Church History of Britain

1. HEnry the seventh came to Cambridge, where he bestowed an hundred Marks on the University, and forty pounds (a fair sum in that age from so thrifty a King) on the fabric of St. Mary's, where the Scholars meet weekly at public Sermons, and yearly at the Commencement.

2. The mention of St. Mary's mindeth me of Church-work indeed, so long it was from the founding, to the finishing thereof; as, Begun May the sixteenth 1478, when the first stone thereof was laid in the 17 ^th . of Edward the fourth.

The Church ended (but without a Tower, or Belfree) 1519. in the 11 ^th . of Henry the eighth.

The Tower finished 1608. in the sixth of King James.

So that from the beginning, to the ending thereof, were no fewer than an hundred and thirty years. There was expended in the structure of the Church alone, seven hundred ninety five pounds, two shillings and a penny; all bestowed by charitable people, for that purpose. Amongst whom, Thomas Barow, Dr. of Civil law, Arch-deacon of Colchester, formerly Fellow of Kings hall, and Chancellor of his house to King Richard the third) gave for his part, two hundred and forty pounds.

55. One may probably conjecture, that a main motive, which drew King Henry this year to Cambridge, was with his presence to grace his mothers foundation of Christ's-College, now newly laid, without Barnwell-gate, over against St. Andrew's-Church, in a place where God's house formerly stood, founded by King Henry the sixth. This King had an intention (had not deprivation, a civil death, prevented him) to advance the Scholars of this foundation to the full number of sixty, though (a great fall) never more than four lived there, for lack of maintenance. Now the Lady Margaret, Countess of Richmond and Darby, (acounting herself, as of the Lancaster-line, heir to all King Henries godly intentions) only altered the name from God's-house, to Christ's-College, and made up the number, viz. One Master, twelve Fellows, forty seven Scholars, in all sixty.

56. Great and good were the lands, which this Lady, by her last Will, bestowed on this College, in several Counties.

In
• Cambridge-shire, the Manors of Malton, Meldred, and Beach, with divers lands, and rents, elsewhere in that County.
• Leicester-shire, the Manor of Ditesworth, with lands and tenements in Ditesworth, Kegworth, Hathern and Wolton.
• Northfolk, the Abbey of Creyke, which was in the Kings hands as dissolved, and extinct, settled by the Popes authority, and the Kings license.
• Essex, the Manor of Royden.
• Wales, Manibire, an Impropriation.

This Lady being of Welsh affinity, a Teuther by marriage, and having long lived in Wales (where her Son King Henry the seventh was born in Pembroke) thought fitting, in commemoration thereof, to leave some Welsh land to this her foundation.

5. Once the Lady Margaret came to Christ's-College, to be hold it when partly built, and looking out of a window, saw the Dean cal a faulty Scholar to correction; to whom she said, Lente, lente, gently, gently, as accounting it better to mitigate his punishment, than procure his pardon: mercy and justice making the best medley to offenders.

6. John Major a Scotishman, and a Scottish Historian of good account, was (only for the term of three months) a Student in this College, as himself acknowledgeth. He reporteth, that the Scholars of Cambridge in his time, usually went armed with bows and swords; which our learn Antiquary is very loath to believe, except it was John Major his chance to come to Cambridge, in that very juncture of time, when the Scholars, in fend with the Townsmen, stood on their posture of defense. Thus Pallas herself may sometimes be put to it, to secure her wit by her weapons. But had Major lived as many years, as he did but months in this University, he would have given a better account of their peaceable demeanour.

7. John Leland, that learned Antiquary, was a Fellow of this Foundation, as he gratefully professeth. I account it therefore in myself an excusable envy, if repining that the rare Manuscripts of his collections, were since his death bestowed on Oxford Library, and not here where he had his education. But I remember a Maxim in our Common Law, wherein the Lands (such are Books to Scholars) of a Son, deceasing without heirs, fall rather to his Uncle, or Aunt, than Father, or Mother.

7. Many years after the founding of this College, complaint was made to King Edward the sixth, of superstition therein; the Master, and twelve Fellowes of this Christ-College, superstitiously alluding to Christ and his twelve Apostles. Probably the peevish informers would have added, that the Discipuli, or Scholars in this House, were in imitation of Christ's seventy Disciples, save the number corresponds not, as being but forty seven by the original foundation. Hereupon King Edward altered this number of twelve not by Subtraction (the most easy, and profitable way of reformation) but Addition, founding a thirteenth Fellowship, and three Scholarships out of the impropriation of Bourn, which he bestowed on the College; and so real charity discomposed suspected superstition. This good King also gave the College in lieu of the Manor of Royden, which he took from it, the entire revenues of Bromwell Abbey, such was his bountiful disposition. Nor can it be proved that in his own person he ever did to any an injurious action, though too many under him (if those may be termed under him, who did what they pleased themselves) were too free of their favors in that nature.

9. It may without flattery be said of this house, Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all; if we consider the many Divines, who in so short a time have here had their education. Let Papists tell you of Richard Reignalds, Doctor of Divinity, a Monk of Zion; of William Eximew, a Carthusian (both bred here, and martyred, say they, for the Catholic cause Anno 1535.) of Richard Hall who ran beyond the Seas, became Canon of Cambray, and wrote the manuscript-life of Bishop Fisher: we chiefly take notice of the Divines bred here since the Reformation.

Masters.	Bishops.	Benefactors.
1 John Sickling Fellow of God's-House, first Master. 2 Richard Wiat, Dr. of Divinity. 3 Thomas Thompson, D. D. a good Benefactor. 4 John Watsonne, D. D. 5 Henry Lockwood, D. D. 6 Richard Wilks D. D. chosen 1549. 7 Cuthbert Scot, D. D. chosen 1553. 8 William Taylor, D. D. chosen 1557. 9 Edward Hawford, D. D. chosen 1559. he was a good Benefactor. 10 Edmond Barwell, D. D. chosen 1581. 11 Valentine Carey, D. D. chosen 1610. 12 Thomas Bainbrigg, D. D. chosen 1620. 13 Samuel Bolton. 14 Ralph Cudworth.	1 Hugh Latimer, Bishop of Worcester 1535. and Martyr. 2 Nicholas Heth , Archbishop of York 1553. 3 Cuthbert Scot, Bishop of Chester 1556. 4 William Hughs, Bishop of St Asaph 1573. 5 Anthony Watson, Bishop of Chichester 1596. 6 Valentine Carey, Bishop of Exeter 1620. D. Johnson, Arch-bishop of Dublin. Brute Babington, Bishop of Derrie, in Ireland. George Dounham, Bishop of Derrie in Ireland. William Chapel, Bishop of in Ireland. William Chapel, Bishop of in Ireland.	1 John Fisher, Bishop of Rochester. 2 Sir Walter Mildmay Knight. 3 Richard Risley. 4 Dr. Patison. 5 Philip Rawlins. 6 Mr. Jennings. 7 Nicolas Culverwell. 8 Thomas Laughton. 9 Mr. Wentworth. 10 Robert Isham. 11 Richard Bunting. 12 Richard Car.

Learn. Writ. Fellowes.	Learn. Writ. no Fel.	Livings.
1 Edward Dearing. 2 John More, Preacher in Norwich, he made the excellent Map of the Land of Palestine. 3 Hugh Broughton, a learned Man (especially in the Eastern languages) but very opinionative. 4 Andrew Willet, one of admirable industry. 5 Richard Clerk, one of the Translators of the Bible, and an eminent Preacher at Canterbury. 6 William Perkins. 7 Thomas Morton, a melancholy Man, but excellent Commentator on the Corinthians. 8 Francis Dillingham, a great Grecian and one of the Translators of the Bible. 9 Thomas Taylor, a painful Preacher, and profitable Writer. 10 Paul Baines; he succeeded Mr. Perkins at St. Andrew's. 11 Daniel Rogers, one of vast parts, lately deceased. 12 William Ames, Professor of Divinity in Holland. 13 Joseph Mede, most learned in mystical Divinity.	1 Anthony Gilby, he lived (saith Bale) in Queen Mary's reign, an exile in Geneva. 2 Arthur Hildersham, Haereticorum malleus. 3 John Dounham, lately deceased, Author of the worthy work of The holy Warfare. 4 Robert Hill D. D. he wrote on the Lord's Prayer. 5 Edward Topsell, on Ruth. 6 Thomas Draxe. 7 Elton. 8 Richard Bernard, of Batcomb. 9 Nathaniel Shute, another Chrysostom for preaching. 10 William Whately. 11 Henry Scuddar.	Kegworth R. in Lincoln. Dioc. valued at 25 l. 15s. 8d. Toft R. in Eli Dioc. 6l. 16s. 9d. Cauldecot R. in Eli Dioc. valued at 3l. 12s. Bourn V. in Eli Dioc, valued at 9l. 15s. 9d. Clipston duarum partium R. in Peterb. Dioc. valued at 11l. 12s. 8d. Helpston V. in Peterb. Dioc. valued at 8l. 4d. Nawmby R. in Lincoln. valued at 17l. 9s. 10d. Croxton V. in Norwic. valued at 6l. 13s. 4d. Maverbyre V. in St. David's, Dioc. valued at 8l. Ringsted V. in Norwic. Dioc. valued at Gately V. in Norwic. Dioc. valued at 3l. 2s. 8d. Hopton V. in Norwic. Dioc. valued at

With many moe Worthies still alive: amongst whom, Mr. Nicolas Estwich, Parson of Warkton in Northamptonshire, a solid Divine and a great advancer of my Church-History, by me must not be forgotten. I have done with ChristColledge, when we have observed it placed in St. Andrew's Parish, the sole motive, by Major his own confession, making him to enter himself therein a Student, St. Andrew being reputed the tutelary Saint of that Nation. Had Emmanuel been extant in that age, he would have been much divided to dispose of himself, finding two so fair foundations in the same Parish.

10. Be the following caution well observed, which here I place as in this midst of this our History, that it may indifferently be extended to all the Colleges as equally concerned therein. Let none expect from me an exact enumeration of all the Worthies in every College; seeing each one

affordeth
• Some Writers from me concealed. Let not therefore my want of knowledge be accounted their want of worth.
• Many most able Scholars, who never publicly appeared in print: nor can their less learning be inferred from their more modesty.
• Many pious Men though not so eminently learned, very painful, and profitable in God's Vineyard.

Yea, the general weight of God's work in the Church lieth on Men of middle and moderate parts. That servant who improved his two talents into four, did more than the other who increased his five into ten. Trades-men will tell you, it's harder to double a little, than treble a great deal; seeing great banks easily improve themselves, by those advantages which smaller sums want. And surely many honest, though not so eminent Ministers, who employ all their might in God's service, equal (if not exceed) both in his acceptance, and the Churches profit, the performances of such, who far excel them in abilities.

John Eccleston, Vice-Chan.	Edm. Natares	Proc.	Drs.	of Divinity 12.
Tho. Swayn,	of Canon-Law 2.
of Civil-Law 2.

Doc.	of Physic 2.	Mrs.	of Arts 25.	Bac.	Law 18.	John Brakingthorp Major.
of Music 1.	Gram. 3.	Arts 26.
Bac. of Divinity 8.

William Robson, Vice-Chan.	John Philip's,	Proc.	Drs.	of Divinity 1.
Rich. Picard,	of Canon-Law 1.

Bac. of Divin. 1.	Bac.	Law 5.	John Brakingthorp, Major.
	Mus. 1.
Mrs. of Arts 17.	Arts 42.

Will. Buckenham, Vice-Chan.	James Nicolson,	Proc.	Drs.	of Divinity 3.
Milles Bycardick,	Bac.	of Divinity 5.

Mrs. of Arts 18.
Bac.	of Law 12.	Hugh Chapman, Major.
of Arts 46.

William Buckenham, Vice-Chan.	Will. Chapman,	Proc.	Doc. of Divinity 5.
Will. Brighouse,	Bac. of Divinity 8.

Mrs. of Arts 14.
Bac.	of Law 11.	Hugh Raukin, Major.
of Arts 31.

11. Last year began the foundation of St. Johns College, whose Foundrss, the Lady Margaret, countess of Richmond and Derbie, died before the finishing thereof. This Lady was born at Bletsho. in Bedford-shire, where some of her own needle-work is still to be seen, which was constantly called for by King James, when passing thereby in his progress. Her father was John Beaufort, Duke of Somerset, and mother Margaret Beauchamp, a great inheritrix. So that fairfort and fairfield met in this Lady, who was fair-body and fair-soul, being the exactest pattern of the best devotion those days afforded, taxed for no personal faults, but the errors of the age she lived in. John Fisher, Bishop of Rochester, preached her funeral sermon, wherein he resembled her to Martha in four respects; first, nobility of person; secondly, discipline of her body; thirdly, in ordering her soul to God; fourthly, in hospitality, and charity. He concluded she had thirty Kings and Queens (let he himself count them) within the four degrees of marriage to her, besides Dukes, Marquesses, Earls, and other Princes. She lieth buried in the Chapel at Westminster, near her Son, in a fair Tomb of touch-stone, whereon lieth her Image of gilded brass. She died June the 29. and was buried (as appeareth by a note annexed to her Testament) the July following.

12. Her death, though for a time retarding, did not finally obstruct the ending of St. Johns College, which was effectually prosecuted by such as she appointed her Executors, viz.

• 1. Richard Fox, Bishop of Winchester.
• 2. John Fisher, Bishop of Rotchester.
• 3. Charles Somerset, Lord Herbert, afterwards Earl of Worcester.
• 4. Sir Thomas Lovel, Treasurer of the Kings house.
• 5. Sir Henry (afterwards Lord) Marny, Chancellor of the Dutchie of Lancaster.
• 6. Sir John St. John, her Chamberlain and near Kinsman.
• 7. Henry Hornby (Master of Peterhouse) her Chancellor.
• 8. Sir Hugh Aston, Controuler of her household.

This Sir Hugh (whom I conceive rather Sir Priest than Sir Knight) was a good Benefactor to the College, and lieth buried on the North-side in the outward Chapel thereof, in a Tomb with a double portraicture (one presenting him as alive, the other as a sceleton) be-rebussed (according to the ingenuity of that age) with an Ash growing out of a Tunn.

31. The ground whereon this College is scited, was long ago consigned to pious uses, though three times the property thereof was altered.

• 1. When Nigellus or Neal, second Bishop of Eli, founded here an Hospital for Canons regular an. 1134. On which K. Edward the first, bestowed the goods of Forestallers or Regraters legally forfeited.
• 2. When Hugh de Balsham, te • th Bishop of Eli, translated it to a Priory, and dedicated it to Saint John the Evangelist.
• 3. When the Lady Margaret's executors converting it to a College, continued it to the honor of St. John.

These according to her last Will, first paid all the debts of the old house duly proved (Justice must precede Charity) then with the issues and profits of her Land in Somersetshire, Devonshire and Northumptonshire, erected this new foundation.

14. So filled, or rather crowded was this College with Scholars, it was hard for one to get a Study several to himself; and in the days of our Fathers, the Students when writing private letters, were used to cover them with their other hand to prevent over-inspection. Since God hath made them Rehoboth or Roome, by the addition of another Court (not inferior to the former in beauty and bigness) which made King James once merrily say, that there was no more difference betwixt Trinity (consisting chiefly in one great Quadrangle) and St. John College, than betwixt a Shilling and two Six pences.

15. The infancy of this College met with a malady, which much hindered the growth, almost ended the life thereof. A generation of proling, progging, projecting Promoters, (such vermin like Pharaohs Frogs, will sometimes creep even into Kings Bedchambers) questioning the Title of the land of the College, took from it at once four hundred pounds of yearly revenue. If the reporter (being a great Rhetorician) doth not a little Hyperbolize therein, who thus complaineth to the Duke of Somerset Lord Protector. Ascham. commendatitiarum Epist. lib. 1. p. 377.

This wrong was done in the beginning of the reign of King Henry the 8. and never after redressed. Strange that the Lady Margaret 's Executors (men too virtuous, to offer stolen goods for a Sacrifice, and too wise to be cozened with cracked titles) should endow this College with so much land, to which they had no true right; which makes some suspect violence and injustice in the Kings officers. Nothing so high, or so holy, but some hungry Harpyes will prey upon it.

Masters.	Benefactors.	Bishops.	Learned Writers.	Livings in the Col. gift.
1 Alan Piercy, Son to Henry Earl of Northumberland. 2 Robert Shirton. 3 Nicolas Medcalf. 4 George Day. 5 John Tailer. 6 William Bill. 7 Thomas Leaver 8 Thomas Watson 9 George Bullock 10 Jams Pilkington. 11 Leonard Pilkington. 12 Richard Longworth. 13 Nic. Sheppard 14 John Stil. 15 Rich. Houland 16 William Whicaker. 17 Rich. Clayton. 18 Owen Gwin. 19 William Beal. 20 Doctor Arrowsmith. 21 Doctor Tuckney.	1 John Morton, Archb. of Cant. 2 Lady Anne Rooksby. 3 Doctor Fell. 4 Doctor Kyton. 5 Hugh Ashton. 6 Dr. Luptom 7 Dr. Thimbleby. 8 Dr. Dounham. 9 John Constable. 10 Robert Simpson. 11 Rober Ducket 12 Thomas Lane. 13 John Grigson. 14 James Berisford. 15 Robert Holytrechlm. 16 John Repingham. 17 Doct. Lanacre. 18 John Bay • ye. 19 Doctor Thompson. 20 Walter Saukings. 21 Katherine Dutchess of Suff ••• 22 John Thurlston 23 Stephen Cardinal. 24 Sir Ambrose Caves. 25 Thomas Cony. 26 Dr. Goodman. 27 William Cecil Lord Burgeley. 28 Lady Mildred Cecil. 29 Sir Henry Billingsley. 30 Dr. Gwin. 31 The Lady Jermin. 32 Henry Hebletwait. 33 William Spalding, and 34 William Spallding Brother. 35 Robert Booth. 36 Henry Alby 37 John Walton. 38 John Waller. 39 Mary Countess of Shrewsbury. 40 George Palm. 41 William Lord Mainard. 42 Robert Louis 43 John Knewstubs. 44 Mrs. Cuttler. 45 John Hooper. 46 JOHN WILLIAMS Lord Keeper, who built a most beautiful Library. 47 Sr. Ralph Hare 48 Robert Johnson.	1 John Taylor Bishop of Lincoln. 2 Ralph Baines Bishop of Covent. and Lich 3 George Day Bishop of Chichster. 4 Thomas Watson Bishop of Lincoln. 5 James Pilkington Bishop of Durham. 6 Rob. Horn Bishop of Winchester. 7 Richard Curteise Bishop of Chichestr. 8 Tho. Dantes Bishop of St. As • ph. 9 Richard Howland Bishop of Peterb. 10 John Stil Bishop of B. and Wels. 11 John Coldwel, Bishop of Sarum. 12 William Morgan Bishop of St. Asaph. 13 Hugh Billet Bishop of Chester. 14 Rich. Vaughan Bishop of London. 15 Rich. Neile Archbishop of York. 16 THOMAS MORTON Bishop of Durham. 17 JOHN WILLIAMS ArchBishop of York. 17 Rich. Senhouse Bishop of Carlisle. 18 David Dalbin Bishop of Bangor.	1 Roger Hutchinson. 2 John Seaton. 3 Ralph Baines, Professor of Hebrew in Paris. 4 George Bullock, the Author of Bullocks Concordance. 5 Roger Ascham 6 William Cecil Lord Treasurer. 7 William Morgan, who first translated the Bible into Welch. 8 John Knewstubs 9 WILLIAM WHITAKER 10 THOMAS MORTON.	1 Fresh water R. Win. Dioc. valued at 19l. 8s. 4d. 2 Ospring Vic. Cant. Dioc. valued at 10l. 3 Higham Vic. Cant. Dioc. valued at 8l. 10s. 4 Thornington R. London Dioc. valued at 16s. 5 Sunninghil Vic. Sarum Dioc. valued at 6 Aldworth Vic. Sarum Dioc. 8l. 15s. 8d. ob.

So that lately, viz. anno 1634, there were in this College, one Master, 54 Fellows, fourscore and eight Scholars, beside Officers and Servants of the foundation, with other Students, in all one hundred eighty two.

16. Great was the opposition against the election of Dr. Whitaker's, the 16. Master of this house, fetched from Trinity College. He was appointed by the Queens Mandamus, and Dr. Cap-co • t Vicechancellor (and Fellow of Trinity College) went along with him magna comitante caterva, solemnly to induct him to his place, when he met with an unexpected obstruction. Non datur penetratio corporum. The gates were shut, and partly Man'd, partly boy'd against him.

17. The Vicechancellor retreated to Trinity College, and consulting with Lawyers what was to be done in the Case, according to their Advise, created D ^r . Whitaker's Master of S ^t . John's in his own Chamber, by virtue of the Queens Mandate. This done, he re-advanceth to S ^t . John's, and with (as I may say) a POSSE ACADEMIAE, demands Admission. The Iohnians, having Intelligence by their Emissaries, that the property of the Person was altered, and D ^r . Whitaker's invested in their Mastership, and knowing the Queen would maintain her power from her Crown to her Foot, took Wit in their Anger, and peaceably received him. However great the Heart-burnings in this House for many years after; and I will run the Hazard of the Readers Displeasure in transmitting the following Story to Posterity.

18. A Senior Fellow of S ^t . John's (of the opposite Faction to the Master) in the presence of D ^r . Whitaker's, falling on this Subject (proper enough to his Text) what Requisites should qualify a Scholar for a Fellowship, concluded that Religion and Learning were of the Quorum for that Purpose. Hence he proceeded to put the Case, if one of these Qualities alone did appear, whether a religious Dunce were to be chosen before a learned Rake-hell; and resolved it in Favor of the later.

19. This he endeavored to prove with two Arguments; whereof this the first. Because Religion may, but Learning cannot be counterfeited. God only can discover the gracious Heart, but men may descry an able Head. He that chooseth a learned Rake-hell is sure of something; but whoso electeth a religious Dunce, may have nothing worthy his Choise, seeing the same may prove both Dunce and Hypocrite.

20. His second Reason was, because there was more probability of a Rake-hells Improvement unto Temperance, then of a Dunces Conversion into a Learned man, seeing such an one radicated and habituated is unchangeable without Miracle.

21. Common-place ended, D ^r . Whitaker's desired the company of this Fellow, and in his Closet thus accosted him. Sir, I hope I may say without Offence, as once Isaac to Abraham, here is Wood and a Knife, but where is the Lamb for the Burnt-offering? You have discovered much Keeneness of Language, and Fervency of Affection, but who is the Person you aim at, who hath offered Abuse to this Society?

22. The other answered; If I may presume to follow your Metaphor, know, Sir (though I am a true Admirer of your most eminent Worth) you are the Sacrifice I reflected at in my Discourse. For (whilst you follow your Studies, and remit matters to be managed by others) a Company is chosen into the College, of more Zeal then Knowledge, whose Judgments we certainly know to be bad, though others charitably believe the Goodness of their Affections. And hence (of late) a general Decay of Learning in the College.

23. The Doctor turned his Anger into Thankfulness, and expressed the same, both in loving his Person, and practicing his Advise, promising his own Presence hereafter in all Elections, and that none should be admitted without his own Examination; which quickly recovered the Credit of this House, replenished with hopeful Plants before his Death.

24. And thus I take my Farewell of S ^t . John's College, having first confessed a Mistake formerly committed in my Holy State in making D ^r . Walter Haddon (Master of the Requests to Queen Elisabeth) a Member of this College, being originally of Kings College, afterward of Trinity Hall. The Error arose, because Roger Askham of this House commonly calleth him nostrum Haddonum; where I mistook their Familiarity, for Membership in the same Society.

• Thomas Thompson, Vice-Chan.
  • John Samson
  • John Scot
• Proctors. John Bury, Major.

• Doct. of Physic 2
• Bac. of Divin. 5
• Mast. of
  • Arts 29
  • Gram. 1
• Bac. of
  • Law 16
  • Arts 42

Seeing the Vice-Chancellors are chosen in November, so that in their Office they partake of two years of the Lord (though otherwise but one annual Employment) I thought fit henceforward to divide them in our Chronology into two years.

• Thomas Thompson, Vice-Chan.
  • George Tomson
  • Chris Ducket
• Proctors. John Erlich, Major.

• Doct. of
  • Divin. 5
  • Incorp. 1
• Doct. of
  • Can. Law 7
  • Civ. Law 2
• Bac. of Divin. 11
• Mast. of Arts 26
• Bac. of
  • Law 22
  • Arts 44

• John Fawne, Vice-Chan.
  • Richard Standbank
  • William Chaundler
• Proctors. John Bell, Major.

• Doct. of
  • Divin. 3
  • Civ. Law 1
• Bac. of Divin. 5
• Mast. of Arts 21
• Bac. of
  • Law 16
  • Arts 32

• John Fawne, Vice-Chan.
  • Roger Collinwood
  • Richard Master
• Proctors. Will. Barber, Major.

• Doct. of
  • Divin. 2
  • Civ. Law 1
• Bac. of Divin. 5
• Mast. of Arts 21
• Bac. of
  • Law 7
  • Arts 52

• John Eccleston, Vice-Chan.
  • Richard Norris
  • Thomas Marten
• Proct. Hugh Chapman, Major.

• Doct. of
  • Divin. 3
  • Civ. Law 1
• Bac. of Divin. 10
• Mast. of Arts 25
• Bac. of
  • Law 10
  • Arts 24
  • Gram. 1

• John Eccleston, Vice-Chanc.
  • John Cotting
  • Tho. Goodrick
• Proct. Hugh Chapman, Major.

• Doct. of
  • Divinity 1
  • Can. Law 3
• Bac. of Divin. 5
• Mast. of Arts 14
• Bac. of
  • Law 13
  • Mus. 1
  • Arts 30
  • Gram. 2

• Robert Dussin, Vice-Chanc.
  • Rowland Bodron
  • Reinald Bainbrigg
• Proct. Hugh Raukin, Major.

• Doct. of
  • Divin. 10
  • Can. Law 2
  • Civ. Law 2
• Bac. of Divin. 18
• Mast. of
  • Arts 42
  • Gram. 3
• Bac. of
  • Law
  • Mus.
  • Arts

• Edmond Nateres, Vice-Chan.
  • John Copinger
  • Gilbert Latham
• Proctors. John Bury, Major.

• Doct. of
  • Divin. 5
  • Civ. Law 2
  • Phys. 1
• Bac. of Divin. 13
• Mast. of Arts 29
• Bac. of
  • Law 14.
  • Arts 43

• Edmond Nateres, Vice-Chan.
  • William Cocks
  • Roger Ashe
• Proctors. Will. Barber, Major.

• Doct. of
  • Divin. 3
  • Can. Law 2
  • Civ. Law 1
• Bac. of Divin. 4
• Mast. of Arts 13
• Bac. of
  • Law 11
  • Arts 41

25. About this time one Peter de Valence a Norman was a Student in Cambridge, when the Papist Indulgences were solemnly set upon the School-gates, over which he wrote these Words; Beatus vir cujus est Nomen Domini Spesejus, & non respexit Vanitates, & Insanias falsas (istas.) Inquiry was made about the Party, but no Discovery could be made. Whereupon Bishop Fisher, Chancellor of the University, solemnly proceeded to his Excommunication, which he is said to perform with Tears, and great Gravity.

26. This Peter afterward applied himself to D ^r . Goodrich Bishop of Eli, and became his Servant; but, as the Papists report, could never be quiet in his Mind, until many years after he had publicly confessed his Folly therein, and upon the same place of the School-gates fixed a Paper with these words; Delicta Iuventutis meae, & Ignorantias ne memineris, Domine: Remember not, Lord, my sins, nor the Ignorances of my Youth. But may the Reader take notice, this Story is related by Richard Hall a zealous Papist, in his life of Bishop Fisher. A Book which when lately in Manuscript, I then more prized for the Rarity, then since it is now printed I trust for the Verity thereof.

• John Watson, Vice-Chan.
  • William Smith
  • John Cheswrigh
• Proctors. Will. Barber, Major.

• Doct. of
  • Divinity 10
  • Can. Law 3
• Bac. of Divin. 11
• Mast. of Arts 26
• Bac. of
  • Law 26
  • Arts 38

27. Monks College this year had it's name altered, and condition improved. Formerly it was a place where many Monks lived, on the Charge of their respective Convents, being very fit for solitary Persons by the Situation thereof. For it stood on the trans-Cantine side, an Anchoret in itself, severed by the River from the rest of the University. Here the Monks some seven years since, had once and again lodged and feasted Edward Stafford the last Duke of Buckingham of that Family. Great men best may, good men always will be grateful Guests to such as entertain them. Both Qualifications met in this Duke, and then no wonder if he largely requited his Welcome. He changed the Name of the House into Buckingham College, began to build, and purposed to endow the same, no doubt in some proportion to his own high and rich estate.

• Edm. Nateres, Vice-Chan.
  • John Denny
  • Will. Meddow
• Proct. Richard Clark, Major.

• Doct.
  • Theol. 5
    • Iu.
      • Can. 1
      • Civ. 1
    • Bac. Theol. 20
    • Mag. Art. 23
  • Bac.
    • Leg. 19
    • Art. 31

  28. Two eminent men are assigned by a good Author at this time to flourish in Cambridge. The one William Gonel, (a friend to Erasmus) and here public Professor, saith Pitz: but would he had told us, of what Faculty. But probably Public Professor, in the lax acception of that Title, importeth no more then an ordinary Doctor. We need not question his Sufficiency, when we find Sir Tho. More (an Oxford man, and able Judge of Merit) select him for Tutor to his Children. The other Stephen Baron, Provincial of the Franciscans, and Confessor, faith one, to King Henry the eighth. Some will scarce believe this, only because about this time they find Longland Bishop of Lincoln performing that place, except King Henry as he had many Faults, had many Confessors at once. But this Baron might have this office some years since. Let me here without offense remember that the Seniour Vicar (as I take it) of the Kings Chapel, is called the Confessor of the Kings Household. which perchance hath caused some Mistakes herein.

  • Tho. Stackhouse, Vice-Chan.
    • Rich. Frank
    • lo. Crayford
  • Proctors. Rich Clark, Major.
  • Doct.
    • Theol. 9
    • Ju.
      • Can. 3
      • Civ. 1
  • Bac. Theol. 5
  • Mag. Art. 21
  • Bac.
    • Leg. 7
    • Art. 26

  29. Edward Stafford D. of Buckingham, a Gentleman rather vain then Wicked, guilty more of Indiscretion then Disloialty, by the practice of Cardinal Woolsey, lost his Life, and was beheaded. Charles the fifth, Emperor, being informed of his death, said that a Butchers Dog (such Woolsey 's extraction) had killed the fairest BUCK in England. Let Oxford then commend the Memory of this Cardinal, for founding a fair College therein; Cambridge hath more cause to complain of him, who hindered her of an hopeful Foundation. For this Duke surprised with death, built but little, and endowed nothing considerably in this Buckingham College. No wonder to such who consider, that prevented with an unexpected End, he finished not his own House, but only brought the sumptuous and stately Foundation thereof above ground at Thornbury in Glocestershire. Afterwards in Commiseration of this Orphan College, several Convents built Chambers therein. But more of it hereafter in Magdalene College.

  • John Edmunds, Vice-Chan.
    • Nich. Rowley
    • John Stafford
  • Proct. Robert Smith, Major.
  • Doct.
    • Theol. 6
    • Ju.
      • Can. 1
      • Civ. 1
  • Bac. Theol. 19
  • Mag. Art. 22
  • Bac.
    • Leg. 6
    • Art. 40

  30. Richard Crook was the first, who now brought Greek into request in the University. He was born in London, bred in Kings College, where Anno 1506. he was admitted Scholar. Then travailing beyond the Seas, he became public Reader of Greek at Lipzick in Germany. After his return, by the persuasion of Bishop Fisher Chancellor of Cambridge, he professed therein the Greek Language. All Students equally contributed to his Lectures, whether they heard, or heard them not, (as in Dutch Ordinaries all Guests pay alike for the Wine, though they drink it not) because they were or should be present thereat. Crook dedicated his first public Speech made in praise of the Greek tongue to Nich. West Bishop of Eli, because Cambridge (understand him of all the Parish Churches therein,) is of his Jurisdiction. A passage impertinently pressed by Oxford Antiquary, to prove this University under his Episcopal Power, as being in, not of Elic Diocese; exempted from it, though surrounded with it. Crook was also chosen the first public Orator, a place of more Honor then Profit, whose original Salary was but 40 • . per ann.

  • Tho. Green, Vice-Chan.
    • Robert Dent
    • Io. Briganden
  • Proct. Geo. Hoyster,
    • Major. He was excommunicated for his obstinacy towards the Deputy of the Vice-Ch.
    • Doct.
      • Theol. 5
      • In. Can. 2
    • Mag. Art. 22
    • Bac. Art. 46

  31. It will not be amiss here to present the Reader with a List of the University Orators.

  Orators. chosen
  • 1 Richard Crook. 1522
  • 2 George Day, fellow of Kings Col. 1528
  • 3 John Redman, of Kings Hall. 1537
  • 4 Thomas Smith, fellow of Queens Col. 1538
  • 5 Roger Ascham, fellow of S ^t . John's Col. 1547
  • 6 Tho. Gardener, fellow of Kings Col. 1554
  • 7 John Stokes, of the same. 1557
  • 8 George Ackworth. 1560
  • 9 Anthony Girlington, fellow of Pembrook Hall. 1561
  • 10 Andrew Oxenbridge, fellow of Trin. Col. 1562
  • 11 Will. Masters, fellow of Kings Col. 1564
  • 12 Thomas Bing, fellow of Peter House. 1564
  • 13 William Lewin, fellow of Christ's Col. 1570
  • 14 John Beacon, fellow of S ^t John's Col. 1571
  • 15 Rich. Bridgewater, fellow of Kings Col. 1573
  • 16 Anthony Wing field, fellow of Trin. Col. 1580
  • and re-admitted 1586
  • 17 Henry Moutlow, fellow of Kings Col. 1589
  • 18 Rob. Naunton, fellow of Trin. Col. 1595
  • 19 Francis Nethersole, fellow of Trin. Col. 1611
  • 20 George Herbert, fellow of Trin. Col. 1618
  • 21 Robert Crection, fellow of Trin. Col. 1627
  • 22 Henry Molle; fellow of Kings Col.
  • 23 Ralph Witherington, fellow of Christ's Col.

  True it is, that before the solemn founding of the Orators office, some were procured on occasion to discharge the same. Thus we find one Cajus Auberinus an Italian, (for that Age indifferently learned) who (some 20. years since) had twenty pence a piece for every Latin Letter which he wrote for the University. Henceforth we had one standing Orator, whose place was assigned unto him next unto the Doctors of Physic.

  • Henry Bullock, Vice-Chan.
    • Rob. Aldriche
    • Ant. Maxwell
  • Proct. Thomas Brakin, Major.
  • Bac. Theol. 12
  • Mag. Art. 28
• Bac.
  • Leg. 9
  • Art. 40

Thomas Bilney, Fellow of Trinity Hall, zealously advanced true Religion. To the study of Canon and Civil Law (wherein he was graduated) he added a third, (worth both the former) his study in God's Law, and the Holy Scriptures. Once travelling in the Country, he chanced to come to a poor Cure belonging to Trinity Hall, where the people unprovided of a Preacher pressed him to give them some Instruction. Bilney had Ability, but no Authority to teach them, as then prohibited by the Church. Yet their Want so wrought on his Charity, that for the present he gave them a Collation. This good man, afterwards a Martyr, (the most tender to sin are the most hardy to suffer) was much troubled in conscience for his contempt of Church-order. How many nowadays without any regret turn Praters-Preachers without any Commission from the Church? It is suspicious on the like occasion, some would scarce follow Bilney to the Stake, who run so far before him into the Pulpit.

• Edmond Nateres, Vice-Chan.
  • Edm. Stretey
  • Tho. Briggs
• Proct. Rich. Woolf, Major.

• Doct.
  • Theol. 7
  • lu. Can. 1
  • lu. Civ. 2
• Mag. Art. 25
• Bac.
  • Leg. 13
  • lu. Civ. 3
  • Art. 40

33. Now was there high and stiff banding in the Schools and Pulpits betwixt the

Opposers of the Protestant Religion.Two opposite parties, for, and against superstition. 1. Henry Bullock, (his friend Erasmus calls him Bovillum) of Queens College. 2. M r . Hugh Latimer, of Christ's College, the Cross-keeper of the University, which he solemnly brought forth on Procession-days. He exhorted the Scholars not to believe one word of what M r . Stafford did read or preach. 3. Edmund Nateres Vice-Chancellor, Master of Gon. Hall: and generally all the Heads of Houses.

and Advancers of the same. 1. Doctor Foreman, of Queens College, who therein concealed and kept Luther's Books when sought for to be burnt. 2. M r . Stafford, Divinity Reader. Let me conjecture him, (for the Founders Name-sake) of Buckingham College. 3. Doctor Thissel (as M r . Fox writes him) of Pembrook Hall. The same, no doubt, with John Thixtil, chosen fellow there 1 5 1 9. whom Cajus calls hominem singularis eruditionis nostra memoria. Insomuch that his 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 was authentical in the Schools.

• Edm. Nateres, Vice-Chanc.
  • Gud. Duplake
  • Tho. Harwood
• Proctors. Thomas Saye, Major.

• Doct.
  • Theol. 2
  • Medic. 1
• Bac. Theol. 2
• Mag. Art. 23
• Bac.
  • Leg. 3
  • lu. Civ. 3
  • Art. 42

34. Bilney observing in Latimer misguided Zeal, repaired to his Chamber, and desired him to hear his Confession. The hearing whereof (improved by God's Spirit) so wrought on Latimer, that of almost a Persecutour, he became a zealous Promoter of the Truth. Then going to M ^r . Stafford, he solemnly asked him Forgiveness, for his former fierce and causeless Fury against him.

35. Thomas Cranmer was outed of his Fellowship in Jesus College for being married. His wife was Kinswoman to the Hostess at the Dolphin, which causing his frequent repair thither, gave the occasion to that impudent Lie of ignorant Papists, that he was an Ostler. Indeed with his learned Lectures, he rubbed the galled Backs, and curried the lazy Hides of many an idle and ignorant Frier, being now made Divinity-Reader in Buckingham College. But soon after, his Wife dying within the year, being a Widdower, he was re-elected into Jesus Col. I know the Statutes of some Houses run thus, Nolumus Socios nostros esse Maritos, velmaritatos. It seems this last barbarous word was not, or was not taken notice of in Jesus College Statutes. Cranmer herein is a Precedent by himself, if that may be Precedent which hath none to follow it.

• John Edmunds, Vice-Chan.
  • Nin. Shafto
  • Iac. Hulton
• Proctors. Henry Gilson, Major.

• Doct.
  • Theol. 5
  • Ju. Can. 2
  • Ju. Civ. 1
• Doct. Medic. 1
• Bac. Theol. 5
• Mag. Art. 21
• Bac.
  • Leg. 14
  • Art. 32

36. Richard Crook, University Orator and Greek Professor, (invited with more large and liberal Conditions) leaving Cambridge, removed to Oxford. Yet this honorable Proviso is entered in our Orators Book, that in Case Crook should ever be pleased to return, he, for the good service by him performed, should have the precedency of all Cambridge Orators. Great the Antipathy betwixt Crook, and Leland the Antiquary, whose differences began with generous emulation betwixt two eminent competitors of learned Honor, but festered into Envy, not to say malicious Detraction.

37. D ^r . Cliffe Chancellor of Nicholas West B ^p . of Eli, humbly submitted himself, and craved pardon for his Rashness, because he had excommunicated a Bachelor of Arts, contrary to the express Privileges of the University. The familiarity betwixt Bilney and Latimer daily increased, their meetingplace nigh Cambridge being called the Heretics walk. My enquiry can discover no footsteps thereof, on which side of the Town it lay.

• John Edmunds, Vice-Chan.
  • Tho. Smith
  • John Brewer
• Proctors. Edw. Slegg, Major.

• Doct.
  • Theol. 1
  • Ju. Can. 1
  • Ju. Civ. 4
• Doct. Medic. 1
• Bac. Theol. 6
• Mag. Art. 20
• Bac.
  • Leg. 5
  • Art. 26
  • Gram. 2

38. Now many and fierce the conflicts of Friers against M ^r . Latimer, especially after he had preached at S ^t . Edwards, (the Sunday before Christmas) on the Question of the Priests to the Baptist (parcel of the Gospel appointed for the day) John 1. 19. Tu quis es? Who art thou? It seems he suited his Sermon rather to the Time then the Text, thereby taking occasion to conform his discourse to the playing at Cards, making the Heart Triumph, and exhorting all to serve God in sincerity & Truth, not in the glistering show of men's Ceremonies, Traditions, Pardons, Pilgrimages, Vows, Devotions, &c. Now, show me not the Sermon, but show me the Souls converted thereby. This blunt Preaching was in those dark days admirably effectual, which would justly be ridiculous in our Age. I remember in my time a country-Minister preached at S ^t . Mary's. His Text Rom. 1 2. 3. As God hath DEALT to every Man a measure of faith. In a fond Imitation of Latimer 's Card-Sermon, he prosecuted the Metaphor of dealing, that men should play above-board, that is, avoid all dissembling, not pocket cards, but improve their gifts and graces, follow suit, wear the Surplice, and conform in Ceremonies, &c. All produced nothing but Laughter in the Audience. Thus the same actions are by several Persons and Times made not the same actions, yea differenced from commendable discretion, to ridiculous absurdity. And thus, he will make but bad Music, who hath the Instrument and Fidle-stick, but none of the Rosin of M ^r . Latimer.

• Will. Buckmaster, Vice-Cha.
  • Rowland Swinborn
  • John Blith
• Proct. Tho. Brakin, Major.

• Doct.
  • Theol. 2
  • Ju. Can. 3
• Bac. Theol. 1
• Mag. Art 13
• Bac.
  • Leg. 11
  • Art. 40

39. I cannot believe (except on better evidence, then the bare testimony of one an engaged person) what I find reported, that about this time certain Cambridge men went to Oxford, being Gracitatis Hosts, hearty Haters of the Greek Tongue. They called themselves by the names of doughty Trojans, Priam and Hector, condemning all other for arrogant and perfidious Greeks.

40. Thomas Cranmer, now Doctor in Divinity, was grown into so great an esteem for his Learning, that he was made by the University one of the Examiners of their sufficiency who commenced therein. Untill a grievous Plague this year happening in the University, left the Colleges almost empty, and forced him to remove with his prime Pupils to Waltham. And here we surrender render him up to our former Church-History, where we from this time forward have given a large account of his Conversation.

• Io. Watson, Vice-Chan.
  • Io. Linsey
  • Tho. Wilson
• Proct. William Synderton, Major.

• Doct.
  • Theol. 5
  • Ju. Civ. 2
  • Med. 1
• Mag. Art. 8
• Bac.
  • Leg. 15
  • Art. 37

41. Last years Sickness still continued in Cambridge; amongst many that died thereof, M ^r . Stafford, Divinity Reader, ended his life, and that on this occasion. The Plague being fore in the Town, amongst other a certain Priest, called S ^r . Henry Conjurer, lay sore sick of the said Plague. M ^r . Stafford hearing thereof, & seeing the horrible danger that his Soul was in, was so moved in Conscience to help the dangerous case of the Priest, that he neglecting his own bodily death, to recover the other from eternal Damnation, came unto him, exhorted and so labored him, that he would not leave him before he had converted him, and saw his Conjuring-books burned before his face: which being done M ^r . Stafford went home, and immediately sickened, and shortly after most Christianly deceased. Thus a Life is well lost whereby a Soul is saved.

42. I dare not affirm that this M ^r . Stafford was Margaret-Professor in Cambridge, though something might move me to this Conjecture; for at this time there was no other Public Lecture founded in the University. Nor can a negative Argument to the contrary be justly deduced from the Omission of his name in the Catalogue of her Professors, which all must acknowledge to be very imperfect. Yet more probably he was a Volunteer in his Lecture, having no Salary for the reading thereof, save God's Glory, his own Credit, and the Profit of others. And so we take our leave of him; some months after whose Death, at the coming in of cold weather, the Air was cleared, and Cambridge free from Infection was restored to her former Healthfulnesse.

43. Thomas Bennet was this year Martyred in Exceter. At the Stake he was urged by two Gentlemen of that County, standing by, to say, Precor Sanctam Mariam, & omnes Sanctos Dei, &c. Probably the pronouncing so much might have prevailed for his Pardon: But he refused to save his life on the price of Superstition. I insert him here in our History of the University, (not because, as many mo Martyrs, he commenced Master of Arts therein, but) chiefly because he was born in the Town of Cambridge.

• Io. Watson, Vice-Chan.
  • Tho. Blyth
  • Rob. masterman
• Proct. John Chapman, Major.

• Doct.
  • Theol. 4
  • Ju. Civ. 2
  • Med. 2
• Bac. Theol. 10
• Mag. Art. 17
• Bac.
  • Leg. 11
  • Art. 28

• Simon Heynes, Vice-Chanc.
  • Will. Cake
  • John. Taylor
• Proctors, William Gill, Major.

• Doct.
  • Theol. 3
  • Ju. Can. 1
  • Iu. Civ. 1
• Bac. Theol. 15.
• Mag. Art. 28
• Bac.
  • Leg. 12
  • Art. 43

44. This year two Oxford men, the one George Throgmorton, the other John Asewell, came to Cambridge, having much Learning in their heads (but needing to have brought more in their Port-mantues) challenging all the University of Cambridge, to dispute with them on these Questions.

An
• 1. Ius Civile sit praestantius Medicina.
• 2. Mulier morti condemnata & his suspensa, ruptis Laqueis, tertio suspendi debeat.

These two thus ordered themselves, that Throgmorton should be the Forlornhope, and answer first: Asewell was kept for the Reserve to come after him.

45. Five Cambridge -men undertook the Disputation: viz. John Redman, Nicholas Ridley, John Rokesby, Elisha Price, and Griffith Tregarn (counted in those days the Magazine of all the Law) repairing to the Schools, (the Doors whereof were broken open by Crouds of People.) These Disputants so pressed Throgmorton, that finding him to fail, they followed their Advantage, to improve the Foile into a flat Fall, and would never suffer him (men's spirits once cast, are easily kept down) to recover himself. Wherefore As • well his Partner, who was to answer on the second Question, declined it by dissembling himself sick. Who, had he not indeed been sick of a conceited soul, had never come thither on that occasion.

46. Home go this brace of Disputants wiser then they came to Cambridge, having learned by dear-bought Experience, that if Hercules were so wary as not to fight against two; they two were none of the wisest to fight against so many Herculeses as a University might afford. However, the least shadow of Shame doth not reflect on Oxford, who was so far from giving them a Commission, that she did not know of their coming to Cambridge. Thus bold Children will be venturing into Dangers without their Parents leave, though when it be known it cost them a good whipping for their pains. Indeed some have reported that afterwards they were expelled the University, for this their daring Undertaking: If so, let me say, our Aunt Oxford was too severe in her Censures; and I pity the two poor men, whose very Fault was sufficient Punishment.

47. But an Oxford Author seeks to qualify the matter in his Relation. First he tells us that Throgmorton was very young, and counted none of the most Learned men: both which we can easily believe. For his Expulsion after his return, he utterly disavoweth it; and concerning his carriage in Cambridge, he pretends to Intelligence, that Throgmorton came off rather as Conqueror then conquered. But Cajus present at the Disputation, is to be credited before those obscure persons [ Bank and Bernard] whose Testimony he produceth therein.

48. As for As • well, the aforesaid Author will not have him come to Cambridge with any intent to dispute, but only as Chamber-fellow to accompany Throgmorton; adding withal, What need had he to dissemble Sickness in that place, where formerly the Pestilence so reigned, (saith Walsingham in Richard the second) that sound men suddenly died in a Frenzie, without either Sense or Sacrament? But what's all this to the purpose? what if there were a pestilential distemper in Cambridge an hundred years before, must the same be supposed still to continue? But we know the Gentleman's Intent is to give a Gird at Cambridge, for the badness of the Air thereof. We tell not him of the Pestiferous Vapour in Oxford, in the Reign of Queen Elisabeth, wherewith Judge, high Sheriff, Justices; and most of the Grand-jury, died all suddenly at the Assizes. Such Casualties happen sometimes in the most refined Aires, and thanks be to God they are but sometimes.

49. He proceeds to tell us, that no Cambridge -man ever challenged the University of Oxford to public Disputation, (as I believe they never did:) but I know some who neither can be persuaded nor provoked to fight a Duel on any terms, yet the same in the Field will set their foot as far in the Face of their Enemy, as any alive. When God's Glory is concerned in the cause of the Truth, Cambridge, though declining such Childish and Vain-glorious Challenges, hath been, is, and, I hope, will be as forward as any University in the World in the vindicating thereof.

• Simon Heynes, Vice-Chanc.
  • Nich. Ridley
  • Rich. Wilkes
• Proct. Robert Chapman, Major.

• Doct.
  • Theol. 2
  • Ju Civ. 2
  • Med. 1
• Bac. Theol. 11
• Mag. Art. 26
• Bac.
  • Leg. 11
  • Mus. 1
  • Art. 43

• Io. Craiford, Vice-Cha.
  • Hen. Mallet
  • John. Madew.
• Proct. Ed. Thompson, Major.

• Doct.
  • Theol. 7
  • Ju. Civ. 1
• Bac. Theol. 10.
• Mag. Art. 19
• Bac.
  • Leg. 17
  • Art. 33

50. This year the University of Cambridge presented his Majesty with the following Instrument, wherein they utterly renounced the Popes Supremacy.

QUod faelix & faustum sit & huic florentissimo regno tuo, & universo orbi Christiano,(invictissime Princeps ac Domine clementissime) in scripto prodimus, ac palam dicimus sententiam nostram in Quaestione illa famosa de Romani Pontificis potestate: cujus Quaestionis Veritatem post maturam & sedulam examinationem, & varias ea de re, non uno tempore, Colloquutiones, diligenti tandem scripturarū collatione & propensione (ut nobis videntur) eruimus, ac erutā ac Syngrapho quodam expressam, quod Sententiae nostrae, & facti certissimus testis fuerit, Majestati tuae, una cum nostris Literis mittimus. Atque hanc sane Provinciam (Serenissime Rex) abs tua Sublimitate nobis impositam, libenter suscepimus: partim ob eam (quam Majestati tuae debemus) fidem & obedientiam, quibus ullo tempore aut loco deesse nefas putamus maximum▪ partim ipsius veritatis amore ac studio, quam dicere & praedicare, quoties e Christi gloria, & Reipub. Christianae salute atque commodo essevideatur, quum omnium intersit qui Christo nomina dederunt, atque in illius verba jurarunt, tum nostri multo magis refer, & interesse videtur, qui quotidie in illius Scriptures versamur, quotidie illius verba, & voces legimus, qui est ipsa Via, Veritas & Vita, quique Veritatem custodit in saeculum saeculi. Hujus favorem & gratiam semper tuae Celsitudini adesse precamur, optamusque ut nos & Academiam nostram, quae tuae semper Voluntati fuerit obsequentissima, vicissim Sublimitatis tuae favore prosequi, fovere, atque ornare digneris. Christus Servator serenissimam Majestatem tuam diutissime servet.

UNiversis sanctae matris Ecclesiae filiis ad quos praesentes Literae perventurae sunt, Coetus omnis Regentiū & non Regentium Academiae Cantabrigiensis, Salutem in omnium Salvatore Jesu Christo. Cum de Romani Pontificis potestate, quam ex sacris Scriptures sibi vendicat in omnibus Christianorum Provinciis, & in hoc Regno Angliae longo jam temporis tractu exercuit, hisce nunc diebus quaestio exorta sit, ac nostra de ea re sententia rogaretur (viz.) An Pontifex Romanus habeat à Deo in Scriptura sacra sibi concessam majorem Authoritatem & Potestatem in hoc regno Angliae, quam quivis alius externus Episcopus: Nos aequum esse putavimus, ut ad dictae quaestionis veritatem eruendam omni studio incumberemus, ac nostram ea de re sententiam & Censuram tandem Orbi proferremus. Nempe ad hoc potissimum Academias olim à Principibus institutas fuisse persuasi, ut & populus Christianus in lege Dei erudiatur, & falsi errores (fi qui exorirentur) cura & solicitudine Doctorum Theologorum penitus convelli ac profligari possint. Quamobrem de praedicta Quaestione deliberaturi more nostro convenientes, ac matura consultatione consilia conferentes, quo modo & ordine ad investigationem Veritatis certius procederetur, atque omnium tandem suffragiis selectis, quibusdam ex doctissimis Sacrae Theology Professoribus, Baccalaureis, & aliis Magistris ea cura demandata, ut scrutatis diligentissime Sacrae Scripturae locis, illisque collatis referrent ac renunciarrent quid ipsi dictae Quaestioni respondendum putarunt. Quoniam auditis, perpensis, ac post publicam super dicta quaestione disputationem matura deliberatione discussis his quae in Quaestione praedicta, alterutram partem statuere, aut convellere possent, illa nobis probabiliora, validiora, veriora etiā ac certiora esse, ac genuinū ac sincerū Scripturae sensum refer visa sunt, quae negant Romano Pontifici talem potestatem à Deo in Scriptura datam esse: Illis igitur persuasi, & in unam Opinionem convenientes, ad Quaestionem praedictam ita respondendum decrevimus, & in his scriptis nomine totius Universitatis respondemus, ac pro Conclusione verissima asserimus; Quod Romanus Pontifex non habet à Deo concessam sibi majorem Authoritatem, aut Jurisdictionem in hoc Regno Angliae, quam quivis alius Episcopus externus. Atque in fidem & testimonium hujusmodi nostrae Responsionis, & affirmationis, his Literis Sigillum nostrum commune curavimus apponi. Dat. Cantabrigiae ex Domo nostra Regentium secundo die mensis Maij, Anno ab orbe per Christum redempto, M.DXXXIV.

Thus was the Popes powerfully abrogated out of England. Henceforward the Man of sin, in this Land, fell asleep, never more we hope to awake, though once he opened his eyes for a short time in Queen Mary's days, and soon shut them again.

51. Indeed Sanders himself confesseth, that about this time there were many in Cambridge cordially opposing the Popish Proceedings; but he telleth us, they were none ex Doctissimis, of the most Learned therein: but had the meanest of those he decryeth been but of his opinion, how had they started up most, Pious and Learned both in an Instant? Indeed the Old Learning began to be left in the University, and a better succeeded in the Room thereof. Hitherto Cambridge had given suck but with one Breast, teaching Arts only, without Languages. Her Scholars Latin was but bad, (though as good as in any other place;) Greek, little; Hebrew, none at all: their Studies moving in a Circle, (I mean not as it ought in a Cyclopedie of Sciences, but) of some trite SchoolQuaestions over and over again. But now the Students began to make Sallyes into the Learned Languages, which the industry of the next Age did completely conquer. Herein Rob. Wakefield, a great restorer of the Hebrew tongue, must not be forgot; who for his better accomplishment travelled most parts of Christendom, and became Hebrew-Professor after Reuchlin, or Capnio, in the University of Tubing. But we shall hear more of him, some years hence after his return.

52. John Fisher Bishop of Rochester was beheaded on Tower-hill, continuing Chancellor of the University to his last hour, as chosen into that place during his Life, not during his outward Happiness. Being long a Prisoner, he could not protect the University, as unable to enlarge himself. Yet Cambridge honored him for what he had done, and continued him in his Office. Had this been imitated in after-Ages, Cambridge had not been charged with the Suspition of Ingratitude, for deserting some of the Patrons, as soon as Greatness deserted them; as choosing not their Persons, but Prosperity for her Chancellor. The Lord Cromwell was elected Chancellor in the room of Fisher.

53. I find not any particular favor conferred, or Benefaction bestowed by him on the University. But this great Good he did, that his Greatness kept others form doing Cambridge any Harm. Many hungry Courtiers had hopes to catch fish, (and fish it would be whatever came to their Nets) on this turning of the Tide, the Alteration of Religion. How easy was it for Covetousness in those ticklish times, to quarrel the College-Lands into Superstition? Sacrilege stood ready to knock at their Gates: and, alas! it was past their Porters. power to forbid it entrance, had not the Lord Cromwell vigorously assisted the University on all Occasions.

I0. Craiford, Vice-Chan.	Rich. Ainsworth	Proct. William Hasill, Major.
Guil. Sanders

Doct Theol. 2	Mag. Art. 17
Bac. Theol 9.	Bac. Art. 30

54. Hitherto none were chosen Vice-Chancellors of the University, save such who before their Election were actual Doctors. Craiford was the first who innovated herein, being Vice-Chancellor before a Doctor, ut gradus quaestum exofficio faceret, saith my Author; not bringing a Doctourship as a qualification to be Vice-Chancellor, but taking it as a gratification conferred on him for being so. Oxford Antiquary accounts him one of the Ornaments of Cambridge, who at first was bred in Oxford. We deny not, but that Craiford very young might have his Education there, but took all his Degrees in Cambridge, though far enough from being any great Ornament there of; For first he was expelled out of Queens College (for no good we may be sure,) yet afterward by favor offriends, got to be Proctor Anno 1522. and at last Vice-Chancellor of the University. But he was, saith one, Gladiator melior quam Procancellarius, a better Fencer then Vice-Chancellor, who in a fury cut off the hand from one Pindar, and cast out a fellow out of the Regent-house, catching him up on his shoulders by main force; and I could wish the occasion thereof had been expressed. Surely he was a man of Metal, being Vice-Chancellor two years together, which I may call the Criticall years of Cambridge, on the Alteration of the Popes power therein (and perchance too much decried by some on the same account) being chosen of purpose with his rough spirit to bustle through much Opposition.

56. These Injunctions relate as Additionalls to former Injunctions of the Kings, too tedious here to exemplify. But take the substance thereof.

1. He beginneth with bemoaning the Barbarism, and Ignorance, which so lately spread in the University, protesting his desire to promote Piety, and extirpate Heresy, Superstition, Idolatry, &c.

2. He exhorteth all the Members in the University to the embracing of Christ's Doctrine in Spirit and Truth, recommending M ^r . Cromwell their Chancellor to be their Visitour therein.

3. He requires their renouncing all Obedience to the Pope of Rome, and that his Royal Authority be received as supreme under God.

4. He inciteth them to the study of Tongues, because sensum alicujus rei non, potest ill assequi, qui rudis est Idiomatis quo traditur.

5. He enjoineth them to found on the joint Cost of all the Colleges, two Lectures, the one of Latin, the other of Greek, to be daily read (and by consequence heard) on great Penalties.

6. That no Authors hereafter be publicly read, who have written on the Master of the Sentences; but that all Lectures be made on some part of the Scripture.

7. That it should be permitted to all freely to read God's Word in their private Studies, & repair to any public place where the same is preached.

8. That hereafter none in the University take any Degree in the Canon-Law.

9. He did make void and abolish all Ceremonies and Observances, which any ways did hinder the Study of Scholars, or bonam valetudinem studio amicam.

10. He ordered that the Youth to be educated in the Arts should read Aristotle, Rodulphus Agricola, Philip Melancthon Trapezuntius, &c.

11. He forbad the reading of the frivolous Questions, and obscure Glosses of Scotus, Burleus, Anthony Trombet, Bricot, Bruliferius, &c.

12. He pronounceth all Statutes of the University or private Colleges void, if repugnant to the Premises.

13. That all Masters of Colleges be bound by their solemn Oath to the effectual observation of these his Injunctions.

14. Reserving always to the aforesaid Thomas Cromwell their Chancellor, and his Vicar-general, or to his lawful Surrogate in that kind, full power to examine, add, and alter anything according to his Discretion, confident of his care herein for the good of the University.

Observe by the way, that at this instant the University of Cambridge was very full of Students, as may appear by that Passage in the Kings Injunctions; For he reckoneth up the several Colleges, ubi confluunt, & diversantur, & frequentant Scholares & Studiosi, ex omni Dioecesi, & qualibet parte hujus Regni nostri Angliae, tam ex Wallia quam ex Hibernia. So that it seemeth here was then an universal Confluence of Scholars from all parts of the Kings Dominions.

57. Three days after Doctor Legh had set forth his Injunctions, the Colleges made their respective Submissions thereunto, solemnly subscribing the same. We assure ourselves they used the same form for the Essentialls, one Copy whereof we have here inserted, that the rest may be measured thereby.

Their Protestation taken in verbo Sacerdotii, relates to the major part, not to all the Fellows of Gonvil under-writing their names. For I shall not be easily persuaded, that John Cajus, penultimus subscriptor in this Instrument, being a Physician by his Profession, was ever in Holy Orders.

58. In obedience to Doctor Legh his Injunctions, the whole University before Candlemas-day next ensuing, surrendered to the King all their Charters, Donations, Statutes, Popes-Bulls, and Papistical Muniments, with an exact Rental of their lands, and Inventory of their goods. The Vice-Chancellor and senior Proctor went up to London, and delivered them to Secretary Cromwell, Chancellor of the University. And now they are deposited in a safe hand, seeing the same person as Master of the Rolls, was entrusted with the keeping of the Records of the Kingdom.

59. Hereafter expect no moe Doctors of Canon-Law in Cambridge. Formerly, almost every year some were graduated in that Faculty; and these pre ••• these of Civil-Law, as the Pope makes himself to be above the Emperor. But now, Gratian fared no better in Cambridge, then his brother Peter Lombard. For, as the King had pronounced his Sentence of Condemnation against the public reading of the Master of the Sentences: so the Decretals were banished after them. King Henry stung with the dilatorie pleas of the Canonists at Rome in point of his Marriage, did in revenge destroy their whole Hive throughout his own Universities.

60. However, afterwards Scholars applied themselves to the reformed CanonLaw, viz. so much thereof as afterwards was received, as conformable, to the Kings Prerogative, and the municipal Law of the Land. These many studied to enable themselves for Chancellors, Officials, &c. in several Dioceses: yet so, that Canon-Law did never after stand by itself (as subsisting a distinct Faculty wherein any commenced) but was annexed to Civil-Law, and the Degree denominated from the later. And although Civilians kept Canon-Law in Commendam with their own Profession, yet both twisted together are scarce strong enough (especially in our sad days) to draw unto them a liberal Livelihood.