Church History of Britain

SECTION VI.

LAtely we made mention of the coming over of Marcus Antonius de Dominis the Archbishop of Split into England, and now shall prosecute that subject at large. For, this year began happily, because with the end of that arrant Apostate in this Land, and his fair riddance out of the limits thereof. He had 14 years been Archbishop of Split in Dalmatia, under the State of Venice, and some five years since, to wit, 1616, came over into England. Conscience in show, and Covetousness in deed, caused his coming hither. He pretended to have discovered innumerable Novelties, and pernicious Errors in the Court of Rome, injuriously engrossing the right and honor of the Universal Church. He complained, many Points were obtruded on men's Consciences, as Articles of Faith, which CHRIST in the Scripture never instituted. He accounted the Romish Church, mystical Babylon, and Sodom; and the Pope, Nimrod, a Tyrant, Schismatic, Heretic, yea, even Antichrist himself. But that which sharpened his pen against the Pope, was a particular grudge against Pope Paul, who had ordered him to pay a yearly Pension of Five hundred crowns, out of his Bishopric, to one Andreutius, a Suffragan Bishop; which this Archbp. refused to do, complaining, it was unjust, and imposed without his knowledge and consent. The matter is brought to the Rota, or Court of Rome, where the wheel went on the wrong side for our Split, who, angry that he was cast in his Cause, posts out of Italy, through Germany, into the Low-Countries. Here he stayed a while, and tampered for preferment, till finding the roof of their Church too low for his lofty thoughts, and their Presbyterian Government uncomplying with his Archiepiscopal spirit, he left the Netherlands, and came over into England.

2. It is almost incredible, what flocking of people there was to behold this old Archbishop, now a new Convert; Prelates and Peers presented him with Gifts of high valuation. Indeed, it is an humor of our English, strangely to admire strangers, believing invisible Perfections in them, above those of our Land. A quality commendable in our Country-men, whilst inclining them to Hospitality, but sometimes betraying their Credulity, to be thereby dangerously deluded. He was feasted wheresoever he came, and the Universities (when he visited them) addressed themselves to him in their solemn reception, as if he himself alone had been an University.

3. But above all, King JAMES (whose hands were seldom shut to any, and always open to men of merit) was most munificent unto him, highly rejoicing, that Rome had lost, and England got such a Jewell. How many of English Youth were tolled out of our Universities into Italy, and there taught treason and heresy together? This aged Prelate, of eminent parts, coming thence of his own accord, would make us plentiful reparation for the departure of many Novices. The KING consigned him to the Archbishop of Canterbury, for his present entertainment, till he might be accommodated to subsist of himself: and, as an earnest of His bounty, sent him to Lambeth, a fair bason, and bolle of silver. Which Split received with this complement, Misit mihi REX Magnae Britanniae polubrum argenteum ad abstergendas sordes Romanae Ecclesiae, & poculum argenteum ad imbibendam Evangelii puritatem, The KING of Great Britain hath sent me a silver bason, to wash from me the filth of the Roman Church; and a silver cup to mind me to drink the purity of the Gospel. Preferment is quickly found out, and conferred upon him: as, the Deanrie of Windsor (though founded, not in a Cathedral, but Collegiate Church) one of the gentilest and entirest Dignities of the Land; the Mastership of the Hospital of the Savoy, with a good Parsonage at West-Islesly in Berk-shire, being a Peculiar belonging to the Episcopal Jurisdiction of the Dean of Windsor. And, finding one precedent in his Predecessour, he collated this Parsonage on himself, and there made shift for so much English as sufficed him to read the Nine and thirty Articles (as an Auditor there present hath informed me) which formerly he had subscribed. Thus had he two Houses furnished above plenty, even unto magnificence, and might alternately exchange society, for privacy, at pleasure.

4. He improved the profit of his Places to the utmost, and had a design to question all his Predecessors Leases at the Savoy; and began to be very vexatious to his Tenants. Some of them repaired to Doctor King, Bishop of London; who, at their request, took Split to task, and, as gravely, as sharply reproved him: that, being a Forreigner, he would fall out with Natives, endeavoring to put others here out of their peaceable Possessions, who himself had sled hither for his own refuge. Especially, having professed in print, That he had deposed all affection to, and gust of earthly things; and, that he himself, being almost naked, did follow a naked Christ. Hereupon, at the reverend Bishop's admonition, he let fall his former design. But, it was not the counsel of this King, but of a greater KING, which deter'd him from his project, viz: K. JAMES himself, to whom Split complained, That the Lands of the Savoy were let out for little Rents to the great loss of his place, and poor therein (not that he cared for the poor, but bare the bag, and what was put into it) acquainting His MAJESTY with his intent, to rectify those abuses, and call those Leases into question. To whom the KING in some choler, Extraneus, extraneus es, re • inque res sicut ease invenisti, You are a stranger, you are a stranger, leave things as you found them. And yet the same man would very passionately persuade others to bounty to the Poor, though he would give nothing himself, witness his earnest moving the Chapter of Windsor in this kind, to whom one of the Prebendaries answered, QUI SUADET, SUA DET, Let him that persuades others, give something of his own.

5. I am also credibly informed from an excellent hand, of the truth of this story. Split had found a small slaw in a Lease of value, which a Gentlewoman of quality held of the Dean and Chapter of Windsor. To her house he comes with all his men, where she magnificently entertains him, as overjoyed, that her chief Land-Lord came so courteously to visit her. Split next morning, after his plentiful Supper, having settled himself in the Parlour, suddenly cries out, Abscedite omnes, abscedite; Be ye all gone, be ye gone: intending to take possession for himself. The Gentlewoman perceiving him at this posture, with her self and servants well favouredly thrust him out of her house, coming off with sufficient disgrace. Afterwards consulting the Learned in our Laws about the Lease, they told him, That though possibly he might get the better of her in the Common-Law, yet the Chancery would relieve her, who so dearly had bought, so truly had paid for, and so peaceably had possessed her estate therein. Fie for shame! (saith Split) are your English Laws so contrived, that, what is done by one Court, may be undone by another? This may suffice to evidence his avarice. Nor must it be forgotten, though he pretended at his coming over, that for conscience he freely left his Archbishopric of Split, that in very deed he resigned the same to his Nephew, conditionally to pay him an annual Pension out of it; Sed magnus nebulo nil solvit, But the great knave pays me nothing, as he himself complained to my reverend friend the Archbishop of Armagh.

6. He falls now to perfect his Books. For, his Works were not now composed, but corrected; not compiled, but completed; as being, though of English birth, of Italian conception. For, formerly the Collections were made by him at Split, but he durst not make them public for fear of the Inquisition. His Works (being three fair Folio 's, De Republicâ Ecclesiasticâ ) give ample testimony of his sufficiency. Indeed, he had a controversial head, with a strong and clear style, nor doth an hair hang at the neb of his pen to blur his writings with obscurity: but, first understanding himself, he could make others understand him. His writings are of great use for the Protestant cause. Many (saith the Prophet) shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased. And surely the transcursion of Italians hither, added much to the discovery of the Papal abominations. Yet, allowing Split diligent in writing, his expression was a notorious hyperbole, when saying, In reading, meditation, and writing I am almost pined away; otherwise, his fat cheeks did confute his false tongue in that expression.

7. Amongst other of his ill qualities, he delighted in jeering, and would spare none who came in his way. One of his sarcasmes he unhappily bestowed on Count Gondomar, the Spanish Ambassador, telling him, That three turns at Tiburne was the only way to cure his Fistula. The Don, highly offended hereat (pained for the present more with this flout, than his fistula ) meditates revenge, and repairs to King JAMES. He told His MAJESTY, that His charity (an error common in good Princes) abused His judgment, in conceiving Split a true convert, who still in heart remained a Roman Catholic. Indeed, His Majesty had a rare felicity in discovering the falsity of Witches, and forgery of such who pretended themselves possessed: but, under favor, was deluded with this man's false spirit, and, by His Majesty's leave, he would detect unto Him this his hypocrisy. The KING cheerfully embraced his motion, and left him to the liberty of his own undertakings.

8. The Ambassador writeth to His Catholic Majesty; He to his Holiness, Gregory the fifteenth, that Split might be pardoned, and preferred in the Church of Rome, which was easily obtained. Letters are sent from Rome to Count Gondamar, written by the Cardinal Millin, to impart them to Split, informing him, that the POPE had forgiven, and forgotten all which he had done or written against the Catholic Religion; and, upon his return, would prefer him to the Bishopric of Salerno in Naples, worth twelve thousand crowns by the year. A Cardinals Hat also should be bestowed upon him. And, if Split, with his hand subscribed to this Letter, would renounce and disclaim what formerly he had printed, an Apostolical Breve, with pardon, should solemnly be sent him to Brussels. Split embraceth the motion, likes the pardon well, the preferment better, accepts both, recants his opinions largely, subscribes solemnly, and thanks his Holiness affectionately for his favor. Gondamar carries his subscription to King JAMES, who is glad to behold the Hypocrite unmasked, appearing in his own colors; yet the discovery was concealed, and lay dormant some days in the deck, which was in due time to be awakened.

9. Now it happened a false rumour was spread, that Tob • e Matthew, Archbishop of York, (who died yearly in report) was certainly deceased. Presently posts Split to Theobalds; becomes an importunate Petitioner to the KING for the vacant Archbishopric, and is as flatly denied; the KING conceiving, He had given enough already to him, if grateful; too much, if ungrateful. Besides, the KING would never bestow an Episcopal charge in England, on a forraigner, no not on His own Country-men; some Scottish-men being preferred to Deanries, none to Bishoprics. Split, offended at this repulse (for he had rather had York, than Salerno, as equal in wealth, higher in dignity, nearer in place) requests His MAJESTY by his Letter, to grant His good leave to depart the Kingdom, and to return into Italy; Pope Paul, his fierce foe, being now dead, and Gregory the fifteenth, his fast friend now seated in the Chair. The Copy of whose Letter we have here inserted:

To this Letter no present Answer was returned; but five days after, the Bishops of London, and Duresme, with the Dean of Westminster, by His MAJESTIES direction, repaired to this Archbishop, propounding unto him Sixteen Quaeres, all arising out of his former Letter, and requiring him to give the explanation of five most material under his hand, for His MAJESTIES greater satisfaction, which he did accordingly; yet not so clearly, but that it occasioned a second meeting, wherein more interrogatories were by command propounded unto him; which, with his Answers thereunto, because publicly printed, are purposely omitted: and, notwithstanding all obstructions, Split still continued his importunity to depart.

10. He pretended many Reasons for his return: First, Longing after his own Country. Who so iron-hearted as not to be drawn home, with the load-stone of his native Land? Secondly, To see his Friends, Kinred, Nephews, but especially his beloved Neice; a story hangs thereon, and it is strange, what was but whispered in Italy, was heard over so plain into England. In the Hebrew Tongue Nephews, and Nieces, are called Sons, and Daughters; but the Italian Clergy, on the contrary often term their Sons, and Daughters, Nephews, and Nieces. Thirdly, The late-pretended-discovery of many errors in our English Church (how quick-sighted did the promised Bishopric make him?) whereof formerly he took no notice, and all which are learnedly answered in the posthume book of Doctor Crakenthorpe, carefully set forth by Dr. Barkham, after the Authors death, and may all orphan-works have the happiness of so faithful a Guardian. Lastly, and chiefly (as he confesseth himself) allectus pretio octuplicis stipendii, allured with the reward of a salarie eight times as great, as his revenues in England. In which computation, as he ungratefully depresseth the value of what he had in hand: so he undiscreetly advanced the worth of what in hope he promised himself: not to speak of the difference of Italian Ducates, when told out, and when told off at so great a distance.

11. In pursuance of which his desire, he wrote a second Letter to K. JAMES: the tenor whereof we thought fit here to insert for the better clearing of the matter:

This Letter produced new Interrogatories, and several fruitful Controversies (one always begetting another) but the last was a sharp one at Lambeth, March the 30, which cut off all future discourse. For, a Commission was issued out to the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Bishops of Lincoln (Lord Keeper of the Great Scale of England) London, Duresme, Winchester, and several other Privy Counselors, before whom Split personally appeared. When the Archbishop of Canterbury in the name of the rest, by His MAJESTIES special command, in a long Latin Speech, recapitulated the many misdemeanors of Split, principally insisting on his changing of Religion, as appeared by his purpose of returning to Rome: and that, contrary to the Laws of the Realm, he had held correspondency by Letters with the Pope, without the privity of the King 's Majesty. To which Charge when Split had made, rather a shuffling Excuse, than a just Defense, the Archbishop in His Majesty 's name commanded him to depart the Kingdom, at his own peril, within twenty days, and never to return again. To this he promised obedience, protesting he would ever justify the Church of England for orthodox in fundamentals, even in the presence of the Pope, or whomsoever, though with the loss of his life.

12. However, loath to depart was his last tune. And no wonder, if well considering, whence, and whither he went. He left a Land where he lacked nothing, but a thankful heart to God, and a contented soul in himself. He went to a place of promise, suspicious whether ever it should be performed. He feared (not without cause) he might lose his gray Head to fetch a red Hat. And an ominous instance was lately set before his eyes: One Fulgentius, a Minorite, had inveighed at Venice against the Pope, and was by his Nuncio trained to Rome, on promise of safe conduct: where, being favored, and feasted at first, soon after in the field of Flora he was burnt to ashes. This made Split effectually, but secretly, to deal with his friends in the English Court, that His Majesty would permit him to stay. But in vain, and therefore within the time appointed, he went over in the same ship with Count Swartzenburgh, the Emperors Ambassador, returning hence into Flanders.

13. And now Split is shipped. A good wind, and fair weather go after him. His sails shall not be stuffed with a blast of my curses, conceiving, that his fault was sufficient punishment. But others have compared him to the house swept, and garnished, to which the Devil returned with seven spirits more wicked than himself. Which they thus reckon up, Avarice, Ambition, and Hypocrisy, whilst he stayed here; Apostasy, and Perjury, when going hence; Ingratitude, and Calumnie, when returned to Rome. Yea, they find as many punishments lighting on him; God angry with him, the Devil tormenting him, his conscience corroding him, the world cursing him, the true Church disdaining him, Protestant-pens confuting him, and the Pope, at last, in revenge executing him. And, now the Master hath had the just shame for his Apostasy, let the Man receive the due praise of his perseverance, one Gio Pietro Paravicino, a Grizon, who waited on Split in his chamber, whom neither frights nor flatteries could remove, but he died in Holland a firm professor of the Protestant Religion.

14. Being come to Brussels, he recants his Religion, and rails bitterly on the English Church: calling his coming hither an unhappy, irrational, pestiferous, devilish voyage, to which he was moved with sickness of soul, impatience, and a kind of frenzy of anger. Here he stayed six months for the Pope's Breve, which was long a coming, and at last was utterly denied him. Insomuch that Split was fain to run the hazard, and desperately adventure to Rome, having nothing in Scriptis for his security, but barely presuming on promises, and the friendship of Gregory the fifteenth, now Pope; formerly his Colleague, and chamber-fellow.

15. I find not his promised Bishopric conferred upon him; who as well might have been made Primate, and Metropolitan of Terra incognita. Yea, returning to Sodom (though not turned into a pillar of salt ) he became unsavourysalt, cared for of no side. Such a crooked-stick, which had bowed all ways, was adjudged unfit to make a beam, or raster, either in Popish, or Protestant Church. And now, what would not make timber to build, must make fuel to burn, to which end he came at last. But for some years he lived at Rome, on a pension which Pope Gregory assigned him out of his own revenues; until there arose a new Pope, who never knew Split (with the least knowledge of approbation viz: Urban the eighth, brought in by the antifaction of the French. He finding his revenue charged with a pension paid to his adversary, (thrift is a flour even in the Triple Crown) prohibits the future issuing out of the same. His pension being stopped, Split 's mouth is open, and passionately discourseth reputed heresy in several companies.

16. There was residing at Rome, one Cardinal Clesel, an High Germane, betwixt whom, and Split, formerly great familiarity, whilst Clesel was the Pope's Legate de Latere, with the Emperor at Vienna, where Split negotiated business for the State of Venice. This Cardinal expected Split 's applications unto him, after he was returned to Rome, which he refused, being (belike) too high in the instep, or rather too stiff in the knees to bow to beg a kindness. Clesel, perceiving his amity made contemptible, resolved to make his enmity considerable: yet, dissembling friendship for the better opportunity of revenge, he invites Split to supper; and, a train of discourse being laid at a liberal meal, Split is as free in talking, as in eating; and lets fall this expression, that (though divers had endeavored it) no Catholic had as yet answered his Books, De Republica Ecclesiastica; but adding moreover, That he himself was able to answer them. Presently his person is clapt into prison, his study seised on, wherein many papers were found speaking heresy enough, his Adversaries being admitted sole Interpreters thereof.

17. As for his death, some months after, some say he was stifled, others strangled, others, stabbed, others starved, others poison'd, others smothered to death; but my intelligence from his own Kinred at Venice informs me, that he died a natural death: adding moreover, non sine praeveniente gratiâ, not without God's preventing grace; for, had his life been longer, his death had been more miserable. Yea, they say, the Pope sent four of his sworn Physicians, to recognize his corps, who on their oath deposed, that no impression of violence was visible thereon. However after his death, his excommunicated corps were put to public shame, and solemnly proceeded against in the Inquisition, for relapsing into heresy since his return to Rome. His Kinred were summoned to appear for him, if they pleased, but durst not plead for a dead man, for fear of infection of the like punishment on themselves. Several Articles of heresy are charged upon him, and he found convict thereof, is condemned to have his body burnt by the public Executioner in the field of Flora, which was performed accordingly. Such honor have all Apostates.

18. We must not forget, that Split (I am confident I am not mistaken therein) was the first, who, professing himself a Protestant, used the word PURITANE, to signify the defenders of matters doctrinal in the English Church. Formerly the word was only taken to denote such, as dissented from the Hierarchy in Discipline, and Church-Government, which now was extended to brand such as were Anti-Arminians in their judgments. As Split first abused the word in this sense: so we could wish he had carried it away with him in his return to Rome. Whereas now leaving the word behind him in this extensive signification thereof, it hath since by others been improved to asperse the most orthodox in doctrine, and religious in conversation.

19. He was of a comely personage, tall stature, gray beard, grave countenance, fair language, fluent expression, somewhat abdominous, and corpulent in his body. Of so imperious, and domineering spirit, that (as if the Tenant were the Land Lord ) though a stranger, he offered to control the Archbishop of Canterbury in his own house. An excellent Preacher (every first Sunday in the month to the Italian Nation at Mercers-Chapel ) as his Sermon called Scopleos, or the Rocks, doth plentifully witness, wherein he demonstrates, That all the Errors of the Roman Church proceed from their pride and covetousness. And (under the Rose be it spoken) if the great ship of Rome split itself on these Rocks, Split his own pinnace made shipwreck of the faith on the same, which were his bosom-sins. In a word, he had too much Wit, and Learning, to be a cordial Papist; and too little Honesty, and Religion, to be a sincere Protestant.

20. About the same time three other Italians made their escape into England. One, Antonio (as I take it, a Capuchian ) who here married a Wife, and was beneficed in Essex. The other two, Benedictines, living, the one with the Archbishop of Canterbury; the other, with the Archbishop of York. All these three were neither good dough, not good bread, but like Ephraim, a cake not turned, though they pretended to true conversion. The first of these, being kin to Spinola the Low-Country-General, was by him (on what terms I know not) trained over, and reconciled to Rome. The other two (only racking, no thorough-paced Protestants) watched their opportunity to run away. Yet let not this breed in us a jealousy of all Italian • Converts, seeing Vergerius, Peter Martyr, Immanuel Tremellius, &c. may reconcile us to a good opinion of them, and to believe, That God hath a few names even in Sardis, where the Throne of the Beast is erected. And indeed Italian Converts, like Origen, where they do well, none better; where ill, none worse.

21. All men's mouths were now filled with discourse of Prince CHARLES his match with Donna MARIA the Infanta of Spain. The Protestants grieved thereat, fearing that this marriage would be the funerals of their Religion: and their jealousies so descanted thereon, that they suspected, if taking effect, more water of Tiber, than Thames, would run under London-bridge. The Church • Catholics grew insolent thereat, and such, who formerly had a Pope in their belly, shown him now in their tongues, and faces, avouching their Religion, which they concealed before. Yet at last this Match (so probable) brake off, Heaven forbidding the Banes, even at the third, and last asking thereof.

22. Count Gondomar was the active Instrument to advance this Match, who so carried himself in the twilight of jest-earnest, that with his jests he pleased His MAJESTY of England, and with his earnest he pleasured his Master of Spain. Having found out the length of King JAMES's foot, he fitted Him with so easy a shoe, which pained Him not (no, not when He was troubled with the gout) this cunning Don being able to please Him in His greatest passion. And although the Match was never effected, yet Gondomar, whilst negotiating the same, in favor to the Catholic cause, procured of His MAJESTY, the enlargement of all Priests and Jesuits through the English Dominions.

23. The actions of Princes are subject to be censured, even of such people who reap the greatest benefit thereby, as here it came to pass. These Jesuits, when at liberty, did not gratefully ascribe their freedom to His MAJETIE's mercy, but only to His willingness, to rid and clear His gaoles over-pestered with prisoners: As if His Majesty (if so minded) could not have made the gallows, the besom to sweep the jail; and as easily have sent these prisoners from Newgate up westward by land, as over Southward by Sea. What moved King JAMES to this lenity at this time, I neither do know, nor will inquire. Surely, such as sit at the stern, and hold the helm, can render a reason why they steer to this or that point of the compass, though they give not to every mariner (much less passenger in the ship) an account thereof. I, being only by my place 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 a rower, or minister in the vessel, content myself in silence with the will of the Master thereof. But let us exemplify the Lord Keeper 's Letter to this purpose:

Now although one will easily believe many Priests and Jesuits were set at liberty, Yet surely that Gentleman is no true accountant, if affirming to fewer than four thousand to be set free at this time: Especially considering that one, who undertakes to give in a perfect list of all the Jesuits in England (and is since conceived rather to asperse some Protestants than conceal any Papists ) cannot mount their number higher than two hundred twenty and five. To which, if such whom he detects for Popish Physicians, with all those whom he accuses for Popish Books, be cast in, they will not make up the tithe of four thousand.

24. However, most distasteful was Gondomar' s greatness to the English ancient Nobility, who manifested the same, as occasion was offered, as by this one instance may appear: Henry Vere Earl of Oxford, chanced to meet with Count Gondomar at a great entertainment. The Don accosted him with high Complements, vowing, That amongst all the Nobility of England there was none he had tendered his service with more sincerity than to his Lordship, though hitherto such his unhappiness, that his affections were not accepted according to his integrity who tendered them. It seems ( replied the Earl of Oxford) that your Lordship had good leisure, when stooping in your thoughts to one so inconsiderable as myself, whose whole life hath afforded but two things memorable therein. It is your Lordships modesty ( returned Gondomar) to undervalue yourself, whilst we, the spectators of your Honors deserts make a true and impartial estimate thereof, Hundreds of Memorables have met in your Lordships life: But, good my Lord, what are those Two signal things more conspicuous than all the rest? They are these two ( said the Earl ) I was Born in the Eighty Eight, and Christened on the Fift of November.

25. Henry Copinger, formerly Fellow of S. John 's Coll: in Cambridge, Prebendary of York, once Chaplain to Ambrose Earl of Warwick, (whose funeral Sermon he preached) made Master of Magdalene College in Cambridge by Her MAJESTIES Mandate (though afterwards Resigning his Right at the Queens (shall I call it?) request to prevent trouble) ended his religious life. He was the sixth Son of Henry Copinger of Bucks-Hall in Suffolk Esquire, by Agnes, Daughter of Sir Thomas Jermyn. His Father on his death-bed, asking him what course of life be would embrace? He answered, he intended to be a Divine. I like it well, (said the old Gentleman) otherwise what shall I say to Martin Luther when I shall see him in heaven, and he knows that GOD gave me eleven Sons, and I made not one of them a Minister? An expression proportionable enough to Luther's judgment, who maintained some hours before his death, That the Saints in heaven shall knowingly converse one with another.

26. Laneham Living fell void, which both deserved a good Minister, being a rich Parsonage, and needed one, it being more than suspicious that Dr. Reinolds, late Incumbent, (who ran away to Rome ) had left some superstitious leaven behind him. The Earl of Oxford, being Patron, presents Mr. Copinger to it, but adding withal, That he would pay no Tithes of his Park, being almost half the land of the Parish. Copinger desired to resign it again to his Lordship, rather than by such sinful gratitude to betray the Rights of the Church. Well! if you be of that mind, then take the Tithes, (saith the Earl) I scorn that my Estate should swell with Church-goods. However, it afterwards cost Master Copinger Sixteen hundred pounds, in keeping his questioned, and recovering his detained rights, in suit with the Agent for the next [ minor ] E. of Oxford, and others: all which he left to his Churches quiet possession, being zealous in God's cause, but remiss in his own.

27. He lived forty and five years the painful Parson of Laneham, in which Market-Town there were about nine hundred Communicants, amongst whom, all his time, no difference did arise which he did not compound. He had a bountiful hand & plentiful purse (his paternal inheritance by death of elder Brothers, and others transactions descending upon him) bequeathing Twenty pounds in money, and Ten pounds per annum to the Poor of the Parish, in the Chancel whereof he lieth buried under a fair Monument, dying on S. Thomas his day, in the Threescore and twelfth year of his age.

28. Papists now appearing very daring; a Conference, or Dispute (if you please) was entertained betwixt Doctor White, and Doctor Featley, Protestants; Father Fisher, and Father Sweet, Jesuits; on his occasion: Edward Buggs Esq. living in London, aged seventy, and a professed Protestant, was in his sickness seduced to the Romish Religion. But recovering, this Dispute was held at his request, in the house of Sir Humphrey Linde, a learned and religious Gentleman; about the Visibility of the Church, and the Tenants now maintained by the Protestants to have been before Luther. The printed Book hereof may satisfy the Reader, as this Conference did so satisfy Master Buggs, that renouncing his former wavering, he was confirmed in the Protestant-Truth.

29. Now happened the sad Vespers, or dolfull Evening-song at Black Friars in London: Father Drury a Jesuit of excellent Morals, and ingratiating Converse, (wanting nothing, saving the embracing of the truth, to make him valuable in himself, and acceptable to others) Preached in a great upper-Room in Black-Friars, next to the house of the French-Ambassador, where some Three hundred persons were assembled. His Text the 18 Chap. of S. Matthew, ver. 32. O thou ungracious servant! I forgave thee all the debt because thou desiredst me, shouldst not thou also have had compassion on thy fellow servant? &c. In application whereof, he fell upon a bitter invective against the Protestants.

30. His Sermon began to incline to the middle, the Day to the end thereof; when on the soddain the Flore fell down whereon they were assembled. It gave no charitable warning-groan beforehand, but cracked, brake, and fell, all in an instant. Many were killed, more bruised, all frighted; sad sight to behold the flesh and blood of different persons mingled together, and the brains of one on the head of another. One lackt a leg, another an arm; a third whole and entire wanted nothing but breath stifled in the ruins. Some Protestants coming merely to see, were made to suffer, and bare the heavy burden of their own curiosity. About Ninety five persons were slain out-right, amongst whom Mr. Drury, and Mr. Rodiat, Priests; with the Lady Webbe, were of the greatest quality. Nor must we forget, how when one comforted a Maid-child about 10 years of age, Exhorting her to patience for her Mother and Sister. The Child replied, That however it fared with them, this would be a great scandal to their Religion. A speech commendable in any, admirable in one of her age.

31. Yet marvelous was God's mercy in the preservation of some there present. One corner of the first Flore rather hung still than stood, (without any beams ) by the relative strength from the side walls, and about Twenty persons upon it. These beheld that Tragedy wherein instantly they expected to act, and, which was the worst, their fall would not only kill them, but by their weight they should be the unwilling • slayers of others, which as yet labored for life beneath them. It was put into their minds with their knives (fright adding force unto them) to cut their passage out of a loam-wall into the next chamber, whereby their lives were preserved. Of those that fell, one was kept alive (though embraced by death on either side) a chair falling hollow upon her. Thus any arms are of proof, if Divine Providence be but pleased to put them on.

32. Next day was Impannelled a Coroner 's Inquest of substantial Citizens to inquire into the cause and manner of their death. These found it done neither by miracle nor malice, no plot or indirect practice appearing (as some no less falsely, than maliciously gave it out) the Roof standing, Side-wall sound, Foundation firm, only the Flore broken by God's wisdom permitting it; and their own folly occasioning it. Nor could the Carpenter be justly accused for slight and unfaithful building, making it substantial enough for any private purpose, and none could foresee that they would bring a Church into a Chamber. Twenty of the poorer sort were buried hard by in one Grave, and the rest bestowed by their friends in several places of Sepulture.

33. The sad death of these persons, the Object of Pity to all good and wise men, was the Subject of Envy to some, so sillily superstitious, as to repine at it, That they had not a share in this slaughter. On this accompt, because the Priest or Clerk after every Mass in the City of London, solemnly invited the people present with a loud voice to say, Three Pater noster 's, and three Ave Maria 's for the souls of such as died in Black-Friers. Particularly one Parker who narrowly escaped the danger there, professed, That nothing grieved him more but that he had not been one of those that died by the aforesaid mischance. But see what happened, this man going over to Douay to take Priestly Orders the week following, was drowned in his passage: Thus wild-wishes for death, prove sometimes such Guests as come home to the Inviters before they be welcome unto them.

34. This accident fell on Sunday, the 26 of October, which according to the new style observed beyond-sea (having the speed of ours by ten days) fell upon their fifth of November: a day notoriously known in the Popish Calendar. Whereupon, Master Edward Benlowes, a Religious and Learned Gentleman, no small Promoter of my former and present Labors, thus expressed himself:

I have nothing else to add of this sad disaster, save that the news thereof next Monday-morning, October the 27, was fresh in every man's mouth in His MAJESTIE's Chapel in White-Hall; at what time the 13 Chap. of S. Luke 's Gospel was read for the Lesson appointed for the day by the Rubric of the Church of England: Wherein near the beginning, Or those eighteen upon whom the Tower of Shilo fell and slew them, think ye that they were sinners above all men that dwelt in Jerusalem? I tell you nay: but except you repent, ye shall likewise perish.

SECTION VII.

MAny Papists not truly humbled with this late sad accident, so demeaned themselves, that indeed most offensive was their insolence to all true Englishmen, the rather because it was generally reported, that His Majesty intended a Toleration of Religion, which made the Archbishop of Canterbury (though under a cloud for his disaster ) to adventure humbly to present the King with his apprehensions, losing with some the reputation of a politick States-man, but preserving with others the character of an honest down right Protestant. Which Letter, though sent and delivered with all privacy, came by some (whether his friends or foes, uncertain) to be generally known, and afterwards publicly printed, as followeth.

2. What effect this Letter took, is unknown; sure it is, all men's mouths were filled with a discourse of a Toleration for, or against it. Some no professed Papists, but who lived at the sign of the Protestant, engage in their Arguments very earnestly in the defense thereof; whilst others were as zealous to prove a Toleration intolerable by Reasons drawn both from piety and policy. We will only instance in few out of many as they were bandied on both sides, and chiefly such as concern Religion.

Here it would be tedious to recite the Texts of Scripture (some more, some less proper to the purpose alleged by several persons against the Toleration: some Typicall, Thou shalt not plow with an Ox and an Ass. Some Historical, God's Children must not speak two tongues. Ashdod, and Hebrew. Some Doctrinal, We must not do evil that good may come thereof. The best was, the Toleration bare date with the Spanish Match, with which it was propounded, and agitated, advanced, expected, desired by some; opposed, suspected, detested by others; and at last both together finally frustrated, and defeated.

3. Now was His Majesty informed, that it was high time, to apply some cure to the Pulpits, as sick of a Sermon-surfeit, and other exorbitances. Some meddled with State-matters, and generally (by an improper Transposition ) the Peoples duty was preached to the King at Court, the Kings to the People in the Country. Many shallow Preachers handled the profound points of Predestination; wherein (pretending to guide their flocks) they lost themselves. Sermons were turned into Satyrs against Papists, or Non Conformists.

4. To repress the present, and prevent future mischiefs in this kind, His Majesty issued out His Directions to be written fair in every Registers Office, whence any Preacher (if so pleased) might with his own hand, take out Copies gratis, paying nothing for expedition. Herein, the King revived the primitive and profitable order of Catechizing in the afternoon (better observed in all other Reformed Churches than of late in England ) according to the tenor ensuing:

5. No sooner were these the Kings Declarations dispersed into every Diocese, but various were men's opinions thereof. Some counted it a cruel act, which cut off half the preaching in England (all afternoon-ermons) at one blow. Others thought the King did but Uti jure suo, doing not only what in justice He might, but what in prudence He ought in this juncture of time. But hear what I have heard and read in this case.

These Instructions from His Majesty were not pressed with equal rigor in all places, seeing some over-active Officials, more busy than their Bishops, tied up Preachers in the Afternoon to the very letter of the Catechism, questioning them if exceeding the questions and answers therein, as allowing them no liberty to dilate, and enlarge themselves thereupon.

6. Expect not of me a particular account of the politick intricacies touching the Spanish Match, or no Match rather. First, because Spanish, and so alien from my subject. Secondly, because the passages thereof are so largely and publicly in print. Thirdly, because in fine it proved nothing, though kept on foot so long, till K. James, by endeavoring to gain a Daughter-in Law, had in effect, lost His own Daughter, Her Husband, and Children, being reduced to great extremities.

7. Truly K. James never affected his Son in Law's acceptance of the Bobemian Crown, nor promised Himself any good success thence, though great the hope of the German Protestants therein. Indeed, some of them were too credulous of a blind Prophesy commonly currant amongst them,

Expecting the ending of the Austrian Family, sixty years being now expired since the death of Charles the fifth: but discreet persons slighted such vanities, and the Quinti had like to have proved the extirpation of Frederick, fifth of that name, Palatine of Rhyne; had not God almost miraculously lately countermanded it.

8. Yea, K. James privately foretold to some principal persons, that this matter would prove the ruin of his Daughter. There want not some who say, That he went about to virefie his own Prediction, by not sending seasonable succors for their assistance, who, had He turned His Embassies into Armies, might probably have prevented much Protestant misery.

9. Others excuse K. James, partly from the just hopes He had to accommodate all interests in a peaceable way; partly from the difficulty of conveying effectual forces into so far distant a Country.

10. Mean time both the Palatinates were lost, the Upper seized on by the Emperor, the Neather (but higher in value) by the King of Spain, the City of Heidelburg taken and plundered, and the inestimable Library of Books therein carried over the Alps on Mules backs to Rome. Each Mule laded with that learned burden, had a silver-plate on his forehead, wherein was engraven, FERO BIBLIOTHECAM PRINCIPIS PALATINI. Now those Books are placed in the Popes Vatican, entitling Protestants to visit the place, who one day may have as good success, as now they have just right to recover them.

11. As for the Palatinate, Satirical tongues commonly called it the Land of Promise, so frequently and so solemnly was the restitution thereof promised to King James, fed only with delays, which amounted to mannerly denials. Since it hath pleased God to turn this Land of Promise into a Land of Performance, the present Palatine being peaceably possessed thereof.

12. Prince Charles, with the Duke of Buckingham, lately went privately through France, where He saw the Lady, (whom afterwards He married) into Spain. It is questionable, whether then more blamed K. James for sending him, or afterwards blessed God for his safe return. Sumptuous his entertainment in the Spanish Court, where it was not the Kings fault, but Kingdoms defect that anything was wanting. He quickly discovered (the coursness of fine-pretending wares at distance are easily confuted near hand ) that the Spanish State had no mind or meaning of a Match, as who demanded such unreasonable Liberty in education of the Royal Off-spring (in case any were born betwixt them) and other Privileges for English Papists, that the King neither could nor would in honor or conscience consent thereunto. However, Prince Charles (whose person was in their power) took his fair farewell with courteous compliance.

12. Though He entered Spain like a private person, He departed it like Himself, and the Son of his Father, a stately Fleet attending Him home. Foul weather forced them to put in at the Isse of Syllie, (the parings of England, South-west of Cornwall ) where in two days they fed on more, and better flesh than they found in Spain for many months. Soon after He arrived at Portesmouth, and the next day came to London, to the great rejoicing of all sorts of people, signified by their bonfires, ringing of bells, with other external expressions of joy.

13. King James now despaired of any restitution, especially since the Duke of Bavaria was invested in the upper Palatinate, and so His Son-in-Laws Land cantoned betwixt a Duke, a King, and an Emperor. Whose joint consent, being requisite to the restoring thereof, One would be sure to dissent from the seeming-consenting of other two. Whereupon, King James not only broke off all treaty with Spain, but also called the great Council of his Kingdom together.

14. Indeed, the Malecontents in England used to say, That the King took Physic, and called Parliaments both alike, using both for mere need, and not caring for either how little time they lasted. But now there happened as sweet a compliance betwixt the King and his Subjects, as ever happened in man's memory, the King not asking more than what was granted. Both Houses in the Name of the whole Kingdom, promising their assistance with their lives and fortunes for the recovery of the Palatinate. A smart Petition was presented against the Papists, and order promised for the education of their Children in true Religion.

15. As for the Convocation contemporary with this Parliament, large Subsidies were granted by the Clergy, otherwise no great matter of moment passed therein. I am informed Doctor Joseph Hall preached the Latin Sermon, and Doctor Donne was the Prolocutor.

16. This is that Doctor Donne, born in London; (but extracted from Wales ) by his Mother-side, great-great Grandchilde to Sir Thomas More, whom he much resembled in his endowments; a great Traveler, first, Secretary to the Lord Egerton, and after by the persuasion of K. James, (and encouragement of Bishop Morton ) entered into Orders, made Doctor of Divinity (of Trinity College in Cambridge ) and Dean of S. Paul's, whose Life is no less truly than elegantly written by my worthily respected friend Mr. Isaac Walton, whence the Reader may store himself with further information.

17. A Book was translated out of the French Copy, by Abraham Darcye, entitled, [ The Original of Idolatry: ] pretended made by Dr. Isaac Casaubon, dead ten years before, dedicated to Prince Charles, but presented to King James, and all the Lord's of the Council. A Book printed in French before the said Isaac Casaubon was born, whose name was fraudulently inserted in the Title-page of the foregoing Copy.

18. Merick Casaubon his Son then Student of Christ's-Church, by Letter informed King James of the wrong done to his Father, by making him the Author of such a Book; contrary to his Genius and constant profession, being full of impertinent allegations, out of obscure and late Authors, whom his Father never thought worthy the reading, much less the using their Authority. His Majesty was much incensed herea • , and Doctor Mountain Bishop of London had much ado to make his Chaplains peace for licensing thereof, the Printer and Translator being for some time kept in Prison.

19. Yet after all this; and after Merick Casaubon had written a Latin Vindication to give satisfaction to all, the same Translation since is printed in Amsterdam, with a Justificatory Preface of the former Edition. So impudent are some, falsely to father Books on worthy Authors, to make them more vendible for their own profit, though it discredit the memory of others.

20. The business of the Palatinate being now debated by Martiallists, the Kings Council of War, dissuading from regaining it in kind, advised Him rather to recover it in value where he could with the best conveniency out of the Spanish Dominions: For, the Palatinate was not worth the rewinning, which (grant recovered by the English ) could not recover itself for many years, such the havoc and waste made therein. Secondly, it was hard to be gotten, such the distance thereof; and harder to be kept, so ill-neighboured it was on all sides. So that the King if so pleased, might with as much honor, and more ease, carve out his own reparations nearer home.

21. During these Agitations, K. James fell sick at Theobalds of a tertian Ague, commonly called in Spring; for a King rather Physical than dangerous. But soon after his Ague was heighten'd into a Fever; four mischiefs meeting therein.

22. First, the malignity of the Malady in itself, hard to be cured. Secondly, an aged Person, of sixty years current. Thirdly, a plethorick Body, full of ill humors. Fourthly, the Kings averseness to Physic, and impatience under it. Yet the last was quickly removed, above expectation, The King (contrary to His custom) being very orderable in all His sickness. Such sudden alterations, some apprehend, a certain prognostic of death, as if when men's minds acquire new qualities, they begin to habit and clothe themselves for a new world.

23. The Countess of Buckingham contracted much suspicion to her self, and her Son, for applying a plaster to the Kings wrists, without the consent of His Physicians. And yet it plainly appeared, that Dr. John Remington of Dunmoe in Essex, made the same plaster: (one honest, able, and successful in his practice, who had cured many Patients by the same,) a piece whereof applied to the King, one eat down into His belly, without the least hurt or disturbance of nature. However, after the applying thereof, the King grew worse.

24. The Physicians refused to administer physic unto Him till the plasters were taken off, which being done accordingly. His fifth, sixth, and seventh fits were easier (as Dr. Chambers said.) On the Monday after, the plasters were laid on again without the advice of the Physicians, and His Majesty grew worse and worse. so that Mr. Hayes (the Kings Chirurgeon) was called out of his bed to take off the plasters. Mr. Baker (the Dukes servant) made the King a Julip, which the Duke brought to the King with his own hand, of which the King drank twice, but refused the third time. After His death, a Bill was brought to the Physicians to sign, that the ingredients of the Julip and Plasters were safe: but most refused it, because they knew not whether the ingredients mentioned in the Bill were the same in the Julip and Plasters. This is the naked truth delivered by oath from the Physicians to a select Committee two years after, when the Parliament voted the Dukes act a transcendent presumption, though most thought it done without any ill intention.

25. Four days before His death, He desired to receive the Sacrament, and being demanded whether He was prepared in point of faith and charity for so great mysteries? He said, He was, and gave humble thanks to God for the same. Being desired to declare His faith, and what He thought of those Books He had written in that kind? He repeated the Articles of the Creed one by one, and said, He believed them all as they were received and expounded by that part of the Catholic Church which was established here in England: And said, with a kind of sprightfulnesse and vivacity, that whatever He had written of this Faith in his life, he was now ready to seal with his death. Being questioned in point of charity; He answered presently, that He forgave all men that offended Him, and desired to be forgiven by all Christians, whom He in any wise had offended.

26. Then after absolution read and pronounced, He received the Sacrament, and some hours after. He professed to the standers by, that they could not imagine what ease and comfort he found in himself since the receiving hereof; And so quiedy resigned His soul to God, having reigned twenty two years and three days.

27. He was of a peaceable disposition. Indeed, when he first entered England, at Barwick, He himself gave fire to, and shot off a piece of Ordnance, and that with good judgment. This was the only military act personally performed by Him. So that He may have seemed in that Cannon to have discharged War cut of England.

28. Coming to York, He was somewhat amazed with the equipage of the Northern Lord's repairing unto Him, (especially with the Earl of Cumberland 's) admiring there should be in England so many Kings; for less, He could not conjecture them, such the multitude and gallantry of their attendance. But (following the counsel of His English Secretary there present) He soon found a way to abate the formidable greatness of the English Nobility, by conferring Honor upon many persons, whereby Nobility was spread so broad, that it became very thin, which much lessened the ancient esteem thereof.

29. He was very eloquent in speech, whose Latin had no fault, but that it was too good for a King, whom carelessness (not curiosity ) becomes in that kind. His Scotch tone he rather affected than declined: and though His speaking spoiled His speech in some English ears; yet the masculine worth of his set Orations, commanded reverence, if not admiration in all judicious hearers. But in common speaking, (as in His hunting he stood not on the cleanest but nearest way) He would never go about to make any expressions.

30. His wit was passing-sharp and piercing, equally pleased in making and taking a smart jest, His Majesty so much stooping to His mirth, that He never refused that coin which he paid to other folk. This made Him please Himself so much in the company of Count Gondomer: and some will say, the King was contented (for reasons best known to Himself) to be deceived by him, and humoured into a peace to His own disadvantage.

31. Once, King James in an Afternoon was praising the plentiful provision of England, especially for flesh, and fowl; adding, the like not to be had in all Spain, what one County here did afford. Yea, but my Master (quoth Gondomer, there present) hath the gold and silver in the East and West Indies: And I, by my Saul, (saith the King) have much ado to keep my men from taking it away from Him. To which the Don's Spanish gravity returned silence.

32. His judgment was most solid in matters of Divinity, not fathering Books of others, (as some of His Predecessors ) but His Works are allowed His own by His very adversaries. Most bountiful to all, especially to Scholars, no King of England ever doing (though His Successor suffered ) more, to preserve the revenues of the English Hierarchy. Most merciful to Offendors, no one person of Honor (without parallel since the Conquest ) being put to death in His Reign. In a word, He left His own Coffers empty, but His Subjects Chests full, the Land being never more wealthy; it being easier then to get, than since to save an estate.