Church History of Britain

69. But exception was taken at Jones his exceptions (which the Record calls praetensos articulos ) as defective in some legal formalities. I have been informed, it was alleged against him for bringing in his objections vivâ voice, and not by a Proctor, that Court adjudging all private persons effectually dumb, who speak not by one admitted to plead therein. Jones returned, that he could not get any Proctor, though pressing them importunately, and proffering them their fee, to present his exceptions, and therefore was necessitated ore tenus there to allege them against Mr. Montague. The Register mentioneth no particular defects in his exceptions, but Dr. Rives (Substitute at that time for the Vicar-general ) declined to take any notice of them, and concludeth Jones amongst the contumacious, quod nullo modo legitime comparuit, nec aliquid in hac parte juxta juris exigentiam diceret, exciperet, vel opponeret. Yet this good Jones did Bishop Montague, that he caused his addresses to the King to procure a pardon, which was granted unto him, in form like those given at the Coronation, save that some particulars were inserted therein, for the pardoning of all errors heretofore committed, either in speaking, writing, or printing, whereby he might hereafter be questioned. The like at the same time was granted to Dr. Manwaring, on whom the rich Parsonage of Stanford Rivers in Essex was conferred, as void by Bishop Montague's preferment.

70. An intention there was for the Bishop and all the company employed at his Confirmation, to dine at a Tavern, but Dr. Thomas Rives utterly refused it, rendering this reason; that he had heard, that the dining at a Tavern gave all the color to that far-spreading and long-lasting lie, of Matthew Parker his being consecrated at the Nags-Head in Cheapside; and, for ought he knew, captious people would be ready to raise the like report on the same occasion. It being therefore Christian caution, not only to quench the fire of sin, but also (if possible) to put out the smoke of scandal, they removed their dining to another place.

71. On the twentieth of January the Parliament was reassembled, which died issueless (as I may say) the March following, leaving no Acts ( abortions are no Children ) completed behind it. Let the Reader who desireth farther instructions of the passages herein consult the Historians of the State. Indeed if the way were good, and weather fair, a travailer, to please his curiosity in seeing the Country, might adventure to ride a little out of the rode; but he is none of the wisest, who in a tempest and mirie way will lose time and leave his own journey. If pleasant and generally acceptable were the transactions in this Parliament, it might have tempted me to touch a little thereon, out of the track of my Church-Story; but finding nothing but stirs and storms therein, I will only go on fair and softly in my beaten path of Ecclesiastical affairs. Bishop Land had no great cause to be a Mourner at the Funerals of this Parliament, having entered it in his Diarie, that it endeavored his destruction.

72. At this time Richard Smith (distinct from Henry Smith, aliàs Lloyd, a Jesuit, whom some confound as the same person) being in title Bishop of Chalcedon in Greece, in truth a dangerous English Priest, acted and exercised Episcopal Jurisdiction over the Catholics here, by Commission from the Pope, appearing in his Pontisicalibus in Lancashire, with his Miter and Crosier to the wonder of poor People, and conferring Orders, and the like. This was much offensive to the Regulars, as entrenching on their Privileges, who countermined him as much as they might. His Majesty, having notice of this Romish Agent, renewed his Proclamation (one of a former date taking no effect) for his apprehension, promising an hundred pounds to be presently paid to him that d • d it, besides all the profits which accrued to the Crown, as legally due from the person who entertained him.

72. However such as hid and harbored him, were neither frighted with the penalty, nor flattered with the profit, to discover him. But Smith, conceiving his longer stay here to be dangerous, conveyed himself over into France, where he became a Confident of Cardinal Richelieu's. The conveniency and validity of his Episcopal power was made the subject of several Books which were written thereon,

This Chalcedon Smith wrote a book called The Prudential Ballance, much commended by men of his own persuasion; and, for ought I know, is still alive.

74. Within the compass of this year died the Reverend Toby Matthew, Archbishop of York. He was born in the Somersetshire -side of Bristol, and in his childhood had a marvelous preservation, when with a fall he brake his foot, ancle, and small of his leg, which were so soon recovered to eye, use, sight, service, that not the least mark remained thereof. Coming to Oxford, he fixed at last in Christ-Church, and became Dean thereof. He was one of a proper person (such People, cateris paribus, and sometimes cateris imparibus, were preferred by the Queen) and an excellent Preacher, Campian himself confessing, that he did dominari in Concionibus. He was of a cheerful spirit, yet without any trespass on Episcopal gravity, there lying a real distinction between facetiousness and nugacitie. None could condemn him for his pleasant wit, though often he would condemn himself, as so habited therein, he could as well not be, as not be merry, and not take up an innocent jest as it lay in the way of his discourse.

75. One passage must not be forgotten. After he had arrived at his greatness, he made one journey into the West, to visit his two Mothers; her that bare him at Bristol, and her that bred him in learning, the University of Oxford. Coming near to the latter, attended with a train suitable to his present condition, he was met almost with an equal number, who came out of Oxford to give him entertainment. Thus augmented with another troop, and remembering he had passed over a small water a poor Scholar, when first coming to the University, he kneeled down and took up the expression of Jacob, With my staff came I over this Jordan, and now I am become two Bands. I am credibly informed, that, mutatis mutandis, the same was performed by his Predecessor, Archbishop Hutton at Sophisters Hills nigh Cambridge, and am so far from distrusting either, that I believe both.

76. He died yearly in report, and I doubt not, but that in the Apostles sense he died daily in his mortifying meditations. He went over the graves of many who looked for his Archbishopric; I will not say they catched a cold in waiting barefoot for a living man's shoes. His wife, the Daughter of Bishop Barlow (a Confessor in Queen Mary's days) was a prudent, and a provident matron. Of this extraction came Sir Toby Matthew, having all his Fathers name, many of his natural parts, few of his moral virtues, fewer of his spiritual graces, as being an inveterate enemy to the Protestant Religion. George Mountain succeeded him, scarce warm in his Church before cold in his Coffin, as not continuing many months therein.

77. I humbly crave the Readers Pardon for omitting due time of the death of reverend Dr. Nicholas Felton Bishop of Eli, as buried before (though dying some days after) Bishop Andrew's: and indeed great was the conformity betwixt them. Both being Sons of Seafaring Men, (who by God's blessing on their industry, attained comfortable estates) both Scholars, Fellows, and Masters of Pembrook Hall, both great Scholars, painful Preachers in London for many years, with no less profit to others than credit to themselves, both successively Bishops of Eli. This Bishop Felton had a sound Head and a sanctified Heart, beloved of God, and all good men, very Hospitable to all, and charitable to the poor. He died the 5. of October 1626, and lieth buried under the Communion Table in St. Antholins in London, whereof he had been Minister for twenty eight years. One (whilst a private man) happy in his Curates (whereof two Dr. Bowlles, and Dr. Westfield afterwards became Bishops) and (when a Bishop ) no less happy in his learned and religious Chaplains.

1. QUeen Mary surprised with some fright, (as is generally believed) antedated the time of her travel by some weeks, and was delivered of a Son. But a greater acceleration was endeavored in his Baptism, than what happened at his Birth, such the forwardness of the Popish Priests, to snatch him from the hands of those as dressed him, had not the care of K. Charles prevented t • em, assigning Dr. Web (then waiting his Moneth) to Christian him. He died about an hour after; the King very patiently bearing the loss, as receiving the first fruits of some of his Subjects estates, and as willingly paying those of his own Body, to the King of Heaven.

2. The University of Oxford, ( Cambridge being then heavily infected with the Plague) at once in their verses congratulated the safe Birth, and condoled the short life of this Prince, and a Tetrastich, made by one of ChristiChurch, (thus in making his address to the Queen ) I must not omit.

This Prince the next day after was buried by Bishop Laud in the Chapel at Westminster.

3. During the sitting of the last Parliament, one Leighton a Scottish-man presented a Book unto them: had he been an English man, we durst call him a Furious, and now will term him a fiery (whence kindled let other ghess) Writer. His Book consisted of a continued railing, from the beginaing to the end; exciting the Parliament and People to kill all the Bishops, and to smite them under the fifth Rib. He bitterly enveyed against the Queen calling her a Daughter of Heth, a Canaanite and Idolatress, and ZIONSPLEA was the specious Title of his Pamplhet; for which he was sentenced in the Star-chamber, to be whipt and stigmatized, to have his ears cropped and nose slit. But betwixt the pronouncing and inflicting this Censure, he makes his escape into Bedford-shire.

4. The Warden of the Fleet was in a Bushel of Troubles about his escape, though alleging that some helped him over the wall, and that he himself knew nothing thereof til the noon after. But no plea seemed available for one in his place but either the keeping, or recovering of his Prisoner; unfortunate in the former, he was happy in the latter, & brought him back into his custody; so that the aforesaid censure was inflicted on him. It is remarkable, that amongst the many accusations charged on Archbishop Laud at his trial, the severity on Leighton is not at all mentioned, chiefly because (though he might be suspected active therein) his faults were of so high a nature none then or since dare appear in his defense. The Papists boast that they have beyond the Seas, with them, his Son of another persuasion.

5. Some three years since, certain feoffees were (though not incorporated by the Kings Letters Patent, or any Act of Parliament ) legally settled in trust to purchase in impropriations with their own and other well disposed Persons money, and with their profit to set up and maintain a constant preaching Ministry in places of greatest need, where the word was most wanting. These consisted of a number neither too few, as the work should burden them, nor so many, as might be a burden to the work, twelve in all, diversely qualified.

• 1 William Gouge
• 2 Richard Sibbs
  • Drs. in Divinity.
• 3 C. Ofspring
• 4 J. Davenport
• 5 Ralph Eyre
• 6 S. Brown
  • of Lincolns Inn.
• 7 C. Sherland
• 8 John White
  • of
    • Grayes Inn.
    • Middle Temple.
• 9 John Geering
• 10 Richard Davis
• 11 George Harwood
• 12 Francis Bridges
  • Citizens.

Here were four Divines, to persuade men's consciences, four Lawyers to draw all conveiances, and four Citizens who commanded rich Coffers, wanting nothing, save (what since doth all things ) some Swordmen, to defend all the rest. Besides these the Capemerchants (as I may term them) there were other inferior Factors, Mr. Foxley, &c. who were employed by appointment, or of officiousnes employed themselves in this design.

6. It is incredible, what large sums were advanced in a short time towards so laudable an employment. There are indeed in England of Parish Churches, nine thousand two hundred eighty four, endowed with Glebe and Tithes. But of these, (when these Feoffees entered on their work) three thousand eight hundred forty five were either or

• Appropriated to Bishops, Cathedrals and Colleges,
• Impropriated (as Lay-fees ) to private persons, as formerly belonging to Abbeys.

The redeeming and restoring of the latter, was these Feoffees design, and it was verily believed (if not obstructed in their end •• vours) within fifty years, rather Purchases then Money would have been wanting unto them, buying them generally (as Candle-rents ) at or under twelve years valuation. My Pen passing by them at the present, may safely salute them with a God speed, as neither seeing nor suspecting any danger in the Design.

7. Richard Smith titulary Bishop of Calcedon taking his honor from Greece, his profit from England (where he Bishoped it over all the Romtsh Catholics ) was now very busy in his employment. But when, where and how oft he acted here, is past our discovery, it being never known when Men of his profession come hither, till they be caught here. Now if any demand why the Pope did not entitle him to some English rather then this Grecian Bishopric (the grant of both being but of the same price of his Holyness his breath, and the confirmation equally cheap in wax and parchment ) especially seeing that in Ireland he had made Anti-Bishops to all Sees, it is easy for one (though none of his Comclave ) to conjecture. For in Ireland he had in every Diocese and Parish a Counter-Part of People for number and quality, which he had not in England, and therefore to entitle Bishops here, had but rendered it the more ridiculous in the granter, and dangerous in the accepter thereof.

8. Nicholas Smith a Regular, (and perchance a Jesuit ) much stomacked the advancement and activity of Richard Smith Bishop of Calcedon and wrote bitterly against him, the hammer of one Smith clashing against another. He fell foul also on Dr. Kellison President of the College of Dowag, who lately set forth a Treatise of the Dignity and necessity of Bishop and Secular Clergy, generally opposing his Doctrine, and particularly in relation to the English Bishops, instancing in the following exceptions.

9. First a Bishop over the English was useless, and might well be spared in times of persecution, there being but two pecu • iar performances of a Bishop. viz. Ordination and Confirmation. For the former it might be supplied by Forreigne Bishops; the Priests of our English nation being generally bred beyond the Seas. As for confirmation of the Children of English Catholics, he much decried the necessity thereof (though not so far as to un-seven the Sacraments of the Church of Rome ) affirming it out of St. Thomas of Aquin, and other Divines, that, by commission from the Pope, a Priest, though no Bishop, might confirm. To this Dr. Kellison his Scholar (or himself under the vizard) replied, that in the definition of St. Cyprian. A Church was a people united to its Bishop, and therefore an absolutenecessity of that function.

10. Secondly he was burthensome to the Church, considering the present pressures of poor English Catholics, needing now no unnecessary exspences for the maintenance of the Bishop and his Agents. To this it was answered, that Mr. Nicholas Smith, and his Brethren, Regulars, daily put the Catholics to far greater charges, as appeareth by the stately Houses, Purchases &c. Indeed generally the little finger of a Jesuit was conceived, in his entertainment, heavier than the Loines of a Secular. Mean time in what care were our English Lay Catholics, with Issachar couching down between two burdens, bearing the weight of both Regulars and Seculars? But who need pity them who will not pity themselves?

11. Thirdly, he took exceptions at the person of this Bishop of Chalcedon, as not lawfully called in Canonical Criticisme. First, because not estated in his Episcopal inspection over England, during his life (as a Bishop ought to be) but only constituted ad beneplacitum Papae, at the pleasure of the Pope, which restriction destroyeth his being a Lawfull Ordinary. Secondly, he carpeth at him as made by Delegation and Commission, and therefore a Delegate not an Ordinary. To which the other replied, that even Legates have that clause in their Commission, limited to the Popes pleasure, and yet no Catholic will question them to be Lawfull Ordinaries. As to the second exception, the same (saith he) doth not dest ••• y his Ordinary-ship, but only showeth he was made an Ordinary, in an extraordinary manner: which distinction how far it will hold good in the Canon Law, let those inquire who are concerned therein.

12. Notwithstanding Dr. Kellison his confutation, the insolency of the Regulars daily increased in England, so that they themselves may seem the most seculars; so fixed were they to the wealth and vanity of this world. The Irish Regulars exceeded the English in pride, maintaining (amongst other printed propositions ) that the Superiors of Regulars are more worthy than Bishops themselves, because the honor of the Pastor is to be measured from the condition of the Flock: quemadmodum Opilio dignior est subulco, as a Shepherd is of more esteem than a Hoggard. In application of the first to themselves, the last to the Seculars, it is hard to say whether their pride was more in their own praise, or charity less in condemning of others. It was therefore high time for the Doctors of Sorbone in Paris (who for many ages have maintained in their College, the hereditary reputation of learning ) to take these Regulars to task. Sixty of the Sorbone Doctors censured the aforesaid proposition, and the Archbishop of Paris condemned the Book of Nicholas Smith, as also another tending to the same subject, made by one Daniel a Jesuit.

13. On what terms the Regulars and Seculars stand in England at this day, I neither know nor list to inquire. Probably they have learned wit from our woes, and our late sad differences have occasioned their reconcilement. Only I learn this distinction from them, the Catholics as Catholics agree always in matters of faith, but the best Catholics as men may vary in their opinions. I hope they will allow to us, what liberty they assume to themselves.

14. Dr. John Davenant Bishop of Salisbury preached his course on a Sunday in Lent at White-Hall before the King and Court, finishing a Text Rom. 6. 23. the former part whereof he had handled the year before. In prosecution whereof it seems he was conceived to fall on some forbidden points, in so much that his Majesty (whether at first by his own inclination, or others instigation, is uncertain) manifested much displeasure there at. Sermon ending his Adversaries at Court hoped hereby to make him fall totally and finally from the Kings favor, though missing their mark herein, as in fine it did appear.

15. Two days after he was called before the Privy Council; where he presented himself on his knees, and so had still continued for any favor he found from any of his own function there present. But the Temporal Lord's bad him arise and stand to his own defense, being as yet only accused, not convicted. Dr. Harsenet Archbishop of York managed all the business against him ( Bishop Laud walking by all the while in silence spake not one word) making a long oration uttered with much vehemency to this effect.

What the other answered hereunto will best appear by his own letter written to his worthy friend Doctor Ward, giving him an exact account of all proceedings herein in manner as followeth.

• 1. Happy in the Lord whom the serve: God or Christ Jesus.
• 2. Happy in the reward of their service: Eternal life.
• 3. Happy in the manner of their reward: 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , or gratnitum donurn in Christo.

17. This year Thomas Dove Bishop of Peterborough ended his life. He was bred in Pembroke-Hall in Cambridge, chosen Tanquam therein, which it seems is a Fellow in all things save the name thereof. Afterwards Chaplain to Q. Eliz • beth who made him Dean of Norwich, being much affected with his Preaching, as wont to say that, The Holy Ghost was again come down in the Dove. He was a constant Housekeeper and Reliever of the Poor, so that such who in his life time condemned him for Covetousness, have since justly praised his Hospitality. Now though Doves are generally said to want gall, yet the Non-conformists in his Diocese will complain of his severity in asserting Ecclesiastical Discipline, when he silenced five of them in one morning, on the same token that King James is said to say it might have served for five years. He was an aged man, being the only Queen Elizabeth's Bishop of that Province which died in the Reign of King Charles, living in a poor Bishopric, and leaving a plentiful estate: to show that it is not the moisture of the Place, but the long lying of the stone, which gathereth the great moss therein. In a word, had he been more careful in conferring of Orders (too commonly bestowed by him) few of his Order had exceeded him for the unblamablenesse of his behavior.

18. Now began great discontents to grow up in the University of Oxford on this occasion. Many conceived that Innovations (defended by others for Renovations, and now only reduced, as used in the Primitive times ) were multiplied in Divine service. Offended whereat, they in their Sermons brake our into (what was interpreted) bitter invectives. Yea their very Texts gave some offense, one preaching on Numbers 14. 4. Let us make us a Captain, and let us return into Egypt. Another on 1 Kings 13. 2. And he cried against the Altar in the word of the Lord, and said, O Altar, Altar, &c. In prosecution whereof they had not only tart reflection on some eminent Persons in the Church, but also were apprehended to violate the Kings Declaration, for the sopiting of all Arminian controversies.

19. Dr. Smith Warden of Wadham convented the principal persons ( viz. Mr. Thorn of Bailiol Col. and Mr. Ford of Magdalene Hall ) as offenders against the Kings instructions, and ordered them to bring in the Copies of their Sermons. They suspecting partiality in the Vice-Chancellor, appealed from him to the Procters, two men of eminent integrity and ability, Mr. Atherton Bruch, and Mr. John Doughty, who received their appeal, presuming the same justifiable by the Statutes of the University. But it seems the Procters were better Scholars than Lawyers, except any will say both Law, and Learning must submit, when Power is pleased to interpose.

20. Archbishop Laud did not like these retrograde appeals, but sensible that his own strength moved rather ascendendo, than descendendo, procured the cause to be heard before the King at Woodstock, where it was so ordered, that,

• 1 The Preachers complained of, were expelled the University.
• 2 The Procters were deprived of their places for accepting their appeal.
• 3 Dr. Prideaux, and Dr. Wilkinson were shrewdly checked for engaging in their behalf.

21. The expulsion of these Preachers expelled not, but increased the differences in Oxford, which burnt the more for blaZing the less, many complaining, that the Sword of Justice did not cut indifferently on both sides, but that it was more Penal for some to touch, than others to break the Kings declaration.

22. This year ended the days of Mr. Arthur Hildersham, born at Stechworth in the County, bred in Christ-College in the University of Cambridge, whose education was an experimental Comment on the words of David, When my father and mother forsake me, then the Lord taketh me up.

23. However, after he was entered in the Ministry, he met with many molestations, as hereby doth appear.

And now me thinks I hear the Spirit speaking unto him, as once to the Prophet Ezekiel, Thou shall speak and be no more dumb, singing now with the Celestial Choir of Saints and Angels. Indeed though himself a Non-conformist, he loved all honest men, were they of a different judgment, minded like Luther herein, who gave for his Motto, In quo aliquid CHRISTI video, illum diligo.

24. He was Minister of Ashby de la Zouch forty and three years. This putteth me in mind of Theodosiue and of Valentinian (two worthy Christian Emperors) their constitutions making those Readers of the Civil Law, Counts of the first Order, cùm adviginti annos observatione jugi, ac sedulo docendi labor pervenerint, when with da • lie observation and diligent labor of teaching they shall arrive at twenty years. Surely the Readers of God's Law which double that time shall not lose their reward.

25. The same year died Robert Bolton, born in Lancashire, bred in Brasennose College in Oxford, beneficed at Broughton in Northamptonshire. An authoritative Preacher, who majestically became the Pulpiz, and whose life is exactly written at large, to which I refer such as desire farther satisfaction. And here may the Reader be pleased to take notice, that henceforward we shall on just grounds for bear the description of such Divines, as yearly deceased. To say nothing of them save the dates of their deaths, will add little to the readers information, to say much in praise or dispraise of them, (wherein their relations are so nearly concerned) may add too much to the Writers danger. Except therefore they be persons so eminent for their learning, or active for their lives, as their omission may make a ma • m in our History, we shall pass them over in silence hereafter.

26. Archbishop Laud began to look with a jealous eye on the Feoffees for Impropriations, as who in process of time would prove a thorn in the sides of Episcopacy, and by their purchases become the prime Patrones, for number and greatness of benefices. This would multiply their dependents; and give a secret growth to Non-conformity. Whereupon by the Archbishops procurement a Bil was exhibited in the Exchequer Chamber, by Mr. Noy the Atturny General, against the Feoffees aforesaid, and that great Lawyer endeavored to overthrow (as one termed it) their Apocrypha Incorporation.

27. It was charged against them, first, that they diverted the charity, wherewith they were entrusted, to other uses, when erecting a Lecture every morning at St. Antholines in London. What was this but lighting candles to the Sun, London being already the Land of Goshen, and none of those dark and far distant corners, where Souls were ready to famish for lack of the food of the word? What was this but a bold breach of their trust, even in the Eye of the Kingdom?

28. They answered that London being the chief staple of charity and the place where the principal contributers to so pious a work did reside, it was but fit, that it should share in the benefit of their bounty. That they were not so confined to the uses in their Feoffment, but that in their choice they might reflect as well on the Eminency, as Necessity of the place; that they expended much of their own (as well as other men's ) money, and good reason they should do therewith as they pleased.

29. It was pressed against them, that they generally preferred Non conformists to the Lectures of their Erection. To this it was answered, that none were placed therein, but such whose Sufficiency and Conformity were first examined and approved by the Ordinary, to be to such a Degree as the Law required. Yea it is said that Mr. White, one of the Feoffees, privately proffered Bishop Laud at his house in Fulham, that if he disliked either the Persons, who managed, or Order which they took in this work, they would willingly submit the alteration to his Lordships discretion.

30. In conclusion the Court condemned their proceedings, as dangerous to the Church and State, pronouncing the Gifts, Feoffments and Contrivances made to the Uses aforesaid to be illegal, and so dissolved the same, confiscating their money unto the Kings use. Their criminal part was referred to, but never prosecuted in, the Star-chamber, because the Design was generally approved, and both discreet and devout men were (as desirous of the Regulation, so) doleful at the ruin of so pious a Project.

31. Samuel Harsenet about this time ended his life, born in Colchester, bred Scholar, Fellow, Master of Pembroke-Hall in Cambridge, afterwards Bishop of Chtchester and Norwich, Archbishop of York, and privy Counselor. He was a zealous asserter of ceremonies, using to complain of (the first I believe who used the expression ) of CONFORMABLE PURITANS, who practiced it out of policy, yet dissented from it in their judgments. He lieth buried in Chigwell Church in Essex, (where he built a School) with this Epit • ph, Indignus Eptscopus Clcestrensis, indignior Norvicensis, & indignissimus Archiepiscopus Eboracensis.

32. Now the Sabbatarian controversy begun to be revived, which brake forth into a long and hot contention. Theophilus Bradborn, a Minister of Suffolk, founded the first trumpet to this fight, who some five years since, namely anno 1628. set forth a Book, dedicated to his Majesty, entitled, A defense of the most ancient, and sacred ordinance of God, The Sabbath Day: maintaining therein,

• 1. The fourth Commandment simply, and entirely moral.
• 2. Christians, as well as Jews, obliged to the everlasting observation of that day.
• 3. That the Lord's-day is an ordinary working-day, it being will-worship, and superstition to make it a Sabbath by virtue of the fourth Commandment.

2. Francis White Bishop (formerly of Norwich ) then of Eli, was employed by his Majesty, to confute Mr. Bradborn his erroneous opinion. In the writing whereof, some expressions fell from his pen, whereat many strict people (but far enough from Bradborn's conceit) took great distaste. Hereupon Books begat Books, and controversies on this subject were multiplied, reducible to five principal heads.

• 1. What is the fittest name to signify the day set apart for God's public service?
• 2. When that day is to begin, and end?
• 3. Upon what authority the keeping thereof is bottomed?
• 4. Whether or no the day is alterable?
• 5. Whether any recreations, and what kinds of them, be lawful on that day?

And they are dinstinguishable into three several opinions:

A worthy Doctor, who in his Sermons at the Temple, no less piously than learnedly, handled the point of the Lord's-day, worthily pressed, that Gentle-folk were obliged to a stricter observation of the Lord's-day, than laboring people. The whole have no need of the Physician, but those who are sick. Such as are not annihilated with labor, have no title to be recreated with liberty. Let Servants, whose hands are ever working, whilst their eyes are waking; let such, who all the foregoing week had their Cheeks moistened with sweat, and hands hardened with labor; let such have some recreation on the Lord's day indulged unto them: whilst persons of quality, who may be said to keep Sabbath all the week long, I mean who rest from hard labor, are concerned in conscience, to observe the Lord's-day with the greater abstinence from recreations.

34. Pass we now from the pen, to the practical part of the Sabbatarian difference. Somerset-shire was the stage, whereon the first and fiercest Scene thereof was acted. Here Wakes (much different, I dare say, from the watching prescribed by our Savior) were kept on th • Lord's day, with Church-Ales, Bid-Ales, and Clerks-Ales. If the Reader know not the critical meaning, and difference of these words, I list not to be the interpreter; and his ignorance herein, neither is any disgrace, nor can be any damage unto him. The Gentry of that County, perceiving such revells the cause of many, and occasion of moe misdemeanors (many acts of wantonness bearing their dates from such meetings) importuned Sr. Thomas Richardson, Lord Chief Justice, and Baron Denham, then Judges, riding the Western circuit in the Lent-vacation, to make a severe Order for the suppressing of all Ales, and Revells on the Lord's-day.

35. In compliance with their desire, the aforesaid Judges made an order on the 19. day of March (founded on former precedents signed by Judge Popeham, Lord Chief Justice in the latter end of Queen Elizabeth her Reign) therein suppressing such Revells, in regard of the infinite number of inconveniences daily arising by means thereof, enjoining the Constables to deliver a copy thereof to the Minister of every Parish, who, on the first Sunday in February, and likewise the two first Sundays before Easter, was to publish the same every year.

36. The Archbishop of Canterbury beheld this as an usurpation on Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction, and complained of the Judges to his Majesty, procuring a Commission to Bishop Pierce, and other Divines, to inquire into the manner of publishing this Order, and the Chief Justice his carriage in this business. Notwithstanding all which, the next Assise Judge Richardson gave another strict charge against these Revels, required an account of the publication, and execution of the aforesaid Order, punishing some persons for the breach thereof. After whose return to London the Archbishop sent for him, and commanded him to revoke his former Order, as he would answer the contrary at his peril, telling him it was his Majesty's pleasure he should reverse it. The Judge alleged it done at the request of the Justices of the Peace in the County, with the general consent of the whole Bench, on the view of ancient precedents in that kind. However, the next Assise he revoked his Order with this limitation, as much as in him lay. At what time also the Justices of the Peace in Somerset shire (who in birth, brains, spirit and estate were inferior to no County in England ) drew up an humble petition to his Majesty, for the suppressing of the aforesaid unlawful assemblies, concurring with the Lord Chief Justice therein, sending it up by the hand of the Custos Rotulorum, to deliver it to the Earl of Pembroke, Lord Lieutenant of their County, to present it to his Majesty.

37. Just in this juncture of time a Declaration for sports, set forth the fifteenth of King James, was revived, and enlarged. For, his Majesty being troubled with petitions on both sides, thought good to follow his Fathers royal example, upon the like occasion in Lancashire; and we refer the Reader to what we have written before, for arguments pro and con about the lawfulness of public reading thereof.

38. It was charged at his trial, on the Archbishop of Canterbury, that he had caused the reviving, and enlarging of this Declaration, strong presumptions being urged for the proof thereof. He denied it, yet professing his judgment for recreations on that day, alleging the practice of the Church of Geneva, allowing shooting in long Bows &c. thereon. Adding also, that, though indulging liberty to others, in his own person he strictly observed that day. A self-praise, or rather self-purging, because spoken on his life, which seemed uttered without pride, and with truth, and was not clearly confuted. Indeed they are the best carvers of liberty on that day, who cut most for others, and leave least for themselves.

39. However, there was no express in this Declaration, that the Minister of the Parish should be pressed to the publishing. Many counted it no Ministers work, and more proper for the place of the Constable, or Tithing-man to perform it. Must they, who were (if not worst able ) most unfitting; hold the Candle to lighten, and let in licentiousness? But, because the Judges had enjoined the Ministers to read their order in the Church, the Kings Declaration was enforced by the Bishops, to be published by them in the same place.

40. As for such whose consciences reluctated to publish the Declaration, various were their evasions. Some left it to their Curates to read. Nor was this the plucking out of a thorn from their own, to put it in another Mans conscience, seeing their Curates were persuaded of the lawfulness thereof. Others read it indeed themselves, but presently after read the fourth Commandment. And was this fair play, setting God and their King (as they conceived) at odds, that so they themselves might escape in the fray? Others point-blank refused the reading thereof; for which some of them were suspended ab officio & beneficio, some deprived, and moe molested in the High Commission: it being questionable, whether their sufferings procured more pity to them, or more hatred to the causers thereof.

41. All Bishops urged not the reading of the Book with rigor alike, nor punished the refusal with equal severity. I hear the loudest, longest, and thickest complaints come from the Diocese of Norwich, and of Bath and Wells. I knew a Bishop in the West (to whom I stood related in kindred, and service) who, being pressed by some to return the names of such as refused to read the Book, to the Archbishop of Canterbury, utterly denied: and his words to me were these, I will never turn an accuser of my Brethren, there be enough in the World to take that office. As for the Archbishop of Canterbury, much was his moderation in his own Diocese, silencing but three (in whom also a concurrence of other non-conformities) through the whole extent thereof. But oh! The necessity of the general day of Judgment, wherein all Men's actions shall be expounded according to their intentions, which here are interpretable according to other Men's inclinations! The Archbishops adversaries imputed this, not to his charity, but policy, Fox-like preying farthest from his own den, and instigating other Bishops to do more than he would appear in himself. As for his own Visitation-Articles, some complained they were but narrow as they were made, and broad as they were measured; his under-officers improving, and enforcing the same, by their enquiries, beyond the letter thereof.

42. Many complain that Mans badness took occasion to be worse, under the protection of these sports permitted unto them. For, although liberty on the Lord's-day may be so limited in the notions of learned men, as to make it lawful, it is difficult (if not impossible) so to confine it in the actions of lewd people, but that their liberty will degenerate into licentiousness.

43 Many moderate Men are of opinion, that this abuse of the Lord's day was a principal procurer of God's anger, since poured out on this land, in a long and bloody civil war. Such observe, that our fights of chief concernment were often fought on the Lord's-day, as pointing at the punishing of the profanation thereof. Indeed amongst so many battles which in ten years time have rent the bowels of England, some on necessity would fall on that day (seeing we have be-rubrick'd each day in the week, almost in the year, with English blood) and therefore to pick a solemn providence out of a common-casualty, savors more of curiosity than conscience. Ye • , seeing Edge-hill-fight (which first brake the peace, and made an irreconcilable breach betwixt the two parties) was fought on that day, and some battles since of greatest consequence, there may be more in the observation, than what many are willing to acknowledge. But, whatsoever it is which hence may be collected, sure I am, those are the best Christians, who least censure others, and most reform themselves.

44. But here it is much to be lamented, that such who at the time of the Sabbatarian controversy, were the strictest observers of the Lord's-day, are now reeled by their violence into another extreme, to be the greatest neglecters, yea, contemners thereof. These Transcendants, accounting themselves mounted above the Predicament of common piety, aver, they need not keep any, because they keep all days Lord's-days, in their elevated holiness. But alas, Christian duties said to be ever done, will prove never done, if not sometimes solemnly done. These are the most dangerous Levellers, equalling all times, places, and persons, making a general confusion to be Gospel-perfection. Whereas to speak plainly, we in England are, rebus sic stantibus, concerned now more strictly to observe the Lord's-day, than ever before. Holy-days are not, and Holy-eves are not, and Wednesday and Friday-Litanies are not, and Lord's-day eves are not, and now some (out of error, and others out of profaneness) go about to take away the Lord's-day also, all these things make against God's solemn and public service. Oh let not his public worship, now contracted to fewer chanells, have also a shallower stream. But enough of this subject; wherein if I have exceeded the bounds of an Historian, by being to large therein, such will pardon me, who know (if pleasing to remember) that Divinity is my proper profession.

45. At this time miserable the maintenance of the Irish Clergy, where Scandalous means, made Scandalous Ministers. And yet a Popish Priest would grow fat in that Parish where a Protestant would be famished, as have not their lively-hood on the oblations of those of their own Religion. But now such Impropriations as were in the Crown, by the King were restored to the Church, to a great diminution of the Royal-Revenew, though his Majesty never was sensible of any loss to himself, if thereby gain might redound to God, in his Ministers. Bishop Laud was a worthy Instrument in moving the King to so pious a work, and yet this his procuring the restoring of Irish, did not satisfy such discontented at his obstructing the buying in of English Impropriations: thus those conceived, to have done hurt at home will hardly make reparations with other good deeds at distance.

46. A Convocation (concurrent with a Parliament ) was called and kept at Dublin in Ireland, wherein the 39. Articles of the Church of England were received in Ireland for all to subscribe unto. It was adjudged fit, seeing that Kingdom complies with England in the Civil government; it should also conform thereto in matters of Religion. Mean time the Irish Articles concluded formerly in a Synod 1616. (wherein Arminianisne was condemned in terminis terminantibus, and the observation of the Lord's day resolved jure Divine ) were utterly excluded.

47. A Cardinals-Cap once and again offered by the Pope, to Bishop Laud, was as often refused by him. The fashion thereof, could not fit his Head, who had studied and written so much against the Romish Religion. He who formerly had foiled the Fisher himself in a public disputation, would not now be taken with so filly a bait, but accquainted the King therewith: timuit Roman vel donaferentem, refusing to receive anything from Rome till she was better reformed.

48. Doctor William Juxon Bishop of London, was by Bishop Lauds procurement made Lord Treasurer of England, entering on that Office with many and great disadvantages. First, because no Clergy-man had executed the same, since William Grey Bishop of Eli, almost two hundred year ago, in the reign of King Edward the fourth. Secondly, because the Treasury was very poor, and if in private houses, bare walls make giddy House-wives, in Princes Palaces, empty Coffers make unsteady Statesmen. Thirdly, because a very Potent (I cannot say Competitor, the Bishop himself being never a Petitor for the Place, but) desirer of this Office was frustrated in his [almost assured] expectation of the same to himself.

49. However so discreet his carriage in that place, it procured a general love unto him, and politick malice, despairing to bite, resolved not to bark at him. He had a perfect command of his passion, (an happiness not granted to all Clergy-men in that age, though privy-Counselors,) slow, not of speech as a defect, but to speak, out of discretion, because when speaking he plentifully paid the principal and interest of his Auditors expectation. No hands, having so much money passing thorough them, had their fingers less soiled there with. It is probable his frugality would have cured the consumption of the Kings Exchequer, had not the [unexpected] Scotch commotion, put it into a desperate relapse. In this particular he was happy above others of his order, that whereas they may be said, in some sort to have left their Bishoprics (flying into the Kings quarters for safety) he staid at home till his Bishopric left him, roused from his Swans-nest at Fulham for a bird of another feather to build therein.

50. Dr. Laud, (formerly Archbishop in power ) now so in place, after the decease of Bishop Abbots, this year kept his metropoliticall visitation, & hence-forward conformity was more vigorously pressed than before. Insomuch that a Minister was censured in the High-Commission for this expression in a sermon, That it was suspicious that now the night did approach because the shadows were so much longer then the body, and ceremonies more in force then the power of godliness. And now many differences about divine worship, began to arise, whereof many books were written pro and con. So common in all hands, that my pains may be well spared in rendering a particular account of what is so universally known. So that a word or two will suffice.

51. One controversy was about the Holiness of our Churches, some maintaining, that they succeed to the same degree of sanctity with the Tabernacle of Moses, & Temple of Solomon, which others flatly denied. First, because the Tabernacle, and Temple, were, and might be, but one at a time, whilst our Churches, without fault, may be multiplied without any [se • ] number. They both for their fashion, fabric, and utensils, were jure divino, their Architects being inspired, whilst our Churches are the product of human fancy. Thirdly, God gloriously appeared both in the Tabernacle and Temple, only graciously present in our Churches. Fourthly, The Temple was a type of Christ's Body, which ours are not. More true it is, our Churches are heirs to the holiness of the Jewish Synagogues, which were many, and to whom a reverence was due as publicly destined to divine service.

52. Not less the difference about the manner of adoration to be used in God's-House, which some would have done towards the Communion-Table, as the most remarkable place of God's presence. Those used a distinction between bowing ad altare towards the Altar, as directing their adoration that way, and ad altare to the Altar, as terminating their worship therein; the latter they detested as Idolatrous, the former they defended as lawful and necessary, such a slovenly unmannerlynes had lately possessed many people in their approaches to God's House that it was high time to reform.

53. But such as disliked the gesture, could not, or would not, understand the distinction as in the Suburbs of Superstition. These allowing some corporal adoration lawful, yea necessary, seeing no reason the Moity of Man, yea the Total Sun of Him, which is visible [his Body, ] should be exempted from God's service, except such a Writ of Ease could be produced and proved from Scripture. But they were displeased with this adoration because such as enjoin it maintain one kind of reverence due to the very place, another to the Elements of the Sacraments, if on the Table, a third to God himself: these several degrees of reverence ought to be railed about as well as the Communion-Table and clearly distinguished, lest that be given to the Creature which belongs to the Creator, and such as shun profanation run into Idolatry.

54. A controversy was also started about the Pasture of the Lord's Board, Communion-Table, or Altar, the last name beginning now in many Men's mouths to out the two former. Some would have it constantly fixed with the sides East and West ends North and South, on a graduated advance next the East-wall of the Chancel, citing a Canon and the practice in the Kings-Chapel for the same. Others pressed the Queens injunctions that (allowing it at other times to stand, but not Altar-wise in the Chancel) it ought to be set in the body of t • e Church when the Sacrament is celebrated thereon.

55. Such the heat about this Altar till both sides had almost Sacrificed up their mutual charity thereon, and this controversy was prosecuted with much needless animosity. This mindeth me of a passage in Cambridge, when King James was there present, to whom a great Person complained of the inverted situation of a College-Chapel, [North and South] out of design to put the House to the cost of new building the same. To whom the King answered, It matters not how the Chapel stands, so their hearts who go thither be set aright in God's service. Indeed if moderate men had had the managing of these matters, the accommodation had been easy with a little condescension on both sides. But as a small accidental heat or cold (such as a healthful body would not be sensible of) is enough to put him into a fit, who was formerly in latitudine febris, so men's minds distempered in this age with what I may call a mutinous tendency, were exasperated with such small occasions which otherwise might have been passed over and no notice taken thereof.

56. For now came the censure of Mr. Prinne, Dr. Bastwick, and Mr. Burton, and we must go a little backwards to take notice of the nature of their offenses. Mr. William Prinne born (about Bath ) in Gloucestershire, bred some time in Oxford, afterwards Utter-Baraster of Lincolns-Inn, began with the writing of some useful and Orthodox Books. I have heard some of his Detractours account him as only the hand of a better head setting forth at first the endeavors of others. Afterwards he delighted more to be numerous with many then ponderous with select quotations, which maketh his Books to swell with the loss ofttimes of the Reader, sometimes of the Printer, and his Pen generally querulous hath more of the Plaintiff then of the Defendant therein.

57. Some three years since he set forth a Book called Histriomastrix, or the Whip of Stage-players. Whip so held and used by his hand, that some conceived the Lashes thereof flew into the face of the Queen herself, as much delighted in Masques. For which he was severely censured to lose his EARES on the Pillory, and for a long time (after two removals to the Fleet ) imprisoned in the Tower. Where he wrote, and whence he dispersed new Pamphlets, which were interpreted to be Libells against the established Discipline of the Church of England, for which he was indicted in the Star-chamber.

58. Dr. John Bastwick (by vulgar error generally mistaken to be a Scotchman ) was born at Writtle in Essex, bred a short time in Immanuel-College, then travailed nine years beyond the Seas, made Dr. of Physic at Padua. Returning home he practiced it at Colchester, and set forth a Book in Latin (wherein his Pen commanded a pure and fluent style ) entitled Flagellum Pontificis, & Episcoporum Latialium. But it seems he confined not his character so to the Latian Bishops beyond the Alps, but that our English Prelates counted themselves touched therein. Hereupon he was accused in the High-Commission, committed to the Gate-house, where he wrote a second Book taxing the injustice of the proceedings of the High-Commission, for which he was indicted in the Star-Chamber.

59. Mr. Henry Burton Minister rather took a snap then made a meal in any University, was first Schoolmaster to the Sons of the Lord Cary (afterwards Earl of Monmouth ) whose Lady was Governesse to King Charles when Prince. And this opportunity (say some) more then his own deserts, preferred him to the service of Pr. Ch. being designed (as I have heard) to wait on him in Spain, but afterwards (when part of his goods were shipped for the voyage ) excluded the attendance. Whether because his parts and learning were conceived not such, as to credit our English Church in Forain-Countries, or because his Principles were accounted uncomplying with that employment.

60. The crudity of this affront lay long on his mind, hot stomachs (contrary to corporal concoction ) being in this kind the slowest of digestion. After the venting of many mediate discontents, on the last fifth of November he took for his Text Pro. 24. 21. My Son fear thou the Lord and the King, and meddle not with them that are given to change. This Sermon was afterwards printed, charging the Prelates for introducing of several innovations into Divine worship, for which, as a Libell, he was indicted in the Star-Chamber.

61. But the fault-general, which at this day was charged on these three Prisoners at the Barr in the Star-Chamber, was this. That they had not put in their effectual answer into that Court wherein they were accused, though sufficient notice, and competent time was allowed them for the performance thereof. The Lord-Keeper Coventry minded them, that for such neglect, they had a Precedent, wherein the Court after six days had taken a cause pro confesso, whereas the favor of six weeks was allowed unto them, and now leave given them to render reason, why the Court should not proceed to present censure.

62. Hereat Mr. Prinne first moved that they would be pleased to accept a cross Bill (which he there tendered) against the Prelates. This the Lord-Keeper refused to accept of at the present, as not being the business of the day. Then he moved that the Prelates might be dismissed the Court: It being agreeable neither to nature, reason, nor justice, that those who were their Adversaries should be their Judges. This also was rejected by the Lord-Keeper, because by the same proportion, had he libelled against the Temporal Lord's, Judges, and Privy Counselors in the place; by this Plea, none should pass censure upon them, because all were made Parties.

63. Mr. Prinne proceeded to show he had done his endeavor to prepare his answer, being hindered first by his close imprisonment, denied pen, ink and paper; and by the imprisonment also of his Servant, who was to solicit his business. That the Council assigned him came very late, and though twice paid for their pains, deferred the drawing up of his answer, and durst not set their hands unto it. Mr. Hole, one of his Council being present, confessed that he found his answer would be very long, and of such a nature as he durst not subscribe it, fearing to give their Lordships distaste.

64. Dr. Bastwick being spoken to, to speak for himself, why he brought not in his answer before; laid the blame on the cowardice of his Council that durst not sign it for fear of the Prelates. He there tendered his answer on oath with his own hand, which would not be accepted. He spake much of his own Abilities, that he had been a Soldier able to lead an Army of men into the Field, and now was a Physician able to cure Kings, Princes, and Emperors; and therefore how unworthy it was to curta • lize his EARES, generally given out by the Bishops Servants, as a punishment intended unto him. He minded them of the mutability of all earthly things, and chiefly of the changes in the Court; where he, lately the chief Judge therein, was the next day to have his own cause censured: wishing them seriously to consider, that some who now sat there on the Bench, might stand Prisoners at the Barre another day, and need the favor which now they denied.

65. Mr. Burton being asked what he could allege, why the Court should not take his Fault pro confesso, pleaded that he had put in his answer, drawn up with great pains and cost, signed by his Council, and received into the Court. The Lord-Keeper rejoined that the Judges had cast his answers out as imperfect. Judge Finch affirming that they did him a good turn in making it imperfect, being otherwise as libello • s as his Book, and deserving a censure alone.

66. Here the Prisoners desiring to speak were commanded silence, and the premises notwithstanding the Court proceeded to censure: namely, that they should lose their EARES in the Palace Yard at Westminster, fining them also five thousand pound a man to his Majesty, perpetual imprisonment in three remote places. The Lord Finch added to Mr. Prinnes censure, that he should be branded in each Cheek with S. L. for Slanderous Libeller, to which the whole Court agreed. The Archbishop of Canterbury made a long speech, since printed, to excuse himself from the introducing of any Innovations in the Church, concluding it, that he left the Prisoners to God's mercy and the Kings justice.

67. It will be lawful and safe to report the discourse of several persons hereon. This censure fell out scarce adaquate to any judgment, as conceiving it either too low, or too high for their offense. High Conformists counted it too low, and that it had been better if the Pillorie had been changed into a Gallows. They esteemed it improvident (but by their leaves more of Machiavill than of Christ in such Counsel ) to kindle revenge, and not to quench life in such turbulent Spirits. The only way with them, had been to rid them out of the way.

68. Most moderate men thought the censure too sharp, too base and ignominious for Gentlemen of their ingenuous vocation. Besides, though it be easy in the notion, it is hard in the action to fix shame on the Professors, and sever it from the Professions of Divinity, Law, and hysick As for the former, though Burton was first degraded, yet such who maintain an indelible character of Priesthood hold that Degradation cannot delete what Ordination hath impressed; and gran • the censure pronounced ad terrorem, it might have become the Bishops t ^d mediate for a mitigation thereof. Let Canv • s be rough and rugged, Lawn ought to be soft and smooth. Meekness, Mildness, and Mercy being more proper for men of the Episcopal Function.

69. Two days after, three Pillories were set up in the Palace-yard, or one double one, and a single one at some distance, for Mr. Prinne as the chief offender. Mr. Burton first suffered, making a long speech in the Pillorie, not entire and continued, but interrupted with occasional expressions. But the main intent thereof was to parallel his sufferings with our Savior's. For at the first sight of the Pillory, Me thinks, said he, I see Mount-Calvary whereon the three Crosses were erected. If Christ was numbered amongst Thieves, shall a Christian think much for his sake to be numbered amongst Rogues? And whereas one told an Halberter standing by, who had an old rusty Halbert (the Iron whereof was tacked to the staff with an old crooked nail) What an old rusty weapon is this? Mr. Burton over-hearing them answered: It seems to be one of those Halberts which accompanied Judas when Christ was betrayed and apprehended.

70. His Ears were cut off very close, so that the Temporal or Head Artery being cut, the blood in abundance streamed down upon the Scaffold, all which he manfully endured, without manifesting the least shrinking thereat. Indeed of such who measured his mind by his words, some conceived his carriage far above: others (though using the same scale ) suspected the same to be somewhat beside himself. But let such who desire more of his character, consult with his printed life, written with his own hand, though it be hard for the most Excellent Artist truly to draw his own Picture.

71. Dr. Bastwick succeeded him, making a Speech to this effect. Here are many spectators of us, who stand here as Delinquents, yet am I not conscious to my self of the least trespass, wherein I have deserved this outward shame. Indeed I wrote a Book against Antichrist the Pope, and the Pope of Canterbury said it was written against him. But were the Press open unto us, we would scatter his Kingdom, and fight courageously against Gog and Magog. There be many here that have set many days apart on our behalf (let the Prelates take notice thereof) and have sent up strong prayers to God for us, the strength and fruit whereof we have felt all along in this cause. In a word, so far am I from fear or care that had I as much blood as would swell the Thames ( then visible unto him, his face respecting the South) I would lose every drop thereof in this cause.

72. His Friends much admired and highly commended the erection of his mind triumphing over pain and shame, making the one easy, the other honorable, and imputed the same to an immediate Spiritual support. Others conceived that anger in him acted the part of patience, as to the stout undergoing of his sufferings, and that in a Christian there lieth a real distinction betwixt Spirit and Stomach, Valour and Stubbornness.

73. Mr. Prinne concluded the sad sight of that day, and spake to this purpose. The cause of my standing here is for not bringing in my Answer, God knoweth, my conscience beareth witness, and my Council can tell, for I paid them twice though to no purpose. But their cowardice stands upon Record. And that's the reason why they did proceed, and take the cause pro confesso against me. But rather then I would have my cause a leading cause to the depriving of the Subjects liberties, which I seek to maintain, I choose to suffer my body to become an example of this punishment.

74. The censure was with all rigor executed on him, and he who felt the most, fretted the least; commended for more kindly patience than either of his Predecessors in that place. So various were men's fancies in reading the same letters, imprinted in his face, that some made them to spell the guiltiness of the Sufferer, but others the cruelty of the Imposer. Of the latter sort many for the cause, more for the man, most for humanity sake bestowed pity upon him: and now all three were remanded 〈◊〉 their former Prisons; and Mr. Prinne as he returned by water to the T •• er, made this Distich upon his own stigmatizing.

Not long after they were removed: Mr. Prinne to Carnarvan-Castle in Wales: Dr. Bastwicke, and Mr. Burton; the one to Lancaster-Castle, the other to Lanceston in Cornewall.

75. But it seems these places were conceived to have, either too little of Privacy, or too much of Pleasure. The two latter therefore were removed again; One to the Isle of Scilly, the other to the Isle of • ernezey; and Mr. Prinne to Mount Orgueile-Castle in Jersey. This in vulgar apprehensions, added breadth to the former depth of their sufferings, scattering the same over all the English Dominions, making the Islands thereof as well as the Continent partake of their patience. And here we leave them all in their Prisons, and particularly Mr. Prinne improving the Rocks and the Seas (good Spiritual Husbandrie ) with pious meditations. But we shall hear more of them hereafter at the beginning of the Parliament.

76. Next came the Bishop of Lincoln to be censured in the Star-chamber, and something must be premised preparative thereunto. After the great Seal some ten years since was taken from him, he retired himself to Bugden in Huntingdonshire, where he may be said to have lived in a public privacie. So many his Visitants, hospital his house-keeping: it being hard to say, whether his Table were more free and full in diet or discourse: indeed he had a plentiful estate to maintain it, besides his purchased Land. The revenues of his Bishopric, and Deanery of Westminster, out of which, long since he had been shaken, if not fastened therein, by the Letters Patents of King James. His Adversaries beheld him with envious eyes, and one great Prelate plainly said in the presence of the King, that the Bishop of Lincoln lived, in as much pomp and plenty as any Cardinal in Rome, for Dy • t, Music, and attendance. They resolved therefore to humble his height, the concurrence of many matters ministering occasion thereunto.

77. Sir John Lamb Dean of the Arches formerly a Favorite of Lincoln (fe • cht off from being prosecuted in Parliament, and knighted by his means) with Dr. Sibthorp, Allen and Burden (two Proctors as I take them) were entertained at the Bishops talk at Bugden, where their table was (the discourse general of those days) against Puritans. The Bishop advised them to take off their heavy hand from them, informing them that his Majesty in • ended to use them hereafter with more mildness, as a considerable party •• ing great influence on the Parliament, without whose concurrence the 〈◊〉 could not comfortably supply his necessities: adding moreover that 〈◊〉 Majesty had communicated this unto him by his own mouth, with his ••• tions hereafter of more gentleness to men of that opinion.

〈◊〉 Some years after upon the denial of an Officials place in Leicester 〈◊〉 (which notwithstanding, he carried in despite of the Bishop ) Sir John ••• be fell foul with his old Friend, and in revenge complained of him for • evealing the Kings secrets concredited to his privacy. Hereupon Attorney Noy was employed to put the same into an Information in the Star-chamber; unto which Bishop Williams by good advise of counsel did plead and demure, as containing no matter fit for the cognizance of that Court, as concerning words spoken of matters done in Parliament, & secrets pretended to be revealed by him, a Privy Counselor and Peer of Parliament, and therefore not to be heard but in that High-Court. This Demurrer being heard & argued by Counsel Pro and Con in open Court for two or three hours (the Lord Keeper and other Lord's there present, finding no cause nor color to overrule it) was referred to Judge Richison (who lately having singded his Coat from blasts at the Court ) by him to be smothered, who in a private Chamber presently after dinner over-ruled the same in a quarter of an hour.

79. The Demurrer thus rendered useless in the Bishops defense, he used what means he could by the Lord Weston (a proper person, because Treasurer to meddle in money matters) to compound with his Majesty: but his Majesty resolved to have the Bishops answer, and confession of his fault before he would compound with him. Whereupon the Bishop quitting all thoughts of composition, resolved to weather out the Tempest of his Majesty's displeasure at open sea, either out of confidence of the strength of his tackling, his own innocence, or skill of his Pilots, who were to steer his suit, having the learnedst Counsel of the Land by whose advise he put in a strong plea, which likewise being argued and debated in open Court, came at last to 70. His Ears were cut off very close, so that the Temporal or Head Artery being cut, the blood in abundance streamed down upon the Scaffold, all which he manfully endured, without manifesting the least shrinking thereat. Indeed of such who measured his mind by his words, some conceived his carraige far above: others (though using the same scale ) suspected the same to be somewhat beside himself. But let such who desire more of his character, consult with his printed lite, written with his own hand, though it be hard for the most Excellent Artist truly to draw his own Picture.

71. Dr. Bastwick succeeded him, making a Speech to this effect. Here are many spectators of us, who stand here as Delinquents, yet am I not conscious to my self of the least trespass, wherein I have deserved this outward shame. Indeed I wrote a Book against Antichrist the Pope, and the Pope of Canterbury said it was written against him. But were the Press open unto us, we would scatter his Kingdom, and fight courageously against Gog and Magog. There be many here that have set many days apart on our behalf (let the Prelates take notice thereof) and have sent up strong prayers to God for us, the strength and fruit whereof we have felt all along in this cause. In a word, so far am I from fear or care that had I as much blood as would swell the Thames ( then visible unto him, his face respecting the South) I would lose every drop thereof in this cause.

72. His Friends much admired and highly commended the erection of his mind triumphing over pain and shame, making the one easy, the other honorable, and imputed the same to an immediate Sprituall support. Others conceived that anger in him acted the part of patience, as to the stout undergoing of his sufferings, and that in a Christian there lieth a real distinction betwixt Spirit and Stomach, Valour and Stubbornness.

73. Mr. Prince concluded the sad sight of that day, and spake to this purpose. The cause of my standing here is for not bringing in my Answer, God knoweth, my conscience beareth witness, and my Council can tell, for I paid them twice though to no purpose. But their cowardice stands upon Record. And that's the reason why they did proceed, and take the cause pro confesso against me. But rather then I would have my cause a leading cause to the depriving of the Subjects liberties, which I seek to maintain, I choose to suffer my body to become an example of this punishment.

74. The censure was with all rigor executed on him, and he who felt the most, fretted the least; commended for more kindly patience than either of his Predecessors in that place. So various were men's fancies in reading the same letters, imprinted in his face, that some made them to spell the guiltiness of the Sufferer, but others the cruelty of the Imposer. Of the latter sort many for the cause, more for the man, most for hu • anity sake bestowed pity upon him: and now all three were remanded 〈◊〉 their former Prisons; and Mr. Prinne as he returned by water to the T •• er, made this Distich upon his own stigmatizing.

Not long after they were removed: Mr. Prinne to Carnarvan-Castle in Wales: Dr. Bastwicke, and Mr. Burton; the one to Lancaster-Castle, the other to Lanceston in Cornewall.

75. But it seems these places were conceived to have, either too little of Privacy, or too much of Pleasure. The two latter therefore were removed again; One to the Isle of Scilly, the other to the Isle of Gernezey; and Mr. Prinne to Mount Orgueile-Castle in Jersey. This in vulgar apprehensions, added breadth to the former depth of their sufferings, scattering the same over all the English Dominions, making the Islands thereof as well as the Continent partake of their patience. And here we leave them all in their Prisons, and particularly Mr. Prinne improving the Rocks and the Seas (good Spiritual Husbandrie ) with pious meditations. But we shall hear more of them hereafter at the beginning of the Parliament.

76. Next came the Bishop of Lincoln to be censured in the Star-chamber, and something must be premised preparative thereunto. After the great Seal some ten years since was taken from him, he retired himself to Bugden in Huntingdonshire, where he may be said to have lived in a public privacie. So many his Visitants, hospital his house-keeping: it being hard to say, whether his Table were more free and full in diet or discourse: indeed he had a plentiful estate to maintain it, besides his purchased Land. The revenues of his Bishopric, and Deanery of Westminster, out of which, long since he had been shaken, if not fastened therein, by the Letters Patents of King James. His Adversaries beheld him with envious eyes, and one great Prelate plainly said in the presence of the King, that the Bishop of Lincoln lived in as much pomp and plenty as any Cardinal in Rome, for Dy • t, Music, and attendance. They resolved therefore to humble his height, the concurrence • f many matters ministering occasion thereunto.

77. Sir John Lamb Dean of the Arches formerly a Favorite of Lincoln (fe • cht off from being prosecuted in Parliament, and knighted by his means) with Dr. Sibthorp, Allen and Burden (two Proctors as I take them) were entertained at the Bishops talk at Bugden, where their table was (the discourse general of those days) against Puritans. The Bishop advised them to take off their heavy hand from them, informing them that his Majesty intended to use them hereafter with more mildness, as a considerable party having great influence on the Parliament, without whose concurrence the King could not comfortably supply his necessities: adding moreover that his Majesty had communicated this unto him by his own mouth, with his resolutions hereafter of more gentleness to men of that opinion.

78. Some years after upon the denial of an Officials place in Leicestershire (which notwithstanding, he carried in despite of the Bishop ) Sir John Lamb fell foul with his old Friend, and in revenge complained of him for revealing the Kings secrets concredited to his privacy. Hereupon Attorney Noy was employed to put the same into an Information in the Star-chamber; unto which Bishop Williams by good advise of counsel did plead and demure, as containing no matter fit for the cognizance of that Court, as concerning words spoken of matters done in Parliament, & secrets pretended to be revealed by him, a Privy Counselor and Peer of Parliament, and therefore not to be heard but in that High-Court. This Demurrer being heard & argued by Counsel Pro and Con in open Court for two or three hours (the Lord Keeper and other Lord's there present, finding no cause nor color to overrule it) was referred to Judge Richison (who lately having singded his Coat from blasts at the Court ) by him to be smothered, who in a private Chamber presently after dinner over-ruled the same in a quarter of an hour.

79. The Demurrer thus rendered useless in the Bishops defense, he used what means he could by the Lord Weston (a proper person, because Treasurer to meddle in money matters) to compound with his Majesty: but his Majesty resolved to have the Bishops answer, and confession of his fault before he would compound with him. Whereupon the Bishop quitting all thoughts of composition, resolved to weather out the Tempest of his Majesty's displeasure at open sea, either out of confidence of the strength of his tackling, his own innocence, or skill of his Pilots, who were to steer his suit, having the learnedst Counsel of the Land by whose advise he put in a strong plea, which likewise being argued and debated in open Court, came at last to the same untimely end with the Demurrer, as referred to Judge Richison, and smothered by him in a Chamber.

80. This Plea thus overruled, the Bishop put in an especial answer to the information, declaring, how all was grounded by a conspiracy and combination of the persons named in the Bill, to wit, ( Lamb, Sibthorpe, Allen and Burden ) out of an intent to advance themselves, and hatred they bare to him, for not permitting them to pole and pill the Kings Subjects in Leicestershire, in their Ecclesiastical Courts by haling them into their nets ex officio mero without any previous complaint, under an imaginary color of Puritanism. To this especial answer, Attorney Noy rejoined in issue, admitting the Bishop to prove his especial matters, who proceeded to the examination of his witnesses therein.

81. Now began Attorney Noy to grow weary of the matter, and became slow and remiss in the prosecution thereof, whether out of respect to the Bishop whom he honored (though tart in terms against him to please a greater Prelate ) or out of consciousness that more weight was hung thereon, then the slender Wyres of the cause would bear. Hereupon Richard Kilvert was entertained to follow the Suite, (though not entering himself as he ought Prosecutour upon record) at the best being a necessary evil, to do what an honest man would be ashamed of. Indeed like an English Mastiffe he would fiercely fly upon any person, or project, if set on with promise of profit, and having formerly made his Breakfast on Sir John Bennet, he intended to dine and supp on the Bishop. And though his strength consisted much in a cunning head, yet far more in an able back as seconded in this suit and abetted from the Court in his undertakings. This Kilvert so wrought himself into Warren an Examiner of the Star-Chamber, that (some say) contrary to his oath he revealed unto him that the Testimony of one John Pregion Register of Lincoln and Leicester was most material in the Bishop his defense.

82. Then was it Kilvert his design to uncredit the Testimony of Pregion, by charging him with several accusations, particularly getting a Bastard, though being no matters upon record, to take away the validity of his witness. The Bishop apprehending himself necessitated to weigh up Pregion his repute, engaged himself more zealously therein, then was conceived consistent with the gravity of so great a Prelate for so inconsiderable a person. Especially to such who knew not that Dr. Morrison and this Pregion, were the only persons of note present at the Bishop his Table when the discourse passed betwixt him and Sir John Lamb. The Bastard laid to his charge, is bandied at Lincoln-Sessions, backward and forward betwixt Pregion and another. The first Court fathers it upon him, the next freed him from it, and a third returned it upon him again. This last order of Sessions was again dissolved as illegal, by the Judges of the Kings-Bench, and Pregion cleared from the child charged on him. Sir John Munson a Justice of that County appearing very active against him, and the Bishop no less earnest in his behalf.

83. Here happened the occasion or that w ^ch was afterwards so highly charged, and heavily censured on the Bishop Williams, wiz. tampering to 〈◊〉 witnesses Henceforward 〈…〉 all his first information, which from this day sunk 〈◊〉 silence, and employed all his power on the proof of Subornation. That 〈…〉 too hard for his Teeth to enter, and fastened his fangs on a softer place, so to pinch the Bishop to purpose; yea so expensive was the suit that the Bishop (well skilled in the charge of charitable works) might with the same cost have built and endowed a small College.

84. Some days before she hearing, a Noble Lord of his Majesty's Council, the Bishops great Friend, interposed himself to compound the matter, prevailing so far that on his payment of two thousand pound, the Suit should be superseded in the Star-Chamber, and he freed from further molessation. But at this Lord's return the price was risen in the market, and besides the aforesaid 〈◊〉 it was demanded of him, that to procure his peace he must part with his Deanery of Westminster, Parsonage or Walgrave, and Prebend of Lincoln which he kept in commendam. To this the Bishop answered, that he would in no base forgo those few remainders of the favor which his dead master King James had conferred 〈◊〉 him.

85. Not long after another bargain was driven, by the well intended endeavors of the same Lord, that seeing his Majesty at that time had much occasion of moneys? if he would but double the former sum, and lay down four thousand pounds, he should be freed from further trouble, and might go home with all his 〈◊〉 about him. The Bishop returned that he took no delight, 〈◊〉 at law with his Sovereign, and thankfully embracing the motion, prepared himself for the payment. When a great Adversary stepping in, so violented his Majesty to a Trial, that all was not only frustrated, but this afterwards urged against the Bishop, to prove him conscious of a crime from his forwardness to entertain a composition.

86. The day of censure being come, Sir John Finch Lord chief Justice fined the Bishop ten thousand pound for tempering to suborn Witnesses, Secretary Windebank concurred with (that little Bell, being the loudest and shrillest in the whole pea • ) as who alone motioned to degrade him; which was lustily pronounced by a Knight and Layman, having no precedent for the same in former ages. The other Lord's brought the fine down to eight thousand pound, and a thousand marks to Sir John Munson, with suspension ab officio et beneficio, and imprisoning him, during the Kings pleasure. The Earl of Arundell added, that the cause in its self was extraordinary, not so much prosecuted by the Attorney, as immediately by the King himself recommended to their justice. Manchester Lord privy Seal said that this was the first precedent, wherein a Master had undone himself to save his Servant.

87. The Archbishop of Canterbury did consent thereunto, aggravating the fault of subornation of perjury, with a pathetical speech of almost an hour long, showing how the world was above three thousand years old before ripe enough to commit so great a wickedness, and Jesabell the first in Scripture branded with that infamy, whose false Witnesses the holy Spirit refused to name, otherwise than under the Character of Men of Belial. Wherefore although (as he said) he himself had been five times down on his knees to his Majesty, in the Bishops behalf; yet considering the guilt so great, he could not but agree with the heaviest censure. And although some Lord's, the Bishops Friends, as Treasurer Weston, Earl of Dorset &c. concurred in the fine, with hope the King should have the sole honor of the mitigation thereof, yet his Majesty's necessaries, meeting with the person adjudged guilty, and well known for solvable; no wonder if the utmost penny of the fine was exacted.

88. At the same time were fined with the Bishop, George Walker his Secretary, Cadwallader Powell his Steward, at three hundred pounds, a piece, and Thomas Lund the Bishop his Servant at a thousand 〈◊〉 all as 〈◊〉 in the same cause, yet none of them was imprisoned, save Lund for a few weeks, and their fine never called upon into this day, which the Bishop said, was commuted into such Office, as hereafter they were go do in the favor of Kilvert.

7. To make this our History entire, the matter, in this particular suite. Be it therefore known to the Reader, than some four years after, 〈◊〉 1640, when this Bishop was fetch out of the Tower, and restored a Peer in Parliament, he there in presented several grievances, concerning the indirect prosecution of this cause against him, whereof these the principal.

These and many more Kilvertismes, as he calls them, did the Bishop complain of in Parliament, who so far tendered his innocence therein, that they ordered all the Records of that Suit in the Star-chamber to be obliterated. Y • a we may justly conceive, that these Grievances of the Bishop did much hasten, if not chiefly cause the suppression of that Court.

8. Thirteen days after he was suspended by the High-commission, and imprisoned in the Tower for almost four years, during whose durance therein, two Bishops and three Doctors were sent thither unto him, to take his answer to a Book of Articles, of twenty four Sheets of papes written on both sides. They proffered him the Bible to take the oath thereon, which he utterly refused, claiming the privilege of a Peer, adding moreover that being a Bishop, it was against law and Precedent in Antiquity, that young Priests his Graces (and some who had been his own) Chaplains, and Lay Doctors should sit as Judges of a Bishop his Doctrine, with power to deprive him of his Bishopric, if disliking the same. This was overruled, and he as one of the Kings Subjects required to make his answer.

9. First the article that all Books licenced by his Graces Chaplains (as Chune his, and Sala his Book with Doctor Mannering his Sermons ) are presumed by all true Subjects to be orthodox, and agreeable to sound Religion. This the Bishop utterly denied, and wondered at their impudency, to propound such an Article unto him.

10. Secondly they alleged, that no Bishop but his Grace, the Lord of London, and their Chaplains, had power to allow Books. This the other denied, saying that all Bishops, who were as learned as they, had as much power as they, citing for the same the Council of Lateran under Leo the tenth. Reformatio Cleri, under Cardinal Poole. Queen Elizabeth her injunctions, and the Decree of the Star-chamber relating to all these: He also stoutly averred the privilege, to belong only to the Bishops, and not to their Servants: howbeit his Grace had shuffled in his Chaplains to the last printed Starchamber decree. More frivolous were the ensuing Articles whereon he was examined.

11. To all which the Bishop made so wary an answer, that no advantage could be gained t • ereby: yea though some days after they returned to reexamine him, upon the same Articles, to try as he thought the steddiness of his memory, or else to plunge him into some crime of perjury, if in any material point he dissented from his former depositions; but the Bishop like a good boy said his Lesson over again and again, so that no advantage could be taken against him, & thereupon they gave him leave to play, proceeding no further in this cause; only they painted him out in an ugly shape to the King, as disaffected to the present government, and God willing we shall hear more of their proceedings against him hereafter.

12. But now we are summoned to a sadder subject; from the sufferings of a Private Person, to the miseries and almost mutual ruin of two Kingdoms, England and Scotland. I confess my hands have always been unwilling to write of that cold Country, for fear my fingers should be frost bitten therewith, but necessity to make our story entire, puts me upon the employment. Miseries caused from the sending of the Book of Service, or new Litu • gy thither, which may sadly be termed a RUBRICK indeed, died with the blood of so many of both Nations, slain on that occasion.

95. It seems the design began in the reign of King James, who desired and endeavored an uniformity of public Prayers, through the Kingdom of Scotland. In order whereunto an Act was passed in the general Assembly at Aberdeene 1616, to authorise some Bishops present to compile, and frame a Public form of Common Prayer: and let us observe the motions thereof.

• 1. It was committed to the Bishops aforesaid, and principally to the Archbishop of St. Andrew's and William Cooper Bishop of Galloway, to draw up the order thereof.
• 2. It was transmitted into England to King James, who punctually perused every particular passage therein.
• 3. It was remitted with the Kings Observations, Additions, Expunctions, Mutations, Accommodations to Scotland again.

But here the design sunk with the sudden death of King James, and lay not only dormant but dead; till some years after it was awakened or rather revived again.

96. In the reign of King Charles, the project being resumed (but whether the same book or no God knoweth) it was concluded not to send into Scotland the same Liturgy of England Totidem verbis, left this should be misconstrued a badge of dependence of that Church on ours. It was resolved also, That the two Liturgies should not differ in substance, left the Roman party should upbraid us with weighty and material differences. A Similitude therefore not Identity being resolved of, it was drawn up with some, as they termed them, insensible alterations, but such as were quickly found and felt by the Scotch to their great distaste. These alterations are of two natures. First, ingratiating, which may be presumed, made to gain the affection of that Nation. Secondly, distasting, which (if not in the intent ) in the event proved the great grievance and general cause that the book was hated and rejected. We will insist on three of the first sort.

First, Whereas there was an ancient complaint, That so much of the Apocrypha was read in Churches, viz. about sixty Chapters for the first lesson (from the 28. of September till the 24. of November ) Canonical Scripture is alone appointed to be read in the Scotch Liturgy, one day alone excepted, viz. All Saints day, when Wisdom the 3, and Ecclesiasticus the 14, are ordered for Morning and Evening Prayer, on the same token there wanted not such, who said that those two Chapters were left there, to keep possession, that all the rest might in due time be reintroduced.

Secondly, The word Priest often used in the English Liturgy, gave offense to many, in so much that one writeth, To call us Priests as touching our office, is either to call back again the old Priesthood of the Law, which is to deny Christ to be come, or else to keep a memory of the Popish Priesthood of abomination still amongst us; besides we never read in the New-Testament, that the word Priest (as touching office) is used in the good part. Whereupon to prevent exception, it was mollified into Presbyter in the Scotch Rubric.

97. The names of sundry Saints omitted in the English, are inserted into the Scotch Calendar (but only in black letters) on their several days according to the form following.

Some of these were Kings, all of them Natives of that Country, ( Scotch and Irish in former ages being effectually the same) and which in probability might render them to the favor of their country-men, some of them (as Coleman &c. ) zealous opposites to the Church of Rome in the celebration of Easter.

98. But these Scotch Saints were so far from making the English Laturgy acceptable, that the English Liturgy, rather made the Saints odious unto them. Such the Distasting alterations in the Book reduceable to 1. Additions, 2. Omissions, 3. Variations, 4. and Transpositions. To instance in the most material of the first kind.

• 1. In the Baptism, these words are inserted Sanctify this fountain of water, thou which art the Sanctifier of all things. Which words are enjoined to be spoken by the Minister, so often as the water in the Fount is changed, which must be at least twice a month.
• 2. In the Prayer after the Doxology, and before the Communion, this Passage (expunged by the English Reformers out of our Liturgy) is out of the Ordinary of Sarum inserted in the Scotch Prayer Book. And of thy almighty goodness vouchsafe so to bless, and sanctify with thy word and holy word, these thy gifts and Creatures of Bread and Wine, that they may be unto us the body and blood of thy most dearly beloved Son: from which words saith the Scotch Author, all Papists use to draw the truth of the Transubstantiation.
• 3. He that Celebrateth, is enjoined to cover that which remaineth of the consecrated Eleents, with a fair linen Cloth or Corporal ; a word unknown to vulgar Ears of either Nations, in other sense then to signify an under-officer in a foot Company, and complained of to be purposely placed here, to wrap up therein all Romish superstition of Christ's Carnal Corporal presence in the Sacrament.
• 4. In the Prayer for the State of Christ's Church Militant, these words are added. And we also bless thy holy name, for all those thy servants who having finished their course in faith, do now rest from their labors. And we yield unto thee most high praise and hearty thanks, for the wonderful grace and virtue declared in all thy Saints, who have been the choice vessels of thy grace and the lights of the world in their several generations: most humbly beseeching thee, that we may have grace to follow the example of their steadfastness in thy faith, and obedience to thy holy commandments, that at the day of the general Resurrection, we, and all they which are of the mystical body of thy Son, may be set on his right hand, and hear that his most joyful voice, Come ye blessed &c.

99. Amongst the Omissions none more complained of than the deleting these words, in the delivery of the bread at the Sacrament.

A passage destructive to Transubstantiation, as diverting Communicants from Carnal Munducation, and directing their Souls to a spiritual repast on their Savior. All which in the Scotch Liturgy is cut off with an Amen from the Receiver.

The Variations and Transpositions are of less moment, as where the money gathered at the offer ory, distributable by the English Liturgy to the poor alone, hath a moyety thereof assigned the Minister therewith to buy him books of holy Divinity, and some prayers are transposed from their place, and ordered elsewhere, whereat some do take no small exception. Other smaller differences (if worth the while) will quickly appear to the curious perusers of both Liturgies.

100. Pass we now from the constitution of the book, to the condition of the Scotch Nation, in this unhappy juncture of time when it was imposed upon him. For it found them in a discontented posture (and high Royalists will maintain, that murmuring and muting against Princes differ only in degree, nor in kind ) occasioned on several accounts.

• 1. Some years since, the King had passed an Act of revocation of Crown Lands (aliened in the minority of his Ancesters) whereby much land of the Nobility became obnoxious to forfeiture. And though all was forgiven again by the Kings clemency, and nothing acted hereby to the prejudice of any, yet it vexed some to hold that as remitted by the Kings bounty, wherein they conceived themselves to be before unquestionably estated.
• 2. Whereas many formerly in Scotland, were rather Subjects than Tenants, rather Vassalls than Subjects: Such the Land-lords Princely (not to say Tyranniolly) power over them, the King had lately freed many from such dangerous dependence. Especially in point of payment of Tythes to the Lord's of the Erection, equivalent to our English lay Impropriators (but allowing the Land lords a valuable consideration, according to the purchases of that Country) whereby the King got the smiles of those who were most in number, but the frowns of such who were greatest in power.
• 3. Many were offended that at the Kings Coronation, some six years ago, and a Parliament following thereon, an act of ratification was passed concerning the Church her liberties and privileges, which some complained of, was done without Plurality of Suffrages.
• 4. Some Persons of honor desiring higher Titles were offended, that they were denied unto them, whilst his Majesty conferred them on others.

There want not those also, who confidently suggest it to Posterity, that Pensions constantly paid out of the English Exchequer in the Reign of King James to some principal pastors in the Scottish Church were since detained. So also the bounty of boons was now restrained in the Reign of King Charles, which could not fall so freely, as in the days of his father (the Cloud being almost drained ) adding moreover that the want of watering of Scotland with such showers, made them to chap into such Clefts and Chinks of Parties and Fa • ions, disaffected to the Kings proceedings.

101. To increase these distempers, some complain (how justly, their own Country-men best know) of the pride and pragmaticainess of the Scotch Bishops, who being but Probationers on their good behavior (as but reintroduced by King James ) offended the ancient Nobility, with their medleing in State matters. And I find two principally accused on this account; Doctor Forbes Bishop of the new Bishopric of Edenburg, and Doctor Welderburne Bishop of Dumblane. Thus was the Scotch Nation full of discontents, when this Book being brought unto them bare the blame of their breaking forth into more dangerous designs, as when the Cup is brim full before, the last (though least) superadded drop is charged alone to be the cause of all the running over.

102. Besides the Church of Scotland claimed not only to be Independent, & free as any Church in Christendom (a Sister not Daughter of England ) but also had so high an opinion of its own purity, that it participated more of Moses his platform in the Mount, than other Protestant Churches, being a reformed reformation; So that the practice thereof might be directory to others, and she fit to give, not take, write, not receive copies from any Neighbouring Church, destring that all others were like unto them, save only in their afflictions.

103. So much for the [complained of] burden of the book, as also for the sore back of that Nation (gauled with the aforesaid grievances) when this Liturgy was sent unto them: and now we must not forget the hatred they bare to the hand, which they accused for laying it upon them. Generally they excused the King in their writings, as innocent therein, but charged Archbishop Laud as the principal (and Doctor Cosins for the instrumental) compiler thereof, which may appear by what we read, in a Writer of that Nation, afterwards employed into England, about the advancing of the Covenant betwixt both Nations, and other Church affairs.

Surely if any such evidence was extant, we shall hear of it hereafter at his arraignment, produced and urged by the Scotch-Commissioners.

10. But leaving the Roots to lie under the Earth, let us look on the Branches spreading themselves above ground, and passing from the secret Author of this Book, behold the evident effects thereof. No sooner had the Dean of Edinburgh began to read the Book in the Church of St. Giles, in the presence of the Privy-Council, both the Archbishops, divers Bishops and Magistrates of the City, but presently such a Tumult was raised, that through clapping of hands, cursing, and crying one could neither hear nor be heard. The Bishop of Edinburgh endeavored in vain to appease the Tumult; whom a Stool aimed to be thrown at him, had killed, if not diverted by one present, so that the same Book had occasioned his Death, and prescribed the form of his burial, and this Hubbub was hardly suppressed by the Lord Provost and Bailiffs of Edinburgh.

105. This first Tumult was caused by such, whom I find called the Skum of the City, considerable for nothing but their number: But few days after the cream of the Nation (some of the highest and best quality therein) engaged in the same cause, crying out, God defend all those who will defend God's cause, and God confound the Service-Book and all the maintainers of it.

106. The Lord's of the Council interposed their power, and to appease all parties issued out a Proclamation to remove the Session (much like to our Term in London ) to Lithgou. This abated their anger as fire is quenched with Oile, seeing the best part of the Edenburgers livelihood depends on the Session kept in their City, yea so highly were the People enraged against Bishops as the procurers of all these Troubles, that the Bishop of Galloway passing peaceably along the street towards the Council • House; was way-laid in his coming thither, if by divine Providence, and by Frances Stewart Son to the late Earl of Bothwell, he had not with much ado been got within the doors of the Council-House. Indeed there is no fence, but flight, nor counsel, but concealment, to secure any single par • y against an offended multitude.

107. These troublesome beginnings afterwards did occasion the solemn League and Covenant, whereby the greatest part of the Nation united themselves, to defend their Privileges, and which laid the foundation of a long and woeful War in both Kingdoms. And here I crave the Readers pardon to break off; and leave the prosecution of this sad subject, to Pens more able to undertake it. For first, I know none will pity me, if I needlessly prick my fingers with meddling with a Thistle, which belongs not unto me. Secondly, I despair of perfect notice of particulars, at so great a distance of place, and greater of Parties concerned therein. Thirdly, if exact intelligence were obtained: as ages long ago are written with more saefety then truth, so the story hereof might be written with more truth then safety. Lastly, being a civil business it is aliened from my subject, and may justly be declined. If any object that it is reduceable to Ecclesiastical story, because one as they said termed this Bellum episcopale, The Warr for Bishops: I conceive it presumption for so mean a Minister as myself (and indeed for any under that great order ) to undertake the writing thereof.

1. NOw Bishop Williams was sentenced the second time in the Star-Chamber on this occ • sion, Mr. Lambert Osbaston School-master of Westminster wrote a Letter unto him wherein this passage. The little vermin the Urchin and Hocus pocus is this sto • my Christmas at true and real variance with the Leviathan. Now the Bishop was accused for d vulging scandalous Libells on Privy-Counselors, and that the Archbishop of Canterbury was meant by the former names. The Lord Treasurer Weston by the Leviathan, because he should have presented the libellous Letter at the receipt thereof, to some Justice of Peace, and not dispersed the same.

2. The Bishop pleaded, that he remembered not the receiving of any such letter, that he conceived no law directs the subject to bring to a Justice of Peace, Enigmaes or Riddles, but plain literal and gramatical Libells, against a known and clearly deciphered Person. Mr. Osbaston denied the words so meant by him, and deposed that he intended one Doctor Spicer a Civilian