contrived. Yea, I may say of Gardener, that he had an head, if not an hand, in the death of every eminent Protestant; plotting, though not acting, their destruction. And, being Lord Chancellor of England, he counted it his honor, to fly at stout game indeed, contriving the death of the Lady Elizabeth, and using to say, that it was vain to strike at the branches, whilst the root of all Heretics doth remain. And this good Lady was appointed for the slaughter, and brought to the shambles, when the seasonable death of this butcher, saved the sheep alive.

7. However (as bloody as he was) for mine own part, I have particular gratitude to pay to the memory of this Stephen Gardener, and here I solemnly tender the same. It is on the account of Mrs. Clarke my great Grandmother by my mothers side, whose husband rented Farnham-Castle, a place whither Bishop Gardener retired, in Surrey, as belonging to his Sea. This Bishop, sensible of the consumptionous state of his body, and finding physic out of the Kitchen more beneficial for him, then that out of the Apothecaries shop, and special comfort from the Cordials she provided him; did not only himself connive at her Heresy, as he termed it, but also protected her during his life, from the fury of others. Some will say, this his courtesy to her, was founded on his kindness to himself. But however, I am so far from detaining thanks from any, deserved on just cause, that I am ready to pay them, where they are but pretended due on any color.

8. Sussex smarted more than all the forenamed Counties together, under John Christopherson Bishop of Chichester. This man was well learned, and had turned Eusebius his Ecclesiastical History into latin, with all the persecutions of the Primitive Christians. What he translated in his youth, he practiced in his age, turning Tyrant himself, and scarce was he warm in his Bishopric, when he fell a burning the poor Martyrs. Ten in one fire at Lewis, and seventeen others at several times in sundry places.

9. In the Diocese of Canterbury, Cardinal Poole appeared not personally active in the prosecution of any to death. Whilest others impute this to his stateliness, not stooping to so small matters; we more charitably ascribe it to his favoring of the Protestant party, having formerly lost the Papacy under that imputation. But, seeing it is a true Maxim, which an heathen man layeth down; it is enough for a private man, that he himself do no wrong; but a public person must provide, that those under him do no injury to others; I see not, how the Cardinal can be excused, from the guilt of that innocent blood, which Thornton his Suffragan, and Harpsfield his Arch-Deacon, shed like water, in, and about the City of Canterbury.

10. The Diocese of Rochester (containing the remainder of Kent) was of small extent. But, that stock must be very little indeed, out of which the ravenous Wolf cannot fetch some prey for himself. Morris the Bishop played the tyrant therein, being the first in Queen Mary's days that condemned a woman ( Margery Polley by name) to be burnt for religion; with many moe who at Dartford, or Rochester, sealed the truth with their lives.

11. Cross we the Thames to come into Middlesex, and Essex, the Diocese of London under Bishop Bonner, whom all generations shall call Bloody. St. Paul mentioneth his fighting with beasts at Ephesus after the manner of men, which some expound, his encountering with people, men for their shape, and sex; but beasts for their cruel minds, and manners. In the same sense we may say, that Lion, Tiger, Wolf, Bear; yea, a whole forest of wild beasts met in Bonner, killing two hundred in the compass of three years. And, as if his cruelty had made him Metropolitan of all England, he stood not on distinction of Dioceses, but martyred all, wheresoever he met them. Thus Mr. Philpot belonged to Gardiners Jurisdiction, and often pleaded in vain, that Bonner was none of his Ordinary, yet Bonner (Ordinary, or Extraordinary) dispatched him, who cared not whence men came, but only whither he sent them. No sex, quality, or age, escaped him, whose fury reached from John Fetty a lad of eight years old, by him scourged to death; even unto Hugh Laverock, a Creeple, sixty eight years old, whom he caused to be burnt.

12. Dr. Story Dean of Paul's must not be forgotten, being under Bonner a most cruel persecutor. Was not this false Herauldry, cruelty on cruelty? Well; So it seemed good to Divine Providence, as conducing most to the peace of the Church, that one place rather then two, should be troubled with such damnable Tyrants. Bonner persecuted by whole-sale, Story by Retail; the former enjoined, the later attended the execution; What Bonner bade, Story beheld to be performed. Yea, sometimes he made cruel additions of his own invention; As, when he caused a faggot to be tossed in the face of Mr. Denlie the Martyr, when he was ready to be burnt. How he was rewarded afterwards for his cruelty, by God's blessing in due place.

13. Under the same Torrid Zone of persecution (but a little more temperate) lay Norfolk, and Suffolk, in the Diocese of Norwich. Bishop Hopton was unmerciful in his Visitations; but Downing the Chancellor plai'd the Devil himself; enough to make wood dear in those parts, so many did he consume to ashes, whose several examinations are at large set down in the Book of Martyrs.

14. Eli Diocese [Cambridge-Shire] succeeds, whose Bishop Dr. Thyrlby was a learned, discreet, and moderate man; witness his meek behavior at the degrading of Arch-Bishop Cranmer, shedding plentiful tears thereat. But, can water, and fire, weeping, and burning, come from the same person? Surely so it did here; for afterwards he singled out John Hullier (as the Representative for all the Protestants in his Diocese) whom he caused to be burnt at Cambridge. The shedding his blood was as giving earnest of his zeal in the Popish cause, though afterward he made no farther payment in this kind; justly offending the Protestants for doing so much, yet scarcely pleasing the Papists, because he did no more. As for the execution of William Woolsey, and Robert Pigot, in this Diocese: Thurlby was no whit interested therein, but the guilt thereof must be shared, betwixt Dr. Fuller the Chancellor, and other Commissioners.

15. In Peterborough Diocese (consisting of North-hampton-shire, and Rutland) I find but one, John Kurde, a Shooe-maker, burnt at Northhampton. But, this his death I cannot charge on the account of David Poole the Bishop, as consenting thereunto, because William Binsley Bachelor of law, and Chancellor of Peterborough, was only his active Prosecutor.

16. Lincoln Diocese is next, the largest of the whole Kingdom, containing Lincoln, Leicester, Huntingdon, Bedford, and Buckingham, besides parts of Hartford and Warwick -shires. Now, according to the rules of proportion, who could expect otherwise, but, the moe men, the moe Martyrs? The greater the Province, the more grievous the persecution? But, it fell out the clean countrary, finding but one Martyr in all that space of ground (a Merchants servant burnt at Leicester.) Frivolous is their reason, who impute this to the disposition of White, Bishop of this Diocese (the first half of Queen Mary's Reign) whom they behold, as poetically given; of more fancy, then fury, which vented itself in verses; more pleased to lash the Heretics with a Satyr, then suck their blood by destructive courses. As little credit is to be given to their conceit, who ascribe the following tranquility of this Diocese to Bishop Watson, Whites successor therein; because he was a man so buried in the speculations of School-Divinity, that it unactiv'd him to be practical in persecution. I say again, both these reasons amount not to any partial cause, of the peace of this Diocese. For we know full well, that after the coming in of Queen Elizabeth, this White, and this Watson discovered keenness, and fierceness of spirit against Her, more then any other Bishops; in so much, that they threatened Her with an excommunication. I conceive the true cause was this; Lincoln Diocese, in the Reign of Henry the eighth, had borne the heat of the day, when Buckingham-shire alone (as we have formerly observed) afforded more Martyrs then all England beside. God therefore thought it fit, that other Dioceses should now take their turns; that this of Lincoln, harraged out before, should now lie fallow, whilst other Countries, like rest-ground, should suffer persecution, whereon indeed the plowers plowed, and made long furrows.

17. The Dioceses of Oxford, Gloucester, Hereford, and Worcester, under their respective Bishops, Robert Kinge, James Brook, Robert Parfew, and Richard Pates, enjoyed much quiet, It being true of them, what is said of Judea, Galilee, and Samaria, after the conversion of Paul, Then hid the Churches rest throughout all those places. This principally flowed from God's gracious goodness, who would not have all places at once equally embroiled. It is not fit, that all the rooms in the house, should only be chimney, furnace, or oven, but that it should also afford some other places for quiet repose. And yet I wonder much, that we find no fire (and very little smoke) in Gloucester-shire, seeing Brook, the Bishop thereof is charactered to be A great Persecutor of Protestants. Indeed his fury spent itself most abroad; who, either being, or accounting himself a great Scholar, stickled much at Oxford against Arch-Bishop Cranmer, pretending himself to be a Commissioner immediately Delegate from the Pope, and venting his malice against that good Prelate, in two Orations, only remarkable for their length, and bitterness.

18. Ralph Baynes was Bishop of Coventrie, and Lichfield, late Professor of Hebrew in Paris, who also wrote a Comment on the Proverbs, and dedicated it to Francis the first King of France. Sure I am, he forgot a passage of Solomon's therein Prov. 14. 21. But he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is • e. This Baines proving a blodie persecutor of God's poor servants in his Jurisdiction. The gentile birth and breeding of Mrs. Joyce Louis, was not too high for him to reach at, and the poor condition of Joan Wast, a blind woman in Darbie was not too low for him to stoop to, condemning them both to death, with many other faithful witnesses of the truth.

19. The Arch-Bishopric of York enjoyed much peace, and tranquility under D ^r . Nicolas Heath, a meek, and conscientious man. It is enough to intimate his moderate temper, equal, and disengaged from violent extremities, that Primo Elizabethae in the Disputation between the Papists, and Protestants, he was chosen by the Privy Council, one of the Moderatours. And, as he shown mercy in prosperity, he found it in adversity, in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth, though deposed from his dignity, repos'd in a peaceable quietness. So that his impotent age might rather seem seasonably eased of troublesome greatness, than abridged of any requisites for his comfortable supportation.

20. D ^r . Cotes was Bishop of Chester, who washed his hands in the blood of M ^r . George March burnt at Chester. At whose execution, I understand not the addition of a pitched barrel placed above his head, certainly to enflame the flame; but, whether out of kindness, to hasten his death; or cruelty, to increase his pain, I dare not decide. Sure I am, Cotes died soon after, and Cuthberi Scot succeeded in his Bishopric, one very busy about the burning of Bu •• rs body in Cambridge, but otherwise I find no persecution raised by him in his own Diocese.

21. The Bishopric of Durham had Halcyon days of ease, and quiet, under God, and good Cuthbert Tonstall the Bishop thereof. A learned man, of a sweet disposition, rather devout to follow his own, than cruel to persecute the conscience of others. Indeed, he being present in London at the examination of divers Martyrs, would sometimes fly out in base and unbeseeming language (as when he called Bishop Hooper beast for being married) yet his passion herein may the rather be pardoned, because politically presumed, to bark the more, that he might bite the less, as appeared by his courteous carriage in his own Diocese. For, I meet with the marginal note in M ^r . Fox, which indeed justly deserved even in the fairest letters, to be inserted in the body of his book. Note that Bishop Tonstall in Queen Mary's time was no great bloody persecutor. For, M ^r . Russel a Preacher was before him, and D ^r . Himner his Chancellor would have had him examined more particularly. The Bishop slayed him, saying, Hitherto we have had a good report among our neighbors, I pray you bring not this man's blood upon my head. But more of this Cuthbert Tonstall hereafter.

22. The Diocese also of Carlisle was not molested with any great troubles under Owen Oglethorp, the Bishop thereof, one qualified with a moderate temper. It argueth no less, because afterward he crowned Queen Elizabeth, an office which all other Bishops, then stiffly denied to perform. But, to speak plain English, though the peaceableness of these northerne Bishoprics, procceded partly from the mildeness of those that sat in the Episcopal chairs thereof; yet it must be remembered, that even want of matter for persecution to work on, conduced much to the peace of those places. The beams of the Gospel being neither so bright, nor so hot in these parts, where ignorance, and superstition generally prevailed.

23. The same may be said of all Wales, where casting over our eye, we discover no considerable persecution, under the Bishops of Asaph, and Bangor. But, as for the Bishop of Landaffe, his proceedings against good Raulins White (whom he caused to be burnt at Cardiffe) was remarkable, as standing alone without precedent. For, He caused his Chaplain to say a mass (the first I believe, that found out, and last that used that way) for the conversion of the said Rawlins, though the same proved ineffectual.

24. But D ^r . Morgan, Bishop of S ^t . David's, is paramount for his cruelty, passing the sentence of condemnation on Robert Farrar, his immediate predecessor, whom he caused to be burnt at Carmarthen. We know whose counsel it was; This is the heir, come let us kill him, that the inheritance may be ours. And Morgan never thought himself in quiet possession of his Bishopric, whilst Farrar was as yet in possession of his life. However, herein, Morgan, Out-Bonnered even Bonner himself, who (though not out of pity, of policy) did not himself condemn Ridley his Predecessour, but procured him to be sent to Oxford, to be sentenced by others; whereas this Bishop himself pronounced the sentence on Farrar; an act which no good man could, and no wife man would have done. Thus have we briefly surveyed all the Dioceses in England; The Universities of Cambridge, and Oxford only excepted; which, being Peculiars, and exempt from Episcopal Jurisdiction, are reserved for a particular description, by God's blessing, at the end of this book. Nor do we forget, (though acted out of the Continent of England) that cruel murder in the Isle of Garnsey; where, the infant bursting out of the mothers womb (the cruel fire being so merciful, as to be the midwife, to separate, and tender the innocent babe, from the condemned mother, to the charity of the beholders) was first taken out of the fire, and then cast in again, and burnt with the mother thereof.

25. In all this Army of Martyrs, M ^r . John Rogers, burnt in Smithfield February the 4 ^th . 1555. led the Van; and five Martyrs burnt at Canterbury, November the 10 ^th . 1558. (namely John Cornford, Christopher Brown, John Herst, John Snoth, and Katharine Knight) brought up the Rear, according to their own prayer (not to say prophesy) at the stake, that they might be the last, as by God's mercy it so proved. All these were executed in the four last years of Queen Mary's Reign, none suffering in the first year thereof. In which time, the Butchers under Her, did only prepare their shambles for slaughter, whet their knives, and make ready their instruments of cruelty. Comparisons, I know, are odious, and the more, when made betwixt persons of eminency. However, to such as peruse the whole story, these proportions will appear true. Of all the Marian Martyrs, M ^r . Philpot was the best borne Gentleman; Bishop Ridley the profoundest Scholar; M ^r . Bradford the holiest, and devoutest man; Arch-Bishop Cranmer of the mildest, and meekest temper; Bishop-Hooper of the sternest, and austerest nature; D ^r . Taylor had the merriest, and pleasantest wit; M ^r . Latimer had the plainest and simplest heart; &c. Oh the variety of these several instruments! Oh their joint harmony in a consort to God's glory!

26. It is observable, that the Sacrament of the Altar was the main touchstone, to discover the poor Protestants. Many indeed, are the differences betwixt us and the Romish Church, but on this point the examiners pinched most. Haply, because in other controversies, Protestants (hunted after by those blood-hounds) might take covert under some tolerable distinction, and thereby evade the danger. Whereas this point of the real, corporal presence of Christ in the Sacrament, the self same body that was crucified, was such down-right falsehood, it was incapable of any palliation, and was the compendious way to disover those of the contrary opinion. This neck-question (as I may term it) the most dull and duncicall Commissioner was able to ask; and thanks be to God, the silliest Protestant-soul brought before them, was able to answer, first by denying it, then by dying in the defense of his denial.

27. Remarkable was their cruelty in pretorturing of many, whom afterwards they put to death. Herein akinn in their proceedings to Pilate, first scourging, then crucifying Christ. By what law did Edmond Terrill first burn the hand of Rose Allen, and her body afterwards? Even by the same that Bonner first burnt the hand of Thomas Tomkins, and then commanded him to be dispatched out of the way: By the same law, that Cuthbert Simpson was first cruelly racked, and then burnt, even by the law of their own might, and malice, not having otherwise any rag of legality, to cover the shame of their cruelty. Nature was merciful in appointing that all men should once die; whereas, had these Tyrants had the ordering thereof, they would have made divers to have died sundry times: yea, such was their cruelty, that, after once they had eat up God's servants, if possible, they would have chewed the cud upon them the second time.

28. Some Commissioners privately were courteous to the Martyrs, who notwithstanding publicly concur'd to their condemnation. It is Luther's observation, that in Scripture, son of man is always taken in a good sense, but sons of men generally in the worst acception. Sure I am, take some of these men sole, and single by themselves, they were well natured, pitiful, and compassionate; but, when in conjunction with others, they became (at least by consenting) as cruel as the rest. What favor did D ^r . Fuller, Chancellor of Eli, offer William Woolsey, and Robert Piggot, when alone? yet, when in complication with other Commissioners, pronounced the sentence of condemnation upon them.

29. Passe we now from the Judicial, to the Ministerial Persecutours; Sherisss, Under-sheriffs, Bailiffs, Promoters, Summoners &c. The locusts had tails like unto Scorpions, and there were stings in their tails. So here in officers, the baser, the bloodier; the meaner the more malicious; though by particular exception, some happened to be more merciful then others. Of the Twin-Sherisss in London (M ^r . Woodroffe, and Mr. Chester) the former like Esau, had his hands rough, and hairy, being rugged and surly to God's servants; whilst Mr. Chester Jacob -like, had smooth hands, kind, and courteous to such as suffered. Thus Amrie (as I take it) the Sheriff of Chester, was most cruel to M ^r . George Marsh, whilst the Sheriff of Stafford-shire (pity it is, M ^r . Fox hath not recorded his name) was afterward persecuted, for showing so much favor to Mrs. Joyce Louis at her execution, when he said Amen to her prayer, desiring God to deliver this Realm from Papistry.

30. One prison may, comparatively, be a paradise in respect of another, and generally 'tis the Jailor puts the difference betwixt them. How passionately did poor Jeremy plead? Cause me not to return to the house of Jonathan the Scribe lest I die there. And therefore he took it for a special favor to be sent to the Court of the prison. How nasty a place was the dungeon of Malchiah, into which Jeremiah was afterward cast? till Ebed-melech the blackmore drew him out thence? Now, amongst the fruitful generation of Jayles in London, there were (though never a better) some less bad amongst them. I take the Marshalls-see to be in those times, the best for usage of prisoners. But, oh the misery of God's poor Saints in Newgate, under Alexander the Jailor, more cruel than his namesake the copper-smith was to S ^t . Paul; in Lollards-Tower, the Clinke, and Bonners Cole-house; a place which minded them of the manner of their death, first kept amongst coles, before they were burnt to ashes.

31. It is more then suspicious, that many of these silly souls were hurried to the stake, even against those laws which then stood in force in the Realm, before the Writ De Haeretico comburendo was issued out against them. For, what the Jews said to Pilate, It is not lawful for us to put any man to death; The Ecclesiastical censures may say to the Secular Power in England, We have no power of life or limb, but the inflicting punishments on both, must be devolv'd to the civil Magistrate. Yet D ^r . Gefferie Chancellor of Sarisburie stood not on such legal niceties, but hastened them to the stake, more minding the end to which, than the justice of the proceedings, whereby he sent them thither.

32. All who met at last in final constancy, manifested not equal intermediate cheerfulness. Some were more stout, bold, and resolute; others more faint, fearful, and timorous. Of the later was Arch-Bishop Cranmer, who first subscribed a recantation, but afterwards recanted his subscription, and valiantly burned at the stake. Thus he that stumbleth, and doth not fall down, gaineth ground thereby, as this good man's slip mended his pace to his martyrdom. It is also observable, that married people, the parents of many children, suffered death with most alacrity. M ^r . Rogers, and D ^r . Taylor may be the instances thereof. The former of these, if consulting with flesh and blood, had eleven strong reasons to favor himself, I mean, a wife, and ten children, all which abated not his resolution.

33. Besides these who were put to death, some scores (not to say hundreds) died, or rather were killed with stench, starving and strait usage in prison. I am not satisfied in what distance properly to place these persons. Some, perchance, will account it too high, to rank them amongst Martyrs; and surely, I conceive it too low, to esteem them but bare Confessors. The best is, the Herauldry of heaven knows how to marshall them, in the place of dignity due unto them; where, long since, they have received the reward of their patience.

34. Miraculous was God's providence, in protecting many which were condemned to the stake. It is part of the praise of his power . To hear the groaning of the prisoner, to loose those that are appointed to death. In David's expression There was but a step between them, and death; which step also had been stepped, had not one instantly step'd aside, I mean the seasonable death of Queen Mary. She melancholicke in mind, unhealthful in body, little feared of Her foreign foes, less beloved by Her native Subjects, not over-dear to Her own Husband, unsuccessefull in Her treaties for peace, and unfortunate in Her undertakings for war, having deceived the Gentry of Norfolk and Suffolk, by Her false promises, was deceived Her self by a false conception, and having consumed so many of God's Saints by fire, died Her self by water, an hydropicall Tympanie.

35. Observable was the mercy of the Protestants to these persecutors, after the power was delivered into their hands, under the Reign of Queen Elizabeth; by whom none of the aforesaid Tyrants were prosecuted, or molested, for any act of cruelty done by them in the days of Queen Mary. Nor suffered they in the least degree, on their former account, except they ran on a new score of contempt against the Queen and State. As such Bishops who, in the first of Her Reign, refused the Oath of Supremacy. Otherwise, all such as conformed to Her Government, were not only permitted to enjoy their old, but admitted to new preferment. Witness M ^r . Binsley, Chancellor of Peterborough, who condemned John Kurde of Northampton, yet in Queen Elizabeth's days had the Arch-Deaconry of Peterborough conferred upon him. Thus, while Papists heap fagots on Protestants, Protestants, according to Solomon's counsel, heap coals on them (courtesies, and civilities) to melt them if possible into remorse.

36. But, though the Protestants shown much mercy to the Papists, their persecutors, yet the God of the Protestants manifested much justice, in their woeful, and wretched deaths. I confess, God's best servants sometimes have had sad and sudden ends; witness good Eli himself, who fell down, and brake his neck. I confess likewise, that some wicked men, who have lived like Lions, have died (to use the common country phrase) like Lambs; or to use the expression of the Psalmist, They have no bands in their death, so fairly, and quietly do they expire. It is not good therefore to be over tampering in this particular (our Savior himself retrenching the censoriousness of the Jews, for falling so heavy on the memories of those on whom the tower of Siloam fell and infallibly to infer from their fatal death, their final damnation. However, when a remarkable death, suddenly follows a notorious wicked life, even such passengers, as are posting in the speed of their private affairs, are bound to make a stand, and solemnly to observe the justice of God's proceedings therein. The rather, because Bellarmine our adversary affirmeth, that Infelix exitus Adversariorum, the unhappy end of the Adversaries thereof, is one of the marks of the true Church. These cautions premised, take a few of many signal fatalities of these wicked persecutors.

37. Morgan, Bishop of S ^t . David's (who sentenced Farrar his predecessor) not long after was stricken in so strange a sort, that his meat would rise up, sometimes out of his mouth, sometimes out of his nose, most horrible to behold, but more terrible to endure, and so continued till his death. Judge Morgan, who condemned the Lady Jane, soon after ran mad, and sodied, having all ways in his mouth, Lady Jane, Lady Jane, Dunning, the bloody Chancellor of Norwich, died suddenly, taken (as some say) sitting in his chair. Berrie, the remorsless Commissary in Norfolk, fell down suddenly to the ground with an heavy groan, and never stirred after. Thornton, the Suffragan of Dover, looking upon his men, playing at bowls, was upon a sudden struck with a palsy, had thence to his death-bed, and, being advised by some to remember God, yea, so I do (saith he) and my Lord Cardinal too. D ^r . Gesserte, the bloody Chancellor of Sarisburie, died suddenly on a Saturday, the day before he had appointed, moe than ninety persons to be examined by inquisition. M ^r . Woodrosse, that cruel Sheriff of London, being but a week out of his office, was so stricken by the hand of God, that for seven years space, till his dying-day, he was not able to move himself in his bed. Burton the cruel Bailie of Crowland, was poisoned to death, with the stench of a crows dung, muting on his face. What shall I speak of Dale, the Promoter, eaten up with lice? Alexander the Keeper of Newgate, consumed with offensive rottenness? Robert Balding, smitten with lightning, at the taking of William Seaman? Clarke, who hanged himself in the Tower, with many moe? So that we may conclude with the prophecy of Moses, Rejoice O ye nations with his people, for he will avenge the blood of his servants, and will render vengeance to his adversaries, and will be merciful unto his land, and to his people.

38. And now, to take our leaves of those Martyrs, what remains? but, 1. That we glorify God in, and for their patience; who had given such power unto men. 2. That we praise God, that true doctrine at this day, may be professed at an easier rate, then in that age. In Fairs, and Markets, for the most part, commodities are sold dearest in the morning, which towards evening may be bought at a lower price. Sure I am, they paid most for the Protestant-Religion at the dawning of the day from Popery (life, or limb, was the lowest price thereof) which since may be purchased at a cheaper penny-worth. 3. That we embrace, and defend that doctrine, which they sealed with their lives; and as occasion shall be offered to vindicate, and assert their memories, from such scandalous tongues, and penns, as have, or shall traduce them.

39. It is inconsistent with our History, here to enter the lists, with that railing book which Parsons the Jesuit hath made against those good Martyrs. Only be it remembered, that his Cavil-General is chiefly at their calling, because they were most Mechanics, Weavers, Shooe-makers &c. An exception lying as well against just Joseph, a Carpenter; hospital Simon, a Tanner; zealous Aquila, and Priscilla, Tent-makers; attentive Lydia, a purple-seller. And is it not injurious to infer their piety to be less, because their painfulness was more? If it be farther objected, that it is improbable, that these fillie souls should be more illuminated with knowledge, than the great Doctors of the Romish Church: know that Christ's birth was revealed to the shepherds in their calling, watching their flocks by night, and concealed from the Priests, and Pharisees (the pretended shepherds of Israel: and, God might give more light to these industrious artificers, than to their idle Masters of Arts.

40. Behold your calling (saith the Apostle) how not many wise men after the flesh &c. But God hath chosen the foolish things of this world to confound the wise. And, always in time of persecution, the Church is like a copse, which hath in it more under-wood than oakes. For, great men consult with their safety; and, whilst the poorer sort (as having little to lose) boldly embrace religion with both arms; the rich (too often) do only behold it at distance, with a smiling countenance; but dare not adventure to entertain it, except with very great secrecy. We conclude all with this observation, that such Martyrs, as were artificers by their vocation, humbly continued in the station, wherein Divine Providence had placed them, none presuming (as too many nowadays) to invade the ministerial function, not adventuring to preach, save only that their real Sermon of patience at their death.

41. So much for the first form, of Christians in those days, which were martyred. A second sort succeeds of such, who, being Confessors for the Faith, fled into foreign parts from persecution. This their removal is not only defended from cowardice, but warranted for Christian Policy by our Savior's precept, But when they persecute you in this City, flee into another. Had all fled, Religion had been at a loss for champions, to defend her for the present, had none fled, Religion might have been at a loss for champions, to maintain her for the future. We will give in a particular, both of such eminent persons, and of the places wherein they were entertained. Partly, that such places may receive their deserved praise, for their hospitality to exiles: and partly, that our harbouring the banished Dutch (flying many years after from the cruelty of Duke d' Alva in London, Norwich, Canterbury, Colchester, and Sandwich, may appear, not so much the giving of a free, and fair courtesy; as the honest paying of a due debt, and wiping off an old score run on trust by our great-grand-fathers.

• Som seated themselves at,
  • 1. Emden, in East-Frizland, a Staple-Town of English Merchants. I find neither the names, nor number of those that harboured here; only it appears, that John Scorie, late bishop of Chicester, was here Superintendent of the English Congregation in Emden.
  • 2. Weasel, then in the Dominions (as I take it) of the Duke of Cleve, but bordering on the Low-Countries, in the possession of the King of Spain. The English meeting here, was rather a Chapel, then a Church; or, rather a Tabernacle, then a Chapel; because soon set up, and as suddenly taken down again. For they, who formerly had fled so far from Mary, were now loath to live too near to Philip; and, for fear of so potent a neighbor, quickly forsook this place, and disposed themselves elsewhere, in these four following Church Colonies.
  • 3. Arrow, a small city in Switzerland, on the banks of the River Arrola, belonging to the Republic of Berne. The most noted men abiding here were
    • Thomas Leaver.
    • Robert poumall.
    • Richard Laughorne.
    • Thomas Turpin.
    • Boys.
    • Willford
    • Vpchaire.
  • 4. Strasburgh, where they found most courteous entertainment. The most eminent English, abiding here, as may be collected from their solemn joint-subscription to a letter, were
    • James Haddon.
    • Edwin Sandys.
    • Edmond Grindal.
    • John Huntingdon.
    • Guido Eaten.
    • John Geoffrey.
    • John Peader.
    • Thomas Eaten.
    • Michael Reymuger.
    • Augustine Bradbridge.
    • Arthur Saul.
    • Thomas Steward.
    • Christopher Goodman.
    • Humsrey Alcocson.
    • Thomas
    • Thomas
    • Lakin.
    • Crafton.
  • 5. Zurich. This was no formed Congregation of Pastors, and people; but rather a flock of Shepherds, and therefore the letters unto them carry this style in their superscription, To the Students at Zurich. But, behold their names,
    • Robert Horne.
    • Richard Chambers.
    • Thomas Leaver.
    • Nicolas Karvile.
    • John Mullings.
    • Thomas Spenser.
    • Thomas Bentham.
    • William Cole.
    • John Parkhurst.
    • Roger Kelke.
    • Robert Beamont.
    • Laurence Humsrey.
    • Henry Cockraft.
    • John Pretio.
  • 6. Frankford on the Meine. Where they found the State very favorable unto them. And this was the most visible, and conspicuous English Church beyond the seas, consisting of
    • John Bale.
    • Edmond Sutton.
    • John Makebraie.
    • William Whittingham.
    • Thomas Cole.
    • William Williams.
    • George Chidley.
    • William Hammon.
    • Thomas Steward.
    • Thomas Wood.
    • John Stanton.
    • William Walton.
    • Jasper Swyft.
    • John Geofric.
    • John Graie.
    • Mighell Gill.
    • John Samford.
    • John wood.
    • Thomas Sorby.
    • Anthony Cariar.
    • Hugh Alford.
    • George Whetnall.
    • Thomas Whetnall.
    • Edward Sutton.
    • John Fox.
    • Laurence Kent.
    • William Kethe.
    • John Hollingham.

Here we omit their petty Sanctuaries, having (like David) places, where himself, and his men were wont to haunt, Deesburgh, Wormes, &c. Where their straggling numbers amounted not to the constitution of a Church. If these Congregations be compared together, Emden will be found the richest for substance (there the Merchants which bear the bag;) Weasel the shortest for continuance; Arrow the slenderest for number; Strasburgh of the most quiet temper; Zurich had the greatest scholars, and Frankford had the largest privileges. Nor let any wonder, if some in these Catalogues, assigned to one colonie, were afterwards found in another; seeing the Apostles expression, We have here no biding City, hath in it a single truth in time of peace, and at least a double one in time of persecution; men slitting from place to place, as they were advised by their own security. Know also, that besides these (the first founders of these several Congregations) many additional persons, coming afterwards out of England, joined themselves thereunto.

42. Come we now to set down the sad troubles of Frankford, rending these banished exiles asunder, into several factions. This I dare say, if the Reader takes no more delight in perusing, than I in penning so doleful a subject, he will show little mirth in his face, and feel less joy in his heart. However we will be somewhat large, and wholly impartial in relating this sorrowful accident; the rather, because the pen-knives of that age, are grown into swords in ours, and their writings laid the foundations of the fightings nowadays.

43. The English exiles came first to Frankford June the 24 ^th . and on the 14 ^th . of July following, by the special favor, and mediation of M ^r . John Glauberg, one of the chief Senators of that State had a Church granted unto them: yet so, as they were to hold the same in Coparcenie with the French-Protestants, they one day, and the English another; and on Sunday, alternately to choose their hours, as they could best agree amongst themselves. The Church was also granted them with this proviso, That they should not dissent from the French in doctrine, or ceremony, lest thereby they should minister occasion of offense. On the 29 ^th . of the same month, our English with great joy, entered their new Church, and had two Sermons preached therein, to their singular comfort. About which time they constituted their Church, choosing a Minister, and Deacons for a time; and, out of conformity to the French, abrogated many things, formerly used by them in the Church of England, as namely,

• 1. They concluded, that the answering aloud after the Minister should not be used.
• 2. The Litany, Surplice, and other ceremonies in Service, and Sacraments, they omitted, both as superstuous, and superstitious.
• 3. In place of the English Confession, they used another, adjudged by them of more effect, and framed according to the State and Time.
• 4. The same ended, the people sung a Psalm in meeter, in a plain tune.
• 5. That done, the Minister prayed for assistance of God's Spirit, and so proceeded to the Sermon.
• 6. After Sermon, a general prayer for all States, and particularly for England, was devised, which was ended with the Lord's prayer.
• 7. Then followed a rehearsal of the Articles of Belief, which ended, the people sung another psalm, as before.
• 8. Lastly, the Minister pronounced the blessing. The peace of God &c. or the like, and so the people departed.

What is meant by framing their Confession according to the State and Time, I understand not (must our confessions, as our clothes follow the fashions of the State, and place we live in?) except it be this, that it was made more particularly, not only for sinners, but for exiles, acknowledging their present banishment, justly inflicted on them for their offenses. The prayer devised after Sermon, according to the genuine sense of the word, seems no extemporary prayer then conceived by the Minister, but a set form formerly agreed upon by the Congregation. Thus have we a true account of their Service; conceive it only of such things, wherein they differed from the English Liturgy, not of such particulars wherein they concur'd therewith; the cause (as I conceive) why no mention of reading of psalms, and chapters in their Congregation. These certainly were not omitted, and probably were inserted betwixt the Confession, and singing the first psalm.

44. Thus settled in their Church, their next care was to write letters, Dated August the first, to all the English Congregations, at Strasburgh, Zurich, Weasel, Emden &c. to invite them, with all convenient speed to come, and join with them at Frankford. This is the Communion of Saints, who never account themselves peacably possessed of any happiness until (if it be in their power) they have also made their fellow-sufferers, partakers thereof. However, this their invitation found not any great entertainment amongst the other English Church-Colonies; all delaying, and some denying to come; but especially those of Zurich were most refractory, and shown least inclination to repair to Frankford.

45. This occasioned several reiterated letters from Frankford; pressing, and requiring those of Zurich deeply to weigh this matter of God's calling, and the necessity of uniting themselves in one Congregation. Let none say that Frankford might as well come to Zurich as Zurich to Frankford; because the English-Zurichians (though not in number) in learning, and quality equalled, if not exceeded those of Frankford. For Frankford was nearer to England, and more convenient for receiving intelligence thence, and returning it thither. Besides all Christendom met at Frankford twice a year (the vernal and autumnal mart) and, grant there was more learning at Zurich, there were moe books at Frankford, with conveniences to advance their studies. But chiefly, at Frankford the Congregation enjoyed most ample privileges; and it was conceived it would much conduce to the credit, and comfort of the English Church, if the dispersed handfulls of their exiles, were bound up in one sheaf, united into one congregation, where they might serve God in purity of faith, and integrity of life, having both Doctrine, and Discipline free from any mixture of superstation.

46. Notwithstanding this their importunity, those of Zurich made no other addresses to Frankford, than by dilatory letters excusing themselves from coming thither. Some saw no absolute necessity, that all the English should repair to one place; conceiving it rather safer, to adventure themselves in several bottoms, and live in distinct Colonies. Others were displeased with the imperative style of the letter from Frankford, requiring them to come thither; exceeding the bounds of counsel for convenience, into command for conscience: yea, charging recusancy herein, as a sin on the soul of the refusers. They pleaded, they were already peacably seated, and courteously used at Zurich: and, to go away before they had the least injury offered them, was to offer an injury to those, who, so long and lovingly had entertained them. Some insisted on the material point, how they should be maintained at Frankford, there being more required to their living there, than their bare coming thither. But, the main was, those of Zurich were resolved no whit to recede from the liturgy used in England under the reign of King Edward the 6 ^th . and, except these of Frankford would give them assurance, that coming thither they should have the full and free use thereof, they utterly refused any communion with their Congregation.

SECTION. III.

ABout this time M ^r . John Knox came from Geneva, and was chosen by the Congregation of Frankford, for their constant Minister. Let none account it incongruous, that among so many able, and eminent English Divines, a Scotchman should be made Pastor of the English Church, seeing M ^r . Knox his reputed merit did naturalize him (though a forrainer) for any Protestant Congregation, At which time also M ^r . Chambers, and M ^r . Edmond Grindal came thither as Agents, with a letter from the Congregation of Strasburgh. This Strasburgh, as in the position thereof, it is almost seated in the just middway betwixt Zurich and Frankford: so the English there residing, embraced a moderate, and middle expedient, betwixt the extremities of the two foresaid Congregations. These made a motion, that they might have the substance and effect of the Common prayer-book, though such ceremonies, and things, which the Country could not bear, might well be omitted. Knox and Whitingam asked them, what they meant by the substance of the Book: and whilst the other wanted commission to dispute the point, the motion for the present came to no perfection.

2. However it gave occasion that Mr. Knox, and others in Frankford, drew up in Latin a platform, or description of the Liturgy, as used in England under King Edward, and tendered the same to the judgment of M ^r . John Calvin in Geneva, to pass his sentence thereon. This is that M ^r . Calvin whose care of all the Churches is so highly commended by some, and as much censured is he by others, as boasting himself in another man's line, and meddling with foreign matters which did not belong unto him. Take M ^r . Calvin's judgment herein from his own letter bearing date the 20 ^th . of January following, In the Liturgy of England, I see there are many tolerable foolish things; by these words I mean, that there is not that purity which were to be desired. These vices, though they could not at the first day be amended, yet, seeing there was no manifest impiety, they were for a season to be tolerated. Therefore it was lawful to begin of such rudiments, or abcedaries, but so, that it behooved the learned, grave, and godly Ministers of Christ, to enterprize further, and to set forth something more filed from rust, and purer. This struck such a stroke, especially in the Congregation of Frankford, that some therein, who formerly partly approved, did afterward wholly dislike; and moe, who formerly dislik'd did now detest the English Liturgy.

3. In this case stood matters in Frankford, when D ^r . Richard Cox, with some of his friends out of England, arrived there. This Doctor was a man of an high spirit, deep learning, unblameable life, and of great credit amongst his Country-men; for, he had been Tutor unto Edward the 6 ^th . And well may the nurse herself be silent, whilst the well battleing of the babe pleads aloud for her care, and diligence: as here the piety and pregnancie of his Prince-pupil, added much to D ^r . Cox his deserved reputation. He, with others, coming into the Congregation March 13. discomposed the model of their service; first, answering aloud after the Minister; and, on the Sunday following, one of his company, without the consent and knowledge of the Congregation, got up into the pulpit, and there read all the Litany. Knox, highly offended hereat, in the afternoon, preaching in his course out of Genesis, of Noah's nakedness in his tent, took occasion sharply to tax the authors of this disorder, avowing many things in the English Book to be superstitious, impure, and imperfect; and, that he would never consent they should be received into the Congregation.

4. Here I omit many animosities, and intermediate bickerings betwixt the opposite parties; especially at one conference, wherein D ^r . Cox is charged to come with his inartificial argument ab authoritate, Ego volo habere, I will have it so. In fine, Knox his party finding themselves out-voted, by D ^r . Cox his new recruits out of England, got one voice on his side, which, was louder, and stronger then all the rest; I mean the authority of the Senate of Frankford, interposing on his behalf: and, M ^r . John Glauberg (principal procurer of their Congregation, as is aforesaid) publicly professed, that if the reformed order of the congregation of Frankford were not therein observed, As he had opened the Church-door unto them, so would • e shut it again.

5. The wringing of the nose (saith wise Agur) bringeth forth blood; so the forcing of wrath bringeth forth strife. See here, the Coxan party depressed, embrace a strange way to raise themselves, and accuse Knox to the State, for no less than high treason against the Emperor in an English book of his intitled, An admonition to Christians; first, privately preached in Buckingham-shire, and now publicly printed to the world. Eight places therein were laid to his charge: the seven last may well be omitted, the first was so effectual to the purpose, wherein he called the Emperor, no less an enemy to Christ then was Nero. Strange, that words spoken some years since, in another land, and language, against the Emperor, to whom Knox then owed no natural allegiance (though since a casual, and accidental one, by his removal into an imperial City) should, in this unhappy juncture of time, be urged against him, by exiles of his own religion, even to no less than the endangering of his life. But, what said Rachel of Leah? With great wrestlings have I wrestled with my sister, and I have prevailed: with great, rather than good wrestlings. Such, too often, is the badness of good people; that in the heat of passion, they account any play to be fair play, which tends to the overturning of those with whom they contend. Hereupon, the State of Frankford (as an Imperial Town, highly concerned to be tender of the Emperors honor) willed Knox to depart the City; who on the 25 ^th . of March, to the great grief of his friends, and followers, left the Congregation.

6. After the departure (or rather the driving away) of M ^r . Knox; D ^r . Cox, and his adherents clearly carried all, and proceeded to the election of officers in their Congregation. But first for fit title for him that was to take charge of their souls, then for a proper person for that title.

• 1. Bishop (though first in nomination) was declined, as improper, because here he had no inspection over any Diocese, but only a cure of a Congregation, on which very account M ^r . Scorie (though formerly Bishop of Chicester when preacher to the Congregation of Emden, took upon him the title of Superintendent.
• 2. Superintendent was here also waved, as the same in effect, only a bad Latin word, instead of a good Greek.
• 3. Minister also was mislik'd, for the principal Preacher (though admitted to signify his assistants perchance as a term of too much compliance, with the opposite party.
• 4. Pastor at last was pitched upon, as freest from exception, most expressive of the office, and least obnoxious to offense.

Then was M ^r . Whitehead chosen their Pastor, yet so, as two Ministers, four Elders, and four Deacons, were joined to assist him. And, because this was then as well an University, as a congregation of the English, M ^r . Horne was chosen Reader of the Hebrew, M ^r . Mullings of the Greek, and M ^r . Traherne was made Lecturer of Divinity. In this-new model'd Congregation, I find no office by name assigned unto D ^r . Cox (more honor for him to make all, than to be any officer) who was virtually influent upon all, and most active (though not in the doctrinal) in the prudential part of Church-government.

7. As for the oppressed Congregation (so their opposites style themselves) it was headed by William Whittingham, one (though of less authority, yet) of as much affection to the cause, as Knox himself. This party continued their dislike of the Liturgy, calling it the Great English Book, offended (it seems) with the largeness thereof. And they affirmed (may the report lie on the reporters to avouch it) how Cranmer Arch-Bishop of Canterbury did present a book of prayer, an hundred times more perfect than the Liturgy used in King Edwards days, yet the same could not take place, because he was matched with so wicked a Clergy, in Convocation with other enemies. Besides this their old grudge against the Common Prayer, they were grieved afresh in this election of new officers in the English Congregation, that their old officers were neither legally continued, nor fully discharged, nor friend-like consulted with, nor fairly asked their consent, but no notice at all taken of them. In a word, never arose there a greater murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in their daily ministration; than here an heart-burning in the Wittingamian against the other party, for the affront offered to their old officers, in this new election.

8. Here a moderate motion was made that the difference might be compremised, and refer'd to Arbitrators, which should be equally chosen on both sides. To this, D ^r . Cox his party would in no wise consent. Whether because those pretended Arbiters would be no Arbiters, but parties, and widen the wound by dressing of it; or because, being already posesd of the power, they would not divest themselves of the whole to receive but part again from the courtesy of others. However this party lost much reputation by the refusal. For in all controversies, that side recusant to submit itself to a fair arbitration, contracts the just suspicion, either that their cause is faulty, or the managers thereof froward, and of a morose disposition. In fine, as when two swarms of bees daily fight in the same hive, the weakest grow so wise, as to seek themselves a new habitation: so here, Whittingam, and his adherents resolve to depart, and to seek their several providences in another place.

9. But alas these two sides had a sad parting-blow. The oppressed Congregation complained, that instead of their Vale, they had a volley of ill words discharged at them; amongst which none so mortal to their reputation, as the word Schismatic, wherewith the Coxians branded them at their departure. Much fending, and proving there was betwixt them, whether Schismatic was properly appliable to such, who agreeing in doctrine, dissented only in [superfluous] ceremonies. In conclusion, nothing was concluded amongst them as to agreement. And now, no pity shown at their departure, no sending of sighs, or shedding of tears on either side; the one being as glad of the room they left, as the other were desirous of their own removal.

10. If any be curious to know the names of such, who separated themselves from this Congregation of Frankford, this ensuing catalogue will acquaint him therewith,

• William
• William
• Anthony
• Christopher
• Thomas
• John
• Williams.
• Whittingham.
• Gilby.
• Goodman.
• Cole.
• Fox.
• Thomas
• William
• John
• John
• Christopher
• Nicolas
• Wood.
• Keth • .
• Kelke.
• Hilton.
• Soothous
• Purfote.
• John
• Thomas
• William
• Laurence
• John
• Anthony
• Escot.
• Grafton.
• Walton.
• Kent.
• Hellingham.
• Carier.

Of these M ^r . Fox, with a few moe, went to Basil, the rest settled themselves at Geneva, where they were all most courteously entertained. And now who can expect less, but, that those still remaining at Frankford, as the same in opinion, should be the same in affection, and live in brotherly love together. But alas; man, while he is man will be man; and Satan the sower of tares, did set a sad dissention betwixt them, which we come now to relate.

11. There was an eminent member of the Congregation in Frankford, M ^r . Ashley by name, one of a worshipful